Vermont is the only state without an IHOP after the chain’s South Burlington restaurant closed on Sunday, WCAX reported. Pour one out.
1.3 MILLION
That’s how many dollars South Burlington had in its budget surplus, which was distributed to various city departments.
MOST POPULAR ITEMS ON SEVENDAYSVT.COM
1. “A Prosecutor’s Dog Is Biting People and Pets in Burlington” by Courtney Lamdin. Franklin County prosecutor Diane Wheeler’s canine is causing trouble in the New North End.
2. “Mirabelle’s Bakery in South Burlington Sold to New Owners” by Melissa Pasanen. e local couple will run it as a family business and plan no major changes.
3. “Late Vermont Comic Shop Owner Christine Farrell’s Collection Goes to Auction” by Chris Farnsworth. e collection, said to be legendary, is expected to shake up the market.
e Roman Catholic Diocese of Burlington filed for bankruptcy protection on Monday, a maneuver through which the church will seek to resolve scores of sex abuse claims and preserve its assets.
e diocese, which covers all of Vermont, has paid out more than $30 million to sex abuse survivors in recent years and still faces 31 civil lawsuits related to decades-old abuse claims, according to the petition. It was filed in federal bankruptcy court in Burlington.
Most of the pending lawsuits were triggered by Vermont lawmakers’ 2019 decision to lift the statute of limitations for civil claims related to sexual abuse of children. One of those cases had been scheduled for trial earlier this month, but it was abruptly canceled without public explanation, VTDigger.org reported.
Dozens of dioceses across the country have sought bankruptcy protection in the face of such lawsuits. e history of rampant abuse that church leaders covered up for decades has left dioceses facing expensive litigation.
e Vermont diocese, which publicly named 39 priests who were credibly accused of abusing minors, says it no longer has insurance coverage to offset the costs of sexual abuse litigation.
In a court filing, recently installed Bishop John J. McDermott said the diocese intends to use bankruptcy to “fairly and equitably fulfill the Diocese’s obligations to all
survivors of sexual abuse.” Specifically, he wrote, the church risks depleting its remaining assets to pay out jury awards or settlements in just a handful of cases, leaving the diocese without funds to compensate other victims.
But attorneys representing sex abuse victims tend to see bankruptcy petitions as a way for dioceses to avoid compensating plaintiffs the full amount a jury would find they are owed.
“In a bankruptcy, the diocese is able to pay only a fraction of that,” said Jessica Arbour, a Florida-based attorney who has four pending lawsuits against the Burlington diocese.
A spokesperson for the diocese said the church would be issuing a statement on its bankruptcy filing “later this week.”
e bankruptcy process will require the diocese to open its financial books. Sexual abuse survivors and church leaders will likely tussle over which assets should be considered part of the estate.
In 2006, as sexual abuse claims were already being brought forward, the diocese moved individual parish assets into separate “charitable trusts.” e petition filed on Monday states that the diocese also has investment accounts worth $15.7 million, mostly to support retired priests, that it asserts are “not property of the estate.”
Read Derek Brouwer’s full story at sevendaysvt.com.
A state audit found that o cials didn’t properly vet organizations that received a combined $50 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds. Whoops.
After a mistrial in July, Franklin County Sheri John Grismore will be retried on charges of assaulting a shackled man. Back at it.
Massive barges have been plying Lake Champlain, laying cable that will bring electricity from Canada to New York City. Northern lights.
4. “Day Trip: Eating and Drinking in Québec’s Eastern Townships” by Melissa Pasanen. Charming French Canadian towns offer delicious meals nestled among farms, orchards and vineyards.
5. “Hundreds of Afghan Evacuees Are Cobbling Together New Lives in Vermont. But ey Can’t Help Looking Homeward.” by Colin Flanders, Alison Novak & Ken Picard. More than 600 Afghans now call Vermont home.
For years, Hinesburg locals complained about two derelict buildings along Route 116 in the village center. e eyesores made the “town look like the white-trash a**hole capital of the universe,” one person wrote to officials.
e Giroux family, which owns the lot and several others nearby, finally took down the structures last week. But what went up in their place caused almost just as much consternation: a “coming soon” sign for a Dollar General store. On a Hinesburg Facebook page, one person wrote she was “feeling shocked and disappointed” by the impending arrival.
“A business like this changes the vibe of a town, and not for the better,” she wrote, garner-
ing some 70 responses. Others posted to Front Porch Forum or contacted the town.
All the concern was for naught, according to Matt Giroux, who put up the sign as a prank. His point: ings could be worse than just empty buildings.
“I thought I could get a laugh out of it,” Giroux said. But, he conceded, “I’m expecting some heat.”
e Giroux family previously owned a nearby property that was slated to become a Hannaford supermarket, but, after about a decade of pushback from the community, the chain pulled the plug on the project. Some in town “have that whole NIMBY thing,” Giroux
said. His family plans to create some sort of mixed-use commercial and residential building on the now-cleared Route 116 property.
Alex Weinhagen, the town’s director of planning and zoning, confirmed that he received several emails from concerned locals. “All I can say is that I hope community members are able to laugh it off the same way I did,” he said.
It’s not the first time a sign has caused a stir in Hinesburg. Weinhagen recalled a 2017 prank in which someone put up a “coming soon” advertisement for the “Rut & Strut” — a strip club on a property that would also offer deer hunting. It never happened.
e Dollar General kerfuffle was similarly short-lived: A few days after putting up the sign, Giroux took it down.
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Thanks for your recent “Downtown Dilemma” cover story [August 14], which thoughtfully addressed how crime is devastating our wonderful city. I also enjoy reading the North Avenue News , which on September 6 included a “Legislative Report” in which our state reps tell us what they are doing to address our city’s most serious challenges. I looked forward to hearing what Rep. Carol Ode, Rep. Mary-Katherine Stone and Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale are doing to reduce crime in Burlington. Their thoughts: nothing. Not a word. Nothing at all about the shootings, drug abuse, car thefts, robberies and other crimes plaguing our city. No words of condolence for the victims. No ideas or strategies to give us hope that they are on the case and can deliver help from Montpelier. Burlington, we are on our own in this battle, together.
Scott Anderson BURLINGTON
The residents of Diane Wheeler’s neighborhood have every right to expect relief from her dog’s bad behavior [“A Prosecutor’s Dog Is Biting People and Pets in Burlington,” September 23, online]. Unfortunately, I doubt his behavior can be reformed. A family member who had a similar situation with a rescue dog tried many solutions until an animal behaviorist he’d consulted advised him the behavior wouldn’t change and it would be like living with a pet alligator. He made the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize the dog in order to protect his family and neighbors who were terrified of the dog. The problem had started from the dog’s birth and upbringing in a dog-fighting kennel. That’s where the problem has to be addressed in every state to prevent the cruelty that turns dogs into monsters.
Luanne Sberna BURLINGTON
Thank you, Pride Center of Vermont, for your courage and integrity in standing in solidarity with Palestine and connecting your mission and vision of liberation and community with the struggle for Palestinian freedom [“Pride — and Prejudice? Vermont’s Leading LGBTQ Org Is Roiled by Allegations of Antisemitism,” September 4]. This issue is not controversial globally — why is it here? United Nations member nation votes over decades of resolutions related to Israel’s violence in Palestine evidence a handful of primarily wealthy Global North nationstates, including the U.S., blocking actions a rmed by almost the entire rest of the body of 193 member states. Why are more organizations in Vermont and the U.S. not learning about and speaking out against the long campaign of dehumanization, colonization, denial of basic human rights, ethnic cleansing, land grabbing, apartheid, starvation, ecocide and genocide in Palestine by Israel, only made possible by the direct support — militarily, diplomatically, economically, politically — of the U.S.? What public good, principles, vision and mission that your organization stands for hasn’t been egregiously violated and denied to Palestinians with U.S. public dollars?
Any advocacy priority is dependent upon human and environmental needs being met — food, water, shelter, human rights, freedom from violence and oppression — and any advocacy priority is dependent upon solidarity. The worst acts we could imagine are being perpetrated in Palestine by the government of the place where we
The September 18 story headlined “Full-Court Press” omitted some information about the status of Mid Vermont Christian School in Quechee. Because the State Board of Education has not ruled on its reapproval application, Mid Vermont Christian remains an approved independent school. Last week’s cover story about Afghans living in Vermont, “A World Away,” misidentified the name of the school where Sama Pardis completed her dental assistant program. She attended the Center for Technology, Essex.
live, work and contribute taxes. We encourage readers to learn about the history of Palestine, work with your organization and your community to stand in solidarity with Palestine, and join the apartheid-free communities campaign here in Vermont.
Graham Unangst-Rufenacht MONTPELIER
As a small business owner, I understand there are challenges with any business. But I was disheartened when I learned that the owner of Merrill’s Roxy Cinemas will prevent the space from continuing as a movie theater when he sells [“Reel Drama: As Vermont Movie Theaters Respond to a Changing Industry, Burlington May Lose Its Only Cinema,” August 21]. Not only that, but he also blames his struggles on the issues in Burlington when Seven Days clearly highlights how movie theaters in Vermont are evolving and continuing to be popular spaces with upgrades and creative ideas.
I understand that upgrading a movie theater requires significant investment, but why would I go to a theater with old chairs and small screens when I can watch a movie on my own lumpy couch and small TV? Instead of disparaging Burlington, the owner of the Roxy should sell his business to someone with ambition who wants to continue the tradition of movie theaters and help Burlington and its businesses thrive.
We revere entrepreneurs in the U.S., but we don’t talk enough about how bad businesspeople can ruin a city. In a city the size of Burlington, the negative actions — or inactions, in this case — can have outsize
consequences. People in Vermont love small business more than anything, but we should not support businesses in our city that disrespect the people who live here and make excuses for their poor management instead of changing with the times.
I won’t support these businesses any longer, and I won’t feel guilty about it. Enough is enough.
José Ureña BURLINGTON
THE COST OF CLEAN
I feel that Montpelier’s misguided greenhouse gas law was bad enough [“Group Says Vermont Isn’t Being Frank About Its Greenhouse Gas Emissions — and Plans to Sue,” September 4]. The legislators then opened us up to lawsuits. When this happens, legislators who voted for it should be the ones to pay.
John Houston MILTON FEEDBACK » P.22
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2024 AT 2:00PM at the FIRST UU SOCIETY OF BURLINGTON, 152 PEARL STREET
Vermont documentarian, Karen Akins’ 75-minute film is visually stunning (of course, since it’s set in Vermont). It’s about noise in Vermont and features some of your neighbors.
Learn about the harmful effects of residential noise on our physical and mental health. The film addresses the noise from motorcycles, trucks, leaf blowers, cars, planes, and more — in particular, the F-35!
Far
Burlington School Board
Racial Reckoning
A
Goddard College Sale Has Fallen Through
Tick Tutelage
Scientists
The
BY DAN BOLLES
Operatic Justice
Changing Places
eater review: Translations, Vermont Stage
One Family in Gaza Recounts a War Through a Father’s Texts
The Speed of Light
Chris Jeffrey creates a meditative installation in a Montpelier storefront
In Adamant, Artists Leave Their ‘Watermarks’
There to Be Stupid
Studying the art of parody at Vermont State University’s new “Weird Al” class
Find a new job in the classifieds section on page 85 and online at jobs.sevendaysvt.com.
SATURDAY 5
WEDNESDAY 2 & THURSDAY 3
MUST SEE, MUST DO THIS WEEK COMPILED BY REBECCA DRISCOLL
SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 70
Are the dog days ever really over? e Fall Dog Party at St. Johnsbury’s Dog Mountain commemorates all things canine with endless pup- and peoplepleasing activities. For more fun than you can shake a tail at, check out the Doggie Walk of Fame and Pup Pie Eating Race, groovy tunes from Chickweed, lawn games for humans, and an agility course for four-legged friends.
e “Wild Pink” exhibition at Mad River Valley Arts in Waitsfield is a thought-provoking group show that sheds light on an often gendered and sometimes contentious color. Artists use different mediums to explore and reflect upon our cultural and historical relationship with the hue, examining its origins in the context of the natural world and within our society. Pictured: “Panolin” by Rob Hitzig. SEE GALLERY LISTING AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/ART
e female-led Georgian vocal choir Zedashe Ensemble winds down its fifth U.S. tour at the Highland Center for the Arts in Greensboro and Unitarian Church of Montpelier. Founded in the 1990s, the group is known for its complex harmonies, traditional Eastern European instruments and soulstirring pre-Christian chants, acquired from village song masters across its home country.
SEE CALENDAR LISTINGS ON PAGES 66 AND 68
THURSDAY 3
PechaKucha Night (“chitchat” in English) brings a Japanese visual storytelling phenomenon to the Flynn Space in Burlington. Speakers such as state poet laureate Bianca Stone and Vermont Symphony Orchestra executive director Elise Brunelle share a 20-image slideshow, spending 20 seconds per slide — in total, a 400-second story spotlighting a person and their passion. Perfect for modern attention spans.
SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 68
SATURDAY 5
Bats and birds and bears — oh, my! Rain or shine, Dead Creek Wildlife Day in Addison delivers crittercentric activities for the whole family. Beyond the usual interactive displays and exhibits at the visitor center, this event offers demonstrations and guided nature walks along beautiful trails. If crafts are more your thing, try birdhouse building or soap carving.
SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 70
SATURDAY 5 & SUNDAY 6
Fun fact: e United Nations declared 2024 the International Year of Camelids. So there’s never been a better time to attend the Vermont Sheep & Wool Festival at the Tunbridge World’s Fairgrounds. e celebration of fuzzy fiber animals and other small ruminants features demonstrations by shepherds, workshops by veterinarians and fiber processors, and hands-on mini arts classes.
SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 70
Weston eater Company’s October offering, e Woman in Black, is a perfect production for spooky season. Based on Susan Hill’s critically acclaimed gothic horror novel, the stage adaptation blends fear and fascination for a visceral viewing experience. Audiences can expect twisty, bonechilling scenes and spine-tingling spectral appearances in the ghostly tale.
SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 66
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In the next few days, one of my favorite summer activities will come to an end: swimming outside. We’re not talking about long-distance, open-water forays into Lake Champlain. I’ve done that a few times, but I find too many things to worry about, from staying in a straight line to the possibility of getting sliced in half by a boat.
Less dramatically, my every-other-day aquatic adventure happens in a community pool, the kind I frequented as a kid, all day, every day, from June through August. I get inexplicable joy from slipping into one of the lanes cordoned o for adult exercise and dutifully racking up the laps. On the other side of the divider, youngsters are being launched in the air, playing the timeless game of Marco Polo and loving the water in a way that only children can. I welcome the adjacent cacophony like a childless cat lady — with vicarious pleasure.
“The New York Times,” she said. “I don’t like to read long stories online; I prefer the paper.”
“Is it good?” he asked.
“I don’t know how to answer that question,” she replied. “It’s the New York Times.”
You tell him, sister!
I’VE SWUM IN THE RAIN, WIND AND COLD BUT ALSO HAD THE PLACE TO MYSELF ON SOME OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DAYS OF THE SUMMER.
The lifeguards are long gone, but the pool has stayed open. I’ve swum in the rain, wind and cold but also had the place to myself on some of the most beautiful days of the summer. If the weather is hot, families come, but the sun sets earlier now. When it drops behind the pool house and the evening shade slowly creeps across the sparkling water, they generally don’t stick around. Then I’m all alone in this blissful spot, buoyed by sun-warmed waters, looking up at the darkening sky, pink clouds and changing leaves.
I usually start my swim about an hour and a half before sunset. Whatever the disaster of the moment, the ritual of propelling myself back and forth 72 times always makes me feel better. Physical aches and pains melt away, too. Proper breathing is key, and for me, that deep, regular respiration amounts to a rare hour of meditation. Only a stray pool noodle can break the spell.
Of course, lifeguards are a part of the scene — high schoolers sitting on tall chairs who are both respected and adored by the younger kids. They work in pairs, trading o the hard job of keeping a watchful eye on the splashing humanity. Over Labor Day weekend, their last hurrah, I noticed one of the lifeguards, a young woman, had brought a print copy of the Sunday New York Times While I was getting suited up in the pool house, I overheard her partner, a young man, ask her: “What’s that you’re reading?”
It won’t last much longer. I aim to soak up every drop of what’s left.
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Vermont considers legalizing psychedelic therapy, but approval would take time
BY ANNE WALLACE ALLEN • anne@sevendaysvt.com
As a therapist who wants to use the psychedelic drug psilocybin in his practice, Rick Barnett of Stowe walks a fine line. He advocates for legalizing the therapeutic use of psychedelics, but he understands that some peers in the medical establishment are skeptical about drugs such as psilocybin, ketamine and MDMA.
With psychedelic therapy gaining prominence, it’s becoming easier for him to walk that line. On September 21 and 22, Barnett, who has a doctorate in clinical psychology, led a national conference in Stowe on the topic for health professionals.
He is also chair of a legislative advisory group that is considering whether Vermont should allow supervised medical use of psilocybin, a hallucinogenic substance found in mushrooms that is illegal in Vermont. The group will submit its recommendations to lawmakers in November.
“It’s just a matter of time,” said Barnett, who cofounded the 200-member Psychedelic Society of Vermont in 2021. “People believe in science, and that’s why more mainstream people are opening their eyes to the possibility that these drugs aren’t just from the 1960s for people who just want to trip.”
Psychedelic mushrooms, including several species of fungi that contain psilocybin, have been used for centuries in therapy and recreation. In the past few decades, they’ve drawn the attention of mainstream health care providers and patients seeking relief from anxiety, depression and other conditions.
Many people have recently discovered psychedelics’ potential through books such as Michael Pollan’s How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence, a No. 1 New York Times bestseller that’s now a Netflix documentary.
BY DEREK BROUWER derek@sevendaysvt.com
A Burlington school board member has resigned after police in Massachusetts arrested him last month on allegations that he trafficked fentanyl.
Former Ward 1 representative Rida Kori, 24, faces a felony drug charge that carries a minimum sentence of five years in prison, according to documents filed in Holyoke District Court.
Kori, a Burlington High School graduate, ran unopposed for the Ward 1 seat on Town Meeting Day and attended his first school board meeting in April. He resigned over the weekend, district spokesperson Russ Elek said. Kori has pleaded not guilty and is due in court again on ursday, October 3.
“My client denies all charges and is looking forward to clearing his name from these allegations,” Kori’s attorney, Kedar K. Ismail, wrote in an email.
Psilocybin is the most popular hallucinogenic in the U.S., according to the Rand Corporation, which surveyed adults this year. About 12 percent of respondents said they’d used psilocybin at some point in their lives, according to Rand, which estimated 8 million American adults used it in 2023.
That same year, there were more than 3 million Google searches related to microdosing, or taking very small amounts of a psychedelic, according to a study by the University of California San Diego. That’s a twelvefold increase from 2015, the study found.
Skeptics, including the American Psychiatric Association, say more research is needed.
“Clinical treatments should be determined by scientific evidence … and not
Law enforcement officers began investigating Kori in July after seeing his vehicle outside a Connecticut hotel where they were conducting a separate drug trafficking investigation, Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael DeCaro wrote in an affidavit. Investigators continued to monitor Kori as he made short trips across the Massachusetts-Connecticut border, DeCaro wrote. On September 16, officers pulled him over on Interstate 91 and searched his car. ey seized 43 packs of “suspected heroin/fentanyl” that were inside, totaling 86 grams, DeCaro wrote.
Kori’s arrest follows the federal prosecution of his twin brother, Ramzi, several years ago on drug charges. Ramzi Kori was convicted of possessing and intending to distribute heroin and for illegally possessing a firearm. A federal judge in Vermont sentenced Ramzi Kori to three years in prison. e brothers were born in Sudan, and their family immigrated to the United States when they were 4 years old, according to court records in Ramzi Kori’s case. eir parents worked long hours and the family had little money, but the academically talented and athletic brothers both attended college. e school board does not yet have a plan to fill the now-vacant seat, Elek said. ➆
Alison Novak contributed reporting.
A Black former Burlington department head says the city owes her millions for a long list of indignities
BY COURTNEY LAMDIN • courtney@sevendaysvt.com
Burlington’s former racial equity director is demanding the city pay her $7.5 million, alleging she faced a “racially motivated campaign of denigration” during her tenure that continued well after she resigned in March 2022.
Tyeastia Green’s allegations are spelled out in a 14-page letter from her attorney and in emails to Burlington city officials, which Seven Days obtained through a public records request. The letter was dated April 3, two days after Green’s former boss, mayor Miro Weinberger, left office.
While Green and Weinberger clearly had differences, the letter details the depth of their falling-out. At one point, Green alleges, the then-mayor yelled at her on a phone call; soon afterward, he asked her not to resign because he worried it would make him look bad, the letter claims.
The wide-ranging missive accuses city officials of attempting to suppress Green’s right to free speech and undermining her work; defaming her in media interviews; and coordinating a smear campaign with the City of Minneapolis, where Green worked after leaving Burlington.
In recent weeks, Green’s friends and supporters launched an open-letter campaign to pressure the city to act. In addition to the payout, Green has demanded a public apology and payment of her legal fees.
Last week, however, city officials indicated that a financial settlement is off the table but that they’re open to “a restorative process,” the emails show.
“I’m hopeful that we can start working
on that,” Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak told Seven Days in an interview, in an effort to learn “where we can improve and understand where things broke down.”
Contacted by Seven Days, Weinberger denied Green’s claims, saying they were unfounded. Green declined to be interviewed.
The “demand letter” is an attempt to avoid “costly, prolonged litigation,” Green’s attorney, Ashley Hill, wrote to city officials. But Green could ultimately decide to take the matter to court.
“The City has not initiated any meaningful conversation with my client about any potential remedies or resolution,” Hill said in a statement. “The harms articulated are ongoing.”
Weinberger appointed Green in early 2020 to lead a new city department: the Office of Racial Equity, Inclusion & Belonging. “Breaking down the barriers of institutional racism and implicit bias requires hard, detailed, and sustained organizational work,” he wrote in announcing Green’s hiring.
But Green’s demand letter describes a strained relationship with Weinberger, including previously unreported details about what went on behind closed doors at city hall. It also further documents some public spats between Green and Weinberger, including one that began in early 2021.
Eight months after a controversial vote to reduce the size of the police force, the city council hired a Virginia-based nonprofit,
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ballot initiatives or popular opinion,” the group maintains.
If used judiciously, psychedelics can ease anxiety and depression and help PTSD sufferers resolve long-lingering traumas, proponents say.
“People can have epiphanies, a chance to rewire,” said Lauren Alderfer of Brattleboro, a longtime psychedelic therapy advocate who studied in Holland to become a certified microdosing coach. She published a book called Mindful Microdosing earlier this year. “People’s sleep is better; it makes our system more harmonious in a way that [conventional] medicines don’t.”
Alderfer added that taking microdoses herself has helped her care for her husband, who has early-stage Alzheimer’s.
“As a caregiver, I have been so much nicer and kinder and have so much more tolerance,” she said. “I definitely have more ease in how I live my life now.”
Barnett used psychedelics recreationally when he was younger and attributes some of his personal and professional success to the lessons he learned from those sessions. He’s been an advocate ever since, testifying in the Vermont legislature and doing interviews with local media. In his practice, he offers therapy with ketamine, a “dissociative anesthetic” that’s approved for treating depression and other conditions.
Though he is frustrated by the slow pace of the psychedelics conversation, he’s also gratified the drugs are attracting mainstream interest.
Many people already grow, share and sell psychedelic mushrooms in Vermont, creating an underground economy that some hope to legitimize. The use, sale and possession of psilocybin is, like cannabis, still barred under federal law. Unlike cannabis, psilocybin use is still illegal under Vermont law.
Proponents and makers of the psychedelic MDMA, also known as ecstasy, suffered a setback in August when an advisory committee within the U.S. Food and Drug Administration rejected the synthetic drug as a treatment for mental health conditions.
That blow slowed the momentum of psychedelic acceptance, Barnett said. He thinks that’s why only 100 people registered to attend his conference this year, after 230 turned out for it a year ago. Ultimately, he expects MDMA to win approval from the feds. But it might take a few years.
“It’s frustrating,” he said.
Last year, a bill to decriminalize psychedelics had 30 sponsors in the state
MORE MAINSTREAM PEOPLE ARE OPENING THEIR EYES TO THE POSSIBILITY THAT THESE DRUGS AREN’T JUST FROM THE 1960S FOR PEOPLE WHO JUST WANT TO TRIP. RICK BARNETT
testimony to the Vermont working group. “I have facilitators who it’s hard to get them to screen people in.”
Vermont Health Commissioner Mark Levine, a member of the working group, declined to discuss psychedelic therapy with Seven Days after the group’s September 1 meeting.
“We don’t really have data that gives us some sense of what the program’s impact has been overall,” he said during the meeting, after the Oregon program was discussed. “We insist on an evaluative process to make sure this fairly novel strategy would be really well researched and understood.”
The Vermont Medical Society isn’t taking a position on psychedelics, said executive director Jessa Barnard, who is also in the working group. She noted in an interview that Oregon’s process sounds expensive and cumbersome; the drug must be administered by a trained guide in an approved setting and must be part of a talk therapy regime.
legislature but stalled in committee. Lawmakers opted to create the working group to look at psychedelic-assisted therapy, a seasoned concept that has spawned a few dozen programs — most in California — that certify would-be psychedelic therapists, or guides. Oregon began allowing psychedelic-assisted therapy in 2023, and Colorado will begin accepting applications for licenses at the end of this year. The University of Vermont offered a course on psychedelic therapy over the summer as part of its continuing education offerings in the counseling program.
The Vermont committee has been taking testimony from experts, including regulators and practitioners in Oregon, as it prepares recommendations for lawmakers.
Oregon’s law has resulted in a haphazard system that decides which patients are eligible for psychedelic treatment. Clinics must prescreen clients. They can turn away those who are deemed ineligible because they have taken the mood-stabilizer drug lithium in the previous 30 days, have thoughts of harming themselves or others, or have active psychosis, according to Angela Albee, who manages the psilocybin program at the Oregon Health Authority. But the process is not considered a medical or clinical model, so discretion is left up to the practitioner.
Heidi Venture, who co-owns Vital Reset Oregon, a licensed psychedelic therapy service center, described a process that was highly variable.
“I have one facilitator who won’t screen anybody out,” she said in
“It’s a very complicated issue,” Barnard said. “Some of the states took years to parse through these issues.”
To Shayne Lynn, a veteran of Vermont’s young cannabis industry, local policy makers are dragging their feet unnecessarily, and that’s putting potential psychedelic sellers at a competitive disadvantage. Massachusetts voters will decide whether the state should legalize limited psychedelic therapy and home use via referendum on November 5, he noted, and he thinks other Northeastern states will soon follow suit. Lynn’s Burlington cannabis store, Lucky You, sells a kit that helps determine the psilocybin dose in homegrown mushrooms.
“I’d like to see the state embrace it and set up a program where you’d be able to go to a licensed store and purchase a microdose or purchase mushrooms,” Lynn said. “I don’t think it needs to be any more complicated than that.”
Lynn and Barnett have an ally of sorts in Bob Gramling, a palliative medicine physician at the University of Vermont Medical Center who has been studying psychedelic therapy for years.
“As a palliative care physician, I’ve been paying attention to the growing science and have an expectation that this can have a profound impact in my field and for people who are seriously ill and dying,” Gramling said.
He’s in the working group, too, but doesn’t intend to push for any particular action.
“I come to this with humility,” he said. “My agenda is to understand its strengths and weaknesses and when it can be applied, in whom, and how.” ➆
STORY & PHOTO BY ANNE WALLACE ALLEN • anne@sevendaysvt.com
The latest plan for investors to acquire and develop the Goddard College campus has been scrapped. Trustees of the Plainfield institution, which closed its doors September 14, said in a statement on Monday that the sale to a group called the Greatwood Project is off.
“Unfortunately, we have just been informed that the Greatwood Project/ Collective Well partnership has been unable to secure the necessary funds to purchase the Goddard College property,” the statement said. “The Board of Trustees will now explore a range of alternative options to sell the campus.”
Many other prospective buyers have shown interest, according to the trustees.
The Greatwood Project announced in early August that it would purchase the former agricultural estate for $3.4 million. But last week, group member Lucinda Garthwaite said an investor had backed out and the group needed to raise $250,000 to close the sale.
Garthwaite did not respond to a request for comment. Another project member, Kris Gruen, said a subset of the former buyers called the Greatwood Group “is still working to pursue the sale.”
The dissolution of Goddard, a small, alternative liberal arts institution that was founded in 1938, has been a long and painful saga for alumni, faculty, staff and residents of the local community.
The school had 1,900 students at its peak in the 1970s. In April, when trustees announced it was closing, only 220 people were enrolled. The 131-acre property, which extends to East Montpelier and Marshfield, includes 10 administrative and academic buildings, 12 dormitories, and two maintenance buildings,
according to Lisa Larivee, a clerk to Goddard’s board of trustees.
Garthwaite said as recently as last week that the group hoped to maintain the historic buildings and restore the gardens so the space could be used for events and other public gatherings. In written materials, the project laid out ambitious plans that included much-needed housing and workshops for businesses.
Plainfield was hard-hit by flooding in July, and some homes were lost. As the town reckons with the damage, many residents have suggested that the campus, which is connected to town water and sewer service, could provide housing that is sorely needed in central Vermont.
The Greatwood Project’s founders included Chris Pratt, a former Goddard forestry instructor who lives in East Montpelier and whose family name is on a building that includes the campus library; Garthwaite, who runs an organization called the Institute for Liberatory Innovation; Worcester resident Gruen, a musician; part-time Vermont residents Susan and Brian Benninghoff; and Leesa Stewart, the former Goddard CFO who now works as CFO at the Vermont Foodbank.
In May, Goddard trustees said the campus was under contract with an unnamed buyer. But that prospective purchaser, a local commercial real estate developer, changed his mind in June. Weeks later, on August 1, the deal with Greatwood was announced.
The campus is home to several tenants, including the Maplehill School and Farm, Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism, and the WGDR radio station. Some workers at nearby Cabot Creamery live in the dorms. ➆
BY ANNE WALLACE ALLEN • anne@sevendaysvt.com
When University of Vermont entomologist Cheryl Frank Sullivan surveyed 585 northern New England crop farmers two years ago, 90 percent reported they’d spotted ticks crawling on their bodies or clothing. Her results confirmed a commonsense assumption: Farmers, whose livelihood requires time in fields and woods, are particularly susceptible to tick bites, and thus to Lyme disease and other debilitating illnesses that ticks spread.
Sullivan is following up this year with a second survey that focuses on agricultural workers in Vermont. At the same time, a scientist in New York State is studying Vermont farmers as she looks for ways to reduce the risk of tick-borne illness on farms.
In recent years, the bloodsucking arachnids have become such a hazard that farmers are changing their behaviors. Many are avoiding areas of dense brush,
treating their clothing with tick repellent and trying other tactics.
Five of Vermont’s 14 tick species carry pathogens, although the tiny black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick, is responsible for more than 99 percent of all tickborne disease reports, according to the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets. Those diseases include Lyme, anaplasmosis and babesiosis, which can cause severe and lasting illness.
“The possibility of getting Lyme disease is one of the biggest fears I have in working in the woods,” said Mike Farrell, cofounder and general manager of the Forest Farmers, a company that taps thousands of acres of maple and birch trees in Marshfield and the Adirondacks. Farrell, who has worked in the maple industry for 20 years, said the company issues work pants treated with the insecticide permethrin to its crew members, some of whom travel from Jamaica to help out at busy times. Forest Farmers
counsels its workers to check for ticks at the end of the day.
“It’s just constant vigilance and checking,” Farrell said. “Especially if you’ve been in an area that you know is brushy.”
In recent years, the Green Mountain State has become a host for potentially groundbreaking tick research that examines the impact of ticks on agricultural workers, and some potential solutions.
In 2022, Amanda Roome, a researcher at the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety in Cooperstown, N.Y., chose Vermont for her tick study because at that time the Green Mountain State had the nation’s highest incidence of Lyme and anaplasmosis. (Rhode Island now has the highest incidence of Lyme.)
Roome’s group, which looks for ways to keep workers safer, has targeted southern Vermont farms to test a simple tick control tool.
Her team places tubes containing cotton treated with permethrin near buildings
where mice, common carriers of ticks, are found. The rodents take the cotton to use as bedding, and the poison kills the ticks they carry. Some homeowners in Vermont and elsewhere already use the tubes, which are safe for children and pets and can be purchased in hardware stores.
Roome has placed tubes on 46 farms involved in the study. Tubes at only half the farms, chosen at random, contain the pesticide. Ultimately, the study will ask farmers to assess whether tick numbers declined, and after two years, researchers will compare data from the two groups of farms.
Roome and her staff also plan to hold what they call “tick talks” with dairy and livestock workers to learn what prevention measures, if any, they are using now.
“Given the rate of Lyme and other tickborne illnesses in Vermont, we thought it was the perfect opportunity,” Roome said last month. “If this is promising, we would love to expand the research.”
Roome is hoping to find a tick-bite prevention strategy that will help on farms like Chester Abbot’s 60-cow operation in Randolph. Abbot, 55, has been living with Lyme disease for 20 years. He tried antibiotics without success, then pursued a host of conventional and alternative treatments for the fatigue and flu-like symptoms. He’s become extra vigilant as he farms, checking for ticks and urging his three sons to do the same. But he sees ticks moving around on his cows, and he noted that he leans his head on their flanks when he’s milking.
“Sometimes I come in from milking, and I’ve got ticks running all over me,” Abbot said. “It’s stressful.”
SOMETIMES I COME IN FROM MILKING, AND I’VE GOT TICKS RUNNING ALL OVER ME. IT’S STRESSFUL.
CHESTER
ABBOT
At UVM, entomologist and assistant professor Sullivan also studies the impact of ticks and tick-borne illness on farmers. Sullivan focuses on pest-reduction strategies in landscapes, with chemical pesticide considered a last resort. Her 2022 survey asked farmers who grow crops in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont about their experience with ticks. More than 85 percent said they considered ticks to be an occupational hazard, and nearly all had had to remove ticks from their clothing or bodies.
Most reported that they performed daily tick checks, wore long pants and shirts, treated their clothing with insecticide, and put work clothes in the dryer to kill ticks. Some said they laced flea collars through their boots and shoes.
Last summer, Sullivan created another survey, this one aimed at learning more about tick management, specifically in Vermont agriculture. She said small farms present prime feeding ground, with agricultural spaces nestled next to the forested habitat that tends to harbor ticks.
She is seeking to learn how much information agriculture workers have about ticks and disease risk, asking them to identify the black-legged tick from a lineup of three drawings. She draws out respondents’ experiences in spotting ticks and removing embedded ones from themselves, pets and livestock.
Sullivan leads many tick-related projects, and her goal with the survey, which she plans to keep open for two more months, is to hone future research aimed at helping farmers. She wants more farmers to understand there are steps they can take to reduce their risk, such as mowing field perimeters and removing wildlife that hosts ticks. She thinks farmers have received less attention than others who work outdoors.
“There really isn’t a lot of information specific to farmers about encountering ticks and having animals encounter ticks,” she said. “We need to help them better understand that.”
It’s not clear why Vermont’s illness rates are among the highest in the nation, and scientists don’t fully agree on how much tick populations have changed, or why, in recent years. The Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety reports that 75 percent of the people diagnosed with Lyme disease do not recall being bitten. Diagnosis can be uncertain because it can take several weeks after the bite for an infection to be detectable by a blood test.
Tick removal has become part of the animal care routine at Dorset Equine Rescue, said barn manager Tiffany Vittum, who cares for about 20 horses. Populations rise and fall from year to year.
“Some years, I’ll go riding in the woods and come back, and the horse’s legs will just be crawling with ticks,” she said, adding that she’s been bitten by ticks every year but hasn’t contracted a tickborne illness. “I have to pick them off one by one.”
At Fern Bridge Farm in Ferrisburgh, owner Kelly Otty credits the tick-eating possums that raise their litters in her garden, as well as the farm’s 50-chicken poultry flock, with keeping down tick numbers. Otty, who raises 60 Shetland sheep, has found ticks embedded in her skin but has dodged tick-borne illness so far.
Many farmers in Vermont swear that their chickens have helped them reduce their tick populations, although scientists say there’s no evidence they do.
“We found that there’s virtually no science to back up these claims,” says TickEncounter, a well-regarded website of the University of Rhode Island. TickEncounter notes that ticks often attach themselves to chickens.
Otty, though, is convinced.
“We brought in chickens early on. They’re rotated through different areas, and we allow them to hang out on the lawn,” said Otty, who moved to the property 14 years ago. “We noticed a pretty remarkable decrease in ticks after that.” ➆
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Friday, October 25, 2024 9:00AM-2:30PM, Champlain College FREE! With Keynote Speaker: LYNN DOHM Register by October 18 at: champlain.edu/wicy
Attendees will also get to hear from the VT Attorney General, Charity Clark, and Leah Bogdanowicz, Special Agent, FBI Cybersecurity Division. Register by October 18 at:
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LNA / Nurse / LNA Trainee Open House Tuesday, October 15, 7:30am to 9:00am and 1:00pm to 4:00pm 200 Wake Robin Drive, Shelburne, VT / wakerobin.com
CNA, to assess Burlington police operations. The council tapped Green, who is Black, to oversee the process. But Weinberger instead appointed a white department head, who he suggested would be more “neutral.”
Green alleges that Weinberger waited more than a month to tell councilors about the switch because he was running for reelection and knew the optics could harm his campaign. Public backlash was indeed swift, and Weinberger put Green back in charge, issuing a public apology and acknowledging his “bias.”
Tensions rose again when Police Chief Jon Murad failed to send data to CNA on time, delaying the report’s publication by several weeks. Green’s letter says her professional reputation took a hit when she had to ask the council for more time to submit the report.
After a draft was finally completed in fall 2021, both Weinberger and Murad convinced CNA to make several changes to the report before it was made public. Green wanted to attach a memo to the final version outlining her concerns about the process, but Weinberger wouldn’t let her, the letter says.
The mayor continued to undermine Green’s work when he assigned production of her department’s marquee event, Juneteenth, to Burlington City Arts, relegating her to “an advisory role,” the letter says. Green, however, appealed to the council’s Board of Finance in fall 2021 with a proposal to hire two event planners, keeping Juneteenth in her purview.
“She did not want another public removal akin to his earlier CNA debacle,” Green’s attorney wrote.
Controversy over the CNA report resurfaced in early 2022, when Green confirmed at a police commission meeting that Murad and Weinberger had made changes to the draft. Weinberger called Green the following day and yelled at her “much like an angry adult would yell at a child,” according to the letter. He also said he couldn’t reappoint her to her job that June.
Green submitted her resignation and hired an attorney. Weinberger apologized and asked Green to stay because, the letter says, “he was worried about the optics of Ms. Green’s abrupt departure from the City.” She declined.
Soon after, Green landed a job in her home city of Minneapolis. There, in a similar position, she produced an event for Black
History Month that went over budget and attracted far fewer people than expected. She left the post in early 2023, and Minneapolis leaders launched a financial audit of the failed event. The news got back to Queen City officials, who decided to audit Burlington’s previous Juneteenth events.
That audit, published in July 2023, found that Juneteenth in 2021 — a wellattended festival curated by Green — was run by the book and came in under budget. But it alleged “mismanagement or carelessness” leading up to the 2022 event, which was organized by former city staffer Casey Ellerby after Green left Burlington. Green would later hire Ellerby to plan the Minneapolis expo.
Green contended that Burlington’s review was driven by racial bias and, in media interviews, accused Weinberger of practicing white supremacy. MulvaneyStanak, who was a member of the Vermont House at the time, wrote a letter in August 2023 to the mayor and council, arguing that the audit revealed “a racist double standard” when other, white department heads weren’t similarly scrutinized.
At a heated meeting around the same time, city councilors passed resolutions pledging to review antidiscrimination
policies and to consider the report’s negative impacts on Green.
In the demand letter, Green’s lawyer says the audit was biased because it was performed by a law firm managed at the time by Ian Carleton, a friend of Weinberger’s and his one-time pick for city attorney. Further, the letter alleges, Burlington and Minneapolis officials coordinated their probes “to orchestrate a campaign of gross defamation” against Green, “causing irreparable harm to her personal and professional reputation.”
The letter also accuses City Councilor Joan Shannon (D-South District), a Weinberger ally, of perpetuating a narrative in media interviews that Green was responsible for budget overruns related to the 2022 Juneteenth event. And it says a city consultant last year asked for images of Green and Ellerby to be edited out of promotional Juneteenth videos “because they are being investigated for fraud.”
The letter cites text messages and emails as evidence for many of the claims, but Green declined to provide them to Seven Days, saying her attorney advised against it. Shannon turned down an interview request, saying she couldn’t comment on legal matters. Weinberger declined an
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interview and instead provided an emailed statement that denies the allegations in Green’s letter. “I’m not aware of any facts that support them,” he wrote.
“I am proud of the work of my administration in creating the REIB department and of the work Ms. Green and I were able to accomplish together, particularly during the City’s COVID response, and the launch of Juneteenth as a municipal
holiday and city-sponsored major celebration,” Weinberger continued. “My hope is that the mission, vision, and capacity of the REIB department endures because it was and remains incredibly important for Burlington.”
According to public records, the city and Green’s attorney discussed the allegations on a phone call in the spring that ended without agreement. Green’s attorney followed up with an email on May 15 demanding the $7.5 million settlement and
alleging the city violated terms of a separation agreement that her client signed in 2022 “under duress.”
Attorneys for the city called Green’s claims baseless, noting that she signed the separation agreement while being represented by an attorney. “Our position is that Ms. Green released any and all claims against the City,” wrote Michael Leddy, an attorney with Burlington firm McNeil Leddy & Sheahan who is representing the city. He later added: “At this time, there will be no counter offer.”
Green has not sued Minneapolis, though she did file a complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which helps enforce federal antidiscrimination laws, according to her letter. Green has also accused city leadership there of creating a racist and toxic work culture.
In Burlington, local advocates have sent a flurry of letters to city officials, demanding justice for Green. The writers — including former state representative Kiah Morris; Vermont Racial Justice Alliance executive director Rev. Mark Hughes; and former city council president Max Tracy — collectively ask the city to resolve her complaints.
Some of the missives call out MulvaneyStanak directly, saying that by not addressing Green’s claims, she’s reneged on campaign promises to fight racial injustice. The mayor’s recent decision to not fill several positions, including the director, in the racial equity department in order to help close a budget gap also rankled activists such as Mia Schultz, president of the Rutland Area NAACP and one of the letter writers. Green, too, emailed Mulvaney-Stanak, imploring her to hire a permanent director.
“It kind of hits a little bit different when you thought you had an ally,” Schultz said in an interview. “Racial justice looks like owning up to the past … so that you can truly move forward in every way.”
For Ferene Paris, justice includes a financial settlement. Paris, a close friend of Green’s who participated in Burlington Juneteenth events and the Minneapolis expo, said Green is unemployed despite applying for 400 jobs in the past year. Money woes led her to put her house in Minneapolis on the market, according to Paris.
Green deserves damages and for her legacy to not be erased, Paris said. She’s hoping Mulvaney-Stanak will remember the letter she wrote in support of Green just a year ago.
“Myself and many people are asking [the city] to please do better and to please do right, because at the end of the day, Tyeastia doesn’t deserve all that’s come towards her,” Paris said. “She’s never going to be the same person again.”
In an interview, Mulvaney-Stanak defended the cuts to the racial equity office during a tough budget year. She pledged to keep at least four full-time staffers, making it more robust than similar departments in other towns or in state government, she said. Under Green’s leadership, the office had as many as 14 employees.
As for advocates’ criticisms that she’s been inconsistent, Mulvaney-Stanak said she “doesn’t disagree” with anything she wrote in her 2023 letter in support of Green. That letter called for “self-reflection and restorative practices,” which are what the city has agreed to do to resolve Green’s grievances, Mulvaney-Stanak said.
Paris, for one, thinks the city is waiting for Green and her supporters to run out of steam.
“None of us are stopping,” she said. “History will again remind people why you should be listening to Black women. We’re gonna fight this to the end.” ➆
« P.7
[Re “Ask the Rev: Why Do I Have to Get My Driver’s License?” August 28]: I want to o er some additional perspective for the teenager who asked, “How do I get [my parents] to understand that I just don’t want to drive?”
Considering the geopolitical and environmental implications of oil-dependent infrastructure, and the 40,000 vehicular deaths per year in the U.S., and the fact that walkable communities report better mental health, and that access to public transportation promotes health equity and social engagement, it’s frustrating to see a distaste for driving treated as an individual problem to overcome.
certificate or passport. She had to show these pieces of ID at three di erent tables before she was given a ballot. Now that is secure voting!
Claudette Lavigne BURLINGTON
Finishing up digging projects before the snow flies?
flies?
Before you dig, you or your contractor must contact Dig Safe™ at 811 at least 48 hours prior to digging.
Before the work begins, Dig Safe will notify member utilities, who will then ensure the locations of buried facilities they own are clearly marked. Please insist that any work within 18 inches of the marked lines be done by hand.
How to Detect a Gas Leak
How to Detect a Gas Leak
Smell: Natural gas is normally odorless. A distinctive, pungent odor, similar to rotten eggs, is added so that you will recognize it quickly
Sight: You may see a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, or blowing dust You may also see vegetation that appears to be dead or dying.
Sound: You may hear an unusual noise like a roaring, hissing, or whistling.
Natural gas is normally odorless. A distinctive, similar to is added so you quickly. : mist, fog, bubbles dust. You may also see unusual whistling.
If you suspect a leak:
If you suspect a leak:
Move immediately to a safe location. Call VGS at 800-6398081 or call 911 with the exact location. Do not smoke or operate electrical switches or appliances. These items may produce a spark that might result in a dangerous condition.
Do not assume someone else will report the condition.
Be safe
Scan the QR Code or visit vgsvt.com/be-safe for more safety information.
It’s especially disheartening to read, in the same issue, news of Green Mountain Transit’s planned service cuts [“Green Mountain Transit Proposes Major Service Cuts,” August 27].
[Re Seven Days ’ Voters’ Guide 2024 , September 18]: While living in Wolcott, I had the pleasure of having John Rodgers as my state senator. I corresponded with him on numerous occasions regarding legislation. Although we may not have always seen eye to eye on every issue, John always made the time to listen to my concerns.
We are all familiar with the reflexive declarations of American car culture: the insistence that driving equals “freedom” and that “relying on others” is inherently bad. But many people are working to challenge these assumptions, address the needs of those who cannot drive due to age or disability, and imagine more equitable and sustainable transportation options for all.
For example, check out Not Just Bikes, a popular YouTube channel explaining European public planning, which encourages American viewers to “find your local advocacy group to get started.”
Or “The War on Cars” podcast, or the Facebook group New Urbanist Memes for Transit-Oriented Teens, where young people engage in policy discussion while sublimating their car-culture frustration into bite-size hilarity. Or attend a meeting of your town’s transportation committee or pedestrian and cyclist advisory board.
Axel Greeze, aside from just getting over it, there are resources for you to examine your driving aversion; you might even find purpose and community there.
Emma Brewer BRISTOL
[Re Seven Days ’ Voters’ Guide 2024 : “Voting Checklist,” September 18]: When I lived in France, I had the privilege of accompanying my friend to vote. She had to produce three pieces of identification: credit card, driver’s license, and birth
Now running for lieutenant governor, John is the kind of true leader I believe Vermont needs. On day one, he will roll up his sleeves and listen to all Vermonters as individuals. John has a long history of advocating for the “Vermont view” — an approach focused on bettering the state for the sake of all Vermonters, rather than serving special interests, lobbyists or any one political party.
Key areas in which John can lead important discussions and drive positive change include cleaning our waterways, rethinking fiscal responsibilities, spurring responsible housing developments that don’t continue polluting our waterways and advancing environmental conservation.
I encourage you to reach out to John directly with any questions you may have. He will be sure to respond.
Jeremy Ayotte FLETCHER
Another development project at the Pine Street Barge Canal goes down in flames [“Developers Pull the Plug on Burlington Spa Plans,” September 13, online]. This time, the State of Vermont kicked in $6 million to o set the regulatory costs of building next to a Superfund site. Alas, despite the state stipend, the spa has followed into oblivion the other projects proposed for the Barge Canal over the past 30 years: o ce building, supermarket, gas station, bowling alley. Perhaps there is a message here: Let it be. Let the whole Barge Canal — both public and private land — evolve into its best and highest use.
For almost 60 years, since the closing of the super-polluting manufactured gas plant on the site, nature has been allowed to start regenerating a viable ecosystem. For all those years, the wetlands and forest have been sequestering carbon, containing toxins, managing stormwater, and providing habitat for hundreds of plant and animal species. Let’s consider a new option besides conventional redevelopment; let’s use our public funds and creative energy to imagine a unique 24-acre green space in the heart of the rapidly densifying South End of Burlington.
In 1993, local residents united to stop the federal Environmental Protection Agency from building a $50 million toxic waste dump at the Barge Canal. Thirty years later, we can find unity again around a simple, profound theme: Let the Barge Canal Be.
Andrew Simon BURLINGTON
precedent where ancient collaborations between microbes, fungi and plants can help humans transform the legacy of petrochemical industry pollution into new pathways of reconciliation.
Jess Rubin BURLINGTON
Rubin founded and directs MycoEvolve.
What a great article about the fabulous White River Junction [“Creative Crossroads: Three to Six Hours in White River Junction, a Charming Village With Eccentric Character,” September 18]. I love this town and all it has to o er. I’m usually there many times a week.
Tony Luckino THETFORD CENTER
We are grateful the Silt Botanica Bathhouse project will not be developed at the Barge Canal [“Developers Pull the Plug on Burlington Spa Plans,” September 13, online]. It is unfortunate that federal remediation funds go to “scoop dump” or “cap” build tracts. The federal definition of remediation requires updating by the two-plus decades of scientific research in this crucial and emerging field. Science indicates that true remediation can occur through proper application of site- and toxin-specific microbes, fungi and plants. Through long-term strategies that facilitate the transformation of complex compounds into benign elements, polluted ecosystems can recover. Where equity-oriented communities apply these strategies, ecosystems can be restored and accessible to their Original People caregivers.
Thank you for the extensive coverage of Vermont’s Afghan refugees [“A World Away: Hundreds of Afghan Evacuees Are Cobbling Together New Lives in Vermont. But They Can’t Help Looking Homeward,” September 25] and the work Molly Gray is doing as the executive director of the Vermont Afghan Alliance [From the Publisher: “From Kabul to Colchester.”]
This is the Molly Gray I came to know as a fellow congressional candidate in 2022 and as a friend since then. She is intelligent, hardworking, honest and sincere — and has a great compassion for people in all walks of life.
Louis Meyers SOUTH BURLINGTON
Learn more about the history of the Pine Street Barge Canal and grassroots efforts to conserve, restore, remediate and rematriate this site through resources from MycoLab, the community branch of MycoEvolve. We are hopeful that a diverse team will harness this opportunity to model responsible polluted site management for watershed and community health. Let us set a new
[Re “A Public Safety Forum in Burlington Draws a Crowd,” September 19]: None of these ideas will help until the city starts arresting people for public drug use. Oregon learned the hard way and reversed course. How much more evidence does Burlington need? When you don’t punish public drug use, o er free food and tents, and let people leave their feces all over private property without consequences, you invite everyone near and far to come do drugs in Burlington.
Ginger Vieira ESSEX JUNCTION
OCTOBER 23, 1938SEPTEMBER 23, 2024 COLCHESTER, VT.
Nancy Ellen Lang, 85, of Essex, Vt., passed away peacefully on Monday, September 23, 2024, one month shy of her 86th birthday, at the University of Vermont Medical Center.
Nancy passed as summer turned into fall, and, just like that, a little sunshine left our lives.
She was born in Richlandtown, Pa., to John Repa Jr. and Myrtle May Hagan. When she was 14, her father uprooted the family from Bucks County to the wilds of Underhill, Vt., to be
JUNE 3, 1962SEPTEMBER 13, 2024 COLCHESTER, VT.
Our beloved Darcy passed away on September 13, 2024, after a courageous struggle with liver cancer.
Her parents were Cecil “Bud” Coates and Dorothy Flindt Coates. She grew up in an amazing 1920s Spanishstyle home in Piedmont, Calif., with her younger sister, Sally.
Darcy graduated from Mills Women’s College in Oakland, Calif., with majors in art history and computer science. During the summer
near his favorite hunting grounds. ey settled in an old farmhouse on what is now Repa Road. Nancy and her sister, Phyllis, commuted by car to high school in Essex Junction, where the new girl quickly caught the eye of an upperclassman. John Lang took Nancy on a first date on her 15th birthday, the beginning of a 70-year love affair. Nancy was a force of nature from a young age. She skipped a grade and graduated at the age of 16 from Essex Junction High School at the top of her class. She was accepted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, but it did not provide housing for female students at the time. She instead studied civil engineering for two years at the University of Vermont, until she left school to marry John on September 21, 1957. After their wedding, they lived on Long Island, N.Y., where John was stationed in the U.S. Air Force. ey returned to take over the family farm in Essex, Vt., and welcomed their son, Jonathan, in 1959. A daughter, Jennifer, joined the family in 1964.
In between having her children, Nancy began her career in real estate at Hickok
of her junior year, she traveled on her own in England, France and Italy. She went on
and Boardman. Sales were a perfect fit for Nancy, as she possessed a natural charisma, always greeting everyone by name and with a smile.
A true trailblazer, Nancy opened her own real estate office at 30, during a time when women weren’t even allowed to open credit cards in their own name. Lang Associates became a leader in real estate sales and the largest real estate brokerage firm in Vermont. She had the ability to cultivate people’s strengths and reward them for their efforts. ere was a reason she titled the business Lang Associates, as the “Lang Gang” was a team. She took on leadership roles in the industry on both state and national levels. She was president of the Northwestern Vermont Board of Realtors, Vermont Association of Realtors and New England Chapter of Certified Residential Brokers and was national president of the Real Estate Brokerage Council. Nancy was named Realtor of the Year by the Northwestern Board of Realtors in 1971.
She served as president of the Greater Burlington Industrial Authority and as
a director of the Vermont Industrial Development Authority, Vermont Business Roundtable, Vermont Canada Trade Office, Leadership Champlain, Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce and Vermont Chamber of Commerce.
Nancy also served as a member of the Community Advisory Board for the Chittenden Trust Company and as a director for the Bank of Vermont. For her efforts in the Vermont business world, the Small Business Administration named her Vermont Small Business Person of the Year in 1981. She was recognized at a White House reception, hosted by vice president George H.W. Bush. In 1985, the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce awarded her the omas B. Chittenden Award (Citizenship Award). e Burlington Free Press also named her a Top Gun in Business, alongside several men, in 1987.
In addition to her support of Vermont business, Nancy gave back to the community. She served as chairman of a record-setting Chittenden County United Way Campaign. She also
devoted her time to many area educational institutions, serving as a trustee of Trinity College and as a member of the UVM School of Business Advisory Board and the Saint Michael’s College Associates Board. She was a founding member of the Vermont Women’s Forum and a member of the International Women’s Forum.
Nancy made doing it all look easy. She was a loving mother who encouraged all her children’s interests. She carried that tradition on to her grandchildren, supporting their education and careers and treating them to trips around the world. But Nancy’s success would not have been possible without the support of her husband, John. ey were a true unit, built on love and respect. After Nancy sold her real estate business, they developed the Lang Farm development and then retired. ey were blessed to share a wonderful retirement, where they traveled the world and enjoyed waterfront homes in Florida and Vermont. In her later years, Nancy particularly cherished Sunday family dinners and games of canasta and Rummikub. Bumps in the road, like fire, natural
disasters and life-threatening illnesses were met with Nancy’s trademark resilience. When John passed in March of this year, she seemed to weather that loss, as well. But though science would tell us she died of a series of strokes, we all know it was caused by pieces of her broken heart from losing her “Hen.” Nancy is survived by her children, Jonathan Lang and Jennifer and Daniel Bashaw; her grandchildren, Sydney Bashaw and her partner, Kevin O’Brien, Sophie Bashaw, Justin Lang and his fiancée, Jewellery Hoang, and Chloe Lang. She also leaves her sister, Phyllis Maroney; her in-laws on John’s side; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, noon to 3 p.m., at the Garden Barn at Lang Farm, 51 Upper Main St., Essex, VT. ere will be a short service followed by a reception. Should you wish to make a contribution in Nancy’s honor, please consider Doctors Without Borders or Chef Andrés’ World Central Kitchen. Nancy believed in and supported their missions.
to obtain a master’s degree in museum studies.
She worked for 20 years as a museum collections manager at the Telfair Museum in Savannah, Ga., and the Fleming Museum of Art in Burlington, Vt.
She lived for many years in Grand Isle, Vt., with her then-husband, Jeff, and their daughter, Alice. While living there, she started her own business, Champlain Cyber Cottage, where she trained people in computer skills and technology.
She later moved to Burlington, Vt., and landed at Gardener’s Supply Company,
where she worked for 12 years, working her way into a customer service rep supervisory role.
She eventually moved to Colchester to live with her partner and second husband, Ray.
Darcy will be remembered as a caring and creative soul who was always willing to help others. She loved people, art, history, fine food, kayaking, Motown music, Jazz, nice clothes, British comedy and mysteries.
Darcy was predeceased by her father, mother and sister, Sally.
She is survived by her
beloved daughter, Alice; her grandson, Jackson; her devoted husband, Ray; her ex-husband/co-parent and friend, Jeff; her half-sister, Sophie; her Aunt Francie; and her cousins, Jesse and Toby. She had many close friends she loved and by whom she was loved.
Beloved Darcy, you will be remembered with gratitude and love by all who knew you.
ose wishing to honor Darcy might consider donating to Burlington COTS or the Chittenden County Food Shelf or helping someone in need.
NOVEMBER 13, 1938SEPTEMBER 15, 2024 COLCHESTER, VT.
Eben Wolcott, 85, passed away on September 15, 2024, peacefully at his home in Colchester, Vt.
Eben was born in Burlington, Vt., to Max C. Wolcott and Florence (Cloe) Wolcott on November 13, 1938. He attended school in Burlington and graduated from Burlington High School. He married Barbara F. Newell on November 20, 1965, in Burlington. ough the relationship was not permanent, they had son
William Wolcott in April 1987. Eben possessed many jobs in his youth until he found his professional passion in the Vermont National Guard. During his time in the Guard, he achieved the rank of colonel as the state maintenance officer. During his 42-plus year career, he was activated and served two tours in Vietnam, supporting the 25th Infantry Division as both a company commander and transportation commander. During his service in both the Vermont National Guard and U.S. Army, he was awarded two Bronze Star Medals, a Meritorious
JUNE 9, 1940-APRIL 28, 2024
BURLINGTON, VT.
is wonderful woman who was Maria Elizabeth Bryant died peacefully on Saturday, April 28, 2024, at the Converse Home in Burlington, surrounded by people who loved her. e daughter of Ernesto and Teresa Hoffmann, she was born on June 9, 1940, in Borburata, Venezuela.
Elizabeth taught herself English and secretarial skills and was working at a local paper mill when she met her husband and love of her life, Robert “Bobby” Bryant. Together they traveled the world and shared many
adventures with their children, Karola and Andres. ey settled in Augusta, Maine, in the early ’70s, where they enjoyed Maine’s beauty and developed lifelong friends. Elizabeth proudly returned to the workplace and continued to enjoy her life with Bobby until his passing in 2015.
Elizabeth soon moved to Burlington, Vt., to be near family and was lovingly cared for at the Converse Home.
Elizabeth is survived by her children, Karola and Andres and his wife, Robyn; grandchildren, Robert, Rebecca, Statia, Myrtle, Bourcard and Vincenta; and great-grandchildren, Leta, Adrianna, Rowan, Ryker, Lilo, Nora and Genevieve. ere were many, many other friends from all over the world, neighbors, and people she loved and who loved her. We are grateful to all.
Elizabeth’s final wish was to thank the staff at the Converse Home for their loving care and support.
A private service will be held in spring 2025 for Elizabeth’s immediate family. e family prefers no flowers. If you wish to make a donation in Elizabeth’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the family would be very grateful.
Service Medal, four Army Commendation Medals and many medals supporting the Vietnam Campaign.
Eben was an active family historian and tirelessly worked to connect our family to the Society of Colonial Wars and Sons of the American Revolution. He worked to preserve history by working with his brother Elwin to establish the Wolcott Natural Area in Colchester. He cultivated a small collection of tractors throughout the years and worked to restore them. He passed this interest and collection down to his
APRIL 13, 1956-SEPTEMBER 21, 2024 EAST MONTPELIER, VT.
omas J, Curchin, MD, of East Montpelier, Vt., left this lovely world on September 21, 2024.
He was born on April 13, 1956, in Red Bank, N.J., the middle child of five children of Kenneth and elma Curchin. Raised in Fair Haven, N.J., Tom had a perfect childhood. His dad was a barber, and his mom was a devoted and incredibly supportive stay-at-home mom. Summers were spent at the beach every day with complete freedom.
son and grandchildren, which is evident from their love of tractors, especially antique John Deere tractors such as the 1943 JD H currently being restored for his granddaughter, Aurelia, and the 1953 JD 60 that Eben and Will had started restoring, the restoration of which will resume for his grandson, Oliver. His love of family, especially his son, daughter-in-law and their two children, and his nieces and nephews, is visible at every turn.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Florence; sisters, Sandra,
of Medicine in 1982. After graduating, he completed a family medicine residency at omas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, Pa., before returning to Vermont to practice.
Tom attended Brown University in Providence, R.I. e best part of that experience was taking a year off from school and biking across the country with his close friends, Tony Siesfeld and Susan Adams. He also worked at a casino in Lake Tahoe before finding his way to work at Spring Lake Ranch in Cuttingsville, Vt., a small psychiatric therapeutic community.
A love of Vermont and all things outdoors grew from that experience. e idea of going to medical school came as well. Tom enrolled at the University of Vermont College
While visiting Spring Lake Ranch during medical school, he met Sarah Kinter, the love of his life. He and Sarah were soulmates from the first time they met and were married in 1988. ey were blessed with three wonderful children. ey had a beautiful life together at their home in East Montpelier, alongside their beloved community. ere were many adventures, including two years living in the territory of American Samoa, where Tom ran the emergency room while Sarah competed in outrigger canoe races. Tom loved hanging out with family and friends, hiking, biking, Nordic skiing, gardening, and reading. With a busy life, it took 40 years to complete section-hiking the Long Trail. Seeing the world was important: exploring the beautiful American Southwest and coastal Maine, the nations of the Pacific, Central America, Mexico, hiking the Alps, and walking the Camino de Santiago with Sarah was deeply moving.
Leslie, Carol, Lida and Sylvia; brothers Elwin and David; nephew Dennis; and niece Jenny. He is survived by his son, William, and his daughter-inlaw, Kristine; grandchildren, Aurelia and Oliver; former wife, Barbara, and her husband, Gerald; and his nieces and nephews.
A memorial service with military honors will be held on October 26, 2024, 3 p.m., at Corbin & Palmer Funeral Home, 9 Pleasant St., Essex Junction, VT 05452. Per Eben’s last wishes, he will be cremated.
Tom was blessed with many years of medical practice with incredible partners and staff. He was grateful for each and every patient he had and the lives they shared with him. With the diagnosis of ALS, retirement came quickly, and he regretted not saying goodbye to each of them. Tom was an incredible father. He brought his kids on every adventure, usually fueled by his famous blueberry muffins and a good story. He filled their life with laughter and warmth and was always willing to lend an ear. He taught them to trust in their decisions and love the journey.
Tom is survived by his wife, Sarah Kinter; his son, William, his wife, Karah Lothian, and their son, Callum omas; his eldest daughter, Alice, and her husband, Sean Dolan; and his youngest daughter, Emma. He is also survived by his sister Judy and her husband, Richard Preston; his brother Ken and his wife, Claudia Curchin; and his sister Linda and her husband, Charles Montgomery. His younger brother Larry and his parents, elma and Ken, predeceased him. At home are his beloved corgis, Tasha and Sparky, and two barn cats, Kitty and Kitty.
In his memory, please be kind to each other and go have an adventure. If you feel so inclined, he requested that donations be made in his honor to the Vermont Foodbank. A memorial will be held on October 19, 2024, 2 p.m., at the Old Meeting House in East Montpelier.
JULY 23, 1954-
SEPTEMBER 18, 2024
BURLINGTON, VT.
Ann Marian Rock left this life peacefully on September 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. ough small in stature, Ann was larger than life, and this tiny lady will leave a gigantic void in all of our lives.
Ann was born in Burlington, Vt., on July 23, 1954. She was the youngest child of Kenneth and Ermilda (Mistrangelo) Rock, who instilled in her an
JUNE 26, 1934SEPTEMBER 12, 2024
SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT.
Robert Samuel Vitali passed away on September 12, 2024, at 90. Bob is survived by the love of his life, Kathy, his wife of 67 years. He was born on June 26, 1934, in Sayre, Pa., to Raffaele and Tomassa
incredible work ethic, strong Catholic faith and a deep love of family. ese values were the pillars of Ann’s life. She spent a wonderful childhood on Henry Street surrounded by a close-knit community, including her second family and longtime neighbors, the Remicks. In Hilah Remick Clarke, Ann had a best friend and constant partner in crime. ey were together even to the end. Ann attended Mater Christi School and graduated from Rice Memorial High School in 1972. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history and education from the University of Vermont in 1976. Ann believed deeply in the words of Robert F. Kennedy, that “the purpose of life is to contribute in some way to making things better.”
Heeding that call of service, Ann joined VISTA following her graduation from UVM. She left Vermont to begin a 45-year residence in New Jersey, first teaching history at Universal High School and Bound Brook Adult High School. She also taught in the
Vitali, Italian immigrants. His parents moved to Dushore, Pa., where Bob was raised. He quickly learned the importance of solid faith, community and its people. His parents owned a bar where they served the locals and were renowned for their homemade spaghetti and meatballs on Saturday nights. Bob would help his mother run the bar during the day while his father worked at the coal mines. Bob attended St. Basil High School and was a standout athlete who excelled in basketball. Following high school, Bob went to Mount St. Mary’s College, where he built many long-lasting friendships. On one trip home from college, he went to the local soda fountain shop and met his future wife and lifelong partner, Kathy. In 1957, Bob and Kathy married, beginning the next chapter of his life, and started a family. Bob loved his country and, while at college, was
Somerset County Jail, helping many inmates earn their GEDs. Ann earned a master’s degree in counseling from Rutgers University, became a school counselor for young people with special needs at Central Valley Middle School and later finished her career at Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School. Ann was an outspoken member of the NJ Educational Association, where she fought tirelessly for the rights of children, teachers and other working people. Anyone who knew Ann in her career knew that she was a small woman with a big voice. During her sojourn in Jersey, Ann made many dear friends, especially Pat and Robert Albers. She met and fell in love with Paul Dyer, with whom she spent 10 happy years. She was an active member of the community in her adopted hometown of Somerville.
roughout her life, Ann spent summers in Vermont and was the devoted caretaker of her parents in their later years. She was always accompanied by her faithful
accepted to the U.S. Marine Corps Officer Candidates School and stationed at Quantico Marine Base and then Camp Lejeune. Following his service, he left the Marines for civilian life, joining IBM. In 1964, Bob relocated to Vermont, where he enjoyed a long career at IBM, building his new community of great family friends.
During the ’70s, Bob sailed, becoming a champion captain on his sailboat, the Windquest. He won several Lake Champlain Yacht Club Billado Cups and was a top-three finisher in the Ladies Cup and Commodore McDonogh races. Bob retired from IBM in 1992 but continued to try new pursuits. His main hobby was bike riding, often with his buddy Lawlor. is passion led to working as a summer tour guide for Vermont Bicycle Tours. He also enjoyed playing golf. In later years, he became a
canine companions, Dusty and Camille. She was the family historian, event photographer and chief storyteller. Ann was the life of any party. She knew how to get the best seat at a concert, the best spot on a parade route, and the best viewing spot for a clear view of any fireworks show or Christmas tree lighting. She had an uncanny knack for showing up on the Jumbotron at sporting events!
Following her retirement, Ann moved back to her beloved Vermont full time. She once again settled into the family home and spent her time pursuing the activities she loved, including filling in as a long-term substitute counselor at Mater Christi School, puttering in her garden and volunteering at her nephew’s Pitchfork Farm. She was a regular at Rozzi’s Lakeshore Tavern wing and trivia nights, spent hours attending the activities of her grandnieces and -nephews, and took a yearly February cruise with her fellow “cruise queens.” She was able to see her beloved Celtics
staff member of the Vermont National Golf Club, where he worked for many summers.
Bob was a people person, an avid storyteller and a jokester. He was quick-witted and delivered well-timed wisecracks. His subtle smile revealed his ability to both give and receive banter. He loved getting to know people and was interested in their stories, families and where they came from. He was a great judge of character, his compass in life.
Bob and Kathy had five children. Bob was very involved in his children’s activities, sports and lives. His love for basketball continued, and he coached rec league and Catholic Youth Organization basketball teams. He also learned to love other sports his children participated in, such as basketball, hockey, football, field hockey, gymnastics, dance, lacrosse and skiing.
win one more championship, and she never gave up hoping for “just one more” for the Yankees, Giants and Canadiens — perhaps now she is working a little “divine intervention” on their behalf! She was the institutional memory of Henry Street, having quickly become fast friends with all of her new neighbors. She loved a good block party, sitting on her porch visiting with whoever was walking by and watching a new generation of children enjoying the green space next to her house.
ough cancer caught her by surprise, Ann fought it bravely every step of the way. She was so grateful for the excellent care she received throughout her illness from the staff at the UVM Medical Center, especially Drs. Ades and Borrazzo and the many physicians and nurses of the UVM Oncology Department.
Ann is survived by her sister, Kathryn Mary, and her husband, Richard Trudell, of South Carolina; her brother John and his wife, Jean Rock, of South Burlington, Vt.; and
Bob, aka “Grampy,” adored his grandchildren, attending as many school and sporting events as possible. He was encouraging, curious and supportive of any interest they had, making them feel special. Bob was proud to tell stories of their adventures and accomplishments and recap the details of their lives.
During his last year, he lived at Quarry Hill Assisted Living, again making new friends and frequently spending time with his buddies Ron and Gene. He loved the support staff who cared for him, and they loved him.
He spent his final days at McClure Miller Respite House, making new friends and leaving lasting impressions on their lives. He could not have been happier with the extraordinary care of the nurses, LNAs, staff and volunteers. He was grateful for their compassion and kindness in caring for him.
her brother Robert and his wife, Marie Rock, of Colchester, Vt. “Aunt Annie” is deeply missed by her nieces and nephews, Amy (Rock) and Duncan Wardwell, Jennifer (Rock) and Scott Hempey, Jonathan and Julie Rock, Robert and Andrea Rock, and Sean Rock. Ann was “GA” to her six great-nieces and -nephews, Quinn and Alexander Wardwell, Owen and Olivia Rock, and Sebastian and Breccan Hempey. Ann was predeceased by her parents, Kenneth and Ermilda, as well as her partner, Paul Dyer.
A mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday November 2, 2024, 10 a.m., at the Chapel of the Sacred Heart at Mater Christi School, with a celebration of life to follow. All of Ann’s many friends and relatives are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ann’s memory can be made to the Intervale Center Farmer Recovery Fund, Mater Christi School’s Scholarship Fund or the V Foundation for Cancer Research.
Bob leaves behind his beautiful bride, Kathy; and four kids, Vicki Vitali Porter (Troy), Timmy Vitali, Terry Vitali (Bridget) and Pam Vitali. Bob’s parents, Raffaele and Tomassa; his sister, Lena; and his son Jeff all preceded him in death. Also surviving him are 12 grandchildren, Yvette, Sam, Tyler, Jacob, Kathryn, Terrence, Riley, DJ, Evie, Christian, Cale and Lola; and 10 great-grandchildren, Logan, Violet, Jillian, Gus, Bella, George, Penny, Kenny, Jack and Luke. A mass in dedication to Bob will be held on October 26, 11 a.m., at the Catholic Center at the University of Vermont. In Bob’s memory, you may send donations to the McClure Miller Respite House, 3133 Roosevelt Hwy., Colchester, VT 05446, or the Catholic Center at UVM, 390 S. Prospect, Burlington, VT 05401 (uvmcatholic.com).
JUNE 30, 1932SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
SHELBURNE VT.
Warren Nelson Severance died on September 17, 2024. He was born in Manchester, Vt., on June 30, 1932, the only child of Cutler F. Severance and Ebba E. Severance (née Nilsson).
Warren attended schools in Manchester and graduated from high school at Burr and Burton Seminary in 1950. He served in the U.S. Army for two years at the end of the Korean War, stationed in Utah. He completed technical training at the RCA Institute in New York City, then worked in radio communications for the Vermont Department of Public Safety for 25 years. He married Nancy Skea Severance in 1960, and the couple
1929-2024
The Holden, Heininger and Sawyer families would like to thank all who participated in the September 21, 2024, memorial for our dear Sylvia at the Unitarian Church in Burlington, Vt. People have asked what her favorite cause was, so that they may make a donation. We
raised four children in Barre Town, Vt. Warren retired from VT DPS in 1987, began part-time work and moved with Nancy to East Charlotte, Vt., in 1989.
Warren was a legend in the amateur radio community, designing, building and maintaining equipment installations at his home and atop hills and mountains throughout Vermont. He could fix anything and found great joy in sharing his time and skills with family, friends and neighbors who needed a hand. Warren was loved by many, and he will be dearly missed.
Warren is survived by his wife of 64 years, Nancy Skea Severance; and his four children and their spouses, Eric C. Severance and Jane Ackerman Severance of Manchester, Vt.; Lars S. Severance of Shaftsbury, Vt; Gretchen A. Beloin and Peter Beloin of New Haven, Vt.; and Carl W. Severance and Liz Dallas of Winooski, Vt. Warren leaves eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, as well as his beloved sister-in-law, Joanna Skea, and nieces and nephews from Nancy’s side of the family. He is also survived by many cousins in Sweden and his dear friend Ted Hopkins of Manchester.
A celebration of life is planned on Sunday, October 27, 2024, 2 p.m., at the Old Lantern, 3260 Greenbush Rd., Charlotte, VT. Read an extended obituary at bit.ly/3zAAY5o.
Janet Hubbard, author, playwright and well-known patron of the arts, passed away on August 31, 2024. She was born in Richmond, Va., in 1944, on the summer solstice — the longest day of the year, and also the day her peonies never failed to bloom in her garden.
She majored in theater and English arts at Virginia Intermont College. She likened it to “unleashing a colt into a pasture.” She was accepted as an apprentice at the Virginia State Theater, and soon after, she traveled to Paris for the first time, which began a love affair with the city that lasted a lifetime.
suggest the North Star Community Hall — the old German Club (Goethe Lodge) in Burlington — founded by her grandfather and now a public facility undergoing restoration. Make checks payable to Goethe Community Trust and send them to 20 Crowley St., Burlington, VT 05401. Other payment options may also be available; for more info email info@ northstarcommunityhall.org.
an invitation to stay at a friend’s cabin in Vermont to write. A rugged-looking guy knocked on the door, looking for someone else, and the rest is history.
As an emerging writer, Janet moved to New York City and began her career at Random House, followed by Time Life, where she became a researcher. She simultaneously enrolled at New York University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English. Before being sent on assignment to Iran, she accepted
Janet married Frank Brown two years later, and they had two children, Luke and Ramsey. She wrote 25 books for Chelsea House Publishers and several History Mystery books, among many other freelance gigs, while she raised her children. In 1988 she woke up with a children’s musical on her mind, and Heart of the Mountain was born. The show traveled all over the state of Vermont before winning a peace prize in Germany the following year.
Janet took an unconventional and thrilling approach to parenting. She taught the many children who adored her to approach life with curiosity and wonder. She introduced her children to the world at young ages and encouraged them to explore as many cultures and countries as possible, which they did.
Janet divorced at 58 and became a novelist. She wrote three mysteries set in the wine districts of France. She derived great pleasure in mentoring writers and helping them to find their authentic voices. She was an avid supporter of the arts and sat on multiple boards, most notably of Phantom Theater, where she wrote promotional articles and produced many shows over the course of 40 years. Her final novel, The Eloquence of Grief, was published in September 2024. Janet lived life on her own terms. She developed a strong philosophy on how to accomplish a wildly abundant life: Wear more lipstick, have a glass, throw fabulous dinner parties, laugh at yourself, talk to strangers (who will become friends), go to Paris, wear red, read great books and, most importantly, say “Yeeesss” (in a Southern accent) as often as possible.
A celebration of Janet’s life will be held on October 9, 2024, 3 to 6 p.m., at Bliss Ridge Farm, 216 Gove Rd., Moretown, VT.
A book launch event for Janet’s final novel, The Eloquence of Grief, is on October 10, 5:30-7 p.m., at the Red Barn Galleries at Lareau Farm in Waitsfield, and will include light fare and a cash bar. For details, visit phantomtheater.org.
1959-2024
We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the life of Robert “Scot” Jameson on Sunday, October 6, from 2:30-5 p.m. at the Mansfield Barn, 3 Irish Farm Rd., Jericho, Vt. Together, we’ll share cherished memories, stories and the special moments that made Scot so dear to us all. Your presence would mean so much as we remember and honor his remarkable life.
Barbara Catherine Nolfi, a fiery champion of women’s rights and justice for all, died peacefully on September 29, 2024. Further details of her celebration of life ceremony will be printed in her obituary next week.
STORY BY DAN BOLLES • PHOTOS BY JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR
Ballads played by wandering troubadours, sung around campfires or harmonized on front porches have told our stories since ancient times. Grand or small, romantic or sorrowful, from the medieval lamentation “Greensleeves” to “Alice’s Restaurant,” tales set to music have been passed down from one generation to the next. Now, in an era when we tell stories in 5K ultra-high definition with surround sound — or on the phone in our pocket — the storytelling traditions of the ballad can feel like an art form out of time, its practitioners better suited to an earlier age.
But for younger generations of uninitiated Vermonters, those traditions are on full display in the work and biography of storyteller-musician Tom Banjo — or Tom Azarian, if you must. While not quite older than the hills, the diminutive 88-year-old balladeer is a living encyclopedia of songs and tales from the American folk canon, collected over a lifetime as an antiestablishment storyteller who has used his art to entertain, protest injustice, preserve vanishing folk ways or just earn some beer money.
As a performer, he’s been a fixture on Vermont stages, large and small, since the early 1960s, though you’re just as likely to have seen him busking on street corners from Burlington to Montpelier. He and his five-string banjo have been a common sight at political rallies protesting one injustice or another. In the 1980s, he even made at least a half-serious bid for governor.
Azarian has never tasted fame or fortune, but his youthful musical wanderings placed him alongside the likes of Judy Collins and Taj Mahal long before they became household names. His closest brush with renown is being name-checked in a Grateful Dead song — probably.
But in Vermont Azarian has achieved something like folk legend status, thanks to his accomplished banjo work and a reedy, high-lonesome tenor that seems to have drifted in from the mountains of Appalachia. He embarked on a bohemian rural life here years before the arrival of hippies and back-to-the-landers, but his kinship with them — especially over populist politics, a shared mistrust of authority and, of course, music — cemented the Tom Banjo persona, as did his working-class background.
Those countercultural leanings and love of storytelling also show up in what are probably Azarian’s best-known creations, his offbeat “Cranky Shows,” in which he sings the narration of tales told in cartoon form on hand-painted paper scrolls that roll past the viewer’s gaze like some old-timey movie contraption. (Parts of this very story are told and illustrated in the style of an Azarian cranky show.)
I’M NOT A PROFES ONAL MU CIAN. I NEVER HAVE BEEN AND NEVER WILL BE. TOM AZARIAN
He’s performed that brand of eccentric homemade theater — a kind of folk art all its own — at nightclubs, theaters and birthday parties from Burlington to Austin, Texas. And he still does, at least when he can get a ride. He’ll be at Bread and Puppet Theater in Glover this Saturday, October 6.
Though the peak of his make-do performing career is largely in the past,
he’s not done creating. This week, about a month before his 89th birthday, Azarian will put out a new Tom Banjo album, Music of the Common People: American Folk Songs, Labor Songs, Ballads, and Unauthorized Opinions . Produced by Burlington musician and recording engineer Peg Tassey over the past year and a half, the record is quite possibly the last collection of entirely new recordings he’ll make.
It’s tempting to suggest that as Azarian nears 90 years, he is contemplating his legacy by putting more of his music to tape. Tom Banjo has little use for such speculation.
“I’m not that important,” he said, blue eyes twinkling — an Azarian cue that there’s more to the story. “I’m not a professional musician. I never have been and never will be.”
That’s ... mostly true. As in many of Azarian’s best yarns, fact and fiction have a tendency to fold into one another when it serves the story. That, after all, is the way of old folk ballads: They twist and change through years and retellings — keeping important truths alive. The truth is that Vermont wouldn’t be Vermont without unsung folk heroes like Tom Banjo, whose own long ballad has unspooled before our eyes with deep artistic commitment, lots of color and a healthy dash of humor, like one of his cranky shows.
One sunny day in western Mass. in 1945,
young Tom Banjo roamed the countryside, feelin’ glad to be alive.
Sweet and ripe like candy, the apples did delight. That is, until Old Farmer John gave those boys quite a fright.
No, an irate apple farmer didn’t shoot Azarian and his brother for stealing apples when they were kids. But a couple of farmworkers did shoot at them, according to Azarian. Whether a warning shot or poor aim explains the miss, Azarian isn’t sure. “But I remember the pitter-patter of rock salt hitting those leaves,” he said. “And o’ course, we ran like hell.”
As he spoke, Azarian was seated at the head of the long wooden kitchen table of the rustic farmhouse in Calais where he lives with his sons Jesse and Tim; Tim’s wife, Wilaiwan, who owns the Montpelier Thai restaurant Wilaiwan’s Kitchen; and two grandchildren. A battered black engineer’s camp rested above his craggy face, shading eyes the same color of his faded denim shirt and jeans. When Azarian laughs or smiles, which is often, gleaming dentures brighten his weathered features.
His banjo was in another room, but an old guitar rested on a love seat behind him, flanked by shelves stu ed with books
A-howlin’ he did wave a stick, Tom swore it was a broom. Right up until Old John took aim and that broomstick went…
on two of his favorite subjects: music and history. His third favorite preoccupation lay outside the bay window, the expansive gardens he still tends with his ex-wife, Mary, who lives down the road.
With its low ceilings and exposed wooden beams, Azarian’s kitchen has the warm, welcoming feel of a hobbit hole; the lush grounds of the family’s homestead are something like the idyllic Shire. It’s an inviting setting in which to hear good stories.
While dodging rock salt was a rare occurrence for Azarian and his brother and sister, theirs was still a hardscrabble upbringing in the shadow of the Berkshires. Azarian was born in Westfield, Mass., in 1935, the middle of the Great Depression.
“We were those kids you probably read about who were malnourished and hungry because we didn’t get enough to eat and there was no welfare,” he said in a lilting rural twang that comes and goes as he speaks.
Tom and his brother came upon an apple orchard-o!
So down the hill they scrambled, a-poachin’ they did go.
To listen to Azarian spin out his biography is to see glimpses of the folksy Tom Banjo persona that is both a bit of theater and a genuine reflection of who he is. He is warm and funny — and occasionally a bit o -color — and has a not-unpleasant habit of meandering, even when answering direct questions.
Azarian may pause at times to summon a name or year, but he recalls most details with remarkable clarity. His tales are delivered with such charm that they can feel both practiced from decades of performance and spontaneous, as if they just occurred to him, just for you.
His maternal grandparents fled the Armenian massacre in the mid-1890s, landing in the U.S. in 1901. His father came here after surviving the Armenian genocide of 1915. His parents worked factory jobs that paid little and often fell behind on rent. The family was evicted when Azarian was 6 or 7 and landed on the edge of town in what he calls “a
hermit shack.” The hovel was heated with kerosene when they could a ord the fuel. His mother and younger sister slept on the only bed. Azarian, his older brother and father all slept on couches — a habit Azarian never quite shook.
“I didn’t sleep in a bed until I was married,” he said.
What the Azarian home lacked in food, heat and beds, it made up for in music. His father played violin and mandolin, and his brother “played a mean fiddle and guitar,” Azarian recalled. On Saturday nights, they’d listen to broadcasts of “The Grand Ole Opry,” the country music radio show beamed in from Nashville. That’s where, one night in 1946 or 1947, he heard the banjo for the first time, played by singer and comedian Uncle Dave Macon.
“It blew my mind because it sounded unlike any other instrument,” Azarian said. “It just grabbed ahold of me, and I
became addicted to that sound. And I told myself, I gotta get a banjo.”
By 1951, Azarian had left school with an eighth-grade education and started working at a machine shop alongside his father, then at a greeting-card factory with his mom. Eventually, he saved up enough to buy a $35 Kay banjo from the Sears catalog.
“Everywhere I went, I played that banjo,” he said. “I just couldn’t stop.”
Azarian and his friends, good singers all, mostly covered old traditional tunes learned at neighborhood parties. “We didn’t know they were folk songs,” he said. When they chose newer songs, they were especially keen on the warblings of a hotshot young country singer named Hank Williams.
In his late teens and early twenties, Azarian took a cue from Williams and hit the lost highway himself, rambling to bigger towns and cities nearby to catch live music and play when he could. One night at a coffeehouse in Springfield, Mass., he met a folk musician named Burt Porter.
“And that’s when this whole Tom Banjo thing happened,” he said.
By the late 1950s, folk music was in the midst of a full-blown revival, particularly on college campuses, where the countercultural ideals that would help shape the 1960s were taking root. Porter
was a grad student at the University of Connecticut and immersed in the folk scene there. He and Azarian started playing at coffeehouses, parties and on the campus radio station.
“I didn’t think I’d much care for college,” Azarian said. “I thought it was just for rich kids and loud-mouthed frat boys. But I met a lot of nice people there.”
Among them was a promising young singer named Judy Collins. Porter and Azarian played a show at the university with Collins, who invited the duo to share a bill with her at the Bitter End, the famed
Azarian became known for his itinerant ways. He would often show up out of the blue, stay for a few days or weeks, and then disappear as abruptly as he’d arrived, sometimes home, sometimes to seek out music in other towns.
“They thought of me as some kind of vagabond,” Azarian said. The musicians he befriended knew him as Tom, but no one knew his last name.
“They’d just say ‘Who’s that guy, you know, with the old clothes, who keeps showing up playing the banjo?’” he recalled. “‘You know, that Tom banjo guy.’”
The name stuck.
After his UConn experience, he was drawn to college towns because students, he said, “were the first ones coming on to American folk history and music.” That included stints in the storied Harvard Square coffeehouse scene in Cambridge, Mass., where he befriended the likes of Taj Mahal, who was still a relative unknown.
One Saturday night, Azarian was playing at a basement jam session at Smith College in Northampton, Mass. In the crowd was a student named Mary. During a break, she introduced herself. Then she asked him, “What do you know about socialists?”
The two didn’t hit it off right away. Although Mary was smitten with Azarian — “His voice was so mesmerizing,” she said — he felt unsure. She was well educated and came from an upstanding family in Virginia, while he was a “wayward bum,” Azarian said.
“He did everything he could to evade me,” Mary said.
Eventually, though, he softened.
“She was open to everything, curious,” he recalled. “She liked the same kind of music I like. She liked old things. She liked flowers and animals.
“I says, Gee, maybe this is the girl I’ve been looking for all my life.”
Mary’s conservative parents, he said, were unimpressed by her scruffy-looking boyfriend. “He looks like a gangster,” Mary’s father groused. To which she shot back, “Yeah, and he’s a communist, too!”
New York City folk and rock venue. They did, “and that was the last time I saw her,” Azarian said of Collins, who would become a Grammy-winning folk-music icon. “After that she got famous.”
While fame may have eluded Azarian, he did manage to leave an impression at UConn, where he stood out, partly for his shabby attire — a blue-collar workman style that he hasn’t veered from much in the past 70 years. And the banjo wasn’t an especially common instrument, so those who played it were rare and often in demand.
As the relationship bloomed and the couple began to consider a future together, Azarian revealed his desire to move to Vermont. He wanted to own a farm with horses and cows and live off the land. She, meanwhile, was a double major in art history and medicine who was considering an MFA at Yale or a medical degree at the University of Edinburgh. But she was intrigued by Azarian’s plan.
“We’ll have no electricity,” he cautioned. “We’ll have kerosene lamps and use burlap bags for curtains.”
Her response?
“She was all for it.”
Azarian and a very pregnant Mary arrived in Cabot in March 1963. They had to snowshoe into their new home. As envisioned, they started a 19th century-style farm with cows, chickens and horses. The couple grew crops in the summer and sugared in the spring. They did have electricity, but Azarian worked his fields with oxen and collected maple sap with buckets, not lines. The Azarians raised three boys, Ethan, Jesse and Tim.
While they lived mostly o what they grew or bartered, both occasionally took on the odd “shit job,” to make ends meet, Azarian said. His wily, independent streak no doubt endeared him to his neighbors in central Vermont, which, as the ’60s wore on, was home to increasing numbers of hippies and back-to-the-landers drawn to the Green Mountains in search of a rural utopia of free love, psychedelics and communal living.
Azarian said he never went in for all that — he just wanted to live simply. But in an area as sparsely populated as central Vermont, people of similar mindsets were bound to find each other. He was soon playing his banjo with a new generation of Vermont folk musicians carried in with the hippie tide.
Azarian was a regular at the Craftsbury Banjo Contest and the Craftsbury Old Time Fiddlers Contest. Those annual festivals drew top players from around the country until the mid-1980s, when they were shut down for growing too rowdy. Every year at festival time and at holidays, the Azarians hosted dayslong parties at their homestead that would become the stu of local lore. Musicians from all over New England would join in jam sessions that stretched into the early morning.
“It was magic for me to stay up all night and listen to these people, my parents and my dad’s friends, playing banjos and fiddles,” said son Ethan, who, like his siblings, is now a musician and artist.
Azarian gigged locally with various groups and performed solo to earn extra money. He was hired frequently by the Vermont Council on the Arts — now the Vermont Arts Council — to play shows at schools and other events.
His most regular collaborator in those days was his old UConn buddy Burt Porter, who had also landed in Vermont. The two often performed at the Bread and Puppet Theater, the famed artist collective in Glover. In fact, Bread and Puppet is where
I BECAME ADDI ED TO THAT SOUND. AND I TOLD MY LF, I GOTTA G A BANJO
TOM AZARIAN
Azarian was schooled in a long-standing art form known as cranky theater, by a member of the troupe named George Kono . When Kono left in the ’70s, he bequeathed his cranky box to Azarian.
Azarian and Porter, who was a fine fiddler and singer, were a formidable
and promotion. But at the time, it lacked the money to back an unknown act. Schubart suggested instead that the duo record on Philo’s sister label, Fretless, which used a hybrid publishing model in which the artist paid some of the expenses, while the label distributed the record.
duo and found modest success around Vermont. In 1972, at the urging of a Morrisville minister who thought they had potential, the pair decided to cut a record and approached Bill Schubart and his half-brother, Mike Couture, who co-owned the influential folk music label Philo Records in North Ferrisburgh.
Philo was home to some of the great folk acts of the era, among them Dave Van Ronk, Mary McCaslin and Utah Phillips. Although Schubart and Couture agreed that Azarian and Porter had promise, their timing was bad. Philo typically covered all of the expenses, Schubart explained, including recording, distribution
That album, titled Burt Porter and Tom Azarian, was released the following year, in 1973. It didn’t make much of a splash but, according to Schubart, contains some performances worth revisiting — if you can find it.
Schubart maintains that, in particular, “Queen Jane,” Azarian’s version of the Francis James Child ballad “The Death of Queen Jane” is among the best he’s ever heard.
“It took my breath away,” Schubart said. “After they left, I must have sat in the studio with a fifth of bourbon and listened to it 10 times.”
In 1982, Azarian and Mary separated. She moved with the kids to an old farmhouse on a long dirt road in Calais while he stayed in Cabot.
Two years later, in 1984, Azarian made an unsuccessful run for Vermont governor as an independent. It’s unclear how serious he was, but he was invited to at least one radio debate, where, he jokingly recalled, he was able to restrain himself from promising to overthrow the government. While he’s often thought of as a socialist, his political platform swung from no-nukes to anti-tax, at least when it came to working family farms. By then, Mary, a children’s book illustrator and woodcut artist, had won a prestigious Caldecott Medal for her work. And he was, well, Tom Banjo — happily underemployed, content to play banjo, tend his gardens and drink beer.
In the late 1980s, Mary sold the Cabot farm, and Azarian moved into the house in Calais, though they remained separated. In 1995, as Azarian put it, “she threw me out.” It wasn’t really a divorce, since the two were never legally married, even though Mary took Azarian as her name and still uses it.
Azarian moved to Burlington, landing in a low-income housing co-op on Pearl Street, a house that stood out for the gigantic sunflowers that he planted and tended. To help pay his rent, he put his gardening expertise to use at farms in the Intervale. He soon befriended a fellow co-op resident, a young Connecticut transplant named Patrick Johnson. “We ended up on the same porch,” is how Johnson explains it.
Before long, they ended up busking for beer money together, joining forces in making the cranky show a cultural fixture.
The cranky show is a two-person operation. Its centerpiece is a large, handmade wooden box with a rectangular opening in the front. Inside is a long reel of butcher paper, on which Azarian has illustrated his stories — three stories to a scroll. The scroll is turned by a pair of wooden hand cranks on top — hence “cranky show” — that move the images across the opening, like a makeshift movie screen.
Because Azarian is busy singing and playing his banjo, he needs a helper to operate the cranks. His kids and grandkids have often done the job over the years. But during the time Azarian was in Burlington, that person was Johnson.
“It’s not as easy as it looks,” Johnson said.
For one thing, timing is everything. The scroll should neither speed ahead of Azarian’s singing nor fall behind, lest the images and music fall out of sync. Given Azarian’s tendency to take liberties with tempo and his habit of altering verses on the fly, a successful cranky operator needs
FOR YEARS, FOLKS HAD ASKED AZARIAN IF HE WAS THE TOM BANJO FROM THE GRATEFUL
to be innately attuned to Azarian. Sometimes even those closest to him find it all too much.
“At a certain point I had to stop doing it, or we would have killed each other,” his son Ethan said.
Johnson, a carpenter, built the cranky box Azarian used in Burlington — he still performs with it when he’s in town. Azarian’s son Tim built another that he uses elsewhere. Johnson called mastering the device “going to cranky college,” and has been cranking for Azarian for almost 30 years, often for lucrative tips on the Church Street Marketplace. The two were also sometimes hired for children’s birthday parties. They performed many of their cranky shows at Radio Bean, the Burlington café and music
venue. For many years, Azarian was a near-daily fixture there — leaning on the bar, sipping a beer — until he left Burlington in 2019. And his cranky shows, including some risqué versions, have remained a staple of the venue’s calendar for just as long.
Most of Azarian’s cranky show stories are based on old songs, such as “One Meatball,” which was popularized by singer Josh White in the 1940s but has roots in the Tin Pan Alley era. And there are a handful of blue crankies, which often follow a similar format as the dirty “Man from Nantucket” limericks but set to music.
“There’s a room in everybody’s brain that they didn’t know was there until
Azarian opens it with his cranky show,” Radio Bean owner Lee Anderson said. “It’s so folky and touches on so many things: It’s Marxist communist worker stuff, antiestablishment politics.
“But also, his cartoons are amazing,” Anderson went on. “So well done and funny and historic.”
Azarian prefers to do his cranky shows at night. His contribution to the evolution of cranky theater was adding a light bulb to the box, which illuminates the scroll. That electrifying development initially horrified Bread and Puppet founder Peter Schumann, though Azarian said his old, technology-averse friend has since softened.
“I think he eventually forgave me,” he said.
Azarian’s classic cartooning style is influenced by “Mutt and Jeff” and other comic strips from his childhood. But there’s also a subversive edge that recalls the artwork of outsider folk musician Michael Hurley, a Vermont contemporary in the 1970s and ’80s.
name-dropped in the 1969 Grateful Dead song “Mountains of the Moon.”
That song, written by Robert Hunter and Jerry Garcia, contains this verse:
Hey, Tom Banjo
It’s time to matter
The earth will see you on through this time
The earth will see you on through this time
Down by the water, the marsh king’s daughter, did you know
Clothed in tatters, always will be, Tom where did you go?
For years, folks had asked Azarian if he was the Tom Banjo from the Grateful Dead song — or if that’s where he had taken the stage name. He’d often thought it could be him but also had heard sugges-
Anderson said part of the appeal of Azarian’s cranky shows is the historical context he often provides before each tale. He’ll talk about where certain songs might have originated and how they’ve changed — or how he’s changed them.
“He keeps that bard tradition alive,” Anderson said.
Johnson suggested that a distinctly Azarian sensibility emerges alongside themes of power disparity and inequality.
“He has characters that always show up in his work,” Johnson said. Azarian never appears as a character in the cartoons, but Johnson noted a striking similarity between the singer and certain archetypes that do. “There’s always this poor, downtrodden guy, like in ‘One Meatball,’” he said. “And [Azarian] draws a lot of strong females and sort of weak, mousy men. Does art imitate life?”
It might.
One day, Azarian mentioned to Johnson that he thought he had been
of 150+ Artisans
tions that the figure in question was Tom Paley from the New Lost City Ramblers or, given the song’s fantasy bent, Tom Bombadil from J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel
The Fellowship of the Ring. Azarian asked Johnson to do some internet sleuthing because he didn’t use computers himself (and still doesn’t).
It turns out that Hunter, the songwriter, was a student at UConn in 1958 and 1959, the same years Azarian was bumming around the college. Like Azarian, Hunter was a fixture in the folk scene there, so it’s likely their paths crossed at some point, even if they never formally met.
That hardly amounts to confirmation. But that last line in the verse could describe a certain itinerant banjo player: “Clothed in tatters, always will be, Tom where did you go?”
Azarian has an answer for that one: “I went to Vermont.”
Old Tom Banjo lived on a farm, pluckin’ his strings, never meanin’ no harm.
Tom did ramble, Tom did roam.
But when he played his banjo, he always felt at home.
Azarian claims he didn’t particularly want to make the new Tom Banjo record. That said, he also didn’t require much convincing. When asked why it was important to record it, especially at his age, he replied, with that telltale twinkle, “Peg was the instigator.”
Peg Tassey, a Burlington musician who’s been rocking and rolling around Vermont since the 1980s, has also developed a growing reputation as a producer who collects wandering musical souls.
Her last big project was Montpelier vocalist Miriam Bernardo’s 2019 debut record, Songs From the Well. Bernardo had long been regarded as one of the state’s finest vocalists but had never made a solo album until Tassey pushed her to do it.
Tassey approached Azarian about recording at her new Emotionoise Studio
Never made no money, rarely had a job, but he’s the richest man in the whole of Vermont.
after she saw him play last year at the Whammy Bar, a tiny general store-slashmusic venue at Maple Corner in Calais. She’d known the Azarians for more than 40 years and is a friend and musical contemporary of their son Ethan. Ethan Azarian had cautioned her that his dad was likely more comfortable playing at farmers markets than amid the high-tech gizmos of a modern recording studio. But to everyone’s surprise, the old man agreed to do the record.
Over the next year or so, Azarian would bum a ride from the remote family homestead in Calais to Montpelier, where he’d catch a bus to Burlington and record for a day or two at a time with Tassey. He stayed nights with his friend Johnson, who has a guest room with a bed. Azarian, however, preferred to sleep on the couch.
He played old songs and he played ’em his way, pickin’ and a-singin’ each and every day.
Old Tom Banjo plays his music still.
The ballad of Tom Banjo echoes through the hills.
The project tested Azarian’s mettle as a musician and singer. He has twice had surgery on his hands to combat carpal tunnel syndrome, which has sapped some of his dexterity. But even in his prime, he was never the fastest or flashiest player. His distinctive style, rooted in old-time rather than bluegrass, relies more on melody, frailing and rhythmic strumming than fiery licks. And he still plays well enough to accompany himself on the old folk tunes and ballads that comprise Music of the Common People
While Azarian says he can’t hit the high notes like he used to, the weathering e ect of age has lent his keening voice more gravitas. As such, his new record is not only a celebration of a beloved Vermont musician, it serves as a historical artifact.
On the opening track, “Goodbye Girls,” Azarian spends a full minute explaining the origins of the old New England folk song and reveals that he’s written in verses of his own that keep with its theme. That practice also follows folk tradition, in which performers would often adapt lyrics or write new ones if they didn’t know the original. “Goodbye Girls” is one of several traditional songs on the album featuring Azarian’s own lyrical additions.
“His music is learned in the way of the genuine oral tradition,” said Mark Greenberg, a central Vermont educator, musician and producer who has known Azarian since the 1970s. “Tom’s the real deal.”
Another central Vermont friend, Montpelier musician and storyteller Tim Jennings, believes that Azarian’s
music and art is a prime example of 20th-century Vermont folk art. “Tom founded himself on legendary figures,” Jennings said, “and he is a legendary figure.”
If fame has eluded Azarian, Jennings offered, it is because he never really sought to capture it.
“He hasn’t ever tried to become respectable,” Jennings said. “And as a result, he has not been taken seriously by people who really should have taken him seriously and given him money.”
If that bothers Azarian, you won’t hear him say it. He’s busy looking ahead. In addition to the new record, Azarian and his son Tim plan to release a collection of songs that Azarian recorded at Burlington’s White Crow Studios in 1988, along with a handful of new tracks.
The efforts cement the octogenarian’s standing in Vermont. Yet the only legacy he seems truly concerned with
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is the musical inheritance he is leaving to his children and grandchildren, musicians and artists all. Granddaughter Aliza, 17, in particular, has stirred talk that she may be the next musical Azarian to make waves in Vermont.
Although Azarian allows that “it would have been nice” to make a living solely making music and art, “I never had the connections.” With that twinkle, he added, “Most of my connections are bummy guys like me who drink beer.”
At least that’s the story he’ll tell. ➆
Music of the Common People: American Folk Songs, Labor Songs, Ballads, and Unauthorized Opinions is available at tombanjo.bandcamp.com. Tom Banjo performs at Bread and Puppet Theater in Glover on Saturday, October 6, at 2 p.m. breadandpuppet.org
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Robert D. Putnam discusses the documentary Join or Die — and how connecting with others can save democracy
BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG • maryann@sevendaysvt.com
In 2000, Harvard University professor
Robert D. Putnam published Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community. Its roughly 500 pages charted the unraveling of American social and civic groups and warned of the threat that posed to personal and civic health.
Pete Davis thought the book was a downer when he studied it as a student in Putnam’s “Community in America” class in 2010. He and his peers were feeling good about how things were going in the country, while Putnam was pointing out that fewer Americans were going to church, joining the PTA, singing in choral societies and having picnics. They were bowling, but not in leagues. The resulting decline in so-called “social capital,” Putnam said, posed a threat to democracy.
Ten years later, as the trend continued, Davis, a writer and cofounder of the Washington, D.C.-based Democracy Policy Network, realized that Putnam was right to be concerned. Democracy was in trouble, and Davis decided it was time to reconnect with his old professor. The result is the 2023 award-winning documentary Join or Die, which comes to Burlington’s Fletcher Free Library on Friday, October 4. Putnam will participate in a post-screening discussion.
Davis and his sister, Rebecca Davis, a former producer for NBC News and Vox’s Netflix show “Explained,” codirected and coproduced the film. Join or Die features interviews with former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and spotlights six community groups across the country. Chad Ervin, co-owner of Montpelier’s Well Told Films, edited the documentary.
Putnam, 83, figures he has spoken to more than 300,000 Americans in the past 25 years, a one-man prophet trying to redirect his country. The film takes his message to a wider audience — he now gets five to 10 speaking invitations a day — “so I’m hopeful,” he said. Putnam talked with Seven Days from the study of his Jaffrey, N.H., home, looking across his pond toward Mount Monadnock.
You’re credited with creating the term “social capital.” What is it, and how does it affect individuals and society? I did not actually invent the term “social capital,” but I guess it would be fair to say I popularized it. The core idea is super
simple: It is that social networks have value. They have value to the people who are in the networks. If you’re in a network, that has a powerful effect on your health. Your chances of dying over the next year are cut in half by joining one group. So it’s a very powerful effect.
Also, networks have externalities — that’s the economics jargon for it — their effect on bystanders. If you happen to be worried about the quality of schools in your community, you could pay teachers more, get higher-quality teachers, or you could get more parents involved in the school. I’m not opposed to paying teachers more. My wife was a public school teacher, so I had a vested interest in paying teachers more, and I’m strongly in favor of
that. But in fact, getting parents involved in the schools will have a better effect on the performance of kids in the school — and not just for their kids, but for other people’s kids. It’s a quite remarkable effect. The same thing is true for crime. If you’re worried about crime in your neighborhood, you might say, “Let’s put 10 percent more cops on the beat” or “Let’s have 10 percent of the people in your neighborhood know one another’s first name.”
Social capital also creates better government, correct?
Absolutely. Social capital is the greatest thing since sliced bread. It’s just utterly amazing how many things are affected by these social networks, and one of them,
the discovery of the fact that social capital is good for democratic government, is actually the opening story in the film. And I don’t want to upstage the whole film, except to say I discovered this in Italy.
What are the most interesting clubs you’ve heard of, and can you explain how they’ve been effective in building social capital?
I’m going to go on a little riff here. Socially isolated, lonely young men are really dangerous. I ask you to think over how many school shootings [there are]. Not every shooting is done by a lonely young man, but a huge proportion of them are. Now take a trip with me back 125 years. It’s the beginning of the 20th century. And exactly the same thing was true then. And the name for it was the Boy Problem. What was the Boy Problem? It wasn’t school shootings, because guns were not as available then. But it was young, isolated boys who were getting in trouble and committing crimes. And then, within five years, virtually all of the major youth-serving organizations in America were invented: the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts and the Camp Fire Girls and the Boys Clubs of America and Girls Clubs and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Why? They recognized they had a problem, and their solution to the problem was, Let’s create some type of clubs for these kids. Astonishingly, that fixed the problem. Let’s look at Boy Scouts. I’m not saying that Boy Scouts are the right solution for the future, but they sure were the right solution for the 20th century. So how did it work? Well, first of all, it was fun. You went hiking, and you camped in the woods, and you earned a merit badge for knowing different birds. But at the same time, it was character building.
You refer to two kinds of social capital: bonding social capital, the connections between people who are alike; and bridging social capital, which connects people who are not alike. That’s the harder one, and it seems to be the one that our polarized country needs the most. Correct.
How do we do that?
It’s really hard, and it’s hard right now in the middle of this election. I’m very much
opposed to Trump, and I actually find it hard to imagine sitting down enjoying an evening with a bunch of Trump folks, but I want to tell you a story about what happened here at our house in Jaffrey yesterday afternoon. A bunch of the neighbors got together because one of the people in the group was about to move away. And we were standing around talking. We were talking about whether this was going to be a good [foliage] season. And we were talking about how we were going to get the driveways here plowed because we’re off in a little cul-de-sac, so we have to arrange for our own snowplows. And we even talked a little bit about politics. It turns out that not all of us agree.
That was bridging social capital. Here we all were connecting. We’re all alike in the sense that we all live in the midst of this beautiful little setting here in southern New Hampshire, but we were different in other respects. I came away understanding a little bit more why this one guy, who happens to be a local basketball coach, likes Trump. He didn’t convince me to like Trump, but I did understand him a little better.
Our very first date was what was then called Sadie Hawkins Day. It was then very rare that a woman could invite somebody out. Rosemary asked me out for the date. And what was our date? Our date was going to a John Kennedy rally. That was kind of: In your face, Putnam Well, of course, turnabout was fair play. The next week, I took her to a Nixon rally. And before the election, she’d already convinced me to be a Democrat, and I still am.
ROBERT D. PUTNAM
How did that work? Well, it worked because, although we were bridging politically, we were bonding on a lot of other things. The way to build bridging social capital among groups who don’t have a lot in common is to find something they can bond over. Once you’ve done that, you can stand in the shoes of the other person just a little bit.
Tell me how your wife, Rosemary Putnam, became the costar of this film.
Well, she’s in the movie because the movie is sort of the story of my life. We met when we were probably 18. We were in college together. We happened to be in the same poli-sci class in the fall of 1960. That was the year in which John Kennedy was running against Richard Nixon. I was a moderate Republican. Rosemary was a dyed-in-the-wool Democrat. But nevertheless, we started hanging out. This is the bridging/bonding thing again.
We were at Swarthmore College, just outside of Philadelphia. I said, “It’s not that far to Washington. Let’s go down to the inauguration.” We stood in the crowd, at the back of the crowd, and we heard [president Kennedy] say, with our own ears, “Ask not what your country can do [for you]. Ask what you can do for your country.” And that was a life-changing moment for me.
This is one powerful lady we’re talking about. In the first four months of our knowing [each other], she’s changed my career and she’s changed my politics. I talk about social capital, but she does social capital. It was not accidental that Rosemary’s the person who arranged for us to host the neighborhood party yesterday. Even after she retired from special education, she spent a lot of time tutoring. She’s a born social capitalist, and I just write about it. ➆
This interview was edited and condensed for clarity and length.
Film screening and author event with Robert Putnam, Friday, October 4, 6 p.m., at Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. Free; registration required; wait list only. fletcherfree.org
To host a screening, find other area screenings or learn more, go to joinordiefilm.com.
his sister, Duygu, and enrolled at Burlington High School.
“I spoke no English in the beginning, so I had to learn quickly,” he said. While in school, Çetin was also a server at Istanbul Kebab House. He always dreamed of opening his own place and went on to study business at the Community College of Vermont.
The result of those dreams, Kismet Mediterranean Grill is an ode to Istanbul. Çetin’s parents and uncle use family recipes and import spices and oil from Turkey. The menu includes a section dedicated to seafood, as Istanbul is a coastal city.
“It’s real Turkish food, cooked by real Turkish people,” Çetin said proudly. “The menu is completely traditional, but it’s large. There is something for everyone.”
Burlington’s Kismet Mediterranean Grill is an ode to Istanbul
BY AMELIA CATANZARO
In Turkish, “kismet” means destiny or fate. However, Serkan Çetin’s journey to opening Kismet Mediterranean Grill was far from simple and serendipitous. The building on Burlington’s Battery Street was completely gutted when he received the keys, despite its previous use as Esperanza Restaurante, which closed in January 2019.
“We had to buy everything brandnew: the burners, the walk-in fridge, new carpet, all the sinks. Everything,” Çetin said.
Once it was all in place, Kismet opened on August 6 with a delightful menu of mezze platters, kebabs, seafood and other traditional Turkish dishes. Çetin, 28, and his uncle, Ali Varlik, own the restaurant; Çetin’s parents, Naciye and Veli, run the kitchen. None of the family members is new to the industry: They were employees at Burlington’s Istanbul Kebab House for nearly 13 years prior to opening the restaurant, and Veli, Çetin’s father, was the
Çetin has many early childhood
memories of working in restaurants, he said, including busing tables, changing silverware and washing dishes. He moved to Vermont in 2014 with his mother and
I explored the 30-plus-dish menu on a Saturday night in mid-September. Even though it was rainy, the lake view out the large windows evoked that coastal connection. Next to me at the bar, a couple dove into the large European sea bass ($25.99). Elsewhere in the dining room, a small family sat next to businessmen with laptops, and a group of family friends laughed and spoke Turkish over full glasses of wine and empty plates.
I started my meal with the Kismet salatasi ($12.99), simple mixed greens with a bright vinaigrette. Next came lavash ($1.99), an airy, seeded bread, alongside smoky baba ghanoush ($8.99). In between bartending, managing and hosting, Çetin insisted that I pair my appetizers with a glass of Syrah ($8), one of many Turkish wines offered. The generous pour perfectly complemented the starters.
The Beyti kebab ($23.99), named after a restaurant owner in Istanbul, was a showstopper. The homey ground lamb was wrapped in lavash with a spicy tomato sauce and a punchy garlic yogurt, served with a side of pickled vegetables.
In a world of constant restaurant innovation, there is something refreshing about Kismet’s white linen tablecloths, salt and pepper shakers, and crisply folded napkins. It’s classic with no attempt at trendiness.
“Young people see white tablecloths and think it’s expensive and fancy,” Çetin said. But the restaurant defies that stereotype, especially at lunch, which “is a lot more casual and cheaper,” he continued.
The ownership trio behind DUMB LUCK PUB & GRILL in Hinesburg plans to open a twin location on Winooski’s Main Street in the spot recently vacated by Wicked Wings. A co-owner of that restaurant, Collin Sourdi , attributed its closure to the impact of the Winooski Main Street Revitalization Project construction.
Married couple ED and PATRICIA BOLDWIN and their business partner, SYDNEY SLOAN, launched the original Dumb Luck at 104 Ballards Corner Road, just o the intersection of Route 116 and Shelburne Falls Road, in late 2022. It was the first foray into restaurant ownership for all three, although Ed, 54, previously worked for the Ground Round Grill & Bar chain, and Sloan, 29, was a manager and bartender at RED SQUARE in Burlington.
The co-owners said they aim to open in Winooski by November 1. Dumb Luck will be a family restaurant with a menu of “real comfort pub food, like burgers, quesadillas and salads,” in Sloan’s words. They believe it’s a good fit for Winooski, especially after the closure of McKee’s Pub & Grill in August, which was followed shortly by that of Wicked Wings.
“We’d been talking about going into Winooski,” Ed said. “We figured the opportunity was for us to jump now.”
Ed has deep roots in Winooski; he
and Patricia live in his childhood home on West Allen Street, near the new restaurant’s location at 211 Main Street.
He said he is not worried “a bit” about the construction. “People from the neighborhood can walk there. I grew up here. That’s why I have confidence in Winooski.”
Follow us for the latest food gossip! On Instagram: Jordan Barry: @jordankbarry; Melissa Pasanen: @mpasanen.
The new owners of Lincoln Peak Vineyard aren’t selling cars, but it might seem that way to passersby on Route 7: The wiggling white arms of a giant inflatable tube man flail over the vines.
Marshmallow Man, as rookie vineyard owners Kevin Bednar and Nichole Bambacigno call him, is for the birds. Or, rather, for keeping them away. The jury’s still out on how effective he is at his job.
On one of the last days of mid-September’s stunning stretch of weather, under Marshmallow Man’s sort-of-watchful eye, a group of 10 grape harvesters got to work in the lower block of the New Haven vineyard. The all-volunteer group clipped bunch after golden bunch of la crescent, careful not to leave anything for those pesky birds.
Bednar and Bambacigno supplied them with pruners, gloves, lunch and — of course — wine.
When the married couple put out a call for harvesting help on their website and social media, “We didn’t think anyone would show up,” Bednar said. They’ve worked plenty of harvests in their winemaking careers, usually with hired staff. For their first season making wine in Vermont, and at their own vineyard, things are more DIY.
But volunteers have shown up every day to help bring in the grapes. Some are family — including Bednar’s parents — or family friends, glad to have the couple in Vermont after they honed their skills around the world. Others, like a visiting sommelier, are just there for the experience.
Bambacigno, 33, and Bednar, 32, bought Lincoln Peak in the spring and welcomed their second daughter a few weeks later. The couple met at mammoth E. & J. Gallo Winery in Bambacigno’s hometown of Modesto, Calif. — about as far from tiny Lincoln Peak as it gets — and traveled the world learning the trade in New Zealand, Australia and Austria. Before returning to Bednar’s native Vermont this year, they were head winemakers at competing wineries in New Jersey.
They’re figuring out the division of labor for working together, they said, and adapting to Vermont’s cold-hardy hybrid varieties and Lincoln Peak’s small-scale equipment. Most importantly, they’re reviving the winery, which launched in the early 2000s but had sat mostly dormant since Shelburne Vineyard bought it from the Granstrom family in 2021.
Taking over one of the state’s most established wineries has been a little
STORY & PHOTOS BY JORDAN BARRY • jbarry@sevendaysvt.com
nerve-racking, Bambacigno said. Customers have longtime favorites, which the couple may or may not bring back. Founder Chris Granstrom left the new owners his notebooks, but the couple’s philosophy is more hands-off: It all depends on the flavors of the grapes. They believe the wine should be classic and clean and taste like fruit.
They’re growing the grapes without herbicides, continuing a practice Ethan Joseph started when he managed the vines for Shelburne Vineyard. And they’re approaching their winemaking differently, mixing native-yeast fermentations common in the natural wine world with the more conventional pitched-yeast style Granstrom used.
Bambacigno and Bednar picked their first grapes, a single row of early-ripening adalmiina, on September 3. A few weeks later, they moved on to Louise Swenson and early marquette destined for rosé. They let things hang for a week to ripen, then picked close to nine tons over four days before last week’s rain.
Having never worked with the hybrid grapes Granstrom planted almost 25 years ago, “We don’t really know how much fruit’s out there,” Bednar said.
“We’re totally guessing,” Bambacigno added.
They nailed their projections on the first few picks, Bambacigno said, but were “way off” on a more recent haul of marquette — thankfully with more fruit than they were expecting.
With about a quarter of the vineyard left to go, things are looking good despite an up-and-down growing season. Vermont’s winegrowers celebrated the season’s beautiful start, but midsummer rain stressed the vines. Bednar and Bambacigno felt lucky to commiserate with other Vermont producers whom they previously followed from afar.
“They’ve all been super welcoming to us,” Bambacigno said, noting a collaborative community vibe she and Bednar haven’t encountered in other wine regions.
“It’s the same spirit with the volunteers coming out,” Bednar said. “People are gung ho, even on the really hot days and even when we start at 8 a.m.”
Once things dry out from the rain, they’ll pick again this week and next. If you’d like to join them, they’ll have pruners and wine. ➆
Lincoln Peak Vineyard, 142 River Rd., New Haven. Find a sign-up form for volunteers at lincolnpeakvineyard.com/pickwithus.
“It’s both for the businesspeople and the young people.”
I returned to Kismet a few afternoons later for lunch with a friend. The dining room was largely empty at 1 p.m., but there was still a buzzing energy, with music seeping from the kitchen into the dining room. We were ravenous after a long hike and immediately dug into the small cold mezze platter ($14.99): hummus, baba ghanoush, Turkish salsa, haydari and stuffed grape leaves with a side of lavash.
IT’S REAL TURKISH FOOD, COOKED BY REAL TURKISH PEOPLE.
SERKAN ÇETIN
The haydari, a refreshing yogurt dip made with garlic and herbs, stole the show — I would have swapped out most of the dips in exchange for more. The acidic yogurt and the fatty olive oil swirled together in a perfect marriage.
My doner kebab lunch ($14.99) featured vertical rotisserie beef served with bulgur, sumac onions and pickled vegetables. My friend ordered the chicken Adana kebab lunch ($13.99), with grilled skewers of seasoned ground chicken, a side of rice and slightly blistered tomatoes. The beef could have come from an urban kebab stand — it was far from elegant but comforting in its predictability. The lunch portions were dinner size, and while we were not waxing poetic about the food, its simplicity and sustenance were satisfying.
This is just the beginning for Çetin. “I just love it,” he said. “My dream is to keep expanding.” ➆
INFO
Kismet Mediterranean Grill, 180 Battery St., Burlington, 540-0001, kismetburlington.com
Please note there is northbound one-way tra c on Main Street in Winooski due to the construction.
appreciate your continued support during this time.
All’s Fare
e Hartland Diner serves up progressive values and classic eats
BY SUZANNE PODHAIZER
When I first walked into the Hartland Diner, Bernie Sanders stood in the entryway, Anthony Fauci leaned casually against a wall, and Barack Obama lurked in a corner — all in the form of cardboard cutouts.
The presence of these liberal icons won’t surprise anybody who has made a pre-visit stop at the diner’s Facebook page, where owner Nicole Bartner — a law school grad and self-proclaimed theater nerd — shares some of her beliefs. “It’s not politics,” she told Seven Days . “What I’m messaging are progressive values; they’re human rights.”
One line of her online mission statement for the diner, which she opened in 2013, calls for “Dignity and Respect for ALL humans” — and that extends to folks with whom she disagrees. “I don’t care if you want to wear a dumb [red] hat,” she explained. She hopes those customers will benefit from being exposed to other views, she said: “If you’re here, you’re marinating in these messages, you’re present with it, and you bought a meal.”
On the day I visited, the crowd was indeed eclectic — a sign that folks will put aside their differences for classic diner fare. A New Hampshire woodsman, perched at the edge of his turquoise barstool, was keen on sharing literal war stories. An older couple, ensconced in a comfy booth, ate quietly at their squiggle-patterned Formica table. At the three-sided central bar, energetic children enjoyed the diner’s ample assemblage of plastic dinosaurs.
mixed with hand-cut potatoes, onions and bell peppers.
Pancakes (from $15) are made from “Blood, Sweat & Gluten,” the menu proclaims. Although the flavors are legion, there are no bodily fluids among them. Instead, the list includes more palatable ingredients such as peanut butter M&M’s, chocolate chips, and raspberries.
e nine-page menu may be even more intimidating than the resident T. rex. It features all the trademarks of a diner: loaded hash browns ($15), build-your-own scrambles (prices vary), a corned-beef-hash plate ($25) and slices of freshly baked pie ($10). Meatless offerings include veggie hash browns (from $8), a tofu scram (from $6) and multiple types of vegan breakfast tacos ($12).
In many cases, the laminated menu’s neon-yellow, handwritten pages spell out extra details and elucidate sustainably minded twists.
“Hartland Diner Corned Beef Hash is a labor of Love & pure Yankee stubbornness,” it reads. “It takes us DAYS to make this.” Why so long? e brisket is local, brined and slow-cooked for a full day before being
While many diners aim to wow customers with the number of flapjacks in a stack, the Hartland diner goes for girth. Initially skeptical about spending $20 on a lonely, single-flavor ’cake — albeit one studded with maple-candied walnuts — I was mollified when the radius of that pancake was nearly equal to the length of my hand. Slathered with butter and accompanied by a generous cruet of maple syrup, the serving was substantial enough for a family of four.
Wanting to follow my sweet order with something savory, I struggled to choose among the local steak Benedict, Irish Benedict and Mexican Benedict, the last of which is served on a housemade black bean burger. at conundrum could be solved by ordering a “flight” of Benedicts. While a single Benedict is $20, indecisive eaters can go up from there. e apex is an $80 flight that gets you a whopping 12 Benes.
Got a smaller appetite — or budget? ere are a dozen $5 breakfasts available, plus a whole page of à la carte offerings. I left more than sated — and with leftovers to share. On my way out, I asked Bernie if he wanted some. For some reason, he didn’t answer. ➆
INFO
e Hartland Diner, 159 Route 5, Hartland, 436-3663, hartlanddiner.wordpress.com
After being inundated in the July 2023 floods, MAD TACO in Montpelier rebuilt
and reopened in late October of that year — only to be destroyed by a fire six days later. On September 24, the casual taco spot — which also has locations in Essex, Middlebury and Waitsfield — finally re-reopened, co-owner JOEY NAGY confirmed.
The Creamery Restaurant in Danville was two years shy of a half-century in business when the family-owned restaurant announced it would close on September 7 so that current proprietor Marion Cairns could retire. The Creamery was known for homey New England fare, including maple cream pie made with a closely held family recipe.
In Milton, the Painted Lady Café hit the two-year mark before closing on September 28. As Seven Days previously reported, the restaurant was a retirement project for chef-owner Eric Fredette, a longtime flavor guru and global R&D chef for BEN & JERRY’S. The business’ Facebook post announcing the closure
noted that Fredette “looks forward to his second retirement being much more relaxed.”
TACO GORDO in Burlington’s Old North End has ended its late-night o erings. Available Friday and Saturday from
10:30 p.m. to 2 a.m., the limited menu was “surprisingly devoid of tacos” but “radiated with flavor,” according to a Seven Days summer roundup of latenight food options. The social media announcement promised the “occasional late-night party” to come. ➆
Scalia/Ginsburg aims to bring audiences together in Middlebury
BY AMY LILLY • lilly@sevendaysvt.com
Former Supreme Court justices Antonin Scalia and Ruth Bader Ginsburg were ideological foes and yet famously close friends. They often dined together, spent most New Year’s Eves together and regularly attended operas — a shared love — at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., after arguing all day on the court.
That unusual friendship inspired an opera about them: Scalia/Ginsburg , by Derrick Wang, which premiered in 2015, a year before Scalia’s death and five before Ginsburg’s. Given the gravity of the justices’ work, one might expect the opera to be serious, but it’s a buddy comedy, as the composer himself described it. It’s sure to entertain when the Opera Company of Middlebury brings its comedic-opera expertise to bear in three performances of the work this weekend.
Founder and artistic director Doug Anderson pairs the one-act opera with a Vermont premiere of the 17-minute curtain-raiser “The Interlopers,” by
Cuban-born Jorge Martín-Buján, a former Vermonter who now lives in Texas. The brief work is part of a series called Beast and Super-Beast , based on short stories by British writer Saki (the pen name of H.H. Munro), that premiered in the 1990s. Anderson relocates the setting of “The Interlopers,” a story about a land dispute, from eastern Europe to Vermont.
Wang, who is something of a polymath, earned a bachelor’s in music at Harvard University and a master’s at Yale before deciding to study constitutional law at the University of Maryland. While reading cases for his law degree, and particularly Scalia’s famously fiery dissents, he started to “hear music,” he said during a TED talk. The dissents reminded him of rage arias,
a type of solo in baroque Italian operas of the 1700s.
SO IMPORTANT TO LISTEN, WHETHER TO THIS OPERA OR YOUR FRIEND’S OPINION. THAT’S HOW WE START CHANGE.
Known for her sense of humor, Ginsburg was funny just describing Scalia/Ginsburg for a live audience in New York City months before her death. “It opens with Scalia’s rage aria. Scalia is locked up in a dark room. He’s being punished for excessive dissenting,” she said. “I then emerge through a glass ceiling to help him pass the test he needs to pass to get out of the dark room.”
That test is arranged by the opera’s third character, the Commentator, a takeo on Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Commendatore in Don Giovanni. In fact, much of the opera refers to or even borrows from operas throughout the genre’s 400-year history — Wang’s nifty way of transposing the
tradition of legal precedent into operatic form. When Scalia sings about the court’s changeability, for example, he does so to the melody of “La donna è mobile,” Giuseppe Verdi’s famous aria about the fickleness of women from Rigoletto
“The music adds this whole other dimension by wittily commenting on everything we see,” Anderson said. “Part of the fun is, Wait, that’s Gilbert and Sullivan! Wait, that’s La Bohème!”
All three singers are comedic regulars with the company. Tenor Lucas Levy, soprano Bevin Hill and bass-baritone Daniel Klein will sing Scalia, Ginsburg and the Commentator, respectively.
Ginsburg’s first aria is about her judicial philosophy. For her, the Constitution is a living document that was written to evolve with the times — as opposed to Scalia’s originalism. The aria’s music, appropriately, enacts the evolution of music by spinning through a mini-history of styles, including gospel.
“Any time that I have an opportunity to sing gospel just brings joy to my heart,” soprano Hill said. Though an excerpt of that aria is available on YouTube, not much else is, she added.
“A lot of companies have done it, but there isn’t much material out there for us to study. It’s nice not to have any recordings to listen to because you can really make it your own,” Hill said.
Anderson said he chose Scalia/Ginsburg for the company’s fall offering to counteract the country’s current climate of divisiveness five weeks before the presidential election.
“It’s the kind of thing we need right now,” he said, “because it’s about two people who could not be more di erent but found a way to work together civilly and were actually the best of friends.”
Anderson added that the opera changed his view of Scalia. “You actually feel for the guy, the son of immigrants; you have understanding and compassion for him.”
Hill, who lives in Georgia, echoed the sentiment: “Scalia famously said, ‘I attack ideas. I don’t attack people.’ It’s a wonderful reminder that, while we all have di erent opinions, we are one country. It’s so important to listen, whether to this opera or your friend’s opinion. That’s how we start change.” ➆
INFO
Opera Company of Middlebury: Scalia/ Ginsburg and “ e Interlopers,” Friday, October 4, and Saturday, October 5, 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, October 6, 2 p.m., at Town Hall eater in Middlebury. $61-88. ocmvermont.org
BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH • farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com
when comic book retailer and collector Christine Farrell died in April. Now, her legendary collection is going up for auction.
Farrell, who succumbed to a long illness at age 73, owned Earth Prime Comics and Quarterstaff Games, both located on Church Street in Burlington. She was an avid, lifelong collector of comics with a particular interest in the DC Comics oeuvre: She’s believed to have at one time owned the entire run of DC, starting with comics published in 1938. Farrell was a very private person who rarely spoke to the press or discussed her collection.
But now that rare collection, which includes first appearances in print of heroes such as Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman, will go to the highest bidders on the online site Heritage Auctions. It opens
for bidding on October 7; the auction itself takes place October 22 to 25.
“This is going to be a market-changing sale,” said Jordon Lewis van Dyke, the manager at Farrell’s stores when she died. “I don’t know that there’s been a collection this wide in the history of comic collections, with this many key issues and highly valuable books.”
Even van Dyke isn’t sure of the overall value of the collection — that won’t be known until Heritage finishes appraising every issue in the lot before the October auction. But he knows that its sale will send shock waves through the comicscollector market. Van Dyke noted that DC Comics itself has had to reach out to Farrell in the past to make reprints from her complete original collection.
According to van Dyke, not all of her
collection will go to auction. Many of Farrell’s friends and fellow collectors will be gifted individual items, and some books will be sold directly through Earth Prime.
“Most of the higher-end stuff is being graded and sold through Heritage,” he said. “But with the rest, we’re making a concerted effort to make sure they go to good homes. Chris loved these comics; it’s definitely what she would have wanted.”
Van Dyke is still running both stores, as well as helping with his former employer’s estate. Details about the future of Earth Prime and Quarterstaff can’t be revealed until the legal proceedings surrounding her
estate are settled, he said, but he remains optimistic that the businesses will continue to operate.
“We’re definitely trying to keep it going in the spirit of the way Chris wanted,” van Dyke said. “What she did for the comics community — not only in Vermont but all over the world — it’s such a great legacy. And there really isn’t a collection like this anywhere.” ➆
Some of Christine Farrell’s collection is listed at comics.ha.com; the full collection will go on view October 7.
Theater review: Translations, Vermont Stage
BY ALEX BROWN alex@sevendaysvt.com
Woven throughout Brian Friel’s 1980 play Translations is the profound matter of language itself. But the viewer’s experience of the Vermont Stage production is more likely to focus on the 10 characters whose hopes and foibles propel the play’s comedy and drama. The story unfolds in the small County Donegal village of Baile Beag in 1833, and the period comes to life through the rustic set, evocative props and expressive clothes. Friel captures the satisfying rootedness of people whose identity is built on where they live, and director Cristina Alicea emphasizes their warmth and humor.
The setting is a rural hedge school for adults, a quasi-illegal operation at a time when England only permitted Anglican schools. This one is in the barn of the schoolmaster, Hugh, and his son Manus. The curriculum runs deep into Latin and Greek, the better to give Hugh occasions to quiz students on word origins and to afford the aged, perpetual student Jimmy chances to lose himself in the stories of Athena and Dido.
The story begins with language conjured from a woman with a speech disorder. With lovely patience, Manus coaxes Sarah to say her own name. Manus teaches in his father’s shadow and keeps his Irish nationalism quiet as the Protestant and Catholic tensions simmer.
Britain’s political initiatives reach the village in the form of an army ordnance crew that arrives to map the district and translate the Gaelic place-names into “the King’s proper English.” Friel uses a historical event to distill England’s effort to subjugate Ireland, erasing names and thereby erasing history, memory and a cultural sense of self.
With the army comes Owen, Hugh’s other son, now serving as the military’s translator. Owen left the small village for the stimulation of Dublin and returns in fashionable clothes and with an ability to justify his work for the British, imagining he’s staying one step ahead of his bosses.
The British Captain Lancey, his very mustache stiff with protocol, speaks English with a clipped cadence, so unlike the serpentine rhythms of the Gaelic-speaking residents. Lancey never cares that he doesn’t know their language, but his lieutenant, George, finds the language and the countryside beautiful. George shows the humility of an outsider, not the bravado of a conqueror.
Owen’s translations minimize the threat to the village that the army poses, a point not lost on Hugh and Manus, who speak both languages. Though
can be hard to grasp. When in doubt, count on the atmosphere and the crisp, engaging performances for meaning.
The actors are always at ease in their surroundings, with a weight of truth to their characters amplified by costume designer Suzanne Kneller’s excellent clothing. The Irish accents are convincing, thanks to dialect coaches Jordan Gullikson and Rover Sherry.
Quinn Post Rol is earnest and affecting as Manus, and Stefanie Seng brings a raw, feral power to Sarah. Harry Sheeran plays Owen with pure sparkle and a little edge of Irish sorrow.
As George, Zach Stark uses his height to proclaim the character’s gangling shyness while also expressing a sense of wonder. Caitlin Walsh is a powerhouse as Máire, with the strength to survive and a deep ache to face life with courage.
Homer and Virgil are spoken in their native tongues, Friel’s use of English for both Gaelic and English speakers presses the viewer to keep track of who can comprehend what. The audience is always privileged to know what’s said but can’t experience the exclusions that a language barrier creates.
The play’s most powerful scene evokes the pain of not being understood. George not only adores the Irish landscape but falls in love with Máire, the dairymaid who wants to learn English and move to America. George and Máire express all the power of first love, relying on huge and heartfelt gestures to bridge their linguistic distance.
The romantic scene is passionate because both characters have only emotion, not words. But it’s also funny, and Alicea and the two actors accomplish something powerfully human by mixing comedy and desire.
Alicea moves the large cast with assurance and creates a merry atmosphere onstage. The pace, however, can be too brisk for viewers to follow the curlicues of Friel’s language and the unfamiliar accents and diction. Exchanges onstage are usually bright and clear, but descriptions of what’s outside or abstract ideas
Ry Poulin is perfectly mischievous as Doalty, a terrible student who’s also terribly clever at sabotaging the army surveyors. As Jimmy, Mark Stephen Roberts is delightfully swept up by myths. Aleah Papes plays the wily Bridget with appealing pride.
Hugh is equal parts drunk, blowhard and aesthete, but Timothy Barden sometimes blurs these states together, leaving the character’s thoughts fuzzy at critical points. As Captain Lancey, Kyle Ferguson conveys satisfaction with his work and has no trouble writing off those who stand in his way.
Jeff Modereger’s set combines the sumptuous realism of painted texture with the stylization of boards and beams floating in space. Lighting designer Dan Gallagher by turns bathes the characters in a Rembrandt glow, then lets neon-green light leak through the chinks in the rough barn boards. The overall effect is otherworldly danger and instability intruding upon a bare-bones barn.
The play is a meditation on language as communication, identity and imagination. Jimmy swims in worlds described in Greek and Latin, eyes popping as he thinks of Athena, who’s more real to him because of the language she emerges from. The logic George and Owen use to convert Gaelic place-names to English ones is ultimately arbitrary. As language keeps changing, history gets erased. What survives is the human spirit, and it’s the people viewers will remember in Vermont Stage’s production of this play. ➆
Translations, by
produced by Vermont
Through October 13: Wednesday through Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m., at Black Box Theater, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, in Burlington. $34-64. vermontstage.org
Wednesday, October 16 Main Street Landing Film House
Program Speaker Bob Blanchard will give a presentation based on his book Lost Burlington Vermont
5:00 pm – Social Hour
Join Preservation Burlington for the first annual Fall Meetup! Spend an evening with local history and preservation aficionados to celebrate the great projects taking place in Burlington.
Visit with friends and enjoy table displays by local history and preservation organizations, and local architects and craftspeople.
Free and open to the public Information: www.preservationburlington.org
6:00 pm – Annual Review and Award Ceremony Enjoy highlights of the past year and learn about our plans for next year. Celebrate the inspiring preservation projects and people receiving 2024 Preservation Burlington Awards.
6:45 pm – Local author Bob Blanchard Presentation on his book Lost Burlington Vermont, which chronicles local landmarks of the past and how they met their end.
BY KEN PICARD • ken@sevendaysvt.com
Yasser’s messages to Crystal Zevon always seemed subdued given his circumstances. Amid all the bloodshed, misery and devastation that surrounds him in war-torn Gaza, the 33-year-old civil engineer, husband and father of three young children rarely complained to his American friend in Vermont about his plight. Certainly, other Gazans had it worse.
But then winter came, and Yasser’s 4-month-old daughter, Maria, got very sick. e family, whose home had been destroyed in an Israeli air strike, was now living in a tent, its third of 14 displacements to date. In January, Zevon received a message from Yasser that broke her heart: “I’m afraid for her.”
Translation: e girl appeared near death.
Zevon, an author, playwright and screenwriter who lives in West Barnet, has been messaging her Palestinian friend almost daily since fall 2023. at’s when Israeli forces invaded the Gaza Strip in response to the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas. Since then, the ex-wife of late singer-songwriter Warren Zevon has been raising money and awareness to help support the family.
Zevon, 75, has now composed an original play, titled One Family in Gaza, based on her actual Facebook messages with Yasser. She doesn’t reveal his full name in order to protect him and his relatives. e goal, Zevon said, is to tell the story of the wider war in Gaza through the experiences of one Palestinian family. On Sunday, October 6, the Vermont Peace/Antiwar Coalition will sponsor a dramatic reading of the play at the Burlington Friends Meeting House.
Zevon first got to know Yasser online during the 2014 Israeli invasion of Gaza known as Operation Protective Edge. A longtime peace activist, Zevon periodically communicated with him over the years and began exchanging daily messages after October 7.
“Yasser, my friend. I have a question,” Zevon wrote in one such text from earlier this year. “Did you write that your village was bombed and that members of the Abu Rida family were martyred? I can’t find the text so I’m wondering if I dreamed that?”
“It is true,” Yasser answered. “ e number of victims was 11, seven of them from my Abu Rida family.”
“ is makes me cry from the bottom of my heart,” she replied.
In another message chain, Yasser described the psychological trauma that the ceaseless bombardment inflicts on his wife.
“Mental illness has struck Nada again,” he wrote. “Obsessive-compulsive disorder. She imagines that she misses us when she hears every sound of a missile.”
“Oh no, Yasser,” Zevon replied. “I haven’t been able to imagine how you stay psychologically well with the unimaginable horrors and suffering.”
Zevon is perhaps best known for penning the 2007 bestseller I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead: e Dirty Life and Times of Warren Zevon. e funny, quirky and brutally honest biography features a veritable who’s who of celebrities, including Bruce Springsteen, Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt and Stephen King.
In contrast, One Family in Gaza is a spartan tale with just three characters: Yasser, an unnamed friend from afar (i.e., Zevon, although not played by her) and a newscaster whose emotionless accounts of the military operation provide the story’s broader context. e production features projections of actual photos and videos from Gaza of Yasser and his family, but there’s little else in terms of props or scenery.
“I wanted to write something that could be replicated anywhere by anyone, something that people can do in their church basements or living rooms or whatever,” Zevon said. “My idea is to get the story out.”
In a sense, the story is ongoing. Zevon continues to check in with Yasser every day. Some days he’s silent; on others he sends a terse three-word reply: “We are fine.”
“It took me a while, but I learned that ‘We are fine’ means ‘We are alive,’” Zevon said. “For now.” ➆
One Family in Gaza, Sunday, October 6, 7 p.m., at Burlington Friends Meeting House. Free; seat reservations required; email vtpeaceantiwar@gmail.com. Donations accepted for We Feed Gaza, a project to help families trapped by war.
October 4 ■ 7:30 PM BALA BILA WORLD MUSIC DUO
October 25 ■ 7:30 PM SŌ PERCUSSION with CAROLINE SHAW
November 2 ■ 7:30 PM JERUSALEM QUARTET
November 15 and 16 ■ 7:30 PM
SEAN DORSEY DANCE THE LOST ART OF DREAMING
December 4 ■ 7:30 PM BRIA SKONBERG JAZZ QUINTET
January 18 and 22 ■ 7:30 PM CHORAL CHAMELEON Live and streaming
February 13 ■ 7:30 PM
AUGUST WILSON’S TWO TRAINS RUNNING THE ACTING COMPANY
March 7 ■ 7:30 PM IYAD SUGHAYER, PIANO
March 28 ■ 7:30 PM
ISIDORE STRING QUARTET Live and streaming, FREE
April 4 ■ 7:30 PM STEVEN OSBORNE, PIANO
April 27 ■ 3:00 PM
ALINA IBRAGIMOVA, VIOLIN CÉDRIC TIBERGHIEN, PIANO
Tickets: $25/20/15/10/5 Tickets on sale now. go.middlebury.edu/pas
This week I had a tough choice between big and small: Megalopolis , the ambitious, already somewhat notorious science fiction epic from Francis Ford Coppola; and My Old Ass, a Canadian comedy with a cheeky title. I took a rain check on the first and saw the second, partly out of curiosity and partly for its more manageable running time.
The second film from writer-director Megan Park, My Old Ass premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and is distributed by Amazon MGM Studios. Whether the festival pedigree and limited theatrical release (at the Majestic 10 in Williston and Capitol Showplace in Montpelier as of press time) qualify it as an “indie” these days is anyone’s guess.
The deal
Elliott (Maisy Stella) is a small-town girl who can’t wait to escape from her family’s cranberry farm to college in Toronto. On her 18th birthday, she celebrates her freedom by hooking up with her childhood crush (Alexandria Rivera) and camping out on an island with her two best friends (Kerrice Brooks and Maddie Ziegler). When they do mushrooms, Elliott’s trip takes a weird turn. Suddenly she’s faceto-face with her 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza), who has advice for her: Be sure to bond with her family before college and avoid a boy named Chad.
Elliott blames the shrooms — until the next day, when “My Old Ass” starts calling and texting her. Maybe she should heed her future self’s warnings, after all. Spending time with the fam is easy enough. But when she meets a sweet Chad (Percy Hynes White) who happens to have a summer job at her folks’ farm, all bets are o .
Will you like it?
The streaming services are pioneering a new class of movies we might call “ultra-accessible indies,” with Apple TV’s surprise Best Picture Oscar winner, CODA, as Exhibit A. Despite its supernatural twist, My Old Ass has much in common with that movie: a picturesque setting (this one takes place on an Ontarian lake); coming-of-age themes; an outdoorsy heroine who works with her hands but dreams of a di erent life; and tastefully low-key sentimentality. Park’s film has elements of a stoner comedy, and its title
might put off some older viewers. But ultimately it’s more heartwarming than irreverent: a movie for teens and their moms to watch together.
Just don’t come expecting a showcase for Plaza’s deadpan talents. She steals every scene she’s in, but there aren’t many of them. And if we have fond memories of watching Plaza burst onto the scene as a twentysomething in Judd Apatow’s Funny People, we may get distracted by the lack of resemblance between her and Stella, who has a pleasant and natural but much less acerbic presence.
While Plaza came up through comedy channels, Stella looks and acts like what she is: a fresh-faced Canadian TV and pop star. That’s not a bad thing, though, and she has great chemistry with everyone else on-screen, including a somewhat underused Maria Dizzia as Elliott’s mom.
Teen romance can get tedious, especially when the love interest is a conventional heartthrob. White is not: His Chad is a lanky, nerdy wise-ass with a slightly androgynous quality that matches Elliott’s. (Her tween fantasy, we learn in a very funny scene, was not to date Justin Bieber but to be Justin Bieber.) We savor
their rapid banter even as we scrutinize Chad for signs of being someone who could eventually ruin Elliott’s life, leaving her bitter and — the worst fate of all! — a nearly 40-year-old doctoral student.
Park’s screenplay edges around some of the darker questions raised by its timebending scenario. Older Elliott hints at ominous changes in her world but doesn’t reveal their extent. The gorgeous, sun-washed lakescapes of cinematographer Kristen Correll convey a premature sense of loss: Elliott might never have it as good again as she does at 18. But the movie doesn’t directly confront the issue of whether coming of age is more fraught now than it used to be.
My Old Ass is a likable movie that reaches out to older generations with its themes of nostalgia and regret and to Gen Z with its refreshingly accepting attitudes around sexuality and gender identity. (Elliott is bi and proud of it, after she gets over the initial shock of her own interest in sex with a boy.) The movie pulls some punches, but it makes a nice palate cleanser after last week’s The Substance, a much bleaker vision of a woman’s younger and older selves coming face-to-face.
Here, one of the first things young Elliott requests from her older self is a kiss. It’s an inappropriate ask that rips the fabric of space-time, but there’s something to be said for self-love.
MARGOT HARRISON margot@sevendaysvt.com
13 GOING ON 30 (2004; Kanopy, rentable): With its time-collapsing premise, My Old Ass explores some of the same territory as the body-swapping comedies of yore. is female take on Big, starring Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo, is worth a watch.
ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND (2004; rentable): Michel Gondry’s cult film confronts the same philosophical question as My Old Ass: If we could revise our lives to avoid painful experiences, would we? Should we?
BLACK BEAR (2020; Kanopy, rentable): If you do want to see Plaza stretch her talents — and be deliciously mean — this is your movie.
JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX: Gotham City’s notorious institutionalized spree killer (Joaquin Phoenix) finds love in Todd Phillips’ comic-book-adjacent musical sequel, also starring Zazie Beetz and Lady Gaga. (138 min, R. Big Picture, Bijou, Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Roxy, Star, Stowe, Sunset)
THE OUTRUN: Saoirse Ronan plays a woman who returns to her Orkney Island birthplace to confront her past in this festival fave drama from Nora Fingscheidt, with Stephen Dillane and Saskia Reeves. (188 min, R. Savoy)
WHITE BIRD: A boy learns life lessons from his grandmother’s story of escaping Nazi-occupied France in this family drama directed by Marc Forster, starring Ariella Glaser, Armando Schwerdt and Helen Mirren. (120 min, PG-13. Majestic)
AM I RACIST? Matt Walsh goes undercover to discredit diversity, equity and inclusion experts in this comic documentary. Justin Folk directed. (101 min, PG-13. Bijou)
BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICEHHH1/2 A grown-up
Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) must save her daughter in this Tim Burton fantasy sequel, partially shot in Vermont. (104 min, PG-13. Bijou, Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Roxy, Star, Stowe, Sunset, Welden; reviewed 9/11)
THE CRITICHH1/2 In the 1930s, a powerful London theater critic and an actress get embroiled in a blackmail plot in this thriller from director Anand Tucker, starring Ian McKellen, Lesley Manville and Gemma Arterton. (101 min, R. Roxy)
DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE: Two superheroes team up in the latest Marvel flick, starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. (127 min, R. Majestic)
DEVARA PART 1: A man and his smuggler brother become enemies in this Telugu-language action epic, directed by Koratala Siva. (176 min, NR. Majestic)
LEEHHH Kate Winslet plays fashion model and Man Ray protégée turned World War II correspondent Lee Miller in this biopic directed by Ellen Kuras. (116 min, R. Capitol, Roxy)
MEGALOPOLISHHH “New Rome” is the setting for Francis Ford Coppola’s science fiction epic about the clash between an idealistic architect (Adam Driver) and the mayor (Giancarlo Esposito) who obstructs his dreams. (138 min, R. Big Picture, Essex, Majestic, Savoy)
MY OLD ASSHHH1/2 A teen (Maisy Stella) learns life lessons from her older self (Aubrey Plaza) during a mushroom trip in this comedy from director Megan Park. (88 min, R. Capitol, Majestic; reviewed 10/2)
NEVER LET GOHHH A woman (Halle Berry) raises her sons in isolation from a world ruled by evil spirits — or so she says — in this horror thriller from Alexandre Aja (High Tension), also starring Anthony B. Jenkins. (101 min, R. Essex)
NOTICE TO QUIT: It’s a bad day for an out-of-work actor when his young daughter shows up at his eviction in this indie drama from Simon Hacker, starring Michael Zegen (91 min, PG-13. Roxy)
SPEAK NO EVILHHH1/2 A family’s weekend stay with new friends doesn’t go well in this psychological thriller directed by James Watkins. James McAvoy and Mackenzie Davis star. (110 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Sunset)
THE SUBSTANCEHHHH1/2 Coralie Fargeat (Revenge) wrote and directed this horror drama about a celebrity (Demi Moore) seeking the fountain of youth, also starring Margaret Qualley. (140 min, R. Essex, Roxy; reviewed 9/25)
SUGARCANEHHHHH This searing documentary from Emily Kassie and Julian Brave NoiseCat delves into the legacy of abuse at a Canadian residential school for Indigenous children. (107 min, R. Catamount; reviewed 8/28)
TRANSFORMERS ONEHHH This animated adventure tells the origin story of how Optimus Prime and Megatron became enemies. With the voices of Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry. (104 min, PG. Bijou, Essex, Majestic, Roxy, Stowe, Welden)
THE WILD ROBOTHHHH1/2 A shipwrecked robot becomes caretaker to an orphaned gosling in this animated family adventure from Chris Sanders, with the voices of Lupita Nyong’o and Pedro Pascal. (101 min, PG. Bijou, Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Playhouse, Roxy, Star, Stowe, Sunset, Welden)
HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE 20TH ANNIVERSARY (Essex, Wed 2 only)
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Sunset)
MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL (Roxy)
MEAN GIRLS 20TH ANNIVERSARY (Essex, Thu & Sun only)
METROPOLITAN OPERA: LES CONTES D’HOFFMANN (Essex, Sat only)
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (Sunset) VIY (Catamount, Wed 2 only)
(* = 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
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
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Walking into Chris Jeffrey’s pop-up installation is like entering a prism. Rainbows explode on the wall. Neon green, magenta, electric blue and bright yellow slash in every direction, spilling o the edges of each piece and onto the walls, floor and ceiling. Depth and dimension are no longer sure bets. Beneath the light, ambient sounds thrum in and out, punctuated by a resonant gong.
Light-based artworks are hard to show: They require darkness, which rules out group exhibitions and sunlit galleries. That’s one reason Je rey has installed his
project in a vacant Main Street storefront in Montpelier. A sound installation by John Thomas Levee and Graham Sullivan accompanies the light works. The pop-up opens for visitors on Friday and Saturday evenings and can be seen through the window from 6 to 10 p.m. on weekdays through October. The show is untitled, as are each of its eight pieces.
To make his work, Je rey, who lives in Montpelier, starts with spotlights attached to one or more white panels. Then he holds up a small glass optical filter, which breaks and bends the light into di erent colors and sends it in new directions. Once he’s happy
with an e ect, he secures the lens in place and repeats the process. This can be quick or take hours.
It’s experimental and improvisational, Je rey said on a tour of the space: “I don’t have any kind of a vision for what it’s going to be when I start.”
The industrial optical filters are made in southern Vermont for applications ranging from microscopes to night-vision goggles. For the past several years, Je rey was able to purchase cast-o , imperfect filters by the pound. The little pieces of glass in di erent shapes and sizes alter the light in unique ways, changing its color or
trajectory, cutting beams short or sending them across the room. A quarter-turn or slight tilt of any filter can create an entirely new composition.
The contradiction between those subtle variations and dramatic bursts of color is at the heart of this work. Visual fireworks hit the eye right away, but close looking rewards the viewer with abundant details. There are tiny peaks and valleys in the brushstrokes of white paint on the panels, where one color hits the highlights and a di erent one occupies the shadows.
Je rey uses the space between panels to frame and interrupt strokes of light, particularly in a 12-foot-wide, 15-panel work resembling a mosaic. Here, the dark wall asserts itself between each small rectangle, messing with the viewer’s sense of depth and surface.
Another work on a single 4-by-8-foot vertical panel focuses the light. Splashes of color combine in joyful constellations where the filters act as sculptural elements, protruding from each panel in little barnacle-like clusters of glass. The room in which the work is installed a ects it greatly, Je rey said; lights and filters don’t always align the same way on a di erent wall. Je rey can be exacting in his process. But he embraces its unplanned aspects too, giving the whole installation a Zen-like quality that Levee and Sullivan reinforce with their sound design. Stretched, slow drones are overlaid with occasional short, descending melodies and a deep, resonant bell. The low frequencies are calming and otherworldly, altering time as the light alters space.
Levee is the assistant program director in game sound design at Champlain College; he and Sullivan, who graduated last spring, collaborated with Je rey on a sound design for “Surface/Depth,” his February show at the school’s art gallery. After Je rey traveled to Japan in May, he invited Levee and Sullivan to create a new soundscape from recordings he made there.
Of the audio components, only the bell is recognizable. Dating back to the 17th century and mentioned in a haiku by Matsuo Bashō, the bell at the Sensō-ji temple in Asakusa is rung every morning at 6 a.m. Je rey attended this ritual most of the days he was in Tokyo. He was struck not just by the bell’s sound but how it reverberated through his body.
Levee enhanced those low-frequency tones for the soundscape, and the result is palpable. “People sometimes forget that sound is also a physical experience,” he said. “It’s physical vibrations.”
Other sounds from Je rey’s recordings
— crowd noise at a baseball game, a street festival, rain — are slowed or distorted beyond recognition. Levee said he and Sullivan modified aspects of the lowquality audio from Jeffrey’s iPhone videos to give them a new life, bringing out the vibrancy of the original experience without dictating a meaning.
Like the light works, the sound installation has an improvisational quality. Levee and Sullivan coded a program that chooses which sounds to play from which speaker, rather than play them on a loop. The result is endlessly different audio combinations,
CALL FOR ENTRIES: AIA VERMONT ANNUAL DESIGN AWARDS: AIA Vermont invites AIAVT and AIA members to submit their projects for the 2024 awards competition. Details and entry form online at aiavt.org. Deadline: October 6. $150. Info, info@aiavt.org.
‘WHERE’S MY HAT?’: An open call for artists who consider materiality, symbolism, self-expression, mood, etc. of clothes people wear. Open to all mediums but with particular interest in ones not typically associated with cloth or clothing, such as paint, glass, metal, wood or clay. Exhibition runs January to March. Studio Place Arts, Barre. Deadline: December 7. $10 nonmember applicants. Info, submissions. studioplacearts@gmail.com.
ALANIS OBOMSAWIN: “The Children Have to Hear Another Story,” an exhibition dedicated to the work of the Abenaki documentary filmmaker, activist and singer, one of the world’s most renowned Indigenous directors. On view at MAC at Place Ville Marie. Montréal Museum of Contemporary Art, through January 26. Info, 514-847-6226.
CALEB KENNA: Aerial photographs offering a new perspective on Vermont landscapes. On view in the second-floor LGB room. BCA Center, Burlington, through December 17. Info, 865-7166.
reflecting Jeffrey’s process of combining different filters to create light effects.
The installation has a spiritual, meditative sensibility. Jeffrey worked in stained glass for about 30 years. During that time, he created mausoleum windows for monuments made of Barre granite, but he’s not keen on the proscriptive nature of the stained-glass window tradition. Jeffrey’s installations avoid religious imagery but do convey a sense of wonder that transcends the medium’s cool physics. The vibe is somewhere between cathedral and science museum.
Jeffrey admires large-scale light installations by sculptors such as James Turrell and Olafur Eliasson, but he noted that their work requires intensive technology and a team of fabricators. Jeffrey’s approach is more personal and allows the viewer space for interpretation. It’s an intuitive process, he said, almost like painting, and the results are purely abstract.
“This is just light and color,” Jeffrey said. “You look at this and whatever you get out of it is yours.” ➆
Light and sound installation by Chris
and
on view through October at 54 Main Street in Montpelier. Open Friday and Saturday, 5-8 p.m., visible through window Sunday through Thursday, 6-10 p.m. lightstudioj.com
‘ANOTHER HISTORY’: “Alternative Stories in Game Development,” work by unsung pioneers who have expanded representation and diversity in the gaming industry. The exhibition features a rotating display of vintage gaming consoles, allowing visitors to play classic games on original hardware. Champlain College Art Gallery, Burlington, through October 27. Info, gallery@champlain.edu.
‘S.L.U.A.T.H.’: Annual crowdsourced exhibit of art rescued from yard sales, free piles, estate clean-outs, junk stores and flea markets. Many pieces up for auction. Espresso Bueno, Barre, October 2-November 17. Info, 479-0896, events@espressobueno.com.
‘FINDING HOPE WITHIN’: A group exhibition of drawings, mixed media, crochet, poetry and narrative writing by incarcerated artists at the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility in South Burlington. Hartland Public Library, October 2-29. Info, 436-2473.
KATHARINE MONTSTREAM AND CHARLOTTE
DWORSHAK: “Color of Snow,” a new exhibition exploring the hues and transitions of winter landscapes. Reception: Thursday, October 3, 5-8 p.m. Montstream Studio, Burlington, October 3-November 2. Info, 363-9253.
JUANCARLOS GONZÁLEZ: “Vermont Female Farmers,” portraits by the Puerto Rico-born, Vermont-based photographer. Reception: Friday, October 4, 4-7 p.m. Vermont Statehouse Cafeteria, Montpelier, through October 30. Info, 279-5558.
‘ART OF THE LAKE’: A group show of artworks picturing Lake Champlain. Reception: Friday, October 4, 6-8 p.m. LCATV, Colchester, October 4-November 29. Info, 862-5724.
‘INFINITE INSPIRATIONS IN PASTEL’: An exhibition featuring the work of 27 artists from the Vermont Pastel Society, curated by Laura Pollack and Adrian Giuliani with juror Jeneane Lunn. Reception: Friday, October 4, 4-8 p.m.
BY ALICE DODGE • adodge@sevendaysvt.com
Picture an art space in Brooklyn or Chicago. For those in the know, it’s an attic apartment up some rickety stairs, entered through the back door of a bodega. Now add a good dose of wholesomeness and relocate it to a Vermont dirt crossroads where, on a recent visit, contact improv dancers frolicked under the falling leaves beside a babbling brook and the smell of fresh bread wafted from the Adamant Cooperative — Calais’ answer to a bodega.
Artist Janet MacLeod turned part of her studio into the upstairs Adamant Cooperative Gallery about three years ago. She, Karen Kane and Joni Clemons curated “Watermarks,” a group exhibition on view through October 30.
The show examines why people paint with water, which makes sense for a location surrounded by it: Sodom Pond glistens through the upstairs window. “Watermarks” uses just a few pieces from six central Vermont painters to present a remarkably broad look at the medium.
In their artist statements, several of the show’s participants mention watercolors’ ease of use in plein air. East Montpelier artist Susan Bull Riley writes, “I love setting off on a bike ride or a hike with watercolor supplies in my backpack, never knowing if or when I’ll find something I want to paint.”
That spontaneity comes through in MacLeod’s series of eight notebook-size watercolor landscape sketches, each thumbtacked to the wall and available for an unassuming $20. These quick, beautifully seen paintings take advantage of the medium to capture moments more than physical spaces: the last glow of sunrise edging out fog, the breeze on a pond, the air before it rains. They are unfussy and casual, conveying everything with a few strokes.
Susan Abbott takes a different tack: Her two paintings in the show are complicated still lifes that verge on trompe l’oeil. The emphasis in these watercolors is on color more than water, with red-and-green pears and vibrant tarot cards playing starring roles. Abbott’s careful, confident technique is evident, even in giclée prints of the originals.
Bull Riley is known for her botanical illustrations. “Maple Leaf, March” offers a decomposed leaf, its holes and lacy veins crunchy and real, a slight shadow seeming to raise it from the page. She manages utter control without suffocating her subject.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Molly Porter’s abstract, drippy swirls of paint, torn straight from a spiralbound sketchbook, are frenzied storms of color and energy.
Jo MacKenzie uses a loose, more traditional watercolor technique to describe not-so-traditional scenes: dogs, still lifes and funny, absurd combinations of the two such as “Dog With Glasses,” in which two border collies are dwarfed by a discarded pair of specs.
T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, through November 3. Info, 262-6035.
ROSS CONNELLY: “PROTEST,” an exhibit of black-andwhite photographs documenting events ranging from the Pentagon March in 1967 to the Vietnam Moratorium March in 1969. Reception: Friday, October 4, 4-8 p.m. T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, through November 23. Info, 262-6035.
Adelaide Murphy Tyrol’s black-and-white sumi ink paintings of endangered species steal the show. Her “Ring-Tailed Lemur” drops into the picture plane from above, confronting the viewer with dinner-plate eyes. Next to it, “Peacock Chick” is coming to eviscerate us all with its giant talons.
Tyrol places nonabsorbent Yupo paper on the floor and paints on it with ink using a brush attached to a three-foot bamboo pole. She conveys great detail and texture while letting the liquidity of the medium — and its versatility — shine through.
An Adamant attic may not sound like the hippest corner of the art world, but the show’s laid-back approach, showcasing experimentation over polish, is right on trend. ➆
“Watermarks,” on view through October 30 at Adamant Cooperative Gallery. adamantcoop.org
SHOW 63: A group exhibition featuring works by all members of the gallery collective. Reception: Friday, October 4, 4-8 p.m. The Front, Montpelier, October 4-27. Info, info@thefrontvt.com.
ELIZABETH POWELL: “Bound in Abstractions,” paintings in gouache that draw on pattern and abstract forms to suggest the body. Reception: Friday, October 4, 4-8 p.m. Hexum Gallery, Montpelier, October 4-November 15. Info, hexumgallery@gmail.com.
DARYL BURTNETT: “Respite & Remembrance: Pandemic to Present,” a collection of over 1,000 works
GET YOUR ART SHOW LISTED HERE AND ONLINE! PROMOTING AN ART EXHIBIT? SUBMIT THE INFO AND IMAGES BY THURSDAY AT NOON AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POSTEVENT OR ART@SEVENDAYSVT.COM.
on paper, each made in remembrance of a Vermonter lost to COVID-19, paired with larger mixed-media pieces by the Montpelier artist. Reception: Friday, October 4, 4:30-7 p.m., artist remarks at 6 p.m. Vermont Supreme Court Gallery, Montpelier, October 4-December 20. Info, 279-5558.
CHRISTINE TRAVERSON: Paintings by the Sharon artist. Reception: Friday, October 4, 5 p.m. Main Street Museum, White River Junction, October 4-November 29. Info, info@mainstreetmuseum.org.
VISUAL ART IN SEVEN DAYS: ART LISTINGS ARE WRITTEN BY ALICE DODGE. LISTINGS ARE RESTRICTED TO ART SHOWS IN TRULY PUBLIC PLACES.
‘CYCLES’: Inclusive Arts Vermont’s fifth biennial exhibition, highlighting artwork by 25 artists with disabilities. Reception: Friday, October 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, through October 31. Info, 748-8291.
‘PASSAGE TO WONDERLAND’: A community exhibition organized by Huntington artist Meghan Okolita and San Francisco resident Dena Witkes. Reception: Friday, October 4, 5:30 p.m. Huntington Public Library, October 4-January 31. Info, passagetowonderlandartshow@gmail.com.
FALL EXHIBITIONS: Several exhibitions of works by area artists, including picture-book illustrations by Jason Chin, photography by Erica Sloan and by Druppa, and a collection of fiber arts from around Shelburne. Reception: Friday, October 4, 7-9 p.m. Pierson Library, Shelburne, October 4-January 4, 7-9 p.m. Info, 985-5124.
ANDREAS JOHN: “The Many Voices of Water,” an exhibition of black-and-white photography paired with soundscapes crafted from field recordings at each site pictured. Reception and artist Q&A: Saturday, October 5, 5-7 p.m. Axel’s Frame Shop & Gallery, Waterbury, through October 26. Info, 244-7801.
‘ETERNAL HARVEST’: An exhibition featuring works by New England-based artists Neil Berger, Clark Derbes and Lydia Jenkins Musco. Reception: Saturday, October 5, 6-9 p.m. K. Grant Fine Art, Vergennes, October 5-November 30. Info, kristen@kgrantfineart. com.
‘LINEAGES: ARTISTS ARE NEVER ALONE’: A group show examining the influences and artistic lineage of 11 Northeast artists: Susan Abbott, Michael Abrams, B. Amore, Negina Azimi, Samantha Eckert, Terry Findeisen, Harlan Mack, Suzette Marie Martin, Marcie Scudder, Judith Seligson and Anthony Surratt. Reception: Saturday, October 5, 2-4 p.m. Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum, Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester, October 5-February 23. Info, 362-1405.
LYNDA REEVES MCINTYRE: “Abundance: Celebrating Nature’s Bounty,” an exhibition of abstracted landscape paintings that use color to evoke sensation. Reception: Saturday, October 5, 2-5 p.m. Winemakers Gallery at Village Wine and Coffee, Shelburne, through October 31. Info, lmcintyr@uvm.edu.
BEN BARNES: “Home — Paintings from Around the Kingdom,” a collection showing a quiet but often raw side of the region. Expanded hours October 5 and 6. Reception: Sunday, October 6, 4-7 p.m. The
Satellite Gallery, Lyndonville, October 6-30, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 229-8317.
DANCE, PAINT, WRITE!: An exploration in which participants focus on their own creative experience in community with others. Open to adults and teens and accessible to all regardless of mobility. No experience required. In person with Zoom option. Expressive Arts Burlington, Wednesday, October 2, 9:30 a.m.-noon, and Wednesday, October 9, 9:30 a.m.-noon. $25. Info, 343-8172.
ESSEX ART LEAGUE MONTHLY MEETING: Artist presentations, art making and camaraderie. Essex Art League, Essex Junction, Thursday, October 3, 9-11 a.m. Free for two meetings, then $25 annually. Info, 318-5220, howekit0@gmail.com.
MONTPELIER ART WALK: Venues around downtown Montpelier welcome pedestrian viewers in this bimonthly event. Various Montpelier locations, Friday, October 4, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@cal-vt.org.
PANEL DISCUSSION: OUR ARTISTIC LINEAGES: Five artists discuss their creative influences, whether familial, mystical, ancient or modern, in conjunction with the exhibition “Lineages: Artists Are Never Alone.” Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum, Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester, Friday, October 4, 6 p.m. Info, 362-1405.
VERMONT CRAFTS COUNCIL FALL OPEN STUDIO
WEEKEND: Artists and artisans across the state open their studios to the public in this two-day event. More information at vermontcrafts.com. Various locations statewide, Saturday, October 5, and Sunday, October 6. Info, 279-9495.
GREEN MOUNTAIN WOODCARVERS CARVE-IN AND ANNUAL MEETING: Visitors are invited to stop by the workshop to ask questions and learn about
the craft. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free with museum admission. Info, 434-2167.
‘DUCKY DERBY’: The 21st annual fundraiser; rubber ducks race at 11 a.m. and can be purchased for $5 at the derby or in advance. There will be tool demos, blacksmithing, mill tours, prizes, a food tent and live music. Ben’s Mill, Barnet, Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info, bensmill1872@gmail.com.
GROWING IN PROCESS OPEN STUDIO: An outdoor exhibition of watercolor paintings created with pigments foraged from the local environment, including process demonstrations by Mira Cabrera. Part of Vermont Craft Council’s Fall Open Studio Weekend. Spirit in Nature Interfaith Path Sanctuary, Ripton, Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, October 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, growing. in.process@gmail.com.
KATHY KEMP: The assemblage artist invites visitors for the Vermont Craft Council’s 13th annual Fall Open Studio Weekend. Kathy Kemp Assemblage Art Studio, Westminster, Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, October 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, kkemp367@gmail.com.
UNDERHILL IRONWORKS FALL OPEN STUDIO: A sculpture garden at the base of Mount Mansfield, featuring Halloween displays and more than 50 individual works. Part of the Vermont Crafts Council’s statewide Fall Open Studio Weekend. Gerald K. Stoner Sculpture, Underhill, Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, October 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 324-3897, geraldkstoner@yahoo.com.
‘STREET MURALS OF BURLINGTON’: A talk with photographer Carolyn Bates and muralists Tara Goreau, Raph Brice and Nick Carrera. Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, Saturday, October 5, 1 p.m. Info, cbatesbt@gmail.com.
AUTUMN WATERCOLOR CLASS: A series taught by Pauline Nolte for experienced painters and newcomers; supplies provided for beginners. Register by email. Waterbury Public Library, Tuesday, October 8, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.
HISTORY UNFRAMED TALK: JANE SHAW: A discussion with the owner and gallerist of Visions of Vermont gallery in Jeffersonville. Bryan Memorial Gallery, Jeffersonville, Wednesday, October 9, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 644-5100.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS FOR ARTISTS: A selection of free online and in-person workshops addressing the most urgent needs, challenges and opportunities facing artists in New England, presented by Assets for Artists in partnership with the Vermont Arts Council. Register online for the fall/winter season. Vermont Arts Council, Montpelier. Info, assetsforartists@massmoca.org. ➆
EDGEWATER GALLERY PRESENTS A CELEBRATION OF
FEATURING NEW WORKS BY: Saturday October 5th | 12:00PM - 4:00PM Sunday October 6 th | 11:00AM - 12:30PM
SCOTT ADDIS, LARRY HOROWITZ & JULIA PURINTON
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Brian Warwick paced his Vermont State University-Lyndon classroom, running a hand through his dark hair, bobbing on the heels of his sneakers. The screen behind him was frozen on an image of a gang member emerging from a manhole. Warwick looked from face to face, surveying his students’ reactions to the video clip. A grown-up-ish interloper among the class of undergrads, I followed his gaze and noted the spectrum of expressions: some perplexed, others focused and studious. More than a few had that unmistakable blank visage of college kids who have rolled straight out of bed and into the classroom.
Studying the art of parody at Vermont State University’s new “Weird Al” class
BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH • farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com
Most, however, were laughing quietly, some shaking their heads as if to say, “That’s so dumb.” In this setting, that was strangely a compliment.
Warwick is an associate professor in the VTSU music department. He’s also a recording engineer who has collaborated with the varied likes of Stevie Nicks, Ludacris and Slayer. His crowning achievement is the Grammy Award he won for his work on “Weird Al” Yankovic’s 2014 album, Mandatory Fun
The clip on-screen was from the video for Yankovic’s 1984 single “Eat It,” a parody of Michael Jackson’s 1982 smash “Beat It.” Warwick had played both videos for his students, not as entertainment but as serious academic discourse.
“What was something you noticed that was similar to the original but deviated in a key way?” Warwick asked his students.
“The gang fight,” one student answered, holding back laughter. “It almost looks the same, except for the rubber chicken.”
“It Almost Looks the Same, Except for the Rubber Chicken” easily could have worked as the name of Warwick’s class, which is actually called “‘Weird Al’ and His Polkas.” Part of the university’s Music Business & Industry program, the course, which debuted this semester, is an earnest study of Yankovic’s extensive canon of pop music parodies, pastiches and, yes, polka medleys. After 40 years, the musician’s place in American pop culture is unquestionable: The “Amish Paradise” and “Smells Like Nirvana” singer is, to borrow a phrase from Wolverine, the best there is at what he does.
Appropriately, VTSU’s “Weird Al” class is itself sort of a parody.
“I had the idea for the class in a very ‘Weird Al’ kind of way,” Warwick told me after class. “I saw that Harvard was o ering this class called ‘Taylor Swift and
Her [World].’ And I immediately thought, I should teach a class called ‘‘Weird Al’ and His Polkas.’ It was just too perfect.”
Warwick is certainly qualified to dissect Yankovic’s body of work. After all, he’s part of it. But Warwick’s relationship with the music of “Weird Al” goes back to his childhood in the mid-1980s, when he received a red-and-yellow Sony tape deck and a cassette of Yankovic’s Dare to Be Stupid
“I wore that tape out,” he recalled. “I became obsessed with his parodies.” He also devoured Yankovic’s polka medleys of pop hits played on accordion.
Warwick pitched the course to his program coordinator and the school’s dean, both of whom gave an enthusiastic thumbs-up. So he set about designing the curriculum, centered on what he dubbed “the three Ps”: parody, polka and pastiche.
“Yes, we all know the famous parodies, and we’re studying those, for sure,” Warwick said. “But his catalog is so much deeper than people realize.”
He pointed to the brilliance of Yankovic’s pastiches. Instead of parodying specific songs — à la “Beat It”/“Eat It” — these are originals written in the style of other artists, such as “Dog Eat Dog,” his take on Talking Heads. Warwick illustrated the roots of this facet of Yankovic’s work by introducing students to clips of the American musician and spoof composer Spike Jones, a key Yankovic influence.
“There’s such a timeless element to what Al does,” Warwick said. “It’s this kind of ageless humor that doesn’t really punch down. It’s goofy and ridiculous, and whatever stick ‘Weird Al’ is poking you with is never that sharp. He wants everyone in on the joke.”
BRIAN WARWICK
Most of Warwick’s class is studying audio production and will be focusing on the techniques Yankovic uses to shapeshift from genre to genre. But I had a much less technical question for the prof. Namely, how has Yankovic crafted such a long career spoofing other people’s songs, and why hasn’t anyone been able to duplicate that success?
“I’m always surprised by how relevant Al’s music remains,” Warwick said. “I think, first and foremost, people never get tired of laughing and being goofy, and Al gives listeners such an open license to enjoy being ridiculous. It speaks to all of our inner 11-year-old in some ways.”
Paired with that silly abandon is what Warwick witnessed firsthand in the studio:
As any local musician can tell you, booking shows around Vermont is as difficult as ever. Venues are struggling with predatory insurance companies thirsty for profit, as well as unpredictable crowds that, postpandemic, rarely buy advance tickets for smaller shows. It all leads to a hesitancy by venues to book anything other than proven and reliable seatfillers.
Even when artists do book a show, they’re often expected to handle most of the promotion. And then there’s the growing practice of venues taking cuts from artists’ merchandise sales. (Before any of you email me with a “not in Vermont” rant again: Yes, many of our local venues take merch cuts.)
As someone who has played music in this community for well over 20 years, I can tell that while some challenges are new, it’s always been a slog for local talent to book good shows at top venues. I’ve had to buy and sell tickets to my own band’s shows just for the “privilege” of getting to play a local stage on a Tuesday night with a handful of other Vermont bands. I’ve watched as touring bands get fed and paid while local acts are relegated to a 10-minute sound check, with two drink tickets for
Last week’s live music highlights from photographer Luke Awtry
draft beer for dinner. It’s always been the way of things.
Working to change that are SETH SOLOWAY, executive director of
BÉLA FLECK AND AMERICAN EXCELLENCE, FLYNN MAIN STAGE, BURLINGTON, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER
27: When the VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA announced “Béla Fleck and American Excellence,” the GEORGE GERSHWIN-heavy program at the Flynn celebrating the symphony’s 90th anniversary, my thoughts jumped to my own start with the theater in 2016. That was my first year working a Burlington Discover Jazz Festival pit, and it included what was then my biggest show to date: the headlining Waterfront Park set by Fleck and his band, the FLECKTONES. Being a fan, I knew what to expect from the four-piece back then. But I had no idea what might happen last Friday, when the banjo virtuoso joined the VSO to perform his arrangement of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” the 100-year-old homage to, as Gershwin put it, America’s “unduplicated national pep” and “metropolitan madness.” The mash-up worked. In Fleck’s hands, the banjo rose to the occasion and matched the score with all the musical pep and melodious madness needed to pull off the piece. If only Gershwin could see us now...
Spruce Peak Arts at the base of Stowe Mountain, and local singer-songwriter TROY MILLETTE. The two are collaborating to make the performing arts center a welcoming home to Green Mountain musicians by pairing local acts with top touring talent for the Spruce Peak Unplugged series. The new initiative kicks off on Saturday, October 12, with a show by Philadelphia rockers DEER TICK and an opening performance by Millette.
“When I took this job, I knew my mandate was to elevate Spruce Peak to the level of a national performing arts center,” said Soloway, who joined the Stowe organization last year. “But I also didn’t want to forget about the local music scene, which I knew was incredibly robust, from NOAH KAHAN to the buskers on Church Street. I didn’t want anyone thinking I just showed up from New York City and kicked out all the locals — that’s exactly how you piss off a local scene.”
Soloway met Millette when the Americana artist opened for folk act JOSIAH AND THE BONNEVILLES, aka JOSIAH LEMING, in February.
“I had this epiphany,” Soloway said. “Josiah was Troy, and Troy is on his way to being Josiah. So let’s connect them — let them meet and eat dinner together and talk and see what happens. Let’s make that the norm.”
at sevendaysvt.com/talent-show. QUESTIONS? Contact Carolann Whitesell: 802-341-3067 or cwhitesell@sevendaysvt.com.
WED.2
Adirondack Jazz Orchestra (jazz)
at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 7 p.m. Free.
BBQ and Bluegrass (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.
Evan Alsop (acoustic) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 6 p.m.
Hiss Golden Messenger (solo), Hannah Frances (singer-songwriter) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m.
$30/$35.
Irish Night with RambleTree (Celtic) at Two Brothers Tavern, Middlebury, 7 p.m. Free.
Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
John Howell (rock, country) at North Hero House Inn & Restaurant, 5:30 p.m. Free.
Live Jazz (jazz) at Leunig’s Bistro & Café, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.
Live Music Wednesdays & Tacos (weekly music series) at the Tillerman, Bristol, 5 p.m. Free.
Molly Parden, Louisa Stancioff, Eliza Edens (folk) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 7 p.m. $18/$22.
Wadada Wednesdays: Reggae
Dub Night with Yaadcore and Satta Sound (reggae) at Arts Riot, Burlington, 6 p.m. $10.
Willverine (electronic) at the Wallflower Collective, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.
THU.3
Chicky Stoltz (singer-songwriter) at Filling Station, Middlesex, 6 p.m. Free.
Couple of Wanderers (folk) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.
Devin Gray, Jo Bled, Kate Mohanty (avant-garde, experimental) at Autumn Records, Winooski, 7 p.m. $10.
Elijah Kraatz, Trio de Rumba (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.
Frankie & the Fuse (rock) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
Jazz with Alex Stewart and Friends (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
Lazy Bird, Rigometrics (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.
Morris Norelus (singer-songwriter) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 8 p.m. Free.
Nobby Reed Project (R&B) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. Free.
The Ultimate Doors (Doors tribute) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $20/$25.
Zookraught, rabbitfoot, Blossom (dance punk) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $10/$15.
Find the most up-to-date info on live music, DJs, comedy and more at sevendaysvt.com/music. If you’re a talent booker or artist planning live entertainment at a bar, nightclub, café, restaurant, brewery or coffee shop, send event details to music@sevendaysvt.com or submit the info using our form at sevendaysvt.com/postevent.
Tuareg songwriter and guitarist Mahamadou Souleymane, aka MDOU MOCTAR, and his band play some of the most intense and explosively loud psychedelic rock in the world. Coming from the Agadez region of Niger, Moctar started his career playing a homemade guitar with bicycle cables for strings. On 2019’s Ilana (The Creator) on Matador Records, his first album with a full band, Moctar broke out with his brand of Tishoumaren, or desert blues. His latest release, Funeral for Justice, is a fiery and aggressive collection of politically inspired songs, full of Moctar’s signature blazing guitar solos. Mdou Moctar hits the Higher Ground Ballroom in South Burlington on Sunday, October 6, with support from the MESSTHETICS and JAMES BRANDON LEWIS.
FRI.4
Anachronist (rock) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.
Bleeding Hearts Family Band (folk) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.
BloodX3, Burial Woods, Brunch, Future Party (post-punk, darkwave) at Junktiques Collective, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.
Brandon Frenyea (acoustic) at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 6 p.m. Free.
The Bresetts (acoustic) at Gusto’s, Barre, 6 p.m. Free.
The Buck Hollers (rock, folk) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free.
Cows on the Moon, Otter Creek (indie) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8:30 p.m. $5.
Dave Mitchell’s Blues Revue (blues) at Red Square, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free.
Delicate Steve, Jackie West (indie rock) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $20.
Fair Sparrow (folk) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.
John Lackard Blues Band (blues) at Moogs Place, Morrisville, 8 p.m. Free.
Joshua West (singer-songwriter) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 8 p.m. Free.
Karl Miller & the Instrumentals (acoustic) at Arts Riot, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free.
King Kyote (singer-songwriter) at Arts Riot, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15.
Lowell Thompson (singersongwriter) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free.
Lupa Cita (rock) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.
Matt Hagen (folk) at Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.
Mean Waltons (bluegrass) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.
Merce Lemon, Greg Freeman, Barbacoa (singer-songwriter) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $12/$15.
Mr. French (rock) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.
Myra Flynn (soul, indie pop) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $18/$20.
Neon Ramblers (bluegrass) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.
Phil Abair Band (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.
Rap Night Burlington (hip-hop) at Drink, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5.
Shacklett’s Open Mic Band (rock) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.
Dead Sessions with Evan Jennison (Grateful Dead tribute) at the Green at Essex Experience, Essex, 7 p.m. $15/$20.
Delicate Steve, Jackie West (indie rock) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $20.
Emo Night with Nick & Katie (acoustic) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.
Foster’s Home (acoustic) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 7 p.m. Free.
I AM SNOW ANGEL, orangepeelmystic (indie) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10.
Jeff & Gina (jazz) at Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.
Kyle Stevens (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.
Left Eye Jump (blues) at Red Square, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free.
Live Music Saturdays (live music series) at Dumb Luck Pub & Grill, Hinesburg, 7 p.m. Free.
Lotus, DJ U-LOCK (jam, electronic) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $25/$27.
Louzy, Sowing, Kennedy Park, IshouldseekhelpbutIam2hot, Tabarnak (punk, hardcore) at Despacito, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.
Mary-Go-Round (acoustic) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.
The Medium, Kitbash (indie rock) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $10.
Nickel & Dime (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.
Shane Murley Band (Americana) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.
Sibling Reverie (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 5 p.m. Free.
Turtleneck, Folkmosh (folk) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $10/$15.
Will Warren & Friends (acoustic) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 7 p.m. Free.
SAT.5
14th Star Oktoberfest 2024 (German music) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 11 a.m. $10/$15.
Ask Carol, Rose Asteroid (indie rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 10 p.m. $12/$15.
Bearded Belligerents (rock) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.
Bird Boombox (folk) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.
Comatose Kids, Lunch (jam) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.
Dead Not Dead Play ‘Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs’ (Derek & the Dominos tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $10.
Nighthawk (rock) at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 p.m. Free.
Reid Parsons, Fawn, the Wormdogs (folk, bluegrass) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5.
Rick Carnell & Friends (acoustic) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.
Thunder Mountain Freight Train (rock) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.
SUN.6
Chicky Stoltz (singer-songwriter) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 1 p.m. Free.
Mdou Moctar, the Messthetics, James Brandon Lewis (psych rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $25/$30.
Sunday Brunch Tunes (singersongwriter) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 10 a.m.
MON.7
Lighting Bolt, Reorder Narcotic (rock) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $25/$28.
Outer Sounds with Lori Goldston, Kath Bloom (cello, singer-songwriter) at the Phoenix, Waterbury, 7:30 p.m. $15-30 suggested donation.
TUE.8
Big Easy Tuesdays with Jon McBride (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
Bluegrass Jam (bluegrass) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.
Bob Recupero (blues) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 5 p.m. Free.
Campfire Jack, Veronica and Friends, Theo Manazir, Folk Therapy (indie) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.
Dani-Rae Clark & the Let Downs, Wes Pearce (folk) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.
Grateful Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10/$20.
Honky Tonk Tuesday with Pony Hustle (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10.
Jay Southgate (vibraphone) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 5 p.m. Free.
John Vincent III, Hazlett (singersongwriter) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $30/$35.
WED.9
Ali T (singer-songwriter) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 6 p.m. Free.
BBQ and Bluegrass (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.
Bent Nails House Band (blues, jazz) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.
Jake McKelvie, Neato, English Major (indie rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.
Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
Live Jazz (jazz) at Leunig’s Bistro & Café, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free. TRS Live: Matt Hagen’s Murder Ballads (live recording) at Tank Recording Studio, Burlington, 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. $35.
Willverine (electronic) at the Wallflower Collective, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.
WED.2
DJ CRE8 (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
DJ Mildew (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
Local Dork (DJ) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.
THU.3
All Ears (DJ) at the Big Spruce, Richmond, 6 p.m. Free.
Country & Western Thursdays (country, DJ) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.
DJ Chaston (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 11 p.m. Free.
DJ Two Sev (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 11 p.m. Free.
Vinyl Night with Ken (DJ) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.
FRI.4
DJ Craig Mitchell (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
DJ JamStar (DJ) at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 p.m. Free.
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. Electronic Emulsion (electronic) at Despacito, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.
John’s Jukebox (DJ) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.
Latin Night with DJ JP Black (DJ) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
SAT.5
DJ A-Ra$ (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, midnight. Free.
DJ Dakota (DJ) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
DJ Raul (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.
HAVEN (DJ) at MothershipVT, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
Matt Payne (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
Molly Mood (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
Roost.world (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10/$15.
SUN.6
Mi Yard Reggae Night with DJ Big Dog (reggae, dancehall) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
TUE.8
e Vanguard: Jazz on Vinyl (DJ) at Paradiso Hi-Fi, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
WED.9
DJ CRE8 (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
DJ Mildew (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
Local Dork (DJ) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.
e Mid Week Hump with DJs Fattie B and Craig Mitchell (DJ) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.
WED.2
Bluegrass Jam (bluegrass jam) at Stone’s row, Richmond, 6:30 p.m. Free.
Irish Sessions (Celtic, open mic) at Burlington St. John’s Club, 6:30 p.m. Free.
Open Mic (open mic) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.
Forging a fresh spin on drag, MONÉT X CHANGE brings an array of talent to the stage and screen. She’s well known for her appearances on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” taking the title of Miss Congeniality during season 10 of the hit TV show. And she was the first queen of color inducted into the show’s Hall of Fame, winning season four of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.” With a devastating combo of lip-synching prowess and comedic timing, Monét has established herself as one of the most exciting queens on the scene. When not on tour, she hosts her own variety talk show, “Monét’s Slumber Party,” and cohosts the podcast “The Sibling Rivalry” with Bob the Drag Queen. Monét takes over the Vermont Comedy Club in Burlington for a string of shows this Friday, October 4, to Sunday, October 6.
WED.9
$5 Improv Night (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5.
Comedy Jam (comedy) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free. Standup Comedy Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.
WED.2
Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Drink, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.
Karaoke with Cam (karaoke) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 p.m. Free.
Musical Bingo (music bingo) at the Depot, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free.
Musical Bingo (music bingo) at Orlando’s Bar & Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
Trivia Night (trivia) at Stone Corral, Richmond, 7 p.m. Free.
Trivia Night (trivia) at Alfie’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free.
Monét X Change (drag) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 & 9 p.m. $35.
SUN.6
Karaoke with DJ Coco Entertainment (karaoke) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 5 p.m. Free.
Monét X Change (drag) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $35. Sunday Funday (games) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, noon. Free.
Venetian Karaoke (karaoke) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
MON.7
Trivia Monday with Top Hat Entertainment (trivia) at McKee’s Pub & Grill, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free. Trivia with Brain (trivia) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.
Trivia with Craig Mitchell (trivia) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.
TUE.8
Godfather Karaoke (karaoke) at the Other Half, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.
FRI.4, SAT.5, SUN.6 // MONÉT X CHANGE [DRAG]
Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.
e Ribbit Review Open Mic & Jam (open mic) at Lily’s Pad, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
THU.3
Open Mic (open mic) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.
Open Mic (open mic) at Moogs Place, Morrisville, 8 p.m. Free.
Open Stage Night (open mic) at Orlando’s Bar & Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.
FRI.4
Red Brick Coffee House (open mic) at Red Brick Meeting House, Westford, 7 p.m. Free.
SUN.6
Olde Time Jam Session (open jam) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, noon. Free.
MON.7
Open Mic (open mic) at Despacito, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
TUE.8
Open Mic Night (open mic) at Drink, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.
WED.9
Irish Sessions (Celtic, open mic) at Burlington St. John’s Club, 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 Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.
WED.2
$5 Improv Night (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5.
Brian Regan (comedy) at the Flynn, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $42.50-74.
Standup Comedy Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.
THU.3
Katie Boyle (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $20. Live, Laugh, Lava: A Comedy Showcase (comedy) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Strapped-In: A Queer Comedy Showcase (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:45 p.m. $10/$15.
FRI.4
Comedy Night: Open Mic (comedy) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 8 p.m. Free. Ginger Billy (comedy) at Paramount eatre, Rutland, 7:30 p.m. $30-$60.
TUE.8
e Cafeteria Presents: Hot Lunch Tuesdays (comedy) at Arts Riot, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. ree Leaves Comedy Showcase (comedy) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
Trivia Night (trivia) at Rí Rá Irish Pub Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.
Venetian Trivia Night (trivia) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.
Wednesday Team Trivia (trivia) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
THU.3
Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. Free.
Karaoke with Matt Mero (karaoke) at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 8 p.m. Free.
Radio Bean Karaoke (karaoke) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
Summer Trivia with Katy (trivia) at Highland Lodge, Greensboro, 7 p.m. Free.
Trivia Night (trivia) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6 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 ursday (trivia) at Spanked Puppy Pub, Colchester, 7 p.m. Free.
FRI.4
Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.
Karaoke with DJ Big T (karaoke) at McKee’s Pub & Grill, Winooski, 9 p.m. Free.
Monét X Change (drag) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 & 9 p.m. $35.
SAT.5
Green Mountain Cabaret (drag) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15.
Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Alfie’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free. Karaoke Tuesdays (karaoke) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.
Karaoke with DJ Party Bear (karaoke) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9:30 p.m. Free.
Music Bingo (music bingo) at Stone Corral, Richmond, 7 p.m. Free.
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.9
Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Drink, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.
Karaoke with Cam (karaoke) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 p.m. Free.
Musical Bingo (music bingo) at the Depot, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free.
Musical Bingo (music bingo) at Orlando’s Bar & Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.
Trivia Night (trivia) at Stone Corral, Richmond, 7 p.m. Free.
Trivia Night (trivia) at Alfie’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free.
Trivia Night (trivia) at Rí Rá Irish Pub Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.
Venetian Trivia Night (trivia) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.
Wednesday Team Trivia (trivia) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free. ➆
Yankovic’s razor-sharp wit, meticulous attention to detail and musical prowess.
“Al has made it so tough to try and do what he’s done by being so, so good,” Warwick asserted. “Pre-internet, this is a dude who was going to the library to research hernia operations, going through medical journals to write ‘Living With a Hernia.’”
Parodies are legally protected as fair use, giving Yankovic the right to lampoon anyone he chooses. Yet he always seeks permission from the artists he’s sending up and generally respects their wishes if they decline.
Yankovic’s practice is “a great lesson for the students,” Warwick said, particularly in an industry in which samples are used routinely and often without permission.
Warwick followed Yankovic’s example
The two musicians hit it o and ended up playing a TAYLOR SWIFT cover together at the show. A light bulb went on in Soloway’s head, and he approached Millette about replicating the experience with other local acts.
The opportunity was too good to pass up for Millette, who saw a chance to not only procure high-profile gigs for himself and friends in the local scene but also to help improve Spruce Peak’s reputation among that set.
“It’s no secret that Spruce Peak felt a little like the stepchild of the Vermont music scene,” Millette said. “It seemed to exist under the resort banner, and there wasn’t this mandate to support local music. But that all seemed to change over the last eight months or so, and I think we’re really changing the narrative.”
Additional series headliners include songwriter DAR WILLIAMS on January 10, vocal jazz duo RACHAEL & VILRAY on January 16, and alt-rockers BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS on February 16. Local openers are yet to be announced.
Soloway isn’t just relying on the Unplugged series. The success of July’s Homegrown in Vermont Music Festival, which featured 12 local artists handpicked by Soloway and Millette, formed a blueprint for the duo to continue hosting the event annually.
“After the fest in the summer, I
and reached out to him for his blessing on the class. Not only did Yankovic give it, Warwick said the singer was honored to have a college class study his work and told him that he’d be happy to answer any questions or help design the curriculum.
Back in the classroom, Warwick pressed play on the “Eat It” video for a second viewing, just as Yankovic, dressed in red leather, did his best impression of Jackson’s dance moves before biting savagely into a banana. Students bent over notebooks and laptops, thoughtfully taking notes.
It was a cool enough scene for me to briefly consider accruing more student loans to become a master of all things
“Weird Al.” (The class is available to nonVTSU students.) But then I remembered that I grew up in the 1980s. Yankovic has already taught me so much. ➆
(Spotify mix of local jams)
1. “SLIM1” by the Gifts
2. “ e Agony” by Sam Jaspersohn
3. “Far Away” by the Burning Sun
4. “ e Longhunter” by Barishi
5. “ e Bag Man” by Eyedos
6. “Beer From Vermont” by Waves of Adrenaline
7. “Up North” by Taylor Haskins and Green Empire
Scan to listen
sevendaysvt. com/playlist
realized I wanted to make Homegrown into a commitment. We’re going to do it every year,” Soloway said. “We want a music ecosystem where we do well and so do other venues and artists. That’s how you create a healthy music scene.”
For more information on Spruce Peak Unplugged, visit sprucepeakarts.org. ➆
(SELF-RELEASED, DIGITAL)
Released in late August, Mystery at Sound Lake is Burlington psych-pop outfit the Burning Sun’s first new material in more than three years. Its dozen tracks mark the culmination of the group’s spiritual quest to assert its identity — and cement its legacy — as one of the area’s boldest musical endeavors. On its second and final studio album, the band e uses and erupts, meeting a pledge to lead listeners on a stunning voyage. Along the way, the Burning Sun enthrall with a sound they’ve labeled “mystical adventure rock.” Though the recording completes the band’s mission
together, it should captivate long after the members go their separate ways.
group lift o , setting a deliberate tone for the album.
The Burning Sun originally formed as a trio with Katy Hellman, Bo Malcolm and Steven LeBel. Hellman has been the lead songwriter and vocalist; she and Malcolm have shared guitar and bass duties while LeBel has been on the drums. The new record also features Addie Herbert, whose vocals and guitar contribute to this dense and striking follow-up to the band’s contemplative 2021 debut, Marrow Mystery flows with illusory resonance from the start with the gleaming title number. The thoughtful opening arrangement gives equal space and volume to the mix of instruments — including piano and harp, too — and its various sections are revealed in startling succession. Sudden pauses and explosive restarts help the
(SELF-RELEASED, CASSETTE, DIGITAL)
From the blood-blistered and bruised fingers of JB Ledoux comes Settled in the Head, the Vermont experimental musician’s latest o ering of esoteric percussive soundscapes as Jo Bled. Released in April via Chicago-based cassette label Lurker Bias, Settled in the Head recasts notions of metal in music, swapping weighty, maxed-out ri s for a high-octane exploration of the resonant material in its quasi-organic form. At nearly 30 minutes in length, the recording finds its home in the hinterland between meditation and pandemonium. The four-song suite of improvised compositions emphasizes movement
over melody. In keeping with Jo Bled’s hefty discography of live performances, Settled in the Head coalesces into a fullscale sensory experience actualized by blunt force and raw feeling. Yes, it’s loud. But when it comes to causing a ruckus, there’s nothing brutish about Ledoux’s fearless dexterity.
The EP’s opener, “Strange Wind Plays Free Spirit,” is a propulsive slow burn, racked with tension yet grounded by a soft, steady hammering on a wooden temple block. Amid that material’s tinny overtones, and as the energy intensifies and the reverberations intermix, it’s not always easy to discern the source of every strike and rattle. The EP’s liner notes a rm an ensemble of metallic instruments at play, which include balls and bells, gongs, and even bottle caps.
Mystery lays bare some of the Burning Sun’s obvious influences, including the Cranberries and their lead vocalist and lyricist, the late Dolores O’Riordan. The band explores the path forged decades ago by classic psychedelic acts Je erson Airplane and the Mamas & the Papas and rejuvenated by contemporaries such as Florence & the Machine.
Much like those groups, the Burning Sun wield vocals as their centerpiece. Mystery is a demonstration of Hellman’s prowess.
She sings from a place of solitude and darkness as the ambitious “Bottom of Wells” billows and ultimately thunders under her signal. Her voice climbs to incredible heights over the ceremonial chanting of her bandmates and daunting crash and vibration.
Hellman veers close to a yodel to start the curious “Jinx,” a showcase of her ability to alter the mood and apply suspense with the slightest tonal
adjustment. On the booming worship “Prince Matthew,” she is a driving force.
Mystery was recorded in Burlington by the esteemed Benny Yurco and mixed in New York’s Capital Region by Evan Marre. Grown on an abundance of instrumentation, the album gives way to glorious vocal harmonies on songs such as “Million,” and it contains an instrumental prize in the drifting and dreamy “Passage.”
The album’s tracks reveal not only sonic breadth but also emotional punch, as on “Far Away.” “Pivotal,” the triumphant closer, bursts with the joy and accord of a band discovering what it set out to find.
While the Burning Sun have flamed out, Hellman and Malcolm will continue to make music together in the Burlington dream-folk group A Box of Stars. Their listeners will likely follow.
Mystery at Sound Lake is streaming on all major platforms.
CASEY RYAN VOCK
As patterned swirls and variegated sweeps across the gong ring out and decay, the aptly titled track evokes the sounds of a surging mountain stream in a windstorm. The sonic nod to the elements and the ordered chaos of nature give “Strange Wind Plays Free Spirit” a romantic sheen not found on the EP’s remaining compositions. The jangly pitter-patter of rustling bottle caps mimics raindrops falling on a tin roof. Those intermittent drops taper o just after the track’s 10-minute mark — a sign that the storm has passed.
While Settled in the Head isn’t a metal record in the stylistic sense, acoustic traces of the genre’s forebears garnish the EP like heavy-handed heaps of rock salt. In the raucous quickie “Key in the Back,” a cacophony of cymbals crashing sizzles atop the track with an incessancy reminiscent of John Bonham’s giant Paistes. While the number aspires to be the EP’s barn burner, the emphatic percussive energy pushes up against aural fatigue. But if you can outlast the
frenetic strikes and absonant tempo, “Key in the Back” features an intricate and captivating hand-drumming performance on pandeiro.
Forgoing synthesizers and digital sound e ects, Jo Bled’s experimental soundscapes highlight natural acoustics, calling attention to the relationships between the composer, the instruments and the environment they share. That intimate quality lends this tough material an unlikely tenderness.
A deep dive into Jo Bled’s evolution reveals a motley collection of noisemakers, including traditional orchestral instruments and others constructed from found and repurposed objects such as washboards and driftwood. That inventive ethos is alive and well on Settled in the Head, a repetitive, propulsive and at times disorienting expedition into the furthest reaches of experimental soundscapes.
Settled in the Head is available at lurkerbias.bandcamp.com.
XENIA TURNER
Sana at Stowe provides a healing environment for those seeking recovery from substance use disorders and cooccurring mental health issues, offering both medically monitored detox and residential treatment Guided by an experienced and collaborative clinical and medical team, our evidence-based approach ensures a holistic path to lasting well-being.
CHAMPLAIN VALLEY DSA
GENERAL MEETING: Members of the local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America and other left-wing activists gather to plan political activities. Democracy Creative, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, hello@champlainvalleydsa.org.
DISABLED ACCESS & ADVOCACY OF THE RUTLAND AREA MONTHLY
ZOOM MEETING: Community members gather online to advocate for accessibility and other disability-rights measures. 11:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 779-9021. business
QUEEN CITY BUSINESS NETWORKING INTERNATIONAL
GROUP: Savvy businesspeople make crucial contacts at a weekly chapter meeting. BCA Center, Burlington, 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 829-5066.
VERMONT
WOMENPRENEURS BIZ
BUZZ ZOOM: A monthly virtual networking meetup provides a space for female business owners to meet and connect. 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 870-0903.
LIVING WITH LOSS: A GATHERING FOR THE GRIEVING: Participants explore how ritual, connection and community sharing can aid through times of loss. 4-5:15 p.m. $5-25 suggested donation. Info, 825-8141, ritesofpassagevt@gmail.com.
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: Folks put on their detective caps, grab a map at the library and search the town for stickers. Prizes include hotel stays and goods from local merchants. Stowe Free Library. Free. Info, 253-6145.
crafts
YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: A drop-in meetup welcomes knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers and other fiber artists. BYO snacks and drinks. Must Love Yarn, Shelburne, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3780.
dance
MOVEMENT MATTERS: Millie Heckler leads this improvisational dance class to explore the physical embodiment of rage and learn how to focus its energy. Dance Theatre, Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-2808.
These community event listings are sponsored by the WaterWheel Foundation, a project of the Vermont band Phish.
LIST YOUR UPCOMING EVENT HERE FOR FREE!
All submissions must be received by Thursday at noon for consideration in the following Wednesday’s newspaper. Find our convenient form and guidelines at sevendaysvt.com/postevent
Listings and spotlights are written by Rebecca Driscoll Seven Days edits for space and style. Depending on cost and other factors, classes and workshops may be listed in either the calendar or the classes section. Class organizers may be asked to purchase a class listing.
Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.
CHAMP MASTERS
TOASTMASTERS CLUB: Those looking to strengthen their speaking and leadership skills gain new tools. Virtual options available. Dealer. com, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, champmasterstm@gmail.com.
film
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: Andy Serkis narrates the journey of a lifetime into the realm of the world’s largest mammals and the scientists who study them. 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 regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: Sparkling graphics take viewers on a journey into the weird, wide world of mushrooms, which we are only just beginning to understand.
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, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.
‘JUST GETTING BY’: Bess
O’Brien’s 2024 documentary focuses on Vermonters struggling with food and housing insecurities. Huntington Public Library, 7-9 p.m. Free; donations of food and money accepted. Info, 434-4583.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: Scientists dive into the
FIND MORE LOCAL EVENTS IN THIS ISSUE AND ONLINE: art
Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.
film
See what’s playing in the On Screen section. music + nightlife
Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/music.
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planet’s least-explored habitat, from its sunny shallows to its alien depths. 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, $16.5020; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: Through the power of special cameras, audiences are transported into the world of the teeniest animals on Earth. 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, $16.5020; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.
‘VIY’: Renowned for its groundbreaking special effects, this 1967 classic deftly blends Gothic horror with Russian folklore. Catamount Arts Center, St. Johnsbury, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 748-2600.
DANVILLE FARMERS MARKET:
Villagers shop local from various vendors handing out fruits, veggies and prepared foods. Danville Village Green, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, cfmamanager@gmail.com.
SIP & SAVOR: FALL WINE
DINNER: Carefully curated food and wine pairings highlight the depth of vintage flavors. Basin Harbor, Vergennes, 6-8:30 p.m. $160. Info, 475-2311.
WHAT’S THAT WINE
WEDNESDAYS: Aspiring sommeliers blind-taste four wines from Vermont and beyond. Shelburne Vineyard, noon-6 p.m. $15. Info, 985-8222.
CHESS CLUB: Players of all ages and abilities test their skills with instructor Robert and peers. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
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.
ELL CLASSES: ENGLISH FOR BEGINNERS AND 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 vocabulario with a discussion led by a Spanish teacher. Presented by Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 5-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@damlvt.org.
ZEDASHE ENSEMBLE: The Georgian folk singers perform soul-stirring and often startling harmonies backed by traditional instruments. Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro, 7:30-9:15 p.m. $25. Info, 603-858-5418.
CABOT CHEESE E-BIKE TOUR: Cyclists roll through a pastoral 20-mile trail ride, then enjoy artisan eats, including Vermont’s award-wining cheddar. Lamoille Valley Bike Tours, Johnson, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $115. Info, 730-0161.
E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: Pedal lovers cycle through scenic trails and drink in the views with stops at four local breweries. Lamoille Valley Bike Tours, Johnson, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $85. Info, 730-0161.
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR:
Adventurous souls shed the car and hit the cycling trails, offering a more intimate view of Vermont’s spectacular fall color. Lamoille Valley Bike Tours, Johnson, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $80. Info, 730-0161.
‘SAKURA’: A Canadian troupe stages a nostalgia-filled comic reimagining of Anton Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard for the 21st century. Centaur Theatre, Montréal, 8 p.m. $30-68. Info, 514-288-3161.
seminars
RETIREMENTALITY: BLENDING ATTITUDE, ADVICE & ACCOUNTABILITY FOR SUCCESS: Sara Kermenski hosts this virtual workshop outlining tools and strategies needed to prepare for retirement. Presented by the Women Business Owners Network of Vermont. 8:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 503-0219.
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.
talks
DR. KYLIE KING: The director of institutional effectiveness at SUNY Plattsburgh discusses how different generations think about entrepreneurship and other economic concepts. Plattsburgh Public Library, N.Y., 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, raymond.carman@plattsburgh. edu.
THE U.S. WAR IN VIETNAM: LOOKING BACK AFTER 50 YEARS: The Leahy Public Policy Forum presents three panel discussions illuminating aspects of the long, costly war. See uvm.edu for full schedule. Carpenter Auditorium, Given Medical Building, University of Vermont, Burlington, 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 656-9100.
theater
‘SISTERS’: Spanning 90 years, the events of this stirring Northern Stage play track the lifelong sibling bond of Matilda and Greta
— one a human, the other an AI computer program. Barrette Center for the Arts, White River Junction, 7:30 p.m. $24-74. Info, 296-7000.
‘SPIRITS TO ENFORCE’: Audiences are pulled into the madcap world of eccentric superheroes trying their hand at Shakespeare in this raucous modern comedy. Royall Tyler Theatre, University of Vermont, Burlington, 7:30-9:15 p.m. $19-22. Info, theatreanddance@uvm.edu.
‘TRANSLATIONS’: Vermont Stage presents renowned Irish dramatist Brian Friel’s play exploring the power of language to kindle romance in 1830s Dublin. Ages 13 and up. Black Box Theater, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $3464. Info, 862-1497.
‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’: The past refuses to stay buried in Weston Theater’s hair-raising adaptation of Susan Hill’s classic ghost story. Weston Theater at Walker Farm, 7:30 p.m. $59-79; sliding scale on October 2 and 3. Info, 824-5288.
FALL RUMMAGE SALE: Thrifty folks find fun and funky treasures to take home. BYO bags. Grace Congregational Church, Rutland, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 775-4301.
UPPER VALLEY JOB FAIR: Curious and career-minded individuals meet with prospective employers and partner state agencies faceto-face. Hartford Town Hall, White River Junction, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 828-4394.
Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art
Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.
film
See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section. music + nightlife
Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.
Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.
= ONLINE EVENT
= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM THU.3 » P.68
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.
TODDLER TIME: Librarians bring out books, rhymes and songs specially selected for young ones 12 through 24 months. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
BABY TIME: Parents and caregivers bond with their pre-walking babes during this gentle playtime. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
BABY TIME: Infants and their caregivers enjoy a slow, soothing story featuring songs, rhymes and lap play. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.
GAME ON!: Kids take turns collaborating with or competing against friends using Nintendo Switch on the big screen. Caregivers must be present to supervise children below 5th grade. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.
TEEN HANGOUT: Middle and high schoolers make friends at a no-pressure meetup. Waterbury Public Library, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
TEEN QUEER READS: LGBTQIA+ and allied youths get together each month to read and discuss ideas around gender, sexuality and identity. Waterbury Public Library, 6-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.
‘KICKLINE’: Students in grades 3 to 6 work with trained teaching artists to learn basic choreography, play movement-based games and end the day with a dance-filled celebration. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-5966.
BABY & ME CLASS: Parents and their infants ages birth to 1 explore massage, lullabies and gentle movements while discussing the struggles and joys of parenthood. Greater Burlington YMCA, 9:45-10:45 a.m. $10; free for members. Info, 862-9622.
BABY TIME: Pre-walking little ones experience a story time catered to their infant interests. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
GROW PRESCHOOL YOGA: Colleen from Grow Prenatal and Family Yoga leads little ones ages 2 through 5 in songs, movement and other fun activities.
There is something uniquely satisfying about painstakingly setting items up, only to knock them back down again. The Domino Toppling Extravaganza presented by the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center offers that indescribably yummy moment in spades. For nearly two decades, the annual spectacle has enthralled families with its “Now you see it, now you don’t” magic. This year, YouTube sensation Lily Hevesh and a small team arrive on-site two days ahead of audiences to erect the mind-boggling display. Correctly guess how many dominoes were used (hint — tens of thousands), and you could tip the first tile.
DOMINO TOPPLING EXTRAVAGANZA
Sunday, October 6, 5:30 p.m., at 28 Vernon St. (office building next to Brattleboro Museum & Art Center). $5; free for kids 8 and under. Info, 257-0124, ext. 101, brattleboromuseum.org.
Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
ROSH HASHANAH BY THE LAKE: Families mark the Jewish New Year with stories, skits and songs in a joyful setting. Hula, Burlington, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, hello@ohavizedek.org.
MIDDLE SCHOOL MAKERS: COOKING: Students in grades 4 through 8 make delicious homemade dishes. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.
MUSIC & MOVEMENT WITH MISS EMMA: Little ones and their caregivers use song and dance to explore the changing seasons and celebrate everyday joys. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.
PRESCHOOL MUSIC WITH LINDA BASSICK: The singer and storyteller extraordinaire guides kids 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.
STORY TIME: Little ones from birth through age 5 learn from songs, crafts
and picture books. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
POKÉMON CLUB: I choose you, Pikachu! Elementary and teenage fans of the franchise — and beginners, too — trade cards and play games. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
STORY TIME: Kids and their caregivers meet for stories, songs and bubbles. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
stowe/smuggs
WEE ONES PLAYTIME: Caregivers bring kiddos 3 and younger to a new sensory learning experience each week. Morristown Centennial Library, Morrisville, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3853.
mad river valley/ waterbury
BUSY BEES PLAYGROUP: Blocks, toys, books and songs engage little ones 24 months and younger. Waterbury Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
northeast kingdom
STORY TIME: Youngsters 5 and under play, sing, hear stories and color. St.
Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391.
FRI.4
barre/montpelier
LEGO CLUB: Budding builders create geometric structures with snap-together blocks. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
STORY TIME & PLAYGROUP: Participants ages 5 and under enjoy thematic science, art and nature activities. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.
upper valley
STORY TIME: Preschoolers take part in tales, tunes and playtime. Latham Library, Thetford, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.
STORIES WITH GEOFF: Little patrons of the library’s satellite location enjoy a morning of stories and songs. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
chittenden county
OUTDOOR SATURDAY STORY TIME: A special storyteller reads to little ones in front of the library. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
WALK FOR SAFE & HAPPY
CHILDHOODS: A heartfelt day of activity raises funds for programs that protect and support babies, children, and families. Vermont Statehouse lawn, Montpelier, 10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 229-5724.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY GEOLOGY: Dive into Stark Mountain’s geological history with interactive activities that include visualizing Earth’s timeline and piecing together Pangaea. Mad River Glen, Waitsfield, 1-1:45 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 583-3536.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY HIKE: Naturalist Amanda Palumbo guides families on a 2.5-hour trek exploring local plant life and the beauty of Stark Mountain. Ages 5 and up. Mad River Glen, Waitsfield, 2-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 583-3536.
SATURDAY STORY TIME: Stories and songs help young children develop social and literacy skills. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036. middlebury area
SATURDAY PLAYGROUP: Folks new to town or to parenting connect while their kids make friends. Vergennes Congregational Church, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 877-2435.
brattleboro/okemo valley
FALL FESTIVAL & CHICKEN BARBECUE: Merrymakers enjoy a hayride with Farmer Fred, a fresh cider pressing and tasty meals cooked up by the local fire department. President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, Plymouth, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $12. Info, 672-1195.
CAP & INVEST: A CLIMATE POLLUTION REDUCTION
STRATEGY: Attendees learn about the carbon-cutting program and how it benefits and impacts Vermont transportation. Noon-1 & 6-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 522-9555.
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: See WED.2.
crafts
KNIT FOR YOUR NEIGHBOR: All ages and abilities knit or crochet hats and scarves for the South Burlington Food Shelf. 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.
WOODWORKING LAB: Visionaries create a project or learn a new skill with the help of mentors and access to tools and equipment in the makerspace. Hannaford Career Center, Middlebury, 5-8 p.m. $7.50. Info, 382-1012.
NIGHT OWL CLUB: Astronomers and space exploration experts discuss the latest in extraterrestrial news with curious attendees. Presented by Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium. 7 p.m. Free. Info, 748-2372.
film
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.2.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.2.
‘OF THE BLACK SEA’: Burlington filmmaker Hennie van Jaarsveld premieres his riveting documentary which follows skier Giray Dadali as he explores the towering mountain ranges of Türkiye. Merrill’s Roxy Cinemas, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. $16. Info, hennie@hennievj.com.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
food & drink
FREE WINE TASTING: Themed wine tastings take oenophiles on an adventure through a region, grape variety, style of wine or producer’s offerings. Dedalus Wine Shop, Market & Wine Bar, Burlington, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 865-2368.
games
BASIC BEGINNER BRIDGE: Newbies learn bidding, playing and scoring — and find out firsthand why the trick-taking game is so popular. Milton Public Library,
1-2:30 p.m. Free; space is limited; preregister. Info, 893-4644.
BASIC BRIDGE CLASS: Beginners learn the basics and make new friends in a social, amicable environment. Waterbury Public Library, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@waterburypubliclibrary. com.
DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: Snacks and coffee fuel bouts of a classic card game. Burlington Bridge Club, Williston, 12:30-4 p.m. $6. Info, 872-5722.
WEEKLY CHESS FOR FUN: Players of all ability levels face off and learn new strategies. United Community Church, St. Johnsbury, 5:30-9 p.m. Donations accepted. Info, lafferty1949@ gmail.com.
FALL MEDITATION SERIES: Practitioners of all experience levels attend this guided session seeking to cultivate positive inner qualities such as kindness, generosity and compassion. Milarepa Center, Barnet, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 633-4136.
QI GONG CLASS: Practice mindful movement with meditation and breath to strengthen the body, quiet the mind and balance the emotions. Waterbury Public Library, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.
ITALIAN CONVERSATION GROUP: Semi-fluent speakers practice their skills during a conversazione with others. Best for those who can speak at least basic sentences. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
POP-UP HAPPY HOUR: Locals connect over drinks at a speakeasy-style bar, hosted by OUT in the 802. Lincolns, Burlington, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 860-7812.
LAUREN SHEEHAN: The vocalist brings her down-home sound to a mix of blues, early jazz, roots and country in a lively, feel-good performance. Peacham Town Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 592-3216.
ZEDASHE ENSEMBLE: See WED.2. Unitarian Church of Montpelier.
outdoors
E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.2.
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.2, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. québec
‘SAKURA’: See WED.2.
MENOPAUSE, A MEAL & TIME TO GET REAL: Certified coach Shayne Brunet answers questions and offers insight into the monumental life change, followed by a chili dinner. Main Street Museum, White River Junction, 5:30-7 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info,
Ever since Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus was released into the cultural zeitgeist of 1800s England, folks have been morbidly fascinated by its subject matter. Smash cut to 2024, and we’re still reveling in the monstrous tale: The Lamoille County Players produce Young Frankenstein this month. The Halloweeny hootenanny is based on Mel Brooks’ iconic 1974 film, which reimagines one doctor’s quest to reanimate stitched-together tissue. The end result? Well, not great in the original story, but uproarious in the musical. Imagine creating life and being horrified by it — truly, a parent’s worst nightmare!
‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’ Thursday, October 3, through Saturday, October 5, 7 p.m.; and Sunday, October 6, 2 p.m., at Hyde Park Opera House. See website for future dates. $10-20. Info, 888-4507, lcplayers.com.
shaynebrunetwellness@gmail. com.
SPOOKY STOP-MOTION
ANIMATION: Creators learn how to use Dragonframe software and props to bring eerie tales to life. The Media Factory, Burlington, 5-7 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.
SHELBY PERRY: The local ecologist introduces nature lovers to “rewilding” and discusses what the future might hold for uncultivated forests in our region. Brookfield Old Town Hall, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, abelisle2@comcast.net.
theater
‘ECHOES OF TRUTH’: The profound stage production illuminates humans’ shared struggle
for understanding and connection. Hepburn Zoo, Hepburn Hall, Middlebury College, 7:30 p.m. $5. Info, 443-6433.
‘SISTERS’: See WED.2, 2 & 7:30 p.m.
‘SPIRITS TO ENFORCE’: See WED.2.
‘THE THANKSGIVING PLAY’: Shaker Bridge Theatre stages Larissa FastHorse’s woke-era satire about a school pageant attempting to celebrate both Turkey Day and Native American Heritage Month — without ruffling feathers. Briggs Opera House, White River Junction, 7 p.m. $20-45. Info, 281-6848.
‘TRANSLATIONS’: See WED.2.
‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’: See WED.2.
‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’: It’s alive! The iconic Mel Brooks
the importance of forestry and stewardship in Vermont. Pierson Library, Shelburne, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.
J. KEVIN GRAFFAGNINO: The historian discusses his latest book, Ira Allen: A Biography, shining new light on the politician’s prominent role in Vermont’s formative years. Roger Clark Memorial Library, Pittsfield, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 746-4067.
JULIE C. DAO: The critically acclaimed author launches her debut adult novel, Now Comes the Mist, in conversation with fellow writer Katherine Arden. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 7 p.m. $3; preregister. Info, 448-3350.
NATALIE FOSTER & MIKE
PIECIAK: The author of The Guarantee: Inside the Fight for America’s Next Economy and Vermont’s state treasurer discuss our shared economic system. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 7-9 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, stephanie@economicsecurity.us.
PECHAKUCHA NIGHT: Participants in the Japanese storytelling phenomenon tell a tale through 20 images, with only 20 seconds to explain each one. Flynn Space, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10; cash bar. Info, 863-5966.
FALL RUMMAGE SALE: See THU.3, 9 a.m.-noon.
FIRST FRIDAY: Live music soundtracks a bustling summer market overflowing with food, artisan goods and kids’ activities. Merchants Row, Randolph, 5:307:30 p.m. Free. Info, 728-4305.
RICHMOND RUMMAGE SALE: Deal seekers browse a treasure trove of secondhand scores. Richmond Congregational Church, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Info, 434-2053.
FAIRFAX RUMMAGE SALE: Community members shop a wide array of gently used clothes, books, toys and other treasures. Fairfax Community Center, 1-6 p.m. Free. Info, 849-6313.
musical reimagines the story of a bright young doctor who brings a corpse to life. Presented by the Lamoille County Players. See calendar spotlight. Hyde Park Opera House, 7 p.m. $15-20. Info, 888-4507.
words ART & WRITING SHARE GROUP FOR JEWS OF ALL STRIPES: Secular, spiritual or religious, all adult Jewish artists, writers and creators are invited to a monthly virtual meetup, presented by Jewish Communities of Vermont. 7-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister for Zoom link. Info, alison@jcvt.org.
ETHAN TAPPER: The Bolton author discusses his latest book, How to Love a Forest: The Bittersweet Work of Tending a Changing World, which outlines
MEDICARE MEETING: An independent agent educates community members about the plans available for 2025. Community Center in Jericho, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, rachelroeloffs@ gmail.com.
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: See WED.2.
FIRST FRIDAY FIBER GROUP: Fiber-arts fans make progress on projects while chatting over snacks. GRACE, Hardwick, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, info@ruralartsvt. org.
etc.
COMMUNITY OPEN MIC NIGHT: Local artists share their talents with a friendly audience and meet like-minded individuals
in a supportive environment. Brookfield Old Town Hall, 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, abelisle2@ comcast.net.
TWIST: TWIN STATE COMICS
& ZINE FAIR: Art aficionados browse a diverse selection of works by local cartoonists and zine makers. Junction Arts & Media, White River Junction, 4-8 p.m. Free. Info, 295-6688.
film
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.2.
‘JOIN OR DIE’: The 2023 documentary explores urgent civic questions about the fate of our democracy, followed by an in-person conversation with renowned political scientist Robert Putnam. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 264-1970.
‘LAURA’: This 1944 film noir stars Gene Tierney and Dana Andrews as a murdered woman and the investigating detective who falls in love with her. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5-10. Info, 660-2600.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET
3D’: See WED.2.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2. food & drink
LATE HARVEST ADVENTURE
DINNER: A four-course feast pays homage to chef Breana Lai Killeen’s Chinese and Jewish heritage using veggies, eggs and chickens raised on the farm. Killeen Crossroads Farm, Shelburne, 5:30-9 p.m. $175 plus tax. Info, 248-224-7539.
RICHMOND FARMERS MARKET: Vendors present a diverse selection of locally produced foods and crafts as picnickers jive to live music. Volunteers Green, Richmond, 3-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, rfmmanager@gmail.com.
games
DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.3, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
MAH-JONGG: Tile traders of all experience levels gather for a game. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
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.
PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS CAN
EXERCISE: Active adults with stiffness and pain keep joints flexible, muscles strong and bodies energized with a weekly low-impact class. Waterbury
Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
RPG NIGHT: Members of the LGBTQ community get together weekly for role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Everway. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:308:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692.
ALASH: The talented trio combines the ancient practice of Tuvan throat singing with modern influences. Studio One, Vermont Public Radio, Colchester, 7 p.m. $25 suggested donation. Info, 233-5293.
BALA BILA: The two African master musicians play balafon and timbila in an intimate, living room-style setting. Robison Concert Hall, Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, 7:309 p.m. $5-25. Info, 443-6433.
THE CLEMENTS BROTHERS: The roots, rock and bluegrass duo bring unique vocal harmonies, instrumental virtuosity and a genuine love of song to the stage. Burnham Memorial Library Meeting House, Colchester, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 264-5660.
FULL CIRCLE: The vocal trio draws on both secular and sacred folk traditions to produce stunning harmonies. Proceeds benefit farmers affected by flooding. Bethany United Church of Christ, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 448-0622.
LANE SERIES: SKYE CONSORT & EMMA BJÖRLING: Listeners enjoy an evening of transatlantic chamber folk music featuring fantastic vocals and unique instruments, including the nyckelharpa, bouzouki and fiddle. University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 7:30-9 p.m. $535. Info, 656-4455.
MAL MAÏZ: The Vermont band explores the psychedelic side of Latin music, weaving modern and traditional rhythms from Central and South America. Shelburne Vineyard, 7-9:30 p.m. $12; reservations recommended. Info, 985-8222.
TRIO OF AETHER: Musicians
Bow Thayer, Krishna Guthrie and Steve Ferraris embark on an evening of sonic exploration with an emphasis on improvisation and genre-bending arrangements. Seven Stars Arts Center, Sharon, 7 p.m. $20-25; free for kids 12 and under. Info, 763-2334.
CABOT CHEESE E-BIKE TOUR: See WED.2.
E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.2.
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.2.
‘SAKURA’: See WED.2.
seminars
STOP THE BLEED TRAINING: Community members acquire
the necessary skills to mitigate uncontrolled bleeding in an emergency. Greater Burlington YMCA, 6-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 862-9662.
sports
SKI SWAP: Winter sports enthusiasts browse modern Alpine, snowboard, telemark and uphill equipment. Proceeds support the ski club’s junior racing program. Pico Mountain, Killington, 5-9 p.m. Free. Info, 345-3000.
MORNING TECH HELP: Experts answer questions about phones, laptops, e-readers and other devices in one-on-one sessions. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 846-4140.
theater
‘ECHOES OF TRUTH’: See THU.3.
‘THE MOUSETRAP’: Theater fans flock to the iconic Agatha Christie murder mystery, brimming with intrigue, sophisticated humor, psychological thrills and shocking plot twists. Valley Players Theater, Waitsfield, 7 p.m. $14-18. Info, 583-1674.
‘MURDER AT EIGHT’: Audiences delight in the world premiere of a witty and stylish thriller presented by the Shelburne Players. Shelburne Town Center, 7-9 p.m. $20. Info, 343-2602.
‘SISTERS’: See WED.2.
‘SPIRITS TO ENFORCE’: See WED.2.
‘THE THANKSGIVING PLAY’: See THU.3.
‘THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW’: The Headless Horseman rides again in this engaging solo show featuring J.T. Turner as Ichabod Crane creator Washington Irving. York Street Meeting House, Lyndon, 7-8 p.m.
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.
$15-20; free for students 18 and under. Info, 748-2600.
‘TRANSLATIONS’: See WED.2.
‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’: See WED.2.
‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’: See THU.3.
words
ETHAN TAPPER: See THU.3. Montgomery Center for the Arts, 5-7 p.m. $5. Info, 309-4207.
TENANT TAKEOVER: Concerned locals chat about the state of renting in Burlington, receive organizational training, and enjoy free food and dancing. Pomeroy Park, Burlington, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, btvtenants@gmail.com. bazaars
RICHMOND RUMMAGE SALE: See FRI.4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
FAIRFAX RUMMAGE SALE: See FRI.4, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
WILLISTON WOODS ANNUAL
BAZAAR: Locals peruse an array of crafts, baked goods, gift baskets and a white elephant sale. Williston Woods Rd., 9-3 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6552.
community
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: See WED.2.
dance
CONTRA DANCE & WALTZING: Dancers of all ages and abilities learn in an environment that encourages joy, laughter and friendship. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 8-11 p.m. $5-20 sliding scale. Info, 225-8921.
etc.
FUR FEST GALA: Animal lovers learn about the organization’s life-saving work while enjoying hors d’oeuvres, craft beverages, and live and silent auctions. Proceeds benefit Central Vermont Humane Society. Vermont Granite Museum, Barre, 5:30-8:30 p.m. $50; cash bar. Info, 476-1549.
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ DAY ROCKS: Community members come together for a celebration of Vermont’s Indigenous culture, customs and community. Proceeds benefit Abenaki Helping Abenaki. e Current, Stowe, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $15; free for Indigenous peoples. Info, ipdrocksfoundation@gmail. com.
SEX, POLITICS & COCKTAILS: Locals enjoy an evening of community connection, including a Q&A with Planned Parenthood’s Jessica Barquist and a special surprise performance. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 6:30-9 p.m. $25; preregister; cash bar. Info, 540-3018.
BRIGHTON CRAFT FAIR: Creative community members browse artistic offerings from local vendors. Brighton Elementary School, Island Pond, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 673-2029.
FALL DOG PARTY: Four-legged friends and their humans enjoy an afternoon of romping, raffles, lawn games, chili dogs, maple sweets and tunes. Dog Mountain, St. Johnsbury, noon-4 p.m. Free. Info, 800-449-2580.
VERMONT SHEEP & WOOL
FESTIVAL: Fiber lovers delight in farm animals, spinning classes, herding demos and a collection of vendors. Tunbridge World’s Fairgrounds, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-8; free for toddlers. Info, 592-3153.
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.2.
‘LES CONTES D’HOFFMANN’: Jacques Offenbach’s fantastical work kicks off the Metropolitan Opera’s season of “Live in HD” performances, starring French tenor Benjamin Bernheim in the titular role. Catamount Arts Center, St. Johnsbury, 1 p.m. $16-25. Info, 748-2600.
‘LOST NATION’: e Williston Historical Society presents local filmmaker Jay Craven’s Revolutionary War drama about Ethan Allen and Lucy Terry Prince, set in the early upstart Republic of Vermont. A Q&A follows. Williston Central School, 7 p.m. $15. Info, 748-2600.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.2.
‘SUNSET BOULEVARD’: William Holden and Gloria Swanson captivate audiences in this 1950 psychological noir about a screenwriter’s slip into the macabre universe of a faded actress. e Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5-10. Info, 660-2600.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
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. 133 State St., Montpelier, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 272-6249.
CHICKEN PIE SUPPER: Community members craving comfort food indulge in the classic concoction, followed by seasonal apple crisp. e Old Meeting House, East Montpelier, 4-6 p.m. $15; preregister. Info, 223-6934.
KINTOBERFEST: e inaugural event offers a refreshing selection of beer, live music and games.
Kraemer & Kin, Alburgh, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Info, 796-3586.
SHELBURNE FARMERS MARKET:
Locavores delight in vendors’ fresh fruits, veggies and prepared foods. Shelburne Village Fairgrounds, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, shelburnefarmersmarketvt@ gmail.com.
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.
CEMETERY COMMITTEE BINGO: Players vie for cash prizes at this weekly event to support cemetery improvements. St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Vergennes, 5-9 p.m. $5 per 10 games. Info, 877-2367.
CHESS CLUB: Players of all ages and abilities face off and learn new strategies. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Dungeon master Evan Hoffman leads new and veteran players on an epic quest in a fifth-edition campaign. Zoom option available. Waterbury Public Library, 1-5 p.m. Free. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.
LEARN TO PLAY MAH-JONGG: Expert tile trader Pauline Nolte leads players through the Chinese and American versions of the ancient game. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.
AMPERSAND: Six chamber vocalists perform a spooky program of Franco-Flemish compositions originally written to honor dead loved ones. Old Round Church, Richmond, 4-5:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 781-454-6037.
OCT. 5 & 6 | THEATER
If you’re looking for traditional theater, Tune on a Distant Hill at Randolph’s Chandler Center for the Arts isn’t it. Unlike most works conceived for the stage, Strike Anywhere Performance Ensemble’s mélange of music, dance and words draws on regional folklore and interviews with locals, culminating in a bespoke theatrical experience that transcends the average play. Spotlighting central Vermont, the touring troupe’s production spans stories of the fabled Northfield Pigman and social justice issues affecting the community. It also includes soundpainting — a spontaneous, improvised sign language between conductor and performer.
‘TUNE ON A DISTANT HILL’
Saturday, October 5, 7 p.m., and Sunday, October 6, 3 p.m., at Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph. $10-30 sliding scale. Info, 728-9878, chandler-arts.org.
‘BLUEGRASS ALL-STARS’:
Audiences enjoy a thrilling, soulful evening of traditional Americana tunes by virtuoso mandolinist Jacob Jolliff and the Bob & Sarah Amos band. Alexander Twilight eatre, Vermont State University-Lyndon, Lyndonville, 7-9 p.m. $15-34; free for students. Info, 748-2600.
‘CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY & DIVERSITY’: Shidaa Projects presents an energizing afternoon of West African rhythms through drumming and dance. First Congregational Church of Berlin, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 617-780-2458. THE CLEMENTS BROTHERS: See FRI.4. Burnham Hall, Lincoln, 7:30 p.m. $20-$25 sliding scale. Info, 349-3364.
LIVE IN THE ORCHARD CONCERT
SERIES: OTTER CREEK: e local bluegrass band plays old-timey tunes that get those toes tappin’ and fingers snappin’. Shelburne Orchards, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-2753.
MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE CARILLON
SERIES: CARLA STAFFARONI: e Middlebury College alumna sends out enchanting chimes from the bell tower. Memorial Chapel, Middlebury College, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.
Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art
REID PARSONS: e Vermont singer-songwriter takes the stage for an evening of honest and simple lyrics presented with warmth and spirit. Shelburne Vineyard, 6-8:30 p.m. Free; reservations recommended. Info, 985-8222. ‘SONGS, MEDITATIONS & A DREAM’: Burlington composer Don Jamison presents an impressive concert of his music, performed by an all-star group of accomplished musicians. Unitarian Church of Montpelier, 7:30-9:15 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, doncjamison@ gmail.com.
Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.
film
See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.
music + nightlife
Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.
Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.
= ONLINE EVENT
= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM
‘THE ULTIMATE GARTH BROOKS TRIBUTE’: Shawn Gerhard takes the stage for this energizing celebration of the country legend. Barre Opera House, 7:30 p.m. $42. Info, 476-8188.
CABOT CHEESE E-BIKE TOUR: See WED.2.
DEAD CREEK WILDLIFE DAY: Folks of all ages honor the outdoors with a range of family-friendly activities including decoy carving, nature walks, face painting and birdhouse building. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area, Addison, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 759-2398.
E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.2.
What does it mean to be a Good Citizen? Ask some of the 250 kids who took part in this summer’s Good Citizen Challenge.
We invited them to do 25 different civics-related activities that would help them learn about and get involved in their communities. Things like picking up trash in public places; going to community events; visiting their town’s fire or rescue department; reading the news; raising money for local charities.
Each activity completed was an entry in a grand prize drawing for a trip to Washington, D.C.
More than 250 kids across the state participated, sending in 1,315 completed activities!
On September 19, we invited them to the Vermont Statehouse to celebrate their achievements and see the grand prize drawing.
Presenters from our partners helped give away some awards.
Thank you to all of the students — and adults — who helped make this year’s Challenge possible. See you all next summer!
DISTINGUISHED CITIZENS
These Good Citizens completed all 25 activities: Issabelle Paulson, Susannah Rye, Jacob Rye, Sam Sanborn, Heikki Milles, Vivi Milles, Willa Saunders and Hazel Saunders. Also pictured: Jane Lindholm (Vermont Public) and Cathy Resmer (Seven Days)
“I VOTED” STICKER DESIGN CONTEST
Winner: Kezia Warfisch
Runners-up: Lyle Johnson, Willa Saunders
2024 GRAND PRIZE TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D.C.
Felix Weissberger of Winooski
2025 VERMONT STATE PARKS VEHICLE PASS
Susannah Rye of Waterbury
TEAM PRIZE FOR MOST ENTRIES
Cambridge Wildcats
TEAM PRIZE FOR OUTSTANDING WORK
Morristown Centennial Library Team
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.2.
québec
‘SAKURA’: See WED.2.
seminars
MEDIA FACTORY ORIENTATION: Curious creatives and multimedia enthusiasts get a tour of the facilities and check out available gear. The Media Factory, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 651-9692.
sports
SKI SWAP: See FRI.4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
theater
‘ECHOES OF TRUTH’: See THU.3, 2 & 7:30 p.m.
‘THE LAST OF THE LIVING LEGENDS’: Eric R. Hill’s story of a shape-shifting cryptid ushers in spooky season. QuarryWorks Theater, Adamant, 2-3:30 & 6-7:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 229-6978.
‘THE MOUSETRAP’: See FRI.4.
‘MURDER AT EIGHT’: See FRI.4.
‘SISTERS’: See WED.2, 2 & 7:30 p.m.
‘SPIRITS TO ENFORCE’: See WED.2.
‘THE THANKSGIVING PLAY’: See THU.3, 2:30 & 7 p.m.
‘TRANSLATIONS’: See WED.2.
HUMAN CONNECTION CIRCLE: Neighbors share stories from their lives and forge deep bonds. Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, humanconnectioncircle@ gmail.com.
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: See WED.2.
crafts
YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.2, 1-3 p.m.
dance
‘NOVEL FORMATS #2’: THE SET UP: Rachel Bernsen choreographs a spontaneous performance at the intersection of dance, music and visual art. Junction Arts & Media, White River Junction, 6:30 p.m. $5-10 suggested donation; preregister. Info, 295-6688.
AUTUMN ON THE GREEN: Fall foliage sets the stage for a colorful showcase of local artisans, crafters and businesses, with live music, food and kids’ activities. Danville Town Green, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 227-3113.
veggies, meats, milk, berries, herbs, beverages and crafts tempts shoppers. Stowe Farmers Market, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, stowefarmersmarket@ gmail.com.
WINOOSKI FARMERS MARKET: Families shop for produce, honey, meats, coffee and prepared foods from an outdoor gathering of seasonal vendors. Winooski Falls Way, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 655-6410.
DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.3, 1-4:30 p.m.
& fitness
KARUNA COMMUNITY
MEDITATION: A YEAR TO LIVE (FULLY): Participants practice keeping joy, generosity and gratitude at the forefront of their minds. Jenna’s House, Johnson, 10-11:15 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, mollyzapp@live. com.
NEW LEAF SANGHA
‘TUNE ON A DISTANT HILL’: Strike Anywhere ensemble presents a mélange of music, dance and monologues that forms a portrait of life in Vermont. See calendar spotlight. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 7 p.m. $10-30 sliding scale. Info, 728-9878.
‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’: See WED.2, 2 & 7:30 p.m.
‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’: See THU.3.
words
USED BOOK SALE: Bookworms of all ages and interests pick through a broad selection of paperbacks priced to sell. Proceeds benefit Ilsley Public Library. Middlebury Town Offices, 10 a.m.2 p.m. Free; cash or check only for books. Info, 388-4095.
WRITE NOW!: Lit lovers of all experience levels hone their craft in a supportive and critique-free environment. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-3338.
ELECTION SECURITY IN VT: HOW FEDERAL & MUNICIPAL-LEVEL GOVERNMENTS COOPERATE
TO SECURE YOUR VOTE: Civicminded citizens learn how their votes will be protected in the upcoming election. Richmond Town Park, 2-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 825-6535.
MARKET DAY: Local farmers, artisans, crafters, cooks and bakers display their offerings for a special day of shopping, eating and community merrymaking. Brookfield Old Town Hall, noon3 p.m. Free. Info, abelisle2@ comcast.net.
TAP TO TABLE: AN AUTUMN MARKET: Locals enjoy artisan arts and crafts, food and drink, and live music against a seasonal backdrop of changing leaves. The Olde Barn Yard, Cuttingsville, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 282-8072.
VERMONT SHEEP & WOOL FESTIVAL: See SAT.5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.2.
‘MALCOLM X’: James Earl Jones narrates the moving 1972 documentary chronicling the assassinated Black leader’s life and impact. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 3 p.m. $5-10. Info, 660-2600.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.2.
‘THE QUIETEST YEAR’: Local filmmaker Karen Akins screens her award-winning documentary on noise pollution and health. A Q&A follows. First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 862-5630.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
food & drink
STOWE FARMERS MARKET: An appetizing assortment of fresh
MINDFULNESS PRACTICE: Newcomers and experienced meditators alike stretch their skills in the Plum Village tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Hot Yoga Burlington, 6:30-8:15 p.m. Free. Info, newleafsangha@ gmail.com.
‘AN AFTERNOON WITH CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY OF LINCOLN CENTER: DVOŘÁK, MOZART & WEBER’: A collection of charming compositions captivates listeners in an singular evening of musical splendor. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe Mountain Resort, 3 p.m. $55-65. Info, 760-4634. BANDWAGON SUMMER SERIES: FOLK/AMERICANA MUSIC FESTIVAL: Listeners enjoy a lively lineup of talented musicians, including the Clements Brothers, the Jacob Jolliff Band and the Mammals. Cooper Field, Putney, 2 p.m. $22-25; free for kids 12 and under; cash bar. Info, 387-0102.
DEAD TO THE CORE: AN ACOUSTIC CELEBRATION OF THE GRATEFUL DEAD: A collective of musicians with a shared love of the iconic band celebrates their repertoire in a new, unique way. Plainfield Town Hall Opera House, 4-6 p.m. $20 suggested donation. Info, plainfieldartsvt@ gmail.com.
ELISABETH VON TRAPP: The folk singer whose family story inspired The Sound of Music brings her melodious vocals to the stage for an unforgettable performance. Bristol Federated Church, 4-5:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 989-8521. LIVE IN THE ORCHARD CONCERT SERIES: HOT PICKIN’ PARTY: The local bluegrass band showcases heartfelt harmonies, dynamic musical interplay and a spirit of exploration onstage. Shelburne Orchards, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-2753.
‘SONGS, MEDITATIONS & A DREAM’: See
SUNDAY AFTERNOON MUSIC
SERIES: JEFF SALISBURY &
FRIENDS: The Jericho musician assembles talented locals to regale listeners with a vibrant mix of classic blues, R&B and original tunes. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 2-3:45 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4962.
SUNDAY SESSIONS: A variety of musicians share their melodies on the patio at Tavern on the Tee. Ralph Myhre Golf Course, Middlebury, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 443-5125.
WARREN NICHOLSON: The acclaimed guitarist performs notable works by Agustín Barrios, William Beauvais and Heitor Villa-Lobos. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m. $30. Info, 864-0471.
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.2.
‘SAKURA’: See WED.2.
sports
SKI SWAP: See FRI.4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. theater
‘ARCH’: Audiences hold their breath while two performers build a freestanding structure out of concrete and ice blocks over an open flame — and then watch it fall. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-5966.
THE CELEBRATION SERIES:
LOSERS CIRQUE: The Czech troupe performs their magical contemporary circus act “The Audition,” fusing acrobatics, dance, theatrical narrative and a bit of sport. Barre Opera House, 7 p.m. $25-38. Info, 476-8188.
‘GRAY LADY CANTATA #9’: Peter Schumann directs a politically charged performance featuring the troupe’s iconic figures moving through dreamlike vignettes. Bread and Puppet Theater, Glover, 3 p.m. $10; preregister. Info, 525-3031.
‘JANE AUSTEN: WHO DARES TO BE AN AUTHORESS’: Actress, writer and educator Laura Rocklyn performs a dramatic living history portrayal of a pivotal moment in the author’s life. Charlotte Senior Center, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 503-5109.
‘THE LAST OF THE LIVING LEGENDS’: See SAT.5, 2-3:30 p.m.
‘THE MOUSETRAP’: See FRI.4, 2 p.m.
‘MURDER AT EIGHT’: See FRI.4, 2-4 p.m.
‘ONE FAMILY IN GAZA’: The Vermont Peace/Antiwar Coalition presents the first dramatic reading of an original play by Crystal Zevon — the true story of the writer’s friendship with a young father in the Gaza Strip. Burlington Friends Meeting House, 7 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister via email. Info, vtpeaceantiwar@gmail.com.
‘SISTERS’: See WED.2, 5 p.m.
‘SPIRITS TO ENFORCE’: See WED.2, 2-3:45 p.m.
‘THE THANKSGIVING PLAY’: See THU.3, 2:30 p.m.
‘TRANSLATIONS’: See WED.2, 2 p.m.
‘TUNE ON A DISTANT HILL’: See SAT.5, 3 p.m.
‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’: See WED.2, 3 p.m.
‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’: See THU.3, 2 p.m.
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: See WED.2.
FUSE BEADS CLUB: Aspiring artisans bring ideas or borrow patterns to make beaded creations. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.2.
‘JUST GETTING BY’: See WED.2. Brookfield Old Town Hall, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, abelisle2@ comcast.net.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.2.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
MONDAY NIGHT GAMES:
Discounted wine by the glass fuels an evening of friendly competition featuring new and classic board games, card games, and cribbage. Shelburne Vineyard, 4-7 p.m. Free. Info, 985-8222.
language
LANGUAGE LUNCH: GERMAN: Willkommen! Speakers of all experience levels brush up on conversational skills over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
lgbtq
BOARD GAME NIGHT: LGBTQ tabletop fans bring their own favorite games to the party. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692.
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.2.
DISCOVER YOUR VOICE: Community members grow their confidence, public speaking and leadership skills in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. Ages 18 and up. Virtual options available. Dealer.com, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 338-2305.
SCRIPTWRITERS’ GROUP: Got a story to tell? Talented local writers swap techniques and constructive critiques. Junction Arts & Media, White River Junction, 5:30-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 295-6688.
OCTOBER MIXER: The annual fundraiser features a hot tub raffle, pink-themed appetizers and drinks, and live music. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Allen Pools & Spas, Williston, 5-7 p.m. Cost of raffle tickets. Info, 773-2747.
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.
LAKE CHAMPLAIN MEMORY
CAFÉ: Those living with dementia and their caregivers gather to make friends and have fun. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 11 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 863-3403.
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: See WED.2.
dance
SWING DANCE PRACTICE
SESSION: All ages and experience levels shake a leg in this friendly, casual environment designed for learning. Bring clean shoes. Champlain Club, Burlington, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8382.
etc.
VERMONT WOMEN’S FUND
ANNUAL CELEBRATION: Vermont Public’s Jane Lindholm emcees a celebration of the state’s largest philanthropic organization dedicated to women and girls, with keynote speaker Stacey Abrams and music by Myra Flynn. The Flynn, Burlington, 5:30 p.m. $50. Info, 388-3355.
film
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.2.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.2.
POLITICS & FILM SERIES:
‘BULWORTH’: Warren Beatty stars in the 1998 political satire about a disillusioned senator’s suicidal plot. Next Stage Arts Project, Putney, 7 p.m. $10. Info, 387-0102.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
TRAPP SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6 AT 4PM
Bristol Federated Church Free and open to the public! Suggested Donation $10 More information : 802-453-2321 robinaya226@gmail.com
NOTEBOOK TUESDAYS > 8:00 P.M. 16t-vcamWEEKLY23.indd 1
your passes before the rates go up! Free passes for kids 5 and under. rikertoutdoor.com
Snack on the BITE-CLUB NEWSLETTER for a taste of this week’s flavorful food coverage. It’ll hold you over until Wednesday.
ONE FARMERS MARKET: Community members peruse an array of fresh, healthy, affordable local produce and other products. Dewey Park, Burlington, 3-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, oldnorthendfarmers market@gmail.com.
Gould examine the transcendentalist’s works in the context of modern America. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 5:30-7 p.m. Free; cash bar; preregister. Info, bhdayton@gmail.com.
2024 VTIFF FESTIVAL PREVIEW: Cinephiles get the inside scoop about the buzzworthy lineup, special events and visiting filmmakers. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free; cash bar. Info, 660-2600.
‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2.
‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.2.
games
DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.3.
‘MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2: CRUISING THROUGH ‘THE CHANGE’: This hysterical and heartfelt look at the joys of hot flashes, mood swings and memory lapses is backed by a soundtrack of parodied hits. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7 p.m. $51-52. Info, 775-0903.
Conant Metal & Light is hiring a detail-oriented Shipping and Inventory Specialist. You will manage shipping, receiving, and inventory tasks while collaborating with our production team. Must be organized, accurate, and a team player.
LANGUAGE LUNCH: ITALIAN: Speakers hone their skills in the Romance language over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
PAUSE-CAFÉ FRENCH
BURLINGTON
LITERATURE GROUP:
‘MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM’: Viola Davis stars in the acclaimed 2020 period drama exploring the blues singer’s most contentious recording session. Dana Auditorium, Sunderland Language Center, Middlebury College, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.
DAVID FOSTER WALLACE: New England Readers & Writers presents a seven-week dissection of The Pale King 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@ nereadersandwriters.com.
THE MOTH STORYSLAM:
NXT ROCKUMENTARY FILM SERIES: ‘HOMECOMING’: The 2019 documentary affords viewers a peek into the creation of Beyoncé’s epic concerts. Next Stage Arts Project, Putney, 7 p.m. $10. Info, 387-0102.
or send
For more deatails and to apply, please visit:conantmetalandlight.com/employment your resume detailing your experience and skills to info@conantmetalandlight.com
Finn Colando, Contract Manufacturing Lead
What are the challenges of this job?
Conant provides design, fabrication, restoration and contract manufacturing services. is role demands exceptional organizational skills! If you’re a fan of keeping tabs on intricate details and timelines, you might be a great fit. Additionally, open communication and adaptability are crucial — being flexible is key to success. Our employees share a passion for creativity, honesty and personal accountability.
What makes Conan Metal and Light unique?
Conant was founded by Steve Conant out of a single-car garage in 1979. e company has grown over the years, but high-quality, small-batch Vermont craftsmanship has always been at the heart of what we do. Our workshop and showroom are located in the Soda Plant, a repurposed soda-bottling plant in Burlington’s South End Arts District which is now home to lots of vibrant small businesses, makers and artists. We are a team-oriented workplace invested in our employees’ growth, offering plenty of opportunities for training and leadership development.
CONVERSATION: Francophones and French-language learners meet pour parler la belle langue. Burlington Bay Market & Café, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 343-5493.
SOCIAL HOUR: The Alliance Française of the Lake Champlain Region hosts a rendez-vous over Zoom. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, ellen.sholk@gmail.com.
music
ROBERT LUDWIG: The organist performs an eclectic program, enhanced by a video screen that allows audience members to see both player and instrument up close. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington, noon. Free. Info, info@cathedralarts.org.
SKYLARK: The Vermont string quartet performs a genre-blending selection of jazz, classical, American folk and a little bit of rock and roll. Pierson Library, Shelburne, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, janekitt@gmail.com.
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.2.
TENANT SKILLS WORKSHOP: The Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity helps new and experienced renters gain a better understanding of their rights. Noon-1:30 p.m. Free. Info, 660-3456.
SEEING IS BELIEVING: BLACK VOICES, NEW STORIES: Artistin-residence Carolyn Finney invites award-winning Black filmmakers Andre Lambertson and Zaire Love to lean into conversation about documenting the human experience. Dana Auditorium, Sunderland Language Center, Middlebury College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-5710.
UP FOR DISCUSSION SERIES: LIVING DELIBERATELY — WHAT THOREAU MEANS TODAY: Professor Dan Brayton and associate professor Rebecca
Local tellers of tales recount true stories in an open-mic format. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $17.50; preregister. Info, susanne@ themoth.org.
POETRY GROUP: A supportive drop-in group welcomes those who would like to share and listen to verse. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 846-4140.
QUEEN CITY BUSINESS NETWORKING INTERNATIONAL GROUP: See WED.2.
VERMONTBIZ2BIZ EXPO: Community members engage in networking opportunities, attend seminars and keynote speaker presentations, and peruse a wide variety of exhibitors. DoubleTree by Hilton, South Burlington, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $0-155. Info, 863-8038.
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.
SCAVENGER HUNT IN STOWE: See WED.2.
GREEN MOUNTAIN CHAPTER OF THE EMBROIDERERS’ GUILD OF AMERICA: Anyone with an interest in the needle arts can bring a project to this monthly meeting. Holy Family Parish Hall, Essex Junction, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, gmc.vt.ega@ gmail.com.
YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.2.
See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.
‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.2.
‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.2. food & drink
WHAT’S THAT WINE
WEDNESDAYS: See WED.2. games
ABSURDABLE GAME NIGHT: Creative folks compete in the hilarious tournament-style party game until one is crowned winner. Flynn Space, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5. Info, 863-5966.
CHESS CLUB: See WED.2.
CHESS TIME: All ages and experience levels practice the ancient board game of strategy and skill. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
health & fitness
CHAIR YOGA: See WED.2. language
ELL CLASSES: ENGLISH FOR BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS: See WED.2.
lgbtq
QUEER WRITERS’ GROUP: LGBTQ authors meet monthly to discuss their work, write from prompts, and give each other advice and feedback. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692. outdoors
CABOT CHEESE E-BIKE TOUR: See WED.2.
E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.2.
PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.2.
STAR PARTY: Astronomy fans raise their eyes to the night sky and learn how to identify stellar objects and their features. Richmond Free Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 434-3036.
sports
GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE
TENNIS CLUB: See WED.2.
theater
‘SISTERS’: See WED.2.
‘TRANSLATIONS’: See WED.2.
words
LIFE STORIES WE LOVE TO TELL: Prompts from
group leader Maryellen Crangle inspire true tales, told either off the cuff or read from prewritten scripts. Presented by Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 2-3:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, 878-4918.
POETRY POTLUCK: Wordsmiths and readers bring a dish and a poem (their own or others’) to share. Whirligig Brewing, St.
PASTURE PALS: Families flock to this fun, hands-on humane education program designed for kids. Wear closed-toe shoes. Vine Sanctuary, Springfield, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 885-4017.
burlington
MASKS ON! SUNDAYS: Elderly, disabled and immunocompromised folks get the museum to themselves at a masks-mandatory morning.
ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 9-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 864-1848.
chittenden county
LIVE IN THE ORCHARD
CONCERT SERIES: MISS EMMA: Families enjoy a morning of song and dance among the apples. Shelburne Orchards, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 985-2753.
brattleboro/ okemo valley
DOMINO TOPPLING
EXTRAVAGANZA: Families delight in the jaw-dropping spectacle of an elaborate display of tens of thousands of dominoes. Virtual options available. See calendar spotlight. 28 Vernon St., Brattleboro, 5:30 p.m. $5; free for kids 8 and under. Info, 257-0124.
burlington
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Bookworms ages 2 through 5 enjoy a fun-filled reading time. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
chittenden county
READ WITH SAMMY: The Therapy Dogs of Vermont
Johnsbury, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, acampbell@catamountarts.org.
STEPHEN P. KIERNAN: The Vermont author enlightens listeners about his fascinating historical fiction novel, Universe of Two. A Q & A follows. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 8464140. ➆
emissary is super excited to hear kids of all ages practice their reading. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:304:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956. mad river valley/ waterbury
TODDLER TIME: Little tykes have a blast with songs, stories, rhymes and dancing. Ages 5 and under. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
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.
northeast kingdom
STORY TIME: See THU.3, 2-2:30 p.m.
SING-ALONG WITH LINDA
BASSICK: Babies, toddlers and preschoolers sing, dance and wiggle along with Linda. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
chittenden county
CRAFTYTOWN: Kiddos express their inner artist using different mediums such as paint, print, collage and sculpture. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.
OUTDOOR STORY TIME: Youngsters enjoy a sunny session of reading, rhyming and singing with Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. Birth through age 5. Williston Town Green, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.
TODDLER TIME: Wiggly wee ones and their caregivers love this lively, interactive storybook experience featuring songs, rhymes and finger plays. Ages 1 and up. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.
STORY TIME: See THU.3. mad river valley/ waterbury
WATERCOLOR FOR KIDS:
Artist Pauline Nolte leads little painters in exploration and expression. Grades 2 through 4. Waterbury Public Library, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036.
INTERNATIONAL BOOK CLUB: Lit lovers ages 11 through 18 discuss recent reads written by foreign authors or taking place in another country. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.
TODDLER TIME: See WED.2.
chittenden county
BABY TIME: See WED.2.
GAME ON!: See WED.2.
READ TO A DOG: Kids of all ages get a 10-minute time slot to tell stories to Emma the therapy pup. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister via email. Info, sbplkids@ southburlingtonvt.gov.
HOMESCHOOL BOOK GROUP: Kids ages 10 to 15 who learn at home bond over books. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.
upper valley
PRE-K STORY TIME: Little ones and their caregivers hear a different farm-themed tale every week. Snacks included. Ages 3 through 5. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 9:30-11 a.m. $1012; preregister. Info, cpeavey@ billingsfarm.org. K
Beginning January 1, 2025, the UVM Health Advantage Select with Part D, UVM Health Advantage Secure with Part D and UVM Health Advantage Preferred with Part D Medicare Advantage plans will no longer be offered by MVP Health Care® in your area. If you are impacted by these changes please call Vermont Health Connect at 1-800-250-8427
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.
PERFUME & WINE PARTY WITH BLOOM LAB: Discover the art of perfumery at this perfume-making event while creating your unique perfume that is blended with intention to reflect your personality and style. For anyone interested in perfumery or simply enjoying good company while trying something new! You’ll leave with one 1.7-ounce bottle of custom eau de parfum. Sun., Oct. 13, noon-2 p.m. Cost: $95. Location: Maquam Winery, 125 Duffy Rd., Milton. Info: 355-3336, sevendaystickets.com.
craft
BROOM MAKING: In addition to longer woodworking classes, a shorter broom-making workshop is being offered this fall by visiting instructor Heather Ashworth. Oct. 13. Location: Eric Cannizzaro’s Shop, Charlotte. Info: 360-528-1952, ericcannizzaro.com.
‘THE BASICS’ CAKE DECORATING CLASS: In this workshop, we will talk through the basics of filling a cake, crumb coating, working on getting nice smooth edges and some rosette piping. You’ll go home with great new techniques as well as a six-inch cake that serves 12. You can select your flavor in the questionnaire section. Tue., Oct. 8, 6-7:30 p.m. Cost: $85. Location: Red Poppy Cakery, 1 Elm St., Waterbury Village Historic District. Info: 203-4000700, sevendaystickets. com.
KNIFE SKILLS WITH REVEL WOODWORKING AND VERMONT SHARP: Chef Stephanie Gurrieri leads a special knife-skills class. Amy Escott of Revel Woodworking will discuss proper wood board care and why your knives prefer cutting on wood over plastic. en, Ben Schacher of Vermont Sharp will discuss proper knife care, how to properly sharpen knives, and preferred knife materials and brands. Sat., Oct. 12, 1-3 p.m. Cost: $100. Location: SidePony Boutique, 90 Mechanicsville Rd., Hinesburg. Info: 732-673-8755, sevendaystickets.com.
AIKIDO: THE WATERCOURSE WAY: Cultivate core power, aerobic fitness and resiliency. e dynamic, circular movements emphasize throws, joint locks and the development of internal energy. Not your average “mojo dojo casa house.” Inclusive training and a safe space for all. Scholarships and intensive program are available for serious students. Visitors are always welcome! Classes 6 days/ week; introductory classes begin Oct. 8. Membership rates incl. unlimited classes 6 days/week. Contact us for info about membership rates for adults, youths & families. Location: Aikido of Champlain Valley, 257 Pine St., Burlington. Info: Benjamin Pincus, 951-8900, bpincus@burlingtonaikido. org, burlingtonaikido.org.
DJEMBE WEDNESDAYS!:
Learn to drum with Stuart Paton! Beginner and advanced beginner classes available. Sessions begin Oct. 9 and Nov. 13. Drums provided. Every Wed.: beginners, 5:30 p.m.; accelerated, 7 p.m. Cost: $92/4 weeks; 90-min. sessions; $72 for Kids & Parents classes. Location: Burlington Taiko (next to Nomad Café), 208 Flynn Ave., Suite 3-G, Burlington. Info: Stuart Paton, 999-4255, taikoaikokai@gmail.com.
AFTERSCHOOL CLIMBING
TEAMS: We have space available in our 5- to 7-year old Mini Monkeys afterschool program at Petra Cliffs Climbing Center. e seven-week session begins Oct. 29, ends Dec. 17, and includes introduction to rope climbing, auto-belays and bouldering, plus fun and silly games! Tue. or u., 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Cost: $300/7-week session; 2-hour practices. Location: 105 Briggs St., Burlington. Info: 657-3872, youth@petracliffs.com, petracliffs.com.
NEW BEGINNER TAI CHI CLASS:
We practice Cheng Man-ch’ing’s “simplified” 37-posture Yangstyle form. The 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. 2, 9-10 a.m.; registration open until Oct. 30. Cost: $65/ mo. Location: Gym at St. Anthony’s Church, 305 Flynn Ave., Burlington. Info: 490-6405, patricklrtcc@gmail.com, longrivertaichi.org.
TAIKO TUESDAYS!: Adult classes and Kids & Parents (age 6 and up) classes available. Learn to drum with Burlington Taiko! Sessions begin Oct. 8 and Nov. 12. Drums provided. Every Tue: Kids & Parents, 4 p.m.; beginners, 5:30 p.m.; accelerated, 7 p.m. Cost: $92/4 weeks; 90-min. classes; $72 for Kids & Parents classes.
Location: Burlington Taiko (next to Nomad Café), 208 Flynn Ave., Suite 3-G, Burlington. Info: Stuart Paton, 999-4255, taikoaikokai@ gmail.com.
OTHER EXHIBITORS
• Aira Tech Corp
• Burlington Telecom
• Codingscape
• Collins Aerospace
• Community College of Vermont
• Creative Micro
• Damstrong Systems LLC
• Myti
• National Life Group
• Northfield Savings Bank
• Norwich University
• Dynapower
• Fluency
• Galen Healthcare Solutions
• Generator Makerspace
• Governor’s Institutes of Vermont
• UVM O ce of the Vice President for Research (OVPR)
• Vermont Technology Council
• Green Mountain Power
• Hayward Tyler
• Hazelett Strip-Casting Corporation
• VIP SUPPORTING PARTNERS
• Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman
• Vermont Technology Alliance
• Vermont Public
• WCAX
• iPCapital Group
• Isotech North America
• Lake Champlain Chamber & LaunchVT
• NDI
• OnLogic
• Polhemus
• Rigorous
• The Targeted Resume
• Test-Rep Associates, Inc.
• Transmille Calibration
• VELCO
• Vermont State University
• Wildlife Imaging Systems
County
AGE/SEX: 2-year-old neutered male
ARRIVAL DATE: August 12, 2024
SUMMARY: Are you ready for a sidekick who’s as energetic and adventurous as you are? Maximus is the spirited, fun-loving companion you’ve been dreaming of! is handsome hound mix is smart, eagerto-please, and brimming with joy and enthusiasm. He’s always up for adventure, and he’d love to find an active family who appreciates his boundless energy. Does Maximus sound like your kind of canine? Come visit him at HSCC and see if he could be your new best friend!
DOGS/CATS/KIDS: Maximus would prefer to be the only pet in his new home. Given his lively play style, Maximus would thrive in a home with teens and adults who can match his energy and enthusiasm.
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.
October is Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month! If you’re ready to find a new canine companion, consider opening your heart to a shelter dog. ere are so many adorable and adoptable pups at HSCC waiting for a home, like Maximus here. You can view them all at hsccvt.org/dogs.
Sponsored by:
2-BR APT IN SOUTH END
Avail. Nov. 1. Coin-op laundry in building, 1 parking space. No pets. Tenant pays electric heat, hot water & communications utils.Contact: condo2A4rent@gmail. com
ROOMY 3-BR & 2-BR
AVAIL. NOW
Very roomy 3-BR & good-size 2-BR. Great locations. Avail now. Contact Joe L. at 802-318-8916 (cell).
ECO-MD
Flood resiliency measures, optimum landscape management for reducing ticks on your land, wildlife sanctuary creations, invasive species control, & much more! Eco-MD, 802-535-7826, EcoMD@ together.net
NEED NEW WINDOWS? Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames? Need outside noise reduction? New, energyeffi cient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & free quote today: 1-877248-9944. You will be asked for the zip code of the property when connecting. (AAN CAN)
appt. appointment
apt. apartment
BA bathroom
BR bedroom
DR dining room
DW dishwasher
HDWD hardwood
HW hot water
LR living room
NS no smoking
OBO or best offer
refs. references
sec. dep. security deposit
W/D washer & dryer
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
AUTOMOTIVE
Online Auction Closes: Monday, Oct. 14 @ 10AM Castleton, VT Location
Over 675 lots of amazing items! BID NOW: THCAuction.com
Online
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE?
You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing avail. Call 1-888-2928225. Have zip code of property ready when calling! (AAN CAN)
LEO’S ROOFING Slate, shingle & metal repair & replacement. 30 years’ experience. Good refs. & fully insured. Chittenden County. Free estimate: 802-343-6324.
print deadline: Mondays at 3:30 p.m. post ads online 24/7 at: sevendaysvt.com/classifieds questions? classifieds@sevendaysvt.com 865-1020 x115
Coming November 2024 131 Dorset Lane, Williston, VT
EMAIL US: FFL@THCAuction.com or Call: 802-888-4662
3 BED, 2.5 BATH on 2.38 ACRES in Stowe, VT Simulcast (bid online or in person) THCAuction.com Friday, October 11 @ 11AM 112 Lower Moulton Lane, Stowe, VT FALL FIREARMS SIMULCAST AUCTION (BID ONLINE OR IN PERSON!)
FSBO $ $319,000.
3-bedroom, 2-bathroom in White River Junction. Some needed TLC, but the house is good condition. Single family, attached apartment.
Private Septic, town Water, Oil Boiler, Propane Water Heater Call (802) 274-1223 FSBO for sale by
FREE AUTO INSURANCE QUOTES
OBO. Serious inquiries only. Call for more info, 512-417-6346.
AUDIO MIXER & MICROPHONE
(1619) Furniture, Decoratives & Event Equipment ONLINE AUCTION CLOSES: Tuesday, Oct. 15 @ 10AM St. Albans, Vermont PREVIEW THIS AUCTION: Wednesday, Oct. 9 from 11AM-1PM By Appt. Email: helpdesk@thcauction.com
4 Bedroom / 2 Bath Home in Sheffield, VT
AUCTION: Tues., Oct. 22 @ 11AM OPEN HOUSE:
Angel Outfi tters rift Shop at the United Church of Hardwick is hosting a rummage sale. Clothes, books, puzzles, linens. Oct. 3-5. Contact kkhburn@ yahoo.com for more info. CLASSIFIEDS KEY
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and similar Vermont statutes which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitations, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, handicap, presence of minor children in the family or receipt of public assistance, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or a discrimination. The newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate, which is in violation of the law. Our
readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. Any home seeker who feels he or she has encountered discrimination should contact:
HUD Office of Fair Housing 10 Causeway St., Boston, MA 02222-1092 (617) 565-5309 — OR — Vermont Human Rights Commission 14-16 Baldwin St. Montpelier, VT 05633-0633 1-800-416-2010 hrc@vermont.gov
For uninsured & insured drivers. Let us show you how much you can save! Call 855-569-1909. (AAN CAN)
DISABILITY BENEFITS
You may qualify for disability benefi ts if you are between 52-63 years old & under a doctor’s care for a health condition that prevents you from working for a year or more. Call now! 1-877-247-6750. (AAN CAN)
OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR
Inogen One G5 oxygen concentrator. 1 small, 1 large lithium battery. Like new, purchased June 2021. $3,000/
Like-new Alesia 8 USB mixer & Audio Technica microphone. Asking $75 each or both for $100. Call 802-233-0046.
FENDER
STRATOCASTER
Fender Stratocaster w/ case. Serial no. DZ1148004. $1,400. Known artist. Contact hopefulvt78@gmail. com or 802-495-1954.
OAK/HARDWOOD DRESSER
8-drawer oak/hardwood dresser w/ large detachable mirror. Great for storage! $750 fi rm. Call 802-495-1954.
BED FOR SALE
Amish-made queen walnut bookcase, no tools needed. Bunkie Board queen foundation. Sealy Stearns Foster Estate Soft 530088 queen mattress. $1,500 fi rm. Email hopefulvt78@gmail.com or call 802-495-1954.
RUMMAGE SALE
Using the enclosed math operations as a guide, ll the grid using the numbers 1 - 6 only once in each row and column.
Show and tell. View and post up to 6 photos per ad online.
Complete the following puzzle by using the numbers 1-9 only once in each row, column and 3 x 3 box.
Open 24/7/365. Post & browse ads at your convenience. Extra! Extra! There’s no limit to ad length online.
Try these online news games from Seven Days at sevendaysvt.com/games.
NEW ON FRIDAYS:
Put your knowledge of Vermont news to the test.
JOSH REYNOLDS
DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH
Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. The numbers in each heavily outlined “cage” must combine to produce the target number in the top corner, using the mathematical operation indicated. A one-box cage should be filled in with the target number in the top corner. A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not the same row or column.
3 1 5 2 4 6 6 5 3 4 2 1 2 3 4 6 1
DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HH
Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers one to nine. The same numbers cannot be repeated in a row or column.
ANSWERS ON P.82 H = MODERATE H H = CHALLENGING H H H = HOO, BOY!
ON P. 82 »
See how fast you can solve this weekly 10-word puzzle.
F1B BERNEDOODLE PUPPY!
Sweet 8-week-old Bernedoodle. Gorgeous, white markings. First vaccinations, health guarantee. Ready for her forever home this week. $1,800. Email laurabrooke2011@gmail. com.
BUYING COIN COLLECTIONS
Collector paying top dollar for coin & currency collections, gold & silver bullion, sterling flatware, & gold jewelry. Local, paying cash. Avail. today! Call or text 217-891-4320.
PORSCHE WANTED
Old & rusty OK! Don’t ship to Germany; keep in Vermont! I’ll buy anything & restore. Parts, panels, engines, cars. Any year, 1950-1998. Contact 802-391-0882.
‘TANGO TONIGHT!’ A MUSICAL
You’re invited to Tango Tonight! at Woodstock Town Hall eatre, Sep. 28, 1 p.m. Tickets are free; reservations requested. Info, pentanglearts.org/ events.
DRUM LESSONS
Snare, drum set & percussion lessons. $35 for 45 min. or $45 for 60 min. Experienced, well-versed & educated teacher. Contact Dave Pacheco, 802-3838048, teachdrums2u@ gmail.com.
WESTFORD SELECTBOARD
NOTICE OF EMERGENCY PUBLIC HEARING
e Town of Westford Selectboard hereby provides notice of an emergency public hearing being held pursuant to Title 24, Sections 4444 and 4415 of the Vermont State Statues for the purpose of hearing public comments concerning: Interim Bylaws for the R5 Zoning District (Chapter 240 of the Westford Land Use & Development Regulations).
e public hearing has been scheduled for: ursday, October 10th, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. at the Westford Town Offi ce, 1713 VT Route 128, Westford, Vermont or via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84970039345?pwd= YXVZZTBmblBuOVh0dmdhajZubmx3Zz09
Meeting ID: 849 7003 9345 - Passcode: iT8TNR OR dial +1 646 558 8656 – Meeting ID: 849 7003 9345 – Passcode: 410760
Purpose: e Town is proposing to amend the Westford Land Use & Development Regulations to allow for development that is essential to protect the general welfare and provide for orderly physical and economic growth of the Town of Westford in the Rural 3 Zoning District. ese bylaws are intended to facilitate development requiring approval by the Development Review Board within this district.
Geographic Area Affected: Rural 5 (R5) Zoning District
Summary of Changes to the Westford Zoning Regulations: Section 244.C and Figure 2-3 of the Interim Land Use & Development Regulations. Conditionally allowing for development to meet Planning & Design Standards by attaining points in the scoring system set forth in Figure 2-3.
Location Where Full Text May be Examined: Copies of the full text of the proposed amendment to the Westford Zoning Regulations are available at the Westford Town Offi ce, 1713 VT Route 128, Westford, Vermont or may be viewed on the Town of Westford website at westfordvt.us/documents/ planning-zoning.
Dated at Westford, Vermont this 20th day of September 2024.
Bill Cleary, Westford Selectboard Chair
WARNING POLICY ADOPTION
CHAMPLAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
e Board of School Directors gives public notice of its intent to adopt local district policies dealing with the following at its meeting scheduled on October 15, 2024: E16 - Flag Display
Copies of the above policies may be obtained for public review at the Offi ce of the Human Resources Dept. in Shelburne, VT.
STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT CHITTENDEN UNIT CIVIL DIVISIVON
DOCKET NO.: 22-CV-00510
Mongeon Bay Properties, LLC Plaintiff, v. Town of Colchester, Defendant.
PETITION FOR HEARING TO DETERMINE NECESSITY
NOW COMES the Town of Colchester (“Town”), by and through its counsel, Monaghan Safar Ducham PLLC, and pursuant to Title 24, Chapter 97 and Chapter 101, hereby submits the following petition (“Petition”) on behalf of the Town Board of Sewage System Commissioners and the Town Board of Sewage Disposal Commissioners for a hearing to determine the necessity of taking certain land at 885 East Lakeshore Drive. See 24 V.S.A. §§ 3508, 3604. In support of this Petition, the Town, through its Boards, proposes taking land for the purpose of constructing, maintaining, operating, and repairing a stormwater treatment facility to replace an existing 24” stormwater outfl ow located at 885 East Lakeshore Drive. e outfall is one of the largest on East Lakeshore Drive and discharges 3.7 million gallons of untreated stormwater into Malletts Bay annually. e proposed stormwater treatment facility will provide three levels of treatment prior to stormwater discharge
into Malletts Bay. e Town cannot construct or operate the stormwater treatment facility without taking the entire parcel and removing the existing building at 885 East Lakeshore Drive. e land to be taken, purchased, or acquired is particularly described in the October 26, 2021 survey, “Stormwater Improvements 885 East Lakeshore Drive — Proposed Taking Limits,” by Donald L. Hamlin Consulting Engineers, Inc. e survey is on file in the Town Clerk’s Offi ce, and is annexed and incorporated by reference into this petition as if set forth fully herein.
WHEREFORE, the Town respectfully requests that this Honorable Court fi x a time and place when it will hear all parties concerned and determine whether such taking is necessary. Dated this 14th day of November, 2022.
MONAGHAN SAFAR DUCHAM PLLC
Brian P. Monaghan, Esq. Kristen E. Shamis, Esq. Monaghan Safar Ducham PLLC 156 Battery Street Burlington, VT 05401 bmonaghan@msdvt.com (802) 660-4735 Attorneys for the Town of Colchester
VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT Chittenden Unit 175 Main Street, PO Box 187 Burlington, VT 05402 802-863-3467 www.vermontjudiciary.org
CIVIL DIVISION Case No. 22-CV-00510
Date: May 17, 2024
NOTICE OF HEARING
Mongeon Bay Properties, LLC v. Town of Colchester
is is the notify to appear at the Court named above in connection with the above-named case on:
DATE: October 21, 2024
TIME: 8:30 AM
DURATION: 8 Hours
DATE: October 22, 2024 TIME: 8:30 AM
DURATION: 8 Hours
DATE: October 23, 2024 TIME: 8:30 AM DURATION: 8 Hours
HEARING RE: Bench Trial
IMPORTANT NOTE FROM THE CLERK: Please exchange your lists of pre-marked exhibits prior to the trial/hearing. Please include an Exhibit List, providing a title for each exhibit. ank you.
YOU MUST ATTEND THIS HEARING IN PERSON AT THE COURTHOUSE UNLESS YOU RECEIVE ADVANCE PERMISSION FROM THE COURT TO ATTEND REMOTELY (BY PHONE OR VIDEO).
Electronically signed on Friday, May 17, 2024 @10:27 AM, pursuant to V.R.E.F. 9 (d) Evelyn Nimmo (She/Her) Judicial Assistant
Any individual with a disability requiring assistance accessing the services, programs, and/ or activities at the Courthouse should contact the Clerk’s offi ce at the above address for further assistance.
ACT 250 NOTICE
MINOR APPLICATION 4C0331-39 10 V.S.A. §§ 6001 - 6111
Application 4C0331-39 from Burlington International Airport, 1200 Airport Drive, South
1200 Airport Drive, South Burlington, VT 05403 was received on September 6, 2024 and deemed complete on September 18, 2024. The project is generally described as renovation of an existing hanger building to house the Burlington School District (BSD) Aviation Technical Center. The project includes demolition of the existing interior spaces, construction of new classrooms, new shop spaces for teaching, a new entrance foyer with an exterior canopy, new restrooms, new offices, an expansion to the parking area, and the addition of a bus loading area. The existing airport hangar door and ±12,000 square feet of airplane hangar space will remain. The project is located at 200 DaVinci Drive in South Burlington, Vermont. The application may be viewed on the Natural Resources Board’s website (http://nrb.vermont.gov) by clicking “Act 250 Database” and entering the project number “4C0331-39.”
No hearing will be held and a permit will be issued unless, on or before October 16, 2024, 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/party-statuspetitionform, 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 Stephanie H. Monaghan at the address or telephone number below.
Dated this September 24, 2024.
By: Stephanie H. Monaghan District Coordinator 111 West Street Essex Junction, VT 05452 802-261-1944
stephanie.monaghan@vermont.gov
TOWN OF RICHMOND PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to 24 v.s.a. §§4441 (d) and §4444 (a)(b), the Town of Richmond Planning Commission will be holding a public hearing on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 7:00 pm, in the Richmond Town Center Meeting Room at 203 Bridge Street as well as remotely via Zoom to receive comment regarding proposed zoning amendments:
PURPOSE: To modify the Richmond Zoning Regulations (RZR) to include a revision to §4.7, Non-Conforming Structures, §4.8 Non-Conforming Uses, §6.8 Flood Hazard Overlay District, and §7 Definitions. The amendments proposed for §4.7 and §4.8 are clarifying in that non-conforming structures and uses are proposed to be governed strictly under §6.8. The amendments to §6.8 are to allow for pre-existing non-conforming structures and uses to be relocated within the Flood Hazard Overlay District if the flood hazard is not increased and is in compliance with National Floodplain Insurance Program or NFIP guidelines. Additions to §7 include a revised definition for Recreation Facility and new definition for Recreation Path. These revisions will affect any lot within Richmond that proposes to develop according to these sections.
GEOGRAPHIC AREA AFFECTED: Any parcel/s proposing development within the boundaries of the proposed Flood Hazard Overlay District and all parcels subject to the definitions in §7 within the boundaries of the Town of Richmond.
SECTION HEADINGS: §4.7 Non-Conforming Structures, §4.8 Non-Conforming Uses, §6.8 Flood Hazard Overlay District, and §7, Definitions.
The full text of the proposed Zoning Amendment are available for inspection at the Richmond Town
Center Offices at 203 Bridge Street between the hours of 8:00am and 4:00pm, Monday through Friday or on the Town of Richmond website at the following LINK: Planning Commission - Town of Richmond, VT (richmondvt.gov).
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE RICHMOND PLANNING/ZONING OFFICE AT 802-336-2289 or koborne@richmondvt.gov
NORTHFIELD MUTUAL HOLDING COMPANY
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
A Special Meeting of the Corporators of the Northfield Mutual Holding Company will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2024 beginning at 7:15PM at the Capitol Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, 100 State St. Montpelier, Vermont. The matter to be considered includes the election new corporators. Please call (802) 871-4492 for information.
BURLINGTON’S CONSTRUCTION AND WEATHERIZATION WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAM
The City of Burlington seeks proposals for the construction and weatherization workforce training program under the RAISE grant. The Municipality seeks a Consultant with expertise in construction training including, but not limited to, basic foundations of construction, introductory weatherization, HVAC-R training, work zone safety, excavation, electrical safety, and heavy equipment training. The RFP is posted on the City of Burlington’s RFP page and the Vermont Business Registry website. The due date is Friday, 10/4/2024 by 5:00pm. The contact for the project is Alex Bacheller, Workforce Development Manager at abacheller@burlingtonvt.gov.
https://www.burlingtonvt.gov/RFP/ burlingtons-construction-and-weatherizationworkforce-training-program
https://www.vermontbusinessregistry.com/ BidPreview.aspx?BidID=61616
NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO BROWNFIELDS REUSE AND ENVIRONMENTAL LIABILITY LIMITATION ACT PROGRAM
Please take notice that the Town of Westford whose mailing address is 1713 VT Route 128, Westford, VT 05494, 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 property known as 1705 VT Route 128 (Pigeon Property) in the Town of Westford. 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 Westford Clerk’s 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 Holly Delisle at 802-878-4587 or at townadmin@ westford.us
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: Holly Delisle.
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE LIEN SALE, JERICHO MINI STORAGE 25 NORTH MAIN STREET, JERICHO, VT 05465.
The contents of the following self storage unit will be sold at public auction, by sealed bid, on October 16, 2024 at 12:00 PM. James & Mark LaFountain #135 Unit will be opened for viewing for auction, sale by sealed bid to the highest bidder, cash only. Contents of entire storage unit will be sold as one lot.
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 otherexpenses in relation to the unit and its sale.
Contents of each unit may be viewed on October 9th, commencing at 10:00am. 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 October 9th. 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 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: Danielle Bean, Unit 245. Jennifer Jennison, Unit 414
OFFICIAL WARNING SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
The legal voters of the Town of Westford are hereby notified and warned to meet at the Westford Elementary School, 146 Brookside Road, in said Town of Westford on Tuesday October 22, 2024 at 6:15 p.m. at which time the Town’s Special Meeting will commence to act on the following article from the floor:
ARTICLE 1 Shall the voters of the Town of Westford approve the use of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand U.S. Dollars ($150,000) from the unassigned general fund balance to assist in purchasing the +/-3.2-acre property located at 1705 Vermont Route 128 from the Pigeon Family Living Trust?
The legal voters of the Town of Westford are further notified that voter qualification and registration relative to said Special Town Meeting shall be as provided in Chapters 43, 51 and 55 of Title 17, Vermont Statutes Annotated.
Approved this 19th, day of September 2024. WESTFORD SELECTBOARD
William Cleary, Chair Deb Sawyer-Jorschick Patrick Haller Wendy Doane Casey Mathieu
STORAGE UNIT SALE
The contents of storage unit 01-04491 located at 28 Adams Drive, Williston VT, will be sold on or about the 10th of October 2024 to satisfy the debt of Lindsey Aikey. Any person claiming a right to the goods may pay the amount claimed due and reasonable expenses before the sale, in which case the sale may not occur.
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE INTENT TO DISPOSE MALLETTS BAY SELF STORAGE, LLC 115 HEINEBERG DRIVE, COLCHESTER, VT 05446.
Notice is hereby given that the contents of the self- storage unit listed below will be disposed of at facilities discretion. Name of Occupant Everett Engles, Storage Unit #156. Said disposal will take place on 10/9/24 at Malletts Bay Self Storage, LLC, (MBSS, LLC)115 Heineberg Dr., Colchester, VT 05446.
CITY OF BURLINGTON IN THE YEAR TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-FOUR A REGULATION IN RELATION TO RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE TRAFFIC COMMISSION—16; BUS STOPS
Sponsor(s): Public Works Commission Action: Approval
Date: 9/18/2024
Attestation of Adoption: Phillip Peterson, PE
Senior Transportation Engineer, Technical Services
Published: 10/02/24
Effective: 10/23/24
It is hereby Ordained by the Public Works Commission of the City of Burlington as follows:
That Appendix C, Rule and Regulations of the Traffic Commission, 16 Bus Stops, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Burlington is hereby amended as follows:
16 Bus Stops.
(a) The following spaces are hereby designated as bus stops:
(1)-(9) As written
(10) On the west side of South Winooski Avenue, for fifty (50) feet south of Main Street On the west side of South Winooski Avenue, 150’ north of King Street.
(11)-(25) As written.
(b) –(c) As written.
** Material stricken out deleted.
*** Material underlined added.
/ER: BCO Appx.C, Section 16 9/18/24
CITY OF BURLINGTON IN THE YEAR TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-FOUR A REGULATION IN RELATION TO RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE TRAFFIC COMMISSION—15 DESIGNATED SCHOOL ZONES.
Sponsor(s): Public Works Commission Action: Approval
Date: 9/18/2024
Attestation of Adoption: Phillip Peterson, PE
Senior Transportation Planner, Technical Services Published: 10/02/24
Effective: 10/23/24
It is hereby Ordained by the Public Works Commission of the City of Burlington as follows:
That Appendix C, Rule and Regulations of the Traffic Commission, 16-10 Bus Stops, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Burlington is hereby amended as follows:
15 Designated school zones. The following streets are hereby designated as school zones. No person shall operate a vehicle at a rate of speed greater than twenty-five (25) miles per hour on the following streets: (1)-(28) As Written. (29) North Avenue beginning at North Street and extending south to Sherman Street. (30) North Avenue beginning at Dodds Court and extending south to Shore Road (31) Shore Road beginning at North Avenue and extending south to Dodds Court (32) Dodds Court beginning at North Avenue and extending south to Shore Road
** Material stricken out deleted. *** Material underlined added.
/hm: BCO Appx.C, Section 15 9/18/24
CITY OF BURLINGTON IN THE YEAR TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-FOUR A REGULATION IN RELATION TO RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE TRAFFIC COMMISSION—7 NO-PARKING AREAS. 9 FIFTEEN-MINUTE PARKING. 10 TWO-HOUR PARKING. 12-1 NO PARKING EXCEPT VEHICLES LOADING OR UNLOADING.
Sponsor(s): Public Works Commission Action: Approved
Date: 9/18/2024
Attestation of Adoption: Phillip Peterson, PE
Senior Transportation Planner, Technical Services
Published: 10/02/24
Effective: 10/23/24
It is hereby Ordained by the Public Works Commission of the City of Burlington as follows:
That Appendix C, Rule and Regulations of the Traffic Commission, Section 7, No-parking areas; Section 9, Fifteen-Minute Parking; Section 10, Two-hour parking; and Section 12-1, No parking except vehicles loading or unloading of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Burlington is hereby amended as follows:
Section 7 No-parking areas.
No person shall park any vehicle at any time in the following locations:
(1-191) As written
(191) On the south side of North Street from North Avenue to South Winooski Avenue starting at Murray Street and continuing 120 feet to the west.
(192-587) As written
(588) On the south side of North Street from North Avenue to North Champlain Street
(589) On the south side of North Street from Rose Street to South Winooski Avenu e.
(590) On the north side of North Street from North Champlain Street to Rose Street
Section 9 Fifteen-Minute parking.
(a) No person shall park a vehicle longer than fifteen (15) minutes, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., Sundays and holidays excepted, in the following areas:
(1-12) As written
(13) On the north side of North Street in the first space east to the driveway for 134 North Street Reserved
(14-124) As written
(125) The spaces in front of number 114 North Street Reserved
(126) As written
(b) No person shall park any vehicle, at any time, longer than fifteen (15) minutes at the following locations:
(1-6) As written
(7) In the parking space in front of 117 North Street On the south side of North Street, starting at the driveway for 117 North Street and continuing east for 140 feet
(7-34) As written
(c) No person shall park a vehicle longer than fifteen (15) minutes, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Sundays and holidays excepted, in the following areas:
(1-2) As written
(3) On the north side of North Street starting thirty (30) feet east of North Champlain Street extending twenty (20) feet Reserved
(4) On the north side of North Street starting fifty (50) feet east of North Champlain Street extending twenty (20) feet Reserved
(5-10) As written
Section 10 Two-hour parking.
No person shall park a vehicle for a period longer than two (2) hours between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Sundays and holidays excepted, in the following locations:
(1-20) As written
(21) On the south side of North Street, starting at North Champlain Street for 40 feet to the east.
Section 12-1 No parking except vehicles loading or unloading.
No person shall park a vehicle at the following locations unless engaged in loading or unloading the vehicle:
(1-31) As written
(32) On the south side of North Street, starting at the driveway for 117 North Street and continuing to the west for 60 feet In the space in front of 128 North Street between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, for a maximum time limit of thirty (30) minutes.
PLACE AN AFFORDABLE NOTICE AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LEGAL-NOTICES OR CALL 802-865-1020, EXT. 142.
(33-54) As written
** Material stricken out deleted.
*** Material underlined added.
BCO Appx.C, Sections, 7, 9, 10, 12-1
9/18/24
CITY OF BURLINGTON IN THE YEAR TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-FOUR A REGULATION IN RELATION TO RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE TRAFFIC COMMISSION—30 SPEED LIMITS
Sponsor(s): Public Works Commission Action: Approved Date: 9/18/2024
Attestation of Adoption:
Phillip Peterson, PE
Senior Transportation Planner, Technical Services
Published: 10/02/24
Effective: 10/23/24
It is hereby Ordained by the Public Works Commission of the City of Burlington as follows:
That Appendix C, Rule and Regulations of the Traffic Commission, Section 30 Speed limits of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Burlington is hereby amended as follows:
30 Speed Limits.
(a) As Written.
(b) Speed limit on listed streets.
1. No motor vehicle shall be operated at a rate of speed greater than twenty (20) miles per hour, and suitable signs stating this speed limit shall be conspicuously placed on such streets:
a.-b. As Written
c. The City of Burlington’s designated downtown district, as designated under 24 V.S.A., chapter 76A, or successor statutory scheme, as the same may be renumbered from time to time.
2. – 8. As Written. (c) – (e) As Written.
** Material stricken out deleted.
*** Material underlined added.
/hm: BCO Appx.C, Section 30 9/18/2024
TOWN OF WESTFORD REQUEST FOR BIDS (RFB) PLOWING & SANDING, 2024-2025 SEASON
The Town of Westford is accepting bids for plowing and sanding of certain gravel town roads and properties for the 2024-2025 winter season. Bids will be accepted for both sides of town, or just one.
• East: Bill Cook Rd, Seymour Rd, Cowie Rd
• West: Common Rd & 2 parking areas, Rubaud Rd, Town Office & Library Parking areas
Work shall commence with the first snowfall of 2 inches or more, and end on April 15, 2025 or the last snowfall of 2 inches or more, whichever occurs first. Bidders must carry and maintain Workers Comp, General Liability and Commercial Auto Liability insurances at their own expense.
BID SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS:
Bids shall be made on the bid form available online at https://westfordvt.us/ wp-content/uploads/2024/09/RFB-for-PlowingSanding-2024-2025.pdf or at the Westford Town Office or by request. Bids addressed to the Town of Westford shall be submitted using one of the following methods:
1. Electronically - townadmin@westfordvt.us (please identify the bid by putting Plowing Bid in the subject line); or
2. USPS - Town of Westford, 1713 VT Route 128, Westford, VT 05494; or
3. Drop box at the Westford Town Office (located to the left of the front door)
Bids will be received by the Westford Town Administrator or at the Westford Town Office until 3:00 p.m. on October 23, 2024. The Selectboard will review bids received at their October 24th meeting.
Full bid specifications are available upon request, at the Town Office, or online at: https:// westfordvt.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ RFB-for-Plowing-Sanding-2024-2025.pdf
Contact Holly Delisle, Town Administrator at (802)-878-4587 or at townadmin@westfordvt.us with questions
TOWN OF RICHMOND
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA
OCTOBER 30TH, 2024, AT 7:00 PM
Location: 3rd floor meeting room Richmond Town Offices, 203 Bridge Street Richmond VT, 05477
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/81135989152
Meeting ID: 811 3598 9152
Call-in: +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) Application materials may be viewed at http:// www.richmondvt.gov/boards-minutes/ developmentreview-board/ before the meeting. Please call Tyler Machia, Zoning Administrator, at 802-434-2430 or email tmachia@richmondvt.gov with any questions.
Public Hearing
Item 1.
APE2024-01 Chelsye & Trevor Brooks Parcel ID#JR1330
Location of Appealed Permit: 1330 Jericho Road
Description: The Appellants, Chelsye & Trevor Brooks, are seeking to appeal the decision of the Zoning Administrator to approve permit 2024-67. Permit 2024-67 is for a single-family home.
STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT
PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT
DOCKET NO.: 24-PR-03742
In re ESTATE of Gary E. Cunningham
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
To the creditors of: Gary E. Cunningham, late of 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 this 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 27, 2024
Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Kami-Jo Cunningham, Administratrix c/o Harry C. Parker, Esq., 38 Community Lane, Suite 4, South Hero, VT 05486 email: hparker@vtlawoffices.com
Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 10/2/2024
Probate Court: Chittenden Probate Division 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401
PUBLIC HEARING
WINOOSKI DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
A public hearing will be held by the Winooski Development Review Board on Thursday, October 17, 2024 beginning at 6:30 p.m. to consider the following:
Conditional Use Review – 94 West Canal Street, Suite 5
Applicant has submitted a request to change the use of the portion of the property from an education facility use to an industry use This property is located in the City’s Central Business District (C-1) Zoning District. Conditional Use Review under Section 6.7 of the ULUDR is required for establishing industry uses in the City’s Central Business District (C-1) 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/82129899225 or by calling (301) 715 8592 and using Webinar ID: 821 2989 9225. 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-Resources6/ Public-Comment-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.
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 Ravi Venkataraman, AICP, CFM, Director of City Planning by calling 802.655.6410 or visiting Winooski City Hall at 27 West Allen Street during normal business hours. Information related to this matter will also be available on the City’s website at https://www.winooskivt.gov/229/ Development-Review-Board.
NOTICE OF HEARING AND ORDER FOR PUBLICATION TRUST ESTATE OF STEPHEN CHAPPELOW
To All Interested Persons:
The following petition/motion, Motion to Terminate Trust, has been filed in the Probate Division of the Superior Court: June 24, 2024.
A hearing on the petition/motion will be held at 9:00 AM on November 14, 2024 at the abovenamed court.
If no one appears at the hearing to object, the relief requested may be granted. If you wish to receive notice of future events in this proceeding, you must notify the Court by filing a Notice of Appearance form that can be found on the Vermont Judiciary website.
It is hereby ORDERED that the notice of hearing as set forth in the Order be published in Seven Days, a newspaper of general circulation in Chittenden County.
Publication: October 2, 2024
Electronically signed pursuant fo V.R.E.F 9(d) Probate Judge, James R. Dean Mahoney 9/24/2024
Any individual with a disability requiring assistance accessing the services, programs and/or activities at the Courthouse should contact the Clerk’s office at the above address for further assistance. PH12-Order for Hearing by Publication 177-9-12 Lepr Trust Estate of: Stephen Chappelow
TOWN OF ESSEX ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT PUBLIC HEARING OCTOBER 22, 2024 - 6:00 PM Hybrid & In Person (Municipal Conference Room, 81 Main St., Essex Jct.) Meeting. Anyone may attend this meeting in person at the above address or remotely through the following options: Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85378709951?pwd=U WRTQnU0Nllod1FZVUU3b2pXWXlsQT09 Call (audio only): (305) 224 1968, Meeting ID: 853 7870 9951, Passcode 708118
Public Wifi is available at the Essex Municipal Offices, libraries, and hotspot listed here: https://publicservice.vermont.gov/content/ public-wifi-hotspots-vermont
CONDITIONAL USE: Jena Katzman and Tom Atkins, are proposing to add a wedding/event space to their existing Bed and Breakfast business located at 478 Owls Woods (Parcel ID #2012028000) in the Conservation (C1) District.
Application materials may be viewed before the meeting at https://www.essexvt.org/182/ Current-Development-Applications. Please call 802-878-1343 or email skelley@essex.org with any questions. This may not be the final order in which items will be heard. Please view the complete Agenda, at https://essexvt.portal.civicclerk.com or the office notice board before the hearing for the order in which items will be heard and other agenda items.
POST YOUR JOBS AT: JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POST-A-JOB PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM
HOPE Works, Vermont’s oldest 501c3 nonprofit serving survivors of sexual violence in Chittenden County, VT, is seeking a Clinical Supervisor to develop and implement all aspects of the clinical program. HOPE Works offers generous paid time off and a flexible hybrid work environment. People with diverse lived experiences encouraged to apply. Visit hopeworksvt.org for the full job listing
TruexCullins is a 35-person architecture and interior design firm rooted in downtown Burlington. We are seeking an HR Coordinator to join our team. Part-time with room to grow. Visit Truexcullins.com/Careers for more info or send a resume to: employment@truexcullins.com
We are 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.
• Engagement Producer, But Why
• Broadcast Engineer, Transmitter
• Human Resources Business Partner
• HR & Benefits CoordinatorTemporary
• Music Host
We believe a strong organization includes employees from a range of backgrounds with different skills, experience & passions. More openings and to apply: vermontpublic.org/careers
Must be able to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Vermont Public is a proud equal opportunity employer.
Dir. Conf. & Events Assoc. Dir. Campus Ops.
a detail-oriented accountant who thrives in a team environment and is passionate about supporting a mission-driven organization?
like to meet you!
Medical, Personal, and Vacation Leave.
Learn more and apply: vermontstate.edu/about/careers
(Mechanical / Electrical / Plumbing)
The Facilities Department at Saint Michael’s College is inviting applications for a full-time Technical Trades Supervisor. This position oversees all MEP systems and personnel to maintain a comfortable, safe, and efficient environment by providing timely responses to issues and ensuring all campus systems are fully operational. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, inspecting, maintaining, repairing, replacing, and testing all HVAC, fire protection, and plumbing systems and components throughout campus with internal personnel and/or contractors; overseeing the functionality of commercial kitchen equipment and appliances, athletic pool, elevators, geothermal systems, building management systems, science lab hoods, etc.; overseeing and supporting the electrical department; assigning and/or addressing daily work orders; & participating in an on-call rotation for 1-week every 4-5 weeks. For job description, benefits and to apply, please visit: bit.ly/SMCTTS
Hunger Mountain Co-op seeks to hire a dependable and innovative full-time Maintenance Coordinator to ensure safe and functioning equipment, promptly respond to daily maintenance requests, work with contractors, and implement ongoing cleaning programs. Our ideal candidate will have basic refrigeration, plumbing, electrical, and carpentry skills, be comfortable with ladders and machinery, and be able to work outdoors in all kinds of weather. The Co-op offers competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and a union environment.
Hunger Mountain Co-op is for everyone. Diversity, inclusion, and a culture where everybody can contribute matters to us. We aim to create an environment for all bodies. The Co-op does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, place of birth, age, crime victim status, physical or mental condition. Please request accommodations if you need them.
Join our Caring Team and Advance Your Career in Senior Living
• ( )
32 hours a week, position in Clara’s Garden Memory Care Neighborhood
Considerrjoining g us s at t The e Gary y Residence. .
We e offer r an n excellent t work k environment t and d competitiveepay y & & benefits. We e woulddbe e delighted d to o talkkwithhyou.
thegaryresidence.com
HR@thegaryresidence.com
Hunger Mountain Co-op seeks to hire a motivated and experienced Grocery Manager to lead a dynamic team of grocery staff. Our ideal candidate will offer strategic planning skills, provide excellent customer service, and work collaboratively to ensure the smooth operations of our Grocery Department. The Co-op offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package.
Hunger Mountain Co-op is for everyone. Diversity, inclusion, and a culture where everybody can contribute matters to us. We aim to create an environment for all bodies. The Co-op does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, place of birth, age, crime victim status, physical or mental condition. Please request accommodations if you need them.
Vermont Cares is seeking a visionary leader with a deep commitment to harm reduction, racial and social justice, and community empowerment to serve as the next Executive Director. The Executive Director provides leadership, vision, and strategic direction for the agency and oversees all operations, programs, financials, and technical systems. They will support fund development, grant writing, management and compliance, and represent the organization on national, state, city, and community levels. They will uphold and nurture an organizational culture of integrity, inclusivity, transparency, respect and acceptance. The ideal candidate will have lived or living experience of drug use, have a deep commitment to the autonomous rights of people who use drugs, and promote the support and hiring of people with lived experience. Vermont CARES Executive Director will be committed to advancing racial and health equity work within the organization and the field of harm reduction and drug policy.
Compensation: $75,000-85,000 based on experience and qualifications, plus benefits that include Health, vision, dental coverage, HSA, FSA and generous CTO.
To Apply: Vermont CARES is an E.O.E. Applicants with diverse backgrounds, life experiences, abilities and perspectives are encouraged to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter to jobs@vtcares.org, with the subject line: Executive Director Application-(candidate last name). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. No phone calls, please. vtcares.org/join-our-team
Hearing and communication is vital to connection with family and friends, work and community - and YOU have the ability to shape the lives of those in need. Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) seeks a full-time Audiologist for our ENT & Audiology practice. Work with a team of committed professionals in a mixed specialty practice offering ENT, Audiology, Allergy, Speech-Language Pathology, and Palliative Care to perform diagnostic testing for all ages. Collaborate with ENT providers and Hearing Instrument Specialist, as well as manage hearing aid services, including assessments, fittings, and repairs. Located in Vermont’s beautiful Northeast Kingdom, NVRH offers competitive wages, student loan repayment, generous paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package. Join us in providing exceptional patient-centered care that really makes a difference!
Apply now at www.nvrh.org/careers.
4t-NVRH052924.indd 1
Full-time, Exempt,
$65,000 to $75,000
Benefits: Health Insurance Stipend; 401K; Vacation and Sick Leave
Deadline: October 31, 2024
All Souls Interfaith Gathering, an interfaith spiritual community and learning center in Shelburne, seeks a part-time Office Assistant to handle administrative duties. Located on a pastoral hillside overlooking Lake Champlain, this position will work with a dedicated ministry team who are devoted to helping others cultivate inner peace and connection with the Divine. Duties include filing, typing, data entry, copying, printing, and following up on phone calls and email. Requirements include knowledge of office systems and equipment, proficiency in MS Office programs, excellent time management, and attention to detail. The position involves 10 hours per week and pays $18 per hour.
To apply, please submit a cover letter explaining your interest and a resume: dchatfield@ allsoulsinterfaith.org
5/24/24 1:41 PM
The Executive Director, in partnership with a responsive and experienced board, is responsible for all aspects of the institution and oversees sustaining its excellence and broadening its impact. Responsibilities range from day-today operations to comprehensive plans.
For complete job description, candidate requirements, and instructions on how to apply: rokeby.org/work-at-rokeby
Rokeby Museum is an equal opportunity employer. Members of underrepresented groups and those committed to diversity and inclusivity are encouraged to apply.
Logical Machines, a family run business, is looking to grow our team. Logical Machines is a small manufacturing company located in Charlotte, Vermont.
We are looking for an organized, flexible, detail oriented, team player willing to work full time & in person. Experience in bookkeeping a must, experience in administration work a plus.
Send your resume to sarah@logicalmachines. com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Seeking full time Executive Director to promote, sustain and develop new and existing business in both Barre Town and City, Vermont.
Bachelor’s degree with a major in business administration or a closely related field and 5 years of relevant job experience.
For more information, click on badc.com or email info@badc.com.
GROW YOUR BUSINESS IN BARRE
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Are you our next Guest Services Representative? Buyer? Produce Associate?
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The Facilities Department at Saint Michael’s College is inviting applications for a full-time HVAC Technician. This position supports the department in maintaining a comfortable, safe, and efficient environment by providing timely responses to issues and ensuring all campus systems are fully operational. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, inspecting, maintaining, repairing, replacing, and testing all HVAC systems and components throughout campus; coordinating annual inspections and repairs with contractors; planning and implementing renovation/upgrade/ repair projects; addressing daily work orders; and participating in an oncall rotation for 1-week every 4-5 weeks. This position will require regular work hours, as well as occasional on-call evening, weekend, and holiday times. The salary range for this position is $30-$32 per hour.
We are looking for experienced carpenters with knowledge of old and new construction to join the Lewis Creek Builders, DesignBuild team! We are a passionate group of carpenters, designers, and construction management professionals working in a supportive, collaborative environment to manage every aspect of residential building and remodeling projects.
Flexible start date! Great benefits package!
For a complete job description, benefits information, and to apply online, please visit: bit.ly/SMCHVAC
Join our team at Sterling College and make a meaningful impact on student life in alignment with our commitment to ecological thinking and action. The Dean of Students position supports an engaged, welcoming, and vibrant student community. The Dean provides leadership for all student life programming, and oversees Health and Wellness; Residential Life; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging programming; Athletics; Restorative and Accountability procedures; and student leadership programs. The Dean leads community care initiatives and culture-building, co-coordinates new student orientation & supports student activities & student groups.
Salary: range of $75,000-$85,000 based on experience.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume & contact information for 3 references to: employment@sterlingcollege.edu. Position open until filled; application review will begin immediately. Sterling College is an E.O.E. Position starts January 6th. Learn more & apply: sterlingcollege.edu/employment
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Property Management Company looking for an articulate, energetic people-person to join their team full-time (30 hours). Some tasks included in position are conducting property tours, communicating with prospective renters, processing applications, providing extraordinary customer service, scheduling appointments, taking the lead on the marketing efforts and community outreach, planning resident events and administrative tasks. Must be able to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced environment. Strong sales aptitude and computer proficiency is required.
The work schedule is Monday – Friday 10:30-5. Candidate must be flexible and willing to work as needed. If you are interested, please email resume to dfinnigan@hallkeen.com.
Copley Hospital is hiring!
Do you want to work in a leadership role, supporting a vibrant Community Hospital?
If you're a detail-oriented Registered Nurse, experienced in Perioperative Services, we want to hear from you!
Reach out to Kaitlyn Shannon: kshannon@chsi.org or apply online at copleyvt.org/careers Exceptional Care. Community Focused. That’s Copley.
• Are you passionate about helping students overcome barriers, and about personalized learning as a key to success?
• Do you have strong case management or counseling experience, with impeccable organizational skills?
• Have just the right touch for connecting with students 1:1 and maybe even existing relationships with area high schools?
Vermont Adult Learning is hiring a full-time educational advisor to work in a hybrid work arrangement (3 days onsite) at our Midddlebury Learning Center. In this role, you will maintain a caseload of students ages 16+, meeting with them and keeping them engaged as you co-create a Personalized Learning Plan to help them achieve their learning and career goals.
We’re looking for curiosity, enthusiasm, patience, resilience, and a lifelong learner mindset. Google Workspace, video conference, database skills, and an excitement to work with LGBTQ+ students are required.
Generous paid time off, benefits, & employer match. Pay Rate: $22.67/hour.
Job description: vtadultlearning.org/about-us/#careers
Please send resume and cover letter to Talent@vtadultlearning.org.
Engaging minds that change the world
Seeking a position with a quality employer? Consider The University of Vermont, a stimulating and diverse workplace. We offer a comprehensive benefit package including tuition remission for on-going, full-time positions.
Director of Access, Technology, and Media ServicesUniversity Libraries - #F3200PO - The University of Vermont Libraries seek a director of Access, Technology, and Media Services. We seek candidates with vision and verve; who are creative and collaborative; who will advocate for UVM’s students and faculty and for library colleagues; and who will foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
The director leads and supervises the dynamic work of the Access, Technology and Media Services Department. Work will include making existing services more visible and collaborating with colleagues to develop new research-support services. The director will help reimagine library service points as the library looks towards renovations of its physical spaces. Leading media services and technology services offers exciting opportunities to explore new technologies and facilitate research and education across campus.
In addition to the online application, candidates are required to submit the following documents: cover letter, curriculum vitae, an inclusive excellence statement, and a list of three professional references. The search will remain open until the position is filled. All appointments are subject to a successful background check. For best consideration, complete applications should be received no later than October 25, 2024. For further information on these positions and others currently available, or to apply online, please visit www.uvmjobs.com Applicants must apply for positions electronically. Paper resumes are not accepted. Open positions are updated daily. Please call 802-656-3150 or email employment@uvm.edu for technical support with the online application.
The University of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Help families, find your purpose, and make a real difference with Easterseals Vermont.
Seven Days Issue: 10/2
Join our team and discover a fulfilling career with comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, PTO from day one, and more.
Due: 9/30 by 11am
Size: 3.83” x 5.25”
This is more than a job—it’s a meaningful opportunity to change lives, including your own.
Cost: $476.85 (with 1 week online)
eastersealsVT.org/careers
Small family restaurant expanding into Winooski. We’re looking for cooks and bartenders/servers for BOTH locations to provide people a full service dining experience where they can enjoy a lively atmosphere with a laid back feel. As an employee you’ll enjoy a low stress environment with a supportive team and competitive pay. We encourage high school students who want to get into the restaurant business to apply. We work around school activities. Kitchen help starts at age 16 and servers/bartenders age 18. Full and part time positions available.
Please email dumbluck.pub@ gmail.com or stop in to our location at 104 Ballards Corner Road, Hinesburg, Vermont to set up an interview.
Note: Good attitude is the only skill we need - we'll teach the rest!
"Everyone needs a little Dumb Luck in their day!"
$66,000 - $72,000 w/ Excellent Benefits
Seeking a FT, highly organized self-starter, with exceptional attention-to-detail. Applies basic principles, practices, and civil engineering standards to support maintenance, repair & construction of Town infrastructure. BS in Civil Engineering, or a closely-related field. 2 yrs. related exp. pref. MS O ce, GIS, AutoCAD.
If you’re looking for a positive and rewarding, team-oriented environment that o ers work/life balance, we want to hear from you!
To view a complete job description, and submit materials required for consideration; resume, cover letter and application, please visit: colchestervt.gov/321/Human-Resources Open until filled. EOE.
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Join our team of professionals providing case management for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism. In this position you will work with individuals to create and realize goals while supporting them in maintaining a safe and healthy lifestyle.
Compensation package is $49k annually plus a generous on-call stipend, mileage compensation, and $1500 sign on bonus. Position includes comprehensive and affordable health insurance, 20 paid days off plus 12 paid holidays, retirement match, dental plan and so much more. In addition, CCS has been voted as one of the Best Places to Work in Vermont for six years in a row!
Why not have a job you love? Continue your career in human services in a compassionate & fun environment. Join us today and make a career making a difference.
Send resume to Karen Ciechanowicz at staff@ccs-vt.org.
ccs-vt.org
E.O.E.
The Development Manager is a member of the Center’s development and communications team, providing critical leadership in the areas of donor tracking and stewardship, appeals, and communications. They process donations, manage the donor database, oversee appeals, coordinate corporate volunteers, engage in donor stewardship, support events and other development functions, and accomplish other important tasks as needed. To apply, please send cover letter, resume and 3 references to jobs@intervale.org by October 31, 2024. Compensation is $27.00-$29.00 per hour with an excellent benefits package (health, dental, vision & life insurance, 401(k) with match), CTO, sick time, and other limited wellness benefits. This is an in-person position based in Burlington, Vermont with some remote work possible.
Seeking a talented & dynamic clinical leader to join our Agency as our Director of Access & Acute Care Services. This position is a key member of our Chief Operating Team, reporting to our CEO and collaborating regularly with our Medical & Clinical Directors on client situations. Scope of responsibility includes oversight & ongoing development of 24/7 crisis hotline, mobile crisis, hospital diversion & crisis beds, residential programs, same day access program & disaster response. It is essential for this position to have strong working collaborations with local law enforcement, community stakeholders & providers as well as State level leaders. In this position you will have the opportunity for program development, membership on statewide care team(s), State advocacy, cultivation of new partnerships, staff development and more. Our new Director will be joining an Agency with a long history of being mission focused and a leadership team that exemplifies quality, longevity and commitment, while embracing employee health & wellness.
Our Director must be dependable, creative, flexible & possess a positive can-do attitude, while mentoring, teaching & interacting with clinical staff across all locations & programs. This position requires some on call consultation as part of our 24/7 hotline.
Master’s degree in social work, psychology, or related field is required; independent licensure & ability to provide licensed clinical supervision to others is strongly preferred. Previous work experience must include 5+ years of crisis work, staff supervision & progressive leadership positions.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, a matching 403b retirement plan, 3 weeks’ paid vacation time, 11 paid holidays, and 7 paid sick days to start. We offer staff flexible schedules to support work / life balance, and pride ourselves on our learning-based culture where our staff can grow & flourish both professionally & personally.
To apply, send cover letter & resume to HR@claramartin.org. To learn more about us, check out at claramartin.org
We're offering a $2,000 Sign-On Bonus for qualified teachers who are passionate about shaping the future of early childhood education.
We are looking for Lead Teachers to join our teams in the Burlington/Essex areas. Our community thrives on shared values of team spirit, passion, and continuous learning.
REQUIREMENTS: Comply with all VT Public Health and Child Care Regulations.
Meet at least one of the following qualifications:
• Vermont Early Childhood Career Ladder Level 1 or 2 Certificate;
• Current CDA (Child Development Associate) plus 12 months of experience with children in grade three or younger;
• Completion of a 3-credit college course in child or human development or school-age care and education, plus 12 months of experience with children in grade three or younger.
• Pass the state-required background check.
• Serve as a mandated reporter, on and off campus.
• Ensure classroom environments meet NAEYC’s Anti-Bias Early Education standards.
Competitive pay range: $20-$23.50+/hour
$2,000 Sign-On Bonus will be paid out:
• 30% upon the first pay period following your first day of employment ($600).
• 70% upon the first pay period following your 90th day of consecutive employment ($1,400).
Send resumes to: cgagne@littlesprouts.com
Burlington, Vermont
Must be good with customer service and computers. Some light physical work required from time to time. Every other weekend: 9am-4pm on Saturdays, 9am-2pm on Sundays. Attendant might be asked to work additional shifts to cover vacation time. About 24 hrs/month total. We will train the right person for the job. E-mail resume & short cover letter to flynnaveselfstorage@gmail.com
No phone calls.
Find 100+ new job postings from trusted, local employers in Seven Days newspaper and online.
See who’s hiring at jobs.sevendaysvt.com
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The Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont Office of Medical Education/Clinical Simulation Lab invites applications for the position of Part-time Hourly Temporary position performing Equipment Technician work providing technical and operational support for all healthcare simulation operations. This includes scenario setup/take down as well as preparation, maintenance and repair of manikins, task trainers, and related multimedia peripherals. This position will require the ability to work a flexible schedule, between 15-20 hours per week, which may include nights and weekends.
Qualifications:
Associate’s degree in a related field and onethree years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience required. Effective communication and interpersonal skills required. Experience with MS Office Suite and ability to learn software programs to operate manikins and to record simulations . Ability to be flexible and adaptable in dynamic environment and work schedule required. Ability to lift 10-32 lbs. and maneuver 47lbs of force and/or steer equipment through hallways and around corners. Initial employment contingent upon successful completion of physical screening.
Desirable Qualifications:
Experience in a hospital or outpatient or
prehospital care health care facility desirable. Familiarity with clinical procedures is desirable.
Special Conditions:
The ability to work a flexible schedule up to 15-20 hours per week is required, which may include evenings and weekends. Background Check required for this position, and postoffer pre-employment (POPE test) physical examination is required.
To Apply:
The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the institution. Applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume to Amy Tota, HR and Finance Coordinator: amy.vorland-tota@med.uvm.edu
Please include the following in the subject line of the email: CSL Part-time Temporary Equipment Technician
The University of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category legally protected by federal or state law. The University encourages applications from all individuals who will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the institution.
Basic function:
The Associate Director of Major Gifts plays a vital role in advancing the mission and strategic priorities of Vermont State University (VTSU) and strengthening the culture of philanthropy among alumni, parents, and other VTSU constituencies.
This position will focus on: prospect conversion; donor renewal; upgrading donors; and strategic stewardship, including planned gifts, at the leadership ($5k+/year) and major gifts ($25k+ multi-year pledges) levels.
Minimum qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required, seven years of development experience, and proven success soliciting gifts of $5,000 and more. Or experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired, such as sales.
Full job description can be found at vermontstate.edu/about/careers
Contact humanresources@vermontstate.edu for any questions.
This individual leads the Healthcare Services Division, which is an established division under the newly formed Office of Health, Wellness, and Engagement. The Healthcare Services Division Director reports directly to the DOC Executive Director of Health, Wellness, and Engagement. The Director's primary responsibility is to oversee the delivery of healthcare services to people incarcerated in VT correctional facilities. The Director is also responsible for managing best practices in healthcare and correctional healthcare, as defined by available research and standards, and championing the healthcare needs of incarcerated Vermonters.
This position performs executive managerial, administrative, and operational functions
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Aviva.Tevah@vermont.gov
Resumes will not be accepted via email. You must apply online to be considered.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.
Apply online with QR code:
Manage and enforce Fairfield, VT’s Subdivision & Zoning Bylaws; provide permit and zoning information to the public; review applications for completeness; prepare materials and written summaries to the Planning and Zoning Board of Adjustment; plan and document meetings; serve as E911 coordinator. Understanding of state regulations and ability to prioritize multiple tasks is required.
Send cover letter and resume to Cathy Ainsworth, Town Administrator, PO Box 5, Fairfield, VT 05455; townadmin@ fairfieldvermont.us. Visit fairfieldvermont.us for a full job description.
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Vermont Housing & Conser vation Board
Join our innovative and award-winning team!
The CFO is responsible for the finances of VHCB, including planning and analysis, financial systems and risk management, and fiscal operations and reporting. The CFO serves as a member of the VHCB Management Team, leads the work of the finance department, and works collaboratively with administrative and program staff.
We are an Equal Opportunity
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
not have a job you love?
Make a career making a difference & receive a benefit package that includes 29 paid days off in the first year, comprehensive health insurance 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 six years in a row.
Great positions to start your career in human services or to continue your work in this field.
Send resume to staff@ccs-vt.org ccs-vt.org
The Town of Jericho is accepting applications for a Highway Maintenance Worker Level II. This is a full-time position that requires a CDL (min Class “B”) and the ability to routinely work outside of regular working hours. The ideal candidate will have at least two years of experience in highway maintenance, snow plowing, construction procedures, and methods at the municipal level. Equipment operation experience is a plus.
The starting hourly wage is dependent on qualifications. The Town of Jericho offers excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance and a retirement plan.
An application and job description can be downloaded from www.jerichovt.org. They are also available at the Jericho Town Hall, at 67 VT Rt. 15, Jericho, M-TH 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Completed applications can be submitted to Linda Blasch in person, via email at lblasch@jerichovt.gov or mail to PO Box 39, Jericho, VT 05465. The position is open until filled.
At NDI we are driven by our belief that advanced spatial measurement solutions can help our customers in their aim to improve medical procedures and patient lives.
Are you interested in a job that helps your community and makes a difference in people’s lives every day? Consider joining Burlington Housing Authority (BHA) in Burlington, VT to continue BHA’s success in promoting innovative solutions that address housing instability challenges facing our diverse population of low-income families and individuals.
We are currently hiring for the following positions:
Building Operations Technician:
Performs general maintenance work in BHA owned and managed properties. This includes building exteriors, common areas, apartments, building systems, fixtures, and grounds. Our Building Operations Techs are required to participate in the on-call rotation, which covers night and weekend emergencies.
Housing Retention Services – Site
Based: Responsible for supporting those who have mental health and substance use challenges and/or who have moved from homelessness to Bobbin Mill, Wharf Lane, and other BHA properties. The position works closely with property management and other site-based staff to identify challenges and respond with appropriate direct service and coordination of community services, with a goal of eviction prevention and facilitating a healthy tenancy.
Offender Re-entry Housing Specialist: Provides support to men and women under the VT Department of Corrections supervision from prison back to Chittenden County. The ORHS focuses on high-risk men and women who are being released from jail and graduating transitional housing programs and in need of permanent housing. The ORHS provides intensive retention and eviction prevention services and works collaboratively with the Burlington Probation and Parole Office. Additionally, the ORHS works with various case workers, Re-Entry staff and the Administrative Staff from the VT Department of Corrections and the broad network of COSA staff as necessary throughout Chittenden County.
*BHA serves a diverse population of tenants and partners with a variety of community agencies. To most effectively
carry out our vision of delivering safe and affordable housing to all, we are committed to cultivating a staff that reflects varied lived experiences, viewpoints, and educational histories. Therefore, we strongly encourage candidates from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, and women to apply. Multilingualism is a plus!
Find more about these career opportunities: burlingtonhousing.org
Our robust benefit package includes premium medical insurance with a health reimbursement account, dental, vision, short 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, BHA recognizes 13 (paid) holidays and 2 (paid) floating cultural holidays.
Interested in this opportunity? Send cover letter/resume to: humanresources@ burlingtonhousing.org
Human Resources
Burlington Housing Authority 65 Main Street, Suite 101 Burlington, VT 05401 BHA is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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• Post jobs using a form that includes key info about your company and open positions (location, application deadlines, video, images, etc.).
• Accept applications and manage the hiring process via our applicant tracking tool.
• Easily manage your open job listings from your recruiter dashboard.
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• Save jobs to a custom list with your own notes on the positions.
• Apply for jobs directly through the site.
Get a quote when you post online or contact Michelle Brown: 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com.
Conant Metal & Light is hiring a detail-oriented Shipping and Inventory Specialist. You will manage shipping, receiving, and inventory tasks while collaborating with our production team. Must be organized, accurate, and a team player. Please visit: conantmetalandlight.com/employment or send your resume detailing your experience and skills to info@conantmetalandlight.com
The Vermont State Employees’ Association Seeks Experienced Union Organizer
Join Vermont’s most dynamic independent statewide union. VSEA is a democratic and increasingly activist union, where 18 dedicated union staff work hand in hand with more than 6,000 members across Vermont to confront and combat workplace and contract injustice. The important and meaningful work is conducted in one of the nation’s most politically progressive states, and the workload is manageable. VSEA’s headquarters is located in beautiful Montpelier, Vermont.
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY INCLUDE:
Leadership Development: Identify existing leaders within VSEA and build relationships with those members through the work of building the union; Identify and recruit members to fill leadership roles within the structure of VSEA; Educate members on ways in which they can talk to their colleagues about: the union, effective strategies for identifying issues, and using direct action to make workplace improvements.
Support VSEA’s Broader Organizational Goals and Activities: Facilitate turnout to events, trainings and meetings; Support key legislative, political, and community or workplace actions as outlined by the VSEA Strategic Plan.
Identify Issues with Members and Move a Plan of Action: Meet with members to discuss current issues that are of importance; Work to develop and
execute a clear work plan around the issues.
Increase Union Membership: Demonstrate success in signing up nonmembers and new employees as VSEA members while engaging union activists and leaders in the recruitment process.
Communication with Members: Have a regular and frequent presence in worksites, holding face-to-face conversations with VSEA leaders, activists, and rank-and-file members; Provide the VSEA Communications Department with regular updates on internal and external organizing efforts; Update VSEA bulletin boards in worksites by providing activists and leaders with updated materials as often as possible.
VSEA seeks to interview dynamic candidates with a track record of commitment to the labor movement and preferably two (2) years of experience as a union or political organizer.
Any applicant must have reliable transportation as daily instate travel is expected. Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their resume, salary requirements, and a cover letter detailing their labor or political experience to vsea@vsea.org
Exceptional candidates will be scheduled for an interview.
Red House Building is currently seeking experienced, skilled carpenters to join our team. This is a full-time position with flexible scheduling, benefits, and hourly pay based on skill level. Ideal candidates are motivated, dependable, and detailoriented, with previous experience in construction. Our projects span throughout Central and Northern Vermont. If you are a reliable and skilled craftsperson who is interested in being a part of a unique, custom-home building team, then please submit your resume to info@ redhousebuilding.com
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.
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Seeking a Part-time (30 hours/week) Volunteer Coordinator and GED Examiner at Barre Learning Center.
The right candidate should be:
· Enthusiastic about working with and supporting volunteers.
· Organized, efficient, adaptable, professional, self-motivated, and a team player.
· An excellent written and verbal communicator.
· Proficient in Microsoft Office.
The right candidate will:
· Provide leadership throughout CVAE’s service area for all aspects of our volunteer program including support, oversight and management of volunteers.
· Serve as the Primary GED examiner and provide GED exams at CVAE testing locations in Central Vermont.
· Have experience recruiting and managing volunteers. Starting salary: $36,000. CVAE pays 75% of individual health/ dental insurance and 100% of short-term disability insurance, 403(b) retirement plan, 180 hours annual vacation.
Submit cover letter and resume to: info@cvae.net
Position Open Until Filled. cvae.net
When you work for the State of Vermont, you and your work matter. A career with the State puts you on a rich and rewarding professional path. You’ll find jobs in dozens of fields – not to mention an outstanding total compensation package.
The Department of Buildings and General Services is seeking a District Facilities Manager to oversee the Northwest region. This position will be responsible for administrative, planning, maintenance, and supervisory work at several locations within the district. Coordinate assignments and oversee preventative maintenance and smaller-scale construction projects. Previous supervisory experience is required for this position. Requires successful completion of multiple background checks. For more information, contact John Hebert at john.hebert@vermont.gov. Location: Colchester. Department: Buildings & General Services. Status: Full Time. Job ID #51029. Application Deadline: October 13, 2024.
We are seeking a skilled Construction Business Development and Project Manager to market our quality and competitive construction services in Northern Vermont and oversee and manage construction projects from inception to completion. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in construction marketing, construction management and possess expertise in project management software and tools.
Responsibilities:
• Market our construction services to developers, architects, engineers and other possible clients in projects ranging from $5MM- $30MM
• Coordinate and manage all phases of the construction project
• Develop project schedules, budgets, and timelines
• Oversee project progress and ensure adherence to quality standards
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors
• Review and interpret blueprints and construction documents
• Conduct construction estimating and budgeting
• Utilize construction management software such as ProCore, Prolog, Bluebeam, and HeavyBid
• Manage project contracts and ensure compliance
Skills:
• Marketing, including prospect management
• Proficiency in project management methodologies
• Strong understanding of construction processes and techniques
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints accurately
• Experience with construction estimating and budgeting
• Familiarity with project management tools like ProCore, Prolog, Bluebeam
• Knowledge of contract management in construction projects
Job Type: Full-time Pay: $90,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year
Send resumes to Brad Dousevicz: dousevicz@gmail.com
...playing with kids ...spending time in nature ...teaching about social justice?
We’ve got the job for you!
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
Red Clover Treatment Center Middlesex, VT
Red Clover Treatment Center is a trauma-informed program in Middlesex, Vermont providing a supportive living and academic environment for youths and families struggling with significant mental and behavioral health issues. We are hiring for multiple positions including Youth Counselors, Awake Overnight Counselors, Assistant Program Director & more.
To see and apply for all positions, please visit Indeed.com and search for "Red Clover Treatment Facility" in Vermont. Join the Red Clover Youth Treatment team and make a difference in young people's lives.
Sentinel Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
MK Clothing, Vermont's finest men's clothing store, located on Church Street in Burlington, Vermont is looking for a dedicated and experienced Store Manager to oversee our retail operations. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the store, leading a team, and ensuring excellent customer service.
Experience Required:
• Proven experience in team management and store operations
• Experience selling higherend products
If you are a dynamic leader with an eye for detail and a passion for men's clothing, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity as a Store Manager. Email resume to: info@mk-clothing.com
Optum Services, Inc. Senior Software Engineer. Winooski, VT. Maintain, operate, enhance, and build new capabilities for projects with Data warehouse activities while reporting needed services. Please email your resume to GlobalRecruitment @uhg.com and reference job 2250131.
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
Get a quote when posting online. Contact Michelle Brown at 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com
Are you dedicated to supporting young people in achieving their dreams? Do you want to work for an organization that values your work-life balance and well-being? How about summers off? Consider joining the VSAC team! You’ll join a team of highly committed, collaborative, and supportive colleagues who are dedicated to student success.
We are currently recruiting for the following positions:
A GEAR UP Outreach Counselor in Richford Middle and High Schools:
This position works with middle through first year after high school students and their families to provide education, career, and financial aid information and counseling in support of postsecondary education goals. This position will also support students through the transition process from high school into and through their first year of postsecondary education.
One in Central/Northern Vermont and one in Southern/ South-Central Vermont to develop and facilitate post-high school planning workshops for students with disabilities. The goal of this program is to provide postsecondary education and training focused learning activities that relate to career exploration, postsecondary education, employability skills, and financial aid and literacy.
Visit VSAC.org/Careers for full job descriptions and to apply today.
Exciting opportunities at VIP’s Roots Child Development Center: Join our growing team in a newly-renovated space!
Are you a passionate and dedicated teacher looking for an incredible opportunity to make a di erence? Are you a natural leader with a knack for motivating and inspiring others? Roots is expanding and we need exceptional individuals like you to join our team!
For 34 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. As we continue to grow, we are excited to announce that we will be opening a newly-renovated space this fall, designed to provide an inspiring learning environment for both children and educators. This is your chance to be a part of something special and contribute to the future success of VIP’s children.
Lead Teachers at Roots Child Development Center have the opportunity to shape young minds, work with a team of talented educators, and make a lasting impact on the lives of our children. Join us in creating a nurturing and engaging learning experience where every child can thrive!
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Develop age-appropriate lessons and activities that promote and support the building of social skills, practical capabilities and self-esteem
• Collaborate with 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
REQUIREMENTS:
• High School Diploma or GED
• 1-2 years of relevant childcare experience working with groups of children from preschool and younger
• Demonstrated interest and ability to work with young children
• Knowledge of appropriate practices in early childhood development
• Demonstrated success in working as a member of a team
• E ective and strong communication skills, written and verbal
• Willingness to work flexible hours in order to meet the needs of the program
• Ability to lift 25-30 lbs
• Ability to squat, kneel, sit on the floor, as well as speak with children and families to ensure the health and safety of each child
MEETS AT LEAST ONE (1) OF THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:
• 21 college credits in early childhood education or related field OR
• Associate’s Degree from an accredited college in early childhood education or related field OR
• Completed certification in one of the following: Registered Child Care Apprenticeship Program, Child Care Certificate from the Community College of Vermont, or Vermont Early Childhood Career Ladder Level 3 Certificate At VIP, we believe the teachers are the heart of education. That’s why we o er competitive compensation, excellent benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community that values your expertise and dedication. Apply now to join us on this incredible journey as we continue to shape a bright future for VIP’s children and teachers.
• BlueCross BlueShield health insurance
• 3 weeks of paid time o , 6 paid holidays and 4 paid floating holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
• 401k and Profit Sharing
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Various onsite amenities including fitness centers, dedicated health clinic and cafe
Apply here: public.vtinfo.com/careers or reach out to careers@vtinfo.com
We received 326 gifts from generous folks like you for our 29th birthday this September. is resulted in 105 new Super Readers and 63 increased monthly pledges. We are humbled by and grateful for your support. Keep it coming!
“I was so close - nothing ruins the mood quite like a leaf-blower!”
(SEP. 23-OCT. 22)
On those infrequent occasions when I buy a new gadget, I never read the instructions. I drop the booklet in the recycling bin immediately, despite the fact that I may not know all the fine points of using my new vacuum cleaner, air purifier or hair dryer. Research reveals that I am typical. Ninety-two percent of all instructions get thrown away. I don’t recommend this approach to you in the coming weeks, however, whether you’re dealing with gadgets or more intangible things. You really should call on guidance to help you navigate your way through introductory phases and new experiences.
ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19): During some Wiccan rituals, participants are asked, “What binds you? And what will you do to free yourself from what binds you?” I recommend this exercise to you right now, Aries. Here’s a third question: Will you replace your shackles with a weaving that inspires and empowers you? In other words, will you shed what binds you and, in its stead, create a bond that links you to an influence you treasure?
TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): If I had to name the zodiac sign that other signs are most likely to underestimate, I would say Taurus. Why? Well, many of you Bulls are rather modest and humble. You prefer to let your practical actions speak louder than fine words. Your well-grounded strength is diligent and
poised, not flashy. People may misread your resilience and dependability as signs of passivity. But here’s good news, dear Taurus: In the coming weeks, you will be less likely to be undervalued and overlooked. Even those who have been ignorant of your appeal may tune in to the fullness of your tender power and earthy wisdom.
GEMINI (May 21-Jun. 20): In the coming days, I invite you to work on writing an essay called “People and Things I Never Knew I Liked and Loved Until Now.” To get the project started, visit places that have previously been off your radar. Wander around in uncharted territory, inviting life to surprise you. Call on every trick you know to stimulate your imagination and break out of habitual ruts of thinking. A key practice will be to experiment and improvise as you open your heart and your eyes wide. Here’s my prophecy: In the frontiers, you will encounter unruly delights that inspire you to grow wiser.
CANCER (Jun. 21-Jul. 22): Now is an excellent time to search for new teachers, mentors and role models. Please cooperate with life’s intention to connect you with people and animals who can inspire your journey for the months and years ahead. A good way to prepare yourself for this onslaught of grace is to contemplate the history of your educational experiences. Who are the heroes, helpers and villains who have taught you crucial lessons? Another strategy to get ready is to think about what’s most vital for you to learn right now. What are the gaps in your understanding that need to be filled?
LEO (Jul. 23-Aug. 22): The English language has more synonyms than any other language. That’s in part because it’s like a magpie. It steals words from many tongues, including German, French, Old Norse, Latin and Greek, as well as from Algonquin, Chinese, Hindi, Basque and Tagalog. Japanese may be the next most magpie-like language. It borrows from English, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French and German. In accordance with astrological possibilities, I invite you to adopt the spirit of the English and Japanese languages in the coming weeks. Freely borrow and steal influences. Be a collector of sundry inspirations,
a scavenger of fun ideas, a gatherer of rich cultural diversity.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sep. 22): Here are my bold decrees: You are entitled to extra bonuses and special privileges in the coming weeks. The biggest piece of every cake and pie should go to you, as should the freshest wonders, the most provocative revelations and the wildest breakthroughs. I invite you to give and take extravagant amounts of everything you regard as sweet, rich and nourishing. I hope you will begin cultivating a skill you are destined to master. I trust you will receive clear and direct answers to at least two nagging questions.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): I knew a Scorpio performance artist who did a splashy public show about private matters. She stationed herself on the rooftop of an apartment building and for 12 hours loudly described everything she felt guilty about. (She was an ex-Catholic who had been raised to regard some normal behavior as sinful.) If you, dear Scorpio, have ever felt an urge to engage in a purge of remorse, now would be an excellent time. I suggest an alternate approach, though. Spend half an hour writing your regrets on paper, then burn the paper in the kitchen sink as you chant something like the following: “With love and compassion for myself, I apologize for my shortcomings and frailties. I declare myself free of shame and guilt. I forgive myself forever.”
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Be hearty, potent and dynamic, Sagittarius. Don’t worry about decorum and propriety. Be in quest of lively twists that excite the adventurer in you. Avoid anyone who seems to like you best when you are anxious or tightly controlled. Don’t proceed as if you have nothing to lose; instead, act as if you have everything to win. Finally, my dear, ask life to bring you a steady stream of marvels that make you overjoyed to be alive. If you’re feeling extra bold (and I believe you will), request the delivery of a miracle or two.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Nineteenth-century Capricorn author Anne Brontë wrote The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, which many
critics regard as the first feminist novel. It challenged contemporary social customs. The main character, Helen, leaves her husband because he’s a bad influence on their son. She goes into hiding, becoming a single mother who supports her family by creating art. Unfortunately, after the author’s death at a young age, her older sister Charlotte suppressed the publication of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. It’s not well known today. I bring this to your attention, Capricorn, so as to inspire you to action. I believe the coming months will be a favorable time to get the attention and recognition you’ve been denied but thoroughly deserve. Start now! Liberate, express and disseminate whatever has been suppressed.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): What is the most important question you want to find an answer for during the next year? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to formulate that inquiry clearly and concisely. I urge you to write it out in longhand and place it in a prominent place in your home. Ponder it lightly and lovingly for two minutes every morning upon awakening and each night before sleep. (Key descriptors: “lightly and lovingly.”) As new insights float into your awareness, jot them down. One further suggestion: Create or acquire a symbolic representation of the primal question.
(Feb. 19-Mar. 20): Scientific research suggests that some foods are more addictive than cocaine. They include pizza, chocolate, potato chips and ice cream. The good news is that they are not as problematic for long-term health as cocaine. The bad news is that they are not exactly healthy. (The sugar in chocolate neutralizes its modest health benefits.) With these facts in mind, Pisces, I invite you to reorder your priorities about addictive things. Now is a favorable time to figure out what substances and activities might be tonifying, invigorating addictions — and then retrain yourself to focus your addictive energy on them. Maybe you could encourage an addiction to juices that blend spinach, cucumber, kale, celery and apple. Perhaps you could cultivate an addiction to doing a pleasurable form of exercise or reading books that thrill your imagination.
Eleven paddlers met in Wolcott on Saturday for a trash-picking adventure on the Lamoille River. ey traversed almost five miles and amassed seven canoes of rubbish. e outing was organized by the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and the Lamoille River Paddlers’ Trail, and Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger hitched a ride.
LOOKING FOR OLDER LOVER
Recently out of a relationship and looking for fun. I am a your-pleasure-is-myenjoyment kind of person, searching for a more mature lover who wants a younger partner. Come with me on a journey to explore each other to the fullest. If you’re interested in a younger man to explore your desires, I would love to meet. foliagewalker, 34, seeking: W, l
SEEKING THE LONE RANGER
Active, happiest outdoors. A caretaker! Not interested in the latest fashion statements. Seeks to find the goodness in everyone. Loves working in the soil, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to get outdoors. Countrygal 67, seeking: M, l
THE MERRY WIDOW
I’m a curious and fun-loving woman with a craving for deep connection through laughter and shared values, not to mention great food, lively conversation, wordplay and a mean game of pickleball. Nature is my church. I’m competent at all the usual Vermont outdoor activities. If humor and wit are your North Star, let’s talk (and laugh). Naturesoul, 66, seeking: M, l
IT’S CUFFING SEASON!
What are the rules of cuffing season? Be mindful of your desire for a relationship. Be clear about what you’re seeking in the long and short term. Define your relationship. Don’t make plans too far in advance. Prepare for the holidays. Set healthy emotional and physical boundaries. Don’t ghost the relationship. Roadtripingdestinations, 66 seeking: M, l
A FORM OF PSEUDO-ANONYMOUS CONNECTION
All humans are chaos gremlins — it’s about finding the ones who meld with you. lelapin, 37, seeking: M, l
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
BEST HUGS EVER
I’m looking for someone to start off as friends with the possibility for more if the attraction is there. I’m a very warm and naturally affectionate person — I love nothing more than a good cuddle. It’s important to me to be able to talk and share interests with someone and be myself around them. Bookwyrm 50 seeking: M, l
ECHO
Companionship for an outdoor enthusiast. Hiking, bicycling, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing are my go-to activities; however, I have an adventurous spirit, open to other outdoor activities. echo65, 59, seeking: M, l
FUN WOMAN SEEKING PLAYMATE
Sixty and new to Vermont, looking for other fun women for hiking, kayaking, exploring; or music, films and dinner. I live globally, but also a rooted, down-to-earth former organic farmer. Teacher, learner, avid environmentalist. In need of new buddies for fun and adventure, and if the vibes are right, perhaps a lover. Friends first. Majinamwezi 61 seeking: W, l
PLAYFUL, THOUGHTFUL, OBSERVANT, HYBRID
I love cleverness and discussing ideas. I appreciate humility, wisdom and smilers. I avoid the conventional and am enlivened by those with a childlike love of learning and discovery. I love cooking, eating out, movies, biking, small-venue music, lectures, art, travel, walking my dog, Ping-Pong. I love children, animals, trees, vanishing points, windows. I value authenticity and ethical decisions. Periwinkle 61, seeking: M, l
HAPPY PUPPY
Happy puppy who wants to lick your face and put my head in your (Wow, off-topic). I am that loyal, generous, fun-loving personality. Looking to stop and smell the flowers or take a walk by the lake. If it’s cold outside, let’s play Yahtzee or just snuggle in bed and talk about how life got us where we are. cuddlescat 51, seeking: M, l
PHOTOGRAPHER/MUSICIAN, DOGS, OUTDOORS, CHILL
I am an amateur photographer looking for a guy (26-45) who is also interested in photography. Looking for someone who could go on location with me, hike trails, climb mountains and explore the better points of the state while looking for the perfect shot. And later, cracking a beer to celebrate. I am a musician, animal lover, slim, attractive blonde. Houston123m 37, seeking: M, l
CURIOUS, ADVENTUROUS, SILLY AND OUTDOORSY!
I love being outside and exploring in nature, especially for off-the-beatenpath swimming holes. (In winter, too!) I’m a very curious and engaging person and definitely crave that in a partner. Being silly at times, dancing and singing are cool with me. At the same time, self-awareness is key! You get the idea, right? seejrun, 57 seeking: M, l
GENUINE
Let’s try to do this together. Open to sharing your interests and mine. I’m outdoorsy and indoorsy, from cooking and revamping projects to fishing at the shoreline. Love all types of music but rap and heavy metal. I’m sensitive and caring but keep boundaries, to help, not hurdle. All nature- and animal-friendly. Now I’m babbling. So an eye to eye, squat, cup of java. Katz111 75, seeking: M, l
DOG LOVER AND ART LOVER
I am a creative soul with a love for dogs and everything crafty. I am a huge car buff. I like going to listen to live music and am game for different adventures. I love to travel and plan to do more once I retire. RescueMom0124 61, seeking: M, l
NEXT CHAPTER, NEW ADVENTURES
Fit, active, outdoorsy and fun sixtysomething woman looking for male partner to share new adventures. Retired and enjoy winter snow sports, hiking, biking, riding horses, gardening and traveling. I’m game to explore new places and experience new adventures. If you are kind and compassionate, active and outdoorsy, fun and friendly, love animals, open and honest, then let’s connect. Vermont1978, 68, seeking: M, l
WOODS-LIVER WANNABE
Work hard, play hard, life is short. I want to meet people, have new experiences and adventures. I appreciate all things small, whether it is a tiny snail in the forest or a kind gesture. redrocks 44, seeking: M
LIFE IS HERE. NOW.
I’m an active biker, hiker, gardener, musician who has adapted well to retirement (there had to be something positive about COVID-19!) but is ready to explore life with a companion, maybe a partner, again. Many things are better with a partner, including dining out, travel, bike rides, hikes, laughing, sharing — so I’m putting my toes back in the water! maplesong 69, seeking: M, l
EASY-GOING CURMUDGEON
Looking for someone to hang out with, go to the movies and have dinner after to talk. If we like each other and want to get jiggy, bonus. 420 friendly, don’t really care for alcohol, and I do not suffer fools. I am fun and funny. No racists, antisemites, or folks who don’t get why women pick the bear. ho_hum, 55 seeking: M, l
MEN seeking...
WORKER BEE AND ADVENTURER
Easygoing and hardworking individual. I enjoy the simple things in life: visiting a new restaurant, brewery, spontaneous trips and staying active. Looking for someone who enjoys the same to hit it off with. APL, 37, seeking: W
THIRSTY
Want to grab a drink, not at a bar? Go for a walk? flyseyes31, 47 seeking: W
OLD-FASHIONED
My wife passed away, and I came to Vermont to start over and to be closer to my family. Nostromo24, 69, seeking: W, l
SOLIPSISTIC PARANOIAC SEEKS DREAM
GODDESS
I am the only one who exists. The world is the Goddess holding the Holy Grail. There is always and forever only one thing to do: DRINK! 5GMercury 32 seeking: W
MUSIC AND LIFE
Open mind, free thinker and openhearted. I’m ready for it all. Music and trees are all I really need besides food and water. Musician looking for an ear or a heart. Both would be preferred. Musicnlife 34, seeking: M
OLD-SCHOOL
Hardworking, loner, single-minded, poker face; nature, sports and extreme-sports lover, winter guy. Sheridan 44, seeking: W
I’M NOT DEAD YET!
Single for over six years (maybe more, but that’s just sad). I enjoy movies and books: sci-fi, fantasy, action; dining out (a little too often) and ice cream. Honest and loyal. Hobbes 54, seeking: W
AWESOME OLDER MAN
Original flower child, wise young senior, polyglot, generalist, seeks brainiac “younger” man for intimate friendship. I love languages, cultural diversity, real music. Professional customer relations, retired teacher, masseur (my hands are as good as my words). Thoroughly devoted to nature, fresh local food, natural wine and the charms of kindness. TheWyrd, 71, seeking: M, l
LET’S GO
Let’s go and have fun. Seeyou123 47, seeking: Cp, Gp
STRONG LIKE HORSE
Not much. Simple, hardworking guy. Looking for fun. No one-time thing. Can last for hours. Looking for the same. Tizock 35, seeking: W, l
LAID-BACK
I’m looking for a partner for life’s adventures. I’m recently retired and ready to have some fun! bobinvt56 68, seeking: W, l
OLDER MAN LOOKING FOR FUN
Happy, funny, sex, rock and roll. JoeC_72 72, seeking: W, l
SOCIAL, NATURE LOVER, HONEST, KIND
I love a good sense of humor and tell it like it is. A compassionate person, I’m open-minded. I enjoy a good party, and I’m as loyal as the day is long. Sercher, 66, seeking: W, l
NATURE-LOVING, DIVERSE GUY
Sociable, highly diverse guy in desperate need of someone to check for deer ticks! Looking for an attractive, educated woman who enjoys honest and intimate communication and can teach and learn equally. Someone who loves being outside, enjoys a variety of athletics, could happily travel anywhere and maybe thrive on a carefree day in the library. jss1 65, seeking: W, l
OLD SCHOOL
Quick wit. I have most of my teeth and a few strands of black hair. smalltown 66, seeking: W, l
NATIONAL PARKS FAN
I am a fan of the West and our national parks and am interested in finding a traveling companion. I’m easy to travel with, flexible and good company. So if you have a sense of adventure and humor, and if you are happy with your life, perhaps we could could share that. Philo24 77, seeking: W, l
COMMUNITY-MINDED AND INDEFENSIBLY JOYFUL
I love writing, dancing, making music and meaningful action. My favorite conversations are about people’s passions. I like hiking, biking and paddling, but I spend a lot of time happily indoors being social or creative or productive. I’m interested in people of all genders and am seeking a connection that generates joy every day for us both. Sylph 55, seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l
BABY BUTCH SEEKS GUIDANCE
(Not sexual or romantic.) If you’re queer, an activist or anything of the like, I would love to connect! I’m a genderweird (truly) babydyke butch, and I desperately want to learn from older queers. As much research as I’ve done on gay history, I always want to learn more and connect. If there are any other butches out there, please reach out! antweed 18, seeking: TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l
BEWARE! CHILDLESS CAT LADY AHEAD ADHDled, ailurophilic, alliterative, autodidactic acolyte of the resident demigoddesses seeks similar for socialization. Long-term, platonic friendship with humanoids is my goal. Stuff I like: gawking at the night sky; sunsets over Lake Champlain; gardening; films/TV shows about post-apocalyptic, dystopian societies; Scrabble; art; music; peoplewatching on Church Street; volunteering; etc. Not looking for a sugar parent, but I am a pauper. Alas. Ailurophile 64 seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, Gp, l
AFFECTIONATE, CURIOUS, MELLOW TRAIL TABBY
Playful cat looking for friend(s) to purr with. This kitty likes outdoorsy stuff like hiking, camping, kayaking. Cuddling in front of a fire, dates and chilling out are faves in winter. This bicat is great with black, white, calico, torties and compatible with M/W/TW/TM/GM/ NC and curious, playful CP’s. Tall, thin kitties purrferred but good cattitude helps make this one meow. HikerKat, 58 seeking: M, W, TM, TW, NC, Cp, l
LOOKING FOR FUN PEEPS
Fun, open-minded couple seeking playmates. Shoot us a note if interested so we can share details and desires. Jackrabbits, 60, seeking: W, Cp
FUN COUPLE LOOKING FOR EXPLORATION
We are a secure couple who enjoy the outdoors, good wine, great food, playing with each other, exploring our boundaries and trying new things. We are 47 and 50, looking for a fun couple or bi man to play and explore with us. We are easygoing, and we’d love to meet you and see where our mutual adventures take us. vthappycouple, 51, seeking: M, Cp, Gp
CUTE DOG, CUTER HUMAN anks for the nice hello on the bike path late morning on Sunday. Your dalmatian-esque dog was carrying a stick and looking quite pleased. Your greeting brightened my day. It’s the little things, after all. When: Sunday, September 29, 2024. Where: Burlington bike path. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916133
BJORN
B, I miss the goofy faces you’d make through my peephole. You called me a badass. Insecurity got the best of me when I said we shouldn’t be friends any more, and I’m so very sorry. I miss hearing about Schrödinger’s cat and how you need more poutine in your life. I miss being part of your world. — Bro When: Tuesday, May 3, 2022. Where: Casavant Overlook in 2022 (don’t recall the exact date). You: Man. Me: Woman. #916131
BJORN, CONTINUED
I called you once when I saw a rainbow and insisted that you go outside, because I knew you’d see one, too — and you did. I wanted to stop by to see how you were doing, but I only remembered that you lived by a castle. We thanked God for each other. I liked when you stood close to me. When: Sunday, May 1, 2022. Where: At a house by a castle back in 2022? Can’t remember the exact date. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916132
BLACK T-SHIRT AT THREE PENNY
Saw you staring at me while I was chatting at the bar. You came up and said, “So you’re an Argentina fan.” I said, “You just have to have faith. Everything will work out.” ere’s nothing simple or straightforward about this, actually. Even though I still don’t know exactly what I want, I do love you. ank you for being patient. When: Sunday, July 14, 2024. Where: ree Penny Taproom. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916130
If you’ve been spied, go online to contact your admirer!
JOGGING DOWNHILL AND WATERFRONT
We crossed paths twice very quickly, near sunset. You (jogging) had vibrant blue pants fit for jogging and a vibrant white T-shirt, also fit, and clear, seethrough square glasses frames that I like. You waved hello to me, which was kinda hard to do. I wanted to say hi back too, I was just slow. When: Saturday, September 28, 2024. Where: Burlington battery hill and waterfront. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916129
TRADER JOE’S CHECKOUT
I offered to let you go ahead of me because you were only buying two lemons and some butter. I thought you were cute and I dig your shopping list! Wish I had asked for your number but maybe you’ll see this and we could grab coffee sometime. When: Saturday, September 28, 2024. Where: Trader Joe’s. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916128
UVM CHEM PROF
Lady, you can’t imagine your young lez following. When: Friday, September 20, 2024. Where: Class. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916127
ORANGE METEOR
Zooming past so fast on the bike/ rough Winooski with one or two tyke/ So hot did you burn/ Doth made these loins churn/ So how do I send you a “Like”? When: Friday, September 20, 2024. Where: Winooski rotary. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916126
WATERWORKS BAR CHAT
We met at the bar and struck up a conversation ranging from tattoos to your journey through motherhood. anks for a wonderful chat. It brightened up my evening! When: Friday, September 20, 2024. Where: Waterworks in Winooski. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916124
Irreverent counsel on life’s conundrums
Rev end,
My wife has become obsessed with arranging the contents of our refrigerator. Whenever I take anything out of it, it seems like she’s right behind me to make sure it gets put back correctly. I thought she was just on one of her usual organizing kicks, but the other day I noticed a flower in a vase inside the fridge. What the hell is going on here?
TO OUR HOSTESS AT SNEAKERS
You were our hostess and helped us to a table outside in the bright sun. We swapped sitting spots on the table multiple times because of the light — sorry! We both thought you were very cute. ank you for brightening up our day, along with the sun. When: Saturday, September 21, 2024. Where: Sneakers Bistro in Williston. You: Couple. Me: Man. #916125
THERE ARE A COUPLE OF OPTIONS
Either there are many women with similar stories, or there are women everywhere attempting to mimic energy not theirs for a feeling of “love.” is bitterness needs to subside: e ones who know, know what I’ve been asking for — even the one who is too chickenshit to open the door. When: Friday, September 20, 2024. Where: In the wind. You: Group. Me: Woman. #916123
YOU DON’T DESERVE ME!
For 20 years, I gave you my heart and you stomped all over it. I gave you my love and you abused it. I gave you my trust and you broke it. I gave you my support in everything you do and you took the picture for granted. I gave you pure honesty and you gave me lies. KSM, goodbye. When: Friday, September 20, 2024. Where: Everywhere. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916122
MY GRE-GLORIOUS BEST FRIEND
Of all the shiny, bald-headed men in Vermont, you are the shiniest and the baldest. ank you for being the very best you that anyone might ever hope you might be. My dog and I think you are wonderful. When: Saturday, September 14, 2024. Where: Waterbury Mobil. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916121
LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP
Love is very precious, whether it’s in a friendship or a relationship: You are receiving the most precious gift, someone’s heart in your hands. It is your job to handle it delicately. Be kind, compassionate, loyal and work hard to take care of it. is love and heart will stay forever. Neglect it and you will miss out on all the beautiful memories. When: Wednesday, September 11, 2024. Where: Everywhere. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916115
I’m going to hazard a guess that your wife spends some time watching Instagram reels and TikTok videos. e flower in the vase is a telltale sign that she’s fallen victim to the hard-to-believe-it’strue trend of fridgescaping.
SHARON OF COLCHESTER
Sharon, almost a year ago we hiked above Bristol with our common friend, Nancy. You were amazing in hiking power, intimate conversation and tender affections. Let’s walk together again. — Eric the golden retriever When: Monday, October 16, 2023. Where: In bristol. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916120
MANY MOONS
Sometimes I called you Moons and it’s been many of them since we’ve seen each other. But you’re so elusive — so hidden! I have no idea who you’re with or how you live. I don’t want to rustle your nest. I swam a circle around the dock, and I’m ready to grow kale and write stories on a hill with you. When: Monday, September 16, 2019. Where: Hills and hollers of Vermont. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916119
SAFETY FIRST, THEN TEAMWORK
My Koomie, my Harry, my Jeff, my Daffy. Before I met you, the sun was like a yellow grape. Our ratings have been low, but let’s renew for another two seasons. Who knows? Maybe we could make it past our 50th, like Bert and Ernie. Just two cool dudes getting married. Happy anniversary, sweet prince. HONK! When: Sunday, September 25, 2022. Where: A sideways tugboat?. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916117
A PATTERN?
You stopped, came back for a second look, a small banter and backed away really fast. It hurts. Please stop playing with me — we both know I don’t deserve it. ere’s only so much pain a human can take and maintain their humanity. And my humanity is the only thing you seem interested in. I’m not going to lose it. When: Wednesday, September 11, 2024. Where: So close and yet so far. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916116
WAITING AT LAKE & COLLEGE
You were waiting on the corner near Skinny Pancake, wearing black. I came down College, in jeans and a green shirt, carrying a small box. When you turned, I thought, Whoa! So pretty! and we smiled at each other. I was thinking about turning around to talk to you when I ran into friends by the traffic circle. When: Tuesday, September 10, 2024. Where: Lake and College. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916114
STARR FARM BEAUTY
Words aren’t enough: your slender body with awesome curves. Bi male looking to join beach couples! Bottoms up. When: Friday, September 13, 2024. Where: Starr Farm beach. You: Couple. Me: Man. #916118
A VORTEX, A VORPAL
You: Drawn into the vortex of my shirt, so much so that it seemed to become “vorpal” (which, though penned for Jabberwocky, now holds the meanings “3. Decisively important, fateful; 4. Decreed by fate”). Me: Standing by the merch table at ArtsRiot, suggested that you come back and say hi again, but the Art Hop ate you. More, please? When: Friday, September 6, 2024. Where: ArtsRiot. You: Man. Me: Man. #916113
To the cute girl with the short pigtails: I see you there all the time, and you are always busy, so I can’t ask you out. Let’s meet for some coffee. — e good-looking guy with the great hair in the blue Gymshark shirt. When: Saturday, September 7, 2024. Where: Burlington Bagel, Shelburne Road. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916112
TO LOVE10
You are such a coward. It would be best to stop dreaming and fantasizing about a relationship that will never happen. You should stay with your mediocre life and disappear in the dust. Now I see that you are a worthless human being. Regrets, regrets and more regrets crossing your path. When: Friday, September 6, 2024. Where: In the universe. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916111
HEARTBROKEN SOULMATE
One day, you’ll look out for me, regretful and asking me to come back. We only appreciate it after losing a great love, and love like mine is hard to find. When loneliness disappoints your heart, you’ll remember and miss the moments together. It’s like a knife that cuts right to my soul. Only love can hurt like this. When: Friday, September 6, 2024. Where: In my dreams. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916110
38)
Fridgescaping can entail anything from using vintage containers and baskets to store your leftovers and produce to adorning the inside of your fridge with seasonal decorations. One TikTok user, Lynzi Judish, has taken it so far as to create themed fridgescapes based on e Hobbit and “Bridgerton” — or “Fridgerton.”
It’s the act of arranging and styling the inside of your refrigerator like you would any other part of your home. Although the idea has gained popularity on social media as of late, the term was coined back in 2011 in a blog post by a retired design consultant named Kathy Perdue. She wrote about the joys of tidying up her fridge to make it look good and used a play on the word “tablescaping.” It took a while to catch on, but here we are.
e aesthetic appeal of seeing a well-organized fridge every time you open the door can give your brain a blast of the happy chemical dopamine. And who doesn’t love that? Other benefits include producing less food waste and making cooking more exciting; it’s also a fairly simple creative outlet. As long as the food is stored safely, there’s really no harm.
You may as well join in the fun. Perhaps sometime when your wife isn’t looking, you could add a little Halloween décor to a crisper drawer.
Good luck and God bless,
The Rev end
What’s your problem? Send it to asktherev@sevendaysvt.com.
I’m a 54-y/o male seeking a 50- to 60-y/o female. Looking for an honest person. Sex is less important. I enjoy taking walks, soft rock and movies, in or out. Love to go out to eat. No drugs, no smoking. #L1800
T-girl? Transgender? CD? Gay? I’m a dom, so looking for subs, thanks. #L1799
SWM, 69, seeking a SF. I am warm, friendly, clean and respectful, seeking a LTR. Just an ordinary guy looking for same. Phone number, please. #L1798
GM looking for hookups. Age and race not important. #L1796
REPLY
SWM, 55, seeking Barbie with brains. FWB/NSA relationship and open to a LTR. Seeking any woman, younger or older, for fun play. Please send a picture and contact info. I’m looking for one woman for a special time together. #L1797
Marshmallow enthusiast, wildflower gazer, sort-of seamstress, ex-librarian seeks someone who enjoys literature and going outside. I’m a 37-y/o woman; you’re a person in your 30s or early 40s. I’m nerdy but cool. Are you? #L1794
Abstract portrait artist in need of a discreet female model (1828). #L1795
I’m a male, 65, seeking a female. Respectful, warm, friendly, would like to find a female to share some life with. Dining in as well as out. Likes music. Please send phone number. #L1790
I’m a SWM looking for a large Black man to engage in sexual copulation with. I am a humanist and very open to exploring the physical limitations of my flesh suit. HIV+ OK. Males only, please. #L1792
SWF, 55, seeks companionship. Former classical pianist of 13 years, well read, vegetarian, studied in Geneva, Switzerland, and Paris. I have a good sense of humor. Music a must: vintage Bowie, folk, Celtic. I’m also a childless cat person! #L1788
I’m a SWF, 62 y/o, in central Vermont, seeking a SM, 57-67 y/o, for possible LT relationship. Hoping to meet someone who also loves balanced ecosystems, great food and drink, honest conversations, and the good chores of each season. #L1789
A “love letter” would infer that we have met. Love letters started in the 1800s. Love letters ended in 2002 with the success of email. Let’s turn back the clock. I’m a 63-y/o male. Physically fit, healthy lifestyle, enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer. Cheers to us. #1786
I’m a GM, mid-60s, seeking a SM, 70s, passionate. Enjoy many activities: nature walks, camping. Let’s talk, hopefully meet. #L1791
I’m a 70-y/o man seeking a woman 45-70. I have money and would like to spend pleasurable time with you. I am clean, caring and considerate. I am fit for my age. Phone number. #1787
Woman, 59. Healthy, respectful, genuine. I’d like to share the last dance with a man in the country. A man who is kind, healthy and stable. A man who cares about how he treats a person and is well liked by others. Phone number, please. #1782
I’m a single white man looking for friends with benefits. Race unimportant. Love to be happy, spend time with the opposite sex and just enjoy each other. Good company always a plus. I love music, sports, being on the water. #1785
I’m a 63-y/o male. Married with no sex life. Bi-curious. Must be clean, safe and discreet. Send me your number, and I’ll call and we can talk first. #L1783
Female in early 20s. Must like cats, cheese and crafting (C trifecta). I’m looking for a man (yes, a man, not a boy) with some mass to him. Someone who shares my distrust in big pharma would be an added bonus. #L1781
I’m an 80-y/o woman seeking a man, late 60s and up. I want friendship and companionship. Love the outdoors. Barbecue or grill sometimes in the summer. Wish I could travel to places I have never been. #L1775
I’m a male, early 40s, single, straight. However, my life’s journey has led me to the point of becoming curious about exploring subconscious desires. Seeking cute, passable, thin-to-average 24-45-y/o TF or TF/F couple for safe, discreet conversation or meetup. #L1776
Seal your reply — including your preferred contact info — inside an envelope. Write your pen pal’s box number on the outside of that envelope and place it inside another envelope with payment. Responses for Love Letters must begin with the #L box number.
MAIL TO: Seven Days Love Letters PO Box 1164, Burlington, VT 05402
PAYMENT: $5/response. Include cash or check (made out to “Seven Days”) in the outer envelope. To send unlimited replies for only $15/month, call us at 802-865-1020, ext. 161 for a membership (credit accepted).
PUBLISH YOUR MESSAGE ON THIS PAGE!
1 Submit your FREE message at sevendaysvt.com/loveletters or use the handy form at right.
LOVE LE ERS: We’ll publish as many messages as we can in the Love Letters section above.
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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)
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MAIL TO: SEVEN DAYS LOVE LETTERS • PO BOX 1164, BURLINGTON, VT 05402
OPTIONAL WEB FORM: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LOVELETTERS HELP: 802-865-1020, EXT. 161, LOVELETTERS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM
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Living with Loss: A Gathering for the Grieving
WED., OCT 2 ONLINE
Eco-resiliency Gathering: Environment and Gender
WED., OCT 2 ONLINE
Just Getting By: Screening of Bess O'Brien's Film
WED., OCT 2
HUNTINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
First Friday and Community Art Show
Opening: Passage to Wonderland
FRI., OCT 4, SAT., OCT 5
HUNTINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Queen City Ghostwalk Darkness Falls Tour
FRI., OCT 4, SAT. OCT 5, COURTHOUSE PLAZA, BURLINGTON
Reggaetón Dance Party with DJ Chele
FRI., OCT 4
THE UNDERGROUND, RANDOLPH
The Magnetica Concert
SAT., OCT 5
MAGNETICA PERFORMANCE SPACE, BURLINGTON
Warren Nicholson, Guitar
SUN., OCT 6
CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF ST. PAUL, BURLINGTON
Outer Sounds ft. Lori Goldston + Kath Bloom
MON., OCT 7
THE PHOENIX, WATERBURY VILLAGE
'The Basics' Cake Decorating Class
TUE., OCT 8
RED POPPY CAKERY, WATERBURY VILLAGE
WED., OCT 9
TRS Live: Matt Hagen's Murder Ballads
TANK RECORDING STUDIO, BURLINGTON
Nowhere Washington, Western Terrestrials, Jonny Hick and the Kickers
FRI., OCT 11
THE UNDERGROUND, RANDOLPH
TRS Live: Madaila
FRI., OCT 11
TANK RECORDING STUDIO, BURLINGTON
Knife Skills with Revel Woodworking and Vermont Sharp
SAT., OCT 12
SIDEPONY BOUTIQUE, HINESBURG
A Celebration of Showing Up
SAT., OCT 12
HULA, BURLINGTON
Diamonds Are ForeverA Golden Gala
SAT., OCT 12
BURLINGTON COUNTRY CLUB
Perfume & Wine Party with Bloom Lab
SUN., OCT 13
MAQUAM WINERY, MILTON
Mandarin Conversation Circle
TUE., OCT 15
SOUTH BURLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Facing Change: Life's Transitions and Transformations
WED., OCT 16 ONLINE
TURNmusic hosts October Jazz Jam
WED., OCT 16
THE PHOENIX, WATERBURY VILLAGE
