Seven Days, October 23, 2024 by Seven Days

INDUSTRY

WEEK IN REVIEW

OCTOBER 16-23, 2024

DEEP CUTS

$400,000

That’s how much Amazon will pay Vermont for allowing mail-order sales of vaping and tobacco products to state residents.

UVM’S BUDGET CRUNCH

Facing a $10 million budget deficit, University of Vermont trustees will consider raising in-state tuition for the first time in five years.

Boosting tuition next ﬁscal year for out-of-staters — which went up 3.5 percent in the current year’s budget — will also be on the table at the trustees’ meeting on Friday, October 25, said Ron Lumbra, chair of the board.

“With the budget pressures we have, it’s inconceivable to me that we’ll be able to maintain ﬂat tuition as we’ve been able to do in the past,” Lumbra said. “ ere will have to be increases in tuition, no question about it.”

Climbing health insurance costs are to blame for the shortfall, according to Richard Cate, UVM’s interim vice president for ﬁnance and administration. e school spends about $100 million annually on employee health insurance, a ﬁgure that rose 15 percent last year and is expected to go up another 19 percent in the coming year.

“ e biggest challenge we’re being confronted with is the signiﬁcant increase in the cost of health care,” Cate said. “It’s those types of things that no organization can sustain for too many years.”

UVM has made no secret of its struggle to stay ﬁnancially strong in the rapidly evolving higher education market. e school is a relatively large institution for a

Vermont State University is building a meatprocessing facility at its Randolph campus to train people in the industry. Beeﬁng up its o erings.

STALLED OUT

TOPFIVE

SAFETY FIRST

South Burlington is the safest city in the U.S. and Vermont is the safest state, according to a study by WalletHub. That surely settles the public debate.

RAISING THE ROOF

Vermont is setting up three shelters — in Montpelier, Waterbury and Williston — for homeless families. Two should open by November 1 but without enough capacity for all.

4. “A Look Inside Christine Farrell’s Rare Comics Collection” by Chris Farnsworth. Following the death of the Earth Prime Comics owner, a collection of rare comic books is poised to auction for millions.

5. “Gold Restaurant Brings an Italian-ish Sparkle to Burlington” by Jordan Barry. Along with handmade pastas and small plates, the new eatery offers $1 oysters in the early evening.

GO SCIENCE

A classroom on wheels is delivering science lessons to kids in Addison County.

Mount Abraham Uniﬁed School District’s Extended Learning Program is using a converted mini school bus as a mobile makerspace that travels between elementary schools each week in the rural district. Dubbed MILO — which stands for My Innovative Learning Opportunity — the bus provides hands-on workshops to students after the school day has ended.

Jodi Pierce, who calls herself Ms. Jedi Frizzle in honor of the beloved science teacher in the Magic School Bus series, is the traveling educator behind the lessons. A recent one on density had students create lava lamps with

baking soda, vegetable oil and vinegar. Another lesson, on the electromagnetic spectrum, used prisms to demonstrate that white light is made up of all the colors of the rainbow.

MILO is modeled after another visionary vehicle, EMMA (Everyone May Make Anywhere), a van-turned-makerspace launched by Northeast Kingdom tech educator Lucie deLaBruere in 2015. She inspired two Mount Abe educators in 2018 to renovate an out-of-commission mini bus that the school district owned. Using federal grant money, Expanded Learning Program director Mandy Chesley Park and assistant superintendent Catrina DiNapoli led a project to revamp the inside with the help of several area automotive centers and a local carpenter. e seats were replaced with two booths that each ﬁt four students. ere’s also a long countertop and plenty of storage space.

e pandemic put plans for MILO on hold. But last school year, it started making trips

every six weeks to Starksboro, a community in which 71 percent of students qualify for free and reduced lunch, to provide counseling services, mentoring, free meals and seasonal activities such as apple cider making. e afterschool science lessons began this school year. And starting in December, the district will partner with Brooklyn-based artist Tom Pnini to teach students how to use cardboard to create art, from self-portraits to monster sculptures.

Pierce said that when she pulls the bright green bus into a school parking lot, students often can’t contain their excitement.

“It’s MILO!” she said they yell. “We’re getting MILO today!”

ALISON

NOVAK

COMPILED BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN

Mount Abraham students aboard MILO

UVM’s Morrill Hall

“I’d

Paula Routly

Cathy Resmer

Don Eggert, Colby Roberts

NEWS & POLITICS

Ken Ellingwood, Candace Page

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

ARTS & CULTURE

Dan Bolles, Carolyn Fox

Chelsea Edgar, Margot Harrison, Pamela Polston

Alice Dodge

Chris Farnsworth

Rebecca Driscoll

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

Alice Dodge, Angela Simpson

Katherine Isaacs, Martie Majoros, Elizabeth M. Seyler

DIGITAL & VIDEO

Bryan Parmelee

Eva Sollberger

James Buck

Je Baron DESIGN

Don Eggert

Rev. Diane Sullivan

John James

Je Baron

& MARKETING

Colby Roberts

Robyn Birgisson

Michelle Brown, Logan Pintka, Kaitlin Montgomery

Carolann Whitesell ADMINISTRATION

Marcy Stabile

Andy Watts

Gillian English

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Luke Awtry, Daria Bishop, Diana Bolton, James Buck, Rob Donnelly, Tim Newcomb, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur FOUNDERS

Pamela Polston, Paula Routly

CIRCULATION: 35,000

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

Seven Days is printed at Quebecor Media Printing in Mirabel, Québec.

DELIVERY TECHNICIANS

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DEADLY CONNECTION

Thank you so much for [“The Straw Man,” October 16]. I have struggled for so long to understand the stance regarding guns in Vermont. I have also struggled to understand the large homeless population in a rural state. It all became so clear when I read this story. The die-hard gun advocates either don’t have a clue or just don’t care to know the facts. It’s like the sun came out on a cloudy day. Gov. Phil Scott saw it for what it was and signed a bill that people just cruciﬁed him over. The citizens of Vermont have got to open their eyes and realize that the huge homeless population, drugs and gun control are incestuously related, and nothing will get better until everyone wants to ﬁx the problem. Seven Days has taught me so much in such a short time.

Virginia Small CLARENDON

SOMETHING ABOUT MARY

[Re “The Ballad of Tom Banjo: From Folk Songs to Cranky Shows, Tom Azarian Is Vermont’s ‘Vagabond’ Storyteller,” October 2]: Mary Azarian, celebrated artist-printmaker and illustrator, has deﬁned Vermont’s rural landscape and lifestyle for decades. A warm and welcoming person, Mary is modest in her accomplishments. Her many posters, calendars, cards and books depicting children, animals and Vermont’s seasons reveal her passion for simplicity of life. We are fortunate that Tom Banjo Azarian and Mary settled in Calais. Their unique passions and talents have given us much.

Ruth Furman JERICHO

WHO’S VOTING?

In the article “Democracy 101” [October 9], Ken Picard tells us how schools are preparing students to vote responsibly in the November 5 election.

Compare this to the announcement the City of Burlington has published on voting: “Full-time residents of Burlington who legally reside here, regardless of citizenship status, can vote on these local ballot items. Free interpreters are available for both early voting and at the polls. For early voting interpretation help, come to the Clerk-Treasurer’s o ce. For interpretation help at the polls, ask the election o cial at the polling place.”

In other words, Burlington does not care if you can speak English, let alone

have some familiarity with American history and civics.

How can we expect fair and e ective voting on the issues of the day when we are opening the polls to anyone who simply happens to be housed in Burlington?

Jack Scully

BURLINGTON

Editor’s note: Winooski, Montpelier and Burlington allow noncitizen residents to vote on local matters. They can weigh in on ballot questions, as well as on races for mayor, city council and school board members. They do not receive ballots for statewide or federal contests.

‘EXCELLENT INTRODUCTION’

I was fortunate to be able to attend the ﬁrst viewing of this three-actor performance at the Burlington Friends Meeting House and met the play writer, Crystal Zevon, in person [“ One Family in Gaza Recounts a War Through a Father’s Texts,” October 2]. Ken Picard’s article in Seven Days was an excellent introduction, which I have saved to share with friends.

I hope to be able to bring the actors together again where I live at Burlington Cohousing for another performance in our Common Room. Crystal Zevon wants to share the story widely and says you can use each updated copy of it for any three actors who want to perform it.

I will say there are a lot of emotions shared in the play, which tells of actual events going on in Gaza. Hopefully Seven Days will be able to advertise future performances, which will encourage people to help put an end to this war.

Jean Hopkins BURLINGTON

Editor’s note: Event listings are free in our community calendar. Find the submission form under “events” at sevendaysvt.com.

ANTISEMITIC SHORTHAND

I am disappointed in Ken Picard’s description of the reasons for campus strife [“Democracy 101,” October 9]. He states: “Several of these programs were borne from the strife that roiled college campuses nationwide earlier this year after Israel’s invasion of Gaza,” while entirely missing the point that the reason for the invasion was a terrorist attack that murdered 1,200 people. I look forward to seeing peace in the region but must call out the underlying antisemitism that is taking hold in this country and our state.

Nancy Kaplan BURLINGTON

Embrace Your Inner Artist

GOOD COVERAGE OF HOUSING CRISIS

Thank you, Seven Days, for the breadth of information you keep providing on housing. Vermont has an unprecedented housing crisis. It’s helpful to know the details. From the wonderful Local Deeds program in Woodstock that assists with down payments to own houses in the local community [“Home Run: A Program That Helps Local Workers Buy Houses in Woodstock Is a Hit,” October 9] to the “Buyout Blues” story in the same issue on homeowners who are victims of flooding, where town leaders get to determine if they’ll be allowed to get a FEMA buyout so they don’t have to go through rebuilding time after time in the same location. Previously, you have run stories on the plight of the homeless.

I’ve lived in Vermont since 1965. I remember a time when people left their keys in their cars and the doors to their homes unlocked. When you could charge food at the local grocery store and people helped others in trouble. Now we have leaders in some communities that put the tax base above the health and freedom of their neighbor who lives in a high-risk zone so they can move on with their lives. We have a governor and legislature who have abandoned seniors, children and disabled people who are homeless and living in cars or tents in the cold. Right now.

It’s shameful that we have leaders who put money and “the greater good’’ above the health and welfare of the most vulnerable. In this election, vote for leaders who put people first.

Joe Patrissi SOUTH BURLINGTON

KEEP GODDARD ALIVE

Keep the Goddard College campus alive!

It’s so important in this rural part of the state [“Goddard’s Latest Buyer Envisions Housing, Art Studios,” October 14, online; “Goddard Trustees Say Campus Has Been Sold to NH Developer,” October 7, online; “Goddard College Sale Has Fallen Through,” September 30, online; “Goddard Buyers Envision ‘Bustling, Busy Campus Again,’ September 23, online; “Goddard College Announces the Sale of Its Campus to a Local Nonprofit,” August 1, online; “Opportunity Knocks? Some Residents Flooded Out of Plainfield Think Goddard’s Campus Should Become Home,” July 24; “Goddard College Campus Is Back on the Market,” July 16, online; “Goddard College Campus Is Under Contract, Trustees Say,” May 28, online; “Goddard College to Close After Spring Term,” April 9, online]!

Carol Ray WOODBURY

CORRECTION

Last week’s cover story, “The Straw Man,” inaccurately reported that Dylan Russell’s plea agreement was filed under seal. It was not.

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Seven Days, P.O. Box 1164, Burlington, VT 05402-1164

Find joy in self-expression with support from encouraging instructors.

Enrolling all levels for Drawing, Painting, and Fused Glass Classes.

This isn’t merely about the power packed BMW X5. It’s about the evolution of a vehicle built to conquer everything from everyday excursions to once in a lifetime adventures.

With its redesigned exterior styling, interior enhancements like the innovative curved display, and with three powerful engine options, the BMW X5 is an invitation to begin an exciting new journey.

Whether you’re on busy city streets or navigating rugged mountain roads, the BMW X5 delivers.

This is the Ultimate Driving Machine.®

NEWS+POLITICS 14

Ground Control

Precision agriculture helps Vermont farmers handle chores, increase production and reduce environmental impacts

Handys Must Pay Burlington

$66K for Violations

Beta Build-Out

e South Burlington company preps its production line as it races to take electric aviation to market

A Vermont Solar Installer

Pivots to Electric Vehicle

Chargers

Risk and Reward

Artiﬁcial intelligence has the potential to transform education. But even proponents advise caution.

Circuit Breaker

Vermont researchers are working on a self-destructing microchip

FEATURES 26

Intelligent Design?

Inside Matty Benedetto’s new Unnecessary Inventions studio in Burlington

Help Wanted

At Generator Makerspace, Vermont manufacturers trade strategies for addressing the labor shortage

FOOD+ DRINK 36 Ready for Launch

Eat Vermont founder Rocket aims to help small businesses with a new AI-powered app

The Store That Tech Saved

Lincoln residents Katie and Kyle Clark of Beta Technologies stepped up to buy their town’s general store

The Sensei

At his Esports Dojo in Essex Junction, Grant Patterson teaches life lessons through video games

ARTS+CULTURE 42

That’s Not the Ticket Predatory ticket resellers are increasingly sophisticated in duping fans. And it’s mostly legal.

Zooming In

At the Flynn, live video projection brings audiences closer to VSO musicians

Impractical Jokers

eater review:

e Cherry Orchard

Middlebury Acting Company

Ink Spots

Tattoo artists gather in St. Albans for an annual convention

Gaming the System

Champlain College celebrates 20 years of gaming with an exhibition and new permanent art installation

Soft Science: ‘Wool and Water’ at North Branch

Nature Center

Behold, the Magnetica!

Katherine Quittner’s elaborate sound healing contraption is good for what ails you … maybe

COLUMNS

11 Magniﬁcent 7

From the Publisher

Side Dishes

Soundbites

Ask the Reverend

Food + Drink

second

the

annual Rail City Tattoo Festival at St. Albans City Hall, 48 tattoo artists from across the state and country gathered to meet more than 1,000 attendees, many of whom got fresh ink. Seven Days Eva Sollberger got a temporary tattoo at the family-friendly event.

COVER DESIGN REV. DIANE SULLIVAN • IMAGE ROB DONNELLY

STUCK IN VERMONT

MAGNIFICENT

MUST SEE, MUST DO THIS WEEK COMPILED BY REBECCA DRISCOLL

THURSDAY 24

Switching Lenses

SATURDAY 26 & SUNDAY 27

Sports ﬂicks — with a twist — steal the screen during the No Man’s Land Film Festival at Essex Cinemas. e showcase shifts the typical androcentric focus to the perspectives of women and genderqueer ﬁlmmakers. A thrilling lineup features nail-biter sports and the athletes who dominate them — including Vermont mountain biker Alex Showerman.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 64

BAROQUE BLAST

Karen Kevra and Jillian Reed (pictured) perform the German composer’s timeless works with precision and passion.

SEE CALENDAR LISTINGS ON PAGES 69 AND 70

FRIDAY 25

& SATURDAY 26

Stuffed Spirits

Capital City Concerts returns with “A Musical Offering of Instrumental Works of J.S. Bach” at the Unitarian Church of Montpelier and the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Burlington. Pianist Jeewon Park, violinist Jeffrey Multer, cellist Edward Arron, and ﬂutists

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 66

e Taxidermy Terror haunted tour at the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St. Johnsbury unveils what lies beneath those creaky, century-old ﬂoorboards. Intrepid guests ages 14 and up begin in the museum’s main gallery, then embark on a jump-scare journey through hidden passageways and fog-ﬁlled darkness to where chilling creations lurk in the basement.

ONGOING

Conjuring Questions

At Julian Scott Memorial Gallery in Johnson, master of ﬁne arts student Matt Neckers’ solo exhibit, “A Device for Communicating With Spirits,” underscores the inherent conﬂict between reason and faith. rough myriad media, Neckers imbues his works with a common theme — that some things are simply beyond our understanding.

SEE GALLERY LISTING AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/ART

FRIDAY 25-SUNDAY 27

British Invasion

Montpelier chamber music ensemble Counterpoint are known for their vast repertoire, from folk songs to African American spirituals. “ e Sceptered Isle” — coming to Shelburne; Hanover, N.H.; and the Capital City — features noteworthy sacred and secular works of the English choral tradition, including compositions by Tudor-era favorite omas Tallis and 20th-century visionary Gerald Finzi.

SEE CALENDAR LISTINGS ON PAGES 68, 69 AND 70

SATURDAY 26

Wheels and Witches

Green Mountain Roller Derby’s action-packed Terror on the Track event, at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction, incites gasps of delight from costumed fans — both young and young at heart. e state’s premier skaterowned and -operated team faces off against New Hampshire Roller Derby in a battle royal showcasing guts, glory and the spooky spirit of Halloween.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 72

SUNDAY 27

Verses in Vermont

2024 poet laureate nominee Toussaint St. Negritude launches his debut volume, Mountain Spells, at the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum. e self-described “Afrofuturist/Oro-shamanic” artist regales listeners with spiritual literary treasures that Pulitzer Prize winner Gwendolyn Brooks describes as “full of sweet sounds and surprises.”

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 71

YEARS IN THE MAKING

Speakers: Governor Madeleine Kunin; Representative Becca Balint; Charity Clark, Vermont Attorney General; Jessica Barquist, Director of Planned Parenthood Vermont Action Fund; Ann Pugh, retired State Representative and women’s rights leader; Kiah Morris, Kennedy Jensen, Christine Hallquist, Jayna Ahsaf, Bianca Stone, Lushanya Echeverria and Beverly Little Thunder.

Music by Patti Casey and Dwight & Nicole.

Melinda Moulton, Master of Ceremonies

The casual American greeting “What’s new?” is apropos in a country known for invention and problem solving. It’s no wonder so many tech companies have sprouted in this land, from California to the New York Island.

Vermont, too, has hosted its share of future-focused, cutting-edge enterprises since IBM set up shop in Essex Junction in 1957. A dozen years later, three local guys started the healthcare software company IDX and ran it successfully for almost four decades. In 2006, they sold to GE HealthCare for $1.2 billion. A year later, Apple released the iPhone. I remember 2007 with some residual PTSD. By then the internet had changed the way people consumed news and information, and there was an online version of Seven Days — complete with web-only content including blogs and a video series — that at the time generated next-to-no additional revenue. Steve Jobs’ new invention meant we’d have to ﬁgure out how to deliver our content to yet another platform. Soon thereafter came the iPad.

Meanwhile, Craig Newmark was coming for our business model. Founded in San Francisco in 1995, the same year as Seven Days, his Craigslist grew from an email sent to friends into a for-proﬁt free-forall local bulletin board that expanded city by city across the country, summarily wiping out the classiﬁed advertising in newspapers that for centuries had relied on that revenue to fund their operations.

By some small miracle, Craigslist took 12 years to get to Vermont. Wracked with worry about what it would do to the paper, I came down with a disabling case of shingles. I vividly remember balancing my computer on the edge of an oatmeal bath and, even though it was winter, walking around the o ce with my shirt o one shoulder because for months I couldn’t tolerate the sensation of fabric on my skin.

I was right to be anxious. Half right, anyway. Craigslist slowly decimated our sale-by-owner listings but, amazingly, spared the helpwanted section. Some employers tried the free online service but didn’t

stop using us. When seeking job applicants, I think business owners and HR professionals wanted to cast as wide a net as possible. Plus, our ads worked.

Around the same time, we noticed in the employment pages a growing number of local entities that we had never heard of. They were Vermont tech companies looking for skilled employees — and not ﬁnding enough — at a time when o cials were warning that young people were leaving the state for jobs in cities such as Boston and Austin, Texas.

Seven Days teamed up with education, government and private-sector partners to create the Vermont Tech Jam, a job fair and tech showcase that brought these specialized local employers face-to-face with prospective hires. In the process of organizing the event and recruiting exhibitors for it, we discovered local companies with reputations that extended way beyond the state’s borders, in the ﬁelds of wind energy, robotics, bioscience, e-commerce. Outﬁts such as Burlington’s Soundtoys, which makes digital audio tools used by musicians and producers from Beck to Trent Reznor to Jad Abumrad of Radiolab; and Polhemus, a world leader in motiontracking technology based in Colchester. That town is also home to employee-owned Vermont Information Processing, now VIP, which makes software used by breweries, wineries and all manner of beverage distributors.

The Vermont Tech Jam gathered up a vital part of the state’s economy and made it visible. Jammers, including schoolkids, got a good look at exciting employers they would never have known existed and might want to work for someday.

Our journalists took notice, too. Since the ﬁrst Jam in January 2008, they’ve been reporting on Vermont’s tech industry in the issue of

WE HOPE THIS ISSUE ANSWERS THE PERENNIAL “WHAT’S NEW?” QUESTION. IT MAY ALSO BE WORTH ASKING: “WHAT HAS ENDURED?”

Seven Days that comes out in advance of the annual event. As technology has become a bigger part of our lives, the issue has also o ered an opportunity to reﬂect on the changes — positive and negative. Every department, from news to visual art and food, discovers compelling stories.

In this week’s edition you’ll ﬁnd: the latest on Beta Technologies and its new manufacturing facility at the Burlington airport from Derek Brouwer, who has covered the company’s wild ride in pursuit of electric aviation; a roundup of ag innovations, from digital fences to bovine Fitbits, being used on Vermont farms; a check-in with Vermont teachers about artiﬁcial intelligence in local schools — according to education reporter Alison Novak, their views on AI are evolving as quickly as the technology.

On the culture side: Mary Ann Lickteig writes about how sophisticated ticket scams are complicating the work of local arts organizations; Chris Farnsworth blows o some steam at an esports dojo in Essex. In food, Eat Vermont has a new app and the Lincoln General Store, new

tech-funded owners. Dan Bolles pays a visit to the Church Street studio of Unnecessary Inventions and talks with founder Matty Benedetto to ﬁnd out how he has amassed 15 million followers on social media. It’s a follow-up to Bolles’ 2019 cover proﬁle of Benedetto and a preview of the unusual inventor’s noon talk at Saturday’s Vermont Tech Jam.

We hope this issue answers the perennial “What’s new?” question. But, considering how many tech startups have come and gone, grown and sold, changed names and left Vermont in the 16 years Seven Days has been paying attention, it may also be worth asking: “What has endured?”

Deputy publisher Cathy Resmer will pursue that line of inquiry with Roland Groeneveld, cofounder of the South Burlington company OnLogic, in a keynote sit-down interview on Saturday at 3 p.m. He and his wife, Lisa, a Barre native, started the now 21-year-old ﬁrm that has grown substantially in Vermont during the time that we have been reporting on this sector of the economy. They just constructed a sleek new headquarters that’s visible from Interstate 89. Lauren Lavallee, OnLogic’s vice president of HR, joins Groeneveld onstage to o er her perspective as one of those young people who stayed in Vermont and built a successful career at an innovative company here.

Other indicators that local tech is here to stay: The celebrated video game program at Champlain College is turning 20. So is the Vermont Technology Alliance, which began in 2004 as the Vermont Software Developers Alliance. On Tuesday, the media brand Inc. named the Vermont Center for Emerging Technologies a “Power Partner” — one of 359 entities around the country with a proven record of helping entrepreneurs and their startups grow. The list, compiled by Inc. editors, also includes national companies such as Intuit QuickBooks, HubSpot and Slack.

Another positive sign for the sector: steady demand for “air desks” at Hula, Burlington’s busy coworking space and innovation campus, which hosts this year’s Tech Jam. Turns out being in the hot seat is still pretty cool.

Paula Routly

PHOTOS AND ILLUSTRATION: LUKE AWTRY, COURTESY OF DOES’ LEAP FARM, DIANA BOLTON AND COURTESY OF BETA TECHNOLOGIES

Matty Benedetto

Ground Control

Precision agriculture helps Vermont farmers handle chores, increase production and reduce environmental impacts

BY ANNE WALLACE ALLEN • anne@sevendaysvt.com

George van Vlaanderen used to spend hours each day moving fences so his dairy goats could graze on fresh forage. Now an app does the job.

Van Vlaanderen, who makes cheese and kefir at Does’ Leap Farm in Bakersfield, moves 45 goats around his fields using Norwegian technology called Nofence. He uses the Nofence app to draw a GPSdefined virtual enclosure in his pasture. The app sends the GPS information to the goats’ solar-powered collars, which beep insistently to warn the animals when they approach the invisible fence, then deliver a shock if they try to cross it.

“When the herd wants to come in for milking, or it’s buggy or hot, they’re all just waiting there on the boundary,” said van Vlaanderen, who estimates it took just three days for the goats to learn their limits. “I can set up the pasture on my phone in minutes, and the whole herd is contained.”

High-tech innovations such as Nofence are increasingly ﬁnding a place

Handys Must Pay Burlington $66K for Violations

BY DEREK BROUWER derek@sevendaysvt.com

Members of the Handy family must pay the City of Burlington more than $66,000 in fines and other costs for zoning violations at a blighted, vacant building on Pearl Street, the Vermont Supreme Court ruled this month. e order appears to end a municipal zoning battle that stretched for more than five years and twice landed in the high court’s lap. It resulted in one of the largest municipal zoning ordinance fines in recent years, director of code enforcement Bill Ward said. e property remains vacant — one of several derelict sites that dot the city’s urban core.

on Vermont farms, where software and new machines can ease the workload and guide decision making. Some dairy cows, for example, sport Fitbit-like devices that transmit information about their behavior and health to farm managers. An array of sophisticated data-gathering systems helps crop growers fine-tune their planting and fertilizing, minimizing waste and runo .

Tech plays a role in the maple industry, too. In some operations, when a squirrel chews a hole in a maple sap collection tube, sensors can alert the sugar bush manager immediately that the vacuum pressure in the system has changed, and where.

And indoor cannabis growers rely on sensors and software to adjust humidity, light, fertilizer and other environmental conditions with the aim of producing healthy, high-value plants.

Tools that use satellite imagery, AI, machine learning and data have been helping out on farms, even small Vermont ones, for a while. But the rate of change is accelerating, according to Laura Ginsburg, who runs the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, hosted by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets. A decade ago, Ginsburg said, so-called precision agriculture was largely limited to ﬁeld-based practices such as using GPS on tractors to help farmers map ﬁelds.

“I apologize that it takes so long, but when a person uses the court system, it can create long delays,” Ward said. e old ﬁlling station at 281 Pearl Street closed in 2017, and, in the years that followed, the property’s prominent owners — Sisters and Brothers Investment Group — began selling parking spaces in the lot for as much as $125 per month. at use violated municipal zoning rules; in 2019, the city ordered the Handys to stop.

Nowadays, computers on farm equipment can make a lot of important decisions instantaneously while rolling through a ﬁeld, for example by adjusting the pressure used to put seeds in the ground according to variations in soil type from one planting row to the next.

e Handys appealed the alleged violation to the city’s Development Review Board, which upheld the code enforcement order. en the city filed a case in state environmental court to collect fines and force the Handys to comply with the order. e case went to trial in 2021, and the court ordered the Handys to pay more than $40,000 in fines and $20,000-plus in city expenses.

e Handys appealed to the Supreme Court, which vacated the lower court’s ruling. e case went back to the environmental court, where a judge reimposed the original ﬁnes and fees. e Handys appealed that order, too, which the high court rejected on October 11.

e Handys have not yet paid the bill, according to city ofﬁcials. If they refuse, the city could ﬁle a lien on the property, as it has done to several other Handy properties. ➆

Does’ Leap Farm goats

Beta Build-Out

e South Burlington company preps its production line as it races to take electric aviation to market

BY DEREK BROUWER • derek@sevendaysvt.com

Last October, when a who’s who of Vermont politicos and businesspeople gathered to celebrate the opening of Beta Technologies’ electric aircraft factory in South Burlington, the production ﬂoor was still empty.

A year later, the 188,000-square-foot space — as open and tall as an indoor arena — has come to life. Technicians tinker beneath an unpainted fuselage. Fifty-foot wings of Alia, the company’s ﬁve-seat electric plane, hang from assembly mounts. Thousands of battery cells enter one end of a production line in cardboard boxes and exit the other as suitcase-size packs that can power a plane. The company’s ﬁrst product to go to market, tidy charging stations that can refuel the Alia in about an hour, sit in various stages of assembly.

their prototypes into sellable products. To do that, and to operate in the U.S., each must win the approval of the Federal Aviation Administration — both for their plane designs and for their manufacturing processes.

For now, the production ﬂoor in South Burlington functions as a kind of proving ground where Beta technicians are working to create and reﬁne each step of manufacturing and assembly. It’s a crucial transition for a company that has raked in nearly $1 billion in investment on the basis of its prototypes alone.

“A lot of our work has been the not-as-sexy stu — just grinding out, How do you become an aerospace manufacturing company? That’s very di erent from being a design and R&D company,” chief information o cer Blain Newton

Here, at the far end of the Burlington International Airport along Williston Road, is the only place in the U.S. where you’ll ﬁnd a commercialgrade factory conﬁgured to produce what is the most anticipated advancement in aviation this century: an electric plane that can take o and land vertically, like a helicopter, untethered from airstrips.

What you won’t see — yet — are ﬁnished planes at the end of the assembly line waiting to be shipped to customers.

Beta remains locked in a high-stakes race alongside companies in Silicon Valley, China, Germany and elsewhere to bring this new form of aviation technology to market. That race has entered a grueling middle stage, as companies seek to turn

Embracing the grind has been Beta’s secret sauce. Unlike many of its competitors, the company has pitched itself as pursuing a more realistic, if somewhat less glamorous, path to an electric aviation revolution. Rather than striving to sell the first “Jetsons”-style urban air taxi, Beta thinks the planes will gain purchase initially by transporting cargo. Founder Kyle Clark talks up the company’s “Yankee pragmatism” as much as its futuristic goals. Last year, Beta announced a shift in its market strategy. Rather than debut the vertical takeo version of the Alia, the company will first seek FAA certification

A conventional version of the Alia ﬂying over Vermont

“We’re in a new age,” said Ginsburg, who is also dairy strategy and innovation manager for the Agency of Ag.

“With a lot of dairy barns, you don’t really need a person there to take care of the things you’d do manually five or 10 years ago,” she said. “We’re seeing smart barns with ventilation systems that operate independently of human control.”

Efforts to help farmers adopt these tools are proliferating in Vermont, too. That’s essential in a state with many farms too small to buy expensive new technology on their own. The 11-state innovation center that Ginsburg leads has given out $45 million in grants to help goat, cow and sheep farmers and milk processors try new methods and tools.

Heather Darby, a University of Vermont Extension agronomist, recently started the Precision Agriculture Farmer Network. It’s intended to help farmers use the enormous amount of detailed information collected by sensors and GPS in areas such as crop yields, soil quality and field mapping. She’s hiring a new worker who’ll show farmers how to analyze the information.

“There is so much data; how do you take it all in?” she said. “How do we use it to become more precise in our manure applications, manage pests with less inputs and manage animals better?”

Scott Magnan is working on that, too. In 2012, the St. Albans native who does planting and harvesting on contract started using software created by the Iowa company Ag Leader to monitor and manage fields. Two years later he trained to become a dealer for the company. Now he partners with Darby to help farmers use the equipment and the information it yields.

Magnan and others hope high-tech tools can help reduce fertilizer use — an important goal, given that federal regulators have ordered Vermont to address waterway pollution from fertilizer runoff.

“We’re hoping to do a better job of putting the fertilizer where we need it and not putting it in areas where we don’t,” Magnan said.

Asim Zia, a professor of public policy and computer science at UVM, is using a $3.5 million National Science Foundation grant to help farmers measure their impact on the environment. He’s working with 10 Champlain Valley farmers, and others in Virginia and South Dakota, on a fiveyear project that assesses the impact of precision agriculture technology on water quality and climate change mitigation.

He and his farm partners are looking for a way to downsize some of the expensive precision agriculture technology used on big farms in the Midwest.

“We’re creating new agriculture technologies that will work at the small-farm scale,” he said.

He noted in an interview that agriculture — particularly methane from cows — is one of the leading contributors to climate change. Artificial intelligence and machine learning, he said, can help provide farm-specific recommendations

by creating a detailed analysis using soil quality, crop yield and other information to show farmers the places where they can use less fertilizer.

“How can we produce food but have a minimum impact on the environment?”

Zia said, describing his research. “That’s the sweet spot where precision agriculture can be very helpful.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that small farmers lower their costs by banding together and sharing information.

“Smaller farms in Vermont generally trail behind in the adoption of new tech strategies,” said dairy policy veteran Dan Smith, executive director of the Brattleboro-based Agritech Institute for Small Farms. The group looks for ways to make farming more efficient and environmentally sustainable. For his first big project, he’s testing the Nofence invisible collars on four farms and a mobile goat-grazing company this year. Does’ Leap in Bakersfield is one of them.

Van Vlaanderen is already a fan of the software. “This technology is much more reliable in containing goats than our very advanced, biggest fence energizer,” he said of the high-voltage traditional electric fence that also surrounds his fields.

He uses the Nofence collars to corral his goats into small areas of high-quality forage within his larger pasture system and to graze them in brushy, steep or rocky areas where it would be difficult to erect temporary fencing. In years past, he said, goats have escaped the electric fence, causing havoc.

Bobby Young of Satori

Substrate sensor monitoring root data at Satori

“We have not had a mass exodus with Nofence,” van Vlaanderen said. Meanwhile, the state’s 509 cow dairies are also making more use of high-tech assistants. Robotic milkers have been sharing the workload in Vermont barns since 2004, but these days, according to Ginsburg of the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, robots also feed the cows and can even assess feed quality to deliver the proper measure to individual bovines.

Many farmers have started cleaning their barns with a fridge-size rolling scraper that vacuums up manure, wood shavings and other detritus, dumps it, and parks itself to recharge.

“In my team, we lovingly refer to them as ‘poop Roombas,’” Ginsburg said, referring to the small vacuum cleaners that roll independently around homes and businesses.

UVM scientist Joao Costa is researching the activity trackers for cows. The devices are attached as collars or ear tags and assess how much time an animal

lines.

spends on activities such as walking, ruminating, lying down and eating. Cows are creatures of habit, Costa said, and when the routine changes, the farmer gets an alert.

“We can see when they are undergoing a challenge or going through a disease and individualize management,” Costa said.

Achieving consistency and precision is easier indoors. That’s where Satori, Vermont’s largest indoor cannabis cultivator, is growing thousands of plants under LED lighting in the tightly controlled conditions of a 10,000-squarefoot former factory in Middlebury.

Employees and visitors wear scrubs and foot coverings to view the plants, which are potted in a special polymer and receive their nutrition hydroponically, through water. Software called Growlink uses AI to make recommendations for adjusting relative humidity, carbon dioxide, vapor pressure, light levels and other inputs.

“We’re constantly making little tweaks depending on how the living plant responds to what we are doing,” said Bobby Young, Satori’s crop health and research manager. “It’s all about gaining more control over production.”

Up next for precision-focused farm ers: drones that can assess where pesti cides or fungicides are needed and apply them in tightly targeted doses. Magnan, the farm software dealer, is waiting to see them make an appearance in Vermont.

“If someone was entrepreneurial, they could probably do pretty well with those,” he said. ➆

Beta Build-Out

and commercial sales of a simpler version that takes o and lands like a conventional airplane.

The announcement was odd for an industry in which drumming up hype is the norm. Was there a problem with Beta’s coveted vertical design? The company says no: In April, Beta released a video in which one of its aircraft takes o vertically, ﬂies forward like an airplane, then lands again in helicopter mode.

Newton said Beta is being practical. Certifying a new class of vertically powered aircraft is a complex task for the FAA, and the timeline for doing so is uncertain. Beta thinks it can chart a smoother path to regulatory approval by certifying its products in steps. First, its proprietary electric propulsion system; then, the conventional version of Alia; last, the vertical takeo conﬁguration. Doing so, Newton said, should help the FAA become comfortable with Beta’s technology by breaking the process into more digestible pieces.

The company hopes to certify the conventional takeo plane by the end of 2025, though Beta leaders say the date is more of a target than a promise.

“We’re just working really close with the FAA right now, and ultimately our timeline is, at some level, theirs,” he said, adding that Beta aircraft will be deployed for some limited commercial operations — in other countries, at least — next year.

The FAA has been putting together the regulations that will govern new vertical takeoff aircraft. At the same time, Beta opened a government affairs office in Washington, D.C., near Capitol Hill and has spent more than $800,000 in recent years to lobby Congress on industry regulations, according to the money-in-politics database OpenSecrets. Clark testiﬁed before a U.S. House Transportation & Infrastructure subcommittee in 2023.

On Tuesday, the FAA released the last major batch of new rules, which Beta’s regulatory a airs lead, Kristen Costello, called “an important and encouraging step for the industry.”

Beta believes there is a small but proﬁtable market for the conventional version of its electric plane that only flies short distances and must use airstrips. They are also cheap to operate. Newton points to Air New Zealand, which has already ordered the conventional version of Alia as part of an e ort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in its ﬂeet.

The airline announced this year that it plans to use Alia to transport mail packages between the North and South islands. It’s a demonstration project, the company said in its announcement: Air New Zealand has “a ﬁrm order for one aircraft with options for

an additional two aircraft, and rights for a further 20 aircraft.”

In the U.S., Beta has been eyeing small regional airports as untapped potential for electric air transport. The company has installed more than 30 charging stations, some of which have been subsidized by state and federal governments, at airﬁelds around the country.

A LOT OF OUR WORK HAS BEEN THE NOT-AS-SEXY STUFF.

Using e cient electric aircraft at regional airports could open up new transportation networks in rural areas, Newton said. For instance, Vermonters could ﬂy from Rutland to Hanscom Field airport outside of Boston on the weekends, or from Newport to Burlington for health care.

Industry analysts continue to view Beta as a leader in the so-called “advanced air mobility” space. SMG Consulting, a Phoenix-based ﬁrm that maintains a regularly updated ranking of these companies’ progress toward commercial sales, places Beta ﬁrst among U.S. manufacturers and third in the world, behind companies in China and Germany.

A positive perception of Beta within the industry won’t put a plane in the sky. But it could help the company stay competitive at a time when the easy ﬂow of investor cash to electric aircraft developers seems to have slowed, as the business news outlet Marketplace reported earlier this year.

Beta has raised about $1 billion so far — most of that by early 2022 — according to

the privately held company. Asked whether Beta has the cash it needs to get its planes certiﬁed, spokesperson Jake Goldman said company leaders “feel really good” about its ﬁnancial position.

Beta’s progress is already shaping the region’s economic future. What began as a novelty startup in 2017 has already grown into one of the state’s largest companies, with most of its more than 800 employees in Vermont. They work at Beta’s airport headquarters and production facilities or at a battery-testing site in St. Albans. At last year’s grand opening of the production facility, Gov. Phil Scott predicted that Beta would soon become as important to Vermont as IBM was in the second half of the 20th century.

Beta has been on a hiring spree as it tries to build up its manufacturing capabilities; more than 60 positions are currently posted on its website. Many of its engineers were recruited from other tech companies, but the manufacturing jobs tend to pull from a local labor pool that is limited in Vermont.

Beta leaders say hiring hasn’t been a hang-up so far, thanks to aggressive recruitment and on-the-job training.

More than 100 employees are working on the production side, according to Sean Donovan, Beta’s head of manufacturing. Donovan, who previously worked at Tesla and Airbus, headed Beta’s battery development before taking on the entire production process. Several years ago, he helped set up the company’s ﬁrst battery production line in a series of cramped shipping containers next to Beta’s terminal-side headquarters.

The current battery line, which occupies one corner of the new building, is the third iteration in Beta’s short history,

Donovan said. He expects the battery line will continue evolving. Some workers are reﬁning the process, while others are planning for the next design, as battery technology continues to improve.

Next to each station on the production ﬂoor, a computer monitor displays detailed performance data about every aspect of the manufacturing process. The data will help Beta reﬁne its quality control and production methods so that it can demonstrate precision and reliability to the FAA.

The work at the airport stands in contrast to Beta’s top American competitor, California-based Joby Aviation. That company claims it will ﬂy commercial passengers with its vertical takeo aircraft sometime in 2025, though it hasn’t said where those ﬂights would take place. Its planned commercialscale manufacturing facility in Dayton, Ohio, won’t open until sometime next year, the Dayton Daily News reported in August.

On a recent tour of Beta’s facility, Donovan pointed to the end of the aircraft production line, where some equipment was scattered in boxes. The company was tearing down a workstation that, until now, had served as a demonstration lab for the ﬁnal stages of aircraft assembly.

They are taking it apart, Donovan said, “to make space to actually assemble the aircraft.”

Beta Technologies will exhibit at the Vermont Tech Jam on Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Hula in Burlington. Find details, and register to attend the free event, at techjamvt.com

Inside Beta’s production facility in South Burlington

BLAIN NEWTON

BY KEVIN MCCALLUM • kevin@sevendaysvt.com

A Vermont Solar Installer Pivots to Electric Vehicle Chargers

A small Vermont solar installer is seeing a spike in interest for its off-grid electric vehicle charging technology.

Solaﬂect Energy, based in Norwich, has created chargers that are easy, quick and relatively inexpensive to install. e company’s parking lot solar panels collect the sun’s rays and direct them to the car batteries plugged into the system.

“It’s sunshine straight into the tank,” said Rob Adams, the company’s chief operating ofﬁcer.

Solaﬂect has only been selling its solar EV chargers for about a year, but sales and interest in the system are soaring, according to Adams. Some of the hype came after the 20-employee company was featured in August on the popular podcast “Now You Know,” Adams said.

e ﬁrst charger was installed in December in a parking lot at Dartmouth College. Since then, Solaﬂect has deployed the units at Middlebury College and a commercial building in the nearby Marble Works District. More recently, the company installed two charging systems at Hypertherm Associates, which makes industrial cutting tools in Hanover, N.H. In the coming weeks, new units are also going in at Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., and Dartmouth Health’s Cheshire Medical Center in Keene, N.H.

e units have four Level 2 chargers and cost about $50,000 each, but the company is currently leasing them to organizations for $4,000 per year. at option makes them even more attractive compared to the costly process of installing typical chargers, which can involve getting permits, upgrading electrical systems and tearing up parking lots, Adams said.

Solaﬂect has been making solar tracking panels for more than a decade, installing about 1,300 of them at homes and businesses, mostly in the Northeast. About two years ago, the company moved to adapt the panels for EV charging.

Because the electrons come straight from solar panels, it’s 100 percent green

energy, unpolluted by grid power, which in New England still comes largely from fossil fuels, Adams noted. e energy is also free, aside from the cost of the units. ere are a few downsides to not being connected to the grid, however. For one, the chargers only work when the sun is shining. A small battery on the unit manages the ﬂow of electrons but does not store them.

ere’s also a limit to how much juice the 6.2-kilowatt array can provide. While the system’s 16 solar panels are 40 percent more efﬁcient than ﬁxed versions because they follow the arc of the sun, they can only produce enough electricity for about 120 miles of total driving. If four EVs are hooked up to the array all day, that means each will only get about a 30-mile boost in range.

“Speed doesn’t matter if it’s where the car is sitting all the time,” Adams said. “ e right way to think about this is it’s a topping-off solution every day at work.”

An employee with an EV gets dedicated access to one of the four spots beneath what Adams calls a “power plant in the parking lot.” In some cases, the employer, such as Hypertherm, pays the cost and provides the access as a beneﬁt. In other cases, employers share that cost with employees. Williams College plans to charge employees $43 per month for access to a charger.

ere’s been a big push to increase charging infrastructure as more people embrace EVs. ey represented 9 percent of all new vehicles sold in the U.S. in the third quarter of 2024. at number is only expected to increase. Several states, including Vermont, have banned the sale of gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035.

Solaﬂect’s Norwich factory can produce up to 400 charging units per year, so manufacturing capacity is not a problem if demand continues to rise, Adams said.

“ is is a lower-cost, super simple, fast installation solution that hits the employer-commuter range anxiety question head-on,” he said. ➆

Solaﬂect chargers set up in a parking lot

Risk and Reward

Artiﬁcial intelligence has the potential to transform education. But even proponents advise caution.

BY ALISON NOVAK • alison@sevendaysvt.com

Like it or not, artiﬁcial intelligence has made its way into Vermont classrooms.

Some students use it to summarize class discussions, research an essay topic or troubleshoot homework. Yet the technology has its own set of risks. It can be used to cheat on assignments, create and spread misinformation, or produce deepfake images.

Much of the discussion about AI in education involves so-called large language models such as ChatGPT. The programs are trained on massive amounts of text from the internet and, in response to questions or prompts, can spit out text or visuals that appear as if they were created by humans.

Schools in the state are starting to address the rapidly changing technology, but the response has been slow. As of last year, just three Vermont districts had some sort of AI policy, while 50 said they had none, according to a technology

survey administered by the state Agency of Education.

Districts are trying to catch up. In interviews with Seven Days, educators who are thinking about AI said they are crafting classroom curricula that teach responsible use of the technology. With proper guidance, they believe, students can harness AI in ways that improve their ability to learn and retain information. Meanwhile, three entrepreneurs have launched a nonproﬁt, aiVermont, that aims to teach educators about the technology and provide them with ideas for using it in the classroom.

Artiﬁcial intelligence “is here and we have to deal with it,” said Peter Drescher, Essex Westford School District’s director of technology and innovation. “This is going to change teaching and learning, and [educators] do need to change.”

Essex Westford is one of the districts at the forefront of the conversation. While some schools block students from using large-language models or employ AI

detection tools to try to catch cheating, Essex Westford is focused on teaching educators and students to use the tools effectively and ethically. For example, Drescher said, school staff protect student data by not entering names or other personal information when using AI-powered platforms. The programs typically collect and retain information, so it’s imperative to take precautions, he said.

Some teachers are also designing assignments to make cheating di cult.

Rather than just grading a ﬁnal draft of an essay, for example, they might require students to show their work and give more weight to the di erent stages of the writing process, Drescher said. Educators are also working to build trust and relationships with students to discourage cheating.

Last school year, the district added an AI section to its student handbook, acknowledging that the technology is “a potential learning and teaching tool.

“All users are expected to employ these

tools solely for educational purposes, upholding values of respect, inclusivity, and academic integrity at all times,” the passage says. Using AI tools to impersonate others or for bullying, harassment or intimidation is prohibited.

Ryan Dudley, an Essex Westford tech teacher, leads a six-week class for all sixth graders about responsible use of technology, including artiﬁcial intelligence. Throughout the school year, he also delivers lessons to all middle schoolers speciﬁcally focused on AI. Dudley recalled a recent one in which he used ChatGPT to show students how they could generate 10 ideas for a narrative writing project in 30 seconds.

“Sixth [and] seventh graders, when it comes to narrative writing, staring at that blank screen with the cursor blinking can just be torture for them,” Dudley said. He’s also shown them how AI-powered text-to-image models such as Canva and DALL-E can create compelling visuals of characters from their writing.

Teachers, too, are ﬁnding uses for AI, Dudley said. Educators can upload a PDF of a news article to a platform called Di t and have it rewrite the piece in a simpler way to accommodate students with reading deﬁcits, for instance. To communicate better with students who are learning English, Dudley has prompted ChatGPT to translate whatever it’s hearing into other languages, such as Spanish or Swahili.

Artiﬁcial intelligence, Dudley noted, is already embedded in tools people use daily, from virtual assistants Siri and Alexa to Google Maps.

“When we were first talking about this three years ago, we thought it was a cool, crazy new toy,” he said, “and now it’s morphed its way into so many di erent places.”

At Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg, administrators recently surveyed teachers and students to get a sense of how they’re already using AI tools and what kind of training they’d ﬁnd helpful. The district wants to create a set of guidelines for ethical use of the technology and to provide recommendations for teachers about ways to integrate it into the classroom.

District learning coordinator Stan Williams, who is leading the e ort, said he sees great potential for AI to act as a “learning companion” for students — to help them work through homework problems when they get stuck, explain a di cult concept in simpler terms or act as a study partner to prepare for a test.

Katie Mack, a CVU librarian, is working with colleagues to create a progression of AI skills they want students to have as they advance through high school. In their own

work, Mack and Williams said they use AI platforms regularly to evaluate teaching materials, brainstorm ideas and organize their thoughts.

“It’s really powerful as a feedback and reflection tool,” Mack said, arguing that “it’s disingenuous to deny kids skills and access to services we use as adults.”

Fifteen-year-old Torin Etheridge has fully embraced the new tech. The Montpelier High School sophomore said he became interested in artificial intelligence after taking a computer science class last school year. He started playing around with ChatGPT and another chatbot called Gemini. He was quickly hooked.

Now, Etheridge said, he uses AI regularly as a “productivity tool” for schoolwork — to research topics, summarize reading assignments and write bibliographies. But he acknowledges that’s not how everyone in his school is using it.

IT’S DISINGENUOUS TO DENY KIDS SKILLS AND ACCESS TO SERVICES WE USE AS ADULTS.

KATIE MACK

“I think definitely there’s a huge amount of kids just cheating and deferring to ChatGPT to do their work for them,” Etheridge said, “and I think there is a [smaller group] using it responsibly.”

This summer, spurred by the flooding in central Vermont, he launched his own startup called Eco Grow AI, a platform that uses machine learning to find ways to optimize crops to be more resilient. He recently started a new project, RDS AI, aimed at creating more reflective, humanlike artificial intelligence.

Teachers often think students only use AI to cheat, Etheridge said, though he’s seen that perception slowly change this school year. Other educational tools, such as laptops and calculators, also once sparked concerns about academic integrity, Etheridge said, but now they’re commonly accepted. AI “shouldn’t be any different,” he said.

Jaia Frank-Adams, a recent graduate of Harwood Union High School in Duxbury, has done a deep dive into the technology and holds a more nuanced view. As someone with dyslexia, the 18-year-old appreciates how ChatGPT can help teachers customize lessons for students with learning challenges and translate written language into speech. But she worries about how easy it is for the platforms to generate human-sounding essays.

She sees potential for using artificial intelligence to perform mundane tasks such as summarizing lectures. But she’s concerned with the ways in which AI can spread misinformation and create highly realistic fake images. Now taking a gap year, Frank-Adams plans to study computer science and public policy in college, with the intention of one day working to craft laws that make AI and other tech tools safer and more ethical, particularly for youths.

Because the tech is so new and ever evolving, many teachers don’t know how to guide students in using it. School districts such as Essex Westford and Champlain Valley, which have tech specialists on staff, are better equipped to introduce students to AI than smaller or more rural school districts without as many resources, said Lucie deLaBruere, a tech-education consultant in Vermont who spent most of her career teaching in the Northeast Kingdom. She leads tech-focused classes for educators and is in the process of designing one on artificial intelligence that will be offered at the University of Vermont.

aiVermont, the new nonprofit, is also working to get educators up to speed on the technology. Started earlier this year by Generator Makerspace cofounders Denise Shekerjian and Chris Thompson and New Jersey-based education consultant Marc Natanagara, the group held conferences in June and September for educators interested in learning more about the technology and ways to apply it.

Natanagara served as facilitator of the June conference, which was geared to middle and high school teachers.

“When there’s fear of something, we don’t make good decisions,” he told the 100 or so educators who gathered at Hula in Burlington for the event. He demonstrated a simple but impressive AI-powered online game called Quick, Draw! — in which a person draws an image generated by a Pictionary-type prompt and the program guesses what it is — to show how artificial intelligence is designed to mimic human intelligence.

The aiVermont founders have plans to host more summits for educators, bring in speakers on the topic, and launch an online platform that allows teachers to share ideas and ask questions. But just because they run an organization focused on AI, the founders said, doesn’t mean they want people to embrace the new technology unthinkingly.

“We’d be the last to say, ‘Close your eyes and jump,’” Shekerjian said.

But ultimately, the entrepreneurs said, students are going to inherit a complex world, and AI is part of it. They believe the job of educators is to prepare them for that future. ➆

Hate: Why We Should Resist It with Free Speech, Not Censorship

NADINE STROSSEN

Former ACLU President, New York Law School Professor, and Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29 | 4:30PM

UVM ALUMNI HOUSE - SILVER PAVILION 61 Summit St, Burlington, VT LIGHT REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED ASL AND CART SERVICES PROVIDED GO.UVM.EDU/LECTURESERIES 4t-UVMofficeofpres102324 1

Circuit Breaker

Vermont researchers are working on a self-destructing microchip

BY ANNE WALLACE ALLEN • anne@sevendaysvt.com

Apair of Vermont researchers is developing a self-destructing microchip that can disable itself if it falls into the wrong hands.

Eric Hunt-Schroeder, a senior staff manager at Marvell Technology, and University of Vermont professor Tian Xia have been reﬁning their technology for several years, and the work is becoming more urgent. An estimated one trillion semiconductor chips are manufactured every year for use in vehicles, appliances and communications systems, making them enticing targets for a cyberattack.

Some chips use physically unclonable functions, or PUFs, which act as digital fingerprints. Hunt-Schroeder and Xia have come up with a way to use inherent weaknesses in the chips, such as their susceptibility to aging, temperature variation and voltage changes, to alter that electronic

The two have applied for a patent but expect the process to take years. They said they don’t yet know how or when they will take the concept to market. Marvell is funding the research.

UVM researchers frequently work with Essex Junction chip maker GlobalFoundries and Marvell, which has an office in Burlington. Professor Linda Schadler, UVM’s acting provost and dean of the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, said the goal is to produce technology that both parties own and benefit from if it makes it to market.

technology as “circuit suicide.”

“We are doing physical damage within the chip,” Hunt-Schroeder said. “You’re

not going to see a cloud of smoke, but devices within the chip will be damaged to the point where their intended function is corrupted in a way that renders it inoperable.”

Someone who wanted to recycle a piece of electronic equipment could enter a code that would destroy the chip, for instance. Or, the chip would self-destruct if someone tampered with the metal case surrounding it.

said their unique system can detect when someone is trying to clone a chip’s PUF — its unique ﬁngerprint. No two chips are exactly the same.

“You could have the fastest circuit in the world, but if somebody can make a counterfeit or duplicate of it, it’s somewhat worthless,” Hunt-Schroeder said.

Xia and Hunt-Schroeder hope that in the future, companies will be able to tell consumers how to activate a selfdestruct mechanism before they recycle their chip-enabled devices.

“The classic technique was that you take your hard drive out and you drill through it, or you break it in half,” Hunt-Schroeder said. “We’re basically shortcutting that and saying, ‘You don’t need to take apart your laptop. Why don’t you just send this command and destroy the data?’” ➆

Another potential use: in a device with a limited lifespan.

“This could be military applications where the data should only be present until the mission is complete, and then we no longer want that information to exist,” Xia said.

There are other methods on the market for erasing data, but Hunt-Schroeder

The technology was a hit at a February conference for the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers in San Francisco. A newsletter about the event described several technologies that researchers introduced “to ﬁght even the sneakiest hack attacks.”

“If it’s somehow compromised, this PUF can actually destroy itself. It’s extra-thorough at it, too,” the newsletter reported on Hunt-Schroeder and Xia’s tech.

GlobalFoundries, Marvell and the UVM O ce of Research will exhibit at the Vermont Tech Jam on Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Hula in Burlington. Find details, and register to attend the free event, at techjamvt.com

Self-destructing microchip

Eric Hunt-Schroeder and Tian Xia

at sevendaysvt.com/talent-show. QUESTIONS? Contact Carolann Whitesell: 802-341-3067 or cwhitesell@sevendaysvt.com.

lifelines

OBITUARIES

Susan Stein

Skolnick

APRIL 6, 1942-OCTOBER 20, 2024 BRAINTREE, VT.

Susan Stein Skolnick died peacefully at home in Braintree, Vt., on Sunday, October 20, 2024. Sue was born on April 6, 1942, to Louise and Arthur Stein and lived most of her life in New York City. She was a great lover of travel and music. Some of her happiest memories were of the many trips she and her late husband, Ed, took together. While there were a few places on her bucket list they were not able to travel to, they did manage to explore all the continents except for Antarctica.

Susan loved music from a young age, telling stories of singing with Pete Seeger at Camp Woodland

OBITUARIES, VOWS, CELEBRATIONS

and while attending elementary school at the Little Red School House. In her teen years, she would frequent the many folk coffeehouses of the Village and enjoyed listening to the many musicians who performed at Washington Square Park. She sang with many choruses over the years, including the New York City Labor Chorus for more than 10 years, singing with them at Pete Seeger’s 90th birthday celebration in Madison Square Garden and touring with them in Wales. She enjoyed most types of music, but folk, oldies from the ’30s and ’40s, Broadway musicals, and classical were her favorites.

roughout her life, Sue was a passionate advocate for peace and human rights. She was an active

Julie Sohn

1957-2023

Remembering Julie… Musician, landscaper and Philly native, Julie was best known in Burlington for JS Garden Design. She started her business 30 years ago, beautifying estates, homes and shopping centers with her perennial landscapes.

Julie graduated from Johnson State College with a music degree in 1992. She taught music and piano at the junior college level and to children from her warehouse space above the dive shop on

Battery Street, where she lived for many years.

She began playing piano when she was 8 years old. Julie always had a talent for music. She wrote original tunes and played with many bands over the course of her life, most notably DV8.

Julie grew up in Philadelphia and attended Friends Select School and Miquon High School. As a true Philadelphian, she always spoke her mind.

Julie is survived by two cats, Bird and Bun; brother David; sister Andy; and nephew Nathan and his family. Julie is missed every day.

member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, worked with Bella Abzug for women’s rights, organized and marched for peace from the 1960s into the present day, and was a longtime union chapter leader for the United Federation of Teachers. She worked as an elementary special education teacher for more than 20 years in NYC, many of them spent in an inner-city school in Brooklyn. Susan had quiet determination, a beautiful laugh and a warm, caring spirit. She believed it was the small things that made a difference in the world and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Susan is survived by her daughter, Nora Skolnick of Braintree, Vt.; son, Joshua Skolnick of Harwich, Mass.; daughters-in-law, Laura Davidson and Judy Skolnick; grandchildren, Becky and Alex Skolnick; and her brother, Robert Stein of East Lansing, Mich. She was preceded by her husband of 56 years, Edwin Skolnick. Donations can be made on her behalf to the New York City Labor Chorus.

Norman Meunier

DECEMBER 11, 1958OCTOBER 17, 2024 FAIRFAX, VT.

On a beautiful fall day, October 17, 2024, Norman decided, after a courageous battle ﬁghting esophageal cancer for more than a year, to take his last breath. Outside his window at the

McClure Miller Respite House were two colorful trees that his family and friends all enjoyed while visiting him the few days he was there.

A private celebration of Norman’s life, to include military honors, will be held at the convenience of his family. To view a complete obituary or offer a message of condolence, kindly go to healdfuneralhome.com.

Allen Ostroy

1970-2024

Beloved son, brother, uncle, friend and coworker, Allen Ostroy passed away on August 15, 2024, from sudden heart failure.

He is survived by his mom, Zippy; his brother, Paul Ostroy; Paul’s wife, Andrea; and their children, Shae, Nyella, and Taj. He had a heart of gold and made the world a brighter place.

Memorial and celebration of Allen’s life will take place on November 2, 2024, 1 to 5 p.m., at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction, Vt. All are welcome.

Thomas David Selecter Jr.

MAY 6, 1969-JUNE 11, 2024

BENNINGTON, VT.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of omas David Selecter Jr., 55, most recently of Bennington, Vt., who left this earthly realm on June 11, 2024. Although he is no longer with us, we’ll remember him with fondness, gratitude and love. His care and kindness touched more than he’ll ever know.

Known by many as “Dave,” he was born on May 6, 1969, was adopted at seven months old by omas and Shirley Selecter and was raised in New Berlin, Wis., the youngest of four siblings.

ey moved to Pompano

Beach, Fla., in 1981, where he attended Palm Cove Elementary and Cardinal Gibbons High School. During high school, he worked in the family’s photography and photoﬁnishing business, learning the art of processing

Jimmy “Oxo” Carter

OCTOBER 28, 1950OCTOBER 16, 2024

SHELBURNE, VT.

Jimmy “Oxo” Carter, born on October 28, 1950, died on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in Burlington, Vt., where he lived most of his life. He was an extraordinary musician, entertainer and songwriter. His showmanship was unforgettable to anyone lucky enough to have seen him perform during his 50-plus-year career in the northeastern U.S. Jimmy poured his creative soul into his three bands — Sass, the

Jimmy Carter Show and Run 21. He lent his prodigious talent as a bass player to Uncle Sam, Lita Ford, Mr. French

and printing ﬁlm and the science and tech side of the lab. After school, he continued with the family business and later moved on to Color Lab of Fort Lauderdale, where he further honed his skills as a printer and technician.

In the mid 1990s, seeking adventure and a change of scenery and seasons, he moved to Vermont and settled in the Burlington area, where he began working for PhotoGarden, a locally owned photo processing and services business. He worked there until its closing in August 2017.

His skills, dedication and attention to detail served the art and photo communities of the greater Burlington area, where he helped produce

and many other bands. He mentored young musicians all his career.

Jimmy combined his

We’re here to help. Our obituary and in memoriam services are affordable, accessible and handled with personal care.

high quality work for local photographers and designers, ranging from amateur to professional, starving artists to Vermont royalty, small businesses to large companies and all types in between. He shared his advice while printing others’ snapshots of everyday life — memories and moments, forever frozen in time for friends and families. As the wizard behind the scenes, he helped conjure the power and beauty of the photographic print for all to behold.

Dave was many things: a talented photographer in his own right, shooting local landscapes and new terrain during many cross-country travels; a soft-spoken artist who let the pictures do the

talking; and a technology guru who built computers and would help ﬁx yours. He was excited to share his many interests with others. As a cultural connoisseur of music, television, movies and podcasts, he was eager to introduce you to your next favorite band, cinematic experience or comedy broadcast. He was a sports fan of varied sorts and followed Formula 1 and MotoGP racing, ice hockey and world soccer. He enjoyed pub trivia and had an endless wealth of knowledge, from the obscure to all you ought to know. He was always ready to lend a hand, however needed, and was an ace in the hole and jack-of-all-trades.

Dave was a gentle soul, generous, kind, quick with

a joke, and made the world a better place. He will be missed and honored in the afterlife.

He is preceded in death by his parents, omas and Shirley Selecter. He is survived by his older siblings, Cindy Acker, Ken Selecter and Tim Selecter. If so moved, a donation in Dave’s name may be made to the Vermont Suicide Prevention Center at vtspc. org.

We will honor his life with a gathering and tribute on Saturday, October 26, at 11 a.m., at the Burlington waterfront. We will meet near the Moran Plant / Harbor Marina. Please call and leave a message at 561-702-6720 for more details.

musical acumen and a keen understanding of what would blow the minds of his audience — building his own disco balls, smoke machines, ﬂash bombs and chasing lights surrounding the stage. He even blew ﬁre to amaze the crowd. Every show was an entertainment adventure, from the offstage show starter and grand entrance to the humorous repartee and antics with his bandmates to the closing rocking crescendo. Satiated, danced-out fans left to the crooning of Frank Sinatra’s “One for the Road.”

Jimmy loved his family and was devoted to his wife, Nancy, and his sons,

Jim and Evan. He took care of his family with the same creativity and thoughtfulness that he brought to his music.

His parents, Jim and Evie Carter, who died in 1993 and 2001, were proud of his many talents, big fans of his music and often the ﬁrst to hit the dance ﬂoor.

e family wants to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support. We especially appreciate the devotion of his friend since kindergarten, Bob Butterﬁeld. Survivors are Nancy Goulette Carter, the love of his life for 50 years; his two sons, Jim (Laurie) and Evan; his grandchildren,

Avery, Nora and Vivienne; his siblings, Janet (Ro Horton), Mary, Judith (Bob McIntosh), Jon (Bridget) and David (Tanya); his in-laws, Ann Pond (Andrew), Kenny Goulette (Missie), David Goulette (Brenda), Kelley Goulette (Alison Prine) and Kerrie eye (Carlos); and many nieces and nephews. Jimmy died surrounded by loving family, friends and bandmates, listening to his live version of “Hipshake.” (Search YouTube for “ e Jimmy Carter Show Reunion 2013 “Bye Bye Song.”)

A celebration of life will be scheduled for June 2025. Rock on, Jimmy.

Share your loved one’s story with the local community in Lifelines. Post your obituary or in memoriam online and in print at sevendaysvt.com/lifelines Or contact us at lifelines@sevendaysvt.com or 865-1020 ext. 121.

Intelligent Design?

Inside Matty Benedetto’s new Unnecessary Inventions studio in Burlington

BY DAN BOLLES • dan@sevendaysvt.com

Matty Benedetto personally greets every visitor to his Burlington studio. Sort of. The first thing you’ll see upon entering the foyer of his gleaming white, 6,400-square-foot space is a lifesize replica of Benedetto that the inventor fashioned using 3D printers. Despite being composed of a rainbow of bright plastic and resin ﬁlaments, the statue is remarkably lifelike — right down to Benedetto’s now-trademark mustache. Triggered by a motion sensor, it welcomes guests with a variety of upbeat greetings in its creator’s voice: “Hey, there. Welcome to the Unnecessary Studio!”

Benedetto, 34, is the founder and sole proprietor of Unnecessary Inventions, a brand that exists to develop elaborately silly solutions to what are, at best, negligible real-world problems.

If you’ve spent any time online in recent years, you might recognize some of Benedetto’s most successful creations. There’s the Burrito Bumper, a food funnel that solves the scourge of messy burritos by collecting fallen ﬁllings into a taco shell. The Jewel Cooler diverts cold air from your car’s air conditioning up your shorts via a plastic hose. And the Phone Facilities Facilitator o ers an ergonomic way to scroll on your phone from the toilet.

Those are among the roughly 400 inventions Benedetto has designed and fully prototyped since launching Unnecessary Inventions ﬁve years ago. With very few exceptions, you can’t buy any of them, which is part of the charm. They exist solely as funny and exceedingly meme-able online content that has taken social media by storm and made their maker something of an internet celebrity. This Saturday, October 26, Benedetto will talk about the past, present and future of Unnecessary Inventions as part of the Vermont Tech Jam at Hula in Burlington.

months after he rolled out his ﬁrst imaginary products. At that point, Unnecessary Inventions had amassed a couple hundred thousand followers across various social media platforms, and Benedetto was unsure how or even if he’d be able to monetize his creations. Somewhat quaintly — it appears in hindsight — he was considering publishing a book.

Seven Days first profiled Benedetto in 2019, a few

He needn’t have worried. To maximize his reach, Benedetto posts to pretty much every social media platform but Truth Social — he’s even got a decent following on LinkedIn. His

Above: Tools at the Unnecessary Studio Left: Matty Benedetto with his life-size replica

I

THINK THIS IS WHAT I WAS MADE TO DO.

15 million followers include 1.8 million on Instagram, 6.5 million on TikTok and more than 5 million YouTube subscribers. His videos have been viewed collectively across all platforms more than 7 billion times.

While he does make some money from all those views, Unnecessary Inventions draws its primary income from brand partnerships. Most recently, for the fast-food chain Wendy’s, Benedetto invented the Saucy Nuggs Necklace, a motorized pinwheel that delivers chicken nuggets to the wearer’s mouth, hands-free. Other corporate collaborators include Hyundai, Captain Morgan, Burger King and Apple.

“I’ve never focused on one specific thing,” Benedetto said. “So I can make a car invention or a food invention or a tech invention. The adaptability of what I do is pretty endless.”

Impressive as his résumé is, the clearest evidence of Benedetto’s success might be the space where he now designs his marvelous machines.

Located on the second floor of what used to be the Gap clothing store on Church Street, the Unnecessary Studio feels like a real-life version of Tom Hanks’ New York City loft in the movie Big . That’s not to say Benedetto is a 12-year-old boy in a grown man’s body, like Hanks’ character in the 1988 comedy. But his brilliantly absurd creations have a playful, childlike quality that the whole studio reflects. It’s hard not to be in awe.

“The first thing I say when people tell me how cool this place is, is ‘Thank you,’” Benedetto said. “Then I say, ‘I know.’”

Benedetto moved into the space earlier this year. In April, a man lit a fire outside the door of the offices of U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), which set off the sprinkler system on that floor and caused catastrophic water damage to Unnecessary Inventions, one floor below. Benedetto had to renovate his studio, tearing it down to the studs and building it back up over nearly six months.

While the flooding was a setback, it had a silver lining: Benedetto was able

Last year, Vermonters threw away 71,113 tons of food scraps which ended up in our only landfill. Equal to 242 pounds of food scraps per person per year.

CSWD’s Organic Recycling Facility (ORF) and our six Drop-Off Centers accept food scraps from residents and businesses to keep them out of Vermont’s only landfill.

For information scan or visit cswd.net/a-to-z/food-scraps

Burrito Bumper

Saucy Nuggs Necklace

Jewel Cooler

Intelligent Design? « P.27

to build the exact studio he wanted, rather than retrofitting the space.

“I love coming in here every day,” he said.

Arched floor-to-ceiling windows along the east wall bathe the spacious studio in sunlight. A blue sectional couch big enough to seat a football team faces a massive ﬂat-screen TV, where Benedetto hosts movie nights and plays video games with friends. He’s got a Ping-Pong table and Mortal Kombat and Ms. Pac-Man arcade games.

Hundreds of framed photos of Benedetto’s inventions remind visitors that the place is more than the ultimate man cave. Below them, banks of 3D printers — more than 20 in all, including a chocolate printer — line two walls.

Bookshelves display his various inventions, including the fingerless plastic Crocs Gloves, now called Gator Grips, that earned him a cease-and-desist order from the plastic-footwear company in 2019. A copy of that order, blown up and framed, hangs across from the large, open, blue-and-white kitchen.

O the main room is a meticulously organized collection of tools, clamps and spare parts. Over in the production space, soldering kits and sewing machines can be found on several workbenches. Another room holds lighting equipment for video production and pieces of projects Benedetto is still tinkering with, such as an o ce chair seesaw.

Benedetto said he can now produce most of his inventions, from concept to prototype, in three days. Most of the ideas are his own, though he said about 25 percent are suggestions from fans.

Before he started inventing fake products, Benedetto was a serial entrepreneur who developed real ones, including ski hats, phone-charging cables and travel accessories. With the success of Unnecessary Inventions, he’s put those other pursuits aside, though he’s not done reinventing himself.

“Throughout my life, I’ve changed what I do every ﬁve-ish years,” he said. “I think this is what I was made to do.” So he doesn’t expect his next step is “changing it … but maybe ﬁguring out di erent ways to envision Unnecessary Inventions.”

That could mean holding live events or developing a core collection of inventions to produce and sell, he suggested, or perhaps going into TV.

“Then again,” he said, “I never know what’s going on past the next invention.” ➆

INFO

Matty Benedetto of Unnecessary Inventions is the noontime speaker at the Vermont Tech Jam on Saturday, October 26, at Hula in Burlington. Find details, and register to attend the free event, at techjamvt.com.

Matty Benedetto in a gyro chair

Tear-Rings

Gator Grips

Matty Benedetto

Help Wanted

At Generator Makerspace, Vermont manufacturers trade strategies for addressing the labor shortage

BY HANNAH FEUER • hfeuer@sevendaysvt.com

In Vermont, there are about two job openings for every unemployed person.

That’s according to Michael Harrington, commissioner of the state Department of Labor, who shared the statistic with an audience of roughly 60 people on a recent Thursday afternoon at Generator Makerspace in Burlington’s South End. The Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center cohosted the event, titled “Advanced Manufacturing Day — Can We Make It?,” at which business leaders gathered to discuss one of the major obstacles facing local manufacturers: Vermont’s labor shortage.

“Unlike other states, our biggest challenge is the number of people in our workforce,” Harrington told the crowd. “How do we attract new people to Vermont, to grow Vermont’s workforce? We’re not going to be able to do it from within.”

Like in America’s Rust Belt, Vermont’s manufacturing sector has declined markedly over the past few decades. An average of 28,500 Vermonters worked in manufacturing in 2023, compared with 46,300 in 2000, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

That drop is despite a proliferation of local tech companies producing everything from electric aircraft to industrial robotics. Across the country, the prevailing narrative about disappearing manufacturing jobs has been displaced by a new challenge: getting American workers back into those hands-on jobs. As both sides of the political aisle look to invest in U.S. manufacturing and the sector has begun to rebound, the domestic workforce has not kept pace.

There will be a projected 2.1 million unfilled manufacturing jobs in the U.S. by 2030, according to a joint study by financial services and consulting company Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that aims to strengthen America’s manufacturing workforce. The report attributes the shortage to an aging workforce, insufficient job training programs and a general lack of interest in manufacturing careers.

Those problems are amplified in Vermont, the second-least populous state and where more than a third of residents are over the age of 54.

“I personally just get tired of saying, ‘There isn’t anybody. We can’t find

Beta Technologies, OnLogic, Rigorous Technologies and Generator Makerspace will exhibit at the Vermont Tech Jam on Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Hula in Burlington. The job fair and tech expo is followed by a keynote presentation with OnLogic cofounder Roland Groeneveld and vice president of HR Lauren Lavallee.

To attend the free event, register at techjamvt.com

anybody,’” Julie LaForce, co-owner of hardwood furniture manufacturer Built by Newport, told the crowd. “I really just try

to focus on staying patient, staying really diligent and finding the right folks for our team.”

Tino Rutanhira, cofounder of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network, acknowledged that Vermont’s small population sometimes necessitates employers to search for out-of-state hires. But asking someone to relocate for a job brings new challenges. Vermont employers routinely list the state’s acute shortage of affordable housing at the top of their list of impediments to growth. New, out-of-state hires in particular struggle to find places to live within reasonable driving distance of their jobs.

For candidates of color, there may be additional obstacles. “You’re asking them essentially to uproot their family and move them to the third-whitest state in the country,” Rutanhira said. “That’s a harder conversation to have.”

He advertised his Newcomer Nexus program as part of the solution. For $3,000 per job candidate, the network helps companies recruit and retain employees of color from out of state. The organization speaks with applicants during the interview process, then follows up once the workers arrive in Vermont to help them adjust. For example, Rutanhira said, he might suggest a hair braiding salon to a Black woman or connect a Muslim person with the Islamic Society of Vermont.

Kevin Chu, executive director of Vermont Futures Project — which aims to boost the state’s population by 150,000 by 2035 — moderated a discussion in which manufacturing business leaders shared how they navigate hiring. Panelists included LaForce; Diane Abruzzini, cofounder of Rigorous Technology, which makes robots that can do dangerous, repetitive industrial tasks; Kalyn Bixler, director of global manufacturing at OnLogic, which produces industrial computers; and Sarah Deshaw, head of workforce development at electric aircraft pioneer Beta Technologies.

Deshaw emphasized the importance of educating young people about careers in manufacturing.

“A lot of young people know what a plumber is. They know what a carpenter is or an electrician is,” she said. “But when you think about manufacturing, it’s such an incredible variety of roles that you could have under that umbrella. Exposure … is critical.”

plasma cutter making a Vermont-shaped bottle opener

The Benefits of Sharing Your Home

Meg Hammond, executive director of Generator, highlighted the makerspace as a place to gain hands-on experience with hightech manufacturing processes. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this month, Generator provides members with access to 12,000 square feet of workspace equipped with tools such as a 3D printer, a laser cutter and a CNC router. The nonproﬁt also o ers workshops in techniques such as welding, rapid prototyping and computer-aided design.

free membership at the Generator, credit for tool trainings and mentorship from manufacturing companies. She hopes it will benefit unemployed or underemployed 18- to 35-year-olds who “don’t know their

THE PREVAILING NARRATIVE ABOUT DISAPPEARING MANUFACTURING JOBS HAS BEEN DISPLACED BY A NEW CHALLENGE: GETTING AMERICAN

WORKERS BACK INTO MANUFACTURING.

After the panel discussion, Generator sta gave tours of the building and demonstrated two tools. The laser cutter carved out a Vermont-shaped magnet, while in the metal shop, attendees donned sunglasses as the plasma cutter crafted a Vermont-shaped bottle opener amid ﬂying sparks.

Hammond announced the creation of a program that will grant young people

That message resonated with attendee Devon McGarry, a campus recruiter for Husky Technologies, an injection moldings manufacturer in Milton.

The company o ers an apprenticeship program for high school juniors and seniors. But recruitment is challenging, he said: Students who possess trade skills are hard to come by. That’s a shame, he said, since Husky Technologies’ starting pay for machinists is $23 per hour.

“You can get a fantastic, lifelong career — well paying,” he said. “The job security is pretty darn good without a college degree.”

Illustrative of these challenges: The event at Generator was billed partly as a networking opportunity for job seekers. In an interactive exercise, Hammond asked audience members a question.

“How many in the room are looking for a potential job at a manufacturing company?”

Just three hands went up.

“Wait,” Hammond said. “My facilities director just raised his hand. Sit down, Mason!” ➆

From left: Diane Abruzzini, Kalyn Bixler, Julie LaForce and Sarah Deshaw

The Sensei

At his Esports Dojo in Essex Junction, Grant Patterson teaches life lessons through video games

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH • farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com

Waiting for students to trickle into the Esports Dojo in Essex Junction after school one day, their sensei, Grant Patterson, looked positively monk-like seated in quiet contemplation in a dark hoodie. In one hand, he clutched an Xbox controller, ready to dispense the wisdom gained from a lifetime of gaming.

Patterson’s journey with video games began during his youth in Florida in the 1980s, when his aunt purchased a Nintendo console. Not long after, he witnessed his ﬁrst video game tournament.

“I had just encountered Street Fighter II,” Patterson, 42, said of the massively popular fighting game. “It was the first time I’d seen real, head-to-head competition. That’s when I learned the truth of it: The real core of a fighting game isn’t that you’re fighting someone else. You’re fighting yourself — your biases, your patterns and fears, your own psychological responses to pressure.”

That’s a lesson he regularly imparts at the Esports Dojo. The gaming spot serves as an afterschool training center for kids in grades 6 to 12. Tuesday through Thursday, from 2 to 6 p.m., he welcomes students from area schools to pick up the sticks, as the saying goes. Building on their existing love of gaming, Patterson strives to teach them not only to up their scores but also to apply virtual lessons learned to real life.

Patterson’s gaming room is packed with di erent consoles and PC gaming setups. As kids arrived and drifted to stations in the dojo, he explained how he vets potential students and vice versa.

“It’s super important that the parents understand this isn’t just a place where you pay for your kid to come and play video games,” he said.

After an initial meeting, during which Patterson speaks to the student and their parents about their gaming history and skills they’d like to focus on, he maps out a lesson plan. “Maybe they need to work on comprehension and understanding — how every action in a game has an equal and opposite reaction. It’s not just button mashing,” he said. “Or maybe they need to game with other kids and be social and learn from their peers.”

One of Patterson’s young charges, an Essex Middle School student named John Co ey, was playing Street Fighter 6 , a game he’s grown to love during his sessions at the dojo. With a deft flick

IF YOU BUTTON MASH THROUGH LIFE, WELL, THAT’S HOW YOU LOSE YOUR HOUSE.

GRANT

PATTERSON

of his thumb on the toggle of the game controller and a quick combination of button hits, the 11-year-old delivered a devastating ﬁnishing blow to his opponent. Though Co ey does play against others, that day he was more interested in playing in training mode, squaring o against an NPC (non-player character) and experimenting with new moves and combos.

“I learned this last week,” Co ey said with a small smile as the neon colors of the screen washed over his face. “I’d always go for a special move here, but I learned that if I combine that with a di erent attack, I

can pretty much ﬁnish them o with one or two moves!”

His pride wasn’t lost on Patterson, who pointed out why video gaming can be vital to students like Co ey.

with no education (“button mashers” to the uninitiated) to people fumbling aimlessly through life and taking unnecessary risks.

“As a kid, you’re always craving some kind of autonomy,” he said. “To have that in a virtual space — where you can make your own decisions and see the rewards of taking a good risk as opposed to what happens with a bad risk — is like gold.”

As if on cue, another student let out a whoop as he completed a particularly di cult maneuver in his game, vanquishing an online foe. Patterson glided over to look on with admiration.

“Did you try that counter I showed you?” he asked.

Patterson has a background in the tech industry and has written and edited for Syfy and the gaming TV network G4. He focuses heavily on decision making in his lessons, comparing those who play games

“Button mashing ends up with you as a player taking big swings but opening up yourself to damage, and the end result is you get your ass properly kicked,” he said. “But if you make intelligent decisions and go for low-risk, low-reward moves to eventually set up a big-risk move — if you’re patient and think clearly — you’re so much more likely to win. And that 100 percent applies to real life. If you button mash through life, well, that’s how you lose your house.”

Harriet Matthews was skeptical of the program when she and her teenage son, Luke, ﬁrst met with Patterson.

“I was dubious, but after talking with Grant, I did a complete 360-degree turn

Grant Patterson

in my mind,” she said. “Luke isn’t really into playing sports, and I loved that Grant wanted to set up something for kids who like gaming but haven’t had a chance to meet other kids like them.”

It didn’t take long for Matthews to notice the positive effects of the dojo on her son.

“He’s grown in who he is and how he deals with things,” she said. “I’ve noticed that he’s gotten better at applying himself, and the values that Grant teaches have come out in so many ways.”

Those values are posted for all to see upon entering the dojo. A large poster titled “The Rules of Engagement” lists Patterson’s tenets, including “Everyone is worthy of respect,” “Anger is a liability,” and “We are here to have fun, and when we struggle, we help one another.”

Those are axioms that Patterson believes his students can apply to their lives as they age and their relationship with gaming evolves. And their futures as gamers hold much more potential than previous generations could expect, he noted.

Esports have grown to be as large as actual sports, with events such as the League of Legends World Championship Finals garnering almost 100 million viewers, roughly analogous to average Super Bowl viewership. One of the best gaming programs in the country is at nearby Champlain College in Burlington, which has already collaborated with Patterson on tournaments. He hopes to broaden that partnership, building what he calls a “real, definitive pipeline” between his dojo and the college’s video game majors.

In the meantime, his goal is to continue growing the dojo, which i n addition to afterschool programs offers the Wednesday Night Fight Club, a series where gamers of all ages can test their skills against one another. Patterson also regularly helps plan and stage tournaments around the area, including recent events at Burlington Beer that packed the brewery with gamers.

IT’S SUPER IMPORTANT THAT THE PARENTS UNDERSTAND THIS ISN’T JUST A PLACE WHERE YOU PAY FOR YOUR KID TO COME AND PLAY VIDEO GAMES.

GRANT PATTERSON

Perhaps more than anything, he wants to shift the conversation about gaming away from the notion of kids sitting around and doing “nothing.” Think of it instead, he said, as “kids engaged in active decision making and self-refinement.”

“It’s such a radically different lens when you actually support kids and their gaming,” Patterson said. “If your kid has aptitude for it and drive, fuel that. The lessons they take from it will inform the rest of their lives.” ➆

wnfcesd.com.

The Sensei « P.33

Grant Patterson (right) with a client

Let’s Connect.

INSTANT HEADSHOT LOUNGE:

NEW

10 A.M.-3 P.M.: Exhibitors at our annual career and tech expo make everything from microchips to motion sensors, robotics systems to charging stations, AI tools to electric aircraft. And all of them want to know if you can help them — or if they can help you.

NOON TALK: In his Church Street studio, Unnecessary Inventions creator Matty Benedetto uses 3D printers to prototype peculiar products for global brands including Wendy’s, Captain Morgan and Apple. He explains his evolution from Saint Michael’s College grad to a content creator with more than 10 million followers.

3 P.M. KEYNOTE: South Burlington-based OnLogic generates more than $100 million in revenue annually designing and producing specialized computers. Cofounder Roland Groeneveld and VP of HR Lauren Lavallee discuss how the 21-year-old company got its start and the opportunities it o ers for the next generation of Vermont workers.

NEW

RESUME REVIEW:

Come camera-ready and get a professional proﬁle pic by StoryWorkz. Book by 10/23 for a discounted $15 session. Limited walk-ups.

Drop in with Sue Schlom from The Targeted Resume and get some free advice for your job search. Don’t forget your resume!

food+drink

He doesn’t want to be, but Rocket is the face of Vermont’s food scene.

Wearing all black and a beaming smile, the mononymic storyteller, producer and social media personality spends his days crisscrossing the state to eat at small, locally owned food businesses. Then he tells Eat Vermont’s 28,900 Instagram followers all about it.

In videos posted almost daily, the 32-year-old champions farmers and restaurant owners, giving them about 45 seconds to share their stories. He chomps into an Italian sandwich or throws back a shot of maple syrup before signing o with a reminder to support local establishments and — you guessed it — “eat Vermont.”

Rocket snagged the @eatvermont handle in 2015, shortly after earning an economics degree from Middlebury College. Since then, the account has evolved from a creative outlet for sharing food photos — and a way for the guy behind it to get some free food — into a go-to source for happenings in the state’s food scene, with short- and longerform videos, job postings, and event listings.

For a long time, Eat Vermont was a side project that didn’t make money, Rocket said. But through ﬁlming hundreds of on-thespot video clips, he’s gained an understanding of how hard it can be to run a small food business in Vermont.

“It just strikes me as fundamentally wrong, like when you’re a child and you feel some injustice has been done,” he said of the treatment of food producers and purveyors. “There’s so much opportunity for us to better understand how hard they work and how important they are to the quality of life we enjoy.”

When Rocket graduated from Vermont Law & Graduate School in May, Eat Vermont became his main gig. Recently, he produced an eight-part series for Vermont Public’s Made Here Fund, diving deeper into the work of small-town food and drink luminaries such as Elmore Mountain Bread’s Blair Marvin and Babes Bar co-owners Jesse Plotsky and Owen Daniel-McCarter.

Followers who watched his “2024 Vision” video in January will already know his next step: Over a cup of Jenna’s Promise Roasting co ee and gluten-free crackers topped

Ready for Launch

Eat Vermont founder Rocket aims to help small businesses with a new AI-powered app

BY JORDAN BARRY • jbarry@sevendaysvt.com

with Vermont Creamery goat cheese and Fat Toad Farm caramel, Rocket announced that his wildly popular social media account was “moving into technology.”

This week, the Eat Vermont app went live. It does what longtime followers expect: highlights and champions the state’s food and farm businesses. But it will also host up-to-the-minute information about food-focused events; a comprehensive list of restaurants, complete with current menus; available community-supported agriculture shares; and other soon-to-come features meant to connect folks in Vermont’s food scene.

“These are 7-year-old ideas that I’m ﬁnally getting to implement, in large part because of AI,” Rocket said. Both generative artiﬁcial intelligence and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) are embedded in the app and in the process the Eat Vermont team has used to bring it to life.

The ﬁrst building block was Stellar, a separate app Rocket has been building over the past year with one of his neighbors in White River Junction, software developer Biraj G C. It started as an experiment to see how the duo could use AI in a recipe-focused mobile app — similar to NYT Cooking, Rocket said, but personalized for each user.

Stellar is now a major part of the Eat Vermont app’s functionality.

After a preliminary meeting this fall with the Fund at Hula — a potential funding source — Rocket and G C accelerated the larger project’s timeline, leading to the launch this week.

“Stellar’s an English muffin, and Eat Vermont is the breakfast sandwich,” Rocket said.

That English mu n uses generative AI, pulling from trained large language models (think ChatGPT). Users can ask for recipes to ﬁt speciﬁc ingredients or even moods; a

Eat Vermont founder Rocket

SIDEdishes

SERVING UP FOOD NEWS

BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

Sweet Simone’s Expands Savory Menu and Space in Richmond

On Wednesday, October 23, SWEET SIMONE’S owner LISA CURTIS plans to open an expansion of her Richmond bakery and café. It will o er more savory options, including a variety of pizzas, in the storefront adjacent to her original location.

To the signage for espresso and the bakery at 40 Bridge Street, Curtis has added “ﬁne foods” and “provisions” over the new second entrance at 44 Bridge Street. That space was formerly the production bakery for ANDY’S DANDYS BAKED DOG TREATS, which has relocated to Colchester.

Curtis, 43, founded her business in Waitsﬁeld in 2012 and moved it to Richmond in January 2015. She said the busy sweet side of the bakery prevented

her from expanding her limited lunch o erings. Now she has extra kitchen space and is excited to add “more of what I really love.”

The new menu will o er a wider variety of soups, salads and sandwiches, such as one with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, basil and balsamic glaze on house-baked bread. Pizzas will include crisp-crusted Roman-style and pillowy Sicilian square pies, Curtis said. She will sell a selection of cheeses, cured meats, and canned and jarred Italian specialty staples, such as lupini beans and Calabrian peppers, plus seafood from WOOD MOUNTAIN FISH

The addition will have a small bar with a handful of stools, and customers will be able to walk through into the original space for more seating. The south side of the business will stay open later in the day than the bakery, until 6 p.m., Curtis said.

Lisa Curtis of Sweet Simone’s in 2019

Reuben at Sweet Simone’s

request for “fall stew,” for instance, might yield a recipe with root vegetables, hearty grains and warming spices that is billed as “comforting and seasonal.”

The AI can quickly rescale recipes based on the amount of ingredients on hand, and user-created proﬁles for dining companions help customize further, taking dietary restrictions into account to make sure the resulting dish is something everyone can eat, whether vegan, low fat or gluten-free.

“Is it going to be the most epicurean, incredible thing? Probably not, because of the constraints you’re giving it,” Rocket said. “But it’ll give you something you can all eat, and it’s personalized to the home-cooking experience.”

The recipes come with a disclaimer: They were created by large language models and “may not have been tested in a kitchen.” Still, potential partners see the recipes’ value, especially in helping CSA customers ﬁgure out how to use the myriad and sometimes obscure vegetables that come in their shares.

Emma Hileman, program director of Rutland-based Vermont Farmers Food Center, includes a weekly recipe or two in the newsletter of her organization’s Farmacy Project. The free 15-week “food as medicine” CSA provides fresh produce from local farmers and just completed its 10th year.

“We always have requests for more [recipes], because we’re giving people a bag of vegetables, and they might not have used some of them,” Hileman said. “It would be great for our participants to have a proﬁle on Eat Vermont and be given di erent recipes they can use for that week’s share.”

for every restaurant, general store, co-op, farm and food business, Rocket said, as well as a separate “support” tab for nonproﬁts, food banks, fundraisers, available grants and other community resources. Also soon to come are suggested itineraries for day trips, curated by Rocket and other content creators, with a variety of regions and themes.

THESE ARE 7-YEAR-OLD IDEAS THAT I’M FINALLY GETTING TO IMPLEMENT, IN LARGE PART BECAUSE OF AI.

Hileman hopes the food center will partner with Eat Vermont when the project returns next growing season. She sees potential for the app to help people get both food and information.

“Having one central app where people can go and say, ‘Hey, I need a meal today in Rutland County’ will be a really good resource for local food access,” Hileman said.

The foundation of such features is “justin-time information delivery,” Rocket explained, which uses AI to gather facts online and make updates as they’re posted, whether it’s a rain delay to an event or a restaurant closing unexpectedly due to burst pipes.

The app will include statewide listings

The RAG framework limits the AI’s source material to ensure factual accuracy and prevent it from inventing nonexistent restaurants and the like, Rocket said. Next month, the team will create tools that give businesses some control over their listings on the app. Farmers will be able to upload weekly CSA lists to generate relevant recipes. Eat Vermont’s wider-ranging features are still in development, including a job board that will allow business owners to vouch for employees seeking to ﬁll in at short-sta ed establishments.

The app will be supported by membership fees rather than ads. Rocket is still determining the cost, he said, and is willing to waive it for those who can’t a ord it.

“Any app that sells ads is selling your data,” he said, noting that the Eat Vermont team won’t sell — or even see — the hyper-personalized data from its users, such as dietary restrictions or wellness goals they may input. “It would feel really invasive if you go on Instagram and see ads for

weight-loss pills after you use the app,” he added.

In addition to the app, membership will include access to Eat Vermont’s web portal and newsletter, and opportunities to get event tickets early.

Rocket said he’s put “every dollar” of his life savings into Eat Vermont’s expansion, including retirement accounts, and can self-fund it for only about another month. Meanwhile, he’s seeking funding sources beyond user subscriptions, including private investors and partnerships with chambers of commerce.

“I’ll be broke by the end of November,” he said. “But I’m sprinting to the cli with a smile, because I really believe in what I’m doing.”

The risk he runs, he said, is no worse than what Vermont’s small food-business owners face every day. ➆

INFO

Learn more at eatvermont.com or @eatvermont on Instagram.

Rocket at Luna Bleu Farm in South Royalton

food+drink

SIDEdishes

Good Times Café to Add South Burlington Location With Matryoshka’s Bakery

The owners of GOOD TIMES CAFÉ in Hinesburg and MATRYOSHKA’S BAKERY in St. George will open a second location of the café in the same South Burlington building into which they will move the bakery. MARYAM and TRAVIS COUNTER told Seven Days that they are targeting a January launch for the combined restaurant-bakery in the rear of the former UNO Pizzeria & Grill at 1330 Shelburne Road. A bank will occupy the front of the building, and their customers will enter through a new side entrance.

The Counters bought Good Times, a 25-year-old ﬁxture in the heart of Hinesburg, in 2019. Travis, 43, leads the team there, serving freshly made pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and Cajun

and Creole specialties. Maryam, 42, launched Matryoshka’s in 2017 from the couple’s licensed home kitchen, which she said she has now outgrown. She sells her French-style macarons at Good Times and select local restaurants and co ee shops.

“This is what we always wanted: to do a joint venture,” Maryam said.

The couple are working on renovating the 3,500-square-foot space, adding baking ovens and a new bar to the dining area for a total of about 70 seats.

Lunch and dinner café o erings will expand on the original Good Times menu. The Counters plan to add a full bar and breakfast. Maryam, who is originally from Russia, said she would like to add some items from her childhood, such as honey cake. Travis hopes to sell Louisiana-style beignets.

Follow Good Times Café or Matryoshka’s Bakery on social media for updates. ➆

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Maryam and Travis Counter

The Store That Tech Saved

Lincoln residents Katie and Kyle Clark of Beta Technologies stepped up to buy their town’s general store

BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

The typical Vermont country store exemplifies high touch, low tech, and the 181-year-old Lincoln General Store is no exception. In early October, its weathered red door bore a hand-drawn sign for this season’s rifle buck pool. Generations of footsteps have bu ed all traces of stain and polish from the long, narrow floorboards. “Ninety percent of our customers, I know their names and their story,” store general manager Jennifer Smith said. Smith, 57, has spent more than half her life in the Addison County town of 1,300. Nestled at the foot of Mount Abraham, Lincoln sees a steady flow of cyclists, hikers and leaf peepers until the Lincoln Gap Road closes from mid-October to May and

locals have the town to themselves again.

The store doesn’t use a barcode scanner to ring up orders of locally baked bread, cases of Bud Light, deli sandwiches and house-baked sweets, such as addictive salted-caramel shortbread bars. Out-of-towners, Smith said, are always amazed that regulars can grab a gallon of Monument Farms milk on credit and pay at month’s end.

While AI gobbles up our personal data for nefarious purposes, the humans who work at the Lincoln store use their intelligence to o er new-baby congratulations, check on someone’s health or deliver birthday wishes — all witnessed during a recent visit. But for all its low-tech bona ﬁdes, the Lincoln General Store owes its continued existence to the success of one of Vermont’s most prominent high-tech companies: South Burlington-based Beta Technologies, one of the country’s leading developers of electric aircraft.

THE STORE WAS ONE OF THE REASONS WE DECIDED TO MOVE HERE.

KATIE CLARK

Above: Vaneasa Stearns and Katie Clark Below: e Lincoln General Store

In 2023, Lincoln was at risk of losing what resident Karen Swanson called “the nerve center of the town.” After more than 30 years of selling groceries, weighing in deer and even pulling out wiggly teeth that kids didn’t trust their parents to remove, the store’s beloved owner and storekeeper, Vaneasa Stearns, reluctantly decided to sell due to her declining health.

The quest to save the small-town general store has become increasingly common in Vermont; reasons include increased competition from chains such as Dollar General, staffing challenges and the skyrocketing cost of maintaining old buildings. The most recent announcements of potential closures have come from Buxton’s Store in Orwell and Bliss Village Store and Deli in Bradford.

Concerned about the future of their cherished market, a group of Lincoln resi-

that buying the store felt doable only because longtime staff agreed to stay on, and Smith, who had worked there in the past, was willing to return and become the general manager. Stearns gratefully accepted the Clarks’ offer.

“This is them putting their money where their mouth is,” Stearns said. “They believe in general stores.”

According to town property records, the building sold in January for $300,000. Katie declined to share the total figure invested by the couple and their friends Marna and Chuck Davis, philanthropists with Vermont ties. She told Seven Days that they expect to continue investing to maintain and upgrade the 19th-century building.

Smith said the Clarks have been supportive, hands-off bosses, trusting her and the long-standing team to evolve as they see fit to meet the community’s needs.

dents approached Preservation Trust of Vermont, which has helped a number of towns in similar situations. The nonprofit works with locals to develop and raise funds for a community ownership model. But that process takes time, and Stearns, 59, who has a progressive muscle disease called myofibrillar myopathy, did not have time.

Stearns “gave the general store heart and that extended into the community,” Katie Clark wrote in an email. She and her husband, Kyle, the founder of Beta Technologies, moved their family of six into a $3.5 million Lincoln home three years ago.

“The store was one of the reasons we decided to move here,” Katie wrote. “It’s the place you go to see your neighbors, hear the latest town news ... For us, it created an immediate sense of community.”

When the Clarks learned that the grassroots effort would take too long for Stearns, they offered to purchase the business, building and inventory. Katie noted

With a smile, she summarized what Kyle told her: “Don’t run out of money, and don’t ruin the vibe.”

The Clarks did propose a seasonal creemee stand in the old icehouse next to the store. It opened in August, followed by a new big-game reporting station with an electrified winch built by a Mount Abraham High School shop class. The store now serves hot breakfast daily and has expanded its inventory of local products to include Misty Knoll Farms chicken and Footprint Farm greens.

But sandwiches and groceries are only part of what the Lincoln General Store provides. In the first week under new ownership, a longtime customer came in. She didn’t buy anything, Smith recalled. She just wanted a hug. ➆

Mondays - Thursday from October 21 - December 12 (excluding November 27-28) Must mention Fall Special at time of booking. If booking online, add “Fall Special” into the notes. Based on availability. Subject to change. Reservations required.

Prescott making Harvest Wraps

That’s Not the Ticket

Predatory ticket resellers are increasingly sophisticated in duping fans. And it’s mostly legal.

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG • maryann@sevendaysvt.com

When Cameron Nauceder learned that hillbilly comedian Ginger Billy was coming to Rutland, he decided to get tickets to surprise his wife. “So I hopped on Google,” he said. He typed in “Ginger Billy tickets, Paramount Theatre, Rutland” and clicked the ﬁrst link that came up.

“It brought me to a website, and it had the Paramount Theatre logo and the address right at the top of the page,” Nauceder said. The independent general contractor from Washington, Vt., bought two balcony seats for $310. Expensive, but he ﬁgured that was because people love the bu , bearded, backwoods comic.

When he and his wife got to the theater for the October 4 show, the six-foot-two-inch Nauceder, a disabled Marine veteran, couldn’t squeeze into the tight balcony row. “My legs physically could not ﬁt between the seat back and the seat in front of me,” he said. They went to the box o ce to ask if they could move.

When Nauceder presented his tickets, the box office agent responded, “‘Oh, you didn’t purchase these from us,’” Nauceder recalled. “I said, ‘Excuse me?’”

That’s when Nauceder learned that he had paid triple the price of the balcony seats.

Predatory ticket resellers have ﬂooded the marketplace. They scoop up seats for live entertainment, jack up the price and o er them on websites that look like the performance venue’s. Flame emojis pop up. “Limited inventory,” the sites warn, even when plenty of tickets are available. “Act now before your tickets are sold!”

Some sellers o er tickets they don’t yet own. These practices overcharge consumers, cheat artists, and cost presenters time, money and their reputations.

And for the most part, it’s legal.

“It happens at every show,” Paramount marketing and box o ce manager Janel Soren said. She estimated that 20 audience members at every performance present

tickets they bought from a reseller; others with fraudulent tickets may never realize it.

When resellers accomplish their goal, Paramount executive director Eric Mallette said, “the purchaser never really knows. They don’t know that ticket they bought was four times the price it should have been. They don’t know the ticketing fees were 12 times what they should traditionally be. They don’t know any of that. They just buy their tickets and come to the theater.”

“And if it’s happening to this little theater in Rutland, Vt.,” Soren said, “it’s happening all across the country.”

It is legal to resell tickets in Vermont. State law has consumer protection measures in place and prohibits the use of bots, computer software that allows users to sweep up tickets, but the attorney general has not charged anyone for fraudulent ticket resale.

Reselling tickets is a multibillion-dollar industry, said Stephen Parker, executive director of the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA). He cited a 2022 Bloomberg report showing that resale ticket prices on StubHub had increased more than 100 percent since 2019, while the face value of tickets had increased only 10 percent.

The market remains hot. More than 9,000 tickets were recently offered on StubHub and Vivid Seats for U.S. stops on the highly anticipated Oasis reunion tour — before tickets had gone on sale, Parker said. He noted the activity in a letter to U.S. senators urging them to pass the Fans First Act, which would ban such speculative sales along with a host of other predatory

DON’T BE DUPED

The first thing music and theater fans should do to ensure they buy real tickets at fair prices is start at the venue’s website. Don’t type the show and venue names into a search engine. That’s likely to bring up reseller sites first, and many of those are designed to deceive. Ticketsonsale.com, for example, displays the Flynn’s marquee across the top of its page when selling Flynn tickets.

Signs that you’re buying from a reseller include:

• high prices

• high fees tacked on during the checkout process

• tickets that don’t include a seat number but instead say something like “Orchestra, Row Q,” etc. alerts urging you to buy quickly

If you suspect you have bought tickets from a reseller, call the venue box office immediately so staffers can investigate. Plus, the venue needs your contact information in case there are changes to the show. Paramount Theatre marketing and box office manager Janel Soren recalls people who paid a reseller $500 for two Righteous Brothers tickets that the theater had sold for $142. They traveled from Connecticut to see the show, which had been canceled because one of the singers had COVID-19.

File complaints about ticket resellers with the Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program. Call

practices. “We can’t determine the exact markup on the fake tickets,” Parker wrote, “given that there are no tickets available for the public to buy, let alone see the price.”

Consumers who pay too much for tickets have less to spend on a night out, Parker told Seven Days. Venues lose food and drink sales. Artists sell less merch. Audience members may spend less money on dinner before a show or drinks after, meaning other area businesses take a hit and local governments lose tax revenue.

“That money is leaving the community and going into the pocket of somebody who is not contributing to the ecosystem and not contributing to a show,” Parker said.

“It affects the room as well,” said Jordan Gechtman, marketing manager at the Higher Ground nightclub in South Burlington. Bands playing a sold-out show deserve a full house. But resellers, who can recoup their costs quickly with markups, may not sell all the tickets they have. Playing in a half-empty venue “is challenging,” Gechtman said. “And that also affects how we ultimately bring them back or shape their future, or what their tours look like.”

“There’s a lot of ripple effects when you’ve got people skimming cream off the surface who aren’t invested in the health of

800-649-2424 or email ago.cap@vermont. gov.

Keep the faith! When shows sell out, there are ways to find real tickets at fair prices. Higher Ground marketing manager Jordan Gechtman recommends searching on hyperlocal websites, such as the Facebook page Black Market-U, or going to CashorTrade, a Burlington-based platform that requires sellers to offer tickets at face value or less.

CashorTrade operates like a social network, cofounder and CEO Brando Rich said, explaining why its approach works. Members have profiles. They can chat, leave each other reviews and flag questionable posts. “If something is posted above face value, within 30 seconds, it’s flagged, and it gets automatically suspended,” Rich said.

CashorTrade is free for sellers, charges 10 percent to buyers — waived for those with the $4-per-month Gold membership — and offers a money-back guarantee. It has 470,000 members across the U.S. and in 46 other countries and is working to integrate its platform with those of primary ticket sellers.

More than a ticketing platform, Rich said, CashorTrade is “a movement of fans coming together from all over the world to support one another at face value.”

INFO

Learn more at cashortrade.org and ago. vermont.gov/cap.

the industry,” Higher Ground co-owner Alex Crothers said. Resellers, he said, can make more money than artists and venues do.

Combatting the bad actors is difficult. Some states have laws aimed at them, but Parker and others in the industry say federal legislation is needed. A 2016 federal law outlawing bots has proven to be ineffective.

The Fans First Act, cosponsored by U.S. Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), was introduced in December 2023 and is awaiting action in the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation.

The most comprehensive of three ticketing bills currently pending in Congress, it is backed by NIVA and Fix the Tix, a coalition of 35 organizations that represent artists, venues, promoters and other creators. Among other actions, the bill would strengthen the 2016 law, ban the sale of speculative tickets, outlaw deceptive marketing practices and require ticket sellers to show the full itemized cost of tickets, including any fees, from the moment the transaction begins.

“If we got that, that would be huge for the consumer,” Parker said, but time is running out. If the Fans First Act is not signed into law by the end of the current legislative session, it will need to be

Zooming In

LILLY

If your image of an orchestral concert is distant and impersonal — musicians seated in semicircular rows around a conductor who faces away from the audience — then the Vermont Symphony Orchestra’s concert on Saturday, October 26, at the Flynn in Burlington will upend expectations.

Titled “Romeo, Juliet, and the Firebird,” the concert features Lili Boulanger’s brief “D’un matin de printemps,” followed by two arrangements of ballet scores: Sergei Prokoﬁev’s Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2 and the Firebird Suite by Igor Stravinsky. As the VSO performs each piece, a live video feed from four strategically placed cameras will play on a screen behind the orchestra, allowing the audience a closeup look at the 65-odd musicians and conductor doing their thing.

“It’s no longer whoever you get to see from your seat,” VSO executive director Elise Brunelle said.

Music director Andrew Crust, now conducting his second season with the

pointed out, “We listen with our eyes in a lot of ways. If the camera is on the clarinets, then your ears hear clarinets. The visual guides you.”

Without close-ups, he added, audiences miss “a lot of what goes on during a performance,” including “the physicality, the ﬁne details of the technique, [and] the communication” between musicians and conductor.

The latter is likely to be an eye-opener. “Conducting is a mystery to a lot of people,” Crust said. “People think we’re telling the musicians when to play, but what we’re really doing is telling them how to play.” A conductor’s gestures can inﬂuence everything from tempo and dynamics to the style of playing. “Really, any musical element can be shown with the hands,” he said.

VSO, perfected this approach during his three seasons as associate conductor of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. There, he led a series of concerts augmented by live video. Toronto-based musician and composer Alex Clark wrote the video scripts for those concerts, notating the music scores with directions for eight cameras. A script reader directed the operators to, for example, cue Camera A to the oboist at measure 12.

Clark has also written the video scripts for the VSO’s concert, and VSO Chorus member Jennifer Carpenter will read them during the performance to videographers Justin Bunnell and Michael B. Fisher of RetroMotion Creative. The Burlington video production company creates music videos, documentaries and commercials for companies such as

NO LONGER WHOEVER YOU GET TO SEE FROM YOUR SEAT.

The musicians, Crust joked, “are maybe not so thrilled about their pores being one meter tall on a screen. But we play onstage under lights; we’re used to that level of scrutiny.”

Casella Waste Systems and City Market, Onion River Co-op; during the pandemic, it produced several prerecorded videos of chamber groups for the VSO, as well as live ones of the orchestra’s Jukebox Quartet.

At the Flynn, one ﬁxed camera will face Crust while another captures a bird’s-eye view of the orchestra.

The two videographers will control an onstage camera mounted on a tripod and another on a platform to the side of the concert hall.

“There’s a lot of potential for errors,” RetroMotion owner Bunnell said. A camera could shake, or the musicians could dip or sway unpredictably as they play. “It’s high stakes.”

Some audience members may wonder whether adding a visual element to a primarily auditory event necessarily enhances the experience. But, as Crust

On Saturday, Crust, a music education advocate, will preface each of the three works with a talk and slideshow — a few steps beyond a conductor’s usual brief introductory remarks. The orchestra will play excerpts to illustrate his points before performing the full piece.

“Classical music is a vast, deep ocean, and people get intimidated by their lack of knowledge,” the director said. “We all understand the music intuitively at some level, but I think our audience really likes to know more about the pieces they’re going to hear.”

Bunnell, a former saxophonist whose grandparents brought him to the symphony regularly as he grew up in Savannah, Ga., said he’s thrilled to be working with an orchestra the size of the VSO.

“I’m happy that Andrew is thinking in terms of bringing this level of technology to the Flynn,” he said. “If there’s a young kid in the audience, they could be inspired to be part of the arts. They’re so used to screens, they might get the message of, ‘Hey, we’re cool, too!’” ➆

INFO

Vermont Symphony Orchestra: “Romeo, Juliet, and the Firebird,” Saturday, October 26, 7:30 p.m., at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington. $8.35-62. vso.org

Michael B. Fisher ﬁlming the VSO at the Flynn in Burlington

In-depth presentation of today’s cannabis flower and edibles followed by Q & A October 30

Understanding concentrates, including vape cartridges, and the contraptions to enjoy them followed by Q & A

| 6pm | 21+ | Limited Space | Food & Drink Available full curriculum at MagicMann.com/Cannabis101 October 23

@magicmannvt | magicmann.com Essex Experience, Essex Junction

Cannabis has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For use by individuals 21 years of age and older or registered qualifying patient only. Keep this product away from children and pets. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Possession or use of cannabis may carry significant legal penalties in some jurisdictions and under federal law. It may not be transported outside of the state of Vermont. The effects of edible cannabis may be delayed by two hours or more. Cannabis may be habit forming and can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Persons 25 years and younger may be more likely to experience harm to the developing brain. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product. National Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

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Barrel Room at Black Flannel Brewing Co.

culture

In his compact comedy The Cherry Orchard, Anton Chekhov captures the surface of society, the polite speech of casual pontifications and daily complaints. What’s beneath is a desire to succeed socially; to confront mortality; to be pitied for one’s troubles or saved from them entirely; to cope with the horror of change. In Middlebury Acting Company’s production, director Melissa Lourie uses a spare set to let us see Chekhov’s surface while setting the actors to work deep below, revealing the play’s funny and beautiful truths.

Chekhov can be hard to perform since the dialogue is rarely about what’s going on inside the characters. The audience has to interpret their thoughts and then decide if they’re worth caring about. Truth is, it can be easy to dismiss them, but Lourie’s strategy is to win us over with warmth.

Fourteen characters in lush costumes portray the economic breadth of society in 1903. The formerly wealthy Lyubov Andreyevna’s circumstances are dire. She can’t pay the mortgage on the estate that’s been in her family for generations, having failed to marry a nobleman, been bilked of much of her money and squandered nearly all the rest. She returns from Paris to her childhood home and its beautiful cherry orchard a few months before the estate is due to be auctioned if she can’t resolve the debt.

A modern American might see this as a problem to solve, but Chekhov captures the terror of change that incapacitated so many Russian aristocrats faced with the loss of their land and power. For the duration of the play, Lyubov tries to listen to something other than the truth. It isn’t that hard — her family and servants will talk at length about anything else, sticking to life’s daily irritations with grand but meaningless observations. Chekhov’s comic subject is the willingness to hide trouble behind a veil of words.

The characters are servants, a merchant, a student and newly poor grandees. All are keenly conscious of the hierarchy that governs them, but they nevertheless feel free to tease, confront and judge each other. They’re skilled at disregarding others’ clever or caustic opinions, dismissing advice while dispensing their own thoughts to equally deaf ears. What they want leaks through, though. They’re seeking love, respect or a way of holding back time.

Lourie turns the governess into a narrator for a comic kick. Direct address felt like a gimmick to this reviewer, but the audience at Friday’s opening loved it, especially the rippling German R’s and

Impractical Jokers

Theater review: The Cherry Orchard, Middlebury Acting Company

BY ALEX BROWN • alex@sevendaysvt.com

the adorable lapdog. Adding a starched, German clown helps the audience accept the show as a comedy from the outset. Points for boldness, and for the dog.

The large cast mixes performers of various dramatic and comic styles, and the script contains more subtle possibilities than any group could fully mine. The missed opportunities don’t detract from the moments that land beautifully, particularly because the show is anchored by Jena Necrason’s shining, subtle portrayal of Lyubov.

Throughout, Necrason kindles a light in the character that circumstances cannot dim. All Lyubov’s flaws arise from her

Like Lyubov, Varya is headed straight for a sad future and pretends not to see it.

Perfectly barbered and dressed, Lyubov’s brother Gayev has been dodging problems all his charmed life, and John Nagle plays him with sunny ease. Gayev is almost equipped to help save the estate but, alas, remains prone to rambling reflections that don’t even amount to philosophy. Nagle endows him with infectious, doomed confidence.

Phin Holzhammer plays the selfimportant young footman Yasha with sly contempt, conveyed with half-mast eyelids and expressively arched eyebrows. As Firs, the aging valet, Jim Stapleton makes every move a little challenge for the stooping character. But his halting pace conveys a permanently stately bearing. Stapleton radiates the certainty that everything depends on Firs.

Tyler Rackliffe plays Trofimov, the tutor who still hasn’t finished his degree but has mastered the haughtiness of youth. Rackliffe also reveals his sweeter side, when he woos Anya with gaiety and without calculation.

Jordan Gullikson plays the arriviste Lopakhin, who has climbed to wealth but was shaped by ancestors who were serfs. Gullikson keeps him nervous, without the confidence of his accomplishment. In one of the play’s best scenes, Lopakhin and Varya freeze into strained pleasantries as they reach a last chance to agree on marriage but choose the safety of noticing the weather instead.

Costume designer MaryKay Dempewolff brings the period and the characters to life with sumptuous fabrics and remarkable details, from Lyubov’s jaunty traveling hat to Varya’s crisp, dark pinstripe dress. Every character’s fierce little rays of vanity blaze in their clothing.

virtues. She is too trusting and too foolish. Too unrealistic and too passive, too generous and too careless. Necrason shows Lyubov holding hope but never clutching at it. As the character floats on incomprehension, the clock ticks on the cherry orchard until it is too late to do anything but cry.

As Lyubov’s daughter, 17-year-old Anya, Peyton Mader enchants with eagerness, so open to life. In her optimism, she’s carrying the best part of her mother. Maren Langdon Spillane plays Varya, the adopted daughter who takes on management of the household. Langdon Spillane lets Varya melt with true affection for Anya while maintaining strict austerity in her own life.

In this production, the characters always say a little less than they feel. Trofimov and Anya shiver with joy as they consider love, but they talk about it with philosophical grandeur. Firs might mask some thoughts with muttering, but everyone knows what he thinks. And Lyubov can dally with trifles all she likes, but she’s only thinking about endings. The Cherry Orchard is wistful, a tender comedy that lets us laugh to see ourselves in people who are not quite communicating because they’re so good at hiding behind their words. ➆

INFO

The Cherry Orchard, by Anton Chekhov, in a version by Jean-Claude van Itallie, adapted and directed by Melissa Lourie, produced by Middlebury Acting Company. Friday and Saturday, October 25 and 26, 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, October 27, 2 p.m., at Town Hall Theater in Middlebury. $15-39. townhalltheater.org

From left: Maren Langdon Spillane, Jena Necrason and John Nagle in The Cherry Orchard

That’s Not the Ticket « P.43

reintroduced in January when the new session begins.

In the meantime, venue operators are trying to stay ahead of the scammers and educate the public — Rule No. 1: Always shop at the venue’s website.

Flynn marketing director Kevin Sweeney estimates that he and his colleagues at the Burlington theater spend 30 hours a week on anti-scam efforts. This spring, the Flynn added a half-time box office supervisor whose primary job is to thwart fraud. Jillian Senyi tracks suspicious behavior, watches for use of stolen credit cards and supports patrons who have lost money. When she confirms that people are selling Flynn tickets for more than face value, she issues a refund, recalls the tickets and permanently suspends the buyer’s account.

income is X less 5 percent, the theater has to eat that 5 percent because that artist is long gone,” the Paramount’s Mallette said. “We’ve settled the show. They’re in Paducah by now.”

While selling tickets at inflated prices is legal, selling one ticket multiple times is not. When that happens, the first person to arrive gets a seat; the rest are told their tickets are no good. In both scenarios, venues end up taking the blame.

“We had nothing to do with it, but they want to be mad at somebody, and we’re the closest people,” Crothers said.

IT’S TRULY A GAME OF WHAC-A-MOLE.

ALEX CROTHERS

Staff at the Flynn and other venues monitor their social media accounts to delete posts and block users offering tickets for sale. Swindlers might say things like, “My dad’s really sick, and I can’t make the show, and I was so looking forward to it. Please help me out.”

Robin Johnson, founder and general manager of the Stone Church in Brattleboro, said he’s seen such posts before a show has sold a single ticket. When a show is selling well or has sold out, Johnson no longer posts that news because it triggers a flurry of resellers.

“There’s keywords that they consistently use,” Higher Ground’s Gechtman said. “‘DM me.’ ‘Message me.’ My favorite is ‘My husband won’t let me go.’”

While big-name acts attract the most resale activity, Gechtman said she’s seen resale ads for the club’s Taylor Swiftinspired dance party, “which is not particularly hot.” Scamming, she added, “is absolutely pervasive and harmful at every level of live events.”

Higher Ground’s ticketing platform, See Tickets, has algorithms built in to flag suspicious buyers, Crothers said, but they are imperfect, and scalpers and bots adapt. “They can just keep evolving faster than we can come up with systems to protect the customer,” he said. “It’s truly a game of Whac-A-Mole.”

When scammers buy tickets with stolen credit cards, venues may take two losses: the first when they pay chargebacks, which are refunds to credit card holders; and the second when they pay the performer. Some performers get a percentage of ticket sales. “So if gross income was X, but then after the charge-backs, gross

When Higher Ground presented Noah Kahan at the Burlington waterfront last summer, someone set up an account on Eventbrite and started selling tickets they didn’t have, Crothers said. Interim general manager Nick Mavodones III had to turn away patrons with fake tickets. Fans cried, he said.

When Higher Ground brought Kahan back to play at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction in September, it took an additional step to prevent scalping and fraud. Higher Ground did not deliver tickets until the morning of the concert, so that fans would know that any tickets offered elsewhere earlier were fake.

Still, at the box office that night, Mavodones said, “we had to turn away five girls who bought tickets from their friends — they said.” Those tickets had already been scanned.

At the Ginger Billy show in Rutland, staffers wrote down the Paramount Theatre box office web address for Cameron Nauceder and his wife, who added it to her phone contacts. They now know to seek tickets directly from the venue.

“What worries me when it comes to sustainability of organizations like the one that I run,” Paramount executive director Mallette said, “are the untold number of people that go to a reseller site, presume it to be legitimate, see an incredibly enhanced ticket price and say, ‘Well, that show’s not for me,’ or worse yet, ‘That venue’s not for me.’”

They close their screen, he said, “and they never look at us again.” ➆

INFO

Learn more at nivassoc.org.

Disclaimer: Seven Days sells tickets online, too. Our ticketing manager works with venues and events promoters directly. Seven Days Tickets does not resell tickets that have been purchased elsewhere. Find more information at sevendaystickets.com.

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Ink Spots

At the second annual Rail City Tattoo Festival earlier this month, 48 tattoo artists from Vermont and beyond gathered to share expertise and showcase their art. More than 1,000 people showed up at St. Albans City Hall for the two-day fest; many of them left with fresh ink. The convention was organized by Jhon and Jodi Rodriguez of 100 Candles Tattoo, a studio just down the street. A well-known tattoo artist originally from Colombia, Jhon brought to the event some friends from his home country who currently live in New York. Throughout the weekend, the hum of tattoo machines blended with loud music as dozens of people o ered up various parts of their bodies for inking.

In her latest episode of “Stuck in Vermont,” Seven Days senior multimedia producer Eva Sollberger visited the family-friendly fest and met some artists and visitors. She even got a temporary tat, thanks to two young aspiring artists. Sollberger spoke with Seven Days about ﬁlming the episode.

Tattoo artists gather in St. Albans for an annual convention

Why did you feature this festival?

I had never been to a tattoo convention before, but I have featured a few tattoo artists in my videos over the years. I thought it would be interesting to see a lot of people being tattooed at once, and it really was. There were dozens of people sitting and lying down in di erent positions while tattoo artists hunched over them. The drawings are so intimate and colorful, spanning a huge range of styles. And these tattoos will be on these people’s bodies forever. There was something very primal about it.

How have tattoos changed over the years?

Tattoos date back thousands of years and have a variety of meanings in di erent cultures around the globe. I am amazed by how much people’s perception of tattoos has changed in my lifetime in the U.S. When I was a kid in the 1980s, I didn’t know anyone with tattoos in rural Vermont. It was something that was very fringe and associated with sailors and freak shows. By the 1990s, when I was living in Northern California, more of my friends started to get tattoos, but it was still considered pretty risqué.

Eva Sollberger

Fast-forward to today, and they are ubiquitous. According to the Pew Research Center, 32 percent of Americans have at least one tattoo. Now you see them on everyone, including celebrities, police o cers and politicians.

And yet you don’t have one. True, I don’t have any tattoos, and when I admitted this at the convention, a record scratched and everyone turned to stare at me. Just kidding! I felt welcome there despite my lack of ink. It was a chill, friendly vibe with a diverse crowd.

I may get one someday — never say never. And I was grateful to youngsters Rosie and Arlo for giving me a temporary feather tattoo that stuck around for a few days. They already know what tattoos they will get when they are old enough.

THE DRAWINGS ARE SO INTIMATE AND COLORFUL, SPANNING A HUGE RANGE OF STYLES.

Like Rosie, maybe I will get a cat tattoo someday.

is was a family affair for some of the people you met.

For sure. Rosie is Jodi and Jhon Rodriguez’s daughter. One reason the couple founded the fest was to bring people to downtown St. Albans to support local businesses, including their tattoo shop, and make connections between local artists.

The Brown family were both getting and giving tattoos. Anne Marie Brown, from New Hampshire, started at age 51. Since then, she has gotten elaborate tattoos on her arms and legs. “Bald Bill” Henshaw of Burlington’s Yankee Tattoo was adding a peony to her shoulder. Behind them, her son Neil Brown of Tattoos by Nine was putting a tattoo of a Japanese snake lady on his older brother’s thigh. Next to it was Neil’s ﬁrst work of tattoo art, which he made two years ago when he started in the profession.

Neil works at Monster Mash Ink in Essex Junction with his mentor, Jim DuVal. DuVal trained years ago with Henshaw, who has been tattooing for 46 years and was one of the pioneers in our state. So it was neat that Neil and Henshaw were working side by side on the Brown family, with DuVal across the room. Talk about an impressive tattoo lineage.

What sort of tattoos were people getting?

Everything under the sun: a spider lady, imaginary creatures, demons, frogs, foliage, bugs, skulls. I made a montage of tattoos at the end of the video from photos people published to Instagram. The tattoo art form has really progressed and become more popular. There were so many wildly di erent styles on display, and it was a great opportunity for locals and out-of-towners alike to get ink from a variety of skilled artists in one location. There was only one hitch: You have to be 18 years old to get a tattoo, so Arlo and Rosie will have to wait a bit for their permanent tats. ➆

Episode 726: Rail City Tattoo Festival

Rail City Tattoo Festival in St. Albans

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Seven Days on the press in Mirabel, Québec

on screen

Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person ★★★★★

The

Scares continue to reign at the box o ce this pre-Halloween week with Smile 2, but I took a break to catch two newly streaming ﬁlms. Both are directed by women, acclaimed and appropriate for spooky season, though one of them is closer to a dark coming-of-age comedy than horror.

That would be Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person. This gem from our neighbors in Québec, directed by Ariane Louis-Seize, earned a slew of festival awards and screened locally in February at the White River Indie Film Festival. Stream it with a MUBI subscription or rent it on various platforms.

If you’re growing weary of killer clowns, you may appreciate the turnabout in the movie’s opening scene. Six-year-old Sasha (Lilas-Rose Cantin) is elated when a clown comes to entertain her on her birthday, then horriﬁed as her loving family devours him.

They’re all vampires, but Sasha has been endowed with empathy — the vampire equivalent of neurodivergence. Subsisting on baggies of blood, she grows into a goth teen (Sara Montpetit) who would rather entertain human beings with her piano playing than suck their vital force. But human food is poisonous to her. After her family gives her an ultimatum — kill or starve — Sasha contemplates suicide via poutine. She ﬁnds her way to a support group, where she meets equally misfit human Paul (Félix-Antoine Bénard). Depressed and bullied at school, he willingly o ers himself up to feed Sasha’s thirst — but she’s starting to like him.

Original takes on vampires are elusive these days, and we know where the story is going. But the acting, script and cinematography still make Humanist Vampire an experience perfect for anyone whose gothic whimsy itch wasn’t su ciently scratched by Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

Like the Addams Family, Sasha and her kin live in a sunless world of Victorian draperies and industrial chic, but their humor is dryer and nastier. Noémie O’Farrell alternates amusingly between deadpan and snarl as Sasha’s older cousin, whose cruelty counterpoints the sensitivity in Sasha’s big eyes.

It’s impossible not to root for Sasha and Paul. These two winsome outcasts are intensely shy, rare in a genre of movies that

typically runs on witty banter. In production notes, Louis-Seize says she gave special attention to depicting “the silences ﬁlled with unspoken things.” We see that in a long, wordless shot of the teens bonding as they listen to an old vinyl record — mouthing the lyrics, swaying, glancing furtively at each other.

That beautiful moment conveys the sweetness at the heart of this occasionally gory ﬁlm, which feels like it was made as a valentine to morbid emo teens and the people who love them.

If vampires feel played out, so does the horror franchise that began with The Omen (1976). The prospect of a conventcentric prequel to the demonic-child saga did not entice. Months after The First Omen left screens, however, I started hearing horror fans praise this feature debut of former photojournalist Arkasha Stevenson. Stream it on Hulu or rent it.

The First Omen pivots around a starmaking performance by Nell Tiger Free as Margaret, a fresh-faced novice who arrives at a Roman convent planning to take the veil. The year is 1971, and the city is rife with political upheaval and temptations

of the ﬂ esh. Margaret’s faith begins to waver as she bonds with an orphan (Nicole Sorace) whom the nuns consign to the “bad room” for her supposed sins — an echo of Margaret’s own troubled past.

Then Father Brennan (Ralph Ineson) comes to Margaret with a horrifying tale. There’s a secret cadre within the church that will do anything to scare modern folks back into the pews, including creating the Antichrist. And Margaret’s orphan friend might be part of their breeding program.

Cartoonish as this conspiracy scenario is, it works as a sly commentary on the whole franchise. Not for nothing did the spread of secularism in the 1970s coincide with the rise of religion-themed horror ﬂicks such as The Exorcist and The Omen. While the Catholic Church didn’t fund those films, it wasn’t averse to using demonic scares as free advertising.

The First Omen sends a different message, focusing on the evil that lives in human hearts. The ﬁlm’s most viscerally disturbing scenes depict church elders asserting violent control over women’s bodies. While few viewers will be surprised by what happens to Margaret,

Free’s expressive, intimate performance ensures that our sympathies remain with her on her harrowing journey from innocence to experience.

Director of photography Aaron Morton gives every scene a sinister glow. Memorable imagery abounds: In one shot, a wind-blown curtain conceals and then reveals a monstrosity. In another, when Margaret wakes after a forbidden night at a disco, her strewn-out hair evokes a giant spider.

The First Omen does have its derivative moments, including a death that pays homage to the 1976 film and a clumsy ending. And franchise purists will object to some of its deviations. Overall, though, it’s way more chilling than it has any right to be, reminding us that originality can ﬁnd unlikely ways to thrive even in a landscape of remakes, sequels and prequels.

While horror can be a nihilistic genre, both these movies explore its humanist side. Vampires and demon spawn aren’t exactly cuddly in these stories, but they do deserve love.

Nell Tiger Free plays a novice ﬁghting a conspiracy of church elders in a surprisingly good franchise prequel.

NEW IN THEATERS

CONCLAVE: A conspiracy interferes with the selection of a new pope in this thriller starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, directed by Edward Berger. (120 min, PG. Majestic)

DAYTIME REVOLUTION: Erik Nelson’s documentary revisits what happened when John Lennon and Yoko Ono hosted “The Mike Douglas Show” for a week in 1972. (108 min, NR. Catamount)

MEMOIR OF A SNAIL: This adult stop-motion animation, written and directed by Adam Elliot, follows the life of a lonely Australian woman. With the voices of Kodi Smit-McPhee, Eric Bana and Sarah Snook. (94 min, R. Roxy)

VENOM: THE LAST DANCE: Will a new superhero film rescue the fall box office? Tom Hardy returns as the Marvel Comics character in a complicated relationship with an alien symbiote. Kelly Marcel directed. (109 min, PG-13. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Roxy, Star, Sunset)

WE LIVE IN TIME: John Crowley (Brooklyn) directed this romance starring Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh, with the nonlinear action spanning decades. (107 min, R. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Roxy, Savoy, Star)

CURRENTLY PLAYING

THE APPRENTICEHHH Sebastian Stan plays the young Donald Trump in this biopic about his real estate dealings; Maria Bakalova is Ivana. Ali Abbasi (Border) directed. (120 min, R. Roxy)

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, Sunset; reviewed 9/11)

A DIFFERENT MANHHHH An aspiring actor (Sebastian Stan) regrets his drastic plastic surgery and fixates on his old face in this Golden Berlin Bear nominee from director Aaron Schimberg. (112 min, R. Savoy)

JOKER: FOLIE À DEUXHHH Gotham City’s notorious institutionalized spree killer (Joaquin Phoenix) finds love (Lady Gaga) in Todd Phillips’ comic-bookadjacent musical sequel. (138 min, R. Playhouse, Stowe, Sunset; reviewed 10/9)

THE OUTRUNHHH1/2 Saoirse Ronan plays a woman who returns to her Orkney Island birthplace to confront her past in this festival fave drama from Nora Fingscheidt. (188 min, R. Savoy)

PIECE BY PIECEHHH Lego animation tells the story of Pharrell Williams, who stars in the musical biopic with director Morgan Neville, Kendrick Lamar and Gwen Stefani. (93 min, PG. Majestic)

RUMOURSHHH1/2 Canadian experimentalist Guy Maddin codirected this dark comedy about a G7 summit turned weird. Cate Blanchett, Alicia Vikander and Charles Dance play world leaders. (103 min, R. Savoy)

SATURDAY NIGHTHHH1/2 Jason Reitman’s comedy-drama chronicles the 90 minutes before the 1975 premiere of “Saturday Night Live.” Gabriel LaBelle and Rachel Sennott star. (109 min, R. Big Picture, Essex, Majestic, Roxy; reviewed 10/16)

SMILE 2HHH1/2 In the sequel to the horror hit, a pop star (Naomi Scott) is stalked by … a cheery expression? With Kyle Gallner and Drew Barrymore; Parker Finn again directed. (127 min, R. Bijou, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Roxy, Star, Sunset, Welden)

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. Roxy; reviewed 9/25)

TERRIFIER 3HHH Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) gets his own holiday movie in the third installment of this cult gore-fest. “Unrated” means don’t bring kids. Damien Leone directed. (125 min, NR. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Roxy, Stowe, Sunset)

WHITE BIRDHH1/2 A boy learns life lessons from his grandmother’s story of escaping Nazi-occupied France in this family drama. (120 min, PG-13. Big Picture)

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, Playhouse, Star, Stowe, Welden)

OLDER FILMS AND SPECIAL SCREENINGS

BETWEEN TWO WORLDS (Catamount, Wed 23 only)

DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE (Sunset)

FAMILY MATTERS: FOUR VERMONT SHORT FILMS (Savoy, Sun only)

HOCUS POCUS (Bijou, Majestic, Sunset, Welden)

KIKI’S DELIVERY SERVICE (Essex, Sat-Wed 30 only)

THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (Sunset)

RICK WINSTON PRESENTS HAUNTED FILMS: MOVIES ABOUT GHOSTS AND THE SUPERNATURAL (Savoy, Mon only)

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (Roxy)

SAW UNRATED: 20TH ANNIVERSARY (Essex, Wed 23 only)

OPEN THEATERS

(* = 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, 2290598, savoytheater.com

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

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

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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Gaming the System

Champlain College celebrates 20 years of gaming with an exhibition and new permanent art installation

In a 1990 “The Far Side” cartoon, two hopeful parents watch their goofy child hunched over a video game console and dream of help-wanted ads of the future: “Can You Save the Princess? We need skilled men & women, $75,000 + Retirement” and “If You Have 50,000 Hours or More of Video Game Experience, We Need You!” At the time, the idea of a career in video games was laughable.

Not so for the folks who started the Game Studio program at Champlain College in Burlington, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Students learn everything from art to coding to publishing in what has become one of the most nationally respected programs in its ﬁeld. Champlain’s website speaks directly to today’s hopeful parents, emphasizing careers and industry connections: Gaming is clearly super-serious business.

The Champlain College Art Gallery o ers a respite amid this studious milieu and a chance to answer some important questions: Are these games fun? Who made them? Can you save the princess? With “Another History: Alternative Stories in Game Development,” on view through October 27, gallery director and curator Wylie Garcia has created a ’90sish hangout space, complete with a Lisa Frank-inspired rainbow leopard-print wall, beanbag chairs, a pastel-splotched shag rug, and a cozy couch where students and visitors can play vintage games to their hearts’ content.

Vintage consoles such as the Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, TurboGrafx-16 and PlayStation o er up everything from Wheel of Fortune to Grand Theft Auto on old-school CRT monitors. Around the room, emulators re-create just about any game you can think of (and many you won’t) from MiSTer, an open-source coding project that has compiled a vast library of all the games ever published for those and other console platforms.

There is even a working 1972 Magnavox Odyssey, the ﬁrst home video game console, sporting very rudimentary black-and-white Table Tennis (which inspired Atari’s arcade

game Pong). Student Autumn Miranda worked with assistant professor Jonathan Ferguson to create a reimplementation of the Odyssey’s software that can be played without the original hardware.

Other students doing similar projects occasionally spread out the game schematics as they try to make sense of it. “It’s amazing to watch students working on that, here in the gallery,” Garcia said.

That kind of hands-on learning has been

Wylie Garcia

Garcia’s focus since she took over the gallery two years ago, when the pandemic was still top of mind. “My biggest mission,” she said, “was just bringing community back.”

As an artist, Garcia is known for her dreamy paintings that envelop the viewer in ﬂowers. She came to Champlain with a background in studio-based fine arts and art history. Decades ago, she worked with an organization now called Curtains Without Borders, preserving painted

THE GALLERY OFFERS A CHANCE TO ANSWER SOME IMPORTANT QUESTIONS: ARE THESE GAMES FUN? WHO MADE THEM? CAN YOU SAVE THE PRINCESS?

historic theatrical backdrops from town halls all over Vermont. Today, her role as gallery director includes conserving entertainments of a newer era: managing and displaying Champlain’s game history collection and finding ways to engage students.

Garcia works closely with creative media students, teaching professional practice and helping them mount their capstone projects in the gallery. She

STORY & PHOTOS BY ALICE DODGE • adodge@sevendaysvt.com

Jake Barakat painting a view of Church Street

George Fink playing e Need for Speed on the Gold Star 3DO

connects visiting artists, faculty and students whenever possible. She has made it a priority to showcase emerging artists, she said, because “it’s important for students to see that opportunities exist.”

One of those projects is “Lakescape,” a new permanent mural and sound installation in the basement of Champlain’s Center for Communication and Creative Media. Garcia and John Thomas Levee, assistant program director for Game

Back upstairs at “Another History,” a timeline around the gallery offers information about developers often left out of the standard telling of gaming’s past. That includes people such as Dona Bailey, who designed the 1981 arcade hit Centipede, and David Gaider, who popularized diverse characters with Dragon Age, a popular fantasy role-playing series launched in 2009.

In September, students were invited

Sound Design at Champlain, hatched the idea for an experiential artwork that would foster a sense of belonging within the local landscape. As a bonus, it would improve the drab, institutional hallway and mask sounds from the building’s mechanical room, near where most of the Game Sound students have their classrooms.

Garcia connected Levee with Burlington muralist Jake Barakat. Together, they have turned the hallway into a walk through Lake Champlain — a visitor might feel like a character moving through one of the gallery’s vintage games. Hundred-footlong murals present New York’s lakefront on one side of the hallway and Vermont’s on the other; when completed on October 24, 10 speakers in the ceiling will play an immersive soundscape sampled from locations throughout the lake basin.

Some of the sites pictured are specific: Church Street Marketplace, Fort Ticonderoga. Others are more general but refer to particular sounds Levee has recorded, including a murmuration of birds and underwater audio. All of them benefit from Barakat’s graphic style, almost a folk-art version of Super Mario’s happy clouds and bright green-and-blue palette. The installation is a good example of one of Garcia’s goals at Champlain: creating a sense of inclusion and community connection for students navigating a field in which they are often perceived as loners.

to participate via streaming in the annual Game Devs of Color Expo; the exhibition also offers a selection of new, playable games from those developers. At the Game Studio program’s anniversary celebration on October 24, the gallery annex will display more than a dozen flat screens and a selection of posters showcasing games made by students over the past 20 years.

One example, senior Seven Coleman’s adorable game Pikki Rikki, is played on a Playdate handheld game system — the player turns a hand crank to pick vegetables for the bunny protagonist. More than anything, games such as these highlight the creativity and diversity changing the field from the sometimes clunky iterations of its early era (looking at you, Scooby-Doo Mystery).

Sophomore George Fink, who stopped by the gallery to meet a friend and play Sonic the Hedgehog 3 on the Sega Genesis, appreciates being able to access the original hardware and seeing what his peers have developed. “You leave the college and make your games,” he said, “and they’re still here.” ➆

INFO

“Another History: Alternative Stories in Game Development,” on view through October 27 at the Champlain College Art Gallery, with alumni games October 24 and 25; “Lakescape” opens on October 24. artgallery.champlain.edu

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Guided by an experienced and collaborative clinical and medical team, our evidence-based approach ensures a holistic path to lasting well-being.

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Detail of "Lakescape" by Jake Barakat

Soft Science: ‘Wool and Water’ at North Branch

Nature Center

BY ALICE DODGE • adodge@sevendaysvt.com

In 1997, mathematician Daina Taimina did something no one else had: She modeled hyperbolic planes using crochet. While the geometry of such planes was hard to convey with paper models, it lent itself well to the ways fiber creations bend and curve in space. Her project was part of a long history of strong ties between data and the fiber arts, from the first theoretical computer programs — written as patterns for Jacquard looms — to Christine and Margaret Wertheim’s “Crochet Coral Reef” project at the 2019 Venice Biennale.

“Wool and Water,” on view at North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier through December 18, takes that framework and weaves in environmental science data on the Lake Champlain basin. Organizer Michale Glennon, a senior research scientist for the Adirondack Watershed Institute, and 14 other artists present the data through weaving, knitting, felting, crochet and even earrings.

scarves would still be pretty, but they might not communicate much to an unknowing viewer.

Glennon’s hat and ﬁngerless mitts cleverly represent stratiﬁcation patterns in Adirondack lakes. Each thermal layer is a different shade of blue, and the hat is reversible: e wearer can turn it inside out in October to match the lake’s thermal turnover.

Glennon initiated the project in 2022, the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, and created most of the pieces in the show. Information appears here in many forms, from crocheted whorls representing the bathymetry of Mirror Lake in Lake Placid, N.Y., to a beaded shawl numbering the bird species reported in New York’s Oseetah Lake marsh over the course of a year. All of the pieces are meant to raise awareness about water quality issues, such as the impacts of invasive species and climate change.

Some of the most effective pieces hint at information while leaving their sources ambiguous, prompting the viewer to investi-

Some works in the show, such as Kathy Kelley’s weaving “Phosphorus in the Boquet River,” illustrate the data directly. While in a different context it might be interpreted as abstraction, this piece is pretty clearly a graph. Bright blue lines — reminiscent of the cyanobacteria that feed on phosphorus — dart up through a black background; years with very high levels are tipped in red.

Other works are much more opaque. Glennon’s “Ice Scarves,” for instance, are striped with rows indicating years with or without ice on Lake Champlain, while beads represent freeze dates. Out of context, the

CALLS TO ARTISTS

ARTISANS FOR WINTER FAIR: Seeking artisans and vendors for the event on December 6 and 7. Apply online. Lake Champlain Waldorf School, Shelburne, deadline November 10. $100-$150. Info, 985-2827.

like feathered wings to represent increasing

sightings of sandhill cranes in New York’s Adirondack Park.

Sara Bertomen’s “Mirror Lake

Ice Sweater” likewise accents a traditional pattern — an Icelandic lopapeysa design — with a subtle

bar graph of ice levels on

Glennon’s “Salted Frogs,” for instance, aims to represent chloride concentrations in New York’s Rich Lake via white beads on ﬂoppedover crocheted frogs. ough the frogs don’t really tell us much about salt, they do draw attention to the issue: e soft creatures

are utterly pathetic and charming and not hopping anywhere.

e show is a good reminder that some of the most effective ways of presenting information have always been digital in a sense that returns to the word’s origin: made by hand. ➆

“Wool and Water,” on view through December 18 at North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier. Data art workshops with Michale Glennon, Saturday, November 9, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. northbranchnaturecenter.org

OPENINGS + RECEPTIONS

LEGO CONTEST: Inviting makers of all ages to design and build original Lego creations and

COMMUNITY ANCESTOR ALTAR: e museum invites the Addison County community to share in the tradition of adding something of meaning to the altar on the museum’s porch. Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History, Middlebury, October 23-November 3. Info, 388-2117.

‘LIFTING THE VEIL’: A group exhibition curated by Anne Cummings, featuring works by Ian Babylon, J. Bennet, Cynthia Cagle, Anne Cummings, EveNSteve Schaub and Sarah Vogelsang, presented by Across Roads Center for the Arts. Reception: Friday, October 25, 5-7 p.m. Grange Hall Cultural Center, Waterbury Center, through October 25. Info, acrossroads@gmail.com. EXHIBITION

display them at the 17th Annual Lego Contest and Exhibit from November 7 to 11. An awards ceremony will be held on November 6. All entries must be delivered on Monday, November 4, 4 to 6 p.m. An online entry form must be submitted before dropoff. Guidelines and entry forms are available at brattleboromuseum.org. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center. $5, fee waivers available upon request. Info, 257-0124.

TIM PALMER-BENSON: Photographs of the Northeast Kingdom landscape. Parker Pie, West Glover, through December 3. Info, info@parkerpie.com.

"Phosphorus in the Boquet River" by Kathy Kelley

“Salted Frogs” and "Cranes" (left) by Michale Glennon

LARRY BOWLING AND JANET VAN FLEET: “Putting Our Heads Together,” an exhibition of oilstick-on-Yupo paintings of heads and mixed-media sculptural assemblages of faces. Reception: Friday, October 25, 6 p.m. Quimby Gallery, Vermont State UniversityLyndon, Lyndonville, through October 29. Info, 626-6487.

FRAN ALLYN: “Past and Present,” a show of watercolors. Reception: Saturday, October 26, 1-4 p.m. United Church of Colchester, October 26-November 8. Info, franallyn2@gmail.com.

ADRIENNE ELISE TARVER: “Roots, Water, Air,” a sitespecific multimedia installation, curated by Daricia Mia DeMarr. The project examines often obscured dimensions of Black female identity. Reception: Saturday, October 26, 5 p.m. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, October 26-March 8. Info, 257-0124.

‘DESIRE LINES’: An exhibition cocurated by Sarah Freemen and Mara Williams, showcasing drawings in a range of materials and techniques by James Siena, Dana Piazza, Tara Geer, Nandini Chirimar, Maggie Nowinski and Alex Callender. Reception: Saturday, October 26, 5 p.m. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, October 26-February 9. Info, 257-0124.

‘THE NOISE OF US’: An exhibition curated by Elissa Watters of unconventional collage by Felipe Baeza, Ori Gersht, Simonette Quamina and Maika’i Tubbs. Reception: Saturday, October 26, 5 p.m. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, October 26-March 8. Info, 257-0124.

SUSAN MIKULA: “Island,” curated by Charlie Hunter, a photographic project using old Polaroid cameras and expired instant film to create images of the 30-acre shelf of granite bedrock in Bellows Falls, an important historical and cultural site for centuries. Reception: Saturday, October 26, 5 p.m. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, October 26-February 9. Info, 257-0124.

‘GEMS’: An artist-curated show of very small works, including experimental pieces. Reception: Sunday, October 27, 2-3 p.m. Bryan Memorial Gallery, Jeffersonville, October 23-December 22. Info, 644-5100.

DMITRI BELIAKOV: “On the Margins of Europe: War Before the War,” a photography exhibit featuring more than 50 photos by the freelance photojournalist, who covered events in eastern Ukraine from 2014 to 2019. Reception: Wednesday, October 30, 5 p.m. Dion Family Student Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, October 30-November 14. Info, emurray@smcvt.edu.

JULIA JENSEN: “Thereafter”, a solo exhibition featuring new paintings of the Vermont and Nantucket, Mass. landscapes. Reception: Friday, November 1, 5-6:30 p.m. Edgewater Gallery on the Green, Middlebury, October 25-December 1. Info, 989-7419.

ART EVENTS

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 23, 9:30 a.m.-noon. $25. Info, 343-8172.

ARTIST TALK: SUSAN ABBOTT AND SAMANTHA

ECKERT: The artists discuss their work in conjunction with the exhibition “Lineages: Artists Are Never Alone.” Register online at svac.org. Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum, Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester, Thursday, October 24, 5:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. Info, 362-1405.

ARCHITECT TALK: FRANO VIOLICH: The founding principal at KVA Matx discusses his firm’s interdisciplinary design practice that engages material fabrication, digital technology and the conservation of natural

resources to expand the public life of buildings and cities. Chaplin Hall Gallery, Northfield, Friday, October 25, 1 p.m. Free. Info, 485-2000.

ARTIST TALK: RICH FEDORCHAK AND PETER THOMASHOW: The artists discuss “Resonant Visions,” an exhibition of their collage and assemblage works. AVA Gallery and Art Center, Lebanon, N.H., Friday, October 25, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Info, 603-448-3117.

EDDIE EPSTEIN AND BOB MESSING: Reception with artist Eddie Epstein and poetry reading by Bob Messing. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, Friday, October 25, 6-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

‘IMAGINING THE FUTURE: A KIDS MAKERSPACE’: Fallthemed arts and crafts for all ages. Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History, Middlebury, Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Info, 388-2117.

OPEN STUDIOS: More than 10 artists show and talk about their work on a family-friendly farm. Shelburne Pond Studios, Saturday, October 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, kastockman@aol.com.

OPEN STUDIO: A guided meditation followed by an hour of art making in any medium and concluding with a share-and-witness process. Many art materials available. In-person and online.

Expressive Arts Burlington, Thursday, October 24, 12:30-2:30 p.m. By donation. Info, 343-8172.

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 29, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

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 at assetsforartists.org. Vermont Arts Council, Montpelier, through January 28. Info, assetsforartists@massmoca.org. ➆

music+nightlife

Behold, the Magnetica!

Katherine Quittner’s elaborate sound healing contraption is good for what ails you … maybe

BY DAN BOLLES • dan@sevendaysvt.com

Let’s get this out of the way: I don’t buy into most woo-woo health stu . I consider myself open-minded, and I’m always willing to be wrong. But I’m dubious of, say, the power of crystals to improve my energy or mood. Essential oil di users generally don’t do anything for my anxiety except maybe increase it by giving me a headache and irritated nostrils. I can’t stand ﬁre cider. However, I don’t begrudge those who do ﬁnd relief or even healing in alternative practices, regardless of whatever the science of the day has to say about it. As long as all parties involved are entering into whatever openly and honestly — and no one gets hurt — I’m all for it.

way around, so since May she’s hosted a few monthlong series of concerts at the Burlington space to introduce Vermonters to the Magnetica. Her October run ends this Saturday, October 26.

The U.S. government has literally used noise to torture people, so who’s to say a deftly plucked string or ringing crystal couldn’t knock something loose in a good way?

Quittner is a highly trained classical composer who spent 15 years as a movie music editor and supervisor in Hollywood. You’ve surely seen some of the ﬂicks she’s worked on: Bram Stoker’s Dracula , Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, UHF, Father of the Bride. It’s a long list.

She was living in Uruguay in 2008 when the idea for the Magnetica came to her and she drew a sketch of it. As she tells it, she didn’t know what the thing was, exactly, but she knew what it was for.

Which is how I ended up prone in a zero-gravity chair while a strange woman measured my aura with a giant tuning fork under the watchful eye of a minischnauzer mix named Li’l Spike.

If you’re unfamiliar with sound healing, it’s pretty much what it, ahem, sounds like. The idea is that sonic vibrations, whether from music, singing bowls, tuning forks or more conventional instruments, can be applied therapeutically to relieve stress, anxiety, depression, etc. Its practitioners, of which there are several in Vermont, note that human cultures have employed varieties of sound healing for millennia as evidence of its e cacy. Science is less certain, though there is growing evidence that sound healing does … something. Which makes sense.

Katherine Quittner is the inventor of the Magnetica, a massive and odd experimental musical instrument that she uses to conduct sound healing concerts from a third-ﬂoor studio in downtown Burlington.

“I knew it was for sound healing,” Quittner explained recently at her Burlington studio. “I knew it was to help people.”

If Saruman, the evil wizard from The Lord of the Rings, played a musical instrument, it might look something like the imposing Magnetica. From its square wooden base, 12 nine-foot-tall, curved wooden bows called “arcos” jut upward, three to a side, forming a sort of cage from which Quittner conjures an array of soothing sounds. Each arco is strung with a heavy-gauge sitar string that Quittner can pluck, hammer or bow to achieve deep, resonant tones. In the center of the machine is a console outfitted with Tibetan singing bowls, a tiny wind-up music box, wind chimes, crystals and other assorted noisemakers. There’s also an electronic keyboard, through which Quittner can play melodic lines, chords and a variety of preprogrammed beats.

Quittner, 73, is small, wiry and energetic with a shock of frizzy white hair. The Los Angeles native speaks plainly but is prone to both digressions and sarcasm. She understands people will be skeptical of the Magnetica. She just doesn’t especially care. “People who believe something like this is possible are more likely to beneﬁt from it,” she said with a matter-of-fact shrug.

While the Magnetica is designed to be transported, setup and breakdown are unwieldy and long processes. It’s easier for interested parties to come to Quittner than the other

Katherine Quittner and the Magnetica

She began constructing the Magnetica in Uruguay with the help of a friend who was a boatbuilder. It took them six years to complete it, and another two for Quittner to dial in the electronics. She finally debuted the instrument at a concert in Miami in 2016. Quittner moved to Vermont last year to be with her boyfriend, psychotherapist Bruce Brown. Quittner stresses that what she does is not a medical practice. She makes no specific claims about what ailments a Magnetica sound healing concert can fix, though it’s clear she believes there’s more floating in the ether than relaxing sounds.

S UNDbites

News and views on the local music + nightlife scene

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH

Venue Spotlight: The Mill

Over the years, TAYLOR and CATHERINE ROSS HASKINS have gotten used to hopping on the ferry in Essex, N.Y., and heading to Vermont to hear music or see visual art. The couple’s adopted upstate New York home of Westport has a population of roughly 800 people, so the chances of catching a good show there have been slim to none.

What if they changed that? At ﬁrst, it was just a wild idea. But Taylor, a Grammy Award-winning trumpet player who has recorded with DAVE HOLLAND and WILCO’s NELS CLINE; and Catherine, an artist who has presented her work at MoMA PS1 and the Reina Soﬁa Museum in Madrid, soon found a way to bring the arts to Westport.

“There were so many empty buildings in this town before COVID,” Taylor said. “I saw this place for sale, and, you know, it was basically a skeleton, but you could tell how strong the bones were. It was robust, and I knew it could handle whatever we wanted to do with it. And that’s when our ideas started to ﬂow.”

The place they took a chance on is an 11,000-square-foot former grain mill, built in 1952 as the Champlain Valley Seed Cooperative. It had long sat derelict, a blown-out husk, when the

1. “Khaki Car” by

2. “No One Sings e Blues Anymore” by

3. “Lovers & Ghosts” byLisa Piccirillo

4. “My America” by Workingman’s Army

5. “Startin’ is Off” by the Middle Ages

6. “Underheard” by Willverine, Madaila

7. “Power of a Dead Man” by e Mountain Says No

Listening In

(Spotify mix of local jams)

1. “KHAKI CAR” by Cady Ternity

2. “NO ONE SINGS THE BLUES ANYMORE” by Jason Baker

3. “LOVERS & GHOSTS” by Lisa Piccirillo

4. “MY AMERICA” by Workingmans Army

5. “STARTIN’ THIS OFF” by the Middle Ages

6. “UNDERHEARD” by Willverine, Madaila

7. “POWER OF A DEAD MAN” by the Mountain Says No\

Scan to listen sevendaysvt. com/playlist

Haskinses purchased it in 2021, much to the bemusement of the locals.

Undeterred, the couple spent three years rebuilding the old grain mill with local contractors. They transformed the

historic building into a modern arts hub called the Mill, complete with three art galleries, a speakeasy called the Knock, several apartments for visiting artists and musicians, and the crown jewel: a cathedral-like performance space with 23-foot ceilings. Named the Listening Gallery, it is expansive and intimate at once, with luscious acoustics.

Fortunately, the Haskinses also spent several years building up an in-town audience before launching the Mill. From 2014 to 2017, the couple booked Westport’s Ballard Park Summer Concert Series, then called Soundwaves, bringing in touring acts such as JULIAN LAGE, ANAÏS MITCHELL and CHARLIE HUNTER. Those shows routinely drew up to 600 people, almost doubling the town’s population.

“We needed to know people would come if we built something — it was a sort of proof of concept,” Catherine said. “And it taught us how to book a show!”

They learned well, based on the lineups the Mill has hosted since opening its doors this summer. From Canadian composer and ARCADE FIRE violinist SARAH NEUFELD to Chilean jazz guitarist CAMILA MEZA to Argentinean pianist GUILLERMO KLEIN, a diverse and talented array of musicians has passed through. The venue is, as Taylor described it, without genre.

Cady Ternity

Jason Baker

music+nightlife

“You have to be responsible if you have a talent like this,” she said. “I have to be careful and not tell people a bunch of bullshit that they want to hear.”

soothing harmonics had a lulling effect, briefly relaxing my body and clearing my mind. Even Li’l Spike settled down.

Burlington musician Johnnie Day Durand had a similar experience.

Capacity at her Magnetica concerts is 12 people — one for each for arco — though attendance has been hit or miss. Concertgoers recline in comfy zero-gravity chairs in a circle around the machine, which is illuminated by twinkling string lights. Stage-style lighting elsewhere bathes the room in soothing blues and reds.

Quittner said she draws on the energy of those in the room and that her Magnetica performances are always improvised, since the vibe is always different from audience to audience. Once everyone is relaxed and she gets a good blend of strings, singing bowls, harmonic overtones and beats going, she’ll venture into the audience with her tuning forks to assess individual auras and interact with attendees on more personal levels. Each concert costs $40 and lasts for an hour.

I only got a sampling of what concertgoers experience during my demonstration. I can’t vouch for the alignment or length of my aura and whether it changed while Quittner passed over me with her forks, but I will say it was calming. The Magnetica’s

Durand is a musical saw player and member of the local band Silver Bridget. In an email, she described a Magnetica concert a few weeks ago as “deeply relaxing on a level that really surpasses any other notion of a sound healing experience that I can imagine.” She recounted being “washed over by the most beautiful river of long resonating tones and vibrations that feel ancient and sacred … alongside a transcendental electronica soundscape that all together create a profound and tranquil sense of timelessness.”

None of this validates the Magnetica as anything more than a very interesting and unique musical instrument. But maybe that’s enough to help get in touch with deeper parts of ourselves. ➆

Ian Dartley contributed reporting.

INFO

The Magnetica Concert, Saturday, October 26, 6:30 p.m. at the Magnetica Concert Space in Burlington. $40. sevendaystickets.com

Learn more at themagnetica.com.

Taylor programs all the music at the Mill, drawing on his long musical career and experience hosting the North Country Public Radio show “The Thread.” He’s also the Knock’s head chef and created its menu. Meanwhile, Catherine curates and commissions all the art for the venue and its galleries.

to perform at, from a renovated mosque in Tunisia to house shows in Tokyo and Mumbai, the common denominator is that the shows were put on by people that just really, really wanted them to happen. And that’s us.

“The space itself is the art,” he continued. “We’re actually enjoying not knowing what will come [next].”

The result is an immersive experience, from the moment one walks through the doors into galleries filled with paintings, sculpture and installations.

“The Mill is an embodiment of who we are as individuals,” Catherine said. She seemed amused when asked if she and Taylor entertained future plans for the space.

“Our business managers don’t necessarily love this, but the whole thing is a creative project for us,” she said. “If Taylor and I knew how it was going to end, we’d probably both be done. It’s only fun if you don’t know what’s next.”

Taylor agreed. “This isn’t an attempt to create a kind of club-style venue,” he said. “When I look back at some of the incredible places I’ve been lucky enough

In the short term, they’ll handle the delivery and installation of an 8-by8-foot stained-glass window in the Listening Gallery. This Friday, October 25, the couple will turn the space into a movie theater, screening Beetlejuice in anticipation of Halloween. Then it’s back to being a venue on Saturday, October 26, for a performance by jazz drummer and composer JOHN HOLLENBECK’s new band, GEORGE

“We did this to help revitalize the town,” Catherine said. “We spent the last 14 years making trips all over the area to see art or hear great music. Now we’re inviting everyone to come visit us and visit our town. And we want to make that trip as memorable as possible.” ➆

INFO

The Mill, 6679 Main St., Westport, N.Y. themilladk.com

CLUB DATES

live music

WED.23

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.

In the Pocket (jazz) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 5 p.m. Free.

Irish Trad Jam (Celtic) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

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.

Rushadicus (bluegrass, rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $10/$15.

Tim Fitzgerald (folk) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 6 p.m. Free.

Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10. Willverine (electronic) at the Wallflower Collective, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

THU.24

Charlie Uffleman & Friends, Kiley Latham (singer-songwriter) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9:30 p.m. $5/$10.

CombustOmatics (rock, funk) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

David Singley (singer-songwriter) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 7 p.m. Free.

Frankie & the Fuse (rock) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Good Gravy (bluegrass) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

Happy Birthday Tom Petty (tribute) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $20/$25.

Ira Friedman, Timothy Quigley Duo (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

Jazz with Alex Stewart and Friends (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Over the Garden Wall with Cricket Blue & Friends (tribute) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 6 & 8 p.m. $18/$25.

Ryan Osswald (jazz) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Two for Flinching (acoustic) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.25

Aftermath (rock) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Ali T (singer-songwriter) at Standing Stone Wines, Winooski, 6 p.m. Free.

Find the most up-to-date info on live music, DJs, comedy and more at sevendaysvt.com/music. If you’re a talent booker or artist planning live entertainment at a bar, nightclub, café, restaurant, brewery or coffee shop, send event details to music@sevendaysvt.com or submit the info using our form at sevendaysvt.com/postevent.

Open Up the Pit

Burlington’s VOICES IN VAIN aren’t your run-of-the-mill headbangers. Formed in 2015, the five-piece specializes in combining a progressive, experimental edge with high-intensity, throat-shredding metal of the first order. After dropping its debut LP, Narcotics & Animal Instincts, in 2018, the band has been working long and hard on a sophomore follow-up. The Only Love I Know finally dropped on October 18, recorded with Misery Signals’ Greg Thomas at his Silver Bullet Studios in Connecticut.

To celebrate the release, Voices in Vain play the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge in South Burlington on Saturday, October 26, with support from PURE BLISS, COOKED, LOUZY and GEEKED OUT.

Better Things, Doom Service, Vallory Falls, YABA (punk) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

The Bubs, DiTrani Brothers (rock, folk) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $15.

Chad Hollister (acoustic) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

Chris Cohen, Paper Castles (indie) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $17/$20.

The Complaints (rock) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.

Dave Mitchell’s Blues Revue (blues) at Red Square, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free.

Dead Set, One Eyed Jack (Grateful Dead tribute) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $17/$20.

Good Trees River Band (rock) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

In the Pocket (jazz) at Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Jeff Salisbury Band (blues, jazz) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 7 p.m. Free.

Jeff Wilson, Good Gravy (bluegrass) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10.

Karl Miller & the Instrumentals (acoustic) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free.

Krishna Guthrie (acoustic) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

Kyle Stevens (acoustic) at Gusto’s, Barre, 6 p.m. Free.

Magic Beans, Squeaky Feet (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15.

Monachino, Jarrett & Stats (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Pathogenic, Valletta, Hell Priest, Green Chapel, Anti Life Hate Cult (metal) at Despacito, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Rap Night Burlington (hip-hop) at Drink, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5.

Surfer Girl, Coyote Island, Beach Fly (indie, hip-hop) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $18/$22.

Tom Caswell Blues Band (blues) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Valeé, Who Bill, Skippablackbart, G D Icon (hip-hop) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

The Village Idiots, Of Conscious Mind (covers) at the Underground, Randolph, 7 p.m. $14-17.

SAT.26

3rd Anniversary and Halloween Bash (rock) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 3 p.m. Free.

Bruce Sklar (jazz) at Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Canyon Dreams (folk) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Chicken Fat Injection (jazz) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Debbie Harry & the Hairless Debbies, Tubeway Army (rock) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

The Denovian Hot Club Trio (jazz) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 7 p.m. Free.

Gay4Disco (covers) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8:30 p.m. $10.

Good Trees River Band (rock) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Joe’s Big Band (big band) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 7 p.m. $15.

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.

Lusine, Arms and Sleepers, Yppah (electronic) at Club Metronome, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $20.

Magic Beans, Squeaky Feet (jam) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15.

Otter Creek (bluegrass) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Ponyhustle (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 10:30 p.m. $10/$15.

Ron Gallo, Santa Chiara (indie) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $16/$20.

Rough Francis, Hammydown, Greaseface (punk, indie rock) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 7 p.m. $30.

Slob Drop, Burly Girlies, Phrogs (punk) at Despacito, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Spooktacular Punktacular (rock, ska) at Main Street Museum, White River Junction, 6 p.m. $10.

Voices in Vain, Pure Bliss, Cooked, Louzy, Geeked Out (metal) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $15/$18.

VT Bluegrass Pioneers (bluegrass) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

SUN.27

Mike Farris (Americana) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $12/$15.

Sunday Brunch Tunes (singersongwriter) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 10 a.m.

TUE.29

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. Fun Dip (Americana) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 5 p.m. Free.

Grateful Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10/$20.

Honky Tonk Tuesday with Wild Leek River (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10. Jay Southgate (vibraphone) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 5 p.m. Free.

Kitchen Dwellers, Shadowgrass (bluegrass) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $25/$30.

Leddy Moss, Rose Asteroid (rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5/$10.

WED.30

ALLEYCVT, Sharlitz Web, Capochino (electronic, indie pop) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8 p.m. $20/$25.

BBQ and Bluegrass (bluegrass) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Blue Northern (blues) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

Comatose Kids, Hand in Pants, Soap (indie, funk) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $12/$15. HalloWEEN with Knights of the Brown Table (Ween tribute) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 7 p.m. $13. Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Jeff & Gina (acoustic) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 6 p.m. Free.

Live Jazz (jazz) at Leunig’s Bistro & Café, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free. Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10. Willverine (electronic) at the Wallflower Collective, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

djs

WED.23

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.

TVBOO, Shlump, smith., Mport (DJ) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $30/$35.

THU.24

Country & Western Thursdays (country, DJ) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Dance Party with DJ Chia (DJ) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

SAT.26 // VOICES IN VAIN [METAL]

music+nightlife

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.25

Broomstick Rave (DJ) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10/$15.

Crypt Goth Night (DJ) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

DJ Chia (DJ) at Club Metronome, Burlington, 10 p.m. $20.

DJ Craig Mitchell (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 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.

Latin Night with DJ JP Black (DJ) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

SAT.26

DJ A-Ra$ (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, midnight. Free.

DJ CRE8 (DJ) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

DJ LaFountaine (DJ) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.

DJ Raul (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Kate Kush (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 10 p.m. $10.

Matt Payne (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Molly Mood (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

SUN.27

Mi Yard Reggae Night with DJ Big Dog (reggae, dancehall) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

TUE.29

e Vanguard: Jazz on Vinyl (DJ) at Paradiso Hi-Fi, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.30

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.

open mics & jams

WED.23

Irish Sessions (Celtic, open mic) at Burlington St. John’s Club, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Lit Club (poetry open mic) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Open Mic (open mic) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.24

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.

SUN.27

Olde Time Jam Session (open jam) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, noon. Free.

MON.28

Open Mic (open mic) at Despacito, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

TUE.29

Open Mic Night (open mic) at Drink, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free. Venetian Soda Open Mic (open mic) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.30

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.

comedy

WED.23

$5 Improv Night (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5. Standup Comedy Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.

Vermont’s Funniest: Prelims (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.

THU.24

DeAnne Smith (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $30. Hometown Zeroes (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5.

FRI.25

DeAnne Smith (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $30.

SAT.26

Craig Ferguson (comedy) at Paramount eatre, Rutland, 8 p.m. $40-$57.

DeAnne Smith (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 & 9 p.m. $30.

TUE.29

e Cafeteria Presents: Hot Lunch Tuesdays (comedy) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. ree Leaves Comedy Showcase (comedy) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.30

$5 Improv Night (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5.

O the Wall

Forget Halloween, it’s time again for a relatively new yearly tradition: Burlington indie-folk act CRICKET BLUE’s annual performance of Over the Garden Wall. The duo and a collection of local musicians perform the songs from the beloved Cartoon Network animated miniseries about two half brothers’ journey home through the forest. The soundtrack is a charming collection of old-time songs and original music written for the show, including numbers such as “Into the Unknown” and “Come Wayward Souls.” Come ready to sing, dressed as your favorite character, and bring your rock facts to Radio Bean in Burlington on Thursday, October 24.

Can I Count on Your Vote? (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $7. Standup Comedy Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.

trivia, karaoke, etc.

WED.23

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.

THU.24

Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. Free.

SUN.27

Karaoke with DJ Coco Entertainment (karaoke) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 5 p.m. Free.

Sunday Funday (games) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, noon. Free.

Venetian Karaoke (karaoke) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

MON.28

Trivia Monday with Top Hat Entertainment (trivia) at McKee’s Original, 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.29

Godfather Karaoke (karaoke) at the Other Half, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

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.

Live Band Karaoke (karaoke) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 8 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.30 Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Drink, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Karaoke with Cam (karaoke) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 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.25

Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Night of the Living TRIVIA! (trivia) at wit & grit., Randolph, 5 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.

Queer Bar Takeover (drag) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 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

THU.24 // CRICKET BLUE [TRIBUTE]

Once in a blue moon, the list of submissions to the Seven Days music desk gets so long, the old two-reviews-a-week system just won’t cut it. So here are six new records from Vermont artists that are worth your time, from experimental to metal to folk. Dig in!

James Kochalka Superstar, BUMP

(SELF-RELEASED, DIGITAL)

The simplest way to describe the musical phenomenon that is James Kochalka Superstar is this: James Kochalka does whatever the hell he feels like. The Burlington singer-songwriter and cartoonist has a deep catalog that is bizarre, adorable, sometimes edgy, childish and occasionally hilarious.

Fresh o of releasing Beats, Motherfucker, an EP full of marquee collaborations and remixes with artists such as Moby, Dan Deacon and Bit Shifter, Kochalka is back on his bullshit with BUMP. It’s a wondrously weird collection of music somewhere between indie rock and kids’ music with lyrics straddling the line between cute and suggestive. The album features Kochalka’s skewed take on: tripping balls, the di erence between Black Sabbath and the Grateful Dead, and partying well past your prime. It’s another e ervescent release from one of Vermont’s most original and tireless artists.

Key Track: “Bump” Why: Kochalka might have written his ﬁnest lyrics on this one, with lines such as “All the ladies in my birth class / Are workin’ on a hard task / They wanna bump tummies with somebody new.” Where: kochalka.bandcamp.com

The Gifts, Slimline Artifacts

(SELF-RELEASED, DIGITAL)

Jeremy Mendicino is one busy dude. The Burlington producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist splits his time among a bevy of projects, from being a part of the team at the music collective/ recording studio VT Music Lab in Essex Junction to playing with the likes of singer-songwriter Thea Wren to his own indie-rock project, Holding Napoleon. Mendicino also happens to own a large collection of what he describes as “rare, strange, and vintage equipment,” which he puts to good use on the latest release from his experimental music project the Gifts. Slimline Artifacts is as much a description as an album title, as the record’s beating heart is a collection of samples of breaks that Mendicino collected on his trusty vintage Panasonic Slimline cassette deck. He then doused the sampled breaks with an array of strange sounds and ghostly hints of melody, creating a sonic cauldron that bubbles with elements of techno, ambient and even ﬂashes of industrial music.

Key Track: “SLIM6” Why: Perhaps the most rhythmic cut on the record, it sounds like being tied to the train tracks. Where: thegifts.bandcamp.com

Morning Giants, Eccentric Beasts

(SELF-RELEASED, CD, DIGITAL)

Burlington progressive rock act Morning Giants ﬁrst hit the scene with their 2018 EP Creature Kings. It set a marker for the band’s bold, unapologetic fusing of alt-rock, progressive metal and funk, with a few hints of Southern rock mixed in. Their new full-length debut, Eccentric Beasts, raises the bar signiﬁcantly.

Sonically all over the map, Eccentric Beasts sees Morning Giants ﬂexing some impressive instrumental prowess with searing guitar work from Aaron Cowan and Mike Gaito and a locked-in yet ﬂexible rhythm section of bassist Rogelio Zimbron and drummer Dan Bailey. The band casts out all the bloat that often goes into progressive rock — there isn’t a track more than 10 minutes long on the album — and streamlines movements and changes into hard-charging selections somewhere between art rock and metal. Combined with pristine production from Ben Collette at Tank Recording Studio, Eccentric Beasts is an album bristling with vitality.

Key Track: “Twelve Minutes Til Al Dente” Why: I can’t tell if the song is about mortality, with lyrics like “I fear that no one will remember me / You die in an unmarked grave,” or truly about cooking pasta properly. Where: morninggiants.bandcamp.com

Addy & the Echo, Counting Change

(SELF-RELEASED, DIGITAL)

The Americana and folk scene in Vermont is rich with talent. So when a new band emerges and is able to stand out, it’s certainly worth taking notice. Hardwick duo Addy & the Echo formed after two friends tried to take maple sap and turn it into syrup, easily the most Vermont bio of all time. Failing to make the syrup, they turned to jamming instead and recorded their debut album, Counting Change

A thoroughly adult record, Counting Change touches on themes such as midlife crises, the ups and downs of parenting, and turning grocery lists into lyrics. Through it all, the band creates a type of tongue-in-cheek folk, caught somewhere between the Mountain Goats and Pavement’s world-weary snark. It might not work if the songs didn’t hit so hard, but they do, from the sweetly romantic “The Lucky Kind” to the fraught, fuck-the-modern-world bite of “Middle Class Fantasy.”

Key Track: “New Disorder” Why: Hey, we’ve all been so bored we thought we might be going crazy. Where: Major streaming services

Shiny New Toyz, Out to Get You

(SELF-RELEASED, DIGITAL)

Shiny New Toyz are a brand-spankin’-new metal outﬁt from the brutal wasteland that is St. Albans. (Just kidding, St. Albans, you’re beautiful!) The ﬁve-piece has a lot of Vermont metal history in its DNA, with members having served time in bands such as Untapped, Mushroom Teeth and Why Not, and it shows. On their debut EP, Out to Get You, Shiny New Toyz hardly sound like newcomers, with powerful, heavy songs featuring sophisticated arrangements, clever time signature shifts and savage dynamic twists.

As opposed to headbangers about death and darkness, Shiny New Toyz and vocalist Suzie Tremblay espouse an almost motivational bent, whether she’s pleading with people to “stop the negative talk” on “Chaos” or balancing imagery of the world’s end with lyrics such as “Remember you’re sublime.” It’s a refreshing combination of doomladen music and a rming lyrics that are more resolute than contrarian.

Key Song: “Lunacy” Why: It’s the record’s most punishing track as Tremblay gets aggressive on the mic while the band lays down a furious jam. Where: shinynewtoyz. bandcamp.com

Hungrytown, Circus For Sale

(BIG STIR RECORDS, CD, DIGITAL)

The husband-and-wife songwriting team of Rebecca Hall and Ken Anderson ﬁrst met in New York City in the ’90s while both were both part-time musicians. They moved to Vermont in 2003, ditched the desk jobs and decided to launch Hungrytown. They announced their arrival in 2007 with a self-titled debut. Over the years they’ve earned a reputation for timeless songwriting and gorgeous harmonies, with their music popping up on shows including “Portlandia” and “The Daily Show.”

Circus For Sale is Hungrytown’s fourth LP but ﬁrst on Big Stir Records. The duo leans heavily into that ’70s UK folk sound popularized by progressive-pastoral artists such as Vashti Bunyon, Pentangle and Sandy Denny. Many of the songs sound like traditional ballads crafted long ago in bogs and fens, but they came straight from Hall and Anderson, who move through eras with ease.

Key Song: “Tuesday Sun” Why: Hall’s vocal is as ethereal as mist on the moor. Where: Major streaming services

CHRIS FARNSWORTH

During Burger Week, participating restaurants are serving up specials that you’ll really ﬂip for. Think breakfast burgers, triple-deckers, veggie burgers and, of course, good ol’ beef patties.

The biggest burger fanatics will win epic prizes for posting photos of their adventures on Instagram. And remember, calories don’t count during Burger Week!

2024 burger heroes

Leunig’s

Cider

Shelburne Tap House

The Skinny Pancake (Burlington, Montpelier, Quechee, Stowe)

Switchback Brewing Co., Burlington

South Mountain Tavern, Bristol

Three Penny Taproom, Montpelier

Tourterelle, New Haven

Two Brothers Tavern, Middlebury

Upper Deck Pub, South Burlington

Vermont Pub & Brewery, Burlington

The Village Tavern, North Ferrisburgh

Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall Restaurant and Main Dining Room at Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe

Wayside Restaurant & Bakery, Berlin

Worthy Burger, South Royalton

calendar

OCTOBER 23-30, 2024

WED.23

business

ANNUAL MEETING: The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region hosts an evening of entrepreneurial networking and a startup pitch competition. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 773-2747.

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 MEETUP: Women business owners of Addison County convene for a morning of networking, new opportunities and sharing. lu.lu Ice Cream, Vergennes, 10-11:15 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 802-870-0903.

cannabis

CANNABIS 101 SERIES: Magic Mann hosts an educational series for herb-curious folks in a welcoming, stigma-free environment. Ages 21 and up. Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 871-5810.

community

CURRENT EVENTS: Neighbors have an informal discussion

about what’s in the news.

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: 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. etc.

VYOA AT HOME: Supporters enjoy artfully crafted appetizers, local libations, live music and a raffle. Proceeds benefit the Vermont Youth Orchestra Association. Elley-Long Music Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 6-8 p.m. $60; preregister. Info, 655-5030.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ARMAND’: This 2024 Norwegian psychological drama explores the fraught relationship between two elementary schoolmates. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 1:30 p.m. $6-12. Info, 540-3018.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: Andy Serkis narrates the journey of a lifetime into the realm of the

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.

and local flicks. See website for full schedule. Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 1:30 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

food & drink

WHAT’S THAT WINE

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.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: Scientists dive into the 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, $16.50-20; 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, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

VERMONT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: Cinephiles keep their eyes glued to the big screen at this annual showcase of international, independent

FIND MORE LOCAL EVENTS IN THIS ISSUE AND ONLINE: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art. film

See what’s playing in the On Screen section. music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/music.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM

WEDNESDAYS: Aspiring sommeliers blind-taste four wines from Vermont and beyond. Shelburne Vineyard, noon-6 p.m. $15. Info, 985-8222.

games

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.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: Waterbury Public Library instructor Diana Whitney leads at-home participants in gentle stretches supported by seats. 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

language

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.

music

THE LONE BELLOW: The Nashville trio plays a soulful blend of Americana, rock and roots music. Rollins Chapel, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 8-10 p.m. $35. Info, 603-646-2422.

MANIA: THE ABBA TRIBUTE: Mamma mia! Listeners have the time of their lives as the international touring act covers the legendary pop group’s smash hits. The Flynn, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $29.75 - $87. Info, 536-1651.

outdoors

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.

seminars

MAKING CONNECTIONS:

MOBILITY FOR ALL: AARP’s Kelly Stoddard-Poor and Jon Kaplan discuss what can be done to improve local transportation options for folks who no longer drive. Yestermorrow Design/Build School, Waitsfield, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 496-5545.

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

KATHERYN WRIGHT: Champlain College’s digital humanities program director reflects on the relationship forming between humans and artificial intelligence. Burnham Memorial Library, Colchester, 4-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 262-2626.

VERMONT HUMANITIES SPEAKER

SERIES: DAZED, SEDUCED & TRANSFIXED — THE MONSTER THROUGH TIME, IN LITERATURE & IN OUR LIVES: Guest speaker Shanta Lee explores the cultural tradition of creating fabulous creatures and myths in an attempt to make sense of ourselves. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

tech

TECH CLASS: WELCOME TO YOUR LIBRARY’S WEBSITE: The library’s digital specialist teaches patrons how to navigate the site, find books in the catalog and access resources. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

words

IVY SCHWEITZER & AL SALEHI:

The coauthors chat about their poetry collection, Within Flesh — an inventive conversation about race and injustice between contemporary poets and Emily Dickinson. Norwich Bookstore, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

JACKSON ELLIS: The Vermont author celebrates the release of his latest novel, Black Days, in conversation with screenwriter Asher Ellis. Phoenix Books, Rutland, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 855-8078.

THU.24

climate crisis

CLIMATE CAFÉ: Community members come together in an informal, welcoming and respectful setting to safely share concerns and build resilience. Ages 18 and up. 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 585-6743.

community

VERMONT LAW & GRADUATE SCHOOL COMMUNITY DAY: Folks embark on a campus tour, enjoy a spaghetti dinner and engage in a town hall meeting. Chase Community Center, Vermont Law School, South Royalton, 3:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 831-1333.

VERMONT VETS TOWN HALL: Veterans discuss what their service means to them while neighbors listen in a nonpolitical and welcoming environment. Holley Hall, Bristol, 7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, vermont@vetstownhall.org.

crafts

KNITTING GROUP: Knitters of all experience levels get together to spin yarns. Latham Library, Thetford, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

WOODWORKING LAB: Visionaries create a project or learn a new skill with the help of mentors and access to tools and equipment in the makerspace. Hannaford Career Center, Middlebury, 5-8 p.m. $7.50. Info, 382-1012.

etc.

GENERATOR MAKERSPACE

ANNIVERSARY PARTY: Celebrate 10 years of learning, making and doing with giant Jenga, oversize Connect 4 and the biggest Vermont-themed game of Operation imaginable, plus workshops, food trucks and cocktails. Generator Makerspace, Burlington, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 540-0761.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘THE BALCONETTES’: Utter mayhem ensues in this 2024 French comedy-horror about the intense bond of three irreverent women. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 9 p.m. $6-12. Info, 540-3018.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.23.

NO MAN’S LAND FILM FESTIVAL: Outdoor Gear Exchange hosts an evening of sports flicks by women and nonbinary filmmakers that redefine what it means to be outdoorsy. Essex Cinema, T-Rex Theater, 6:30-9:30 p.m. $8. Info, 888-547-4327.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.23.

‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23. VERMONT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: See WED.23, 1:45 p.m. food & drink

COMMUNITY HARVEST

CELEBRATION: Foodies feast on a bevy of chicken and biscuits, potatoes, coleslaw, and dessert to benefit the center. Barre Area Senior Center, noon. $20. Info, 479-9512.

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

ADULT BOARD GAME NIGHT: Community members explore the library’s growing collection or bring their own to play with the group. Ages 18 and up. Essex Free Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

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.

FAMI LY FU N

Check out these family-friendly events for parents, caregivers and kids of all ages.

• Plan ahead at sevendaysvt.com/family-fun

Post your event at sevendaysvt.com/postevent.

WED.23

burlington

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.

chittenden county

BABY TIME: Infants and their caregivers enjoy a slow, soothing story featuring songs, rhymes and lap play. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

GAME ON!: Kids take turns collaborating with or competing against friends using Nintendo Switch on the big screen. Caregivers must be present to supervise children below fifth grade. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

HAFTY CRAFTY: Kiddos partake in a spooky Halloween-themed project — making mummy rocks! South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

PLAYGROUP & STORY TIME: Little ones and their caregivers listen to stories, sing songs and share toys with new friends. Richmond Free Library, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 434-3036.

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.

THU.24

burlington

BABY & ME CLASS: Parents and their infants ages birth to 1 explore massage, lullabies and gentle movements while discussing the struggles and joys of parenthood. Greater Burlington YMCA, 9:45-10:45 a.m. $10; free for members. Info, 862-9622.

BABY TIME: Pre-walking little ones experience a story time catered to their infant interests. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

GROW PRESCHOOL YOGA: Colleen from Grow Prenatal and Family Yoga leads little ones ages 2 through 5 in songs, movement and other fun activities. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

MIDDLE SCHOOL MAKERS: COOKING: Students in grades 4 through 8 make delicious homemade dishes. South

OCT. 25 & 26 | FAMILY FUN

Channeling Pan

Borderlands at Shelburne Farms is an enchanting outdoor theatrical event that reimagines J.M. Barrie’s timeless turn-of-the-century tale, Peter Pan, as a festive fairyland musical replete with Celtic gods. Every 15 minutes, families depart the property’s beautiful Coach Barn for a walk along an illuminated woodland trail — an immersive sound and light experience full of wonder, magic and curiosity. Conceived by Treewild, which offers nature-based education for students in kindergarten through eighth grade, the Neverland-inspired show features talented local kiddos who workshopped the concept through summer and fall.

‘BORDERLANDS’ Friday, October 25, and Saturday, October 26, 5:30-8 p.m., at Shelburne Farms. $12-20; free for kids 2 and under. Info, treewild.inc@gmail.com, treewild.org.

Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4-5 p.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 PLAY TIME: Pre-K patrons play and socialize after music time. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

STORY TIME: Little ones 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.

barre/montpelier

POKÉMON CLUB: I choose you, Pikachu! Elementary and teenage fans of the franchise — and beginners, too — trade cards and play games. Kellogg-Hubbard

Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

STORY TIME: Kids and their caregivers meet for stories, songs and bubbles. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

stowe/smuggs

WEE ONES PLAYTIME: Caregivers bring kiddos 3 and younger to a new sensory learning experience each week. Morristown Centennial Library, Morrisville, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3853.

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.25

VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: ‘YOUNG PERSON’S CONCERT’: Students in grades 7 to 12 discover the magic of stories coming to life through sound. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 10 a.m. $10. Info, 308-4189.

burlington

QUEEN CITY GHOSTWALK DARKNESS FALLS TOUR: Adventurers become experts in vintage ghost-hunting techniques. Ages 10 and up. Courthouse Plaza, Burlington, 7-8 p.m. $25; preregister. Info, 324-5467.

chittenden county

‘BORDERLANDS’: This enchanting outdoor theater event reimagines the timeless story of Peter Pan as a musical replete with Celtic gods and faeries. See calendar spotlight. Shelburne Farms, 5:30-8 p.m. $10-20; free for kids 2 and under. Info, treewild.inc@gmail.com.

‘THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX’: Kiddos enjoy this 2008 animated animal adventure about a book-loving mouse’s quest to rescue his friend. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

MUSICAL STORY TIME WITH MS. LIZ: Little ones ages birth to 4 wiggle and dance to familiar songs and rhymes. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

TRUNK-OR-TREAT: Families come in costume to collect candy and treats from festive vehicles. Bombardier Recreation Park, Milton, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 893-4922.

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 themed science, art and nature activities. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

mad river valley/ waterbury

DINNER WITH KATHERINE ARDEN: The New York Times best-selling author reads from her acclaimed book Small Spaces as families enjoy American Flatbread pizza. A Q&A follows. Inklings Children’s Books, Waitsfield, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $6.99; preregister. Info, 496-7280. upper valley

SPOOKY SCIENCE: Families don their finest vampire teeth and enjoy trickedout exhibits, live demos and hands-on learning stations. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 5:30-8 p.m. $11-15; free for kids 2 and under; preregister. Info, 649-2200.

STORY TIME: Preschoolers take part in tales, tunes and playtime. Latham Library, Thetford, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

SAT.26 burlington

FAMILY ART SATURDAY: Families get creative with fabric and paper in an art-making activity inspired by exhibiting artist Stephen Hamilton. Burlington City Arts, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

OOKY SPOOKY 5K: All ages and abilities sport creative costumes and get moving for a cause. Proceeds benefit Vermont’s Committee on Temporary Shelter. Rock Point School, Burlington, 8:30-11 a.m. $5-15; preregister. Info, 863-1104.

QUEEN CITY GHOSTWALK DARKNESS FALLS TOUR: See FRI.25.

ECHO’S SPOOKY SCIENCE: Budding scientists delight in foods that glow, shaving cream chemistry and a dazzling magic show. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake

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.

health & fitness

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: Community members practice mindful movement with meditation and breath to strengthen the body, quiet the mind and balance the emotions. Waterbury Public Library, 4:305:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@waterburypubliclibrary.com.

holidays

HALLOWEEN IN WINOOSKI

CARVING PARTY: Creative locals help fill Rotary Park with ghoulish gourds. Winooski Senior Center, 6-8 p.m. Free; cash bar. Info, info@ downtownwinooski.org.

language

ITALIAN CONVERSATION GROUP: Semi-fluent speakers practice their skills during a conversazione with others. Best for those who can speak at least basic sentences. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

music

RAGAS FOR DIWALI: A CONCERT OF NORTH INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC: Four artists perform captivating songs with the sarod, tabla, violin and flute. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 6:30-9 p.m. $15-35. Info, 279-5940.

outdoors

E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.23.

PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.23.

québec

SUSAN GRUNDY: The author regales listeners with selections from her heartbreaking yet humorous memoir, Mad Sisters — a reflection on mental health, family and the role of the caregiver. Drawn & Quarterly, Montréal, 7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 514-705-4919.

seminars

UNDERSTANDING VERMONT’S NEW LITERACY LAW: TEACHING ALL STUDENTS TO READ: Local educators present timely information about the potential impacts of Act 139. A Q&A follows. Waterbury Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@waterburypubliclibrary.com.

talks

GARY IRISH: The historian sheds light on the commercial past and landmarks of Underhill Flats. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library,

Jericho, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4962.

PAUL HILDEBRAND: The college alumnus discusses landscape architecture from the perspectives of climate and justice. Johnson Memorial Building, Middlebury College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.

theater

‘THE TEMPEST’: Theater founder Kim Bent plays the sorcerer Prospero in William Shakespeare’s final play, a magical tale of reckoning, redemption, comedy and romance. Lost Nation Theater, Montpelier City Hall, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $10-30. Info, 229-0492.

words

EVENING BOOK GROUP: Readers react to Pulitzer Prize finalist Margaret Verble’s 2021 book When Two Feathers Fell From the Sky Virtual option available. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

INQUISITIVE READERS BOOK

CLUB: Readers trade thoughts on Jesse Q. Sutanto’s hilarious 2021 novel, Dial “A” for Aunties, about an accidental murder. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

NER OUT LOUDER: Students read poetry selections from the New England Review in a warm and open environment. A reception follows. Dance Theatre, Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, 7:308:45 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.

STORY JAM: Community members recount an unrehearsed five-minute true story from their lives. Junction Arts & Media, White River Junction, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 295-6688.

VERMONT READS COMMUNITY BOOK DISCUSSION: Vermont humanities scholar Dr. Alan Berolzheimer leads a group discourse on Kenneth M. Cadow’s coming-of-age novel, Gather. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

FRI.25

etc.

NEW FRAMEWORKS SHOP TOUR:

Curious homebuyers get a look at high-performance modular homes and learn how carbon is sequestered while creating these eco-friendly digs. New Frameworks, Essex, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 448-2206.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.23.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.23.

‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

VERMONT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: See WED.23, 1 p.m.

OCT.

East Meets West

Dynamic multicultural ensemble Ize Trio perform lively tunes imbued with social activism from their debut album, The Global Suites, at Next Stage Arts Project in Putney. The bandmates began their musical journey at Boston’s Berklee Global Jazz Institute, synthesizing their diverse cultural roots into a unique fusion of Middle Eastern and American jazz traditions. Their concerts evoke palpable positivity and inspire audiences to engage in open discourse about the relationship — and tension — between the U.S. and Middle East. Through the power of music, Ize Trio encourage a more harmonious global landscape.

IZE TRIO

Friday, October 25, 7:30 p.m., at Next Stage Arts Project in Putney. $10-25. Info, 387-0102, nextstagearts.org.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.24, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

health & fitness

GUIDED MEDITATION ONLINE: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library invites attendees to relax on their lunch breaks and reconnect with their bodies. Noon-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@damlvt.org.

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.

holidays

HAUNTED MANSION ADVENTURE DINNER: SOLD OUT. Folks grab

their finest gothic garb and embark on an evening of decadence and Southern charm. Adventure Dinner Clubhouse, Colchester, 6-8:30 p.m. $75. Info, sas@ adventuredinner.com.

LIFE & DEATH TOUR: Brave souls explore the museum’s historic sites and hear eerie tales of Victorianera superstitions from costumed guides. Ages 13 and up. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 5-7 p.m. $16-18; preregister. Info, 457-2355.

‘SPIRITS OF ROKEBY: VOICES FROM THE SUMMER LAND’: Audiences embark on a journey of Victorian spiritualism as actors re-create séances based on historical transcripts and real-life accounts. See calendar spotlight. Rokeby Museum, Ferrisburgh, 5-8 p.m. $20-25. Info, 877-3406.

SPOOKY STORIES AT THE HOMESTEAD: Adventurous folks

take a guided night tour while partaking in ghostly tales and hot apple cider. Ages 12 and up. BYO flashlight. Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. $2025; preregister. Info, 865-4556.

TAXIDERMY TERROR: Guests who dare to venture into the museum’s basement enjoy a fright-filled evening of creepy stuffed creations. Ages 14 and up. Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, St. Johnsbury, 7-10 p.m. $20. Info, 748-2372.

WORLDS OF HURT: WRESTLING MONSTER MANIA: Audiences revel in six live matches, a championship bout, and a meet and greet with the stars. The Opera House at Enosburg Falls, 7-9:30 p.m. $20-75. Info, 518-260-8759.

language

FRENCH SOCIAL HOUR: Francophones gather for conviviality en français in a comfortable,

no-pressure environment. Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown, 5:30-7 p.m. Free; cash bar. Info, bbrodie@aflcr.org.

lgbtq

IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL SUPPORTER EVENT: Community members learn about Outright Vermont’s 2025 strategic plan for local LGBTQ+ youths. The

FOMO?

Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

film

See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

Stay tuned for more details next week or check sevendaysvt.com this Monday.

Alchemist, Waterbury, 6:30-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 865-9677.

RPG NIGHT: Members of the LGBTQ community get together weekly for role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Everway. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:308:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692. music

AARON FLINN: The singersongwriter blends genres for an energizing and eclectic night of powerful vocals and finger-picking guitar. Shelburne Vineyard, 6-8 p.m. Free; reservations recommended. Info, 985-8222.

COAST JAZZ ORCHESTRA: Dartmouth College’s musical collective delights audiences with rarely played selections from their songbook project. Sawtooth Kitchen, Bar and Stage, Hanover, N.H., 9-10 p.m. $15. Info, 603-646-2422.

COUNTERPOINT: ‘THE SCEPTERED ISLE’: The Montpelier ensemble sings gems of the English choral tradition from Thomas Tallis to Gerald Finzi. Shelburne United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. $530. Info, 540-1784.

FULL CIRCLE: The vocal trio draws on both secular and sacred folk traditions to produce stunning harmonies. Bethany United Church of Christ, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 448-0622.

IZE TRIO: The multicultural ensemble plays tunes from its debut album — a unique synthesis of American jazz and Middle Eastern traditions. Virtual options available. See calendar spotlight. Next Stage Arts Project, Putney, 7:30 p.m. $10-25. Info, 387-0102.

MIDDLE EASTERN PERCUSSION & CONTEMPORARY

IMPROVISATION CLINIC: The musicians of Ize Trio lead a dynamic workshop on multicultural rhythmic cycles. Next Stage Arts Project, Putney, 3-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 387-0102.

SO PERCUSSION WITH CAROLINE SHAW & RINGDOWN: The groundbreaking quartet collaborates with the Pulitzer Prize-winning composer for an evening of rich harmonies and complex rhythmic patterns. Robison Concert Hall, Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, 7:30 p.m. $5-25. Info, 443-6433.

outdoors

CABOT CHEESE E-BIKE TOUR: See WED.23.

E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.23.

PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.23.

RIDE: CYCLE THE CITY: Pedalers embark on a casually paced clockwise loop showcasing the history, culture and splendor of Burlington. Local Motion, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 861-2700.

québec

‘TWO BIRDS ONE STONE’: Teesri Duniya Theatre presents an intimate, candid and timely production based on the co-playwrights’ personal experiences with the complexities of privilege. Rangshala Studio, Montréal, 8 p.m. $28. Info, 514-848-0238

talks

MATTHEW DICKINSON: A Middlebury College professor of political science forecasts the winners of the upcoming presidential election. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 2-3 p.m. $8 cash or check; free for members. Info, 343-5177.

theater

‘THE CHERRY ORCHARD’: Melissa Lourie directs Anton Chekhov’s classic tragicomedy, brimming with vivid characters, pathos and themes of cultural futility. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7:30 p.m. $15-39. Info, 382-9222.

‘THE TEMPEST’: See THU.24.

‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’: BarnArts presents the classic Mel Brooks musical replete with Halloweeny hilarity, endless puns and Transylvania mania. Barnard Town Hall, 7:30-10 p.m. $18-25. Info, info@barnarts.org.

SAT.26

activism

TRUMPKIN SMASHING AND WITCH-IN: Dressed as their most powerful, feminist selves, activists and hex-weavers ward off forces of racism and patriarchy. All ages and genders welcome. Top of Church Street, Burlington, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, lauriessig@gmail.com.

business

INSTANT HEADSHOTS AT VERMONT TECH JAM: Professionals upgrade their profile pics with headshots by Montpelierbased Storyzworkz. Hula, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $15; preregister. Info, 865-1020.

dance

COMMUNITY BARN DANCE: Party people usher in the changing seasons with an evening of barbecue, live music and boogying. Ages 21 and up. Proceeds benefit the Current. Comfort Farm, Stowe, 5-10 p.m. $75; cash bar. Info, 253-8358. etc.

GRAHAM BROOKS & ‘RINGU’: The local guitar shredder performs a rare acoustic set, followed by a screening of the 1998 Japanese cult classic that kick-started the media-themed horror phenomenon. Epsilon Spires, Brattleboro, 8-11 p.m. $10-20 sliding scale. Info, 251-5130.

THE GREAT GATS-BEE BALL: Ritzy folks with Old Hollywood glam enjoy an evening of music, dancing, dinner, cocktails and games. Ages 21 and up. Proceeds benefit Vermont Family Theatre. Orleans Municipal Building, 6-10

OCT. 25 & 26 | THEATER

Victorian Visions

Don’t touch that Ouija board! Rokeby Museum’s annual Halloween play returns with a creepy new script, Spirits of Rokeby: Voices From the Summer Land, inspired by Ferrisburgh’s terrifyingly true spiritualist history. Guests begin the spine-tingling experience with a specialty cocktail by Appalachian Gap Distillery and a short talk on Victorian-era mediums before entering the Robinson family farmhouse. Inside, actors in period costume guide visitors through a participatory dramatization of real 19th-century séances, which are documented and preserved in the museum’s archival collection.

‘SPIRITS OF ROKEBY: VOICES FROM THE SUMMER LAND’ Friday, October 25, 5-9 p.m., and Saturday, October 26, 4-9 p.m., at Rokeby Museum in Ferrisburgh. $20-25. Info, 877-3406, rokeby.org.

p.m. $50-75. Info, vftmainstage@ gmail.com.

LIFE & DEATH TOUR: See FRI.25, 2-4 p.m.

SISTERHOOD CAMPFIRE: Women and genderqueer folks gather in a safe and inclusive space to build community through journaling, storytelling, gentle music and stargazing. Leddy Park, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, sisterhoodcampfire@gmail.com.

STICK SEASON GALA: Folks dressed in fall finery enjoy an elegant evening of craft cocktails, delectable fare, silent and live auctions, and entertainment. Weston Theater at Walker Farm, 6 p.m. $250. Info, 824-5288.

fairs & festivals

GILFEATHER TURNIP FESTIVAL: Culinary-minded folks pay homage to Vermont’s state vegetable with live music, craft vendors and games. Various Wardsboro

locations, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, sherd1955@gmail.com.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.23.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.23.

‘THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE

SHOW’: Audiences in costume get ready to hoot and holler at a screening of this 1975 musical comedy-horror flick. Southern Vermont Arts Center Arkell Pavilion, Manchester Center, 8-10 p.m. $5-10; free for members. Info, 362-1405.

‘THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW’: Audiences dress to the nines and belt out their favorite songs with an interactive screening of this 1975 musical cult classic.

The Opera House at Enosburg Falls, 8 p.m. $10 suggested donation; cash bar. Info, 933-6171.

‘SABBATH QUEEN’: An ex-Orthodox rabbi embarks on a multi-decade personal journey culminating in life as a drag queen in this compelling 2024 documentary. A Q&A follows. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 1:15-3:30 p.m. $6-12. Info, 540-3018.

‘THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG’: This 2024 crime drama chronicles the life of an investigating judge amidst turmoil in Iran. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7-10 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

VERMONT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: See WED.23, noon.

food & drink

BURLINGTON FARMERS MARKET: Dozens of stands overflow with seasonal produce, flowers, artisanal wares and prepared foods. 345 Pine St., Burlington, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 560-5904. CAPITAL CITY FARMERS MARKET: Meats and cheeses join farm-fresh produce, baked goods, locally made arts and crafts, and live music. 133 State St., Montpelier, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 272-6249.

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.

FOMO?

Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

film

See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON

Free. Info, cfmamanager@gmail. com.

games

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.

MURDER MYSTERY NIGHT: Participants become detectives in Ann Cleeves’ thrilling, interactive game, Bannocks and Blood Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 7 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 899-4962.

health & fitness

MIDDLEBURY WALK FOR STROKE

AWARENESS: Participants get their bodies moving to raise awareness about the serious health issue, followed by a bake sale and bottle drive. Triangle Park, Middlebury, 10 a.m. Free. Info, strokeawarenessvermont@gmail. com.

holidays

CANDLELIGHT: A HAUNTED EVENING OF HALLOWEEN

CLASSICS: Illuminated by thousands of candles, local musicians perform glowingly eerie classical renditions of seasonal hits, from “Thriller” to the “Stranger Things” theme. First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, 7 p.m. $4152.50. Info, 862-5630.

HALLOWEEN-O-THON 2024: END TIMES: Costumes are encouraged at a celebration of locally made horror shorts. Junction Arts & Media, White River Junction, 5:307:30 p.m. Free. Info, 295-6688.

HAUNTED MANSION ADVENTURE

DINNER: See FRI.25.

HOT BUTTER HALLOWEEN:

Devilish party people dance among the damned in a Dante’s Infernothemed celebration. Ages 18 and

up. Flynn Space, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10. Info, 888-931-6882.

TAXIDERMY TERROR: See FRI.25. THE VERMONT SYMPHONIC WINDS: ‘WITCHES, DRAGONS & INCANTATIONS’: The ensemble performs a program of seasonal works, including Modest Mussorgsky’s “A Night on Bald Mountain.” Elley-Long Music Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 7 p.m. $10-15. Info, vermontsymphonicwinds@ gmail.com.

music

ANDRE ETHIER & WILDFLOWER:

The dynamic double bill features smooth and meditative songs that draw on elements of folk and ambient rock. Autumn Records, Winooski, 7-9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Info, 399-2123.

CAPITAL CITY CONCERTS: ‘A MUSICAL OFFERING OF INSTRUMENTAL WORKS OF J.S.

BACH’: Pianist Jeewon Park, violinist Jeffrey Multer, cellist Edward Arron, and flutists Karen Kevra and Jillian Reed conjure the master’s best-loved chamber music and solo works. Unitarian Church of Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. $15-30. Info, info@capitalcityconcerts.org.

COAST JAZZ ORCHESTRA: See FRI.25.

COUNTERPOINT: ‘THE SCEPTERED

ISLE’: SEE FRI.25. St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Hanover, N.H.

GEORGE: The energetic group takes the stage for an evening of genre-busting tunes. The Mill ADK, Westport, N.Y., 7:30-9 p.m. $36.56. Info, catherine@themilladk.com.

THE MAGNETICA CONCERT: Audiences experience the healing

power of a sound, light and music generator built in Uruguay. The Magnetica Performance Space, Burlington, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $40. Info, events@themagnetica.com.

MIDDLEBURY COLLEGE CARILLON SERIES: GEORGE MATTHEW JR.: The Norwich University carillonneur delights listeners with melodic chimes from the bell tower in the final concert of the series. Memorial Chapel, Middlebury College, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.

MYRA FLYNN: The singer-songwriter combines soulful vocals with intense lyrical delivery. Shelburne Vineyard, 7-9:30 p.m. $25. Info, 985-8222.

SOŌPERCUSSION WITH CAROLINE SHAW & RINGDOWN: See FRI.25. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe Mountain Resort, 7-9 p.m. $48-70. Info, 760-4634.

UPPER VALLEY BAROQUE: A joyous program features works by Marc-Antoine Charpentier, Antonio Vivaldi and George Frideric Handel. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 3 p.m. $2550. Info, 203-240-1164.

VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: ‘ROMEO, JULIET & THE FIREBIRD’: Audiences enjoy a spirited program of compositions by Lili Boulanger, Sergei Prokofiev and Igor Stravinksy while watching close-ups of the musicians on a large screen. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $8.35-62. Info, 863-5966.

outdoors

CABOT CHEESE E-BIKE TOUR: See WED.23.

E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.23.

PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.23.

québec

‘TWO BIRDS ONE STONE’: See FRI.25.

tech

circle for poets of all ages. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

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.

SUN.27 community

HUMAN CONNECTION CIRCLE: Neighbors share stories from their lives and forge deep bonds. Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, humanconnectioncircle@ gmail.com.

crafts

SPIN-IN SPINNING CIRCLE: Yarn makers get together and get their wheels turning. BYO fiber and spinning device. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.23, 1-3 p.m.

dance

minds. Jenna’s House, Johnson, 10-11:15 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, mollyzapp@live.com.

NEW LEAF SANGHA

MINDFULNESS PRACTICE: Newcomers and experienced meditators alike stretch their skills in the Plum Village tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Hot Yoga Burlington, 6:30-8:15 p.m. Free. Info, newleafsangha@gmail.com.

SARAH RAMSEY STRONG 5K: Runners of all ages and abilities get moving along the city’s scenic bike path to benefit the namesake fund. Switchback Brewing, Burlington, 10 a.m. $25-30; preregister. Info, sarahramseystrong@gmail.com.

holidays

HALLOWEEN ROLLER DISCO: Folks in costume lace up their skates, sharpen their fangs and roll to groovy tunes by DJ Love Doctor. A family-friendly session is offered from 4-6 p.m. Champlain Valley Expo, Essex Junction, 4-8 p.m. $10.75. Info, 825-5073.

NEW ENGLAND LEGENDS: ‘VERMONT’S ONLY WITCH TRIAL’: Audiences relish this soon-to-bereleased episode of the Amazon Prime series, featuring the horrific true story of 1780s Pownal widow Margaret Krieger. A Q&A follows. Bennington Museum, 1-2 p.m. $12-15; free for kids 17 and under. Info, 447-1571.

AILEY II: The pioneering dance company takes the stage for an evening of modern choreography, including Alvin Ailey’s iconic “Revelations.” Lyndon Institute, Lyndon Center, 7-9 p.m. $15-54; free for students. Info, 748-2600.

fairs & festivals

VERMONT TECH JAM 2024: Job seekers, industry professionals, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts connect at the annual career expo. Hula, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 864-5684.

theater

‘THE CHERRY ORCHARD’: See FRI.25.

‘ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW’: Hot patootie! The Ones From the Vaults put a unique spin on a monthly stage adaptation of the 1975 cult-classic film about newly engaged lovebirds who encounter an unconventional scientist. Bellows Falls Opera House, 9 p.m. $20-25. Info, 463-3964, ext. 1120.

‘SPIRITS OF ROKEBY: VOICES FROM THE SUMMER LAND’: See FRI.25, 4-8 p.m.

‘THE TEMPEST’: See THU.24.

‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’: See FRI.25.

HARVEST FESTIVAL: Folks get a head start on holiday shopping with craft vendors, live jazz music, raffles and handmade empanadas. Proceeds benefit Feeding Champlain Valley. Shelburne Vineyard, 12-7:30 p.m. Free; cash or canned goods donations accepted. Info, 985-8222.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

lgbtq

BOARD GAME DAY: LGBTQ tabletop fans bring their own favorite games to the party. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 1-6 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692. CRAFT CLUB: Creative queer folks work on their knitting, crocheting and sewing projects. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 622-0692.

LGBTQ FIBER ARTS GROUP: A knitting, crocheting and weaving session welcomes all ages, gender identities, sexual orientations and skill levels. Presented by Pride Center of Vermont. Noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, laurie@pridecentervt. org.

words

ALISON PRINE & STEPHEN CRAMER: Two acclaimed Burlington poets chat about the topics that thread them together, such as love and loss. Norwich Bookstore, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

APPLES, OYSTERS, & CHOCOLATE: THE FASCINATIONS OF ROWAN JACOBSEN: Small bites and a cash bar accompany the launch of the Vermontbased author’s new book, Wild Chocolate: Across the Americas in Search of Cacao’s Soul. Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 4-6 p.m. $45. Info, 855-650-0080. THE POETRY EXPERIENCE: Local wordsmith Rajnii Eddins hosts a supportive writing and sharing

‘ENO’: This 2024 documentary uses archival footage and a little help from artificial intelligence to shed light on musician, producer and innovator Brian Eno. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7-8:30 p.m. $8-15. Info, 660-2600.

‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.23.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.23.

‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

VERMONT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: See WED.23, noon.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.24, 1-4:30 p.m.

health & fitness

KARUNA COMMUNITY

MEDITATION: A YEAR TO LIVE

(FULLY): Participants practice keeping joy, generosity and gratitude at the forefront of their

music

CAPITAL CITY CONCERTS: ‘A MUSICAL OFFERING OF INSTRUMENTAL WORKS OF J.S.

BACH’: See SAT.26. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m.

COUNTERPOINT: ‘THE SCEPTERED ISLE’: See FRI.25. Christ Episcopal Church, Montpelier, 3:30 p.m.

HINESBURG ARTIST SERIES: FALL CONCERT: Audiences delight in an exciting mix of musical works performed by the Hinesburg Community Band and the South County Chorus. Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, 4 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 373-0808.

KIERON MEANS & SARA GREY: The mother-and-son folk duo plays tunes from the British Isles and America, featuring the guitar and banjo. Adamant Community Club, 3-5 p.m. $15. Info, 454-7103.

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.

outdoors

PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.23.

TREE IDENTIFICATION FOR BIRDERS & FRIENDS: Bird enthusiasts detect fledglings and fowl and identify their habitats. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-30 suggested donation; preregister. Info, 4342167.

québec

‘TITANIQUE’: Audiences delight in the campy chaos of this off-Broadway smash hit musical, featuring the songs of Céline Dion. Sylvan Adams Theatre, Segal Centre for Performing Arts, Montréal, 2 p.m. $75-80. Info, 514-739-7944.

‘TWO BIRDS ONE STONE’: See FRI.25.

talks

MELISSA JACOBS & JERI

WOHLBERG: The pair recount their incredible 150-mile trek through Nepal with a slideshow of photos featuring mule trains, prayer flags and scenic monasteries. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

theater

‘THE CHERRY ORCHARD’: See FRI.25, 2 p.m.

‘THE TEMPEST’: See THU.24, 2-4 p.m.

‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN’: See FRI.25, 2-4:30 p.m.

words

KERSTIN LANGE: The Vermont author discusses her novel, Phantom Border: A Personal Reconnaissance of Contemporary Germany — an exploration of the 970-mile border that divided Germany during the Cold War. Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, gkgottfried@gmail. com.

TOUSSAINT ST. NEGRITUDE: The 2024 Vermont poet laureate nominee launches his first published volume of poetry, Mountain Spells. A reception follows. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

MON.28

crafts

FUSE BEADS CLUB: Aspiring artisans bring ideas or borrow patterns to make beaded creations. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.23.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.23.

‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

games

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.

holidays

HAUNTED FILMS: MOVIES ABOUT GHOSTS & THE SUPERNATURAL: Film historian Rick Winston presents a program of clips that explore the paranormal in cinema. Savoy Theater, Montpelier, 7-9 p.m. $12. Info, 229-0598.

NORTHWEST NIGHTMARES FILM

FESTIVAL: Local filmmakers bring big scares to the silver screen in an evening of horror movie madness. Welden Theatre, St. Albans, 6:30 p.m. $10. Info, info@ nwnightmares.com.

language

ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE:

Locals learning English as a second language gather in the Digital Lab to build vocabulary and make friends. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

ITALIAN BOOK CLUB: Lovers of the Boot country’s language read and discuss Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s Il Piccolo Principe — aka The Little Prince. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

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.

FOMO?

Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

film

See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

= ONLINE EVENT

outdoors

PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.23.

québec

‘TITANIQUE’: See SUN.27, 7:30 p.m. words

DORIS J. SUMNER: The Milton resident and Vermont National Guard veteran launches her debut memoir, Life at Camp: Combating the Sexism We Tolerate and Why the Military Should Take the Lead Milton Public Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 734-0982.

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. Moretown Memorial Library, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 496-9728.

TUE.29 community

CURRENT EVENTS DISCUSSION GROUP: Brownell Library holds a virtual roundtable for neighbors to pause and reflect on the news cycle. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6955.

dance

SWING DANCE PRACTICE SESSION: All ages and experience levels shake a leg in this friendly, casual environment designed for learning. Bring clean shoes. Champlain Club, Burlington, 7:309 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8382.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

ALFRED HITCHCOCK & THE ART OF SUSPENSE: Film expert Rick Winston illuminates the evolution of the horror master’s craft by drawing on 12 clips. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.23.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.23.

‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

food & drink

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, oldnorthend farmersmarket@gmail.com.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.24.

health & fitness

COMMUNITY MEDITATION: All levels and ages engage in the ancient Buddhist practice of clearing the mind to achieve a state of calm. First Unitarian Universalist

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

• BETA Technologies

• Data Innovations

• GBIC

• GlobalFoundries

• Hula

• KORE Power & NOMAD

• Marvell

• Myti

• National Life Group

• Northﬁeld Savings Bank

• Norwich University

• UVM O ce of the Vice President for Research (OVPR)

• Vermont Technology Council

• VIP SUPPORTING PARTNERS

• Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman

• The Targeted Resume

• Vermont Technology Alliance

• Vermont Public

• WCAX

OTHER EXHIBITORS

• Accessible Web

• Aira Tech Corp

• Aprexis

• Burlington Telecom

• Codingscape

• Collins Aerospace

• Community College of Vermont

• Creative Micro

• Damstrong Systems LLC

• Dynapower

• Fluency

• Galen Healthcare Solutions

• Generator Makerspace

• Governor’s Institutes of Vermont

• Green Mountain Power

• Hayward Tyler

• Hazelett Strip-Casting Corporation

• ipCapital Group

• Isotech North America

• Lake Champlain Chamber & LaunchVT

• NDI

• OnLogic

• Orion Global Talent

• Physicians Computer Company

• Polhemus

• Revision Miltary

• Rigorous

• State of Vermont Agency of Digital Services

• Test-Rep Associates, Inc.

• Transmille Calibration

• University of Vermont Health Network

• VELCO

• Vermont Community Broadband Board

• Vermont State University

• Wildlife Imaging Systems

FAMI LY FU N

Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

$16.50-20; free for kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

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.

SWAP & SPROUT: BABY GEAR

EXCHANGE: Parents declutter and save money by trading in gently used items and finding new-to-them essentials. Burlington Elks Lodge, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $20 suggested donation or a box of diapers. Info, vermontconnector@ gmail.com.

chittenden county

‘BORDERLANDS’: See FRI.25, 5:30-8 p.m.

HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION: Families feel the spirit of the season with a day of face painting, games, costumes and prizes. Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Shelburne, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 985-1319.

HALLOWEEN IN WINOOSKI: The killer celebration showcases 1,000 jacko’-lanterns, carnival games, a photo booth and live music. Rotary Park, Winooski, 2-9 p.m. Free. Info, info@ downtownwinooski.org.

TEEN COSTUME WORKSHOP: Students in grades 6 and up exchange ideas, gather inspiration and create an accessory to match their Halloween garb. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

TERROR ON THE TRACK: Green Mountain Roller Derby takes to the

track for an evening of heart-pounding family entertainment. Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex Junction, 5-8:30 p.m. $18-20; free for kids 5 and under. Info, info@gmrollerderby.com.

barre/montpelier

LIBRARY AFTER DARK: A SPOOKTACULAR NIGHT OF THRILLS & CHILLS: Families venture through a haunted house of frightful surprises, hear a spooky talk about shadows, and glimpse into the future with tarot and oracle card readings. Ages 8 and up. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

PUMPKIN WALK: Families amble along a path lit by jack-o’-lanterns and enjoy a bonfire, hot cider and treats. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 5:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

stowe/smuggs

ONE DAY ADVENTURE: FIRST AID FIELD

DAY: Interested students in grades 9 through 12 learn lifesaving skills such as CPR and patient assessment. Green Mountain Technology & Career Center, Hyde Park, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 865-4448.

upper valley

GORY DAZE PARADE & BALL: Costumed characters of all ages whoop it up with live music, ghoulish dancing and doughnuts on strings. Main Street Museum, White River Junction, 6:30-midnight. $10 suggested donation for the ball. Info, 356-2776.

HALLOWEEN AT VINS: Ghosties and ghoulies delight in a day of seasonal excitement, including a carved pumpkin contest and scavenger hunt. Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $16.50-19.50; free for members; free for kids 3 and under. Info, 359-5000.

HOOTS & HOWLS: Families embark on a guided evening tour featuring puppets,

enchanting stories, tall tales and lighted pumpkins. Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee, 5:30-8 p.m. $13-15; free for kids 3 and under. Info, 359-5000.

manchester/ bennington

HALLOWEEN ON THE HILL: Families soak up an afternoon of seasonal festivities, including face painting, arts and crafts, and a costume parade. Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester, 2-5 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 362-1405.

SUN.27

chittenden county

HALLOWEEN BARN: Families flock to meet rescued farm animals while enjoying themed activities and treats. Merrymac Animal Sanctuary, Charlotte, noon-4 p.m. $15. Info, 448-2377.

upper valley

A FAMILY HALLOWEEN: Costumed kiddos enjoy a day of autumnal activities including hayrides, costume parades, pumpkin bowling and crafts. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $12-19; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 457-2355.

MON.28

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.

stowe/smuggs

ART PLAY: Wee ones ages 1 to 4 and their caregivers enjoy process-based creativity and sensory exploration. The

Current, Stowe, 10-11:30 a.m. $5. Info, 253-8358.

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.

TUE.29

burlington

SING-ALONG WITH LINDA BASSICK: Babies, toddlers and preschoolers sing, dance and wiggle along with Linda. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1111:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

CRAFTYTOWN: Kiddos express their inner artist using mediums such as paint, print, collage and sculpture. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MAKERS: ARTS & CRAFTS: Karen Cornish leads kiddos in creating their very own patterned bandana. Grades 4 and up. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5-6 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.

barre/montpelier

STORY TIME: See THU.24.

WED.30 burlington

MEET A JURASSIC QUEST BABY DINO & TRAINER: Dinosaur lovers visit with the teeny triceratops. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 2-4:30 p.m. $16.50-20; free for kids two and under. Info, 864-1848.

QUEEN CITY GHOSTWALK DARKNESS FALLS TOUR: See FRI.25.

TODDLER TIME: See WED.23.

chittenden county

BABY TIME: See WED.23.

GAME ON!: See WED.23.

PLAYGROUP & STORY TIME: See WED.23.

rutland/killington

HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL & JACK-O’LANTERN HIKE: Families stroll through the trail system while admiring hundreds of illuminated carved pumpkins. Edward F. Kehoe Green Mountain Conservation Camp, Castleton, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 565-5562.

upper valley

HALLOWEEN COSTUME RUNWAY SHOW: Upper Valley trick-or-treaters strut the catwalk in costume. Parents must accompany kids ages 14 and under. Junction Arts & Media, White River Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 295-6688. K

Society of Burlington, 5:15-6 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 862-5630.

language

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

CONVERSATION: Francophones and learners of all levels meet pour parler la belle langue Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 343-5493.

music

OPERA NORTH: ‘FALL SNEAK

PEEK’: Audiences enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine and a musical treat while learning about the opera’s plans for 2025. AVA Gallery and Art Center, Lebanon, N.H., 5-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, maria@operanorth.org.

outdoors

PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.23.

québec

‘TITANIQUE’: See SUN.27, 7:30 p.m.

‘TWO BIRDS ONE STONE’: See FRI.25.

seminars

AARP TAX AIDE OPEN HOUSE: Interested folks hear more about a program that provides free filing help for seniors. AARP Vermont State Office, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 233-4907.

DIGESTING YOUR TAX

RETURN: WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?: Certified public accountant Matthew Cleare and wealth advisor Breanna Sykes discuss the anatomy of a tax return and how to better plan for the future. Presented by Davis & Hodgdon Advisory Group. Noon-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-1963.

talks

NADINE STROSSEN: The former president of the American Civil Liberties Union and author of HATE: Why We Should Resist It With Free Speech, Not Censorship delivers this year’s George D. Aiken Lecture. University of Vermont Alumni House, Burlington, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 656-3186.

SUSAN CLARK: The educator and Middlesex town moderator sheds light on recent research that aims to help communities work toward outcomes honoring diverging viewpoints. Charlotte Library, 7-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 425-3864.

words

BURLINGTON

LITERATURE GROUP: DAVID FOSTER WALLACE: New England Readers & Writers leads a seven-week dissection of The

Pale King. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@nereadersandwriters.com.

EM MARINELLI: The psychotherapist, professor and writer releases their new book, Comfort Sequels: The Psychology of Movie Sequels from the ’80s and ’90s, in conversation with therapist Bela Schug. Phoenix Books, Rutland, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 855-8078.

RENATO WAKIM: The Vermont author celebrates the launch of his new book, Every Day (I Thank You): Tales of Appreciation for Hands, Hearts and Minds Phoenix Books, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 448-3350.

TURNING PAGES WITH MARY: Lit lovers join Star 92.9’s Mary Cenci to discuss Family Lore — Elizabeth Acevedo’s 2023 novel about intergenerational bonds. Phoenix Books, Essex, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

WED.30 business

QUEEN CITY BUSINESS NETWORKING INTERNATIONAL GROUP: See WED.23.

cannabis

CANNABIS 101 SERIES: See WED.23.

community

SERVICE OF LOSS & REMEMBRANCE: Community members give shape to both individual and collective grief through music, poetry and stillness. Bring a photo of a lost loved one to display. First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, 7-8:15 p.m. Free. Info, info@uusociety.org.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.23.

dance

MOVEMENT MATTERS WITH JILLIAN MEYERS: The Emmynominated Los Angeles choreographer leads an energizing workshop on dancing for the camera. Dance Theatre, Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

‘FROM EARTH TO EARTH: THE LOST ART OF DYING IN AMERICA’: This 2024 documentary short showcases the beauty and significance of natural burials, while exploring the contentious subject’s path to legalization in Vermont. A Q&A follows. South Burlington High School, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 234-1262.

‘FUNGI: THE WEB OF LIFE 3D’: See WED.23.

‘NOTORIOUS’: Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman star in this 1946 Hitchcock classic about the daughter of a convicted German spy. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

‘OCEANS: OUR BLUE PLANET 3D’: See WED.23.

‘TINY GIANTS 3D’: See WED.23.

food & drink

WHAT’S THAT WINE

WEDNESDAYS: See WED.23.

games

CHESS CLUB: See WED.23.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: See WED.23.

language

ELL CLASSES: ENGLISH FOR BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS: See WED.23.

outdoors

CABOT CHEESE E-BIKE TOUR: See WED.23.

E-BIKE & BREW TOUR: See WED.23.

PEDAL TO PEEP FOLIAGE TOUR: See WED.23, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. québec

‘TITANIQUE’: See SUN.27, 7:30 p.m.

‘TWO BIRDS ONE STONE’: See FRI.25.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE TENNIS CLUB: See WED.23.

talks

DR. MICHAEL HANKINS: The Smithsonian curator sheds light on aviation in the Vietnam War using key objects from the museum’s collection. Lunch is included. Sullivan Museum & History Center, Norwich University, Northfield, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 485-2183.

FALL SPEAKER SERIES: MISHA GOLFMAN: Mad River Path

Association’s executive director shares pertinent details of the VT-100 corridor study and discusses how we should rethink our roadways. Yestermorrow Design/ Build School, Waitsfield, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 496-5545.

ROBERT BECK: The foreign policy expert illuminates the current state of the Russia-Ukraine war. 118 Elliot, Brattleboro, 6:30 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Info, 917-239-8743.

theater

CIRQUE KALABANTE: ‘AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE’: Audiences are captivated by an unforgettable performance showcasing the vibrancy of African culture through acrobatics and live Afro-jazz. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 6 p.m. $27.50-52.75. Info, 536-1855.

words

AMBER ROBERTS & JACKSON

ELLIS: The local authors dig into conversation about their new novels — both set in Vermont. Phoenix Books, Essex, 6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 872-7111.

NEIL SHEPARD & CLEOPATRA

MATHIS: The poets read selections and share the inspirations for their recent works. Norwich Bookstore, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114. ➆

classes

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.

beverages

MOCKTAILS WITH PATTY BURNS:

Patty was the winner of the ﬁrst-ever Bee’s Knees competition hosted by Barr Hill and is ready to share 16 years of bartending experience in a 1.5-hour class. Prepare to learn how to make the best drinks without the use of spirits! Join her class now. Mon., Oct. 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cost: $40. Location: Mad River Exchange, 6163 Main St., Waitsﬁeld. Info: Patty Burns, 510-990-4623, patty@kuyasvt.com.

culinary

HALLOWEEN COOKIE

DECORATING CLASS: It’s spooky season and time to get in the spirit. In this beginner-friendly class, you will learn the basics of royal icing while also utilizing several techniques that will leave you able

to create beautiful cookies for your friends and family. Tue., Oct. 29, 6-8 p.m. Cost: $75. Location: Red Poppy Cakery, 1 Elm St., Waterbury

Village. Info: 914-610-5275, sevendaystickets.com.

HALLOWEEN COOKIE

DECORATING CLASS: Learn the basics of using royal icing to ﬂood your spooky Halloween cookies. Leave with a tray of festive cookies and the knowledge to impress your friends and family at your next gathering. u., Oct. 24, 6-8 p.m. Cost: $75. Location: Queen City Brewing, 703 Pine St., Burlington. Info: 914-610-5275, sevendaystickets. com.

VINTAGE PIPING CAKE

DECORATING CLASS: We will talk through how to get smooth edges on your cakes and then how to pipe intricate designs featuring different piping tips. You’ll go home with some great new techniques as well as a six-inch cake that serves 12. You can select your ﬂavor. u., Oct. 24, 6-7:15 p.m. Cost: $85. Location: Red Poppy Cakery, 1 Elm St., Waterbury Village. Info: 203-400-0700, sevendaystickets. com.

martial arts

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! Membership rates incl. unlimited classes six days/week. Contact us for info about membership rates for adults, youths & families. Location: Aikido of Champlain Valley, 257 Pine St., Burlington. Info: Benjamin Pincus, 951-8900, bpincus@ burlingtonaikido.org, burlingtonaikido.org.

music

DJEMBE WEDNESDAYS!: Learn to drum with Stuart Paton! Beginner and advanced beginner classes available. Session begins 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.

TAIKO TUESDAYS!: Adult classes and Kids & Parents (age 6 and up) classes available. Learn to drum with Burlington Taiko! Session begins 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.

psychology

PERINATAL AND PARENT GROUPS: Please visit ittakesavillagevermont.com or @ittakesavillagevermont on Instagram for upcoming groups and events for pregnant and postpartum sleep education and support, dads of young children, moms on a career pause, adults looking for a self-compassion workshop, and more! We are two clinical psychologists serving

women and parents looking for their village. See website for details. Location: It Takes A Village: Parenting Wellness Consulting and Psychotherapy, 53 Railroad St., Richmond. Info: Aubrey Carpenter, PhD, 448-0336, aubreycarpenter@ ittakesavillagevermont.com, ittakesavillagevermont.com.

shamanism

APPRENTICESHIP IN SHAMANISM: Rare opportunity to apprentice locally in a shamanic tradition. Five weekends over a year. Location: St. Albans. Info: 369-4331.

spirituality

FINDING AUTHENTIC HAPPINESS: Even when things are going our way, we may not feel happy. When things take a turn for the worse, it is even more difficult to maintain a cheerful state of mind. How do we find real peace of mind and genuine happiness? Join Vajrayana Buddhist Master Anyen Rinpoche and Allison Choying Zangmo for a lively introduction to the Buddhist approach to finding mental and emotional peace and well-being. Wed., Oct. 23, 7-8:30 p.m. Cost: $20. Location: All Souls Interfaith Gathering, 291 Bostwick Farm Rd., Shelburne. Info: Orgyen Khandroling, Kendra Smith, 3919132, kendrasmith71@gmail.com, orgyenkhandroling.org.

Humane Society

housing » APARTMENTS, CONDOS & HOMES on the road » CARS, TRUCKS, MOTORCYCLES

pro services » CHILDCARE, HEALTH/ WELLNESS, PAINTING

buy this stuff »

APPLIANCES, KID STUFF, ELECTRONICS, FURNITURE music »

INSTRUCTION, CASTING, INSTRUMENTS FOR SALE jobs »

NO SCAMS, ALL LOCAL, POSTINGS DAILY

Omen & Voodoo

AGE/SEX: 4-year-old males

ARRIVAL DATE: September 10, 2024

SUMMARY : Meet Omen and Voodoo! This adorable pair of bonded boys came into our care when their guardian was moving and could not take them along, and they’re ready for a fresh start. Omen and Voodoo enjoy spending time hanging out with their favorite people. They love supervised playtime on the grass and will cuddle up in your lap for pets and attention. Could you have room in your home and heart for this pair of pigs? Come meet Omen and Voodoo at HSCC and see if they could be your new best friends!

Visit the Humane Society of Chittenden County at 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. or Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 862-0135 or visit hsccvt.org for more info.

DID YOU KNOW?

Guinea pigs can be easily startled, so always let your guinea pig know you are there by speaking to them or letting them sniff your hand. To pick up your guinea pig, use one hand to support their chest and the other to support their hind end before placing them against your chest. A secure pig is a happy pig!

CLASSIFIEDS

on the road

CARS/TRUCKS

2015 VW GOLF

SPORTWAGEN

Clean, low miles. ECS

Tuning Stage 1 package & boost gauge. Well maintained, ﬂ uid-ﬁ lmed Nov. 2023. New turbo, FWD, cold A/C, Bluetooth, CD player. Winter rims & snows incl. Text 802-578-7526 or email westwick639@ gmail.com.

INDOOR STORAGE

AVAIL.

Indoor heated storage for cars ($145/mo.) or motorcycles ($50/mo.). Located at Charbonneau’s Body Shop. Option to trickle charge. Info, 802-309-2612, charbonneausbodyshop. com.

housing FOR RENT

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).

BURLINGTON LAKEFRONT HOME

Large 2-BR on lake in New North End near bike path. Furnished, laundry. Rent now until Jun. 1. $2,200/mo +, no pets. Email selectre@ comcast.net.

2-BR APT. IN BTV SOUTH END

2-BR apt. in Burlington’s South End, avail. Nov. 1. 1 parking space incl. Coin-op laundry in building. Tenant pays electric heat, HW & communications utils. Application & refs. req.

CLASSIFIEDS KEY

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.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and similar Vermont statutes which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitations, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, handicap, presence of minor children in the family or receipt of public assistance, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or a discrimination. The newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate, which is in violation of the law. Our

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

Email condo2a4rent@ gmail.com.

HOUSEMATES

HOMESHARE W/ TENNIS/POOL

Share townhome in Burlington’s New North End w/ active retired woman who enjoys meditation, swimming, reading & volunteering. Furnished BR, private BA, shared use of modern kitchen. $650/mo. + $100/ mo. toward utils. No pets, NS. Avail. in Dec. W/D, parking, access to tennis/pool. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont. org for application. Interview, refs., background checks req. EHO.

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

Share condo w/ independent female w/ TBI. Help w/ cleaning, tech support & transport. W/D, Wi-Fi, utils., underground parking incl. NS, no pets. Contact 802-578-3547.

OFFICE/ COMMERCIAL

BTV SO. END OLD FACTORY SPACE 1st ﬂ oor, 900 sq.ft. Heat & electric incl.

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

Garage door, concrete ﬂ oor, brick walls, shared building entrance & BA. Light industrial; good for trades, craftspeople, artists. Call 802-355-1996 or email hglaeserco@gmail.com.

ser vices

HEALTH/ WELLNESS

PERFECT MASSAGE FOR MEN

Men, I’m Mr. G. It’s all about you relaxing. Very private, 1-on-1 moment. If you feel good, I’m happy. e massage is real; the sessions are amazing! Located in central Vermont just off exit 7. Text only to 802-522-3932 or email motman@ymail.com.

HOME/GARDEN

ECO-MD

Does your land pass our 10-point land health test? A healthy landscape fosters a healthy you. Reasonable rates, $100 discount for 1st 5 replies. Contact ecomd@together.net.

PEST CONTROL

Protect your home from pests safely & affordably. Roaches, bedbugs, rodents, termites, spiders & other pests. Locally owned & affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-237-1199. (AAN CAN)

LEO’S ROOFING Slate, shingle & metal repair & replacement. 30 years’

print deadline: Mondays at 3:30 p.m. post ads online 24/7 at: sevendaysvt.com/classiﬁeds questions?

2BR/2.5BA Home on 0.081 Acres in Enfield, NH

Live Auction: Thurs., Oct. 31 @ 10AM 1 Butternut Place, Enfield, NH, 03748

This lovely 2 bedroom/2.5 bath single family home has 1,576 sq. ft. and is located near the picturesque Mascoma Lake in Shaker Village. Enjoy the tranquility of lakeside living and the convenience of nearby amenities in this beautiful property. This is not a foreclosure.

experience. Good refs. & fully insured. Chittenden County. Free estimate: 802-343-6324. buy this stuff APPLIANCES/ TOOLS/PARTS

OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR

Inogen One G5 oxygen concentrator. 1 small, 1 large lithium battery. Like new, purchased June 2021. $3,000/ OBO. Serious inquiries only. Call for more info, 512-417-6346.

Two-Unit building on 0.26 acres in Essex Junction, VT. Each unit has 2 bedrooms and 1 bath. Total square footage is 1,808. Join us for this amazing real estate auction.

AT sevendaysvt.com/enews Snack on the BITE-CLUB NEWSLETTER for a taste of this week’s ﬂavorful food coverage. It’ll hold you over until Wednesday.

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

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.

VANITY FOR HOME & BATHROOM

Vanity w/marble sink & new faucet. 37 x 22 x 30. Faucet manual incl. $99. Call or text 540-226-4478.

PETS

JACK RUSSELL TERRIER PUPS

2 litters. 1st shots, dewormed & vet checked. Both parents on board. Breeding just Jacks for 26 years. $800. Call 802-895-4080 or email devaneyfarmvt@gmail. com.

WANT TO BUY

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.

TOP CASH FOR OLD GUITARS 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico & Stromberg + Gibson mandolins & banjos. Call 877-589-0747. (AAN CAN)

INSTRUCTION

VOICE LESSONS Expand your voice & grow your sound w/ Victoria Fearn. 45-min. lessons, $45; 60-min. lessons, $60. Contact: victoriafearn@ gmail.com or go to victoriarosefearn.com.

PIANO LESSONS ALL LEVELS

Offering piano lessons for age 6 up to adulthood w/ a studio in the South End of Burlington. Classical, jazz or contemporary music. Email randal. pierce@gmail.com.

Using the enclosed math operations as a guide, ll the grid using the numbers 1 - 6 only once in each row and column.

Sudoku

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.

WANT MORE PUZZLES?

Try these online news games from Seven Days at sevendaysvt.com/games.

NEW ON FRIDAYS:

Put your knowledge of Vermont news to the test.

CALCOKU BY

JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HH

Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. The numbers in each heavily outlined “cage” must combine to produce the target number in the top corner, using the mathematical operation indicated. A one-box cage should be filled in with the target number in the top corner. A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not the same row or column.

4 5 1 3 6 2 1 4 3 6 2 5 6 3 2 5 1 4 5 2 6 4 3 1

SUDOKU BY JOSH REYNOLDS

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.78 H = MODERATE H H = CHALLENGING H H H = HOO, BOY!

ANSWERS ON P. 78 » END-OF-OCTOBER OPTIONS

See how fast you can solve this weekly 10-word puzzle.

Legal Notices

NORTHSTAR SELF STORAGE WILL BE HAVING A PUBLIC AND ONLINE SALE/AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING STORAGE UNITS ON NOVEMBER 7, 2024 AT 9:00 AM

Northstar Self Storage will be having a public and online sale/auction on November 7, 2024 at 9am EST at 681 Rockingham Road, Rockingham, VT 05151 (R02, R11/R24), and online at www. storagetreasures.com at 9:00 am in accordance with VT Title 9 Commerce and Trade Chapter 098: Storage Units 3905. Enforcement of Lien

Unit

R02 Kristopher Gurney Household Goods R11/R24 Susan Bartlett Household Goods

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO.: 24-PR-05220

In re ESTATE of Andrew Lavallee

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: Andrew Lavallee, late of Milton, Vermont.

I have been appointed to administer this estate. All creditors having claims against the decedent or the estate must present their claims in writing within four (4) months of the date of the first publication of this notice. The claim must be presented to me at the address listed below with a copy sent to the Court. The claim may be barred forever if it is not presented within the four (4) month period.

Dated: October 14, 2024

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Matthew Lavallee

Executor/Administrator: Matthew Lavallee, c/o Norman C. Smith, PC, 76 Lincoln Street, PO Box 24, Essex Junction, VT 05453 phone: 802-288-9088 email: john@normansmithlaw.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 10/23/2024

PLACE AN AFFORDABLE NOTICE AT:

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division

Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT

NOTICE & WARNING OF VOTE TO INCUR A BONDED DEBT

The legal voters of the City of Burlington, Vermont are hereby notified and warned to come and vote at a Special City Meeting on

Tuesday, the 5th day of November, 2024

between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. in their respective wards, at the voting places hereinafter named, for the following purposes:

To vote upon one bonding article placed on the ballot by request of the City Council by a resolution duly adopted and approved, said special article being as follows:

ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS FOR BURLINGTON ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT NET ZERO ENERGY AND GRID RELIABILITY PROJECTS

“Shall the City be authorized to issue revenue bonds or notes in one or more series on behalf of the Electric Light Department, in an amount not to exceed $20,000,000 in the aggregate, to be issued pursuant to the City Charter, as may be determined by the City Council, and payable from the net revenues of the electric system, for the purpose of paying for (i) capital additions and improvements to the City’s electric system, and energy transformation and energy efficiency projects, in furtherance of the City’s Net Zero Energy goals, including capital improvements for the distribution system, grid demand management and battery storage opportunities, generation plant upgrades, IT system/technology system upgrades, acquisition of municipal electric vehicles and support of EV charging infrastructure (the “Project”), and (ii) funding a debt service reserve funds and paying costs of issuance?”

The following are designated as polling places:

Ward One/East District: Mater Christi School, 50 Mansfield Ave.

Ward Two/Central District: O.N.E. Community Center, 20 Allen St.

Ward Three/Central District: Sustainability Academy, 123 North St.

Ward Four/North District: Elks Lodge, 925 North Ave.

Ward Five/South District: Burlington Electric Department, 585 Pine St.

Ward Six/South District: Edmunds Middle School, 275 Main St.

Ward Seven/North District: Robert Miller Community & Recreation Center, 130 Gosse Ct.

Ward Eight/East District: Fletcher Free Library, 235 College St.

The polls open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m.

Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, Mayor

Publication Dates: October 16, October 23, October 30 Burlington, Vermont

TOWN OF ESSEX SPECIAL TOWN MEETING OFFICIAL WARNING NOVEMBER 5, 2024

The legal voters of the Town of Essex are hereby notified and warned to meet at the Essex Middle School, 60 Founders Road, Town of Essex, Vermont on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at 7:00 a.m., at which time the polls will open until 7:00 p.m., at which time the polls will close, to vote by Australian ballot on Article I below:

ARTICLE I

Shall the voters of the Town of Essex authorize the Selectboard to borrow by issuance of bonds or notes an amount not to exceed One Million, Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($1,750,000) for a term up to twenty (20) years and not to exceed an interest rate of two percent (2%) for the purpose of upgrading the Heritage Estates Pump Station and Center Road Sewer Forcemain, with debt service costs borne by the users of the Town municipal wastewater system?

The legal voters of the Town of Essex are further warned and notified that a public informational hearing on this ballot article will be conducted on November 4, 2024, at the Essex Town Offices, 81 Main Street, Essex Junction, Vermont beginning at 6:35 p.m. The public may also attend the public hearing and information session online via Zoom or by telephone by dialing (888) 788-0099 and entering Zoom meeting ID: 98785691140, passcode: 032060.

The legal voters of the Town of Essex are further notified that voter qualification, registration, and absentee voting 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 August 2024.

ESSEX SELECTBOARD

Tracey Delphia, Chair

Andrew J. Watts, Vice Chair Kendall Chamberlin, Clerk

Dawn Hill-Fleury Ethan Lawrence

Received and recorded this 30th day of August 2024

Attest: Nanette Rogers, Town Clerk

Publication dates: October 16, October 23, October 30

Posted at: Essex Town Office, Essex Middle School, Essex Free Library, Essex Post Office, Essex Public Works, and Town Website.

APPLICATION # _07110-IG-2018-BOLTON-16

NOTICE OF FINAL PUBLIC HEARING VERMONT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM – BOLTON

The Town of Bolton received $1,000,000 from the State of Vermont for a grant under the Vermont Community Development Program. A hybrid public hearing will be held at Town Offices, 3045 Theodore Roosevelt Highway (US Route 2), Bolton, Vermont 05676 and via Zoom on Monday, October 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM to obtain the views of citizens and to furnish information concerning the range of economic development and public facilities development activities that have been undertaken under this program, and to give affected citizens the opportunity to examine a statement of the use of these funds. The VCDP Funds received have been used to accomplish the following activities:

The Town loaned $396,904 to Bolton Valley Resort (BVR), LLC in VCDP funds to complete renovations of the hotel located at the base of the ski area to support year-round job growth and ensure the future of the resort. BVR, LLC committed to creating thirteen (13) full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs and retain the current twenty-nine (29) FTE employees for a total of forty-two (42) FTE employees.

Bolton Valley Community Water and Sewer, LLC (BVCWS) received a sub-grant of $539,823 from the Town to improve the failing water system and develop a sustainable solution to ensure safe drinking water, effective wastewater management for future growth of the Bolton Valley community.

Information on this project may be obtained from and viewed during the hours of 9 am to 5 pm at Bolton Valley Resort, Bolton, VT from 10/08/2024 to 10/28/2024 . Should you require any special accommodations please contact The Town Clerk’s office at (802) 434-5075 to ensure appropriate accommodation is made. For the hearing impaired please call (TTY) #1-800-253-0191.

Below is the login information to join the Public Hearing virtually via Zoom: Join Zoom Public Hearing

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81192546300?pwd=v MtJPp8yk2qTx8DGMb2Y9QaDgDTDQH.1 Dial by your location • +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) Meeting ID: 811 9254 6300 Passcode: 315609

Legislative Body for the Town of Bolton

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT

PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT

DOCKET NO.: 24-PR-06450

In re ESTATE of Eben Wolcott

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: EbenWolcott, late of Colchester, Vermont.

Dated: October 16, 2024

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ William Wolcott

Executor/Administrator: William Wolcott, c/o Norman C Smith, PC, 76 Lincoln St., PO Box 24, Essex Junction, VT 05453 phone: 802-288-9088 email: john@normansmithlaw.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days

Publication Date: 10/23/2024

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division

Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT

CIVIL DIVISION ORLEANS UNIT

CASE NO. 24-CV-03978

In Re: Abandoned Mobile Home of Beth Price

Notice Of Hearing

A hearing on the The Housing Foundation, Inc.’s Verified Complaint to declare abandoned and uninhabitable the mobile home of Beth Price located at the Derby Mobile Home Park, Lot #C-15, 2477 US Route 5 in Derby, Vermont has been set for November 6, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. You may participate in the hearing either in person at the at the Vermont Superior Court, Orleans Unit, Civil Division located at 247 Main Street in Newport, Vermont or remotely via WEBEX video. The WEBEX Login Information is as follows: App: Cisco Webex Meeting Website: https://vtcourts.webex.com Meeting Number: 2338 917 6288 Password: OrleansCivil

If you do not have a computer or sufficient bandwidth, you may call (802) 636-1108 to appear by phone. (This is not a tollfree number). When prompted enter the meeting ID number listed above, followed by the pound symbol (#). You will be prompted to enter your attendee number (which you do not have). Instead, press pound (#). If you have technical difficulties, call the Court at (802) 334-3305.

Date: October 8, 2024 Civil Division Clerk

VERIFIED COMPLAINT FOR ABANDONMENT

PURSUANT TO 10 V.S.A. § 6249(i) (Uninhabitable)

NOW COMES The Housing Foundation, Inc. (“HFI”), by and through its counsel Nadine L. Scibek, and hereby complains pursuant to 10 V.S.A. § 6249(i) as follows:

1. HFI, a Vermont non-profit corporation with a principal place of business in Montpelier, County of Washington, State of Vermont, is the record owner of a mobile home park known as the Derby Mobile Home Park (the “Park”), located in the Town of Derby, Vermont. The Park is managed by the Vermont State Housing Authority.

2. Beth Price (“Price”) is the record owner of a certain mobile home described as a 1973 Skyline, 14’ x 70’, bearing Serial #148200 (the “Mobile Home”), located at the Derby Mobile Home Park, Lot #C-15, 2477 US Route 5 in Derby, Vermont according to the Town of Derby Land Records. See attached Vermont Mobile Home Bill of Sale.

3. Price leased a lot in the Park from HFI pursuant to a written lease. Price paid a security deposit

in the amount of $356.00 to HFI. Price’s father Geoffrey Price signed the lease as a guarantor. Geoffrey Price never resided in the Mobile Home and has no ownership interest in the Mobile Home. See attached Lease.

4. Price’s last known mailing address is Derby Mobile Home Park, 2477 US Route 5, Lot #C-15, Derby, VT 05829.

5. The mobile home has been abandoned and is empty/unoccupied. The last known resident of the mobile home was Price. All of Price’s personal property is believed to have been removed from the mobile home and utility services have been terminated. The Park’s Counsel has communicated with Price with respect to her intentions with her mobile home with no response from Price. See attached.

6. Price was evicted from the Park for nonpayment of rent on or about March 20, 2024 by the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department. The mobile home has been vacant since that time. The Court issued a Partial Judgment for Possession and Writ of Possession to HFI on February 1. 2024 and a Judgment Order on June 7, 2024. See The Housing Foundation, Inc. v. Price, Vermont Superior Court, Orleans Civil Unit, Case No. 23-CV-03852. See attached.

7. The following security interests, mortgages, liens and encumbrances appear of record with respect to the mobile home:

a. Price is in arrears on obligations to pay property taxes to the Town of Derby, Vermont in the aggregate amount of $346.55, plus interest and penalties. See attached copy of Tax Bill and email from Town Attorney.

8. Mobile home storage fees continue to accrue at the rate of $432.00 per month. Rent/ storage fees due HFI through October, 2024 total $6,919.25. Attorney’s fees and court costs incurred by HFI currently exceed $2,000.00.

9. HFI sent written notice by certified mail to the Town of Derby on June 27, 2024 of its intent to commence this action. See attached.

10. The mobile home is uninhabitable. Property Manager Thomas Young will testify under oath as to the poor and unlivable condition of this mobile home at the abandonment hearing.

WHEREFORE, HFI respectfully requests that the Honorable Court enter an order as follows:

1. Declare that the mobile home has been abandoned;

2. Transfer the mobile home which is unfit for human habitation to the Park owner without a public auction so that it may be removed and disposed of accordingly.

Order pursuant to 10 V.S.A. § 6249(j) that the mobile home and any security deposit paid be conveyed to the Park Owner in “as is” condition, and free from all liens and other encumbrances of record.

DATED this 8th day of October, 2024. THE HOUSING FOUNDATION, INC.

BY: Nadine L. Scibek

Attorney for HFI

I declare that the above statement is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that if the above statement is false, I will be subject to the penalty of perjury or other sanctions in the discretion of the Court.

October 8, 2024 By: Thomas Young Duly Authorized Agent for HFI

PUBLIC HEARING COLCHESTER DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD

Pursuant to Title 24 VSA, Chapter 117, the Development Review Board will hold a public hearing on November 13, 2024 at 7:00pm to hear the following requests under the Development Regulations. Meeting is open to the public and will be held at 781 Blakely Road.

a) FP-25-01 SUNDERLAND FARMS COMMUNITY

LLC: Final Plat Amendment to amend a previous final plat approval. Amendment is to modify the sizes of Lots 5A, 7, 8, 9, and 10 of the Sunderland Farm Community PUD. Application is in conjunction with SP-25-09 to construct two new buildings with associated site improvements. Subject property is located at 242 Severance Road, Account #04-030013-0000000.

b) CU-25-03 SUNDERLAND FARMS COMMUNITY

Online Auction Closes: Tuesday, Nov. 5 @ 10AM Preview During Business Hours: 405 Railroad St., Johnson, VT (1625) IHOP Commercial Kitchen Equipment

(1622) Pizza Hut Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment

Online Auction Closes: Monday, Oct. 28 @ 10AM South Burlington, VT Location

LLC: Conditional Use Application in conjunction with SP-25-10 to amend a previous site plan and conditional use approval. Amendment consists of site plan revisions and relocation of structures with no change of use or increase in dwelling units. Subject properties are located at 121 Shea Drive and 114 Dylan Avenue, Account #04-030053-0000000; #04-030063-0000000; #04-030283-0000000; #04-030282-0000000; and #04-030292-0000000. October 23, 2024

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT

PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO.: 24-PR-06272

In re ESTATE of Lisa Rees

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: Lisa T. Rees, late of Milton, Vermont.

Dated: October 18, 2024

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Grant C. Rees

Executor/Administrator: Grant C. Rees, 118 Cody Rd., Milton, VT 05468

Phone Number: 802-310-2020

Email: grantrees@greenvt.net

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 10/23/2024

Online Auction Closes: Monday, Nov. 4 @ 10AM Littleton, NH Location Preview: Tues., Oct. 29 from 11AM-1PM

Over 90 lots of Pizza Hut items (1576) BANK REPO LOGGING MACHINERY

Online Auction Closes: Wednesday, Nov. 6 @ 10AM Preview During Business Hours: 1878 Cadys Falls Rd, Morrisville, VT

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division

Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

CITY OF ESSEX JUNCTION

PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOVEMBER 7, 2024 6:30 P.M.

(Hearing on Land Development Code expected to begin at 7:15 P.M.)

This meeting will be held in person at Brownell Library 6 Lincoln Street in the Kolvoord Room and remotely. The meeting will be live-streamed on Town Meeting TV.

• JOIN ONLINE: Click here to join the meetingVisit www.essexjunction.org for meeting connection information.

• JOIN CALLING: Join via conference call (audio only): Dial 1(888) 788-0099 (toll free) Meeting ID: 953 1240 7791 Passcode: 040339

PUBLIC HEARING

Proposed Land Development Code Updates

Chapter 2: Definitions

Chapter 5: Development Review Procedures

Chapter 6: Zoning Districts Regulations

Section 622: Use Table

Chapter 7: General Development Standards

Section 703.K Other Parking Standards

Section 704 Lighting

Section 706.C Setback Exceptions

Section 713 Storm Water Management

Section 714 Sign Standards

Section 723 Planned Unit Development (PUD)

Section 725 Abandonment of Structures

Section 726 Outdoor Cannabis Cultivation

Chapter

Legal Notices

[CONTINUED]

Appendix A: Public Works Specifications Public Works Detail Drawings

Zoning Map Corrections

RO to MCU at 47 and 48 Park Street

RO to R2 at 43 Pearl Street

RO to R2 on the east side of Park Street between Silver Bow Terrace and River Street.

MF3 to R2 all properties along Oak Street

MF1 to MF2 at Green Meadows and Amber Lantern

Apts. at Thasha Lane nka Autumn Pond Way

MF1 to MF2 at 61-69 Maple St., the Mapleton Apts.

This DRAFT agenda may be amended.

Any questions re: above please see www.essexjunction.org or call Chris Yuen or Terry Hass – at 802-878-6944

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

I represent NEAS, Inc. The company sold substantially all of its assets on December 31, 2023 and is currently in the process of winding up its business. I have been authorized by the company to administer that winding up. If you would like to submit a claim for amounts due to you from NEAS, Inc., you may do so by sending your claim in writing to:

Pease Mountain Law PLLC

P.O. Box 279

Hinesburg, VT 05461-0279

Your claim must commence within 5 years after

PLACE AN AFFORDABLE NOTICE AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LEGAL-NOTICES OR CALL 802-865-1020, EXT. 142.

publication of this notice. If your claim is not received within that 5-year period it will be barred pursuant to 11 V.S.A. §4108.

Your claim must include copies of all billing documents in support of your claim.

Dated: October 21, 2024

Michael T. Russell

Pease Mountain Law PO Box 279

Hinesburg, VT 05461-0279

Name of Publication: Seven Days

Publication Date: October 23, 2024

ACT 250 NOTICE MINOR APPLICATION 4C1359 10 V.S.A. §§ 6001 - 6111

Application 4C1359 from The Bolton Dome Company, and Andrew Roy and Sharon Sampilo, 122 Champ Lane, Bolton, VT 05676 was received on October 9, 2024 and deemed complete on October 21, 2024. This permit specifically authorizes the construction of three remote huts for commercial use. Construction will occur in phases over three years: with one hut being constructed per year. Construction activities include clearing brush and minor tree cutting with no ground disturbance, constructing huts using on and off-site materials, and minor trail maintenance. The project is located at Champ Lane in Bolton, 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 “4C1359.”

Support Groups

A CIRCLE OF PARENTS FOR MOTHERS OF COLOR

Please join our parent-led online support group designed to share our questions, concerns & struggles, as well as our resources & successes!

Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. We will be meeting weekly on Wed., 10-11 a.m. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt.org. family-support-programs.

A CIRCLE OF PARENTS FOR SINGLE MOTHERS

Please join our parent-led online support group designed to share our questions, concerns & struggles, as well as our resources & successes! Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. We will be meeting weekly on Fri., 10-11 a.m. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@ pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt. org/family-support-programs.

A CIRCLE OF PARENTS W/ LGBTQ+ CHILDREN

Please join our parent-led online support group designed to

share our questions, concerns & struggles, as well as our resources & successes! Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. We will be meeting weekly on Mon., 10-11 a.m. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@ pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt. org/family-support-programs.

AL-ANON

For families & friends of alcoholics. Phone meetings, electronic meetings (Zoom) & an Al-Anon blog are avail. online at the AlAnon website. For meeting info, go to vermontalanonalateen.org or call 866-972-5266.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Do you have a drinking problem?

AA meeting sites are now open, & online meetings are also avail. Call our hotline at 802-864-1212 or check for in-person or online meetings at burlingtonaa.org.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups meet to provide assistance & info on Alzheimer’s disease & related dementias. They emphasize shared experiences, emotional support & coping techniques

in care for a person living w/ Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Meetings are free & open to the public. Families, caregivers & friends may attend. Please call in advance to confirm the date & time. The Williston Caregiver Support Group meets in person on the 2nd Tue. of every mo., 5-6:30 p.m., at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library in Williston; this meeting also has a virtual option at the same time; contact support group facilitators Molly at dugan@ cathedralsquare.org or Mindy at moondog@burlingtontelecom. net. The Middlebury Support Group for Individuals w/ Early Stage Dementia meets the 4th Tue. of each mo., 3 p.m., at the Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd., Middlebury; contact Daniel Hamilton, dhamilton@ residenceottercreek.com or 802-989-0097. The Shelburne Support Group for Individuals w/ Early Stage Dementia meets the 1st Mon. of every mo., 2-3 p.m., at the Residence at Shelburne Bay, 185 Pine Haven Shores, Shelburne; contact support group facilitator Lydia Raymond, lraymond@ residenceshelburnebay.com. The Telephone Support Group meets the 2nd Tue. of each

No hearing will be held and a permit will be issued unless, on or before November 12, 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: Act250.Essex@vermont.gov. Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law may not be prepared unless the Commission holds a public hearing.

For more information contact Kaitlin Hayes at the address or telephone number below. Dated this October 21, 2024.

By: /s/ Kaitlin Hayes Kaitlin Hayes District Coordinator 111 West Street Essex Junction, VT 05452 (802) 622-4084 kaitlin.hayes@vermont.gov

CONTACT CLASSIFIEDS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM OR 802-865-1020 EXT. 115 TO UPDATE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP

mo., 4-5:30 p.m. Prereg. is req. (to receive dial-in codes for toll-free call). Please dial the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24-7 Helpline, 800-272-3900, for more info. For questions or additional support group listings, call 800-272-3900.

AMPUTEE SUPPORT GROUP

VT Active Amputees is a new support group open to all amputees for connection, community & support. The group meets on the 1st Wed. of the mo. in S. Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Let’s get together & be active: running, pickleball & ultimate Frisbee. Email vtactiveamputees@gmail.com or call Sue at 802-582-6750 for more info & location.

BABY BUMPS SUPPORT GROUP FOR MOTHERS & PREGNANT WOMEN

Pregnancy can be a wonderful time of your life. But it can also be a time of stress often compounded by hormonal swings. If you are a pregnant woman, or have recently given birth & feel you need some help w/ managing emotional bumps in the road that can come w/ motherhood, please come to this free support group led by an experienced pediatric

TOWN OF WESTFORD DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to 24 V.S.A. Chapter 117 and the Westford Land Use & Development Regulations, the Westford Development Review Board will hold a public hearing at the Westford Public Library (1717 Route 128) & via ZOOM on Monday, November 11th, 2024 beginning at 7:00 PM to review the following applications:

Final Plat Review for 5-Lot, 4-Unit Subdivision and PUD – White Property. Applicant: Keith & Shelly White (approx. 12.96 acres) located in the Rural 3 and Water Resource Overlay Zoning Districts. This is a proposal to subdivide the subject parcel into 4 single-unit dwelling lots and a 7.83-acre open space lot.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/97271996708?pwd=FjnTYPt6G3 18xdtYR95wB26kCq9Jnv.1

Meeting ID: 972 7199 6708 Passcode: 5Q7uBR Or Dial +1 929 205 6099

Meeting ID: 972 7199 6708 Passcode: 810455

For more information call the Town Offices at 878-4587 Monday–Thursday 8:30am–4:30pm & Friday 8:30a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Matt Wamsganz, Chairman Dated October 22, 2024

registered nurse. Held on the 2nd & 4th Tue. of every mo., 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Birthing Center, Northwestern Medical Center, St. Albans. Info: Rhonda Desrochers, Franklin County Home Health Agency, 527-7531.

BETTER BREATHERS CLUB

American Lung Association support group for people w/ breathing issues, their loved ones or caregivers. Meets on the 1st Mon. of every mo., 11 a.m.-noon at the Godnick Center, 1 Deer St., Rutland. For more info, call 802-776-5508.

BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP

Vermont Center for Independent Living offers virtual monthly meetings, held on the 3rd Wed. of every mo., 1-2:30 p.m. The support group will offer valuable resources & info about brain injury. It will be a place to share experiences in a safe, secure & confidential environment. To join, email Linda Meleady at lindam@vcil.org & ask to be put on the TBI mailing list. Info: 800-639-1522.

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR DRAGON BOAT TEAM

Looking for a fun way to do something active &

health-giving? Want to connect w/ other breast cancer survivors? Come join Dragonheart Vermont. We are a breast cancer survivor & supporter dragon boat team who paddle together in Burlington. Please contact us at info@dragonheartvermont. org for info.

BURLINGTON MEN’S PEER GROUP

Tue. nights, 7-9 p.m. in Burlington. Free of charge, 30 years running. Call Neils 802-877-3742 or email neils@ myfairpoint.net.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The Champlain Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group meets online on the 2nd Tue. of the mo., 6-7:30 p.m., via Zoom. Whether you are newly diagnosed, dealing w/ a reoccurrence or trying to manage the side effects of treatment, you are welcome here! More info: Andy Hatch, group leader, ahatch63@gmail. com.

CENTRAL VERMONT CELIAC SUPPORT GROUP

Last Thu. of every mo., 7:30 p.m. in Montpelier. Please contact Lisa Masé for location: lisa@ harmonizecookery.com.

CEREBRAL PALSY GUIDANCE

Cerebral Palsy Guidance is a very comprehensive informational website broadly covering the topic of cerebral palsy & associated medical conditions. Its mission is to provide the best possible info to parents of children living w/ the complex condition of cerebral palsy. Visit cerebralpalsyguidance.com/ cerebral-palsy.

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS SUPPORT GROUP

The Compassionate Friends international support group for parents, siblings & families grieving the loss of a child meets every 4th Tue. of the mo., 7-9 p.m., at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 160 Hinesburg Rd, S. Burlington. Call/ email Alan at 802-233-0544 alanday88@gmail.com or Claire at 802-448-3569.

DISCOVER THE POWER OF CHOICE!

We welcome anyone, including family & friends, affected by any kind of substance or activity addiction. This is an abstinenceoriented program based on the science of addiction treatment & recovery. Meets are online Sun. at 5 p.m. at the link: meetings.smartrecovery.org/ meetings/1868. Face-to-face meetings are 1st & 3rd Sun. at 3 p.m. at the Turning Point of Chittenden County. Meetings for family & friends are online on Mon. at 7 p.m. at the link: meetings/smartrecovery. org/meetings/6337. Contact volunteer facilitator Bert at 802-399-8754 w/ questions. You can learn more at smartrecovery. org.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT

Steps to End Domestic Violence offers a weekly drop-in support group for female-identified survivors of intimate partner violence, including individuals who are experiencing or have been affected by domestic violence. The support group offers a safe, confidential place for survivors to connect w/ others, to heal & to recover. In support group, participants talk through their experiences & hear stories from others who have experienced abuse in their relationships. Support group is also a resource for those who are unsure of their next step, even if it involves remaining in their current relationship. Tue., 6:30-8 p.m. Childcare is provided. Info: 658-1996.

FAMILY & FRIENDS OF THOSE EXPERIENCING MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

This support group is a dedicated meeting for family, friends & community members who are supporting a loved one through a mental health crisis. Mental health crisis might include extreme states, psychosis, depression, anxiety & other types of distress. The group is a confidential space where family & friends can discuss shared experiences & receive support in an environment free of judgment & stigma w/ a trained facilitator. Wed., 7-8:30 p.m. Downtown

Burlington. Info: Jess Horner, LICSW, 866-218-8586.

FAMILY RESTORED: SUPPORT GROUP FOR FRIENDS & FAMILIES OF ADDICTS & ALCOHOLICS

Tue., 6-7 p.m., the Turning Point Center, 179 S. Winooski Ave., Burlington. For further info, please visit thefamilyrestored. org or contact 207-387-0015.

FCA FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

Families Coping w/ Addiction (FCA) is an open community peer support group for adults (18+) struggling w/ the drug or alcohol addiction of a loved one. FCA is not 12-step-based but provides a forum for those living the family experience, in which to develop personal coping skills & to draw strength from one another. Our group meets every Wed., 5:30-6:30 p.m., live in person in the conference room at the Turning Point Center of Chittenden County (179 S. Winooski Ave., Burlington), &/ or via our parallel Zoom session to accommodate those who cannot attend in person. The Zoom link can be found on the Turning Point Center website (turningpointcentervt.org) using the “Family Support” tab (click on “What We Offer”). Any questions, please send by email to thdaub1@gmail.com.

FIERCELY FLAT VT

A breast cancer support group for those who’ve had mastectomies. We are a casual online meeting group found on Facebook at Fiercely Flat VT. Info: stacy.m.burnett@gmail.com.

FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERY ANONYMOUS (FA)

Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? FA is a free 12-step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia. Local meetings are held twice a week: Mon., 4-5:30 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Church, Norwich, Vt.; & Wed., 6:30-8 p.m., at Hanover Friends Meeting House, Hanover, N.H. For more info & a list of additional meetings throughout the U.S. & the world, call 603-630-1495 or visit foodaddicts.org.

G.R.A.S.P. (GRIEF RECOVERY AFTER A SUBSTANCE PASSING)

Are you a family member who has lost a loved one to addiction? Find support, peer-led support group. Meets once a mo. on Mon. in Burlington. Please call for date & location. RSVP to mkeasler3@ gmail.com or call 310-3301 (message says Optimum Health, but this is a private number).

GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Sharing your sadness, finding your joy. Please join us as we learn more about our own grief & explore the things that can help us to heal. There is great power in sharing our experiences w/ others who know the pain of the loss of a loved one & healing is possible through the sharing. BAYADA Hospice’s local bereavement support coordinator will facilitate our weekly group through discussion & activities. Everyone from the community

is welcome. 1st & last Wed. of every mo. at 4 p.m. via Zoom. To register, please contact bereavement program coordinator Max Crystal, mcrystal@bayada.com or 802-448-1610.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS

Meet every 2nd Mon., 6-7:30 p.m., & every 3rd Wed. from 10-11:30 a.m., at Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice in Berlin. The group is open to the public & free of charge. More info: Diana Moore, 224-2241.

GRIEVING A LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

A retired psychotherapist & an experienced life coach host a free meeting for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The group meets upstairs at All Souls Interfaith Gathering in Shelburne. There is no fee for attending, but donations are gladly accepted. Meetings are held twice a mo., the 1st & 3rd Sat. of every mo. from 10-11:30 a.m. If you are interested in attending, please register at allsoulsinterfaith.org. More information about the group leader at pamblairbooks.com.

HEARING VOICES SUPPORT GROUP

This Hearing Voices Group seeks to find understanding of voicehearing experiences as real lived experiences that may happen to anyone at any time. We choose to share experiences, support & empathy. We validate anyone’s experience & stories about their experience as their own, as being an honest & accurate representation of their experience, & as being acceptable exactly as they are. Tue., 2-3 p.m. Pathways Vermont Community Center, 279 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington. Info: 802-777-8602, abby@pathwaysvermont.org.

HELLENBACH CANCER SUPPORT

People living w/ cancer & their caretakers convene for support. Call to verify meeting place. Info, 388-6107.

INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS/ PAINFUL BLADDER SUPPORT GROUP

Interstitial cystitis (IC) & painful bladder syndrome can result in recurring pelvic pain, pressure or discomfort in the bladder/pelvic region & urinary frequency/urgency. These are often misdiagnosed & mistreated as a chronic bladder infection. If you have been diagnosed or have these symptoms, you are not alone. For Vermont-based support group, email bladderpainvt@gmail.com or call 899-4151 for more info.

INTUITIVE EATING SUPPORT GROUP

Free weekly peer-led support group for anyone struggling w/ eating &/or body image. The only requirement is a desire to make peace w/ food & your body. Meeting format is: a short reading from Intuitive Eating by Evelyn Tribole & Elyse Resch, 4th edition, followed by open sharing & discussion. Come find community through sharing

Support Groups

[CONTINUED]

struggles, experience, strength & hope. Located at the Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, Sun. 1-2:30 p.m. Contact 202-5538953 w/ any questions.

KINDRED CONNECTIONS

PROGRAM OFFERED FOR CHITTENDEN COUNTY CANCER SURVIVORS

The Kindred Connections program provides peer support for all those touched by cancer. Cancer patients, as well as caregivers, are provided w/ a mentor who has been through the cancer experience & knows what it’s like to go through it. In addition to sensitive listening, Kindred Connections provides practical help such as rides to doctors’ offices & meal deliveries. The program has people who have experienced a wide variety of cancers. For further info, please contact info@vcsn.net.

LAUGHTER YOGA

Spontaneous, genuine laughter & gentle breathing for physical & emotional benefit. No yoga mat needed! This group is held every Mon., 2-3 p.m., at Pathways Vermont Community Center, 279 North Winooski Ave., Burlington. Contact Chris Nial for any questions: chrisn@ pathwaysvermont.org.

LGBTQ SURVIVORS OF VIOLENCE

The SafeSpace Anti-Violence Program at Pride Center of Vermont offers peer-led support groups for survivors of relationship, dating, emotional &/or hate-violence. These groups give survivors a safe & supportive environment to tell their stories, share info, & offer & receive support. Support groups also provide survivors an opportunity to gain info on how to better cope w/ feelings & experiences that surface because of the trauma they have experienced. Please call SafeSpace at 863-0003 if you are interested in joining.

LGBTQ VETERANS

Share the struggles & celebrate the joys of being a service member & LGBTQIA+ in this peer-led discussion group. Meetings are at the Rainbow Bridge Community Center in Barre on the 2nd & 4th Tue. of each mo. Visit rbccvt.org for more info.

LIVING THROUGH LOSS

Gifford Medical Center is announcing the restart of its grief support group, Living Through Loss. The program is sponsored by the Gifford Volunteer Chaplaincy Program & will meet weekly on Fri., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., in Gifford’s Chun Chapel. Meetings will be facilitated by the Rev. Timothy Eberhardt, spiritual care coordinator, & Emily Pizzale MSW, LICSW, a Gifford social worker. Anyone who has experienced a significant loss

over the last year or so is warmly invited to attend & should enter through the hospital’s main entrance wearing a mask on the way to the chapel. Meetings will be based on the belief that, while each of us is on a unique journey in life, we all need a safe place to pause, to tell our stories &, especially as we grieve, to receive the support & strength we need to continue along the way.

MARIJUANA ANONYMOUS

Do you have a problem w/ marijuana? MA is a free 12-step program where addicts help other addicts get & stay clean. Ongoing Mon., 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Burlington (Red Door Church) 21 Buell St., Burlington. Contact: jointsession@newenglandma. org.

MYELOMA SUPPORT GROUP

Area myeloma survivors, families & caregivers have come together to form a Multiple Myeloma Support Group. We provide emotional support, resources about treatment options, coping strategies & a support network by participating in the group experience w/ people who have been through similar situations. 3rd Tue. of every mo., 5-6 p.m., at the New Hope Lodge on East Ave. in Burlington. Info: Kay Cromie, 655-9136, kgcromey@ aol.com.

NAMI CONNECTION PEER SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS

Weekly virtual meetings. If you have questions about a group in your area, please contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Vermont, program@namivt.org or 800639-6480. Connection groups are peer recovery support group programs for adults living w/ mental health challenges.

NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP Weekly virtual & in-person meetings. ASL interpreters avail. upon request. Family Support Group meetings are for family & friends of individuals living w/ mental illness. If you have questions about a group in your area, please contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Vermont, info@namivt.org or 800-639-6480.

NARCONON SUNCOAST DRUG & ALCOHOL REHABILITATION & EDUCATION

Narconon reminds families that overdoses due to an elephant tranquilizer known as Carfentanil have been on the rise in nearly every community nationwide. Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid painkiller 100 times more powerful than fentanyl & 1,000 times stronger than heroin. A tiny grain of it is enough to be fatal. To learn more about carfentanil abuse & how to help your loved one, visit narconon-suncoast.org/ drug-abuse/parents-get-help. html. Addiction screenings:

Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for a no-cost screening or referral: 1-877-841-5509.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS

is a group of recovering addicts who live without the use of drugs. It costs nothing to join. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using. Held in Burlington, Barre & St. Johnsbury. Info, 862-4516 or cvana.org.

NARCANON BURLINGTON GROUP

Group meets every Mon. at 7 p.m., at the Turning Point Center, 179 S. Winooski Ave., Suite 301, Burlington. The only requirement for membership is that there be a problem of addiction in a relative or friend. Info: Amanda H., 338-8106.

NEW (& EXPECTING) MAMAS & PAPAS! EVERY PRIMARY CAREGIVER TO A BABY!

The Children’s Room invites you to join our weekly drop-in support group. Come unwind & discuss your experiences & questions around infant care & development, self-care & postpartum healing, & community resources for families w/ babies. Tea & snacks provided. Thu., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bring your babies! (Newborn through crawling stage.) Located in Thatcher Brook Primary School, 47 Stowe St., childrensroomonline.org. Contact childrensroom@wwsu. org or 244-5605.

NORTHWEST VERMONT

CANCER PRAYER & SUPPORT NETWORK

A meeting of cancer patients, survivors & family members intended to comfort & support those who are currently suffering from the disease.

2nd Thu. of every mo., 6-7:30 p.m., St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 11 Church St., St. Albans. Info: stpaulum@myfairpoint.net.

2nd Wed. of every mo., 6-7:30 p.m., Winooski United Methodist Church, 24 W. Allen St., Winooski. Info: hovermann4@comcast.net.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (OA)

A 12-step program for people who identify as overeaters, compulsive eaters, food addicts, anorexics, bulimics, etc. No matter what your problem w/ food, we have a solution! All are welcome, meetings are open, & there are no dues or fees. See oavermont.org/meeting-list for the current meeting list, meeting format & more; or call 802-863-2655 anytime!

PONDERING GENDER & SEXUALITY

Pondering Gender & Sexuality is a twice-monthly facilitated mutual support group for folks of any identity (whether fully formed or a work in progress) who want to engage in meaningful conversations about gender,

CONTACT CLASSIFIEDS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM OR 802-865-1020 EXT. 115 TO UPDATE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP

sexuality & sexual orientation, &/or the coming-out process. Discussions can range from the personal to the philosophical & beyond as we work together to create a compassionate, safe & courageous space to explore our experiences. The group will be held on the 2nd Sun. & 4th Tue. of every mo., 1-2:30 p.m., either virtually or at Pride Center of Vermont. Email pgs@ pridecentervt.org for more info or w/ questions!

POTATO INTOLERANCE SUPPORT GROUP

Anyone coping w/ potato intolerance & interested in joining a support group, contact Jerry Fox, 48 Saybrook Rd., Essex Junction, VT 05452.

QUEER CARE GROUP

This support group is for adult family members & caregivers of queer &/or questioning youth. It is held on the 2nd Mon. of every mo., 6:30-8 p.m., at Outright Vermont, 241 N. Winooski Ave. This group is for adults only. For more info, email info@ outrightvt.org.

READY TO BE TOBACCO-FREE GROUPS

Join a free 4-5-week group workshop facilitated by our coaches, who are certified in tobacco treatment. We meet in a friendly, relaxed & virtual atmosphere. You may qualify for a free limited supply of nicotine replacement therapy. Info: call 802-847-7333 or email quittobaccoclass@ uvmhealth.org to get signed up, or visit myhealthyvt.org to learn more about upcoming workshops!

REFUGE RECOVERY MEETING

Burlington Refuge Recovery is a Buddhist-oriented, nontheistic addiction recovery group that meets every Tue. at 6:45 p.m. at Turning Point Center, located at 179 S. Winooski Ave. in Burlington.

SCLERODERMA FOUNDATION NEW ENGLAND

Support group meeting held on the 4th Tue. of every mo., 6:30-8:30 p.m., Williston Police Station. Info, Blythe Leonard, 878-0732.

SEX & LOVE ADDICTS ANONYMOUS

12-step recovery group. Do you have a problem w/ sex or relationships? We can help. Info: Shawn, 660-2645. Visit slaafws. org or saa-recovery.org for meetings near you.

SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS, MONTPELIER

Do you have a problem w/ compulsive sexual behavior? A 12-step program has helped us. SAA Montpelier meets twice weekly at 6 p.m.: Mon. virtual meeting, details at saatalk.info; Thu. face-to-face at Bethany Church, Montpelier. Details at saa-recovery.org. Contact saa. vtrecovery@gmail.com or call 802-322-3701.

SEXUAL VIOLENCE SUPPORT

HOPE Works offers free support groups to women, men & teens who are survivors of sexual violence. Groups are avail. for survivors at any stage of the healing process. Intake for all support groups is ongoing. If you are interested in learning more or would like to schedule an intake to become a group member, please call our office at 864-0555, ext. 19, or email our victim advocate at advocate@ sover.net.

SOCIAL ANXIETY SUPPORT GROUPS

For screened adults ages 28-40. Therapist-led sessions. For more info, contact diane@ldtayeby. com.

STUTTERING SUPPORT GROUPS

If you’re a person who stutters, you are not alone! Adults, teens & school-age kids who stutter, & their families are welcome to join 1 of our 3 free National Stuttering Association (NSA) stuttering support groups at UVM (join by Zoom or in person).

Adults: 5:30-6:30 p.m., 1st & 3rd Tue. monthly; teens (ages 13-17): 5:30-6:30 p.m., 2nd Thu. monthly; school-age children (ages 8-12) & parents (meeting separately): 4:15-5:15 p.m., 2nd Thu. monthly. Pomeroy Hall (489 Main St., UVM campus). Info: nsachapters.org/burlington, burlingtonstutters@gmail.com, 656-0250. Go, Team Stuttering!

SUICIDE SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP

For those who have lost a friend or loved one through suicide. 6:30-8 p.m., on the 3rd Tue. of every mo. Maple Leaf Clinic, 167 N. Main St., Wallingford. Info: 446-3577.

SUICIDE HOTLINES IN VT

Brattleboro, 257-7989; Montpelier (Washington County Mental Health Emergency Services), 229-0591; Randolph (Clara Martin Center Emergency Service), 800-639-6360.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN who have experienced intimate partner abuse. Facilitated by Circle (Washington Co. only). Please call 877-543-9498 for more info.

SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE

If you have lost someone to suicide & wish to have a safe place to talk, share & spend a little time w/ others who have had a similar experience, join us on the 3rd Thu. of every mo., 7-9 p.m., at the Faith Lighthouse Church, Route 105, Newport (105 Alderbrook). Please call before attending. Info: Mary Butler, 744-6284.

SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE: S. BURLINGTON

This group is for people experiencing the impact of the loss of a loved one to suicide. 1st

Wed. of each mo., 6-7:30 p.m., at the Comfort Inn & Suites, 3 Dorset St., S. Burlington. Info: Bob Purvee at 802-922-4283 or ripurvee1@yahoo.com, or Aya Kuki at 802-881-3606 or ayakokuki@gmail.com

TRANS & GENDERNONCONFORMING SUPPORT GROUP

As trans & GNC people in the world, we experience many things that are unique to our identities. For that reason, the Transgender Program hosts a support group for our community on the 1st & 3rd Wed. of every mo., 6:30-8 p.m., either virtually or at Pride Center of Vermont. The Trans & GNC Support group is for Vermonters at all stages of their gender journey to come together to socialize, discuss issues that are coming up in their lives & build community. We welcome anyone whose identity falls under the trans, GNC, intersex & nonbinary umbrellas, & folks questioning their gender identity. Email safespace@pridecentervt.org w/ any questions, comments or accessibility concerns.

TRANSGENDER FAMILY SUPPORT

We are people w/ adult loved ones who are transgender or gender nonconforming. We meet to support each other & to learn more about issues & concerns. Our sessions are supportive, informal & confidential. Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m., the 2nd Thu. of each mo., via Zoom. Not sure if you’re ready for a meeting? We also offer 1-on-1 support. For more info, email rex@pridecentervt.org or call 802-318-4746.

TRANS PARENT SUPPORT GROUP

We will be in community w/ parents of trans kids of all ages & supporting each other w/ storytelling, listening, learning & love. If we want to protect our trans kids, our first line of defense is uplifting their parents & guardians! This is a peer-support group & will be facilitated by Alison & Shawna. 4th Tue. of every month, 5:30-7:30 p.m at Rainbow Bridge Community Center. Contact 802-622-0692 or info@rainbowbridgevt.org

WOMEN’S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

FAHC. Led by Deb Clark, RN. Every 1st & 3rd Tue., 5-6:30 p.m. Call Kathy McBeth, 847-5715.

YOUNG ADULT SUPPORT GROUP

A support group for young adults to build community & access peer support. This group meets weekly on Thu., 3-4 p.m., at Pathways Vermont Community Center, 279 North Winooski Ave., Burlington. Contact Chris Nial for any questions: chrisn@ pathwaysvermont.org.

I saw an ad for this job in the “help-wanted” section of Seven Days and thought, Hmmm, I should apply for that. But I didn’t do it right away. In the following issue, the same position was highlighted as the “Job of the Week.” I had the same positive reaction, learned more from the write-up, and decided, Oh, yes, this is the job for me. ree months later, here I am, running the beautiful Barre Opera House with operations manager Katie Gilmartin.

NATHANIEL LEW

Executive Director, Barre Opera House

Horse Barn Assistant

Small private horse barn located in Colchester looking for a responsible, conscientious individual to assist with horse and barn care. Responsibilities primarily include stall cleaning, bedding & sweeping. Usual start time 12:30 or 1:00pm, approximately 3-4 hours per day. Resume or description of horse related experience required. nicholsledge@gmail.com

Waterproofing Installer

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT: JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POST-A-JOB PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

Seeking talented, driven individuals to join our team of professionals. We provide quality work and a positive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow. We offer competitive wages, health and retirement benefits, and pay bonuses. No experience necessary, we will provide training in the variety of applications we do every day.

eberry@greenmountainwaterproofing.com

2h-GreenMtnWaterproofing102324.indd

FINANCE ASSISTANT

For US Rep.

Becca Balint

Craft Beer Delivery Driver

The Craft Beer Delivery Driver is responsible for ensuring the timely delivery of goods to predetermined customers on specific routes, reviewing orders prior to delivery, loading and unloading trucks, and providing exceptional customer service to The Beer Guy’s customer base. Experience a plus, but willing to train. Apply: apply.workable.com/lawsons-finest-liquids/j/FD3CA989A1

Audiologist

2h-LawsonsFinestBEERGUY)102324.indd

Can you hear me?

2v-NicholsLedge102324.indd 1 10/17/24 11:47 AM

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Finance Assistant to support the fundraising efforts of a Congressional campaign. The Finance Assistant will play a key role in coordinating events, staffing Congresswoman Balint at in-person and virtual events, assisting with in-state donor relations, and maintaining accurate financial records. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to the success of a progressive campaign, gain valuable experience in political finance, and work in a fast-paced learning culture.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Event Support: Coordinate logistics for virtual and in-person fundraising events, including supporting donor outreach and postevent follow-up. Staff Congresswoman Balint at fundraising events.

• Contribution Management: Process and track incoming contributions

• Donor Relations: Assist in the preparation of donor correspondence, thank-you letters, and follow-up communications

• Administrative Support: Coordinate with the Congresswoman’s schedulers, manage correspondence, and manage call time

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Previous experience in political campaigns or finance is a plus, but not required

• Time management skills, ability to work under pressure, and comfortable balancing multiple responsibilities at once

• Ability to collaborate with coworkers

• Desire to work in a learning environment

COMPENSATION: This is a part-time role, between 10-20 hours per week. Compensation for the role begins at $20/hour.

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!

Wake Robin in Shelburne, VT wants to support you in your career growth while working with older adults! We offer scholarships and loan forgiveness programs as well as great benefits, a pristine working environment, work/life balance, and an opportunity to build strong relationships with staff and residents in a dynamic community setting. We are currently hiring for all shifts. Pay starts at $23.50 and increases with experience!

Youth Ministry Coordinator

Primary responsibility programming for youth in 6th-12th grade in support of the mission, vision, and values of the First Congregational Church of Essex Junction (FCCEJ). For a detailed job description, visit: fccej.org/v5/ who-we-are/work-with-us

Hourly Rate: $18-22 /hour based on experience for expected work hours of 20-25 hours/week with reduced responsibility during summer months.

Anticipated start date on or after January 2, 2025 for this position. Please email resume & cover letter: welcome@fccej.org

FCCEJ is an open and affirming church, serving all in the spirit of Christ.

Join Our Team

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.

TOWN HEALTH OFFICER

The Town of Swanton has an immediate opening for Town Health Officer. This is a part-time position with the successful applicant being available to handle health related complaints from the residents of the Town and Village of Swanton. The duties of the position are detailed in Title 18 of the Vermont State Statutes and can be found in 18 V.S.A. § 602 a. The successful candidate should have a dependable form of transportation, excellent communication skills (both oral and written) and be available on an “on-call” basis. The successful candidate will be appointed by the Commissioner of Health of the State of Vermont on the recommendation of the Town of Swanton Selectboard. For additional information and an application, please contact:

Brian K. Savage, Town Administrator: 802-868-7418

Town of Swanton, 1 Academy St., Swanton, VT 05488

townadmin@swantonvermont.org

The Town of Swanton is an equal opportunity employer.

the Flynn & be part of a team striving to make the community better through the arts. All backgrounds encouraged to apply. This is a full-time, salaried, benefits eligible position.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MANAGER

The Flynn is looking for an IT Manager to direct and coordinate all activities of the IT Department and provide technical support to the Flynn staff. Visit our website for a detailed job description: flynnvt.org/About-Us/ Employment-and-Internship-Opportunities Email materials to: HResources@flynnvt.org

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

RESALE STORE ASSOCIATES

Marion’s Place, the resale store at HOPE, is looking for some new team members. A full-time warehouse position entails helping people donating goods for resale, customer service, as well as “back of house” work preparing items for sale, keeping the warehouse clean and orderly, and more. Store associate positions can be full or half-time, and entail greeting shoppers, keeping the store clean and stocked, operating the cash register, loss prevention, and more.

Must have relevant work experience, excellent communication skills, be able to lift up to 25 pounds, stand for periods of time, and pay attention to details.

Sundays and Mondays o , no evening hours. Excellent compensation including competitive wage, platinum medical coverage, life and dental insurance, matched retirement savings, paid time o , sta discount, and a dynamic, positive work environment.

To apply, send a basic resume (where have you worked, when, and what did you do?) and specify the job you are applying for. Email to receptionist@hope-vt.org, or drop o at the store (334 Boardman Street, Middlebury,) or at HOPE’s o ce (282 Boardman Street.) Come join a welcoming team that works hard every day to make a di erence in our community.

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.

Agronomy Specialist - Extension Center for Sustainable Agriculture - #S5341PO - UVM Extension Center for Sustainable Agriculture is seeking a motivated and qualified individual to serve as an Agronomy Specialist in the Connecticut River Valley of Vermont and will be located in the Extension St. Johnsbury’s Office. This person would lead agronomy outreach and technical assistance work in the eastern portion of the state. They would conduct an integrated and comprehensive educational and outreach assistance program in the areas of farm management, agronomic field crop production, and natural resource conservation practices to improve farm viability and surface water quality. Major responsibilities include developing, planning, implementing, and evaluating outreach education and technical assistance programs provided to the local farming community in livestock, crop, soil, manure, nutrient management, and implementation of approved Best Management Practices to reduce soil and nutrient losses into waters of the state. Minimum requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in a field related to agriculture; 2 - 4 years of experience in developing outreach education and providing technical assistance in agricultural contexts or the equivalent combination of experience and education. Certified Crop Advisor status desired. The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the institution. Applicants are encouraged to include in their cover letter information about how they will further this goal.

For further information on this position 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.

Size: 3.83” x 5.25” Cost: $476.85 (with 1 week online)

Finance Coorindator

The Finance Coordinator will oversee all financial operations for the Colchester and Rutland Field Offices, including the collection, processing, and tracking of: invoices, vendor payments, staff payroll, billing, purchases, credit card transactions, financial statements, audits, donations, office budgeting, and other duties to maintain accuracy for fee for service programs and all financial activities and reporting at USCRI VT. Multicultural candidates encouraged to apply. USCRI is an E.O.E.

Submit applications online: refugees.org/careers

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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.).

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• Search for jobs by keyword, location, category and job type.

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Retail Position

Looking for full or part-time Retail Store Manager and part-time Retail Sales Associates. Have you always wanted to work in a yarn store? Surrounded by beautiful colorful fiber of all kinds? We're looking for crafty people with strong retail sales experience, as well as those with retail management experience. Applicants need to have knitting and/ or crochet experience as well as strong people and communication skills. We offer a great team experience, flexible work schedules, a product discount, and an amazing crafting community. Please provide a resume/job history & pictures of your most recent and/or favorite projects: jen@mustloveyarn.com

LOOKING FOR A COOLER OPPORTUNITY?

Visitor Center Operations Manager (Full-time)

The Visitor Center Operations Manager maintains optimal operations at all LCC run visitor centers ensuring that the traveling public is greeted warmly and provided the information they need. Duties include working alongside our Tourism Ambassadors, staff supervision, scheduling, training and upkeep. Regular travel to all of the centers is required. This is a great opportunity for someone with customer service experience that is looking to grow their management skills. Starting salary: $55,000, with potential for higher compensation based on experience.

Tourism Ambassadors (Per-Diem)

Williston & Georgia South I-89 Welcome Centers - $17.75/hr

The Williston and Georgia South I-89 Welcome Centers are seeking per-diem employees with great customer service skills and a passion for Vermont tourism. Responsibilities include providing visitors with tourism information, as well as performing various custodial and physical tasks. The schedule is flexible, and shifts will include some weekends and holidays.

To learn more or to apply, please email welcomecenters@vermont.org

LCC offers competitive salaries and benefits; a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional development and growth, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on our community. The Lake Champlain Chamber is an Equal Opportunity Employer that welcomes diversity in the workplace. We strongly encourage all qualified persons to apply. 5v-LakeChamplainChamber101624.indd 1

School Bus Monitors

Eden Central School is accepting applications for school bus monitors for immediate placement.

This is a part-time position consisting of 1.75 hours per day during the afternoon bus runs. The schedule is 2:15 - 4:00 pm.

The bus monitors will assist the driver with the supervision, care and safety of students being transported from school at the end of the day. Monitors will return to Eden Central School at the end of the bus run.

Find 100+ new job postings from trusted, local employers in Seven Days newspaper and online.

See who’s hiring at jobs.sevendaysvt.com

Job Requirements:

• Ability to manage students in a safe and appropriate transportation environment using established safety protocols

• Provide students with constructive behavioral and disciplinary direction for safety, order and respect for the rights and belongings of others, as guided by Eden Central School's school bus behavioral expectations

• Capable of addressing emergency situations in a timely manner and with necessary measures that protect the well-being of all students Interested applicants may apply through SchoolSpring or by visiting lnsd.org for an application.

Applications can be emailed to Betzi Goodman at bgoodman@lnsd.org or mailed to the school at P.O. Box 29, Eden, VT 05652.

Fuse is seeking a dynamic and strategic Public Relations Director to spearhead communication initiatives, elevate our clients' marketing efforts, and lead agency PR plans.

Fuse is a full-service marketing agency based in Winooski creating authentic brand engagement for clients looking to reach teens and young adults. Fuse offers a hybrid working environment, generous PTO, and great beneﬁts including wellness stipends.

Find out more and apply here: fusemarketing.com/jobs-internships

Events Coordinator & Program Assistant

Applications are now being accepted for a full-time Events Coordinator & Program Assistant at Camp Ta-Kum-Ta. Join Camp’s mission of providing challenging, extraordinary experiences in a safe and loving environment for children who have or have had cancer and their families.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Events Coordinator & Program Assistant is responsible for overseeing Camp Ta-Kum-Ta’s fundraising events and supporting our yearround programs for children with cancer and their families. The ideal candidate will be highly detail-oriented, possess excellent verbal, written and electronic communication skills, and have the ability to flex their schedule to accommodate evening and weekend work when necessary. Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office is required to create complex spreadsheets, documents, e-mails, and database management. The successful candidate will possess previous fundraising experience, will be welcoming and respectful to all community members, and will demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusion.

Please send letters of interest and a resume to dennis@takumta.org or mail it to PO Box 459, South Hero, Vermont 05486 by November 8th for priority consideration.

For more information about Camp Ta-Kum-Ta, please visit https://www.takumta.org

OCTOBER 23-30, 2024

Vermont Housing & Conser vation Board

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Chief Financial Officer

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 Employer

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. We offer a comprehensive benefit package and an inclusive, supportive work environment.

For full job descriptions, salary information, and application instructions please visit vhcb.org/about-us/jobs

HOMEOWNERSHIP OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) is seeking an eager and knowledgeable Homeownership Operations Specialist to join our team.

As the Homeownership Operations Specialist, you will be responsible for providing support to the Homeownership Operations Manager. Responsibilities will include data entry and information management, creating and maintaining homeownership department policies and procedures, report tracking, identifying and implementing operational efficiencies, supporting program changes and special projects and staff training. The position will also provide support to the Compliance Specialists during periods of high mortgage production.

To be considered for this position, you will need at least an associate’s degree or equivalent work experience. You must be able to demonstrate outstanding verbal and written communication skills, demonstrated technical skills, have strong organizational skills and attention to detail. You must be able to balance multiple priorities with sensitive timelines. You need to be able to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment. Experience with SharePoint and Sequel preferred.

For a detailed job description and benefits overview, please visit the Careers section of VHFA.org. To apply, send a cover letter (required; otherwise, your application will not be considered), a resume, and references to the Human Resources Department at HR@vhfa.org ideally by November 4th.

PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

•Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant NOW HIRING

•Medical Assistant

•Referral Specialist

•Patient Engagement Specialist

Qualified candidates will work at both locations in Morrisville and Waterbury.

To apply go to: careers-copleyvt.org/careers

Mansfield Orthopaedics is a subsidiary of Copley Hospital.

Exceptional Care. Community Focused. That’s Copley.

Champlain College Job Opportunities

Champlain College is seeking dedicated professionals to join our vibrant campus community. We are currently hiring for several key positions, including:

• Maintenance Technician: Ensure our facilities are well-maintained, safe, and welcoming.

• Leadership Giving Officer: Play a pivotal role in advancing the mission of Champlain College through fundraising and donor relations.

• Compass Student Service Representative: Support students to ensure a seamless experience on campus.

• Campus Public Safety Officer: Provide safety and security services for the campus community.

• Event and Facilities Assistant: Coordinate and manage event logistics including setting up facilities.

• Health & Medical Office Coordinator: Facilitate front office responsibilities to help the Student Health Center run smoothly.

• Student Resources and Single Parents Program Coordinator: Support student success by reducing barriers to education for special populations.

• Women’s and Gender Center Program Coordinator: Coordinate programs and education for students around women’s empowerment, gender identity education, and sexual violence education and prevention.

• Program Manager, InSight: Coordinate the career education program which teaches students elements of career development, personal finance, and wellbeing.

Champlain College is committed to educating students to be career-ready. If you’re passionate about contributing to an institution that prepares students for their future, we encourage you to apply.

For more details and to apply, please visit champlain.edu/about/careers

Part-time Retail Customer Service Rep

Pack and Send Plus provides packing, shipping and printing needs to the local community. The business is open MondayFriday, 9AM - 5:30PM. We are seeking 1-2 hires to work 20-30 hours/week.

More opportunities and/or hours available for the right candidate(s). Pay range is $20$24 per hour, depending on experience/skill.

For job description and to apply: ship@packandsendplus.com.

Trusted, local employers are hiring in Seven Days newspaper and online. Browse 100+ new job postings each week.

See who’s hiring at jobs.sevendaysvt.com Follow us on @SevenDaysvt for the latest job opportunities PERK UP!

4t-CopleyMansfield102324

Meal Production Coordinator

Feeding Champlain Valley is looking for a Meal Production Coordinator to join our team! The Meal Production Coordinator is responsible for food preparation, cooking, and packaging meals; planning and organizing production schedules as well as administrative duties including reporting. This role collaborates with volunteers and coordinates with culinary teams; instructs and delegates job tasks to community service workers and volunteers; produces and prepares meals from available donated and purchased food items, and maintains clean, safe, and sanitary food preparation areas as mandated by VT State Department of Health Codes. Requirements: High School diploma, or equivalent, required and a minimum of two years’ culinary experience preferred. Experience working with volunteers as well as working with diverse and low-income populations preferred; knowledge of nutritional content of food preferred. ServSafe certification must be obtained within sixty calendar days of employment. Effective verbal & written communication skills required; bilingual abilities are a plus! Clean driving record, valid driver’s license and access to reliable private transportation must be maintained. Travel & weekend hours as needed. When you come to work for CVOEO you're getting so much more than a paycheck! We offer a great working environment and an excellent benefit package including medical, dental and vision insurance, paid holidays, generous time off, a retirement plan and discounted gym membership. We are one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Vermont! Join us to find out why!

Apply online: https://www.cvoeo.org/careers

WISE is growing and we’re hiring!

Since 1971, WISE has supported survivors of gender-based violence in the Upper Valley. We encourage and cultivate a dynamic environment that requires us to be an adaptive, flexible, and innovative team.

WISE Multidisciplinary Interview and Training Center (MITC) Coordinator

Join the MITC team 15 hours a week! MITC is a unique collaboration that works to bring the lived experiences of survivors into processes across disciplines, using Forensic Experiential Trauma Interviews, providing outreach and training to law enforcement in trauma-informed approaches, and cultivating the use of expert witnesses. The Coordinator position is involved in all aspects of the project and can be tailored to individual strengths.

Youth Violence Prevention Educator

Work with students, educators, and parents throughout the Upper Valley providing prevention education, student leadership to end violence, and youth advocacy for survivors.

For more information and to apply online, visit our website wiseuv.org/how-to-join/careers

Burlington Housing Authority (BHA)

Are you interested in a job that helps your community and makes a difference in people’s lives every day? Consider joining Burlington Housing Authority (BHA) in Burlington, VT to continue BHA’s success in promoting innovative solutions that address housing instability challenges facing our diverse population of low-income families and individuals.

We are currently hiring for the following positions:

Building Operations Technician:

Performs general maintenance work in BHA owned and managed properties. This includes building exteriors, common areas, apartments, building systems, fixtures, and grounds. Our Building Operations Techs are required to participate in the on-call rotation, which covers night and weekend emergencies.

Offender Re-entry Housing Specialist: Provides support to men and women under the VT Department of Corrections supervision from prison back to Chittenden County. The ORHS focuses on high-risk men and women who are being released from jail and graduating transitional housing programs and in need of permanent housing. The ORHS provides intensive retention and eviction prevention services and works collaboratively with the Burlington Probation and Parole Office. Additionally, the ORHS works with various case workers, Re-Entry staff and the Administrative Staff from the VT Department of Corrections and the broad network of COSA staff as necessary throughout Chittenden County.

Rental Assistance Specialist: Assists in the operation of all rental assistance vouchers, including tenant and project based vouchers and grant funded rental assistance programs. This position works primarily with program participants to perform annual and interim recertification of household information.

Resident Manager at South

Square: Attends to various resident requests, assisting with emergency service, and light cleaning duties. The Resident Manager is required to live on property. The Resident Manager is provided with an apartment and along with free utilities in exchange for being on call after BHA business hours and on weekends.

*BHA serves a diverse population of tenants and partners with a variety of community agencies. To most effectively carry out our vision of delivering safe and affordable housing to all, we are committed to cultivating a staff that reflects varied lived experiences, viewpoints, and educational histories. Therefore, we strongly encourage candidates from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, and women to apply. Multilingualism is a plus!

Find more about these career opportunities: burlingtonhousing.org.

Our robust benefit package includes premium medical insurance with a health reimbursement account, dental, vision, short & long term disability, 10% employer funded retirement plan, 457 retirement plan, accident insurance, life insurance, cancer & critical illness insurance.

We provide a generous time off policy including 12 days of paid time off and 12 days of sick time in the first year. In addition to the paid time off, BHA recognizes 13 (paid) holidays and 2 (paid) floating cultural holidays.

Interested in this opportunity?

Send cover letter/resume to: humanresources@ burlingtonhousing.org

Human Resources

Burlington Housing Authority 65 Main Street, Suite 101 Burlington, VT 05401

BHA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

ABOUT THE POSITION:

We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Executive Assistant to support our Executive Director and broader team. The ideal candidate will manage schedules, coordinate meetings, and handle communication while maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and a high level of organization.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

•Salary range of $22-$33/hour ($46,000$68,000 annually). Benefits include generous paid time off, health care insurance, dental insurance, and retirement. This is a full-time, limited service position funded through December 30, 2025

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

Scheduling and Forecasting: Manage the Executive Director’s calendar by scheduling meetings, appointments, and events. Anticipate future scheduling needs and make adjustments.

Communication: Support internal and external communication strategies. Manage correspondence and respond to inquiries for the Executive Director and the BBF Team.

Website Content Management: Regularly update and maintain website content, including event announcements, resources, and documents.

Meeting Coordination and Documentation: Attend meetings, taking detailed minutes and documenting outcomes.

Travel Arrangements: Plan and coordinate travel itineraries, accommodations, and logistics.

Project Support: Take on special projects and other administrative tasks as assigned.

DESIRED EXPERTISE

Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills, with ability to create positive, trusting, professional relationships with diverse colleagues internal and external to the organization.

Action: The ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Possess excellent organizational and time-management skills.

Policy: Understanding of public systems that serve children and families preferred.

Tools: Experience with, or an ability to quickly adapt to technology that supports collaborative and virtual work including Google Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, Slack, Zoom, and SurveyMonkey preferred.

TO APPLY:

Please email a cover letter, resume, and three references by Friday, November 1 at midnight.

Please send application materials as one PDF labeled: lastname_firstname_Assistant to: kmobbs@buildingbrightfutures.org

Position is open until filled. To learn more about the position or Building Bright Futures, please visit buildingbrightfutures.org

We’re looking for dynamic, mission-driven people who want their work to make a positive difference in Vermont and for Vermonters. We educate and employ thousands of Vermonters on our campuses and academic centers which foster an environment of academic excellence, a culture of learning, and community.

We are looking to fill the following positions within the Chancellor’s Office Shared Services IT team:

•

Manager of Network & Telecommunications

•

Systems Analyst/Developer

•

Project Manager: Operations & System Transformation

Come join our incredible staff!

Benefits for full-time staff include 14 paid holidays, plus vacation, medical, and personal time, automatic retirement contribution, and tuition waiver at any Vermont State College for staff and their dependents (eligible dependents may apply waiver to UVM).

Visit vsc.edu/employee-resources/job-postings to learn more. VSCS values individual differences that can be engaged in the service of learning. Diverse experiences from people of varied backgrounds inform and enrich our community. VSCS strongly encourages applications from historically marginalized and underrepresented populations. VSCS is an equal opportunity employer, in compliance with ADA requirements, and will make reasonable accommodations for the known disability of an otherwise qualified applicant.

Leasing Administrator

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

Parks Maintenance Superintendent

The Parks Maintenance Superintendent oversees all aspects of Town of Essex parks, open spaces, and trails including but not limited to planning, budgeting, capital improvement plans, staff management, and maintenance. The Parks Maintenance Superintendent provides direct supervision to two Parks Maintenance Staff, seasonal staff, and one part-time Trails Coordinator. The Parks Maintenance Superintendent will also perform skilled manual work and equipment operation as needed. It is expected that this role, while performing many administrative functions, will also perform hands on field work as needed to ensure departmental work is completed in a timely fashion.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, 5 years’ experience in park maintenance, construction procedures and methods, and equipment operation as well as prior supervisory experience. The approximate salary range is $65,000 to $80,000 per year with the actual starting salary based on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time, non-union, exempt position. The Town of Essex offers a competitive benefits package to include: generous vacation and sick accruals, VMERS C Retirement Plan, MVP Health Insurance, health savings accounts, employer-paid Dental and Vision insurance, Short Term and Long Term Disability, Life and AD&D Insurance, and optional Missionsquare 457 and Roth IRA Retirement plans.

The full job posting, and job description can be found here: essexvt.bamboohr.com/careers/139

Service Coordinator

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

Vermont Housing & Conser vation Board

A CASE OF

Join our innovative and award-winning team to help Vermont reach its housing and land conservation goals!

Conservation Programs Assistant

The Conservation Programs Assistant is a full-time role, supporting the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board’s (VHCB) conservation and stewardship efforts. The position will provide critical administrative, programmatic, and operational support to both the Conservation Stewardship and Clean Water Programs.

This position is open until filled.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. We offer a comprehensive benefit package and an inclusive, supportive work environment.

For full job descriptions, salary information, and application instructions please visit vhcb.org/about-us/jobs

Find a job that makes it easier to sleep at night.

job postings each week from trusted, local employers.

HVAC Industry Positions Open

Join a Winning Team in a High Demand Industry. Vermont Energy is the #1 HVAC company in VT established in 1984 and based in Williston.

Current openings are for:

HVAC Service Technician/Installers

HVAC Apprentices

Sales Positions

Locally owned and operated by a Vermonter, Vermont Energy's primary markets are residential clients. Benefits include excellent pay, 4-day work-weeks, medical and dental, and a tool allowance. Come work for the most trusted HVAC dealer in Vermont. Join the team!

vtenergy.com/careers

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

Executive Director

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.

COMMUNIT Y PLANNING AND PR OJECT MAN A GER – MONTPELIER

DHCD seeks a Community Planning and Project Manager to lead programs that promote walkable, resilient, and connected communities. This job works at the intersection of transportation, placemaking, and economic development and helps shape Vermont’s future. If you’re organized, resourceful, and love our brave little state, apply today. For more information, contact Chris Cochran at chris.cochran@vermont.gov. Department: Housing and Community Development. Location: Montpelier. Status: Full Time. Job ID #51284. Application Deadline: October 30, 2024.

The Recovery Partners of Vermont is recognized as one of the nation’s leading statewide peer-recovery support systems for individuals recovering from Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders. Our network of community recovery centers and residences offers safe and supportive environments for individuals seeking recovery, as well as their families and friends. Our dedicated recovery workers provide peer support, trauma informed evidence-based services, educational programs, and recovery coaching to help individuals rebuild their lives.

Summary:

The Executive Director will provide strong leadership, support statewide recovery organizations, and represent Recovery Partners of Vermont at various levels. The role requires a commitment to peer-based recovery-oriented and strength-based approaches. Duties must be performed in accordance with safety, legal, and regulatory standards, as well as the organization's culture and business practices.

Full time, Benefits:

• Dental and Eye Care Insurance

• Health Insurance

• Professional Development Support

If interested in this position a cover letter and resume should be sent to Gary De Carolis, Executive Director, Recovery Partners of Vermont at: gary@vtrecoverynetwork.org. For questions, please call Gary at 802-310-5255. The deadline for applications is Friday, November 8, 2024.

For a full job description go to vtrecoverynetwork.org

AGRICULTURAL LOAN OFFICER

This is an exciting, professional opportunity to represent VEDA to our clients in the Vermont agricultural, forestry, and other related industries. VEDA is looking for a new loan origination team member to work with customers to understand their business and financial needs, analyze loan requests, work with a team of credit analysts to prepare loan approvals, and service a diverse loan portfolio. This position will be based in Montpelier, Burlington, or Middlebury, Vermont. This job position offers a hybrid work environment providing the opportunity to work from home on a periodic or regular basis.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of the agricultural, forestry, and other related industries; commercial credit experience; strong communication skills; a positive customer service attitude; and will be team oriented. For success in this position, applicants will utilize their ability to analyze business records and make sound decisions. Candidates with previous commercial lending, agricultural lending, or credit analysis experience and a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field are preferred.

VEDA offers a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package for full-time employees. VEDA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a positive work experience for all employees. To learn more about VEDA, please visit www.veda.org.

Questions about this opportunity may be directed to VEDA’s Co-Directors of Agricultural Lending, Sarah Isham: sisham@veda.org and/or Andy Wood awood@veda.org

fun stuff

“Hey, my eyes are up here.”

JEN SORENSEN

HARRY BLISS

RACHEL LINDSAY

MAT BARTON

SCORPIO

(OCT. 23-NOV. 21)

As a teenager, I loved the music of Jefferson Airplane. I recall sitting on the couch in my New Jersey home and listening to their albums over and over again. Years later, I was performing onstage at a San Francisco nightclub with my band, World Entertainment War. In the audience was Paul Kantner, a founding member of Jefferson Airplane. After the show, he came backstage and introduced himself. He said he wanted his current band, Jefferson Starship, to cover two of my band’s songs on his future album, which he did. I suspect you will soon experience a comparable version of my story, Scorpio. Your past will show up bearing a gift for your future. A seed planted long ago will finally blossom.

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19): Secrets and hidden agendas have been preventing you from getting an accurate picture of what’s actually happening. But you now have the power to uncover them. I hope you will also consider the following bold moves: 1) Seek insights that could be the key to your future sexiness. 2) Change an aspect of your life you’ve always wanted to change but have never been able to. 3) Find out how far you can safely go in exploring the undersides of things. 4) Help your allies in ways that will ultimately inspire them to help you.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): From the early 1910s to the late 1920s, silent films were the

only kind of films that were made. The proper technology wasn’t available to pair sounds with images. “Talking pictures,” or “talkies,” finally came into prominence in the 1930s. Sadly, the majority of silent films, some of which were fine works of art, were poorly preserved or only exist now in second- or thirdgeneration copies. I’m meditating on this situation as a metaphor for your life, Taurus. Are there parts of your history that seem lost, erased or unavailable? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to try to recover them. Remembering and reviving your past can be a potent healing agent.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun. 20): An old proverb tells us, “You must run toward the future and catch it. It is not coming to meet you but is fleeing from you, escaping into the unknown.” This adage isn’t true for you at all right now, Gemini. In fact, the future is dashing toward you from all directions. It is not shy or evasive but is eager to embrace you and is full of welcoming energy. How should you respond? I recommend you make yourself very grounded. Root yourself firmly in an understanding of who you are and what you want. Show the future clearly which parts of it you really want and which parts are uninteresting to you.

CANCER (Jun. 21-Jul. 22): Early in his musical career, Cancerian innovator Harry Partch played traditional instruments and composed a regular string quartet. But by age 29, he was inventing and building novel instruments that had never before been used. Among the materials he used in constructing his ZymoXyl, Eucal Blossom and Chromelodeon were tree branches, light bulbs and wine bottles. I’m inviting you to enter into a Harry Partch phase of your cycle, Cancerian. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to express your unique genius — whether that’s in your art, your business, your personal life or any other sphere where you love to express your authentic self.

LEO (Jul. 23-Aug. 22): Life’s unpredictable flow will bring you interesting new blessings if you revamp your fundamentals. Listen closely, Leo, because this is a subtle turn of events: A whole slew of good fortune will

arrive if you joyfully initiate creative shifts in your approaches to talking, walking, exercising, eating, sleeping, meditating and having fun. These aren’t necessarily earthshaking transformations. They may be as delicate and nuanced as the following: 1) adding amusing words to your vocabulary; 2) playfully hopping and skipping as you stroll along; 3) sampling new cuisines; 4) keeping a notebook or recorder by your bed to capture your dreams; 5) trying novel ways to open your mind and heart; 6) seeking fresh pleasures that surprise you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sep. 22): In an old Irish folk tale, the fairies give a queen a crystal cauldron with special properties. If anyone speaks three falsehoods in its presence, it cracks into three fragments. If someone utters three hearty truths while standing near it, the three pieces unite again. According to my metaphorical reading of your current destiny, Virgo, you are now in the vicinity of the broken cauldron. You have expressed one restorative truth and need to proclaim two more. Be gently brave and bold as you provide the healing words.

LIBRA (Sep. 23-Oct. 22): Let’s review the highlights of the recent months. First, you expanded your perspective, blew your mind and raised your consciousness. That was fabulous! Next, you wandered around half-dazed and thoroughly enchanted, pleased with your new freedom and spaciousness. That, too, was fantastic! Then, you luxuriously indulged in the sheer enjoyment of your whimsical explorations and experimentations. Again, that was marvelous! Now you’re ready to spend time integrating all the teachings and epiphanies that have surged into your life in recent months. This might be less exciting, but it’s equally important.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): My horoscopes are directed toward individuals, not groups. Yet it’s impossible to provide oracles about your personal destiny without considering the collective influences that affect you. Every day, you are impacted by the culture you live in. For instance, you encounter news media that present propaganda as information and regard cynicism as a sign of intellectual vigor. You live on a planet where the climate is

rapidly changing, endangering your stability and security. You are not a narrow-minded bigot who doles out hatred toward those who are unlike you, but you may have to deal with such people. I bring this to your attention, Sagittarius, because now is an excellent time to take an inventory of the world’s negative influences — and initiate aggressive measures to protect yourself from them. Even further, I hope you will cultivate and embody positive alternatives.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I suspect you will be extra attractive, appealing and engaging in the coming weeks. You may also be especially convincing, influential and inspirational. What do you plan to do with all this potency? How will you wield your flair? Here’s what I hope: You will dispense blessings everywhere you go. You will nurture the collective health and highest good of groups and communities you are part of. PS: In unexpected ways, being unselfish will generate wonderful selfish benefits.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Do you fantasize about being a masterful manager of your world? Have you imagined the joy of being the supreme sovereign of your holy destiny? Do you love the idea of rebelling against anyone who imagines they have the right to tell you what you should do and who you are? If you answered yes to those questions, I have excellent news, Aquarius: You are now primed to take exciting steps to further the goals I described. Here’s a helpful tip: Re-dedicate yourself to the fulfillment of your two deepest desires. Swear an oath to that intention.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): The Liberation Season is here. How can you take maximum advantage of the emancipatory energies? Here are suggestions: 1) Plan adventures to frontier zones. 2) Sing and dance in the wilderness. 3) Experiment with fun and pleasure that are outside your usual repertoire. 4) Investigate what it would mean for you to be on the vanguard of your field. 5) Expand your understandings of sexuality. 6) Venture out on a pilgrimage. 7) Give yourself permission to fantasize extravagantly. 8) Consider engaging in a smart gamble. 8) Ramble, wander and explore.

At the second annual Rail City Tattoo Festival at St. Albans City Hall, 48 tattoo artists from across the state and country gathered to meet more than 1,000 attendees, many of whom got fresh ink. Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger got a temporary tattoo at the family-friendly event.

Respond to these people online: dating.sevendaysvt.com

WOMEN seeking...

WONDERING64

I live a simple life, closely connected to the Earth and wanting to make a difference in the well-being of humanity, even if in a small way. I enjoy walks in the woods, reading, music, dinner with family and friends, gardening, good food and rural Vermont life, and more. I value honest communication, open-mindedness and care for oneself. Justme63 64, seeking: M, l

WALKS UPRIGHT, LITERATE, BE REAL

Quirk-enabled, big-hearted widow of three-plus years seeking amenable companionship. Bullies, hot dogs, egotists need not apply. Scrabble maven, math wonk, always learning. Have a decent brain; not afraid to use it. Crazy for theater, music and the arts. You? Authenticity, kindness, humor and a lively curiosity are what I find attractive. Friendship, first and foremost. Looking forward to meeting you. allycat, 70, seeking: M

KIND SOUL SEEKING AFFECTIONATE RELATIONSHIP

I would love to find someone who has time for a relationship and knows how to have a good time. I like to travel and enjoy being with my friends. Bambee, 54, seeking: M, l

LAID-BACK, FUN WOMAN

Single, fun woman looking for someone to do things with. Hstwinz 46, seeking: M

WANT TO RESPOND?

You read Seven Days, these people read Seven Days — you already have at least one thing in common!

All the action is online. Create an account or login to browse hundreds of singles with profiles including photos, habits, desires, views and more. It’s free to place your own profile online.

l See photos of this person online.

W = Women

M = Men

TW = Trans women

TM = Trans men

Q = Genderqueer people

NBP = Nonbinary people

NC = Gender nonconformists

Cp = Couples

Gp = Groups

KIND WOMAN LOOKING FOR SAME

Hi, I moved to Vermont from New York last year to live near my daughter. I haven’t really met too many people.

I’m kind of a homebody, especially in the winter. I’d like to spend it snuggling with someone special. Alone2Long 61, seeking: W, Cp, 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

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 am 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

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

WEEKDAYS RHODE ISLAND, WEEKENDS VERMONT

I live in Rhode Island and find myself in Vermont on weekends. I lived in Colorado for 19 years, and I love being in the woods. My dog is my shadow and follows me everywhere. We’re outdoors during the day and cooking or reading with tea or a hard cider at night. Commitment to community is important to me. tracyinnewengland 59, seeking: M, l

LAID-BACK, EASYGOING GRANDMA

I still have lots of life to give one special man. I enjoy my family and my grandkids. Hoping to find someone to spend some time together, to go to Maine or country towns to shop, or a country fair. The sky is the limit. I don’t need a caretaker — need a warm, loving man looking for the same. Mariond, 66, 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, 58 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

MEN seeking...

PASSIONATE, LIVELY AND LOVE

LAUGHING

I love hearing stories people tell about their journey and want to learn yours. I crave emotional intimacy, hugs, sharing as many belly laughs as possible. I love the outdoors (but don’t ski). Fabulous (if somewhat immodest) cook and get great joy out of nurturing. I read. I write personal essays. I love dogs, and hope to find a rescue soon. LaughAndBeHappy 71, seeking: W, l

TAKE A CHANCE

Hope to meet someone who can carry a conversation and enjoys traveling. Hopeful, not desperate. Hopeful6559 65, seeking: M, W

NATURE LOVER

I have trouble describing myself. I am an attention-seeking introvert, strangely enough. A nice date would be a hike, enjoying the surroundings, then some good food, maybe look at the stars. Sense of humor and honesty are two important things in a partner. Communication skills and open-mindedness, also. niceguy123, 58, seeking: W, l

SEEKING LIFELONG PARTNER

I am a young, energetic 77-y/o male. Taking care of my health is very important to me. I work out some and do not smoke or drink alcohol. My work background is in social services and college teaching. I presently teach history and human rights courses at Champlain College. My wife died of cancer two years ago. Ed609 76 seeking: W, l

OUBAITORI AND BOKO-MARU

Inadvertent Vermonter coming to terms with an empty nest. So many projects! So many books! So many museums! It’s always a challenge. If there isn’t sand or a sidewalk, I’ll probably stay inside. I miss cooking for people. As Piglet said, “It’s so much more friendly with two.” anomalink, 63, seeking: W, l

OLD-SCHOOL

Honestly, did not want to try this, yet it seems all roads lead to this path. SeeksCompanion, 53, seeking: W

MEET IN PERSON

Active, athletic, well-rounded, artistic, professional. Enjoy outdoors, hiking, biking, walks and cooking. Would meet over lunch. If all goes well, we’ll go for a dinner date and take it from there. nyu2vt, 64, seeking: W, l

EASYGOING, ORGANIZED, KIND, LONELY

Looking for a woman to share good times with, watch TV, fix dinner for, share conversation and friendship. Enjoy going for rides on backcountry roads, looking for wildlife to photograph. Eaglelover 82 seeking: W, l

ADULT COMPANIONSHIP

I’m a simple guy who misses pleasuring a woman and enjoying her company. I’m easy to look at and fun and funny to be around. oneonone, 60 seeking: W

OPINIONATED BUT LOVEABLE

Active, fit, outdoor/indoor type of guy. Making a difference, no matter how small, every day. Play acoustic guitar, enjoy golf as a “hike and a game,” not a religion! Travel is important. Don’t need “things.” Don’t have to be a priority, but don’t want to be an afterthought. What do you think: Give it a go?

Pastabilities18, 78, seeking: W, l

EASYGOING COUNTRY BOY

I’m laid-back, easygoing. I like people to be comfortable and enjoyable without feeling pressure, besides having fun. Country445578 46, seeking: W

SWM, 55, SEEKING FWB RELATIONSHIP

Seeking the right younger or older female for fun and pleasure. Let’s have fun and explore each other. If things go well, I’m open to a LTR. Take a chance? FWBFun802, 58 seeking: W

CRIBBAGE.YAHTZEE. HUMOR. COOKING. MUSIC.

See above. Pfred71 71 seeking: W, l

OLD-SCHOOL, CHIVALROUS, LAID-BACK

I consider myself to be an honest, caring and respectful guy. I’m at the age where I do not let the little things get to me. I enjoy the life I am living and would enjoy having someone to share it with. My dog is a big part of my life, so another dog lover or owner would be great. rk65, 58, seeking: W, l

ALWAYS READY FOR ENJOYABLE MOMENTS

I find it difficult to answer the question about ethnicity or ancestry in such generalized terms. To limit this to such generalized categories feels like I’m being asked to choose between my Indigenous ancestors of this continent where I am located and those of my European or African ancestors. I’m Métis. Very mixed and diverse over the past 450 years.

OnTheRoad1stCousin, 62, seeking: W, l

SOFT SOUL STONE BODY

Seeking new friendships with shared intent to flirt. Any intimacy only following chemistry for me, thanks. You: Kind, strong, grown woman — age and body type unimportant because we really are all beautiful. Me: Kind, emotionally and financially secure, athletic AF cis man of fabulous contradictions, educated redneck feminist, weed-smoking competitive athlete, serious and silly in turn.

Hardbodysoftsoul 47, seeking: W, l

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

TRANS WOMEN seeking...

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

GENDER NONCONFORMISTS seeking...

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 postapocalyptic, 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 COUPLES seeking...

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

WORKING AT MINIFACTORY

You were studious and stupendous in your glasses and green sweater-vest. You caught my attention so much so that I was ready to abandon my meeting at the next table (facing you, with a beard) to come say hi. I didn’t, though, ‘cause professionalism and whatnot, but would very much appreciate saying hi in real life. When: Monday, October 21, 2024. Where: Minifactory in Bristol. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916151

GORGEOUS DAY AT LITTLE RIVER

You were starting a hike, I was ending a hike with a friend. You said it was a gorgeous day. I said it was beautiful, but should have added that you were as well in your green jacket and tortoiseshell glasses. Let’s see each other again and go on a hike! When: Saturday, October 19, 2024. Where: Little River State Park. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916150

HOLE-IN-THE-WALL

You’re the friend of a mutual friend’s sister. I noticed you across the outdoor patio at a little hole-in-the-wall, and made it a point to talk to you that night. I ended up two-stepping with you in my living room. I spied the love of my life that night. When: Saturday, August 31, 2019. Where: At a hole-in-the-wall. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916149

EYE CONTACT AT LIZ COOPER

You: Blue denim dress, short brown hair. Me: Tall, blond. Prolonged smiley eye contact across the room. On the way out, you came over with a friend, but I was caught in conversation with another girl. Not a player, just poor timing. When: ursday, October 17, 2024. Where: Nectar’s. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916148

IN LINE AT BEST BUY

I was behind you at the Best Buy checkout when you dropped all your stuff. Tall manic pixie dreamgirl with blue hair, you gave me the nicest smile and I wish I would have talked to you. When: Tuesday, October 15, 2024. Where: Best Buy in Williston. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916147

TAPE B EDM MONTRÉAL AMERICANS

DUBSTEP

I found you at the EDM show Tape B on Parc Avenue in Montréal. I felt instant connection with you all — we really should go to Igloofest or DJ Shadow. Also we should start a bass sound system in Burlington and ﬁnd more underground raves in general. Any of you add me on IG (ey3n3ye), DM me. Let’s go! When: Sunday, October 13, 2024. Where: Avenue du Parc, Montréal, Québec. You: Group. Me: Man. #916145

TAKE IT

“Take another little piece of my heart.” e lyrics say, “You know you got it if it makes you feel good.” I need it back now. In pieces is ﬁne. I can put it back together instead of watching it get torn to shreds. Being forced to focus on myself takes away from my true focus: My superhero. When: Monday, October 14, 2024. Where: Outside. You: Group. Me: Woman. #916144

I DIDN’T KNOW CARBUR’S

But I do know American Flatbread. If you don’t want to dance at Rí Rá, then maybe we can enjoy some pizza with the spirits. Something you don’t know about me: I don’t feel comfortable hating or lying. You should really message me; going through my roommate doesn’t help. When: Tuesday, October 15, 2024. Where: Talking with someone else. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916143

MARIANNE PIANO TALK

You played the public Steinway on level four at DH in Lebanon. If you’d like to continue our chat, please get in touch! When: Wednesday, October 16, 2024. Where: DartmouthHitchcock, Lebanon, NH. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916146

KATE, IT’S ME

Hi, it’s been a while, and you probably have forgotten me or are married by now. At any rate, you have a birthday coming up, and I was thinking of you. It sure would be nice to see you again and take a walk down Old Town Road. – C When: Sunday, December 15, 2019. Where: Burlington at UVM, but don’t remember exact date. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916142

ST. ALBANS WALMART

TUTU

We both were in line at the St. Albans Walmart, and you asked if a tutu and Barbies were good children’s gifts for your friend’s daughter’s birthday party. I unfortunately didn’t ask if you wanted to bring a date to this big event, because I was free all day. Since I missed this one, let’s grab a drink sometime instead. When: Saturday, October 12, 2024. Where: Walmart. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916141

HATE TO LOVE

Or love to hate? Who will push the boundaries next? After all the tests are passed and the answer is still “sit and wait,” will you then see that it is you with the problem? Everyone else does. When: ursday, October 10, 2024. Where: I don’t, but they see me. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916140

WATERBURY MAN OF MY DREAMS

Around 7 p.m., you were at the Waterbury Shaw’s. About six foot ﬁve, wearing a black T-shirt, dark hair and Carhartt overalls. I’d love to sit in your lap and massage your hands while we talk about life. With the season changing, maybe we can drink a warm milky beverage and watch some cozy movies while we kiss. When: Monday, October 7, 2024. Where: Waterbury Shaw’s. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916138

De a e Voyant,

good friend of mine died last year and I miss her terribly. I’ve been considering consulting a medium,

Some years ago, a friend’s mother came to town and a group of us got together to meet her. We were mixing and mingling at a bar, and the mom came up to me and said: “ is might seem weird, but I have a message for you.” She proceeded to tell me that she was a bit of a medium and that she saw a man with crazy hair, with his hands on his head, who wanted to tell me to “keep doing the thing with the music.”

STEEPLE MARKET

We stood next to each other in the meat section. You commented that you liked my J.Crew sweater. I wish I would have caught your name. I’m new to the area — if you are single, please reach out! When: Friday, October 4, 2024. Where: Steeple Market, Fairfax. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916137

POETRY WOMAN

Mia - Last time, we drove to campus. Since then I’ve moved neighborhoods, but I haven’t stopped thinking about you. If you’re still up for it, I’d like to buy you that drink. Per Louise Glück: “You want to see my hands? / As empty now as at the ﬁrst note. / Or was the point always / to continue without a sign?” When: Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Where: South Willard Street. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916136

SMILE

I saw you downtown doing that Elaine dance and almost fell in love. I was the lost-looking guy with a crazy eight jacket on. I will be downtown again soon. If you want to catch up and dance again, message me here. When: ursday, October 3, 2024. Where: Rí Rá Irish Pub. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916135

GRAND?

Are you keeping hope alive or reveling in sadistic pleasure over the perfect timing of a brief moment? I’m not strong enough right now, and you know this. is is not a concession or meeting where you’re at. is is torture, and killing my humanity isn’t helping anymore. When: Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Where: Same place, different time. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916134

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. #91613

I didn’t think it was strange at all because I knew exactly who she was talking about. It was my brother Michael, who had died a few years prior.

One of my favorite photos of Michael was taken on a Christmas morning

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

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

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

sometime in the ’70s. In it, he has his hands on his head like he’s just woken up. You can’t really see his hair, but in the eulogy I gave at his funeral, I referred to him as “the guy with the crazy hair.”

I never told anybody, but I had always been sad that he had never gotten to see one of my bands perform.

is woman didn’t know me from Adam and there was no reason for her to be making up such a thing. So yes, I believe that some people really do get messages from the other side. However, I’m leery about paying money to receive those messages. If you decide to see a medium, be sure to do a lot of research before choosing one. In the meantime, I suggest that you try communicating with your friend yourself. I know a lot of dead people and I talk to them all of the time. Most often, it’s a one-sided conversation, but I ﬁnd that acknowledging their presence helps keep their memory alive.

Good luck and God bless,

SWM, bi, seeking guys for fun. Any race. I’m 6’1”, 175 lbs. Clean, safe and discreet. Love being a bottom. Respond with a phone number. #L1804

Handsome SWM, younglooking 60, yearning for a woman’s connection and intimacy. Seeking friendly relations with slim-average 45-60, kind, smart, respectful, humorous, playful. Activities indoors and outdoors — dinners, talks, walks, nature, TV, entertainment, day trips, overnights, spontaneity, hobbies, more. #L1803

GM looking for hookups. Age and race not important. #L1796

I’m a SWM seeking a Black couple, both bi. I’m clean, a nonsmoker and don’t drink. Would like a weekly meet, on weekends. My place is private. I only date Black men and women. Age no problem. Phone. Serious. #L1802

Mid-60s, SWM, 6 ft., 175 lbs. Looking for a forever romance but just meeting with new friends can work, too! Extremely romantic and passionate! I stay active as I run, hike, bike; play golf, tennis and pickleball; and work out at the Edge. Full of spontaneity and love dancing, travel. I will love you snuggling in my arms always as I shower you with love and romance! #L1801

HOW TO REPLY TO THESE LOVE LE ERS:

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).

YOUR MESSAGE ON THIS PAGE!

1 Submit your FREE message at sevendaysvt.com/loveletters or use the handy form at right.

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

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

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

Int net-Free Dating!

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 GM, mid-60s, seeking a SM, 70s, passionate. Enjoy many activities: nature walks, camping. Let’s talk, hopefully meet. #L1791

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

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)

le ers. DETAILS BELOW.

Abstract portrait artist in need of a discreet female model (18-28). #L1795

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 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

(MORE)

HELP: 802-865-1020, EXT. 161, LOVELETTERS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

THIS FORM IS FOR LOVE LETTERS ONLY. Messages for the Personals and I-Spy sections must be submitted online at dating.sevendaysvt.com.

THU., OCT 24

QUEEN CITY BREWERY (EVENT SPACE), BURLINGTON

Halloween Cookie Decorating Class

Vintage Piping Cake Decorating Class

THU., OCT 24

RED POPPY CAKERY, WATERBURY VILLAGE

Ragas for Diwali - A Concert of North Indian Classical Music

THU., OCT 24

CONTOIS AUDITORIUM, BURLINGTON

Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) Community Dinner

THU., OCT 24

STOWE STREET CAFÉ

Taxidermy Terror at the Fairbanks Museum

FRI., OCT 25

FAIRBANKS MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM, ST. JOHNSBURY

"Voile Levée" A Hallowtide's Dance for the Living & Lived

FRI., OCT 25

GRANGE HALL CULTURAL CENTER, WATERBURY CENTER

Valley Gone Madder - Halloweez

Experience

FRI., OCT 25

AFTERTHOUGHTS, WAITSFIELD

Queen City Ghostwalk Darkness Falls Tour

FRI., OCT 25

COURTHOUSE PLAZA, BURLINGTON

The Village Idiots w/ Of Conscious Mind

FRI., OCT 25

THE UNDERGROUND - LISTENING ROOM, RANDOLPH

Vermont Tech Jam 2024

SAT., OCT 26

HULA, BURLINGTON

Instant Headshots at Vermont Tech Jam

SAT., OCT 26

HULA, BURLINGTON

2024 Halloween Spoketaular with FOTW and Catamount

SAT., OCT 26

CATAMOUNT OUTDOOR FAMILY CENTER, WILLISTON

The Magnetica Concert

SAT., OCT 26

MAGNETICA PERFORMANCE SPACE, BURLINGTON

Apples, Oysters, and Chocolate: The Fascinations of Rowan Jacobsen

SAT., OCT 26

HOTEL VERMONT, BURLINGTON

Green Mountain Roller Derby Presents Terror on the Track

SAT., OCT 26

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION, ESSEX JCT.

Tree Identification for Birders and Friends

SUN., OCT 27

BIRDS OF VERMONT MUSEUM, HUNTINGTON

Halloween Roller Disco (Family-Friendly)

SUN., OCT 27

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION, ESSEX JCT.

Halloween Roller Disco (Age 18+)

SUN., OCT 27

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION, ESSEX JCT.

TRS Live: Amystera (Aram Bedrosian Trio) - Immersive Halloween Experience

SUN., OCT 27

TANK RECORDING STUDIO, BURLINGTON

Show Her the Money: Movie Screening

WED., OCT 30

HULA, BURLINGTON

Pre-order turkeys by nov. 17 th

PRE-ORDER THANKSGIVING TURKEYS, PIES, AND SIDES

Pre-order pies & sides by nov. 24 th

Sides

*not a certified gluten-free facility, may contain traces of gluten

Small gathering or large, we’ve got you! Plus, our homemade sides include tons of vegan and gluten-free* options

Pick-up

Pies

Cut into our Classic Creamy Pumpkin, Rustic Apple, Toasty Pecan, and Vermont Maple Cream. Available in gluten-free* and vegan options!

November 26 th and 27 th

Turkey

Humanely raised, antibiotic-free turkeys sourced from trusted farms we’ve partnered with for almost 40 years:

•Adam’s Turkey (Westford, VT) $4.59/ lb.

•Mary’s Free Range Organic Turkey (Fresno, CA) $5.49/ lb.

• Misty Knoll Turkey (New Haven, VT) $4.39/ lb.

•Stonewood Turkey (Orwell, VT) $4.19/ lb.

our founder, katy, with farmer judy adams at adams turkey farm in westford, vermont