Seven Days, February 26, 2025 by Seven Days

WEEK IN REVIEW

FEBRUARY 19-26, 2025

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INDIVISIBLE?

Ragin’ Canadians

President Donald Trump’s threat to impose sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods and his stated desire to annex the country have prompted its residents to cancel trips to Vermont.

Abby Long, executive director of the Burke-based bicycling network Kingdom Trail Association, told state lawmakers last ursday that she’s heard from Québécois trail users. e message, Long said: “ ey love us, but they won’t be visiting for four years or until our political environment shifts.”

Kingdom Trails is one of the Northeast Kingdom’s biggest tourist attractions, logging about 135,000 annual visits. About 40 percent of its users are from Canada.

Steve Wright, president and general manager of the Jay Peak Resort near the Canadian border, said cancellations of trips by Canadians have spiked. He estimated that 30 to 40 percent of visitors to the resort, which includes a ski area, hotels, a golf course and a water park, are from Ontario and Québec.

State ofﬁcials could not quantify the overall impact on Vermont tourism, but department leaders said they are taking steps to increase advertising to Canadians in response.

President Trump launched a major broadside against

Canada on February 1, declaring he’d add a 25 percent tariff to Canadian imports. Canada threatened retaliatory tariffs.

Trump retracted that proposal on February 3, before it went into effect. He later reiterated his vow to annex Canada and turn it into America’s 51st state.

e Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing has also received reports of lodging cancellations, as well as complaints from Canadians.

“ ey’re saying in a nutshell, ‘We’re upset, we’re canceling our trip,’” Commissioner Heather Pelham said. “We’ve written back to say, ‘We’re still your friends, and we’d love for you to come back.’ Most people have been actually really nice in responding.”

She added that she thinks some of the drop in business might be attributable to the low value of the Canadian dollar.

e department will tailor its ads in Canada to include a “ready when you are” message that doesn’t go into detail about the geopolitical situation.

“We think it’s a better strategy not to wade into the speciﬁcs of what the federal government may have threatened,” Pelham said. “We can just say, ‘We’re still the same state we were six months ago.’”

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

Sixty-six percent of Vermonters overall disapprove of Trump’s job performance so far, a UNH Survey Center poll found. But 86 percent of state Republicans approve.

BAD AIR

Testing found elevated airborne levels of PCBs in several areas of Hartford High School and its career and technical center. A high score no one wanted.

UPHILL BATTLE

Killington Resort will not host a women’s World Cup ski race this year because a chairlift is being replaced. Maybe next year?

LEGAL LOSS

The Vermont Asylum Assistance Project, which provides legal representation to noncitizen immigrants, lost funding and laid o half its sta . Blame Trump.

That’s how many World Cup races Burke Mountain Academy-trained Mikaela Shi rin has won after chalking up another victory, in Italy. Congratulazioni!

TOPFIVE

TOWNCRIER

LOCALLY SOURCED NEWS

A Groundbreaking Sheriff

Stephen Bates was a former slave from Virginia who eventually made his way to Vergennes, where in 1879 he was elected sheriff — a role he held until his death. In a history piece, the Addison County Independent reports that Bates was known for a kind heart and his skill with horses.

PIECING IT TOGETHER

Noelle Westbom, 18, quietly made her way through a maze of tables and chairs earlier this month at the KelloggHubbard Library in Montpelier. As a volunteer judge for a jigsaw puzzle contest, she held a timer and encouraged the contestants, who leaned over their 500-piece puzzles, vying to ﬁnish ﬁrst.

e atmosphere was far more relaxed than what Westbom experienced in September, when she competed in the World Jigsaw Puzzle Championships in Valladolid, Spain.

“People there are very serious,” Westbom said of the ﬁrst puzzle contest in which she was a participant.

She’s looking forward to the USA Jigsaw Nationals in Washington, D.C., this April; Westbom, a Montpelier resident, will compete in the individual event.

She said she’s trying to hone her ability to ﬁnd tiny, almost imperceptible differences between pieces, such as a shade of blue that stands out in an expanse of sky.

“One of the biggest things is being able to recognize small changes in color and pattern,” she said. “Something a lot of people struggle with is gradients and natural settings, like leaves, sky and fur, because it’s so repetitive-looking.”

Westbom said she acquired her love of jigsaw puzzles from her mom, Nicole, the children’s librarian at Kellogg-Hubbard. Family lore says Noelle tried to complete one when she was barely older than a toddler.

She’s taking the SATs in a few weeks and plans to study mechanical or electrical engineering in college. Westbom knows she can’t make a living from “puzzling,” but she likes the friendly nature of the competitions. e prizes come in handy, too.

“Puzzlers can always use more puzzles,” she said.

ANNE WALLACE ALLEN

COMPILED BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN & MATTHEW ROY

Noelle Westbom at a Montpelier puzzle contest

Bikers on a trail of the Kingdom Trails network

BERN AFTER READING.

Paula Routly

A ‘THRILLING’ SEASON

Our Spring Session runs from March 17 to May 30.

We offer classes at all levels (beginner, intermediate, and advanced), meeting in person, via Zoom, or hybrid.

Cathy Resmer

Don Eggert, Colby Roberts

NEWS & POLITICS

Matthew Roy

Ken Ellingwood, Candace Page

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

ARTS & CULTURE

Dan Bolles, Carolyn Fox

Chelsea Edgar, Margot Harrison, Pamela Polston

Jen Rose Smith

Alice Dodge

Chris Farnsworth

Rebecca Driscoll

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

Alice Dodge, Angela Simpson

Katherine Isaacs, Martie Majoros

DIGITAL & VIDEO

Bryan Parmelee

Eva Sollberger

James Buck

Je Baron DESIGN

Don Eggert

Rev. Diane Sullivan

John James

HOW TO TREAT THE VANCE FAMILY

[Re “Incoming: Vice President JD Vance Plans Vermont Ski Excursion,” February 24, online]: One of the things we do here in Vermont is speak out. But another thing is hospitality. We rely on our visitors; we try to give them a good time. We are happy when they come, happy when they leave.

Joe Sexton’s “Year of the Dogs” [January 29] is just another dose of adrenaline that the University of Vermont’s men’s soccer has administered to every backer of its side and followers of all Vermont state soccer. The home regular season matches had us all on the edge of our seats! Hosting and decisively dispatching well-known college soccer teams, our side was dominant! After the initial tournament road wins and watching on TV the potential upcoming opponents, it was obvious that the ranking of our gold and green was askew! They never gave up. Never!

The game in Cary, N.C., was incredible! Those Vermonters who typically stay within the borders of New England were there in force; we knew we belonged! So, the parade and Sexton’s stories within the story have helped us relive our thrilling season and understand the player and mentoring chemistry that coaches Rob Dow, Brad Cole and sta created! Thanks for the memories!

SPRING TREE SALES

Je Baron SALES & MARKETING

Colby Roberts

Robyn Birgisson

Michelle Brown, Logan Pintka, Kaitlin Montgomery

Carolann Whitesell ADMINISTRATION

Marcy Stabile

Gillian English

Madison Storm

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Luke Awtry, Daria Bishop, James Buck, 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.

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I hope that Vermonters opposed to the current administration — most of us, perhaps — do not use this as an opportunity to be strident. A civil protest that is clever enough to have to explain it gently to the kids would be more than enough. Let’s not conform to some poor trope of our state. The owner of the Pitcher Inn is absolutely correct. Theirs is a business, and they need clients. They cannot like or dislike their visitors. Let’s remember to support them.

The best reward for Vermont is to have the Vance family go away with ﬁne memories of their trip, of Vermont. Let’s let them be a family on a nice weekend.

Rob Bast HINESBURG

HISTORY LESSON

Thanks so much for your insightful historic analysis in [“Reform Redux: Gov. Phil Scott’s Proposed Education Overhaul Resembles Past Plans to Address Long-Standing Challenges,” February 19]. It’s rare to have historic context provided in the coverage of an issue, resulting in piecemeal and superﬁcial discussion. In this story, education reporter Alison Novak went back not only to former Vermont governor Phil Ho but also to the early 19th century! Well done.

John Franco BURLINGTON

TRY PLATTSBURGH

[Re From the Publisher: “Getting There From Here,” February 19]: Check out Allegiant Air in Plattsburgh, N.Y. It only o ers nonstop ﬂights to areas south! And it’s a lovely little airport.

Sarah Hooker MARSHFIELD

CORRECTION

Last week’s food story headlined “Bobcat Café & Brewery in Bristol Has Sold to a Pair of Brothers” had incorrect ages for the Ruggiero brothers. Jon is 48, and Christopher is 45.

Hank Bechtel BURLINGTON

KEEP COVERING TRUMP

I greatly appreciate Seven Days’ coverage of national political news, such as Rachel Hellman’s excellent articles on Vermont organizations reacting to the Trump administration’s cruel and unwise decision to pause all federal loans and grants [“Vermont Orgs Announce Layoffs, Cutbacks After Funding Freeze,” January 31, online; “Vermont O cials Still Wary After Trump Cancels Funding Freeze,” January 30, online; “Vermont Delegation Blasts Trump’s ‘Unconstitutional’ Federal Funding Freeze,” January 28, online].

In the past few weeks, President Donald Trump has conducted a lawless presidency, committing acts that put our nation, democracy and way of life in danger. Among the worst are the illegal firing of the inspectors general who keep an eye on government agency spending; the illegal firing of FBI personnel who investigated the January 6, 2021, attack on our Capitol; and giving his billionaire crony Elon Musk and his tech-bro underlings access to the U.S. Department of the Treasury payment system, which includes your Social Security earnings and benefits, your tax refunds, and your bank accounts into which federal funds are deposited.

We must resist this attempt to overthrow our government and destroy the laws that make it possible for a civil society to function. Please ask our three federal representatives — U.S. Rep. Becca

Balint, U.S. Sen. Peter Welch and U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders — to do everything in their power to resist Trump’s immoral and unconstitutional power grab. The more our representatives understand that we support their opposition to Trump’s tyranny, the more forcefully they will speak and act.

Charles Fergus LYNDON

‘TAX THE RICH’ FOR SCHOOLS

This year we are seeing a new attempt by some legislators and the governor to “reallocate” resources away from community schools [“Details Emerge on School Funding Plan — but Big Questions Remain,” February 3, online]. Vermonters should reject these attempts outright.

We know from years of proposals by conservative lawmakers that school consolidation doesn’t work. It guts communities, leaves buildings vacant and offers minimal savings.

With a bulletproof supermajority in 2023, Democrats had the power to lead boldly and create a fairer, more sensible tax system. They didn’t. Instead, they told working-class Vermonters, already frustrated with the status quo, to accept a 14 percent tax hike during these difficult times.

In response, voters delivered a damning rejection of our broken tax system in 2024. Democratic leadership has responded by working with Republicans to “reform” education to contain political fallout — not to strengthen schools. As a result, Republicans now hold key leadership positions on legislative

committees, while Democrats, fearful of further losses, shy away from bold action.

Meanwhile, the Vermont Progressive Party is offering a real alternative: Let’s fund our schools through a progressive income tax instead of a regressive, flat property tax. While the wealthy few continue to get richer, kids’ music and arts programs are being phased out, and students are being bussed 45 minutes away just to attend school. That’s wrong. Tax the rich, fully fund our schools and move away from an education system propped up by an outdated property tax model.

The new proposed education plan is a threat to communities everywhere; we need to push back and demand something better.

Nick Brown BURLINGTON

Brown is cochair of the Burlington Progressive Party and a coordinating committee member for the statewide Vermont Progressive Party.

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Bern Rekindled

NEWS+POLITICS 14

Side Hustle

Four of ﬁve Milton Selectboard members are also Vermont lawmakers. Here’s why dual roles such as theirs have become commonplace.

Vice President JD Vance Plans Vermont Ski Excursion

What’s on Your Ballot?

Wastewater issues, “community conduct” and housing round out the issues Vermont voters will decide on March 4

Many School Districts Are Cutting Sta Ahead of Budget Votes

FEATURES 24

‘Gary Was Old School in All the Best Ways’ Life Stories: Gary Miles Chassman, August 9, 1940-December 8, 2024

Flashback Dance e Lavender Scare recounts U.S. government efforts to ban gay people from federal jobs

Speaking Volumes to Open in Downtown Randolph

Thornton Wilder, Meet Noah Kahan

e Chandler’s rendition of Our Town incorporates hit music by the Vermont singer-songwriter

Bake My Day

Students at Newark Street School make meals for

Printer Jam

In Cabot, Prints on Paper Studio brings new ideas to old techniques

Getting Scrappy: Dianne Shullenberger’s Fabric Collages

At the Newark Street School, fourth and ﬁfth graders meet up every Wednesday after school to prepare meals for six seniors. Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger traveled to Newark to see the students make mini meatloaves, mashed potatoes, peas and cookies, then she met a 91-year-old who enjoyed the meal.

A Story of Gardening A Story of Gardening

The 2025 Vermont Flower Show

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stroll through the Grand Garden Display filled with flowering bulbs, shrubs, trees, and water features!

• Shop the Flower Show Marketplace with over 100 vendors related to horticultural/gardening/home/accessories.

• Choose from over 40 educational Seminars and Workshops on a variety of topics.

• Experts on-hand all 3 days to answer your gardening and landscaping questions.

• Family Activity Room: Come dig for worms, plant a flower, and make a craft and enjoy Magicians Without Borders & No Strings Marionette performances.

• Local bookstore with a great selection of books to choose from.

• The Federated Garden Clubs of VT, North District will present a National Garden Club Small Standard Flower Show: “The Story of the Garden.”

• Plant Sale at the end of the show on Sunday.

• Hours: Fri & Sat – 10am – 6pm; Sun – 10am – 4pm.

March 7, 8, 9

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION ESSEX JUNCTION, VERMONT

Image by Freepik

MAGNIFICENT

MUST SEE, MUST DO THIS WEEK COMPILED BY REBECCA DRISCOLL

SATURDAY 1

HOOTIN’ AND HOLLERIN’

Whoooo is out there? Vermont Institute of Natural Science’s Owl Prowl snowshoe stroll in Quechee allows avian admirers to explore the center’s wooded trails at just the right time — dusk. As the day winds down, nocturnal ﬂiers power up, and a leaﬂess March canopy provides ideal conditions for witnessing their remarkable, stealthy search for prey.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 54

FRIDAY 28 & SATURDAY 1

Britain’s Got Talent

Award-winning British vocal ensemble the Gesualdo Six hop the pond to play the University of Vermont Recital Hall in Burlington and the United Community Church in St. Johnsbury. Made up of the UK’s ﬁnest consort singers, the

SATURDAY 1

When Pigs Fly

Intrepid Nordic skiers go hog wild for the annual Pig Race at the Blueberry Hill Outdoor Center in Goshen. Come sleet, snow or shine, the costumed event offers at-your-own-pace adventures through groomed and ungroomed trails, peppered with jumps and agility obstacles — and maybe an epic spill or two. Postrace, entrants reward their hard work with wood-ﬁred pizza, a pig roast and prizes.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 55

SATURDAY 1

Dynamic Duo

Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe presents Jazz at the Peak: Pete Malinverni & Janis Siegel — a musical tour through the Jazz Age, one of the most intoxicating eras in American history. Internationally extolled for his deep connection to the genre, acclaimed pianist Malinverni shares the spotlight with power vocalist Siegel to perfectly capture the revolutionary music’s essence.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 55

SATURDAY 1

Sleepless in Québec

Dust off that passport! Night owls cross the border for Nuit Blanche, Montréal’s citywide extravaganza of late-night arts activities. e Place des Arts and other spectacular institutions keep their doors open until midnight, and outdoor projections, sculptures, performances and workshops await visitors around every corner.

SEE GALLERY LISTING AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/ART

SATURDAY 1 & SUNDAY 2

All Tucked In

Montpelier’s Lost Nation eater mounts an enchanting adaptation of Natalie Babbitt’s cherished children’s book Tuck Everlasting, performed by rising stars ages 9 through 17. Beloved characters jump off the page and onto the stage in a musical production packed with ensembleoriented song and dance, wowing audiences of all ages with endless imagination, warmth and spirit.

— spanning from Renaissance to British folk

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 57

CALENDAR LISTINGS ON PAGES 54 AND 55

SUNDAY 2

Baby Sharks

We have a deal! Wantrepreneurs become entrepreneurs at Champlain College’s “Shark Tank”-style Elevator Pitch Competition ﬁnals in Burlington. Viewers watch with bated breath as more than a dozen gifted students from various years and majors deliver captivating 90-second pitches to ﬁctitious judges — including Abraham LinkedIn and Ed Venture — for sweet cash prizes and bragging rights.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 55

Weekend at Bernie’s Rallies

A lot of planning goes into assembling this newspaper each week. Cover stories, in particular, may be in the works for months. Typically, half a dozen or so are being reported, shaped, written or edited at any given moment. But sometimes we feel compelled to respond to the news of the day, which is why we decided to scrap our carefully laid plans this week and put Vermont’s senior U.S. senator on the cover — again.

Since Donald Trump won the presidential election in November, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has been explaining to dumbstruck Democrats and Progressives his theory of why it happened. Postelection, he was all over the airwaves. Now he’s calling out — in simple language that people can understand — what Trump and his billionaire sidekick Elon Musk are doing to dismantle U.S. government agencies.

involved driving for hours across frozen farmland and chatting up folks in subzero temps.

After Kevin described the enthusiasm he encountered — organizers in Omaha had to switch venues to accommodate a larger-than-expected crowd of 3,000-plus — news editor Matthew Roy decided on Saturday to swap out this week’s planned cover story and replace it with Kevin’s dispatch.

NO ONE IN POLITICS IS MORE ENTITLED TO SAY “I TOLD YOU SO.”

A loud and unrelenting critic of personal and corporate greed, Sanders has been sounding the alarm about America’s growing income inequality for 50 years. In 2025, no one in politics is more entitled to say “I told you so.” Weirdly, Sanders also seems to be the only guy out there actively motivating the left to get up, dust off and resume the fight. The “millionaires and billionaires” he’s always railed against have become the “oligarchy.”

We knew he was holding rallies over the weekend in Omaha, Neb. and Iowa City, Iowa, hoping to pressure Republicans in those two Congressional districts to vote against draconian budget cuts proposed by President Trump. Reporter Kevin McCallum had planned to watch a live stream of the events and write a news story about the ways in which Vermont’s federal delegation is opposing the current administration.

But last Wednesday, after discussing Sanders’ travel schedule, we decided to put Kevin on a plane and send him to the heartland to deliver an eyewitness account. We wanted to know: Can our 83-year-old firebrand senator, who was twice a major candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, in 2016 and 2020, still energize crowds outside Vermont, even when he’s not running for office? How is his message landing with Midwestern voters?

Fortunately, Kevin, who typically covers the Statehouse, embraced the last-minute assignment. His “weekend” of reporting started at 4 a.m. on Friday and

Our multitalented correspondent also took the photos that illustrate the piece. It helped that Lisa Gerlach, former Vermont lieutenant governor David Zuckerman’s erstwhile chief of staff, was there, working the weekend for Sanders. She led Kevin to a spot — close enough to the stage — to get some good shots of the senior senator.

Of course, our design team got involved in the lastminute switcheroo, reviewing the images Kevin was sending from the field and rearranging the paper’s “dummy” that shows where all the stories and ads will appear.

And, as luck would have it, Kevin and Sanders wound up on the same return flight. Not one for chitchat with journalists, the senator kept his distance from our intrepid reporter but seemed happy to pose for selfies with travelers at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Ten years ago, candidate Sanders was flying around the U.S. in a chartered plane, speaking to crowds of 20,000. Back in “economy,” this man of the people — and the podium — is no less fired up.

Paula Routly

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Side Hustle

Four of ﬁve Milton Selectboard members are also Vermont lawmakers. Here’s why dual roles such as theirs have become commonplace.

BY HANNAH BASSETT • hbassett@sevendaysvt.com

Chris Taylor settled into his chair at the front of the room, his nameplate on the table before him facing the audience. Taylor surveyed the small gathering of residents and town employees who had ventured out on a cold, windy February evening for a Milton Selectboard meeting. The agenda laid out a range of town issues needing action, from road conditions to contracts for emergency dispatch services.

Taylor had just come from a long day working in Montpelier as a state representative. So, too, had three of his four fellow selectboard members: Leland Morgan; Leland’s nephew, Michael Morgan; and Brenda Steady. Now they were all back at work guiding their hometown a airs in a meeting that highlighted the overlap between state and local issues — as well as the dual roles of many o ceholders.

Roughly one in six people serving in Vermont’s state legislature also hold local elected office. The surprisingly large number of people in dual roles reﬂects not just electoral victories but also the common path from local office to state government, current and former legislators told Seven Days . The work in each forum informs the other, they said, and helps them foster greater understanding of how municipal and state policies intersect.

But the dual roles also highlight the challenge of ﬁnding candidates willing to take on the demanding, often thankless work of serving in state and local government. The long hours and scant compensation — Milton Selectboard

Vice President JD Vance Plans Vermont Ski Excursion

BY COLIN FLANDERS colin@sevendaysvt.com

Vice President JD Vance has booked a family ski vacation in Vermont’s Mad River Valley this weekend.

e U.S. Secret Service dropped by the Pitcher Inn in Warren on Sunday to book reservations for Vance, according to the inn’s co-owner, George Dorsey. Dorsey said he was told the vice president was an “avid skier” and would be arriving with his family. e Vances were spotted on a similar excursion in Aspen, Colo., around Christmastime with a Secret Service detail in tow.

e inn caters to “discerning guests” in search of a “relaxed and intimate setting,” according to its website. Rates range from $600 to $1,100 a night.

members earn $50 per meeting, for example — means the positions are untenable for many Vermonters, particularly for those with young children or full-time jobs. That limits who can bring their perspectives to local and state governance. Nowhere in Vermont is this more evident than in Milton.

Milton Selectboard chair Darren Adams, its lone non-legislator, stressed the positive aspect of his colleagues’ dual roles.

“For me, it’s a force multiplier,” Adams said. “You end up cutting out the middle person and having a more direct voice for Milton in the Statehouse.”

Bill Kaigle, a Milton resident and small business owner, said these legislature/

e inn has stopped accepting reservations for next Saturday because of Vance’s anticipated visit but will honor existing reservations, Dorsey said. He declined to share how many rooms the Vances booked but conﬁrmed they planned to ski at Sugarbush. He was told the Secret Service would provide more details to the Warren Selectboard this week. e news leaked on Reddit over the weekend and was later picked up by the Valley Reporter, prompting backlash online. Several commenters threatened to protest during the visit. Others defended the inn, saying any type of negative campaign would only hurt a local business.

And more than a few used the opportunity to poke fun at the VP. Several described Vance as the type of guy who would “ski in jeans.”

Social media was ﬁlled with similar expressions of discontent back in 2018, when then-vice president Mike Pence visited Vermont. Among the more colorful posts was one of a man ﬂipping off the vice president’s motorcade.

Dorsey said his business decisions do not reﬂect his personal views. “He’s the vice president of the United States,” Dorsey said. “You can not like the person and still respect the ofﬁce.” ➆

Vice President JD Vance

Michael Morgan and Chris Taylor at a Milton Selectboard meeting DARIA

What’s on Your Ballot?

Wastewater issues, “community conduct” and housing round out the issues Vermont voters will decide on March 4

BY RACHEL HELLMAN • rhellman@sevendaysvt.com

President Donald Trump’s first month in o ce has been nothing short of chaotic. With federal funding, trade and U.S. foreign aid upended or threatened, it may be a relief for Vermonters to hear that on March 4, Town Meeting Day, they will grapple with down-to-earth, close-to-home issues such as ﬂood relief, housing needs and “community conduct.”

members of the community. At the resulting special meeting in December, representatives voted 76-55 to rescind the ordinance.

In Montpelier, residents will decide whether to levy a 1 percent sales tax to pay for flood resiliency infrastructure. In West Windsor, voters will consider repealing a short-term rental ordinance that requires rental owners to apply for a town license. And in Barnard, residents will decide whether to rent the former fire department building to BarnArts Center for the Arts.

The issue is back. The selectboard, whose members fear that the December special meeting did not reﬂect the views of the whole community, has put an advisory question on the March 4 ballot that asks all local voters “whether to advise the Brattleboro Selectboard to enact an ordinance that establishes clear boundaries for acceptable behavior and conduct in the downtown.”

While some people are questioning the health of and threats to U.S. democracy, civic engagement is alive and well in the Green Mountains. Seven Days examined what’s on the ballot in more than 200 communities and o ers this look at seven questions representative of the decisions voters will face.

WHEN IN BRATTLEBORO

Last September, after police started getting more complaints about antisocial behavior downtown, the selectboard passed a community conduct ordinance. It prohibited “public urination and defecation,” “unreasonable noise,” “blocking walkways and/or entrances,” and more. Signs around town displayed the code of conduct.

Soon afterward, opponents started circulating a petition that called for a special vote of Brattleboro’s representative town meeting. (Brattleboro uses the “representative town meeting” form of government, in which about 140 elected members conduct most of the business that in other towns is open to all voters.)

The petitioners argued that the selectboard had overstepped its powers; the ordinance was unclear; and it stigmatized

Town manager John Potter said the measure will gauge the interest of a broader swath of the population in regulating conduct. “Is it just tweaks that are needed, or is it just, like, don’t even waste your time on this?” Potter said.

MULTIPLE CHOICE

On Town Meeting Day in 2024, voters in the Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools district rejected its proposed budget. An amended plan called for a controversial cost-cutting measure: closing the Roxbury Village School and busing its 40 or so students to Union Elementary School in Montpelier.

The Town of Roxbury sued the school district in an attempt to prevent a vote on the amended budget in April. But the lawsuit was dismissed, the budget passed, and the school has closed. Now, Roxbury residents must decide the school building’s fate.

Article 4 on the ballot asks townspeople whether they would like to buy the building from the school district for $1. Article 6 asks whether, if the school is purchased, the town should spend $75,000 for utilities and upkeep for a year. Yet another article asks voters to choose between three options for the building if it is purchased: reselling it but retaining a portion for the town’s use; consolidating town services in it, which would mean

selectboard members bring particularly informed perspectives on state issues. He said serving in both offices has helped the selectboard effectively advocate for the town, which has led to better outcomes for its residents.

This session, all four representatives have sponsored a bill that would enable Milton to recoup more than $180,000 paid in error by local taxpayers to the state education fund. The state auditor identified the overpayment when reviewing the town’s tax increment financing, or TIF, district late last year. (The auditor identified a similar error involving Barre City’s TIF district.)

If the bill becomes law, Milton would have more money to help tackle urgent infrastructure improvements, such as adding safety measures to intersections along Route 7 at the center of town, Adams said. The state representatives’ selectboard experience will help them be effective advocates as the bill moves through the legislative process, he added.

“Once things get out of committee, they’re going to be better versed than others to be able to make sure that it gets across the finish line,” Adams said.

Still, having the same people making decisions for Milton on the selectboard and in the Statehouse does mean fewer voices are involved in high-level decision making, Kaigle acknowledged.

“They’ve been a good voice in Montpelier, but it is becoming a specific voice,” Kaigle said. All four of the representatives from Milton, a GOP stronghold in Franklin County, are Republican.

Kaigle and others were quick to note that the representatives serve in both positions because voters chose them. It’s hard to find people who are willing to serve in either local or state government, Rep. Joseph Parsons (R-Newbury) said. In many cases, candidates are recruited by outgoing incumbents and run for office unopposed.

“It’s a story that rings true in so many small towns,” Parsons said. “You’re just trying to find people to fill these roles.”

Public service often starts at the local level. After Taylor and his wife chose Milton as the place to grow their family, he volunteered in various positions in the community before deciding to run for the selectboard. After two failed campaigns, he was elected.

Similarly, in Springfield, Rep. Kristi Morris sought local office after years of volunteering for the town’s fire department and emergency medical services. With a nudge from his family, Morris decided to run for the Springfield Selectboard in 2010 to help his town recover from years of economic malaise.

“I want to be part of the rebuild,” Morris said.

Work for the selectboard eventually introduced him to the Statehouse, where he observed state legislators in action. He realized that he could advance the issues Springfield faced in this arena, too.

Part of the challenge in attracting people to run for elected offices is that the work doesn’t appeal to everyone, said Rep. Alicia Malay (R/D-Pittsford), who also chairs the Pittsford Selectboard.

“We do a lot of sitting and listening, a lot of reading that’s not always for pleasure,” Malay said. “That’s not appealing to everyone.”

YOU END UP CUTTING OUT THE MIDDLE PERSON AND HAVING A MORE DIRECT VOICE FOR MILTON IN THE STATEHOUSE.

DARREN ADAMS

Malay also noted that the unusual time demands of serving in the General Assembly, which meets in person four days a week from January through May, mean Vermonters with caregiving duties or conflicting work schedules can’t serve. Malay waited until her children were older before she ran for the selectboard, since the role demands night work.

Compensation can be another significant barrier for Vermonters considering running for the House or Senate, according to Malay. Legislators have tried to raise their own pay in recent years. Lawmakers earn roughly $800 per week, plus stipends

for food and travel, while they are in session. Last term, Gov. Phil Scott vetoed legislation that would have doubled lawmaker pay by 2027. Members of the House and Senate also do not receive full health insurance coverage, though they can choose to pay out of pocket for dental coverage.

“It’s not an accident that … a lot of people in the Statehouse are retired or have already made their money,” Malay said.

Taylor, who works as a school-wide behavior interventionist at Milton Elementary School during part of the year, knew this before he ran for state representative. Though Taylor said he does not believe serving in the state legislature should become a full-time job, he recognizes that the time demands and pay do limit the number of people who run.

But having found a way to make it work, Taylor said, he appreciates that he can serve as a “pipeline” to ensure the town’s needs are reflected in state policy making, such as the bill he helped craft this session to recoup Milton’s TIF district overpayments.

In Springfield, Morris, who currently serves on the House Committee on Environment, said he experiences the inverse, as well: His Statehouse role has helped him be more effective on the Springfield Selectboard, particularly on issues of groundwater contamination by “forever chemicals,” or PFAS, which has been a concern among town residents.

“My environment committee is giving me the perspective of what we can do for the citizens of Springfield through legislation up here to try to protect those areas,” Morris said.

Legislators who serve on school boards experience similar advantages, said Rep. Elizabeth Burrows (D-West Windsor), who is on the board of the Mount

Ascutney School District in Windsor and West Windsor. Burrows’ assignment to the House Committee on General and Housing this session doesn’t place her at the center of school-related matters before the chamber. Still, her committee does grapple with issues such as providing affordable housing to attract teachers.

“The decisions that we make in my committee do affect education,” Burrows said. “It’s just from a completely different perspective.”

During the February 18 Milton Selectboard meeting on that cold night, Taylor and his colleagues voted to affirm that the town’s roads and bridges meet the standards set by Vermont’s Agency of Transportation. The vote was an important step in making sure Milton would be eligible for federal aid in the event of natural disasters such as flooding.

Shortly before 8 p.m., nearly 10 hours after the legislature convened in Montpelier, the selectboard adjourned. It will reconvene on the eve of Town Meeting Day, when Vermonters across the state will gather to vote on the next round of local budgets and candidates for local office.

Taylor is up for reelection, along with Adams, the board chair, and Leland Morgan. But they have little reason to worry about losing their local seats: All three candidates are running unopposed. ➆

The “Ways and Means” project details the inner workings of the Vermont legislature and explores how well it represents the interests of citizens. The yearlong series is funded by Vermont philanthropists through the nonprofits GroundTruth Project and Journalism Funding Partners. Read more about the series at sevendaysvt.com/ ways-means.

Side Hustle « P.14

Leland Morgan and Brenda Steady DARIA

Many School Districts Are Cutting Staff Ahead of Budget Votes

BY ALISON NOVAK • alison@sevendaysvt.com

Aquilas Lokossou moved to Burlington from West Africa when he was 4. As a student at Edmunds Elementary School, he met a school counselor, Pat Hulbert, who helped him acclimate to Vermont.

Having “a secure start in the public school system was huge,” Lokossou said, “and it was all because of her.”

Lokossou graduated from Burlington High School and SUNY Plattsburgh, then earned a master’s degree in school counseling from the University of Vermont while serving as a school commissioner in Burlington. is school year, Lokossou, now 24, was hired as a school counselor at South Burlington High School.

As a young Black man born outside the U.S., Lokossou said, he’s been able to form particularly strong bonds with the English language learners and students of color.

e school’s director of counseling, Meghan Sweet, agrees. “I have never seen a new counselor so naturally adept at building meaningful connections with every student he supports,” she said.

But now, Lokossou’s position is one of 15 that the district is cutting in an attempt to put forward a budget that voters will approve on March 4. e cuts have upset community members.

South Burlington superintendent Violet Nichols said the district was left with no better options. She and fellow administrators methodically combed through the district’s expenditures to create “a reasonable, responsible budget” that still upholds the state’s quality standards, she said.

Even so, South Burlington homeowners are likely to see their tax rate rise by nearly 8 percent.

South Burlington isn’t alone this budget season. Financial pressures — including an 11.9 percent increase in employee health care beneﬁts, which are negotiated at a state level, and a steep increase in special education costs — are

impacting districts across the state. As a result, some are making dramatic cuts to teachers and staff — one of the only line items they have control over. Staff salaries and beneﬁts account for around 80 percent of school budgets.

Vermont-NEA executive director Jeff Fannon told legislators earlier this month that if school budgets pass as proposed on Town Meeting Day, roughly 300 to 400 positions would likely be eliminated.

Because of the educator shortage, which is more acute in less populous areas of the state, some districts are simply cutting unﬁlled positions. Maple Run Uniﬁed School District in St. Albans, for example, is eliminating 20 full-time positions, but all but 3.5 of them are vacant.

In other districts, dozens of educators are losing their jobs.

After making 42 stafﬁng cuts last year, the Champlain Valley School District, which serves 3,700 students in Williston, Shelburne, Hinesburg, Charlotte and St. George, has no unﬁlled positions to eliminate. It is cutting 39 positions this year, including a part-time caseworker who supports homeless students, an assistant principal, behavior interventionists and high school teachers.

e proposed budget is just over 1 percent higher than last year’s and is projected to reduce property tax rates between 2.2 and 4.9 percent, depending on the town. e decrease could be greater if Gov. Phil Scott follows through on his plan to buy down taxes by injecting more money into the state education fund this year.

Lawmakers are working on an overhaul to the education system. Champlain Valley School Board chair Meghan Metzler said she’s hopeful that they will come up with a plan that “helps give everyone opportunities, rather than depleting them from some areas of the state and reallocating them.”

In South Burlington, Lokossou worries how the loss of key staff will affect students. He noted that part of being an effective school counselor is building relationships with students over the course of several years, just as “Ms. Hulbert” did with him.

“I’m thinking about the work and the connections I’ve been making,” Lokossou said. “I don’t want to leave that.” ➆

What’s on Your Ballot?

selling or leasing other town buildings; or leasing the property.

“Nothing is straightforward or easy here,” said Rene Bouchard, chair of the Roxbury Selectboard. “We need to make these decisions as a community. We need people to show up and vote on Town Meeting Day.”

HERE’S THE POOP

Across Vermont, voters will decide whether to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on a decidedly unsexy — but critically important — public investment: wastewater upgrades. South Burlington, Rutland City, Middlebury and Bethel are among the communities pursuing improvements to their sewage and water systems. Burlington’s $152 million bond proposal is the biggest.

The timing is not random. Most sewage plants across the state came online in the 1970s and 1980s, according to Michelle Kolb, a section supervisor with the Department of Environmental Conservation. Under state regulation, the treatment plants must be evaluated by an engineer every 20 years. The scrutiny has revealed deﬁciencies in the aging plants.

“Sometimes there’s just no avoiding a really large overhaul of the treatment system,” Kolb said.

Some towns want to upgrade their sewer works to accommodate critically needed new housing. Other communities, including Middlebury, are proposing improvements in anticipation of new regulations.

A LITTLE HELP FROM THE TOWN

For months, Thetford Town Service O cer Jessica Eaton encouraged a local man to ﬁle for Social Security Disability Insurance. He failed to do so. When she sat down with him, she discovered why: He couldn’t read.

Situations such as this motivated the Thetford Selectboard to propose establishing a social services coordinator position. The coordinator would receive a $25,000 salary and work 10 hours per week.

While Thetford already employs a community nurse and a town services o cer, no one aids residents who struggle to obtain the ﬁnancial support they need. Applications can be arduous. To receive the beneﬁts of Social Security Disability Insurance, for example, applicants must

prove they have a serious medical condition and provide an in-depth work history. The average acceptance rate for initial applicants is 22 percent.

“People really need guidance as to how to get out of a hole on a permanent basis,” said Steve Tofel, a selectboard member. The town’s chief of police, Michael Scruggs, hopes the position would free up his understa ed department. Police currently spend too much time helping people in crisis, Scruggs said.

Some residents have voiced concern about adding to the town’s payroll. But Tofel argues that the new position would free up the community nurse, town police and town service o cer to focus on their existing responsibilities.

The proposal is for a one-year contract. If residents are dissatisﬁed, Tofel noted, they could nix the idea next Town Meeting Day.

POLICING POLICE

Like other communities, Bennington has tried to ﬁnd the balance between keeping the community safe and holding its police accountable. After an extensive review in 2022, the town created a Community Policing Advisory Review Board to act as a liaison between the Bennington Police Department and the broader community.

look at primary evidence, such as video footage. That power lies with the selectboard.

Now, a charter review task force has proposed giving the advisory board the right to go into executive session to directly review and discuss video footage and other evidence.

the village would act as a ﬁnancial intermediary, Planning Commission chair Will Colgan explained.

CULVERT CENSUS

Frank Seawright, an 81-year-old amateur cartographer, was checking out vtculverts.org, an inventory of Vermont’s water channels run by the state’s 11 regional planning commissions, when he noticed omissions.

Community Policing Advisory Review Board chair Kelly Carroll, who is also running for the town’s selectboard, is opposed to the proposal and to giving added responsibility to the review board.

“I worry about a perceived lack of transparency,” Carroll said. “I don’t want Bennington to go the defund-the-police direction.”

HELP WITH HOUSING

When ﬂoodwaters inundated Plainﬁeld, the town lost some of its much-needed housing, including the Heartbreak Hotel, an eight-unit apartment building that collapsed and washed away in the Great Brook.

Plainfield residents are rallying around a homegrown solution. A committee of 16 volunteers has proposed creating 30 to 40 buildable lots on approximately 11 acres of land near Main Street and East Hill Road. Two residents have o ered to sell the land to the town. The goal is to break ground by this summer.

The town of Windham, where he resides and once served as selectboard chair, hadn’t added any data since 2019 and had not logged culverts on private land. While towns aren’t required to update their culvert count, they are strongly encouraged to do so, and to include privately owned ones.

“I started, you know, being a pest about it,” Seawright said. Then he gathered 22 signatures he needed to put his concern on the town meeting ballot. That’s why voters will decide whether to authorize an inventory of all public and private culverts in the town.

Jeff Nugent, senior planner at the Windham Regional Commission, applauded Seawright’s e ort.

The town would extend sewer lines, water and electricity to the parcels. Lots would sell for about $40,000 apiece to prospective homeowners or

Selectboard chair Jeannie Jenkins said the board is interested in a partnership with the police, “not taking a hammer and hitting sta over the head.”

While the advisory board reviews results of the department’s investigations of complaints against o cers, it does not

“We’ve become reliant on private developers in Vermont,” said Arion Thiboumery, project coordinator and owner of the destroyed Heartbreak Hotel. “This ect is an attempt to show that they’re not required.”

Voters must decide whether to approve a zoning revision allowing houses to be built closer together. Voters are also being asked to establish a reserve fund for the project. While the e ort is not expected to cost taxpayers anything,

During increasingly common extreme rain events, culverts that are clogged with debris or are just too small can cause streams to race around them, washing away roads. Repairs can be expensive for towns and private owners.

That’s why regional planning commissions maintain the online database, relying on town volunteers to input culverts’ location, size and condition. The data enable towns to coordinate upgrades and repairs.

Some towns provide timely data updates, while others lag, Nugent said. There is no requirement for these updates, but the towns that make them can enjoy a ﬁnancial beneﬁt when they obtain certain grants.

Nugent has encouraged towns to inventory private culverts, too. That’s because private culverts can actually cause big problems that impact nearby public infrastructure. ➆

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

lifelines

Tom Clark

JULY 23, 1944FEBRUARY 11, 2025

BURLINGTON, VT.

Tom Clark, of Burlington, Vt., passed away suddenly on February 11, 2025, at his home. e “Man for Off Seasons” was born in Burlington to Cecile and James Clark on July 23, 1944.

Tom grew up in Winooski, where he excelled at baseball, basketball and football and was the class salutatorian at Winooski High School. He went to college at Middlebury, during a time when Middlebury, the University of Vermont, Saint Michael’s and Norwich competed against each other for championships across all three sports. Tom factored in many epic battles versus his in-state rivals, at a time in sports when pitchers pitched the entire game, whether it went nine or 12 innings, and when football was a much grittier version of what we see today.

Tom was a member of Delta Upsilon while at Middlebury College, where he made many friends and talked fondly of the steward position he held that let him make meals for the fraternity weekly. Tom was also a member of ROTC while in college and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, following graduation.

It was during Tom’s time in the army that he met his future wife of 56 years, Suzanne Rousseau, on a blind date. e couple married on June 29, 1968, at the Newman Center at UVM.

Following Tom’s military service, the couple settled back in Vermont, where he went to work at IBM, and the couple started a family.

Tom worked with IBM for 25 years. Upon retirement, he started his own consulting ﬁrm, Clark Automation,

helping local nonproﬁts with their computer- and ITrelated needs. e corporate motto was famously, “Clark Automation: no job too small, some too big.”

Relocating to Underhill, Tom and Sue built their dream house, “Suz Folly,’” on the side of a hill. e couple moved their cherished woodstove to the new house, and Tom loved to stack a cord of wood almost as much as he loved stoking the ﬁres they fueled. ere are many fond memories of Tom navigating an icy driveway in the family’s frontwheel-drive minivan.

The couple recently relocated to Burlington to downsize and prepare for the next chapters in their lives. And while some questioned if Tom was ready to leave his beloved Underhill, he was won over by the ease of living a more urban life with a “flick-ofa-switch” gas fireplace and the simple joys of home meal delivery.

Tom Clark appreciated the simpler things in life: a frigid, snow-covered Vermont morning; a wellstacked woodpile; a good pocketknife; ﬂy-tying, bicycling; cooking a burger in a fry pan; and tenting. But what he loved most was his family and friends. Whether it was meticulously taking care of his grandmother Helen’s home, listening to the stories of his children

and grandchildren, or catching up with old friends, Tom knew how to make the people in his life feel special. Ever the happy hedonist, he particularly loved preparing a rich banquet and hosting friends for dinners full of laughter and good times.

Tom loved youth sports and spent many years coaching baseball and cheering on his children and grandchildren from the sidelines. He also volunteered as a Meals on Wheels driver for many years. He especially loved it when there was an extra meal for him to enjoy after the deliveries were complete.

Tom is survived by his wife, Suzanne Clark (Rousseau); his son Matthew Clark of Atlanta, Ga.; his daughter, Sarah Clark, and her husband, Frank Spaulding, of Waterbury Center, Vt., and her son, Eamon Langlais; his son Blaine and his wife, Anna Clark (DePasqual), of South Burlington, Vt., and their children, Maggie, Lizzie and Henry; his sisters, Ann Clark, Jane Clark, and Chris and her husband, Paul Rabidoux; and, of course, Miss Mocha May, his recent and beloved rescue dog. He was predeceased by his father and mother, James and Cecile Clark, and many furry children.

If interested, you may make donations in Tom’s honor to Passion 4 Paws (passion-4-paws.org/makea-donation), where Mocha May was adopted from. A celebration of life will be planned for when the sun is out and the ﬁelds have dried, and family and friends can come together and share their memories of Tom.

Arrangements are in the care of LaVigne Funeral Home and Cremation Service. To send condolences to his family, please visit vtfuneralhomes.com.

Z. Philip Ambrose

JUNE 9, 1936FEBRUARY 11, 2025

BURLINGTON, VT.

Z. Philip Ambrose, a longtime resident of Burlington and beloved professor of classics at the University of Vermont, died peacefully surrounded by his family and his cherished dog Furbo on February 11, 2025, at the McClure Miller Respite House. He was born on June 9, 1936, in Ponca City, Okla., to Zuell C. Ambrose and elma Ambrose, née Kingery. Among the childhood places dear to his heart were Ville Platte in Louisiana’s Cajun country and his maternal grandparents’ farm outside Garber, Okla., where he spent many happy summers. A graduate of Neville High School in Monroe, La., he earned his BA, MA and PhD from Princeton with a dissertation on Homeric epic.

Philip joined the faculty in the Department of Classics at UVM in 1962, where he made his career and served as chair (1973 to 1992; 2001 to 2006) until retiring in 2006. An inspiring and demanding teacher, he won the George V. Kidder Outstanding Faculty Award in 2006. His teaching of Greek mythology was legendary and attracted students from a wide range of interests and disciplines. He worked tirelessly to build and maintain high school Latin and foreign language programs in the state, establishing Vermont Latin Day in 1977, an annual event that still brings hundreds of secondary school students to the UVM campus from around the state. He also served as the treasurer and curator of funds of the Classical Association of New England for many years. He wrote a deﬁnitive paper on the study of

classics at UVM from its foundation onward. In 2018, the UVM Department of Classics celebrated his legacy with four sold-out performances of Euripides’ Helen, featuring a new collaborative translation by former students and colleagues that developed his own earlier translation of the play. In 2021, when UVM suspended support for its old and well-regarded MA program, Philip undertook to keep it going until the present day through the establishment of the Ambrose Graduate Fellowship in Classical Languages.

His knowledge of German, mastered during a year of graduate study in Vienna, combined with his musical pursuits and interest in the connections between mythology and the texts of Bach’s vocal works, led him to undertake what would become his life’s work. A fervent philologist, he translated the complete vocal works of Bach, J.S. Bach: e Vocal Texts in English Translation With Commentary, ﬁrst published in 1984 and continuously revised until his death; as well as Ovid’s Metamorphoses (2004). A ﬁne musician who could be found daily at the piano, harpsichord, fortepiano or organ, he was a founding member and performer on harpsichord and recorder with the UVM Baroque Ensemble (1965 to

1991), presenting concerts with Jane Ambrose, his dear friends Bill and Liz Metcalfe, Jill Levis, Peter Tourin, Larry Read, and others; and sang with the Oriana Singers (1981 to 2017). He devoted his retirement years to playing the organ at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Northﬁeld and to making music with Larry Read, Peter Brown and Wayne Schneider as well as with his children and grandchildren, of whom he was so proud.

Philip’s language skills enabled him to reconnect with long-lost family in Goldenstedt, near Bremen, Germany, and to lead a second life in the beautifully groomed hills of the Crete Senesi around Asciano, Italy, where he transcribed the ﬁrst translation into Italian by Bernardino Daniello of Virgil’s Georgics and translated it into English with commentary.

Philip was preceded in death by his first wife, Jane Perlis Ambrose, mother of his daughters, Lisa Kingery Ambrose Meyer and Julia Greer Ambrose Viazmenski; and by his brother, Robert Alan Ambrose. He is survived by his wife, Gretchen van Slyke, along with Lisa and her partner, Brian Woods, of Waterbury Center, Vt.; and Julia and her husband, Alexei Viazmenski, of Etna, N.H.; by his grandchildren, Zachary Raphael Meyer, Jonathan Ambrose Meyer, Miriam Rose Viazmenski and David Philip Viazmenski; and by his nephews, Robert Owen Ambrose and David Alan Ambrose, and their families. A funeral mass at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Northfield and a memorial at the University of Vermont will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the McClure Miller Respite House, 1110 Prim Rd., Colchester, VT 05446, would be much appreciated.

Sandra Lawliss

JANUARY 11, 1942FEBRUARY 14, 2025

SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT.

Sandra Lawliss of South Burlington, Vt., passed away peacefully at home on February 14, 2025.

She was born on January 11, 1942, in Newport, Vt., to Donald and Jeannine (Goulet) Moffett. She was raised in Island Pond, Vt., and after graduating from Brighton High School moved to Newport, where she met her forever love, Donald Lawliss. They married in Island Pond on November 12, 1960, and soon thereafter moved to South Burlington, Vt., where they enjoyed a full life raising their three children, Mark, Lisa and Todd.

Sandy was a woman of many talents, and family was the center of her universe. She was a deeply devoted daughter, sister, wife, mom and grandmother and loved her family fiercely. She had an extra gear for her grandchildren — she adored them and proudly attended their games, concerts, performances, and celebrations of achievements and milestones. Sandy cherished her time and adventures with her sisters, who were truly her best friends and brought her so much joy. She shared a lifetime of love with her husband, Don, and especially loved their many travels together.

Katherine Marie Leary

AUGUST 18, 1936FEBRUARY 19, 2025

COLCHESTER, VT.

Sandy was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Donald Lawliss; sisters Donna Gould and Diane Moffett; and brothers-inlaw, George Gould, William Lawliss, James LeBlanc and Alan Wilcox. She is survived by her sons, Mark (Jacqueline) and Todd (Dawn); daughter, Lisa Kenny (Christopher); and grandchildren, Matthew, Kevin, Michael and Amy Lawliss and Jillian and Molly Kenny. She is also survived by her sisters Faye Hopcroft, Deborah LeBlanc and Cynthia Koehler; sisters-inlaw, Margaret Lawliss and Claire Wilcox; and several nieces and nephews. In keeping with her wishes, services will be private. In lieu of flowers, her family suggests that donations be made in her memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org). For a complete obituary, please visit gregorycremation.com.

Sister Janet Rock, RSM

OCTOBER 19, 1927-FEBRUARY 17, 2025 • WINOOSKI, VT.

Sister Janet Rock (Sr. Mary Anthony), 97, of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, died at Our Lady of Providence Residential Home in Winooski, Vt., on February 17, 2025. Sr. Janet was born in Burlington, Vt., on October 19, 1927, the daughter of Nancy (Davis) Rock and Arthur Rock Sr. She was a graduate of Cathedral High School and Trinity College in Burlington.

Sister Janet entered the Sisters of Mercy on September 8, 1945, and professed her vows on April 28, 1948. She taught in elementary schools staffed by the Sisters of Mercy in the Diocese of Burlington: Cathedral Grammar, Christ the King and Mount St. Mary’s in Burlington; St. Monica’s in Barre; St. Michael’s in Montpelier; and St. Mary’s in Middlebury. Beginning in 1969, Sr. Janet taught at Mater Christi School and was appointed assistant principal from 1977 to 1995.

Sister retired from teaching in 1995 and served as facilities manager of Mount St. Mary Convent until 2005, when she retired. Even in retirement, she was active in her community, caring for and assisting other sisters and employees. She was an active participant in many activities and kept her eyes, ears, and heart open to what was going on in our Mercy community, among her family and friends, and in the greater Burlington community. Sister Janet was a faith-filled, prayerful woman who enjoyed life to the fullest. She will be remembered as an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, the Boston Celtics, the New York Giants and the Mater Christi basketball teams. She also

Barbara Wynroth

OCTOBER 28, 1935-JANUARY 31, 2025

BURLINGTON, VT.

Barbara Wynroth passed away quietly and peacefully at the McClure Miller Respite House on January 31, 2025.

enjoyed playing cards; organizing the annual Super Bowl party; a yearly vacation at Watch Hill, R.I.; and an annual trip to Fenway Park. During her residency at Our Lady of Providence, she thoroughly enjoyed playing bingo and joking around with the staff.

She is survived by one sibling, Pauline Adams of Colchester, Vt.; her sisters-in-law, Maris Rock and Patricia Rock; many nieces and nephews; and her sisters in religion, the Sisters of Mercy. She was predeceased by her parents, Nancy (Davis) Rock and Arthur Rock Sr., and by siblings Frederick Rock, Theresa Gordon, Sister Monica Rock, Vernon Rock, Nancy Yandow, Mary Rita Yandow, Arthur Rock Jr, Jean Shover, Thomas Rock, James Rock and Carmelita Violette.

Our prayers and deepest gratitude to the caring staff at Our Lady of Providence, the University of Vermont hospice team and her doctors, for their loving care of Sister Janet.

A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 28, 2025, 11 a.m., in the Sacred Heart Chapel at Mater Christi School (former Mount St. Mary Convent), 100 Mansfield Ave., Burlington, VT, with visiting hours prior to the funeral mass, 10-10:50 a.m. Sister’s burial will take place at a later date, in the Mount Saint Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Sisters of Mercy in support of their ministerial works: Sisters of Mercy, Attn: Sister Laura Della Santa, 356 Mountain View Rd., Colchester, VT 05446.

Arrangements are in the care of Ready Funeral Home South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington.

Katherine Marie Leary, born on August 18, 1936, in Essex, Vt., passed away peacefully on February 19, 2025, at Green Mountain Nursing Home in Colchester, Vt. Katherine was a dedicated mother, cherished friend and respected medical assistant whose gentle spirit and compassionate nature touched the lives of all who knew her. Katherine graduated from Cathedral High School and went on to a fulfilling career as a medical assistant in a psychiatrist’s office. She also made many fond memories at the Gamelin family reunions. Katherine is survived by her treasured sons Louis Jr. and Daniel and her daughter-in-law, Barbara Leary. She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren, Timothy Jr. and Erin; their mother, Sharon; her sister-inlaw, Diane; and many more nieces, nephews, friends and family.

She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Louis Sr., daughter, Michele; son Timothy Sr.; and her parents, Oliver LoRanger and Simone [Gamelin] LoRanger. A committal service will be held at Holy Cross Church Cemetery in Colchester on May 24, 2025, 11 a.m. The family would like to thank Green Mountain Nursing Home and the University of Vermont Home Health & Hospice for their care and compassion of Katherine. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in Katherine’s name.

Born on October 28, 1935, in the Adirondack mountains of upstate New York, Barbara grew up as the youngest of five children of William and Alma Wangenstein, both German immigrants. Her childhood memories included caring for the family’s chickens and spending plentiful time in the woods.

As an adult, Barbara lived in many different places, including Manhattan; Washington, D.C.; Minnesota; New Mexico; and western Massachusetts, before settling in Burlington, Vt., for the last chapter of her life. Over her 89-plus years, Barbara’s adventures included international travel, a painting career (including a MacDowell fellowship in 1973), a brief stint in nursing, modeling, protesting the Vietnam War, building her own house in New Mexico in the 1990s and — as a young woman — frequenting the original Birdland Jazz Club.

taking in live jazz music and caring for her plants. She had many friends at City Market on South Winooski Avenue and at the Fletcher Free Library, two places she loved to visit and where she was known for dispensing dark chocolates. She balanced the hardships she faced with a keen sense of wonder, a deep sense of justice and concern for her fellow humans. She especially appreciated glimpses of nature in the city, noticing flowers, trees and gardens in the streets of Burlington.

A daily reader of the New York Times and longtime subscriber to the New Yorker, Barbara remained up on current events, even through her own health struggles. She was known for both her strong opinions and her twinkling-eyed smile. She found joy in the beauty of the natural world, in animals (raccoons being a favorite) and in learning about the lives of others. She made a difference in the world.

Many thanks to those who cared for Barbara in the community and at the University of Vermont Medical Center. A special thanks to the UVM Hospice Team and staff at the Respite House. Care and compassion go such a long way.

IN MEMORIAM

Andy Van Ness

1963-2025

Andy Van Ness, 61, of Jonesville, Vt., died on January 24, 2025. He leaves behind two beloved children, Anna and Colin Van Ness. Andy was a lifelong artist known for his detailed drawings, medieval and Celtic pottery decoration, exquisite woodworking skills, and beautiful pyrography. Light a candle in his memory!

During her time in Burlington, in addition to being an activist on important local issues, Barbara lived a simple and very independent life. She loved walking,

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 6 p.m. at the Fletcher Free Library on College Street in Burlington.

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lifelines

OBITUARIES

Melody Neuman Cooke

MARCH 6, 1935NOVEMBER 24, 2024

BURLINGTON, VT.

Melody Neuman Cooke, 89, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, in Burlington, Vt. She lived a vibrant life, ﬁlled with adventure, curiosity and love.

Born on March 6, 1935, in Flint, Mich., to Gertrude and Russell Neuman, Melody enjoyed summers at a family cabin in Fenton. ere she rode horses, swam, ﬁshed, played games and watched clouds in the sky. She attended Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio, majoring in business, where she met her husband, Richard Cooke. ey married in 1956 and had a daughter and son.

Melody cofounded a professional recruiting agency, Alden Associates, in Rockville, Md., in 1968, which she successfully ran with Richard until their retirement in 1988. She was pivotal in modernizing the business and was an early adopter of computer technology. After retirement, Melody embarked on new adventures, assisting her daughter with a women’s outdoor apparel company and working at Deer Valley Resort in Utah. She and Richard enjoyed skiing in Colorado and traveling around the country in a pop-up camping trailer. She traveled extensively after Richard’s passing, gathering unforgettable experiences and forming meaningful connections worldwide.

An adventurous spirit, she rode motorcycles, piloted planes and loved Healey sports cars. She expressed her creativity through photography, graphic design, cooking and colorful clothes. She cared about the world and others, made people laugh, and loved to laugh with them. Melody embraced life to the fullest and continued to thrive in Vermont after moving there in 2010.

Melody is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Cooke, and son-in-law, omas Lucas. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Richard Cooke, and their son, David Cooke.

A celebration of life will be held on April 19, 2025, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at Shelburne Town Hall, 5240 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne, VT. Friends and family are warmly invited to gather to honor Melody’s remarkable life.

May Melody’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her and inspire others to live with the same curiosity and passion that deﬁned her extraordinary journey.

Carolyn Brown

SEPTEMBER 16,1954NOVEMBER 30, 2024

SHELBURNE, VT.

It is with great sadness that the family of Carolyn (Ann Williams) Brown of Shelburne, Vt., shares the news of her passing on November 30, 2024, at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vt. At the time of her passing, she was surrounded by family and the dearest of friends. She leaves behind her husband of 42 years, Douglas Brown; sons, Derek and Cooper Brown; stepbrother, Christopher Trogan; and many lifelong friends.

Born in 1954, Carolyn was raised in Staten Island, N.Y., where her ﬁerce spirit of adventure made an early mark and carried her throughout her life, as well as the lives of others. A graduate of the School of Visual Arts in New York City, she received a bachelor of ﬁne arts

Sister Sankofa (Shanda Williams)

FEBRUARY 6, 1974-JANUARY 28, 2025 MONTPELIER, VT.

Shanda Delores Williams, aka Sister Sankofa, age 50, of Montpelier, Vt., passed away peacefully in Adamant, Vt., on January 28, 2025.

Born on February 6, 1974, in Hartford, Conn., Shanda was the daughter of Barbara Ann (Calloway) Williams and Henry C. Williams Jr. and the younger sister of Donnamarie (Williams) Brown. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt and friend.

Shanda studied public relations at the University of Connecticut. After a 15-year career in the banking and insurance industry, she moved to Vermont in 2017. In 2019, she cofounded the Vermont Kindness Project, devoted to healing trauma through community. en, through her innovative solo business venture SD Communications, she wove together social justice programs, small business consulting, networking events, event facilitation and creation, and talent promotion to conscious-minded businesses, organizations and artists in Vermont and beyond. Her “Money Matters: Financial Liberation and Wellness” series helped several people become homeowners, and in 2023 she was named “Innovator of the Year”

degree and began her work as a skilled and highly sought-after art director in the city’s publishing world. It was in this setting that Carolyn made lifelong friendships, with one recently describing her as, “All things golden: fun, feisty, smart, artistic, down to earth, a great listener, and always up for adventure. She was the type of person that once you met her, you knew you wanted to be friends forever.”

Carolyn met her match with Doug, also a Staten Island native, whom she married on October 9, 1982. Five years later, along with their infant son Derek, they moved to Vermont, making homes in St. Albans and, lastly, Shelburne. Carolyn continued to work as a designer and art director for numerous local and national brands, including Brown Cow Graphics, Kehoe Design Agency, Vermont Teddy Bear and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, receiving design awards along the way. Additionally,

she enjoyed painting with pastels and created exquisite collages ﬁlled with intricate color and texture, while also teaching others to explore the medium.

Carolyn enjoyed her times at Lake Carmi, Noyack Bay, in Long Island, N.Y., and had fond memories growing up with her cousins dotted throughout Long Island, New Jersey and North Carolina. She traveled throughout Europe, with Italy and France among her favorite places. A devout environmentalist, Carolyn loved her ﬂower gardens, especially an abundance of black-eyed Susans.

e Browns would especially like to thank family members, neighbors and friends, as well as extending their gratitude to the nurses at the UVM Medical Center who supported their beloved wife and mother over the last year. Carolyn was predeceased by her parents, Michael Williams and Mona Williams Trogan; her brothers, Steven Williams and Michael Williams; and her stepfather, Roland Trogan.

A celebration of Carolyn’s life will be held on April 5, 2025, 2 p.m., at All Souls Interfaith Gathering (allsoulsinterfaith.org) in Shelburne, Vt., with a reception immediately following.

by the Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation. She was also a collaborator and program presenter with An Economy of Our Own. She helped organize the Everything Space’s My Grandmother’s Hands study groups and facilitated the BIPOC groups. She was also active in the Vermont Professionals of Color Network, the Vermont ReLeaf Collective, EmpowR Transformation, Community Resilience Organizations, Liberation Ecosystem and the Center for Crime Victim Services Advisory Council. She served on the Vermont Truth and Reconciliation Commission; Hunger Mountain Co-op’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee; and on the board of directors of the People’s Health and Wellness Center, and she worked for the Good Samaritan Haven. She helped create the Paij Wadley-Bailey Community Garden and helped organize numerous community events, including the Race Against Racism and several Juneteenth celebrations.

As a passionate changemaker, reparations activist, equity strategist, BIPOC community advocate and lover of humanity, Shanda was deeply committed to bringing people together. In 2024, she renamed herself as Sister Sankofa — Sankofa is a Twi word from the Akan people of Ghana that means “go back and get it” — ﬁtting for a woman who consistently turned

challenges into opportunities to heal the world.

Shanda loved being an aunt, spending time with and traveling with her sister and her many friends, and connecting with people from all walks of life. She adored animals and enjoyed pet sitting as well as sun and moon gazing. She worked hard to overcome a fear of heights, practicing on Cliff Street in Montpelier and working her way up to a trip up Mount Washington on the Cog Railway. A talented singer and actress, she performed with the Montpelier Community Gospel Choir, the Green Mountain Gospel Chorus, Lost Nation eater, Unadilla eater, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and the Plattsburgh State Gospel Choir.

Shanda will be remembered for her endearing and sometimes sassy personality, her beautiful singing voice and infectious laugh, and especially for her generous spirit and big heart. She was a master relationship builder, gifted in bringing people together through the power of love, song, word and healing. She loved Jesus and believed in God, relying on her faith to get her through all things. She was active in various churches throughout her life, including the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Barre, Vt.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, 1 p.m., at the Unitarian Church of Montpelier. In lieu of ﬂowers, her family requests donations to help Shanda be laid to rest in Connecticut. (gofundme.com/f/restsister-sankofa-with-her-ancestors) May her work live on through her family, friends, colleagues and coconspirators — and may she rest in peace and power.

Howard F. McRae

OCTOBER 15, 1943-

FEBRUARY 15, 2025

UNDERHILL, VT.

Howard “Howie” McRae of Underhill, Vt., died on February 15, 2025, at the Arbors in Shelburne, Vt., after a long battle with Parkinson’s. He was born on October 15, 1943, in Taunton, Mass., where he graduated from Bishop Coyle High School in 1961.

A quiet, deliberate man, Howie had a kind heart, an endearing chuckle and a belying twinkle in his eye. He lived, always, a very servicebefore-self sort of life, whether it was at work, at church, in the home, in his adopted Pleasant Valley or at the wax bench for the Mount Mansﬁeld Union High School cross-country ski team.

a graduate student at Notre Dame. It was at his ﬁrst job out of college, with Westinghouse Defense and Space Center near Baltimore, where he met Nancy Stewart, a fellow engineer.

Nancy and Howie married on July 29, 1972, in Texas, Md., and quickly set a goal of moving to Vermont within two years. In summer 1973, they purchased a rundown farmhouse on Pleasant Valley Road in Underhill, Vt. e newlyweds quickly became active in the tight-knit farming and outdoor communities: raising pigs and horses, cutting ﬁrewood, clearing trail, and skiing — lots and lots of skiing.

Haveg Super-Temp, later named Champlain Cable, to develop specialty wire insulations. He later worked for Belden Wire and Cable in Essex, Vt., and Richmond, Ind., and consulted for Belden in Nogales, Mexico. He ﬁnally retired from Harbor Industries, where the production staff extolled him for his kindness and for being one of the few engineers who took the time to really explain the processes to them.

Athletics weren’t an opportunity for Howie as a kid, so his primary focus was academics. After high school, he commuted to Boston College, earning a degree in chemistry before continuing his education as

Richard Paul Trudell

FEBRUARY 27, 1946JANUARY 22, 2025

SPARTANBURG, S.C.

Richard “Dick” Paul Trudell, 78, went peacefully home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday evening, January 22, 2025, in Spartanburg, S.C., following a threeyear illness.

Dick was born in Burlington, Vt., on February 27, 1946, to Edward and eresa Trudell of South Burlington, Vt. He attended South Burlington schools and graduated from South Burlington High School in 1964. He played football for SBHS and was named to the 1964 Vermont-New Hampshire Shrine Maple Sugar Bowl football team.

Son Rob and daughter Sue arrived in 1976 and 1977 and were quickly recruited to help out around the place. ey were encouraged to pursue any sports they desired: soccer, downhill and Nordic skiing, horseback and bike riding. Howie and Nancy picked up many of these sports, too. Howie was an early adopter of mountain biking in the ’80s.

In Vermont, Howie worked at

in the U.S. Navy and was sent to Ofﬁcers Candidate School, then to Vietnam. He served with the Navy Seabees Construction Battalion in 1970 and 1971 and was promoted from ensign to LTJG.

Following his deployment, Dick returned to Vermont and married his college sweetheart, Kathryn “Kay” Mary Rock, on July 3, 1971. ey celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary in 2024.

Dick earned his BS in civil engineering from the University of Vermont in 1969. While at UVM, he was a member of Lambda Iota fraternity and was its president during his senior year. On May 30, 1968, he was inducted into Tau Beta Pi, the engineering honor society. Immediately following his graduation from UVM, Dick enlisted

Dick’s engineering career began with the Vermont Agency of Transportation. He was then employed by Willis Engineering in Williston, Vt., subsequently purchased the ﬁrm and founded Trudell Consulting Engineers in Blair Park, Williston, in 1975. Dick was TCE’s president and CEO until his retirement in 2012.

During his tenure as chief engineer for TCE, Dick and his employees were involved in providing a range of services for projects such as Tafts Corner, ompson Point, Taft Farms, the Trapp Family Lodge, Smugglers’ Notch and the development of Blair Park, as well as projects in New York and Massachusetts.

In addition to Tau Beta Pi, Dick was

In the valley, free time was initially spent painting the house, replacing clapboards, reﬁnishing wood ﬂoors, or tearing out plaster and lathe — great kindling for their two woodstoves. Soon that free time became consumed by following Rob and Sue on the athletic journey Howie never had as a youth. Vacations were spent not on airplanes but at races and games and, also, in the garden, where Howie and Nancy grew and put up most of their own vegetables for years. is included a brief foray into organic carrots by the quarter acre.

e family also raised pigs and Holsteins for meat; both were sources of adventure, including the animals breaking out of fences and chasing family members. Sue’s Pony Club horses also kept the McRaes on their toes. Howie joined a group of men who mountain biked in the

a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the American Water Works Association, among others.

Shortly after their marriage, the Trudells moved to Winooski, Vt., and lived there for 23 years. Dick served 10 years on Winooski’s Design Review Board. ey moved to Grand Isle, Vt., in 1994 and lived there for 30 years. After he and his wife retired, they purchased a home in Old Bridge Village, North Fort Myers, Fla., where they spent many happy winters. roughout their lives, Dick and Kay were involved with many pro-life and political organizations, as well as supported numerous schools, colleges, hospitals, community and religious charities, and veteran’s organizations.

Dick was a founding member of the Christian Action Ministry Network and served as its president and newsletter editor for 25 years.

Dick was active in local, state and national politics. A longtime Republican, Dick served several terms as chair of both the Grand Isle Town and County Republican Committees. He was active in voter registration drives and campaigned for candidates at the local, state and national level.

Dick was a member of Post 91 of the American Legion in Colchester, Vt. He was a lifetime member of the Navy Seabees Veterans of America. He supported many veterans’ organizations, such as Wounded Warriors, Homes for Our Troops and Josh’s House in Vermont.

summer and cross-country skied in the dark on winter ursday nights, followed by popcorn and beer. It took Nancy’s encouragement every week to get the introvert out the door, but he always had a good time with the guys. ere were also countless weekend “backcountry” ski adventures around Mount Mansﬁeld over the years. Ever the athlete, Howie ran his ﬁrst marathon at age 54 and would go on to run in 28 races in 24 states plus Québec, frequently winning his age group.

If Howie wasn’t waxing skis or driving to soccer tournaments, he was trying to teach his children the periodic table of elements or consoling them when their cars met the odd ditch or telephone pole. When he became a grandfather, he patiently untangled ﬁshing line, worked on puzzles and read books to his grandchildren. Around the dinner table, he was a wonderful listener and a wise contributor to any discussion. His encyclopedic memory was widely known, especially at Trivial Pursuit games during the holidays with family and neighbors.

Pleasant Valley was home for Howie and Nancy for more than 50 years, except for a ﬁve-year “exile” to Indiana when Belden closed its Essex plant. roughout his years

e Trudells were members of the Community Emergency Response Teams in both Grand Isle, Vt., and Old Bridge Village in North Fort Myers, Fla. Dick served several terms as director for both teams.

Following the attacks on 9/11, the Trudells joined the Vermont State Guard and served from 2003 to 2008. Dick attained the rank of colonel.

Devout Christians, the Trudells attended Community Bible Church in South Burlington, Vt., for more than 30 years, with Dick serving as a deacon and church treasurer. He and Kay also attended Ignite Church in Williston, Vt.

Dick is survived by his wife, Kay, of Spartanburg, S.C. (formerly of Grand Isle, Vt.); his son, Anthony Allen, and wife JoAnn, of Media, Pa., and their daughters, Zoe and Hailey; Dick’s sister and brother-in-law, Anne and Joe Devereaux, of Dade City, Fla.; his nephew Paul Devereaux and wife Alicia, of Boiling Spring Lakes, N.C.; his niece Nancy-Anne orpe and husband Trevor, of Spartanburg, S.C., and their children; his niece Aimee Wheaton and husband Jason, of Longwood, Fla., and their children; his nephew Nathan Trudell and wife Petrie, of Rolesville, N.C., and their children; his nephew Aaron Trudell and wife Jamie, of Palm Coast, Fla., and their children; his nephew John Devereaux and his daughter, of Johnson, Vt.; his nephew Micah Trudell and wife Becky, of Eustis, Fla., and their children; and his nephew James Devereaux, of Orlando, Fla.

in Vermont, Howie taught religious education classes at St. Mary’s in Cambridge, sang in the holiday choir, and participated in many stewardship projects and fundraising activities for the church.

Howie leaves his wife of 52 years, Nancy; son, Robert (Elizabeth) of Big Sky, Mont.; daughter, Susan (Mark) Fell of Brighton, Colo.; five grandchildren, Finnegan and Maeve McRae, and Eleanor, Emmett and Otto Fell; sisters Nancy McRae of Pepperell, Mass., and Joan Ramsey of Deerfield, N.H.; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Rhea (Perrault) and Howard McRae, and sister Joyce Anctil. e family is grateful to all the staff at the Arbors for their loving care and kindness and to the hospice team and volunteers who assisted Howie. Visiting hours will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, 4 to 6 p.m., at A.W. Rich Funeral Home — Essex Chapel. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 8, 2025, 11 a.m., at St. omas Church in Underhill Center. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity or the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Please visit awrfh.com to share your memories and condolences.

Dick is also survived by one greatgreat niece. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Edward and eresa Trudell, of South Burlington, Vt.; and his brother, omas Trudell, and wife Shirley, of Palm Coast, Fla.

e family wishes to thank the staff of the memory care and skilled nursing units at Summit Hills Retirement Community for the love and compassion they gave to Dick while caring for him throughout his illness, as well as the staff at Providence Hospice and Juan Tax from Live Long Well Care, who provided additional care and companionship for Dick.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 11 a.m., at the Palmetto Mortuary, 2290 Highway 56, Spartanburg, SC. Following the service, an informal gathering for family and friends will be held at the American Legion, Post 28, 94 West Park Dr., Duncan Park, Spartanburg, SC.

Flowers for the service can be sent to the Palmetto Mortuary at the above address. Donations in Dick’s memory can be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011; to Aspire Now, 5399 Williston Rd., Suite 207, Williston, VT 05495; or to the Josh Pallotta Fund, PO Box 542, Colchester, VT 05446, which provides services to military veterans.

Dick will be interred in the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center, Vt., at a later date, to be determined by the family.

Bern Rekindled

In a new Trump era, Bernie Sanders’ crusade against oligarchy is resonating with Americans once again

STORY & PHOTOS BY KEVIN MCCALLUM

Bernie Sanders took the stage in downtown Omaha, Neb., last Friday night and surveyed the roaring crowd.

“Whoa!” Vermont’s senior senator exclaimed.

The turnout was far larger than Sanders’ team had expected. It forced a last-minute move from a modest union building to a larger 2,600-seat venue at a Marriott hotel. Even then, 800 people had to be diverted to watch on screens in an overﬂow area.

A much larger audience, 190,000, tuned in via live stream.

At the podium, Sanders smiled broadly, waved and thanked his audience for the rock-star reception.

“Thank you, Bernie!” a woman yelled.

The scene was reminiscent of the independent senator’s campaigns for the Democratic presidential nomination in the 2016 and 2020 elections, when his rollicking rallies drew as many as 28,000 fans.

This time, though, Sanders wasn’t running for higher office. Instead, his Midwest barnstorming was summed up by a sign on the podium facing the audience: “Fight Oligarchy.”

Since the second inauguration of Donald Trump, many in the nation have watched in dismay as the president has issued a ﬂurry of divisive directives to advance his “Make America Great Again” agenda. These include executive orders attempting to strike down birthright citizenship; roll back climate initiatives; and eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs, to name a few.

He’s also empowered billionaire Elon Musk, who spent $270 million to help get Trump elected, to slash the size of the federal government, a task that Musk has undertaken with legally questionable tactics and chaotic glee.

Democrats, the minority in both the U.S. House and Senate, have struggled to mount an e ective, uniﬁed opposition to Trump. While top Dems have made increasingly forceful and dire warnings about the risks to democracy, vital social programs, the economy and the climate, many people have felt not only outraged but also powerless.

Even before Sanders hit the road last week, there were indications that his crusade against oligarchy — a government where power is concentrated in the

hands of a privileged few — was gaining momentum. Over the past three months, the 83-year-old grandfather has picked up 1 million new followers on TikTok. One of his posts was viewed 30 million times.

Sanders appears uniquely poised to step up. With a practiced message that boosts workers while attacking billionaires — advanced by his celebrity status and team of experienced organizers — the Vermonter is emerging as one of Trump’s most potent critics and a key voice in the burgeoning opposition. Sanders used his old campaign playbook last week, heading to Omaha and Iowa City, Iowa, on a tour his team called “Fighting Oligarchy: Where We Go From Here.”

The urgency, Sanders told his audience, cannot be overstated.

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders speaking in Iowa

The richest people in the world are saying to the poorest people in the world that the United States is not there for you. That is a disgrace.

SEN. BERNIE SANDERS

“This country today, under Trump, faces a series of crises unprecedented in our modern history,” he told the Omaha crowd. “And what we do now will impact not only our lives but the lives of our kids, grandchildren, future generations and whether the planet itself survives.”

“I’m here in Omaha because the time to act is now!” Sanders thundered. “The time to ﬁght back is now!”

The crowd roared in response.

Old Man With a Plan

Sanders wasn’t just an old man reliving his glory days. He had purposely gone to the home districts of vulnerable Republican House members to pressure them to stand up to Trump. His goal was not modest — just to return the nation’s political power to the working class, where Sanders has long argued it belongs.

Omaha is considered a blue dot in an otherwise red state. The city voted for Joe Biden in 2020 and Kamala Harris in 2024, earning one of the state’s ﬁve Electoral College votes. U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, a Republican, represents the city and surrounding areas.

Sanders’ stop in Iowa City the next day was intended to inﬂuence U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Weeks, a Republican who won reelection last year by a mere 800 votes.

The GOP holds 218 seats in the House of Representatives to the Democrats’ 215. That’s a razor-thin margin, and Sanders urged supporters to press Miller-Weeks and Bacon to vote against a critical bill.

Known as the budget reconciliation bill, the legislation would result in “savage cuts to programs that working-class people desperately need,” Sanders said.

On Tuesday, the House pressed forward with a dramatic late-night vote on the bill. It only needed a majority to pass and so was immune from the threat of a ﬁlibuster that would require 60 senators to overcome. The margin was so tight that Republicans delayed a vote on New York Rep. Elise Stefanik’s appointment as ambassador to the United Nations until after the budget votes were cast.

House Republicans were eyeing up to $2 trillion in spending cuts, which would put all manner of social programs at risk, including Medicaid, Sanders warned at his rally. That would gut funding for community health centers, where 30

million people get their care, Sanders told the crowd in Omaha. It would also make many seniors ineligible for nursing home care, shifting those signiﬁcant expenses to their families, he noted.

But if just two Republicans in the House refuse to support it, “that terrible bill is defeated,” Sanders said.

“What I’m asking you to do is make sure that your congressman, Mr. Bacon, is one of those two Republicans,” Sanders said.

He employed the same strategy in Iowa City the next day, urging the audience to demand that Miller-Meeks vote against the bill. Voters should insist that their representatives hold town hall meetings to explain themselves, he advised.

Many attendees said they thought Sanders was employing exactly the right strategy and that Bacon might well break

with Trump on key issues, including the budget. The retired U.S. Air Force brigadier general pushed back last week on Trump’s false statement that Ukraine started the war with Russia.

“I think what he said is wrong, and it’s a shame,” Bacon told CNN. “Russia’s on the bad side here, and we need a president with moral clarity when it comes to this war.”

There is growing evidence that Republicans are facing a broader backlash from voters as the potential impact of Trump’s cuts sink in. The New York Times reported last week that even in deep-red rural Texas, Republican representatives faced a barrage of questions from constituents who are frustrated and angry with Trump’s agenda and tactics.

Tim Conn, who went to the Omaha speech, said he had been feeling hopeless before it. After working hard trying to get Democrat Kamala Harris elected president and then watching Trump return to power with a literal vengeance, he didn’t know how he could make a difference.

Inspired by Sanders, Conn resolved to contact Bacon’s o ce and demand that he vote against the budget bill.

“Bernie makes me feel that maybe it’s closer than we think,” Conn said.

Attendee Keleigh Scheuermann said she has also felt powerless over the past two months and has spent more time than she cares to admit “yelling at the TV.”

The 58-year-old unemployed health care worker, who sported a pink pussy

Keleigh Scheuermann in Omaha

An audience member ﬁlming Sanders’ speech in Omaha

Bern Rekindled « P.25

hat, said she was eager to hear Sanders’ ideas for opposing the rising oligarchy. She had some of her own. She planned to join a nationwide campaign to not buy anything from Amazon on February 28 — an effort to send a message to billionaires such as company founder Jeff Bezos.

“They have no humility or shame, so you can only hit them in the pocketbook,” Scheuermann said.

Amy Bova, another attendee, was skeptical about Republicans opposing Trump’s efforts. She had watched with dismay as Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), an Iraq War combat veteran and sexual assault survivor, bowed to pressure in December to support Trump’s choice of Pete Hegseth to serve as defense secretary. Hegseth was accused in 2017 of sexually assaulting a woman. Though never charged criminally, he later paid $50,000 to settle her civil claim, which he maintains was unfounded.

“That’s when I knew that we were in big trouble,” Bova said.

Still, she was pinning hope on Vermont’s senior senator, whom she remembers from her days in Plattsburgh, N.Y., in the 1980s, when Sanders was mayor of Burlington. Back then, she didn’t care for him.

Bova moved back to Nebraska years ago and became a teacher. Now, at 63, her views of Sanders have changed.

“He is exactly what this country needs right now,” Bova said.

Sanders’ message of standing up for the working class and against Trump’s efforts to dismantle the programs that serve them, such as Social Security and Medicaid, is hitting home like never before, she said.

“Bernie is genuine, and I think people see that, which I think makes him the right messenger at this point,” Bova said.

By the People, for the People

The core themes in Sanders’ speeches in Omaha and Iowa City were not new. Even the title of the tour was recycled, borrowed from his 2018 book Where We Go From Here. In that text, Sanders urged people to demand policies that serve working Americans, decried inequality and warned of a nation rapidly becoming an oligarchy.

But while he stressed the core themes that vaulted him to national prominence in 2016, he has retooled and sharpened his message for the current political moment.

He highlighted for his listeners the clearer-than-ever connection between

the billionaires with whom Trump has surrounded himself and the budget cuts Republicans are now pursuing.

The three richest people in the nation, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg, all attended Trump’s inauguration, as did 13 other billionaires he appointed to his cabinet, Sanders noted.

“It’s not just the rich are getting richer while working families struggle,” he said. “Oligarchy is about political power in a way that we have never seen in America.”

All of this is taking place, he said, while working people are struggling to make ends meet. He noted that 60 percent of families live paycheck to paycheck, with 20 million living on $15 an hour or less. Eighty-five million Americans are uninsured, with 60,000 dying every year because they can’t afford a doctor, he said. And 25 percent of seniors live on less than $15,000 per year.

It’s unconscionable to propose gutting programs that help poor people as a way to pay for $4.5 trillion in tax cuts that disproportionately benefit the wealthy, he said.

Sanders reserved his sharpest ire for Musk. As the head of the brand-new Department of Government Efficiency, Musk, the richest man in the world and now one of the most powerful, chose to dismantle a foreign aid program, USAID, that served the poorest and least powerful.

“So, the richest people in the world are saying to the poorest people in the world that the United States is not there for you. That is a disgrace,” Sanders said.

The crowd agreed, booing loudly whenever Musk’s name was uttered.

“Elon is a fascist!” a man in Omaha yelled.

The fact that Trump has given his largest campaign contributor the power to

slash the very government that regulates his businesses is the exact definition of oligarchy, Sanders said.

Trump and his billionaire friends are trying to project power to make people feel they have none, but they have plenty, he said.

“Our determination right now is to fulfill Lincoln’s vision of a government of the people, by the people, for the people — not a government of the billionaires, by the billionaires, for the billionaires,” Sanders said. “We will not allow that to happen.”

‘They’ve

Been Bamboozled’

Supporters started lining up outside the 725-seat Englert Theatre in frigid downtown Iowa City before 8 a.m. last Saturday, even though the doors didn’t open until 10:30.

By then, the line stretched down three city blocks and organizers were

scrambling to locate an overflow venue. They found one above a market a few blocks away, and around 11 a.m., staff began diverting people there.

Fear not, they were told. Sanders would speak twice, once at the Englert as planned and again to the overflow afterward. Between both venues, an estimated 2,000 people turned out to hear him, according to a spokesperson.

Standing on the street in front of the theater, Pat Muller said he was disappointed he couldn’t get in but not terribly surprised by the turnout. Iowa City is a liberal college town, and there has been intense and growing anger.

“He’s tapping into the fact that a lot of people have figured out that they’ve been bamboozled,” Muller said.

Brian Gibbs said his life has been upended by the administration. A park ranger at the Effigy Mounds National Monument in northeast Iowa, he was one of hundreds of National Park Service employees fired on Valentine’s Day with no warning.

The packed Englert Theatre in Iowa City

The overflow crowd in Iowa City

He is exactly what this country needs right now.

AMY BOVA

Gibbs has become something of a local hero after penning a viral Facebook post about the heartbreak he felt at losing his dream job. He spoke at the theater before Sanders.

“I am the ‘fat on the bone,’” Gibbs said. “I am being trimmed as a consequence of the popular vote.”

Other speakers denounced cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs that will make it harder to provide care and to the National Labor Relations Board that will make it harder for workers to unionize.

After Sanders spoke, the crowd spilled onto the sidewalk. College students Mia

Edison, 19, and Nora McCloy, 18, emerged bundled up against the cold but energized. Sanders was inspiring, they said, but the event also felt like the community coming together in mutual support.

Edison, who identifies as queer, said it’s daunting to think that people like her have to convince a handful of Republicans to stand up to Trump, but she thinks it can be done. After she came out, her Republican parents switched parties, she said.

“We’re all just collectively realizing that if we want change, we need to stand up and do it ourselves,” she said.

Selﬁes With the Senator

Sanders is not the only politician standing up to Trump. The two other members of the Vermont delegation, Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Rep. Becca Balint (D-Vt.), have also forcefully condemned his actions.

On the ﬂoor of the House on Tuesday, Balint did not mince words over the budget bill. “They are attacking the very programs that working- and middle-class families rely on in the country,” Balint said. “It is a betrayal.”

Welch says Trump is on a “rampage of illegality” and has overstepped his powers. Balint has labeled what Trump is doing “an attempted coup.” Both have spoken at rallies in Washington, D.C., to support federal workers and have held roundtables back in Vermont.

“Vermonters have to know we’re ﬁghting. They’re just freaked out about what’s going on,” Welch said.

But neither Welch nor Balint enjoys Sanders’ national political prominence, something on full display as Sanders headed home last Saturday. After ﬂying to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Sanders was crowded by supporters as he got ready to board his connecting ﬂight to Burlington.

Fran Hodgins, a 33-year-old state worker from Waterbury, jumped at the chance to have a photo taken with the senator as she held her 17-month-old daughter, Wren.

So did Mika Hansen, a student from Manchester Center who was returning from a ski vacation in Canada. Hansen said she worries about the planet her generation will inherit if Trump succeeds in gutting the departments that protect the nation’s forests and rolling back the nation’s climate policies.

She doesn’t care that Sanders is an 83-year-old white man. It’s what he says and how he inspires people that matters, she said.

“He has spent his life in politics,” she said, “and knows how to advocate for the political change that our country desperately needs.”

Sanders was back home in Burlington when House Speaker Mike Johnson brought the bill to the House ﬂoor.

Sanders was right about one thing — it was a squeaker. But in the end, his strategy hadn’t been enough to ﬂip votes. The GOP prevailed, and the bill passed by a 217-215 vote. A single Republican, from Kentucky, voted no.

What’s next? Sanders, Welch and Balint will be talking with Vermonters in a telephone town hall on Wednesday, February 26, at 6:30 p.m. They have already received 800 questions, and Sanders said in a phone interview that he expects thousands to listen in. The discussion will be live streamed on Sanders’ Facebook page.

Sanders made it clear that he would keep on ﬁghting. He said: “I think people all over this country — red states, blue states, purple states — are sick and tired of what they’re seeing coming out of the mouth of the administration.” ➆

Fran Hodgins and her daughter, Wren, with Sanders in Chicago

College students Nora McCloy and Mia Edison in Iowa City

Watch a video of Sen. Bernie Sanders wrapping up his remarks to supporters in Iowa City at sevendaysvt.com.

‘Gary Was Old School in All the Best Ways’

Gary Miles Chassman, August 9, 1940-December 8, 2024

BY KEN PICARD • ken@sevendaysvt.com

Whenever a customer walked into Chassman & Bem Booksellers, an independent bookstore that operated on Burlington’s Church Street from 1985 to 1998, cofounder Gary Chassman immediately posed a question. Sometimes he asked them to name three of their favorite authors or most cherished books. Other times he asked simply, “What is your passion?”

“His success was in finding a book that someone was excited to leave with,” said Jennifer Chassman Browne, Gary’s younger daughter.

For nearly four decades, Gary was a fixture of Burlington’s literary scene and a champion of the printed word — first as a bookseller and supporter of local authors and later as a packager and publisher of arty, high-end nonfiction. A lover of literature, art, photography, travel and world music, he was known for his creativity, wit and intellectual curiosity.

Gary, who died on December 8 at age 84, was remembered at a celebration of life at Chabad of Burlington, a Jewish community center. Though he was not devoutly Jewish, family and friends said, holding Gary’s memorial at Chabad was a testament to his lifelong connection to the Jewish community and his love of deep thought and spirited conversation.

Gary, the son of Harry and Molly Chassman, was born in New York City in 1940. He attended the Walden School on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, then Bradley University in Peoria, Ill.

In college, Gary met his first wife, Sally Ann Shless, with whom he had three children, Karyn, Jennifer and Josh. One of his first jobs was managing a Brentano’s bookstore in the Prudential Building in Boston. In 1972, he moved his family to the West Coast to run Huntley Bookstore, which served five liberal arts colleges in Claremont, Calif.

The couple divorced when their children were still young, and the kids grew up living mostly with their mother. But it was in Gary’s bookstores — first in Claremont, then in Burlington — that Jenn and Josh got to know their father well. Both grew up amid the stacks and eventually worked in his Burlington bookstore.

“Because I was such a reader, it was a

“Life Stories” is a series profiling Vermonters who have recently died. Know of someone we should write about? Email us at lifestories@ sevendaysvt.com.

real treat for me to go visit Dad,” Jenn said, remembering how she explored the college bookstore at age 10. “Often he would say, ‘Go look around and pick something.’”

After more than a decade of managing Huntley, Gary took a job in New York City at Aperture, one of the world’s premier photography publishers. There, he learned the ins and outs of art-based books.

In 1980, Gary married Robyn Bem and moved to Salisbury, Conn. Jenn and Josh remember spending summers at their father’s Connecticut home, where classical music was always playing and Gary enjoyed working in the huge gardens and running up to 12 miles a day.

By the mid-1980s, Gary was searching for a small college town with sufficient foot traffic to sustain a bookstore of his own. A political progressive who’d been active in the anti-war and nuclear disarmament movements and worked as an editor at the crunchy, back-to-the-land Mother Earth News, he found a good fit in Burlington. With Robyn, he opened Chassman & Bem at the top of Church Street.

The bookstore, which Gary managed, soon moved to a larger space at the corner of Church and Bank streets. With 4,600 square feet, quaint reading nooks and more than 40,000 titles displayed on tall, wooden bookcases, the store became a hub for bibliophiles and authors alike.

“You definitely felt like you were in a bookstore from a Nora Ephron movie,” said Weybridge author Chris Bohjalian, who met Gary in 1986 and held a reading of his first novel at Chassman & Bem. Sporting a jacket and tie at work every day, Gary would “appear out of nowhere from behind a bookshelf with a stack of books in hand,” Bohjalian recalled. He was always ready with a recommendation because he remembered his customers’ tastes.

Gary was also devoted to helping new writers succeed, Bohjalian said. He remembers Gary asking him to introduce an in-store reading by Pulitzer Prizewinning novelist Donna Tartt. At the time, Tartt was an unknown twentysomething author who had attended Bennington College and had just published her first novel, The Secret History. Gary ensured there were enough attendees to make the evening a special event for her.

“Gary was old school in all the best ways,” Bohjalian added. “He was eccentric, and he was idiosyncratic, and I really cherished him as a human being and what he tried to do as a bookseller.”

Gary Chassman

Books that Gary produced at Verve Editions

Chassman & Bem also introduced Gary to Patrick Brown, a longtime Burlington educator, racial justice advocate and founder of the Greater Burlington Multicultural Resource Center. Though the Jamaica native couldn’t say how Gary first developed his interest in Black culture, the two often discussed issues important to the African American community. Gary even attended the 1999 ceremony where then-president Bill Clinton awarded Rosa Parks the Congressional Gold Medal.

“Gary knew quite a lot of influential people in the Black world,” Brown noted, including actor Cicely Tyson, author and civil rights activist Julius Lester, and congressman John Lewis. “In 2005, when I brought archbishop [Desmond] Tutu to Burlington to a packed house, Gary was sitting right there front and center in the audience.”

In September 1992, as Chassman & Bem faced stiff competition from the new

MY DAD SPENT A LOT OF HIS ENERGY ON BRINGING BEAUTIFUL THINGS INTO THE WORLD.

Barnes & Noble that had opened in South Burlington, Gary sold his bookstore. By then, he and Robyn had divorced, and Gary was remarried to Deborah Boothby, a woman he’d known years earlier at Huntley.

Gary continued managing the bookstore until March 1993, the same year he founded Verve Editions, a Burlington publishing and book packaging company.

The subjects of Gary’s book projects ran the gamut: wetlands, architecture, Jewish fathers, women chefs, photos of Marilyn Monroe. In all, Gary designed, packaged and published more than 75 books.

As Jenn put it, “My dad spent a lot of his energy on bringing beautiful things into the world.”

Gary’s highest-profile project was the 2001 book In the Spirit of Martin: The Living Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The civil rights leader, whom Gary once called “the only true hero in 20th-century

exhibition catalogue and sold it to Thames and Hudson. I am forever grateful to him.”

Linda Rutenberg, a fine art photographer in Montréal who first met Gary at Chassman & Bem, worked with him on four of her photography collections, including her 2007 breakout book, The Garden at Night: Private Views of Public Edens

“Gary was very instrumental in my career,” Rutenberg said. “He was a good teacher. He was very organized and a gentle soul [who] ... knew everybody in the industry. It was a real pleasure to work with him.”

Working for him was another matter. Strident in his opinions, Gary was a tough boss and could also rub some customers the wrong way. In his 2023 book, The Upstairs Delicatessen: On Eating, Reading, Reading About Eating, and Eating While Reading, New York Times book critic Dwight Garner recalled working at Chassman & Bem, which employees called “Chastise & Blame, because one of the owners was a scold.”

“He could be difficult and demanding,” said Steven West, who worked at Chassman & Bem from 1989 until it closed, then at Verve. “But I learned a lot from him. He set high bars, that’s for sure.”

Outside of work, Gary was more easygoing and friendly, he noted. West, who started performing as a drag queen in Burlington with the stage name Cherie Tartt, said if Gary had never hired him away from another bookstore in Minneapolis, “Cherie Tartt wouldn’t have been born, and I never would have developed my alter ego. Gary was very supportive of that and would come to my shows.”

America,” inspired thousands of artworks, images of which Gary compiled into his book with accompanying text. He enlisted Nikki Giovanni, the African American writer, poet and activist, to write the introduction. (She would die, coincidentally, one day after Gary did.) In the Spirit of Martin became a traveling exhibit of King-inspired art that toured museums and galleries nationwide, including the Smithsonian’s International Gallery in Washington, D.C.

Though not all of Gary’s projects generated such fanfare, many of the writers, artists and historians he worked with expressed deep gratitude for his influence on their careers.

“Gary was such a talented man,” wrote Janie Cohen, longtime director of the University of Vermont’s Fleming Museum of Art, in a Facebook post shortly after his death. “Several years into Verve, Gary took on my and the Fleming Museum’s Picasso

Though Gary never officially retired, his son Josh said, his declining health due to Parkinson’s disease prevented him from working in his final years. He moved back to California during the pandemic, which claimed the life of his older daughter, Karyn, in March 2020. Gary returned to Vermont a few years later and died at the Arbors at Shelburne, a memory care facility.

Jenn remembers her father as someone who was “capable of moments of intense sweetness,” a side of him many people never saw.

Jenn recalled the summer during college she spent working at her father’s Burlington store and living in his house. Before leaving for the fall semester, she went into his closet, found a maroon sweater and asked if she could take it with her. Gary said no and told her to put it back.

Jenn left feeling “kind of pissed off” that her father wouldn’t part with it, even though he had a closetful of other sweaters. But when she returned to school and opened her suitcase, she found the sweater folded neatly on top. ➆

JENNIFER CHASSMAN BROWNE

Gary at the Haleakala volcano in Maui, Hawaii

Gary (center) with his wife, Deborah Boothby, and his brother, Neil Chassman

food+drink

Barre Burrow

Foxy’s is a café by day, a spooky saloon by night and a safe space always

As a pair of customers bused their co ee mugs on a mid-February morning at Foxy’s in Barre, one o ered a suggestion to the sta behind the bar: “You should have a couple cats.”

That business model already exists in town, the barista replied — Kitty Korner Café is across the street. And Foxy’s is a restaurant, so the health department wouldn’t be too keen on free-roaming felines.

grandmother’s living room, Foxy’s is more like that of your queer eccentric aunt who collects all the dead animals and maybe was goth in her twenties.”

MY ROLE IS TO KEEP A SAFE SPACE.

LIV DUNTON

But cats would ﬁt the vibe. And there are a couple of mummiﬁed ones on display in the back hallway.

The new café-bar-restaurant from Fox Market and Bar owners Liv Dunton and Doni Cain has the same kitschycozy feel as its East Montpelier counterpart. But, Dunton said, “If Fox is your gay

FOOD LOVER?

The dead animals in this case came from Cain’s 1800s farmhouse in Plainfield.

When he bought it, he found one under the kitchen ﬂoorboards and one in the shed out back. They’re a little unnerving, and only one is distinctly a cat. But both are now proudly illuminated across from an alcove that’s ideal for making out — or breaking up, depending on how you feel about the preserved pets.

The journey to opening Foxy’s involved a yearlong — and somewhat contentious — purchase of the 19th-century Wheelock

JORDAN BARRY • jbarry@sevendaysvt.com

BARRE BURROW » P.32

Owners Doni Cain and Liv Dunton at Foxy’s in Barre

Foxy’s rotating grain bowl with rice noodles

UP FOOD NEWS

BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

In Morrisville, North Country Donuts Changes Hands

Winter 2025 has brought epic snow and new ownership for a ski-area favorite, NORTH COUNTRY DONUTS in downtown Morrisville. Founder NICOLE MADDOX sold her bakery at 73 Lower Main Street to DAN GWALTNEY at the end of December for an undisclosed price.

Gwaltney, 43, a 20-year education professional, described the purchase as “a career pivot.” He and his wife, JESSICA PALMER-GWALTNEY, moved to Vermont from North Carolina in 2022 and currently live in Waterbury. As a serious hobby baker, Gwaltney said, he saw North Country Donuts as a “nice, established business, something I could walk into.”

North Country Donuts is open Friday through Sunday and sells as many as 600 doughnuts a day. Under the new ownership, the bakery team continues to produce yeasted and cake doughnut favorites, from filled Boston cream to old-fashioned glazed, along with its popular apple fritters and a few other baked goods.

Gwaltney said he doesn’t plan any major changes but does aim to reduce food waste. Hand-cut doughnuts, he said, yield a lot of dough scraps, which he’s working on repurposing into new products, such as cinnamon rolls. Trial batches will be tested during weekday pop-ups from which a percentage of sales will benefit local nonprofits.

The newly minted professional baker said he was a little worried about

starting his day at 1 a.m. but has been energized by the community welcome. He’s also been surprised by the fervor of North Country Donuts’ apple fritter fans. “They have real opinions on the density, the fluffiness, the size and the ratio of apple to dough,” he said with a chuckle.

Hepcat Vinyl Listening Bar and Café Opens in Montpelier

Inspired by extensive travels in Japan, CHRISTOPHER GLEASON has opened HEPCAT, an intimate vinyl listening bar and café at 6A State Street in Montpelier. Gleason, 45, has worked in the Vermont hospitality sector for many years and was most recently the general manager at Richmond’s HATCHET TAVERN

Over several trips to Japan, he said, he loved visiting what are called kissa: café-bars with high-end audio systems that play classic American jazz. He wanted to bring that experience to Montpelier, where he has lived for a decade.

“You go there to unwind after work, have a coffee or beer, and just sit and listen to the music,” Gleason said. He will not “outlaw conversation” at

CONNECT

House, a massive DIY renovation, and two major floods that filled the basement. Still, it “felt inevitable,” Dunton said. “We were so drawn to this building and the Barre community.”

Foxy’s had its grand opening in December. Fans of Cain and Dunton’s original spot will recognize the business partners’ now-signature elements: a little bit of irreverence, a lot of everyone-is-welcome spirit, karaoke, queer speed dating, fair prices and food you want to eat — be it a grain bowl made with local ingredients or a bag of gummy bears. It’s less market and more saloon, with added espresso drinks, a sprawling bar that serves cocktails and a big kitchen, meaning more prepared food at the market as well.

Standing in front of Foxy’s diminutive pinkish-red exterior, I wondered how all of that could fit inside. But as you enter, the space unfurls almost magically, leading from a bright front window into a darker, sorta spooky den. Visiting during the day, I was as eager to soak up the sun streaming in as any cat in the Kitty Korner Café. While the wind screamed outside, bouquets of felt rainbows and flowers dared me not to be cheery.

A full espresso menu is the latest addition to Foxy’s many offerings, which continue to shift as the team sorts out what works for it and what the community needs. I showed up just as the first handwritten coffee menu was being hung and ordered an oat milk chai ($4). Glancing to my left, I locked eyes with a pile of housemade pastries and decided it might be fun to have a chai-bourbon custard pop-tart ($4), too. I took both to a comfy couch, letting the spicier-than-usual chai and the cinnamon-filled pop-tart warm me up.

After trying out a few iterations of early-morning-to-late-night hours, including dinner, the Foxy’s team has landed on café-bakery service Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., starting March 11. In a newsletter sent on February 22, Dunton wrote that things have gotten off to a “much, much slower start than we initially anticipated,” even for a traditionally slow time of year in the restaurant industry. “We overstaffed, overpredicted, overestimated the hype. And god is it hard to be wrong.”

As a result, Foxy’s has slimmed down its staff and its offerings, particularly at dinnertime. On Friday and Saturday nights, Dunton will soon act as head chef, serving a tasting menu that changes weekly. Cain will help run the bar on those nights, “which feels like a throwback to

the early days of Fox Market, when it was just the two of us,” Dunton said, “but with a real kitchen and a lot more opportunity to do cool stuff.” Late-night hours will continue when events are happening.

They’ve already managed to do a lot of cool stuff using Fox Market’s tiny kitchen, which is essentially a converted closet. As the prepared-food side of the biz continued to grow — Dunton called it “the piece

of Fox we couldn’t seem to keep up with” — expansion was necessary.

Now, Foxy’s acts as a commissary kitchen for the East Montpelier market. Items such as pot pies, hand pies and onigiri are all made in Barre and available at both spots.

I sat with my breakfast long enough that it was time for lunch when I got up to leave, so I took advantage of the graband-go cooler. The day I was there, the rotating grain bowl ($10) was stuffed with sushi rice, roasted asparagus, roasted broccoli, kimchi, spicy orange-sesame dressing and a sliced mandarinquat, with its lightly crunchy edible rind left on. It was bright and beautiful, just like the cathartic moment a few minutes earlier when strangers from various tables had all chimed in to commiserate over the current state of the country under President Donald Trump.

Those moments of connection — “deep breaths,” as Dunton called them — are common at Foxy’s and Fox Market, especially when “stuff hits the fan, like it’s doing on a big level right now.”

“I’ve designated myself a role in this fight,” Dunton continued, “and my role is to keep a safe space.”

If someone wants to come in with friends, scream into the void and just drink water the whole time, that’s OK, Dunton said. Foxy’s also hosts more organized political events, such as regular Art Is Resistance community craft parties, the next of which is scheduled for March 22.

Fox Market’s long-standing series of global pop-up dinners has officially moved to Foxy’s, too, starting with January’s fivecourse Croatian meal. Dunton and Cain are still setting the theme for the second dinner, which will likely happen in April. In the meantime, March 30 will bring a brand-new event: drag brunch.

Despite the slow start, it’s easier to draw a crowd for events at Foxy’s spot in the heart of downtown Barre than it is to Fox Market’s rural location along Route 2 in East Montpelier, Dunton said. And thanks to the city’s affordable housing, there’s a strong — and growing — queer community.

“For all of Barre’s different personalities and perspectives, everyone wants this place to do well and be healthy and good,” Dunton said. “There’s so much love here, and it feels like it’s really come alive.”

Foxy’s has quickly taken its place in that vibrant scene as a home for all, dead animals included. ➆

Barre Burrow « P.30

Housemade pop-tart and latte at Foxy’s

Mummified cats at Foxy’s

Championing Educators, Elevating Careers

Every May, I drive from my home in etford Center to the Jellison Farm in Bath, N.H., to pick up the three piglets my family will raise through the summer and fall. Just 8 weeks old, they weigh about 25 pounds and are small enough to ﬁt in a dog crate in the back of my pickup truck. Once I’ve settled them into their new home in the pasture behind the barn, I give Brent Kidder a call.

Kidder, 41, owns Kidder’s Smoke & Cure, a customexempt processor in Orange, about six miles southeast of Barre. Unlike commercial processors, who are licensed to cut meat that may be sold at grocery stores, farmers markets or restaurants, Kidder cannot sell the meat he cuts.

Like all of Vermont’s 35 or so custom-exempt processors, Kidder is licensed to butcher meat only for the personal use of those who raised or hunted the animal, or for those who have bought live animals from farmers under a state law that permits the sale of a limited number direct to consumers.

Over the 12 years since Kidder took the reins of the family business, it has grown to ﬁve employees, with whom he processes as many as 300 deer and 1,000 domesticated animals annually. He also smokes meat for his customers and for more than a dozen fellow custom-exempt processors who bring him their customers’ fresh hams and bacon, for a total of at least 25,000 pounds a year. at may all seem to add up to a full-time gig, but Kidder also holds down a 40-houra-week job at a Barre granite shed. I know if I want to get on

his list for a fall slot, I’d better call early.

In late October or early November, after our pigs have hit about 200 pounds each, I pay Mark Durkee, an itinerant slaughterer, to come to our pasture. en we load the carcasses into my truck. Kidder always meets me at the door of his shop, where he

will later wield handsaws and boning knives to break down the animals into cuts such as hams, pork chops and ground sausage. I like his breakfast sausage best, but my wife prefers the sweet Italian, so we get half of each. Not only does the meat taste great, but we also have the extra satisfaction of

knowing exactly how our food was raised.

For Seven Days, I chatted with Kidder about how he juggles the workload, his most unusual processing job and the future of his family business.

You have a full-time job, so why take on this whole other business, and how do you manage both? I work an eight-hour, ninehour day at the granite shed and usually get here about 2:30 p.m. and work until 11 at night. It’s really not a moneymaking job, [though] it does help with our everyday bills. It’s more [about] helping the local farmer, the local Vermonter not having to pay a lot of money to go to the grocery store to get commercially grown animals. We definitely like the local farmer that raises pigs to feed his family and maybe gives a few things to his neighbors.

What’s the most unusual animal you’ve ever processed? It was [for] a lady who had [an emu] as a pet and it was not doing so well. We went over and helped her dispatch it, and then she’s like, “Oh, we can’t waste it; we’re gonna eat it.” We made it into smoked emu. She said it was delicious: It tasted like ham. She said if she ever got another emu pet, she would probably eat that one, too.

You took over the business from your dad, who ran it for six years. What does the future hold for Kidder’s Smoke & Cure?

I will continue until I can’t continue. My son is 13. He comes up and helps. He does the deer processing with us. He also owns a chicken slaughtering business. e season starts in April, and then he does that until September. We drive to farms, and he slaughters his chickens, about 150 to 200 a day. en we come back here and cut at night. Hopefully, he’ll want to do that when he gets older — even if it’s part time — to keep people fed. I wouldn’t say he’s making a million dollars, but it is a proﬁtable business. For me, it’s more about creating a work ethic. ➆

This interview was edited and condensed for clarity and length.

INFO

Learn more on Facebook at Kidder’s Smoke & Cure.

Hepcat but does not allow laptops or offer Wi-Fi.

Gleason hopes guests will chat quietly while listening to jazz and other music from his extensive personal record collection as they enjoy a glass of natural wine from Japan, Sapporo beer on tap, or an espresso or pour-over made with beans from BRIO COFFEEWORKS of Burlington or ABRACADABRA COFFEE of Woodstock. He plans to add spirits in a few months.

Food is currently limited to nuts and pizza delivery from POSITIVE PIE, a few doors away, but Gleason is working on expanding the menu with a few small dishes “in the Japanese tradition.”

The tiny Hepcat has 10 seats at the Douglas fir bar, which was custom built with Japanese-style joinery, plus standing room for four to six patrons.

Gleason said the focal point of his sound system is a custom pair of Altec Lansing speakers. Mondays are community vinyl nights, when guests can bring in their own records and Gleason will play a side.

Learn more on Instagram: @hepcat_hifi. ➆

Christopher Gleason

culture

In the early years of the Cold War, when distrust of the Soviet Union fueled a Congressional witch hunt for communists in the U.S., another parallel fear penetrated the government.

While the Red Scare is routinely covered in high school American history classes, the Lavender Scare remains largely unknown — though it lasted longer and directly a ected more people.

For about 20 years, starting in the late 1940s, thousands of gay federal government employees were ﬁred or forced to resign because of their sexuality.

“I was ﬂabbergasted that I hadn’t heard of it before, as someone who’s in that community but also who loves history,” Zackery Betty said. The 33-yearold artistic director of Manchester, N.H., dance company NSquared Dance was a grad student studying choreography in 2022 when he learned the history.

He turned it into a dance. “Dance felt like the only language that was possible for it,” he said. “Because dance is a language of the body, it didn’t feel as intrusive to share this story. It felt almost like an invitation for learning and education.”

Flashback Dance

movements to reﬂect rigid, monotonous work, Betty said. “And then at the end of that ﬁrst scene, you see the gossip starting to happen.”

The action moves to Lafayette Park, a safe haven for same-sex couples to meet despite its location across the street from the White House. The next scene returns to the o ce. Tension rises, and an FBI interrogation ensues.

Recorded music is supplemented with audio excerpts from the 2017 documentary The Lavender Scare, written by David K. Johnson and directed by Josh Howard. Betty drew inspiration for his characters from Johnson’s book The Lavender Scare: The Cold War Persecution of Gays and Lesbians in the Federal Government, ﬁrst published in 2004.

After delivering his well-known speech in West Virginia on February 9, 1950, claiming to have a list of 205 known communists working in the U.S. Department of State — a claim later debunked — senator Joseph McCarthy gave another speech, on the Senate ﬂoor, in which he o ered speciﬁcs. Two people on the list were homosexuals, he said, and he implied that, as such, they were susceptible to communist recruitment because they had what he called “peculiar mental twists.”

Days later, deputy undersecretary of state John Peurifoy told a Senate subcommittee that the Department of State had ousted 91 gay employees as security risks.

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG • maryann@sevendaysvt.com

“Political rhetoric increasingly linked ‘Communists and queers,’” archivist Judith Adkins wrote in Prologue, a magazine published by the National Archives and Records Administration. Her 2016 article covers the history of the period.

On Saturday, March 1, NSquared Dance brings The Lavender Scare to the Briggs Opera House in White River Junction for Shake the Cabin Fever. The event is a fundraiser for the Junction Dance Festival, a slate of free dance workshops and nominally priced performances running from July 12 to 20 in White River Junction, Barre and fourth year, showcase dancers,

duce the public

NSquared Dance staged an excerpt of The Lavender Scare at the festival last summer. The company continues to impress with its level of talent and its innovative performances, festival president and director Elizabeth Kurylo said. “I like to be surprised,” she added.

would recognize only two sexes: male and female. Trump has taken subsequent actions to bar transgender women and girls from competing in women’s sports, to ban transgender people from military service, and to assert greater control over the federal workforce.

The Lavender Scare has become more relevant since its debut last summer due to a ﬂurry of activity in Washington D.C. On the ﬁrst day of his second term in o ce last month, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring that the federal government

Starting in 1950, Congress conducted two investigations into homosexuality in the federal workforce. The larger of the two was run by “the Hoey committee,” named for committee chair and senator Clyde Hoey. It sent questionnaires to all branches of the military plus 53 civilian departments, including seemingly obscure ones, such as the American Battle Monuments Commission. While some agencies reported that gay people could make good employees, most deemed them unsuitable.

“The privilege of working for the United States Government should not be extended to persons of dubious moral character, such as homosexuals or sex perverts,” secretary of commerce Charles Sawyer wrote to the committee.

Audiences will likely receive The Lavender Scare as more than a history lesson. The piece blends contemporary and modern dance to tell the story of two gay government employees in 1950s Washington, D.C. With 10 dancers, the 90-minute performance unspools as a series of vignettes that move between the main characters’ public and private lives. It opens in a typical o ce with mechanical

The D.C. police shared its arrest records with the committee, and

Zackery Betty

Speaking Volumes to Open in Downtown Randolph

BY KEN PICARD • ken@sevendaysvt.com

Central Vermont will soon have a new purveyor of used books, antiques, vintage clothing and vinyl when Speaking Volumes opens its third store, in downtown Randolph.

Proprietor Norbert Ender said he’s excited to continue the tradition of promoting “slow shopping and slow fashion” with the upcoming launch of the new location. The Austria native and former restaurateur opened his first used-book store in 2006 on Burlington’s Pine Street behind Barge Canal Market, the latter of which he also founded but has since sold. He followed that with a record store and audio repair shop across the street on Marble Avenue.

“Over the years I’ve been accumulating so much inventory, and I’ve been looking for additional outlets,” said Ender, who for a time considered a move to North Carolina before the Randolph building came on the market. He currently has 50,000 to 60,000 used books in stock but doesn’t have space in his Burlington store to display them all. “If I want to retire in the next 20 years,” the 61-year-old said, “I need to sell some of it.”

Located at 10 South Main Street, the new Speaking Volumes, which will have its soft opening on Saturday, March 1, is located in an old grain mill and farm store along the railroad tracks. Built in 1904, the 14,000-square-foot building, of which 5,000 square feet are developed, still has some of the original grinding wheels and milling equipment on the fourth and fifth floors. The first floor will be devoted primarily to records and used books, with about 1,700 square feet of vintage clothing for sale on the second floor.

Why set up shop in Randolph?

“There’s just a real nice, positive vibe in that town,” said Ender, who has friends in the area and often attends events at Chandler Center for the Arts. He’s hoping that the store’s central location will attract customers from Montpelier,

Barre, Woodstock and New Hampshire. Eventually, he hopes to open a second audio repair shop to complement the service he currently offers in Burlington, perhaps even tapping into the pool of electrical engineering students who train at Vermont State University’s Randolph campus.

The new Speaking Volumes store will also feature a curated selection of local items, including baked goods from Miss Weinerz and stoneware from Peter Evans Pottery. Over time, Ender plans to further develop the building to include art studios and other creative spaces.

Ender was forced to evict one of the tenants, Central Vermont Adult Education. According to executive director Catherine Kalkstein, it had long operated a “one-room schoolhouse” out of the building, where students could go to learn English, get their high school diploma or GED, or develop other employment skills.

Ender had hoped to let the adult learning center stay on. But the fire marshal who inspected the building informed him that the new, mixed-used development would require him to install a new sprinkler system, which Norbert cannot afford.

Business at Speaking Volumes in Burlington has been “rough” the past few years, he said, in part due to the departures of neighboring Myer’s Bagels (now Myer’s Wood Fired on Shelburne Road) and then Queen City Café, the loss of which reduced his foot traffic. The lengthy construction work on Pine Street further eroded business — and claimed two mufflers off Ender’s car. While he has no plans to shutter either store, he does intend to divide his time between the Queen City and Randolph.

Over the years, Speaking Volumes has hosted more than 100 live music shows. Ender expects to do the same in Randolph, with a bash tentatively scheduled for the spring featuring Burlington punk-rock group Rough Francis. ➆

INFO

Speaking Volumes, 10 S. Main St., Randolph, and 377 Pine St. and 7 Marble Ave., Burlington, speakingvolumesvt.com

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Norbert Ender in Speaking Volumes in Burlington

The new Randolph location

Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, Vermont

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Thornton Wilder, Meet Noah Kahan

The Chandler’s rendition of Our Town incorporates hit music by the Vermont singer-songwriter

BY HANNAH FEUER • hfeuer@sevendaysvt.com

Our Town , Thornton Wilder’s depiction of rural New England life in the early 1900s, is among the most frequently performed plays in the U.S. Making the classic feel fresh is no easy feat.

But an upcoming production of Our Town at Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph features a twist that has never been done: It melds the iconic 20th-century play with the folk-pop music of Vermont singer-songwriter Noah Kahan.

The play, which runs from Friday, February 28, through Sunday, March 9, opens with the cast singing Kahan’s “Northern Attitude,” from his breakout 2022 album, Stick Season. Kahan’s “Call Your Mom” kicks off the second act, and “You’re Gonna Go Far” opens the third. All are set to a live band. The show accompanies the Smithsonian’s “Crossroads: Change in Rural America” exhibition, on view in the Chandler Gallery through Saturday, March 22.

THEATER

The mashup is what director Ben Rapson imagines would emerge if Kahan and Wilder walked into a bar.

“I think they would have really liked each other,” Rapson, 40, said. “They both have this talent for describing the ineffable.”

Our Town is set in the fictional New Hampshire hamlet of Grover’s Corners. Narrated by the omniscient Stage Manager, played by Rapson, the play unfolds in three acts that jump through time. Act 1 takes a wide-angle view of daily life in the small town, introducing its history and characters. Act 2 focuses on the marriage between childhood neighbors Emily Webb and George Gibbs. In the third and final act, Emily has died in childbirth and, in the afterlife, revisits her 12th birthday celebration. She now more fully appreciates the beauty in everyday moments — but only with the perspective that death brings.

She famously asks, “Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it … every, every minute?”

“No. Saints and poets, maybe…” the Stage Manager answers.

Kahan’s music explores similar concepts. In “Call Your Mom,” the singer pleads with a friend contemplating suicide to choose life. “Northern Attitude,” meanwhile, reflects on life’s fleeting nature with the lyrics “You build a boat, you build a life / You lose your friends, you lose your wife.”

Rapson is making his Vermont debut as a director after moving to the state in 2018 from Seattle, where he cofounded the theater company Emerald City Scene. He conceptualized the unusual fusion one day while listening to Kahan’s music. The Randolph resident recognized that both Kahan’s lyrics and Wilder’s play explore

IF WE ARE DOING OUR JOBS RIGHT, ANYONE WHO SEES THIS PRODUCTION IS GOING TO BE … LESS AFRAID TO DIE. BEN RAPSON

themes of connection to a place and accepting mortality. That message is personal for Rapson, who survived leukemia as a child and said the near-death experience gave him a renewed perspective on life.

“If we are doing our jobs right, anyone who sees this production is going to be more grateful for the mundane and less afraid to die,” he said.

Rapson said Kahan personally endorsed the idea. A cast member who had grown up with the Strafford-born singer reached out to him with the concept, and Kahan messaged back that the production had his blessing.

Rita Champion, a 38-year-old from Bethel, plays Julia Gibbs, George’s mother. Kahan’s “Call Your Mom” resonates deeply, she said.

“I can’t not cry every time I sing it,” Champion said. “I worry onstage if I can actually keep singing while crying.”

Max Dybvig, a 35-year-old Tunbridge

resident, plays Howie Newsom, the town milkman. While he likes Kahan’s music, the idea of stick season in Grover’s Corners caused some initial confusion.

“The first time I mentioned that I was in Our Town, somebody was like, ‘Oh, that’s the one with the Noah Kahan songs,’” he said. “And I said, ‘No, it’s not! This is, like, the 1930s Thornton Wilder play about a New England town.’”

After realizing they were indeed describing the same production, Dybvig said, he found the mashup to be surprisingly effective.

While incorporating Kahan songs may be unorthodox, the production will feature Wilder’s original script and stage directions, including the absence of a physical set and props. Instead, the actors mime the set, a minimalism that helps the story feel universal. At a recent rehearsal attended by Seven Days, Rapson reminded the actors not to walk through the imaginary closed “door” and to be consistent in whether the door opened inward or outward.

Other elements will be modernized. The actors will wear contemporary clothing rather than the typical 20th-century period costumes.

“We want people to see themselves onstage,” Rapson explained. “We want them to see their parents, their grandparents.”

Rapson also encouraged the actors to use their natural voices — unlike the 2002 Broadway revival of Our Town, in which actor Paul Newman played the Stage Manager with a thick New Hampshire accent.

“I don’t even know how to spell it. He goes, ‘Jahhhg!’” Rapson joked at rehearsal, dropping the R in “George” to mimic Newman. “No accents for us — only what’s natural.”

That authenticity is central to the production’s approach, as Rapson encourages the cast members — most of whom live in Randolph — to bring their true selves to the roles, with minimal acting. Our Town is about everyday life in rural New England, after all. ➆

INFO

Our Town, Fridays and Saturdays, February 28 through March 8, 7 p.m., and Sundays, March 2 and 9, 2 p.m., at Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph. $15-25; free for ages 12 and under. chandler-arts.org

Hayley Sherman and Caleb Paige

Jessamine Kelley, Beatrice Scott, Emelia Palmisano and Mark Rosalbo in Our Town

PHOTOS:

Bake My Day

Students at Newark Street School make meals for seniors

At the Newark Street School in northeastern Vermont, fourth and fifth graders meet after school every Wednesday to prepare meals for six local seniors. In the school’s tiny kitchen, they learn how to cook and bake and do less fun things, such as clean up.

Laura “Mrs. Ro” Robichaud and Sue “Miss Sue” Winsor help the culinary rookies read recipes and prepare the food. Robichaud and Winsor then deliver the meals to seniors in the community; parents occasionally help, too.

This club is part of the Kingdom East Afterschool Program and is funded by the Friends of Newark Street School, a group of caregivers, sta and community members that builds

relationships between the school and the community. The school educates about 60 students from kindergarten to eighth grade, and the cooking club is open to all students in the fourth grade and up.

In her latest episode of “Stuck in Vermont,” Seven Days senior multimedia producer Eva Sollberger traveled to Newark to watch six students make mini meatloaves, mashed potatoes, peas and cookies. Then she met a 91-year-old recipient of the weekly meals.

Sollberger spoke with Seven Days about ﬁlming the episode.

How did you hear about this program?

stories. A comment from Sue Winsor about students making meals for seniors caught my eye. It sounded like a win-win: students learning to cook and give back; citizens receiving “home-cooked” meals. I got in touch and started planning my trip to Newark.

MAKING

A MEAL WITH YOUNG PEOPLE WHO ARE LEARNING TO READ RECIPES IS FRENETIC.

It looks like students work in a very small kitchen.

Yes, and when I heard someone say “Excuse me, I have a knife” behind me, I froze. The students have good kitchen etiquette, and that includes warning people when they have sharp or hot objects. I would describe the scene as organized chaos. Making a meal in an hour and a half with young people who are learning to read recipes is frenetic and elicited a ﬂurry of questions: What does “lb” mean? Is this a tablespoon or a teaspoon? Where is the baking sheet? Am I turning the oven up or down? The students broke up into teams and were very focused on their tasks.

How was the food?

The chocolate chip cookies were warm and delicious — a big hit. The extras got passed out to the kids, parents and teachers. And there was much excitement about the mashed potatoes, which inspired a happy dance.

Who gets the meals?

U.S. Park Police provided its “Pervert Records” to allow investigators to cross-check names of those arrested for homosexual activity with government employee records. The FBI instructed police across the country to indicate federal employment status on arrest records.

“A man could be picked up in California for responding to an undercover vice o cer’s suggestive remarks — and end up losing his government job 2,000 miles away in Washington, D.C.,” Adkins wrote.

In 1952, the American Psychiatric Association’s ﬁrst Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders classiﬁed homosexuality as a “sociopathic personality disturbance,” justifying continued discrimination.

The Hoey committee’s ﬁnal report, sent abroad to U.S. embassies and foreign intelligence agencies, carried the authority of Congress and concluded that gay people should not be employed by the federal government because they were “generally unsuitable” and constituted “security risks.”

In 1953, president Dwight D. Eisenhower signed an executive order that e ectively banned gay people from all jobs in the U.S. government, the country’s largest employer, Adkins wrote. Government contractors adopted similar hiring and ﬁring practices.

In 1975, the Civil Service Commission ﬁnally issued new rules that said people could no longer be barred or ﬁred from federal jobs because of their sexuality.

Historians estimate that between 5,000 and tens of thousands of gay workers lost their jobs during the Lavender Scare, Adkins wrote. “Suicide was not uncommon,” she added. “The total fallout in terms of ruined or truncated lives and wasted human potential is ultimately immeasurable.”

I put out a call on Facebook, as I sometimes do to find “Stuck” ideas outside my bubble: “ISO heartwarming stories about people doing good in their community and helping others.” I got a lot of great responses, which I will save for future

The students don’t get to meet the six community members who eat the meals. I followed Miss Sue to one of their houses to see a meal delivery on a beautiful, cold night. A recipient named Joan has been eating the meals for 10 or 11 years, with a two-year break during the pandemic. To quote spunky Joan: “It’s good. Too bad you can’t have any.” ➆

Seven Days senior multimedia producer Eva Sollberger has been making her award-winning video series, “Stuck in Vermont,” since 2007. New episodes appear on the Seven Days website every other ursday and air the following night on the WCAX evening news. Sign up at sevendaysvt.com to receive an email alert each time a new one drops. And check these pages every other week for insights on the episodes.

Betty’s choreography encompasses “the rumbles and the aftershocks” of Eisenhower’s executive order, he said. “And then there’s a rise, at the very end, of picketing and marching for equal rights within the work environment.”

Audience members are encouraged to wear lavender. ➆

INFO

e Lavender Scare, choreographed by Zackery Betty and performed by NSquared Dance, at Shake the Cabin Fever, a fundraiser to beneﬁt the Junction Dance Festival: Saturday, March 1, 7 p.m., at Briggs Opera House in White River Junction. $30-40. thejunctiondancefestival.org

Episode 735: Students Feed Seniors

on screen

Brazilian drama I’m Still Here isn’t just a movie — it’s a “global phenomenon,” in the words of a recent Vanity Fair headline. Based on a memoir by Marcelo Rubens Paiva and directed by Walter Salles, I’m Still Here chronicles one family’s experience under Brazil’s U.S.-backed military dictatorship, which lasted from 1964 to 1985. The ﬁlm broke post-pandemic box o ce records in Brazil, where many hailed it as a reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism.

A grassroots campaign helped propel I’m Still Here to Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Best Actress (for Fernanda Torres) and Best International Feature Film. Catch it before Sunday’s ceremony at the Savoy Theater in Montpelier; or on Monday, March 21, 4 and 7 p.m., at the Vermont International Film Foundation in Burlington.

The deal

In 1970, the Paiva family celebrates Christmas on the beach, which they can see from their comfortable home in Rio de Janeiro. Rubens (Selton Mello), an engineer, is at work on plans for a bigger house. Eunice (Torres) loves to entertain guests with her famous sou é. Their ﬁve

children are busy with volleyball, tanning, joy rides and smuggling a stray dog into the house.

Meanwhile, outside this seemingly charmed family circle, the conﬂict between the military government and its revolutionary opposition intensiﬁes. After eldest daughter Veroca (Valentina Herszage) is questioned at a police checkpoint, her parents send her abroad so she won’t get dangerously involved with politics during college.

One day, armed men come to the door. The regime’s police have a few questions for Rubens, a former congressman whose political career ended with the military takeover. He leaves with them and does not return. Eunice’s e orts to learn her husband’s fate put her on a perilous, decades-long quest for some form of justice.

Will you like it?

Don’t come to I’m Still Here expecting a grim tale of the downtrodden. One likely reason for the movie’s success is that it focuses more on the strength and resilience of the Paiva family than on their su ering — though it certainly doesn’t skip over the latter. In a key scene, the family poses for a tabloid photographer who instructs them

to look sad about Rubens’ disappearance. Eunice refuses, instead telling the children to smile. Their exuberance becomes an act of resistance.

Also don’t come expecting a historical primer. I’m Still Here features little exposition, and much goes unspoken — ﬁttingly, given that silence and self-censorship were the safest options under the regime. American viewers may need to do a bit of reading to learn, for instance, that banned artists feature in the Paivas’ prized vinyl record collection.

Salles’ approach here is less informative than immersive. The director was friendly with the Paivas in his teens, the era the ﬁlm focuses on, and we feel the intimacy in every sun-drenched, nostalgic frame. This is a message movie with beach scenes, not courtroom scenes. Eunice is a swimmer, her forceful crawl a reminder of her determination. Often we see the world through Veroca’s Super 8 camera: a jumble of sea and sky and other vivid fragments suggestive of memory.

The e ect of these stylistic choices is to make the Paivas’ ordeal all the more shocking to our sensibilities, because their world isn’t visibly gray or dystopian or whatever stereotypes of dictatorship we’ve absorbed.

It seems “normal,” a uent, even idyllic — until family members are toted away, locked up in dark cells and interrogated.

Torres’ performance is a masterpiece of tight-lipped nuance, the antithesis of melodrama. Stepping up to head her family, Eunice keeps her emotions under wraps, protecting her children by withholding dangerous truths from them. Mello’s Rubens is more demonstrative, all sweetness, humor and strength — one of the most likable portrayals of a dad in recent ﬁlms. We feel the pain his absence causes his children (also wonderfully portrayed) because the ﬁlm captures his a ection for them in small, seemingly trivial moments.

I’m Still Here lacks a traditional dramatic arc of conﬂict and resolution. We must intuit Eunice’s key decisions, and some triumphant moments in the true story — such as the former homemaker’s obtaining a law degree in her forties — happen o -screen. Instead of a continuous through line, Salles uses two large time jumps to show how events in the early ’70s a ected the family over decades. For some viewers, those gaps may be alienating, but others will tear up as they register the resonances between past and present.

Salles told Vanity Fair that he considers I’m Still Here “an indictment against authoritarianism,” and it is a powerful one. Watching this piece of history unfold, you may ﬁnd yourself wishing that the patterns it depicts were safely in the past.

MARGOT HARRISON margot@sevendaysvt.com

IF YOU LIKE THIS, TRY…

CHILE ’76 (2022; Kanopy, Kino Film Collection, rentable): Viewers of I’m Still Here may ask themselves: What would I do under a dictatorship? Would I fight back? Continuing that theme, Manuela Martelli’s acclaimed film follows a welloff woman who must decide whether to shelter a resistance fighter in the wake of Augusto Pinochet’s military coup.

THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG (2024; rentable): ose questions are also raised by one of the other contenders for Best International Feature Film. Set and secretly ﬁlmed in Iran, this drama takes a scathing look at the effects of totalitarian rule on one family.

ROMA (2018; Netﬂix): e loving early1970s nostalgia of I’m Still Here recalls Alfonso Cuarón’s black-and-white drama inspired by his childhood in Mexico City.

Fernanda Torres is an Oscar front-runner for her performance as a woman struggling to protect her family from the regime that took her husband.

NEW IN THEATERS

LAST BREATH: In this survival thriller based on the documentary of the same name, deep-sea divers fight to save a friend trapped underwater. Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu star; Alex Parkinson directed. (93 min, PG-13. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Star)

RIFF RAFF: In this comedy directed by Dito Montiel (Empire State), a former lawbreaker must reconcile two lives when his old criminal family shows up to settle scores. Jennifer Coolidge, Ed Harris and Bill Murray star. (103 min, R. Capitol, Essex, Majestic)

A SLOTH STORY: A sloth family tries to make a splash with their food truck in the big city in this animated adventure featuring the voices of Leslie Jones and Remy Hii. (90 min, PG. Majestic, Marquis, Paramount)

SUPERBOYS OF MALEGAON: A young filmmaker tries to represent the life of his town in this Hindi drama based on a true story. Reema Kagti directed. (127 min, PG-13. Majestic)

UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE: In Matthew Rankin’s absurdist comedy about Canadian identity, winner of a Cannes Film Festival award, Winnipeg and Tehran seem to merge. Rankin and Pirouz Nemati star. (89 min, NR. Savoy)

CURRENTLY PLAYING

BECOMING LED ZEPPELINHHH1/2 Bernard MacMahon’s documentary tells the story of the rock band through 1970. (121 min, PG-13. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Savoy)

THE BRUTALISTHHHHH Brady Corbet’s period piece examines the relationship of a refugee architect (Adrien Brody) and his wealthy client. (214 min, R. Catamount, Majestic, Playhouse; reviewed 1/29)

CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLDHH The stars-and-stripes shield passes to Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) as the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues. With Harrison Ford; Julius Onah directed. (118 min, PG-13. Bijou, Capitol, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Star, Stowe, Welden)

COMPANIONHHH A weekend getaway at a billionaire’s lakeside cabin goes badly for a group of friends in this thriller comedy starring Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid. (97 min, R. Majestic; reviewed 2/5)

A COMPLETE UNKNOWNHHH1/2 Timothée Chalamet plays the young Bob Dylan. (141 min, R. Bijou, Essex, Majestic)

DOG MANHHH A half-canine hero pursues a cat supervillain in this animated adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s kids’ books. (89 min, PG. Bijou, Capitol, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Stowe)

HEART EYESHHH A killer targets couples on Valentine’s Day in this slasher, starring Jordana Brewster, Olivia Holt and Devon Sawa. Josh Ruben directed. (97 min, R. Paramount, Welden)

I’M STILL HEREHHHH1/2 Three Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, went to this historical drama from Brazil about a mother (Fernanda Torres) facing the threat of military dictatorship. Walter Salles directed. (137 min, PG-13. Savoy; reviewed 2/26)

LOVE HURTSH1/2 Ke Huy Quan plays a mildmannered real estate agent with a criminal past in this action comedy. With Ariana DeBose and Mustafa Shakir. (83 min, R. Essex)

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

THE MONKEYHHH A wind-up toy wreaks mysterious havoc on the lives of two brothers in this adaptation of the Stephen King story from Osgood Perkins (Longlegs). Theo James and Tatiana Maslany star. (98 min, R. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Star)

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

PADDINGTON IN PERUHHH1/2 The intrepid bear and his adopted family are embroiled in a mystery on a visit to his Aunt Lucy. Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer and Ben Whishaw star. (106 min, PG. Bijou, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Star, Stowe, Welden)

OLDER FILMS AND SPECIAL SCREENINGS

THE EMPEROR’S NEW GROOVE (Catamount, Tue only)

ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND (Savoy, Mon only)

THE GOLD RUSH & SHERLOCK JR. (VTIFF, Sat only)

HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS (Essex, Fri only)

HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE (Essex, Sun only)

HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN (Essex, Sat only)

HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE (Essex, Thu only)

JACOB’S LADDER (Catamount, Fri only)

MOONLIGHT (VTIFF, Fri only)

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO (Catamount, Thu only)

PANTHER (Catamount, Wed 26 only)

SANTOSH (VTIFF, Thu only)

WHERE OLIVE TREES WEEP (Savoy, Sun only)

OPEN THEATERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SAVOY THEATER: 26 Main St., Montpelier, 229-0598, savoytheater.com

THE SCREENING ROOM @ VTIFF: 60 Lake St., Ste. 1C, Burlington, 660-2600, vtiff.org

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

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

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

Jennifer Coolidge in Riff Raff

BUSINESS

Printer Jam

In Cabot, Prints on Paper Studio brings new ideas to old techniques

BY ALICE DODGE • adodge@sevendaysvt.com

In a weathered barn at the end of a dirt road on the side of a mountain in Cabot, there is a gleaming room with thick white walls, built as a walk-in cooler. Until recently, it was stacked ﬂoor to ceiling with cabbages and potatoes. These days, it holds huge printers, an etching press and luscious inks.

This is Prints on Paper Studio, a ﬁne art printing service launched last August by artists Walker Blackwell, 41, and Nathanael Kooperkamp, 35. Blackwell is a photographer with extensive experience in high-end digital printing. Kooperkamp has a background in printmaking, papermaking and book arts. The two met while working at Cone Editions Press in East Topsham, which has been making ﬁne art prints since the 1980s.

Though Prints on Paper is a new shop with a youthful vibe, being “in the middle of

nowhere,” as the owners put it, allows them to take their time and focus on the artistclient relationship. Rather than simply offering print services, they are finding ways to collaborate with other artists and to treat their remote location as a destination. “We saw that as being the appeal,” Kooperkamp said. They are banking on a hybrid strategy — both in printmaking and in their wider approach to running a niche ﬁne art venture.

Blackwell, who lives in Plainﬁeld, grew up on the farm. His parents had several businesses — most recently, Blackwell Roots Farm, which produced sauerkraut and kimchee. When he was a kid, Blackwell said jokingly, it was a pansy farm, “but you don’t say that when you’re growing up in the middle of Cabot in the ’80s and ’90s.”

Kooperkamp was born in New York City but often visited his grandparents’ house

in Corinth. He always knew he wanted to end up in Vermont, he said. He moved to Vershire in 2017.

The pair considered setting up shop in a busier metropolis, such as oh-so-urban Montpelier. But then Blackwell’s father, who retired from farming in 2019, o ered them space in his barn. They realized it was perfect: It had room for future expansion and a small farmhouse for artists to stay on-site. There was even a pallet loader, which they used to install the 2,400-pound etching press they picked up, with help from a friend’s tractor, in New York.

Both artists gained experience and connections outside Vermont — Blackwell in Chicago and Kooperkamp in Brooklyn — long before they launched the Cabot studio. Blackwell became known in photography circles for pioneering digital print processes that result in monochromatic ink-jets

indistinguishable from traditional silver gelatin prints.

Prints on Paper has recently produced high-end ink-jets for photographers such as celebrated photojournalist James Nachtwey, who lives in Hanover, N.H. Calais photographer Andreas John printed his project “The Many Voices of Water” at the shop. Its dreamy scenes of light-dappled streams and long-exposure shots of ﬂowing creeks have a range of values much closer to an Ansel Adams print than anything out of a typical Epson printer. In an email, John said he trusts the shop completely and called Blackwell “one of the best printmakers in the country.” Blackwell and Kooperkamp have also developed a new process for photogravure. What once took days of trial and error — exposing copper plates and etching them in acid — can now be accomplished in minutes using photopolymer plates and a nontoxic process. The ﬁnished prints have a deep, rich tonality. The thick paper gives them the air of works from a century ago but with the sharpness and clarity of something new. When Seven Days visited Prints on Paper, the pair were printing photogravures by two di erent artists. Blackwell would hand a plate to Kooperkamp, who’d

Chine collé print by Tom Lawrence

slather it with thick carbon black ink, then gently wipe off the excess. He’d pass it back to Blackwell, who’d trim a piece of 1970s vintage kozo paper, resting it over the image before aligning it on the press with a thick sheet of damp paper, then rolling and pulling a perfect chine collé print.

As we talked, they pulled prints for an edition of 18 by Guatemalan artist Luis González Palma, whom Blackwell met 20

years ago through a Chicago gallery. (An edition is a limited set of identical prints, individually numbered by the artist; no others printed that way or at that size can be sold, preserving each print’s value.) The works are haunting portraits of a young woman, micro-lines in the etching creating dimension in her hair and face. Once the prints are ready, they’ll be shipped off and signed by the artist. Half will return

to Cabot to be sold directly by Prints on Paper, either online or at fairs such as the Brooklyn Fine Art Print Fair.

That day, Kooperkamp and Blackwell were also printing an edition by Tom Lawrence, an artist and retired neurosurgeon from Urbana-Champaign, Ill. Lawrence came to Cabot for a 10-day residency last fall, staying just across the dirt road in the farmhouse. Artists pay for residencies, as well as workshops to learn specific techniques, with rates depending on the length of stay; workshops are generally $450 per day. Lawrence, whose work centers on the Holocaust, would wake up early, opening the shop at 3 a.m., the printmakers joining him hours later. He started experimenting with

photogravure, bringing plates outside to expose in the sunlight. He laid hair and ashes directly onto the plate and used a blowtorch on them, creating something almost sculptural.

“It started breaking apart the texture of the plate,” Kooperkamp said. “You cannot remake those marks in any way.”

Some artists simply come and print on-site with Kooperkamp and Blackwell, creating an entire exhibition in a day. Both value that collaborative approach, which they say is inherent to printmaking. Because each artist works differently, Kooperkamp said, “you just get to do a lot of weird, awesome things.”

Neither printmaker has had a lot of time for his own artwork lately. In addition to setting up the shop, both Kooperkamp and Blackwell have had new babies in the past year. Blackwell offered one example of his own recent photography — a print of muddy tire tracks in his neighbor’s yard, taken after Plainfield’s 2024 flood.

In certain respects, Prints on Paper is not so different from the farmers who occupied the space before it, relying on diversification — producing print editions and offering workshops and residencies instead of kimchee and pansies — to maintain a successful business. So far, their outfit seems to be working: Both artists recently put themselves on payroll.

The art world also has seasons, Kooperkamp said: “You’ll get really cold for a bit, and all of a sudden you get a phone call that changes your life. You kind of need to be ready for both at the same time.” ➆

INFO

Prints on Paper, 1243-A Walbridge Rd., Cabot, 222-0150, printsonpaper.studio

From left: Walker Blackwell and Nathanael Kooperkamp looking at a print; prints from past workshops

EXHIBITION

Getting Scrappy: Dianne Shullenberger’s Fabric Collages

BY ALICE DODGE • adodge@sevendaysvt.com

It’s fair to say that most of the artists in Vermont focus their efforts on landscapes and still lifes. Many are trying for verisimilitude and achieving it. How, then, to stand out in this aesthetically pleasing crowd?

Dianne Shullenberger of Jericho does it through her medium, creating singular works on familiar subjects using her own style of fabric collage. A selection of them are on view, along with three suites of watercolor paintings, in “Above to Below” at Highland Center for the Arts in Greensboro through April 6.

Shullenberger’s works are collages in that they are composed of many bits of fabric, sewn together. That may not sound unusual, but these are eensy-weensy bits — the scraps that fall off the scissors when something else is being cut out.

Instead of piecing the scraps like a quilt, Shullenberger appliqués them over one another, then sews through the whole mess with a sewing machine. She doesn’t quilt a pattern of stitches: Instead, uneven lengths of thread zigzag across the surface, becoming marks in themselves.

In the 12-by-16-inch “Broken Pine,” Shullenberger offers a view of fallen branches and rocks in a stream. She layers pastel-hued fabrics, using sheer or net materials to create depth and blend color, for a result that looks closer to painting than to collage. The surface is a frenzy of stitches that mimics roiling water. The tree branches dissolve into threads wound through the fabric, seeming to disappear into the stream.

“Sunset” creates a violet-and-peach sky from clumps of silk and tulle, some variegated to look like clouds. Below them, smudgy trees form translucent silhouettes against the bright sky. In works such as “Cornfield Grasses,” Shullenberger uses the fabric’s fraying edges to mimic corn tassels or the edges of leaves. She builds texture sculpturally, creating tangles and twists from slivers of cloth.

In a few pieces, such as “Dried Vines II,” the artist combines fabric and paper. It’s hard to tell where one material ends and the other begins — both have threads running through them. She creates density with fabric, leading the eye with tendrils that extend into paper areas. Those surfaces are literally thinner and read as lighter because of it.

Shullenberger’s watercolors, created during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, aren’t as experimental as her fabric works, but they do reveal her love of fiddly detail. Bright colors illuminate the pen drawings, all of which are 6 by 6 inches.

They’re cartoonlike in their style. “Notes” shows a desk overflowing with Post-it reminders of half-readable quotes, and others feature pincushions or tubs of yarn. Even in these works, executed in a more conventional medium, chaotic scraps pile up to create a comprehensive — and quite aesthetically pleasing — whole. ➆

INFO

“Above to Below” by Dianne Shullenberger, on view through April 6 at Highland Center for the Arts in Greensboro. highlandartsvt.org

From top: “Sunset”; “Broken Pine”

CALL TO ARTISTS

‘ABSTRACT OR NOT?’: Seeking art that crosses between figuration and abstraction for an upcoming exhibition. Submit works for review via email. Art Works Frame Shop & Gallery, South Burlington. Deadline: March 14. Free. Info, artworksvt@gmail.com.

OPENINGS + RECEPTIONS

CHARLES LYSOGORSKI: An exhibition of works from the artist’s “Sculptural Landscaping” series. Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester, through June 22. Info, 362-1405.

SHAN ALLEY: “Landlord Special,” a solo show presented by the artist as part of a senior capstone project in the Art and Design program. Reception: Thursday, February 27, 6 p.m. McCarthy Art Gallery, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, through February 28. Info, bcollier@smcvt.edu.

REBECCA PADULA: “At The Edge of Town,” an exhibition of abstract landscapes in oil and cold wax. Reception: Saturday, March 1, 1-3 p.m. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, through April 16. Free. Info, 482-2878, rpadulamusic@gmail.com.

‘MORTAL COIL’: A show exploring the human experience through the physicality of the body, featuring works by Misoo Bang, Austin Furtak-Cole, Suzy Spence, Kalin Thomas, Mollie Ward and Corrine Yonce. Reception: Saturday, March 1, 6-9 p.m.

K. Grant Fine Art, Vergennes, March 1-April 26. Info, kristen@kgrantfineart.com.

EMILY WARD: “The Lines in My Mind,” an exhibition of expansive wall sculptures by the MFA candidate. Reception and artist talk: Thursday, March 6, noon-2 p.m. Julian Scott Memorial Gallery, Vermont State University-Johnson, March 4-April 4. Info, 635-1469.

KARLI LAFFERTY: “Matterhorn,” a solo show presented by the artist as part of a senior capstone project in the Art and Design program. Reception: Friday, March 7, 6 p.m. McCarthy Art Gallery, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, March 3-7. Info, bcollier@smcvt.edu.

JULIA PURINTON: “Shimmer,” a series of dreamlike, hazy landscape paintings by the regional artist. Reception: March 7, 5-6:30 p.m. Edgewater Gallery on the Green, Middlebury, February 28-April 5. Info, 458-0098.

‘NEW HORIZONS’: An exhibition showcasing the work of 14 new and returning regional artists. Reception: Saturday, March 8, 1-4 p.m. Bryan Memorial Gallery, Jeffersonville, March 5-December 28. Info, 644-5100.

‘THROUGH THEIR EYES: THE ART OF MARY AND ALDEN BRYAN’: An exhibition of works by the regionally influential artist couple, including rarely seen paintings. Reception: Saturday, March 8, 1-4 p.m. Bryan Memorial Gallery, Jeffersonville, March 5-May 4. Info, 644-5100.

LAMOILLE UNION HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT EXHIBIT: An exhibition of student work curated by teacher Sabine Likhite. Reception: Saturday, March 8, 1-4 p.m. Bryan Memorial Gallery, Jeffersonville, March 5-May 4. Info, 644-5100.

‘NATURE’S PALETTE: ART INSPIRED BY THE EARTH’: A show paying homage to the environment and displaying works of art from community members. Reception: Thursday, March 20, 5-7 p.m. Montgomery Center for the Arts, March 1-30. Info, montgomerycenterarts@gmail.com.

JEFFREY PASCOE: “The Seen and the Unseen,” an exhibition of photographs of frost. Reception: Saturday, March 22, 2-4 p.m. Frog Hollow Vermont Craft Gallery, Burlington, February 28-April 2. Info, 863-6458.

ART EVENTS

ARTIST ROUNDTABLE: JUANCARLOS GONZÁLEZ:

A discussion of his book and exhibition by the photographer of Vermont Female Farmers, with Leslie McCrorey Wells of Lovestock Farm, Caitlin Rodriguez of Sobremesa and Jette Mandle-Abramson from Calabash Gardens, three of the farmers featured in his work. Moderated by curator Kristan M. Hanson and Phil Morin, manager of campus and community engagement at the Fleming, and followed by a Q&A. Fleming Museum of Art, University of Vermont, Burlington, Wednesday, February 26, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Info, 656-0750.

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, February 27, 12:30-2:30 p.m., and Tuesday, March 4, 6:30-8:30 p.m. By donation. Info, 343-8172.

LIFE DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event for artists working with the figure from a live model. T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, Thursday, February 27, 7-9 p.m. Free; $10 suggested donation. Info, 262-6035.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP:

A workshop on writing effective artist statements facilitated by executive director Connie Thurston. In person; Zoom option available. Milton Artists’ Guild Art Center & Gallery, Friday, February 28, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

NATHALIE CLEMENT: BASKETWEAVING WORKSHOP:

An opportunity to create a finished woven “Fonest” (phone-nest) basket, made with Native American weaving techniques. Memphremagog Arts Collaborative, Newport, Friday, February 28, 2-5 p.m. $30 adults; $15 students ages 13-19. Info, 334-1966.

NUIT BLANCHE: More than 100 late-night art activities including outdoor projections and sculpture, performances, workshops, and many museums open until midnight. See nuitblanchemtl.com for details. Various Montréal locations, Saturday, March 1, 5 p.m.-3 a.m. Various prices. Info, 855-219-0576.

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

PORTRAIT DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event where artists can practice skills in any medium. T.W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier, Monday, March 3, 10 a.m.noon. Free; $10 suggested donation. Info, 262-6035.

WINTER WATERCOLORS WITH PAULINE NOLTE: Weekly workshops for painters of all abilities; no experience necessary. Register via email. Waterbury Public Library, Tuesday, March 4, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, judi@waterburypubliclibrary.com. ➆

Embrace Your Inner Artist

music+nightlife

Jamie Mohr

sheep and thought, Well, that might be interesting!”

The sheep, a rare breed called Soay from Scotland’s St. Kilda archipelago, belonged to BOB JOHNSON, a Brattleboro scientist who founded Omega Optical, a maker of lenses for NASA. Johnson had a plan to reinvigorate the town’s arts scene by purchasing downtown churches and turning them into performing arts venues. The Stone Church, which he’d bought in the 1970s, launched as a venue in 2016.

In addition to his interest in the arts, the entrepreneur had a passion for wild Scottish sheep, and he needed someone to accompany him and some sheep on the 18-hour drive to tend another ﬂock in Nova Scotia.

Six months after Epsilon opened, the pandemic struck, temporarily dashing Mohr’s hopes of connecting the community to its new arts space. Desperate to get started, she projected ﬁlms in the parking lot from a cherry-red pickup truck. While it wasn’t an ideal way to introduce Epsilon to the town, it showed the organization’s dedication to the arts right o the bat.

HOW DO WE STICK WITH OUR ETHOS BUT BE POPULAR ENOUGH TO MAKE MONEY?

JAMIE MOHR

S UNDbites

News and views on the local music + nightlife scene

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH

Epsilon Spires Keeps It Weird. But Can It Keep Itself Alive?

Of all the ways we encounter or discover art in our lives, there’s one sureﬁre source for new and exciting media: someone who really, really gives a damn. Whether they’re organizing an underground noise-rock festival or a nonﬁction comics convention, these often-unsung heroes work from a place of deep passion. Their e orts form the bedrock of artistically vital communities.

One such individual is JAMIE MOHR, executive director of Epsilon Spires in Brattleboro. The southern Vermont town of 12,000 packs an artistic punch for its size, and one of its brightest gems is Epsilon, a 19th-century Victorian church turned into an arts venue. Launched in 2019, it’s a repository of all things weird, fringe, experimental and just downright cool.

Mohr, 46, is on a mission to explore the relationships among art, science, equality and sustainability, which she does by programming Epsilon with rare

art installations, ﬁlm screenings, musical performances, culinary experiences, and educational workshops and panels.

Now, like many arts organizations across Vermont, Epsilon faces an uncertain future. Federal funding cuts and unpredictable ticket sales make Mohr’s programming risks even riskier, with the venue’s fate in the balance. She hopes an “emergency fundraiser” can carry Epsilon through its lean season.

A multidisciplinary artist and documentary ﬁlmmaker, Mohr covers a broad palette with her programming credentials. From Hudson, N.Y., she attended the School for International Training in Brattleboro, earned a master’s degree in documentary studies from the New School in New York City, and has been organizing arts events and concerts for years.

None of which got her the job at Epsilon. That would be the sheep.

In 2018, “I’d moved back to Vermont after a few years in New York,” Mohr told me on a Zoom call from her o ce at Epsilon, her long brown hair tucked into a baseball cap. “I saw an ad on Craigslist to be a shepherd for these feral

“I had just ﬁnished a ﬁlm, and I was supposed to head to Los Angeles to show it,” Mohr recalled. “But Bob said, ‘Hey, if you want this job, this trip is the job interview.’”

She couldn’t pass up the sheer weirdness of the o er, so she and Johnson made the trek with the sheep in tow. During the few weeks they spent together, Mohr told him about her background in the arts. Johnson explained that he still wanted to “activate” a second Victorian church he had purchased in town.

“We set out to o er something you couldn’t find elsewhere, even in a community as artistic as Brattleboro,” Mohr said. What sets Epsilon apart is Mohr’s visionary and niche programming. She mixes film, music and food in wildly creative combinations. Recent events include a showing of a documentary about The Tibetan Book of the Dead, narrated by the late, great Canadian singersongwriter LEONARD COHEN, which featured a postshow discussion and a three-course Himalayan meal. In December — on Friday the 13th, no less — Mohr showed The Bloody Lady, an animated Slovakian film about alleged serial-killer countess Elizabeth Báthory, and paired it with a live ambient soundtrack from electronic artist NEONACH were

“There’s a lesson in that, I think,” Mohr said. “Life is about risk-taking. I said yes to the feral sheep, and by the time we were back in Vermont, I was taking on the project at Epsilon.”

It was anything but an easy start for the new nonproﬁt arts organization. Unlike Stone Church, the former First Baptist Church at 190 Main Street was in pretty dire condition. Johnson, Mohr and the new board set about renovating the property — including the 425-person-capacity sanctuary space, a lavish room with bloodred carpets and a historic, massive pipe organ that the Estey Organ Company installed in 1906.

“It was pretty rough at ﬁrst,” Mohr said. “The second ﬂoor had wind blowing through it. There were [Alcoholics Anonymous] meetings still happening, and all these random people seemed to have keys and would just show up. There was a squatter vibe going on there for a bit.”

Epsilon Spires in Brattleboro

On the Beat

The folks over at music-booking collective WAKING WINDOWS announced on Tuesday that the annual Waking Windows art and music festival is returning in 2025. The weekend-long party in Winooski has been one of the most popular and eagerly anticipated events on the Vermont music calendar since its inception in 2011. Though it has faced tough times in recent years, going dark for a while during the pandemic, the fest has roared back — albeit with a slightly smaller scope.

“It’ll be similar to 2024, with some really great artists lined up and all (y)our friends will be there!” reads the press release, which served as a savethe-date rather than a lineup drop. Stay tuned for more details ahead of the fest, which takes place May 2 through 4 in downtown Winooski and, of course, smack-dab in the rotary. See you there!

One of Vermont’s most unsung indie bands is getting some needed love. PAPER CASTLES, the band fronted by Jericho

musician and Waking Windows honcho PADDY REAGAN, have been relatively quiet since releasing the excellent 2018 album Acceptionalism. But it looks like that lull might be coming to an end: New Orleans-based music promotion company SIPSMAN, founded by Vermonter MIKE CAULO, is putting Paper Castles’ back catalog on streaming services at long last. To mark the occasion, the band — which includes drummer BRENNAN

MANGAN, bassist EMILY TOMPKINS and guitarist WREN KITZ — recently dropped a neverreleased B-side from Acceptionalism titled “Crooked and Narrow.”

Sipsman’s press release also promises a new Paper Castles record in 2025, so stay tuned.

There are few scenesters in the area with more stories to tell than KYLE “FATTIE B” THOMPSON and CRAIG MITCHELL

The two musicians and DJs have been ubiquitous in the local music scene for more than 30 years. On Thursday, February 27, at Vermont Comedy Club in Burlington, the duo will drop some serious knowledge and plenty of tunes

Eye on the Scene

Last week’s live music highlights from photographer Luke Awtry

WILLVERINE WITH KYLE SAULNIER, WALLFLOWER COLLECTIVE, BURLINGTON, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19: When a band is booked once a week for a month, it’s called a residency. But what do you call it when that extends to nearly four years, with no intention of stopping? At this point, I’m inclined to call Willverine Wednesdays at Wallflower Collective an institution. WILL ANDREWS’ first Wallflower gig was actually on a Tuesday back in 2021, but Wednesdays soon became the thing — Andrews says he’s hit at least 150 of the 185 weeks since. For a producer of original music, that’s pretty incredible. An accomplished composer and multi-instrumentalist, longtime member of JAPHY RYDER and FREEWAY CLYDE, and go-to collaborator all across town, Andrews knows just about everyone and often shares the stage. Last week featured KYLE SAULNIER on bass guitar, baritone saxophone, flute and beard duties, and all boxes were checked as the duo laid down the perfect groove to complement a mellow hump-day hang.

Listening In

(Spotify mix of local jams)

1. “IT WAS LIKE YOU WERE COMING TO WAKE US BACK UP” by Lily Seabird

2. “DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY” by Freya Yost

3. “THE ALCHEMIST” by COOKED

4. “YOUR PRECIOUS AND IMMORTAL MEMORY” by Astral Underground

5. “GOOD LUCK...” by I’m Dru!, North Ave Jax

6. “THE INTERNET HAS RUINED EVERYTHING” by Luminous Crush

7. “FOR TOO LONG” by the Wormdogs, Long Gone John

Scan to listen sevendaysvt. com/playlist

for a stripped-down evening ﬁttingly called Story Tellers.

Backed up by a band consisting of JD HAENNI on upright bass, DWIGHT RITCHER on guitar and drums, and guitarist COLLIN CRAIG, as well as Fattie’s former BELIZBEHA bandmates SHAWN WILLIAMS and SHAUNA ANDERSON, the Queen City legends will perform songs from across their deep catalogs. All proceeds beneﬁt Spectrum Youth & Family Services. Visit vermontcomedyclub.com for more info and to purchase tickets.

It’s been a busy few weeks for new singles from Vermont artists. First up is the new MADAILA track “Clementine,” which dropped on February 21. The single is part of an upcoming album that front man MARK DALY says will be titled Night Cuisine. “The new songs are short, energetic, dancey, catchy-ass bangers that are a little playful as well,” Daly wrote in an email. “This record will feel like an ongoing musical diary.”

Folk and Americana act the SLEEPY WEASELS have a new single and video out, titled “Fever Dream.” The duo of DAVID CRON and BETH MONROE recorded the track with producer VINCENT FREEMAN at his studio and venue, the Underground, in Randolph. The tune also features guest musicians JAKOB BREITBACH on ﬁddle and bass, FEZ SILK on piano, TITIEN TOLBERT on drums, and Freeman making a cameo on backing vocals. The video is streaming now on YouTube. ➆

Paper Castles

Ukulele Irish Song Tune-Up

WED., FEB. 26 ONLINE

Eco-resiliency Gathering: Campfire Stories

WED., FEB. 26 ONLINE

Whoopie Pie Workshop

THU., FEB. 27 RED POPPY CAKERY, WATERBURY VILLAGE

TJDF Shake the Cabin Fever Winter Fundraiser

SAT., MAR. 1 THE BRIGGS OPERA HOUSE, HARTFORD

'Lost Nation,' a Film by Jay Craven

SAT., MAR. 1 & SUN., MAR. 2 GRANGE HALL CULTURAL CENTER, WATERBURY CENTER

Durham County Poets

SUN., MAR. 2 OLIVE RIDLEYS, PLATTSBURGH, NY

Michael Arnowitt, Piano

SUN., MAR. 2 CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF ST. PAUL, BURLINGTON

Old Spokes Home Spring Tune-Up Workshop for Women/Trans/Nonbinary Identities

WED., MAR. 5 OLD SPOKES HOME, BURLINGTON

CLUB DATES music+nightlife

live music

WED.26

Anna May (singer-songwriter) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 6:30 p.m. Free.

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

Jazz Night with Ray Vega (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Maclan Roberts, Ashna Hille, Jersey Dave, Kaia Ellis, Spencer Bellet (singer-songwriter) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m.

$10/$15.

Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10.

THU.27

Jazz with Alex Stewart and Friends (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Lilac, Platinum Moon (rock) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $20/$25. maari (hip-hop) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 8 p.m.

$10/$15.

Night Zero (rock, jam) at Stowe Cider, 7 p.m. $15.

Red Hot Juba (jazz) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Story Tellers with Fattie B. and Craig Mitchell (hip-hop, dance) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $30.

Vermont Jazz Trio (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Zach Nugent’s Dead Set (Grateful Dead tribute) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 7 p.m.

$15/$20.

FRI.28

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

Audrey Pearl, Julia Randall (indie folk) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10. Coop (jazz, funk) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

D. Davis (folk) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

Dan Ryan Express (jazz) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 9 p.m. Free.

An Evening with Holly Bowling (piano) at Double E Performance Center’s T-Rex eater, Essex, 8 p.m. $20-$45.

e Faerie Godbrothers (folk) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free.

Footworks (folk) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

High Fade, One Time Weekend (funk, disco) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15.

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

Renaissance Woman

Brooklyn’s KATY PINKE is something of an artistic Swiss Army knife. The singer-songwriter, painter and actor is just as apt to be on tour with the likes of Delicate Steve or Jolie Holland as she is to show her work at a gallery in Chelsea or act in ﬁlms such as 2021’s Alexa Echoes. Her 2024 self-titled album, recorded with Adrianne Lenker and Cass McCombs producer Phil Weinrobe, showcases Pinke’s minimalist and at times experimental folk music, often just centered on her voice, guitar and sparse percussion. Pinke’s live shows have become notorious in the New York City scene as multimedia freakouts, including a release party in Brooklyn that doubled as a puppet show. There’s no word on whether her gig at the Monkey House in Winooski on Saturday, March 1, will include puppetry, but she will be joined by Burlington acts PAPER CASTLES and FUZZY BONES.

Jaded Ravins (Americana) at Two Heroes Brewery Public House, South Hero, 7 p.m. Free.

Kyle Stevens (acoustic) at Gusto’s, Barre, 6 p.m. Free. Maple Ridge, Cows on the Moon (indie) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8:30 p.m. $5. McMaple (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.

Monachino, Jarrett and Strats Trio (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Nice & Smooth, Mister Burns, Devon Dutchmaster (hip-hop) at the Lounge at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $25. Night Protocol (synthwave) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

North Beach Dub Allstars, Workingman’s Army (Sublime tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $15/$18. Paul Webb (piano) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Phillip Hyjek Trio (jazz) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Pom Pom Squad, Caroline Kingsbury (indie rock) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $20/$25.

Queer Takeover Two-Year

Anniversary Party (comedy, drag, indie, DJ) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $15.

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

Taylor LaValley Band (country) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Turning the Tide (covers) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 8 p.m. $10.

WD-40 (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.

SAT.1

e Blind Owl Band (bluegrass) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $16/$20.

Bloodroot Gap (bluegrass) at Shelburne Vineyard, 6 p.m. Free.

Dan Parks (acoustic) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Justice 3 (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.

Katy Pinke, Fuzzy Bones, Paper Castles (indie) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $10.

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

Live Music Saturdays (live music series) at Dumb Luck Pub & Grill, Hinesburg, 7 p.m. Free.

Melt, Léa the Leox (indie) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $20/$25. Moondogs, Cal Humberto, NewMantra (psych rock) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Paint Fumes, Dead Street Dreamers, Brunch (punk) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $15/$18.

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

Paul Webb (piano) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Radio Bean Ball (indie) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10/$15.

She Was Right (covers) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free.

Soul Porpoise (soul, funk) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Tim Brick (country) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 7 p.m. Free.

Turning the Tide (covers) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 8 p.m. $10.

Weird Phishes, Jonny G (of lespecial) (Radiohead, Phish tribute) at Stowe Cider, 8 p.m. $15.

e Wormdogs (bluegrass) at ArtsRiot, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $10.

SUN.2

Durham County Poets (folk, blues) at Olive Ridley’s, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 2 p.m. $20.

Jaded Ravins (Americana) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 1 p.m. Free.

Saxsquatch, CRWD CTRL (electronic) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. SOLD OUT.

Sunday Brunch Tunes (singersongwriter) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 10 a.m. ievery Corporation, Flamingosis (electronic) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. SOLD OUT.

Vermont Jazz Ensemble (jazz) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 5 p.m.

$20/$25.

MON.3

e Takes, Hush Club (indie rock) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $15/$18.

Tribal Seeds, Kabaka Pyramid, Sensamotion (reggae, rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 6:30 p.m.

$29.50/$34.50.

TUE.4

Bluegrass Jam (bluegrass) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms Country Band (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $15.

Good Gravy (bluegrass) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsﬁeld, 5 p.m. Free.

Grateful Tuesdays (Grateful Dead tribute) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Honky Tonk Tuesday with John Abair and His Good Pals (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.

Pepper, Vana Liya (alt-rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $30/$35.

WED.5

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

Daily Bread, Lumasi, YOKO (electro-soul) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8 p.m. $25/$30.

Jazz Night with Ray Vega (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Jazz Sessions (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Kendra McKinley, Mary Esther Carter, Rachel Ambaye (singer-songwriter) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Wednesday Night Dead (Grateful Dead tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $10.

djs

WED.26

DJ Blaine (DJ) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 5 p.m. Free.

THU.27

DJ Chaston (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

DJ Chia (DJ) at Bent Nails Bistro, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

DJ JP Black (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

DJ Two Sev (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 11 p.m. Free.

Vinyl Night with Ken (DJ) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.28

DJ Taka (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10/$15.

DJ Two Rivers (DJ) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.

Electronic Emulsion (electronic) at Despacito, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Shrek Rave (DJ) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 9 p.m. $20/$25.

SAT.1

DJ Chalango, DJ Tarzana Salsa Night (salsa, DJ) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

DJ doshjobbs (DJ) at the Lounge at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9:30 p.m. Free.

DJ Raul (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free. HAVEN (DJ) at MothershipVT, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Matt Payne (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Molly Mood (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

SUN.2

Mi Yard Reggae Night with DJ Big Dog (reggae, dancehall) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

open mics & jams

WED.26

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.27

Old Time Jam (open mic) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free. Open Mic with Artie (open mic) at Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

SUN.2

Olde Time Jam Session (open jam) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, noon. Free.

SAT.1 // KATY PINKE [INDIE]

music+nightlife

REVIEW this

Chicky Stoltz, Polecat

(DICKWEED RECORDS, DIGITAL, VINYL)

It’s a dicey prospect for an artist to revisit their back catalog. For all the stories of perfectionists who couldn’t quit on their work, such as Leonardo da Vinci and his unﬁnished painting

“Saint Jerome in the Wilderness,” there are far more tales of going back to early projects as a sign of creative capitulation — or, as an old professor of mine called it, “the dog returning to its own vomit.”

album is a collection of 10 songs that the Warren singer-songwriter handpicked from his four-album Camp Recording series to rerecord.

It’s an especially precarious proposition for modern musicians, whose audiences expect fresh material.

So Chicky Stoltz’s ﬁfth LP, Polecat, carries some inherent risk: The new

Michael Roberts, Rose Gold

(COLD COWBOY SONGS, DIGITAL)

While living in Uganda with his family last year, singer-songwriter Michael Roberts bought a guitar at a music shop in Kampala. The Guilford musician was looking for a “beater” instrument to play while overseas, he explained in an email to Seven Days, so he picked up the nylon-string acoustic, which was “covered in ostentatious wallpaper.”

Stoltz self-produced his previous records from his home studio, and those DIY e orts were about what one would expect of the songwriter’s mix of late-night bar-band Americana and power pop: charming but raw. For Polecat, the Mad River Valley ﬁxture headed back to his old stomping grounds of Camden, Maine, and reconnected with his former bandmates, the Charlie Nobles, as a backing crew in a proper studio.

Several of Stoltz’s old songs beneﬁt from the glossy treatment of a professional recording studio. “Baldur’s Gate,” from 2013’s Camp Recording

local honky-tonk act the Rear Defrosters, was charmed by the seemingly forgotten instrument. He dubbed the guitar “Rose Gold” and wrote dozens of songs with it — a reminder that an instrument’s magic is in its function, not its appearance.

Roberts, who played with the indiefolk band Wooden Dinosaur and leads

Soundbites « P.46

There have been a few misses and moments of overreach, Mohr admitted. She pitched screening the infamous Bad Lieutenant movies alongside a bratwurst dinner as an event called “The Wurst Lieutenant.” The board passed. Then there was “Belladonna of SADE,” which paired the 1973 ﬁlm Belladonna of Sadness with a group of experimental musicians Mohr booked to play Sade covers.

“Not a soul came,” Mohr recalled with

Case in point: That guitar is featured on and serves as the namesake of Roberts’ latest EP. Released on February 12, Rose Gold is a six-song collection of folk and Americana that he aptly calls “small songs for complex times.”

Roberts’ collaborators help elevate

a rueful laugh. “It was me, the band and some Sade.”

Therein lies the crux of her conundrum with Epsilon.

“The tricky thing is, how do we stick with our ethos but be popular enough to make money and stay in operation?” Mohr asked. “We want to keep pushing the envelope, but also: How do we have these events and draw more people in to become converts?”

Mohr will have to answer that question soon. “Many funders are

#2: The Roebuck, gets a pop sheen, a funky bass line and some tasty Velvet Underground tones that elevate the track from the original bare-bones demo.

“No Comprende” enjoys a similar glowup from its original 2012 version on Camp Recording #1: Bobcat, blossoming from an undercooked folk jam into a sinistersounding rocker. “I’m not afraid / to send the ambulance home / I’m not afraid to go it alone,” Stoltz sings in a chorus churning with a swaggering rhythm.

But the extra polish sometimes bu s away the charm of Stoltz’s early recordings. The dark, close conﬁnes of Camp Recording #2’s “Girl Trouble” gives it an edge over its Polecat counterpart. The same is true of “King Kong” from the same album. The newer, slicker renditions don’t sound bad. But there are moments when the less-is-more approach of the Camp Recording series works in a way the stronger, more fully realized sound of Polecat doesn’t.

his material. “Come See This Quick” is a perfect example: Chelle Martinez joins on vocals, adding breezy harmonies. Je Murphy’s bass and Hayden Lake’s drums anchor Roberts’ loping guitar, creating room for Asa Brosius’ swooning pedal steel, a true highlight of the track. The song, like the EP as a whole, is thoughtful and balanced thanks to its simple production.

Roberts sums up the theme of Rose Gold as “time and its passing.”

Throughout the EP, he playfully juxtaposes big philosophical questions with the mundane realities of daily life.

On “2030,” he sings, “You may have visions, hallucinations / build a universe of nations / A future full of granted birthday wishes / Yea I just wished for help doing the dishes.”

ending their programs right now, and grant money is drying up,” she said. That shortfall has combined with a series of unexpected building maintenance bills to put the organization under strain.

To help o set those costs, Mohr launched her emergency fundraiser in February, hoping to get the venue through the winter and into the summer, when ticket sales traditionally pick up. She also spearheaded a membership drive, which gives patrons

One dubious trend from those earlier albums makes an unfortunate return on Polecat: Tanya. A moniker given to an imaginary female backup vocalist — actually just Stoltz digitally manipulating his own voice — Tanya makes a few appearances on the new record. While Stoltz has gotten better at using the e ect so that it sounds slightly less abrasive, it still possesses an uncanny-valley vibe. The mirage around the vocals never stops shimmering, and not necessarily in a good way.

Polecat ﬁnds a clever songwriter cleaning up his CV. Despite a few cuts that might have been better left alone, it’s a treat to hear Stoltz breathe new life into his old tunes.

The album is available on major streaming services, as well as on vinyl at Pure Pop Records in Burlington and Buch Spieler Records in Montpelier.

CHRIS FARNSWORTH

Over the course of the record, Roberts artfully layers complementary instrumentation atop the sweet tones of that nylon-string guitar. However, the album’s ﬁnal track, “I Give My Life to You,” is stripped down to reveal the roots of the EP. Featuring a softly picked guitar lick and introspective lyrics, it highlights the musician’s songwriting abilities.

Warm and shimmering, Rose Gold is Roberts’ most engaging solo work yet. The new EP showcases his strengths as a lyricist who is both vulnerable and musing, personal and universal.

Rose Gold is available on all major streaming platforms. Roberts plays at the Copper Fox in Springﬁeld on Thursday, March 27.

ANNIE CUTLER

event discounts and access to free Q&A sessions with ﬁlmmakers and musicians.

“Creative problem solving is a survival mechanism for an arts org,” Mohr pointed out. “You have to innovate to survive, and that has very much been our story.”

As the artist Henri Matisse said, “Creativity takes courage.” Given the challenges Epsilon is facing, it’s reassuring to know Mohr has the latter in spades. ➆

Old School

New York City hip-hop duo NICE & SMOOTH have roots in the very foundations of rap. They first hit the scene with a cameo on Big Daddy Kane’s “Pimpin’ Ain’t Easy” in 1989. Their second LP, Ain’t a Damn Thing Changed, dropped in ’91, featuring the breakout single “Sometimes I Rhyme Slow,” a relatively subdued track on which Greg Nice and Smooth B traded verses about AIDS, drug addiction and poverty. The song was built around a sample of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” decades before country star Luke Combs had a massive hit with his version. The influential rappers are still at it — they perform at the Lounge at Nectar’s in Burlington on Friday, February 28, with support from DEVON DUTCHMASTER and Vermont’s MISTER BURNS

Sal Vulcano (comedy) at the Flynn, Burlington, 7 p.m.

$47.75-$121.

SAT.1

MON.3

Open Mic (open mic) at Despacito, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

TUE.4

Venetian Soda Open Mic (open mic) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.5

Irish Traditional Music Session (Celtic) at Burlington Beer, 5:30 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.

The Ribbit Review Open Mic & Jam (open mic) at Lily’s Pad, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Writer’s Bloc (writer’s open mic) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

comedy

WED.26

Distracted Sets (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5.

Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

THU.27

Pet Store: A Live Sitcom (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5/$10.

FRI.28

Mary Beth Barone (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 & 9 p.m. $25.

Jessica Kirson (comedy) at the Flynn, Burlington, 7 p.m. $29-$60.25.

Mary Beth Barone (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 & 9 p.m. $25.

TUE.4

Open Mic Comedy with Levi Silverstein (comedy open mic) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.5

Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Sunday Funday (games) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, noon. Free.

Venetian Karaoke (karaoke) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

MON.3

Trivia Monday (trivia) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Monday with Top Hat Entertainment (trivia) at McKee’s Original, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Barr Hill, Montpelier, 5:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia with Brain (trivia) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia with Craig Mitchell (trivia) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

TUE.4

Karaoke (karaoke) at Alfie’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.26

Trivia (trivia) at Alfie’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Dumb Luck Pub and Grill Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.27

Trivia (trivia) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Nectar’s, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

SUN.2

Drag Brunch (drag) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 11 a.m. $20.

Karaoke with DJ Coco Entertainment (karaoke) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 5 p.m. Free.

Karaoke With DJ Party Bear (karaoke) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9:30 p.m. Free.

Taproom Trivia (trivia) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Oscars Trivia (trivia) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Tuesday (trivia) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.5

Trivia (trivia) at Alfie’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Dumb Luck Pub and Grill Winooski, 7 p.m. Free. ➆

calendar

FEBRUARY 26-MARCH 5, 2025

WED.26

activism

TELEPHONE TOWN HALL:

Citizens dial in for a live Q&A with U.S. Rep Becca Balint (D-Vt.) about current events — and current concerns. 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 652-2450.

business

QUEEN CITY BUSINESS NETWORKING

INTERNATIONAL GROUP:

Savvy businesspeople make crucial contacts at a weekly chapter meeting. BCA Center, Burlington, 11:15 a.m.1 p.m. Free. Info, 829-5066.

climate crisis

ECO-RESILIENCY

GATHERING: Participants share conversation, insight and wisdom at a monthly meetup exploring radical resilience in the face of climate crises. 6-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, akmckb@ gmail.com.

community

CURRENT EVENTS: Neighbors have an informal discussion about what’s in the news. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: 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.

education

COMMUNITY SUPPORT DAY:

PHONE- & SOCIAL MEDIAFREE SCHOOLS: Concerned locals take to the Statehouse to share their enthusiasm and chat with legislators about making phone-free education a priority. Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 522-8681.

food & drink

COMMUNITY COOKING: Neighbors join up with the nonprofit’s staff and volunteers to make a yummy meal for distribution. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

VEGAN IN VERMONT: Folks following a plant-based diet connect with others, explore fermentation and listen to guest speaker Beki Auclair. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-3403.

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.

music

DÉJÀ-NOUS: A local quintet transports audiences around the globe with a smooth fusion of French cabaret, jazz and tango. McCarthy Arts Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 308-4255.

games

BOARD GAME NIGHT: Game lovers enjoy an evening of friendly competition with staples such as Catan, Dominion, chess and cards. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

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.

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT WITH BETH KRUGER: Women ages 40 and up gather for an evening focused on self-care, empowerment and balance. The Essex Resort & Spa, 5:30-8:30 p.m. $80. Info, 878-1100.

language

GREEK CONVERSATION

GROUP: People of all proficiency levels chat in the modern form of the language while sharing skills and making new friends. Fletcher Room, Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, katyhayden802@gmail.com.

lgbtq

DYKE MOVIE NIGHT SERIES: ‘BOUND’: Viewers take in Lana and Lilly Wachowski’s 1996 crime thriller about an ex-con and her lover’s scheme to steal millions in stashed mob money. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

ME2 CHORUS REHEARSAL:

Conductor Stefanie Weigand leads vocalists ages 16 and up in a stigma-free, supportive environment. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, phoenix@me2music.org.

outdoors

TREASURE THE LIBRARY: Skiers and snowshoers who donate to the Craftsbury Public Library gain access to private trails through a magical cedar stand filled with literary and other surprises. 400 Post Rd., Craftsbury. $10-20 suggested donation; preregister. Info, 586-9683. québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE:

Performing arts, fine dining and family activities pop up across the city for more than two weeks of spectacular sights, sounds and scenes. See montrealenlumiere. com for full schedule. Various Montréal locations. Various prices. Info, 855-219-0576.

seminars

FILMING IN THE STUDIO: Media enthusiasts walk through the process of conducting interviews on set while switching between cameras and utilizing chroma-keyed backgrounds. The Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

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

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

NOONTIME POETRY READING SOCIETY: Verse lovers link up to share their work, reflect and write creatively. Pierson Library, Shelburne, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 985-5124.

THU.27

business

GROW YOUR BUSINESS: Shelburne BNI hosts a weekly meeting for local professionals to exchange referrals and build meaningful connections. Connect Church, Shelburne, 8:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 377-3422.

crafts

KNIT FOR YOUR NEIGHBOR: All ages and abilities knit or crochet hats and scarves for the South Burlington Food Shelf. Materials provided. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

KNITTING GROUP: Knitters of all experience levels get together to spin yarns. Latham Library, Thetford, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

WOODWORKING LAB: Visionaries create a project or learn a new skill with the help of mentors and access to tools and equipment in the makerspace. Hannaford Career Center, Middlebury, 5-8 p.m. $7.50. Info, 382-1012.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: Audience members are guided through an exploration of stunning animal worlds, from frozen snowy forests to the darkest depths of the ocean. Dealer.com 3D

Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10:30 a.m., 12:30, 2:30 & 4:30 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

JONATHAN BEECHER FIELD: A Clemson University professor reexamines the power and prejudice of a Vermont road sign from 1958. Presented by Brownell Library. 7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-6955.

KARI BORNI: A dance studies scholar and choreographer illuminates how performers navigate religious identity — both on and off stage. Franklin Environmental Center at Hillcrest, Middlebury College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-2507.

words

FARMERS NIGHT: TOUSSAINT

ST. NEGRITUDE: A Vermont poet and bass clarinetist conjures the lyric timbre of both horn and verse. House Chamber, Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 262-2626.

biographical drama based on the life of author Isabel Wilkerson. Axinn Center, Starr Library, Middlebury College, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 443-3112.

‘SANTOSH’: Sandhya Suri’s 2024 crime drama zooms in on the pressure cooker environment that female workers face in Northern India’s rural police force. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: Incredible CGI and revelations in tyrannosaur paleontology help to chronicle a remarkable discovery in the badlands of Hell Creek. Dealer. com 3D Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11:30 a.m., 1:30 & 3:30 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: Snacks and coffee fuel bouts of a classic card game. Burlington Bridge Club, Williston, 12:30-4 p.m. $6. Info, 872-5722.

WEEKLY CHESS FOR FUN: Players of all ability levels face off and learn new strategies. United Community Church, St. Johnsbury, 5:30-9 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, lafferty1949@gmail.com.

language

ITALIAN CONVERSATION GROUP: Semi-fluent speakers practice their skills during a conversazione with others. Best for those who can speak at least basic sentences. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

music

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: Never-beforeseen footage brings audience members to the farthest reaches of the coldest, driest, windiest continent on Earth. Dealer. com 3D Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: Andy Serkis narrates the journey of a lifetime into the realm of the world’s largest mammals and the scientists who study them. Dealer.com 3D Theater: A National Geographic Experience, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, noon, 2 & 4 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $16.50-20; admission free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

BLACK STUDIES FILM SERIES: ‘ORIGIN’: Audience members take in Ava DuVernay’s 2023

RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES: Fans of the Fab Four flock to an electrifying concert experience celebrating the band’s timeless songs with note-for-note precision. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $63.50-90.50. Info, 863-5966.

outdoors

TREASURE THE LIBRARY: See WED.26.

québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: See WED.26.

talks

BOB AMOS: A Northeast Kingdom resident explores his ancestors’ multigenerational relationship with historical icon Harriet Tubman. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

DR. KI-YOUNG SHIN: An Ochanomizu University professor shares how the #MeToo movement unfolded in Japan. Axinn Center, Starr Library, Middlebury

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.26

burlington

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: Step right up! Guests revel in hair-raising science shows, crowd-dazzling spectacles and hands-on activities about the wonders of electricity. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $16.50-20; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

STEAM SPACE: Kiddos in grades K to 5 explore science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics with fun and engaging activities. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

TODDLER TIME: Librarians bring out books, rhymes and songs specially selected for young ones 12 to 24 months. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1111:30 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.

KIDS GREAT JIGSAW PUZZLE RACE: Teams in two age groups race to complete a puzzle the fastest for a chance to win prizes. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, sbplkids@ southburlingtonvt.gov.

PLAYGROUP & STORY TIME: Caregivers and kids through age 5 listen to stories, sing songs and share toys with new friends. Richmond Free Library, 10 a.m.noon. Free. Info, 434-3036.

TELL A FAIRY TALE: Imaginative youngsters listen to famous fables, then have a ball retelling them with puppets. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

TREE COOKIE DECORATING: Kids of all ages adorn sugar cookies with frosting and other goodies. Supplies provided. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

WINTER WONDERLAND: Families bundle up for a frosty afternoon of sledding, hot chocolate, s’mores and snowman building. Farrell Park, South Burlington, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.

barre/montpelier

GRAHAM CRACKER ARCHITECTURE WITH VERMONT HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Little patrons learn about local

MAR. 1 & 2 | FAMILY FUN

Trapeze, Please

And now for something completely different! Fun takes flight at New England Center for Circus Arts’ 15th annual Circus Spectacular in Brattleboro. In the high-ceilinged trapezium, whimsical watchers of all ages behold with wonder world-class entertainers performing stupendous feats. Ringmaster and juggler extraordinaire Thom Wall shares the stage with baton twirlers, acrobats, trapeze artists and Hula-Hoopers, many of whom are NECCA graduates. Between the aerial rope acts, lyra spins and German wheel gymnastics, audiences get a veritable feast for the eyes — all in support of the org’s mission to bring circus arts to everyone.

CIRCUS SPECTACULAR

Saturday, March 1, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 2, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., at New England Center for Circus Arts in Brattleboro. $15-50; free for kids 2 and under. Info, 254-9780, necenterforcircusarts.org.

structures and find historic shapes in the library, then practice building their own. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 1-1:45 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

THU.27 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.

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See WED.26.

GROW PRESCHOOL YOGA: Colleen from Grow Prenatal and Family Yoga leads kids ages 2 to 5 in songs, movement and other fun activities. Fletcher Free

Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

‘CARS’: Faster than fast, quicker than quick! Fans of Disney’s 2006 animated racing flick re-create a drive-in movie experience with decorated boxes big enough to sit in. BYO box; supplies and snacks provided. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, nliuzzi@ southburlingtonvt.gov.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MAKERS: COOKING: Students in grades 4 through 8 make delicious homemade dishes. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4041.

PRESCHOOL MUSIC WITH LINDA BASSICK: The singer and storyteller extraordinaire guides wee ones ages birth to 5 in indoor music and movement. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

PRESCHOOL PLAY TIME: Pre-K patrons play and socialize after music time. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library,

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

ACORN CLUB STORY TIME: Youngsters 5 and under play, sing, hear stories and color. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:1510:45 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391.

FRI.28 burlington

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See WED.26.

VISIT WITH VASYA: Kiddos of all ages flock to the beloved therapy dog for a bit of unconditional love. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

LEGO BUILDERS: Mini makers explore and create new worlds with stackable blocks. Recommended for ages 6 and up. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

‘MOANA’: Families find out how far she’ll go in Disney’s 2016 animated adventure about a girl who answers the ocean’s call. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

‘THE WILD ROBOT’: Kiddos grab some popcorn and settle in to watch Chris Sanders’ 2024 animated feature about an intelligent robot stranded on an uninhabited island. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

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.

Williston, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

STORY TIME: Little ones ages birth to 5 learn from songs, crafts and picture books. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

barre/montpelier

MR. PAUL’S VARIETY SHOW STORY TIME: Little library patrons join the entertainer for stories, music and puppets. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

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

STORY TIME & PLAYGROUP: Participants ages 5 and under enjoy themed science, art and nature activities. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

upper valley

STORY TIME: Preschoolers take part in tales, tunes and playtime. Latham Library, Thetford, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

northeast kingdom

LEGO DAYS: Kiddos on school vacation gather for indoor fun with colored building blocks, construction idea books and snacks. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Youngsters and their caregivers delight in beautiful books, silly songs, creative crafts and unplugged play in the library’s cozy children’s room. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-5532.

KRIN GABBARD: A Stony Brook University professor emeritus presents the JazzArts symposium keynote address, “Is This Music Contentious? Duke Ellington’s ‘Paris Blues.’” University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 656-3040.

words

GEORGE’S MYSTERY BOOK

GROUP: Patrons chat about Walter Mosley’s twisty page-turners with resident whodunit expert George Spaulding. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 6:15 p.m. Free. Info, gspaulding@ kellogghubbard.org.

LAURA FOLEY & BROOKE

HERTER JAMES: Two lauded local poets join forces to share their latest collections, Ice Cream for Lunch and A Drift of Swans The Norwich Bookstore, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

FRI.28

bazaars

ANNUAL INDOOR YARD SALE:

Local treasure hunters revel in a jam-packed bazaar of gently used items to benefit the Brendon P. Cousino Med47 Foundation. New Haven Town Hall, 2-7 p.m. Free. Info, 233-8334.

dance

BURLINGTON CONTRA DANCE:

All ages and abilities gather to shake a leg with live music and calling by Grace HendricksonJones. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. Burlington St. Anthony’s Parish Hall, beginners’ lesson, 6:45 p.m.; dance, 7-10 p.m. $5-12. Info, info@queencitycontras.com.

‘FORECASTS AND FINDINGS’: Bodel Dance Arts premieres an original work integrating movement, object theater, a live soundscape and 100 pounds of grain. New England Youth Theatre, Brattleboro, 7 p.m. $15-25. Info, bodeldancearts@ gmail.com.

fairs & festivals

SINGLE CHANNEL VT

INTERNATIONAL VIDEO

FESTIVAL: Audience members enjoy a dynamic lineup of films in response to this year’s theme of “Resistance.” SnakeHouse VT, Burlington, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, singlechannelvt@gmail.com.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.27.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.27.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

‘INTERCEPTED’: Oksana Karpovych’s 2024 documentary details the destruction of the Ukraine war through a gripping tableaux. Haskell Free Library & Opera House, Derby Line, 7 p.m. $5. Info, cinemahaskell@ gmail.com.

‘MOONLIGHT’: Viewers take in Barry Jenkins’ Oscar-winning 2016 coming-of-age drama about a young African American man as he grapples with his identity. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.27, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. health & fitness

GUIDED MEDITATION

ONLINE: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library invites attendees to relax on their lunch breaks and reconnect with their bodies. Noon-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@ damlvt.org.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION: Community members gather for an informal session combining stimulating discussion, sharing and sitting in silence. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS CAN EXERCISE: Folks get their bodies moving with a low-impact program that keeps joints flexible and muscles strong. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 241-4840. language

FRENCH SOCIAL HOUR: The Alliance Française of the Lake Champlain Region hosts a rendez-vous over cocktails. Hilton Garden Inn Burlington Downtown, 5:30-7 p.m. Free; cash bar. Info, bbrodie@aflcr.org.

lgbtq

RPG NIGHT: Members of the LGBTQ community get together weekly for role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Everway. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:308:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692.

music

CELEBRATION SERIES: SOLAS: A band hailed by the Boston Globe as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced” celebrates 30 years of honoring musical traditions and pushing boundaries. Barre Opera House, 8-10 p.m. $24-42.50. Info, 476-8188.

THE FAB FOUR: You were only waiting for this moment to arise! Audience members experience a Beatles tribute concert with perfectly executed renditions of beloved classics such as “Can’t Buy Me Love” and “Hey Jude.” Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $39-59. Info, 775-0903.

Bridging the Gap

Online culture magazine PopMatters salutes Laura Cortese & the Dance Cards for creating “a stunning, forward-looking sound that charts a path for innovation in folk music.” The dynamo trio brings said innovation to Next Stage Arts in Putney for an evening of deep audience connection through music’s gravitational pull. A prolific singer-songwriter and fiddler, Cortese crosses the generational divide with her ability to blend traditional American roots and power-pop vocals. Complementing Cortese, artists Valerie Thompson and Isa Burke add their own unique genre hybridization, drawing on their combined experiences to weave a rich tapestry of symphonic styles.

LAURA CORTESE & THE DANCE CARDS

Friday, February 28, 7:30 p.m., at Next Stage Arts in Putney. $10-25; cash bar. Info, 387-0102, nextstagearts.org.

LANE SERIES: THE GESUALDO

SIX: An award-winning British ensemble blends voices with uncanny precision and beauty. University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $5-40. Info, 656-4455.

JAZZARTS SYMPOSIUM: College faculty and guest scholars present on the enduring legacy of jazz, followed by live performances and refreshments. University of Vermont Alumni House, Burlington, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 656-3040.

LAURA CORTESE & THE DANCE

CARDS: Listeners delight in an evening of powerhouse vocals, rich harmonies and stellar orchestral arrangements. Virtual option available. See calendar spotlight. Next Stage Arts,

Putney, 7:30 p.m. $10-25; cash bar. Info, 387-0102.

LOCALS NIGHT: Oenophiles enjoy the vineyard’s offerings, small bites and live tunes by Vermont musicians in a cozy, intimate setting. Lincoln Peak Vineyard, New Haven, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 388-7368.

VERMONT MANDOLIN TRIO: Local musicians Jamie Masefield, Will Patton and Grammy Awardnominated Matt Flinner play a diverse program of toe-tapping string tunes. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7 p.m. $15-30. Info, 382-9222.

outdoors

OWL PROWL: Hikers listen for raucous noises in the night and discover the secret lives of the nocturnal residents. Ages 13 and

up. Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee, 5:30-7 p.m. $17.50-20; preregister. Info, 359-5000.

TREASURE THE LIBRARY: See WED.26.

québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: See WED.26.

seminars

PEER LEADER TRAINING: The Get Healthy North Country Community Integrated Health Network hosts a virtual seminar for community members interested in helping others recognize the signs and symptoms commonly linked to chronic health conditions. 9-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 315-261-4760, ext. 239.

sports

SLASH & BERM BANKED

SLALOM: Snowboarders of all ages and abilities shred the slopes to benefit Wings for Life. See killington.com for full schedule. Killington Resort, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. $50; lift ticket not included. Info, 800-734-9435.

talks

SARAH COPELAND HANZAS: The Vermont Secretary of State discusses civic engagement in our region. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 2-3 p.m. $8 cash or check; free for members. Info, 343-5177.

tech

PHONE & TECH SUPPORT: Perplexed patrons receive aid from library staff on a first-come, first-served basis. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 863-3403.

theater

‘OUR TOWN’: It’s stick season in Grover’s Corners, N.H.! Viewers take in Thornton Wilder’s timeless tale of love, life and afterlife, intertwined with covers of songs by Noah Kahan. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 7-9 p.m. $15-25. Info, 728-9878.

‘SWEENEY TODD’: Vermont Repertory Theatre brings the dark and foggy streets of London to Burlington audiences with Stephen Sondheim’s murderous musical. Recommended for

Laura Cortese

ages 18 and up. See calendar spotlight. Black Box Theater, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7:30-10 p.m. $25-40. Info, admin@ vermontrep.com.

SAT.1

bazaars

ANNUAL INDOOR YARD SALE:

See FRI.28, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. dance

BERLIN CONTRA DANCE: Dancers of all ages and abilities learn at a gathering that encourages joy, laughter and friendship. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. See website for callers and bands. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 8-11 p.m. $5-20 sliding scale. Info, 225-8921.

‘FORECASTS AND FINDINGS’: See FRI.28, 4 & 7 p.m.

JUNCTION DANCE FESTIVAL:

SHAKE THE CABIN FEVER

FUNDRAISER: NSquared Dance mounts a stunning artistic interpretation of the Lavender Scare in midcentury America. Briggs Opera House, White River Junction, 7-8:30 p.m. $30-35. Info, 439-9117.

WASHINGTON COUNTY MEETUP:

Locals from the dance community gather with Vermont legislators to dialogue about the arts-funding landscape and share actionable steps for a better future. Dance and Movement Center, Barre, 2-5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, info@ vermontdance.org.

etc.

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.

fairs & festivals

MASQUERADE JAZZ & FUNK

WINTER MUSIC CARNIVAL: BarnArts’ annual family-friendly fête lifts spirits with live music, mask making, a taco bar and

a photo booth. BYOB. Barnard Town Hall, 6-10 p.m. $15-25; free for kids 6 and under. Info, 234-1645.

SINGLE CHANNEL VT INTERNATIONAL VIDEO FESTIVAL: See FRI.28, 1-2 p.m. film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.27.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.27.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

‘THE GOLD RUSH’ & ‘SHERLOCK

JR.’: To mark the Screening Room’s first anniversary, film buffs enjoy cake and a charming double feature showcasing two of Hollywood’s greatest comedians, Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘LOST NATION’: History lovers watch local filmmaker Jay Craven’s Revolutionary War drama about Ethan Allen and Lucy Terry Prince, set in the early upstart Republic of Vermont. A Q&A with the director follows. Grange Hall Cultural Center, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $15. Info, 244-4168.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

food & drink

CAPITAL CITY WINTER FARMERS

MARKET: Locavores sip cocktails while perusing root veggies, honey, crafts and maple syrup at an off-season showcase of locally grown food. Barr Hill, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 472-8000.

FANCY PANTS SUPPER CLUB: YACHT ROCK: Guests indulge in three hours of immersive dining, including oysters, culinary-driven cocktails and an epic, seaworthy feast served family-style. Adventure Dinner Clubhouse, Colchester, 6-9 p.m. $85. Info, sas@adventuredinner.com.

games

CEMETERY COMMITTEE BINGO: Players vie for cash prizes at this weekly event to support cemetery improvements. St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Vergennes, 5-9 p.m. $5 per 10 games. Info, 877-2367.

CHESS CLUB: All ages and abilities face off and learn new strategies. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

D&D & TTRPG GROUP: Fans of Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games embark on a new adventure with a rotating cast of game masters. Virtual option available. Waterbury Public Library, 1-5 p.m. Free. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

LEARN TO PLAY MAH-JONGG: Expert tile trader Pauline Nolte leads players through the Chinese and American versions of the ancient game. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

music

ALLISON MANN TRIO: A local vocalist takes the stage with keyboardist Tom Cleary and bassist Robinson Morse to perform dynamic jazz standards in an intimate setting. Contemporary Dance & Fitness Studio, Montpelier, 7-9 p.m. $20 suggested donation. Info, allisonmannsings@gmail.com.

DAVID FEURZEIG: A prolific pianist continues his four-year, statewide series of shows in protest of high-pollution worldwide concert tours. Donations benefit ACORN Vermont. Montgomery Center for the Arts, 5-7 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 326-6003.

EUREKA SHOES & JEAN

ROHE: Listeners light up at a genre-busting concert that’s part string quartet, part jazz combo. Burnham Hall, Lincoln, 7:30-10 p.m. $20-25. Info, 349-3364. THE GESUALDO SIX: See FRI.28. United Community Church, St. Johnsbury, 7 p.m. $40; free for students. Info, 748-2600.

JAZZ AT THE PEAK: PETE MALINVERNI & JANIS SIEGEL: An acclaimed pianist joins forces with a special guest vocalist to capture the essence of the Jazz Age. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe Mountain Resort, 7 p.m. $40-65. Info, 760-4634.

LC JAZZ: In “Winter Thaw,” talented local brass and rhythm musicians get listeners grooving with jazz standards. Proceeds benefit student music scholarships. Vergennes Opera House, 7:30 p.m. By donation; cash bar. Info, 877-6737.

RAMBLETREE: Come along for the craic! Local musicians Daniel Brown and Reagh Greenleaf Jr. play a dynamic mix of homegrown material, world music and Celtic folk tunes. O’Dwyer’s Public House, Killington, 6-9 p.m. Free. Info, 779-4114.

VERMONT MANDOLIN TRIO: See FRI.28. Artistree Community Arts Center, South Pomfret, 7 p.m. $30. Info, 457-3500.

VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: SOLD OUT. Listeners lose themselves in an amalgam of ancient and modern as the ensemble performs its “Flight Test” program in the manufacturer’s original hangar. Beta Technologies, South Burlington, 6 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. $32. Info, 864-5741.

outdoors

LARAWAY ICE TOUR: Adventurers join up with the Green Mountain Club for a moderately paced hike to Laraway Lookout. Microspikes and snowshoes required. Call for start time. Codding Hollow Trailhead, Johnson. Free; preregister by Feb. 27. Info, 899-9982.

MONTHLY BIRDING OUTING:

Avian aficionados gather to spot Vermont’s resident feathered friends. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 8-9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 229-6206.

THE PIG RACE: Nordic skiers slip and slide through the snow, then celebrate with a pig roast, woodfired pizza and prizes. Blueberry Hill Outdoor Center, Goshen, 11 a.m. $35-45; free for kids; preregister. Info, 247-6735.

TREASURE THE LIBRARY: See WED.26.

québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: See WED.26.

seminars

MEDIA FACTORY ORIENTATION:

Curious creatives and multimedia enthusiasts get a tour of the facilities and check out available gear. The Media Factory, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

sports

SLASH & BERM BANKED

SLALOM: See FRI.28, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

talks

DECLAN MCCABE: A professor of biology explains how best to deploy trail cameras for wildlife photography. Dion Family Student Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 654-2626.

tech

GOOGLE WORKSPACE SERIES: Folks troubled by tech learn more about useful tools, including Gmail, Google Docs, Google Drive and Google Calendar. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon1:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 865-7217.

PHONE & TECH SUPPORT: See FRI.28. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon.

theater

‘OUR TOWN’: See FRI.28.

‘SWEENEY TODD’: See FRI.28, 2-4:30 & 8-10:30 p.m.

words

BOOK SALE: Bookworms find new and like-new titles to take home. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free; cost of books. Info, 863-3403.

USED BOOK SALE: Lit lovers peruse a wide array of books to benefit Ilsley Public Library. Middlebury United Methodist Church, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free; cost of books. Info, 272-2111.

WRITE NOW!: Authors of all experience levels hone their craft in a supportive and critique-free environment. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 223-3338.

SUN.2

business

ELEVATOR PITCH COMPETITION: Eighteen budding entrepreneurs have 90 seconds to present their ideas and win over the judges in a “Shark Tank”-stye setting. Virtual option available. Alumni Auditorium, Champlain College, Burlington, 2-4:15 p.m. Free. Info, careercollaborative@ champlain.edu.

community

HUMAN CONNECTION CIRCLE: Neighbors share stories from their lives and forge deep bonds. Pickering Room, Fletcher Free

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

Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister; limited space. Info, humanconnectioncircle@ gmail.com.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.26, 1-3 p.m.

dance

IRISH CEILI: Live music sets the tone for this community celebration featuring traditional social dances of Ireland, taught on-site. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. Richmond Free Library, 1-3 p.m.

$5-20. Info, 363-6330.

‘THE SLEEPING BEAUTY’: Viewers watch with wonder as the Grand Kyiv Ballet stages Charles Perrault’s classic fairy tale about a princess’ long slumber. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 7 p.m. $48.75-69.75. Info, 863-5966.

TWO-STEP DANCE: Happy feet learn how to Texas two-step and line dance, followed by an evening of salsa, cha-cha and beyond. Artistree Community Arts Center, South Pomfret, 5-8 p.m. $20. Info, 457-3500.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.27.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.27.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

‘LOST NATION’: See SAT.1, 2 p.m.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

food & drink

VIRTUAL PASTA COOKING

CLASS: Gastronomes learn how to make delicious dishes that blend Italian tradition with fresh New England ingredients. Hosted by Trenchers Farmhouse. 5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 650-224-5533.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.27, 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 minds. Jenna’s House, Johnson, 10-11:15 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, mollyzapp@live. com.

NEW LEAF SANGHA

MINDFULNESS PRACTICE: New and experienced meditators alike practice together in the Plum Village tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Hot Yoga Burlington, 6-7:45 p.m. Free. Info, newleafsangha@gmail.com.

music

MARKOWITZ & DUNLOP: A violinist and a cellist known for their classical music prowess surprise listeners with upbeat Celtic tunes to help usher in spring.

Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Jericho, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 899-4962.

MICHAEL ARNOWITT: An acclaimed pianist presents classical and jazz compositions about the African American experience.

Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington, 4-5 p.m. $15-25. Info, 864-0471.

outdoors

TREASURE THE LIBRARY: See WED.26.

québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: See WED.26.

sports

EPILEPSKI: Winter sports fans hit the slopes for a dazzling day of outdoor fun and seizure-safe adaptive ski lessons. Sugarbush Resort, Warren, 8 a.m. $125; includes lift ticket; preregister. Info, 583-6300.

theater

‘OUR TOWN’: See FRI.28, 2-4 p.m.

‘SWEENEY TODD’: See FRI.28, 3-5:30 p.m.

words

BOOK SALE: See SAT.1, noon-5 p.m.

MON.3

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.

dance

WEST AFRICAN DANCE & DRUM CLASS: Participants learn songs, rhythms and movements to the beat of live music. Ages 13 and up. Wilson Hall, McCullough Student 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.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.27.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.27.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

games

BURLINGTON ELKS BINGO: Players grab their daubers for a riveting night of card stamping for cash prizes. Burlington Elks Lodge, 6 p.m. Various prices. Info, 802-862-1342.

language

GERMAN LANGUAGE LUNCH: Willkommen! Speakers of all experience levels brush up on conversational skills over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard

OPENS FEB. 28 | THEATER

A Close Shave

Trigger warning: There will be blood when burgeoning troupe Vermont Repertory Theatre takes on Stephen Sondheim’s gothic murder masterpiece Sweeney Todd at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center in Burlington. Considered one of the most challenging productions in stage history, the grim tale follows an unprincipled “demon barber” as he enacts vengeance amid the muck and chaos of Victorian-era London. Aided by sinister sidekick Mrs. Lovett, a meat pie maker with questionable morals, Todd sets forth on a singularly macabre yet humorous journey, teeming with exquisite musicality. Beware the splash zone, as director Michael Fidler warns: “Blood and gore will be flying.”

‘SWEENEY TODD’

Friday, February 28, Tuesday, March 4, and Wednesday, March 5, 7:30-10 p.m.; Saturday, March 1, 2-4:30 p.m. and 8-10:30 p.m.; and Sunday, March 2, 3-5:30 p.m.; at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center in Burlington. See website for additional dates. $25-40. Info, admin@vermontrep.com, vermontrep.com.

Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

lgbtq

BOARD GAME NIGHT: LGBTQ tabletop fans bring their own favorite games to the party. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692.

outdoors

TREASURE THE LIBRARY: See WED.26.

québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: See WED.26.

seminars

CLOWN AROUND: Maris Parisol leads jesters of all ages and abilities in a mischievous night of playful fun. Off Center for the Dramatic Arts, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, chris@ offcentervt.com.

HOST FAMILY INFO

SESSION: The Vermont Council on World Affairs leads an in-depth discussion about what it means to house international visitors and how locals can participate in this rewarding experience. Noon. Free; preregister. Info, jennifer@vcwa. org.

PEER LEADER TRAINING: See FRI.28, 1-3:30 p.m.

talks

ROBERT NICKELSBERG: A Time

magazine photographer shares his evocative black-and-white portraits of the Salvadoran Civil War. Axinn Center, Starr Library, Middlebury College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-2248.

TUE.4

community

CURRENT EVENTS

DISCUSSION GROUP:

Brownell Library holds a virtual roundtable for neighbors to pause and reflect on the news cycle. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6955.

dance

SWING DANCE PRACTICE

SESSION: All experience levels shake a leg in this friendly, casual environment designed

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

Kyle Ferguson and Chloë Fidler

for learning. Bring clean shoes. Champlain Club, Burlington, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Info, 864-8382.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.27.

‘ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.27.

‘BLUE WHALES: RETURN OF THE GIANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

‘T. REX: GREATEST OF ALL TYRANTS 3D’: See THU.27.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.27.

GAMES GALORE: Library patrons of all ages gather for bouts of board and card games. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:304:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6955.

health & fitness

COMMUNITY MEDITATION:

Practitioners engage in the ancient Buddhist practice of clearing the mind to achieve a state of calm. First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, 5:15-6 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 862-5630.

language

FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUP: Francophones and language learners meet pour parler la belle langue. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

ITALIAN LANGUAGE LUNCH: Speakers hone their skills in the Romance language over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

music

FLOW SINGING: Singers both new and seasoned intertwine music and mindfulness while learning a sequence of five to six songs by ear. Heineberg Senior Center, Burlington, 11:15 a.m.12:45 p.m. Free. Info, patricia@ juneberrymusic.com.

outdoors

TREASURE THE LIBRARY: See WED.26.

québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: See WED.26.

theater

‘SWEENEY TODD’: See FRI.28.

words

BURLINGTON LITERATURE GROUP: Bookworms analyze Nobel laureate Saul Bellow’s novels Henderson the Rain King and Herzog over the course of nine weeks. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@nereadersandwriters.com.

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. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291.

WRITING CIRCLE: Words pour out when participants explore creative expression in a low-pressure environment. Virtual option available. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

WED.5 activism

DISABLED ACCESS & ADVOCACY OF THE RUTLAND AREA MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING: Community members gather online to advocate for accessibility and

mad river valley/ waterbury

SATURDAY STORY TIME: Stories and songs help young children develop social and literacy skills. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

outside vermont

‘HELLO, DOLLY!’: Spirited musical numbers propel North Country Community Theatre’s teen presentation of the Tony Award-winning play about a socialite turned matchmaker. Lebanon Opera House, N.H., 7:30 p.m. $15-20. Info, 603-448-0400.

SAT.1 burlington

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See WED.26.

FAMILY PLAYSHOP: Wee ones ages birth to 5 explore a range of themes and rotating activities designed to promote school readiness and foster creativity. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

LEGO TIME: Mini makers ages 4 to 11 design and build original, colorful creations. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 863-3403.

barre/montpelier

‘TUCK EVERLASTING’: Beloved characters from Natalie Babbitt’s 1975 children’s novel come to life in this magical stage adaptation. Lost Nation Theater, Montpelier City Hall, 2-3:30 & 7-8:30 p.m. $9-19. Info, 229-0492.

northeast kingdom

CHILDREN’S ART SHOW & CRAFT FAIR: More than 20 kids under 13 showcase their imaginations and creations for the community to enjoy. Newport Municipal Building, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, amyrg44@gmail.com.

brattleboro/okemo valley

CIRCUS SPECTACULAR: Audience members of all ages gasp with delight as spectacular performers spin, soar and dazzle. See calendar spotlight. New England Center for Circus Arts, Brattleboro, 4 & 7 p.m. $15-50; free for kids 2 and under. Info, 254-9780.

outside vermont

‘HELLO, DOLLY!’: See FRI.28, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

SUN.2

burlington

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See WED.26.

MASKS ON! SUNDAYS: Elderly, disabled and immunocompromised folks get the museum to themselves at a masks-mandatory morning. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain,

other disability-rights measures. 11:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 779-9021.

business

QUEEN CITY BUSINESS NETWORKING INTERNATIONAL GROUP: See WED.26. VERMONT WOMENPRENEURS BIZ BUZZ ZOOM: A monthly virtual networking meetup provides a space for female business owners to connect. 10-11 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 870-0903‬.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.26. etc.

CHAMP MASTERS

TOASTMASTERS CLUB: Those looking to strengthen their speaking and leadership skills gain new tools. Virtual option available. Dealer.com, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, champmasterstm@ gmail.com.

food & drink

COMMUNITY COOKING: See WED.26.

Burlington, 9-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 864-1848.

chittenden county

SOCIAL SUNDAYS: Families participate in fun and educational art activities with diverse mediums and themes. All supplies and instruction provided. Milton Artists’ Guild Art Center & Gallery, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

barre/montpelier

‘TUCK EVERLASTING’: See SAT.1, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

brattleboro/okemo valley

CIRCUS SPECTACULAR: See SAT.1, 1 & 4 p.m.

outside vermont

‘HELLO, DOLLY!’: See FRI.28, 3 p.m.

MON.3

burlington

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See WED.26.

INDOOR MINI-GOLF: Got spring fever? Putters of all ages shake off their winter blues and hit the course for some lighthearted competition. Green Mountain Greens, Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Bookworms ages 2 to 5 enjoy a fun-filled reading time. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

games

CHESS CLUB: See WED.26.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: See WED.26.

language

SPANISH CONVERSATION: Fluent and beginner speakers brush up on their vocabulario with a discussion led by a Spanish teacher. Presented by Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 5-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@damlvt.org.

music

RAMBLETREE: See SAT.1. Two Brothers Tavern, Middlebury, 7-9 p.m.

ST. J BLUEGRASS JAM: Players and fans get together for some old-time picking and fiddling. St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church of St. Johnsbury, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 748-2600.

québec

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE: See WED.26.

chittenden county

READ WITH SAMMY: The Therapy Dogs of Vermont emissary listens to kiddos of all ages practice their reading. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:304:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

mad river valley/ waterbury

TODDLER TIME: Little tykes ages 5 and under have a blast with songs, stories, rhymes and dancing. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

TUE.4

burlington

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See WED.26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

STORY TIME: Youngsters ages birth to 5 enjoy a session of reading, rhyming and singing. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

barre/montpelier

STORY TIME: See THU.27.

northeast kingdom

LAPSIT STORY TIME: Babies 2 and under learn to love reading, singing and playing with their caregivers. Siblings

seminars

ESSENTIALS OF CAMERA OPERATION: An informative evening examines the critical elements of photography and videography, covering topics from exposure to depth of field. The Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE

TENNIS CLUB: See WED.26.

theater

‘SWEENEY TODD’: See FRI.28.

words

INA ANDERSON: A prize-winning Vermont poet entertains listeners with her new collection, Sky Furniture. The Norwich Bookstore, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114. ➆

welcome. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391. LEGO EXHIBIT DAY: Budding architects continue a creation at the library or bring in a build from home, followed by a show-and-tell with their colorful structures. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: See FRI.28.

WED.5

burlington

STEAM SPACE: See WED.26. TODDLER TIME: See WED.26.

chittenden county

PLAYGROUP & STORY TIME: See WED.26.

mad river valley/ waterbury

TEEN HANGOUT: Middle and high schoolers make friends at a no-pressure meetup. Waterbury Public Library, 3-6 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

TEEN QUEER READS: LGBTQIA+ and allied youths get together each month to read and discuss ideas around gender, sexuality and identity. Waterbury Public Library, 6-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7036. K

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.

art

DAVIS STUDIO ART CLASSES:

Discover your happy place in one of our weekly classes, where joy and community blossom. Art is a powerful way to connect, express, and grow — together. We offer afterschool and weekend classes for youths and specialized drawing, painting and fused glass classes for adults. Enroll today and let your creativity shine!. Location: Davis Studio, 916 Shelburne Rd., S. Burlington. Info: 425-2700, davisstudiovt.com.

culinary

WHOOPIE PIE WORKSHOP:

Tackle three different cake ﬂavors — chocolate, funfetti and pumpkin! Learn the techniques behind creating the perfect spongy treat in this family-style class. u., Feb. 27, 5:30-7 p.m. Cost: $50. Location: Red Poppy Cakery, 1 Elm St., Waterbury Village Historic District. Info: 203-400-0700, sevendaystickets.com.

language

Filipino and ai combat arts. We offer four weekly classes and themed mini classes such as improvised weapons, knife defense, Filipino dirty boxing and more. Location: Green Mountain Martial Arts Collaborative, Burlington. Info: 316-8896, info@ greenmountainmartialarts.com, greenmountainmartialarts.com.

music

UKULELE IRISH SONG TUNE-UP:

Have a lark of a time learning Irish songs in time for St. Patrick’s Day! In this three-session, weekly course (Feb. 26, Mar. 5 & 12 (power outage date Mar. 14), we’ll learn to play some Irish favorites, learning new chords and getting that quintessential 6/8 Celtic timing down pat. 3-week session begins Wed., Feb. 26, 6-7 p.m. Cost: $35. Location: Online. Info: 922-3616, sevendaystickets.com.

nature

at BHS, weather permitting. Info: Jack Anzalone, 561-346-4369, anzalonejack2@gmail.com, burlingtonyouthlacrosse.org.

SPRING TUNE-UP WORKSHOP FOR WOMEN/TRANS/ NONBINARY IDENTITIES: An expanded version of our popular single-evening bicycle care clinic “ e One Night Stand,” this three-week series is for folks who would like a little more time, detailed instruction and hands-on experience. With a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio, this class is designed to empower participants by helping them understand and care for their bicycles. Wed. starting Mar. 5, 6-8 p.m. Cost: $150. Location: Old Spokes Home, 331 North Winooski Ave., Burlington. Info: 863-4475, sevendaystickets.com.

kristin@thaibodyworkvt.com, thaibodyworkvt.com.

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE SPRING

SESSION: e Alliance Française of the Lake Champlain Region is offering a new series of French classes for adults from beginner through advanced levels. e spring session begins on Mar. 17. Registration is open now! Location: Alliance Française, 43 King St., Burlington or on Zoom. Info: Marc Juneau, education@ aﬂcr.org, aﬂcr.org.

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE

(ASL): Are you motivated to learn sign language or do you

need a refresher or want to learn more about ASL? ASL is the visual gestural language used by the Deaf community. It has its own unique grammar, sentence structure and facial expressions. is is an immersive experience you won’t want to miss! Level 1, Tue. starting Mar. 11; Level 2, u. starting Mar. 6. Cost: $225 for 10 sessions, 20 hours total. Location: ACCESS CVU, CVU High School, 369 CVU Rd., Hinesburg. Info: 482-7194, access@cvsdvt. org, cvsdvt.ce.eleyo.com.

martial arts

INCLUSIVE MARTIAL ARTS:

Offering martial arts that will strengthen your body and your mind, we foster a collaborative community for a diverse range of individuals. Our practices include Muay ai, Brazilian jiujitsu, and

EARTH CARE HOMESCHOOL COURSE SPRING 2025: Earth Care Homeschool course offers robust, accessible education to foster understanding and skill development for middle/high school students. Two hours, one day per week, from Apr. to Jun. Curriculum includes nature awareness, earth science, biology, botany, chemistry, natural history, mycology, literature and math oriented toward justice and equity. Registration opens Mar. 8. Location rotates; half of

class will be indoors and half will be outdoors. Based in Burlington but will also be in surrounding areas. Info: MycoEvolve, Jess Rubin, 839-8286, yepeth@gmail. com, mycoevolve.net.

sports

BIKE MECHANICS 101 6-PART SERIES: In these workshops, learn the basics of bike care. Breaking down complex topics to get to the nuts and bolts of it all, Old Spokes Home instructors will review the anatomy of the bike, how to ﬁx a ﬂat, wheel truing, brake cable and pad installation plus more! ursdays from 6-8 p.m. starting Mar 13; Fridays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. starting Mar 14. Cost: $300/6 sessions. Location: Old Spokes Home, 331 North Winooski Avenue, Burlington. Info: 863-4475, sevendaystickets.com.

FREE LACROSSE CLINICS IN MARCH: Free clinics for boys and girls! Equipment available if needed. Newcomers welcome! Register for spring lacrosse season starting in Apr., for girls and boys in grades K-8. Burlington Youth Lacrosse is committed to providing an opportunity for every child in Burlington, regardless of their ability to pay. Mar. 2, Mar. 9 & Mar. 16, 11 a.m.-noon; Mar. 23, time TBD. Location: Champlain Elementary, 800 Pine St., Burlington; Mar. 23

well-being

PARTNER THAI BODYWORK:

Bring a special someone, partner, family member, friend or neighbor or work with another participant for a fully guided ai bodywork exchange experience in community. Each person will have an opportunity to both give and receive a 45-minute session. Sat., Mar. 29, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Cost: $51. Location: Laughing River Yoga, Chace Mill, 1 Mill St., Burlington. Info: 777-2760,

WOMEN’S WELLNESS RETREAT: Join us for Seed of Your Soul — A Spring Vernal Equinox Women’s Wellness Retreat, a nourishing weekend of self-care and reﬂection, of connection and joy, of creativity and nurturing, of celebration and honoring. Two hot tubs and an eight-person sauna. Fri., Mar. 21-Sun., Mar. 23. Cost: $620/2 nights’ shared room, activities, all meals, snacks, nonalcoholic beverages, spa, sauna. Location: Grand Peaks Lodge Adirondacks, 76 Mountain Meadows Way, Upper Jay. Info: 598-5070, kianelli@ gmail.com, facebook.com/ share/14gTsQNkfQ.

OVERCOMING LIMITING BELIEFS: For many female leaders, you have achieved so much, yet something is holding you back from going after what you truly desire. is workshop will help you understand your limiting beliefs and the behaviors associated with them. Free yourself and get what you want. Wed., Mar. 12. Cost: $297/3-hour class + materials. Location: Westwood International, 722 S Main St., Stowe. Info: StarlingBrook Leadership Consulting, 730-2206, cburych@starlingbrook.com, starlingbrook.com/overcominglimiting-beliefs-workshop.

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

Humane Society

of Chittenden County

Denali

AGE/SEX: 6-year-old spayed female

ARRIVAL DATE: February 10, 2025

SUMMARY: Denali is a big love bug with a heart full of sweetness. She enjoys cuddles, and she’ll gently lean her head into you, showing just how much she loves to be close. She is the perfect canine companion for lounging and relaxing, but she’s also thrilled to go on leisurely walks. She has chronic lameness in her right hind leg, and while it doesn’t affect her quality of life, she will need some ongoing care and support.

SUMMARY: Denali is seeking a home where she can be the only pet. She may be most successful in a home with older children, teens and adults.

Visit the Humane Society of Chittenden County at 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. or Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m. Call 862-0135 or visit hsccvt.org for more info.

DID YOU KNOW?

February is Spay and Neuter Awareness Month! Spaying and neutering isn’t just important to preventing litters of homeless pets — it’s also vital to keeping pets happy and healthy. If you’re looking for an affordable option to spay or neuter your cat or dog, check out HSCC’s Community Pet Clinic at hsccvt.org/clinic.

CLASSIFIEDS

housing ads: $25 (25 words) legals: 52¢/word buy this stuff: free online

services: $12 (25 words) fsbos: $45 (2 weeks, 30 words, photo) jobs: michelle@sevendaysvt.com, 865-1020 x121

on the road

CARS/TRUCKS

FORD MAVERICK AWD XLT in terrain w/ sunroof, EcoBoost, AWD, 4K towing package. 1,600 miles. $38,150. Please have your ﬁ nancing in place. Located in southern Rutland County. Call 518-364-3786 or email jettaguy2@aol.com.

housing FOR RENT

ROOMY 3-BR & 2-BR

AVAIL. NOW

Heated, extra roomy 3-BR, now $1,700 +

utils. Heated 2-BR, now $1,500. Call Joe at 802-318-8916.

HOUSEMATES

HOMESHARE & GREAT HIKING

Share spacious, country-style home in Middlesex near hiking trails. Share large kitchen, laundry room, BA. Older resident cat; other pets considered. Looking for assistance w/ light cleaning & outdoor chores. $650/mo. + $100 for plowing, utils. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont. org for application.

FSBO

Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

AFFORDABLE IN COLCHESTER

92-year-old woman seeks help w/ housekeeping & friendly presence in her spacious 1-ﬂ oor house in Colchester w/ room for gardening. $150/ mo., incl. utils. Private BA. Call 802-863-5625 or or visit homesharevermont.org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and similar Vermont statutes which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitations, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, handicap, presence of minor children in the family or receipt of public assistance, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or a discrimination. The newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate, which is in violation of the law. Our

readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. Any home seeker who feels he or she has encountered discrimination should contact:

HUD Ofﬁce of Fair Housing 10 Causeway St., Boston, MA 02222-1092 (617) 565-5309 — OR — Vermont Human Rights Commission 14-16 Baldwin St. Montpelier, VT 05633-0633 1-800-416-2010 hrc@vermont.gov

FUN HINESBURG

HOMESHARE

Retired teacher in her 70s seeks friendly, fun-loving person to help w/ transportation, light housekeeping, errands. Lovely Cape-style home in Hinesburg w/ space to garden, close to center of town. $450/mo. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont. org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

GREAT I-89 ACCESS

Professional woman who enjoys year-round outdoor activities seeks housemate to share 1-story home convenient to I-89 & heart of Richmond. Rent-only homeshare w/ no services needed. $625/mo. + utils. Call 802-863-5625 or visit homesharevermont. org for application. Interview, refs., & background checks req. EHO.

print deadline: Mondays at 3:30 p.m. post ads online 24/7 at: sevendaysvt.com/classiﬁeds questions? classiﬁeds@sevendaysvt.com 865-1020 x115

SPACE IN WILLISTON 1354 Marshall Ave., Williston.

CLASSIFIEDS »

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.

Put your knowledge of Vermont news to the test. NEW ON FRIDAYS:

CALCOKU BY JOSH

REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. The numbers in each heavily outlined “cage” must combine to produce the target number in the top corner, using the mathematical operation indicated. A one-box cage should be filled in with the target number in the top corner. A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not the same row or column.

SUDOKU BY JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers one to nine. The same numbers cannot be repeated in a row or column.

ON P.62

See how fast you can solve this weekly 10-word puzzle.

Fast, free estimate. Financing avail. Call 1-888-292-8225. Have the zip code of the property ready when calling! (AAN CAN)

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES

In as little as 1 day! Affordable prices. No payments for 18 mos. Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts avail. Call 1-866-370-2939. (AAN CAN)

DEREKCO LLC

DerekCo Carpentry & Excavating has all of your carpentry & excavating needs covered! Visit our website & contact us for a free estimate. Info, 802-310-4090, derek@ derekco.com, derekco. com.

NEED NEW WINDOWS? Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames? Need outside noise reduction? New, energy-efﬁ cient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & free quote today: 1-877-248-9944. You will be asked for the zip code of the property when connecting. (AAN CAN)

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION

A small amount of water can lead to major damage & mold growth in your home. Our trusted professionals

do complete repairs to protect your family & your home’s value! Call 24-7: 1-888-290-2264. Have zip code of service location ready when you call! (AAN CAN)

MOVING/HAULING

MARKOSKI’S MOVE & HAUL

Markoski’s has established a local reputation for being a team of friendly professionals who treat their customers like family. Based out of Chittenden County, we go across Vermont & out of state. Contact Rick at rickmarkoski@ gmail.com, & please browse our reviews & jobs on Facebook & Front Porch Forum.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

NORTHFIELD ESTATE SALE

rough Mar. 5. Quilt

Ambition sewing machine, Singer 4452 sewing machine, toy sewing machines, craft table, quilt, hanging porch swing, kitchen appliances, beautiful furniture, oodles of artwork. Pickups Mar. 8. Info, estatesalesofvermont.com.

MISCELLANEOUS

H.O. TRAIN LAYOUT

5-by-12-foot layout. 3 loops, 4 bridges, 8 tunnels, 45 buildings, all rolling stock & accessories. Elmore Village replicated. $500. Call 802-888-9819.

POOL TABLE

45-by-90-in. surface. All accessories. $300. Call 802-888-9819.

WANT TO BUY

ANTIQUES/ COLLECTIBLES

TOP CASH PAID FOR OLD GUITARS

1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromber + Gibson mandolins & banjos. Call 1-855-4027208. (AAN CAN)

PAYING TOP CASH FOR MEN’S SPORT WATCHES

Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner & Speedmaster. Call 888-320-1052. (AAN CAN)

INSTRUCTION

GUITAR INSTRUCTION

All styles/levels. Emphasis on building strong technique, thorough musicianship, developing personal style. Paul Asbell (Big Joe Burrell, Kilimanjaro, UVM & Middlebury College faculty). 233-7731, pasbell@ paulasbell.com.

RULES

PROPOSED STATE

By law, public notice of proposed rules must be given by publication in newspapers of record. e purpose of these notices is to give the public a chance to respond to the proposals. e public notices for administrative rules are now also available online at https://secure.vermont.gov/ SOS/rules/ . e law requires an agency to hold a public hearing on a proposed rule, if requested to do so in writing by 25 persons or an association having at least 25 members.

To make special arrangements for individuals with disabilities or special needs please call or write the contact person listed below as soon as possible.

To obtain further information concerning any scheduled hearing(s), obtain copies of proposed rule(s) or submit comments regarding proposed rule(s), please call or write the contact person listed below. You may also submit comments in writing to the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, State House, Montpelier, Vermont 05602 (802-828-2231).

CREATIVE SPACE

ART STUDIO SPACE FOR RENT

Studio spaces avail. in eclectic Winooski art collective. Email hello@ wishbonecollectivevt. com for details & visit wishbonecollectivevt. com to learn more about the space!

NOTE: e four rules below have been promulgated by the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board who has requested the notices be combined to facilitate a savings for the agency. When contacting the agency about these rules please note the title and rule number of the proposed rule(s) you are interested in.

10 V.S.A. App. § 122, Fish Management Rule Vermont Proposed Rule: 25P007

10 V.S.A. App. § 123, Commercial Angling Rule Vermont Proposed Rule: 25P008

10 V.S.A. App. § 124, Valley Brook-Spawning Waters Vermont Proposed Rule: 25P009

10 V.S.A. App. § 141, Baitﬁ sh Rule Vermont Proposed Rule: 25P010

AGENCY: Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board

e amendments to 10 V.S.A. App. § 122, Fish Management Rule adds Mud Pond to the list of seasonally closed waters, adds a segment of the Deerfi eld River to the list of Trophy Trout streams, creates and amends various bag limits and requirements for panfi sh on various water bodies specifi ed within the rule, and amends the list of closed seasonal spawning grounds and extends the closure season for trout spawning grounds.

e amendments to 10 V.S.A. App. § 123, Commercial Angling impose new license requirements for the selling of ﬁ sh in the State and bans the sale and purchase of black and white crappie caught in Vermont.

Title 10 V.S.A. App. § 124, Valley Brook-Spawning Waters is being repealed as it is outdated.

e amendments to 10 V.S.A. App. § 141, Baitfi sh Rule expand angling opportunities and allow anglers more opportunities to harvest baitfi sh, by: allowing the use of larger minnow traps; allowing transportation of personally-harvested baitfi sh between non-restricted waters within the same zone; modifying the requirements for personally harvested baitfi sh on seasonally closed waters; modifying the use of personally-harvested fi sh eggs in the same water as harvested, and eliminates the requirements that commercial bait sellers keep carbon copies of receipts.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Hannah Smith, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2 Montpelier, Vermont 05620-3208 Tel: 802-461-8187 Fax: 802-828-1250 E-Mail: hannah.smith@vermont. gov URL: https://vtﬁ shandwildlife.com/about-us/ ﬁ sh-and-wildlife-board/board-rules.

FOR COPIES: Eric Palmer, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, Vermont 05620-3208 Tel: 802-535-7635 Fax: 802-828-1250 E-Mail: eric.palmer@vermont.gov.

ACT 250 NOTICE

MINOR APPLICATION 4C1109-3

10 V.S.A. §§ 6000 – 6111

Application 4C1109-3 from Town of Shelburne, P.O. Box 88, Shelburne, VT 05482 was received on February 6, 2025 and deemed complete on February 12, 2025. is permit speciﬁ cally authorizes the retroﬁ t of an existing stormwater pond into a gravel wetland to treat the existing Boulder Hill subdivision. e project is located at Hawley Road in Shelburne, Vermont. e application may be viewed on the Land Use Review Board’s website (https://act250.vermont. gov/) by clicking “Act 250 Database” and entering the project number “4C1109-3.”

No hearing will be held and a permit may be issued unless, on or before March 11, 2025, a party notifi es 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 defi ned in 10 V.S.A. § 6085(c) (1) may request a hearing. Any hearing request must be in writing, must state the criteria or sub-criteria at issue, why a hearing is required, and what additional evidence will be presented at the hearing. Any hearing request by an adjoining property owner or other person eligible for party status under 10 V.S.A. § 6085(c)(1)(E) must include a petition for party status under the Act 250 Rules. To request party status and a hearing, fill out the Party Status Petition Form on the Board’s website: https://act250.vermont.gov/ documents/party-status-petition-form, and email it to the District 4 Offi ce 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 February 18, 2025.

By: /s/ Kaitlin Hayes

Kaitlin Hayes

District Coordinator

111 West Street

Essex Junction, VT 05452 (802) 622-4084

kaitlin.hayes@vermont.gov

CITY OF BURLINGTON, VERMONT NOTICE 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 the Annual City Meeting on: Tuesday, the 4th day of March, 2025

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 three bonding articles placed on the ballot by request of the City Council by resolutions duly adopted and approved, said articles being as follows:

PLEDGING THE CREDIT OF THE CITY TO ISSUE GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS FOR THE CITY’S FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL PLAN

“Shall the City Council be authorized to issue general obligation bonds or notes in one or more series in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed Twenty Million dollars and 00/100 ($20,000,000.00) to be borrowed in increments between Fiscal Year 2026 and Fiscal Year 2028 for the purpose of funding capital improvement infrastructure projects of the City and its departments in furtherance of the City’s 5-Year Capital Plan?”

ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS FOR WASTEWATER AND STORMWATER UTILITY PROJECTS

“Shall the City be authorized to issue revenue bonds or notes in one or more series, in a principal amount not to exceed $152,000,000 in the aggregate, to be issued pursuant to the City Charter and subchapter 2 of Chapter 53 of Title 24, Vermont Statutes annotated, on behalf of the Water Resources Division of the Department of Public Works and payable only by the net revenues of the wastewater system and stormwater system, as may be determined by the City Council, for the purpose of paying for (i) capital additions and improvements to the City’s wastewater and stormwater systems, including the City’s wastewater treatment plants, pump stations and collection system, the stormwater treatment and collection system, combined sewer overflow mitigation projects, stormwater outfall rehabilitation, and (ii) funding a debt service reserve fund and paying costs of issuance?”

Estimated total Project Costs for Wastewater System: $138,000,000

Estimated total Project Costs for Stormwater System: $14,000,000 City Share of Total Costs: $152,000,000

ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS FOR DRINKING WATER UTILITY PROJECTS

“Shall the City be authorized to issue revenue bonds or notes in one or more series, in a principal amount not to exceed $20,000,000, to be issued pursuant to the City Charter and subchapter 2 of Chapter 53 of Title 24, Vermont Statutes annotated, on behalf of the Water Resources Division of the Department of Public Works and payable only by the net revenues of the waterworks system for the purpose of (i) paying for capital additions and improvements to the waterworks system, including the City’s drinking water reservoir and pump station, the drinking water treatment plant, underground pipe and water distribution system, and (ii) to fund debt service reserve funds and pay costs of issuance?”

Estimated total Project Cost: $ 20,000,000 City Share of Costs: $20,000,000

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 Elementary 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

NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE LIEN SALE

BURLINGTON SELF STORAGE, LLC

1825 SHELBURNE ROAD SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT 05403

Notice is hereby given that the contents of the self storage units listed below will be sold at public auction by sealed bid.

Name of Occupant Storage Unit Howard, Unit # 7 – 10x20

Said sales will take place on Friday 02/21/25, beginning at 10:00am at Burlington Self Storage (BSS), 1825 Shelburne Road, South Burlington, VT 05403. Units will be opened for viewing immediately prior to auction. Sale shall be by sealed bid to the highest bidder. Contents of entire storage unit will be sold as one lot. The winning bid must remove all contents from the facility at no cost to BSS, on the day of auction. BSS, reserves the right to reject any bid lower that the amount owed by the occupant or that is not commercially reasonable as defined by statute.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

TOWN OF COLCHESTER, VT

80 DICK MAZZA DRIVE, COLCHESTER, VT 05446

(1652) FERMENTATION EQUIPMENT AUCTION

Auction Closes: Mon., Mar. 3 @ 11AM Preview: Tues. Feb 25 from 11AM-1PM Items Located In: Lyndon, VT 05849

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to upgrade your brewing or fermentation setup with top-quality equipment! This auction features over 50 lots of premium gear ideal for wineries, cideries, breweries, and more.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89404484447?pwd= WjhMV2ljY1I3SzI0WGErcG92QjBpUT09

(1650) BANKRUPTCY: YIPES! OF ST. ALBANS, VT

Auction Closes: Thurs., Mar. 6 @ 10AM Preview: Wed. Mar. 5 from 10AM-12PM Items Located In: St. Albans City, VT

Don’t miss over 380 lots of auto accessories from Yipes! in St. Albans City, VT. Brands from Snap-On, Hunter, Husky, Makita, Craftsman, DeWalt, Ingersoll-Rand, Rhino, Truck Hero, Memphis Audio and MUCH MORE!

PURSUANT TO 10 V.S.A. § 6249(i) (Uninhabitable)

2v-hirchakbrothers3-022625 1 2/24/25 5:02 PM

12v-hirchakbrothers2-022625 1 2/24/25 11:11 AM

Meeting ID: 894 0448 4447

Passcode: 891937

Join by Phone: +1 929 205 6099

The public hearing is for the purpose of distributing information and receiving comments regarding the Draft 2026 Richmond Capital Plan. The document is available for your review at the Town Clerk’s Office or online at www.richmondvt.gov/ boards-meetings/selectboard

The Town is requesting separate sealed BIDS for the Recreation Path Resurfacing for Airport Park and Fort Ethan Allen Parade Grounds. Bid & Contract Documents are available at the following link: https://colchestervt.gov/Bids.aspx

Bids will be received by: Derek Mitchell, Assistant Parks Director, Town of Colchester, 80 Dick Mazza Drive, Colchester, VT 05446 until 1:00pm on Monday, March 10, 2025 and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud.

Each BID must be accompanied by a certified check payable to the OWNER for five percent (5%) of the total amount of the BID. A BID bond may be used in lieu of a certified check. A Performance BOND and a Payment BOND each in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price will be required. (40 CFR §31.36(h))

A non-mandatory pre-bid conference for prospective bidders will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, February 21, 2025. Any Bidder interested should come to the Colchester Recreation Center, Parks & Recreation Department, located at, 80 Dick Mazza Drive, Colchester, VT 05446. Questions regarding the Bid are due by end of day on February 28, 2025. All bidders must notify Project Manager, Derek Mitchell of their intent to bid so they can be placed on a Bidders List to receive any issued addenda or other pertinent information.

TOWN OF RICHMOND PUBLIC HEARING

The Richmond Selectboard shall hold a public hearing on Monday, March 17, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. to receive public comment on the proposed RICHMOND CAPITAL PLAN FOR FY26.

This hearing may be attended in person at the Richmond Town Center at 203 Bridge St., by phone, or online via Zoom

Zoom Meeting:

All interested persons may appear and be heard. Persons needing special accommodations or those interested in viewing the ordinance should contact the Richmond Town Manager’s Office (802) 434-5170.

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL DIVISION LAMOILLE UNIT

CASE NO. 25-CV-00687

IN RE: ABANDONED MOBILE HOME OF BRIANNA KENNETT & PAUL TURCOTTE

NOTICE OF HEARING

A hearing on Ship Sevin II, LLC’s Verified Complaint to declare abandoned and uninhabitable the mobile home of Brianna Kennett & Paul Turcotte located at the Pinecrest Mobile Home Park, Lot #19, 8 Third Street in Morrisville, Vermont has been set for March 11, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. You may participate in the hearing either in person at the Vermont Superior Court, Lamoille Unit, Civil Division located at 154 Main Street in Hyde Park, Vermont or remotely via WEBEX video. The WEBEX Login Information is as follows: App: Cisco Webex Meeting Website: https://vtcourts.webex.com Meeting Number: 2335 590 2963

Password: LamoilleCR1

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) 888-3887.

Date: February 14, 2025

Ashley Harvey, Judicial Assistant Lamoille Unit

VERIFIED COMPLAINT FOR ABANDONMENT

NOW COMES Ship Sevin II, LLC (“Ship Sevin”), by and through its Counsel Nadine L. Scibek, and hereby complains pursuant to 10 V.S.A. § 6249(i) as follows:

1. Ship Sevin, a Vermont limited liability company with a principal place of business in South Burlington, County of Chittenden, State of Vermont, is the record owner of a mobile home park known as the Pinecrest Mobile Home Park (the “Park”), located in Morrisville, Vermont.

2. Brianna Kennett (“Kennett”) and Paul Turcotte (“Turcotte”) are the record owners of a certain mobile home described as a 1988 Champion, Titan, 14’ x 70’, bearing serial number 9065 (the “Mobile Home”) located at the Pinecrest Mobile Home Park, Lot #19, 8 Third Street in Morrisville, Vermont according to the Town of Morristown Land Records. See attached Bill of Sale.

3. Kennett & Turcotte leased a lot in the Park from Ship Sevin pursuant to a written lease. Kennett & Turcotte paid Ship Sevin a security deposit of $268.00. See attached Lease.

4. Kennett & Turcotte’s last known mailing address is 8 Third Street, Morrisville, VT 05661.

5. Kennett & Turcotte were evicted from the Park for nonpayment of rent on or about July 25, 2024 by the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department. The mobile home has been vacant since that time. The Court issued a Judgment and Writ of Possession to Ship Sevin on July 1, 2024. See Ship Sevin II, LLC v. Kennett, et. al., Vermont Superior Court, Lamoille Civil Unit, Case No. 24-CV-02301. See attached.

6. The mobile home has been abandoned and is empty. The last known residents of the mobile home were Kennett and Turcotte. All of Kennett & Turcotte’s personal property is believed to have been removed from the mobile home and utility services have been terminated. On August 7, 2024, the Park’s Counsel communicated with Kennett & Turcotte with respect to their intentions with their mobile home. See attached.

7. The following security interests, mortgages, liens and encumbrances appear of record with respect to the mobile home:

a. Kennett & Turcotte are in arrears on obligations to pay property taxes to the Town of Morristown, Vermont in the aggregate amount of $89.56, plus interest and penalties. See attached copy of Tax Bill and Delinquent Tax Report.

8. Mobile home storage fees continue to accrue at the rate of $415.00 per month. Rent/ storage fees due Ship Sevin through February, 2025 total $6,578.35. Lot rent increases to $435.00 as of March 1, 2025. Attorney’s fees and court costs incurred by Ship Sevin currently exceed $3,000.00.

Legal Notices

9. Ship Sevin sent written notice by certified mail to the Town of Morristown on October 31, 2024 of its intent to commence this action. See attached.

10. The mobile home is uninhabitable. Cindy Whitham, Property Manager, will testify under oath as to the poor and unlivable condition of this mobile home at the abandonment hearing.

WHEREFORE, Ship Sevin 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.

3. 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 February 14, 2025

SHIP SEVIN II, LLC

BY: Nadine L. Scibek Attorney

for Ship Sevin II, LLC

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.

February 14, 2025 BY: Cindy Whitham

Duly Authorized Agent for Ship Sevin II, LLC

INVITATION TO BID

Greenprint Partners, acting as Project Manager, seeks qualified contractors for multiple Vermont Schools Green Infrastructure Stormwater Improvements for the locations listed below. Federal Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE), Women-Owned, Veteran-Owned, Minority-Owned contractors and suppliers, and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to submit a bid proposal.

Project Description: The project consists of stormwater improvements at various schools to meet the Vermont Stormwater Rules.

Locations of the work are as follows:

Bid Opening Tuesday, March 25, 2025

• Barre Town Elementary School – 70 Websterville Road, Barre, VT

• Shelburne Community School – 3435 Harbor Road, Shelburne, VT

• Albert D Lawton Intermediate School – 102 Maple Street, Essex, VT

PLACE AN AFFORDABLE NOTICE AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LEGAL-NOTICES OR CALL 802-865-1020, EXT. 142.

• Harwood Union Middle and High School – 458 VT Rte 100, Moretown, VT

• Mill River Union High School – 2321 Middle Road, North Clarendon, VT

• Milton Elementary School – 42 Herrick Avenue, Milton, VT

• Rutland City Middle and Intermediate School – 71 Library Avenue, Rutland, VT

Schedule: Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2025 and be substantially completed by September 2025.

The construction work involves installing various stormwater improvements, including, but not limited to, wetland creation, underground storage facilities, disconnection areas, dry wells, storm sewers, paving, erosion control, and landscaping, depending on the location.

These projects are subject to Davis Bacon wage rates compliance and with Build America Buy America provisions.

Any interested subcontractors and suppliers should visit the following website after February 20, 2025, for information on obtaining bidding documents: www.questcdn.com under Greenprint Partners or https://www.greenprintpartners.com/resources and click on Bidding opportunities.

For additional information, please send an email to the construction project manager: Hkillian@ greenprintpartners.com

THE CONTENTS OF STORAGE UNIT 01-03462

Located at 28 Adams Drive Williston, VT, 05495

Will be sold on or about the 13th of March, 2025 to satisfy the debt of Christina Romero, Any person claiming a right to the goods may pay the amount claimed due and reasonable expenses before the sale, in which case the sale may not occur.

IN ACCORDANCE WITH VT TITLE 9 COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 098:

Storage Units 3905. Enforcement of Lien, Champlain Valley Self Storage, LLC shall host a private auction of the following units on or after 3/15/25:

Location: 2211 Main St. Colchester, VT Contents: household goods

Scott Breveleri: #991

Teresa Auffarth: #626 & #935

Auction pre-registration is required, email info@ champlainvalleyselfstorage.com to register.

INVITATION TO BID

BROWNELL LIBRARY RE-ROOFING PROJECT

The City of Essex Junction, hereinafter called the “Owner,” invites qualified Contractors to bid on this reroofing project.

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 &

The project scope includes removal of existing asbestos containing roof shingles and installing new underlayment and asphalt roof shingles. See Bid Documents for full scope and specifications.

Bid Packages, including bid forms, may be obtained starting Wednesday, February 26, 2025, without charge from the Architect. Contact John Alden at Scott + Partners, Inc., 802-879-5153, or email (preferred) at jba@scottpartners.com. Bid Documents will also be available through the City Offices (802-878-6944), or on the City’s website at www.essexjunction.org/news/invitation-to-bid.

A non-mandatory Pre-bid Conference will be held on-site on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM. All bidders are encouraged to attend.

Bids shall be received at the City Manager’s Office, 2 Lincoln Street, Essex Junction, Vermont, 05452, no later than 2:00 PM on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Bids will be opened and recorded in public.

A project award is expected to be made at the next following City Council Meeting, currently scheduled for March 26, 2025.

The Essex Junction City Council reserves the right at their sole discretion to reject all bids, wholly or in part, to waive any informalities or any irregularities therein, to accept any bid even though it may not be the lowest bid, to call for rebids, to negotiate with any bidder, and to make an award which in its sole and absolute judgment will best serve the City’s interest. The Council reserves the right to investigate the financial condition of any bidder to determine his or her ability to assure service throughout the term of the contract. The City may cancel this bid request in whole or in part when rejection is in the best interest of the City. Notice of cancellation shall be sent to all known plan-holders and published on the City’s website.

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT

PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT

DOCKET NO.: 25-PR-00419

In re ESTATE of Taylor Gallant NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: Taylor Gallant, late of South Burlington, Vermont

I have been appointed to administer this estate. All creditors having claims against the decedent or the estate must present their claims in writing within four (4) months of the date of the first publication of this notice. The claim must be presented to me at the address listed below with a copy sent to the

Court. The claim may be barred forever if it is not presented within the four (4) month period.

Dated: January 23, 2025

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Mark Gallant

Executor/Administrator: Mark Gallant, 23 Fox Chase Rd., Oak Ridge, NJ 07438 Phone: 973-670-8238

Email: mmg629@hotmail.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 2/26/25

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division

Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

TOWN OF JERICHO – SELECTBOARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to 24 V.S.A. § 4444, the Jericho Selectboard will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 6:00 pm in the Jericho Town Hall, 67 VT Route 15, Jericho, Vermont, to hear public comment regarding proposed amendments to the Jericho Land Use and Development Regulations

SUMMARY OF AMENDMENTS TO REGULATIONS

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: The primary purposes of the proposed amendments are to change the residential density per minimum lot area by zoning districts in four zones that allow residential use, enabling most residential uses allowed in each zone to be permitted on the minimum lot for each zone.

LIST OF SECTION HEADINGS: The amendments include changes to Section 5.6: Density and Section 13: Planned Unit Development Review.

GEOGRAPHIC AREA AFFECTED: These amendments affect areas of the Town in Village Center, Commercial, Village, and Low Density Residential districts.

PLACE WHERE FULL TEXT MAY BE EXAMINED: The complete text of the amendedregulations may be found at https://jerichovt.org/bylaw-amendments. Alternatively, a full-text copy may be examined in the Planning and Zoning office, Jericho Town Hall, 67 VT Route 15, Jericho, Vermont.

PERSON TO CONTACT: Additional information pertaining to these proposed amendments may be obtained by contacting Chris Shaheen Town Planner, at the Jericho Town Hall by calling (802) 899-2287 x 103 during regular office hours.

struggles, as well as our resources & successes! Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. We will be meeting weekly on Mon., 10-11 a.m. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt.org/ family-support-programs.

AL-ANON

For families & friends of alcoholics. Phone meetings, electronic meetings (Zoom) & an Al-Anon blog are avail. online at the Al-Anon website. For meeting info, go to vermontalanonalateen.org or call 866-972-5266.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, that’s ours. Call the Vermont state-wide anonymous hotline: 802-802-2288. Alcoholics Anonymous holds daily meetings all over Vermont, both in-person and online. See https://www. burlingtonaa.org/ for meetings, news & events in Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties. For meeting and events throughout Vermont, see aavt.org.

CONTACT CLASSIFIEDS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM OR 802-865-1020 EXT. 115 TO UPDATE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups meet to provide assistance & info on Alzheimer’s disease & related dementias. They emphasize shared experiences, emotional support & coping techniques in care for a person living w/ Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Meetings are free & open to the public. Families, caregivers & friends may attend. Please call in advance to confirm the date & time. The Williston caregiver support group meets in person on the 2nd Tue. of every mo., 5-6:30 p.m., at the the Old Brick Church in Williston. Contact support group facilitators Molly at dugan@cathedralsquare. org or Mindy at moondog@burlingtontelecom. net. The Middlebury support group for individuals w/ early stage dementia meets the 4th Tue. of each mo., 3 p.m., at the Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd., Middlebury. Contact is Daniel Hamilton, dhamilton@residenceottercreek.com or (802) 989-0097. The Shelburne support group for individuals w/ early stage dementia meets the 1st Mon. of every mo., 2-3 p.m., at the Residence at Shelburne Bay, 185 Pine Haven Shores, Shelburne. Contact is support group facilitator Lydia Raymond,

lraymond@residenceshelburnebay.com. The telephone support group meets the 2nd Tue. of each mo., 4-5:30 p.m. Preregistration is required (to receive dial-in codes for toll-free call). Please dial the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline, 800-272-3900, for more info. For questions or additional support group listings, call 800-272-3900.

BABY BUMPS SUPPORT GROUP FOR MOTHERS & PREGNANT WOMEN

Pregnancy can be a wonderful time of your life. But it can also be a time of stress often compounded by hormonal swings. If you are a pregnant woman, or have recently given birth & feel you need some help w/ managing emotional bumps in the road that can come w/ motherhood, please come to this free support group led by an experienced pediatric registered nurse. Held on the 2nd & 4th Tue. of every mo., 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Birthing Center, Northwestern Medical Center, St. Albans. Info: Rhonda Desrochers, Franklin County Home Health Agency, 527-7531.

YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL SOURCE.

Executive Director

In this leadership role, you will serve as Executive Director of Lyric Theatre Company (Lyric), responsible for engaging our community, membership, donors, and volunteers in promoting and delivering a community theater experience to 14,000+ attendees a year, while ensuring financial stability and security of the organization. Reporting to the Lyric Board of Directors, you are responsible for overseeing the administrative, financial, and operational aspects of Lyric, supporting the artistic direction, production selection, or creative decisions related to theatrical performances.

Please note, this role is not an Artistic Director role. Send resumes to: lyricedsearch@gmail.com

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Line Cook

Positive and motivated, willing to get trained & take responsibility of the stations. Tuesday through Saturday evenings. Chiuhos@asinglepebble.com

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT: JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POST-A-JOB PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

The Program Facilitator

The Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired is looking for someone to run our bi-weekly support groups for our blind and visually impaired clients in Chittenden and Franklin Counties as well as our statewide virtual support group. The Program Facilitator emphasizes independence, skills training, and emotional support to people coping with a visual impairment. This is a part-time position 10-15 hours per week, with a starting pay of 19.00 per hour. Interested applicants must be able to work well in a group setting and have a Bachelor’s Degree in either Psychology, Counseling, or Human Services, or the equivalent. Experience with blindness is preferred. Email resume to dnorris@vabvi.org.

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Educational Advisor

• Are you passionate about helping Vermonters achieve success in their educational & career goals?

• Have experience in case education, case management, or as an adult learner yourself?

• Have worked with historically and currently underserved and marginalized populations?

• Looking to join a team who loves their work, a group of colleagues who support you as much as you support your students?

Full time, $22.67/hour. Vermont Adult Learning is hiring an educational advisor to work with adult students (16+) as they build skills and pursue career and learning goals through an innovative and personalized learning approach. This role in our Burlington learning center involves meeting with students regularly to co-design their learning plans, advise them through the inevitable challenges and successes along the path to their diploma, and to ensure they have the transferable skills necessary upon graduation.

For full job description, visit: vtadultlearning.org/about-us/#careers Please email resume and cover letter to: Talent@vtadultlearning.org

Quality Assurance Lab Technician

Browse 100+ new job postings from trusted, local employers.

jobs.sevendaysvt.com

Vermont Compost Company is seeking a detail-oriented individual to assist in our quality assurance lab. The QA Lab Technician will participate in the sampling and testing of soil products, as well as maintain the associated records. The successful candidate will possess a love for the environment, a passion for organic growing, a sense of humor, and a strong desire to make a positive impact on our world. If you have an interest in soil science, this may be the job you’re looking for.

This part-time position is based in Montpelier, VT, and work will be performed during regular business hours, Monday - Friday. Ideally, work will be completed over 2 or 3 days (16 - 20 hours per week).

Please submit your application materials (resume and cover letter) to jobs@vermontcompost.com, or mail to Vermont Compost Company, 1996 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.

Addison Residential is seeking full-time:

SKILLED CARPENTERS

Our ideal candidate has experience in all aspects of residential construction, including but not limited to framing, trim work, finish carpentry, etc. The right candidate has experience working with a variety of tools and materials and being able to read blueprints & follow instructions.

FINISHER

Finisher will be responsible for spraying a variety of projects –cabinetry, siding, trim, etc. along with using a variety of finish products. The job requires repetitive motion and ability to lift-up to 65lbs.

Candidates should be able to work independently, as well as be part of a team, and have a keen eye for detail. Must have a valid driver’s license. Benefits package available. Pay based on experience/ skill level. Email resume to info@addisonresendtial.com

Courtroom Deputy Clerk

The Clerk’s Office for the United States District Court is seeking a qualified individual with excellent analytical, organizational and interpersonal skills capable of functioning in a dynamic, teamoriented environment. The duty station is Burlington, Vermont. Full federal benefits apply.

Complete job description and formal application requirements are found in the oﬃcial Position Announcement available from any U.S. District Court oﬃce (Burlington & Rutland) or the court’s website.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Central Clinical Educator (CCE)

Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) in St. Johnsbury is looking for a Central Clinical Educator (CCE) to help us elevate our nursing education. We want to hear from you if you’re passionate about mentoring and supporting healthcare professionals.

Executive Director

Locations: Remote plus regular in-person business in Burlington and Montpelier, VT

Position: Permanent, Full-Time, Salaried, Exempt; Reports to Board of Directors

Salary: $85,000 - $105,000, commensurate with experience

What You’ll Do: Manage our mandatory education programs and nursing orientation. Ensure compliance with training requirements. What We’re Looking For: An RN graduate (BSN required/MSN preferred) with at least 3 years of nursing experience. We offer competitive pay and excellent benefits, such as student loan repayment, and generous paid time off. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in your community, apply today! We can’t wait to welcome you to our team!

AUTOMOTIVE TECH INSTRUCTOR

The Northlands Job Corps center has a need for an Automotive Tech Instructor to join our school. This is a full time, year round position that offers a competitive wage, major medical insurance plan, dental, vision, 401K and more. Northlands Job Corps provides career training to students 16 to 24 years of age who come to our center to gain valuable skills and start a career. Our students are mostly from the Northeast US and about 40% are from Vermont. We are probably the most diverse school in the state and our success, as measured by our students’ performance, is one of the best in the country. The ideal instructor would be someone who wants to be in a teaching role, ASE certiﬁed or willing to be certiﬁed, understands employment skills as well as automotive, and desires to run their own shop. Our program includes classroom instruction, hands on experience in our automotive shop and work based learning opportunities with local businesses. Class sizes are small to allow for one-on-one support. At Northlands we build success that lasts a lifetime.

Please contact us if you have an interest and would like to learn more.

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.

QUALITY CONTROL LABORATORY DIRECTOR – COLCHESTER

The CCB is recruiting for a Laboratory Director to spearhead the State laboratory operations and help shape and execute the compliance strategy for the Board. With a deep understanding of scientific and forensic disciplines, laboratory methodologies, and the cannabis industry, the Laboratory Director is responsible for both day-to-day operations of the Cannabis QC Lab and the development of cannabis testing requirements, lab certification and accreditation plan, and compliance auditing strategy. For more information, contact James Pepper at james.pepper@vermont.gov. Location: Colchester. Department: Cannabis Control Board. Status: Full Time. Job ID #52192. Application Deadline: March 10, 2025.

VBSR is a statewide, nonprofit business association with a mission to leverage the power of business for positive social and environmental impact. Our diverse membership represents all industries and geographic regions of Vermont - from sole proprietors to the largest employers in the state - all working toward a just, thriving, and transformative economy that works for all people and the planet.

As Executive Director, you will lead both Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility and our Research and Education Foundation (VBSR-REF) to advance our mission. You will inspire VBSR members and the public toward VBSR’s vision of a just, thriving, and transformative economy that works for all people and the planet and embody VBSR’s values. This is a pivotal role that requires visionary leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to values-driven business practices. You’ll oversee a dedicated team, advocate for innovative public policy, strengthen relationships with members and partners & drive the organization’s financial success and operational excellence.

Complete position description and application instructions available: vbsr.org/vbsr-executive-director Deadline: March 3, 2025

Applicants who identify as women and non-binary, Black, Indigenous and People of Color, First- or Second-Generation American, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+, veterans, justice-involved, or other historically marginalized and underrepresented identities are strongly encouraged to apply. A college degree is not required to be successful in this position.

“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.”

ZELLER, Intervale Center, Burlington

Get a quote when posting online. Contact Michelle Brown at 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com

Administrative Associate

Chittenden Community Action, seeks an experienced Administrative Associate for our Burlington office. Duties may include fielding telephone calls, receiving and directing visitors, word processing, data entry, creating spreadsheets and presentations, internet research, filing, and faxing. Extensive software skills are required.

If you have an Associate’s degree in business or human services or related education and experience; effective verbal and written communication skills - bilingual abilities are a plus; excellent organizational, interpersonal and collaborative skills; self-motivated, energetic and have the ability to perform multiple tasks in a visible and fast paced environment, we’d like to hear from you!

To apply, please include a cover letter and resume with your application. We are one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Vermont! Join us to find out why!

cvoeo.org/careers

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COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Vermont Studio Center (VSC) seeks a part-time Communications Coordinator. This position will assist the Communications Director with the creation, management, and tracking of marketing content for all VSC projects and campaigns. In addition to creating and managing social media channels and content, this position requires uploading content to the VSC website, community events calendars, and other digital platforms. As a member of the Advancement team, the coordinator will work with colleagues across departments to celebrate VSC alumni achievements, promote residency opportunities, and raise awareness of VSC’s offerings and impact. For full job description go to vermontstudiocenter.org/jobs-at-vsc. To apply, send resume and cover letter to Richard Busch at jobs@ vermontstudiocenter.org

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Learn

Work

Wash

Develop

Earn

Shared-Living Provider

Join Home Base Inc. in supporting an older woman with developmental disabilities as a Shared-Living Provider. We are seeking someone who owns a home (preferably in/ around Burlington/Shelburne area) with an extra bedroom on the first floor. This woman lives semi-independently (can be alone for up to 3 hours at a time) and receives community supports from Home Base staff. At home, she enjoys relaxing and keeping to herself but also values company and conversation. Provide assistance with grocery shopping, meal & medication prep, home care. Generous tax-exempt monthly stipend and room and board payment for opening your home and providing care for this woman. Training and ongoing support provided.

Send resumes to: rachel@homebasevt.org

NOW HIRING: ENTERPRISE DIRECTOR

2/24/25 1:52 PM

The Center for an Agricultural Economy (CAE) seeks an Enterprise Director to lead and support the enterprises of CAE and ensure alignment across operations. This position will sustain and advance the agricultural economy in the region by operationalizing strategic goals and optimizing resources to maximize program impact. If you are interested in joining a team to build food system resilience, we’d love to hear from you! are build food system resilience,

CCS has been voted one of the Best Places to Work in Vermont for the seventh year in a row and we would love to have you as part of our team.

JOIN US!

Work at CCS and support our mission to build a community where everyone participates and belongs. E.O.E.

ccs-vt.org/current-openings

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Founded in 2020, we began network construction in 2021. We’re a small company of fewer than 20 employees, which means there’s lots of room for growth and learning. Here at NEKCV, we’re committed to creating an inclusive culture where all employees feel welcomed and valued.

We are currently hiring for:

40 hours/week in Hardwick, VT

Salary Range: $80,000 - $85,000 Generous benefits

Learn more: caevt.org/jobs

Please

our website for specific details, www.nekbroadband.org TO APPLY, please send

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Medical Director

The University is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the institution. Applicants are encouraged to include in their cover letter information about how they will further this goal.

Posting Summary

Provide medical oversight and supervision to clinicians and staff in the CHWB Student Health Services, providing clinical services, coordinating and participating in chart and peer review, monitoring standards of care, and responding to UVM medical emergencies. Develop, coordinate and provide medical oversight and supervision to academic medical rotations in the Center's clinics. Participate on the CHWB Leadership Team. Responsible for promoting a safe Center for Health and Wellbeing for students and staff of all races, ethnicity, religions, national origins, gender sexual orientations, disabilities and ages. Responsible for supporting the mission and philosophy of the Center for Health and Wellbeing, Division of Student Affairs and the University of Vermont.

Minimum Qualifications (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

MD/DO degree from an accredited program. Vermont State Medical license or eligible. Board eligibility in primary care specialty required (pediatrics, adult, family, or internal medicine.) CPR certified. DEA certification or eligible. Five years of physician practice required, or an equivalent combination of education and experience with comparable knowledge and abilities, to include progressively responsible leadership positions within student health. Knowledge of developmental issues of adolescent/young adults. Experience working with RN's, NP's and PA's. Experience with electronic health record systems. CQI and research experience. Effective leadership and management experience and data-driven decision making. Collaboration, problem-solving, and crisis management experience. Effective written, verbal, and technological communication skills. Demonstrated ability to build positive and effective relationships with students, colleagues, senior leaders, and other internal and external partners. Demonstrated ability to work with coworkers and clients in a respectful, non-judgmental manner, as well as skill working with diverse populations. Demonstrated support and commitment to enhancing a diverse campus culture and the student experience.

Anticipated Pay Range

$200,000 to $210,000

Special Conditions

External candidates must complete a 4-month probationary period, A probationary period may be required for current UVM employees

Gardening Assistant

Gardening assistant for a private residence with extensive perennial garden beds, a formal kitchen garden and substantial edible landscaping crops. This is a part-time, seasonal position. The duration of the position is weather dependent, but anticipated to be late Aprilearly November. This position is for 15-20 hours per week, however, additional hours are available doing trail maintenance or forestry work for the right candidate.

Contact: Tacy Lincoln

Please email: vtacy.lincoln@gmail.com

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Marketing & Operations Manager

This is a part-time but key position at Middlebury Acting Company. The M&OM will help oversee the organization's communications, marketing and operations, with the goal of expanding the company’s reach, building audience and helping create sustainable operations systems. This is a 20 hour per week, 3 year grant funded position that will pay from $25,000 to $30,000/year, depending on previous experience. The contract will be for a one-year period, subject to renewal. Send resumes to: melissa@middleburyactors.org

Are you looking for an innovative, dynamic, and collaborative place to work?

Join us at Lake Champlain Waldorf School to deliver a holistic and developmental approach to education.

Open Positions:

• Education Support Specialist

• Mixed-Age Kindergarten

Assistant Teacher

• Development and Events Coordinator

www.lakechamplainwaldorfschool.org

Housekeeping & Laundry

The Pitcher Inn in Warren, Vermont has an immediate opening in our Housekeeping & Laundry Department. Full and Part-time candidates considered. Join our talented team in serving our discerning guests well. Excellent starting wage and gratuity share, plus daily meal allowance. Please complete the link on our Career page or email your resume to brooks@pitcherinn.com

For more information or to set up an appointment, please call 802-496-6350.

Medical Lab Scientists

Pathologist

Phlebotomist

Full-time, part-time, and per diem options available.

For more information visit copleyvt.org/careers or contact Kaitlyn Shannon, Recruiter, at 802-888-8144 or kshannon@chsi.org.

Residential Support - Community Support Program

The Community Support Program (CSP) division of Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) provides comprehensive community based support to persons with intensive and persistent mental health needs. We are currently hiring for entry-level positions to work as Residential Support with salary ranges starting from $20.05/hour based on education and experience. Competitive shift differentials offered for evening, weekend and holidays. If you would like to learn more about the Residential Support position, or any position within Washington County Mental Health please visit our website at wcmhs.org.

We are seeking both full-time and hourly folks to join our team. This is an awesome opportunity for those looking for truly rewarding work for just a few hours a week, or for those who are looking to start a career within the mental health ﬁeld.

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:

Housing Retention Services – Site

Based: Responsible for supporting those who have mental health and substance use challenges and/or who have moved from homelessness to Bobbin Mill, Wharf Lane, and other BHA properties. The position works closely with property management and other site-based staff to identify challenges and respond with appropriate direct service and coordination of community services, with a goal of eviction prevention and facilitating a healthy tenancy.

Offender Re-entry Housing Specialist:

Provides support to men and women under the VT Department of Corrections supervision from prison back to Chittenden County. The ORHS focuses on high-risk men and women who are being released from jail and graduating transitional housing programs and in need of permanent housing. The ORHS provides intensive retention and eviction prevention services and works collaboratively with the Burlington Probation and Parole Office. Additionally, the ORHS works with various case workers, Re-Entry staff and the Administrative Staff from the VT Department of Corrections and the broad network of COSA staff as necessary throughout Chittenden County.

Preventative Maintenance Specialist:

Administers and implements comprehensive preventative maintenance activities at all BHA properties, ensuring the systematic upkeep of building components. The PMS will establish a maintenance schedule, as well as overseeing and coordinating with contractors for key building systems and areas related to the upkeep of buildings.

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 along with free utilities in exchange for being on call after BHA business hours and on weekends.

Our robust benefit package includes premium medical insurance with a health reimbursement account, dental, vision, short and long term disability, 10% employer funded retirement plan, 457 retirement plan, accident insurance, life insurance, cancer and critical illness insurance.

We provide a generous time off policy including 12 days of paid time off and 12 days of sick time in the first year. In addition to the paid time off, BHA recognizes 13 (paid) holidays and 2 (paid) floating cultural holidays.

Interested in this opportunity? Send cover letter/resume to: humanresources@ burlingtonhousing.org.

Human Resources

Burlington Housing Authority 65 Main Street, Suite 101 Burlington, VT 05401

To find more information about these career opportunities, please visit: burlingtonhousing.org

BHA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POSTMYJOB

PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X21, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

Electrical Apprentices & Electricians

Apprentices to have all apprenticeship fees paid. Licensed electricians receive a sign-on bonus and competitive wages.

To apply call (970)-618-7151 or email resume to jacob@hellbrook.io

For full details and to apply,

Individual Giving Manager

Vermont Studio Center (VSC) seeks an Individual Giving Manager. This position is responsible for growing support from individual donors, administering the organization’s annual giving initiatives, and participating in all aspects of donor relations. The manager will work across departments to foster consistency and quality of records management, stewardship, and reporting. They will work with the Advancement team to set development strategy, expand resources, and further VSC’s philanthropic goals.

For full job description go to vermontstudiocenter.org/ jobs-at-vsc

AR Insulators is looking for an entry level Spray Foam and Cellulose Insulation applicator to add to our growing team. We will provide on the job training. Competitive wages, PTO, and benefits. You must have a valid driver’s license and transportation to job sites. Send resume to insulators@ addisonresidential.com No phones calls or walk-ins.

GO HIRE.

Job Seekers:

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Administrative Assistant (Full Time)

McNeil, Leddy & Sheahan, P.C. is seeking a full-time Administrative Assistant. The ideal candidate will be personable, professional and have excellent communication and computer skills.

Position includes word processing, answering the telephone, greeting clients, mailing, e-filing in State and Federal courts and general office tasks. Prior office/ legal experience is helpful, but not required. Parking is provided.

McNeil, Leddy & Sheahan is a Burlington law firm with a varied practice and over 45 years of experience serving clients throughout Vermont. Interested candidates please send a cover letter and resume via email to tbailey@mcneilvt.com or mail to:

To apply send resume and cover letter to Richard Busch at jobs@ vermontstudiocenter.org 3v-VTStudioCenter021925.indd 1 2/17/25 11:32 AM

Job Recruiters:

• Post jobs using a form that includes key info about your company and open positions (location, application deadlines, video, images, etc.).

• Accept applications and manage the hiring process via our applicant tracking tool.

• Easily manage your open job listings from your recruiter dashboard.

McNeil, Leddy & Sheahan, P.C. Attn: Employment 271 South Union Street Burlington, VT 05401

• Search for jobs by keyword, location, category and job type.

• Set up job alert emails using custom search criteria.

• Save jobs to a custom list with your own notes on the positions.

• Apply for jobs directly through the site.

Get a quote when you post online or contact Michelle Brown: 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com.

SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

Systems Administrator District of Vermont at Burlington (CL-28/29)

$70,894 – $137,032 Full Time Permanent U.S. Probation is accepting applications for a full-time Systems Administrator. The Systems Administrator is responsible for testing and performing routine upgrades of hardware and software, maintaining technical and user documentation for assigned systems and applications, providing technical support for all systems, ensuring integrity and safety of office data and performing or coordinating IT support services necessary for the successful operation of all IT systems.

Salary range is from $70,894 - $137,032 (CL 28 to CL 29), depending on qualifications. For further information and application instructions visit vtp.uscourts.gov/ career-opportunities

Deadline for complete applications: Close of business, March 21, 2025.

Human Resources Associate

Assistant Professor, Data Analytics

Visit jobs.plattsburgh.edu & select “View Current Openings”

SUNY Plattsburgh is an AA/EEO/ADA/VEVRAA committed to excellence through diversity and supporting an inclusive environment for all.

Office Manager

SAS Architects is seeking an Office Manager with excellent organizational skills and an optimistic attitude to join our small architectural practice. Candidate would be the main point of contact in our reception area and be responsible for bi-weekly payroll, monthly billing, oversight of office equipment and supplies, and support for project development and completion. Position could be full-time or part-time depending on the candidate. Proficiency with QuickBooks and Microsoft Office required. Experience with InDesign and Photoshop, valuable but not necessary. Competitive salary, paid time off, 401K, and health insurance provided.

We invite you to check out our website: sasarchitects.com to learn more about our firm, people and projects. To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to tricia@sasarchitects.com

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The Legislative support oﬃces are currently hiring. The nonpartisan oﬃces are an interesting, challenging, and exciting place to work. You will be part of a highly professional and collegial team that is proud of, and enthusiastic about, the mission of the state legislature.

To apply, please go to 'Career Opportunities' at legislature.vermont.gov.

Town Administrator

Bristol, Vermont

Status: Full-time, salaried (flexible schedule with evening meetings required).

The Town of Bristol, located in Central Vermont’s Addison County, is seeking highly motivated candidates for the Town Administrator position to oversee our vibrant community’s daily operations. Reporting to the Selectboard, this role is pivotal in driving policy implementation, budget management, and departmental oversight to deliver high-quality, cost-effective town services.

We seek an individual with strong business and financial management skills to manage daily operations, supervise Town employees, administer a budget of approximately $3 million, and ensure compliance with municipal, state, and federal regulations. This position also requires expertise in economic development, project management, strategic planning, and municipal processes. The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, political science, or equivalent professional qualifications or experience (a master’s is preferred but not required) and has 3-5 years of leadership experience in municipal government or similar roles.

Detailed job description at bristolvt.org/town_admin_job.pdf

Salary is commensurate with experience, starting at $82,500. Excellent benefits package.

The position is advertised until filled. To apply, please submit a letter of interest, a resume, and three references by March 31, 2025, to townadmin@bristolvt.org or send by mail to:

Bristol Town Administrator Search

P.O. Box 249, Bristol, VT 05443

The Town of Bristol is an equal opportunity provider and employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, religion, gender, or familial status.

Contracts Specialist

Are you a detail-oriented contracts professional with a passion for higher education? Do you have a knack for negotiation, risk mitigation, and fostering collaborative partnerships? GMHEC is looking for a dynamic Contracts Specialist to join our team and support our members (Champlain College, Middlebury College, and St. Michael’s College). This is your chance to help shape the future of higher education while ensuring that our contracts meet institutional goals, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.

Key responsibilities:

*Contract Development & Negotiation

*Contract Compliance & Risk Mitigation

*Partner Relationship Management

*Contract Lifecycle Management

*Process Improvement & Policy Development

*Internal Collaboration & Training

*Reporting & Documentation

Qualiﬁcations & Skills:

*Bachelor’s degree in Business, Legal Studies, Public Administration, or related ﬁeld. Master's degree or JD preferred.

*Minimum of 4 years’ contract management experience, with preference for experience in a higher education or public sector environment.

*Professional certiﬁcations such as CPCM, CCM, or similar are advantageous.

*Legal and regulatory knowledge

*Attention to detail

*Analytical skills

*Communication and negotiation skills

*Strong organizational skills

At GMHEC, we are committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive environment where your expertise will help strengthen the higher education community we serve.

APPLY TODAY WITH QR CODE HERE:

“At NDI, we value how Seven Days Jobs connects us with a broad local audience. Its accessibility ensures we reach diverse potential candidates, which is crucial for our growth. Michelle Brown’s prompt, professional and responsive service makes the process seamless. Seven Days helps us employ great people who strengthen partnerships with medical device manufacturers as we develop innovative navigation technologies.”

ANIA JANUSZCZYK

HR Business Partner NDI (Northern Digital Inc.)

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JEN SORENSEN

HARRY BLISS

KYLE BRAVO

JULIANNA BRAZILL

MAT BARTON

PISCES

(FEB. 19-MAR. 20)

Octopuses have three hearts, each with a different function. Every one of their eight limbs contains a minibrain, giving them nine in total. Is there any doubt, then, that they are the patron creature for you Pisceans? No other zodiac sign is more multifaceted than you. No other can operate with grace on so many different levels. I celebrate your complexity, dear Pisces, which enables you to draw such rich experiences into your life and manage such diverse challenges. ese qualities will be working at a peak in the coming weeks. For inspiration, consider putting an image of an octopus in your environment.

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19): Aries author Anne Lamott articulated a thought that’s perfect for you to hear right now: “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” I might amend her wisdom a bit to say “for a few hours” or “a couple of days.” Now is a rare time when a purposeful disconnection can lead you to deeper synchronization. A project or relationship will improve after a gentle reset. Your power mantra: “Renew yourself with quiet inaction.”

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): Beavers are the engineers of the natural world. e dams they

fabricate not only create shelters for them but also beneﬁt their entire ecosystem. e ponds and marshes they help shape provide rich habitats for many other species. Boosting biodiversity is their specialty. eir constructions also serve as natural ﬁlters, enhancing water quality downstream. Let’s make beavers your inspirational symbol for the coming weeks, Taurus. In their spirit, build what’s good for you with the intention of making it good for everyone whose life you touch. Ensure that your efforts will generate ripples that nourish your tribe and community.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun. 20): I predict that you will soon have reason to celebrate a resounding success. You will claim a well-deserved reward. You may even shiver with amazement and gratiﬁcation as you marvel at how many challenges you overcame to emerge triumphant. In my view, you will have every right to exude extra pride and radiance. I won’t complain if you ﬂirt with a burst of egotism. In accordance with my spirituality, I will tell you, “Remember that this wonder you have spawned will live for a very long time.”

CANCER (Jun. 21-Jul. 22): When you see the stars in the night sky, you’re looking at the ancient past. Light from those heavenly bodies may have taken as long as 4,000 years to reach us. So we are beholding them as they used to be, not as they are now. With that as your inspiration, I invite you to spend quality time gazing into your own personal past. Meditate on how your history is alive in you today, making its imprint on all you do and say. Say prayers and write messages to yourself in which you express your awe and appreciation for the epic myth that is your destiny.

LEO (Jul. 23-Aug. 22): I mourn the growing climate calamity that is heating up our beloved planet. Among many other distortions, it has triggered yellow forsythias and blue gentians to blossom during winters in the Austrian Alps — an unprecedented event. At the same time, I am also able to marvel at the strange beauty of gorgeous ﬂowers growing on the winter hills of ski resorts. So my feelings are mixed — paradoxical and confusing — and that’s ﬁne with me. I regard it as a sign of soulfulness. May you be so blessed, Leo: full of

appreciation for your capacity to hold conﬂicting ideas, perspectives and feelings.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sep. 22): e quietest place on earth is a room at Microsoft’s headquarters near Seattle. It’s made of six layers of steel and concrete, and its foundation includes vibration-dampening springs. Within it, you can hear your heartbeat, the swishing of your clothes and the hum of air molecules colliding. e silence is so eerily profound that many people become ﬂummoxed while visiting. Here’s the moral of the story: While you Virgos are naturally inclined to favor order and precision, a modicum of noise and commotion in your life is often beneﬁcial. Like background sounds that keep you oriented, minor wriggles and perturbations ensure you remain grounded. is will be extra important for you to acknowledge in the coming weeks.

LIBRA (Sep. 23-Oct. 22): To make a Möbius strip, you give a half twist to a strip of paper and attach the ends. You have then created a surface with just one side and one edge. It’s a fun curiosity, but it also has practical applications. Using Möbius strips, engineers can design more efﬁcient gears. Machinists make mechanical belts that are Möbius strips because they wear out less quickly. ere are at least eight other concrete functions, as well. Let’s extrapolate from this to suggest that a similar theme might be arising in your life. What may seem like an interesting but impractical element could reveal its realworld value. You may ﬁnd unexpected uses for playful features. One of your capacities has dimensions you have not yet explored but are ready to.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Sandra Cisneros is a visionary writer with Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius. She is always in quest of the next big lesson and the next exciting adventure. But she also has the Moon, Venus and Saturn in Scorpio. Her sensitive attunement to the hidden and secret aspects of reality is substantial. She thrives on cultivating a profound understanding of her inner world. It took her years to master the art of fully expressing both these sides of her character. I bring this to your attention, Scorpio, because you’re primed to go in quest for experiences

that will open your heart to novel amazements — even as you connect with previously unknown aspects of your deep self that resonate with those experiences.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): e Moeraki Boulders are spread along a beach in New Zealand. Many of the 50 big rocks are nearly perfect spheres and up to six feet in diameter, so they provide a stunning visual feast. Scientists know that they have steadily grown for the past 4 million years, accumulating ever-new layers of minerals. I propose we make them your symbols of power until July 1. In my astrological estimation, you are in a phase of laying long-term groundwork. What may seem to be a tedious accumulation of small, gradual victories is part of a grander undertaking. Like the Moeraki Boulders, your efforts will crystallize into an enduring foundation.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A Japanese proverb says, “ e bamboo that bends with the wind is stronger and more resilient than the oak tree that resists.” at’s true. When storms bluster, oak branches get broken and blown away. Bamboo may look delicate, but it is actually strong and capable of withstanding high winds. It flourishes by being flexible instead of rigid. at’s the approach I recommend to you, Capricorn. Challenges may emerge that inspire you to stay grounded by adapting. Your plans will become optimal as you adjust them. By trusting your natural resilience, you could find unexpected chances for interesting transformation. Your potency will lie in your ability to bend without breaking.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Seattle’s Space Needle serves as an observation tower. It’s 605 feet high. For years, there was a restaurant with a rotating floor at the top. In its early days, the movement was so brisk that some visitors got dizzy and nauseous. Engineers had to recalibrate the equipment so it was sufficiently leisurely to keep everyone comfortable. Your current situation resembles this story. e right elements are in place, but you need to adjust the timing and rhythm. If there are frustrating glitches, they are clues to the fine-tuning that needs to be done.

At the Newark Street School, fourth and ﬁfth graders meet up every Wednesday after school to prepare meals for six seniors.

Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger traveled to Newark to see the students make mini meatloaves, mashed potatoes, peas and cookies, then she met a 91-year-old who enjoyed the meal.

WOMEN seeking...

JASMINE FOR YOU

I’m a youthful, independent, confident, financially secure, 77-years-young widow who is very comfortable in her own skin! I am upbeat, love to smile and make others happy. You will find me to be joyful, positive, intelligent, loyal and monogamous. Well traveled, I enjoy skiing, hiking, road trips, biking, cooking and cozy evenings at home. Jassy1948, 77, seeking: M, l

NATURAL, OUTGOING AND WARMHEARTED

I want to share life with a man interested in a rich home life with land for animals, compost, gardens. I come from a large family. I want a mutually exclusive relationship. I love eating out and live music! My children are grown and healthy, as am I. Ideally you build, fix things, have steady income, integrity and honesty. MoveSlow, 50, seeking: M, l

LONELY LOOKING FOR ?

Looking for someone kind. I know no picture. Life’s a gamble. Self-sufficient woman here, at least I think so sometimes. I enjoy nature and good sex, like I can remember. Physically active. Not perfect. Silly_wabbit 54, seeking: M

ACTIVE, CARING AND FUNNY

Active woman who enjoys dancing, hiking, biking. My new partner is passionate about life and wants to spend time building a relationship. DancingQueen, 60, seeking: M, l

LOOKING FOR CONNECTION

I’m considerate, kind, compassionate, curious and always looking for new adventures. I would love to meet someone to share in my enthusiasm. Connect with me if you are not afraid to be real. katya 58 seeking: M, l

CARING, COMPASSIONATE, OPTIMIST

I am an active, energetic person with an optimistic view of life. I enjoy being out in nature and appreciate all seasons. I hope to find someone who’s up for new adventures and enjoys time alone and time together. Good communication, trust and compassion are very important to me, and I hope to find someone who shares these values. KindredSpirit63 63, seeking: M, l

HONEST, LOYAL, INTENSE

Science and tech geek seeks similar. Dark sense of humor, still kind of a goth at heart. If I’m not home on Saturday nights, I’ll be at a bar or movie, not the theater. Shy, quiet and serious at first, looking for my opposite: someone carefree and joyful. But in the end, it all comes down to chemistry, right? labrat 47, seeking: M, l

TEAM PLAYER SEEKS COCAPTAIN

Forty-nine years old/young, living in Stowe with my young daughter, our little dog and a kitten. Two-plus years of transition to single-mom living, and finally considering how a man might fit into my life. Honestly, still unsure, but hopeful for a partner with wit, creativity, non-arrogant ambition, humor and new adventures. I love people, kids, nature, saunas/plunges, skiing! Mountain_Mama, 28, seeking: M, l

LOVING EVERY MORNING!

I, first and foremost, want honesty! If you don’t feel it, just tell me and go! It’s OK!

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

I want laughter, fun, peace, enjoyment, no drama, no lies (big with me!) and to enjoy whatever “we” are doing! I am a very fast thinker but forget stuff. My life can be chaotic at times. I like my Jeep, ’93 Mazda. MaMa_Me 71, seeking: M, l

ENERGETIC, SARCASTIC AND LAID-BACK!

Not good at this. Let’s just give it a go and see what happens! Looking for a buddy, someone to hang and spend some time with. ForgingNewPaths, 37, seeking: M

CULTURED VERMONT WOMAN

I am intellectual and creative and love to explore active and artistic hobbies like drawing, skiing, walking in the woods and journaling. I am looking for a meaningful and serious relationship with someone who is kind yet ambitious. francoisegirl, 28 seeking: M

HEADY NATURAL WORLD CARETAKER

A lover of the natural world, an artist, a lobbyist on behalf of the natural world, researcher and trainer of many kinds of animals, degreed chef and language instructor, organic gardener, daily exerciser and more online. Love to study languages and cultures. Cancer survivor, great sense of humor. Do not consent to geoengineering of our oceans and atmosphere. alphaomegafire, 72, seeking: W, l

SEEKING TALL NICE GUY

Nice gal seeks nice guy for fun: conversation, travel, meals. I like fiction, cooking garden-to-table, conversation. I don’t like motorcycles, football, TV. Please be 5’10” or taller, nonsmoker, financially secure, emotionally and physically healthy. swimwstars 68, seeking: M

IN SEARCH OF YOU!

ISO companionship or LTR for social activities such as long walks on nature trails, browsing art galleries, attending lectures, long country back-road trips. I enjoy dining out but would prefer cooking healthy meals at home. Cozy evenings at home reading, playing board games by a roaring fire with great conversation. Biking and nightly walks, holding hands. Sunsets, farmers markets, live music. JeezumCrow, 73, seeking: M, l

SWEET AND SASSY

I am a down-to-earth woman. I am very creative and independent. I enjoy gardening, music and dancing, reading, and doing small projects. I am also a romantic for just a nice cooked meal at home, good conversation and cuddling to watch a movie. I also enjoy spending time with my grandchildren. Dreana58 61, seeking: M, l

GENUINE, FRIENDLY, LOYAL AND TRUE

I am single and live independently. Now retired but work part time remotely. I love nature and watching birds. I enjoy art, consignment and antique shops, music, and good movies. Looking for long-term friend and companion to love, share life, cook good food, talk, entertain and travel. Redwing, 75, seeking: M, l

ACTIVE, OUTGOING, ADVENTUROUS

I am a caring, independent, professional female who loves traveling, being outdoors (skiing, hiking, biking, paddle boarding, gardening), being with friends and family, or reading a great book. Ideally I would like to meet someone who is smart, has a good sense of humor, shares some of my interests and enjoys great conversation. Hopefully they are out there and will reach out. Oreodog, 61, seeking: M, l

MEN seeking...

RELENTLESS SEEKING CONTENTMENT

I’m just here hoping to find someone to get to know. I’m looking for long-term love, and I know I need to meet a lot of people to find that kind of connection. Do you want to meet right now to say hello? Just talk a little bit for, like, 30 minutes or so? No obligations. No expectations. Coffee? moon 50 seeking: W, TW, l

ENJOYING LIFE

I’m here to meet people and date. If I connect with someone, great; I’d love to see where it goes. I’ve shared my life with a partner before and would enjoy doing that again. I’ve been hiking more, dancing more, and writing and playing music with an amazing group of people. stuffnthings, 51, seeking: W, l

LOVING, UNDERSTANDING, LOOKING FOR SAME

Let’s check one another out. Love to find someone like-minded to share my life with. ugotit123 65, seeking: W

RESPECTABLE, REFINED, GENTLEMAN, LOYAL, ROMANTIC

Looking for my darling dearest. I’m Skyler, 19, seeking a genuine connection with someone my age who values kindness, authenticity and lasting companionship. I’m posting here because I respect others too much to inquire directly, as it makes me feel brash. If you know someone my age who shares these values, I’d appreciate the chance to connect. Theoldsoul 19, seeking: W, l

AUTHENTIC, INTUITIVE, KIND, NATURE LOVER

Time in nature is essential for me throughout the year. In the woods, on the waters, skiing (a few varieties), paddling, swimming, roaming the woods, lying on a rock under summer sun. Artist dreamer type, open mind, active, young for my years. Authentic, quiet, kind, quirky. Active imagination, curious nature, seeking kindred spirit. quietwaters, 70, seeking: W, l

HELLO, LADIES

Hello, ladies. My name is Jonathan but everyone calls me Jay. I’m 5’6”, I weigh 135. I am a fun-loving guy who loves to be around a special woman who loves to have sex and fun — all in one — so hit me up if that’s you. jayondamove87, 37 seeking: W, Cp, l

ACTIVE, CURIOUS AND ENTERTAINING

Recently single, retired professional seeking fun-loving companion who appreciates laughter, outdoors, travel, dining, music and hanging with friends. I embrace Vermont, especially Lake Champlain, on which I live. Skiing, biking, hiking and gym are all part of my routine. Grandkids and family are central but not local. Most importantly I seek a special person to share conversation, new adventures and good times. Catman 74, seeking: W, l

KIND, THOUGHTFUL, PATIENT INTROVERT

If only I knew what to say. BonfiresAndStars 49, seeking: W, l

SCHOOL OF HARD KNOX GRADUATE

I am an honest, hardworking, single male who loves the outdoors and spending time with family. I am looking for a companion who is also honest, caring and accepting. I would like a romantic partner to join me on adventures like going for bike rides, a walk in the woods with a dog or a splash in the river. Spuds 73, seeking: W, l

I’M SWEET, AMBITIOUS AND THOUGHTFUL

I’m funny, super positive, energetic and determined. I’m studying important historical dates. Would you like to join me? gregory1960 64, seeking: W, l

A RELATIONSHIP OF “YES”

Compassionate, caring, loving, ethical. As a lover, I am intimate, sensitive, passionate and communicative in all the ways available for humans to communicate. In love I can and will go as deep and fearlessly as you are willing. I’ve rebuilt buildings, built boats and a rental business, post-retirement. I want to build a life together. Communication_ Matters 65, seeking: W, l

LOOKING FOR NSA KINKY FUN

Looking for some kinky times. Like to give and receive oral and hoping to find a well-hung top. 2ndchnce, 60 seeking: M

PART-TIME JOURNALIST, FULL-TIME

SEEKER

You’re curious and funny, and can laugh at yourself and me. Words warm my heart, but a mechanical challenge perplexes me. I’ve taught in England and Ireland. I’m looking for someone to share the next part of my life, which will be an adventure (of travel, theater, swimming, hiking, dining, maybe golfing) before I’m whisked off to a home for the bewildered. 0hFlatlander, 68 seeking: W, l

BADASS ORGANIC FARMER

I own and operate my own vegetable farm. I’m looking to meet new people and see where it goes. Cole100 39, seeking: W, l

EASYGOING AND LAID-BACK

Time is of the essence. Life is too short. I work way too hard seemingly for someone else’s benefit more than my own. rockme, 60, seeking: W

LET’S MEET-TRUST AND VERIFY.

Looking for creative, multitalented, intelligent man for LTR/open to marriage. I put my order in with the agency. Apply to heaven to match us up. Ask for money-it’s over. With PTSD, which I suffer in today’s world: rejection recreates effects of abuse. Untrusted? Struggle alone. Promised intention unfulfilled turns dishonest. Alone, misaligned, we’re rebelliously ignorant. Meeting will change us. Let’s date. ThomThomCS135, 71, seeking: M, Cp, Gp, l

LET’S MAKE EACH OTHER SMILE

Want to spend some time with someone who wants nothing more than to make you feel good and be happy? Let me know if you are interested, and I’ll happily send pictures. Symbioticplease 55, seeking: W

THOUGHTFUL, UNASSUMING, CATCH?

Thirty-six, male. I am well educated, in full-time sales. Looks: Zoom-call handsome, dark hair and average build. Both shy and gregarious. Intellectual and kind. Personal growth and awareness are important to me. Love games, vistas, conversation. Seeking friendships or dating with women. Wanting something serious, open to casual or flirtatious. Please be patient, I’m new to this. What’s something that sparked your curiosity? Spiritual_Charcoal 36 seeking: W, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l

NONBINARY PEOPLE seeking...

OUTDOORSY, TALKATIVE, CREATIVE

Hi, I am pretty fun. I listen to a lot of music. I hike a lot, backpack and garden in the summers. I’m intersex, so I’m doublegendered totally and prefer men. I like to draw a lot. I’m very creative; think of myself as a drawer of African animalistic settings, Vermont animals and astrology. Hailuithair, 30 seeking: M, 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 61, seeking: W, Cp

EXPLORING THREESOMES AND FOURSOMES

We are older and wiser, discovered that our sexuality is amazingly hot! Our interest is another male for threesomes or a couple for threesomes or foursomes. We’d like to go slowly, massage you with a happy ending. She’d love to be massaged with a happy ending or a dozen. Are you interested in exploring sexuality with a hot older couple? DandNformen, 68, seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, Cp, Gp, l

GRAM CENTRAL IN MONTPELIER

You: lovely blonde in rebel cap. You recognized me from running in Hubbard Park, and we share being blessed with extra energy. You hike more than run, and we both like the hills. Reach out if you’d like a bit of company out in these beautiful woods. When: Friday, February 21, 2025. Where: Gram Central, Montpelier. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916262

BEJEWLED BEAUTY

You had sparkly cheeks in line at Ulta and high-ﬁved me after I got a great deal. Let’s keep celebrating — me and you against the world! Hit me up, I’d love to take you out. When: ursday, February 20, 2025. Where: Ulta. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916261

NURSE KENDA

I’m going to miss you, Joel When: Friday, February 7, 2025. Where: Westview, Berlin, VT. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916260

SB B-DUBS

I was there with my kids; we interacted several times. While leaving, your comments about interactions and seeing us interacting together and us being good/kind people were appreciated. I was slow to react, but they came at a good time; comments made me feel like we’re on the right track. I’m proud of my kids and think they’re good people, too. Hearing someone say so unsolicited was impactful. Saying something positive and considerate can make a difference. I wanted to say thank you and return it — please don’t change. When: Tuesday, February 18, 2025. Where: Server at Super Bowl Buffalo Wild Wings. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916259

If you’ve been spied, go online to contact your admirer!

WE BOTH LIKE OLIVES

We connected brieﬂy over a deal on olives. You were friendly and cheerful, and I wish I had slowed down to really interact. We wished each other a good day in the parking lot. When: Saturday, February 8, 2025. Where: Hunger Mountain Co-op. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916258

RUNNING ON THE RAIL TRAIL

You were out running. I was on my snowmobile and stopped to help you grab your adorable pup Maple. Running into you was the most delightful event of my day. Care to run the trails with me sometime? When: Monday, February 3, 2025. Where: St. Albans Rail Trail. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916257

BE(ER) MY VALENTINE AND MORE

Your unique look caught my eye as you heaved heavy kegs and cases about. I noticed your strong physique and wondered if I should ask you out. Your handsome brown eyes were ﬁlled with delight as you performed your job, efﬁcient and sharp. Won’t you be my valentine and bring me back to life to save me from the dark? When: Friday, February 14, 2025. Where: downtown Burlington. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916255

PRICE CHOPPER

You were a nice Black woman, getting dizzy and nauseous in the supermarket. I held your hand and walked you outside to your car. I asked you to wait about ﬁve to 10 minutes before taking off. I asked you if you would like me to get you something from the store. I hope you are doing well. I would like to see you again. When: Friday, February 7, 2025. Where: Price Chopper supermarket, South Burlington. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916254

Every time I go somewhere with my best friend, she asks to put her stuff

TRADER JOE’S TEA

Girl with the red hair: You let me know about your upcoming visit with a friend, sharing a cup of tea and perhaps talking the tea? You departed on the winds of a cold February afternoon. Would you a care for a visit and tea with me? When: Monday, February 3, 2025. Where: Trader Joe’s South Burlington. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916256

HUNGER MOUNTAIN CO-OP INTRIGUE

Hi! Me: woman in her forties at the checkout line wearing blue coat and pink hat. You: guy in his ﬁfties by the candy wearing green coat and brown hat. You looked at me like you knew me or wanted to. I was hoping you would come over and say hello — maybe you can start the introduction here. When: Sunday, February 2, 2025. Where: Hunger Mountain Co-op, Montpelier. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916253

BOOK BANTER AT BARRIO

You were reading A Court of orns and Roses (book three) in a cozy gray sweater. I was reading Crying in H Mart Before you left, we chatted brieﬂy about your book, mine and the bright winter sunshine. You piqued my interest from the very ﬁrst page. When: Saturday, February 8, 2025. Where: Barrio Bakery. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916252

J. AT SPECIAL SERVICES TRANSPORTATION AGENCY

Found out recently you left the company. You were an irreplaceable asset to them. May this year bring you only good things. When: Saturday, March 2, 2024. Where: only spoke on the phone. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916251

SOUTH BURLINGTON DUNKIN’ GUY

Kept making eye contact with this one guy in a Dunkin’ in South Burlington. He was with two other guys (I was with two other girls). We were slightly loud/obnoxious. I think we would hit it off, honestly. Hit me up. When: Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Where: South Burlington Dunkin’. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916250

SEPTUAGENARIAN EYES

Mesmerize green eyes / Beguile, Betray Bats Burro / Reconcile swap smile. When: Sunday, February 9, 2025. Where: running from fate. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916249

ST. ALBANS TRACTOR SUPPLY

We were both shopping, and by the third time we crossed paths, there clearly was mutual curiosity with enough sparkle for me to decide to write this. No big deal, and we might as well connect just for the fun of it. I can’t get there next Saturday, which would be an easy plan B, otherwise. When: Saturday, February 8, 2025. Where: St. Albans Tractor Supply. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916248

HOLDING DOOR IN ESSEX JUNCTION

A week or so ago, as I was leaving Fairground Beverage in Essex Junction, you held the door open for me. I just wanted to say that I think you’re a class act. anks. When: Monday, January 27, 2025. Where: Essex Junction. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916247

$30 LOAF OF BREAD

Beauty — wisdom — humor! Dark hair, parted right to left, round glasses, beautiful smile! At 2:40 p.m., we discussed the complexities involving a $30 loaf of bread. Me: long, dark curly hair. I’d love to meet you for coffee somewhere or go for a walk with the dogs — or ? So hope you see this and reach out! When: ursday, January 30, 2025. Where: East Warren Community Market. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916246

TO MY VALENTINE

Curly hair, don’t care. Brown eyes, give me butterﬂies. Britain or England, I’ll take you there. You are beautiful and perfect for me in every way! I love you and want to spend my life with you — and NB with GT! XoXO When: Friday, February 14, 2025. Where: Williston. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916245

HANDSOME GUY AT BENT NAILS

E, thanks for making my night. I was in my groove and caught off guard — I thought you were on a date. Now I’m wishing I’d come over. Let me buy you a drink? When: Friday, January 31, 2025. Where: Bent Nails Bistro. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916243

BIRTHDAY ON 28, LOVES TIRAMISU

e way you threw your shoulder left me feeling sore. You said you loved tiramisu, could I ask for more? Yapping with you is never a bore. I can’t believe you’re not 24 anymore. When: Sunday, January 26, 2025. Where: With the goats. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916242

I’D DRESS AS DONKEY

Enjoy this Haiku / I crafted it just for you / Heartfelt Healing Hope When: Monday, February 3, 2025. Where: e deep woods. You: Group. Me: Man. #916244

SALT & RIND WATERBURY

You were with friends from N.C. I was with someone. Wanted to sit at your table; still do. — Cute guy at the bar thinking about your pretty face. Now what? When: ursday, January 23, 2025. Where: Salt & Rind Waterbury. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916240

GARDNER’S SUPPLY EYE CONTACT

You have longish brown hair, a dynamite smile and were wearing a blue hoodie with logos. I had a blue puffy and a trucker cap on. We made brief eye contact, but the moment passed. Does the universe grant second chances? If you think that question would be a good conversation starter, how about coffee at the Gardener’s Supply Café? When: ursday, January 23, 2025. Where: Gardner’s Supply. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916239

QUEEN ANNE AND LE CORBUSIER

Most people thought the chaconne would be the piece to end the recital. We agreed that the choice of the third sonata was inspired. at allegro assai is just transcendent; so joyful. I’ll take your advice and check out the recital hall — we might meet again. I wonder what the music will be? When: Friday, January 17, 2025. Where: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Burlington. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916237

A BEAUTIFUL DAY

anks for wishing me one. I’ve been having one of those weeks where I could really use one. I appreciate your kindness. I’m looking forward to tasting the pound cake. When: Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Where: around town. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916236

NUT AND BOLTS

When I saw you, messy hair, alluring and determined in a trench coat and big snow boots, I said to myself, Oh, my God I wish I had said hello. Maybe I will see you again in your beautifully beat-up Mercedes station wagon. When: Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Where: Kenyon’s. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916235

De Holden Lesac,

Small annoyances can add up to big trouble. When something bothers you, it’s always worth the effort to solve the problem, no matter how trivial it may seem.

You could take a straightforward approach and let your friend know that you don’t like being responsible for her belongings. You’d feel terrible if you lost her phone, right? You should be able to bring it up without making a big fuss. en, the next time the two of you are going somewhere, remind her ahead of time to bring a bag — or to wear something with pockets.

If a discussion feels daunting, try a more sly approach. On your next outing, use a smaller purse that only ﬁts your items. When she asks you to carry her things, just tell her there’s no room at the inn. Simple as that. If you’re always a big-bag lady, get a small, foldable tote that you can have at the ready to hand her. Doing that a couple of times ought to get the point across. Perhaps your pal has never found a purse that works for her. For her next birthday or other giftgiving occasion, get her one. Since it seems like she isn’t a fan of toting a tote, a belt bag might be more her style. ink fancy fanny pack. ey come in all sorts of shapes and sizes these days. If all else fails, enforce a simple rule: When she puts her things in your bag, she has to carry it.

a rule: puts

Good luck and God bless, The Rev end

I’m a male, 66, seeking woman around same. Hardworking man needs woman to cuddle and caress slowly! I don’t care about size or color — I’ll look at you as you! I want to love and be loved; that takes time, which I have a lot of. Please call. #L1826

Retired, happy, healthy, ﬁt and active male seeking erotic female friend. Let’s test and explore our sensual pleasures together! #L1824

I’m a 75-y/o lady seeking a 70- to 80-y/o old man for companionship and possible relationship in the Essex Junction area. #L1825

September (M) seeks April (F) for baroque music and bicycles, les patinoires de Montréal, Apollo and Dionysus (skip the wine), and every chakra — high and low. Too innocent: ready to explore the dance of passion and vegan restos de Paris. #L1827

I’m a male seeking a male who loves to dress up in very sexy silk panties and loves oral and anything else. Would love to bring you the newspapers and get on my knees and dictate to you in my mouth. #L1828

SWF, 50, seeking a SWM, 48 to 58, to homestead and live a quiet life. I am sincere, ready to settle down, artistic and love dogs. #L1818

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).

PUBLISH YOUR MESSAGE ON THIS PAGE!

1 Submit your FREE message at sevendaysvt.com/loveletters or use the handy form at right.

I’m a 65-y/o fun-loving and outgoing GWM seeking new friendships with other gay men. Enjoy dinners in and good conversation. Best friend material here! is is not an ad seeking sexual contacts or conquests. Looking for longterm friendships. Looking forward to hearing from you! #L1821

I’m a 34-y/o male seeking a mature female, women couple or couples for FWB. Open to exploring. I love the outdoors. I love to laugh. 420 OK but no cigarettes, please. #L1823

GWM looking for strong tops for playtime with fun and adventurous bottom. Age not really an issue: forties and ﬁfties a plus, will consider all ages. Will host. Talk or text. #L1822

Single woman, 59. Wise, mindful. Seeking tight unit with man, friend, love. Country living, gardens, land to play on. Emotionally, intellectually engaged. Lasting chats. Appreciation for past experience. Please be kind, stable and well established. Phone number, please. #L1813

ree men, ages 50 and 60s. One bi, two gay. Get-together once a week at my place in Burlington. Looking for another guy to join us. Safe, sane and discreet. If interested, send phone number. Play with us! #L1820

Int net-Free Dating!

I am an 80-y/o woman seeking a man, 76 to 80 y/o. I am looking for friendship and companionship. Be able to share life for as long as we can, and do things together for fun. Let’s enjoy life. #L1817

I’m a SWF, 71 y/o, seeking a white or Black man 50 to 70 y/o. I want companionship, movies, warmth; I love music and live in Woodstock. Phone calls only. #L1815

I’m a 60-y/o SWF seeking a 55- to 70-y/o SM. Retired, healthy, ﬁt and outdoorsy. ISO a kindred spirit with whom to share Vermont’s trails. I enjoy mountain and gravel biking, cross-country skiing, and yearround hiking, as well as a good Vermont brew, current events, reading and eating as locally as possible. Self-deprecating sense of humor a plus! #L1816

I miss the touch, the ﬂirting, the taste, the smell of a woman. I’m 69, retired and disabled. I also have many facets that make me up. NEK please, thanks. #L1811

Describe yourself and who you’re looking for in 40 words below: (OR, ATTACH A SEPARATE PIECE OF PAPER.)

I’m a

AGE + GENDER (OPTIONAL) seeking a

AGE + GENDER (OPTIONAL)

I’m an 80-y/o man in good health. I own a ranch house on Route 110 in Tunbridge, south of fairgrounds. Never married. No children, retired. Like going out to eat and riding around. Looking for a nice lady for a long-term relationship. #L1810

76-y/o male seeking a female. Widower, Burlington resident, gardener, ﬁsherman and writer wants to meet you for dinner, movies, events and conversation. You: old, kind, no issues. Possible friendship, LTR. I don’t watch football. #L1807

I’m a 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

Handsome SWM, young-looking 60, yearning for a woman’s connection and intimacy. Seeking friendly relations with slim-average 45- to 60-y/o, kind, smart, respectful, humorous, playful. Dinners, walks, nature, day trips, overnights, spontaneity. #L1803

conﬁdential

WEB FORM: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LOVELETTERS 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.

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