ERICA ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Contents
40 HOTEL CHAMPLAIN
A destination unto itself BY MERYL
SIEGMAN
59 MEET ME DOWNTOWN
A close-up look at where to go for shopping, dining and fun
76 VALCOUR ISLAND
A Utopian dream turns nightmarish BY PAUL
HELLER
COVER PHOTO BY MATTHEW BINGINOT
19 PUBLISHERS’ NOTE
20 ONLINE HUB
24 PETS AND PEOPLE
Winter gifts and tips for you and your furry friend
28 ART SCENE
The art of holiday cooking
32 HOLIDAY TREATS
Making memories gingerbread style
34 IN THE KITCHEN
Fine, but friendly dining at Frankie’s BY MARIE EDINGER
46 VERMONT VIEWS
The Brookbound Inn
50 WHAT’S IN STORE
4T2D manufactures and sells their own clothing in Burlington BY MERYL SIEGMAN
56 SPOTLIGHT
Tim Newcomb, Vermont-made political cartoonist BY REINA ESSER
70 HEALTHY LIVING
Tips for your well-being from Clear Choice MD Urgent Care
72 WINTER GIFT GUIDE
Shop local for all your holiday gifts
81 WINTER HAPPENINGS
Calendar of events
87 LAST GLANCE
Keep us posted. Best of Burlington wants to hear from our readers. Correspondence may be addressed to Letters to the Editor, Best of Burlington, 32 Hermit Thrush Lane, South Burlington, VT 05403. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing ctpublishing@comcast.net or coffeetablepublishing@comcast.net. Best of Burlington is published quarterly by Coffee Table Publishing, LLC, ©2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. Best of Burlington accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.
Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!
It’s winter in the Champlain Valley, and you might as well embrace the weather and celebrate it because it’s not going anywhere for a while. But that’s the beauty for living here. Winter is just another great part of life in Vermont!
In this issue, we celebrate winter, learn a little history about Valcour Island, give our thumbs up to the awards and accolades for Frankie’s restaurant downtown, and invite you to a staycation at the picturesque Brook Bound Inn near Mount Snow.
There are gift ideas, dining highlights from downtown, and a list of events, happenings, and must-dos! Oh, and we’ve discovered this cool apparel maker next to Lake Champlain Chocolates on Pine Street. Founded by two women entrepreneurs, 4T2D (Fortitude) produces fun, quality outdoor clothing in its very own on-site factory. The company holds itself to the highest ethical and sustainable standards of production while providing safe, steady manufacturing jobs to the community. That’s a win-win for everyone!
So, bundle up, grab a hot toddy or chocolate, and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature in all her winter glory.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year!
John and Robin Gales
ONLINE EXCLUSIVES
RADIANCE MEDICAL AESTHETICS & WELLNESS SPA
Dr. Colleen Parker and the sta at Radiance Medical Aesthetics & Wellness Spa show us how to keep our skin smooth and clear in winter months. Read more at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
TIRED OF WINTER?
Don’t worry! The Vermont Flower Show is coming! It’s set for March 7–9 at the Champlain Valley Expo. Tickets are now on sale. This year’s theme, A Story of Gardening, will include 15,000 square feet of owering bulbs, shrubs, trees, and water features. Read more at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
Flower Show
• Grand Garden Display (over 15,000 sq. ft.) filled with flowering bulbs, shrubs, trees, and water features!
• Over 100 vendors in horticultural/gardening/home/accessories participate in the Flower Show Marketplace
• Over 35 educational seminars and hands-on workshops
•Experts on-hand to answer your gardening and landscaping questions.
• Family Room with craft and planting activities as well as scheduled entertainment each day.
• The Federated Garden Clubs of Vermont, North District will present a National Garden Club Small Standard Flower Show: “The Story of the Garden”
• Plant Sale at the conclusion of the show on Sunday.
“Bunnies are proof that the best things come in small, furry packages.” —Anonymous
Don’t Forget to Brush!
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, which means it’s the perfect time to review your pet’s dental cleaning routine. There are lots of benefits to regular teeth cleaning, including preventing gum disease, which dogs and cats can develop by the age of three. Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is the key. Most veterinarians suggest using a soft-bristled toothbrush, pet toothpaste, and have plenty of patience. Your veterinarian carries starter kits, and you can buy toothbrushes and paste at your local pet store.
Become a Pet Foster Parent
The Foster Care Program run by the Humane Society of Chittenden County (HSCC) in South Burlington places orphaned, pregnant, newborn, injured, sick, and under-socialized animals into private homes for temporary housing. Some of HSCC’s most vulnerable residents benefit tremendously from foster care, which provides them with time outside of the shelter for recovery from an illness or injury, or to receive extra attention and socialization. Foster care also allows humans to learn more about the animal(s) in their care by observing their behavior as they transition into the household environment (which they will experience upon adoption), and it allows the organization to help more animals than they have room to house in their brick-and-mortar facility.
WHAT IS REQUIRED TO FOSTER
• Safe housing for the animal(s)
• Food, medications, and other treatments given as instructed
• Transportation to/from the shelter and follow-up appointments
• Attendance at all scheduled follow-up appointments (checkups, vaccinations, spay/neuter, etc.)
• Adherence to the foster care guidelines, which are provided to all foster caregivers
NOTE: While foster caregivers are not required to live in Chittenden County, fosters must live within a reasonable distance of the shelter and/or the emergency vet in Williston in case of emergency.
WHAT HSCC PROVIDES:
• Supplies needed for care of the foster animal(s)
• Guidance on appropriate care for the foster animal(s)
• Training on medical care as needed (administering medications, wound care, etc.)
• Training plans as needed for behavior case animals
• After-hours contact information for emergencies
To learn more, call (802) 862-0135 or go to www.hsccvt.org.
Pamper Your Pets This Holiday Season
it makes sense that we’d want to buy them gifts to put under the tree. Here are a few suggestions, available in-store and online from
Petco (www.petco.com) and the Pet Food Warehouse (www.pfwvt.com)
• Dharma Dog/Karma Cat Wool Candy Cane
• Dr. Pussums Party Pure Catnip
• Dr. Pussums Party Pack Cat Toys
• Kong Rubber Dog Chew Toy
• Kong Rubber Flyer Frisbee
• Nylabone Power Chew
• Chuckkit! Ultra Ball Rubber Fetch Dog Toy
LEARN WHAT’S TRENDING
TREND 1: “Smart” devices: Caring for your pets is easier than ever with high-tech devices like smart collars, GPS trackers, automated feeding systems, and veterinary telemedicine. Plus, there are now wearable health devices like FitBark 2 activity trackers and DoggLeggs cardiac monitoring vests, and personalized nutrition apps like Pet Diet Maker and Feedog.
TREND 2: Eco-friendly products: Pet owners are increasingly looking for biodegradable toys, organic food, and eco-conscious grooming supplies. Standouts include hemp dog and cat collars, toys made from recycled plastic, felt, and wool, and natural rubber.
TREND 3: Innovative nutrition: Pet food makers are now combining the nutritional benefits of raw diets with the convenience of dry pet food. Some brands to try: Tender and True, Honest Kitchen, and Stella & Chewy’s.
THE ART OF
Holiday Cooking
FEAST OF THE SEVEN FISHES
The art of holiday cooking is a celebration of tradition, food, and togetherness, and the Feast of the Seven Fishes is just that. Rooted in Italian custom, it's typically served on Christmas Eve and each dish tells a story of heritage and seasonal bounty. The preparation itself is a ritual, bringing families together to clean, chop, and stir with care, as the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs fills the air. Why not start your own Feast of the Seven Fishes tradition? Here are a few of our favorite recipes to get you started.
BAKED STUFFED CLAMS
INGREDIENTS
24 clean clam shells (1 dozen clams)
2 (6.5 ounce) cans minced clams, drained with juice reserved
3 cups fresh Ritz crackers crushed
¼ cup minced sweet onion
¼ cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped Italian flat leaf parsley
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons of lemon juice pepper to taste paprika to taste
2 lemons, quartered
PREPARATION
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees
2. In a large frying pan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Stir in onion, and cook until translucent. Stir in your crushed Ritz crackers. Reduce heat to low, and slowly pour in clam juice and lemon juice until mixture is slightly sticky, but not wet. The bread crumbs will continue to absorb moisture, so be careful not to add too much liquid.
3. Add the minced clams and the chopped parsley.
4. Fill each clean clam shell with mixture, pressing tightly into shell. Arrange on a baking sheet, and sprinkle lightly with paprika, salt and pepper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and sizzling. Serve warm on a platter with lemon wedges.
CRAB LOUIE SALAD LETTUCE CUPS
INGREDIENTS
2 scallions, finely chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup ketchup-based chili sauce
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pound jumbo lump crabmeat, picked over, drained
2 heads Boston Bibb or butter lettuce, separated into leaves
2 avocados, cut into small cubes
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved, quartered if large
4 teaspoons capers, drained
¼ cup chopped parsley
PREPARATION
1. Whisk scallions, mayonnaise, chili sauce, lemon juice, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Toss crabmeat and ½ cup dressing in a medium bowl.
3. Divide lettuce leaves among plates (2–3 leaves on each). spoon crab mixture, avocado, and tomatoes into the lettuce cups. Drizzle dressing over, then top with capers and parsley. Serve with extra dressing alongside.
SHRIMP RISOTTO
INGREDIENTS
Extra virgin olive oil
1lb raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Grated lemon zest
Crushed red pepper
¼ cup chopped shallots
1 ½ cups Arborio rice
32 ounces chicken or vegetable broth.
4 cups baby spinach leaves
Unsalted butter
PREPARATION
1. Heat 6 cups of broth in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over low heat
2. In a large non-stick pot, add a 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, the shrimp and ¼ teaspoon salt. Saute for 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp has just turned pink. Quickly move the shrimp to a bowl, and toss with lemon zest, red pepper flakes and set aside.
3. In the same pot on medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, the chopped shallots and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until the shallot softens. Add the rice and toast for a few minutes, until the rice is coated in oil and is translucent. Toasting the rice before cooking adds a nice nutty flavor.
4. Add 1 cup of the hot broth to the rice and stir. Continue to stir until all the stock has absorbed. Keep adding broth (about ½ cup at a time) and stir until it has all been absorbed. Continue to add broth and stir until the rice cooked. This will take about 20 minutes, depending on your rice. Remove from heat. You might have some leftover broth, you may not need to use all of it.
5. Stir in the butter, spinach, and the cooked shrimp and serve once the spinach is wilted.
STEAMED MUSSELS IN WHITE WINE
INGREDIENTS
Extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced sea salt to taste
1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper akes
3 pounds mussels
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1⁄2 cup dry white wine
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Rustic Italian bread, sliced
PREPARATION
1. Rinse mussels under cold water, scrubbing with a brush, until the water runs clear. Discard any mussels that are not closed or do not close when you tap their shells.
2. In a large 6-9- quart pot, heat about 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and onions, and season with a good pinch of sea salt. Add the red pepper akes. Cook, and stir frequently until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the mussels, then the broth and the wine. Cover and let steam over mediumhigh heat for about 5 to 6 minutes until the mussels open up.
5. As soon as the mussel shells are open, immediately remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
6. Transfer the mussels and broth to serving bowls and serve with lemon wedges and Italian bread to soak up the broth.
THE TRADITION
The Feast of the Seven Fishes is the annual Christmas Eve vigil and epic seafood feast that has grown into the most beloved meal of the year in Italian American households. Steeped in tradition, the Feast of the Seven Fishes is the centerpiece meal of the entire holiday season.
It’s unclear when the feast became so popular in the U.S., however, the tradition can be traced back to the early 1900s, as millions of Southern Italian immigrants steamed across the Atlantic and started a new life here in America. Homesick for the land they left behind, they combined classic Italian dishes with seafood, which was a mainstay of their diet in the “old country.”
The number seven wasn’t attached to the feast until long after Italian immigrants arrived in America. There’s a good chance the “seven fishes” designation has religious ties, particularly in the Roman Catholic Church’s seven sacraments, seven virtues, or the “seventh day of rest” from the Bible.
MAKING MEMORIES gingerbread STYLE
Take time out from the holiday hustle and bustle to spend some quality time with your family. There’s no better project this time of year than constructing and decorating a gingerbread house with your little ones. You can buy a kit that includes everything you’ll need, or you may decide to bake your own gingerbread for your house. No matter which option you choose, one thing is for sure—you’ll be creating wonderful memories for everyone involved.
A FASCINATING HISTORY
According to Tori Avery of PBS’s The History Kitchen, the term gingerbread simply meant “preserved ginger” in medieval England and wasn’t applied to the cookies and cakes we know until the 15th century. Ginger root was first cultivated in ancient China, where it was commonly used as a remedy to soothe nausea. Ginger is still used today to relieve stomach ailments.
The first known recipe for gingerbread came from Greece in 2400 BC, according to Rhonda Massingham Hart’s Making Gingerbread Houses. Chinese recipes were developed during the 10th century, and by the late Middle Ages, Europeans had their own version of gingerbread. The hard cookies cut into animal and human shapes were a staple at medieval fairs in England, France, Holland, and Germany.
Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the 16th century. The elaborate creations, decorated with foil in addition to gold leaf, became associated with Christmas. Their popularity increased when the Brothers Grimm wrote the story of “Hansel and Gretel,” in which the characters stumble upon a house made entirely of treats deep in the forest.
Gingerbread arrived in the New World with English settlers. Molasses, which was less expensive than sugar, soon became a common ingredient and produced a softer cake. The first American cookbook, American Cookery by Amelia Simmons, includes recipes for three types of gingerbread, including the soft variety baked in loaves. Find out more at pbs.org.
Bake a Gingerbread House
COURTESY OF KING
ARTHUR FLOUR
YIELD: MAKES ENOUGH DOUGH FOR A 10” X 7” HOUSE
The dough you bake to make gingerbread houses contains more flour than gingerbread cookie dough, and it is edible. The extra flour makes this dough sturdier to hold up your construction projects.
INGREDIENTS
DOUGH
O cup buttermilk
6 Tbsp butter
1 cup brown sugar
K cup molasses
1 large egg
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
K tsp salt
5 cups King Arthur unbleached all-purpose flour
CONSTRUCTION ICING
3 large egg whites
K tsp cream of tartar
4 cups unsifted confectioners’ sugar
Food coloring, optional
Peppermint oil, lemon extract, vanilla extract, or the flavor of your choice, optional, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
TO MAKE THE DOUGH:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the buttermilk and butter until the butter is just melted; remove from the heat.
2. Add the brown sugar and molasses, then beat in the egg.
3. Whisk the baking soda, spices, and salt with 1 cup of the flour.
4. Add this to the wet mixture and mix until incorporated.
5. Add flour 1 cup at a time until you have a smooth, sti dough. It should be sti enough to be flexible, and neither crumbly nor sticky.
6. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half, and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
8. Using a quarter of the dough at a time (return the unused portion to the refrigerator), roll the dough V” thick on a piece of parchment.
9. Cut your construction pieces as needed, pulling away the scraps to be re-rolled. Transfer the dough, parchment and all, to a baking sheet.
10. Bake the dough for 10 to 12 minutes, until set and very lightly browned at the edges.
1 1. Remove from the oven and trim any rough edges while the pieces are still warm. Cool completely before using for construction.
TO MAKE THE ROYAL ICING:
1. In a large bowl, whip the egg whites with the cream of tartar until foamy.
2. Sprinkle in the sugar gradually, whipping all the while. The more you whip the icing, the sti er it’ll be and the faster it’ll harden up.
3. Cover the bowl of icing, taking out only as much as you’ll need immediately. The easiest way to store the icing for long periods of time is in a plastic pastry bag or zip-top food storage bag.
TIP: If you want to “paint” with the icing, use food coloring to create di erent colors and thin the icing with a few drops of water so it will flow.
Learn how to make the house pieces, cut them out, and construct at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com.
NOTE: This gingerbread is quite plain, as it’s not really designed to be eaten. For bolder flavor, double the amounts of cinnamon and ginger, and increase the amount of salt to 1N teaspoons.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KING ARTHUR FLOUR
FINE But FriendlyDining at Frankie’s
There’s a new high-end eatery in town: Frankie’s, which celebrates all that ermont has to offer. ut rather than being stuffy, the restaurant aims to bridge the gap between a special occasion restaurant and a place where locals can feel comfortable grabbing a bite to eat. And they’re e tremely focused on sourcing their ingredients from local growers and producers.
“Whether it’s beer, cheese, vegetables, or proteins, we feel fortunate to be where we are and have access to those inds of things. e’re supporting the state in a way, says
The new restaurant celebrates Vermont growers through an ever-changing menu
ran ie’s co owner Cindi o a . hat’s ind of what we went with our love for ermont and wanting to eep the restaurant going to support those communities.
However, Frankie’s goes a step beyond, changing at least part of its menu every day. hat forces change and eeps you going,
says ordan are, head chef and co owner. I don’t mind that ind of stress.
Cindi and Jordan met while working at en of the ood. Cindi was the general manager and wine buyer there, and ordan was the head chef. uring their tenure at the restaurant, they built friendships and connections with local farmers and growers. hen, with some encouragement from the urlington community, the two launched their own venture.
ut the challenge of an ever changing menu demands more than simply nowing a
handful of farmers and small local producers. ust because a farm consistently offers the best of one thing doesn’t mean it always has the best of everything. A farm may have the best selection of a particular item at one time, only for another grower to show up with a fantastic crop a coupleof months later. But that’s what the owners of Frankie’s want: the very best. Also, the baseline goal of providing only the best for their customers doesn’t stop with
the ingredients; it extends to beverage pairings too. That’s especially true of the wine, which is Cindi’s wheelhouse.
Like the food, the wine pairings change often. It’s Cindi’s role to find unique ways to explore the seasonality of wines and what to pair them with. For instance, at some times of the year, the restaurant is likely to serve things like baby lettuce, asparagus, and peas. Knowing that, Cindi
will look for wines that are lighter and fresher, and, as she puts it, “something that pairs with the food and complements it in such a way that I think it deserves.”
The restaurant thrives on the synergy between Cindi and Jordan. They’ve worked together for a long time, they understand Vermont’s seasonality, and they share a drive, a passion, and a vision for what they want to put out into the world. Cindi says she hopes
Opposite: Bartenders Woody Woodright-Moore and Lauren Simmons tending to guests at the bar at Frankie's. Below, clockwise from left: The entryway into Frankie's gives you a view of the kitchen. Cocktails created by bar manager Max Pogacar include the "Proper Martini" and "Something Fun." Sous chef Johnny Capitinelli plating salad for Frankie's schnitzel dish.
that thedynamic between the two of them creates something that will entice people to come to experience for themselves.
Inspiration for the menu and wine pairings can come from anywhere. For instance, Jordan’s sous chef, John, went on a trip to Portland and ate a fantastic ravioli dish. Since John and Jordan typically hand-roll pasta three or four times a week anyway, they made ravioli. “It’s kind of become like an old-school thing,” Jordan says. “So, let’s make some ravioli! People identify with it.”
The building that now houses Frankie’s has a rich history. or almost twenty five years, it was Penny Cluse Café, a local favorite for breakfast and lunch. Before that, the building was home to the original Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop. With the space reborn as Frankie’s, the structure will have ahosted service for every meal of the day.
Cindi says she wanted to preserve that history and re ect it in the ambiance of the new restaurant. “There are a lot of really positive vibes in the mood and walls here,” she says. “I wanted to change the space a bit without abandoning the familiarity and comfort of a legacy building where people have felt so comfortable throughout the years.” She continues, “We focused on keeping it very much still Vermont, but elevating it.”
he restaurant staff is involved in that effort too. The service style is friendly, and the servers are knowledgeable. In fact, Cindi and Jordan sit down with the staff each day to brief them on every ingredient on the menu and walk them through wine and spirit pairings for each dish. And if guests have further questions, Cindi is on hand five nights a wee to answer them directly. ordan says they hope to host wine dinners and chef collaborations in the future, as well as welcoming larger groups in their private dining space.
“We want everybody to feel the love we put into [the food and drink] and leave feeling better,” Cindi says. “We’re intentional with what we’re doing and want [dining here] to be an experience that’s worth [the price] and done correctly. That’s a very important part of our ethos.”
FRANKIE’S
169 Cherry Street Burlington, VT
www.frankiesvt.com
info@frankiesvt.com
The view of Frankie's kitchen from South Winooski.
BY MERYL SIEGMAN
A HOTEL THAT’S NOT JUST FOR SLEEPING
Have you been to Hotel Champlain lately? If you haven’t, you’re in for a treat because of all the changes that have recently taken place at the 40-year-old property. Gone is the cookie-cutter “airport hotel” feel with its generic lobby, nondescript bar,
and ho-hum restaurant. Now, it’s a destination not just for visitors to the area, but for gathering with friends for coffee, a light lunch, e periencing an unforgettable meal by a well-known chef, or chilling out in a free yoga class.
e recently visited the hotel to find out
what’s new and how the staff is wor ing to make the property truly stand out. Here is what we discovered.
AN EXTRA LEVEL OF AMENITIES
In June 2024, Hotel Champlain became part
PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOTEL CHAMPLAIN
Hotel Champlain becomes a destination unto itself
of Hilton’s Curio Collection, a constellation of one-of-a-kind hotels around the world that offer guests outstanding e periences. ilton carefully selects each hotel for its unique character and local touches, world-class food, and distinctive architecture and design while
offering the benefits of the ilton name and its popular guest loyalty program, ilton onors.
Curio is the highest level of any ilton brand. Participating hotels must maintain certain standards to ualify, such as having a signature restaurant and a fitness center that
Opposite page, clockwise from top: The hotel's newly designed entrance. Hotel amenities include an indoor pool, pet-friendly rooms, and serene garden spots. This page: Hotel Champlain's oyster bar and tavern captures the love of camp and coast, and the quintessential dockside hideaway somewhere between Bar Harbor and the Florida Keys.
meets minimum s uare footage re uirements. he concept behind this lofty tier level is that guests en oy a uni ue stay at each hotel, depending on its location. uests who boo a stay or have dinner at otel Champlain have a very urlington e perience because the
The dining room of Original Skiff Fish + Oysters.
local community and surrounding landscape are so much part of the adventure. Thanks to the relationship with Hilton, the Hotel Champlain provides all the signature Hilton services and amenities while maintaining the freedom to create and retain its own individual branding.
WHAT’S NEW AND DIFFERENT
Besides recently becoming part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the hotel has undergone exciting changes, including the addition of an 1,800-square-foot gym with an outdoor sauna. There’s also a new entryway and valet service that elevate the arrival experience. Plus, the property has created three outdoor areas: the Garden Terrace, a serene space with hammocks from which to enjoy sunset views; the Clover Lawn, a game space featuring cornhole and a giant Jenga; and Hops & Harvest, a beer garden with a life-sized chess board.
A DESTINATION RESTAURANT
The hotel has partnered with Heirloom Hospitality, owned by James Beard Award nominee and restaurateurEric Warnstedt, founder of the acclaimed Hen of the Wood in Burlington, to create a new casual seafood restaurant, Original Skiff Fish + Oyster, with a menu overseen by Chef de Cuisine Kevin Sprouse.
Launched in une , Original S iff ish + Oyster has the casual ambience of the dockside oyster bars and coastal taverns that dot the Atlantic seaboard. he menu offers sustainable, authentic cuisine, including a raw bar, a wide array of fish dishes and specials, and such local favorites as Vermont chic en, ew ngland smo ed bluefish chowder, and Old Bay fries.
For a private dining experience, groups can book the Commodore’s Table, which seats 12 to 18. Lily May’s, on the hotel’s mezzanine level overloo s the la e and offers a range of options for breakfast and lunch, from freshbaked goods to hearty soups and sandwiches.
ENJOYABLE THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Art displays featuring local artists, live music in the lobby, and weekly yoga classes with
you live in the great state of Vermont and don't receive it yet, just send an email to ctpublishing@comcast.net and we'll be happy to add you to the list.
Laughing River, Burlington’s acclaimed yoga studio and school, are just some of the things the public can enjoy or take part in at the hotel, and special events, like last summer’s Movie Under the Stars series, Whiskey & Wisecracks stand-up comedy show, and Princess Pool Party featuring kids’ games and activities, make the hotel a must-visit for everyone, tourist or local.
STILL WANT MORE?
Hotel Champlain has associated itself with Local Maveric , which offers a curated marketplace for quality Vermont products by Vermont entrepreneurs, farmers, artists, and producers, most of whom are women and whose businesses are family-owned and operated. Not your typical hotel gift shop, the mar etplace offers an elevated shopping experience you won’t want to miss.
WHAT’S AHEAD
Although its private event spaces can accommodate up to 650 guests, plans are in the works to expand the hotel in 2025. However, Hotel Champlain is committed to maintaining its authentic, curated feel. In other words, guests who stay here will still say to themselves, “I know I am in Burlington, Vermont, and at the venerable Hotel Champlain.”
HOTEL CHAMPLAIN
60 Battery Street
Burlington, VT
www.hotelchamplainvermont.com
Hops & Harvest beer garden.
Vermont’s Newest Staycation Spot
The Brook Bound Inn
New owners with a new mission have transformed the boutique hotel
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay while you ski, there’s a new option within the eerfield alley that places you in prime position he roo ound Inn. a e and ope Moore purchased the lodge, cabin, and carriage house at the base of the reen Mountains in uly .
he venture was brand new to both of them. ope was a veterinary technician, and a e speciali ed in industrial automation sales, traveling all across the ortheast as an engineer. a e says his ob re uired a brutal wor schedule that involved traveling three to five days a wee . e didn’t see that
arrangement working out long-term if he wanted to raise a family, so he and ope started loo ing for investment properties, found the listing for the roo ound, and dove head first into the deep end.
Of course, running a business is no ca ewal . a e says he wor s even harder than before, but this time, it’s a labor of love.
he ob itself is e tremely satisfying. ou get to meet an array of people from all different bac grounds and places, a e says.
he new owners have put enormous love and care into renovating the Inn, which was barely operational before they too over. hey’ve ta en
it from dilapidated to lu urious. verything is very modern and updated, including new furniture. It’s the perfect place to get some alone time with the ones you love or have an outdoor adventure and e perience all the great things that ermont has to offer, a e says.
he Inn is right across from the ermitage S i esort aystac olf Club and right down the road from Mountain Snow S i esort. It has direct access to the ermont Snowmobile rail System, and over and ilmington are ust a short drive away.
he thirty two acre property offers plenty of on site amenities too, li e the uni ue padel
Opposite page: A snowy view of the inn's main lodge. This page: The inn's new padel court and updated common area. An aerial view of the lodge, cabin, carriage house, and outdoor pool. One of seven newly furnished guest rooms.
court, which, according to a e, is the first non-private padel court in Vermont. Padel, a popular racket sport in Latin American and Europe, is like pickleball, but it’s played on a larger court with glass walls and with a slightly smaller ball. Jake’s father-in-law has been involved in racket sports his entire life and pitched the idea.
“We’ve had a lot of local traction with that, with people coming over for social events to hang out by the pool and play some pickleball
and padel,” Jake says. “And then we’ve also put quite a few walking and hiking trails around the property and have cleaned it up and made it [into] a little slice of Vermont heaven.” Plus, the resort has a large outdoor pool with a new liner, which is a major attraction in the summer.
The new owners have also brought some high-tech advancements to the inn, like their contactless check-in system. Rather than going through the awkward dance of driving in, parking, walking up to a front desk, sorting
things out with your room, and then going back to the car to get your things, Brook Bound lets you start your vacation the moment you arrive. You get an email and text message beforehand with instructions for your check-in, and you can text Jake directly with questions or if you need help.
The main lodge has seven private rooms: four singles and three suites. The largest of the suites is a two-bedroom, two-bath unit with its own private entrance, a full-size kitchenette, and a lounge area. The lodge also includes multiple common areas where guests can gather. These include a farmstyle gourmet kitchen, a large dining table, and a library and TV room, both with fireplaces.
Another new resort style offering at the ound Brook Inn is bachelor and bachelorette parties.
“[Brides- or grooms-to-be] can rent out our entire facility and have a nice weekend getaway. hey can hi e or fish, they can play golf or ust hang out on the property,” Jake says.
But the Brook Bound isn’t stopping there. They want to host weddings too. In fact, Jake and Hope got married there, as did Jake’s best friend from childhood. You can expect to see more information about private full-space rental options on their website soon.
Brook Bound Inn
441 Coldbrook Road Wilmington, VT
www.brookboundinnvt.com stay@brookboundinnvt.com
FROM THE SLOPES TO THE OFFICE
VERSATILE APPAREL FOR EVERY ADVENTURE
Stroll through Burlington’s South End, once a thriving manufacturing hub, and you will find a uni ue and intriguing space at 750 Pine. It is home to , a retail store selling high uality men’s and women’s activewear, as well as Fourbital Factory, a state-of-the-art facility that combines apparel manufacturing, product
innovation, and workforce development. Shop for something special in the store, and you can view the bright, clean workshop where they make the clothes.
We spoke with Carey Strobeck, the companies’ founder and creative director, and ordan Sears, its chief operating o cer, to find out more about this uni ue business.
FUNCTIONAL GO-EVERYWHERE CLOTHES
Carey, whose background is in art and education, and Jordan, who knows business and design, have known each other for years. They two joined forces in 2021 with the vision of starting an in-house brand focused on making garments with maximum functionality and minimum impact on the planet. Carey,
outerwear you can look and feel good in, that is versatile, functional, comfortable, and wearable no matter what the weather or what you’re doing; clothes that can move through the day with you.” The result is a casual but chic collection that includes tee shirts, beanies, and unique reversible outerwear.
4T2D stands out as a brand because every step of the apparel production process is under one roof, from ideation and design to protyping, production and shipping. They even handle their own production waste, allowing them to ensure ethical garment manufacturing every step of the way.
The brand is excited to carve out a fresh niche for manufacturing in Vermont with the hope of breathing new life into the industry. By focusing on ethical practices and unwavering quality, they're setting out to redefine what manufacturing in the USA can accomplish.
an opportunity to have a niche way of designing and manufacturing all under one roof—ideation, design, prototyping, production, and shipping. We even manage our own production waste. We touch every part of apparel production, from concept to consumer life cycle.” She concludes, “We’re excited to carve out a new niche for manufacturing here in Vermont and bring the industry back to life.”
A COMMITMENT TO HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT
This group of businesses dedicates itself to reducing its carbon footprint, ensuring the wellbeing of its customers, and offering resources, education, and employment opportunities to the community. “From day one we wanted to make sure we were very conscious of the materials that we source,” Carey explains. “They need to be as healthy for the wearer as they are for the environment.”
As a result, the company chooses suppliers that specialize in a particular fiber, such as modal, which is made from tree pulp. “We use a cotton modal blend that has a really great hand feel and is also thermoregulating,” Carey says. “And it’s not petroleum based.” They source many materials that are regenerated, for example, recycled nylon taken from old waste like fishing nets, which is spun into new fiber for coats. “We favor materials that are regenerated or recycled,” she adds.
TIMELESS OUTERWEAR STYLES
Carey and Jordan have a commitment to designing traditional, timeless silhouettes. “We currently offer four reversible outerwear pieces for both men and women,” Carey explains. “One side is made from softer materials like velvets and the other is technical, using, for example, regenerated nylon.” This ingenious technique results in garments that are versatile, allowing customers to wear the same coat for an array of occasions. “It’s like getting two coats in one,” she says.
Because the pair does not want to store a lot of inventory, there is a unique opportunity for customers to design their
own outerwear. “It’s a niche market,” says Jordan. “Clients can choose their own materials, colors, and details like zippers, and we will make [their coat] to order.”
Lead time can be as short as two to four weeks because, as she explains it, “We multitrain our workforce so we can adapt their skills according to demand.”
AN EXPANSIVE FUTURE
Carey and Jordan’s vision for the future includes continued growth, with plans for quarterly releases and new prints and color options for their reversible outwear pieces. But most important, the pair remains focused on the community. Carey says, “Our emphasis is on ma ing sure we serve our staff well, providing well-paying jobs with a future in a safe environment.”
In addition, 4T2D will continue to serve its client base in multiple ways. “We have windows that allow you to peer into the education center and factory, providing transparency, so people can truly understand what goes into the manufacturing of the products they wear,” Jordan says. Carey adds, “It’s important to educate consumers, so that they know their dollar is going to a quality product [as well as] supporting the local community.”
4T2D
750 Pine Street, Suite 2 Burlington, VT www.4t2d.com
Vermont-Made Political Cartoonist
Fueled by his love of current events, Tim Newcomb has climbed to the apex of his profession
Meet Tim Newcomb. He’s a celebrated political cartoonist who is as dynamic and colorful as his drawings. Tim is a longtime contributor to newspapers across Vermont, including Burlington-based Seven Days
Originally from Lakewood, Ohio, Tim spent his early years moving frequently across the US, forced to change and adapt. Despite this nomadic childhood, Tim’s passion for art and cartoons remained steadfast, fueled by a certain skepticism about the world around him.
FROM HIGH SCHOOL HIJINKS TO MADISON AVENUE
As a kid, Tim was enthralled with comics and superheroes, finding inspiration in the iconic
pages of Mad Magazine. As soon as he could hold a pencil, he tried his hand at drawing, and by the time he reached high school, Tim was drawing cartoons lampooning the school’s social scene. These drawings of his classmates led him to publish a book of cartoons about high school life, which was sold as a class fundraiser. Although Tim had never imagined a career in political cartooning, this experience eventually led him to where he is today.
After graduating from Kenyon College in Ohio, where he majored in medieval history, Tim looked for work in New York City. He was hired as an assistant art director by the ad agency Kenyon & Eckhardt, where he honed his graphic design skills by creating storyboards and
cartoons. He then moved to Forbes magazine as an associate art director while studying at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan. Through this coursework, he studied with New Yorker cartoonists and built a network of peers who have been invaluable throughout his career.
Forbes gave Tim the chance to travel the world, leading him to New Zealand, where he met his wife. Upon moving to Vermont, Tim dove into graphic design work to pay the bills, although cartooning remained his true passion. With a playful tone, Tim describes cartooning as something that “keeps me in trouble,” a sentiment that has fueled his work since 1983
MUCH ADO ABOUT SNOW AND SEWAGE
im’s first trouble as a political cartoonist came in 1985 when he drew a cartoon published in the Barre Montpelier Times Argus about Killington Ski Resort’s controversial proposal to spray treated sewage through snow machines. The cartoon, which featured a chair lift with plungers, received backlash from the resort’s president, who responded with a lawsuit that made headlines. Thankfully, the ACLU stepped in to represent Tim, and the case was thrown out. his incident solidified Tim’s reputation as a fearless artist and was, impressively, his first political cartoon to appear in The Wall Street Journal.
Eventually, his cartoons were featured in nearly every paper across Vermont and some in New Hampshire and even picked up nationwide. This chain of events also marked the beginning of Tim’s relationship with Seven Days, which has continually supported his work.
HIS EARLY INFLUENCES
Tim’s transition from general cartooning to political cartoons was in uenced by his interest in political events and the tumultuous political era of his youth, including the Vietnam War and the election of Ronald Reagan. His work resonates with the style of other brilliant cartoonists li e Pat Oliphant, eff Mac elly, and Jim Borgman. It is informed by his personal experiences in Middle East war zones and living abroad in Ireland, Bavaria, and Ecuador. Over the years, Tim’s style has become
more simplified as the si e for publication has shrunk. He admits that some days he can draw well, while others he “can’t draw a straight line.” Despite the challenges, including dealing with criticism and even lawsuits, Tim remains steadfast in his commitment to his craft.
AWARDS AND ACCOLADES
Tim has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including first place awards from the New England Press Association and the Association of Alternative Newsmedia and recognition from Seven Days and other news media outlets. Despite his achievements, Tim remains humble, focusing on the joy of creation and the satisfaction of engaging with his community in Vermont.
Living just outside Montpelier, Tim is an integral part of his Vermont community, where he appreciates the vibrant food scene, craft beer, and creative atmosphere. He and his wife have raised two daughters, who live in Seattle, Washington, and Ottawa, Canada. Tim enjoys playing the Swedish nyckelharpa, the medieval precursor to the violin family, when he’s not cartooning. You might even
catch him playing with various groups around town. He is even heading to England to study the instrument further.
WHAT’S AHEAD
You can expect to see more from Tim, including a new collection of his work from 2008 to 2024 entitled, One More Lap, which will be released sometime in the future. He also recently gave a talk on the history of cartooning and storytelling at the Montpelier Sentor Center as part of a series organized by Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes.
Tim’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the impact of political cartooning. he doesn’t see himself stopping anytime soon and says he’ll continue to produce cartoons “as long as newspapers exist.” For Tim, the act of creation and the joy of contributing to his community’s discourse are his greatest rewards.
Newcomb Studios
138 Main Street Montpelier, VT www.newcombstudios.com
MEET ME DOWNTOWN
DOWNTOWNNews
Frankie’s, in the former Penny Cluse Café, has been named one of the Best New Restaurants in the Country. The Eater out of Boston calls Frankie’s “the Noah Kahan of restaurants,” noting that “both the musician and Burlington’s hottest new table express their unabashed love for Vermont in a way that makes it impossible for the rest of us not to love it, too.” Now we know we have to check it out! www.frankiesvt.com
AMTRAK
Have you tried Amtrak for your trips to New York? Trains with Wi-Fi, wide comfortable seats, and no hassle are available from downtown Burlington to downtown Manhattan. New York girls’ trip anyone? www.amtrak.com
LITTLE ISTANBUL
Little Istanbul is open on Church Street, featuring handpicked wonders by the owner, Vural Oktay. He travels throughout Turkey to bring home only the best, handmade, authentic Turkish items from independent craftspeople and artists. www.littleistanbulgifts.com
MEET ME
DOWNTOWNSho ing
>> SARATOGA OLIVE OIL COMPANY
Enjoy freshly harvested extra virgin olive oil from around the world and aged balsamic vinegar from Italy. Let our amazing sta help you pick the perfect gifts for the chef in your life or the wonderful host. We have something for everyone, from gourmet pantry items to kitchen accessories to locally crafted goods, and more! www saratogaoliveoil com
>> BURLINGTON RECORDS
After 13 years in downtown Burlington, we now carry over 15,000 LPs, both new and gently used, across all genres. We also carry new and used turntables, receivers, and speakers. Want to add to your vinyl collection? Check out what’s new at Burlington Records. Our inventory is always changing. www.burlingtonrecords.com
>> THE OPTICAL CENTER
As one of the Northeast’s few truly independent optical stores, we dispense quality prescription eyewear and a wide range of sunglasses from our unique location in one of the oldest intact structures on Church Street. Come check us out. Just look for the iconic street clock that hangs outside our door as it has for the last seventy- ve years. www.opticalcentervt.com
>> OUTDOOR GEAR EXCHANGE
Save big on the latest outdoor apparel and exclusive specials you won’t nd anywhere else, from skis and boots to climbing harnesses. Find it all at GearX. www.gearx.com
>> LIPPA’S ESTATE AND FINE JEWELRY
Fourth generation family owned and operated, Lippa’s Estate and Fine Jewelry’s mission is to assemble a collection of unique jewelry spanning the globe and history. One example is this turn-of-the-century pendant necklace, which is substantial enough to wear to a black-tie event yet also works well with more casual looks. It features a European-cut bezel-set diamond in a bellshaped .55-carat gold setting above a graduated swag of bezel-set diamonds. www.lippas.com
>> BARE MEDICAL SPA + LASER CENTER
A gift card from Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center is a treat in itself. From personalized skin care and soughtafter services, including DiamondGlow Signature Facials, CoolSculpting Elite, hair laser removal, IV therapy, dermal llers, and medical weight loss. Give the transformative gift of rejuvenation and self-care today from Vermont’s No. 1 medical spa! www.barevt.com
>>
PHOENIX BOOKS
Every member of Phoenix’s sta is passionate about books and our community. We are always happy to make individualized recommendations, whether you’re looking for a great read for yourself or as a gift(s) for even the most challenging folks on your list! Come visit our newest location on Church Street in Burlington. Every purchase helps support local presses and publishers and fund local charitable organizations. www.phoenixbooks.biz
M E D O W N T OW
>> NU CHOCOLAT
Located on the Lake Champlain Waterfront in Burlington, Nu Chocolat makes all their chocolate on-site at their Vermont family-owned-and-operated chocolate boutique. Stop in for free samples of their world-class chocolate tru es or sit and enjoy an iced chocolate in their bright and contemporary cafe. You can even watch the chocolatiers creating the nest European-style chocolate confections through their viewing window. www.nuchocolat.com
>>
BLEU NORTHEAST KITCHEN
Winter is a great time for high-quality oysters. Our guests love to enjoy them by the replace paired with a sparkling wine! www.bleuvt.com
>> BISTRO DE MARGOT
Favorite entrees and desserts include escargot, beef bourguignon, and Seckel pear tart “Bourdaloue” with rum raisin ice cream and winter spice caramel sauce. Bon appètite! www.bistrodemargot.com
>> DAILY PLANET
>> THE GRYPHON
The Gryphon’s sweet potato nachos taste as good as they look! We are adding these back to our menu due to popular demand. Please join us soon for a snack, a drink, or one of the best meals available in Burlington. www.gryphonvt.com
We’re serving dinner seven nights a week and brunch every weekend! Experience our award-winning cocktails and locally sourced seasonal cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. With over twelve vegan options and even more gluten-free dishes, we have a little something for everyone! www.dailyplanetvt.com
>> HEN OF THE WOOD
Did someone say oysters? After a day of browsing the shops and soaking in the lake, sharing a plate of Little Pilgrim oysters with mignonette at Hen of the Wood is a delightful way to end the day. www.henofthewood.com/burlington
>> EL CORTIJO TAQUERIA
Come check out our new menu at El Cortijo, featuring shrimp tostadas. Lunch and dinner are served daily and brunch on weekends. www.cortijovt.com
>> CHURCH STREET TAVERN
Our crunchy Caesar wrap with grilled chicken, crispy romaine, and creamy dressing is the ultimate lunch after a day of shopping on Church Street. Paired with a side of crispy sweet potato fries? Now that’s what we call perfection on a plate! www.tavernvt.com
>> FARMHOUSE TAP AND GRILL
Charcuterie and beer, the perfect pair! Our basement speakeasy, the Parlor, opens at 4pm on Friday and Saturday nights. Enjoy a replace, local art, games, and darts, and our full food and beverage menu. www.farmhousetg.com
>> PASCOLO RISTORANTE
Join us for appetizers, like anchovy toasts and sauteed mussels, and wines by the glass at the bar at Pascolo after a day of shopping on Church Street. www.pascolovt.com
1. Flynn Theater www. ynnvt.org
2.Burlington City Arts www.burlingtoncityarts.org
3.Pascolo Ristorante www.pascolovt.com
4.The Gryphon www.gryphonvt.com
5. Church Street Tavern www.tavernvt.com
6.Leunig’s Bistro www.leunigsbistro.com
7.Bistro De Margot www.bistrodemargot.com
22.Daily Planet www.dailyplanetvt.com
9.Saratoga Olive Oil https://saratogaoliveoil.com
19. Garcia’s Tobacco Shop www.garciastobaccoshop.com
20.The Optical Center www.opticalcentervt.com
21.Lippa’s Jewlers www.lippas.com
12. El Cotijo Taqueria www.cotijovt.com
13.Farmhouse Tap and Grill www.farmhousetg.com
17.Vermont Distillers Metcalf’s/ Smuggler’s Notch Distillery tasting room www.vermontdistillers.com www.smugglersnotchdistillery.com
Store www.thestorewebsite.com
Gear and Apparel 10.Outdoor Gear Exchange www.gearx.com
and Wellness 14. Bare Medical Spa and Laser Center www.barevt.com
Partners in Our Meet Me Downtown E orts
8.Kiss the Cook www.kissthecook.net 15.Home and Garden www.homeandgardenvermont.com
18.Phoenix Books www.phoenixbooks.biz
11.City Market www.citymarket.coop Milne Travel www.milnetravel.com Arts and Entertainment
Dining
2Bleu Northeast Kitchen www.bleuvt.com
4Juniper Restaurant www.hotelvt.com/eat-drink/ juniper/
5.Hen of the Wood www.henofthewood.com
7Lily May’s Co ee and Café www.hotelchamplainvermont.com/ dine/lily/
8Original Ski Fish + Oyster www.hotelchamplainvermont.com/ dine/ski /
10Splash at the Boathouse www.splashattheboathouse.com
Map Key
12Spirit of Ethan Allen Dinner, brunch, day cruises all summer www.soea.com
13Spot on the Dock www.spotonthedock.com
9Coco Goose www.shopcocogoose.com
11.Nu Chocolate www.nuchocolat.com
Hotels
1Courtyard By Marriott Hotel Burlington Harbor www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ btvdt-courtyard-burlington-harbor/ overview/
3 Hotel Vermont www.hotelvt.com
6Hotel Champlain www.hotelchamplainvermont.com
City Market www.citymarket.coop
Milne Travel www.milnetravel.com
Others 14.Local Motion Bike Rentals www.localmotion.org/bike_rentals
Union Station, Amtrak www.amtrak.com
ECHO, Leahy Center www.echovermont.org
United States Coast Guard & ANT Burlington Bike Path
FEEL
YOUR BEST WITH HELP
FROM CLEAR CHOICE MD URGENT CARE
HOW TO BEAT THE WINTER BLAHS
We sat down with Andrea Giardino, owner of Pure Barre in South Burlington, for advice on staying active, safe, and healthy during the winter. What classes would you recommend for those who aren’t active, especially in winter, but would like to become more active without overdoing it and getting frustrated?
If you’re just starting out and looking to become more active, we recommend starting o small and building up. Two to three classes per week to begin will help you build a strong foundation. This will give you the chance to familiarize yourself with the technique and focus on your goals at a pace that feels right for you. At Pure Barre Vermont we o er a variety of class formats, and the beauty of our Core 4 classes is that you can choose what best aligns with your goals or intentions, whether you want to increase exibility, core strength, or endurance. Starting a new routine can feel overwhelming at times, but remember, you’re never alone.
Everyone was a beginner at some point, and no matter where someone is on their journey, they had to start somewhere. We’re here to help you stay motivated, all while honoring your pace and progress.
Daily intake of water and stretching is so important and includes a wide range of bene ts, from skin to digestive health. Any suggestions for how to up your daily water intake and include stretching throughout the day?
Hydration and having a stretch routine to release tension is so important. I like to lead with intention. It’s important to understand the “why”—the purpose behind anything you want to incorporate into your daily routine. When you create a clear intention, it goes deeper than just a habit; it becomes a meaningful practice that you can consistently maintain.
As for proper hydration, I start every morning with a full glass of water. It’s the rst thing I do when getting out of bed. I also always have a water bottle with me at all times and balance water intake with electrolytes. I keep my daily liquids to pretty much water, co ee, or tea because I feel my best this way. If you nd plain water dull, infuse it with fruits and herbs like lemon, orange, cucumber, strawberry, mint, or electrolytes for some avor.
I also make it a point to stretch every morning. I’ll roll out a mat and do 10-20 minutes of a stretch routine at the start of my day, and I love the way I feel after, which keeps my routine going. I feel less tense, more open, more awake. I take small stretch breaks throughout the day to release tension in my upper body and hips, especially if I’ve been sitting at my desk.
When building a daily routine, it helps to think in bite-sized chunks. Rather than forcing a daily 60-minute practice from the start, start small and build. I started with a 2-5-minute morning stretch
routine and I’ve built it up over time because I love how I feel afterward. We all lead busy lives, but busy doesn’t have to get in the way of what’s truly important to you.
Winter takes its toll on mental and physical health. Any tips that can help with both?
The drastic lifestyle changes that winter can bring can be tough on both the body and mind, but some practices have helped me over the years that I’m happy to share.
For both physical and mental health, nd something active that’s enjoyable and stick with it. Movement, especially a technique like Pure Barre, can be a game-changer. The low-impact, full-body workout helps improve the mind and the body, which can keep you feeling energized and counteract the sedentary wintry feeling without triggering a huge stress response or water loss. It’s something you can do every day.
For mental health, think light. In the summer months, I’m outside as much as possible. The shorter days and lack of sunlight in winter can impact my mood, so I try to get outside during daylight hours, even for just a short walk. I also do red light therapy year-round. Meditation and mindfulness play a huge role in my life too. Committing to a daily practice that promotes relaxation, gratitude, and awareness helps me maintain a positive outlook, so I don’t get stuck in the negative stories. It helps bring awareness to the beauty that comes with the winter season. I also don’t resist the season anymore, I embrace it. I use the winter months to hunker down and learn something new and it helps me look forward to winter lifestyle changes.
We all know accidents can happen, and if you are ever injured
ClearChoiceMD Urgent Care can help you get back on the slopes.
We operate on a walk-in basis, accept most insurances, and most of our patients are registered, treated and discharged with high quality care. Our center offers board-certified providers, state-of-the-art facilities with on-site laboratory services and X-ray. ClearChoiceMD Urgent Care is dedicated to meeting all the needs of the community, from infants to elders, school to industry and everywhere in between.
ClearChoiceMD Urgent Care offers walk-ins or pre-registration online for:
✓ Cold/Flu
✓ Flu Shots
✓ Fractures and X-Rays
✓ Lyme Disease
✓ Pediatric Care
✓ Physicals - DOT and Sports
✓ Pink Eye
✓ Sports Injuries
✓ Sprains and Strains
✓ Dislocations
✓ STD Screening
✓ Strep Throat
✓ UTIs
Supporting your local businesses helps the area where you live, work, and play
>> ELLI PARR
Elli Parr is an independent women’s lifestyle boutique and modern jewelry brand focusing on quality, handcrafted pieces that are stylish, yet sophisticated. Our stones are sourced from all over the world and are carefully selected to ensure the best quality and cut. We collaborate with skilled artisans to bring you unique pieces like this pavé heart necklace set in 14K gold vermeil. Our jewelry is truly about making women feel con dent and beautiful at all times, never more so than at the holidays, so stop in and treat yourself or someone special to pieces that do just that! www.elliparr.com
>> LIVRESSE LINGERIE
Bra shopping made easy! L’ivresse Lingerie is your bratting, lingerie, and loungewear destination, featuring A-K cups and 28-50 bands in stock, sizes XS-3X. We help you throughout the bra shopping experience, with an extensive size and style selection to meet every need. From rst bra ttings through body changes and major life events, a little help from the knowledgeable sta at Livresse makes bras shopping a breeze. Gift cards are available in the store or online at www.shoplivresse.com.
>> ADDIE & GRACE BOUTIQUE
Addie & Grace styles you for everyday wear, work, and special occasions with the brands you know and love, such as Joseph Ribko , AG Jeans, Rails, Nic+Zoe, Eileen Fisher, HOBO, and many more. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Burlington at the Essex Experience, enjoy free parking and shopping in a welcoming, inclusive environment. We have great gift options, too! www.addieandgrace.com
>> 4T2D
Support local manufacturing and shop 4T2D {FOR-TI-TUDE}, where we create high-quality apparel and beanies made with care by Vermonters and ready to give as gifts to your favorite people. Visit our retail showroom or shop us online. From t to function, we strive to make apparel that you can wear anywhere and do it with style. www.4T2D.com
>> CHEEKS LUXURY SKIN CLINIC
Cheeks will help you look and feel your best at any age through advanced treatments, like Emface, a nonsurgical facelift series that o ers amazing results that last. And don’t forget: A Cheeks e-gift card makes the ideal holiday gift for a friend or loved one. www.cheeks.cc
>> FURCHGOTT SOURDIFFE GALLERY
>> PURE BARRE
Pure Barre Vermont’s boutique o ers premium activewear from brands like Lululemon, Beyond Yoga, and Varley, alongside accessories from Teleties, Bala Bangles, and more. As the only Lululemon retailer in the Greater Burlington area, every purchase supports our small business, helping Pure Barre thrive in Vermont and continue o ering amazing classes and a supportive community. We also o er traditional and e-gift cards. www.purebarre.com
Enjoy the gallery’s diverse range of contemporary art by established and emerging artists in a variety of media. We o er custom, museum-quality, hand- nished frames and expert framing, design, and art conservation services. For those who are holiday shopping, we also carry handmade jewelry, glass, and ceramics, plus ready-made photo frames. www.fsgallery.com
>>
A LITTLE SOMETHING
Shop local this season with A Little Something at Shelburne Bay Plaza in Shelburne! Free gift wrapping, plenty of easy parking, and convenient returns for holiday gifts. There’s something for everyone on your list, with a price range to meet every budget. www.alittlesomethingvt.com
>> JAMIE TWO COATS TOY SHOP
Jamie Two Coats, an old-fashioned children’s toy shop in the heart of Shelburne Village, is lled to the brim with the best toys, clothing, and gift items guaranteed to make your kids smile. www.facebook.com/jamietwocoats and www.instagram.com/jamietwocoats
>> FERRO ESTATE & CUSTOM JEWELERS
Main Street in Downtown Stowe has been home to this hidden gem since 2006. You can nd a selection for every taste. We carry estate jewelry, engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, brooches, and many gemstones. If you are looking for something extra special to gift this holiday season, we also do custom pieces. www.ferrojewelers.com
>> JENNIFER KAHN JEWELRY
Jenn has been selling her jewelry locally in Vermont for over 20 years. Her work is in 80 shops, galleries, general stores and yoga studios and has been included in exhibits in the US, UK, and Japan. Jenn’s goal is to put a contemporary spin on ancient designs, like these brass crescent earrings suspended from sterling silver wire with sterling silver ear wires. They come in four sizes and four metals. Regardless of which size you choose, they are lightweight and make the perfect gift for yourself or someone you love. JK gift cards are also available. www.jenniferkahnjewelry.com www.instagram.com/jenkahnjewelry
>> RADIANCE MEDICAL AESTHETICS AND WELLNESS SPA
Take the time to care for yourself at Radiance Medical Aesthetics and Wellness Spa. At Radiance, we can provide you with a spa treatment to unwind, a laser facial that will boost your con dence, or perhaps a candle or skin care product to bring to the comfort of your own home. You can also give the gift of radiance, con dence, and relaxation with an e-gift card. Whichever you choose, we promise it will have a lasting impact on your happiness, health, and well-being. www.radiancevt.com
>> NUSANTARA
Shop and explore our 6,000-square-foot retail store at the Essex Experience in Essex. Our store features goods from around the world, including our Tree of Enchantment orbs, handblown in a hot glass studio in Ontario, Canada. Each orb is individually crafted with its own personality, making it a unique gift for the holidays or any occasion. Contact us at (802) 764-0758 or nusantarashopvt@gmail.com.
>> ALLEN POOLS & SPA
Allen Pools & Spas features unique gifts to bring you and your family heath, relaxation, and quality time this holiday season. Learn more about adding a hot tub, sauna, or endless pool to your home for the holidays. www.allenpools-spas.com/ nd-your-perfect-hot-tub
BY PAUL HELLER
FREE LOVE ON VALCOUR ISLAND
A Utopian dream turns nightmarish
On the New York side of Lake Champlain is Valcour Island, primarily known for the Revolutionary War battle that took place in the bay between the island and the mainland in October 1776.
Almost a hundred years later, Orren Shipman, who owned a heavily mortgaged orchard in Colchester, VT, and nurseries in Winooski and Valcour Island, allied himself with Col. John Wilcox, a patent medicine purveyor from Chicago, to establish a freelove collective on the island. They called it the Dawn Valcour Community.
Wilcox sought to build the community based on the ideas of the French philosopher Charles Fourier (1772-1837), who believed that people could happily coexist in a state of nature, free
from government intervention. In search of members to join his “Center of Advanced Spiritualism and Free Love,” Wilcox placed an ad in Woodhull and Claflin’s Weekly, an alternative newspaper run by Victoria Woodhull, that e amined women’s suffrage, spiritualism, vegetarianism, free love, and socialism, and was the first S periodical to publish arl Mar ’s Communist Manifesto
Shipman replied to Wilcox’s advertisement with the offer of eight hundred acres on Valcour Island, as well as his horticultural nursery in Colchester, in exchange for the payment of his debts.
They agreed, and Shipman and Wilcox issued a prospectus that read: “An invitation to all Progressive Minds of the Liberal and
Radical stamp. Holding the Hands of Welcome to Celibates, Free Lovers, and Believers in the Sacredness of Marriage to all who aim to attain a Higher Plane of life.”
An extensive statement of “facts and truths” followed the prospectus, and both Shipman and Wilcox signed it.
On September 1, 1874, the Burlington Free Press published a lengthy letter from a correspondent in Chicago with the headline “A Strange Piece of News—An Oneida Community to be established on Valcour Island.” The Oneida Community, established in 1848 near Oneida, New York, was a religious commune that practiced group marriage and held all property in common.
The letter went on to say that the
community on Valcour Island was based on “the foundation of absolute social freedom,” and whose only governing law would be “complete universal free love.”
However, the Valcour Community appeared to take the Oneida philosophy a step further by embracing a complete acceptance of equality between the sexes.
In August 1974, the Burlington Sentinel sent a reporter to the island to investigate Orren Shipman and the plans for the commune. In a column headed “Vermont Communists,” he wrote: “Mr. Shipman has been for years what is called a man of radical views, one who entertains extreme opinions on social matters. He had come to believe in the feasibility and propriety of the community plan. The industrial pursuits are to be agricultural and horticultural, combining the dairy business, the raising of small fruits, grapes, and commercial orchards. Prospective members are to state the amount they can subscribe in money, or the amount of property they can offer in pledge, to be disposed of.”
While one might question the feasibility of locating an experimental collective in such a remote location, it should be noted that an island in a large lake has advantages for horticulture, especially where climate is concerned. The surrounding water moderates weather extremes and results in more frost-free days.
The Sentinel further noted, “Harmony, peace, and happiness are to be promoted. Any
discourteous use of language or manner will be obnoxious.”
The plan allowed for a democratic government with all members of both sexes over the age of fifteen to vote. he leadership was to be comprised of a presiding o cer of each se . In the management of social and domestic affairs, each member, or gentleman and lady, will be provided with their private apartments, and the entire group will eat at one table. Absolute social freedom, and the sovereign right to each individual to control his or her destiny in the sexual relation will be fully recognized.”
The New York Times dismissed with great skepticism the prospectus for the Dawn Valcour Community issued by Shipman and Wilcox. The prospectus described the island as “Substantially fenced on the outside against our neighbor’s cattle, and from the cold, selfish world, a home consecrated to harmony and fraternity, soft water in abundance everywhere and at all times… A commanding, attractive, unrivaled position, with richness of soil not surpassed within a thousand miles, every way natural to the best fruits of the temperate zone, the island with pure air and waters; abundance of wood, timber, and quarries… and commanding position for our objects and aims.”
In September 1874, twelve Utopian socialists from Chicago arrived on the island and by November, the Vermont Journal reported that the population had swelled to twenty. “The men
From the top: Hannah Augusta White was the first superintendent of the Dawn Valcour Community. Colonel John Wilcox is credited with coming up with the idea for the community. Orren Shipman allied himself with Wilcox and o ered 800 acres of land on Valcour Island on which to build the community.
Valcour Island Over the Years
In the years and decades that followed the collapse of the Dawn Valcour Community, the island’s reputation as an idyllic spot was restored. In 1906, a boys’ summer camp opened, and by the ’20s cottages and cabins ringed the island. For the next few generations, dozens of families vacationed there.
Today, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation owns the 1,100-acre island, which is open to the public year-round, and there is a 7.5-mile Heritage Trail that gives visitors a chance to see the few structures that still stand, including the remnants of the foundation of the one-room structure that housed the Dawn Valcour Horticultural Association, the short-lived community’s headquarters, as well as hiking trails and campsites along the island’s perimeter.
For more information and to plan your visit, go to www.champlainvalleynhp.org.
having the good quality of industry, and the women the necessary gift of beauty.”
annah Augusta hite, the first female superintendent of the community, had this “necessary gift” and was a freethinker Ralph Nading Hill described her as “a poet, author, and lecturer” who had arrived ahead of the main body of communards “in pure conjugal love” with a young man.
At a meeting for interested locals held at Shipman’s nursery on October 3, 1874, she articulated her vision for the Valcour Community to an audience of over two hundred curious Vermonters. She complained about how she had hoped to find an enlightened populace among her new Vermont neighbors but had been met with suspicion and contempt.
She is quoted as saying, “Is it possible that the people of Vermont—that glorious old champion of freedom and equality—are ignorant of the revolution and progress being made in the world of ideas? Are they ignorant of the fact that old forms of society are toppling in dissolution [and] that with the introduction of steam and electricity,
Photo: Ryan Bent
the world had reached a new epoch and that the old customs of society must of necessity be changed because we had entered a new world? Do they not know that old mother earth herself has become a communist? That the electric cable stretched beneath the bosom of our ocean has bound two continents into a grand cooperative community?”
Despite the chilly reception, Hannah White continued to proselytize the ideals of the Valcour Community in letters to The Plattsburgh Republic, but to no avail. In just a few short months, the community would suffer financial ruin, mainly because Orren Shipman had misrepresented himself as the owner of Valcour Island.
A February 11, 1875, letter from community members to the Burlington Free Press alleged that Shipman had deceived them and called his claims of ownership a “stupendous fraud.”
In April 1875, Mrs. Shipman rose to her husband’s defense and published a stinging rebuttal in which she characterized the group’s members as: “… a shiftless, idle, unprincipled set who have not worked enough to earn even their fuel, have consumed her husband’s crops, and [ruined] his credit, and so gave themselves up to promiscuity that the whole noble objects and aims of [the community] were wholly perverted.”
A story in The New York Times dated Saturday, November 13,1875, titled “End of the Dawn Valcour Community, sourly noted: “A more singular collection of poverty-stricken impracticables could scarcely be gathered than these men and women, who had undertaken the somewhat serious task of turning the world topsy-turvy, and instituting a radical reform in the customs, morals, and religion of mankind.”
Later, it was revealed that Shipman had never held a clear title to the land on Valcour Island. According to the Lake Champlain Management Plan, Shipman had purchased the northern half of Valcour Island from Daniel Fay in 1870, and because of a series of questionable land transactions and failure on Shipman’s part to pay for the land, he lost the property in 1875.
Unfortunately, for the Dawn Valcour Community, Shipman’s fraud did not become apparent until they were bankrupt.
Orren Shipman and the Bluff Point Lighthouse
Orren Shipman had a connection not only with the Utopian community he sought to build on Valcour Island but also with the Blu Point lighthouse, one of two historic structures that still stand today.
Orren Shipman rst sold the land around Blu Point to the federal government for the lighthouse project in 1871. Then in 1874, shortly after the lighthouse was completed, Shipman turned around and sold the same land—plus more acreage of questionable title—to the group that would form the Dawn Valcour Community. The community members lived side by side with the lighthouse and its keeper from September 1874 to August 1875, when the community ceased to exist.
WINTER HAPPENINGS
DECEMBER 21, 2PM & 7PM
DECEMBER 22, 1PM & 6:30PM VERMONT’S OWN NUTCRACKER
JANUARY 30 & JANUARY 31, 7:30PM PRETTY WOMAN
FEBRUARY 6, 8PM BLACKBERRY SMOKE
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FEBRUARY 15, 7:30PM
VSO: MODERNISM AND THE WORLD OF YESTERDAY
FEBRUARY 18, 7PM NEW ORLEANS SONGBOOK
FEBRUARY 23, 6PM MIKE BIRBIGLIA
FEBRUARY 26, 8PM DARCY AND JER
FEBRUARY 27, 7:30PM RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES
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MARCH 1, 7PM JESSICA KIRSON
MARCH 6, 8PM TROMBONE SHORTY
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BURLINGTON CITY ARTS
DECEMBER 9–22, FRIDAYS, 2PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY, NOON BTV WINTER MARKET
DECEMBER 31, ALL DAY HIGHLIGHT
JANUARY 22, 6PM ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN FILM SERIES: MAESTRA
FEBRUARY 19, 6PM ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN FILM SERIES: THE POWER OF UTOPIA: LIVING WITH LE CORBUSIER IN CHANDIGARH
MIKE BIRBIGLIA
THERESA CAPUTO
Burlington’s Contemporary Art Gallery
TROMBONE SHORTY
JANUARY 25, 8PM HALESTORM
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MARCH 3, 7PM TRIBAL SEEDS
MARCH 5, 8:30PM DAILY BREAD
MARCH 6, 8PM
TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE–SHORTY GRAS TOUR
VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
DECEMBER 13, 7PM
BRASS QUINTET AND COUNTERPOINT CHORUS
United Church of Newport 63 3rd Street Newport, VT
DECEMBER 14, 5PM
BRASS QUINTET AND COUNTERPOINT CHORUS
Grafton Community Church 55 Main Street Grafton, VT
DECEMBER 15, 4PM
BRASS QUINTET AND COUNTERPOINT CHORUS
Manchester First Congregational Church 3624 Main Street Manchester, VT
WITH DAMASCUS KAFUMBE
FEBRUARY 15, 7:30PM
VSO: MODERNISM AND THE WORLD OF YESTERDAY
CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION
105 Pearl Street Essex Junction, VT www.cvexpo.org
DECEMBER 20, NOON
DECEMBER 21, 9:30AM & 1:30PM
JAY’S CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR KIDS
JANUARY 5, 10:30AM MT. SINAI SHRINERS BINGO
JANUARY 17, NOON
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FEBRUARY 22 & 23, 10AM 2025 VERMONT HOME SHOW
SECOND MONDAY EVERY MONTH, 6:30PM ONLINE AND IN-STUDIO COLLAGE COLLECTIVE
Expressive Arts Burlington 208 Flynn Avenue Suite #3A Burlington, VT www.expressiveartsburlington.com
DECEMBER 15, 9AM
SANTA SUNDAY 2024
Bolton Valley Resort
4302 Bolton Valley Access Road Bolton Valley, VT www.boltonvalley.com
EVERY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12–26 FIDDLEHEAD AND FOOTBALL IN THE TAVERN!
American Flatbread Stowe 1190 Mountain Road, Stowe, VT
www.instagram.com/p/DB1NO_RMR8W
JANUARY 18, 3PM VERMONT BURLESQUE FESTIVAL’S 2025 GRANDE FESTIVAL
Hotel Champlain Burlington 60 Battery Street Burlington, VT www.vermontburlesquefestival.com
VERMONT BURLESQUE
VERMONT COMEDY CLUB
DECEMBER 14, 5PM GOOD CLEAN FUN (FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHOW)
DECEMBER 17, 7PM TUESDAY TRIVIA AT VCC!
DECEMBER 18, 7PM ANNUAL VCC HOLIDAYGASM PARTY, GIFT SWAP & OPEN MIC
DECEMBER 19–21, 7PM & 9PM ASHLEY GAVIN
DECEMBER 27, 7PM & 9PM HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: IMPROV!
DECEMBER 28, 7PM & 9PM HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: STAND-UP!
DECEMBER 31, 8PM & 10:30PM JOYELLE NICOLE JOHNSONE: NYE
JANUARY 31, 7PM & 9PM
FEBRUARY 1, 7PM & 9PM ISMO: WOO-HOO! WORLD TOUR
FEBRUARY 6, 7PM
FEBRUARY 7 & 8, 7PM & 9PM ALEX KUMIN
Cheeks
Church
Church
Courtyard
As the winter sun dips below Camel's Hump, it casts a serene glow over the snow-blanketed landscape.
