ALL NEW!
FREE ✱ SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE DRIVE-IN ✱ OUT TO EAT AT THE WAYSIDE ✱ BOULDERING AT PETRA CLIFFS ✱ BUILD A PROPELLER BOAT
Contest! Find all the fish in this issue and win passes to the Ausable Chasm. Details on page 7.
Day- cations VERMONT
PART 3: 10 TRIPS TO EXPLORE VERMONT’S WATERWAYS
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August 27 - September 5
FUN. WITH A SPLASH OF CONFIDENCE.
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GREATER BURLINGTON YMCA
Fair Food
Every day, kids are learning new skills and building their confidence by taking swimming lessons at the Y. Whether your child is just starting out—or is an accomplished swimmer—we have a full range of classes designed with age, ability, and safety in mind. And, of course, fun!
29
Midway Rides
5
Fall enrollment starts soon; for more information, visit or call:
Petting Zoo
GREATER BURLINGTON YMCA 266 College St., Burlington VT 05401 802-862-9622
S A T U R D A Y
HER O’S DAY August 6th s h o p p e s
&
c i n e m a
kidsvt.com
e s s e x
Contests Livestock
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A Annaast staasi sinnii C Cir irccuuss
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Summer goes by fast, so we’ve squeezed an entire summer’s worth of fun into 122 just ten days! 13 Come check 13 1144 out our kiddie 15 15 rides, Fair food, Big Time Rush concert, free petting zoo & circus, and a lot more. Kid’s Day on Monday, Aug. 29. New for 2011The Fair is Smoke-Free!
(Smoking in designated areas only)
Don’t miss the ten best days of summer!
Save With Advance Tickets!
august 2011 Kids VT
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gbymca.org 862-9622
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The essex shoppes & Cinema, 21 essex Way, essex JunCTion, VT 05452 LoCaTed aT The inTerseCTion of VT-289 & rT-15 | 802.878.2851 | WWW.essexshoppes.Com
Save up to 20% when you get advance discount admission & ride tickets at all Price Chopper Stores from Aug. 1 to Aug. 26. For Fair information, visit cvexpo.org k2v-CVfair0811.indd 1
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SHAWN CORROW
VOL.18 N O.7
AUG 2011
Chiropractic for
KIDS & Adults
DEPARTMENTS From the Kids VT Staff ............................................5 See and Say: Contests .............................................7 Celebrations.....................................................................41 Birthday Club..................................................................43 Use Your Words: Essay ..........................................47
VERMONT DAY-CATIONS
EAT. LEARN. PLAY
Part 3: ............................................... 20
The Kids Beat ..................................................................8 Ask Dr. First: Healthy Sleep Habits .............10 Fit Families: A Vertical Playing Field .......11 The Librarian Likes ....................................................11 The Kids Menu Home Cookin’: Frozen Fruit ....................12 Out to Eat: The Wayside .............................13 Go Ask Dad: Best Parenting Advice ............14 The Art of... Fiddling ..................................................15 In Season: Fairs & Field Days .........................27
MATTHEW THORSEN
A Saturday night at the Sunset Drive-In
ON THE COVER Cover photo by Matthew Thorsen. The Hazards-Hayes of Burlington splash around at the Maple Street Park and Pool in Essex Junction.
Crafting With Kids: Build a Boat .......................40 The Party Planner: Cardboard Castles .....42 Puzzle Page ......................................................................44 Coloring Contest .........................................................45
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS ext. 77 ext. 74 ext. 71 ext. 73 ext. 78 ext. 75 ext. 72 ext. 76
Editorial in Kids VT is for general informational purposes. Parents must use their own discretion for following the advice in any editorial piece. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute service/product endorsement. Kids VT is a proud member of the Parenting Publications of America. Kids VT distribution is audited for accuracy.
Proofreader Production Manager Designers
Circulation Manager Deputy Web Editor Office Manager
Pamela Polston Paula Routly Kate O’Neill Krystal Woodward Brooke Bousquet Celia Hazard Rev. Diane Sullivan Steve Hadeka Tyler Machado Cheryl Brownell
Contributing Writers: Erik Esckilsen, Kristin Fletcher, Sky Barsch Glenier, Cheryl Herrick, Ken Picard, Katrina Roberts, Paula Routly Leon Thompson, Sarah Tuff Photographers: Shawn Corrow, Andy Duback, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur, Matthew Thorsen Illustrators: Pat Lewis, Andy Singer
Preschool Kindergarten Elementary After School
where children leap through the door with excitement, parents are engaged in their child’s education & teachers honor the whole child
...that’s our school!
To see us in action, watch the VIDEO on our website or come in for a TOUR!
1186 S. Brownell Rd. Williston (802)863-4839 BellwetherSchool.org
Spaces available in our Preschool Program for 2011-12
3
HELPING YOU PADDLE YOUR CANOE.
11:41 AM
KIDS VT
Da Capo Publishing shall not be held liable to any advertiser for any loss that results from the incorrect publication of its advertisement. If a mistake is ours, and the advertising purpose has been rendered valueless, Da Capo Publishing may cancel the charges for the advertisement, or a portion thereof as deemed reasonable by the publisher. Da Capo Publishing reserves the right to refuse any advertising, including inserts, at the discretion of the publishers.
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Imagine a 5/25/11 place...
AUGUST 2011
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THE
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KIDSVT.COM
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Published 11x per year. Circulation: 25,000 at 400+ locations throughout northern and central Vermont.
Chiropractic for KIDS & Adults
Outdoor Screen Scene ................ 17
HANDS-ON
P.O. Box 1184 Burlington, VT 05402 802-985-5482 kidsvt.com
Dr. Jennifer Peet 2882 Shelburne Road Shelburne/Burlington Area www.drspeet.com Call for an appt: 985-9500
Daily Listings ..................................................................28 Ongoing Playgroups .................................................30 Ongoing Story Times...............................................33 Ongoing Exhibits .......................................................34
Colby Roberts Cathy Resmer Don Eggert Kate Laddison Maryellen Apelquist Katrina Roberts Kristi Batchelder Judy Beaulac
My son had repeat ear infections and since he started chiropractic with Dr. Peet he has only had one. Also, my hip which bothered me since my pregnancy is much better. S. Kulkis, Shelburne, VT
10 day trips to explore Vermont’s Waterways
CALENDAR
Publisher Editor Creative Director Associate Editor Calendar Writer Account Executive Account Executive Marketing & Events Director
Since my son’s adjustments with Dr. Jennifer Peet, I have noticed an improvement with his colic. Thank you, I have a happier baby. A. Foley, Bristol, VT
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5/26/11 11:55 AM
The Magic, The Memories Join the Lake Monsters for Summer Fun & Excitement!
KIDS EAT FREE
ALL YOU CAN PLAY for only $4! • Hitting Machine • Bounce Castle • Speed Pitch
Tuesdays & Thursdays Run the bases post-game Monday-Wednesdays! Enjoy
FAMILY CATCH on Sundays
UPCOMING HOMESTANDS: Aug. 2-4: 7-8: 17-19: 20-22: 28-29: Sept. 2-4:
State College Tri-City Mahoning Valley Hudson Valley Connecticut Tri-City
See you at Centennial Field in Burlington!
Visit vermontlakemonsters.com for tickets and special promotions. For group rates (20 or more), call (802) 655-4200. k2h-vtlakemonsters0811.indd 1
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KIDS VT
AUGUST 2011
KIDSVT.COM
are closer than you might think.
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Shelburne Farms Bring the whole family!
WE COULDN’T WAIT to dive in to the boating and swimming day trips featured in the August issue of Kids VT. But our enthusiasm evaporated when we heard the tragic news that 12-year-old Bentley Seifer of Burlington had drowned at the Bolton Potholes. A week later, 2-year-old Raymeir Smith of Brattleboro died at the Vernon Dam swimming area. The death of a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Our hearts go out to the families of Bentley and Raymeir. These tragedies are a reminder that it’s never too early to start teaching kids about water safety. Open May 7–Oct. 16 Many Vermont organizations, such as the YMCA, • Children’s offer swimming lessons and water-safety education. Farmyard This month, Seven Days multimedia producer Eva • Walking Trails Sollberger filmed an episode of her web video series Views at Lake Willoughby • Farm Cart Lunch “Stuck in Vermont” at the Myers Municipal Pool in • Property Tours Winooski, where the Greater Burlington YMCA has been offering free swim • Special Events • Welcome Center lessons to Winooski youth. Find her video on our website, kidsvt.com. & Farm Store On July 25, Jaimie Held, director of aquatic programs at the Greater www.shelburnefarms.org Burlington Y, appeared on Vermont Public Radio’s “Vermont Edition” to talk about swimmer safety. Held recommended against swimming alone and for Trails & Store Open Yeardesignating a “water watcher” on occasions when multiple adults are in the Round swimming area. Held made two other good points: Beginning swimmers should stay within 1611 Harbor Road • Shelburne, VT • 985-8686 arm’s reach of an adult, and U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices are always a good idea. 7/19/11k8v-rockofages0611-2.indd 6:34 PM Ultimately, though, even our best efforts to keep our kids safe can fail. That’s k8v-ShelbFarm.indd 1 a compelling argument to make the most of the time we have together. As these long days of summer shorten into school nights loaded with homework, find n of . . . time to savor the season with your kids. s Largest Selectio ea Ar Kate Laddison, associate editor HOT ITEM: WE’VE GOT kate@kidsvt.com Backpacks Day Care oxes Lunch and Bento B Nap Mats Photo: Orah Moore
SHAWN CORROW
Swim Safely
WE’RE BACK...TO SCHOOL!
What’s on your back-to-school shopping list this year?
I’m hoping for pants that automatically grow to fit the legs of children who never seem to stop growing. Cheryl Herrick, writer
n’s Wear •
Footwear • Baby/Nurser y • Boo
oy s ks • T
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AUGUST 2011
en l rgart inde ed schoo ? k g n n i e t t r n r a y t a s e g e on is ber. Do th in kinder , editor s y r M ptem supplies y Resme in Se Cath
ags Reusable Snack B s Insulated Snack Jar h Containers Stainless Steel Lunc Water Bottles
Childr e Since my middleschool-age daughter refuses to go to her locker during the day and therefore chooses to carry around all her books, I will once again be search big enough to handle tha ing for a bag t job and sturdy enough to last until at least November. Last year’s didn’t make it through September. Kristin Fletcher, writer
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KIDSVT.COM
ter Backpacks and wa bottles. We use so them every day, they’re looking a little shabby. , Kristi Batchelder account executive
to wash We are attempting ... the backpack first if it doesn’t work, then a new one will be in order! Katrina Roberts, account executive
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DANCE CLASSES
FOR EVERYONE!
Inspiring dancers, bringing art to life
SUPERIOR CLASSICAL BALLET TRAINING VAGANOVA & BALANCHINE METHOD • Tots Ages 2 1/2 to 3 years • Children’s Intro to Dance, Ages 4-5 • Children’s Intro to Ballet, Ages 6-7 • Classical Ballet & Pointe, Ages 8 & up Beginner to Professional • Teen and Adult Ballet, Beginner to Advanced • Hip Hop, Jazz & Tap Ages 5 & up • Modern • Pilates & Yoga • Body Transformer classes • Summer Classes & Camps • Performance Opportunity: “Vermont’s Own Nutcracker” at the Flynn Center for the Arts & “Spring Performance” at Memorial Auditorium.
Classes begin September 6!
“Simply the Best” 802-878-2941 PHOTOS BY KIRSTEN NAGIBA
Main Office
• Official School of Vermont Ballet Theater • Winner of Reader’s Choice Award “Best Ballet School” Alexander Nagiba, Director
Register NOW Online www.vbts.org or by calling 878-2941
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Shelburne Campus 4066 Shelburne Road
Essex, VT • 802-878-2941
at Shelburne Commons
School is just around the corner…
Find just the right Good
footwearSALE! thing we Moonlight Moonlight are too! Madness at Kids Town. Madness
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• and more!! • Backpacks (100% PVC Free) • Lunch boxes and bags JOIN THE KIDS TOWN SHOE CLUB! (100% PVC Free) 4-Day Buy•12 pairs, getNow the 13thapair FREE!* Sale! Nap pads *Some restrictions apply. See store for th details. th stst • Rain gear
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November –21 November 18 –21
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Kids VT
of $20 or more! Kids Town Moonlight Madness Sale… You’d be crazy to miss it. Kids Town Moonlight Madness Sale… You’d be crazy to miss it. * one per customer per visit. No cash value. Not valid with other sales/ Limit discounts/offers. Not valid on purchase of gift cards. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Some restrictions apply.
TOYS • FURNITURE • SHOES • CLOTHING FEEDING & SAFETY • ONLINE REGISTRY
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• Open Mon -
7/25/11 11:42 AM
SEE AND SAY
Walkers enjoy the views at Ausable Chasm.
COLORING CONTEST
The creativity of the coloring contest entries never cease to amaze us. This month, a remarkable number of artists added a sun to the sky overlooking the mountains pictured in the hiking scene. Do these imaginative and enthusiastic additions illustrate the sunny outlook of our Kids VT readers? We like to think so. Thanks for cheering us up, and congratulations to all of this month’s winners.
HONORABLE MENTIONS BEST BEAR Caitlin Acosta, 12, Williamstown
The winners of our three $25 gift certificates to Texas Roadhouse are...
Tessa Napolitano, 4
4 and under
BURLINGTON
“Forest Parade”
OUTSTANDING OUTLINES Alanah Marie Klein, 7, Winooski CRAZY COLORFUL COLOR SCHEMES Sylvie Toothaker, 7, Burlington Bryan Ford, 9, South Burlington
Contests!
Count the fish to win a prize
Count how many times this little green guy appears in the pages of the August issue, and you could win tickets to Ausable Chasm. Add the fish up, then tell us how many you found at kidsvt.com, or write to us at Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. We’ll collect the correct responses and choose two winners, who will each receive admission for four. Enter by 5 p.m. on August 15 to win.
Last Month’s Winners:
Wee-Mail Winner:
Cindy Yang, 8
TOP TITLES “Hike 2, 3, 4!,” Arianna Loomis, 8, Barre “Rockin’ Nature Adventure,” Morgan Blaine, 10, Williston “The Wilderness Must Be Explored!,” Andrew Snell, 11, Shelburne “All for Fun & Fun for All,” Paola Torsnes, 12, Hancock “Love Bug,” Audrey Acosta, 4, Williamstown “Sydney, Matt & Mike’s Adventure in Zion National Park of Utah,” Sydney Heth, 8, St. Albans See a slide show of all of the submissions at kidsvt.com. Find this month’s contest on page 45. The deadline is August 15.
Speak Up! Kids VT wants to publish your rants and raves.
SOUTH BURLINGTON
“The Nature Walk”
Sierra Polley, 10
9 to 12
WILLISTON
“Family Fun in the Sun”
Your comments should • be no more than 250 words long, • respond to Kids VT content, and • include your full name, town and a daytime phone number.
Email us at feedback@kidsvt.com or send a letter to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. We also reprint comments we receive via Facebook and Twitter, with permission from the authors. Kids VT reserves the right to edit for accuracy and length.
KIDS VT
In another July contest, Kids VT email newsletter subscriber Kristin Plante of Hyde Park won four passes to Shelburne Museum. The twice-monthy Wee-Mail keeps readers informed between print issues of Kids VT — don’t miss out. Subscribe now and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a prize in August.
MOST DETAILED CLOTHING Morgan Blaine, 10, Williston
5 to 8
AUGUST 2011
Mita Sagar Patil of Vergennes and Audrey Smith of South Burlington correctly counted 19 kites fluttering around the pages of the July issue. They’ll be heading to the Shelburne Museum with their winnings: four free passes each!
MOST PSYCHEDELIC COLORS Rachel Porth, 6, Jericho
KIDSVT.COM
Kite-Counting Contest
SENSATIONAL SUNSETS Samantha Polley, 8, Williston Peyton Coel, 10, South Burlington Leah Acosta, 9, Williamstown
7
THE
BEAT
BY KAT E LAD D ISON
TECHNOLOGY
Use Your Marbles www.vermontsoap.com
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Feathers in your hair? It’s the “in” thing for you — and your dog! Schedule an appointment today.
77 falls road, shelburne village
399.2846
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5/18/11 9:59 AM
Just when your kid goes into meltdown mode, and you’re about to lose your marbles, Shelburne-based WinWin Apps produces a slick new application that uses marbles — images of them, anyway — to help. The MARBLE JAR is a techsavvy twist on the old-school concept of dropping marbles into a canning jar to mark progress toward a goal. But this iPod and smartphone app is more than just an elaborate sticker chart, says WinWin owner Anna Palmer. The Marble Jar idea is to envision an outcome — friendlier, more cooperative behavior, for instance — and then define the actions your family needs to take to get there. Each step toward the goal earns a colorful virtual marble that, when tapped, plinks melodiously into the jar. Create multiple jars and carry them all in your pocket at once, instantly rewarding behavior that earns an aggie. Don’t think of it as technology supplanting parenting, though. Use the app to start family conversations about your goals. And invite everyone to help plan the celebration you’ll have when the jar is full. That way you’ll be working — and celebrating — together. MARBLE JAR APP: Download from the Apple iTunes store, $2.99.
MATERNITY
Parents accustomed to feeding infants know that putting your feet up and getting comfortable is critically important. A new Vermont-made NURSING STOOL makes it easier to elevate your extremities. Plus, it’s environmentally friendly. Woodworker Ted Kohn makes the stools in his Burlington basement workshop during breaks from his stay-at-home dad duties — he has two kids, ages 2 and 4. Each stool takes about 15 hours to produce and is made entirely from wood and finished with oil, milk paint, beeswax and water-based clear coat. Both the fixed-base and NURSING STOOL: Quick adjustable stools can be used during breast or bottle-feeding and will convert into a handBrown Fox handmade nurssome bathroom step stool when you’ve traded the bottle ing stool available through brushes for toothbrushes.
Etsy: etsy.com/shop/quick brownfoxvermont, $85-165. $15 off local orders.
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KIDS VT
AUGUST 2011
KIDSVT.COM
A Cool Stool
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EAT. LEARN. PLAY.
KIDS + CHIRO = HEALTH A HEALTHY BODY BEGINS WITH A HEALTHY SPINE RUSHFORD FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC 100 Dorset Street, Suite 21 • 860-3336 www.rushfordchiropractic.com
THEATER
Music to Your Peers OUTDOORS
Happy Campers What is itchy and bug bitten and smells like dirty socks? Your family, after a few days in the woods. Combat the funk with a new, nontoxic ORGANIC OUTDOOR KIT from Middlebury-based Vermont Soap Organics. The biodegradable liquid Camping Soap allows you to get an outdoor shower without worrying about what your soap might do to the ecosystem. A citronella Camping Spray helps keep the bugs at bay. And the Plant Itch Relief uses organic aloe vera, jewelweed, oats and rosemary to stop the scratching. ORGANIC OUTDOOR KIT: Vermont Soap Organics Camping Soap, $3.99, Camping Spray, $8.75, Plant Itch Relief, $4.99. Available online at vermontsoap.com/campsoap.shtml.
BOOKS
Good Dog
If music hath charms that soothe the savage beast, perhaps a new musical with beastly stars can soothe the savage bully. Set in an alternate universe called the Land Between, BULLY BE GONE! uses animal characters as both bullies and targets, upending the typical burly-bully-meek-victim dynamic. Producer and director Elaine Davida Sklar hopes the approach will speak — or sing — to kids in a way that seminars or lectures on the hot topic of bullying do not. As a teacher in the Greenwich, Conn., area, Sklar got to see bullying firsthand. “I realized it was growing quicker, faster than the drug problem,” she says. Now living in Vermont, Sklar drew on her background in theater to write the musical, engaging locals Jon Gailmor and Jeff Slevin to compose the score. Sklar hopes the show will be picked up by a licensing company and go national; she’d like to see Vermont banish bullying and get the rest of the country singing the same tune.
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‘BULLY BE GONE!’: Showing at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe: Fridays, September 16 and 23, at 7 p.m.; Saturdays, September 17 and 24, at 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, September 18 at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $20 to $25 for matinees, and $25 to $35 for evening shows. Tickets are available through sprucepeakarts.org. Info, 203-249-8880, bullybegonemusical.com.
AUGUST 2011 KIDS VT
‘BAILEY’: Published by Scholastic Press and available in hardcover, $16.99. Info, harrybliss.com.
KIDSVT.COM
New Yorker cartoonist and children’s book illustrator Harry Bliss introduces readers to the top dog at Champlain Elementary School in his new children’s book BAILEY.. Bliss, who lives in South Burlington, uses humor to bring Bailey to life. He says his love of Charles Schultz’s “Peanuts” inspired Bailey’s creation. “I grew up loving Snoopy, and that independence he had,” he explains. Kids and parents will identify with Bliss’ smart dog who misses the bus and makes a mess in art class, but who also loves math and gives a presentation on FDR’s “first friend.” And the clever details — from the daily affirmation hanging by Bailey’s mirror to the “Hound Dog” lyrics Bailey belts out in music class — will keep you entertained the second, third and fourth time you read this book to your kids. Bliss has coauthored and illustrated several other kids books inluding A Fine, Fine School, Countdown to Kindergarten, and A Very Brave Witch. His comic strip for adults appears weekly in Seven Days.
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I am looking for up to twenty hours, weekdays between eight and five. Rates are negotiable. References available upon request.
Call Rachel Kling: 802.863.3908 or email: rachelkling@yahoo.com
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How do I get my young child to develop healthy sleep habits?
ck
No subjecT geNeRATes more discussion — or causes more anguish — among new parents than the roller-coaster sleep patterns of their children. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children’s Hospital and editor-in-chief of Pediatrics, shares some bedtime tips. Kids VT: When’s the right time to start an infant on a
• Experienced teachers helping build a strong foundation for learning • All instructors are CPR and Safety Certified • Large activity space • Gymnastics instruction offered • Stories in Motion & Super Heros Training Class • Nutritious snacks & lunches provided • After School care option available • Ages 2-5
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I am a forty three year old woman who worked for eight years as a child care provider with ages 0-6. For three of those years, I worked in a child care co-op with eight children between 6 months & 5 years. I am comfortable with more than one child and work well with infants.
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LEWIS FIRST: For the first month or so, most newborns sleep 16 to 20 hours per day. Babies have to feed every three to four hours, so for the first two months, it’s very difficult to even think about a routine. By three to four months, a baby will cut down to about 12 to 13 hours of sleep, of which eight to nine hours are at night. So it’s not a bad time to start thinking about developing a sleep routine.
Having a consistent bedtime routine allows kids to relax and get ready for sleep.
KVT: How do parents do that? LF: One way to start is to take care of necessities as quickly and quietly as possible. Your baby may wake up hungry, wet, cold or not feeling well. Doing things quickly and quietly will allow your baby to get back to sleep without a lot of fanfare. Ideally, place baby in the crib before he or she actually falls asleep. Then he or she will figure out how to fall asleep again without calling for a parent.
KVT: What about toddlers? LF: Most toddlers sleep about 10 to 12 hours per day. Having a consistent bedtime routine allows kids to relax and get ready for sleep. It starts with slowing down the activities, what I call “clean up, suit up, stack up, brush up and read up,” then saying goodnight. The best thing is to be consistent and get quieter and quieter — a story, a bath, listening to soft music. Saying goodnight while your child is still slightly awake will allow him or her to realize there’s no more activity in the day. KVT: What are your thoughts on bed sharing? LF: There have been articles that say a baby who sleeps in the 9:50 AM same bed with a parent is more likely to sleep through the night and become more secure and confident, and has the convenience of having a parent there to breast-feed. KVT: Are there risks involved? LF: Yes. The Consumer Products Safety Commission and numerous studies have found that when you bring a baby to bed with you and you fall asleep, there’s a substantive increase in the likelihood of a baby suffocating, being wedged between the mattress and wall, getting caught in the bed frame, being rolled onto by a parent, or having his or her head get lost in a pillow. This has occurred in Vermont. There are now additional data to suggest that a parent who bed shares increases the risk of that baby experiencing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). That’s especially true for parents who smoke. I do not recommend
2/24/11 12:21 PM
bed sharing. If a parent wants to co-sleep, I recommend bringing a crib, bassinet or a sidecar cradle into the bedroom. KVT: What if parents still choose to bed share? LF: Parents who still want to bed share should not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They should use a single-piece mattress, tight-fitting sheets, and no loose pillows or soft blankets. Certainly, never bring babies onto a waterbed, where their face can sink down and not be raised. That’s a formula for disaster. KVT: How important are daytime naps? LF: Naps are good because they focus a child’s energy away from constant, active play and channel it toward growth. They also give parents and caregivers a break. By the time kids reach 2 or 3, some don’t need naps, while others need naps through age 5. If kids aren’t showing irritability or grumpiness without a nap, it’s time to say goodbye to the nap, much to the parents’ chagrin.
Got questions for Dr. First?
KVT: What’s the difference between nightmares and night terrors? send them to LF: Nightmares are really scary ideas@kidsvt.com. dreams. They occur in about 25 percent of kids, usually beginning in toddlerhood and running throughout their lives. They’re quite common and occur in the dream phase of sleep, which is usually the second half of the night. Nightmares will result in children waking up and screaming and seeking comfort … they are frightened about something they dreamed about, and they can tell you about it. Night terrors occur in about 3 percent of kids. They usually happen an hour or two after a child goes to sleep. A night terror results in a child bolting upright in bed, screaming, crying, or thrashing around with his or her eyes open. A child may even sleepwalk. And, the following morning, he or she has no recall of the event. KVT: Anything to worry about with either one? LF: The good news is, neither nightmares nor night terrors correlate with anything troubling from a developmental or neurological standpoint, except that a child can get hurt sleepwalking. Make sure that if kids get out of their rooms during a night terror, that you’ve gated any staircases. Night terrors tend to run in families and usually occur between the ages of 4 and 12. Most kids outgrow night terrors. Interestingly, both nightmares and night terrors are associated with kids who potentially have been exposed to something stressful, or are just overtired — another reason for developing a good sleep routine. K — Ken Picard
Ken Picard is a staff writer at Seven days. He lives with his wife and daughter in Colchester.
EAT. LEARN. PLAY.
Sponsored by:
Q FIT FAMILIES
Q The Librarian Likes
B y S ky B a r sch Gle i ner
A Vertical Playing Field
Don’t forget to place a crash pad at the bottom of your route — that is, of course, after making sure no one is using it!
Sky Barsch Gleiner
Librarian: Ryan Deery, children’s programming librarian, KelloggHubbard Library in Montpelier. Book: Heart of a Samurai by Margi Preus Age range: 9 to 15 years old
Getting Started Ages: Kids can start at 2 ½ or 3, or whenever they have sufficient motor skills to cling to a rock. Little ones shouldn’t climb higher than their parents’ reach, so that parents can get them down safely. Equipment: Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move easily. You’ll also benefit from rock-climbing shoes, which are available to rent at Petra Cliffs for $5. Chalk, which helps you grip the handholds, is available for $2 at Petra Cliffs. Cost: A bouldering day pass at Petra Cliffs costs $9 for kids 11 and under, $11 for students 12 through college age; and $12 for adults. If it’s your first time, tell the staff and they’ll give you a brief bouldering orientation.
— compiled by Kate laddison
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“The Librarian Likes” features a different librarian and book each month. Got an idea for a future LL? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
Kids VT
“Fit Families” is a monthly feature that offers easy and affordable ways to stay active. Got an idea for a future FF? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com. Sky Barsch Gleiner is the publisher and editor of Vermont Sports magazine and vtsports. com. She lives in Orleans with her husband and pets, and is appreciative to have adventurous cousins here in Vermont.
Why this book is awesome: Not only is it full of adventure, history and life lessons, it is told in a vivid and convincing voice. To top it all off, it even includes hand-drawn illustrations and journal entries by the real Manjiro. K
august 2011
On the wall: Routes — aka “problems” — are denoted by colored tape, and each has a difficulty rating. Those labeled Vfun or VO are the easiest. Try to follow the route by using only hand- and footholds that are demarcated with the same color tape. Don’t forget to place a crash pad at the bottom of your route — that is, of course, after making sure no one is using it!
Deery’s summary: Preus regales readers with a retelling of the 1841 biography of Manjiro, a 14-year-old Japanese fisherman who gets shipwrecked on a deserted island. Rescued by an American whaleboat, Manjiro is too scared to return home due to harsh isolationist policies. He remains on the boat and learns the whaling trade, as well as how to speak and read English. The captain adopts him and takes him to mainland America. After a series of adventures in schooling, love and gold panning, Manjiro returns to Japan 10 years after his ill-fated fishing voyage — only to be imprisoned. In a final series of twists, Manjiro’s worldly knowledge leads to his release, and elevation to the rank of samurai.
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Bouldering — rock climbing without ropes — with kids is in some ways easier than hiking with them. It’s an indoor-outdoor activity that levels the playing field — a vertical one —and may even give little ones a leg up on their parents. I recently headed to Petra Cliffs Climbing Center in Burlington with my cousins, 5 and 8. We got bouldering day passes and spent the afternoon trying out routes on both floors of Petra Cliffs’ bouldering area. One side of the center houses towering, two-story climbing walls. The bouldering area is a little less intimidating; the ceilings aren’t much higher than the ones in my living room. I watched as my cousins clambered fearlessly up the faux rock walls. Because kids are light and flexible, gravity doesn’t scare them — yet. Plus, they can avail themselves of handholds and footholds too small for adults. Nothing builds confidence like blowing past the grown-ups. But the adults have the mental advantage in this sport. Negotiating a vertical route requires planning and concentration. You can get stuck in a spot where a seemingly reachable handhold turns out to be a little too far away. Shifting your body weight slightly, or changing the order of the footwork, may lead to a solution. Kids have a harder time getting out of such situations. When my cousins got stuck on the “boulder,” they quickly let go and dropped to the floor. Trying it again, faster, didn’t solve the problem, either. As they take on and conquer increasingly difficult routes on the wall, then graduate to outdoor climbs, kids build strength and strategic thinking skills. Petra Cliffs climbing camp counselor Ben Yardley says he enjoys watching that happen. “If they do the actual route [marked with tape on the boulder], they have to figure out which hand goes where, and which foot goes where. Otherwise, it will be much harder,” he says. “It’s cool to watch them figure it out.” Fear doesn’t factor into the exercise. Whereas real rock climbing is risky, requiring protective ropes and harnesses, bouldering at Petra Cliffs doesn’t require scaling much higher than an adult’s arm reach. They provide crash pads in case of falls — a comfort, no matter how old you are. “We try to make the environment as safe as possible,” Yardley explains. When teaching kids, he reassures the timid ones with a little demonstration: “I’ll put two pads down, climb up to the top, and I’ll fall on my back to show them it doesn’t hurt.” K
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✱ HOME COOKIN’ B Y C H ER Y L H ER R I C K
Sweet & Simple: Frozen Fruit Desserts FRUIT FOR DESSERT is an idea that sounds like a good one … until you present your child with a slice of melon after dinner and she looks at you as if you’ve lost your mind. Somehow, fruit only becomes a festive treat when it’s frozen and presented in the right way. Here are two very simple recipes, for sorbet and fruit pops, that your kids will like. They’re suitable to make for dinner guests, too. If you use berries or fruit that’s not very sweet, be sure to include at least one fruit with lots of natural sugars, such as bananas, watermelon or cherries. My family recently made strawberry-watermelon sorbet and pops. I’ve listed a few more flavor ideas in the sidebar. Each recipe makes four, 1-cup servings. INSTANT FRUIT SORBET
1 cup fresh fruit, cut into small chunks 3 cups frozen fruit (either store bought or what you’ve frozen yourself) ¼ - ½ cup water or juice, as needed
WHAT KIDS CAN HELP WITH: • Choosing the fruit combination • Scooping out melon, slicing bananas, hulling strawberries • Measuring fruit and water • Pouring into molds for freezing OTHER FLAVOR FAVES: • Watermelon-banana pops with whole blueberries dropped in before freezing. • Honeydew-blueberry • Peach-cantaloupe • Watermelon-strawberry • Mango-peach
1. Put fresh fruit in the bottom of a blender; place frozen fruit on top. 2. Add ¼ cup water or juice. Blend until very smooth, adding just enough additional liquid to allow the blender to work. 3. Serve immediately. Most allfruit sorbet will freeze nearly solid if left in the freezer for long. Turn any leftovers into pops by pouring them into molds to eat later.
PURE FRUIT POPS AUGUST 2011 KIDSVT.COM
4 cups any summer fruit; this is a great use for slightly overripe peaches, plums and berries ¼-½ cup water or juice, as needed 1. 2.
KIDS VT
3. 4.
Put fruit in blender. Blend until smooth. Add water or juice if desired, pour into molds or an ice cube tray. Cover the pops with plastic wrap and insert toothpicks or wooden sticks. Freeze until firm and serve.
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Cheryl Herrick is a writer and blogger who lives in Burlington with her two young sons. Visit crankycakes.com for more of her adventures in food and mom life. k4t-Healthyliving0811.indd 1
7/25/11 12:23 PM
eAt. leArn. PlAy. Q oUT To EAT by Krist in Fl e t c he r
The Wayside Restaurant & Bakery 1873 route 302, berlin, 223-6611
We snacked on hot rolls with butter and crisp garlic toasts until our meals arrived. The extensive menu is filled with the kind of meals you might not have eaten as a kid, but your parents surely did: liver and onions, meatloaf, openfaced sandwiches smothered in gravy, and — hold on to your stomachs — pickled honeycomb beef tripe. The Wayside’s Thursday-night $6.95 salt-pork plate earned it a spot on Grub Street’ recent list of “50 State Dinners (Plus One): Food Treks Worth Taking This Summer.” That insider tip made me lean toward the Traveler’s Special orange chops, thinking maybe pork was their thing. But instead I went with the chicken pie special, roasted light and
dark chicken in a creamy gravy Reed Browning and topped with a butAidan Casner, termilk biscuit. enjoy lunch at The Wayside. My daughter opted for the hot turkey sandwich, and my son had Charlie Brown’s Italiano off the oddly “Peanuts”themed children’s menu. Translation: He ordered spaghetti with sauce. But my son doesn’t do red — no tomato sauce, no ketchup — so he asked FAmily-FriENdly AmENiTiEs: children’s meals for $3.95; ability to for his spaghetti accommodate large family gatherings; high chairs and booster seats; with butter and books, crayons and drawing paper available upon request. Parmesan cheese, instead. Our waitress happily obliged. Dessert did not disappoint. The local rhubarb pie, Wayside entrées come with one or two side a special that day, was perfectly tart and delicious. dishes, such as fries, applesauce or cheddar Goldfish The appropriately sized kids sundae delivered the crackers. Thinking ahead to dessert, I opted for the right proportion of hot fudge to vanilla ice cream, side salad with a tasty, housemade maple balsamic and my daughter was only able to make a small dent vinaigrette. in the big wedge of chocolate cake placed in front of We snacked on hot rolls with butter and crisp her. garlic toasts until our meals arrived. Though it Overall, our dinners were filling and pleasant. wasn’t a long wait, the meals were lukewarm rather than piping hot. An unappetizing skin had formed on It wasn’t an exceptional meal, but eating at the Wayside is like a visit to grandma’s — familiar, the gravy pooling in my daughter’s mashed potatoes. charming and a little eccentric. K A quick stir saved us from a spiral into disaster.
Jeb WAllAce-brodeur
No mATTEr ThE dAy, no matter the time, the Wayside Restaurant & Bakery always looks busy. As cars swing in and out of the parking lot, drivers on the busy Barre-Montpelier Road slow down to wave to friends heading to and from the local haunt. In short, it’s a central Vermont insitution. The Wayside opened in 1918, well before gimmicky marketing to families became standard, and it still resists those cynical modern touches. The decor is quietly dignified country farmhouse; if the burgundy and floral-patterned walls could talk, they would snap, “Don’t sass me.”
“Out to Eat” is a monthly family-friendly restaurant review. Where should we eat next? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com. Kristin Fletcher is a former sports editor for the St. Albans Messenger and Barre-Montpelier Times Argus who lives in Cabot. She has two children, 12 and 9, and works for Re-Bop Records.
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What’s the best parenting advice you got from your parents?
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My parents died not too long ago in their mid-80s. They were generally short on advice but free with examples. We came to Canada from Holland in 1953. My dad was one of those Old World– k16-Hathaway0811.indd 1 7/22/11 10:53 AMtrained silversmiths and became a craft teacher at a small art college. My mom made things, too — she was a weaver of fine fabrics. While I was growing up, this all seemed quite ordinary, but I can see now that it was adventurous and risky. My parents adored each other, Early Childhood Programs and their affections were commondesigned specifically for the place in our household. Kissing and developmental needs of children. hugging were an ordinary sight, and Monday - Friday 7:00 am to 5:30 pm this extended to their children. for children ages 6 weeks - Pre-K My folks loved the adventures Full-time and part-time openings that came their way through food, travel, wine and language. They Richmond Berlin roared across Russia by train to 434-3891 229-2869 Vladivostok in the early ’60s — before Paul Theroux, even. They just loved to meet different people PlaycareED Apr10.indd 1 12/13/10 6:05 PMand enjoy their food and culture. We do that, too. But, most of all, my parents gave me unconditional love and support. That’s made all the difference. I hope I’ve done the same for my kids. Moonlight Madness (every Sat night 5-9PM)
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Children: daughters Gloria, 19, and Fabiola, 14; sons Claude, 17, and Stephane, 6 My mother taught me that it’s better to give someone a surprise than a promise. Don’t say, “I will give you this” — just bring it. It seems this has been something I do in my life, and this way I avoid disappointing others. My father also gave me some advice that makes sense in the The Democratic Republic of Congo, where we’re from. We were walking and meeting people, and he told me he preferred that I call him by his name instead of “Dad.” In our culture, it is possible that people can be jealous of others with many children. The children are the riches. My parents also taught me not to neglect them after I left the village for the city. My mother said, “I hope you will not give us the dog’s room when we visit.” It’s a figure of speech, but this is very important. This is very deep.
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Kids VT
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My mother and father weren’t much for offering parental advice. To be fair, it may be that I wasn’t listening when they offered it, but the advice came more in lessons learned from things they did. I learned that snappy quips to silly questions can be funny, but they can also wound, so be prepared for the consequences. I learned that you can’t expect your child to appreciate the love you poured into preparing a favorite dinner. And I learned that coming home may be the worst thing for a child. In the months following my college graduation, I hit some hard times. I called home looking for sympathy. My father answered the call. I told him of my failures and was about to angle for a room in my parents’ basement when he said something like, “Wow, that really sounds awful, and I know how you feel, but you don’t want to move home. You’ll just go crazy.” I remember being miffed by his apparent disinterest in my condition but pretty quickly appreciated that he knew a short time of pain was better than a lifetime of regret. After all, he didn’t leave home (I grew up in my grandmother’s house), and he wrestled with a sense of failure his whole life. I look at my children, and I know that they’ll need to travel their own roads without me. The best thing I can do may simply be to wave goodbye.
7/25/11 11:31 AM
KenneTH PecK, sHelbuRne, wRiTeR, filmmaKeR & PRofessoR
Child: son Gabe, 16
“Moderation in all things” was the best advice I ever got from my father, regardless of how many years it took for me to appreciate it. I was never someone who over-indulged in excess, but I wouldn’t use the word “moderate” to characterize my youth. As a father, I find myself telling my teenage son to be moderate in his lifestyle, to get more sleep, to drive slowly, to keep his focus on what he is presently doing, and not to be distracted by incoming texts, cell calls and Facebook. Did I listen to my father? I tried to but felt that I knew better than he did, times being different and all. Is my son listening to me? He’s confident that he knows better than I do. I go on, though, like an old record with a skip, telling him to “be moderate in all things,” but he may not even be listening. Someday he will understand. K — IntervIews compIled by erIk esckIlsen
“Go Ask Dad” is a monthly feature in which we ask fathers to answer a question. Got a question, or a pop you’d like to hear from? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com. Erik Esckilsen is a freelance writer and Champlain College instructor. He lives in Burlington with his wife and twin daughters, and their dog.
Eat. LEaRN. PLaY. Q The aRT of… matthEw thoRsEN
Fiddling B Y K R i s ti N FLEt c h ER
“Katie has taught them by playing songs – a little music theory and some scales – but mostly songs.”
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KIDS ART SUPPLIES 7/19/11 Art • Drafting • Framing Supplies Handmade Paper • Paints Brushes • Portfolios Cards • Art Supplies
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What You’ll need a fiddle
for children just starting out – and still growing – renting is the way to go. “many parents would prefer not to invest hundreds of dollars until they have confidence that their child will be taking lessons for some time,” says oren Kronick, owner of Vermont Violins and the Burlington Violin shop. an experienced clerk at a rental store can measure a child to recommend the appropriate size of violin, offer instruction and advice on caring for and tuning the instrument, and make sure it’s in proper working order. Rental rates range from $15 to $25 per month and rent-to-own options are often available. at Vermont Violins, a new, high-quality kit that includes a violin, case and bow starts at around $500. other local retailers include Gregoire’s Violin shop, Paul Perley cellos and faller music company, all of which can be found online.
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Say you saw it in…
august 2011
fiddlers will also need to purchase a block of rosin, and may want to consider investing in helpful accessories like a shoulder-rest support, music stand, chromatic tuner, blank sheet-music pad and metronome.
6:31 PM
KidsVT.com
The fiddle is a Violin played in a folksy rather than a classical style. When it’s time for 8-year-old Blue Boucher of Cabot to practice, he has an appropriately folksy routine — he grabs his case and heads out his front door, past the henhouse and up over the crest of his dirt driveway to his grandma’s house one-tenth of a mile away. There, the two of them take turns playing songs like “Cold Frosty Morning” and Blue’s favorite, “Cluck Old Hen.” Katie Trautz Both Blue and his grandmother Judy Boucher started playing the fiddle last year. They take lessons from Katie Trautz, a musician and in Cabot, she was similarly inspired instructor who, along with a business by a visiting musician. That early partner, founded the Summit School encounter with Emily Lanxner and of Traditional Music and Culture in her Trinidadian steel drum piqued Montpelier four years ago. Trautz’s curiosity. “Katie has taught them by playing “It wasn’t like any of the music I songs – a little music theory and some had already been exposed to,” Trautz scales – but mostly songs,” says Blue’s mom, Jen Boucher. “I think that really says. “To be exposed to another culture’s traditional music was eye appeals to him.” opening.” In the two weeks between lessons, She picked up the fiddle in high Trautz writes a to-do list in a notebook school and went on for Blue and plays to study anthropolsongs into a digital ogy and music at recorder for him to Bates College. After review. Sometimes graduation, Trautz he records himself was in a band called playing so he can Sugarblue when listen and compare. friends and neighOver his last year bors started asking of fiddling, Blue her for lessons. has outgrown his She continued her quarter-size fiddle own education and currently uses at the Augusta one that’s half the Jen BoucheR Heritage Center size of a standard in West Virginia, adult model. where she got most of her training in The fiddle is a staple of Vermont Appalachian music. summer concerts, and Trautz is Now, through the Summit School, currently a member of three differTrautz is able to give children their ent groups, playing fiddle, banjo and first listen to the sounds of other guitar, and singing vocals and harmocultures, through workshops in West nies. Blue made sure to catch one of his teacher’s performances last year at African drumming and traditional Irish music. The school also hosts the Cabot Public Library. concerts, as well as a new day camp “I think he does get inspired by seeing good people playing,” says mom with lessons in folk songs, guitar, ukulele, banjo, drumming, clogging — Jen. and, of course, fiddle. K When Trautz was a seventh grader
Striking Studio Easel
lessons
fiddle lessons run about $30-40 per hour, but half-hour options for $20 are usually available, as well.
Kids VT
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“The Art of...” spotlights creative skills that enrich kids’ lives. Got a class or teacher to recommend? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com. Kristin Fletcher is a former sports editor for the St. Albans Messenger and Barre-Montpelier Times Argus who lives in Cabot. She has two children, 12 and 9, and works for Re-Bop Records. Got a comment? Contact feedback@kidsvt.com. 2.3x4.5-sayyousaw.indd 1
7/29/11 12:28 PM
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• Hitting Machine • Bounce Castle • Speed Pitch
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7/29/11 11:25 AM
Matthew Thorsen
Summertime
Cars 2 on the big screen
Outdoor Screen Scene A Saturday night at the Sunset Drive-In By Le on T h omp son
The first live-action film I saw on the big screen was Richard Pryor’s risqué, PG-rated, 1982 flop The Toy. It was inappropriate for an 8-year-old boy, but my exposure was accidental. My neighbor’s twentysomething daughter, Roxanne, had convinced my
“Don’t worry,” Roxanne said. “Before it really gets going, they’ll fall asleep, and we’ll come home.” She was right — about my siblings. I stayed up, and we didn’t leave like she said we would. The movie wasn’t memorable, but the experience was; I
Vermont, which at its peak boasted 20 drive-ins, now has just four, in Bethel, Colchester, St. Albans and Fairlee. At the Fairlee Motel & Drive-in Theater, patrons can stay overnight and get a clear view of the screen from every room. Really.
outdoor screen scene, p. 19 »
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I wanted my own 8-year old daughter, Bebo, to experience the drive-in before it all goes holographic. We invited her friend Kaya, who’s 7, to join us. Looking back on my first drive-in experience through dad-colored specs, I chose a family-friendly double bill for Bebo and Kaya. I had hoped to take
Kids VT
savored the illicit thrill of seeing something I knew I wasn’t supposed to see. I loved the drive-in. Jump ahead 29 years: Netflix rules Earth, and drive-in theaters are an endangered species. There are only 370 drive-ins in the U.S. today; in 1958, there were more than 4000.
August 2011
parents that she and her boyfriend should take my younger siblings and me to our first movie at the St. Albans Drive-In, eight miles south of our Swanton Village home. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was playing, followed by The Toy. My mom didn’t want us to see the second feature.
kidsvt.com
I wanted my own 8-year old daughter, Bebo, to experience the drive-in before it all goes holographic.
them to the St. Albans Drive-In. Until I was in my late twenties, it was the only one I’d patronized. In its prime, it hosted rowdy, all-night movie marathons and kids cartoon festivals. One of my favorite childhood games was “What’s That Movie?,” which we’d play from the backseat of the family station wagon as we drove past the theater at night on Interstate 89. However, the St. Albans Drive-In capitalizing on the adult-oriented franchise blockbusters — Transformers 3, The Hangover Part II and Johnny Depp as a pirate again. That’s understandable, considering those aforementioned drivein stats. But second- and third-grade girls don’t want to stare at Zach Galifianakis for two hours, with or without their parents. So we passed on St. Albans and opted for Colchester’s Sunset Drive-In. In addition to the summer blockbusters, on Sunday, July 3, the features included Pixar’s Cars 2 followed by Mr. Popper’s Penguins, starring Jim Carrey. We left home at 7 p.m., two hours before showtime, which is typically around 9 this time of year. We wanted ample time to find the theater and snag a good parking space. We had also shopped at the grocery for snacks: Twix bars, Lay’s chips, peanut butter cups, a box of Mike and Ikes, and various drinks packed in a cooler. You have to put your inner health nut aside for the drive-in. And don’t forget the napkins. “We can just bring the food in?” Bebo asked. “You know?” I said. “I really don’t know.” It had been years since I’d been to a drive-in. Back then, people smuggled in loads of edible and drinkable goodies to avoid buying food. And they smuggled people in their trunks who wanted to avoid buying tickets. But now? I was clueless. I played it safe and hid the snacks on the front seat, under our extra clothing and blankets. When we got to the theater, the mustachioed ticket taker didn’t comment on our food. Instead, he handed me two glow sticks. “These are for the girls,” he said, “because it’s the Fourth.” The glow sticks came in handy during the dark, inevitable trips to the bathroom. Next time, though, I’ll bring a flashlight. Glow sticks don’t last forever. As we drove in and looked around at the other cars, I realized I needn’t have worried about sneaking in food. Apparently drive-in contraband is still OK; everyone at the Sunset had packed as
performing arts classes
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KIDS VT
AUGUST2011
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at the Flynn Center | fall 2011
REGISTER NOW! Call 802-652-4548 or visit www.flynncenter.org/flynnarts for a brochure. Classes begin the week of September 12.
Outdoor screen scene though they were tailgating at the Super Bowl. I was glad we’d brought extra layers; the drive-in gets chilly whether you sit inside your car or outside in lawn chairs. It gets buggy, too. (Cupping hands around mouth: Do not forget bug spray!) Lots of kids wear PJs to the drive-in, a bonus for when they fall asleep, and we big people return home and have to carry them to bed. Drive-in etiquette calls for larger, taller vehicles (SUVs, vans, cars with luggage racks, etc.) to park in the back rows, while smaller ones pull in up front. But apparently not everyone is familiar with drive-in etiquette. Best to arrive early — especially if you drive a tiny black Pontiac G3 that your friends have dubbed the “Bagel Toaster.” As we were setting up, a blue van and
our vehicles and tuned our radios to the appropriate station. No more awkward, heavy speakers that hang off the driver’sside window in Grease fashion. Now, everyone listens to the movie on their car stereos and opens the windows — community listening, if you will. Fitting for Vermont. About 20 minutes into Cars 2, Bebo looked up. “Dad, if you watch a star come out, you can look at it and see another star come out next to it. And again. And again. And again.” Then she saw something else. “Lightning!” It lasted the entire film, while the Burlington fireworks rumbled behind our backs. At first the lightning was pink, but it turned white as the thunderstorm got closer. Please wait, I thought. Please wait. Please wait. There’s no refund if it rains at the drive-in.
We have four sleeping bags, pillows and all kinds of junk food over at the car. The drive-in is our camping.
120 Main Street, Burlington 802.862.1670 • urbansalonteam.com k8h-UrbanSalon0711.indd 1
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w o T Coats e i m ’ Ja Toyshop Located in the of Shelburne Village M-Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5 802-985-3221
“Everything you can imagine is real.” Pable Picasso
Hope moffaT, Barnard
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August 2011
During the intermission, Bebo and Kaya laughed and danced to the short let’s-all-go-to-the-lobby film from the disco era, while I packed the car — just in case. They didn’t mind watching Mr. Popper’s Penguins from the Bagel Toaster’s front seats, but the storm ultimately struck. The windshield wipers and foggy windows obstructed their view. Game. Over. “We should go,” Bebo said. “Yeah,” Kaya said. “I can’t see.” “Then the three of us will watch Mr. Popper’s Penguins some other time,” I promised. They agreed. It was 11:40. Bedtime was almost yesterday. “How was your first drive-in movie, girls?” I asked as we left the Sunset. “Gooooood,” Kaya replied, stifling a yawn. “I liked that you could get up when you wanted,” said Bebo, her voice fading. “Anything else?” I asked. “Kaya?” Silence. “Bebo?” Nothing. They started snoring in stereo, which left me smiling and wondering: Would they have endured the second film, like I did in 1982? There’s really only one way to find out. We’ll have to go again. K
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a black pickup parked right in front of us. “I won’t be able to see,” Kaya complained, craning her neck. “You can move your chair,” I said. “Where?” “Anywhere close to our car. We don’t want to be in other people’s space.” After we established our perches at Screen 2, we trekked to Screen 1 and the playground. That’s the key to ensuring your children will fall asleep during the second film — tire ’em out first with swings and seesaws. As Bebo and Kaya played, I chatted with Hope Moffatt of Barnard, who marveled at the dirt-cheap Sunset admission: $7.50 per adult, children under 12 free. Hope made the 85-mile trek to the Sunset so that her daughters, Julia, 10, and Bridgette, 16, could treat their father, Pierre Gouvin, to Transformers 3 on his birthday. “I told him there was no IMAX in Vermont and that this was the closest he’d get,” quipped Moffat. She was raised on the Rustic Tri Vue Drive-In in her native Rhode Island. “We have four sleeping bags, pillows and all kinds of junk food over at the car,” she said. “The drive-in is our camping.” We checked our watches — 8:30 — gathered our girls, returned to
Where you’re more than just a pretty face to us.
cOntinued frOm p. 17
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Leon Thompson is a writer living in St. Albans with his 8-year-old daughter. 8v-calendar.indd 1
1 3/25/11k8v-BabiestoBoomers0611.indd 8:24 AM
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Day- cations VERMONT
Lake Willoughby
Knight Point State Park
PART 3: 10 TRIPS TO EXPLORE
VERMONT’S WATERWAYS
Lamoille River Green River Reservoir
Maple Street Park & Pool
Waterbury Reservoir Lareau Swimming Hole
Summer in Vermont is short and oh so sweet. To help you get the most out of this fleeting season, Kids VT presents a three-part series of recommended summer day trips designed to introduce your family to the rich variety of experiences Vermont has to offer. The June issue of Kids VT featured cultural and historical trips; the July issue was all about mountains and trails. This final installment suggests ways to get out on the water. You can find the whole series at kidsvt.com. Each recommendation includes other nearby attractions, as well as an affordable place to eat. For more meal tips, pick up the 2011 edition of 7 Nights: The Seven Days Guide to Vermont Restaurants and Bars, available at more than 1000 locations statewide. Find it online at sevendaysvt.com.
Lake Bomoseen
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KIDS VT
AUGUST 2011
KIDSVT.COM
These lists are not comprehensive, but we hope they’ll inspire you to travel to a part of Vermont you’ve never seen before, to get off the highway and try something new. On a gorgeous summer day, the drive along scenic country roads is part of the fun.
Lake Paran
Swimming
Fishing
West River, Brattleboro
Beach
Tubing
Boating
In summer, Vermonters measure their water in different ways — the number of cannonballs they make into a neighborhood pool, say, or the miles they travel to a distant campsite on a lake with loons . The yearly totals may not be as impressive, but for families, the numbers add up to lifelong bonding. These 10 trips will help you find refreshment together at various depths. You can dip your toes into an Essex wading pool, tube down a Brattleboro river or canoe to your campsite for an overnight stay at the Green River Reservoir. BY SAR AH T U F F
MATTHEW THORSEN
ll winter long, Vermonters measure snow in inches, boasting to out-of-state skiers and snowboarders about the white, fluffy stuff piling up. That’s 225 inches per year, on average, by the way.
VERMONT DAY-CATIONS 1. Lake Willoughby, Westmore
The top freshwater beach in New Best for: Canoeing, camping England? According Details: Day visitors may pay up to $3 to Yankee Magazine, per person to access the reservoir. There it’s found on the is no drinkable water here. Info, 888northern shore of 1349, vtstateparks.com, Lake Willoughby. A Nearby: Take well-behaved melting glacier carved children to Afternoon Tea out this body of water, at the Governor’s House in Vermont’s deepest, Clear Water Hyde Park on Thursdays and which is sandwiched Sundays from 3 to 6 p.m. between the dramatic Info, onehundredmain.com, 1000-foot cliffs of 888-6888. Mounts Hor and Pisgah. Food: Stock up on sandwiches and sweet It’s a fjord-like slice of Norway right here treats at the Edelweiss Bakery & Café in in Vermont. The ice-cold, crystal-clear Johnson. Info, 635-7946. and sometimes Caribbean-blue waters can scare away even the doggiest of 3. Lake Bomoseen, Castleton August days. Brave souls dive off Devil’s Rock, on the Pisgah side, and stretches of Lake Champlain may sand are open to the public at both the grab all the headnorth and south ends. You’ll find a rope lines, but at 2400 swing at the latter, but sometimes nude acres, Rutland sunbathers, too. Distract wide eyes by County’s Lake hopping in a canoe or kayak and going Bomoseen is fishing — the world’s largest lake trout actually the largest was caught here. body of water within Vermont’s borders. Members of the elite Algonquin Round Best for: Boating, swimming, fishing Table literary set used to cavort here; Details: Admission is free. today, you’re more likely to see roundfaced toddlers wading into the lake, Nearby: The Orleans County Fair which is surrounded by the rolls into Barton on August 17 Taconic Mountains. Though and stays until August 21; this private residences have year, it hosts an attempt to break Sandy swallowed up much of the the Guinness World Record of Beach shoreline, visitors can find a 102 Cadillac cars on parade. Info, sandy beach, cool quarry orleanscountyfair.net and “In holes, a campground at Season,” page 27. Bomoseen State Park and yet more Food: Find classic summer fare at the underwater opportunities at adjacent Will-o-Bee Snack Bar in Orleans. Info, Glen Lake. 754-9967.
2. Green River Reservoir, Hyde Park
Best for: Boating, swimming, fishing Details: Admission to Bomoseen State Park is $3 for those 14 and up, $2 for kids 4 through 14, and free for toddlers 3 and under. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and there’s a snack bar at the park. Info, 265-4242, vtstateparks.com.
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DAY-CATIONS, P. 22 »
AUGUST 2011
For some, camping means sitting around in nylon chairs next to an RV. For others, it means Nearby: Hike along Glen Lake and seeking a remote around a beaver pond to Half Moon spot, pitching a tent Pond State Park, which has myriad and listening to the loons. The latter camping options for overnight excurgroup should head to Green River sions. Info, 273-2848, vtstateparks.com. Reservoir, where the 28 Food: Wash down bacon cheesecampsites are reachable burgers with chocolate egg only by boat. There are no creams at Castleton’s Birdseye ferries or rentals, either, so Diner, housed in a 1940s Silk Camping you’ll need to bring your City dining car. Info, 468-5817, own. Visitors’ watercraft birdseyediner.com. must go no faster than 5 miles per hour and fit on the top of a car. Once you’ve paddled to your little piece
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Sophia Hazard-Hayes, 6, of Burlington cools off in Maple Street Pool In Essex.
of paradise, the payoff is 19 miles of shoreline to explore. And privacy.
SHAWN CORROW
Day-cations
CONTINUED FROM P. 21
Ben Gilcris, 9, of Barton kayaks on Lake Willoughby.
4. Waterbury Reservoir, Waterbury
5. Lake Paran, North Bennington
Vermont may have It was here that had its fill of floods Robert Frost penned this year, but fans of “Stopping by Woods the 830-acre on a Snowy Evening” Waterbury Reservoir in 1922. But, in our should be grateful opinion, the 35-acre for the threat of Lake Paran is much overflow, as it was a flood-control project more pleasant on a sunny afternoon. In that created this the spirit of the poet himself, the watery playground in body of water is fiercely protected; the 1930s. A glassy the Fund for North Bennington has surface and easy been acquiring undeveloped Great access from the shoreline and creating the Robert Waterskiing Frost Trail from Lake Paran. But it’s Stowe area — there are two state parks close enough to town that you can here — now make it a walk here from Main Street to swim favorite among waterskiers, wakeboardand fish. The lake is also home to the ers and stand-up paddleboarders. There eponymous Lake Paran Bluegrass are also plenty of swimming beaches for Festival every summer. The most wading and splashing. The place is no important thing to do here is to leap off secret, but even in the height of summer, the floating raft in the lake’s center. Too it’s far more placid than it was when tired to try? Just keep repeating, “Miles 2000 Civilian Conservation Corps to go before I sleep, miles to go before I workers built it. sleep.” Best for: Waterskiing, wakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming
Floating Raft
Details: Umiak Outdoor Outfitters rents paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and pedal boats (253-2317, umiak. com) at Waterbury Center State Park, which is open from 10 a.m. to sunset (244-1226, vtstateparks.com). Little River State Park (244-7103, vtstateparks.com) has camping. Nearby: Brave the tourists at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour; the playground is open through October. Info, 882-1240, benjerry.com.
Details: Lake Paran is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Labor Day; entrance fees are $3.50 for those 18 and older, $1 for those under $18. There is a small beach with canoe rentals ($10 per hour), lifeguards and a snack bar. Info, 688-6270. Nearby: Older, crafty kids will enjoy the factory tour at Bennington Potters. Info, 447-7531, benningtonpotters.com. Food: Try the Tex-Mex at Bennington’s Rattlesnake Café. Info, 447-7018, rattlesnakecafe.com.
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SHAWN CORROW
Food: Grab a table outside at Stowe’s Blue Donkey, a local burger shack. Info, 253-3100, bluedonkeyvt.com.
Best for: Swimming, paddling, fishing
From left, Johnathan Gilcris, 5, of Barton, Ben Gilcris, 9, of Barton, and Joel Devereux, 9, of Barton ride on innertubes as Karen Devereux (left) and Camden Devereux, Sr. navigate the boat.
VERMONT DAY-CATIONS
Nearly 90 swimming holes pepper the Green Mountain State, but not all of them are kid friendly. Enter the Mad River’s Lareau Swimming Hole, which has gently gurgling rapids, sandy riverbanks leading to shallow wading areas and nearby parking — no scary scrambling along the sides of cliffs. Porta-potties are a nice touch, too. Older kids and parents will find deep enough spots to jump into the teal-colored waters. Over the years, you can watch your children graduate to the large rock from which they can jump 7 feet.
at
Best for: Swimming Details: You’ll find this swimming hole off Route 100 south of Waitsfield, across from the Lareau Farm Inn and American Flatbread.
Paradise Pines I-87 • Exit 29 • North Hudson, NY 12855
Disc Golf
Nearby: Take a lift ride, play disc golf or ride the zipline at Sugarbush Resort. Info, 583-6100, sugarbush.com. Food: Nosh on wood-fired pies at the original American Flatbread, across the road from the swimming hole at Lareau Farm, open Thursday through Sunday from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Info, 496-8856, americanflatbread.com.
3 Playgrounds Snack Bar 2 Pools Kiddie Pool Train Rides Gem Mining Jumping Pillow Fishing Shuffleboard Movies Mini Golf Kayak Rentals Golf Cart Rentals
TM & © Hanna-Barbera. (s11)
6. Lareau Swimming Hole, Waitsfield
Between Lake George & Lake Placid
Pedal Bike Rentals 23 Rental Cabins Trailer Rentals Seasonal Sites Sites on the Schroon River Escorted Parking Big Rigs Accommodated Pull-Thrus Clean Restrooms Mini-mart Laundry FREE Wireless Internet Special Off Season Rates
Bring in your Bear Bucks and receive $10.00 off camping, campsites or rental units.*
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DAY-CATIONS, P. 24 » 6h-paradisepines.indd 1
One of Vermont's Most Spectacular
5/18/11 2:58 PM
MATTHEW THORSEN
Staycation Destinations Natural
Cultural
Recreational
Planning your Northeast Kingdom Vacation is easy when you visit
Unforgettable
Interactive Map Self-Guided Tour Itineraries Event Listings Vacation Packages
TraveltheKingdom.com the region’s most comprehensive travel website with Online Booking, Travel Tools, & a Country Store
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KIDSVT.COM AUGUST 2011 KIDS VT
Suri Hazard-Hayes, 3, of Burlington jumps into mom’s arms at the Maple Street Pool In Essex Junction.
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Day-cations
CONTINUED FROM P. 23
SHAWN CORROW
Lake Willoughby beach
SHAWN CORROW
7. Knight Point State Park, North Hero
KIDSVT.COM
For any preschooler Running 84 miles transfixed by from the town of mechanics, the big Glover to outer draw of 54-acre Malletts Bay, the Knight Point is the Lamoille River has drawbridge between Class 1 to 2 white Grand Isle and North water. It’s perfect for Hero, raised to let the sailboats through tykes ready to move beyond placid and lowered for vehicle traffic. Anyone paddling into something that will give else can pick from the park’s many other them a slight adrenaline jolt. The stretch attractions: a sandy beach and swimming around Jeffersonville is particularly waters; ample picnic grounds; even a family friendly, thanks to “Ice Cream performance venue where the Island Floats” offered by Center for Arts and Recreation has Green River Canoe & hosted Lipizzan stallions and Kayak, i.e., a tour of the Shakespeare plays. Fireworks go off Drawbridge river followed by a here for the Fourth of July, but for the tour of the Ben & remainder of the summer, the biggest Jerry’s Factory. DIY “oohs” and “aahs” come from kids playing types can arrange a shuttle upriver bean-bag toss, finding robins’ eggs along through Green River or leave a second the trails or building sand castles as they car downriver to shuttle back to the start. watch that bridge. Oh, and be sure to stop before Fairfax Falls. You don’t need that much Best for: Swimming, paddling adrenaline. Details: The park is open for day use Best for: Paddling only, for a fee of up to $3 per person, from 10 a.m. to sunset. Info, 372-8389, Details: Based in Jeffersonville, Green vtstateparks.com. River Canoe & Kayak offers guided trips on the Lamoille. Info, 644-8336, sterling Nearby: Ambitious paddlers can make ridgeresort.com/canoe. the three-mile crossing to Knight Island State Park for a night at one of the seven remote campsites. Info, 524-6353, vtstateparks.com.
AUGUST 2011 KIDS VT
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8. Lamoille River, Jeffersonville
Shia-Marie Gonyaw, 13, of Brownington balances on an innertube as brother Dennis, Jr., 11, (far left), father Dennis, Sr. (near left), sister Katelyn, 14, (near right)
White Water
Food: Hero’s Welcome General Store in North Hero has all the picnic provisions you’ll need, including a basket. Info, 372-4161, heroswelcome.com.
Nearby: You don’t have to be an oenophile to enjoy Boyden Valley Winery; on September 18 and 19, the fourth-generation farm hosts a harvest festival with grapestomping contests and hayrides. Info, 644-8336, boydenvalley.com.
Food: Get your creemee fix at Joe’s Snack Bar in Jericho. Info, 899-3934.
9. Maple Street Park and Pool, Essex Junction
10. West River, Brattleboro
In Texas, tubing is a way of life: floating With all due respect along a river with a to Vermont’s natural gaggle of pals, a bodies of water, cooler of suds and a there’s something cowboy hat. In about a chlorinated, southern Vermont, noisy, Windex-blue tubing is a tad more PG, but just as much pool on a hot fun. Head to the West River in the summer day. At Maple Street — capacity, Brattleboro area and plan to launch from 475 swimmers — soggy play happens the West Dummerston covered bridge around diving boards, a waterslide and a for a two-hour float. Kids should wading pool with spray be old enough to navigate their features. Need to dry out? own tube, and everyone should Head to the shady playground and picnic tables. Waterslide wear water shoes. Cowboy hats are optional. Family swim, from 5 to 6 p.m., is a good time to catch Best for: Tubing a slightly calmer vibe. Details: Vermont Canoe Touring Center Best for: Swimming offers tube rentals. Info, 257-5008. Details: The pool and park open at Nearby: The Brattleboro 11:15 a.m. on weekends and 12:30 Farmers Market is open from p.m. on weekdays through August 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays 28; public swimming ends at 8 p.m. Tubing through October. Info, 254-8885, all week. Fees are $3 to $5 per brattleborofarmersmarket.com. person. Info, 872-3370, ejrp.org. Food: Head north for southern-style Nearby: It’s almost fair time at the Expo! chicken and ribs outside a blue bus at The Champlain Valley Fair runs from Curtis’ BBQ in Putney. Info, curtisbbqvt. August 27 though September 5. Info, com, 387-5474. 878-5545, cvexpo.org or “In Season,” page 27. Sarah Tuff writes about health, fitness Food: My Little Cupcake in Essex offers and outdoor sports from her home in the perfect poolside snacks in flavors Shelburne — from which she escapes as such as birthday cake, salted caramel much as possible to go on adventures with and malted milk. Just be sure to gobble her children, ages 2 and 4. them up before the icing gets goopy. Info, 872-7676, mylittlecupcakevt.com.
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6/16/11 12:37 PM
Come see where Vermont Teddy Bears are born! FACTORY TOURS DAILY! Open 7 days a week!
® Located at 6655 Shelburne Rd, one mile South of the Village of Shelburne Tour Information: (802) 985-3001 or VermontTeddyBear.com To order a Bear-Gram®: 800-829-BEAR
MATTHEW THORSEN
FAC TO TOU RY R DAIL S Y!
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While supplies last. Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. EXPIRES 06.30.12 Not redeemable via phone or online.
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Sophia Hazard-Hayes, 6, of Burlington on the waterslide at Maple Street Pool In Essex.
AUGUST 2011
GET A FREE REUSABLE VERMONT TEDDY BEAR SHOPPING BAG
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THE SCHOOLHOUSE
Every year at The Schoolhouse, there’s a new country and a new science theme to explore! The Schoolhouse’s educational approach already incorporates much of what educational policy makers and researchers talk about as vital for 21st century students including core skills, creativity, leadership, collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, and real-world applications of knowledge
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7/25/11 12:21 PM
Where in the world are you off to this summer? Send us a postcard from your summer travels, whether near or far, to be entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift card to Best Buy!
— Partnership for 21st Century Skills, “P21 Framework Definitions.” 12/09
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Kids VT
august 2011
kidsvt.com
There are a few openings left – see what The Schoolhouse can do for YOUR CHILD! Schoolhouse is conveniently located off Dorset Street, just 10 minutes from the University Mall. We also offer an affordable and fun After School for members and nonmembers. The Schoolhouse is a family-centered, multicultural school with strong academics and a caring and experienced staff. For more information, visit www.theschoolhousevt.org or contact Director of Admissions Linda Barnes at 355-7023 8 Catkin Dr., S.Burlington • 658-4164 • theschoolhousevt.org k2v-schoolhouselearning0811.indd 1
7/21/11 2:52 PM
ORTHODONTICS
DRS. PETERSON, RYAN & EATON
A healthy, beautiful smile is priceless! BURLINGTON OFFICE 247 Pearl Street 862-6721 • Mon-Wed
ST. ALBANS OFFICE 94 South Main Street 527-7100 • Tues-Fri
WILLISON OFFICE 277 Blair Park Rd. 878-5323 • Mon, Thurs, Fri
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5/17/11 12:21 PM
...the smiles on your family’s faces
IN sEasON
One of the many reasons to visit a Vermont State Park today
Addison counTy FAir & Field dAys
cAledoniA counTy FAir
1790 Field Days Road, New Haven Tuesday, August 9, through Saturday, August 13 addisoncountyfielddays.com
Wednesday, August 24, through Sunday, August 28 1 Fairgrounds Road, Lyndonville vtfair.com
addison County’s field days are billed as Vermont’s largest ag fair. the bigtime fun includes a barnyard for pint-size animal lovers, arm wrestling for kids and adults, lots of exhibits, entertainment, a parade, pulling competitions, rides, crafts, and 4-H shows. For the little ones, there’s also a magician, puppet shows, pig racing, a pedal-tractor pull, a demolition derby and a closing fireworks display.
One of Vermont’s oldest, the Caledonia County Fair offers a children’s tent with ongoing activities as well as a children’s barnyard and other kid-friendly fun. there’s also a mini-midway, a traveling bear show, an escape artist, a thrill show, 4-H exhibits, horse shows, horse, pony and ox pulling, animal exhibits, a floral hall, craft exhibits, and a redneck competition.
orleAns counTy FAir
350 Route 30, Bondville Friday, August 26, through Sunday, August 28 bondvillefair.org
an old-time agricultural fair with horse shows, pulls, and harness racing; gymkhana; dairy cattle and ox shows, milking parlor demonstrations; sheep shows; a petting zoo; and poultry, rabbit and alpaca exhibits. Other agricultural tie-ins include a horticulture display, arts and crafts, wool spinning, and a farm machinery display. a demolition derby and 4x4 truck pull take place in the evening. deerField VAlley FArmers’ dAy FAir Beaver Street, Wilmington Thursday, August 18, through Sunday, August 21 dvfair.com
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BondVille FAir
the first Bondville Fair was held in 1797, a year after the town of Winhall’s incorporation. this long-standing community competition includes traditional animal- and tractor-pulling events, as well as a kids’ tractor-pull contest, live music, clogging, a quilt show, farm animals for petting, midway rides, kids’ games, and a children’s pet show. chAmplAin VAlley FAir
Between Lake George & Lake Placid
105 Pearl Street, Essex Junction Saturday, August 27, through Monday, September 5 cvexpo.org
I-87 • Exit 29 • North Hudson, NY 12855
3 Playgrounds Snack Bar 2 Pools Kiddie Pool Train Rides Gem Mining Jumping Pillow Fishing Shuffleboard Movies Mini Golf Kayak Rentals Golf Cart Rentals
Pedal Bike Rentals 23 Rental Cabins Trailer Rentals Seasonal Sites Sites on the Schroon River Escorted Parking Big Rigs Accommodated Pull-Thrus Clean Restrooms Mini-mart Laundry FREE Wireless Internet Special Off Season Rates
Bring in your Bear Bucks and receive $10.00 off camping, campsites or rental units.*
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Information
518.532.7493
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1.800.232.5349
Kids VT
w w w w w Woodall’s: Fac.◆◆◆◆◆ w w w w w Rec.◆◆◆◆◆
*First time campers Only for redeeming Yogi Bucks
Visit our website at
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Got ideas for other “In Season” topics or listings? Email us at ideas@kidsvt.com.
Paradise Pines
august 2011
Enjoy an array of concessions and rides on Vermont’s largest fair midway. Multiple classes of horse pulls over various distances occur in the pulling ring, 4-H competitions and shows take place on the grandstand. Free daily entertainment includes a 5 p.m. parade, as well as pig racing, dog-agility demonstrations, hypnotist shows, jugglers, circus acts and a large-scale sand sculpture. K
at
KidsVT.com
this fair is a long-standing local tradition, with neighborly competition, agriculture education and entertainment. this year’s events include a children’s lawn-mower pull, a watermelon-seed-spitting contest, a scavenger hunt, a children’s barnyard and petting area, a “pee-wee” midway, a cattle show, the farmer-for-a-day, horse pulling, car and craft shows, and a pieeating contest.
www.vtstateparks.com
TM & © Hanna-Barbera. (s11)
278 Roaring Brook Road, Barton Wednesday, August 17, through Sunday, August 21 orleanscountyfair.net/index.htm
campfires, stars, relaxing, nature, fresh air, laughing, s’mores
SAVE
VermonT’s FAirs And Field dAys are an easy way to entertain your family. These outdoor events show off the best of the state’s summer produce and farm animals, and they even offer opportunities for friendly competition. A field-day visit is also the perfect time to teach kids about Vermont’s agricultural history — especially since there’s usually cotton candy on hand to sweeten the lesson.
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KIDS VT
AUGUST 2011
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AUG
CALENDAR Submit your September events by August 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com. CALENDAR BY KATE LADDISON & MARYELLEN APELQUIST
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Films for the Fam
Spend a warm summer night under the stars sampling free ice cream and watching a family-friendly flick during BEN & JERRY’S FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE FESTIVAL. The 2010, live-action, PG-rated comedy Yogi Bear kicks off the August lineup on Tuesday, August 2, outside the flagship scoop shop in Burlington. Bring blankets and chairs to settle in before showtime — movies begin at dusk — to create magical movie memories with your kids. Other featured flicks include Toy Story 3, rated G, August 9; TRON: Legacy, rated PG, August 16; and Gnomeo & Juliet, rated G, August 23.
BEN & JERRY’S FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE FESTIVAL: Tuesdays, August 2, 9, 16 and 23, at dusk. Ben & Jerry’s, Church Street, Burlington. All ages. Free. Info, 862-9620.
AUG CALENDAR
1 MONDAY
2 TUESDAY
Arts
Arts
Draw Comics!: Learn to draw comics and work on storylines. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-4:30 p.m. Ages 8 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216. Musical Mondays: Start the week off right with tunes from the St. Johnsbury Band and a free ice cream social as part of the band’s summer concert series. Courthouse Park, St. Johnsbury, 7:30-8:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 748-7121.
Community
Build a Fairy House: Those who believe in mythical creatures collect flora from the woods for gnome homes and other fantastical structures. Lareau Farm Inn, Waitsfield, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Meet Some Monsters: Hang out with Vermont Lake Monsters players and have them sign your glove or ball. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10:30 a.m. Grades 1 and up. Preregister. Free. ($6 tickets for the August 18 game are also available at the library with proceeds benefitting the Essex Junction community.) Info, 878-6956.
Education
Kids in the Kitchen: Cookbooks: Kids make their own cookbooks to chronicle their kitchen adventures and keep their favorite recipes safe. Kids choose from recipes from past classes, chef/instructor Nina Lesser-Goldsmith’s favorites and their own from home, of course. Book materials provided. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Preregister. $20 child with adult. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Library & Books
Music With Raphael: Little ones feel the beat during this music program. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:45 a.m. Ages birth-5 with adult. Free. Info, 878-4918. One World, Many Stories: Kids enjoy fun-filled multicultural stories with songs and rhymes. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Ages 3-6. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Nature & Science
Crafternoons: Travel Games: Stop by and craft something to help the time pass while traveling from place to place. South Burlington Community Library, noon-3 p.m. All ages (some projects have small pieces and may not be suitable for children under 3). Free. Info, 652-7080.
Firefighters & Stories: Meet local firefighters and listen to stories. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4918. Lake Monsters at the Library: Lake Monsters baseball players share books, answer questions, sign autographs and hand out free tickets to their game that night at Centennial Field. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Creative Tuesdays: Get crafty with recycled materials. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3-5 p.m. All ages, but children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Lewis & Clark Lowdown: Author Judith Edwards shares portions of her book The Great Expedition of Lewis and Clark, an account told in the voice of a young farmer who helped blaze a trail from Illinois to the Pacific. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Grades 3 and up. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Community
Nature & Science
Autism Support Group: This new support group gives parents of young children (birth through preschool age) with autism spectrum disorders the opportunity to chat and share experiences about parenting, community resources and other services. Snacks provided. Vermont Family Network, Williston, 6:30-8 p.m. Info, 800-800-4005. Fletcher Free & Baseball: Take in a Lake Monsters game with your friends from Fletcher Free Library. Be sure to wear your library T-shirt. Players hand out free tickets to the game during a visit to the library at 10:30 a.m. Centennial Field, Burlington, 7:05 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Info, 865-7216.
Education
Exordium Adventure With Mr. K: Children hear stories and examine artifacts from Kurt Valenta’s travels through Europe, Asia and South America. Community Room, Highgate Municipal Building, 10 a.m. Designed for school-age children. Preregister. Free. Info, 868-3970. Time-Travel Tuesdays: Visit the 19th century by doing chores, preparing food, washing laundry, churning butter and playing games from a bygone era. Billings Farm & Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 457-2355.
Health & Fitness
Kids Run at Hard’ack: Lace up and join other runners and walkers for St. Albans Recreation’s weekly trail running series, including a 1K distance for kids each week. There are also an open 5K and a beginner 3K, and walkers are welcome. Hard’ack recreation area, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.
Chromatography Flowers: Play tricks on your brain and eyes while discovering that things are not always what they appear. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
Health & Fitness
Kids Open Gymnastics: Kids tumble and jump while adults connect with other young families. Sessions are sometimes outdoors and include an opening activity, snack and unstructured time on equipment. River Arts, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. Ages birth to 5. $5 child, $8 two children, $10 three or more children. Info, 888-1261.
Library & Books
Animal Adventures: Author and storyteller Michael Caduto performs animal myths and legends from North America, South America, Africa and Europe, accompanied by instruments native to each country. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Grades 1 and up. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956. Global Games: Bring the kids for an evening of fun and games from around the world, including versions of tic-tac-toe from England, France and Germany. South Burlington Community Library, 6-8 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 652-7080.
Turtle Discovery: Learn about local turtles by observing their behaviors in the aquarium. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
Journey to Australia: Join in the summer reading program fun, creating aboriginal bark paintings and tasting traditional Australian foods. Highgate Public Library, 3:30-5 p.m. For students entering grade 5 and up. Free. Info, 868-3970.
3 WEDNESDAY
Marko the Magician: Check out Marko the Magician’s show. Essex Free Library, 1 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 879-0313.
Arts ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32. Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini Concerts: Little ones take in classical compositions with their adult companions. UVM Recital Hall, Burlington, 4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 800-639-3443.
Summer Movie Break: Take in a family movie with popcorn and drinks provided. Call for movie titles. Alburgh Library, 2-4 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 796-6077.
Nature & Science
Community
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: Step aboard the schooner Lois McClure and learn how teams of archaeologists and shipwrights transformed the mysterious 149-year-old sunken remains of a Lake Champlain cargo boat into a fully operational sailing vessel. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 2 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 877-324-6386.
Summer Travelers: Take a trip to North Beach for a day of fun in the sun. Or head to Spare Time for bowling if the weather is rainy. Meet at the concession area and travel together. Bombardier Park, Milton, noon-4 p.m. All ages. Preregister. $85 child for all trips, $15 one trip. Info, 893-4922.
Hoopster Glider: Build a flying glider and experiment with design changes to see if its flight can be improved. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
Wondrously Wacky Play: Check out X-Theater’s latest production, written and performed by kids for kids. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Cookie Decorating: Kids doll up freshly baked sugar cookies with sprinkles, frosting, sugar and nuts. Panadero Bakery, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. All ages. Info, 863-8278.
Balance: Explore the ups and downs of balance and make a balance toy to bring home. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
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KIDS VT
Junior Fishing Program: Young fishermen learn to cast, tie knots, bait hooks, a,d catch, handle and release fish. The Fly Rod Shop, Stowe, 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 6-12. Preregister. $30 child. Info, 253-7346.
Craftacular Tuesdays: Creative kids get caught up in low-tech projects. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-4665.
Library & Books
Kids Cooking Up a Story: Kids gather to read a story and bring it to life through cooking. LACE, Kids Room, Barre, 10 a.m. for prekindergartenage children, 5 p.m. for children ages 5-10. $3 suggested donation. Info, 476-4276.
AUGUST 2011
Get Fossilized: Explore fossils from the museum’s collection and use clues to uncover their origins. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
Ben & Jerry’s Free Outdoor Movie Festival: See spotlight, page 28.
Education
KIDSVT.COM
Color Mixing: Mix it up by experimenting with primary colors to see what new hues can be created. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32.
Stroller Strolling: Rendezvous with the stroller crowd in town and take a walk down the recreation path. Fairfax Community Park parking lot, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-1941.
3 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)
Wagon-Ride Wednesdays: Every Wednesday enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride around the grounds of the working dairy farm. Billings Farm and Museum, Woodstock, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 457-2355.
4 THURSDAY
Arts ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32.
Groovin’ on the Green: Shake your groove thing and enjoy face-painting, a clown, and plenty of indoor and outdoor dining options. Maple Tree Place, Williston, 6:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, shopmtp.com. Kids Craft: Youngsters learn about the Adinkra symbols of West Africa through stamp-making and face-painting activities. Bradford Public Library 6 p.m. Free. Info, 222-4536. Mom’s Matinees: Movies just for parents with infants. No pressure to be quiet, baby-friendly volumes and dimmed lights. Palace 9 Cinemas, South Burlington, doors open at 10 am. $7; ages 2 and under free. Info, 660-9300.
Zoppe Family Circus: Trapeze acrobatics, equestrian showmanship, canine capers, clowning, comedy and audience participation highlight this Italian family circus that has been performing since 1842. Technology Park, South Burlington, 6 p.m. All ages. $20 adult, $15 child age 12 and under. Info, 863-5966.
Community
Family Night in the Park: Live music, entertainment, food and fun await the whole family. Memorial Park, Stowe, 5:30-7:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 253-6138.
Shop on the Green: Market on the Green is under way and chock-full of local veggies, meat and poultry, cheese, eggs, syrup, honey, jams and jellies, flowers, and crafts. Live music. EBT and debit cards accepted. Woodstock Green, 3-6 p.m. Info, 457-3555.
Education
Essex Junction La Leche League Group: Open group for all breast-feeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breast feeding. First Congregational Church of Essex, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 310-8951, 899-5490 or 862-6023.
Ongoing Playgroups MONDAYS Burlington Early-Months Playgroup: A mother-infant group for moms and their first babies during the first few months after birth. Baby massage, lullabies and information sharing. VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Winooski Fathers and Children Together: Evening fun and dinner for dads and kids up to first grade. Winooski Community Center, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. TUESDAYS Alburgh Music and Movement: Get moving and grooving with this playgroup session. Alburgh Elementary School gym, 12:15-1 p.m. Every other Tuesday. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 527-5426. Alburgh Playgroup: Children and adult caregivers enjoy lively music and movement. Alburgh Elementary School, 12:15-1 p.m. Every other Tuesday. Free. Info, 527-5426. Burlington Family Play: Big Room: Activities for parents and children ages birth-5. Work on your GED or high school diploma, take ESL classes or parenting workshops. Baby Room: Learn about your child’s development, baby signs and baby massage. Sessions run simultaneously. VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Burlington Fathers and Children Together: Evening fun for dads and kids up to first grade. VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420.
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Fletcher Playgroup: Kids come to play and interact with games, toys, arts and crafts, snacks, and resources. Elementary school gym, Fletcher, 9-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 8499368 or 782-3370. Georgia Playgroup: Time to kid around in a constructive, fun fashion. Georgia Youth Center, 9:30-11 a.m. Second and fourth Thursday. Ages birth-6 with caregiver. Free. Info, 527-5426. Hardwick Playgroup: Children get out and play while community parents meet each other. Village Center Hardwick Elementary School, 8:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Info, 652-5138. Johnson Baby Chat: Playgroup for the youngest members of the community and their caregivers. Socialize while learning about development expectations. Church of the Nazarene, Johnson, 10-11:30 a.m. Fourth Tuesday. Free. Info, 888-3470.
South Hero Playgroup: Free play, crafting and snacks entertain children and their grown-up companions. South Hero Congregational Church, 10-11 a.m. Info, 527-5426.
Winooski Playgroup: Stories, songs and playtime. O’Brien Community Center, Winooski, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Ages birth-5 with caregiver. Free. Info, 655-1422.
St. Albans Playgroup: Children and their caregivers socialize and play. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, St. Albans, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
FRIDAYS Burlington Crawlers, Waddlers and Toddlers: Learn about development stages, share with other parents, play, move and have fun. VNA Family Room, St. Joseph’s School, Burlington, 9:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 999-5100.
WEDNESDAYS Burlington Family Play at the Ethan Allen Homestead: Indoor and outdoor activities for parents and children ages birth-5 with busing and carpooling from the VNA Family Room. Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington, 9 a.m.-noon Free. Info, 8604420, hartwick@vnacares.org.
Essex Town Hall Playgroup: Community playgroup and circulating toy library. Essex Town Hall, 9-11:30 a.m. Schedule varies, call to confirm. Ages birth-5. Free. Info, 872-9580.
Charlotte Summer Playgroup: Get outside to play with friends and enjoy a new group activity each week. Charlotte Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 764-5820. Enosburg Playgroup: Come to enjoy circle time, free play and a craft. Please bring a snack for your child. American Legion, Enosburg, 9-11 a.m. Free. Info, 933-6435. Essex Welcome Baby Playgroup: Connect with other parents and babies. Essex Junction Teen Center, Municipal Building, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 846-7621. Hinesburg Playgroup for Dads: Evening fun for dads and kids up to first grade. Enjoy food, activities and discussion with other adults. Annette’s Preschool, Hinesburg, 5-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 860-4420. Isle La Motte Playgroup: Playful activities, social time and games. In the school gym if it rains. Elementary school playground, Isle La Motte, 10-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 527-5426. Williston Baby Time Playgroup: Baby play and parent time, too. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.-noon. For infants and toddlers. Info, 878-4918. THURSDAYS Burlington EvoMamas Playgroup: EvoMamas fosters community, support and friendship in the transition between pregnancy and motherhood. Evolution Physical Therapy & Yoga, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Second and fourth Thursday. Free. Info, 864-9642.
Burlington Family Play: See Tuesdays. Burlington Family Play at the Ethan Allen Homestead: See Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Georgia Summer Playgroup: Hit the beach for a fun summer playgroup. Georgia Town Beach, 10 a.m.-noon. Rain location: Georgia Youth Center. Ages birth-6 with caregiver. Free. Info, 527-5426. Milton Parent/Child Playgroup: See Tuesdays. Montgomery Infant Playgroup: Play time for the little ones while parents meet and talk. Montgomery Town Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-2 and adult caregivers. Free. Info, 527-5426. Morrisville Baby Chat: Playgroup for the youngest members of the community and their caregivers. Socialize while learning about development expectations. Local specialist in child health available. Congregational Church, Morrisville, 10-11:30 a.m. First Thursday. Free. Info, 888-3470. Richmond Welcome Baby Group: Welcome the newest community members with play and socialization. Richmond Free Library, 10 a.m. Second Thursday. Free. Info, 899-4415. St. Albans MOPS: Crafts and group play for kids while moms enjoy a speaker. Church of the Rock, St. Albans, 6:30 p.m. First and third Thursday. Free. Ages birth-6. Info, 524-7047.
Fairfield Summer Playgroup: Meet new friends at the library. Play games, do crafts and listen to stories. Bent Northrop Memorial Library, Fairfield, 9:45-11 a.m. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 827-3945. Montgomery Tumble Time: Allow little ones to expend some of their abundant energy. Lots of toys and space to run in the gym, play mat for babies. Montgomery Elementary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. St. Albans MOPS: See Thursdays, 8:45-11 a.m. First and third Friday. SATURDAYS Fairfax Summer Playgroup: Playground fun for kids and adults, weather permitting. BFA Fairfax Community Playground, 6-7 p.m. Ages birth-5. Free. Info, 527-5426. Franklin Playgroup: Playgroup begins with a story followed by a snack and projects. Franklin Central School, 10-11 a.m. Second Saturday. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 285-6678. Morrisville Baby Chat: See Thursdays, Lamoille Family Center, Morrisville. Second Saturday. North Hero Tumble Time: Children and adult caregivers enjoy stations and free play around the gym with a snack provided. North Hero Elementary School, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426. South Burlington Tots and Tykes Open Gym: Open, unstructured play time for South Burlington families. Chamberlin Gym, South Burlington, 9:30-11 a.m. Ages 1-5 and caregivers. Free. Info, 846-4108.
Fairs & Festivals
summervale: Sample local fare and brave an open mic while the kids take part in relay races, puppet shows and art projects at Kids’ Circus. Chow down on hearth-baked pizza and other vittles, including a tasting of Vermont greens. Donate homegrown produce and receive City Market coupons. Calkins Community Barn, Intervale Center, Burlington, 5:30-8:30 p.m. All ages. Preregister for open mic. $5 family, free admission with five-pound produce donation. Info, 660-0440.
Health & Fitness
evening mountain rides: Grab your mountain bike and hit the Hard’ack trails for a guided evening ride with the family. Groups divided by difficulty level. Hard’ack, St. Albans, 6-7 p.m. Ages 6 and up. Free. Info, 524-6796. hot mama Workout: Bring your babies in their strollers or your older kids for some playtime as you improve your fitness. The class includes circuits, weights, intervals and plyometrics for a fat-burning, muscle-toning, heart-strengthening hour of fitness. City Hall Gym, St. Albans, 9-10 a.m. All ages. Preregister, but drop-in welcome. $38 St. Albans resident/six weeks, $42 nonresident; $10 drop-ins. Info, 524-1500, ext. 266.
Library & Books
Jeh Kulu drum & dance: Move to the rhythms of traditional West African music and dance. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 2 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Real Science.
FREE!
Aug cAlendAr
REAL FUN!
music With raphael: Little ones feel the beat during this music program. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m. Ages birth-5 with adult. Free. Info, 878-4918. summer readers celebrate: Kids and teens who are registered in the St. Albans Summer Reading Program are invited to celebrate their reading success with cake, ice cream, games and prizes (including a prize drawing for teen readers). St. Albans Free Library, 2-4 p.m. Registered program participants only. Free. Info, 524-1507.
BIG APPLE
summer Teen club: Fight summertime boredom with movies, snacks, book discussions, comics, parties and games every Thursday. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 12 and up. Free. Info, 878-4918.
KID’S CAMP KID’S CAMP Ages: 3 yo-5th Graders
Amid the exciting sights and sounds of the city, kids will learn that they can connect faith and life. During their day in the city, kids will Worship at Times Square and have Bible Study at Battery Park. While touring the city, they will also visit:
Nature & Science
a shipwreck comes alive: See August 3. Kitchen chemistry: Explore chemical reactions as you combine common household products and get unexpected results. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
• Midtown Snacks • Missions Central • Playground 1017 • Crafts District
The adventure begins...
straw rockets: Using the power of air, make a rocket and see how far it will fly. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
August 15th-19th • 9 AM-2 PM Daybreak Community Church 67 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester • For more information call Shannon Merchant at 338-9118 or visit our web site at www.daybreakvermont.org.
5 friday, p. 32
submit your september events by august 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
k8v-DaybreakCommunityChurch0811.indd 1
Open daily 10–5 Exit 13, I-91, Norwich, VT www.montshire.org • 802-649-2200
7/25/11 k8v-Montshire0611.indd 11:14 AM 1
5/23/11 1:03 PM
Tuesday, August 9 at 10:00 am
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656.0750 | www.flemingmuseum.org
Kids VT
This film follows four babies from different parts of the globe as they navigate their first year of life.
August 2011
friday nighT game nighT: Fridays, August 5, 12, 19 and 26, 7 p.m. Elmore State Park, Lake Elmore. All ages. Free. Info, 888-2982, vtstateparks.com/htm/events.htm.
Montshire Museum of Science
KidsVT.com
coax the kids away from their video games with the promise of a more active competition. At friday nighT game nighT at elmore state park, your tribe can take on other families in a friendly, old-school match of volleyball, kickball or capture the flag. fngn promises to get kids of all ages moving no matter what mother nature doles out. “If the weather is bad, the fun moves indoors,” says park interpreter and fngn organizer matt cioni. Arrive at the park early and take advantage of lake elmore’s beach; kayak and boat rentals; hiking trails; and picnic areas complete with grills — or stay and set up camp for a night or two.
—Parents Magazine names the Montshire as one of the best science centers in the country.
courtesy of vermont stAte pArks
Game On!
“Packed with familyfriendly experiments and plenty of stuff to touch...”
5 FRIDAY
Midsummer Dreamin’
Arts ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32. ‘The Little Mermaid and the Prince’: QuarryWorks presents a fairy-tale — focused play for young audiences. Adamant Music School, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 229-6978. This hilarious ‘The Princess and the Pea’: This story by Hans Christian Andersen and performed by St. Michael’s Playhouse tells the tale of a bashful prince, an unlikely princess and a peculiarly hard pea. McCarthy Arts Center Theater, St. Michael’s College, Colchester, noon. All ages. $9.50 person. Info, 654-2281. Zoppe Family Circus: See August 4.
Community
Friday Night Game Night: See spotlight, page 31.
Fairs & Festivals
Festival of Fools: See spotlight, page 38.
Health & Fitness
Kids Open Gymnastics: See August 3.
Library & Books
Teen thespians from Very Merry Theatre take on Shakespeare and make it their own in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, THE ’40S MUSICAL. The show travels the region in August in a 19th-century-style theater wagon, making nine stops from Stowe to Shelburne. “One of the great things about doing Shakespeare with kids, in my mind, is taking slightly bigger themes and making them larger than life and fun,” says VMT founder and director Don Wright, who wrote the musical adaptation with Ashley O’Brien. Their version transports Shakespeare’s fairies and sprites to the American Midwest of the late 1940s, complete with swing music and drive-in diners. “We’re taking a classic story and putting it in a new context,” he says. “Younger kids see the older kids having a blast. We simplify the language, and we make the classics inventive, current and fun.”
Family Movie Night: Catch a flick with the family; popcorn and drinks provided. Call for movie titles. Alburgh Library, 7-9 p.m. Ages 6 and up. Free. Info, 796-6077.
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM THE ’40S MUSICAL: Tuesday, August 2, 6 p.m., Bristol Village Green; Wednesday, August 3, 5 p.m., Big Picture Theater & Café, Waitsfield; Thursday, August 4, 6:30 p.m., Basin Harbor, Vergennes; Friday, August 5, 6:30 p.m., Maple Street Park, Essex Junction; Monday, August 8, 2 p.m., Charlotte Library; Tuesday, August 9, 7 p.m., Shelburne Farms (fundraiser); Wednesday, August 10, noon, Battery Park, Burlington; Thursday, August 11, 7 p.m., Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe; and Friday, August 12, 6:30 p.m., Staige Hill Farm, Charlotte. All ages. Free. Info, 3551461, verymerrytheatre.org.
Stuffed-Animal Sleepover: Drop off your favorite teddy bear or other stuffed animal at the library on Friday and return Saturday morning to find out what he or she was up to during a fun slide show featuring the photographic evidence. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 9 a.m. drop off stuffed animals before library closes at 5:30 p.m. Friday. All ages. Free. Info, 223-3338. Summer Reading Picnic: Celebrate the end of Alburgh’s Summer Reading Program with a picnic for the whole family. Alburgh Library, 3-5 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 796-6077.
Nature & Science
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3.
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Chromatography Flowers: See August 2. Foodways Fridays: Follow a recipe for fun with this program that teaches children and adults how heirloom vegetables are used in historic recipes prepared in the Billings farmhouse kitchen. Each week a different recipe brings alive the history of old-variety veggies. Billings Farm and Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. $12 adult, $6 child 5-15, $3 child 2 and younger. Info, 457-2355. Turtle Discovery: See August 2.
6 SATURDAY
Arts
Arts First: Free art activities for youths. Studio Place Arts, Barre, 1-3:30 p.m. Ages 7-10. Preregister. Free. Info, 479-7069. ‘The Little Mermaid and the Prince’: See August 5, 2 and 5 p.m. ‘The Princess and the Pea’: See August 5, noon. Zoppe Family Circus: See August 4, 11 a.m.
Submit your September events by August 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
Community
Heroes Day: Bring the whole family this event, featuring a National Guard fair with Vermont State Police and Essex police, fire and rescue; Tom Murphy’s success and anti-bullying workshops for middle and highschoolers; helicopter rides and the chance to check out police cruisers and fire engines; a bounce castle for little ones; and shopping specials. Essex Shoppes & Cinema, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4200. Respite for Moms: Mothers and caregivers of children and adults with special needs relax during this overnight camping trip sponsored by Vermont Family Network. Lake Carmi State Park, Franklin, 5 p.m. Preregister. Info, 800800-4005, ext. 201.
Fairs & Festivals
Festival of Fools: See spotlight, page 38.
Nature & Science
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3. Champ: Unsolved Mystery of the Lake: This 20-minute interactive program for the whole family explores the facts and legends of the Lake Monster. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 12:30 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 877-324-6386. Super Science Day: Microworlds: Explore worlds of microscopic wonder using an array of magnifying instruments. Observe everything from the weave of a T-shirt to invertebrates in pond water to the nuclei of your own cheek cells. Montshire Museum, Norwich, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. Free with museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Wood Carving Demo: All ages learn about the art of wood carving and see bird projects in progress. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 1-2 p.m. Free with admission. Info, 434-2167.
7 SUNDAY
Arts
‘The Little Mermaid and the Prince’: See August 5, 2 p.m. ‘The Princess and the Pea’: See August 5, noon and 10 a.m. Zoppe Family Circus: See August 4, 11 a.m. Community Respite for Moms: See August 6, through 11 a.m.
Fairs & Festivals
Antique Tractor Day: Get your fix of all things tractor with a parade, tractor-drawn wagon rides, rope-making demos, make-it-and-take-it wooden tractors for kids, ice cream making, a sandbox to play in with toy tractors from the farm (or bring your own) and more. Lunch and snacks provided by the Teago Volunteer Fire Department (proceeds benefit the department). Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. $12 adult, $11 adult age 62 and up, $6 child age 5-15, $3 child age 3-4, free for children age 2 and under. Admission includes access to dairy farm, farm-life exhibits and farmhouse. Info, 457-2355. Festival of Fools: See spotlight, page 38. Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival: Dragon boats fill the lake as 90 teams of 2000 paddlers race on Lake Champlain in 300-meter sprints. With live entertainment, food, silent auctions and other lakefront activities, it’s an event with appeal for the whole family. Proceeds benefit cancer survivors. Waterfront Park, Burlington, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, ldyer@gmav.net
Library & Books
Read to a Dog: Read to an adorable pooch from Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-2 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Nature & Science
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3. Birds as Your Neighbors: Kids are invited to hike, explore, create, carve, act, write and investigate birds and their habitats in this Sundays for Fledglings program. Birds of Vermont Museum, Huntington, 2-2:45 p.m. Intended for children in grades 1-4. Free with museum admission. Info, 434-2167. Champ: Unsolved Mystery of the Lake: See August 6. Color Mixing: See August 1. Gearing Up: Build machines with gears and find out how different types of gears change how something moves during this lab-coat investigation. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Ages 9 and up. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
8 MONDAY
Arts ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32. Draw Comics!: See August 1. Musical Mondays: See August 1. 8 MONDAY, P. 34
AUG CALENDAR
Ongoing Story Times MONDAYS Bristol Toddler Story Time: Introduce your little one to the library and children’s books with activities and music. Lawrence Memorial Library, Bristol, 10:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366. Burlington Stories With Megan: Enjoy a fun-filled preschool story time with rhymes, songs and books. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. First and fourth Monday. Ages 2-5. Free. Info, 865-7216. Marshfield Story Time: Readaloud tales with a cross-cultural theme catch the ear of youngsters. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10 a.m. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 426-3581. Milton Infant Story Time: Little ones enjoy lap time, songs and stories. Milton Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Ages birth-18 months. Free. Info, 893-4644. Richmond Pajama Time: Stories with Douglas while decked out in your bedtime best. Richmond Free Library, 6:30-7 p.m. Ages 2-6. Free. Info, 434-3036. St. Albans Story Time: Book hounds hear stories, sing songs and play. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-6 and caregivers. Free. Info, 524-1507. Stowe Monday Morning Story Time: Little lit lovers share stories and songs. Stowe Community Room, Stowe Free Library, 1010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 253-6145. Waterbury Toddlers-n-Twos: Active stories designed for kids ages 18-36 months and their caregivers. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
TUESDAYS
Hinesburg Toddler Story Time: Songs, stories and finger plays. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 9:30-10 a.m. First and third Tuesday. Ages birth-3. Free. Info, 482-2878. Lyndonville Baby/Toddler Story Time: Connect with library friends and enjoy stories, songs, storyboards and finger plays. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 10 a.m. Ages birth-3 and caregivers. Free. Info, 626-5475. Richmond Story Time: Tall tales and simple stories. Richmond Free Library, 10:30-11 a.m. Ages 2-6. Free. Info, 434-3036. Shelburne Story Time With Webby: Lively readings of children’s books related to the museum collections with new stories offered each week. Shelburne Museum, 10:30-11 a.m. Intended for preschoolers, but all are welcome. Free with admission. Info, 985-3346. South Burlington Tiny Tots Story Time: Enjoy stories, songs and interactive play stations that foster socialization skills and a love of reading. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Ages 1-3. Free. Preregister. Info, 652-7080. Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays. Williston Summer Story Hour: Stories and a craft entertain young readers. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4918. WEDNESDAYS
Vergennes Story Time: Themed stories with American Sign Language and an activity. Bixby Library, Vergennes, 10:30 a.m. Preschool ages. Free. Info, 877-2211. Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays. Lincoln Children’s Story Time: Songs, crafts and other activities for children. Lincoln Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Ages birth-5. Free. Info, 453-2665.
Swanton Story Hour: Come listen to stories and songs, and do an easy craft. Swanton Public Library, 10-11 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 868-7656.
Milton Toddler Story Time: Toddlers tackle tall tales and enjoy songs and crafts. Milton Public Library, 10 a.m. Ages 18 months-3 years. Free. Info, 893-4644.
Waterbury Baby Lap Time: Story time designed for babies birth to 18 months with songs, simple rhymes and stories. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.
Montgomery Tumble Time: Allow little ones to expend some of their abundant energy. Lots of toys and space to run in the gym, and a play mat for babies. Montgomery Recreation Center, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 527-5426.
THURSDAYS Barre Kids Story Hour: Snacks and activities follow an hour of tales. LACE, Barre, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 476-4276. Bristol Preschool Story Time: Explore early literacy skills with reading, music, movement and projects. Lawrence Memorial Library, Bristol, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 453-2366. Fairfax PJ Story Time: Enjoy a bedtime story at the library with other little lit lovers. Fairfax Community Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 527-5426. Franklin Story Time: Preschool story time filled with fun crafts, silly songs and stories. Haston Library, Franklin, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 285-6505. Middlebury Preschool Story Hour: Stories, songs, rhymes and a craft. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Follows school calendar. Ages 3 and up. Free. Info, 388-4097. Shelburne Story Time With Mary Catherine Jones: The musician and storyteller brings stories, songs and rhymes to the Pierson Library, Shelburne, 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Free. Info, 985-5124.
• Sailor Arts • Colonial Crafts • On-Water Ecology
FRIDAYS
South Burlington Story Time: Staff read newly released board books and old favorites. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 10 a.m. Ages 1-3. Free. Info, 864-8001.
Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays.
Summer Kids Programs ages 6-14
South Burlington Preschool Story Hour: Stories and activities focus on developing early literacy skills and preparing preschoolers to read. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-5. Preregister. Free. Info, 652-7080. Waterbury Preschool Story Time: A time for great stories, puppets and fun songs. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m. Ages 3-6. Free. Info, 244-7036. Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: See Mondays. SATURDAYS Burlington Story Time for Kids: Weekly time to listen to favorite and new stories. Borders Books & Music, Burlington, 11 a.m. All ages. Free. Info, 865-2711. Colchester Saturday Stories: Children of all ages enjoy great picture books. Burnham Library, Colchester, 10-10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-0313. Shelburne Teddy Bear Story Time: See Wednesdays. South Burlington Saturday Story Time: Staff read newly released books that will resonate with children up to grade 2. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 864-8001.
Open Daily 10am-5pm
(802) 475-2022
www.lcmm.org
Aug. 17-21, 2011
Orleans County Fair 144th
Barton, Vermont 802-525-3555
www.orleanscountyfair.net
a Blue riBBon Agricultural Fair
FREE shows
Rosaire’s Big Cat Encounter Star Family Circus • Banana Derby Pork Chop Revue Comedy Show
PAY-ONE-PRICE ADMISSION INCLUDES ALL RIDES!
NEW DREAMLAND AMUSEMENTS $10 Wed-Thurs/$12 Fri-Sun World Record Cadillac Parade on Wednesday (Bring YOUR Caddy!) • Live Bands on the grounds for your listening enjoyment • Tractor Pull • Horse, Pony & Oxen Pulling • 4-H Exhibits • Cattle, Sheep, Llama, Poultry & Rabbit Competition & Displays • Arts,Crafts & Produce Competition • Antique Exhibits • Maple Sugar House • 4x4 Truck Pull • Adult Beverage Tent w/ Entertainment • Mechanical Bull • Industrial Lane • Youth,Gymkhana & Open Horse Shows • Harness Racing • Demolition Derby • Coin & Pig Scrambles* Children’s Barnyard • NEW interactive Milking Parlor & Cheese Processing Display
Friendly Vendors Selling anything you can imagine & some things you can’t Camper Hookups by the day or week The Nicest Little Agricultural Fair in the Northeast!
k8v-orleansCountyFair0711.indd 1
33
Lyndonville Preschool Story Time: Enjoy stories, the letter of the day, a focus on one of the six early literacy skills each week, songs, crafts and friends. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-5 and families. Free. Info, 626-5475.
Shelburne Teddy Bear Story Time: A bear-y good time with books and stories. Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Shelburne, 11 a.m. Ages 3-5. Free. Info, 985-1643.
St. Albans Story Time: See Mondays.
KIDS VT
Barre Children’s Story Hour: Tots tune in for audible prose. Aldrich Public Library, Barre, 10:30 a.m. Ages 2-5. Free. Info, 476-7550.
Hinesburg Preschool Story Hour: Drop by for stories, songs and games. Carpenter-Carse Library, Hinesburg, 11 a.m. Ages 3-5 with caregiver. Free. Info, 482-2878.
Richford PJ Story Time: Get ready for bed and books: Dress up for a story in your bedtime best. Arvin A. Brown Library, Richford, 5:30-6:30 p.m. First Wednesday. Ages birth-6 and adult caregivers. Free. Info, 527-5426.
South Burlington Baby Story Time: Infants are introduced to the wonders of language with nursery rhymes, songs, finger plays and board books. South Burlington Community Library, 10:30 a.m. For children who are not yet walking. Preregister. Free. Info, 652-7080.
AUGUST 2011
Alburgh Story Hour: Little ones enjoy stories, songs, crafts and snacks. Alburgh Library, 10:3011:30 a.m. Ages 2-5. Free. Info, 796-6077.
Grand Isle PJ Story Time: Curl up in your PJs with a good book. Grand Isle Free Library, 6:30-7:30 p.m. First Tuesday. Ages birth-6. Free. Info, 527-5426.
Middlebury Stories With Shoopie and Lily: Read to a Therapy Dog. Ilsley Public Library, Middlebury, 4-5 p.m. Preregister. Free. Info, 388-4097.
18th Century Trades & Crafts August 20-21
KIDSVT.COM
Williston Story Time at Buttered Noodles: Early readers get together for group book time; snack and juice provided. Buttered Noodles, Williston, 10-10:30 a.m. Ages 1-7. Free. Info, 764-1810.
Barre Kids Story Hour: Literature hounds show up for tall tales. East Barre Branch Library, Barre, kids under 3 meet at 10 a.m., ages 3-5 meet at 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 476-5118.
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8 MONDAY (CONTINUED)
Community
Ongoing Exhibits
Family Network & Monsters: Take your family out to a ballgame starring the Vermont Lake Monsters; tickets are a steal with the Vermont Family Network as your host. Centennial Field, Burlington, 7-10 p.m. All ages. $6 person (half of each ticket sale benefits VFN). Info, 876-5315, ext. 248.
BILLINGS FARM & MUSEUM
Magic With Tom Joyce: An evening of magic and comedy for the whole family finishes off the summer reading program. Program participants pick up their certificates and free books. On the lawn (inside if it rains), Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 6:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 878-4918.
ECHO LAKE AQUARIUM AND SCIENCE CENTER
Library & Books
The Child in Art: The universal experience of childhood becomes apparent in this exhibit’s overarching themes: innocence, protection, play and work. See depictions of children from cultures as different as 18th-century China and 20th-century America. Wolcott Gallery, Fleming Museum, University of Vermont, Burlington. Open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. Info, 656-0750.
Music With Raphael: See August 1. One World, Many Stories: See August 1.
Nature & Science
The Quilting Life: The 25th Annual Quilt Exhibition, features quilting activities and demos for all ages and skill level, quilt stories for children, and other daily quilt programs. Woodstock, open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All ages. $12 adult, $11 adult age 62 and up, $6 child age 5 to 15, $3 child age 3 to 4, free for children ages 2 and under. (Admission includes access to dairy farm, farm-life exhibits and farmhouse.) Info, 457-2355. Glow: Living Lights: Explore bioluminescence with this exhibit that features light-up creatures including fireflies, glow worms and angler fish. Burlington. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $12.50 adult, $10.50 senior and student, $9.50 child ages 3 to 17, free for toddlers and members. Info, 877-324-6386. FLEMING MUSEUM
MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3. Champ: Unsolved Mystery of the Lake: See August 6.
Robot Zoo: A nationally touring exhibit that allows visitors to interact with complex mechanical animals. Norwich. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $12 adult, $10 child, free for children under 2. Info, 649-3673.
Junior Fishing Program: See August 1. Mirrors: Use mirrors to investigate symmetry and turn simple shapes into complex and interesting patterns. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200. Optical Tops: Experience how rotational motion can create unusual optical illusions. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
9 TUESDAY
Arts ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32. Ben & Jerry’s Free Outdoor Movie Festival: See spotlight, page 28. Craftacular Tuesdays: See August 2. Crafternoons: See August 2. Creative Tuesdays: See August 2.
Education Brattleboro La Leche League Newborn Group: Open group for breast-feeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding. Kids PLAYce, Brattleboro, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 2575648 or 254-5264.
34
KIDS VT
AUGUST 2011
KIDSVT.COM
Time-Travel Tuesdays: See August 2.
Health & Fitness
Kids Run at Hard’ack: See August 2. Stroller Strolling: See August 2.
Nature & Science
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3. Champ: Unsolved Mystery of the Lake: See August 6.
SHELBURNE MUSEUM Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Info, 985-3346. A Passion for Quilts: Joan Lintault Collects: Quilts collected and made by one of the pioneering art quilt makers. Featuring contemporary quilts by Joan Lintault along with 26 newly acquired quilts. COURTESY OF MONTSHIRE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
Lock, Stock and Barrel: The Terry Tyler Collection of Vermont Firearms: A rare collection of 106 Vermont firearms, made from 1790 through 1900, recently acquired by Shelburne Museum. Paperwork in 3D: Ingenious work by 23 contemporary artists who transform flat sheets of paper into amazing three-dimensional art. Walking Tour: Full Steam Ahead: Discover the restored 1906 steamboat Ticonderoga as it existed in 1923. Daily at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE Wildlife specialists lead hands-on education programs year-round at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Quechee. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Info, 359-5000.
Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini Concerts: See August 3.
Community
Cookie Decorating: See August 3. Summer Travelers: See August 3.
Education
Burlington La Leche League: Open to all women; bring your questions, babies, older kids! La Leche League lending library available. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 9:30 a.m. Free. Info, 985-8228. Kids Cooking Up A Story: See August 3.
Health & Fitness
Kids Open Gymnastics: See August 3.
Library & Books
A World of Crafts: Kids sample art projects from around the world. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Grades 1-5. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956. Culture Fest: Summer program readers (and friends and family) celebrate their progress with a multicultural festival featuring snacks, music, certificates and prizes. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6:30-8 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 865-7216. Highgate End-of-Summer Celebration: Say so long to summer with a community event featuring the National Guard’s climbing wall, a slip-and-slide and Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream. Municipal Park, Highgate, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970. Ice Cream Social: Participants in South Burlington’s Summer Reading Program are treated to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and games to celebrate the end of summer. South Burlington Community Library, 6 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 652-7080. Teen Night: Teens make and enjoy their own refreshing mango lassi (a traditional Punjabi yogurt-based drink) while watching Bend It Like Beckham, a film in which the heroine bends both a soccer ball and her traditional Punjabi parents’ rules. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 6 p.m. Preregister. Free. Info, 223-3338.
Nature & Science
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3.
Through the Eyes of Raptors: Explore the natural world through the eyes of raptors and be amazed by these efficient predators. Bird programs cover the mechanics of flight, seasonal migration and conservation issues. 11 to 11:30 a.m. All ages.
Champ: Unsolved Mystery of the Lake: See August 6.
Raptors Up Close: Explore the fascinating lives of birds. Learn how hundreds of birds are rehabilitated each year and the fundamentals of how raptors are trained. Touchable artifacts and hands-on materials. 1:30 to 2 p.m. All ages.
Straw Rockets: See August 4.
Kitchen Chemistry: See August 4. Wagon-Ride Wednesdays: See August 3.
11 THURSDAY Microscopic Investigations: Use microscopes to magnify items and discover that there is more to see than meets the naked eye. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200. Sound Science: Sounds are all around; experiment with how they are created and how they travel. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
The Human Animal: Rockhopper Outdoor Education shows kids how our earliest ancestors dodged saber-tooth cats, hunted wooly mammoths, and colonized the world before the wheel or the bow were invented. Handson activities outside. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m. Grades 1 and up. Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956.
10 WEDNESDAY
Arts ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32.
Submit your September events by August 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
Arts ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The ’40s Musical’: See spotlight, page 32. Groovin’ on the Green: See August 4. Mom’s Matinees: See August 4.
Community
Family Fun Night: Make the most of the waning days of summer with family and friends. The National Guard sets up a 25-foot climbing wall and games for all. Municipal Park, Highgate, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 868-3970.
Aug cAlendAr
shop on the Green: See August 4. summervale: See August 4.
Education
Kids in the Kitchen: mac & cheese: Chef Nina Lesser-Goldsmith teaches kids how to make classic American macaroni and cheese that is crunchy on top and gooey in the middle during this hands-on class. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Preregister. $20 child with adult. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Fairs & Festivals
Lake champlain maritime Festival: Experience boat building, sample local fare, enjoy music and check out hands-on exhibits with your kids during this four-day celebration of the past, present and future of Lake Champlain. Waterfront, Burlington, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 482-3313.
Health & Fitness
Evening mountain Rides: See August 4. Hot mama Workout: See August 4.
Library & Books
Build our Basin: Lake Champlain is a great destination, but how does the water in the lake get here? Where does it go? Who is responsible for keeping it clean? Build a model of the Lake Champlain watershed, spray it with rain and watch this dynamic system in action. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Burlington, 12:30 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 877-324-6386. magnets: Discover cool ways to experiment with and use magnets. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
champ: Unsolved mystery of the Lake: See August 6. Honeybees: Stop in and find out what the honeybee colony is up to. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200. Hoopster Glider: See August 3.
12 Friday
Arts ‘A midsummer Night’s dream, The ’40s musical’: See spotlight, page 32.
Community
13 Saturday
Fairs & Festivals
Lake champlain maritime Festival: See August 11.
Arts First: See August 6.
Discovering Personal greatness in pre-school through grade 8 students
Respite for dads: Fathers and caregivers of children and adults with special needs relax during this overnight camping trip sponsored by Vermont Family Network. Lake Carmi State Park, Franklin, 5 p.m. Preregister. Info, 800800-4005, ext. 201. Yard sale for Kidsafe: More than 100 tables are filled with new-to-you treasures at the 8th annual yard sale benefitting KidSafe (an organization committed to preventing and addressing child abuse and neglect). Shop for household items, children’s clothing, books, vintage items and collectibles, tools, furniture, and more during this two-day event. Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages. $1 person suggested entry donation. Info, 863-9626.
Fairs & Festivals
Lake champlain maritime Festival: See August 11.
Nature & Science
A shipwreck comes Alive: See August 3.
Library & Books
mirrors: See August 8.
Build our Basin: See August 12.
802.658.3992 www.MCSChool.org A ministry of the Sisters of Mercy, Mater Christi is a private Catholic school in Burlington, Vermont.
Kids VT
Wood carving demo: See August 6.
Call to schedule your tour of Mater Christi School.
August 2011
Kids open Gymnastics: See August 3.
Family movie Night: See August 5.
Check-in at 8:00 a.m., Walk at 10:00 a.m.
crafty second saturdays: Drop in to this open session and complete a craft activity relating to an event in Vermont history. Snelling Room, Vermont History Museum, Montpelier, 1-3 p.m. All ages. Free with admission. Info, 479-8519.
Batteries and motors: Explore electricity and circuits by getting motors to spin and bulbs to light. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
Health & Fitness
Saturday August 20 at Battery Park in Burlington Saturday August 27 at the State House in Montpelier WALK or 5K RUN! Saturday August 27 on the Green in Middlebury Saturday August 27 at the Howe Center in Rutland
KidsVT.com
Friday Night Game Night: See spotlight, page 31.
Sponsored by:
Who sank the Boat?: Kids build a boat and see if it can withstand a challenge to survive a journey. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
Community
Spider-Man and distinctive likeness(es) thereof are trademarks of Marvel Characters Inc. and are used with permission. © 2008 Marvel Characters, Inc. All rights reserved. www.marvel.com.
r Walk our O in o J in 5K Runlier! e p t n o M
Foodways Fridays: See August 5.
summer Teen club: See August 4.
A shipwreck comes Alive: See August 3.
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A shipwreck comes Alive: See August 3.
Arts
Marv Meet e Spid l Comics er’ at Man Mon the tp WALelier K!
proudly presents the
Nature & Science
summer Reading Party: No Strings Marionette Company performs Handsome and Gretel, a new take on an old fairytale, before Brownell Library reading program participants receive their certificates and free books. A.D. Lawton School, Essex Junction, 2-3:15 p.m. All ages (reading program participants only). Preregister. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Nature & Science
Vermont
Perseid meteor shower Party: Craft meteor shower party favors and take a turn viewing the celestial excitement through a telescope. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10 p.m. (cloud/rain date: August 13) All ages. Free. Info, 223-3338.
©Ambient Photography
King street Block Party: You’re invited to help the King Street Center celebrate its 40th birthday. Block between St. Paul and Pine streets, Burlington, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 862-6736.
Prevent Child Abuse
35
Playing with the Past Kids party like it’s 1850 during Children’s Day And Lemonade Social, an afternoon of games and refreshments inspired by 19thcentury life. Stations on the Noyes House Museum lawn feature classic games, some obscure and some still popular today, including graces, jacks, marbles, croquet, blind man’s buff (no, not “bluff”), dominoes, cup-and-ball, badminton and hopscotch. Before kids get their game on, museum staff teach the history behind each activity, says museum director Scott McLaughlin. Jacks, for example, didn’t appear until the 1850s, after rubber was invented. In addition to tart-andsweet lemonade, kids snack on simple vanilla sugar cookies common in the 19th century and “a great, big watermelon,” says McLaughlin. Parents who would like to get involved should contact the Noyes House: The museum needs volunteers to help run the game stations. Children’s Day & Lemonade Social: Saturday, August 27, 1 to 4 p.m. Noyes House Museum, Morrisville. All ages. Free. Info, 888-7617. 14 Sunday
15 Monday
Arts
Arts
Circus Smirkus: Circus troupers seek the headlines and beat the deadlines, circus-style in this year’s news-themed performances. On highwire and aerials, as jugglers, clowns and more, performers provide the sensational Smirkus scoop, in a swell tribute to old-time journalism. Pico Mountain, Killington, 1 and 6 p.m. $20 adult and child 13 and up, $17 child 2-12. Info, circussmirkus.org.
Community
Respite for Dads: See August 13, through 11 a.m. Yard Sale for KidSafe: See August 13. Yoga on Church: Hundreds of yoga enthusiasts join together for a massive group Hatha yoga session to benefit Prevent Child Abuse Vermont. Participants are encouraged to bring a donation, yoga mat, props and water bottle. Equipment will not be supplied. Church Street Marketplace, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. All ages. Free. Info, leo@omtatsat.us.
Fairs & Festivals
kidsvt.com August 2011
Education
Rutland Breast-feeding Support Group: A group for new mothers or women considering breast-feeding. Rutland Regional Medical Center, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info 747-3688.
Nature & Science
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3. Draw Comics!: See August 1. Junior Fishing Program: See August 1. Leafcutter Ants: The leafcutter ant colony is a community of insect fungus farmers that grows its own food. Help provide the colony with its morning supply of leaves and get a close look at the insects. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200. Who Sank the Boat?: See August 12.
Time-Travel Tuesdays: See August 2.
Groove Around the Globe: Move and groove to the rhythms of music from around the world. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. All ages, but children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. Free. Info, 865-7216.
Health & Fitness
Kids Run at Hard’ack: See August 2. Stroller Strolling: See August 2.
Nature & Science
Fingerprints: Your fingerprints are completely unique to you, but have you ever looked at them closely? Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200. Paper-Cup Telephone: Can sound really travel through a string? Make your own phone and discover how sound waves move through different materials. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
17 Wednesday
16 Tuesday
Library & Books
Arts
Circus Smirkus in Montpelier: See August 14, Montpelier High School, 2 and 7 p.m. $20 adult and child 13 and up, $16 child 2-12.
Nature & Science
Craftacular Tuesdays: See August 2.
Craftsbury Chamber Players Mini Concerts: See August 3.
A Shipwreck Comes Alive: See August 3.
Kids VT
Musical Mondays: See August 1.
Health & Fitness
Lake Champlain Maritime Festival: See August 11.
Read to a Dog: See August 7.
36
Draw Comics!: See August 1.
Montpelier La Leche League Group: Open group for all breast-feeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding. Unitarian Church, Montpelier, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 2447416 or 223-0873.
Birds as Your Neighbors: See August 7. Build Our Basin: See August 12. Microscopic Investigations: See August 9. New England Wildlife: Examine the museum’s collection of animal mounts and other items to learn more about nearby animal life. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
Ben & Jerry’s Free Outdoor Movie Fest: See spotlight, page 28.
Education
Kids in the Kitchen: Muffins: Kids learn to make morning glory muffins packed with fruits, veggies and whole grains in this hands-on class led by Nina Lesser-Goldsmith. Maple-infused cream cheese tops off the mega-muffins for a healthy yet delicious snack (or breakfast). Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Preregister. $20 child with adult. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Arts
Community
Cookie Decorating: See August 3.
Education
Kids Cooking Up a Story: See August 3. Kid-Friendly Meal Class: Parents get some new dinner ideas that are sure to please their pickiest eaters in this cooking demo featuring Mexican lasagna, mac and cheese, and chicken and mixed veggie quesadillas. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 5:30 p.m. Preregister. $20 person. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1.
Submit your September events by August 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See August 3.
Library & Books
Nature & Science
Straw Oboes: Sounds are all around us. Experiment with how sounds are created and create your own miniature instrument. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. For preschool-age children and their families. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200. Wagon-Ride Wednesdays: See August 3. Who Sank the Boat?: See August 12.
18 Thursday
Arts
Groovin’ on the Green: See August 4. Mom’s Matinees: See August 4.
Community
Monsters vs. Scrappers: Join your neighbors to watch the Vermont Lake Monsters take on the Mahoning Valley Scrappers in a baseball game benefitting the Essex Junction community. Centennial Field, Burlington, 7:05 p.m. All ages. Discounted tickets ($6) available at Brownell Library in Essex Junction on August 1. Info, 878-6956. Shop on the Green: See August 4. Summervale: See August 4.
Health & Fitness
Evening Mountain Rides: See August 4. Hot Mama Workout: See August 4.
Library & Books
Summer Teen Club: See August 4.
Aug cAlendAr Nature & Science
Nature & Science
Get Fossilized: See August 1.
cells: Compare plant and animals cells using a microscope. You may get a chance to see your own cells. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 3 p.m. Ages 9 and up. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
color mixing: See August 1.
19 Friday
Community
Friday Night Game Night: See spotlight, page 31.
Health & Fitness
Kids open Gymnastics: See August 3.
Library & Books
Family movie Night: See August 5.
Nature & Science
Foodways Fridays: See August 5. Honeybees: See August 11.
20 Saturday
Arts
Arts First: See August 6. major mess: Beat the heat with water, bubbles and other outdoor fun. Purple Crayon Productions, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-noon. All ages, children 5 and under must be accompanied by an adult. $10 drop-in per hour. Info, 457-3500.
Nature & Science
chicken day: Learn everything you ever wanted to know about the chicken and the egg, no matter which came first. The event features egg tosses, stenciling, children’s stories, makeit-and-take-it craft activities and quality time with newly hatched chicks. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. $12 adult, $11 adult age 62 and up, $6 child age 5-15, $3 child age 3-4, free for children age 2 and under, (admission includes access to dairy farm, farm-life exhibits and farmhouse). Info, 457-2355. crafts and Trades of the 18th century: Costumed reenactors share the abilities and secrets of traditional crafts and trades: maritime skills firearms, open-air cooking, sewing, shipbuilding, blacksmithing and more. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Vergennes, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with admission. Info, 475-2022. summer scavenger Hunt: Families explore woodlands and meadows to find interesting items on their scavenger-hunt list. Live bird presentation follows hunt. Bring a camera if you have one. Shelburne Farms, 10 a.m.-noon. All ages. Preregister. $10 member parent with child, $5 additional child; $12 nonmember parent with child, $7 additional child. Info, 985-8686.
21 Sunday Read to a dog: See August 7.
Arts
draw comics!: See August 1.
Library & Books
one World, many stories: See August 1.
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802.864.9804
k8h-LakeChamplainFerry0611.indd 1
5/27/11 11:54 AM
Nature & Science
Kitchen chemistry: See August 4. straw Rockets: See August 10.
23 tueSday
Arts Ben & Jerry’s Free outdoor movie Festival: See spotlight, page 28. craftacular Tuesdays: See August 2. music in the Park: Pack a picnic for the park and spend the evening with neighbors listening to the tunes of the Milton Community Band. Bombardier Park, Milton, 7 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 893-4922.
Education Back-to-school immune system Boost: Learn how to stay strong for your family as fall and winter approach. Suzy Harris leads this class that focuses on achieving an immune system that keeps colds, flus and allergies at bay. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Preregister. Free. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1. Kids in the Kitchen: Popsicles: Kids learn to make refreshing popsicles from blended fruit, yogurt, fruit juice and more. The chef will have premade popsicles so everyone can chill out with a sample. Each child goes home with a sixpiece popsicle maker loaded and ready for the freezer. Healthy Living Natural Foods Market, South Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Preregister. $20 child with adult. Info, 863-2569, ext. 1. Time-Travel Tuesdays: See August 2.
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Health & Fitness
Kids Run at Hard’ack: See August 2. stroller strolling: See August 2.
Nature & Science
microscopic investigations: See August 9. sound science: See August 9.
Like us on Facebook.
24 WedneSday
(We like you, too!)
Community
» facebook.com/kidsvt
cookie decorating: See August 3.
Education
Kids cooking Up a story: See August 3.
Kids VT
Library & Books
Show your Lake Monsters ticket stub from the Show your Lake Monsters ticket stub from the night of the game and receive a night of the game and receive a FREE return trip that FREE return trip that same day same day at any 3 Northern LCT crossings! at any 3 Northern LCT crossings! www.ferries.com 802.864.9804
22 Monday
August 2011
Wood carving demo: See August 6.
Who sank the Boat?: See August 12.
KidsVT.com
super science day: splash!: Celebrate summer by exploring water and getting wet: Make boats and test their strength outside in Science Park, then investigate the properties of water in the Science Discovery Lab. Montshire Museum, Norwich, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. All ages. Free with museum admission. Info, 649-2200.
Birds as Your Neighbors: See August 7.
Health & Fitness
Kids open Gymnastics: See August 3.
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AUG CALENDAR 24 WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)
Kitchen Chemistry: See August 4.
Library & Books
Straw Rockets: See August 4.
Nature & Science
Fairs & Festivals
Education
Monarch Butterfly Tagging: Catch, tag and release migrating monarch butterflies. Bring a net if you have one. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. All ages. Free. Info, 229-6206. Wagon-Ride Wednesdays: See August 3.
25 THURSDAY
Arts
Mom’s Matinees: See August 4.
Community
Nature & Science
Chromatography Flowers: See August 2. Turtle Discovery: See August 2.
Summervale: See August 4.
Wood Carving Demo: See August 6.
Health & Fitness
28 SUNDAY
Library & Books
Summer Teen Club: Fight summertime boredom with movies, snacks, book discussions, comics, parties and games every Thursday. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 12 and up. Free. Info, 878-4918.
Get Fossilized: See August 1. Wiggly Worms: Wiggle on over to learn about our squirmy subterranean friends. Imagine what life is like underground then head off on a wild worm hunt, slither across the forest floor and finish up with a worm race. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 10-11 a.m. Ages 3-5 with adult. $8 member adult and child, $4 additional child; $10 nonmember adult and child, $4 additional child. Info, 434-3068.
26 FRIDAY
Community
Friday Night Game Night: See spotlight, page 31.
Health & Fitness
Library & Books
Read to a Dog: See August 7.
Nature & Science Balance: See August 3.
Birds as Your Neighbors: See August 7. Build a Better Battery: How does a battery work? You will make a real battery with simple, safe chemicals and measure the amount of electric energy your battery produces. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 11 a.m. Ages 9 and up. Free with admission. Info, 649-2200.
29 MONDAY
Arts
Draw Comics!: See August 1.
Library & Books
One World, Many Stories: See August 1.
Nature & Science
Junior Fishing Program: See August 1. Microscopic Investigations: See August 9.
30 TUESDAY
Library & Books
Arts
Movie Night: Watch as New Yorkers Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo start to leave the island of Madagascar in the family-friendly flick, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, rated PG. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.
Nature & Science
Health & Fitness
Hoopster Glider: See August 3. Monarch Butterfly Tagging: See August 24. Wagon-Ride Wednesdays: See August 3.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See August 3.
Fools Rush In Royal families have employed fools to entertain them since ancient times. This month, you can enjoy their antics for free. The FESTIVAL OF FOOLS provides plenty of laughs for family audiences as its performers bring comedy, theater, music and circus arts to the streets of downtown Burlington. Four main stages showcase acts from around the globe for three full days of foolery sponsored by Burlington City Arts. Now in its fourth year, the festival brings back crowd-favorite Pedro Tochas (pictured) of Portugal, who wowed locals last year with his silent clowning. “He’s so funny, so animated and so sweet. Kids and adults fall in love with this guy,” says festival director Lisa Giordano. “Circus Whacked!” is another must-see. Performed by EnJoy Productions of Seattle, the act features the producers’ own children, says Giordano, and lots of “on-the-ground comedy.” The Best of the Fest on Sunday brings the clowning to a close. Only a fool would miss this! FESTIVAL OF FOOLS: Friday through Sunday, August 5 through 7, continuous performances from noon to 10 p.m. Church Street Marketplace and City Hall Park, Burlington. All ages. Free. Info, 865-7166, burlingtoncity arts.org
Sound Science: See August 9.
Kids Open Gymnastics: See August 3.
Back-to-School Craft Night: Make a back-toschool craft to kick off the new school year. Alburgh Library, 7-8 p.m. Ages 6 and up. Free. Info, 796-6077.
Kids Cooking Up a Story: See August 3.
Nature & Science
Craftacular Tuesdays: See August 2. Creative Tuesdays: See August 2.
Health & Fitness
Kids Run at Hard’ack: See August 2. Stroller Strolling: See August 2.
Nature & Science
Batteries and Motors: See August 13. Mirrors: See August 8.
Color Mixing: See August 1. Foodways Fridays: See August 5.
Submit your September events by August 15 at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com.
COURTESY OF PEDRO TOCHAS
Nature & Science
KIDSVT.COM
Moose Festival: The North Country Moose Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this year with new features and familiar favorites. In addition to weekend activities in northern New Hampshire towns, family fun takes place in Canaan, too. Enjoy a moose watchers’ breakfast, moose county fair, classic car show, photo contest, helicopter rides, moose-burger cookout, clowns, live music and moose-calling contest. Canaan Community Park, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 800-698-8939.
Shop on the Green: See August 4.
Hot Mama Workout: See August 4.
AUGUST 2011
Honeybees: See August 11.
Cookie Decorating: See August 3.
Mirrors: See August 8.
KIDS VT
Groove Around the Globe: See August 17.
7 SATURDAY Children’s Day and Lemonade Social: See spotlight, page 36.
Library & Books
Community
Groove Around the Globe: See August 17.
Batteries and Motors: See August 13.
38
31 WEDNESDAY
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7/22/11 4:10 PM
HANDS-ON ✱ CRAFTING WITH KIDS
Propeller Sailboat Launching a new boat is always a blast. Here’s an easy and affordable way to build one at home. This propeller-powered vessel is made mainly from recycled materials you probably have handy. It should take about an hour for you and your kids to put it together, from start to finish. Build two or more, paint your names on the sides, and embark on a backyard boat race! Bonus: It’ll give you an opportunity to talk about measurements, teach kids nautical terms such as bow and stern, and explain how a propeller works.
— KATE LADDISON
40
KIDS VT
AUGUST 2011
KIDSVT.COM
materials • Half-gallon juice or milk carton • Scissors or utility knife • Duct tape — colored is best, but spiffy silver is fine, too • 3 chopsticks • 2 pieces of thick plastic, cut into 1 ¼ by 2 ½ inch pieces — we cut ours from a plastic milk jug • Sturdy rubber band • Plastic bag — a grocery bag works great
Share your fun craft ideas with us! Send them to ideas@kidsvt.com.
instructions Building the Boat 1. 2.
3. 4.
Begin by cutting the milk or juice carton in half, lengthwise. When you’re done, cut the angled portion off the top of one half. Then, pinch the sides slightly and slide that half into the other one, making a solid rectangle of the two pieces. Next make the boat water resistant by sealing it with duct tape. Using duct tape, attach a chopstick to the left and right — or port and starboard — sides of the boat. Make sure that at least two inches of each chopstick extend beyond the stern. This will allow the propeller to clear the end of the boat as it spins.
Making the Sail 1. 2. 3. 4.
5.
Cut a 7-inch square from a piece of the plastic bag. Fold the square in half, making a triangle. Lay a short edge of the triangle on the sticky side of a piece of duct tape, then fold the tape over the edge. Trim the ends of the tape to the shape of the triangle. Lay the second short edge of the triangle on another piece of tape. Before you fold the tape over the edge, place a chopstick along the edge of the triangle so that when you fold the tape over, you attach the triangle to the chopstick. Fold the tape and trim the ends to the shape of the triangle.
Building and Attaching the Propeller 1. 2. 3.
4.
5. 6.
Make a straight cut in each piece of thick plastic. The cut should be halfway down the length of the pieces, and should extend only to the middle. Don’t cut the pieces in two. Insert one piece into the other at the cut, forming an X. For a sturdier propeller, tape the joints of the X. Stretch the rubber band around the chopsticks attached to the boat so that the rubber band is taut — depending on the size of your rubber band, you may need to double up on the loop. Flatten the propeller and poke two of the blades through the rubber band so that strands of rubber band sit in opposite “quadrants” of the propeller blades. This will keep the propeller on the band when spinning. Poke a hole in the top of the carton and insert the sail. Put your boat into the pool, pond or bathtub, wind up the propeller, and shove off!
CELEBRATIONS! congrats Lil’ Brother!
Your preschool days are behind you. I can’t wait to go to school with you next year. — Love, Holden
celebrating a birthday, anniversary, first tooth?
Congratulate your family publicly in Kids VT for only $25/tile. Submit your info at kidsvt.com/celebrate or celebrations@kidsvt.com by August 15.
Happy Birthday, dad!
Welcome to the family, charlie!
Even after seven kids, 10 grandkids and five great-grands ... you haven’t lost a step!
Happy Birthday, charlie! Hope your 4th birthday is as much fun as visiting your old auntie in Vermont. — Love, Auntie Maryellen
Lots of love from all your mamas.
Welcome Harper! Willis and Tiffany Brigham welcomed daughter Harper Katherine on 6/21/11 at 7:27 pm. She weighed in at 7 lbs., 5 oz. and measured 20.5”.
Crafty
Happy Birthday Alanna! May your skies always be sunny...
Summer Fun!
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Cardboard Castles
For your next party, think outside the box — literally. Build a cardboard playhouse with your kids and 1:40 PM organize the party around it. It’s creative, inexpensive and gets them involved in the process. First, brainstorm a theme. Anything requiring a building or structure will work. Some suggestions: castles for a royally good time, the Emerald City for Oz-some fun or a barn for horsing around. Supplies: You’ll need large cardboard boxes, a utility knife, two to three rolls of packing tape on a dispenser, and paint or decorations. Get some boxes — big ones. It’s easier to cut down large boxes than it is to tape pieces together. Home improvement and furniture stores are great places to get free boxes. Thanks to Alice at Town & Country Furniture Shop, for suppling the boxes for my 6-year-old’s princess party!
KIDSVT.COM
Bust out the decorations. My two daughters painted the castle white while I painted the window boxes and special accents. Then we went through the dress-up bin for other accoutrements. With a few silk flowers and a sash, our princess castle was complete.
KIDS VT
Start cutting and taping. It took about a week for us to put together the castle for my daughter’s party. We used our garage as a work area, since the castle was quite large. Once you have the structure assembled, reinforce corners, doors and windows with extra tape.
AUGUST 2011
Sketch the design on paper. Plan a playhouse, a backdrop or even a photo-board with holes for kids’ faces.
42
Play! Our playhouse lasted for about three weeks. The kids loved it, and the total cost was under $50. k4t-Echo0811.indd 1
7/21/11 9:38 AM
Got an idea for the Party Planner? Send it to ideas@kidsvt.com.
Birthday club
sponsored by Zachary’s Family Fun Center in south Burlington
Congratulations to these August Birthday Club winners:
Every month, birthday kids win prizes, and their picture appears in Kids VT to make their birthdays extra special!
Grand Prize Winner
marin lives in south Burlington and turns 8 in August. she enjoys gymnastics, bike-riding and swimming.
Marin wins a birthday party for eight at Zachary’s Family Fun Center!
Lily lives in Jericho and turns 10 in August. she plays the harp, sings with the Essex Children’s Choir and loves community theater.
Victor lives in Milton and turns 7 in August. He loves Legos, cars, and playing basketball and soccer.
®
Celebrate your Birthday at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory!
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• Private party space staffed by a Vermont Teddy Bear Ambassador. • Newly refurbished 900 sq.ft. private party space
Parties available seven days a week! The Vermont Teddy Bear Company 6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT (802) 985-1627 • birthdayparties@vtbear.com k6h-VTTeddy-2-0611.indd 1
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Kolby lives in shoreham and turns 14 in August. He likes fishing and playing football.
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Emma lives in Fletcher and turns 7 in August. she enjoys swimming, playing t-ball, playing with her sisters and helping out in the barn.
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IT’S ALL NEW!
Check out our redesigned site at:
Kids VT
Just give us your contact info, your children’s names and birthdates, and a photo, and they’re automatically enrolled in our Kids VT Birthday Club.
• SO. BuRliNgtON 864-9817 •FAMilY FuN cENtER 860-4386 • MiltON 893-6111
August 2011
to enter your kids, submit information using the online form at kidsvt. com/birthday-club.
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43
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HANDS-ON
BY JAN BUCKNER WALKER
answers p. 46
PUZZLE PAGE
Kids Across/Parents Down
Enjoy fun time with mom, dad or your favorite grown-up. The across clues are for kids and the down clues are for adults.
I Love Music! Kids Across
Puzzles4Kids
BY HELENA HOVANEC
44
Kids VT
August 2011
kidsvt.com
Riddle Search — Outdoor Dining Search up, down and diagonally, both forward and backward, to find every word on the list. Circle each one as you find it. When all the words are circled, take the UNUSED letters and write them on the blanks below. Read from left to right, top to bottom, to answer this riddle: What is a king’s favorite clothing?
belt blazer blouse cape cloak crew socks jeans kilt parka
robe shoes slicker suit sweater sweatshirt tea gown trousers turtleneck
Riddle Answer:
_____
_____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____.
Parents Down
1. Feathered animals that love to sing 3. Disney’s song of hope: “When You ____ Upon a Star” 5. Keeping the beat: The sound of an old-fashioned metronome is tick____ (just like a clock) 6. For Lady Gaga, this instrument’s keys are one of the keys to her success 8. What music becomes when someone turns the volume way up 9. O say can you see?: “The StarSpangled Banner” is our national ______ 12. People in cars all over the nation use these to hear music on their favorite station 13. At a concert, it’s the right time for the finale 14. You need one of these to play a violin (or, pronounced differently, what a violinist might take after he does) 15. A rock star’s trip around the country 16. If you have a horn, you just might ____ it 18. A short word for a saxophone 19. What someone does to make music with his mouth closed 20. You have to use these to snap your fingers to the beat
1. Vocal supporters behind every lead singer, like Gladys’ Pips 2. Beyonce’s original girl group: ________ Child 3. Making merry: What the Seven Dwarfs did while they worked 4. Song of loss that became Kelly Clarkson’s gain: “_____ U Been Gone” 5. Wonderfully wireless way to have your musical message delivered: singing ________ 7. Rewind your mind to recall this musical format of yesteryear 10. Ad makers’ addictive ditties 11. Group that proved it’s “Hip To Be Square”: Huey Lewis and the ____ 14. A tuba, trombone or any of their shiny metal kin: _____ instruments 17. In addition to money, it’s what Gene Kelly got from “Singin’ in the Rain”
© 2011 Jan Buckner Walker. Distributed by Tribune Media Services, Inc.
COLORING CONTEST! Send us your work of art by August 15. You could win a $25 gift certificate to Texas Roadhouse!
Be sure to include the info at right in your submission. Winners will be chosen in the following categories: (1) ages 4 and younger, (2) ages 5-8, and (3) ages 9-12. The best artwork will be featured on kidsvt.com, and winners will be named in the September issue of Kids VT. Send your high-resolution scans to art@kidsvt.com or mail a copy to Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402.
Title _______________________________________ KIDS EAT FREE every Monday night with adult purchase.
Artist _____________________________________ Age _______________________________________ Town _____________________________________ Email _____________________________________ Phone _____________________________________
KIDSVT.COM AUGUST 2011 KIDS VT
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LOOK CLOSER… IT’S TIME TO DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW!
HANDS-ON
Water Wings IN JULY, DOZENS of Vermont kids learned to swim at the Greater Burlington YMCA’s “Camp Splash,” a free swimming and water-safety clinic at the Myers Pool in Winooski. Seven Days’ multimedia producer Eva Sollberger hung out poolside during a string of 90-degree-plus days. She interviewed instructors, campers and parents for the July 27 episode of her weekly web video series “Stuck in Vermont.” Two parents admitted to Sollberger that they had never learned to swim. One of them, a Sudanese mother, explained there were crocodiles and snakes in the water where she grew up. Not so here in Vermont. But, as instructor Jess Lukas points out, swimming is an important survival skill. Vermont kids are surrounded by water. Plus, as one young camper noted: “It just cools you down a very hot day like today.” Find the video on the Kids VT website, kidsvt.com.
Contest! Count the fish to win a prize Count how many times this little green guy appears in the pages of the August issue, and you could win tickets to Ausable Chasm. Add the fish up, then tell us how many you found at kidsvt.com, or write to us at Kids VT, PO Box 1184, Burlington, VT 05402. We’ll collect the correct responses and choose two winners, who will each receive admission for four. Enter by 5 p.m. on August 15 to win.
List your class in Kids VT for only $15/month! Submit the listing by the 15th at kidsvt.com or classes@kidsvt.com
AUGUST 2011
KIDSVT.COM
ATTENTION CLASS INSTRUCTORS!
PUZZLE PAGE ANSWERS (SEE P. 44)
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KIDS VT
JUMBLES BOW, WINE, BOLD, UGLY RIDDLE ANSWER: When the goldfish got a new home, they had a — BOWL 1t-campsclasses.indd 1
7/29/11 12:43 PM
RIDDLE ANSWER: A reign coat.
use your words
Family Values
How my scientist dad raised a businesswoman By pau la r ou T ly
And my dad did, with Scrooge-like pleasure, when I got home after the breakfast shift. We had a ritual: I’d empty my pockets onto the kitchen table, and he’d gleefully arrange the quarters, dimes and nickels into neat little piles. Bank tellers would turn on the changecounting machine when they saw me coming. They seemed genuinely impressed by the frequency of my deposits. College turned out to be another 50-50 deal. By the end of the summer, I’d banked $2000, which, back then, amounted to about one-third of the annual tuition at Middlebury College. Dad took the cash and sent me off, without a car or a credit card, to one of the most exclusive colleges in the country. The $40 monthly allowance he gave me for “incidentals” barely kept me in toothpaste and tampons. On holidays, I was expected to find and finance my way home. Living off campus and working a couple of part-time jobs, I felt like the Little Match Girl peering in at the impossibly abundant lives of others. Half of the time, I was envious and resentful. Other parents seemed to want their kids to have “a great time at college,” and that meant wheels, skiing, plane fare. Did my parents fail to get the memo? The other half of the time I was disgusted to see privilege and opportunity wasted on kids who seemed neither aware nor appreciative of their extraordinarily good fortune. If college plays out like one beer commercial after another, where do you go from there? I went to the library. A lot. After calculating how much each class at Middlebury cost my parents — and me — I never saw the logic of blowing one off. I wonder sometimes how things might have been different if I’d had a trust fund and a gold card. I would have had a car before I was 28. I would have learned to downhill ski. I might even have turned out laid back, happy go lucky or fun loving — terms that have never been used to describe me. But I probably would never have started a newspaper, either. My early work experience prepared me for the suffering a start-up demands. Knowing how to save, plan and analyze numbers — it’s simple: don’t spend more than you bring in — gave me the confidence to grow the business into a company where talented people want to work... hard. For that I guess I owe my old man a debt of gratitude — and a free subscription. K
It wasn’t called financial literacy back then.
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Planning a kids event?
7/14/11 1:16 PM
List your event for free in the Kids VT monthy calendar. Submit your info by the 15th of the month online at kidsvt.com or to calendar@kidsvt.com
August 2011
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Paula Routly is the cofounder, publisher and coeditor of Seven Days, the Burlington-based independent weekly newspaper that purchased Kids VT in 2010. “Use Your Words” is a monthly essay in which writers reflect on parenting and childhood.
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For years i cursed my skinflint father for teaching me “the value of a dollar.” It wasn’t called “financial literacy” back then, or even “fiscal austerity,” but my dad made sure I knew something about money as soon as I could rub two coins together. The first lesson — that the smaller, shinier dime was worth more than the big gray nickel — now seems like an appropriate intro to the world of finance. Dad didn’t pull down a big salary working as a government-employed astrophysicist, but he moved us to affluent Montgomery County, Md., for the public schools. Raising two daughters in the suburbs, Dad was afraid we’d wind up “spoiled.” So we lived like characters out of a Dickens novel, holding on for decades to clothes, cars and furniture. Thirty years after I left home for college, the same decorative soaps were gathering dust in my parents’ guest bathroom. Dad got us earning early. If I wanted something, like a bicycle or ballet lessons, he extended what amounted to a matching grant. He’d pay half, then loan me the rest, interest free, with certain conditions. Good grades. No gum, swearing or rock and roll. By harnessing my fledgling entrepreneurial spirit, he inadvertently introduced me to the concept of cost-benefit analysis. On a day-to-day basis, I developed focus and discipline around attainable goals that built character and “kept me out of jail,” as my dad liked to put it. I remember raiding the basement for salable junk, loading it into my little red wagon and dragging it down the street. No one really needed used troll dolls or Clue pieces, but the neighbors couldn’t resist a child peddler. Were they horrified, or admiring? Who cares? They were buying! As I grew older, I babysat. I cleaned toilets. I sold glittery Christmas cards door to door in the middle of summer. I recorded every loan payment in a ledger my parents kept in the kitchen. It was a great way to apply math skills, and I learned early on to take care of the things I cofinanced. After working for months to pay off a bicycle, I wouldn’t think of leaving it out in the rain. During my senior year of high school, I landed my first waitress job at a glorified diner in downtown Bethesda. Weekend mornings, I would drag myself out of bed to work the counter. The job was a gold mine, if you count quarters.
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