Seven Days, July 29, 2020

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V ERM ONT ’S INDEP E NDE NT V OIC E JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020 VOL.25 NO.44 SEVENDAYSVT.COM

Staytripper, a monthly road map to adventures around Vermont

Rock the Boat Sail away with Whistling Man

Blueberry Nights

A Goshen inn and the great outdoors

Far Afield

Restaurants, WHAT LIES BENEATH

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More mural controversy on Church St.

RAMBLIN’ MAN

Five must-dos during Open Farm Week

As traditional dining falters, Vermont eateries struggle to survive B Y J O R D A N B A R RY, M EL I S S A PA S A N EN & S A L LY P O L L A K , PA G E 34

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Folkie Rik Palieri pens new book

LEVINE UNMASKED

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Vermont health commish opens up

Anniversary Sale We can’t believe it’s already been 5 years. We have throughly enjoyed serving your eyecare needs and look forward to helping new and current customers alike in the years ahead.

The Bread and Puppet Theater and the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom invite you to a procession in commemoration of the

75th Anniversary of the Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

To celebrate....enjoy 25% OFF complete pair of prescription eyeglasses for the month of AUGUST

Thursday, August 6, 6 pm

By appointment only, call to schedule not valid with special orders, insurance orders, previous purchases or neurolenses

Thank you for supporting local business so we can continue to be here to serve your needs.

Dora Sudarsky, O.D.

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“You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.”

Meet at the head of Church Street. We will proceed down Church Street to Main Street to the waterfront, near the boathouse, where singing and the launching of candle-boats will take place at 7:30.

Co-sponsored by the Peace & Justice Center. Help is needed: call Robin at 802-355-3256.

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— MICHELLE OBAMA FORMER FIRST LADY, AUTHOR, ACTIVIST, MOTHER Dedalus Wine | Market | Bar

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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Vote in the Aug 11 Democratic Primary

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Affordability Helping Neighbors Keeping Vermont Green Environmentally Sustainable Economic Growth Opportunity for Current & Future Vermonters

Endorsement: Julie Roberts, President, United Academics and Linguistics Professor, UVM I’m very happy to support the candidacy of Thomas Chittenden for the Vermont State Senate. I have worked with him for several years at UVM, and I know that he is a collaborative leader, a thoughtful colleague, and a tireless worker. He seeks feedback from all sides of an issue, and when he says he will do something, I know I can count on him. I know that he will do good work for Vermont.

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WEEK IN REVIEW JULY 22-29, 2020

FILE: MATTHEW THORSEN

COMPILED BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN, MATTHEW ROY & ANDREA SUOZZO

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That’s how many Vermont rest areas reopened last week after closing in March as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

UNMASKED

Three of the WoodLewis children in their homeschooling alcove in 2014

A white woman screamed “Black lives don’t matter at all to me!” during a pro-police rally at the Statehouse.

For those who deny there’s racism in Vermont…

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MOST POPULAR ITEMS ON SEVENDAYSVT.COM

HOME FUN

LIFE LESSONS When Vermont schools went remote in mid-March to slow the spread of COVID-19, Bridget Butler of St. Albans had to facilitate at-home learning for her three children, ages 7, 8 and 9. Butler — a naturalist who runs programs through her business, Bird Diva Consulting — started the quarantine with a color-coded schedule to organize the days.

“Of course, it all blew up by the second day,” she recalled with a laugh.

By April break, her family had abandoned online learning in favor of a more relaxed routine.

The stress of hustling to get three kids on the bus by 7 a.m. disappeared. Butler’s kids began learning at their own pace and had time to explore their personal interests. That, plus the uncertainty of how schools will operate this fall, spurred Butler to withdraw her children from St. Albans City School to homeschool them this coming school year.

Butler is not alone. According to data from the Vermont Agency of Education, homeschooling enrollment as of July 15 had reached 1,634 — up 75 percent from the same date last year.

Randi Becker of Williston will be homeschooling her three children, ages 5, 8 and 11, this year. The art therapist doesn’t want her kids to be online all day. Becker said that

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being with her kids will create “some semblance of normal” and provide opportunities for hands-on learning.

“When I made the decision, I said, ‘I know where we’re going to be. The world could be on fire, and we’re going to be here,’” she recalled.

Valerie Wood-Lewis of Burlington is a licensed teacher and cofounder of Front Porch Forum. She’s been homeschooling her children since her oldest was in kindergarten.

Wood-Lewis calls homeschooling “very doable” for most.

“I think if you can kind of go back to the roots of education and think about what you want your young person to grow into and work backwards from there, your day has a lot of pieces in it that are easy to pull off,” she said. Learning opportunities include spending time outdoors, reading, meditation and exercise.

Butler said she’s excited about designing a naturebased curriculum guided by her kids’ passions, and her kids are excited, too. Butler recalled doing origami alongside her daughter on a recent morning.

“That’s math and spatial thinking. We were learning together. We just had this beautiful moment,” she said. “I kept thinking, This is what it can be like.”

Read Alison Novak’s full story on sevendaysvt.com.

THE NOT-SO-GREAT ESCAPE

A man who absconded from a St. Johnsbury prison was found three days later … right outside of the institution.

A failed bail.

2. “Brookfield Looks to Abandon Stalled CityPlace Burlington Project” by Courtney Lamdin. The city is threatening to sue the asset management company in charge of the former mall site — for failing to redevelop it.

3. “Vermonting: Slippers, Tubing and Beer in the Mad River Valley” by Sally Pollak. Looking for a day trip? Check out the Bundy Modern, take a lazy float on the Mad River and top it off with a sip of Lawson’s Finest Liquids.

4. “False Insecurity: State Tries to Sort Out Manchester COVID-19 Testing Snafu” by Derek Brouwer & Andrea Suozzo. A spate of apparent false positive COVID-19 test results in Manchester pitted state officials against a local clinic.

5. “¡Duino! (Duende) Closing to Make Way for New Restaurant” by Melissa Pasanen.

The 10-year-old international street food restaurant will close its doors sometime this week.

UNSTUCK IN VERMONT

Peruvian college students who worked the ski season at Jay Peak were finally able to return home last week. A trip to remember — or forget?

tweet of the week @JoshDevinMcD Feeling overheated, short of breath, and generally weary are supposed to be some early signs of COVID. Unfortunately they are also common signs that it’s the middle of summer.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SEVENDAYSVT OUR TWEEPLE: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/TWITTER

WHAT’S KIND IN VERMONT

CAST AWAY COURTESY OF THE VERMONT FISH & WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

Centennial Field, home of the Vermont Lake Monsters, will host movies, yoga and Zumba classes this summer, but not baseball.

New traditions.

1. “Champlain Valley School District Will Use ‘Hybrid’ Model This Fall” by Alison Novak.

Students will have the option to attend school remotely or participate in a “hybrid” model, spending just two days a week in the classroom.

Anglers at Baker Pond in Brookfield

A new Vermont program aims to get people hooked on fishing during the pandemic.

The state Fish & Wildlife Department is offering Fish With a Warden sessions all summer and into September to school people on how to cast into Vermont’s waterways. The free program is open to all ages and is scheduled for fishing access areas across the state, said Corey Hart, a Fish & Wildlife education specialist. A handful of events so far have drawn groups of about 15 people.

“They’ve been real pleasant evenings,” Hart said. “It’s been a mix of

anglers that have fished before and are just looking to have their questions answered, and those with limited fishing experience who are looking for some tips and tricks.”

The department has traditionally offered a program called Let’s Go Fishing.

The new program is a coronavirus-era attempt at doing something similar, according to Hart. And it’s well timed: Hart said fishing license purchases are way up this year.

Participants should bring their own gear and, if they’re 15 or older, a fishing license. The hourlong sessions begin with a talk by the warden about the local ecology and the history of the access area before everyone splits up to fish. Anglers

must wear masks and abide by socialdistancing rules, Hart said.

They can decide whether to keep or release their catch.

“If you go out with just a worm and bobber, they’ll do really well with panfish,” Hart said. “A lot of the areas are good bass locations, so there’s some good opportunities to get some bass.”

Eleven events are currently scheduled, including one on Thursday, July 30, at Ricker Pond in Groton, and another on August 5 at the Little River Dam in Waterbury.

Participants are required to sign up ahead of time; class size is limited to 25.

For more information, visit vtfishandwildlife.com.

SASHA GOLDSTEIN SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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7/27/20 2:55 PM

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ARTS & LIFE  Pamela Polston   Margot Harrison   Dan Bolles, Elizabeth M. Seyler   Jordan Adams   Kristen Ravin    Carolyn Fox   Jordan Barry, Chelsea Edgar,

Margaret Grayson, Melissa Pasanen, Ken Picard, Sally Pollak  Carolyn Fox, Elizabeth M. Seyler   Katherine Isaacs, Marisa Keller D I G I TA L & V I D E O   Andrea Suozzo    Bryan Parmelee    Eva Sollberger   James Buck DESIGN   Don Eggert   Rev. Diane Sullivan   John James  Jeff Baron, Kirsten Thompson SALES & MARKETING    Colby Roberts    Michael Bradshaw   Robyn Birgisson,

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DISCLOSURE: Seven Days publisher and coeditor Paula Routly is the domestic partner of Vermont Senate President Pro Tempore Tim Ashe. Routly abstains from involvement in the newspaper’s Statehouse and state political coverage. Find our conflict of interest policy here: sevendaysvt.com/disclosure.

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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FEEDback READER REACTION TO RECENT ARTICLES

ASHE IS A COMPASSIONATE LEADER

I’m voting for Tim Ashe in the lieutenant governor primary [Off Message: “Gray, Ashe Take Heat During Democratic Lieutenant Gubernatorial Debate,” July 16; “Ashe Kicks Off Campaign for Lieutenant Governor,” May 28].

I met Tim 10 years ago when he arrived in the Senate. He was young and keen to learn, and his values were akin to mine. But after serving with him on two different committees and seeing his work as pro tem, I learned something else about Tim: He’s a genuinely nice person. As pro tem, he treated all his flock (the senators) with respect and compassion. When our personal lives impacted us, he was sympathetic and helped us deal.

As pro tem, he’s steered us toward passage of major pieces of legislation, including major investments in our mental health, child care and housing systems; protecting workers from harassment; major gun-safety legislation; protecting reproductive rights; major climate initiatives; addressing systemic racism; funding the purchase of legacy lands to protect our environment; and making sure schools’ water supply is lead free.

But he really showed his leadership when COVID-19 hit. He held us all to task, was patient with those of us who are not techies, and acted quickly but not rashly. We were the first Senate to meet remotely and function well. He’ll tell you that he didn’t do it — that it was a whole team that worked together. He’s right, but the team only functions well if it has a good leader.

Tim will make a really good LG (and governor, if need be), but he’ll be missed in the Senate.

Jeanette White

PUTNEY

White is a Democratic Windham County senator.

FRUIT OF KNOWLEDGE?

[Re WTF: “Why Do So Many Apples Grow Along Vermont’s Back Roads?”

July 22]: I knew the answer right away, but after reading the article I realized that no one at Seven Days knew it.

The apple trees grow there, just like

WEEK IN REVIEW

I enthusiastically support his reelection for Vermont Senate and hope others will join me; we need him in the Senate.

TIM NEWCOMB

Jerry O’Neill

BURLINGTON

CHAMPION OF DEMOCRACY

[Re Pandemic Primary Voters’ Guide: “Champagne Wishes and Ballot Box Dreams,” July 22]: Andrew Champagne is one of the most tenacious advocates for the franchise I’ve ever met. His love of politics and of the mechanics of government uniquely suit him for succeeding in his ambitious goal of registering another 500 Vermonters to vote in time for this year’s general election. Our country is filled with cynical observers of the political process, and it’s inspiring to see someone like Andrew working to get people involved, regardless of their affiliation.

Peter Cammann

SHELBURNE

anything else, because they can. The reason they remain is because they are protected. Road crews all over Vermont know this; they can cut all other trees and brush from the right of way but will leave the apples.

The next time you young folks have a question, I suggest you ask someone who is over 80 or has lived in Vermont longer than you have been alive.

Tom Turner

PEACHAM CORNER

CORRECTIONS

Last week’s cover story, “Running in Circles,” mischaracterized Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman’s current claims about his April 2015 votes on vaccine mandates. He now says he voted against an amendment eliminating the philosophical exemption but voted for the underlying bill.

Last week’s story about COVID-19 testing in Manchester, “False Insecurity,” misstated when the Manchester Farmers Market takes place. It is held on Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m.

Louis Meyers, a Vermont Senate candidate in Chittenden County, has a website: louismeyers.com. It was absent from the print version of our Pandemic Primary Voters’ Guide because it did not appear on the Vermont Secretary of State’s Office spreadsheet of qualified candidates.

We’re updating the digital version of our guide with website addresses as we receive them. Find them at sevendaysvt.com/pandemic-primary.

SIROTKIN FOR SENATE

[Re “Senate Scramble,” July 22]: Your article highlights the unfairness to Chittenden County voters of having primaries with a dozen or more candidates. It turns the race into a name-recognition contest rather than one based on merits. That is why Sen. Michael Sirotkin introduced a constitutional amendment and legislation to downsize the current six-member district into multiple districts of no more than three senators. This is typical of Sen. Sirotkin’s politics — putting the average Vermonter ahead of his own political interests.

I first met Sirotkin in the early ’80s, when I was an assistant U.S. attorney here in Vermont. I had cases with him in federal court, where he frequently fought for disability benefits for senior citizens, something he did tenaciously and effectively. This went on to be typical of his representation throughout his professional life — fighting for constituencies with little voice.

Sen. Sirotkin has been hard at work in the legislature addressing COVID19 issues — ahead of campaigning for reelection. His leadership expanded unemployment and workers’ compensation benefits and provided approximately $100 million in housing assistance and even more in small-business grants. In addition, during this year he was the Senate’s clear leader in championing minimum wage and paid family leave.

In the previous session he took on Apple and Amazon and changed their autorenewal disclosure policies nationwide.

He also led the successful fight against Comcast to maintain internet neutrality.

INGRAM FIGHTS FOR ALL

I support Debbie Ingram for lieutenant governor [Off Message: “Gray, Ashe Take Heat During Democratic Lieutenant Gubernatorial Debate,” July 16; “Debbie Ingram Kicks Off Bid for Lieutenant Governor,” June 26].

In the 10 years I have known Debbie, she has never wavered in her commitment to making sure that all Vermonters get a fair shake — whether that is access to health care, affordable housing, or advancing racial and social justice. One of Debbie’s strengths is her willingness to listen to differing points of view and to bring people together around shared values.

As a nurse practitioner, I see the effect that policy making can have on patients, families and communities.

Debbie’s work on the Senate Health and Welfare Committee and as chair of the Advisory Council on Child Poverty and FEEDBACK

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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contents JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020 VOL.25 NO.44

Restaurants, Future Tense As traditional dining falters, Vermont eateries struggle to survive

COLUMNS 30 Bottom Line 44 Album Reviews 65 Ask the Reverend

SECTIONS 25 42 45 47 60 64

Life Lines Music + Nightlife Classes Classifieds + Puzzles Fun Stuff Personals

INSIDE!

Staytripper, a monthly road map to adventures around Vermont

STUCK IN VERMONT

Online Now

PAGE 3 4

COVER IMAGE JAMES BUCK • COVER DESIGN KIRSTEN THOMPSON

NEWS & POLITICS 11 From the Publisher Fast Ascent

Newcomer Molly Gray’s LG bid has gained a lot of traction. How?

32

29

Civil Dispute

An entrenched Democratic lawmaker faces his first-ever primary

ARTS NEWS 26

FEATURES 32

Change of Art

Legacy Edition

Vermont’s Dr. Fauci

A painter wants to reclaim her wall space when a controversial Burlington mural comes down

Criminal Neglect?

The death of a Black inmate at a northern Vermont prison

Rik Palieri’s autobiography, Banjo Man

Where the Art Is

New Vermont Studio Center head looks to building an inclusive community

In the Cards

Teen invents a new game, ElevatorUp

Health Commissioner Mark Levine takes off his mask

Talk It Out: The Benders Band

A discussion on double-album comeback Twice in a Blue Moon

Sterling College student John Gunterman SUPPORTED BY: — a veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and suffers from lung damage, PTSD and a traumatic brain injury — explains how his Vermont EBT card gives him access to fresh produce from local farms such as Pete’s Greens.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Island Time

PAULA ROUTLY

Paula Routly

NATHANAEL ASARO

There are six state parks on the road between Burlington and Isle La Motte. Earlier this month, on the hourlong drive north, I passed Niquette Bay, Sand Bar, Grand Isle, Knight Point and Alburgh Dunes and saw signs for North Hero State Park. Three more — Woods Island, Burton Island, Knight Island — are offshore, accessible only by boat.

Unbelievably, at that point I’d only been to one of the nine natural refuges in and around Vermont’s Champlain Islands. For the 42 years I’ve lived in Vermont, I’ve seen the green and brown wooden signs and kept going…

On this particular day, though, I couldn’t stop. I was on assignment to explore and write about Isle La Motte for a story in Seven Days. Since June 10, we’ve published a weekly feature on drivable day trips that combine quirky museums, fresh food, hikes, shopping and bike rides. The local, pandemic-proof “Vermonting” column had already directed readers to Barre, Hubbardton and Orwell.

With its Catholic shrine and fossil preserve, I knew Isle la Motte would fit the bill.

But first I had to get there, and Route 2 wasn’t making it easy. After being cooped up in the Queen City for months, I felt a weight lift when crossing the causeway between Milton and South Hero, surrounded by Lake Champlain.

I wanted to stop at every family farmstand, roadside snack bar and vintage waterfront motel. Signs advertising wine tastings and art shows signaled that Vermonters were trying to salvage the summer, whether they grow berries, lodge visitors, sell crafts or rent boat slips. The cover story in this week’s Seven Days looks at how Vermont restaurants are coping in the pandemic.

How can you help? Check out the August edition of Staytripper, also in this issue, and let it inspire you. We created the monthly supplement to encourage Vermonters to take advantage of this stay-home summer by exploring our shared backyard. Many of the state’s inns, Eric and Ginger Johnson restaurants, museums and attractions are open for business, and they need all the local customers they can get.

This second edition features Goshen’s Blueberry Hill Inn. I’ve been lucky enough to stay there a few times in the winter, enjoying world-class cross-country skiing, group dinners and a wood-fired sauna. This summer the place is putting on picnics. Before or after, you can hike up to Romance Mountain or down to Silver Lake. Can’t afford a room? Now you can camp on Blueberry Hill’s field.

My Isle La Motte adventure turned into a two-day thing. The next morning, I was first in line at Alburgh Dunes State Park. The beach had been dragged in preparation for another hot, sunny day of socially isolated recreation. Eric and Ginger Johnson had already planted an umbrella and two beach chairs by the water’s Want to help Seven Days through edge. Retired teachers who had once lived the pandemic? Become a Super Reader. full time in Chittenden County, they now Look for the “Give Now” buttons at the top of spend winters in North Carolina and summer sevendaysvt.com. Or send a check with your in an RV park on Isle La Motte. The couple address and contact info to: was suiting up for a serious swim. With its SEVEN DAYS, C/O SUPER READERS P.O. BOX 1164 sandy bottom and shallow waters, they said, BURLINGTON, VT 05402-1164 Alburgh Dunes is the best spot in the islands for it.

For more information on making a financial I made a note to return — this summer. contribution to Seven Days, please contact Two parks down, seven to go.

Corey Grenier: VOICEMAIL: 802-865-1020, EXT. 36 EMAIL: SUPERREADERS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

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11

news

MORE INSIDE

BAD NEWS FOR BURLINGTON’S ‘PIT’ PAGE 14

HEALTH

MURAL CONTROVERSY CONTINUES...

PAGE 17

AUTHORITIES NOW PROBE PRISON DEATH PAGE 19

Scott: Masks Required in Public Beginning August 1 B Y K EV IN M C C A LLU M

Fast Ascent

Newcomer Molly Gray’s LG bid has gained a lot of traction. How? B Y C O LI N FL A N D ER S

M

olly Gray, an assistant Vermont attorney general virtually unknown to voters before declaring her candidacy for lieutenant governor six months ago, has surprised many political observers since then.

Although she is the Democratic candidate who entered the race with the least name recognition, Gray has assembled a lengthy list of heavy-hitter endorsements and outraised her competitors. Those

Gov. Phil Scott

THERE HASN’T BEEN A PERSON LIKE HER TO COME ALONG IN QUITE A WHILE. LU K E AL BEE

candidates — Senate President Pro Tempore Tim Ashe (D/P-Chittenden), Sen. Debbie Ingram (D-Chittenden) and policy advocate Brenda Siegel — seem to have noticed, making Gray the target of their questions and criticism in recent weeks.

Some of Gray’s supporters have even floated her as a potential candidate for higher office — all before her first-ever election on August 11. Even if Gray comes up short, observers say, a strong showing at the polls would establish her as a candidate to be reckoned with in the future.

Gray and her supporters attribute her traction to a robust campaign and the electorate’s desire for change. Voters want “new energy, new thinking, new perspective,” said Gray, who argues that electing the “same leaders” will only result in the “same outcomes.”

But as she promises a fresh perspective, Gray remains deeply connected to a stable of political insiders, from former 12

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

2020

ELECTION governors to Democratic operatives tied to U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.).

“She’s got a seal of approval from those people, and that’s powerful,” said Kevin Ellis, a former longtime Vermont lobbyist who supports Gray. “Every one of those people has a Rolodex ... They’re on Twitter; they’re on the phone; they’re raising money for causes. And every time, they’re talking politics.”

Older Vermonters likely recognize Gray’s family name. Her father, Bob, a cross-country skier, competed in the 1968 and 1972 Olympics. Her uncle Bill led

Clockwise from top left: Molly Gray, Brenda Siegel, Tim Ashe and Debbie Ingram

Leahy’s 1986 senatorial campaign and made an unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Senate himself two years later.

Leahy later nominated Bill Gray to be a federal judge, but Gray died of cancer in 1994 before he could be confirmed. Eulogizing his nominee on the Senate floor that spring, Leahy recalled sitting on the porch of his Middlesex home with Bill Gray to talk of “our children, of our families, of life.”

Molly Gray got her first taste of politics a decade later, interning at Leahy’s Vermont office before working on Welch’s 2006 House campaign. Though neither FAST ASCENT

» P.14

Wearing masks in public will be mandatory in Vermont under a new order Gov. Phil Scott announced last Friday.

Though he’d long resisted issuing such a mandate, the governor described the move as a bid to keep the state’s infection rates the lowest in the nation as COVID-19 cases soar in other states.

Noting that those cases are “inching closer to our borders,” Scott said the time had come to require what is now a mere recommendation — that people wear masks in public settings where social distancing is not possible — effective Saturday, August 1.

“Looking at the situation in the South and West and knowing we’ll have more people coming to Vermont, and more Vermonters inside as the weather gets colder, we need to be sure we’re protecting the gains we’ve made,” Scott said.

The order will require anyone over age 2 to wear a mask in public — indoors and outdoors — where they cannot maintain six feet of distance from one another.

That includes public-facing businesses, which will be required to install signs informing customers of the requirement. Businesses will be able to refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask, but there are no fines or state enforcement proposed, Scott said.

People with medical conditions such as asthma are not bound by the mandate. Nor are people eating and drinking, or those engaging in exercise or “strenuous activity,” according to the new executive order.

The difficulty of enforcing such a measure is one of the reasons Scott said he resisted imposing it until now, even as many, including political opponents, have pressured him to do so.

Scott has previously said he knows many Vermonters who bristle at being told what to do by the government, and he spoke directly to them last Friday with a plea to rethink their position.

“Please, help us out — not because it’s mandated,” Scott said, “but because it’s the right thing to do for our seniors, for our kids, for our own health and for our economy.”

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Christina Deeley (right) chatting with supporter Michelle McGee

L

ast fall, when Hinesburg resident Christina Deeley began considering a run for state office, one of the first things she did was try to set up a meeting with the man whose seat she was eyeing.

The 36-year-old mother of four, a librarian at Champlain Valley Union High School, knew Bill Lippert would be tough to unseat. The 70-year-old Democratic icon has served in the House since then-governor Howard Dean appointed him in 1994. Many Vermonters revere Lippert for helping lead the state’s historic passage of civil unions in 2000.

And in 26 years, he had never faced a primary challenge.

Deeley, though, was in the midst of a course with Emerge Vermont, which trains Democratic women to run for public office. The group’s executive director, House Majority Leader Jill Krowinski (D-Burlington), suggested that Deeley contact Lippert.

But Lippert, a retired substance-abuse counselor, didn’t immediately respond after Deeley emailed him on September 18. It was only after Deeley mentioned to Krowinski that she was having trouble getting in touch that Lippert agreed to a sit-down a couple of weeks later.

When the two got together, Lippert informed Deeley that he planned to seek reelection and hoped she wouldn’t challenge him. If she wanted to get some political experience, he counseled, maybe

she could run for the local selectboard or work on his campaign.

“I did find it a little patronizing,” Deeley said. “That sort of helped me solidify that I was going to run.”

The long odds a newcomer faces in challenging an entrenched incumbent might have once convinced Deeley to instead consider a supporting role, as Lippert suggested. But Deeley said her family’s personal experiences with the broken mental health care system and inequitable education funding in Vermont convinced her to get off the sidelines.

“I have value, and I have a voice, and just because someone has been in the seat for a quarter of a century doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have a challenger,” Deeley said.

Even Dean, who considers Lippert a friend and ally, can imagine how Lippert’s advice to a female challenger may have backfired in the current political climate.

“This is not the year to argue, ‘You should wait your turn,’” Dean told Seven Days last week. “You don’t get credit for seniority these days.”

While there are other Democratic House contests in the August 11 primary, Lippert is the only incumbent Dem in a single-seat district with a primary opponent. The winner will face off in November against either Dean Rolland or Sarah Toscano, who are vying for the Republican nomination.

2020

ELECTION

CIVIL DISPUTE

» P.16

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DEVELOPMENT

Brookfield Looks to Abandon Stalled CityPlace Burlington Project

BY C O U R TN E Y L A M D I N FILE: JAMES BUCK

CityPlace Burlington construction site

Brookfield Asset Management wants to abandon the long-stalled CityPlace Burlington project, prompting the city to threaten the international company with legal action for repeatedly failing to make good on its promises to redevelop the downtown plot.

In announcing the news on July 22, Mayor Miro Weinberger told reporters the city had sent Brookfield a notice of default outlining various breaches of an agreement to develop the site. He said he’ll give Brookfield, the majority owner of the site, “a short window of time” to prove it’s committed to the project before the city files suit.

“Brookfield should keep its commitment to the people of Burlington and see the project through to completion, as it has repeatedly promised,” the mayor said during the Zoom press conference. “If not, the city will do everything in our power to see that Brookfield suffers consequences for this breach.”

The city sent the default letter on July 18 after learning that Brookfield, in an effort to settle a partnership dispute with project minority owner Don Sinex, would be walking away from the project. Brookfield indicated that Sinex’s firm, Devonwood Investors, would take over.

“It appears to the City that Brookfield has been contemplating this action for some time, and that its earlier assurances and reassurances were knowingly false when made and designed to induce the City’s continued support of the Project,” the city’s default letter reads.

The letter outlines several breaches of the project’s development agreement, including that Brookfield would continue construction “without interruption” after demolishing the former mall in 2017. Little activity has happened on the site since.

Sinex had promised that CityPlace would be operational by January 2019.

But last October, with little progress made, Brookfield announced it would scale down Sinex’s original design from towering 14story buildings to two 10-story structures.

At a town hall-style forum in January,

14

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Brookfield representatives told the public that construction would begin this August and that CityPlace would be complete by 2023.

“We wouldn’t be sitting here right now if we weren’t for real,” Aanen Olsen, Brookfield’s vice president of development, told those in attendance.

Weinberger said last week that Brookfield’s delays have endangered the city’s ability to use nearly $21 million in tax increment financing funds to fix up sidewalks and rebuild streets lost to the construction of the urban renewal-era mall decades ago.

The mayor also said the city had considered issuing a notice of default in the past but had decided that working with the developer was the “fastest route to redeveloping the site.” In fall 2019, after Weinberger sent a strongly worded letter to Brookfield, the company wired the city $192,000 to pay several debts and to fund a free holiday parking program.

“I think that was the right decision at that time,” Weinberger said, adding that when he heard Brookfield wanted to leave the project, it forced the city to consider its “last resort” to file the default notice and consider a lawsuit.

“The action is all in the hands of developers at this point in the project,” he said.

Despite all of the delays, Weinberger insisted last week that Brookfield is capable of doing the job. He also made clear the city doesn’t trust Sinex, who was the lead on the project for years, to get the development done.

“We ended up in this place where construction started and then stopped, and now we’ve had two years of basically a dormant site,” Weinberger said. “That history came as a result of attempting to make this work with Don, so we do have concerns about trying that again.”

Weinberger wouldn’t specify how long he’ll give Brookfield to reverse course.

“I’m not going to spell it out for them,” Weinberger said. “They know what they need to do to turn this around.”

federal lawmaker has weighed in on the LG race, Gray has received support from a number of their current and former staffers, including Leahy’s longtime campaign manager, Carolyn Dwyer. Democratic mega-donor Jane Stetson of Norwich is also a supporter.

Gray and her allies challenge suggestions that her political connections have contributed to her success. They argue that such a rationale overlooks her strengths as a candidate and her vision for the future. They note that her campaign has worked hard to engage voters and has earned support from every corner of the state.

“There hasn’t been a person like her to come along in quite a while,” said Luke Albee, a Washington, D.C., lobbyist, Leahy’s former chief of staff and a good friend of Gray’s late uncle. “She’s the kind of person you want steering the ship in the coming decades. That’s a legitimate feeling that Vermonters have.”

But some of Gray’s opponents have a less rosy view of her sudden prominence.

They argue she has persuaded the media that she became a viable candidate on her own merits when in reality she has benefited from the same kinds of powerful political connections that have influenced elections for decades.

“I don’t believe that political campaigns in Vermont should be about who your parents knew when you were children, [or] that you have access to the most wealthy, most powerful people in our state,” said Siegel, a progressive activist who has little support from top Democrats but has been endorsed by several well-known grassroots organizations. “If we want to have true leadership, where all people are reflected and represented, then we cannot confuse access with success, because that is how privilege plays out across our world.”

Ingram said the depth of Gray’s connections became clear to her when she started calling former officials and Democratic donors. “Pretty much everybody I talked to who’s supporting her tells me it’s because of her family, and they’ve known her since she was a little girl,” Ingram said. Asked for names, Ingram laughed and replied, “Oh, so many.”

Ashe did not join the criticism of Gray, saying he has no interest in discussing other candidates. But he did address the question of whether the decision of some top Democrats to support Gray is a rebuke of his own candidacy — given that it is he, not Gray, who has served in the legislature for more than a decade.

“My entire career in public service has been focused on getting things done,”

he said. “I don’t cultivate people. I don’t network or use people for my political purposes. It’s all been about getting the job done, and so I haven’t gone around kissing rings. I just go about my work.”

He went on to note that many of his Senate Democratic colleagues support his campaign. “They’re the people who know what the job requires. They know my abilities inside and out and exactly what Vermont will be getting,” he said.

“Those are the people, frankly, who I’m best judged by.”

Gray maintained that she is anything but the well-connected figure her opponents have made her out to be. She acknowledges that some of her endorsements are from people she has known for many years. But she said framing those relationships in political terms fails to “recognize the value of all the relationships that we build and maintain because we care, and that’s who we are.”

“I don’t buy into this idea that it’s political connections that get you elected,” she said. “I think it’s hard work, compassion and commitment to caring for people that is what makes public servants successful.”

“My opponents might want to make this race about me,” she later said. “It’s not.

It’s about the needs of Vermonters that have gone unaddressed for too long.”

Gray was raised on her parents’ farm in Newbury and, after graduating from the University of Vermont, spent roughly four years in Washington, D.C. — first working for Welch, then for the International Committee of the Red Cross. She returned home to attend Vermont Law School and left the state again in 2015 to study in Switzerland. After a brief return to Vermont to pass the bar exam, she went back to Switzerland in 2017 to work for an international organization that monitors private security contractors for compliance with human rights standards. She returned to Vermont in mid-2018 and now lives in Burlington.

VTDigger.org reported last month that Gray had sought legal advice to determine whether her time abroad disqualified her from seeking office. The Vermont Constitution says, “No person shall be eligible to the office of Governor or Lieutenant-Governor until the person shall have resided in this State four years next preceding the day of election.”

Gray maintains that the Switzerland job was never meant to be permanent and that she had always planned to return to Vermont. She likens her situation to members of the National Guard who serve overseas and says she firmly believes she is eligible to run.

The explanation hasn’t satisfied Ingram, who pressed the issue at a recent debate and told Seven Days that she

believes Gray should have waited two more years.

“You can think of yourself as a Vermonter,” said Ingram, who herself lived in Bangladesh from 1995 to 2002. “[But] that has nothing to do with your citizenship. You just can’t physically reside in two different places.”

Gray got a legal opinion from Burlington attorney Jake Perkinson, former chair of the Vermont Democratic Party, that backs her position. But both the Secretary of State’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office say it is not their job to vet candidates’ eligibility, so a court would have to decide.

I DON’T BELIEVE THAT POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS IN VERMONT SHOULD BE ABOUT WHO YOUR PARENTS KNEW WHEN YOU WERE CHILDREN, [OR] THAT YOU HAVE

ACCESS TO THE MOST WEALTHY, MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE IN OUR STATE.

B R E N DA SI EG EL

Though Ingram said she would not contest Gray’s eligibility — nor did she expect any other Democrats would — she feared that Republicans would not be so forgiving in the general election. Even if Gray were to prevail in court, Ingram said, “it’s going to be a cloud hanging over the party, which I think is really unfortunate when it could be solved — I mean, it’s not like she’s disqualified for life. All she needs to do is wait another two years, and then there would be no question. So, I don’t quite understand her rush.”

Despite asserting that Vermont is her home, Gray went a decade without casting a ballot in a state election, missing every one between 2008 and 2018, state records show, including the momentous 2016 presidential race. Gray said she wasn’t proud of her lackluster voter participation. She said President Donald Trump’s election was a “wake-up call.”

“It’s something that I have learned from,” she said.

Her opponents have seized on the opening. To Ingram, Gray’s voting record was “one more example of how she has not been a part our democracy.”

“Most people want their elected officials and public leaders to have participated in democratic processes, which includes voting, and to have run for lower offices and to have acquired all that experience,” Ingram said.

Siegel agreed. She said a key role of the lieutenant governor’s office is to engage the electorate and encourage voters to exercise their civic duty. “That means that we have to have that true, steadfast belief — and record — of working towards having a stronger democracy,” she said.

“Part of that is voting.”

Gray’s limited participation in Vermont politics hasn’t stopped some of the state’s top Democratic figures from supporting her campaign, former governors Madeleine Kunin and Peter Shumlin among them.

Kunin taught Gray at UVM and has become one of her mentors. The Shumlin connection goes back further. The former governor told Seven Days last month that he was a close friend of Gray’s uncle and has known the candidate her entire life.

“The Grays are like family to me,” he said.

Both figures called Gray one of the most promising leaders of her generation.

Gray’s political network has proven to be a rich vein for fundraising. Over the campaign’s first six months, more than 870 donors have contributed $190,000, twice that of her nearest competitor.

She spent $45,000 on a recent run of television advertising, becoming the first Democratic LG candidate to hit the small screen.

About $33,500 of Gray’s financing arrived in contributions of $100 or less.

The majority of her campaign chest came in large donations, including some from political allies Gray met during Welch’s 2006 campaign. After interning for Leahy’s Burlington office her junior year at UVM, Gray volunteered for the Welch campaign and was eventually brought on full time as a scheduler.

She rubbed shoulders with top political professionals. A handful of Leahy’s staffers took leave to pitch in on the Welch campaign. “They were in our office.

They were sleeping on our couches,” recalled Selene Hofer-Shall, a longtime Democratic fundraising consultant who supports Gray.

“We were like the Hessians,” said Albee, recalling how the senator’s staffers often helped out like-minded Democrats.

“We were a political army.”

Fourteen years later, Gray remains close to two central figures connected to Welch: Dwyer, who managed his

2006 campaign, and Stetson, who was his finance chair. Stetson is a former finance chair of the Democratic National Committee.

CHANNEL 1074 Stetson provided one of Gray’s first big-name endorsements; she and her husband, Bill, have contributed a SATURDAYS > 7:30 P.M. combined $6,000 to Gray’s campaign.

Win Smith, president of Sugarbush Resort, told Seven Days that Stetson first GET MORE INFO OR alerted him to Gray’s candidacy, describWATCH ONLINE AT VERMONTCAM.ORG ing her as a “very bright, capable young woman.” Based on Gray’s website and a “brief conversation” with her, Smith agreed with Stetson’s assessment. He16t-vcam-streetsigns.indd 1 7/27/20 sent a $1,000 check to the campaign.

Neither Dwyer nor Stetson returned calls for this story.

Other Leahy alumni have recently contributed to Gray’s campaign. Former We’re here to help. staffers Ed Pagano, Maggie Gendron and Our obituary and in Theresa Alberghini DiPalma donated memoriam services are affordable, accessible $500 each. Albee kicked in $1,000 and and handled with invited Gray to a Zoom meeting of Beltpersonal care. way denizens with Vermont ties. He also recommended her to some friends.

Gray’s support from people she met Post your obituary or in memoriam online more than a decade ago comes as little and in print at sevendaysvt.com/lifelines. surprise to Hofer-Shall. “Molly has just Or contact us at lifelines@sevendaysvt.com built some really good relationships over or 865-1020 ext. 10. the years. She’s genuine,” she said, noting that she was happy to help prepare Gray’s first financial report when the campaign 16t-Obit House Filler.indd 1 9/12/19 asked. Of those who have entered the “Welch circle” over the years, Hofer-Shall said, “It’s a family.”

Albee had a similar read. “The Leahy folks and the Welch folks are very close and have remained close,” he said. “We’re all looking for the next generation of leaders.”

That pursuit could soon take on added importance given Vermont’s aging congressional delegation: Welch is 73; Sanders, 78; Leahy, 80. As the state strives to end its dubious distinction of having Beautiful varieties in stock never sent a woman to Congress, some Gray supporters believe that she should to choose from! be in the running.

Mon-Sat: 8am-4pm “Could she be governor or congressSunday: 10am-4pm woman or senator?” Ellis asked. “Absolutely.

That’s definitely part of my calculation.”

802-453-5382 Gray has avoided such discussions. She 2638 Ethan Allen Hwy said her focus remains on the primary. But New Haven, VT 05472 when asked whether she has any ambitions greenhavengardensandnursery.com for higher office, she does not rule it out.

“If I get to serve Vermont for the rest of my life, that will be a life well lived,” she said.

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Disclosure: Tim Ashe is the domestic partner of Seven Days publisher and coeditor Paula Routly. Find our conflictof-interest policy here: sevendaysvt.com/ disclosure.

Contact: colin@sevendaysvt.com SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020 8v-greenhaven072920.indd 1

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news The primary race raises compelling questions in one of the most charged and unusual election cycles in memory: Will incumbency carry the same advantage in the COVID-19 era? And are voters so intent on change that they’re ready to throw out the old guard despite past legislative accomplishments?

Dean noted that U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-N.Y.), a 16-term incumbent, lost in a shocking July upset to a more progressive newcomer, Jamaal Bowman, despite strong support from the Democratic Party. Engel was no “establishment doofus,” but New York voters seemed to want change for change’s sake, Dean said “It’s not that he was wrong on the issues,” Dean said. “It’s just that they wanted someone who was younger and out there and was going to tell it like it is.”

Name recognition and 26 years of service still mean a lot in a small state such as Vermont, but the same forces that ended Engel’s career are at play here, Dean said.

“It’s not about Bill’s record, which I think is just terrific,” Dean said. “It’s about change.”

Lippert acknowledged that he may not have immediately responded to Deeley’s initial email. He said he was very busy at the time, with meetings of the Vermont State Colleges Board of Trustees, on which he serves, and celebrating his wedding anniversary to his husband, Enrique Peredo.

Lippert said he works hard to respond to constituents’ needs, but they sometimes have unreasonable expectations.

“People need to understand that we are a citizen legislature,” Lippert said. “We have no staff. We have no offices. There are times when we get dozens and dozens of emails and phone calls, and sometimes well in excess of that.”

Nevertheless, Lippert went to Deeley’s office and met with her for a wide-ranging political discussion. He suggested alternative paths to running against him not to be patronizing but to help someone interested in breaking into local Democratic politics understand the lay of the land and gain valuable campaign experience, he said.

He didn’t hear back from Deeley until May 15, when she emailed to inform him that she had decided to run.

“I was surprised that someone from Emerge had chosen to challenge me in the primary,” Lippert said.

He called Emerge Vermont a “terrific organization” but said he found it ironic that one of its graduates would take him on, given his support for getting women in office and in positions of power in the Statehouse.

Krowinski said it is not unusual for Emerge graduates to challenge incumbents, though she focuses her energies as majority 16

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Civil Dispute « P.13

Rep. Bill Lippert speaking with Rep. Jessica Brumsted at the Statehouse in 2019

leader on races in which Democrats have the chance to flip a seat from red to blue.

“Any of us in the legislature who have worked hard throughout the years, to have another Democrat challenge you, it’s just hard,” Krowinski said. “I completely empathize with that.”

Lippert said he wants another term in part because, as chair of the House Health Care Committee, he’s looking forward to hopefully having a Democrat in the White House again to restore some momentum toward a more equitable health care system.

Deeley, too, cites concerns about the health care system — specifically, mental health — in her decision to run. When she discussed the system’s shortcomings with Lippert, she said, he seemed defensive and cited improvements he and other legislators had made. Deeley, who said she had to fight to get a family member proper care, added that Lippert’s response helped convince her that change was needed.

“Things may be better, but they’re not good enough for the children and people who live here,” Deeley said.

The Chicago-area native moved to Vermont from Tennessee in 2010 when her husband, Matthew, accepted a position as a radiology physicist at the University of Vermont Medical Center.

Deeley said she would prioritize the construction of a psychiatric facility and hiring more mental health professionals, and she would seek solutions for the financially troubled Brattleboro Retreat.

As a school district employee with three kids in local schools, Deeley said she has strong community ties and lots of ideas

about improving how schools should be funded. These include greater parity in resources between districts and ensuring that Act 46 consolidations are not used to close schools.

Deeley stressed that she holds immense respect for Lippert’s success fighting for civil unions in the state, but she wonders how much purchase it gets with voters these days.

“People in Hinesburg have accepted gay marriage for years,” Deeley said. “It seems so entrenched in society, especially in Vermont, that it just isn’t something that they’re concerned about anymore.”

Younger voters or those new to town might not be as familiar with his record on civil unions, Lippert acknowledges. But he chafes at the idea that the issue is ancient history.

“Absolutely, it’s a fair point that we have been successful in Vermont, not just by my work, but by the work of many people, in making change around LGBTQ issues,” Lippert said. “We’re not done with that.”

He said he’s proud of his long legislative record, having learned from the success of civil unions how to advance issues such as racial justice, bias-free policing and mental health reform.

He noted that, as the former chair of the House Judiciary Committee, he helped craft the law requiring police to collect race-related data about vehicle stops. More recently, a big part of his work has been “fighting off attacks on the Affordable Care Act,” he said.

“I do not see myself as having been coasting at all,” he said.

Deeley doesn’t accuse Lippert of such directly, but by focusing on his past successes, she suggests as much. Many voters may not know Lippert, in part because he hasn’t needed to vigorously campaign, she said.

“There are a lot of young families in town, and they just don’t know who he is,” Deeley said. “When you get your absentee ballot, it doesn’t say ‘incumbent’ on it.”

Lippert doesn’t have a campaign website but said he is taking Deeley’s challenge seriously and is working hard to contact supporters, largely by phone, and putting out lawn signs. He had raised just $50 by July 1, compared to Deeley’s $1,895. Lippert said he has no in-person campaign events planned.

Deeley does. At a supporter’s lakeside home in Hinesburg on Saturday morning, Deeley chatted in the yard with a dozen socially distanced people about her candidacy.

Rahn Fleming works with Deeley at CVU. At first glance, her bid might seem like a long shot, but Fleming called her “fiery” and not one to be counted out. ‘“Because that’s the way it’s always been done’ doesn’t fly with her,” Fleming said.

Lippert deserves unquestionable praise for his work on gay marriage but not a free pass, Fleming said. It just strikes him as wrong for an incumbent to face no primary challenger for so long.

“Even if she doesn’t win, she’ll have done voters a service by lighting a fire under him,” Fleming said.

Contact: kevin@sevendaysvt.com

Change of Art

A painter wants to reclaim her wall space when a controversial Burlington mural comes down B Y C O UR TN EY L A MDIN LUKE AWTRY

W

hen the Burlington City Council voted in May to remove the “Everyone Loves a Parade!� mural by August 31, it seemed the controversy surrounding the public artwork was finally over.

Commissioned in 2009 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of explorer Samuel de Champlain’s arrival in Vermont, the painting on the side of a Church Street building depicts the smiling faces of dozens of notable Vermonters — nearly all of whom are white. Activists have called the piece racist for failing to represent the state’s Abenaki heritage. They defaced it more than once. “It has divided us and caused pain in our community,� Councilor Brian Pine (P-Ward 3) said as the council voted 11-1 to remove or cover the painting two years earlier than planned.

But just as one mural controversy is ending, another is beginning.

Underneath the parade piece — which is painted on panels and attached to a wall in an alley known as Leahy Way — is a rain forest scene created by Gina Carrera in 1992. Carrera contends that she still holds the rights to the space and wants to use it to create an entirely new mural that’s inclusive of all Vermonters — the very antithesis, she says, of the parade scene.

Two days after the city council vote, Carrera emailed councilors to say her rights are protected by an obscure copyright lawCSWD known as the Visual Artists ScrapFoodWaste-QTR-H-7Dsnap.pdf

BURLINGTON

Gina Carrera standing in front of her mural on South Champlain Street

Rights Act. The federal law protects works of “recognized stature� from damage or destruction.

Carrera says the city violated the statute when it installed the parade mural in 2012. She says she never waived her rights to her painting in writing, a requirement of the law.

Officials have a different interpretation. City attorneys told Carrera in a July 6 letter that the city controls what goes on the wall, and it has not decided what will replace the parade mural. The attorneys told Carrera she is welcome to participate in future public discussions about a new painting.

With a group of activists on her side, Carrera has hired an attorney and said she is1 prepared suePM to protect her rights.

6/17/20 to3:10

Carrera, a woman of color, argues that a multicultural scene that better reflects Vermont and its history would benefit the community more than the “billboard� parade mural. Businesses paid thousands of dollars to be painted into the piece, which also features Vermont celebrities and politicians past and present.

A proposal such as Carrera’s, her advocates say, could begin to repair the harm done by “Everyone Loves a Parade!� “The city has the opportunity to make it right, but they also have the potential to get it wrong again,� said Kesha Ram, a racial justice advocate, Vermont state Senate candidate and one of Carrera’s supporters. “[It’s] better to make it right by giving the power back to the people.�

Carrera, a lifelong artist, grew up in New York City and moved to Burlington in 1981 at age 18. In 1992, she approached Myer Dana about painting a mural in the alley beside his building, which now houses a Banana Republic. He agreed, and she created the 124-foot-long piece of artwork, using $3,000 worth of donated paint.

Carrera worked without pay, spending 65 hours to paint a lush tropical rain forest scene dotted with tigers, parrots and elephants. “People would come and bring me lunch and iced tea,� recalled Carrera, who is now 57. “Little kids would pull on my shirt and ask if they could hold the paintbrush.�

Carrera delighted in watching people discover the creatures hidden in the foliage and loved it when children, arms outstretched, hugged their favorite animals on the wall. In September of 1993, the rain forest mural and another of Carrera’s works — an ocean scene in the stairwell of the Marketplace Garage — won an international visual art award.

The city later painted over the ocean scene without giving her notice, Carrera said.

At one time, Carrera had more than a dozen murals around the Queen City, though only one is still visible: a large garden mural on South Champlain Street.

In 2008, Carrera approached thenChurch Street Marketplace executive director Ron Redmond about refreshing her rain forest mural with a new coat of CHANGE OF ART

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news Vermont Vet Throws Support Behind Biden in Lincoln Project Ad

BY C O L I N F L A N D E R S

In a new advertisement released by the Lincoln Project, a conservative Vermont veteran on a crusade to quash President Donald Trump’s reelection bid goes after the commander in chief again, this time by portraying him as a fake conservative.

Dan Barkhuff, a former Navy SEAL who is now an emergency room doctor at the University of Vermont Medical Center, also praised Trump’s Democratic rival, Joe Biden, in the minute-long video titled “Conservative.”

“I don’t agree with Joe Biden on many issues,” Barkhuff says in the ad. “But one thing we agree on is that we are a nation of laws, and the Constitution is a sacred document — a document that I fought for and some of my friends died for.”

The ad was funded by the Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump political action committee run by current and former Republicans. Posted on Monday, it is the second video starring Barkhuff and amassed more than 600,000 views in a single day. Another video from late June, which featured the Vermont doctor calling Trump a “coward” over his handling of a reported Russian plot to pay bounties for the killing of American soldiers, had more than 1.5 million views.

In an interview with Seven Days last week, Barkhuff said the newest ad comes in response to the federal government’s widely criticized crackdown on protests in Portland, Ore. Federal agents have descended on the northwestern city, arresting dozens and fueling unrest.

The first half of the ad shows images of Trump — including one of him holding a Bible during a photo op in front of a Washington, D.C., church — as well as several clips from protests. The video then transitions into a quasi-Biden campaign ad, showing the Democratic nominee greeting voters and looking, well, presidential.

“Joe Biden will conserve the Constitution. He will conserve the rule of law. He will conserve the American dream as we’ve promised it to our children,” Barkhuff says in the video. “A vote for Joe Biden in this election is a vote for our Constitution.”

Barkhuff said his first Lincoln Project spot garnered him a wide range of feedback. “There’s some people who are hard-core Trumpists who are calling me a liberal pussy, and some folks who are quite progressive who are calling me a warmonger,” he said.

Contact: colin@sevendaysvt.com

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Change of Art « P.17 paint. He told her the touch-up wasn’t needed since the city would be moving forward with a new mural.

That year, Dana granted the city an easement allowing it to “replace and remove” any fixtures from his building.

The easement supersedes Carrera’s verbal agreement with the building owner and “grants the city the right to determine how the space where the current mural is placed will be used,” the attorneys’ recent letter says.

“Because of the amount of time that has elapsed, and the possible deterioration of the mural due to the passage of time, and the installation of ELAP, the City believes it can [cover] that mural, once ELAP is removed,” it continues, using the shorthand acronym for the mural.

City Attorney Eileen Blackwood declined to answer questions about the fresh controversy, saying she had no further statement beyond the city’s letter to Carrera. Dana did not return multiple interview requests.

Carrera said she was overwhelmed in 2008 by her responsibilities as a single mom caring for two children with learning and physical disabilities, some of which required multiple surgeries. She and the kids have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a rare connective tissue disorder, and were seeing dozens of doctors in Vermont and Boston.

“I got bumped off the train, right from the get, and there was no getting back,” Carrera said. “I’m starting to see it’s happening again.”

With another chance, Carrera said, “I’m definitely not going to roll on my back this time.”

Burlington attorney Jared Carter, who previously consulted with Carrera about her rights regarding the mural, disagrees with the city’s interpretation of the Visual Artists Rights Act. Carrera had permission to paint on the wall, and the city’s easement doesn’t change that, Carter said. The visual artist’s rights last their lifetime, he contended.

“I don’t know of any case law or [other] exceptions that say that the property owner can extinguish [the artist’s] rights simply by making an agreement with a third party, whether it’s the city or anyone else,” he said.

Enacted in 1990, the Visual Artists Rights Act protects unique artworks, specifically single copies or limited editions of paintings, drawings or sculptures. It does not cover works for hire, though the city has previously argued that the parade mural is afforded protection under the law.

FILE: MATTHEW THORSEN

ELECTION 2020

Gina Carrera’s rain forest scene in 2007

In a 2018 memo to the city council, Blackwood wrote that the “works for hire” provision traditionally applies in cases in which an employer owns the copyright of an employee’s work, but that “Hardy did not give up his copyrights.” The memo presented the federal law as a possible barrier to removing the parade mural, but the city isn’t affording Carrera the same protections, Carter said.

“That doesn’t strike me as particularly consistent,” he said.

The visual art law has rarely been tested in courts but has led to some notable victories. In February 2018, a federal judge in Brooklyn awarded $6.7 million to 21 graffiti artists whose artwork at the 5Pointz complex in Queens was painted over without warning. Just last week, the company that owns the building appealed the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Lea Terhune, a longtime critic of the parade mural, connected Carrera with Ram, who works for an organization that is researching the pandemic’s effect on rural communities. Ram wants her work to culminate with a mural and is considering collaborating with Carrera on the Leahy Way space. She took Carrera’s idea to Burlington City Arts executive director Doreen Kraft, who told her the city had other ideas in mind.

“It feels like they are reasserting themselves over a partnership that had existed between a woman of color, who is perfectly talented and capable of putting up a new mural, and a business that has the rights to that wall,” Ram said.

Kraft did not return multiple interview requests. Church Street Marketplace executive director Kara Alnasrawi said in an email that the city has had “multiple internal meetings” about the mural space; she did not respond to further questions posed by Seven Days.

In a statement on Monday, Mayor Miro Weinberger, who himself was painted into the parade scene, said his administration will present “a plan for implementing the Council resolution” at the next Parks, Arts and Culture Committee meeting.

The mayor, who is on vacation, declined to answer Seven Days’ other questions until after that meeting, which has yet to be scheduled.

The council resolution orders the city to take down the parade mural by the end of August and directs a council subcommittee to find a place for the artwork, or dispose of it, by September 30.

The mural’s creator, Canadian artist Pierre Hardy, said in an email that he accepts the decision and is “supportive and available to those who will want to preserve” the artwork.

The resolution says nothing about the future of the space in Leahy Way. Terhune thinks the city could right its wrongs by patching the holes in Carrera’s mural and letting her start over. Doing anything else “just creates more bad karma,” Terhune said. “It makes people have to choose sides.”

That’s the last thing Carrera wants.

She said she paints murals to bring people together — a theme that would be reflected in her new concept, “We Are Vermont.”

Carrera envisions a scene depicting people of all races, ethnicities and physical abilities, a more accurate representation of the state. She would rather not sue to make it happen.

“My point of this whole thing is to make people smile for a few minutes,” Carrera said.

“My hands are not going to be able to do this much longer,” she continued. “I just want to do one more.”

Contact: courtney@sevendaysvt.com

Criminal Neglect?

The death of a Black inmate at a northern Vermont prison

K

enneth Johnson was worried about what might happen to a Black man like him in a northern Vermont prison, according to his younger brother, Gilbert Johnson.

“He told me, ‘This is no place for me,’” Gilbert recalled. “‘These people are so prejudiced, so racist.’”

When Gilbert told Kenneth in the fall of 2018 that he and a cousin were hoping to visit him at Newport’s Northern State Correctional Facility, Kenneth discouraged them from making the trip from New York City to Vermont. “He said, ‘It’s not a place I want y’all to come,’” Gilbert said. “‘It’s a place that Blacks are not really welcome in.’”

A little over a year later, Kenneth Johnson died in the infirmary at Northern State — the victim of an untreated and misdiagnosed tumor that obstructed his airway until he could no longer breathe.

According to the summary of a scathing report issued last week by the state Office of the Defender General, Johnson spent his final hours “struggling to breathe while nearby nurses did nothing to help.”

Instead of providing treatment, a Corrections officer threatened to send him to solitary confinement if he didn’t “knock it off,” and a nurse “physically forced Mr. Johnson to lie back in bed,” the defender general found.

Video footage, according toPM 7days-karsten-7.29.20.pdf 1 7/27/2020 12:37:14

CRIME

the report, then showed him “in various stages of agony” before a fellow inmate discovered he was dead early on the morning of December 7, 2019.

The care Johnson received was so poor, the state’s chief medical examiner concluded it “might rise to the level of criminal neglect,” Department of Health spokesperson Ben Truman told Seven Days this week.

To date, nobody has been disciplined, fired or charged.

At the time of Johnson’s death, the 60-year-old inmate was being held without bail on charges of human trafficking and sexual assault of a minor. He and another man had been accused two years earlier of plying a 15-year-old girl with drugs and cash, repeatedly assaulting her, and enticing her to engage in sex work.

Johnson had pleaded not guilty and was awaiting trial.

Gilbert acknowledged that his brother had been in and out of prison since his late teens — largely, he believes, on robbery charges. “He chose that life,” said Gilbert, the first family member to speak publicly about Kenneth’s fate. Nevertheless, he said, his brother did not deserve to die a painful, preventable death.

“How could you watch someone die and not do anything?” he asked. “Who’s going to be accountable for it?”

In the week since the defender

BY PAU L H E I N T Z

general’s explosive report became public, several top state officials have apologized for Johnson’s death. “We are responsible for this, and we should take responsibility,” Secretary of Human Services Mike Smith said at a press conference last Friday.

“There is no excuse for this.”

They have also acknowledged that Johnson’s race could have contributed to

HOW COULD YOU WATCH SOMEONE DIE

AND NOT DO ANYTHING? GIL BE R T J O H NS O N

the inadequate care he received. “Since this prisoner was African American, then we have to ask the hard question and look ourselves in the mirror and say, ‘Would we have handled this prisoner differently if he was white?’” Smith said.

In the immediate aftermath of Johnson’s death, state officials showed much less resolve to get to the bottom of what went wrong.

In a press release disclosing his demise, the Department of Corrections said it appeared to have been the result of “natural causes.” Days later, the Vermont State Police echoed that view.

Raymond Gadreault, the Newport inmate who discovered Johnson’s lifeless body, said that, soon after the incident, he attempted to tell a state police detective what he had witnessed that night: Johnson “banging on the window,” pleading for help. But the detective appeared uninterested, Gadreault told Seven Days last December, and ordered him back to his cell. “He refused to listen to what happened even though I tried several times,” Gadreault said.

State police spokesperson Adam Silverman said at the time that the detective was seeking to determine only “whether a crime had been committed, such as an assault, that contributed to the inmate’s death.” He added, “Whether internal procedures were followed to ensure the inmate received care is a question for Corrections.”

Rather than answer that question, according to the defender general, Corrections staffers or contractors appear to have concealed what happened. According to the defender general’s report, the department erroneously claimed that Johnson had died at nearby North Country Hospital when, in fact, he had perished at the prison. A log entry described Johnson as “awake” at 2:20 a.m., though video showed he had already stopped breathing by then, CRIMINAL NEGLECT?

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news suggesting that nurses had failed to check in on Johnson as required — and fabricated official records.

“There was an attempt to not show the full picture,” Defender General Matthew Valerio said. He went a step further in his report, calling the department “complicit in covering up its [medical] contractor’s gross failure to provide live-saving medical care.”

And though Smith pledged in the days after Johnson’s death to conduct an internal investigation of what went wrong, Corrections initiated just one of two reviews required by its own policies: It contracted with the nonprofit Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care to perform a peer review of Johnson’s medical treatment.

What it didn’t do was conduct an administrative review of what Corrections staffers might have done differently.

“There wasn’t one,” Smith said of the administrative review at last week’s press conference. “And there should have been one.” He added in an interview, “From now on, we’re going to do one every time there is a death or injury in our facility.”

The peer review, according to interim Corrections Commissioner Jim Baker, drew conclusions similar to the defender general’s.

State legislators also appeared unfocused on Johnson’s plight. Two panels with jurisdiction over the prison system — the House Committee on Corrections and Institutions and the Senate Judiciary Committee — held hearings this session on another scandal plaguing the department: allegations of sexual misconduct, drug use and retaliation at the state’s prison for women exposed by Seven Days.

But according to the leaders of the two committees, they took no testimony on Johnson’s death.

“There were a lot of issues before us, so we were working through all those issues,” said Rep. Alice Emmons (D-Springfield), who heads House Corrections.

Asked why his Judiciary Committee hadn’t addressed Johnson’s death, Sen. Dick Sears (D-Bennington) said, “Good question. I don’t know. I can’t answer that question.”

Other entities have probed Johnson’s death. Disability Rights Vermont concluded its own investigation last month, according to executive director Ed Paquin, and came to “substantially the same conclusions” as the defender general. Paquin said he could not release his organization’s report without permission from Johnson’s family.

Earlier this month, Smith also asked the Vermont law firm Downs Rachlin Martin to expand an existing investigation into the women’s prison scandal to include 20

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

COURTESY OF GILBERT JOHNSON

Criminal Neglect? « P.19

Gilbert Johnson (left) and his late brother, Kenneth Johnson

a close look at Johnson’s death. If the firm’s lawyers, led by former U.S. attorney Tristram Coffin, uncovered any criminal wrongdoing, Smith said, they would turn over the evidence to state and federal law enforcement officials.

After initially dismissing Gadreault, the state police appear to have taken a renewed interest in the matter. “When I saw the autopsy, I contacted the state police and asked them to look at it very carefully — and they have,” said Orleans County State’s Attorney Jennifer Barrett, who is also collaborating with the Secretary of State’s Office of Professional Regulation. “I have had a lot of communications with state police, and there’s a significant amount of information that’s been collected.”

Silverman declined to comment on the state of that investigation.

Attorney General T.J. Donovan said he got involved in June after chief medical examiner Dr. Steven Shapiro contacted the head of the AG’s criminal division.

According to Truman of the Department of Health, “Dr. Shapiro wanted to ensure that office was aware of the case, due to the possibility that the care, or lack of care, given to Mr. Johnson might rise to the level of criminal neglect.”

According to Donovan, his office is exploring potential criminal liability “for individuals or corporations,” as well as potential civil liability. That raises the possibility that the state may have its former medical contractor, Centurion Managed Care, in its sights. Until this month, Centurion ran the prison system’s infirmaries and employed the medical personnel who staff them.

The Virginia-based company did not respond to multiple requests for comment, but it told the Associated Press this week

that it stands by its “record of service” and “quality of care” in Vermont.

Donovan said he is also preparing for the possibility that Johnson’s family may sue the state. Ordinarily, his office would be tasked with defending Corrections, but if it were already pursuing criminal charges, it might have to hand over that job to an outside law firm in order to avoid a conflict of interest.

Federal prosecutors could also get involved, if they haven’t already. U.S. Attorney for Vermont Christina Nolan said she could not confirm or deny the existence of any ongoing investigations, but she noted that her office was empowered to prosecute systemic constitutional violations within a correctional system.

Earlier this month, as the findings of the defender general and Disability Rights Vermont became clear, Corrections sought to get out ahead of the story and demonstrate a commitment to preventing such failures of care in the future.

At a July 13 press conference, Baker announced that his department had declined to renew its contract with Centurion and had hired Kansas-based VitalCore Health Strategies to take over prison medical care. Johnson’s death, he suggested, had played a role in the change.

“That caused me to rethink the way we should be providing health care in our system,” the Corrections commissioner told reporters.

In fact, the two events were entirely unrelated. According to Baker’s spokesperson, Rachel Feldman, the department put the contract out to bid in December 2018 and selected VitalCore in October 2019 — two months before Johnson’s death.

“I would say the death of Kenneth Johnson reinforced our decision that

VitalCore was the right move,” Feldman clarified.

Whether the move will result in better care for inmates remains to be seen. At the July 13 press conference, VitalCore CEO Viola Riggin said her company had “scoured the U.S.” for “top-of-craft professionals” to dispatch to the prisons it serves.

But in an interview this week, Riggin acknowledged that 89 percent of its initial Vermont hires came directly from Centurion’s ranks — including Dr. Steven Fisher, who served as Centurion’s in-state medical director and now plays that role for VitalCore.

Lia Ernst, a senior staff attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union of Vermont, is skeptical that the new contractor will be an improvement over the old one.

“You paint a new logo and a new name on the service provider, but the individuals at the ground level are largely the same,” she said. “Time will tell, but if you have all the same people who’ve been involved in what has been, without question, a failing system, it’s hard to be overly optimistic.”

Others argue that what’s really missing is adequate oversight of the system’s medical contractor. As the defender general noted in his report, Corrections hasn’t had its own full-time, in-house medical director since 2015. Currently, according to Baker, Dr. Scott Strenio of the Department for Vermont Health Access is spending 10 hours a week moonlighting in the role.

“I think [Corrections] would be much better served having their own medical director,” said Paquin of Disability Rights Vermont.

According to Riggin, VitalCore is just getting started reforming prison medical care in Vermont and is evaluating every one of its new employees. She said the company has already parted ways with a handful of them since taking over the contract this month, reducing the number of Centurion alums to 84 percent, and she suggested that major leadership changes were in the works — including to the medical director position.

“I just want to say that we’re different,” Riggin said.

Gilbert Johnson, Kenneth’s brother, said that what bothers him the most is that professionals ostensibly dedicated to helping others failed to help his brother. As an assistant cook at a New York City homeless shelter, Gilbert has seen “the good, the bad and the ugly,” he said. “Our job is to save them no matter what.”

He added, “So how could you just let my brother just die like that and stand there and don’t do anything?”

Contact: paul@sevendaysvt.com

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Strengthening Families is especially close to my heart, including her introduction of bills relating to substance use, paid family leave and dental care.

In this time of immense uncertainty, it is so important that we have leadership like Debbie’s to ensure that Vermont remains a wonderful place to live, work and play.

I have already cast my vote for Debbie, and I encourage you to join me in electing her as Vermont’s next lieutenant governor.

Vote for Debbie on August 11 in the Democratic primary!

Martha Whitfield

CHARLOTTE

INVEST IN ZUCKERMAN

[Re “Running in Circles,” July 22]: I enthusiastically support Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman in his bid to be Vermont’s next governor. Here’s why: David will do the best job of leading Vermont’s economic recovery. His priorities are clear: • Rural economic development, including expanding quality broadband to all parts of Vermont; • Raising the minimum wage; • Providing paid parental leave; • Saving the state colleges; • Creating green jobs that pay well and address the climate crisis; and • Supporting restaurants and farms by expanding the Everyone Eats program and creating a supply chain to preserve and distribute Vermont farm-grown foods to Vermonters during this crisis.

We can’t get stuck in the Republican model of addressing this crisis with budget cuts. David knows that an economically prosperous future requires investment.

Please join me in voting for David Zuckerman for governor in the August 11 Democratic primary and in November.

Peter Clavelle

BURLINGTON

Clavelle is a former mayor of Burlington.

NOTHING OFFENSIVE ABOUT IT

It was profoundly disturbing to read about plans to destroy “The Underground Railroad, Vermont and the Fugitive Slave,” a mural at the Vermont Law School by Sam Kerson [Live Culture: “Vermont Law School to Remove Mural Considered Offensive,” July 14].

Using the excuse of student complaints, the administration has taken 22

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

it upon itself to determine what we shall be allowed to see.

One reason cited: Figures were painted in greens. Apparently, these censors are unaware that great artists like Marc Chagall and Pablo Picasso also painted green figures. Should their work be destroyed?

Also cited: the “exaggeration” of figures.

Again, apparently the aspiring lawyers and school administrators are unaware that great African American artists, as stylistically diverse as Robert Colescott, Romare Bearden, Faith Ringgold, Jacob Lawrence and Jean-Michel Basquiat, exaggerated and distorted the human figure.

It is authoritarian regimes that demand “realistic” art — most famously demonstrated by the 1937 “Degenerate Art Exhibition” organized by the Nazi Party.

Such animosity to modernism is because it encourages people to think critically.

It’s appropriate for students to raise questions about art, which they may not understand. It’s also fine for people to dislike a work of art.

But discomfort is not a good reason to destroy art — controversy should be cherished at an institution of higher learning.

Sadly, such censorship is not entirely unexpected. After all, we are burdened with politicians who do not read books.

Should we be surprised that leaders of an educational institution are art-illiterate?

Instead of censorship, let’s defend free artistic expression. There is nothing to fear from art.

Mike Alewitz

NEW LONDON, CT

GRAY BRINGS VERMONTERS TOGETHER

[Re Off Message: “Gray, Ashe Take Heat During Democratic Lieutenant Gubernatorial Debate,” July 16; “Shumlin Endorses Molly Gray for Lieutenant Governor,” June 25]: During the 31 years I worked as a journalist, I followed local politics and public policy closely. I had the opportunity to see up close what it takes to be a good, effective public official.

The best are those who bring people together with a can-do spirit, creating realistic, sustainable solutions that have all of our best interests at heart.

Molly Gray is that leader. That’s why I’m voting for Molly for lieutenant governor in the August 11 primary.

As someone born and raised on a vegetable farm who earned high school, college and law degrees from Vermont schools, Molly stands out as a rising star who can help lead the state to a bright future.

She cut her teeth learning about public service working for Rep. Peter Welch

(D-Vt.). She honed her leadership skills working around the world for the International Committee of the Red Cross. She bolstered her knowledge of state policy and negotiating ability with a law degree from Vermont Law School and subsequent work as a criminal prosecutor.

There are no easy fixes to the challenges we face today, whether it’s education, the economy, equality or any other topic. We need smart, ethical leaders with the intelligence to figure out where old systems have failed and the resourcefulness to reimagine how they can be rebuilt to be more equitable, responsive and sustainable. Molly Gray is that leader.

Please join me in voting for Molly Gray for lieutenant governor in the August 11 primary.

Terri Hallenbeck ST. GEORGE

PROTECT ALL BEINGS

Hunting, fishing and trapping — lying in wait with the intention to harm or kill living, feeling individuals — are crimes against life and should be abolished [Off Message: “Scott Signs Bill Recognizing Abenaki Hunting, Fishing Rights,” July 14].

That they are legal can be attributed to speciesism, defined by author Joan Dunayer as “a failure, on the basis of species membership or species-typical characteristics, to accord any sentient being equal consideration and respect.”

The legislation signed into law may appear to be a victory for the Abenaki culture and equality, but for the nonhuman animals already in danger — on land, in the water and in the air — it is a sad testimonial to their status as property, with no legal rights.

May we evolve, individually and collectively, and embrace a new paradigm, one that accords equal consideration, respect and rights — first and foremost, the right to live free from human-inflicted exploitation, harm and death — for all beings.

May such a paradigm augur a time of peace, love and justice, relegating the aforementioned blood “sports” and other traditions that exploit, harm and kill to the dustbin of history.

That will truly be a time worthy of celebration by all.

Mark Wiesenfeld BOULDER, CO

RAM IS A TRUE LIBERAL

I am not a Democrat, but I will vote for Kesha Ram for Vermont Senate [“Senate Scramble,” July 22].

I met Kesha 10 years ago in the Vermont Statehouse. I watched a young freshman legislator handle a very difficult hearing. I

supported her four years ago for lieutenant governor, saying that she did not talk to people — she talked with people. That was important then, and it is even more important now. Kesha is a true liberal in the original and longtime meaning of that word. It was a philosophy about looking for truth through logic and open debate.

“Keep the company of those who seek the truth, run from those who have found it!” said Václav Havel, the first elected president of Czechoslovakia after the Communists fell. I did not know how close to home it was going to become.

Today, on the right, we have people who are certain they have found the complete truth and their truth cannot be questioned, along with leaders who are trying to destroy the very idea of truth.

On the left, we have those who call themselves liberals but also think they have found all truth. Anyone who presents a nuanced version will be punished. They have become those we should run from!

And then there is Kesha, a decent, thoughtful, confident but humble, liberal human being. Like a lighthouse on a rocky, fogged-in shore, she is a ray of hope in a dismal, sickly partisan social and political landscape.

Wendell Coleman

SOUTH BURLINGTON

MISSING STONE

I’m a longtime admirer of Gordon Stone [Live Culture: “Vermont Musician Gordon Stone Dies at 70,” July 12], going back to the ’80s and the Decentz. Besides Gordon, they had a lead singer who, some people might remember, went on to be elemental in the history and ongoing success of Seven Days.

Gordon was truly a world-class phenomenon on any instrument he played. His pedal steel was smoothly astounding. Alas, always hoped for a Decentz reunion. Maybe some kind soul will reissue some tracks.

James Lienu

BRISTOL

SAY NO TO NAZI ITEMS

[Re “Not Buying It,” July 8]: Read this article and was horrified, not only for my Jewish friends, but the gay men and women and gypsies and all who were victims of this hate long past but brought back in reminders like this.

And I know it well, having directed The Sound of Music. When this flag flew, it sent shivers and sorrow through all of the audience, including the cast and me.

As for the sale? Pure business — in other words, money. Let’s not kid anyone here. The company response — that to “destroy these items or sweep them into

WEEK IN REVIEW

Sean Moran

SHELBURNE

SIEGEL IS AN ADVOCATE

[Re Off Message: “Gray, Ashe Take Heat During Democratic Lieutenant Gubernatorial Debate,” July 16; “When Reform Is the Norm,” July 22]: While all the candidates in the lieutenant governor’s race have made positive contributions to our public life, I will be supporting Brenda Siegel in the upcoming Democratic primary. In my mind, Brenda has shown her commitment through her life’s work and consistent advocacy for key policies that would achieve greater economic security, social justice and environmental sustainability for Vermonters.

Brenda understands that even before our pandemic, it was not acceptable for almost 40 percent of Vermonters to be underinsured, struggling with out-ofpocket costs that deter them from seeking the health care needed. Brenda is a strong supporter of health care as a human right, starting with making primary care a universal public good with no out-ofpocket costs.

Brenda is also unequivocal in supporting a progressive tax structure and the need to reverse the Trump tax cuts on the wealthy on a state level so that the state can gain needed revenue. Finally, she is committed to resolving the problem of broadband access for all Vermonters, essential for our economic health and for equal educational opportunities.

With her clear commitment to these issues, as well as to racial and environmental justice, she will be a powerful advocate for Vermonters. Her experience as a lowincome person has informed her view, and she also has the breadth of analysis to understand that to achieve justice, we must strive for systemic changes that give power back to people rather than to corporations and the wealthy.

Ellen Oxfeld

MIDDLEBURY

BRIGHT KNIGHT

I am so excited to learn that you are bringing Keith Knight’s “The K Chronicles”

back to Seven Days [From the Publisher: “’Tooning In,” July 8]. It was a sad day when both Knight’s cartoon and Alison Bechdel’s “Dykes to Watch Out For” were discontinued — for different reasons — in your paper.

And aside from Harry Bliss, Tom Tomorrow and Jen Sorensen, our household has found the cartoon section less than creative, funny or amusing for several years. While it seems a bit questionable (tokenism?) that you bring back Keef at this historical moment (due to Black Lives Matter and national politics rather than the merits of his great work), we welcome the addition.

He has just the insight and humor and intellect that our community and nation need now. Thank you so much!

Kirsten Isgro

BURLINGTON

ASHE IS A PROGRESSIVE, EXPERIENCED LEADER

[Re Off Message: “Gray, Ashe Take Heat During Democratic Lieutenant Gubernatorial Debate,” July 16; “Ashe Kicks Off Campaign for Lieutenant Governor,” May 28]: I wholeheartedly support Tim Ashe’s candidacy for lieutenant governor. Tim’s extensive experience, leadership and record of accomplishment are unmatched. He understands the nuts and bolts of making policy and legislation.

Tim’s voting record is excellent, and I challenge any Democratic candidate in this race to find a specific vote of his with which they would disagree.

Under Tim’s strong leadership, Vermont now has one of the most progressive agendas in America. Tim’s record reflects a lifelong dedication to all Vermonters. As a mental health counselor, I appreciate his leadership in bolstering our mental health system, affordable childcare and housing, and gun-safety legislation. As an outdoorswoman, I am grateful for his long-standing work on climate change, restoring and protecting our environment, and natural resources. As someone who spends time online, I value his passage of Vermont’s net neutrality law, restrictions on large “data brokers,” and Vermont consumer protection legislation.

During his time as president pro tem, Tim’s intimate, pragmatic understanding of the Senate prepared him well to be lieutenant governor. Should, God forbid, anything happen to Vermont’s governor, Tim Ashe is equipped from day one to step in. There is no other candidate as prepared. Be a voter! Please join me in voting for Tim Ashe for lieutenant governor in the August 11 primary.

Kim Lang

BURLINGTON

SCOTT IN TRUMP’S PARTY

If you might consider it a civic duty as [Re “Running in Circles,” July 22]: Gov. an “asymptomatic community member” Phil Scott’s COVID-19 response has to get tested, then call 802-828-2828 for in general been admirable, especially an appointment. They will treat you well. compared to that of the national RepubBob Howe licans and many in other states. His nonNORTH BENNINGTON COVID activities are open to discussion.

But the Republican Party is now Donald Trump’s party, almost 100 percent at the INGRAM IS A SOCIAL national level and to a sickening degree JUSTICE CHAMPION in most states. As long as Scott chooses to Debbie Ingram is my choice for lieutenant remain in the party headed by Trump, he governor of Vermont [Off Message: “Gray, is giving tacit accepAshe Take Heat During Democratic Lieutance to this situation. tenant GubernatoTo merit the votes of rial Debate,” July CROWDED FIELD Vermonters, the one 16; “Debbie Ingram thing he must do is Kicks Off Bid for join the resistance Lieutenant Governor,” June 26]. to Trump and his malicious policies by For the past renouncing his party 16 years, she has affiliation. Otherchampioned causes wise, whatever antithat improve the Trump lip service he lives of Vermontmay come up with, a ers and advocated RUNNING vote for Scott must for those who don’t IN CIRCLES be interpreted as a have a voice. Debbie vote for Trump. is on the right side of every social justice MOORE IS MORE VOTERS’ GUIDE INSIDE! Dennis Bouldin issue I care about: ESSEX affordable housing, health care, criminal TESTING, TESTING justice, raising the minimum wage, paid [Re Off Message: “Legislatures Doles family leave, equal pay, racial justice and out $577 Million in Aid, Adjourns Until LGTBQ rights.

August,” June 27]: Concerning COVIDIt’s one thing to care and another thing 19 virus testing, I thought that the plan to drive change. For the past three years, was to get as many people as possible I’ve worked with Debbie as a member of tested throughout our population — Vermont Interfaith Action — an organizasymptoms or no symptoms. But it’s not tion that, under her leadership, has grown so easy. The reason for doing testing from seven affiliates in Burlington to 60 was to identify the ailing and also to affiliates statewide. I have experienced get a geographic mapping of all persons firsthand Debbie’s extraordinary ability infected regionally, statewide and to organize and mold an inexperienced nationally. This would allow for steps to group of volunteers into a motivated and be taken to fend off further spread of the effective change-making machine. epidemic. The preventive tactics were: Debbie is one of the most creative track personal exposures and relation- people I know. Undaunted by her inabilships of those found infected and require ity to connect face-to-face with voters, quarantining of those found infected. she devised a “virtual tour” of Vermont.

And document every bit of it.

It’s a creative way to safely introduce So what is the Vermont Department of herself and her values to the voters. In Health doing? It looks like two initiatives: each tour, Debbie features a brief inter1. If you have symptoms (fever, cough view with a local business owner and and shortness of breath, chills, repeated a nonprofit leader, highlights a scenic shaking with chills, muscle pain, head- attraction, and addresses the economic ache, sore throat, new loss of taste or and social issues confronting the citismell), you are allowed to have your doctor zens of each county. If you haven’t had prescribe a test for you. the good fortune to experience one of 2. If you have no symptoms, then it is Debbie’s virtual tours of Vermont, visit up to you to decipher the way to get a test ingramvt.com and sign up. without a doctor.

Vote for Debbie Ingram in the DemoFor that purpose, the state is provid- cratic Primary on August 11! ing so-called “pop-up” testing sites at Sue Brooks certain times in communities throughBURLINGTON out the state.

Chittenden County Senate race heats up

PAGE 12

VERMONT’S INDEPENDEN T VOICE JULY 22-29, 2020 VOL.25 NO.43 SEVENDAYSVT .COM

the shadows only does a disservice to the period of history from which they originate, to those who were systematically murdered by the regime they represent, and to those who fought and died to annihilate that regime in the name of democracy” — is a line from an entitled position in the community. As is the auction house’s decision to remove comments that were deemed “tainted.”

Will we ever learn?

Can anybody defeat Gov. Phil

BY PAUL HEINTZ, PAGE 34

PAGE 32

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lifelines OBITUARIES

Robert A. Cioffi

FEBRUARY 24, 1931-JULY 22, 2020 ST. ALBANS, VT. Robert A. Cioffi, 89, of St. Albans, Vt., passed away peacefully on July 22, 2020, at his home in St. Albans with his loving wife, Nancy, holding his hand. Bob was born in St. Albans on February 24,1931, the fifth child of George A. and Rose (Maffeo) Cioffi.

He lived his entire life in St. Albans, the community he loved and where he worked hard to make a lasting and positive impact.

Bob, fondly referred to as Papa, enjoyed life to the fullest, always having fun along the way. He was an incredible and generous person with a great sense of humor and a positive outlook on life; he was a true role model to so many. Bob was fiercely loyal and dedicated to his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, friends and to the Peoples Trust Company, “the Bank with a Heart,” which he loved and where he served as a director for 30 years.

Bob was someone you could count on in good times or bad to help in any and every way possible. He was known for getting things done, and he couldn’t be bothered with minuscule details and mundane obstacles. Bob was a straight shooter and likable, both personally and professionally. Never boastful, always humble and always willing to share the wealth of knowledge he earned over his lifetime of experiences. He was generous to the core to

OBITUARIES, VOWS, CELEBRATIONS

those in need, never expecting or wanting anything in return. He took great satisfaction in seeking to make people’s lives better and happier in his family, community, state, country and world.

Bob graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1949.

He joined the Army National Guard in 1949 and served in the Korean War as a sergeant.

Stationed in Germany, he was an Army cook feeding hundreds of soldiers and honing his skills as a great cook who shared recipes and culinary secrets with his family throughout life.

During his military service, he enjoyed traveling throughout Germany and Europe, with the highlight of returning to his father’s homeland of Italy.

Along the way Bob made lasting friendships and gathered stories he’d share for years to come.

He returned to St. Albans, trying his hand at a couple of jobs with HP Hood Inc. and Sealtest Ice Cream, soon deciding that they weren’t a right fit, as he was born an entrepreneur. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became a barber, completing Massachusetts School of Barbering in Boston and then working a short time in Wellesley. He again returned to St. Albans and joined his father’s barber business. He purchased the business and operated it for another 15 successful years.

Entrepreneurship called again, and he ventured into real estate in the St. Albans area, becoming the owner/ broker of Robert Cioffi Real Estate, through which he built hundreds of homes, developed many residential settlements, renovated many commercial buildings and owned a multitude of rental properties. In fact, there aren’t too many places in St. Albans where Bob’s imprint hasn’t been left.

Bob served on the board of directors of Peoples Trust Company for over 30 years and was chair of the board for 29 years. He served on the board of Habitat for Humanity, and he helped to start Franklin County Home Health. He served on the St. Albans City Council and was active in the Democratic Party at the local, state and

national level. He helped to elect governor Phil Hoff, and he took immense pride in working to help Sen. Patrick Leahy win his first election and every reelection since.

Bob married “the love of his life,” Nancy Wry, on April 19, 1954. Together they raised their four children, Frank Cioffi, Rob Cioffi, Susan Cioffi Boulerice and Carol Cioffi Spillane. Bob and Nan shared a life like no other. Everyone admired their love and commitment to each other over their 66 years of marriage.

Bob and Nan’s home was always welcoming and full of family and friends enjoying good company, good food, great stories, jokes and lots of cheer. They enjoyed each other immensely and supported each other’s passions and hobbies.

Bob had a passion for antique cars, owning a 1936 Buick, a 1948 Buick, Packards, Hudsons, a 1964 T-Bird, Corvettes, roadsters, Mercedes and MGs. He never got too attached to a car or a piece of real estate, as Bob loved making a deal and was a great negotiator. Bob and Nan traveled annually to many antique car shows, including ones in Hershey, Pa.; Lake Placid, N.Y.; Littleton, N.H.; Stowe; Manchester; and so many others. He always coordinated car shows with some retail adventures for Nan. They made many friends along their travels, whether it was at a car show or while snowbirding to their home in New Smyrna Beach, Fla. They enjoyed their second home for over 20 years, reconnecting with family from afar, making more friends and, of course, hosting their children and grandchildren for visits to Florida, creating more wonderful memories.

Bob loved playing golf in Vermont and New Smyrna. He was always up for “international rules,” as he called them, where creative scoring was allowed. Bob also could be found doing other favorite things, like watching his favorite baseball team, the Yankees; watching Netflix; reading; bidding on eBay; working at his warehouse on his cars; riding around with his yellow Lab, Zoe; and, of course, spending time with his children, grandchildren

and great-grandchildren.

Bob embraced all the new technology, enjoying the internet, mobile phones, tablets, online banking, bill pay, Netflix and eBay. From time to time, one could expect to receive a “Bob Support” call, and when things went awry he’d close with, “Well, thanks for nothing!”

Bob loved dogs, especially Labs. He had many granddogs who loved him and would vie for his attention or to be his favorite. Bob and Nan donated land and water/ sewer infrastructure to the Hard’ack Recreation Area.

Part of the land is now home to a great dog park.

Bob was known for giving everyone a nickname, always with a sense of humor. Many of the grandchildren had “kins” or “alini” added to their names. Family and friends were of the utmost importance to Bob and Nan. They enjoyed a lifetime of dear friends, including the families of Larry and Peggy Larrow, Paul and Alicia Fredette, Larry and Lorraine Handy, John and Teresa Manahan, Robert “Shorty” and Rena Goulette, Richard and Claire Manahan, Frank and Rosemary Spendley, and Frank and Dottie Dowling. It didn’t matter what walk of life you came from, he always had time to share a little wisdom or a joke or two.

Bob leaves behind his wife of 66 years, Nancy; son Frank Cioffi; son Robert Cioffi and daughter-in-law Tina Cioffi; daughter Susan Cioffi Boulerice and son-in-law Marcel Boulerice; and daughter Carol Cioffi Spillane and son-in-law Mike Spillane. He also leaves behind grandchildren Michael Cioffi (Alaina), Brett Boulerice (Brittany), Jennifer Howrigan (Ryan), Chadwick Cioffi (Renee), Katelynn Essex (Tyler), Kiley Boulerice, Benjamin Cioffi (Chelsey), Logan Spillane, Caleb Cioffi, Haley Spillane and Owen Cioffi. He leaves behind great-grandchildren Frankie Cioffi; Bennett and Jack Cioffi; Grace, Quinn and Ray Howrigan; Carly and Sam Essex; and Brayden and Brennan Boulerice. His special canine friends were Lily Rose Spillane, Hazel Mae Boulerice, Abigail and Elliot Cioffi, Maple Howrigan, and Ellie Essex. Bob also leaves many special nieces and nephews of the Paquin, Cioffi,

Smith, Villella and Peters families, as well as special friends Robert “Shorty” Goulette, Dr. Toby Sadkin, Dale Holm, John Gallagher, Tom Gallagher, John Corbierre, Rene “RBI” Benway, Peter Todd and Lori Fredette.

Bob was predeceased by his granddaughter Alexa Rose Cioffi; parents; sisters Celia Paquin, Marion Smith Walsh and Gertrude Villella; brothers William and Franklin Cioffi; sister-in-law Polly Peters Real; brothers-in-law Dr. Lauren Smith, Col. Burton Paquin, Donald Villella and Robert “Butch” Walsh; niece Linda Smith Gleason; and dear friend Rick Manahan.

His family hopes that Papa is now celebrating with all of his family and friends who have gone before him.

Bob’s family thanks Dr. Stewart Manchester and office staff, the St. Albans Dialysis Center, Franklin County Home Health, and Home Instead Caregivers for their support and kindness over the past few months and weeks.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2020, from 2 to 5 p.m., at Saint Michael the Archangel Chapel, Saint Michael’s College, 810 Campus Rd., Colchester, VT 05439.

A Mass celebrating his life will be held at Saint Michael’s Chapel on Monday, August 3, 2020, at 11 a.m., with burial services at 2 p.m. in the Holy Cross Cemetery in St. Albans.

Please note that to comply with the State of Vermont’s COVID-19 safety requirements, social distancing and face masks will be required for all attending any of the services.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Holy Cross Cemetery, c/o Denise Messier, 68 Smith St., St. Albans, VT 05478 for the maintenance and beautification of the cemetery in honor of Bob Cioffi.

To send Bob’s family a written expression of sympathy, please visit our online guest book at healdfuneralhome. com.

The Cioffi family and community were so very fortunate and lucky to have this great man in our lives.

We will greatly miss Papa, our superhero and one of Vermont’s finest. We will love you always and forever. Rest in peace, Papa. Ba pa pa!

Gordon Stone APRIL 1, 1950JULY 10, 2020 MONTPELIER, VT.

A legendary, Emmy Award-winning contemporary of Béla Fleck and Tony Trischka; a Phish collaborator; and a fivetime Seven Days “best instrumentalist,” Gordon G. Stone passed from this world on Friday, July 10, 2020, peacefully with ease in his sleep.

Gordon’s ties to Vermont and its musical community were vast and deeply connected. Born on April Fool’s Day in 1950, Stone moved to Vermont in 1972 and began woodshedding while pumping at a station in Jericho, practicing and perfecting his original sound on three-finger banjos and pedal steel guitars.

Stone’s first album was only released on vinyl, as is his last release: a double vinyl capturing his most illustrious music, spanning almost 50 years — a retrospective. His double album release was delivered on July 9, and his marketing production team and label, Lucas Pappy Biondo and Bobby Hackney, were elated with the results of the softrelease prospects.

Stone is survived by his wife and companion of 26 years, Jennifer Harwood, who coined him the “Mozart of his genre.”

He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ellen; brother, George; three cousins; and nieces and nephews.

He joins his dogs Mia, Champ, Guffer and Hubble on the other side and his longtime mate Zoot Wilson in the place where artists go.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at guareandsons.com.

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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arts news

Rik Palieri

COURTESY OF LYNN CLAUER

Legacy Edition

Folk singer Rik Palieri on his new autobiography, Banjo Man B Y D A N B O LLES

A

global pandemic sure makes for a strange time to release a new book. On the one hand, appetites for reading are high, as those in isolation look to books — along with Netflix and booze — to stave off cabin fever.

On the other hand, authors are deprived of the traditional avenues for promoting their work: Restrictions on travel and public gatherings make in-person book tours all but impossible. That’s especially a problem for someone like RIK PALIERI. Palieri, soon to be 65, is a Vermontbased, banjo-slinging folk singer. While he calls Hinesburg home, until recently Palieri didn’t hang his signature Stetson hat there all that often. As the title of his 2004 autobiography, The Road Is My 26

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

BOOKS

Mistress: Tales of a Roustabout SongSome of those tales made up Palieri’s ster, suggests, his true home is the great first autobiography, significant portions American highway — and, on occasion, the of which reappear in his recently released byways of Europe and South America.

Banjo Man: Adventures of an American Folk Palieri was a friend Singer, along with addiand protégé of the late tional stories. At a hefty 530 folk greats Pete Seeger pages, the new book is rich and Utah Phillips, the in details of Palieri’s life latter a genuine hobo and travels. It’s also loaded R IK PAL IE R I who spent considerable with anecdotes and recoltime in Vermont. Like lections that folk music them, Palieri fits the classic American history buffs and preservationists should mold of the wandering troubadour. He’s find particularly fascinating. Palieri offers traveled from sea to shining sea and uniquely personal snapshots of Seeger, around the globe preaching the musical Phillips and many others who helped make gospels of Pete and Woody (that’d be him the person he is.

Guthrie) on stages large and small. And “I think you can see that you can be he’s got stories to tell. shaped by your mentors,” Palieri said by

STORIES HAVE A

LIFE OF THEIR OWN.

phone about Banjo Man. “That’s what this book is really about.”

Palieri grew up in New Jersey and had a troubled and violent childhood. Music guided him past his rough early years, as did his relationship with Seeger, who died in 2014.

Seeger’s gentle brand of social and environmental activism and community building remains a philosophical beacon for Palieri.

“I had this dream of being a musician,” he explained. “Pete Seeger came into my life at a young age, and he stayed with me until he was gone.”

In more recent years, Palieri didn’t see Seeger “all the time,” he said, though the two communicated regularly by mail throughout their long friendship. “But there was always this presence of Pete guiding me through life.”

The same was true of Phillips, Palieri said.

“I thought it was important for me to share what I learned from these mentors for those people who will never have a chance to meet them,” he added.

While Palieri’s autobiography is something of a tell-all, as music books go it’s relatively free of scandalous revelations.

The closest it gets is the account of a brief, rather uncomfortable period in the 1970s, when Palieri and a girlfriend lived upstairs from some randy swingers.

“Banjo players, we weren’t the most popular people,” he said. “It wasn’t sex, drugs, and rock and roll. You attracted old men and dogs, being a banjo player.”

That doesn’t mean Banjo Man lacks entertaining tales. Under the guidance of local author and editor TIM BROOKES, Palieri demonstrates a natural knack for spinning yarns.

“Stories have a life of their own and a power of their own that you can’t argue with,” Palieri said. “The important part is that stories teach us something.”

His colorful tales often do just that, many including still-resonant lessons he learned from his fellow folkies.

“These people were the real deal,” Palieri said of Seeger and Phillips. “They were very special in the way they lived a principled life, and they worked hard to live that way. We don’t have as many of those role models now.

“Pete was the first person who showed me that you can change the world if we worked together, if we sang together,” he continued. “And I think that’s something we could use a little bit of right now.”

Contact: dan@sevendaysvt.com

INFO Banjo Man: Adventures of an American Folk Singer by Rik Palieri, self-published, 530 pages. $26.95.

Notice of NoNdiscrimiNatory policy as to studeNts

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ARTS

Where the Art Is

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According to her LinkedIn profile, ELYZABETH JOY HOLFORD is an international strategy consultant. Those buzzy-sounding words hardly do service to the dizzying number of positions she has held, including trial attorney; tenured associate professor, assistant dean, director of equal opportunity and affirmative action, and other roles at Virginia Tech; director of that university’s Center for European Studies and Architecture, located in Riva San Vitale, Switzerland; executive director of Equality Ohio; founding senior executive of Digital Living Research Commons in Aarhus, Denmark; and many more.

This month, Holford adds another line to her résumé: executive director of the VERMONT STUDIO CENTER. Following the yearlong interim leadership of ELLEN MCCULLOCH-LOVELL, Holford comes to the arts center not only with extensive experience in management and organizational innovation but with other attributes equally pertinent to the venue: She’s a musician — singer and guitarist — and “an arts enthusiast with a passion for poetry,” she told Seven Days. “One of my happiest moments this week was when my 12-string arrived.”

In a phone interview last week from her quarantine quarters on Vermont Studio Center’s Johnson campus, Holford noted that she didn’t see the job posting for the directorship until a friend sent it to her — twice. “She said, ‘This sounds like what you do,’” Holford recalled. She applied.

Both Holford and the search committee are glad she did. Chairing that committee was MAJOR JACKSON, a VSC trustee and professor of English at the University of Vermont.

“Elyzabeth has the right skills for this moment. As an entrepreneur, former attorney, and noted advocate of LGBT rights, we were impressed with her incredibly competent leadership and commitment to social causes,” Jackson wrote in an email. “She does not possess the typical profile of a nonprofit arts administrator.

That is, frankly, what makes her an exciting choice … Any person who can help change marriage-equality laws in Ohio is the person I want on my team to carry the message of supporting artists.”

Trading work with international organizations for a nonprofit in small-town Vermont might seem like a dramatic shift.

But that’s part of what drew her, Holford explained. “[VSC] is absolutely rooted in Vermont but at the same time is open to

the world,” she said. Holford also applauded the center’s “commitment to diversity and its understanding of how important the arts are, and protecting the spaces for artists to create.”

Though its hometown claims a population of just 3,655, Vermont Studio Center is the largest fine arts and writing residency program in the country; last year the picturesque campus hosted 834 artists and writers from 45 states and U.S. territories and 32 countries, according to an annual report on VSC’s website.

Holford will oversee a staff of 20 full-time and seven part-time employees and an annual budget of about $3.3 million.

The report also notes that Elyzabeth Joy Holford 239 of its 2019 residents received full scholarships, while 579 benefited from a combination of scholarships and financial aid. Dozens of visiting artists per year offer a full schedule of talks, studio visits, lectures and readings.

For “Vermont Week” once a year, the center accepts exclusively Green Mountain artists and writers.

More than 16,000 residents have stayed at VSC since it was founded in 1984 by JON GREGG, LOUISE VON WEISE and FREDERICK OSBORNE. This year, like every other organization and business in the world, the center faced unprecedented challenges due to the coronavirus pandemic.

VSC quickly adapted, moving all of its spring programming online. An in-person residency this month eschewed the usual collegial gatherings and enforced health department guidelines.

“The organization is at an inflection point,” Holford observed; “that’s of interest to me.”

Strategizing how to move forward in the time of COVID-19 is not her only mission at VSC. Holford said the center will be looking at “honoring the past but with a heightened awareness around racial and economic justice issues — every ounce, fiber and process [will be] aiming in that direction … I’m here to be part of that process, and to lead.

“This is a noncompetitive space with harmonious ecological standards and a commitment to community building,” she added. “To be able to do that every day is a beautiful thing.”

Holford is already smitten with the Green Mountain State. Her quarantine ends this week, and she’s eager to find a place to live. During a career that has led her around the country and across the Atlantic, she said, “Home is very flexible for me. Home is where I am.”

PA MEL A POLSTON

Contact: pamela@sevendaysvt.com

INFO Learn more about Vermont Studio Center at vermontstudiocenter.org.

Trinity Children’s Center admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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7/28/20 12:05 PM

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arts news

H

arrison Brooks has loved games for as long as he can remember.

The 17-year-old high school senior grew up playing anything he could get his hands on, particularly card games such as UNO, Rat-a-Tat Cat, Go Fish, gin rummy and poker. Eventually, the industrious teen began making up games himself.

So far, he’s gotten one off the ground.

Brooks conceived, designed and produced ElevatorUp. For two to five players, the game consists of a deck of 50 cards that takes participants on an unpredictable “elevator ride.” ElevatorUp is simple enough for elementary schoolers yet stimulating enough to keep adults engaged.

“I don’t know how I came up with the idea,” says Brooks, who meets a reporter to play the game sporting a cherry-red Addison County Fair & Field Days T-shirt, a calculator watch and a cap touting its origin in Lincoln, Vt. “It’s fun for all ages, but the design is definitely geared more toward younger kids.”

The slight, affable teen and his family are normally based in New York City, but they have strong ties to Lincoln, where Brooks’ grandmother has lived for 20 years. He and his family have spent many school holidays and vacations in the Addison County town, where they’ve been riding out the pandemic for the past few months. They plan to move to Vermont full time in the near future.

Brooks conceived of ElevatorUp using regular playing cards, taking elements of many games he liked and weaving them together with components of his own creation. But keeping track of the special properties he assigned to certain cards proved difficult, so Brooks made his own deck with paper. The elevator theme followed. “[Elevators] work well with the game, [since it’s] all about going up in numbers,” he explains, noting that the theme also nods to his life growing up in the city.

In ElevatorUp, as in many card games, whoever gets rid of all of their cards first wins. Most of the deck is composed of cards that pair pictures of high-rise buildings with floor numbers. Players discard these in sequential order. If a player drops a thirdfloor card, for example, the next player must play a third floor or higher. If they can’t beat it, they draw a new card. As in UNO, once the whole play deck has been turned over into the discard pile, it’s shuffled and put in play again.

Selecting certain special cards disrupts game play. A card called “Door Closed” skips the next player’s turn; a “Lobby” card resets the sequence so that lower-floor cards can be played again.

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CULTURE

In the Cards

Teen Harrison Brooks invents a new game, ElevatorUp ST ORY & PH OT OS BY J ORD AN AD AM S

Harrison Brooks

I STILL THINK THERE’S NO COMPARISON

TO HOLDING CARDS IN YOUR HAND. HAR R IS O N BR O OK S

Some additional cards are dealt at the beginning and reserved for the end of the game. Two are dealt face up and can be swapped out with cards from the player’s initial hand. Three others are dealt face down and must remain that way until a player runs out of cards in hand and picks them up. Since the player has no idea how useful these cards will be, the results can quickly turn the game around, and the uncertainty adds excitement.

Over the past couple of years, Brooks got serious about making his game a reality, he says. He developed graphic design skills and worked through several mockups, tweaking the designs until they evolved into colorful illustrations and an engaging typeface.

Brooks’ father, Andrew, offered guidance. “I helped him think about how his

players would perceive the game and if the design would communicate what he wants it to communicate,” Andrew says.

The final piece of the process was getting the cards produced. After some research, Brooks landed on Hong Kongbased makeplayingcards.com. He found the company appealing because it doesn’t set a minimum on how many units can be produced per order.

Currently, ElevatorUp can be purchased for $9.99 from Amazon or his own site, but Brooks says he would love to see his game in brick-and-mortar shops.

Though he acknowledges that most kids his age might have different tastes, he favors tactile, interpersonal recreation.

“I’d say the majority of my generation, especially younger [kids], prefer games on their phones,” Brooks says. “Most of them are free, and you get them instantly.

But I love to hold cards.

“I’ve played gin rummy and poker on my phone,” he continues, “but I still think there’s no comparison to holding cards in your hand.”

Brooks hopes that, if ElevatorUp takes off, people will adapt the game play with their own “house rules,” as often happens with mass-market games. But the structure he created is stimulating enough on its own.

“I think it can be played on a simple level or a more sophisticated level,” Andrew Brooks says of ElevatorUp. “It feels almost nostalgic. Pure, innocent family fun, without a screen or too much overthinking.”

Contact: jordan@sevendaysvt.com

INFO Watch an instructional demo video and purchase the game at playelevatorup.com.

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Let’s Do the Time Loop Again Streaming video review: Palm Springs B Y M AR GO T HA R R I SON

W

here do we find entertainment these days? On our laptops and in our living rooms. The streaming options are overwhelming — and not always easy to sort through. So, in this weekly feature, I review a movie or series that might otherwise be easy to overlook.

Death and escape are equally out of reach.

And now Sarah is caught in the time loop with him.

WILL YOU LIKE IT? This Lonely Island production doesn’t go quite as far as namechecking Groundhog Day, but it doesn’t hide the similarities. And that’s fine. Since

THE FILM: Palm Springs WHERE TO SEE IT: Hulu

At a swanky wedding in the desert, two disaffected guests meet-cute — sort of. Sarah (Cristin Milioti), the sister of the bride, is drinking hard and on the verge of making a scene. Nyles (Andy Samberg), a bridesmaid’s date, isn’t particularly concerned when he catches his girlfriend (Meredith Hagner) hooking up with a groomsman. In fact, he isn’t particularly concerned about anything, including the armed mystery man (J.K. Simmons) who appears from nowhere and attacks him just as he and Sarah are about to have an ill-advised hookup of their own.

When Sarah follows Nyles into a cave, she discovers the source of his perpetual chill: Whatever happens on the wedding day, he wakes up in the morning to find that … it’s the wedding day all over again.

THE DEAL:

IF YOU LIKE THIS, TRY...

• Destination Wedding (2018; Amazon Prime Video, rentable on various services): If you like the prickly romantic chemistry in Palm Springs, you might like the downright misanthropic chemistry of Keanu Reeves and Winona Ryder in this oddball rom-com, featuring one of the most (intentionally) awkward sex scenes ever filmed.

• Groundhog Day (1993; Netflix, rentable on various services): It’s an obvious choice, yes, but the comedy classic that spawned the time-loop trend is always worth revisiting.

• Like time-loop movies? Don’t like rom-coms? The Groundhog Day template has also inspired horror (Happy Death Day), action (the underrated Tom Cruise/Emily Blunt vehicle Live Die Repeat: Edge of Tomorrow) and soulsearching comedy-drama (Netflix’s “Russian Doll”), among many others.

Contact: margot@sevendaysvt.com

Sunset Drive-In

JESSICA PEREZ/HULU

the release of the Bill Murray classic, the time-loop concept has become a subgenre unto itself (see below), and Palm Springs manages to do some fresh and clever things with the notion of people trapped in a hell of eternal recurrence. Perhaps more importantly, it resonates with 2020 viewers who have to keep checking to remind themselves what day of the week it is.

The biggest surgery that director Max Barbakow and writer Andy Siara performed on the Groundhog Day template is putting the lovers of this rom-com in the time loop

together. So, instead of the story of a man repeating his courtship of a woman until she reciprocates his feelings, we have the story of two people facing the prospect of starting a romance with personal baggage they can’t unload. How far can this relationship go when Nyles wakes up every morning in bed with his girlfriend, and Sarah keeps reliving a mistake that casts doubt on her ability to commit to anyone?

While the leads have good chemistry, most of the supporting characters are underwritten — with the exception of Simmons, who brings both manic energy and gravitas to his role. Overall, Palm Springs achieves a healthy balance of comic wackiness and moody thinkiness. The resolution doesn’t have the emotional pull that Groundhog Day’s did, but plenty of subversive jokes and insights are scattered along the way.

Most thought-provoking, perhaps, is Nyles’ ambivalence about escaping the time loop. It’s not clear how long he’s been repeating the same day (months? years? centuries?), but it is clear he’s come to appreciate the predictability of limited options. With so much uncertainty waiting on the edges of our lives, how many of us feel the same?

Through Thursday, July 30: Grease & Dirty Dancing The Rental & The Wretched Zootopia & The Avengers E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial & Jurassic Park Through Thursday, August 6: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial & Back to the Future Christine & Scream & Relic

Bethel Drive-In Friday, July 31, through Sunday, August 2: Raiders of the Lost Ark

Fairlee Drive-In Friday, July 31, & Saturday, August 1: Grease & Dirty Dancing Sunday, August 2: Dirty Dancing Cristin Milioti and Andy Samberg SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

29

BOTTOM LINE BY CHELSEA EDGAR

Playing It Safe Quarterstaff Games stays alive for the next level of the pandemic

PHOTOS: LUKE AWTRY

A game of Warhammer 40,000 at Quarterstaff Games

Y

ou will not find a single video game on the shelves at Quarterstaff Games, a hobby shop tucked away up a flight of stairs next to Earth Prime Comics, on Burlington’s Church Street. Instead, you might find a board game called Myrmes, an ant battle royale. (“Fill up your larder, hunt down insects and wisely place your pheromones to conquer the territory.”)

There’s also Pandemic, whose premise now sounds depressingly like real life (“The clock is ticking as outbreaks and epidemics fuel the spreading plagues.”), and Meeple Party, whose premise now sounds depressingly insane (“You and your roommates are throwing a house party.”). Not surprisingly, said Quarterstaff manager Benjamin Higgins, Pandemic has been selling particularly well over the past few months.

As people cocooned themselves at home this spring, puzzle and board game sales skyrocketed. In the last two weeks of March, puzzle maker Ravensburger saw a 370 percent increase in U.S. sales compared to the same period in 2019; game manufacturer Hasbro reported strong first-quarter earnings.

Major corporations weren’t the only beneficiaries of this analog gaming bubble: At the end of March, the creepy dungeon-y board game Frosthaven, created by a oneperson design company, became the thirdmost-funded project in Kickstarter’s history, generating $3 million in donations within three hours.

While the country’s three biggest game retailers — Target, Walmart and Amazon 30

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Benjamin Higgins

— have profited from the pandemic-induced online retail boom, independent hobby stores such as Quarterstaff are struggling to recover from the shutdown. According to Higgins, Quarterstaff is currently operating at 50 to 60 percent of last year’s sales.

Before the pandemic, Quarterstaff held tournaments and open games most nights of the week. “Gamers are very social people, and our customers describe us as family,” said Higgins, who, like Quarterstaff’s four other employees, found his way

I DON’T WANT TO GIVE THIS UP,

AND I’M NOT READY TO PULL THE PLUG, BUT THE INCOME JUST ISN’T THERE. CHRIS FAR R E L L

there through his own gaming proclivity.

(Higgins is especially fond of Terraforming Mars, in which players compete to create the most suitable living conditions on our planetary neighbor.) “People were constantly here, bringing their friends and hanging out for multiple hours. We’ve all suffered a bit from having to sequester ourselves.”

After the shop closed in late March, Higgins and the rest of the staff — two other full-time employees and two part-timers

— quickly pivoted to a contactless business model. They set up an e-commerce site; one staffer at a time went into the store to prepare orders for shipping. Three days a week, other employees made home deliveries within Chittenden County. During the shutdown, said Higgins, they received eight to 12 delivery requests a day.

“Honestly, I expected less,” he said.

“Our community really rallied and supported us when we needed it, and for that we will always be thankful.”

While many other small businesses laid off employees, Quarterstaff kept everyone on payroll. “In the gaming community, everyone looks out for everyone else.

That’s something you might not see at a clothing store,” said Higgins.

In fact, the whole point of Quarterstaff is community, the shared experience of inhabiting an alternate reality. Owner Chris Farrell, 58, opened Quarterstaff in 1989 as a clubhouse for people who shared her obsession with tiny tabletop universes.

“I think I got into it because I didn’t have enough playmates as a kid,” she said.

Since 2005, Farrell has left the dayto-day management to Quarterstaff ’s employees. She is so hands-off, in fact, that she told a Seven Days reporter she doesn’t even know, off the top of her head, how many people work there. But the finances are still under her purview. This spring, Farrell secured a Paycheck Protection Program loan to cover payroll for both Quarterstaff and Earth Prime Comics, which she also owns.

Now that the federal money has run out, Farrell is a bit cagey about what’s next. “I don’t

want to give this up, and I’m not ready to pull the plug, but the income just isn’t there,” she said. Her plan is to keep both businesses open for as long as she can. “I’ve already ordered inventory for the comic book store through September, so we’ll be open until then!” she said with a bleak chuckle.

In true gamer fashion, Higgins has conceptualized each phase of reopening as a series of levels; currently, Quarterstaff is on Level 3, which allows up to five masked customers in the store at a time. Higgins, for his part, is in no rush to advance.

“I think we’re going to hang out here for a while, until we see either a massive drop-off in infection rates everywhere or a vaccine becomes available,” he said. “I’d like to think we’re being more cautious than most, which is definitely a choice. We sell luxury products. Nobody needs them, and nobody will want to come in if we’re not doing things right.”

At Level 3, the sense of community is finally starting to come back. Since June, Quarterstaff has been holding Saturday tournaments of Warhammer 40,000, a two-player game that consists of dozens of miniature combatants, with names like Daemons of Slaanesh and Maggotkin of Nurgle, assembled in attack formations on 6-by-4-foot tables. In this particular realm, the demands of social distancing and the rules of play are fortuitously aligned.

Contact: chelsea@sevendaysvt.com

INFO Quarterstaff Games, 152 Church St., 863-3666, quarterstaffgames.com.

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7/28/20 2:10 PM

JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR

HEALTH

Dr. Mark Levine

Vermont’s Dr. Fauci Health Commissioner Mark Levine takes off his mask B Y PAUL A R OUT LY

A

t least twice a week, in a room full of television cameras, state Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine steps up to a podium, removes his yellow surgical mask and reports on Vermont’s vital signs during the coronavirus pandemic.

At 6 feet, 5 inches, he’s too tall for the microphone in Montpelier’s Pavilion Auditorium, so he leans into it, like a tree in the wind, to give the “health update” during Gov. Phil Scott’s press conference. His diagnosis combines the medical terminology of an experienced physician with the simple, slow talk used by people who work with kids. Precise and plodding, with references to “viral suppression” and “pre-symptomatic transmission,” his long-winded explanations are weirdly reassuring.

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Levine’s deep-baritone delivery had the same salubrious effect on me for the 24 years he was my primary care doctor.

From 1993 to 2016, he listened to my health complaints — once a year, at least — when he worked at Given Health Care, a group practice with an office in Essex. His second job, running the program for medical residents at the University of Vermont, was apparent when he would ask, as if I were a doctor in training, “What do you think you have?”

If I embraced my hypochondria and answered “brain tumor,” as I did on more than one occasion, he’d hear me out with an open mind, ask a few probing questions, then systematically and respectfully disprove my hypothesis. “You said you’re sleeping well,” he’d reason kindly but

firmly. “That wouldn’t be the case if you had a brain tumor.”

In the case of real health problems, such as the chronic shortage of platelets in my blood, he was practical and comforting.

There’s no real treatment, so he advised: “I wouldn’t worry too much about it. If you get little red spots on your legs, something called petechiae, call me.”

Post-exam, I’d go home feeling less anxious, thoroughly examined and lucky to be alive.

In 2017, Levine traded his responsibilities of patient care and training doctors for a job safeguarding the well-being of an entire state, population 626,000. His current job and the mission of the department he leads is “to protect and promote the health of all Vermonters.” In normal times that involves

creating and administering programs in areas such as maternal-child health, nutrition, substance-use disorder and physical exercise, the effects of which might not be measurable for decades.

But since March, when the global coronavirus shut down Vermont, Levine and his team have been fully occupied with pandemic response and communication. “Early on, it was like a 24-7 thing where, you know, Saturday or Sunday didn’t seem any different than a Monday or a Tuesday,” Levine said in a phone interview between one press conference about opening schools and another announcing a long-expected statewide mask mandate.

On the positive side, the benefits have been almost immediate. “To get our

population to stay six feet apart from each other, or to stay at home for weeks at a time, that’s, like, incredible, and we did that in Vermont,” said Levine, referring to some of the state’s COVID-19-related achievements: smallest number of new cases per day; lowest positivity rate in the country; no deaths since June 16.

Levine had been reluctant to respond to media inquiries outside the press conferences in which reporters grill him and other administration officials.

“Busy to the point of insanity” became “I just didn’t feel it was good timing to, you know, in the midst of it,” Levine explained. “Now we can kind of reflect … and look back a little. And even though we have some trepidations about the present and the future, it’s a different time than we have been in for all of those months.”

Levine broke his silence on July 22 in a 10-minute segment on CNN, praising Vermonters for their compliance and stating unequivocally that here, at least, it’s the “right time to open schools.” He got as political as he ever does, calling for a coherent national response to the pandemic so that states don’t have to compete with each other for testing materials and personal protective equipment.

On the same day, after four months of prodding, he talked to Seven Days about how he wound up standing in the spotlight next to Scott, explaining the science of this public health crisis to a frightened citizenry. Levine is the Vermont version of President Donald Trump’s infectious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, except that Levine fully approves of the way his own boss has handled the crisis. He’s full of praise for his team, too.

“In one sense, it’s an incredible honor to be presiding over a once-in-a-century event like a pandemic,” said Levine. “But on the other hand, is this what I really signed up for? My gosh.”

Levine’s geeky humility belies his qualifications to meet the challenge.

A Sharon, Mass., native who attended the University of Rochester School of Medicine, he landed in Burlington for his own three-year residency in internal medicine — a specialty that requires problem-solving skills to fathom a wide variety of diagnostic dilemmas. From there, Levine went to the multispecialty Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pa., where he spent a decade running training programs for doctors in ambulatory care, pediatrics and internal medicine.

Vermont’s medical school had him in mind for similar work. Levine and his wife, Nancy, liked Pennsylvania but wanted to get back to the mountains and lakes of New England to raise their two kids.

Levine happily accepted the academic position: mentoring and guiding newly

minted physicians in pursuit of specialized training. But he also wanted to continue in clinical practice, according to Dr. Charles MacLean, Levine’s former colleague in Essex and current associate dean of primary care at the medical school. “He valued the idea of seeing people, interacting with them, keeping … in touch with the real problems of the day.”

Describing Levine’s doctoring as “methodical, careful and thorough,” MacLean added that Levine embraces new challenges, including the transition to electronic health records, without complaining or being overwhelmed by them. “Adaptability would be another trait of his.”

For his part, Levine brought a wealth of knowledge to his medical partners, said Dr. Patricia King, a fellow internist who worked with him in Essex. She had been

LEVINE LIGHTS UP EVERY TIME SOMEONE ASKS A GOOD QUESTION, NO MATTER HOW POTENTIALLY DAMNING.

a medical student and resident at UVM when Levine was running the program in internal medicine. “As a residency director … he was seeing everything — not just his patients. Difficult cases,” King said.

At Given, “When I got something I didn’t know, I’d immediately walk down the hall and talk to him. If you wanted a second opinion, or to discuss a case, you couldn’t do better than Mark.”

Levine is “the right person at the right time” to lead the Department of Health through the pandemic, she said. Giving credit to his predecessor, Dr. Harry Chen, for having the right skill set to tackle the opioid crisis, King said, “Likewise, Mark, who had no idea he was going to be facing an epidemic, is a real practitioner and student of evidence-based medicine. He continues to say the science and data will guide our decisions, whether it be testing or opening up or whatever.”

That approach makes sense for a med school professor, but it may be unsettling for those who expect authoritative answers from state officials during a pandemic. Case in point: Levine has seemed just as puzzled as everyone else about what happened at Manchester Medical Center in July when rapidresult antigen tests turned up a suspected cluster of 64 positive results, sparking a public health scare.

Subsequent and slower PCR tests — favored by the state health department — on 56 of those individuals revealed that only four of them actually had COVID19. To further complicate matters, the antigen test has a reputation for false negatives, not false positives.

Levine offered no comforting conclusions on Vermont Public Radio’s “Vermont Edition” on July 17, a week after the alleged outbreak, despite host Jane Lindholm’s best efforts to get to the bottom of it. In fact, he ran through various possibilities to explain the discrepancy, including some alarming ones, such as “another coronavirus in the community” and faulty PCR tests.

Five days later, Levine defended his somewhat confusing live radio performance: “If you want multiple hypotheses about what went wrong, one hypothesis could be that all of the PCR tests were wrong and the antigen tests were all right. You know there’s almost no chance that that’s true … You have to be very encompassing as you’re iterating hypotheses.”

Even in press conferences, Levine lights up every time someone asks a good question, no matter how potentially damning. Inquiry is an opportunity to test his own assumptions, he explained, and shed light on the subject.

But this is not a science lab; we’re talking about a pandemic threatening our lives and livelihoods in real time.

Levine said communicating clearly about the situation in Manchester was — and still is — a challenge. Even after consulting with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, he called it a “work in progress.”

“We got what we got, and now we have to try to explain it. And if we’re going to reassure the population of that region, we have to have data to back that up. Do we have enough data? What do we need to do next so we make sure we have enough data?” Emergency testing on 1,623 people in the region turned up just five positives, indicating a very low community infection rate.

Levine said the “critical thinking” he employs as a doctor is guiding him through this uncharted territory. “You have to be humble, too. I mean, you need some self-confidence, but you also have to have humility, and you have to be very willing to engage others. I say this a little bit tongue-in-cheek, but not totally: For much of the pandemic, you’re making it up as you go along.” He draws on the “evidence base that’s out there,” including “trying to learn from places that encountered the virus before us … around the world — and in this country.”

He has a personal interest in that info, too. Levine’s son, Michael, is a Seattlebased marine biologist who spends several months of the year doing research on the Bering Sea. Daughter Rachel is a schoolteacher in Memphis, Tenn., who gave birth to her first child 11 months ago.

Levine and his wife were visiting them in the first week of March, when the pandemic hit. He spent the entire time on the phone with the health department and canceled a planned vacation to Hilton Head, S.C., in order to fly home. That’s the last time he has seen his daughter and first grandchild, Amelia.

Does he worry about his daughter going back to school in Tennessee, where the virus is surging?

“As you’ve seen at the press conferences, I spend a lot of time telling Vermonters that part of why we think we can open schools here is: The time is right.

We have suppressed the virus to a level where this will be safe. And we know how to handle it if cases appear here or there.

We have a good testing and containment strategy. I would not say that for so many other parts of the country. I find it hard to believe they’ll be opening schools.”

I knew a little bit about Rachel from my quarter century of checkups with Levine.

Although he and I talked mostly about me in the examining room, over time I learned some things about him: He’s an avid runner, for example, who participates in the Vermont City Marathon & Relay — most recently on the “Spare Parts” relay team that raises money for organ donation.

During our last meeting, on June 22, 2016, Levine opened up about the limitations of doctoring. He told me that the ailments of a huge percentage of his patients stemmed from poor self-care: bad eating habits, not enough exercise.

Telling them year after year to shape up was not working. He said he wanted to be in a position to have a bigger impact.

Now he can. “When you look at the determinants of health, health care is only responsible for about 10 percent of health,” he told me last week. “The biggest percentages are the behaviors that we all do or don’t do and the socioeconomic and environmental circumstances we find ourselves in.

“I’ve always been sort of excited about that, too, and the opportunity to really integrate health care, health, public health, population health, prevention, and then health policy,” Levine continued. “That’s what this job is. And that’s pretty cool, I have to say. It’s pretty daunting, but it’s also pretty cool.”

Contact: paula@sevendaysvt.com SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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As traditional dining falters, Vermont eateries struggle to survive JAMES BUCK

BY JORDAN B ARRY, M ELISSA PASAN E N & SALLY POLL AK

O

pen one minute, closed the next.

That’s what happened to two Burlington breweries and their affiliated restaurants on July 16.

On the waterfront, the beer stopped flowing at Foam Brewers and the kitchen ceased service at Deep City after a brewery employee reported a potential exposure to the coronavirus. While the businesses were closed, the staffer got tested.

Meanwhile, a taproom employee at Zero Gravity Craft Brewery telephoned the Pine Street business to report that his roommate’s parent in Massachusetts had tested positive for the virus. Zero Gravity and its affiliated restaurant, the Great Northern, immediately closed, and employees started to clean, according to Frank Pace, chef-owner of the restaurant. He and about half a dozen staffers walked to the COVID-19 testing site at neighboring Champlain Elementary School, where each had the swab test with no appointment.

Those tests came back negative, as did the Foam staffer’s. The four businesses were back open early the next week.

“This is how we do business now,” Pace said. “We have to be safe.”

Running a business when a pandemic is surging across the nation — even if local case numbers are stable — is an “immense strain financially, spiritually,” Pace went on. “You know, like, we’re freaking out.”

Since the March 17 statewide shutdown of on-site dining, Vermont restaurants have been on a veritable roller-coaster ride as they try to keep their businesses going.

The reopening of limited outdoor and then indoor dining has presented tempting opportunities but also tough

34

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Outdoor dining at Kitchen Table Bistro

Vermont Establishments Saw sales of food an d alcohol drop in Ma

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$150,000,000

#DONT86US

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PRELIMINARY NUMBERS

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HOL RECEIPTS

tasks are new. Instead of chatting with guests over the bar, bartenders batch up cocktails to-go. Instead of delicately plating dishes, chefs pack boxes; alongside appetizers and entrées, they sell bags of flour and salad mixes from local farms. At restaurants that welcome diners, staff are on constant alert as they work tables and the line, sweating under their masks.

Whatever their chosen approach, every restaurant owner is fighting for the life of their business, hoping a return to normalcy is not too far off and that their customers will be there for them when it arrives.

MEAL AND ALCO

decisions about how to keep staff and patrons safe. Customers have to make their own choices, balancing their concerns about safety against their craving for normalcy — not to mention a desire to support their favorite restaurants.

Some diners are simply happy to enjoy the drool-worthy range of local takeout options: spicy dal, warm naan, cauliflower tacos with turmeric slaw, tourtière, friedeggplant pita. Others miss the intangibles of restaurant dining: eating shoulder to shoulder in a warm buzz of conversation; snagging the last of the chef’s daily special; sharing a simple but celebratory experience with strangers who might be friends by evening’s end.

That experience, not just the food, is drawing some diners back to restaurants. But the risk continues to loom over the industry: In parts of the U.S. where COVID-19 cases have been spiking, local and state governments have once again ordered bars and restaurants to close.

This whiplash for alreadyweakened restaurants could prove fatal to many. A June report published by the Independent Restaurant Coalition warned that 85 percent of independent restaurants could close permanently by the end of the year.

In Vermont, so far, few independent restaurants have confirmed permanent closure. A few have even opened new businesses during the pandemic. But a vaccine remains months away, or longer, and a single employee’s exposure to the virus can shut a restaurant down without notice. How long can restaurants hang on?

For now, Vermont’s restaurant industry is operating on short order. Many of the day-to-day

2019-20

The hashtag #Dont86Us — referring to the restaurant lingo for killing a menu item — has become a rallying cry for food industry support. But the prospect of 85 percent of independent restaurants getting 86’ed alarms more than restaurateurs.

“Any town that you’re in in Vermont, restaurants are an extension of your local culture,” said Amy Spear, vice president of tourism for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.

More than just dining rooms, she explained, the state’s restaurants have traditionally been “an important place for people to meet and socialize and feel connected to their community.”

While those gatherings are more socially distant these days,

March 2020 $63,385,424

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restaurants remain critical outlets for local farms and other producers of food and beverages. When restaurants make those local purchases, they’re investing in Vermont agriculture and supporting jobs outside their own kitchens and dining rooms.

“Vermont really needs its restaurants to survive this crisis so they’ll be able to reopen, hire back employees, help the economy and support our farmers,” Spear said.

Last year, 32,677 Vermonters were employed in the food service and accommodation industries.

That’s 12.7 percent of the state’s nongovernment workforce.

Based on unemployment numbers shared by the Vermont Department of Labor, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact

AR M TAXES

on those industries’ workers. As of July 4, nearly 25 percent of continued unemployment claims are attributed to the “accommodation and food services” sector. (Restaurantspecific data are not available.) That percentage — which works out to roughly 10,000 people — may underrepresent the scale of the problem, as the labor department didn’t attribute another 20 percent of claims to any sector.

Overall, the accommodation and food services sector has represented the highest proportion of Vermont unemployment claims since the week after dining rooms were closed. At the peak, on April 11, at least 11,124 claims came from RESTAURANTS, FUTURE TENSE

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35

DARIA BISHOP

Restaurants, Future Tense « P.35 those out of work in that sector. That’s at least a third of the industry’s 2019 workforce levels.

Losses in restaurant revenue spell trouble for the state’s budget, too. Diners pay Vermont’s 9 percent meals and rooms tax when they purchase a restaurant meal; restaurants collect it and must remit it monthly to the state.

Based on preliminary numbers published by the Department of Taxes, taxable restaurant receipts dropped by 42.7 percent in March from the year before. The total amount spent on alcohol at restaurants, which is subject to a 10 percent tax, dropped by 62.9 percent.

Although on-site dining wasn’t shut down statewide until March 17, business had already slowed significantly. Facing a crisis in the industry, restaurants had no choice but to adapt to survive — or call it quits.

“We’re built for this,” said Matt Jennings, an award-winning chef, consultant and founder of Full Heart Hospitality, who lives in Charlotte.

He was talking about an industry in which confronting and overcoming challenges is already routine.

“We’re happy to do the work; that’s never been the issue,” Jennings said. “Getting creative has never been the issue. Finding solutions has never been the issue.

“But we do need some help this time. This is a little bit bigger than a hot oil spill on a Friday night.”

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

HOT MASK, HOT KITCHEN

COURTESY OF MICHAEL PIAZZA

Matt Jennings of Full Heart Hospitality

Sage Guggenheim of the Reservoir

The temperature hit 120 degrees on the cooking line at Waterbury restaurant the Reservoir on a mid-July weekend, the chef said.

The dishwasher was wearing his new getup: a hot-pink, industrial-grade respirator mask. The cooks turned out French fries and wings, rotating break time in the walk-in cooler.

“People are gorging on fried food since we opened,” executive chef Sage Guggenheim wrote in a text. “It’s as if they don’t have fryolators at home.”

Guggenheim, 28, was referring to the restaurant’s reopening in late June after a three-month shutdown due to the pandemic. Now that she’s back at work, pretty much everything is new — not just customers’ fried-food cravings — and constantly changing.

“We haven’t thought 10 steps ahead of us,” she said. “We’re still dealing with the two steps behind us that we’ve missed.”

Guggenheim’s daily concerns range from protecting the health of her dishwasher to balancing in-house dining with takeout business (roughly 80 percent of orders, she said) to procuring inventory.

“It’s a constant struggle to get what you need,” she said.

Guggenheim has worked at the Reservoir for six years, moving from line cook to executive chef. The South Main Street bar and eatery is one of three restaurants owned by business partners Mark Frier and Chad Fry;

the other two are the Bench and Tres Amigos in Stowe.

Business is down about 50 percent since the restaurants reopened in late June and early July, according to Frier. He spent much of the shutdown securing loans, working to limit the businesses’ overhead and galvanizing support for the industry.

“We’re leveraged to the point of discomfort,” Frier said. “We think that we need to make it to next summer to try to find any normalcy of business that we know to be profitable. It’s scary.”

While Frier thinks about the big picture, Guggenheim is focused on the challenges presented by each shift.

Wearing a mask in a super-hot kitchen is one; sometimes she feels like it inhibits breathing, Guggenheim said. “When is it OK to take it off ?” she asked. “My answer is just to go outside and take a breather.”

Four cooking stations (sauté, grill, flat-top, fry) are spaced along a 17-foot line, according to Guggenheim. Maintaining adequate space can be a challenge for cooks.

“The line has always been a kind of duck-and-weave game, especially here,” Guggenheim said. “Trying to do six things at once is definitely standard practice now.”

If two cooks work the line rather than three, Guggenheim’s concern becomes “maintaining a flow during service.”

While the Reservoir was closed, Guggenheim did paperwork at home in Waterbury Center, planned menus

and worked to ensure the restaurant would be ready to open when the time came. Mostly, though, she hung out with her partner, Kane Sweeney, sous chef of Tres Amigos, and spent “three months shut down, just worrying about getting the virus.”

Now that worry has moved to a more public sphere, and Guggenheim confronts it by trying to manage risk at the Reservoir. For example, she has silverware soaked in special cleanser before it comes into the kitchen, as a protection for the dishwasher.

She and Sweeney have eaten out just once since the restaurant world changed so drastically. They went to Doc Ponds in Stowe, arrived before other customers got there and sat outside.

It was great, Guggenheim said. But one thing kind of bothered her.

“Working in a restaurant, I know this is what waitstaff do,” she said.

“But I almost feel bad for forcing waitstaff to have contact with me.”

A LONG GOODBYE

The shutdown of in-person dining in March might have seemed like the worst thing that could happen to the restaurant industry, but accountant and business adviser Leo O’Reilly believes harder times are ahead.

The team at South Burlingtonbased O’Reilly & O’Reilly Business Services has spent months working furiously with about 30 Vermont restaurant clients to navigate paperwork for the federal Paycheck

continued. “You’ll have some EIDL money that might bring you through the beginning of 2021,” he said, referring to the federal disaster loans. “Then people are going to have some significant issues.”

O’Reilly said his restaurant clients are seeing revenues at least 50 percent lower than a year ago; most, like Bluebird, are down 70 percent. In the face of those losses, the government financial safety nets are crucial. But for some restaurants, he conceded, they are probably just postponing inevitable closure.

Individual choices were far more important and seem tied to fears of infection.”

“The uncertainty, I think, is probably the biggest issue,” O’Reilly added, noting that it is essentially impossible for restaurateurs to plan ahead.

Independent restaurants run on notoriously low profit margins of between 5 and 15 percent. “It’s a challenging business in the best of times,” O’Reilly said. In addition to sharply curtailed sales, restaurants have seen increased food costs

I think you can’t overemphasize the challenges that this industry will face over the next year.

LEO O ’ REILLY

The first quarter of the year is always lean for non-ski-area Vermont restaurants. For many of O’Reilly’s clients, “their best January is a third of their best August,” he said.

And that, of course, is in a normal year. The pandemic trends point to an ongoing need for social distancing and a slow economy through at least the first part of 2021. Both factors will contribute to lower customer demand. “I think people will still be reluctant to eat indoors,” O’Reilly said.

Two economists at the University of Chicago who conducted an analysis of consumer behavior tied to the nation’s COVID-19 economic nosedive found that “individual choices were far more important” than local government policy in determining spending habits and consumer choices.

In their June “working paper,” published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, economists Austan Goolsbee and Chad Syverson found that, “[W]hile overall consumer traffic fell by 60 percentage points, legal restrictions explain only 7 percent of that.

during the coronavirus pandemic, he noted. Meantime, fixed costs such as rent have remained steady, though some landlords and banks have offered flexible payment schedules.

In May, a National Bureau of Economic Research report projected that restaurants had just

a 30 percent chance of staying open if the COVID-19 crisis lasted four months. That’s a lower business survival rate than any other sector.

And four months is right about now, with no end to the crisis in sight.

After 17 years of working with restaurant owners, O’Reilly believes that if any group can see their way through the business upheaval of a lifetime, it’s this one.

People who go into the business, he observed, tend to be hardworking, creative and passionate. “They have an uncanny way of trying to thread the needle and come up with something that’s gonna work,” he said.

Still, both Bette and O’Reilly believe restaurants will need more help to make it to the other side of the pandemic.

Vermonters might see their favorite restaurants reopening, but those restaurants won’t be making money if sales are at 30 percent of normal. “I think you can’t overemphasize the challenges that this industry will face over the next year,” O’Reilly cautioned. “It’s just not close to being out of the woods.”

Bette said the restaurant coalition now has 180 members who RESTAURANTS, FUTURE TENSE

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JAMES BUCK

Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, as well as for Vermont’s economic recovery grants. All of these federal and state programs were designed to help small businesses, including restaurants, weather the severe economic challenges posed by COVID-19.

Client Sue Bette of Bluebird Barbecue joked of O’Reilly, “He’s my new best friend.”

The winter of 2020 to 2021 will be no joke, however, for restaurateurs like Bette, who reopened her Burlington establishment for takeout in mid-June after three months of complete closure.

Bluebird’s big smoker is again filled with ribs, brisket and pork shoulders, but Bette said her most recent four weeks of sales amount to about $51,000; by contrast, restaurant, event and catering revenue brought in about $200,000 during a typical July. She’s nervous about heading into the winter without the cushion of a normal summer.

In early April, Bette, Frier and other restaurant owners cofounded the Vermont Restaurant Coalition to communicate the needs of their sector to the state and federal governments. They advocated successfully for changes in the PPP to make it work for restaurants that couldn’t spend the percentage on payroll within the initial time frame that was required to convert the loans into grants.

Based on recently released data from the U.S. Small Business Administration, 629 Vermont restaurants and small restaurant groups received a total of between $45.3 million and $71 million in PPP funds. (The 77 largest loan amounts were specified only within dollar ranges.)

But most restaurants will have run through their PPP funds by October, O’Reilly said. The state emergency grants offer up to $50,000 based on revenue loss of 50 percent or more during any single month of the pandemic. That might tide over some restaurants through the end of the year, O’Reilly

Lara and Steve Atkins of Kitchen Table Bistro SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

37

Robert Barral of Café Provence

Restaurants, Future Tense « P.37 continue to advocate for themselves and their employees, as well as the local farms, food and beverage producers, and downtown communities they support.

“We need to invest in preserving the independent restaurant sector across the nation,” she said, “so we don’t become a land of chain restaurants.”

CALEB KENNA

STAYING ALIVE

To place a takeout order at Richmond’s Kitchen Table Bistro, you have to pick up the phone and do it the old-fashioned way. While owners Lara and Steve Atkins, both 49, have transformed their fine-dining restaurant into “KTB To-Go” over the past few chaotic months, one thing has been constant: Lara’s friendly Tennessee twang greeting customers on the other end of the line.

“It would be so much easier for the customers — and for us — if it was just a ticket that came in,” Steve said, meeting with Seven Days on a muggy July morning on the patio outside the stately brick restaurant. “We have never really approached our business like we’re businesspeople,” he added with a chuckle.

Customers may occasionally encounter a busy signal, Lara acknowledged. But the trade-off — maintaining a personal connection to customers — outweighs the convenience of contactless online ordering.

The conversations have lingered after orders are placed, and customers have become “more than a name in the reservation book,” she said.

That connection is stronger in the kitchen these days, too. Instead of anonymous table numbers, the tickets are labeled with customers’ names.

Staffers have developed stories about their regulars, and the excitement of seeing a familiar name elicits “enthusiastic outbursts,” Steve said, as they call out the order.

“I always talk about our ‘KTB friends and family,’” he said. “It feels like a bigger and stronger family than 38

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

it ever has before, which is not how we could even have begun to imagine it on March 17.”

That was the restaurant’s first day as “KTB To-Go.” Business had started plummeting the week before; customers grew wary of sitting in a restaurant even before the governor’s order shuttered dining rooms.

Concerned for the health of their staff and customers — and of the restaurant itself, which couldn’t afford to operate indefinitely at that level of service — the Atkinses made the call to switch to takeout.

They laid off 20 employees, developed a to-go menu based on ingredients at hand, and searched high and low for takeout boxes — pandemic necessities as scarce as toilet paper and hand sanitizer in mid-March.

“We knew that staying open was the only way we could keep the business alive and keep it as strong as possible, so we have a place for our staff to come back to,” Steve said.

“We’ve built a lot of relationships in the almost 18 years we’ve been here, too,” he said, referring to the farmers and bakers from whom the restaurateurs source products.

“We wanted to help them survive,” Lara added.

In addition to classic Kitchen Table Bistro dishes, the Atkinses started offering “Bags of Good Goods.” Each week during the stay-at-home order, they sold 30 to 40 of these CSA-style assortments

featuring local meat, cheese, bread, produce, pantry items and a bottle of wine. The $50 bags gave customers a way to avoid trips to the grocery store, and they were so popular — often selling out quickly — that the restaurant ended up buying more from its farmers than it ever had in late spring.

Bags of Good Goods also helped keep the restaurant’s laid-off employees fed. Lara and Steve gave them to staff in addition to collecting tips from customers for an emergency fund — which “directly helped some emergencies,” Lara said, when staff reached out for assistance.

Kitchen Table Bistro opened for outdoor dining in mid-June. Masked servers carry cornmeal-fried green tomatoes from Jericho Settlers Farm and tomato-braised halibut to diners at the 35 seats spread out on the patio and the recently added picnic tables scattered on the garden-filled property. Customers tend to linger at the picnic tables, Lara said, reveling in the novel setting for upscale farmto-table cuisine.

A Paycheck Protection Program loan helped the Atkinses hire back about half of their staff, but meeting the payroll requirement for PPP forgiveness is a challenge. The restaurant isn’t operating at full capacity; it could seat 110 indoors, but indoor dining won’t happen again until there’s a vaccine, Lara said. Before then, returning to full staffing levels would be impossible.

As for the state’s economic

recovery grants, Kitchen Table Bistro doesn’t qualify: The restaurant lost no more than 48 percent of its revenue during any single month, two points shy of the 50 percent qualification bar. “We should have taken a Saturday off,” Steve said. “We busted our asses to do everything we’ve done to stay open, and it hurts, frankly.”

Despite those challenges, they plan to keep working. Once it’s too cold for patio season, the restaurant will revert to KTB To-Go, the couple said. Indoor dining is too risky.

“We believe in science, and science says you shouldn’t do that,” Steve said.

“We hope the public will support us in that decision,” Lara added.

“Adapt and change. That’s the way we’ll survive.”

KITCHEN CONFIDENCE

Robert Barral, chef-owner of Café Provence in Brandon, turned 67 a week ago. He’s marking his late sixties by attempting to cut back on his cooking schedule in the open kitchen of his French restaurant.

“I have a great team of people in the kitchen, fantastic help,” Barral said. “And they want me to take my evenings off.’’

French-born and -trained, Barral has some five decades of culinary experience. He moved to Vermont in the late 1980s for a position at New England Culinary Institute, where he

was before, [but] if somebody comes and asks for something that we used to have, I always say yes,” Barral said.

Business this summer is on par with last year, Barral said, but he noted that the summer of 2019 was slower than usual due to construction in downtown Brandon. Notable this year, Barral said, is the loss of diners from Québec and other tourists.

“We were a destination for them,” he said. “People are not traveling the way they did.”

Though it’s too early to know how Café Provence will fare

Every day for 16 years, Barral said, he pinched pennies. He would advise young restaurateurs to do the same.

“They have to be very patient, very much in control of expenses and the income,” Barral said. “Don’t spend more than what you can.

That’s crucial, basic arithmetic.”

Everyone in the kitchen should pay attention to reducing waste, he continued, saying that’s more important than portion size.

“It’s all a matter of respecting the product,” Barral said. “You have to be creative using the food that you have on hand. Make sure

We still need to feed people.

CHIUHO SAMP SON

through foliage season, Barral said he feels “very fortunate.” He’s especially grateful for his team of workers. “Without them, none of [this] is possible,” he said. “It gives me goosebumps.”

While Barral runs the kitchen, his business partner and former wife, Line Barral, manages the financial side of the restaurant.

“Without her, I’d be in trouble,” Barral said.

Through Line’s efforts, Café Provence received a PPP loan of $118,000. That covered four payrolls ($20,000 to $22,000 every two weeks) and utility expenses, according to Barral.

As that money comes to an end this month, “we are going to have to be extremely cautious,” the chef said.

The lessons Barral said he would impart to aspiring chefs now, if he were still instructing them, are crucial ones during the pandemic. In particular, he’d emphasize the importance of sanitation procedures, handwashing and careful management of expenses, practices that he has long adhered to.

“I remind the people all the time, all day long” to wash their hands, he said.

that every penny brings you at least three back.”

On July 3, a few weeks before the chef’s birthday, his restaurant turned 16. Café Provence celebrates the occasion every five years, so 16 passed without a party.

“It’s funny,” Barral said, “because I still love it like it was the first day.”

NO B TEAM

Chiuho Sampson, chef-owner of A Single Pebble in Burlington, never considered fully closing her restaurant during the pandemic.

“We still need to feed people,” she said over a pot of tea offered across one of her dining room’s large circular tables.

In mid-March, the restaurant pivoted overnight from doing about 10 percent of its business in takeout to 100 percent. Sampson, 47, has stayed the course and is not sure when she will seat customers again, inside or outside. “It is how I can keep our people safe and continue to do what we do,” she said.

The Taiwan native only knew how to cook instant noodles before she moved to Vermont to attend New England Culinary Institute, almost 20 years ago.

RESTAURANTS, FUTURE TENSE

» P.40

JAMES BUCK

became executive chef. In 2004, he opened Café Provence, the centerpiece of a culinary enterprise in Brandon that includes Barral’s cooking classes, a bakery, and wine and specialty foods shop, Gourmet Provence.

Barral has been guided by state regulations in operating his restaurant during the pandemic.

He closed both businesses during the shutdown — except for a week of curbside service at the bakery — and reopened Café Provence for outdoor dining in the third week of May, when that option was permitted.

“The government said it was OK to do it, and we did it,” Barral said.

“And we were ready for it.”

On their return to work, Barral’s employees expanded the outdoor seating to accommodate about 35 people and repainted the outdoor furniture. “Everybody with their masks on,” Barral said. “It was like a party.”

The staff also cleaned the interior of the restaurant and painted its walls, readying it for diners on June 8, again per the governor’s orders. Though indoor capacity is capped at 50 percent — about 40 seats at Café Provence — the restaurant hasn’t seated that many people on any given night.

“People really want to eat outside,” Barral said, noting they feel safer there. “Outside is very, very busy.”

In good weather, outdoor tables are full for both lunch and dinner. On a recent Tuesday, the night Barral is usually alone in the kitchen, he had to call in another cook. “It was too much for me,” he said.

Some diners still prefer to eat indoors, including regulars who want to sit at their customary tables.

Indoor diners can also watch the chef at work, preparing daily specials and seasonal dishes. A few weeks ago, Barral accommodated a customer’s request to whip up seafood stew — a signature dish at Café Provence that wasn’t on the lunch menu that day.

“The menu is not as big as it

Chiuho Sampson of A Single Pebble

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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PHOTOS: JAMES BUCK

Sue Bette of Bluebird Barbecue

Restaurants, Future Tense « P.39 She planned to return home after graduating, but instead Sampson began working at Steve Bogart’s beloved Asian restaurant in 2003; she became sole owner in 2017.

Over the past few years, A Single Pebble has struggled with its location across from the former downtown mall turned “pit,” which faces an uncertain fate; developer Brookfield Asset Management has expressed a desire to pull out of the CityPlace Burlington project. But that disruptive neighbor pales in comparison to what March and April of 2020 brought. “I even told my husband that I don’t think I can make it through,” Sampson recalled.

She laid off all but seven of her 40 employees. The hardest was telling her longtime dishwasher. “He’s from Burma, and he just became a citizen,” Sampson said. “He’s been with us for I don’t know how many years.” After she explained to him that takeout did not generate enough dishes, she said, “I closed my office door and started crying.”

Takeout business started out strong, which was a mixed blessing. A Single Pebble didn’t yet have an online ordering system, and the phone rang off the hook with orders for crispy lemon chicken and red Thai curry soup.

The crispy chicken doesn’t travel particularly well, Sampson said, “but people keep ordering it.”

One customer, who lives two hours away, called and pledged to get takeout weekly to support his favorite restaurant.

But then Sampson’s sous chef confided that he was leaving work angry every night. With the reduced kitchen crew, the workload of cooking five days straight, morning through evening, was just too much.

Sampson decided to cut lunch.

“We needed revenue, but, at the same time, I’m more focused on everybody feeling OK,” she said.

The busy “honeymoon period” 40

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

did not last, Sampson went on.

During the first month or so of the pandemic, revenue was about 62 percent of normal sales; since then, it has dropped to about 40 percent. June 2019 sales amounted to $133,000 in food and $34,000 in beverages. This year, the same month generated $67,000 in food and $1,500 in beverages — a massive decline in the latter category. Tip percentages have also slumped; Sampson chalks that up to customers gradually tightening their belts after an initial surge of appreciation.

The restaurant applied for all of the federal and state loan and grant programs available and has benefited from the payment flexibility offered by suppliers and the building’s landlord. That financial life raft has enabled Sampson gradually to bring back a few more employees, each of whom must receive a negative COVID-19 test before returning.

“We can’t risk it,” she said. “Because if one of us goes down, we have to shut down.”

Social distancing is difficult, if not impossible, in the kitchen of A Single Pebble, as in most restaurant kitchens. Sampson recalled a suggestion from Bette of Bluebird Barbecue: Establish an A team and a B team who work separate shifts in case anyone gets sick. “I told everybody, ‘We don’t have a B team, so I need you guys to all stay healthy,’” she noted dryly.

Since the start of the pandemic,

A chef at the smoker at Bluebird Barbecue

interest in A Single Pebble’s food truck has been high. It currently makes appearances at Adams Apple Orchard & Farm Market in Williston on Tuesdays and at Lake Champlain Chocolates on Burlington’s Pine Street on Sundays, along with some concerts and one-time events.

While the sales are welcome, only Sampson can run the truck alone, so each gig means pulling two people out of the kitchen.

Earlier this month, as Sampson

juggled orders for scallion pancake wraps and steamed meat buns in the truck, a customer called out a question: When would she start seated dining again? The chef responded that she had no idea.

“There’s a lot of uncertainty, a lot more work,” Sampson said. Several dining room staff members have expressed discomfort with coming back. “My reality is, even if I want to open, I don’t have the people,” she said.

She understands their concerns. In

NEW PATHS

In his role as a consultant, Jennings of Full Heart Hospitality communicates with restaurateurs around the country. The text threads on his phone range from questions about daily temperature checks for restaurant workers to a housing concern from a Chicago chef who’s having trouble renting an apartment because landlords worry about his financial solubility.

The uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, and the speed with which circumstances change and people must assimilate new information, present a particular challenge for restaurant owners and operators, Jennings said.

“It’s really tough to try to plan or strategize for your business,” he observed. “There’s no path, so we have to create our own path.”

He appeals to restaurateurs “to play with different formats,” Jennings said, such as a grocery model, meal kits, online ordering and delivery options. “That’s healthy for us: I can’t be a onetrick pony anymore. I’ve got to diversify.”

That applies to Jennings himself, who recently joined Healthy Living Market & Café as the company’s vice president of culinary and is working on

coughing even a little bit, then what do you do? Do you clear every single person out of the restaurant?” he asked. “I don’t want to host that nervousness in my space. Part of it’s spiritual; some of it’s logistical.”

another “side hustle.” He and his wife, Kate, plan to open Red Barn Kitchen next summer.

The catering and meal-delivery business will feature food grown and raised at their Charlotte farm.

Jennings will offer a chef ’s pantry

We have to be able to turn and pivot on a dime.

LEE ANDER SON

CSA as part of the seasonal project he described as “super chill.”

Another local restaurant professional starting down a new path is Lee Anderson. His Radio Bean and Light Club Lamp Shop bars and music venues sandwich his restaurant, ¡Duino! (Duende), on North Winooski Avenue in Burlington.

Anderson, 42, announced via social media last week that ¡Duino!

(Duende) will wind down a decade in business by the end of July. In August, he’ll replace it with a new restaurant designed exclusively for takeout and delivery.

For the past four months, Anderson and his 21-year-old nephew have been cooking all the takeout and delivery orders at ¡Duino! (Duende). “He’s one of the fastest line cooks I’ve ever seen,” Anderson said with appreciation.

While he had pondered a different direction for the restaurant before the pandemic, “I made this pivot because of COVID,” Anderson said.

“Obviously, no one really knows,” he said, “but for us, I think it’ll be minimum next summer before I’m seeing customers inside. I know that I personally wouldn’t feel safe doing it.”

Staying on top of all the safety details seems impossible, Anderson added. “Somebody starts

The new restaurant has a chef, a general plan and a name: C’est Ça (French for “that’s it”), Anderson said.

New chef Justin Wright started work last Thursday developing a vegetable-focused menu. Wright returned to Vermont from California, where he most recently cooked at Sister in Oakland. He graduated from New England

MELISSA PASANEN

the spring, before A Single Pebble created a takeout window, some customers came into the restaurant to pick up orders. Sampson recalled one in particular: “I kept backing away, and she just kept coming, like, right in my face.”

On the flip side, Sampson said some customers request safety assurances. One asked to what temperature she should heat her order to sanitize it.

“I said, ‘I don’t really know,’” Sampson recalled. “I know you want to hear me just tell you you’re going to be OK. This is not something I can give to you.”

Culinary Institute and previously worked at Hen of the Wood and the Inn at Shelburne Farms.

Anderson said there was no shortage of strong candidates for the job, but he and Wright were on the same page. “We agree that the sustainable model going forward is takeout and delivery. He’s not chomping at the bit to do inside or outdoor seating.”

A key aspect of the new restaurant will be its rapid responsiveness to obstacles and changing conditions. “We have to be able to turn and pivot on a dime. Stop and adapt, then accelerate fast and, boom, go!” Anderson said. “This is the new way. We can’t be beholden to the past.”

Andrea Suozzo contributed data reporting.

Contact: jbarry@sevendaysvt.com, pasanen@sevendaysvt.com, sally@sevendaysvt.com

Lee Anderson (left) and Justin Wright of C’est Ça, which will replace ¡Duino! (Duende) in August SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

41

COURTESY OF CATHERINE CARTER

music+nightlife

TALK IT OUT: The Benders Band A discussion on double-album comeback Twice in a Blue Moon B Y JOR D AN A D AMS, CHRIS FARNSWORTH & K R IS TE N R AVIN

T

he coronavirus pandemic is making people go full Marie Kondo on their lives. Practically everyone is decluttering, organizing and finishing up long-procrastinated projects.

That includes formerly Boston-based bluegrass band the Benders — now officially the Benders Band. Led by Vermont woodsman/ folk-rock laureate Bow Thayer, the group recently unearthed a forgotten album.

While digging around in some hard drives during the early days of the pandemic, the Benders Band’s Jabe Bayer rediscovered a nearly completed album from 2004 that had never seen the light of day. Immediately, the band rallied to finish off the buried treasure.

But they didn’t stop there. The Benders Band also wrote and recorded an entirely new LP while in individual quarantine.

Together, the two recordings became the monstrous double album Twice in a Blue Moon, Volume 1 & Volume 2.

Seven Days’ music writers had some thoughts about the new project, collected in the following free-flowing exchange.

KRISTEN RAVIN: We’ve all spent the past week or so absorbing Twice in a Blue Moon, Volume 1 & Volume 2. First, 42

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

I want to note that I generally dig it.

Second, it’s a lot of material — 25 songs total. Maybe this says something about my attention span, but each volume felt like a long listen, let alone back-toback. Do you think this is the kind of project that’ll bring the Benders Band new fans, or is it more of a treat for the band and its diehards?

JORDAN ADAMS: I think with any comeback project, it’s mostly a treat for long-standing fans, and any new listeners garnered are a nice bonus. But as a total newb when it comes to the Benders Band, and as someone who doesn’t usually gravitate toward twang, I actually found the record quite stimulating.

I can’t turn my brain off while listening to music quite the same way I can when I’m, say, watching a movie or reading, and my mind wandered to some interesting places.

I found myself thinking a lot about past relationships with friends, family and lovers.

CHRIS FARNSWORTH: I can masquerade as a potential “new fan” in this situation.

When I moved to Burlington in ’01, I had a bluegrass blocker set up. Having previously lived in a North Carolina college town, the genre was as unavoidable at clubs as

jam bands. So when I got here and saw Yonder Mountain String Band on the Higher Ground marquee, I doubled down: No hoedowns for this kid.

Volume 1 has thus far failed to convince me to change my stance. The music is nice.

Bow Thayer and company can sure play.

But there’s nothing here that gives me a feeling of freshness. The fact that this record is ostensibly 16 years old is surely part of that, which might explain why I’m enjoying Volume 2 much more.

KR: I also avoided string bands for a while after living in West Virginia for a couple of years. But between reviewing new music by Adamant banjo player Kimberley McKee and Dorset roots duo Carling & Will, and now diving into the Benders Band, this is becoming my summer of strings — and it’s totally welcome. There are only so many Mike WiLL Made-It bangers out there, you know?

Chis, I also prefer Volume 2, mostly because it has a harder edge, sound-wise.

Perhaps Bow’s punk-rock background is bleeding through.

One thing I noticed right away about Volume 2 is the apocalyptic song titles: “Sky Is Falling,” “Dark Times” and the single

Top photo: The Benders Band, from left: Jabe Beyer, Sean Staples, Tim Kelly, Nolan McKelvey and Bow Thayer

“Lockdown Quarantine.” Even if the tracks aren’t explicitly about this shitshow of a year, they reflect a fatigued and concerned state of mind.

In fact, so do some of the cuts on Volume 1. It’s interesting that, 16 years later, a song like “Polarized”is pretty darn relevant. My favorite line, presumably in reference to the Iraq War, is: “Trying to make sense of greed and war is like trying to nail Jell-O to a shithouse wall.”

JA: I was just reading a Pitchfork essay — from nearly two years ago, mind you — about

GOT MUSIC NEWS? JORDAN@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

how pop music is sliding into a conceptual depression and that the biggest hits nowadays have a much darker tone than they did as few as 10 years ago. I think it’s possible that all genres are following suit. Country music has always had a forlorn streak, but as you point out, Kristen, the Benders Band do seem to be acknowledging the flaming dumpster of life in 2020 on Volume 2.

I really like the line, “Who we gonna blame for it all when there’s no one left to blame?” in “Sky Is Falling.” At first it sounds like kind of a redundant nonsense phrase, but it’s actually really telling of how people are hyper-focused on vilifying the “other” and frequently get sucked into a neverending feedback loop of confirmation bias.

CF: I don’t think we’re imagining the darker tone of Volume 2, and there’s a reason we’re all gravitating toward it. It’s not as if the writing or playing were significantly better or worse — the Benders Band are badasses, then and now. There’s a sense of dread and good old-fashioned stiff-upper-lip-ism in the songs on Volume 2. I wonder, does that appeal to us more because we ourselves are grappling with all of, um, this? [Gestures vaguely toward everything.]

The first single, “Lockdown Quarantine,” has this kind of gallows glee to it that resonated with me hard. Thayer’s vocal is perfect, full of wry wit and an almost harried tone. Even “Shoeless in the Thorns” — which sports the kind of traditional bluegrass arrangement that almost made me forget I promised Kristen I wouldn’t make any West Virginia jokes — carries a harder edge. When the band sings together, “I can’t find my way back to you,” I not only believe them, I feel loss myself. Christ, just writing this I sort of want to get drunk. Fucking bluegrass.

The Benders were kind of a big deal in their heyday. And the record is being received favorably now. So I’m curious what it feels like to old-school fans. From outside looking in, it feels 50 percent nostalgia trip, 50 percent slightly brave new world.

KR: Well, since I was a high schooler in Michigan during the band’s heyday, I can only offer insight as a new listener. Where’s that old man Dan Bolles when you need him?

[Editor’s note: He was napping, but he can confirm from many late nights at the Burren in Somerville, Mass., in the early 2000s that the Benders were awesome.]

To Chris’ point about a brave new world, I’ve been thinking about these records as a testament to the power and possibility of remote collaboration. In press for the Benders’ 2002 self-titled release, some of the hype was around the fact that the guys recorded live, all gathered around a couple of mics. For Volume 2, they essentially did the opposite, writing and laying down their parts while scattered all over the country.

I think it’s really exciting that our new remote work situations have opened the door to a new kind of teamwork. (We’re doing it right now!) Do you both think anything is lost or gained from creating music over the internet instead of together in a room? Do you think the Benders Band did it well? What could other musicians take or leave from their example?

JA: The Benders Band are in a unique position to ponder that if they ever decide to make another album. Twice is essentially a diptych of the old way and the new. There’s obviously immeasurable value to working together and recording as a group. Then there are records like the Postal Service’s Give Up, a popular and influential LP that was famously recorded piecemeal by two people living far away from each other.

But who knows? Will some people be so scarred by the pandemic that they’ll eliminate all “unnecessary” contact? I don’t know about you two, but I’ve been getting a lot of grocery deliveries since March.

CF: Yeah, I had a panic attack the other day debating if I could go through the Wendy’s drive-through as a reward for taking a COVID-19 test. I was too worked up to enjoy my Frosty!

I reviewed the Punky Brewskies’ new record, Album Bomb, which James Kochalka and Jason Cooley recorded individually at their own studios. While I like to see musicians adapting to crazy circumstances, the practice, as Jordan noted, is far from uncommon.

Props to the Benders Band for pulling it off, though. It’s a nice story, and for diehards I think the records will be a treat. For me, it’s more like another curious relic of the darkest timeline we’re all hanging out in.

KR: Yeah, the darkness is real, and in what every advertiser on the planet has dubbed “these uncertain times,” the Benders Band bring a bit of comfort. For longtime fans, it’s the fact that the guys are back together again, or at least “internet-ly reunited” as they put it on Facebook. For newbies like me, it’s the timeless sound of rootsinspired American string music. Take me home, country roads.

This exchange has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.

Contact: farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com, jordan@sevendaysvt.com, kravin@sevendaysvt.com

Check out the Champlain Valley’s new SUPER station!

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Submit your listing for free at sevendaysvt.com/ postevent.

Be social and safe!

6/10/20 5:51 PM

Though the pandemic is still with us, there are plenty of ways to play with others. Check the Seven Days online calendar to find activities from free classes to art shows to concerts — both in real life and virtual.

On Thursdays, consult the Magnificent 7 for a list of must-do events over the upcoming — you guessed it — seven days.

Find it at sevendaysvt.com/mag7.

INFO Twice in a Blue Moon, Volume 1 & Volume 2 will be available Monday, August 3, on all major streaming platforms.

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

43

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REVIEW this Anachronist, Stay Late (SELF-RELEASED, LP, DIGITAL)

A solitary, glowing light bulb encased in a metal frame adorns the cover of Anachronist’s new album, Stay Late.

The fixture looks like the kind of hardware meant to illuminate a rustic cabin’s creaky front porch, a perfect spot to while away humid summer nights with a couple of close friends. The image of comfort and intimacy sets the tone for the Montpelier rock group’s fourth album — fifth if you count Solo Duo Trio, the first record from Brian Clark, the band’s mastermind and primary songwriter.

Stay Late is likely the final

OrphanWar, Knife to a Skin Fight (WOODSMAN MUSIC GROUP, DIGITAL)

OrphanWar is the death-metal side project of prolific “doom folk” artist Bishop LaVey — real name Kane Sweeney. Hailing from central Vermont and closely associated with the Montpelier scene, Sweeney is normally reflective, stridently political and mostly acoustic. OrphanWar’s debut LP Knife to a Skin Fight is a million miles from all that, though it’s still pretty heavy on the “doom.”

Knife to a Skin Fight is intended as an ode to a very specific breed of ’90s death metal. As a weirdo who grew up on Entombed and Bolt Thrower, I can

Anachronist album to include guitarist Craig Jarvis, who left the band in 2017.

In an email to Seven Days, Clark points out that, in addition to Jarvis’ absence on many of the new tracks, the new LP showcases a maturity and coalescence that came out of slimming down from a five-piece to a quartet of Clark, vocalist/ percussionist Angela Paladino, bassist Mike Donofrio and drummer Phil Carr. Indeed, the album is a sophisticated batch of guitar-driven anthems with a distinctive style.

Anachronist have been compared to raw and substantive rock bands that thrived in the late ’80s and ’90s, such as Low and Yo La Tengo. Those influences are certainly there, but not in an overpowering way or at the level that some would call homage. Engineered and mastered at

Tank Recording Studio by Rob O’Dea and Ben Collette, respectively, the final product benefits from an all-around level of excellence.

Clark and Paladino’s vocal chemistry is hugely appealing. They lock their voices together in tight, impenetrable harmonies, supported by masterful arrangements created by the band as a whole. “Sorry Tale” is one of the best examples of this cohesion. Spacey and simmering with apprehension, it glides slowly through a bell curve, ramping up to a percussive climax and then easing back down.

Bite-size “Happy High” also stands out with its jacked-up, muscular architecture. Practically power-pop, the tune features thrashing chord changes and a sugary hook, recalling the New Pornographers’ manic energy. At just over two minutes, it’s one of the album’s shortest cuts, but it packs more wallop than most.

But the majority of the tracks on

Stay Late aren’t designed to wallop in quite the same way as “Happy High” or its fraternal twin, “Someone Out There.” Even up-tempo tracks such as “Constellations Guide” are more understated in their pop-rock excesses, eschewing flash for a slightly grittier sensibility.

And then there are songs like the title track, a cautious slow jam that shows restraint can be more powerful than the loudest riffs. Anachronist have many moods and execute all of them extremely well.

Stay Late is full of authentic, genuine songs created by a gifted group of friends. Nearly a decade on from its origin, the band is undoubtedly growing stronger by the year.

Stay Late is available at anachronist. bandcamp.com. The band performs on Saturday, August 1, as part of Ben Dunham and Sara Grace’s Facebook Live virtual concert.

certainly hear the resemblance. At the same time, it’s not like the genre has really changed all that much since those halcyon days, you know?

Saying that OrphanWar stays true to genre convention, then, is both a compliment and an indictment. It’s too fast to headbang to without falling over within 10 seconds, too brutal to be taken seriously, and almost completely incomprehensible. So Sweeney nailed it, for sure.

From the pornographic super violence of Cannibal Corpse to the ornate song titles of bands such as Carcass and Suffocation, this particular brand of metal has always verged on, well, comedy.

Which brings us to “Botched Lobotomy.” The opening track here, it sets the tone perfectly, leading off with

sludge riffs and the distant roar of chain saws. Throughout these eight tracks, Sweeney makes it pretty damn clear his comedy is intentional: Nobody would name a song “Diabetic Shock and Awe” with a straight face. (Or “Samurais With Parkinson’s,” for that matter.)

So, for all the gut-blasting atrocity on display here, OrphanWar is having fun and wants you to have fun, too.

Sweeney’s songwriting is limber, full of whiplash breaks, tempo changes and tonal experimentation. As a vocalist, he confidently delivers all three core flavors: the guttural scream-bark, the high banshee demon harmony and the creepy goblin croak.

Nearly every track on Knife to a Skin Fight hovers in the three-minute range, favoring a drive-by-shooting approach with tightly executed songs. While there is no standout single in the mix, that’s hardly a criticism, because this is a tastefully consistent batch of distorted destruction. It’s not that these songs all

blend into each other but that every track sustains your attention.

OrphanWar is a “one-man band” affair, which boils down to Sweeney deploying live strings over programmed drums. It coheres nicely, with the seams only audible on occasions when the guitars wander off tempo while the drums chug mercilessly onward.

The album is packed with bang-on studio touches and great takes, but overall it has a thin, demo-tape feel on both speakers and headphones. To be fair, that’s faithful to ’90s death metal, too; it was always more brutal live, always pushing past the limits of nascent digital recording technology.

Uncompromisingly niche, Knife to a Skin Fight is a pretty strange way to spend a quarantine vacation — but I respect it. This cult project may yet find itself a cult following.

Knife to a Skin Fight by OrphanWar is available at orphanwar.bandcamp.com.

GET YOUR MUSIC REVIEWED:

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ARE YOU A VT ARTIST OR BAND? SEND US YOUR MUSIC! DIGITAL: MUSIC@SEVENDAYSVT.COM; SNAIL MAIL: MUSIC C/O SEVEN DAYS, 255 S. CHAMPLAIN ST., SUITE 5, BURLINGTON, VT 05401

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classes dance

martial arts

DANCE STUDIO SALSALINA: Salsa, bachata, cha-cha: Latin dancing! Salsalina Dance Studio reopening July 20 to offer private lessons only. Call to schedule, learn about pricing and safety protocols. See website for details. No dance experience or partner required, just the desire to have fun! Opening Jul. 20.

Lessons avail. Mon.-Thu., 6-9 p.m. Varies. Location: 32 Malletts Bay Ave., Winooski. Info: Victoria, 598-1077, info@salsalina.com, salsalina.com.

VERMONT BRAZILIAN JIUJITSU: Brazilian jiujitsu is a martial arts combat style based entirely on leverage and technique. Brazilian jiujitsu selfdefense curriculum is taught to Navy SEALs, CIA, FBI, military police and special forces. No training experience required. Easy-tolearn techniques that could save your life! Classes for men, women and children. Students will learn realistic bully-proofing and self-defense life skills to avoid becoming victims and help them feel safe and secure. Our sole purpose is to help empower people by giving them realistic martial arts training practices they can carry with them throughout life. IBJJF and CBJJ certified black belt sixth-degree instructor under Carlson Gracie Sr.: teaching in Vermont, born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

A five-time Brazilian National Champion; International World Masters Champion and IBJJF World Masters Champion. Accept no Iimitations! Location: Vermont Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 55 Leroy Rd., Williston. Info: 598-2839, julio@ bjjusa.com, vermontbjj.com.

drumming DJEMBE & TAIKO: JOIN US!: Digital classes! (No classes on-site for now.) Taiko: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Djembe: Wednesday. Kids and Parents: Tuesday and Wednesday. Private digital conga lessons by appointment.

Let’s prepare for a future drum gathering outdoors! Schedule/ register online. Location: Taiko Space, 208 Flynn Ave., Suite 3G, Burlington. Info: 999-4255, burlingtontaiko.org.

healing arts GRIEF GATHERING: Explore how ritual, connection and community help through times of loss. Each session includes meditation, interactive ritual and conversation.

Limit: 16 participants. Attend one session or all four. All are welcome, including those recently bereaved to those whose loss was longer ago. Thu., Aug. 6, 13, 20, 27, 7-8 p.m. Cost: $15/ one session; $40/ all four. Location: online, Seven Days Tickets. Info: Rites of Passage, LLC, Kristabeth Atwood, 825-8141, ritesofpassagevt@ gmail.com, sevendaystickets.com/ organizations/rites-of-passage-llc.

language SPANISH CLASSES LIVE & ONLINE: Join us for adult Spanish classes this fall, using online video conferencing.

Learn from a native speaker via small group classes, individual instruction or student tutoring.

You’ll always be participating and speaking. Lesson packages for travelers, lessons for children.

Our 14th year. See our website or contact us for details. Beginning week of August 31. Cost: $270/10 weekly classes of 90+ min. each.

Location: Spanish in Waterbury Center, Waterbury Center. Info: 585-1025, spanishparavos@ gmail.com, spanishwaterburycenter.com.

photography LEARNING MANUAL SETTINGS ON A DSLR CAMERA: Maria French demystifies aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Explore camera settings and relation to available light. Develop skills to capture beauty that moves you. Plenty of time for practice and sharing. Maria adjusts to participants’ needs. Bring a DSLR camera, full battery and empty memory card. Register online by 8/10. Two sessions over two days: Sat.-Sun, Aug. 15-16; 8:3010:30 a.m. or 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Cost: $80. Location: Horsford Gardens and Nursery, 2111 Greenbush Rd., Charlotte. Info:

CLASSES MAY BE CANCELED OR MOVED ONLINE DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS. PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANIZERS IN ADVANCE.

Horsford Gardens and Nursery, Maria French, 425-2811, maria@ mariadayphotography.com, 2eyeswalking.com/workshop.

EV E N T S O N SA L E N OW BUY ONLINE AT SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM

Exploring Spirituality WED., JUL. 29 VIRTUAL EVENT

well-being ONLINE HAPPINESS PROGRAM: Learn to relieve stress and anxiety from home. This course uses SKY (or Sudarshan Kriya), a powerful breathing technique to quiet the mind, leading to a deep experience of meditation.

Beginners welcome. Three-day online course, live interactive sessions with certified instructors. Register online or call Rondi for more information: 718-2075684. Fri., Aug. 7, 6:30-9 p.m., and Sat.-Sun., Aug. 8-9, 2:30-5 p.m. Cost: $190. Location: The Art of Living, Online venue.

Info: The Art of Living, Rondi Sewelson, 718-207-5684, rondi. sewelson@artofliving.org, event. us.artofliving.org/us-en/ online-course-2.

Vermont Be True Yoga Festival

yoga

MON., AUG. 3, 10, 17 GRANGE HALL CULTURAL CENTER, WATERBURY CENTER

EVOLUTION YOGA: Now offering live online and recorded classes.

Practice yoga with some of the most experienced teachers and therapeutic professionals in Burlington, from the comfort of your home. Sign up on our website and receive a link to join a live class; a class recording will be sent after class. Pay as you go or support us by becoming an unlimited member. Join us outside this summer for Yoga on the Lake and Yoga in the Park. Registration is open for our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training for Health and Wellness Professionals.

Now offering flexible pricing based on your financial needs.

Contact yoga@evolutionvt.com.

Single class: $0-15. 10-class pass: $100. $55 student unlimited membership. Summer unlimited pass Jun.-Aug.: $195-275.

Scholarships avail. for all pricing options. Location: Evolution Yoga, 20 Kilburn St., Burlington.

Info: 864-9642, evolutionvt.com.

LAUGHING RIVER YOGA: Increase confidence and decrease stress. Enjoy inspirational teachings, intelligent alignment and focused workshops through daily virtual and live yoga classes. Check out our virtual library and practice with us outdoors at the Burlington Surf Club and limited capacity indoors at the Chace Mill. All bodies and abilities welcome. Daily classes, workshops, 200- & 300-hour yoga teacher training. $5-$15 single class; $44-$99/mo. unlimited. Location: Laughing River Yoga, Chace Mill and Burlington Surf Club, Burlington. Info: 3438119, laughingriveryoga.com.

FRI., JUL. 31-SUN., AUG. 1 VIRTUAL EVENT

Imagine Animals Art Workshop for Kids SAT., AUG. 1, 8, 15 VIRTUAL EVENT

Dosa Love Indian Take-Out SAT., AUG. 1 O’BRIEN COMMUNITY CENTER

Messy Monday Mornings Outside for Kids

Grief Gathering: Community, Connection, and Ritual THU., AUG. 6, 13, 20, 27 VIRTUAL EVENT

Arabian Takeout

SAT., AUG. 15 O’BRIEN COMMUNITY CENTER

Lunch and Learn: Ethical Wills FRI., AUG. 21 VIRTUAL EVENT

The 4th Annual GMSS Virtual Bazaar FRI., AUG. 21-WED., AUG. 26 VIRTUAL EVENT

Ethiopian / Eritrean Takeout SAT., AUG. 22 O’BRIEN COMMUNITY CENTER

MORE EVENTS ONLINE AT SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM SELLING TICKETS? • Classes • Webinars • Virtual Events • Fundraisers

WE CAN HELP! • No cost to you • Local support • Built-in promotion • Custom options

SELL TIX WITH US!

Contact: 865-1020, ext. 10 getstarted@sevendaystickets.com

CLASS PHOTOS + MORE INFO ONLINE SEVENDAYSVT.COM/CLASSES 2v-tickets72920.indd 1

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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7/28/20 4:56 PM

PHOTO: JEB WALLACE-BRODEUR

When Spruce Peak Arts’ finance manager decided to retire, we definitely entered the search with some trepidation. It’s such a strange time for individuals and businesses that I just didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t sure what the landscape would be for job hunters right now.

We started advertising just with Seven Days, where we’d had success before, and never expanded the search beyond that. Previously, we’ve used a ton of sites, including Indeed.com. With those big, national sites, I just haven’t found the quality of candidates we were hoping for.

We were just hopeful that, even in this strange time, we’d be able to find the right person.

And luckily we did. We had an immediate flood of inquiries from some very, very qualified candidates. Within two weeks I was able to make an offer to someone whom I think will be an amazing addition to the team.

Seven Days and Michelle made it super easy, super efficient.

I was so pleasantly surprised by the caliber of people who responded — and the quantity, as well. It was really terrific for us.

HOPE SULLIVAN Executive Director Spruce Peak Arts, Stowe

…it works.

CALL MICHELLE: 865-1020, EXT.21 OR VISIT JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM 46

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

1T-JobsTesti-Spruce Peak Arts0601020.indd 1

6/9/20 11:42 AM

COURTESY OF KELLY SCHULZE/MOUNTAIN DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

Humane

Emily AGE/SEX: 6-year-old spayed female ARRIVAL DATE: July 8, 2020 REASON HERE: She didn’t do well with the other cats in the home.

SUMMARY: You know that friend whom you can always count on to give you the honest truth? Well, Emily is the cat version of that! Unafraid to tell you exactly how she feels, Emily is looking for an adopter who can understand and appreciate her to-the-point purrrsonality. Emily and her fabulous floof prefer to be admired from afar, and she’s not a fan of mingling with other felines. However, if you make it onto Emily’s short list, you have definitely made a friend for life! If you need an Emily in your life, schedule an appointment to meet this unique lady today!

Society of Chittenden County

DID YOU KNOW?

APARTMENTS, CONDOS & HOMES

on the road »

Cat whiskers are highly sensitive and help cats sense where they are, their distance from things like doorways and, through vibrations, what other creatures are nearby.

It’s normal for whiskers to shed, but they should never be trimmed, as a cat with cut whiskers will become disoriented and scared. Let ‘em flow!

Sponsored by:

DOGS/CATS: Emily lived with cats in her previous home and didn’t do well. She lived with dogs in her previous home and may do well with another. Emily will likely do best in a home with older children who can respect her space.

NEW STUFF ONLINE EVERY DAY! PLACE YOUR ADS 24-7 AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM.

housing »

CARS, TRUCKS, MOTORCYCLES

pro services »

CHILDCARE, HEALTH/ WELLNESS, PAINTING

buy this stuff »

APPLIANCES, KID STUFF, ELECTRONICS, FURNITURE

music »

INSTRUCTION, CASTING, INSTRUMENTS FOR SALE

jobs »

NO SCAMS, ALL LOCAL, POSTINGS DAILY

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

47

CLASSIFIEDS

housing ads: $25 (25 words) legals: 52¢/word buy this stuff: free online services: $12 (25 words)

HOUSEMATES

We Pick Up & Pay For Junk Automobiles!

on the road

CARS/TRUCKS

Route 15, Hardwick

802-472-5100

3842 Dorset Ln., Williston

802-793-9133

housing

FOR RENT

AFFORDABLE 2-BR APT. 2002 Z06 CORVETTE AVAIL. 13,880 mi. Red w/ At Keen’s Crossing. black interior. Stored sm-allmetals060811.indd 7/20/15 1 5:02 PM 2-BR: $1,266/mo., heat & in heated garage.

HW incl. Open floor plan, Never driven in rain. fully applianced kitchen, Showroom condition. fi tness center, pet 413-446-1563 or friendly, garage parking.

2006 KAWASAKI 4X4I 413-743-5057.

Income restrictions 650 apply. 802-655-1810, Hitch, 120 hours, stored 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS keenscrossing.com. inside. New plow, winch.

Hybrid III, 108K New starter. Clutch miles, gray, auto, BURLINGTON cleaned. Adjusted navigation. $2,000.

Single room, Hill carbs, oil filter. Asking kabotv@cbrnmail.com, Section, on bus line. $4,200. skyhorse205@ 802-419-5132.

No cooking. Linens yahoo.com or call/text furnished. 862-2389.

802-355-4099.

CASH FOR CARS! No pets.

We buy all cars! Junk, high-end, totaled: It KEEN’S CROSSING IS doesn’t matter. Get free NOW LEASING! towing & same-day 1-BR, $1,054/mo.; 2-BR, cash. Newer models, $1,266/mo.; 3-BR, too. Call 1-866-535$1,397/mo. Spacious 9689. (AAN CAN) interiors, fully appli-

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

CLASSIFIEDS KEY appt. appointment apt. apartment BA bathroom BR bedroom DR dining room DW dishwasher HDWD hardwood HW hot water LR living room NS no smoking OBO or best offer refs. references sec. dep. security deposit W/D washer & dryer

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 and similar Vermont statutes which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitations, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, handicap, presence of minor children in the family or receipt of public assistance, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or a discrimination. The newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate, which is in violation of the law. Our

48

display service ads: $25/$45 homeworks: $45 (40 words, photos, logo) fsbos: $45 (2 weeks, 30 words, photo) jobs: michelle@sevendaysvt.com, 865-1020 x21

HOUSEMATE & P.T. WORK Elderly gentleman w/ disabilities seeking 3rd caregiver/housemate.

2 conscientious, caring & clean caregivers also support him in 4-BR home. Short walk to downtown/waterfront.

You: mindful, good communication skills, sense of humor, patience, cleanliness & comfort assisting w/ personal care needs. Full paid training provided.

Req. 2+ asleep overnight shifts per week + regularly scheduled paid awake hours (TBD, ~15-30 hrs). Strict COVID prevention guidelines to protect this wonderful gentleman, yourself & your housemates during these challenging times. Rent free, pay 1/4 of utils./internet, split costs of shared items. Resume, refs. & full background checks. Home Base, Inc. 802-238-3073.

anced kitchen, fi tness center, heat & HW incl.

Income restrictions apply. 802-655-1810, keenscrossing.com.

NEED A ROOMMATE? Roommates.com will help you find your perfect match today!

(AAN CAN)

PINECREST AT ESSEX 9 Joshua Way, Essex Jct. Independent senior living for those 55+ years. 2-BR, 2-BA corner unit avail. Sep. 15. $1,520/mo. incl. utils & parking garage. NS/ pets. 802-872-9197 or rae@fullcirclevt.com.

OFFICE/ COMMERCIAL

PINECREST AT ESSEX 9 Joshua Way, Essex Jct. Independent senior living for those 55+ years. 1-BR avail. Jul. 15, $1,240/mo. incl. utils. & parking garage. NS/ pets. 802-872-9197 or rae@fullcirclevt.com.

ROOMMATE WANTED Room in a large apt.

Shared kitchen & BA. 1 block from Perkins Pier on Lake Champlain. $650/mo. + utils. Call Julie: 802-865-9869.

readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. Any home seeker who feels he or she has encountered discrimination should contact: HUD Office of Fair Housing 10 Causeway St., Boston, MA 02222-1092 (617) 565-5309 — OR — Vermont Human Rights Commission 14-16 Baldwin St. Montpelier, VT 05633-0633 1-800-416-2010 hrc@vermont.gov

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT Great downtown Montpelier location!

1,592 sq.ft. + unfinished office space & basement. $1,400/mo. + utils. For more information: downstreet.org/ commercial, or call 802-477-1329.

GORGEOUS 600 SQ.FT. OFFICE Downtown Burlington, Lake Champlain views & steps from Church St. Fully furnished office space avail. now-Mar. 31, 2021. Longer lease avail. 2 approximately equal-size private offices & a gorgeous conference area, LR & semiprivate office space.

Approx. 600 sq.ft. Quiet, professional building, 3rd-floor location at 110 Main St. Large windows, after-hours access, BA & showers on same floor, elevator access. Exposed brick, tons of natural light. $2,275/mo. + pro-rated share of utils. (typically $100-200/ mo). Price incl. 2 parking passes, use of all furnishings & monthly high-speed Burlington Telecom service through the end of Feb. 2021.

Furnishings can be purchased outright.

Please contact amy@ newleafspeakers.com or paige@btvspaces.com details, photos, tour.

OFFICE/RETAIL SPACE AT MAIN STREET LANDING on Burlington’s waterfront. Beautiful, healthy, affordable spaces for your business. Visit mainstreetlanding.com & click on space avail.

Melinda, 864-7999.

services

BIZ OPPS BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print & distribute your work internationally. We do the work; you reap the rewards! Call for a free Author’s Submission Kit: 844-511-1836. (AAN CAN)

COMPUTER COMPUTER ISSUES? Geeks On Site provides free diagnosis remotely 24-7 service during COVID-19. No home visit necessary. $40 off w/ coupon 86407!

Restrictions apply.

866-939-0093. (AAN CAN)

EDUCATION TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a medical office professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months. Call 866-243-5931. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-6 p.m. (AAN CAN)

ENTERTAINMENT DISH TV $59.99 for 190 channels + $14.95 high-speed internet. Free installation, smart HD DVR incl., free voice remote.

Some restrictions apply.

1-855-380-2501. (AAN CAN)

FINANCIAL/LEGAL AUTO INSURANCE Starting at $49/mo.!

Call for your fee rate comparison to see how much you can save. Call 855-569-1909. (AAN CAN)

print deadline: Mondays at 4:30 p.m. post ads online 24/7 at: sevendaysvt.com/classifieds questions? classifieds@sevendaysvt.com 865-1020 x10

BOY SCOUT COMPENSATION FUND Anyone who was inappropriately touched by a Scout leader deserves justice & financial compensation!

Victims may be eligible for a significant cash settlement. Time to file is limited. Call now.

844-896-8216. (AAN CAN) MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES, INC Accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, taxes. 132 Footebrook Rd., P.O. Box 324, Johnson, VT 05656. 802-635-7738, tax@maivt.com.

Buyer or Selling?

Let’s make it happen.

Robbi Handy Holmes • 802-951-2128 robbihandyholmes@vtregroup.com Formerly Century 21 Jack Associates Making it happen for you!

NEED HELP W/ FAMILY LAW? Can’t afford a $5,000 retainer? Low-cost legal 16t-robbihandyholmes071520.indd 1 7/13/20 11:17 AM services: Pay as you go, as low as $750-1,500.

Get legal help now!

Antiques, Household Furnishings, Call 1-844-821-8249, Artwork & 1983 Bentley Mulsanne Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

PCT. familycourtdirect.

Online Lots End Mon., Aug. 3 @ 12PM com/?network=1. (AAN Shelburne Vermont Location CAN) NEED IRS RELIEF? $10K-125K+. Get fresh start or forgiveness.

Call 1-877-258-2890 Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

PST. (AAN CAN) SAVE BIG ON HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated insurances companies.

Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/year! Call 844-712-6153! Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Central.

(AAN CAN) SERIOUSLY INJURED in an auto accident?

Let us fight for you! Our network has recovered millions for clients.

Call today for a free consultation. 1-866-9912581. (AAN CAN) STRUGGLING W/ YOUR PRIVATE STUDENT LOAN PAYMENT? New relief programs can reduce your payments. Learn your options. Good credit not necessary. Call the Helpline: 888-670-5631.

Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

ET. (AAN CAN)

HEALTH/ WELLNESS

1,450±SF Commercial Building Tuesday, August 4 @ 11AM Register & Inspect from 10AM

4904 VT-22A, Addison, VT

Foreclosure: 3BR/2BA Manufactured Home Thursday, August 6 @ 11AM Register & Inspect from 10AM

22 Draper Lane, Brattleboro, VT

FREE MASSAGES Book 2 massages & get the 3rd free. Have 2 friends book & get the next massage free. Call Jim: 802-393-7154.

THCAuction.com 800-634-7653

SERVICES »

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020 6v-hirchakbrothers072920 1

7/27/20 8:03 AM

Calcoku SEVENDAYSVT.COM/CLASSIFIEDS »

Using the enclosed math operations as a guide, fill the grid using the numbers 1 - 6 only once in each row and column.

6

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numbers 1-9 only once in each row, column and 3 x 3 box.

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Open 24/7/365.

View and post up to Post & browse ads Complete the following puzzle by using the 6 photos per ad online. at your convenience.

10x

1-

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Difficulty - Hard

3

4

8 7

1 9 8

2 6 8 5

BY JOSH REYNOLDS

No. 647

SUDOKU

Difficulty: Hard

BY JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. The numbers in each heavily outlined “cage” must combine to produce the target number in the top corner, using the mathematical operation indicated. A onebox cage should be filled in with the target number in the top corner. A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not the same row or column.

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers one to nine. The same numbers cannot be repeated in a row or column.

6

4

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1

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7 8 5 9 3 2 6 1 4 ANSWERS 1 ON P.3 50 2 7 4 6 8 5 9 H = MODERATE 4 9HH6= CHALLENGING 5 1 8 HH7H =3HOO,2BOY! 3 5 8 2 9 7 1 4 6 9 7 4 6 8 1 5 2 3 GOOD-LOOKING BEGINNERS ANSWERS ON P. 50 » 6 2 1 4 5 3 9 8 7 8 6 7 3 2 5 4 9 1 5 4 3 1 7 9 2 6 8 2 1 9 8 6 4 3 7 5

2

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Extra! Extra!

There’s no limit to ad length online.

4

7

5+

CALCOKU

Show and tell.

Sudoku

Fresh.

Filtered.

Free.

What’s that

buzz?

Find out what’s percolating today.

Sign up to receive our house blend of local news headlines served up in one convenient email

by Seven Days.

SEVENDAYSVT.COM/DAILY7 8v-daily7-coffee.indd 1

1/13/14 1:45 PM

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

49

STUDIO/ REHEARSAL REHEARSAL SPACE Safe & sanitary music/ creative spaces avail. by the hour in the heart of the South End

FROM P.49

2

5

1

2

4

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8 5 3 2 914+ 6 5 8 7 4 2 1 6 7 4 3 1 9

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6 1 4 8 5 9 7 3 2 21 4 6 45 22- 3 9 8 7 4 9 1 Difficulty - Hard 2 6 8 3 7 5 1-

10x

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

6

FROM P.49

6

Using the enclosed math operations as a guide, fill the grid using the numbers 1 - 6 only once in each row and column.

No. 647

Calcoku

1 9 8

Difficulty: Hard

5

50

2. 20-0717CA/MA; 273 Pearl Street (RH, Ward 8E) Triple Tree Group, LLC, (Bruce Baker, Greg Doremus) Planned Unit Development involving 273 Pearl St,

4

1. 21-0018CA/CU; 119 Spruce Street (RL, Ward 6S) Chris Khamnei Remove garage and pantry addition on rear of structure and construct new garage.

3

PUZZLE ANSWERS

TRIPLE ANDERSON WINDOW 1 triple Anderson window w/ screen.

Rough opening 89 & 1/2” x 48 & 3/8.” $100/OBO. Jericho. Email for photos: sheltra02@ yahoo.com.

GUITAR INSTRUCTION Berklee graduate w/ 30 years’ teaching experience offers lessons in guitar, music theory, music technology, ear training. Individualized, step-by-step approach.

All ages, styles, levels.

Rick Belford, 864-7195, rickb@rickbelford.com.

BURLINGTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2020, 5:00 PM PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE REMOTE MEETING Zoom: https://us02web. zoom.us/j/860077955 06?pwd=a0pzU0xWd0 0yZTBnek5MTnRhZmJ HQT09 Webinar ID: 86007795506 Password: 842557 Telephone: +13126266799 or +19292056099 or +13017158592 or +13462487799 or +16699006833 or +12532158782

1

CLASSIC SHADES PAINTING Quality craftsmanship & courteous customer care. Interior/exterior painting. Residential/ commercial. Lead certified. Call now for your free estimate, 802345-2038, or email us at classicshadespainting@ gmail.com.

ATTENTION, VIAGRA & CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices!

50-pill special: $99 + free shipping! 100% guaranteed. Call now: 888-531-1192. (AAN CAN)

2

1-STOP SHOP For all your catheter needs. We accept Medicaid, Medicare & insurance. Try before you buy. Quick & easy.

Give us a call: 866-2822506. (AAN CAN)

HOME/GARDEN

MISCELLANEOUS

BASS, GUITAR, DRUMS, VOICE LESSONS & MORE Remote music lessons are an amazing way to spend time at home!

Learn guitar, bass, piano, voice, violin, drums, flute, sax, trumpet, production & beyond w/ pro local instructors from the Burlington Music Dojo on Pine St. All levels & styles are welcome, incl. absolute beginners.

Come share in the music! burlington musicdojo.com, info@ burlingtonmusicdojo. com.

1

LOOKING FOR SUPPORT GROUPS? Check out the classifieds.sevendaysvt. com, then find Support Groups in the Local Scene category.

RECENTLY DIAGNOSED w/ lung cancer or mesothelioma? Exposed to asbestos pre-1980 at work or Navy? You may be entitled to a significant cash award!

Smoking history OK. Call 1-844-925-3467. (AAN CAN)

1954 SINGER FEATHERWEIGHT In mint condition w/ all attachments & more. Freearm. Call 802-372-4497.

INSTRUCTION

4

HEARING AIDS! Buy 1 & get 1 free!

High-quality rechargeable Nano hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors.

Nearly invisible. 45-day money-back guarantee!

1-833-585-1117. (AAN CAN)

PSYCHIC COUNSELING Psychic counseling, channeling w/ Bernice Kelman, Underhill. 30+ years’ experience. Also energy healing, chakra balancing, Reiki, rebirthing, other lives, classes, more. 802-899-3542, kelman.b@juno.com.

ANTIQUES/ COLLECTIBLES

music

5

GENTLE TOUCH MASSAGE Specializing in deep tissue, reflexology, sports massage, Swedish & relaxation massage for men. Practicing massage therapy for over 14 years. Gregg, gentletouchvt.com, motman@ymail.com, 802-234-8000 (call/ text). Milton.

buy this stuff

art district. Monthly arrangements avail., as well. Tailored for music but can be multipurpose. info@ burlingtonmusicdojo. com, 802-540-0321.

3

services [CONTINUED]

OPTIMAL MEN’S HEALTH! Better sexual performance at any age! Bring spontaneity back w/ cutting-edge ED treatment. GAINSWave increases stamina & function w/out drugs.

Email gainswave@ northbranchvt.com, or call 802-828-1234.

11 Hungerford Terrace, 15 Hungerford Terrace, and 21 Hungerford Terrace. Demolish porch and move garage at 21 Hungerford; demolish garage at 11 Hungerford.

Construct 12-unit residential building with related parking and supporting infrastructure.

Plans may be viewed upon request by contacting the Department of Permitting & Inspections between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Participation in the DRB proceeding is a prerequisite to the right to take any subsequent appeal. Please note that ANYTHING submitted to the Zoning office is considered public and cannot be kept confidential. This may not be the final order in which items will be heard. Please view final Agenda, at www. burlingtonvt.gov/dpi/ drb/agendas or the office notice board, one week before the hearing

for the order in which items will be heard.

NOTICE OF LEGAL SALE View Date: 8/6/20 Sale Date: 8/7/20 Asad Adan Unit #353; David Lawrence Unit #194 Easy Self Storage 46 Swift, South Burlington, VT 05403 802-863-8300

OPENINGS BURLINGTON CITY COMMISSIONS/ BOARDS Chittenden Solid Waste District Board – alternate Term Expires 5/31/22 One Opening.

Conservation Board Term Expires 6/30/21 One Opening.

Design Advisory Board – alternate Term Expires 6/30/23 Two Openings.

Development Review Board

Term Expires 6/30/22 One Opening.

Fence Viewer Term Expires 6/30/21 One Opening.

Fire Commission Term Expires 6/30/22 One Opening.

Green Mountain Transit Board – alternate Term Expires 6/30/22 One Opening.

Parks & Recreation Commission Term Expires 6/30/22 One Opening.

Board of Tax Appeals Term Expires 6/30/23 One Opening.

Applications may be submitted to the Clerk/ Treasurer’s Office, 149 Church Street, Burlington, VT 05401 Attn: Lori NO later than Wednesday, August 19, 2020, by 4:30 pm.

If you have any questions, please contact Lori at (802)865-7136

BROWSE THIS WEEK’S OPEN HOUSES: sevendaysvt.com/open-houses REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS: List your properties here and online for only $45/week.

Submit your listings by Mondays at noon to homeworks@sevendaysvt.com or 802-865-1020, x10.

MOVE-IN-READY CONDO!

ST. ALBANS | 25 TWIN COURT | #4818842

This light and bright 2 bedroom 1.5 bath Condo with a bonus room is freshly painted and has been beautifully maintained - showing pride of ownership in every detail!

Tucked away at the end of a cul de sac in a small group of 9 condos surrounded by woods and nature. $199,900

Krista Lacroix 802-846-9551 Krista802RealEstate.com

or via email lolberg@ burlingtonvt.gov.

City Council President Tracy will plan for appointments to take place at the August 24, 2020 City Council Meeting/City Council With Mayor Presiding Meeting.

PUBLIC NOTICE The Annual meeting of the Board of Directors for VERMONT DENTAL CARE PROGRAMS will be held on Monday September 21, at 5:30pm at the office of Vermont Dental Care at 32 Malletts Bay Ave, Winooski, Vermont. For further information please call Sandra at 655-2385.

SEEKING COMMENT ON ROUND 2 CARES ACT FUNDING FROM HUD AMENDMENT TO FY19 CONSOLIDATED PLAN FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM AND EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS PROGRAM The Agency of Commerce and Community Development, Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and the Agency of Human Services have developed an Amendment in response to COVID-19 to the FY19 Consolidated Plan to include the additional CARES Act Funding under Public Law 116-136 dated March 27, 2020 for the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBGCV2) and the Emergency Solutions Program (ESG-CV2). Upon review and approval of the Amendment, HUD will amendment the existing grant agreements issued to the respective Agencies to add the Round 2 funding.

Interested parties are encouraged to go to the Department’s website at https://accd.vermont. gov/housing/plans-data-rules/hud to review the Draft Amendment to the Consolidated Plan FY19 Action Plan which indicates how the state intends on using the CARES Act funding.

Please email or call Cindy Blondin at Cindy.

Blondin@vermont. gov or 828-5219 or toll free at 1-866-933-6249 with any questions.

DHCD will be accepting written comments to the Amendment but they must be received

fsb

FOR SALE BY OWNER

List your property here for 2 weeks for only $45!

Contact Katie, 865-1020, ext. 10, fsbo@sevendaysvt.com.

This delightful small business is ready for you! Expand your current business to Rutland City.

Currently a delicatessen, it comes ready to be reinvented by you. All equipment is in good condition. The possibilities for a neighborhood business are limited only by your imagination.

Plentiful parking and a large lot are part of the deal. This property is listed through Watson Realty. Contact Jim Watson, 802-345-0081 for more details and to make an appointment to view.

TURNKEY RUTLAND DELI

by August 5, 2020 no later than 4:30pm at the DHCD, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT 05620-0501, ATTN: Cindy Blondin, or e-mail comments at Cindy.

Blondin@vermont.gov.

STATE OF VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT PROBATE DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO. 774-7-20 CNPR In re Estate of Richard E. Briggs Late of Chevy Chase, Maryland.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS: To The Creditors Of: Richard E. Briggs late of Chevy Chase, Maryland.

I have been appointed to administer this estate. All creditors having claims against the decedent or the estate must present their claims in writing within four (4) months of the date of the first publication of this notice. The claim must be presented to us at the address listed below with a copy sent to the Court. The claim will be barred forever if it is not presented within the four (4) month period.

Dated: July 26, 2020 Signed Lloyd C. Briggs, Sr., Co-Executor, Richard E. Briggs, II, Co-Executor, c/o Little & Cicchetti, P.C.P.O. Box 907, Burlington, VT 054020907 802-862-6511 ben.luna@lclawvt.com Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 7/27/20 Address of Court: Chittenden Unit Probate Court P.O. Box 511 Burlington, VT 05402-0511

Expand your business to Rutland City. Currently a delicatessen, it’s ready to be reinvented. All equipment in good condition. Possibilities for a neighborhood business are endless! Plentiful parking. Contact Jim Watson, Watson Realty, 802-345-0081 for details and showings.

STATE OF VERMONT VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT WASHINGTON UNIT, CIVIL DIVISION DOCKET NO: 311-5-18 WNCV U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSRMF MH MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST II v. JERI M. KEENAN OCCUPANTS OF: 78 Creamery Street, Plainfield VT MORTGAGEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE OF REAL PROPERTY UNDER 12 V.S.A. sec 4952 et seq.

In accordance with the Judgment Order and Decree of Foreclosure entered December 23, 2019 in the above captioned action brought to foreclose that certain mortgage given by Jeri M. Keenan and the late Michael L. Keenan to First Franklin Financial Corporation , dated February 26, 2004 and recorded in Book 55 Page 99 of the land records of the Town of Plainfield, of which mortgage the Plaintiff is the present holder, by virtue of the following Assignments of Mortgage: (1) Assignment of Mortgage from First Franklin Financial Corporation to First Franklin Financial Corporation dated January 12, 2010 and recorded in Book 55 Page 99-A; (2) Corrective Assignment of Mortgage from First Franklin Financial Corporation to Federal National Mortgage Association dated January 22, 2018 and recorded in Book 55 page 99-C and (3) Assignment of Mortgage

thinking.

from Federal National Mortgage Corporation to U.S. Bank Trust, N.A., as Trustee for LSRMF MH Master Participation Trust II dated February 18, 2020 and recorded in Book 55 page 757 all of the land records of the Town of Plainfield for breach of the conditions of said mortgage and for the purpose of foreclosing the same will be sold at Public Auction at 78 Creamery Street, Plainfield, Vermont on August 10, 2020 at 10:00 AM all and singular the premises described in said mortgage,

for all.

To wit: All that certain property situated in the County of WASHINGTON, and State of VERMONT, being described as follows: A PARCEL OF LAND, WITH HOUSE THEREON, KNOWN AS 78 CREAMERY STREET, PLAINFIELD, VERMONT; AND BEING ALL AND SAME LANDS AND PREMISES CONVEYED TO PETER L’ESPERANCE AND PATRICIA L’ESPERANCE, TRUSTEES OF THE MINOR CHILDREN OF DEBBIE FOWLER BY QUITCLAIM DEED OF PATRICIA L’ESPERANCE DATED NOVEMBER 13, 1996 AND RECORDED NOVEMBER 15, 1996 IN VOLUME 40, PAGE 214 OF LAND RECORDS OF THE TOWN OF PLAINFIELD AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL THE SAME

LEGALS » 2v-free.indd 1

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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6/18/12 6:54 PM

Homeshares BURLINGTON

Share apartment with avid sports & music fan in his 50s. No rent in exchange for errands, occas. transportation & evening help w/ meals, etc. Shared BA. No smoking.

HINESBURG Retired professional couple seeking 8-10 hrs/wk of property work (wood stacking, snow removal, mowing, etc) & light cleaning in exchange for rural housing at no cost. Private BA, kitchenette.

MONTPELIER Professional couple interested in social justice & gardening, seeking housemate w/ limited exposure outside home due to Covid. $550/mo. plus sharing snow & yard work. Private BA. Must be cat-friendly!

Finding you just the right housemate for over 35 years!

Call 863-5625 or visit HomeShareVermont.org for an application. Interview, refs, bg check req. EHO

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7/20/20 10:52 AM

NOTIFICATION OF PERIOD OF PUBLIC COMMENT Pursuant to 18 V.S.A. §8907 and the Administrative Rule on Agency Designation, the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) is providing notice to the public of the application of Champlain Community Services, Inc., to be re-designated a Specialized Service Agency. A 14day period of public comment is provided for DAIL to gather information to decide whether or not the State of Vermont will contract directly with Champlain Community Services to provide developmental disability services to individuals and families in northern Vermont. Comments from consumers, parents, family members and other concerned citizens about your experiences with Champlain Community Services are welcomed. Public comments will be accepted from July 29, 2020 until the close of business on August 12, 2020. In particular, DAIL is interested to know: • About the strengths and needs related to Champlain Community Services • If Champlain Community Services works well with other agencies in the community • If people get the kinds of services they need and in a timely manner • Your recommendations for improvement Please send written comments or contact us by phone no later than August 12, 2020.

Mail:

52

Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living Attention: Ellen Booth Developmental Disabilities Services Division 280 State Drive, HC 2 South Waterbury VT 05671-2030 Phone: 802-241-0281

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

[CONTINUED] LAND PREMISES CONVEYED TO PATRICIA L’ESPERANCE BY QUITCLAIM DEED OF TIMOTHY A. FOWLER DATED NOVEMBER 13, 1996 AND RECORDED NOVEMBER 15, 1996 IN VOLUME 40, PAGE 213 OF THE LAND RECORDS OF THE TOWN OF PLAINFIELD. BEING THE REMAINDER OF ALL AND THE SAME LAND PREMISES CONVEYED TO JUDITH FOWLER AND HOWARD FOWLER (DECEASED)

BY WARRANTY DEED OF REBECCA JANE BUCK, DATED JULY 6, 1984 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 29, PAGE 11 OF THE LAND RECORDS OF THE TOWN OF PLAINFIELD, EXCEPTING AND RESERVING LAND AND AN OLD GARAGE ON THE EASTERLY SIDE OF CREAMERY STREET, SUBSEQUENTLY CONVEYED TO ALAN B, GOLDMAN SEPTEMBER 11, 1987.

SAID PROPERTY BEING FURTHER DESCRIBED AS 43 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, WITH DWELLING LOCATED ON TH #9, CREAMERY STREET, SO CALLED, IN PLAINFIELD, VERMONT. REFERENCE IS HEREBY MADE TO THE ABOVE REFERENCED DEEDS AND TO THE REFERENCES THEREIN CONTAINED IN FURTHER AID OF THIS DESCRIPTION. SOURCE OF TITLE: BOOK 49 PAGE 93 RECORDED: FEBRUARY 13, 2002 APN: 11-100 Reference is hereby made to the above instruments and to the records and references contained therein in further aid of this description.

Terms of sale: Said premises will be sold and conveyed subject to all liens, encumbrances, unpaid taxes, tax titles, municipal liens and assessments, if any, which take precedence over the said mortgage above described.

TEN THOUSAND ($10,000.00) Dollars of the purchase price must be paid by a certified check, bank treasurer’s or cashier’s check at the time and place of the sale by the purchaser. The balance of the purchase price shall be paid by a certified check, bank treasurer’s or cashier’s check within sixty (60) days after the date of sale.

The mortgagor is entitled to redeem the premises at any time prior to the sale by paying the full amount due under the mortgage, including the costs and expenses of the sale.

Other terms to be announced at the sale. DATED : July 2, 2020 By: /S/Rachel K. Ljunggren, Esq. Rachel K. Ljunggren, Esq. Bendett and McHugh, PC 270 Farmington Ave., Ste. 151 Farmington, CT 06032

STATE OF VERMONT VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT WASHINGTON UNIT, CIVIL DIVISION DOCKET NO: 658-12-18 WNCV U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-BC2 v.

NANCY MALCOLM, TRUSTEE OF THE CAROL CONKLIN WHEELOCK REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST U/T/A FEBRUARY 16, 2007 AND FLY-IN CHALETS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OCCUPANTS OF: 149 Airport Road, Unit E, Waitsfield VT MORTGAGEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE OF REAL PROPERTY UNDER 12 V.S.A. sec 4952 et seq.

In accordance with the Judgment Order and Decree of Foreclosure entered January 6, 2020 , in the above captioned action brought to foreclose that certain mortgage given by the late Carol Conklin Wheelock to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for EquiFirst Corporation, dated September 21, 2006 and recorded in Book 123 Page 321 of the land records of the Town of Waitsfield, of

which mortgage the Plaintiff is the present holder, by virtue of an Assignment of Mortgage from Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for EquiFirst Corporation to U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for Structured Asset Securities Corporation Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2007-BC2 dated September 11, 2018 and recorded in Book 170 Page 183 of the land records of the Town of Waitsfield for breach of the conditions of said mortgage and for the purpose of foreclosing the same will be sold at Public Auction at 149 Airport Road, Unit E, Waitsfield, Vermont on August 21, 2020 at 10:00 AM all and singular the premises described in said mortgage,

mentioned deeds and instruments and their records, or otherwise of record in the Town of Waitsfield and Fayston Land Records, and subject to terms and conditions of state and local land use regulations and any permits issued by any state or local authority under those regulations, which are valid and enforceable at law on the date of this deed - not meaning by such language to renew or reinstate any encumbrance which is otherwise barred by the provisions of Vermont law.

To wit: Being all and the same lands and premises as were conveyed to Carol C. Wheelock by Warranty Deed of Ray Campanile and Camille Campanile dated August 22, 2005 and recorded August 24, 2005 in Book 118, pages 501-503 of the land records of the Town of Waitsfield, Vermont.

Reference is hereby made to the above instruments and to the records and references contained therein in further aid of this description.

Being all and the same lands and premises as were conveyed to Ray Campanile and Camille Campanile by Warranty Deed of Sara E. Tucker dated June 29, 2004 and recorded June 30, 2004 in Book 112, pages 308-309 of the land records of the Town of Waitsfield, Vermont.

Being Unit E, together with the undivided percentage interest in and to the common areas and facilities appurtenant to said Unit, in Fly-In Chalets A, a condominium existing under and pursuant to Declaration of Condominium of Fly-In Chalets A dated April 30, 1979 and recorded May 8, 1979 in Book 33, pages 357-391 of the Waitsfield Land Records, which includes Exhibits (floor plans, site plan and as-built certification among them), Bylaws and Administrative Rules and Regulations, and recorded in Book 39, pages 112-146 of the Fayston Land Records.

Subject to and with the benefi t of rights, restrictions, covenants, terms, rights-of-way and easements referenced in the above

Reference may be had to the above mentioned deeds and their records, and to all prior deeds and instruments and their records, for a more particular description of the herein conveyed lands and premises.

Terms of sale: Said premises will be sold and conveyed subject to all liens, encumbrances, unpaid taxes, tax titles, municipal liens and assessments, if any, which take precedence over the said mortgage above described.

TEN THOUSAND ($10,000.00) Dollars of the purchase price must be paid by a certified check, bank treasurer’s or cashier’s check at the time and place of the sale by the purchaser. The balance of the purchase price shall be paid by a certified check, bank treasurer’s or cashier’s check within sixty (60) days after the date of sale. The mortgagor is entitled to redeem the premises at any time prior to the sale by paying the full amount due under the mortgage, including the costs and expenses of the sale.

Other terms to be announced at the sale. DATED: July 17, 2020 By: /S/Rachel K. Ljunggren, Esq. Rachel K. Ljunggren, Esq. Bendett and McHugh, PC 270 Farmington Ave., Ste. 151 Farmington, CT 06032

53 JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

ATTENTION RECRUITERS: POST YOUR JOBS AT: PRINT DEADLINE: FOR RATES & INFO:

JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POST-A-JOB NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X21, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL SOURCE. JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

FULL TIME NIGHT NURSE The Manor has an immediate opening for a night shift nurse.

Join our quality driven team dedicated to excellent customer service and nursing care. Every other weekend required.

Excellent wages and benefits! Apply:

Project Manager Energy Action Network (EAN) is seeking a highly motivated, multi-skilled person to become a core part of our non-profit staff team in a permanent, full-time position.

Our Project Manager will be responsible for managing the VT Energy Dashboard and leading EAN data collection, management, and analysis. Located in Montpelier or remote. Competitive salary and generous benefits.

HR@themanorvt.org

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DRIVE FOR Lincoln House, 120 Hill St., Barre, VT is looking for full and part-time PCAs.

FULL- AND PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

FT includes benefits.

Please call 802-476-3283 to set up an interview.

Online shopping continues to grow!

Also, now hiring for Saturday/Sunday shifts.

7/6/20 6:09 PM

Logistics and Procurement Specialist

Find out more and apply: www.eanvt.org/employment

Job security and room to grow. Driving experience preferred but not essential.

Must be 21 and have good driving record.

Responsible for coordinating the shipping and movement of materials and finished goods in our fast-paced brewery.

Applications due by Aug. 7, 2020.

EAN is an EOE. www.eanvt.org

Visit: lawsonsfinest.com/about-us/join-our-team.

Medical Front End Administrator

2h-Lawsons072920.indd 1

Front End Assistant Manager and Manager on Duty

1 7/27/20 2v-FedEx052020.indd 11:38 AM

32 hour/week position in a beautiful naturopathic primary care clinic.

Salary depends on experience. Paid vacation, retirement and partial health benefits offered.

TECHNICAL TRADES

Send inquiries, resume and cover letter to:

ELECTRICIAN

kk@mountainviewnaturalmedicine.com.

Help schedule, train, support, and encourage an mountainviewnaturalmedicine.com experienced team of cashiers for check out and customer payments in a cooperative food store focused on natural, organic, and local products. As Manager on Duty, monitor 2h-MountainViewNaturalMedicine072920.indd 1 and support storewide service, stocking, cleanliness, and security. Provide and support excellent customer service and safety. Experience as a supervisor in a retail or MANUFACTURING customer service setting, especially natural foods stores, OPERATORS! preferred. We are seeking enthusiastic, customer-oriented people who are passionate about good food and local Night Shift: 7pm to 7am community. If you enjoy helping others in a dynamic retail Pay Rate: $17.44 (includes shift environment, we want you to be part of our team. differential) Willing to work as needed? Our substitute workers are part of a thriving natural foods community; earn good pay, a store discount, and more! The Co-op currently needs substitute stockers and food services workers. Schedules vary. Typical shifts are 6-2 and 1-9, and we are open seven days a week. For additional information or to apply, please visit our website at hungermountain.coop/employment.

Hunger Mountain Co-op is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, veterans, and members of the LGBTQ community are encouraged to apply. Hourly employees are represented by UE Local 255.

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Job Description: 7/23/20 4:32 PM

Saint Michael’s College is looking for a full-time Electrician. Applicants should be flexible, dependable and motivated.

Schedules: Work approximately 14 Days per Month!

ADDITIONAL OPENINGS

Eligible for Benefits on Day 1: • Medical, Dental & Vision plus 401K. • Paid Vacation Time: Approximately 3 weeks per year (accrued).

• Paid Sick Time: 80 hours per year Education Assistance: Eligible after 6 months.

• Up to $5,250 per year in a degree related field.

Apply online at globalfoundries.com/about-us/careers.

For more information email jobs@globalfoundries.com.

GlobalFoundries continues to fully operate and hire during COVID-19.

7/28/204t-GlobalFoundries072920.indd 8:38 AM 1

7/27/20 12:07 PM

• health insurance • dental and vision • life, disability, 401(k) • generous paid time off • employee and dependent tuition benefits

For a full job description:

smcvt.interviewexchange.com

7/28/203v-StMichaelsCollege072920.indd 8:30 AM 1

7/23/20 3:51 PM

54

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM FOR FAST RESULTS, OR CONTACT MICHELLE BROWN: MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

RN, LPN, AND LNAs

Days or Evenings

NVRH is proud to offer competitive wages, student loan repayment, tuition reimbursement, shift differentials and per-diem rates. We offer a comprehensive benefits package for full and part-time employees including a generous earned time program, 401k with company match, low cost health plans, low cost prescriptions and more. New Grads welcome!

For more info or to apply visit nvrh.org/careers.

RESIDENTIAL EDUCATOR

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Wake Robin seeks a dedicated nursing assistant with a strong desire to work within a community of seniors. Seeking LNAs licensed in Vermont to provide high quality care in a fast paced residential and long-term care environment, while maintaining a strong sense of “home”. We offer great benefits, a pristine working environment, and an opportunity to build strong relationships with staff and residents in a dynamic community setting.

We continue to offer generous shift differentials; Evening’s $2.50/hour, Nights $4.50/hour, and weekends $1.55.

Wake Robin offers an excellent compensation and benefits package and an opportunity to build strong relationships with staff and residents in a dynamic community setting. Interested candidates can send their resumes to hr@wakerobin. com or fill out an application at wakerobin.com/employment.

Wake Robin is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

6/26/204t-WakeRobinLNA072920.indd 3:05 PM 1

Rock Point School is looking for a Residential Educator to join our team!

Residential Educators are vital members of our school staff, teaching students life skills, taking them on adventures, and supporting them to form healthy relationships. We’re seeking a person who has energy, patience, a sense of humor, and the desire to help guide young people through the challenges of adolescence.

This is a full-time position, including weekend and evening hours, and requires living on the dorm floor. Our beautiful campus is located in Burlington, with 130 wooded acres on Lake Champlain!

Rock Point School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

The position will conduct specimen collection as well as supporting activities in a high volume, fast paced environment.

Full & Part-Time available. Weekdays and rotating weekends, 8:30am-5:00p.m.

LEARN MORE & APPLY: uvmmed.hn/sevendays

8:35 AM 1 7/24/20 10:54 AM Lead Preschool Teacher DEVELOPEMENT7/27/204t-UVMMedCenter072920.indd Full time. BA in early childhood education or related field.

OFFICER

The Development Officer, Grants and Endowments is responsible for writing proposals for both unrestricted operating revenue and restricted projects and, with assistance from staff responsible for the project, submits timely and accurate reports for all existing grant funded projects.

Education and Experience: · Bachelor’s degree · Minimum of two years’ experience with grant writing · Previous experience with non-profit fundraising · Experience working in deadline-driven environments

Willingness to further education to comply with child care licensing rules. Contribute to the implementation and development of nature and play-based curriculum at Schoolhouse preschool.

Custodian 30-40 hrs a week. Self motivated, self directed experienced custodian to maintain a level of cleanliness to keep staff and students safe.

Afternoon into evening hours.

Substitute Teacher

Compensation and Benefits: Full Museum benefits package including health, dental and paid time off. Spectacular working environment; committed, friendly co-workers; discount at the Museum Store and Café; passes to the museum to share with friends and family; and reciprocal benefits at regional museums and attractions.

Visit shelburnemuseum.org/employment to apply & for more information.

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7/28/20 9:08 AM

MEDICAL ASSISTANT II FANNY ALLEN DRIVE-THRU CLINIC

More details about the position can be found at rockpointschool.org/residential-educator-employment

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New, local, scamfree jobs posted every day!

LNA ( FULL TIME)

Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) has RN, LPN, and LNA openings in our ER, ICU, Med/Surg, Birth Center, and Medical Office Practices.

Full-time, part-time and per-diem positions available.

PreK-8th grade. Subs will generally stay with one class/cohort per day.

Flexible scheduling.

For job descriptions and to apply: theschoolhousevt.org/employment.

Must pass a background check.

7/27/20 4t-TheSchoolhouse072920.indd 12:15 PM 1

jobs.sevendaysvt.com

1 7/27/20 LongSkinnyJobsFiller.indd 11:56 AM

6/18/19 1:24 PM

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SEVENDAYSJOBS, SUBSCRIBE TO RSS, OR BROWSE POSTS ON YOUR PHONE AT JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

NEW JOBS POSTED DAILY! JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

55 JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Vermont’s premier continuing care retirement community is adding members to its team!

MAINTENANCE/HVAC CERTIFIED Full Time

GRANTS SPECIALIST

Wake Robin seeks a Maintenance person certified in HVAC to join our Staff. Our maintenance team utilizes a variety of technical skills to repair and maintain electrical, plumbing, security, and air quality systems throughout the facility and in resident homes.

Qualified candidate will have well rounded maintenance skills and must have specific training and certification in HVAC systems, as well as a strong aptitude for computer-based operational systems.

This is an opportunity to join a stable and talented team of individuals dedicated to doing good work, for great people, in a beautiful setting.

The Vermont Foodbank seeks a creative, motivated person who is capable of drafting compelling grant applications to help ensure that all individuals in Vermont have enough to eat. We are looking for someone who can describe intricate VF programs and activities in three pages, three paragraphs, or even in three sentences. Capacity for creativity and diligence in submitting applications and reports in a fast paced, deadline-driven environment is a must. An ability to adapt well to changing organizational and philanthropic priorities is preferred. A significant portion of this position’s workload can be handled remotely; however, applicants should be located within commuting distance of one of the Foodbank’s three facilities, in Barre, Brattleboro, or Rutland.

Wake Robin offers an excellent compensation and benefits package and an opportunity to build strong relationships with staff and residents in a dynamic community setting.

Interested candidates can send their resumes to hr@wakerobin.com or fill out an application at wakerobin.com/employment. Wake Robin is an equal opportunity employer.

5h-WakeRobinHVAC072920.indd 1

7/28/20 8:42 AM

VHCB

To apply for this position, please visit vtfoodbank.org/employment and submit an employment application with a resume and cover letter attached.

AmeriCorps Program

The Vermont Foodbank is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

AmeriCorps positions in 7/24/20 locations around the state 2h-GMSS072920.indd 1 serving with non-profit organizations

• environmental education

Product Development Team Leader • home buyer education

Are you driven by challenge? Do you enjoy solving problems and • environmental stewardship have a strong desire to lead a team that is equally dedicated to • energy conservation Product Development Mechanical Designer, R&D for Hot Runner

finding solutions? If so, we have a role for you.

• homeless assistance

5:01 PM

Landscape Installers, Gardeners & Lawn Care Professionals

career-minded landscape installers,gardeners and lawn care professionals, plus seasonal JOB DESCRIPTION: crew members. We are an award-winning, • Contribute to the formulation of business cases and product definitions Support business commercialization phases • We•Responsible for developing injection molding machinery sub-systems in a dynamic, fun and enga offer careers with longevity and stability, and currently have a • May participate in or lead continuous improvement or isolated service issue activities full-service landscape company servicing • Create and manage development project plans & budget range of engineering/designer opportunities across the globe.

• Formally communicate project status and health during the development stage Chittenden County and beyond. We care about Within a team environment, and with a high sense of ownership you will invent, concept, design • We are an organization dedicated to new leading edge technology TECHNICAL/PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE: the quality of work we do, the relationships we • Advanced CAD user in modeling and detailing techniques (GD&T) and•solutions and products that improve hot runner value, performance, cost, lead-time and/or appl equipment within the injection molding industry.

Strong background and knowledge in mechanical design, stress analysis, fluid dynamics and heat transfer • Proficient in use of Finite Element Analysis (Thermal & structural) and CFD tools forge, and the results we leave behind when Solid understanding of manufacturing, joining and assembly processes of precision machinery • our • Join team of multi-disciplined professionals dedicated to • Ability to analyze, compile and report on large dataset analysis using statistical tools

we’re done. We work closely our customers • Proven ability to analyze and solve complex technical problems with innovative solutions envisioning the future of sustainable packaging systems, optimizing • Strong sense of project ownership and in meeting established commitments to create spaces that help them feel at home

ourRESPONSIBILITIES: solutions for the highest quality medical parts EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS: University degree in Mechanical Engineering (B.A.Sc. and/or M.Sc.) and• fulfilling our mission to keep our customers in the lead. outdoors. We’re growing and ready to hire • 5 or more years design experience in a related industry preferred.

Concept, Design and Engineer innovative hot runner products using a systematic approac •

professional employees who work hard and • If you value integrity and want to be recognized and rewarded while being part of the best team in the industry, you should enjoy being part of a team. We offer a safe principles join us and help to design the future. work environment, competitive pay and •For moreEvaluate design thru simulations (FEA and CFD) and prototyping information and to apply: bit.ly/HuskyPDTL. benefits like dental insurance, paid time off, Husky is an E.O.E. • Design of test models, test cells, for the verification and validation of design concepts IRAs and bonus programs.

•

• SERVE • EXPERIENCE • LEAD Apply now!

vhcb.org/our-programs/ vhcb-americorps

Product Development Mechanical Designer, R&D for Hot Runner Church Hill Landscapes is hiring now for

JOB DESCRIPTION: Husky Injection Molding Systems is looking for a Product Development Responsible for developing injection molding machinery sub-systems in a dynamic, fun and engaging environment.

Within a team environment, and with a high sense of ownership you will invent, concept, design and implement new Team Leader, Sustainability and Innovation to lead a team of dedicated solutions and products that improve hot runner value, performance, cost, lead-time and/or application range.

Hot Runner and Controller Product Design Engineers.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

VHCB AmeriCorps offers: • living allowance • health insurance • an education award • training opportunities • leadership development

Concept, Design and Engineer innovative hot runner products using a systematic approach and solid engineering

principles • Husky is a global leader taking on new challenges and for the right • Evaluate design thru simulations (FEA and CFD) and prototyping • Design of test models, test cells, for the verification and validation of design concepts people that means exceptional career development opportunities.

• Analyze large datasets and make data driven decisions or recommendations

• • • 6/25/20 5v-Husky072920.indd 11:11 AM •1

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The Vermont Foodbank’s work culture is progressive, forward thinking, and equity minded. Staff have the opportunity to fully develop their potential in a variety of ways: as organizational leaders, in shaping programs and advocacy efforts, and in working towards a future where no one in Vermont will go hungry.

Analyze large datasets and make data driven decisions or recommendations For more details and to submit an application: churchhilllandscapes.com/careers Contribute to the formulation of business cases and product definitions Support business commercialization phases 7/27/20 12:26 PM May participate in or lead continuous improvement or isolated service issue activities

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

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POST YOUR JOBS AT JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM FOR FAST RESULTS, OR CONTACT MICHELLE BROWN: MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN OFFICE MANAGER/CONTROLLER Full Time

Responsibilities: A) Chromebook and/or computer set-up, maintenance & inventory. Enroll Chromebooks into CVSD domain, install, connect and test computer workstations, printers, and other peripherals. Install, configure and troubleshoot Windows 10 operating system, updates, and related software for the school network. Diagnose hardware problems; work with vendor tech support. Maintain inventory of all hardware and equipment. Resolve tickets posted to the CVSD Help Desk. Support school students, faculty and staff on technical issues. Participate on school level and CVSD level committees as required. B) Support the Network Administrator in management of the school network, including switches, printers, and network connectivity and user accounts. C) Other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience • Four to ten years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Send resumes to: mfelber@keyauto.com. EOE

The Vermont Judiciary in now hiring 6 month positions at locations across Vermont.

Town of Duxbury is seeking a Highway Department Maintenance Worker.

Full-time position with benefits.

Looking for team player.

Candidates must have Class B, CDL with manual endorsement, and must be able to operate a manual tandem truck, wheeled excavator and loader.

Main duties involve plowing with and without wing, operating all town equipment and hauling material for the Town. Full job description and application here: duxburyvermont.org

Qualifications: We are looking for someone with exceptional interpersonal skills with both children and adults. The successful candidate should be well organized and demonstrate interpersonal communication skills in a workplace environment. Education, experience, or an interest in Windows 10 operating systems and Microsoft Office, Chromebooks, G-mail, and other Google Applications, software installation, printer installation and support and network infrastructure. On the job training will be provided.

7/27/20 12:13 PM interpersonal

These full-time, limited service positions are funded through 12/20/20. They offer full benefits including healthcare, sick leave, holidays and paid time off.

Clerical/Administrative (#20015) Approximately 10 Docket Clerk B positions, which will specialize in customer service, records keeping and data entry involving one or more docket areas. Work locations to be determined later but will likely include Burlington, Rutland, Brattleboro, St. Albans, Bennington, St. Johnsbury, White River Junction and Montpelier.

High school degree and 2 or more years of clerical work required. Starting pay at $17.11 per hour.

Operations Assistant (#20014) Approximately 20 positions to coordinate the use of audio/video technology to deliver court hearings over online meeting tools such as Webex, Zoom and YouTube livestreaming. Working in either our IT Department (RIS) or the Planning and Court Services unit, this position exercises independent judgment and quick thinking. Extensive interaction with members of the legal community, judicial officers, court staff and the public. Work locations to be determined later but will likely include Burlington, Rutland, Brattleboro, St. Albans, Bennington, St. Johnsbury, White River Junction and Montpelier. High school and 4 years’ experience (will substitute 4 year degree for experience) with office systems required. Starting rate is $23.67 per hour.

Go to vermontjudiciary.org/employmentopportunities/staff-openings for more details and to complete application. These positions are open until filled.

The Vermont Judiciary is an equal opportunity employer.

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HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT MAINTENANCE WORKER

ONE YEAR POSITION Position Summary: to set up, maintain, troubleshoot, do repairs of Chromebooks, computers and computer networks in the school, and to support the Network Administrator in the areas of infrastructure and user management. Must enjoy working in a school environment.

Processes and generates financial data for all dealership departments, which together represent the accurate financial condition of the business.

Provides accurate reporting to the dealer/general manager and is responsible for accounting office and administrative functions. Prior experience in the automotive dealership industry is required.

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TOW N O F DU X BU RY

Pick up an application at: Duxbury Town Office 5421 VT RT 100 Duxbury VT 05676 Or email appilcations to duxburyforeman@gmail.com

Supervised by: CVSD Network Administrators. This is an hourly position. Please apply online to schoolspring.com, job # 3306903.

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JOB DESCRIPTION: Bottom Line Bookkeeping Services, Inc. is currently seeking a full time bookkeeper. Duties for this position will include but are not limited to: • Processing and management of Accounts Receivable • Processing and management of Accounts Payable • Cash flow management • Payroll processing to include filing of all returns to required federal and state agencies • Forecasting and budgeting • Reconciliation of accounts Time management is essential with the ability to prioritize workload. Candidate must be a highly organized and selfmotivated professional with problem solving skills and capable of working in a fast paced environment. Position requires effective communication with clients, co-workers and accountants. Applicant must be able to work independently and with co-workers. Ability to multitask is a must.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS: POST YOUR JOBS AT: sevendaysvt.com/ postmyjob PRINT DEADLINE: Noon on Mondays (including holidays) FOR RATES & INFO: Michelle Brown, 802-865-1020 x21

JOB REQUIREMENTS: Qualification requirement is a minimum of 2 years relevant experience. Qualified candidate must be proficient using QuickBooks and Microsoft (Excel, Work, etc). Experience with Peachtree and QuickBooks Online preferred.

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Email resume/application to: vermontbookkeeper14@gmail.com

7/14/20 2:28 PM

michelle@ sevendaysvt.com

JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

6/12/20 2:49 PM

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SEVENDAYSJOBS, SUBSCRIBE TO RSS, OR BROWSE POSTS ON YOUR PHONE AT JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

DANCE INSTRUCTORS

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Lamoille Valley Dance Academy is seeking two experienced Dance Instructors, one in Ballet and one in Tap, to join our topquality professional teaching staff. These part time positions will focus on intermediate & advanced level dancers, while offering the opportunity for choreography and creative development of our annual, sell-out spring productions.

Dell’Amore Enterprises is looking for help in the preparation and processing of its tomato sauce products. We are all healthy in a safe clean environment with less than 10 employees in a safe clean facility in Colchester.

• Good starting pay • Approx 30-35 hours per week, 8am-3:30pm • Benefits and health insurance after 60 days Please email resume along with some background info to: frank@dellamore.com

Positions require dedication, enthusiasm, timeliness, experience and proper qualifications in the field of dance instruction. A great 2v-Dell'Amore072920.indd company, superb faculty, wonderful dance families, state of the art dance studios, and competitive pay! If you fit the dance shoe, we would love to meet you! Please email your resume to directorlvda@gmail.com.

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NEW JOBS POSTED DAILY! JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Part Time (5 hours a day/4 days a week) Administrative Assistant needed for small, busy law firm in Burlington.

Primary responsibility is handling dayto-day practice management for one full time (criminal practice) and one part time (family practice) attorney.

Prior experience with family and/or criminal law practice preferred, but not necessary. Position available immediately.

Send resume and cover e-mail to rkatims@hoffcurtis.com.

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57 JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

SHARED LIVING PROVIDER Seeking a creative and patient Shared Living Provider(s) for a 22- year-old Male who enjoys discussing a variety of topics, playing & listening to music, movies and swimming. This young man is largely independent with no personal care needs. The right provider will have strong boundaries and clear communication. Ideal provider has a pet, but no children. Preference for a male provider.

Compensation includes a tax-free annual stipend plus room and board. Interested candidates please contact abenoit@howardcenter.org or by phone: (802) 782-1588.

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7/24/20 2:09 PM

4 FULL-TIME

Operating Room Nurses Join our Magnet® Recognized Nursing Team

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DAY SUPPORT STAFF

Looking for caring, creative person to spend weekdays (Mon-Fri 7/8am-3/4pm) with social and engaging gentleman with disabilities, spending time in/around his house (or yours if minimal Covid risk and you live nearby: South Hero, Colchester, Milton, Essex, or Burlington).

Possibility of splitting position with another staff. No work on school vacations. Must be comfortable with periodic personal care assistance. Paid training and Covid-19 precautions to reduce exposure risk.

Resume, references, background checks. stantonseddy@gmail.com

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Rutland Regional Medical Center is the largest community hospital in Vermont with 38 specialties. The OR-Nurse positions are full-time day/evening shifts, variable times.

Pay Grade: 20U ($28.15- $46.64), 80 hours-2 week pay period.

Details: Prior OR experience (Circulator and/or Scrub roles) required. Rotating weekends and call. Responsible for the delivery of safe, effective, and quality patient-family centered care in the OR and other areas of perioperative services for all patient populations. Facilitates operative or other invasive procedures by preparing and providing the required sterile instruments, supplies & equipment. Maintains the sterile field and anticipates and responds to the needs of the surgical team.

Minimum Education: Graduate of an accredited school of nursing, BSN preferred.

Minimum Work Experience: 1 year OR prior experience (Circulator and/or Scrub roles) required.

Required Licenses/Certifications: • Licensed in the State of Vermont.

• BLS Certification through American Heart Assoc.

• ACLS Certification preferred.

• CNOR Certification preferred.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities: • Demonstrated proficiency in acute-care nursing, knowledge and skills.

• Demonstrates moderate knowledge of basic computer skills.

Apply: http://pm.healthcaresource.com/CS/rrmc/#/job/10670

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BECOME A FOOD SERVICE SPECIALIST Receive a $20,000 bonus by joining the Vermont Army National Guard as a Food Service Specialist.

While serving part-time, you are also eligible to pursue your education with programs that help pay for tuition and other expenses.

CONTACT US >> vtguard.com | 1-800-GO-GUARD

Programs and Benefits Subject to Change

7/27/20 3:37 PM

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ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM FOR FAST RESULTS, OR CONTACT MICHELLE BROWN: MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Warehouse Assisstant Aqua ViTea is looking for a warehouse assistant! Apply: careers@aquavitea.com

PT Kitchen Helper/Dietary Aide Looking for a PT position with an organization that cares for you? Want great benefits and steady hours? We want to talk to you! Elderwood at Burlington has a PT Kitchen Helper/Dietary Aide position available!

This position is located in Burlington, VT. Kitchen Helper/Dietary Aide team members at Elderwood assist with ensuring the health and well-being of residents by providing dietary support. This position is responsible for meal preparations for our residents in a variety of ways including preparing and serving meals, dish washing, preparing nourishments, stocking unit kitchenettes, working tray line, setting tables and preparing beverages for serving.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Minimum of 16 years of age required; HS diploma or equivalent preferred • Previous experience in dietary work preferred.

• High degree of personal cleanliness and hygiene required; health status suitable for service of food required.

• Sense of responsibility, and ability to work well with residents and other staff members required.

• Ability to follow oral and written orders and to communicate well verbally and in writing required.

• Respect for residents’ privacy and rights; respectful and dignified treatment of residents required.

• Qualities of maturity, diplomacy, and ability to work well with others required.

• Ability to perform assigned tasks to a high degree of excellence and cleanliness required.

Learn more and apply online: elderwoodcareers.com.

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Invest EAP Centers for Wellbeing

PROGRAM MANAGER Seeking a skilled individual to provide leadership on 1t-AquaVitea072920.indd 1 7/27/20 wellbeing programs, including a project to address the stress assistance needs of farmers. If you have a expertise leading programs, researching and compiling ADMINISTRATIVE resources, developing innovative technology solutions, ASSISTANT and are highly self-motivated and productive, Requires organization, this position may be a great fit!

Implement project to network farmers and agricultural service providers with mental health resources, providers and support tools throughout the Northeastern United States, including developing such resources where none exist. The person in this position must be adept at outreaching to and networking with individuals and organizations that can provide such resources in other states. You will develop and train a farmer peer support network in Vermont.

You will provide leadership and collaborate with others on our team on other aspects of the delivery of our clinical services to other constituencies as well.

Excellent writing skills, including report writing and proposal writing experience are a must. A strong background in mental health and agriculture desired.

Apply at https://careers.vermont.gov and enter ‘7741’ under keyword search, by Aug 5, 2020. For additional information contact Taryn Austin at taryna@investeap.org.

The State of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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New, local, scam-free jobs posted every day!

12:05 PM

efficiency, flexibility, excellent oral and written communication skills.

The successful candidate must be passionate about our mission, a good communicator, easy to work with, competent and organized. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, ability to lift 50 pounds regularly, have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, PCAVT online application and 3 references to: Search, PO Box 829 Montpelier, VT 05601 Or submit online at pcavt@pcavt.org.

PCAVT is an E.O.E.

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7/17/20 2:06 PM

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8/6/19 12:18 PM

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NEW JOBS POSTED DAILY! JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

COMMUNITY LIVING SUPPORT STAFF

REGISTERED DENTAL HYGIENIST

Are you seeking an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives? We have openings for all shifts at an exciting new and innovative supported apartment project. Opportunities for both part time contracted shifts and fulltime positions with benefits.

We offer a supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for training and professional growth.

Previous experience working with people coping with mental health challenges is preferred, but creativity, openness to learning, and empathy are essential. Applicants should possess excellent communication skills, the ability to work with individuals with patience, insight, compassion, and the personality to work well in a team environment.

59 JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

Our growing dental practice in Randolph, VT is seeking a full-time or a part-time dental hygienist to join our team. We are a fast paced, energetic office looking to add an outgoing hygienist to our team.

Please send resume to dentist@cwilsondds.com.

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7/14/20 12:33 PM

Valid driver’s license, good driving skills, and occasional use of car are necessary. Work close to home and join a special team!

Equal opportunity employer

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We are currently seeking applicants for the following position:

7/27/20 12:10 PM

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TECH SPECIALIST (30-40 HOURS PER WEEK) Do you enjoy working with others to solve technical challenges and assisting others?

Central Vermont Council on Aging is looking for someone who can support staff, volunteers and older adults to connect via various technology to alleviate social isolation and to participate in a wide range of classes and activities to help fulfill CVCOA’s vision of “a world where aging is honored.”

The ideal candidate will have a BA with 3+ years, relevant experience, demonstrated training and mentoring skills, patience, a sense of humor, effective written and interpersonal communication skills and be able to be a bridge between technology and learners who have varying degrees of experience with it.

Central Vermont Council on Aging is an innovative agency dedicated to quality services for older persons living in Central Vermont. We provide a generous benefits package. Salary is based on experience.

Central Vermont Council on Aging is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Applications from veterans, mature workers, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, and people from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds are encouraged.

For more information about these positions, visit our website at www.cvcoa.org.

To apply, please send resume and cover letter to jobs@cvcoa.org by August 10.

VERMONT EMPLOYER SUPPORT OF THE GUARD AND RESERVE • Do you have a few hours of spare time in your week?

• Have you always wanted to serve your country and your community?

• Are you comfortable with a moderate level of team leadership?

• Then you could be our next VT ESGR State Chair!

The Vermont Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (VTESGR) is looking for their next ESGR State Chair. This is a volunteer leader position that guides a small team of like-minded volunteers and one full-time support staff member towards the National and State-level program goals.

ESGR, a Department of Defense organization, was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component service members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment. Paramount to ESGR's mission is encouraging employment of Guardsmen and Reservists who bring integrity, global perspective and leadership to the civilian workforce.

The State Chair is an official Department of Defense volunteer position and carries a three-year term (renewable once.) Most importantly, the VT ESGR State Chair’s role is to provide the leadership and vision for a small but dedicated team of volunteers reaching across Vermont in carrying out the mission. Vermont ESGR enjoys a moderate but meaningful events calendar, while undertaking critical employer and military outreach activities. The Chair translates direction from the national ESGR headquarters into a Vermont message, best suited to our demographics and our many close relationships with the Vermont National Guard, the Reserves of the various Armed Forces in Vermont, the Vermont Department of Labor, US DOL-VETS, the US SBA, and the many Human Resources Professionals around the state. A candidate should expect to dedicate an average of 4-6 hours a week in fulfilling their ESGR leadership role. We are seeking someone who is innovative, engaging, and dedicated to our mission. The search will close on September 1, 2020. (And if you’re not interested in being the Chair but would like to join us, give us a call!)

Anyone interested in learning more about Vermont ESGR and the Chair position should contact Ms. Linda Fowler at: linda.fowler10.ctr@mail.mil or 802-338-4187. Women, people of color, all other minorities, and semi-retired or fully-retired candidates are encouraged to apply for the position. Prior service in the military is not required, but may facilitate understanding of the role. The search will close on September 1, 2020.

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fun stuff

RACHEL LINDSAY

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

CALCOKU & SUDOKU (P.49) CROSSWORD (P.49)

HARRY BLISS

Feel Good.

Do Good!

Feeling disappointed about the things you can’t do this season? Here’s how to have a feel-good summer:

Step One: Explore Vermont.

Step Two: Learn something new.

Step Three: Be a Good Citizen.

“Okay, that’s the White House lawn — you know what to do.”

JEN SORENSEN

TAKE THE GOOD CITIZEN CHALLENGE, a youth civics program for young people in grades K-12. Each month we’ll announce new activities focusing on history, community, government, advocacy and news literacy to keep you and your family active and engaged.

Summer

2020 With support from:

Powered by:

New activities posted at goodcitizenvt.com Evslin Family Foundation

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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fun stuff RYAN RIDDLE

is

Making it is not :( Keep this newspaper free for all.

Join the Seven Days Super Readers at sevendaysvt.com/super-readers or call us at 802-864-5684.

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SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

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7/14/20 3:32 PM

Have a deep, dark fear of your own? Submit it to cartoonist Fran Krause at deep-dark-fears.tumblr.com, and you may see your neurosis illustrated in these pages.

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY BY ROB BREZSNY REAL JULY 30-AUGUST 5

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22):

“Notice what no one else notices and you’ll know what no one else knows,” says actor Tim Robbins. That’s perfect counsel for you right now, Leo. According to my analysis of the astrological omens, your perceptiveness will be at a peak in the coming weeks.

You’ll have an ability to discern halfhidden truths that are invisible to everyone else. You’ll be aggressive in scoping out what most people don’t even want to become aware of. Take advantage of your temporary superpower! Use it to get a lucid grasp of the big picture — and cultivate a more intelligent approach than those who are focused on the small picture and the comfortable delusions.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aries poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti is renowned for his buoyancy. In one of his famous lines, he wrote, “I am awaiting, perpetually and forever, a renaissance of wonder.” Here’s what I have to say in response to that thought: Your assignment, as an Aries, is not to sit there and wait, perpetually and forever, for a renaissance of wonder. Rather, it’s your job to embody and actualize and express, perpetually and forever, a renaissance of wonder. The coming weeks will be an especially favorable time for you to rise to new heights in fulfilling this aspect of your lifelong assignment.

the Indigenous Coast Miwok people. They were animists who believed that soul and sentience animate all animals and plants, as well as rocks, rivers, mountains — everything, really. Their food came from hunting and gathering, and they lived in small bands without centralized political authority. According to one of their creation stories, Coyote and Silver Fox made the world by singing and dancing it into existence.

Now I invite you to do what I just illustrated: Find out about and celebrate the history of the people and the place where you live. From an astrological perspective, it’s a favorable time to get in touch with roots and foundations.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20): “When I look down, I miss all the good stuff, and when I look up, I just trip over things,” says singersongwriter Ani DiFranco. I wonder if she has tried an alternate approach: looking straight ahead. That’s what I advise for you in the coming weeks, Gemini. In other words, adopt a perspective that will enable you to detect regular glimpses of what’s above you and what’s below you — as well as what’s in front of you. In fact, I suggest you avoid all extremes that might distract you from the big picture. The truth will be most available to you if you occupy the middle ground.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The Italian word nottivago refers to “night roamers”: people who wander around after dark. Why do they do it? What do they want to accomplish? Maybe their ramblings have the effect of dissolving stuck thoughts that have been plaguing them. Maybe it’s a healing relief to indulge in the luxury of having nowhere in particular to go and nothing in particular to do: to declare their independence from the obsessive drive to get things done. Meandering after sundown may stir up a sense of wild freedom that inspires them to outflank or outgrow their problems. I bring these possibilities to your attention, Cancerian, because the coming days will be an excellent time to try them out.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else,” wrote playwright Tom Stoppard. That’s ripe advice for you to meditate on during the com-

ing weeks. You’re in a phase of your astrological cycle when every exit can indeed be an entrance somewhere else — but only if you believe in that possibility and are alert for it. So please dissolve your current assumptions about the current chapter of your life story so that you can be fully open to new possibilities that could become available.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “One must think with the body and the soul or not think at all,” wrote Libran author and historian Hannah Arendt. She implied that thinking only with the head may spawn monsters and demons. Mere conceptualization is arid and sterile if not interwoven with the wisdom of the soul and the body’s earthy intuitions.

Ideas that are untempered by feelings and physical awareness can produce poor maps of reality. In accordance with astrological omens, I ask you to meditate on these empowering suggestions. Make sure that as you seek to understand what’s going on, you draw on all your different kinds of intelligence.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “I always wanted to be commander-in-chief of my one-woman army,” says singer-songwriter Ani DiFranco.

I think that goal is within sight for you, Scorpio.

Your power over yourself has been increasing lately. Your ability to manage your own moods and create your own sweet spots and define your own fate is as robust as I have seen it in a while. What do you plan to do with your enhanced dominion? What special feats might you attempt? Are there any previously impossible accomplishments that may now be possible?

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your meditation for the coming weeks comes to you courtesy of author and naturalist Henry David Thoreau. “We can never have enough of nature,” he wrote. “We must be refreshed by the sight of inexhaustible vigor, vast and titanic features, the sea-coast with its wrecks, the wilderness with its living and its decaying trees, the thunder cloud, and the rain which lasts three weeks and produces freshets. We need to witness our own limits transgressed, and some life pasturing freely where we never wander.” Oh, how I hope you will heed Thoreau’s

counsel, Sagittarius. You would really benefit from an extended healing session amidst natural wonders. Give yourself the deep pleasure of exploring what wildness means to you.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Author and activist bell hooks (who doesn’t capitalize her name) has taught classes at numerous American universities. She sometimes writes about her experiences there, as in the following passage. “My students tell me, ‘We don’t want to love! We’re tired of being loving!’ And I say to them, if you’re tired of being loving, then you haven’t really been loving, because when you are loving you have more strength.” I wanted you to know her thoughts, Capricorn, because I think you’re in a favorable position to demonstrate how correct she is: to dramatically boost your own strength through the invigorating power of your love.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian author Langston Hughes (1902-1967) was a pioneering and prolific African American author and activist who wrote in four different genres and was influential in boosting other Black writers. One of his big breaks as a young man came when he was working as a waiter at a banquet featuring the famous poet Vachel Lindsay. Hughes managed to leave three of his poems on Lindsay’s table. The great poet loved them and later lent his clout to boosting Hughes’ career. I suspect you might have an opening like that sometime soon, Aquarius — even if it won’t be quite as literal and handson. Be ready to take advantage. Cultivate every connection that may become available.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Author Faith Baldwin has renounced the “forgive and forget” policy. She writes, “I think one should forgive and remember. If you forgive and forget, you’re just driving what you remember into the subconscious; it stays there and festers. But to look upon what you remember and know you’ve forgiven is achievement.” That’s the approach I recommend for you right now, Pisces.

Get the relief you need, yes: Forgive those who have trespassed against you. But also: Hold fast to the lessons you learned through those people so you won’t repeat them again later.

t John TAURUS (April 20-May 20): I live in Northern California on land that once belonged to who served and suffers CHECK OUT ROB BREZSNY’S EXPANDED WEEKLY AUDIO HOROSCOPES & DAILY TEXT MESSAGE HOROSCOPES: REALASTROLOGY.COM OR 1-877-873-4888 D and a explains rd gives supported by: duce from 's Greens. nt llege stude Sterling Co a rman — John Gunte served in o h veteran w hanistan Iraq and Afg from lung and suffers SD and a damage, PT rain injury traumatic b how his — explains s T card give Vermont EB to fresh him access s m local farm produce fro s. n ’s Gree such as Pete Watch at

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l

See photos of this person online.

W = Women M = Men TW = Trans women TM = Trans men Q = Genderqueer people NBP = Nonbinary people NC = Gender nonconformists Cp = Couples Gp = Groups

64

COUPLE SEEKING GUY OR GIRL We are very open and honest. Clean, safe and totally discreet. We are looking for a man with a big dick or a woman who wants to try new adult things with a couple.

We want to role-play and try some kink.

Raindancer70, 50, seeking: M, W, TM, Cp GOOD MORNING! Female, vegan, 420-friendly, central Vermont. Seeking similar companion for summer (and beyond) activities: easy/ moderate hiking, nature walks, swimming, biking, long drives on back roads and other warm weather adventures. In the midst of the pandemic, I take “social smartness” seriously. For the time being, I am only open to outdoor, safely distanced meetings. Thanks for reading VtVegan2020, 57, seeking: M, l INTERESTED Still standing after all these years!

WayToGo, 67, seeking: M I FEEL 4TUNATE I’m a romantic looking for another romantic. I enjoy canoeing or plopping two chairs in the middle of the river at the end of the day. I love all types of music and singing along or dancing in my kitchen or anywhere. I like warm, windy nights and the sounds of the birds when the sun comes up. 4tunate, 63, seeking: M, l HONEST, RESPECTFUL, PLANNER, CARING I’m not a girlie girl; I like my sneakers!

I love to plan and know what’s going on. I have been kind of in a slump with exercise, but I have hiked, biked and skied before. I enjoy food, and I don’t aim to impress people. If they can see my caring, affectionate, hardworking side of me, they will like me. Respect2020, 45, seeking: M, l TRUTH, BEAUTY AND GOODNESS I’m told that I create art in every aspect of my life; in my business, in my gardens, in my home, etc. I’d love to find a friend partner to collaborate and explore the world around us, all while laughing, sharing, planning the next adventure and creating amazing meals together. I am 58 years young. I am well traveled and true. Magicmaker, 58, seeking: M, l HAPPY, COMPASSIONATE AND CURIOUS I love to cook, dance, but most importantly, laugh. Favorite movie: Miracle at Morgan’s Creek; celebrity crush: Cary Grant; post-retirement dream (or if Trump gets reelected): escaping to a cottage in Connemara, Ireland. I am looking for a confident, kind, inte ligent and easygoing man with a great sense of humor. Nella26, 64, seeking: M, l THINKING ABOUT IT...

Probably everyone thinks they’re smart, funny, and reasonably good-looking, so no news there. So, what I hope to find: a reade , thinker — someone who likes movies, theater, museums, travel, music, conversation, and the Oxford comma. Three ears into widowhood, I realize I could really use someone to share experiences with. The range o those experiences would have to be explored. ZanninVT, 67, seeking: M, l

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

COUNTRY GIRL ON THE WATER I’m passionate about being outside.

Walking, hiking, snowshoeing, paddling, horseback riding. I love food, going out or staying in. Wood fires on a snowy night. Family time. Conversation about anything interesting. I’m enjoying renovating my house. I love Vermont but enjoy traveling.

Woodburygirl, 56, seeking: M, l LUCKY IN LOVE AND NICARAGUA I loved being married. Sadly, he died young. I own gorgeous land in Nicaragua and want a partner to develop it with me as an artist/surfer retreat (as soon as we get rid of the small problem of a dictator killing his own people).

A perfect life is Vermont in summer and Nica in winter, but only with a terrific man. W, 72, seeking: M, l ARE YOU SEARCHING, TOO? Seeking kind, adventurous 60ish man who likes camping, fishing, walks, sunsets and Maine. I would like a partner who can surprise me with “Let’s go...” and off we go. I’m a true Vermont gal who needs adventure. Let’s have fun. BoredCat, 57, seeking: M, l ENJOY LIFE TO THE FULLEST I enjoy gardening, animals and reading, and I split my own wood (electric splitter).

I love cooking and contra dancing, and I have a new hobby: shape note singing. countrygirl1, 77, seeking: M, l OUTDOORSY, HONEST, HEALTHY MUSIC LOVER Hi there! I’m an optimistic, funny, smart, nature- and animal-loving kind of gal.

Spending time together with someone who makes you smile, and has your back, is a gift. I’m a world traveler who has recently returned to Vermont. I am looking for a friend first to enj y life and Vermont. If it turns into something more, bonus! Bella2020, 62, seeking: M, l

MEN seeking...

STRANGER THINGS HAVE HAPPENED A crisis tends to make one do what they should’ve been doing all along.

So, here I am. Looking for someone(s) to get to know. Sense of humor a must, creativity a plus. Please be able to talk about current events — not necessarily pop culture. Don’t be upset if I don’t reply. VTBOB, 64, seeking: M OPEN-MINDED, OUTDOORSY, SUBMISSIVE Looking for someone to introduce me to dom/sub life. Testing the water, so be gentle. Recently experimenting with CD life. czar, 68, seeking: W LOOKING FOR BURLINGTON DREADED BRANDY In late February we sat next to each other and chatted on an early morning flight to DC. You: headed to KC for the week to work. Dreads, beautiful, smart, computer person. Me: Headed to DC for the day to do political consulting. Would love to continue that talk over coffee or a drink or a walk by the lake. adnaZ, 58, seeking: W

NSA FUN Looking for a couple to have some NSA, discreet fun. I am clean, sane, fun, good-looking, shaved, professional, bi-curious and willing. Must be discreet.

Let’s chat and have a drink, see what happens. Willinou812, 51, seeking: Cp LET’S HAVE FUN Easygoing and lots of fun.

802chef, 41, seeking: W QUIET, ANTISOCIAL, LONELY, LONER, HEADCASE Life’s a mess. Comfortable with silence.

Have been described as creepy. I love comics and cartoons of all sorts. PC gamer/computer addict. Jaded cynic.

Animal lover. Pro-gun liberal. Can’t stand authoritarians. Not financia ly stable. If you want to date me, there’s probably something wrong with you. I’m just here to try to get my hugs/year average above one. QuietIntrovert, 31, seeking: W, TW FUN-LOVING, GOOD-LOOKING, ADVENTUROUS, GENUINE, COMPASSIONATE I recently moved to Vermont from Florida and am looking for someone who enjoys great, funny company and nice walks and talk. I’m really outgoing and very easy to talk to. I love cats and all animals.

I have a 23-y/o daughter who lives in Germany. Livinlife47, 47, seeking: W, l LIFE LESS ORDINARY, AND FUN! Honest, educated, funny, adventurous, optimistic, active, artistic and employed.

I’m hoping for an LTR but OK with dating too. Sounds pretty straightforward, right?

Well, I’m also kinky, very open-minded, heteroflexible and consider mysel sexually “well rounded.” Seeking an active, fun, adventurous, laid-back, like-minded woman who knows which hole is for the round peg. Are you out there? ;) NewAdventures11, 51, seeking: W, l UNSCENTED Women seem to be wearing less perfume these days, so this point is mostly moot. I just prefer no artificia fragrances and don’t wear any myself. We’ll like each other’s scent.

MountainTiger, 41, seeking: W, l CUB LOOKING FOR COUGAR I’m interested in finding someon who is fun for a mutually satisfying FWB situation or longer-term dating.

Specifica ly interested in women older than myself. PoolBoy2295, 35, seeking: W MASTURBATION PLAY AND PHONE CHATS Looking first to phone. See if we ha e some commonality, which leads to friendship. Hopefully I can find someon whom I can share my weird sexual fetishes with. Too many to list. Big talker with limited actual experimentation.

Alone and available often to talk.

Great to actually in the future develop relationship more than the phone.

Waterbury/Stowe. Bobby, 50, seeking: M STRONG, LOYAL, NOBLE, MODEST MAN I’m Brian from Barre, Vt. Just moved back to town after living in Santa Monica, Calif. Loyal is probably the word that describes me best. My word is my bond.

I’m interested in all different relationships with a woman: friends with benefits casual or serious long term. Let’s meet for coffee and see where it goes from there.

Judeisthe14unow, 60, seeking: W, l

CANOE CANOE? I’m looking for someone to canoe the Allagash with, preferably a beautiful woman half my age. I’m 68, and last winter I summited Mount Washington by myself; can you believe it! And I’m not too bad-looking, and occasionally I tell a funny joke. The A lagash runs low by August, so reply soon! Stilgar, 68, seeking: W, l

GENDER NONCONFORMISTS

seeking...

COFFEE, TEA AND WALK BUDDY 48 years, now soon 49 years of age, needing to get healthy, wanting a friend to take walks on trails, someone to drink tea and coffee with, become friends. I’m funny, witty and eager for a friend. Like nature, animals. And I’m a pagan, but not to fear me being a witch; I fart spells, not casting spells, yet! LOL, JK. Charmed1971, 48, seeking: M, W

TRANS WOMEN seeking...

BE MY CUDDLE BUDDY? Cute 50-y/o vegan straight-edge polyam ace enby trans girl. Love my parallel polyam primary nesting partner, so I’m looking for a part-time snuggle buddy for walks and talks and handholding and kissing and romance! I fall in love really easily! I’m half in love with you already just because you’re reading this!

Anyone but cis guys. EnbyTransgirl, 51, seeking: W, TM, TW, Q, NBP, l SUBMISSIVE SEEKING...

Looking to expand my experiences.

I am open to many different scenes and roles. tina1966, 54, seeking: W, TW, Q, NC, NBP, Cp, Gp

TRANS MEN seeking...

WEIRDO LOOKING FOR MY PEOPLE Late twenties West Coast transplant looking to meet new friends in Burlington. Looking for folks up for biking, hiking, socially distanced coffee in the square, craft afternoons (crafternoons?), beers, bookstore browsing and dismantling the patriarchy.

Please don’t be an asshole. jamesy, 29, seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, Cp, Gp

COUPLES seeking...

TO MAKING IT COUNT! We’re a couple exploring and adding something exciting to our lives. She is 31 y/o, 5’6, curvy and beautiful. He is 32 y/o, 6’, average athletic and handsome.

We’re looking for friends and friends with benefits. e love movies, board games, hanging out, outdoor activities, stimulating conversation, sex, family and a bunch more. We’re clean, disease-free and tobacco-free. LetLoose, 31, seeking: W, Cp SWINGER COUPLE Couple in early 50s looking to have fun with a male partner. Husband likes to watch but also join in. Wife is a knockout little hottie who likes to cut loose.

Looking for a male between 40 and 50 for some serious adult fun. Only well-hung men need apply — at least nine inches, please. Spaguy, 52, seeking: M, Gp LOOKING FOR SOMEONE AMAZING We are a couple in an open relationship seeking a bi male, gay male or couple to join us in kinky play. Cuckholds, DP, etc. Are you a playmate (or playmates) who are open to safe, sane and crazy experiences.

Lets fulfi l each others fantasies. We’ll try anything twice! We are two clean, professional adults. Discretion given and expected. vtfuncouple, 44, seeking: M, Cp

i SPY

If you’ve been spied, go online to contact your admirer!

dating.sevendaysvt.com

LAKE CARMI I saw a blond woman in a rowing boat in rough waters in a black-andwhite bathing suit keeping in great physical shape. I was fishing. Too bad we couldn’t have been closer.

Certainly would like to get to know her. I wonder if she has a camp on the lake. I have been renting at Sunnybank Lodge this month. When: Sunday, July 26, 2020. Where: Lake Carmi.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915107 A BRIDGE TOO FAR? Bike path bridge between Burlington and Colchester. You: on bike. Me: walking with a M/F couple. You appeared interested. I was. There were geese. When: Saturday, July 25, 2020. Where: Burlington-Colchester bridge. You: Man. Me: Man. #915106 TOGETHER AGAIN You looked as beautiful as ever after missing you for six weeks. You were so patient. I’m truly blessed to have reconnected with such a kind, caring, loving, gorgeous, intelligent, strong woman. You made my day, and my heart felt completely full as soon as I saw you on the bridge. I promise to give you the love you deserve. When: Monday, July 20, 2020. Where: Winooski.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915104 WALK BY ME DAILY ALMOST You: female, and name starts with a C. You always say hi with a smile. You live up the street from me, and we know each other through my work (North Ave. area). I feel like you have that cartoon bubble over your head that is saying more, lol. I’m down if you are. Just ask, and I will play. When: Wednesday, July 22, 2020. Where: North Ave. area.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915103

CHAI-COLORED QUEEN You were the color of warm chai. I could smell the cardamom on you. Elegant, spicy. What were you pondering in the chips aisle? When: Saturday, July 25, 2020. Where: City Market.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915105 HANDSOME VERMONTERS IN SEATTLE Saw you two Green Mountain hunks cruising on I-90 a couple of weeks ago. We sped up when we caught sight of your Vermont plates, hoping to see some good-looking hometown boys in the car, and we were NOT disappointed! Two Vermont ladies here, and we would love to double date in Seattle. When: Saturday, June 27, 2020. Where: I-90 in Seattle.

You: Man. Me: Woman. #915101 DANIELLE Before COVID I came in to drink coffee and read. It was always special when our eyes met. Once, as you rode up on the escalator, you turned, and I, on the first floor, smiled and said hi to you.

What fuels that extraordinary smile of yours that lights up the world around you? Let’s meet. When: Wednesday, March 11, 2020. Where: Barnes & Noble. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915100 ATTRACTIVE BLONDE, MIDDLE ROAD MARKET You were wearing an orange-andpink top with black shorts. I had a black T-shirt and tan shorts. We smiled at each other as I walked in.

As you were buying your Nantucket Nectars, I was being too shy to say hi.

Which I now regret! Hoping you see this, and hoping to hear back from you. When: Saturday, July 18, 2020.

Where: Milton, Middle Road Market.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915098

Ask REVEREND °˛˝

Irreverent counsel on life’s conundrums

Dear Reverend,

I am a heterosexual female who has recently become addicted to yaoi (Japanese male-on-male comics). I am 99.9 percent confident in my sexuality, but straight relationships now disgust me. ˙ ese yaoi men are very attractive and have everything I’m looking for in a relationship, but I can obviously find no man out there who fulfills this preference.

Aaagh ... please help! Is this normal?

Anime-niac

(FEMALE, 22)

LUV OF MY LIFE Beautiful goddess in white Jeep. When I saw you, I thought I was in heaven. You were entering the Milton Post Office. I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

Looking to the stars for a rendezvous.

Please take me to heaven with you.

When: Tuesday, July 21, 2020. Where: Milton. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915099 MALL MAILMAN You were waking through the mall with a package under your arm. I didn’t get a good look at your face because you had sunglasses and a mask on, and you looked like you were in a hurry, but I’d love to see what else you can pick up with those arms. When: Wednesday, July 15, 2020. Where: University Mall.

You: Man. Me: Woman. #915096 RESTAURANT AWE OF TEMPTING BEAUTY Your presence is so sure, pleasing and reassuring! We worked together briefly and caught eyes at Ray’s Seafood; you were enjoying some ice cream.

Even though just for a moment, was it purely nature helping us catch eyes at that moment? Does inspiration guide us? Hope you may be single!

Again? Could I cook for you for fun? CB sees inspiration! When: Wednesday, May 27, 2020. Where: Ray’s Seafood.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915095 THOUGHTS OF YOU LINGER You wore a Haight Ashbury hat. I wore purple and was nervously waiting for a job interview. You said that you had been a job developer and your advice helped get that job! You showed me pictures of the beautiful marble tables that you make. You are a very sexy older man, and I am a very interested younger woman. When: Wednesday, February 12, 2020. Where: Speeder & Earl’s. You: Man. Me: Woman. #915094 NORTH BURLINGTON, DREADED BRANDY In late February, we sat and chatted on an early flight to DC. You were headed to KC, dreads, beautiful, smart, computers.

I would love to continue that talk over coffee or a drink or walk by the lake. I apologize for having to find you this way, and during a global pandemic, but it’s all I could think of. When: Monday, February 24, 2020. Where: Burlington flight to DC. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915093

Dear Anime-niac,

Before your letter, I had never heard of yaoi, so thank you for sending me down that internet rabbit hole.

For readers as clueless as me, a nutshell Wikipedia defi definition of yaoi is “a genre of fi fictional media originating in Japan that features homoerotic relationships between male characters.” Interestingly, it is most often created by women for women. I’ve never cared for the term “normal,” but judging by the number of fan pages and ladies discussing their passion for yaoi online, you are certainly not alone.

SUMMER 2007 You: beautiful black boy walking your bike. Me: white girl with bright brown eyes. We were so young when we stopped to flirt on the corner in front of the Shopping Bag, but I’ve been thinking about your smile for over a decade. I still hope we’ll run into each other again. When: Friday, July 10, 2020. Where: North Street.

You: Man. Me: Woman. #915092

THE EARTH BROKE OPEN ˛ e Earth broke open when I saw you in the parking lot: white hair, enchanting blue eyes, about to enter a blue RAV4.

Did you somehow see my blue eyes and white hair? I still want to meet you and hope you will take a chance.

I can’t camp in the lot all summer long. Blessings. When: Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Where: Healthy Living.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915086

WILLISTON STARBUCKS - H Hi H: ˛ anks for the brief chat and not laughing at my attire (button-down shirt, long underwear for skiing and flip flops for the beach); such is life in a busy remote Zoom world. In the event you find this and there’s appetite and availability to lengthen the conversation, I’m in. Wishing you a fantastic day!

D. When: ˙ ursday, July 9, 2020.

Where: Maple Tree Place Starbucks.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915091

YOU AND LUCY Just checking if you and Lucy feel like hiking company with the toasted marshmallow dog and me. When: Saturday, June 27, 2020. Where: hiking.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915085

WISHIN’ AND WISHIN’ I’ve been movin’ calm; don’t start no trouble with me. Trying to keep it peaceful is a struggle for me. Don’t phone up at 6 a.m. to cuddle with me.

You know how I like it when you’re loving on me. She said, “Do you love me?” I tell her, “Only partly.” I only love my bed and my mama, I’m sorry! When: ˙ ursday, July 9, 2020. Where: Shelburne.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915090

WAFFLES <3 When the world burns, I’ll still follow you into the dark. ˛ e rising phoenix screams out not in pain but in victory.

You matter more than anything — the ashes make great clay from which to build again. Babe, I know. ˛ ere will always be water at the bottom of the ocean. Let’s step offshore and remember how to swim. When: ˙ ursday, July 2, 2020. Where: in my wildest dreams, my arms... You: Man. Me: Woman. #915083

GORGEOUS BLONDE, COLCHESTER AVE. To the gorgeous blonde walking by at 10 a.m. I was in a commercial work truck waiting for the light to change.

You already had my full attention when I saw you look at me and say, “You’re hot.” I yelled, “Right back at you” and blasted the horn going up hill. Care to masquerade? When: Wednesday, July 1, 2020. Where: in front of Domino’s, Colchester Ave. You: Woman. Me: Man. #915089 HOT UPS MAN, DARTMOUTH Never seen you before. Smiled and said hello, but get the sense there was more you wanted to say to me. You: sexy salt-and-pepper beard, hot in your uniform. Me: 5’6 blonde, jogging near the green. Deliver me a package sometime, or start with getting my number. When: Monday, June 22, 2020. Where: the green. You: Man. Me: Woman. #915087

˛ e quality of a relationship has nothing to do with sexual orientation or gender identity, but you do need to inhabit the same dimension. ˛These characters you’re idealizing are fi fictional. No human can live up to standards that don’t actually exist. (I had the hots for the Pink Panther when I was a kid, but that never would have worked out for a number of reasons.)

SEEKING DOBRA ASTROLOGER ˛ is is the longshottiest of longshots, but I overheard you giving an astrology and (maybe reflexology) reading in June 2018. You had this soothing, calming and grounded presence, but not in a douchey way. I can’t give any details about what you were wearing #becauseblind, but maybe if you’re meant to find this, you will. When: Tuesday, June 12, 2018. Where: Dobra.

You: Man. Me: Woman. #915084

SITTING ACROSS FROM YOU I see your head peeking out of your shorts. When: Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Where: the boat. You: Man. Me: Woman. #915082 GRACIE07 Good afternoon. I haven’t been on here for a while. Not sure when you sent me a flirt, but I went to read your profile, and it is hidden. Would you mind opening it up for me or sending me a link to it?

Please and thank you! When: Monday, June 29, 2020. Where: Seven Days.

You: Woman. Me: Man. #915081

I suggest trying to cut down your yaoi time to nip this addiction in the bud. Get outside and get active. I know it’s tricky these days, but hang out with some real people. Most importantly, keep your heart and mind open to whatever in-the-flesh experiences may come.

Good luck and God bless,

The Reverend

Reverend’s note: I’ve been getting a lot of emails from women about urinating while masturbating or having sex. We addressed that subject back on January 15, 2020. Go to sevendaysvt.com and check it out.

What’s your problem?

Send it to asktherev@sevendaysvt.com.

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

65

Internet-Free Dating!

I’m an older male seeking a sporty 50-plus woman. I’m affectionate and enjoy long walks and conversation, trivia, Scrabble, horseshoes, reading, the beach.

420-friendly, microbrews. Please write. Love to meet you. #L1421 I’m a mid-50s man seeking a 45to 60-y/o female. Searching for fit, grounded, at-home country girl. I own a home, land and toys.

Desire to travel. Love to garden. #L1420 53-y/o discreet SWM, 5’10, 156 pounds. Brown and blue. Seeking any guys 18 to 60 who like to receive oral and who are a good top. Well hung guys a plus.

Chittenden County and around.

No computer. Phone only, but can text or call. #L1419 I’m a bi-curious male seeking a guy for summer fun, maybe more. Seeking age group 18 to 35. Need a guy to teach me the ropes. Really eager to try a lollipop, if you know what I mean.

Write, please. #L1425 59-y/o female seeks someone who follows the Golden Rule in my age range to adventure, read and/or watch TV with.

Must be intelligent and an excellent communicator with a great sense of humor. Not into hookups. I enjoy writing, animals and great food, and I’m a bit of a news junkie. No tolerance for injustice or prejudice. Please write to share your outstanding qualities. #L1416

37 M seeks F. I’m a do-ityourselfer, sushi taco eater, nutrition enthusiast, Tuesday night bowler-ist, amateur thespian, butting libertarian, Bob Ross watcher, Emannuel Levinas talker, not much of a clubber, beer-drinking, poolplaying bocce ball thrower.

Seeking same. #L1424 I’m a bi male seeking a bi or gay male. Enjoy reading, Scrabble, long walks and conversation, horse shoes, bench, 420 friendly, microbrews, scrabble, University of Vermont, psychology. Please write. #L1423

HOW TO REPLY TO THESE LOVE LETTERS: Seal your reply — including your preferred contact info — inside an envelope. Write your penpal’s box number on the outside of that envelope and place it inside another envelope with payment. Responses for Love Letters must begin with the #L box number.

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66

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

I’m a 60-y/o bi male seeking guys to have fun with. I like everything.

Mostly a bottom, but not always.

Respond with a phone number.

No text or email. I’ll call you. #L1418 I’m a single WM seeking 65- to 70y/o woman to share mutual oral with. Retired physician. In my home or yours. #L1417 I’m a GWM seeking out guys for a summer frolic. I’m intelligent, fun and adventurous. Sometimes sub, sometimes dom and always versatile. Age not so important, but would like some younger guys. No electronic communication, please. MidVermont. #L1415

Reply to these messages with real, honest-to-goodness letters. DETAILS BELOW. I’m a guy seeking a male or female. Very caring, positive person looking for a running partner for runs. I can adapt and am now doing from 6-13 miles a run. Run on scenic roads. I’m 5’9, 155 lbs. Middleaged, politically left, creative writer, who loves philosophy, poetry, as well. #L1414 48-y/o single male seeking 45- to 50-y/o single female who is kind, creative and health-minded. I enjoy the arts, writing, reading, vegan food, trail running, mountain biking and road trips. Seeking a woman for dating and friendship. #L1413 Gay white male looking for hookups, maybe more; see where it goes. 5’10 and a half, dark brown hair, good looking, brown eyes, slender. I clean and do windows for a living and run a rescue for animals and give them a forever home, so you have to be an animal lover. If you replied already, please contact me again. #L1412

I’m a 34-y/o simple guy seeking a 30- to 45-y/o male. Good-looking with a good job. Looking for my partner in crime. Must love pets, going out, chilling at home. But have your life in order. Masculine guys preferred. #L1411 I’m a 38-y/o male seeking a 30to 40-y/o female. I’m looking for love before I turn 40 years. Could you be the one? I’m into poetry, music, trying new food and drink, deep conversation, and walks by the lake. I hope you’ll give me the chance to be your man. #1410 I’m a 58-y/o SWM seeking female 50 to 60 years old for companionship and fun! I enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, art and photography, good food and drink. Ideal F would be intelligent, compassionate, able to communicate. #L1409 I’m a 31-y/o woman seeking a fun and energetic 31- to 38y/o man. I’m seeking a Godbelieving, Christian faith-based man. I don’t drink or smoke. I like to go dancing, listen to music, travel. #L1408

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THIS FORM IS FOR LOVE LETTERS ONLY. Messages for the Personals and I-Spy sections must be submitted online at dating.sevendaysvt.com.

It’s a Pandemic!

How Do I Vote?

MARC NADEL

This election season is unlike any we’ve ever experienced.

To help Vermonters better understand their choices, and how to make them, Seven Days has created a Pandemic Primary Voters' Guide in advance of the August 11 election.

Find a list of candidates, answers to your FAQs and step-by-step instructions on the correct way to mail in your absentee ballots.

SEVENDAYSVT.COM/PANDEMIC-PRIMARY

SEVEN DAYS JULY 29-AUGUST 5, 2020

67

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