Seven Days, February 18, 2026 by Seven Days

Enrollment in Vermont’s K-12 schools is dropping at an alarming rate. Communities are on their own to deal with the problem.

ALISON NOVAK, PAGE 26 • PART 1 OF “GEN ZERO” — A NEW SERIES

Vermont isn’t some kind of brand choice for us. It’s who we are.

Satori was born here, staffed here, argued over here, and is growing — here. After all, the way we see it, if you can earn respect and loyal customers in this state, it really means something.

Here in Vermont we pay attention. We ask questions. We read labels. We notice shortcuts and call them out.

Quality isn’t optional. It’s assumed. “Made in Vermont” has true meaning, because it usually comes with a Vermonter standing behind it, ready to defend the work. This mindset was baked into Satori from day one. We believe good enough isn’t good enough. We believe details matter. We believe craft matters. We believe if you put your name on something, you do it with pride.

We also believe companies should do more than extract value. Creating jobs matters. Keeping money in our communities matters. Providing products and service that people want and appreciate, matters. Satori employs Vermonters, pays Vermonters, and we’re growing along with the communities we live in. This isn’t a fly-in, flyout operation. We’re here for mud season, stick season, and the long winters when people who aren’t from around here ask us, why do you do it? We know why. This place shapes you.

Being Vermonters also means that we take stewardship seriously. You don’t get to live surrounded by mountains, lakes, rivers, and farmland and pretend the environment is someone else’s problem. If you’re going to grow cannabis here, you do it with care, intention, and a long view. That’s not a marketing promise. That’s who we are. Because that’s Vermont.

And then there’s the other big reason why Vermont is our home. challenge. not

And then there’s the other big reason why Vermont is our home. We like a challenge. You see, if your goal is to make quality cannabis and sell a lot of it, Vermont is not the easiest path.

Customers here are discerning, demanding, and can smell empty hype a mile away. Vermonters know what good flower looks like.

empty hype a mile away. Vermonters know what

Vermonters know what well-grown feels like. You don’t get

Vermonters know what clean, well-grown cannabis feels like. You don’t get a free pass because your packaging is cool or your Instagram is slick.

We set out to make top-quality cannabis for everyday people in one of the toughest, quality-focused markets there is. Because if you can deliver consistent, premium cannabis to Vermonters, you can deliver it anywhere. Vermont is our reality check. Vermont is our standard. Every decision we make at Satori runs through that lens. Will this pass muster in Vermont? Would we be proud to hand this to a neighbor?

Satori exists because Vermont exists. The mindset shaped the mission. The people shaped the product. And the standards shaped everything else.

We’re not trying to be the biggest. We’re trying to do the best for our customers, our employees, and our community. But Vermont has also raised us to believe that we can do both.

Find Satori near you:

Cannabis has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For use by individuals 21 years of age and older or registered qualifying patient only KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN AND PETS. DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING. Possession or use of cannabis may carry signiﬁcant legal penalties in some jurisdictions and under federal law. It may not be transported outside of the state of Vermont. The effects of edible cannabis may be delayed by two hours or more. Cannabis may be habit forming and can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Persons 25 years and younger may be more likely to experience harm to the developing brain. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the inﬂuence of this product. National Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

VERMONT CANNABIS

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ABENAKIS’ ETHICS COMPLAINT DISMISSED

$93 million

e state legislature’s House Ethics Panel dismissed a complaint ﬁled by leaders of the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi against Rep. Troy Headrick (I-Burlington), who has criticized how Vermont came to recognize four tribes. e legislator’s conduct did not violate House ethics rules or the state constitution, the panel decided.

Headrick disclosed the complaint and the outcome on his personal website last Saturday, two days after the committee issued its decision. Complaints aren’t usually public. e complaint against Headrick, ﬁled on November 17 by Brenda Gagne, the chief of the state-recognized Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi, and members of the tribal council, alleged that Headrick had defamed Abenaki leaders and undermined “Indigenous self-determination and dignity.” e ﬁling cited his statements regarding genealogical research questioning Vermont tribe members’ native heritage.

Headrick has criticized the Vermont legislature’s process in the early 2010s that led to the formal recognition of the state’s four Abenaki tribes. Since then, the two Western Abenaki nations based in Québec — Odanak First Nation and Wôlinak First Nation — have said members of Vermont tribes cannot document continuous Abenaki ancestry, a claim those Vermont groups dispute.

Last February, Headrick introduced legislation that calls for a task force to “review the validity” of the previous state recognition decisions. is year, he brought forward a sep-

arate measure that would require schools and museums to consult with Odanak and Wôlinak First Nations on educational materials involving Indigenous history and culture in Vermont. Neither bill has advanced out of committee.

In the complaint, Gagne and the tribal council members wrote that “Rep. Headrick’s statements were made without any regard to the truth or the outcome they would have on the people of his state that he is sworn to serve.”

“We urge the Ethics Committee to investigate whether Rep. Headrick’s statements constitute a breach of ethical conduct, especially in light of their defamatory nature, misuse of genealogical data, and disregard for Indigenous rights recognized under Vermont law and international standards,” the complaint concluded.

Gagne said she hoped the complaint would halt what she described as attacks by Headrick on Vermont tribes, including his bills and statements about ancestry.

Headrick defended his actions. “Substantive disagreement with my conclusions is properly resolved through legislative debate, not through an ethics proceeding,” he wrote.

e House Ethics Panel wrote that it had “found no instances demonstrating that Representative Headrick was targeting or harassing individuals, and determined that he was instead engaging in policy advocacy, which is a core legislative function.”

Read Hannah Bassett’s full story at sevendaysvt.com.

GOING UP

A new Vermont program will provide developers with a catalog of 10 home designs that will get fasttracked through the permitting process. Build, baby, build.

FLYING MENACE

Someone in Stra ord was bitten by a rabid bat, according to health o cials. It’s the second rabid bat found in Vermont this year.

SLIPPERY SURFACE

For the ﬁrst time in seven years, Lake Champlain has fully frozen over. Get out there and enjoy it while you can!

FOOD FIGHT

Former Capitol Police chief Matt Romei left a $1,600 tab at the Statehouse cafeteria when he resigned in 2023, WCAX-TV reported. No such thing as a free lunch.

That’s how much Vermont received from the feds to help bring high-speed internet connections to nearly all state residents.

TOPFIVE

TOWNCRIER

LOCALLY SOURCED NEWS

Bill Would Repeal Retirement Mandate for Professors Vermont law requires professors to retire at age 70, the Community News Service reported. But that has been an illegal mandate since 1994 under the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Vermont colleges don’t actually force retirements at age 70, but a proposed bill, H.532, would repeal the state rule.

SAILING TO GAZA

Until recently, John Bauer’s many years of sailing on Lake Champlain amounted to a pleasurable hobby. en a friend invited him to Barcelona, Spain, to help repair sailboats for a relief ﬂotilla headed for the Gaza Strip in March, and he realized he could use his boating expertise for a cause he’d long cared about.

“I thought, Well, this has been an important issue for me for many years,” said Bauer, 68. e Waterbury resident attended his ﬁrst protest calling for a Palestinian state in 1976. In the decades since, conditions in Gaza have only worsened, especially after two years of Israel’s relentless bombing campaign that has killed tens of thousands

of Palestinians. Israel has also slowed the movement of aid, including food and medical supplies, into the enclave.

“When I had this opportunity to go do something constructive, I jumped at the chance,” Bauer said.

He ﬂew to Spain in late January and spent two weeks living and working on a ﬂeet of donated or secondhand sailboats with a crew of about 30 other activists from countries such as the United Kingdom, Spain, France and Ireland.

e effort was organized by the Global Sumud Flotilla, a group that launched several ships last summer in an attempt to break through the Israeli

naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. Israeli forces intercepted the boats, and Swedish activist Greta unberg and hundreds of others were detained. e group is now working on a second, larger launch of 100 boats, which will carry aid supplies and volunteers, Bauer said.

“We fully expect it will be intercepted again,” he said. “But the world’s not paying attention. is is a way to bring consciousness to the issue.”

He spent his time in Barcelona checking each boat’s windlass — the mechanism that lowers and raises the anchor. Other teams handled the rigging for the sails.

“It was inspiring to see these folks doing so much,” Bauer said. “A lot of them will be there working until March 29 and then will get on a boat and go.”

LUCY TOMPKINS

One of the sailboats John Bauer worked on in Barcelona

John Bauer

Rep. Troy Headrick

Paula Routly

Cathy Resmer

Don Eggert, Colby Roberts

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Alice Dodge, Angela Simpson

Martie Majoros, Elizabeth M. Seyler

DIGITAL & VIDEO

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Je Baron DESIGN

Don Eggert

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Je Baron

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Michelle Brown, Logan Pintka, Kaitlin Montgomery

Gillian English

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Luke Awtry, Daria Bishop, Sean Metcalf, Tim Newcomb, Jeb Wallace-Brodeur

FOUNDERS

Pamela Polston, Paula Routly

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DON’T SHOOT THE SHERIFF

I read with interest your article “Badge of Dishonor” [February 11], and in it I noticed a possible error in the report, which stated: “Sheri s ... maintain their own little ﬁefdoms.”

Anyone with an awareness of American culture knows that fiefdoms are clearly in the purview of deputies!

Ken

Liebman

WILLISTON

MODERN-DAY SLAVERY

As a Richford resident, I want to respond to [“Special Deliveries: As Migrants Hunker Down on Farms to Avoid Border Patrol, Helpers Bring Them Food, Services and Holy Communion,” December 3, 2025]. While many people providing services to migrants have charitable intentions, these e orts are e ectively enabling and subsidizing a system of slavery imposed by the large factory farms and the laws that have generated them.

Migrant farm laborers are unable to travel freely in the community due to 12-hour workdays and often illegal status in a situation remarkably similar to plantation slaves in the pre-Civil War era. The harsh labor conditions, including unhealthy exposure to solid wastes and pesticides, have created a situation that beneﬁts the few landowners at the expense of the local community and the migrant workers.

Nonetheless, the impoverished locals are often pitted in opposition to the migrant workers. This characterization conceals the reality of a system that exploits migrant laborers while discarding local families who traditionally earned a living o the land; all the while, the haphazard use of pesticides and the spreading of cow manure mixed with human solid wastes makes the surrounding community sick.

Charity that subsidizes large landowners’ importation of cheap labor while ignoring the local poverty (or worse, blaming the poor for their own situation) perpetuates this exploitative system of slavery. Money that is not paid and taxed according to laws is robbed from the community, where it’s desperately needed. Given the dwindling local journalism, I hope Seven Days will consider this perspective.

Marcie Jaffee RICHFORD

MORE ESSAYS!

I really enjoyed the essay by Lucas Farrell [“Farm Porch Politics: An Essay on Pleasantries, Plurality and a Path Forward,” January 7]. I hope he keeps them coming.

Cindy Weed ENOSBURGH

DON’T BUY IT

[“Manage Your Care: To Lower Health Costs, Vermont’s Largest Insurance Company Is Urging Patients to Shop Around,” January 14] was a breathtaking display of arrogance from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont. It was also an insult to us, as patients, and to humanity in general. By urging Vermonters to “become savvier consumers,” as they frame it, they debase us as patients by turning our need for health care into a shopping spree.

The article, coupled with Diana Bolton’s excellent graphic, highlights the absurdity of BCBS’ suggestion. Imagine going up and down the aisles, searching for a new knee, a hip or even an organ, hoping they’re on sale. But what happens if you need to return them?

The hubris lies in BCBS of Vermont (now a subsidiary of the Michigan BCBS) being just as culpable as the University of Vermont Medical Center and, for that matter, Vermont’s state government for this “health care a ordability crisis.” By trying to turn us into health care shoppers, they are trying to deﬂect the blame for their colossal failures onto us.

The only way to end this travesty is to treat health care as a human right and not as a market commodity and implement a publicly ﬁnanced universal care system. Until then, we’ll be stuck in the same blame game that’s going nowhere — except to more health care absurdities like this.

Walter Carpenter MONTPELIER

‘DECEPTIVE’ TACTICS

Is it time to discuss how Vermonters for Justice in Palestine continues to overshadow every other local issue? We have

now seen a consistent pattern across three different Burlington events: the “No Kings” rally at the waterfront, the follow-up rally at City Hall Park and, most recently, the anti-ICE rally on Church Street [“‘ICE Out’ Rally Draws Huge Crowd in Burlington,” January 30].

In each instance, this group has positioned its specific agenda at the forefront of unrelated causes. At these rallies, its leaders have taken the megaphone, often identifiable by their keffiyehs, and placed themselves center stage while Palestin-

ian flags were distributed throughout the crowd. As seen in the photo at the bottom of your recent article, the visual impact makes it difficult to determine the actual purpose of the gathering.

I know I am not alone in feeling that these tactics are deceptive. By branding every local protest with their own symbols, they create a false impression of a larger following than actually exists and undermine the true focus of the gathering. While I support free speech and the right to rally for one’s beliefs, hijacking the platforms of other movements is dishonest and misleading to the public.

Nurit Zachter BURLINGTON

CONSOLIDATION DOESN’T WORK

[Re “Proposed Vermont Budget Could Lead to a 6 Percent Tax Hike,” January 20, online]: The 6 percent tax hike may be unjustified. What if we’re moving in the wrong direction — specifically regarding education reform?

Statistically speaking, consolidating rural elementary schools doesn’t work. Busing young children far from home, over snow- and ice-packed roads, is a bad idea. Nor is it a draw for young families weighing the pros and cons of where to raise their children.

Moreover, closing small rural schools will drive families out of Vermont even faster, because their existence equates to a sense of belonging and identity for those towns. Statistics also show this.

But Vermont families are not statistics; they’re flesh and blood, heart and soul. When the School District Redistricting Task Force set about to do what was asked of it — draw up the maps, carve up the towns, shutter small schools — its members couldn’t do it in

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Protesters in Burlington

EMPTY DESKS

Scaling Back

Patients are losing access to pricey weight-loss drugs as Vermont health insurers and employers drop coverage Green River Dam and Reservoir Would Remain Intact Under Deal

Hot Seats

Democrats on the Burlington City Council have been ﬂexing their majority. Progs hope to make gains on Town Meeting Day.

Savu Sauna to Open Burlington Bathhouse

Burlington Mayor Issues Executive Order on ICE Preparations

MAGNIFICENT

FRIDAY 20

SWEET HEART

Scream-singing along with iconic anthems by ’70s rock band Heart — and the powerhouse vocals of front woman Ann Wilson — is practically a rite of passage. Touring tribute act sound to Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph, where chart-toppers such as “Barracuda” and “Crazy on You” launch listeners back to the glory days of big voices — and even bigger hair.

Heartless bring that arena-ﬁlling

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 58

SATURDAY 21

Masks On

BarnArts’ Masquerade Jazz & Funk Winter Music Carnival unveils major excitement at Barnard Town Hall, with hours of cabin fever-busting fun. An expansive taco bar, nonalcoholic bevvies, a make-your-own-mask table and a photo booth await bedazzled attendees, backed by tunes from the Michael Zsoldos Jazz Quartet, Afro-jazz artists Zikina and the Dartmouth Jazz Quintet.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 59

SATURDAY 21

Cheesy Does It

Cheddar makes everything better — including winter sports! Folks get cheesy with it at Highland Center for the Arts’ Curds & Curling festival in Greensboro, where giant wheels from Jasper Hill Farm stand in for the standard sliding stones. e very Vermonty epicurean competition also boasts live music, warming ﬁres, a puppet show and melty macaroni mouthfuls for spectators.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 59

SATURDAY 21

Here Comes the Sun

Sunshine and glam: What more could you want on a February night in Vermont? A “Beauty and the Beach” theme ignites dreams of warmer weather at the annual Winter Is a Drag Ball at Higher Ground in South Burlington. Party people in snatched costumes ranging from decked-out Disney to sailor chic revel in a wave of live entertainment, including ﬁerce drag performances and danceable DJ sets.

SEE CLUB LISTING ON PAGE 54

TUESDAY 24

Baroque the Mold

Boundary-pushing collaborative Ruckus fuse early music with modern American roots in the latest KCP Presents concert at St. Johnsbury Academy’s Fuller Hall. Billed as “the only period instrument rock band,” the ensemble brings a playful, shapeshifting approach to the genres, revitalizing works of the Renaissance and early baroque periods with a dose of contemporary grit.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 62

WEDNESDAY 25

Sounds Good

Montpelier’s own Capital City Concerts play a hometown show as part of the long-running Farmers Night Concert Series at the Vermont Statehouse. A globe-trotting program titled “A Journey of Sound” features Grammy-nominated ensemble Palaver Strings and ﬂutist — and series founder — Karen Kevra in a showcase of Hungarian, Romanian, Hebraic and Finnish masterpieces.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 62

CLOSES SATURDAY 28

Vertical Horizon

Studio Place Arts in Barre takes viewers to dizzying heights with its “All Tall” exhibit. Gallery founder Janet Van Fleet curated the intentionally vertical group show of freestanding and suspended sculptures at least 6 feet high, plus wall art at least three times taller than wide, by local artists including Leslie Fry, Chip Haggerty and Bruce Hasse.

SEE GALLERY LISTING AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/ART

Introducing ‘Gen Zero’

Seven Days’ Alison Novak knew that K-12 schools around the state were dealing with declining enrollment — as an education reporter, for years she’d heard related predictions and warnings from sources and elected officials. That sobering reality is at the heart of the ed reform debate roiling the state.

But when Novak dug into the Agency of Education’s enrollment data recently and plugged the numbers into a spreadsheet, “the decline in enrollment was much steeper than I had realized,” she said.

She found that, in the past 20 years, the state has lost more than a quarter of its public school students.

There’s no shortage of nursing jobs in Vermont. “Why not stick around?” I asked her.

Everyone here knows everyone else, she noted. To me, a Detroit-area native, that’s an asset. But like many others her age, Ivy wants to meet new people and have new experiences. “It’s not like we can drive 30 minutes and be in a big city where you can see and do things,” she lamented. “Here, you drive 30 minutes, and you’re not even in Montpelier.”

GEN ZER

Where are Vermont's young people?

This demographic trend affects rural schools — I’ve lost count of how many Vermont towns are fighting to keep their elementary schools open — but also urban ones. The new, state-of-the-art Burlington High School that’s opening in the fall? It’s built to educate up to 1,150 students. Size of the current BHS student body: around 850.

Novak also discovered some interesting variation from school district to school district. “Towns that have built lots of housing, like Colchester and South Burlington, are holding pretty steady with enrollment, while some others, in central Vermont and elsewhere, are experiencing especially steep declines,” she said.

IN THE PAST 20 YEARS, THE STATE HAS LOST MORE THAN A QUARTER OF ITS PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS.

She contextualizes the data about school enrollment — and how it relates to property taxes and difficult community decisions — in this week’s cover story, “Empty Desks.” Vermont has one of the oldest populations in the country, and the lowest birth rate, too. To reverse these trends, the state needs to either retain more young adults or convince more of them to move here and have kids. Both are challenging propositions.

My own Gen Z kids are eyeing their options. Graham, 20, is finishing a few classes for his associate degree in health sciences from the Community College of Vermont. He’ll likely stick around for at least a couple of years to get his bachelor’s, but after that, who knows? A former wrestler who benches more than 300 pounds, he’d like to live somewhere with more affordable gyms for someone on a tight budget.

His 17-year-old sister, Ivy, is more adamant about leaving Vermont. She graduated high school early and is taking a gap year, working construction, babysitting and traveling. Last fall, she and Graham backpacked across Europe for almost three months, and she’s itching to return. The colleges she’s applied to so far are in Ireland, as she chases a nursing career and an EU passport.

Both of my kids are also keenly aware of the high cost of housing here. Gone are the days when you could land in Burlington and quickly find a room downtown for a couple hundred bucks a month, like I did as a newly minted college grad. In Burlington, according to city data, the median rent for a three-bedroom apartment in 2024 was nearly $2,300. Split three ways, that’s $766 a month, plus utilities — if you can even find a place, given the area’s low vacancy rate. The median price for a single-family home last year was an eye-popping $550,000. Those numbers aren’t scaring everyone away; in the past 20 years, Vermont has added about 20,000 people. They’re just older. In 2019, one in five residents was over 65, according to U.S. Census data; four years from now, one in three will be over 60.

Seven Days documented the causes and effects of the state’s aging population in an award-winning 2024 series called “This Old State: The Graying of Vermont.” Novak’s cover story kicks off a new series focused on the opposite end of the demographic shift. Over the course of this year, “Gen Zero: Where Are Vermont’s Young People?” will examine this question from various angles.

Got a story suggestion? Send it to us at genzero@ sevendaysvt.com.

Cathy Resmer

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BURLINGTON PREPS FOR ICE

Scaling Back

Patients are losing access to pricey weight-loss drugs as Vermont health insurers and employers drop coverage

BY COLIN FLANDERS

• colin@sevendaysvt.com

Alise Certa had tried everything — niche diets, extreme exercise, starving herself — and yet, by the time she turned 50, she weighed nearly 300 pounds, the heaviest she had ever been. So, at the recommendation of her doctor, in fall 2022 the Essex Junction resident decided to give Wegovy a try.

The results were remarkable. The popular weight-loss drug, administered by a weekly injection covered by her employer-sponsored health insurance plan, signiﬁcantly reduced her appetite. More importantly, it seemed to change her brain, subduing the incessant thoughts of food that had long plagued her mind.

Certa lost more than 81 pounds in her ﬁrst year and a half on the medication and had to buy a new wardrobe. People began

treating her di erently. She felt di erent, too. She had more energy and less pain.

A visit to New York City one weekend showed her just how far she’d come. “I

ALISE CERTA

could walk around and not be exhausted,” she said. “I could walk fast.”

Then, at the beginning of 2024, Certa learned that her employer’s health plan was only going to cover Wegovy and other GLP-1 weight-loss drugs for people over a certain body mass index.

Deal Keeps Green River Dam and Reservoir Intact

BY KEVIN MCCALLUM kevin@sevendaysvt.com

e hydroelectric dam on the Green River Reservoir will not be dismantled under a deal that settles a decade-long regulatory dispute, meaning the popular Hyde Park waterway will remain intact for the foreseeable future.

State regulators, environmental groups and the utility that owns the dam have settled — for now — a complex legal dispute that threatened the dam.

e deal calls for the dam’s owner, Morrisville Water & Light, to withdraw its request to decommission the structure, which could have led to its removal and drained the reservoir. In exchange, the state regulators and environmental groups have agreed to reconsider the water-quality regulations imposed on the dam’s operations in 2016.

Among the restrictions: Instead of being able to draw the reservoir down 10 feet in the winter to generate power, regulators required a limit of just 18 inches.

Certa had already fallen below that threshold. Instead of a small co-pay, the injections she expected to take for the rest of her life would now cost her $900 to $1,200 a month out of pocket, far more than she could a ord.

Vermont health insurers and private employers have been steadily scaling back coverage of the popular weight-loss drugs known as GLP-1s in an attempt to rein in costs. The drugs can be life-changing. But they’re also expensive, with some costing roughly $16,000 a year, and insurers say their exploding popularity has contributed to premium rate increases.

Since January 1, plans o ered through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont, the state’s largest insurer, and MVP Health

e utility fought back, suing the state and, when that failed, taking their case to federal energy regulators, which dragged the issue out for years. In 2024, the utility told the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission that it intended to give up its license to operate the dam. e utility argued that the rules made operating it too expensive.

An independent study helped break the impasse, according to Scott Johnstone, the manager of the Morrisville utility. at study conﬁrmed that the utility truly couldn’t operate the dam economically under the new water-quality rules. It also outlined the steep costs of decommissioning the dam.

As part of the agreement, the utility will begin making upgrades to two of its other dams, Cadys Falls and Morrisville, both on the Lamoille River.

Revisiting the state’s waterquality rules will take a little longer. e Vermont Agency of Natural Resources agreed that by 2029, it will complete a public process to review its rules about how utilities can draw down water in reservoirs for power generation. ➆

Alise Certa

Hot Seats

Democrats on the Burlington City Council have been ﬂexing their majority. Progs hope to make gains on Town Meeting Day.

BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN • sasha@sevendaysvt.com

Burlington Democrats sent an email to supporters late last month touting the recent accomplishments of their city councilors, including blocking two referenda questions that would have otherwise gone before the city’s electorate.

One would have allowed voters to weigh in on whether the Queen City should endorse an “apartheid-free community” pledge that takes aim at Israel’s treatment of Palestinians — a stance that opponents have described as divisive or even antisemitic.

Dems win both seats, they will secure a veto-proof majority — a major political win when a Progressive, Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, holds the top spot at city hall.

“I do hope that we can, after this Town Meeting Day election, have a council that is not going to be as bogged down in procedural stu and tit-for-tat kind of arguments,” said Adam Franz, a cochair of the Burlington Progressive Party.

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TOWN MEETING DAY

Another advisory question would have asked voters whether the city should consider a “tax fairness” proposal that would lessen the burden on most homeowners by raising taxes on commercial buildings, rental properties and second homes.

The council’s Democratic majority — which holds seven of 12 seats — declined to put either of these nonbinding questions on the Town Meeting Day ballot.

“I am so proud to be part of this team,” Dem party chair Ryan Addario wrote in an email with the subject line “Democrats are Delivering and Resisting.” He added, “Our sitting City Councilors have managed to navigate incredibly di cult issues at City Hall. We are lucky to have them doing this work.”

Several times over the past few years, that “work” has included voting as a bloc to spike items endorsed by the council’s ﬁve Progressives and to pass measures over the minority’s objections. Hotbutton topics such as public safety and Israel and Gaza have led to especially contentious discussions, with councilors in both parties interrupting each other or taking not-so-subtle shots at their colleagues.

Progressives hope to alter the power dynamic by winning the two contested seats that are up for election on Town Meeting Day. If they successfully defend Ward 8 and defeat the Democratic incumbent in Ward 7, the resulting 6-6 deadlock would force Democrats to collaborate to get things done. If the

The stakes are high. In the coming months, councilors and the mayor must close yet another multimillion-dollar gap in the city budget while also addressing persistent public safety and affordability issues. In interviews, the four candidates vying for the two contested seats all said housing was a top priority.

Ward 8 encompasses much of the University of Vermont campus as well as nearby streets dominated by sometimes substandard student housing. Turnout in the Progressive-leaning ward is much lower than in other parts of the city. The transient nature of its residents and their low engagement makes campaigning di cult.

The neighborhood’s Progressive incumbent and candidate for reelection, Marek Broderick, has delivered at least one housing-related policy win for his constituents. In November, the council unanimously supported his resolution to increase city oversight of UVM dorms, which students had complained were dirty and unsuitable for habitation. Broderick, 23, is pursuing a biological sciences degree at UVM, though he said he’s taking this semester o . He now lives o -campus and is unemployed but applying for jobs, he said. Broderick grew up in Massachusetts and came to Burlington for school in 2021.

He said his campaign planks include building more a ordable housing, investing in the city’s Housing Trust Fund and advocating for tenants’ rights, including

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Savu Sauna to Open Burlington Bathhouse

BY SASHA GOLDSTEIN sasha@sevendaysvt.com

Savu, which operates popular stand-alone saunas in three scenic northern Vermont locales, is opening an 8,000-square-foot bathhouse on Burlington’s Flynn Avenue.

Work is expected to begin on the facility next month, co-owners Nicole Sweeney and Dave Nelson said in a video announcing the brick-and-mortar location. They’ll offer both day passes and a membership model when the site opens this fall.

“It’s been such a journey, and to land a permanent home for Savu here in Burlington just feels like such a milestone,” Sweeney said. She added that customer loyalty and the success of the three other locations has “made this possible.”

The couple opened their first sauna in 2021 and operate sites along the shores of Lake Champlain at the Burlington Surf Club as well as in Jeffersonville and Waitsfield. Savu also sells saunas that it designs.

Floor plans filed with the city for the 208 Flynn Avenue location show multiple saunas, a steam room, warm pools and a cold plunge, along with locker rooms and lounge areas for rest and relaxation. The couple have scheduled an open house at the South End space, which is across the street from City Market, for Thursday, February 26, from 4 to 8 p.m.

“This is not a passing trend or speculative idea,” the couple said in an email announcing the new location. “It’s a real, tangible community asset, built on a foundation of four years operating here in Vermont.”

The announcement comes about 18 months after different developers pulled plans to build a 30,000-squarefoot bathhouse on nearby Pine Street. Silt Botanica Bathhouse was to be built on a contaminated lot known as a brownfield. But dealing with the pollution proved too costly a proposition, and the plan was scuttled in September 2024. ➆

Scaling Back « P.14

Care have stopped covering GLP-1s for weight loss alone. The same goes for the plans that cover public school teachers. Private employers, meanwhile, have yanked coverage or erected new hurdles that make it more difficult to get a prescription covered.

That’s part of a national shift, and drugmakers are scrambling to respond. Some have rolled out direct-to-consumer programs that offer steep discounts to those who pay for their prescriptions themselves.

Lilly launched a self-pay option in 2024 featuring vials of Zepbound from which patients draw the drug using a syringe and then inject themselves. And last month, Novo Nordisk released a pill version of Wegovy that can be purchased directly from the manufacturer for just under $200 a month.

Despite the lower price, that’s quite a hike for people who previously paid $30 or less to fill a prescription.

“We’re driving an entire area of chronic disease into a self-pay system, which is only going to worsen inequities,” said Dr. Kimberley Sampson-Paine, an obstetrician-gynecologist at the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington who specializes in weight management.

Certa managed to keep taking Wegovy thanks to her parents, who offered financial support after seeing how the drug benefited her. She has since switched to Zepbound and has been using the cheaper vials even though needles make her squeamish. (Her husband has been administering her weekly injections.)

“My goal is to stay on this forever,” said Certa, who’s now 55 and weighs 215 pounds.

Others have had no choice but to discontinue the drugs.

Jennifer Martin, 53, of Shelburne was prescribed Wegovy in summer 2024. She, too, had spent her entire adult life struggling with her weight, despite living a healthy and active lifestyle.

“We’re an ingredient household,” she said. “We don’t buy soda. We don’t buy juice. We drink whole milk, tea and water.”

With Wegovy, she felt sated for the first time in her life. “I would eat when I was hungry, but I wasn’t hungry all the time,” she said.

Then she switched jobs. When she went to a pharmacy to pick up her prescription, she found out she no longer had coverage for it — and that it would cost her $3,000.

She left the pharmacy without the medication and has since regained the 20 pounds she lost. She’s hoping to get back

on the drug one day but isn’t sure when she’ll be able to afford it.

The class of drugs known as GLP-1s mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 that can influence a range of metabolic factors. The drugs were originally developed and prescribed to control diabetes, as they proved to help reduce blood sugar without some of the main side effects of insulin, such as weight gain.

But experts soon realized that GLP-1s could actually reduce weight, and far better than other weight-loss drugs, by slowing digestion and helping people feel fuller. The drugs have also been found to reduce food cravings, providing a line of defense against the ultraprocessed foods that experts say have contributed to the rising level of obesity in the U.S.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first GLP-1 specifically for weight loss in 2014, and a slew of other options have since come to market, allowing them to reach a wider audience. Americans spent nearly $72 billion on the medications in 2023, a 500 percent increase compared to 2018. Roughly 12 percent of Americans are now using one of the drugs, according to recent national surveys.

Some patients report serious gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea, constipation and nausea. But studies have shown that the drugs can be highly effective in helping people lose weight, particularly when paired with exercise and healthier eating.

“These medications make those lifestyles sustainable for the people whose biologies are fighting against them,” Sampson-Paine said. She estimated that she’s worked with nearly 100 patients who

have had great success on GLP-1s, including some who have shed 200 pounds.

It is unclear exactly how many people currently use GLP-1s in Vermont, which ranks among the healthiest states in terms of obesity rates. Last fall, when Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont told Seven Days it was dropping coverage, it said nearly 3,500 members would be affected.

The company noted that Americans pay far more for the drugs than people in other countries and that patients often stop taking the medication within the first few months, before it can be effective.

“Half the money we spend on the GLP-1s is not going to anyone’s benefit,” Tom Weigel, the insurer’s vice president and chief medical officer, said in an interview last year. “That’s millions and millions of dollars.”

Patients who suddenly stop using GLP-1s often regain weight and can be at higher risk of diabetes and other ailments. Desperate, some who have lost coverage have turned to cheaper, pharmacy-made imitations of GLP-1s that have not been approved by the FDA. But those drugs, created through a process of mixing drug ingredients known as “compounding,” are becoming harder to find amid a federal crackdown on the pharmacies that produce them in bulk.

Sampson-Paine has seen dozens of patients in recent weeks who are distraught over the recent insurance changes. She recalled one woman who broke down because she had no idea how she’d be able to manage the new payments.

The woman said her lower-weight lifestyle was the only reason she was still alive.

“That’s how transformative it has been on her mental health,” Sampson-Paine said. ➆

DARIA BISHOP

Nicole Sweeney and Dave Nelson

Burlington Mayor Issues Executive Order on ICE Preparations

STORY & PHOTO BY LUCY TOMPKINS lucy@sevendaysvt.com

Burlington Mayor Emma MulvaneyStanak signed an executive order on Tuesday morning that outlines the city’s preparations for a potential surge in federal immigration enforcement activity.

In a brief press conference at city hall, Mulvaney-Stanak said the order followed months of conversations between city leaders, law enforcement officials, school leaders and others. The preparations took on new urgency after large-scale federal immigration operations descended on Minneapolis and Maine.

“Residents are asking, ‘Could this happen here? And if it did, would our city be prepared?’” Mulvaney-Stanak said. “Today we are taking clear, lawful and responsible action to answer these questions.”

The order lays out the role of the Burlington Police Department in the face of an immigration crackdown. Vermont requires police departments to adopt a policy that bars them from assisting federal immigration authorities. The order instructs Burlington Police Department leaders to “respond to the scene in a lawful, non-interfering way, document what occurs, preserve evidence and ensure emergency medical care is provided if anyone is injured.”

Any reports of unlawful conduct by federal agents would be “documented, preserved and referred directly to me as the mayor and also to our state’s attorney,” the mayor said.

Interim Burlington Police Chief Shawn Burke was not at the press briefing, but Mulvaney-Stanak said she had worked closely with him to develop the order and he had reviewed it “several times.”

The order directs the city’s administration to “update and strengthen” its emergency communication systems, including developing clearer plans for sending timely alerts to residents in several formats and languages.

It also directs city departments to work with community partners to identify services, programs and resources that would support people affected by immigration enforcement.

The order takes effect immediately, and city departments are directed to implement its requirements within seven days.

“This is about preparation,” Mulvaney-Stanak said. “This is about transparency, and this is about maintaining trust between our residents and their local government.”

The order was news to City Council President Ben Traverse (D-Ward 5), who said on Monday evening that he “hadn’t heard anything about it” until the mayor’s office sent a notice for Tuesday’s press conference.

The council had been working on a resolution, sponsored by all 12 members, titled “ICE Out of Burlington,” that condemns the controversial immigration enforcement agency and calls for it to be dismantled, with duties assigned to “other border security agencies.”

It “formally opposes ICE activities within Burlington and the State of Vermont,” “strongly objects to the use of any facility within the City or State for ICE operations,” and “affirms its policy that ICE agents not be permitted entry into protected areas of municipal property absent a valid judicial warrant.”

The council was expected to vote on the measure during its meeting on Tuesday night — after Seven Days print deadline.

Getting backing and input from the full council was key for this symbolic gesture, Traverse said, as “an opportunity for us to all come together and speak as one voice on this issue.” Communities around the country “have been taking a stand” against federal overreach, Traverse said, and “we’ve known that Burlington, similarly, needs to put its own stamp on this.”

Among those helping draft the resolution was Laura SánchezParkinson, a Progressive who is running unopposed for the Ward 3 city council seat. The first-time candidate is herself an immigrant from Mexico, so working on the ICE resolution felt personal, she told Seven Days

She said she worked with various community groups to include “the perspectives of our refugee and immigrant neighbors.” ➆

Sasha Goldstein contributed reporting.

Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak

Weather permitting

a potential push for a rent stabilization program.

“I want to create a city where everyone can thrive, where everyone can afford to call home,” he said. “Because we all love this city.”

Broderick’s Democratic opponent, Ryan Nick, serves on the city’s planning commission and is a commercial real estate agent for J.L. Davis Realty, a downtown brokerage where his father, Jeff Nick, is president.

The 34-year-old Shelburne native, who’s lived in Burlington for 12 years, ran unsuccessfully for Ward 2 city councilor in 2020. In a recent interview, he touted his efforts to restart Ward 8’s Neighborhood Planning Assembly a couple of years ago and his work on the boards of the Burlington Business Association and the Flynn.

Nick said his community connections have helped him forge relationships with city councilors and other officials that would make it easier for him to learn the ropes as Ward 8’s representative.

He favors eliminating some of Burlington’s permitting red tape to spur housing construction. He’d like to loosen inclusionary zoning policies, which mandate that 15 to 25 percent of units must be affordable in new housing projects with five units or more. Five is too small for that requirement to be feasible for developers, he said. He also wants the city to get UVM to build more on-campus student housing.

Nick argues that Burlington has been in decline recently, in part because of the “high school drama” on the council. After watching meetings, he said, he wonders, What city business has really been accomplished? What have the taxpayers really gotten out of this?

“One of the reasons that we haven’t seen the pace of change that we need to address a lot of these crises is because the council can’t get out of their own way,” he said. “It seems like every day they wake up, tie their shoes together and try to run.”

Nick said his opponent, Broderick, had gummed up the works at one recent meeting by failing to share in advance with Democrats some substantive amendments to a resolution about “promoting community dialogue.” Nick argued that Broderick’s approach was unproductive and merely a way to score political points. Broderick acknowledged that he could have sent his colleagues his proposed changes earlier, but he said the Progressive caucus had wanted to postpone the resolution, not actually debate it. When the proposal to postpone was shot down,

he said, he felt he needed to amend the underlying resolution.

“I am for collaboration,” Broderick said, pointing to his UVM resolution, which had bipartisan support. “Obviously, I’m not going to deny that the council can be dysfunctional.”

In the New North End’s Ward 7, the Progs’ hopes for an upset depend on newcomer Bill Standen. He is facing Ward 7’s incumbent Democratic councilor, Evan Litwin, who won the seat with nearly 67 percent of the vote in 2024.

Standen, 28, moved to Burlington 10 years ago to attend Champlain College and now works for the Red Cross. Standen said Litwin’s vote against putting the “apartheid-free community measure” on the March ballot motivated him to run. Standen had supported the proposal for three years and was disappointed that Democrats shot it down each time.

“When a group goes through all the processes to have something voted on by our council or voted on by our city, I feel like that is something that we need to respect,” he said.

On housing, Standen spoke in support of rent stabilization policies in the city and asked why Litwin hadn’t sought

them. But he could not explain how, specifically, he would implement such a policy. Standen also backed the “tax fairness” policy.

“We need the businesses to take their share of the tax burden, because our residents are the ones that right now are stuck with it,” he said.

Yet he also said the city needs to attract new businesses to raise revenue. In response to a question, he said he hadn’t considered that shifting more of the tax burden to commercial properties might actually drive businesses away.

He endorsed finding new revenues rather than slashing jobs and services to close the city’s budget gap.

The first-time candidate acknowledged that he was nervous during a Town Meeting TV forum earlier this month, his first big public appearance as a candidate. In response to a question about how to combat rising rents and encourage development, for instance, he became flustered: “Now we’re in a situation where we can’t have — we can’t have cake, and we can’t eat anything,” he said.

“We just can’t have — we don’t have — we just have rent going up through the roof,” Standen said. Seemingly aware of the confusing answer he’d given, he smiled and sheepishly apologized.

Standen told Seven Days that he’d be ready to serve if elected.

“If I was sitting there on the council, I think that a lot of [the nervousness] would disappear just because it would kind of be an indication that I am there because of my principles,” he said.

Litwin, 42, works as communications and marketing director for Burlington Partnership for a Healthy Community, a youth substance-use prevention nonprofit. He said he prides himself on getting out in the neighborhood and talking to his constituents year-round. He tries to propose a resolution every seven weeks or so, he said, and is proud of some of the collaborative efforts he’s undertaken, including cosponsoring Broderick’s UVM dorm oversight proposal.

Litwin also touted his work researching syringe litter in the city. He found that only about half of nearly 1 million free needles handed out by Howard Center were being returned. A few months later, the center announced plans to close its needle exchange program on Clarke Street.

Litwin said he sees “affordability and livability” as the driving forces behind his policy decisions. Those issues will be key when dealing with the city’s $10 to $12 million budget gap, Litwin said, because, unlike his opponent, he believes major cuts to programs and services will be needed.

“We will just have to, as a community, have real conversations about what we think are essential city services,” he said. “I think police, fire. And if a water main breaks, we’ve got to be able to fix it, right? We need to be able to perform the basic functions of making sure that a city is safe and functional. But at the same time, where do the rest of those cuts come from?”

Litwin has often found himself in the middle of council spats, but he denied that the members have any real animosity toward one another.

“I do what I can to keep the temperature down,” Litwin said. “I can’t say for sure that I’m always able to do that.”

The candidates in this year’s two contested races have been relatively civil toward one another, although there was an awkward moment at the Ward 7 forum on Town Meeting TV. As the discussion wound down, Litwin stuck out his hand to shake with Standen. But the Progressive candidate just nodded. In an interview afterward, Standen said he’d intentionally refused to shake hands because Litwin had voted against putting the “apartheid-free community” pledge on the ballot. By voting no, Standen said, Litwin was “complicit in the apartheid.” ➆

Hot Seats « P.15

Evan Litwin

Bill Standen

Marek Broderick

Ryan Nick

FEEDback

good conscience because they took the pulse of the people, alongside the statistics and the numbers, and found that consolidation would cost more in the end, not less, while destroying rural communities. The disadvantages far outweigh the advantages. Moreover, they came up with viable, alternative solutions. It’s all in the report.

Jayne Ollin EAST MONTPELIER

‘VERMONT WAY’ FORWARD

Carolyn Van Vleck’s letter to the editor [Feedback: “Woe Is Burlington,” January 21] was a prompt for this one.

I thought the “Vermont way” included looking out for your neighbor. Last Thanksgiving, I went down to Burlington’s waterfront with some food for homeless people living there. Outside a well-staked tent, I was met by a man who, with a trimmed beard and wirerimmed glasses, looked like he could’ve been a University of Vermont professor. Outside the tent was a walker and a wheelchair. Apparently, his partner was disabled. I imagined how it must be for her to use a walker on the rough ground to get to the Porta-Potty on the bike path. Not all homeless people are drug addicts.

Yes, drugs and addiction are an issue. But watch Bess O’Brien’s film The Hungry Heart, and you might have a fuller idea of how addiction can capture the lives of young people or even a bank manager. If we had more treatment centers in Vermont or, yes, an overdose prevention center, we might see fewer addicts on the streets. OPCs can be a pathway to recovery and are endorsed by American medical associations, as well as law enforcement officials.

Finally, Burlington may be more racially diverse than Brandon so, yes, there was pushback against law enforcement after racial profiling and incidents of unjust treatment of people of color occurred. Law enforcement has improved since then as Burlington strives to meet the needs of all our neighbors.

Joey Corcoran BURLINGTON

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE?

I am still baffled every time I look at the tagline of Seven Days. It states that it is “Vermont’s independent voice,” yet it is quite a stretch to call it that. This oversight reflects the negative attitude that central Vermont has toward the southern portion of the state. Some may call this a stretch; however, looking at the coverage of the

state as whole, the southern portion is consistently forgotten.

The irony of it all is that when Seven Days deigns to cover that part of the state, it is only criminal matters. Seven Days feeds the narrative regarding the danger of areas such as Rutland. Seven Days refuses to see beyond the negative and, in fact, helps perpetuate it. Quite frankly, call yourself “Burlington’s independent voice,” as you could care less to learn more about the southern part of the state.

Adriana Turso WALLINGFORD

Editor’s note: We maintain that Seven Days lives up to its tagline — and not just with enterprise stories such as this week’s cover about the statewide decline in school-age children or last week’s, exploring the power of legislative committee chairs. In the past 10 days, our news reporters have filed online stories from Hyde Park, Jeffersonville and Middlebury. Meanwhile, our food, music, visual art and culture writers report on stories all over Vermont.

In this issue, for example, you’ll find a story about a new theater venue in White River Junction, a review of an exhibit at Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester, a food story from Rutland and another about what’s up on the former Goddard College campus in Plainfield. Every week the Seven Days calendar lists events, art shows and club gigs all over the state — for free. The obituaries are from all over. There’s geographic diversity in the Feedback section, too. Last week we published letters to the editor from East Hardwick, Lyndon, Groton and Sharon. This week, readers from Chelsea, Enosburgh, East Montpelier, Richford and Starksboro wrote in.

COLLECT DELINQUENT TAXES

[Re “Burlington City Council Adds Tax Hike to the Ballot, Rejects ‘ApartheidFree’ Pledge,” January 27]: The City of Burlington should collect the taxes that it has already assessed but that remain unpaid before raising taxes on those of us who pay our taxes when billed. Burlington seeks to increase taxes another $3 million when the city is currently owed over $3.2 million in delinquent taxes. Some of the largest delinquent tax balances are owed by large corporations and wealthy people in Colchester and Stowe who simply choose not to pay their taxes — some as far back as the 1980s.

Running the City of Burlington is not just about holding press conferences and cutting ribbons. Officials in the city are also in charge of collecting the taxes they

assess, which sometimes means holding a tax sale auction to collect the funds if the owner refuses to pay voluntarily. If the city collected the delinquent taxes already due, there would be no reason to vote for yet another tax increase this March.

Alan Bjerke BURLINGTON

‘SEEMS LIKE DICTATORSHIP’

This seems like dictatorship [“Vermont to Pursue ‘Junk Food Ban’ for Users of Food Stamps,” February 5, online]. They are punishing the poor and weak who have to survive on very little — no home, no place to cook. To tell people what they can and cannot buy to eat is out-of-hand government regulation.

If the government wants that kind of control, it should stop giving out food

are protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection would think about what the illegal immigrants are costing all of us taxpayers, they would appreciate what these two law enforcement agencies are doing for every American citizen. The people whom the Joe Biden administration basically let just walk into our country unvetted, for the most part, have overcrowded our housing, hospitals and schools in certain parts of the country. Luckily not here, because they were not bused here like they were to places like New York and Washington, D.C.

Burlington Mayor Emma MulvaneyStanak and the city council are worried about the city budget deficit and cut positions in the city workforce, including police officers. Why would any

stamps and go back to setting up warehouses to hand out so-called “healthy” foods. I am 70 years old and use food shelves to get by, which is a pain because I don’t have a car. My Social Security — after health care funds have been removed — leaves little room to buy food. I do not get Supplemental Security Income, and I do not get Medicaid. I have to buy my own dental insurance, etc.

What is being done will not make America healthy again. It will kill off more than it should.

Kenneth Carpentier STARKSBORO

NONCITIZENS COST MONEY

[Re “Vermont to Pursue ‘Junk Food Ban’ for Users of Food Stamps,” February 5, online]: If all these people who

responsible city officials want to encourage noncitizens to live here? When my grandparents came here in the early 1900s, there was a quota for each sending country, and the immigrant had to have a sponsor and a job. Plus, they had to pass a check for disease, and, if they failed, they were sent back to where they came from.

So we should all appreciate the CBP and ICE officers, stay out of their way, and give them access to our prisons and jails. This way, the chance of anyone getting hurt is greatly reduced, if not eliminated. Without immigrants, U.S. Rep. Becca Balint said, Americans wouldn’t have anybody “to wipe our a**es.” It’s evident why the liberals want them here.

David Leggio CHELSEA

lifelines

OBITUARIES

Larry Charles Snow

SEPTEMBER 7, 1945FEBRUARY 9, 2026

BURLINGTON, VT.

Larry Charles Snow, 80, of Burlington, Vt., passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, surrounded by his beloved wife, Lynn; his daughter, Laura; and his very special niece, Wynter Snow Edwards, and her husband, Doug.

Larry was born on September 7, 1945, in South Burlington, Vt., the son of Walter David Snow and Ruth Lillian (Antonelli) Snow. He attended South Burlington schools and, in 1966, was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country in Vietnam as an artilleryman.

OBITUARIES, VOWS, CELEBRATIONS

known for his ability to build or ﬁx just about anything.

After returning home, Larry married the love of his life, Lynn Maynard. In 1969, they welcomed their greatest joy — their daughter, Laura, lovingly known as his “Pumpkin.” Over nearly 60 years together, Larry and Lynn built a beautiful life ﬁlled with love, laughter and countless cherished memories.

In 1968, Larry joined the Burlington Fire Department, where he served with pride and dedication for 26 years. He retired in 1994 as a captain at Station 4. When not on duty, Larry worked in construction and was a highly skilled carpenter,

Perry Edward Thornley Jr.

NOVEMBER 1, 1964JANUARY 8, 2026

BURLINGTON, VT.

Perry Edward ornley Jr., age 61, died on January 8, 2026.

He was born on November 1, 1964, in DoverFoxcroft, Maine, the son of Katherine Pricilla Snyder and Perry Edward ornley Sr. His earlier years were not known to providers and community members who got to know him before his passing. Before his death, Perry

Larry enjoyed many years of hunting and fishing with friends — until he discovered the game of golf. Never one to sit still, he started his own one-man business, Leaf Relief, after retirement, carefully scheduling three days a week for work so he could spend the other four on the golf course. Trading fishing poles and rifles for golf clubs, Larry found his true passion. He cherished his membership at Rocky Ridge and eagerly anticipated his annual golf trips to Saranac with his buddies. According to rumor, Larry “was the man who created the power fade and controlled it with power and finesse.” His proudest achievement on the course was shooting a 74 on a par 72.

Larry was a proud lifetime member of the BPOE #916 Burlington. When he wasn’t golﬁng, he could often be found “ticky tacking” around the house, practicing his putting in the backyard, taking long drives in his favorite truck, cheering on his beloved New York Yankees, or simply enjoying time with Lynn and Laura.

Larry was the kind of man you rarely meet and never forget. His laughter ﬁlled every room and will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew him. A natural jokester, he had a gift for lifting spirits with a well-timed comment or a playful grin. His hugs

spoke of the peace he found in the Virgin Mary statue in the Episcopal church across the street

were steady and reassuring — the kind that made you feel safe and at home. He did things his way, and when Larry made up his mind, you might as well get on board.

He was strong in a quiet, unwavering way — never ﬂashy or boastful, just dependable. He faced life’s challenges with steady resolve and never complained about what came his way. He believed deeply in hard work, loyalty and doing what was right, even when it wasn’t easy.

To many, Larry was a brother, a loyal friend and a mentor. To those closest to him, he was far more — a constant, steady presence, a guiding hand through life’s uncertainties and a source of comfort when it mattered most.

He was the absolute light of Laura’s life. She was immensely proud of her father — her hero, her Superman. Larry could ﬁx anything, make everything better with his words or his giant hugs, and overcome any obstacle life placed in his path. He often told her, “You can do anything you put your mind to, Pumpkin,” and he lived those words every day.

Larry is survived by his wife, Lynn Maynard Snow, of Burlington; daughter, Laura Snow, and her partner, Robert Steele, of Colchester, Vt.; and sisters Mary Jane Jenkins of Ferrisburgh, Vt.; Carole Lothrop and her husband, Gregory, of Milton, Vt.; and Karyl Snow Sweeney and her husband, Bob Sweeney, of South Hero, Vt. He is also survived by his brotherin-law Jim Hobbs of South Burlington, Vt.; sister-in-law Karen Maynard and her partner, Peter Juras, of Rego Park, N.Y.; and brother-in-law David

from Battery Park, and it was there that he spent his final hours.

He lived in the consciousness of Burlington, best known by those that he called his “street family” and the many helping hands that wandered the city. Some referred to him as a rascal, then a fondness would grow and ﬂourish into a caring relationship. is is who Perry was: a tough exterior; a soft soul. If you got to know Perry, he would talk about loving his kids, Joey and Eliza MaeMarie ornley. He might have brought out the Bible he kept tucked away in his

Maynard and his wife, Jacqueline, of Burlington. He is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews, and their families, as well as many cherished friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Walter “Butch” Snow and David Allen Snow; sister Sherrie Lee Snow Hobbs; brotherin-law Robert Jenkins; father- and mother-in-law, Louis and Jeannette Maynard; and sister-in-law Charlene Maynard Brown.

Lynn and Laura extend their deepest gratitude to Wynter and Doug Edwards; Cheryl Marek; Tricia Brown; Sue Messier; and Pete Walsh for the love, strength and support they provided during this difficult time. e family would also like to thank Ken and Robin Curler for the beautifully handcrafted urn that serves as Larry’s final resting place. ey extend sincere appreciation to Courtney with the University of Vermont Home Health & Hospice, as well as the compassionate nurses at McClure Miller Respite House, for the care shown to Larry during his brief time with them. Larry also asked that special thanks be given to the Burlington firefighters at Station 4 for the care and respect they showed him.

In lieu of ﬂowers, donations may be made in Larry’s honor to the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (joeandruzzifoundation.org) or the Vermont Police Canine Association (vtk9.com).

Family and friends celebrated Larry’s life on Sunday, February 15, 2026, noon to 4 p.m., at the Burlington Elks Lodge, 925 North Ave., Burlington, VT, with a Fireﬁghters’ Tribute at 1 p.m.

jacket, close to his heart and his deep faith in God. Perry had a magnetic way about him. It sometimes landed him on the evening news, where he commented on various subjects for WCAX. He always had a benevolent grin and a look in his eye that made you think that he was likely up to something, but you also felt that, deep down, he was a really good person.

He liked to get loud like a “rock ‘n’ roll” song.

On the hardest days Perry was a shouting outsider, holding all the things that the city couldn’t hold for him. ere were cold nights,

hot days, heartaches and pains.

He seemed to disappear sometimes and return with a healthy glow, though.

To some, he was the likable stranger who was afﬁxed to places around town: the corner of Main Street and South Winooski Avenue, or just up the road on the corner of Pearl Street, where he would spend hours ﬂying a sign and chatting with folks passing by.

He was part of the fabric of our community and could always be counted on for a quick smile and a hearty hello. May he be in a better place.

Helene Brodeur Thomas

FEBRUARY 23, 1937FEBRUARY 9, 2026 ESSEX, VT.

Helene Brodeur omas, age 88, of Essex, Vt., died on February 9, 2026.

She was born on February 23, 1937, in St. Albans, Vt., the daughter of Louis and Gertrude (Lamothe) Brodeur. She graduated from Mary Fletcher School of Nursing in Burlington, Vt., as an RN in 1957. On September 19, 1959, she married Perley omas. She lived for 50 years in Barre, Vt., before moving to Pinecrest in Essex in 2018. She worked as an RN ﬁrst at Heaton House (Montpelier), then at Woodridge (Berlin) for over 30 years.

She is survived by her two daughters, Ruth and John omas-Squire (Essex Junction, Vt.) and Lynn and Mitchell Yockelson (Annapolis, Md.); her grandson, Spike Short (Studio City, Calif.); her sisters-in law, Barbara Brodeur (Chalfont, Pa.) and Audra Burroughs (Plainﬁeld, Vt.); and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Perley omas; her infant daughter Rosemary; her brother, Albert Brodeur; and stepsister, Maryann Gregoire. Her greatest gift was making us aware of her end-of life-wishes.

A celebration of her life will happen at the Universalist Unitarian Church of Barre at a later date. Interment will be at St. Peters Cemetery, Vergennes at the family’s discretion.

Shirley Dorothy Drake

Ducharme

APRIL 14, 1932FEBRUARY 3, 2026

OSSIPEE, N.H.

On February 3, 2026, we lost “the girl with the laughing eyes, charming personality and the best and sweetest personality I could ever call a friend” (WHS Yearbook ’51).

Shirley Dorothy Drake Ducharme was born in Oakland, Maine, on April 14, 1932, to Rodney and Sadie (Bourgoin) Drake. Though her father died when she was just 10 years old, Shirley’s fondest memories of her childhood were of walking the two blocks from her house on School Street to the Emerson and Stevens Axe factory, where her father worked as a night watchman. “I would sit and have my dinner and my dad would tell me stories while he worked.” A few years after his passing, Shirley’s family moved to the neighboring town of Waterville, where she attended and graduated from Waterville High School. Not only was she recognized by her peers in their class poll for being “Most Polite,” “Best Personality” and “Nicest Smile,” Shirley also graduated cum laude and received the Daughters of the Revolution Good Citizenship Award.

It was at WHS where Shirley met her future husband, Edward Ducharme. Though the two attended the senior prom together, the pair put a pause on any future plans of matrimonial bliss in order to pursue a higher calling. Postgraduation, Shirley entered a convent, while Edward entered a seminary. After one year, Shirley decided that “getting thee to a nunnery” was not for her. She left the convent and began employment as a telephone operator, waiting patiently for Edward to come to his senses. What future could be better than one that included “the best girl Waterville High school ever had … and the prettiest girl in the state of Maine” (WHS ’51)?

’Nuff said. The two married in 1955.

Between the years 1957 and 1968, Shirley gave birth to three sons and two daughters. She often said being a stay-at-home mom and raising her five kids were “the best times of my life.” While she ran her busy household typical of the glass-ceiling era,

she also taught her fab five how to do everything from tying their shoes to the yeoman’s work of serving as the family driver’s ed instructor. Additionally, she loved sewing dresses, ponchos, pants and shirts for her daughters; playing catch with her sons; and even teaching one how to correctly pronounce the name Carl Yastrzemski! For her entire life, her kids came first. They were her proudest achievement.

Outside of parenting, her greatest passion was gardening. Across her homes in New York, Maryland, Rhode Island and Vermont, Shirley created works of art in her beautiful flower gardens. Her green thumbs specialized in cultivating beds of roses, morning glories, hydrangeas, tulips, marigolds, geraniums, snapdragons and phlox. During moments of leisure, one would find her devouring biographies; mysteries, especially Agatha and Sherlock; and anything written by Jane Austen. Shirley also loved to test herself physically. She would run for miles and miles along the dirt roads in and around Hinesburg, Vermont; cross-country ski to the country store to get the newspaper; and hike all the mountains Vermont had to offer.

As a single woman in her early sixties, life threw Shirley a curveball with a breast cancer diagnosis. However, as a former classmate penned to her in her yearbook, “I know whatever you undertake, you

will succeed.” And succeed she did. Pooling the grit and determination that undoubtedly helped her finish the Ottawa marathon a decade earlier, she not only bested breast cancer but also took on other endeavors. She drove to the Middlebury Snow Bowl and learned to downhill ski, and went on daily walks — often 10 miles or more — with her beloved canines Sparky and Benoit. She became a die-hard fan of the Boston Red Sox. During a televised game you would never hear Shirley exclaim, “Let’s go, Big Papi!” It was always, “C’mon, David!”

Perhaps most impressive, Shirley became a world traveler. She walked up the world’s steepest street in New Zealand, swam in Jordan’s Dead Sea, strolled along the Great Wall of China, sailed down the Nile to visit the Great Pyramid, camped in the desert of Oman, strolled the streets in Abu Dhabi, looked down on Dubai from the top of Burj Khalifa, rented a car to drive along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, marveled at the Parthenon in Greece, browsed Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, and visited the twin cities of Budapest along the Danube. Shirley Ducharme led a life well lived, was loved to the moon and back, and will be missed greatly by all, especially her grandchildren, who felt uniquely spoiled and loved by their grandma.

Shirley was predeceased by her parents and by her sister, Madeline Fauria, and brother, Robert Drake. She is survived by her five children, Stephen Ducharme, Elaine Ducharme and husband Jack, Marc Ducharme and wife Penny, Janet Ducharme and husband Mark, and Paul Ducharme and wife Sarah. She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Cypres Nield and husband Michael, Isabella Bakic and husband Luka, Rye Carroll, Drake Ducharme, Sophia Sardegna and partner Brian DelGreco, Grace Ducharme, Alden Ducharme, Phoenix Carroll, and Eva Ducharme. Shirley is also survived by six greatgrandchildren: Alaska, Freya, Moira, Ronan, Gideon and Tristan, and one grandpuppy, Abigail Adams. A celebration of life will occur this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be given in Shirley’s name to the Oakland Public Library at 18 Church St., Oakland, Maine 04963.

William R. Lang

APRIL 3, 1937-FEBRUARY 2, 2026

SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT.

William R. Lang died peacefully at home on February 2, 2026, at age 88, after a long illness.

Bill, as he was known to family and friends, was born in Colchester, Vt., in April 1937 to John Kenneth Lang and Lida May (Wiley) Lang. Raised on the Lang Family Farm, a 600acre dairy farm in Essex Center, Bill attended Essex Junction public schools with his seven siblings and graduated from Essex Junction High School in 1957. He married his high school sweetheart, Gail Grinnell Stone, in 1957, and they settled in Essex Junction with their young family.

Showing an early interest in construction and excavating, Bill began his career in the late 1950s with Morison Knudsen, an engineering firm, building Interstate 89 in northern Vermont, running heavy equipment for the project. He joined the new IBM manufacturing plant in Essex Junction in 1961 and rose to the level of department manager for semiconductor production before leaving in 1981.

When not running the company, Bill enjoyed caring for the home he and Gail designed and built in South Burlington in 1977. The large property always needed yard work and upkeep, which Bill enjoyed doing until his recent illness made it too difficult to continue.

During his 20 years at IBM, Bill pursued his love of construction and started building houses for friends on the weekends, including log homes and Viceroy Homes in the Burlington area. Bill started Lang Construction in 1981 and focused his business on excavating and construction. In 1991 he transitioned the business to G&W Inc. to focus primarily on trucking, working extensively with Pike Industries in northern Vermont. He continued to operate the business until 2024.

Frederick Primo Tiballi

APRIL 23, 1940-FEBRUARY 10, 2026 BURLINGTON, VT.

Frederick Primo Tiballi, 85, of Burlington, Vt., passed away on February 10, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born on April 23, 1940, in Republic, Pa., the son of Modesta and Primo Tiballi.

Fred graduated from Fort Lauderdale High School before earning his undergraduate and juris doctorate degrees from the University of Florida. He practiced law in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Burlington, Vt., and as he said many times, being a lawyer never felt like work.

Bill is survived by his wife of 68 years, Gail (Stone) Lang; and his sisters Marion (Lang) Bollock, Alice (Lang) Riehl and Katherine (“Tina” Lang) Pollack. He is predeceased by his sisters Margaret Lang and Ruth Rawls and brothers, John Lang and Ralph Lang. He is also survived by his sons, Jeffrey Lang and his wife, Monica Burnham-Lang; and Bradley Lang and his daughter, Katherine Lang Granger, and her husband, Jeffrey Granger. Bill and Gail have nine grandchildren: Sean, Christopher, Michael and Craig Lang; Brooke and Ryan Lang; Nicole Burnham; and Alexander and Caroline Granger. They have seven greatgrandchildren: Jeremy, Kyle and Emily Lang; Carter and Autumn Lang; and Quinn and Henry Lang.

A memorial service will be held on April 11, 2026, 11 a.m., at First Congregational Church, 39 Main St., Essex Junction, VT, followed by a celebration of life from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at the Garden Barn at the Lang Farm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or Hope Lodge in Burlington, Vt.

The Lang family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the support and care received during Bill’s illness from Dr. Stephen Ades, the University of Vermont Medical Center Hospice Service and Home Instead.

Fred was kind, generous and fully embraced life. An avid reader, he was passionate about the U.S. Constitution and loved skiing, sailing Moon Shadow and playing pickleball. He was happiest riding a tractor while volunteering at New Village Farm.

He leaves behind his beloved wife and

caregiver, Lynne Conlong Gilson Tiballi. He also leaves behind daughter Brooke Tiballi Lochrie and husband Robert B. Lochrie III of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., (grandsons John, James and Andrew); daughter Leah Tiballi Murchie and husband G. Stewart Murchie of West Hartford, Conn., (grandchildren Gus, Sophie and Alice); son Craig Tiballi and wife Annabrooke Temple of San Francisco, Calif., (grandson Reno); and stepdaughter Lee Ann Gilson of Rome, Ga. He is survived by his sister, Florence “Mitzi” Doumar, of Pompano Beach, Fla., and his sister-in-law, Barbie Taylor, of South Kingstown, R.I. Fred, affectionately known as “Derf,” always said, “Peace and Love.” In lieu of a service, the family invites you to sign the online guest book and/or make a donation to sailbeyondcancer.org or newvillagecommunitypartners.org. To share condolences, please visit gregorycremation.com.

OBITUARIES, VOWS, CELEBRATIONS

OBITUARIES

Richard “Dick” O. Phillips

SEPTEMBER 25, 1935FEBRUARY 4, 2026

BURLINGTON, VT.

Richard “Dick” O. Phillips died at his home in Burlington, Vt., on February 4, 2026. He was 90 years old. He left this life surrounded by the love of his wife and daughter and under the gentle care of Bayada Hospice and the Converse Home staff.

Dick was a beloved member of his small family. He leaves behind his wife of 68 years, Judith Cargill Phillips; daughter, Lisa Geer, and husband David; grandchildren, Emily Geer and ﬁancé Lucas Hanson, and Connor Geer and partner Darbey Durning; daughter-in-law, Gemma Gatti; and ﬁve nieces and their families. He was predeceased by his mother and father, John Preston and Louise Lake Phillips, and three older brothers, John (“Jack”), Frederick and Duncan, as well as his inlaws. Tragically, he lost his son, Richard D. Phillips, to brain cancer in 2024.

Dick and Judy had many wonderful friends and colleagues over the years, including the dear friends they met through All Saints Church in Littleton, N.H., many of whom

have also predeceased them. ey spent 10 wonderful years with their PALS, as they called themselves, sharing church gatherings, evenings out, the theater, lectures, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and their legendary camping trips in Maine. Dick was born on September 25, 1935, in Yonkers, N.Y. He spent his early school years at St. omas Choir School and Trinity School in New York City, graduating in 1953. He went on to Kenyon College in Ohio, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in English and met Judy, the love of his life. e bond was immediate, and they married in June 1957. He continued his education at Berkeley Divinity School in Connecticut, graduating with a master of divinity in 1960.

Dick was ordained as an Episcopal priest in December 1960, starting his lifelong commitment to caring for the souls of others. He began in New York, serving for more than 13 years as church rector, first at the Church of the Redeemer in Pelham, followed by St. Andrew’s Church in Brewster. In 1973 he relocated to Vermont with his wife and children to pursue meaningful work beyond the Church. He touched many lives through his work as senior clinician with Northeast Kingdom Mental Health Services in St. Johnsbury. For much of that time he also led group and individual mental health counseling services for inmates in the St. Johnsbury Correctional Center, an endeavor he found both challenging and fulfilling. He remained there until his retirement in 1996.

Once retired, Dick and Judy moved to Littleton, N.H., to be closer to their PALS. Dick reengaged professional life in 2002 by providing parttime counseling services through FamilyStrength of New Hampshire. From there he transitioned to Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster, serving as a part-time hospital chaplain until his full retirement in 2013. Dick and Judy then returned to

Vermont in 2014 to be closer to family. He continued to offer counseling and spiritual support to others until he was no longer physically able to do so. roughout his life, Dick met people where they were, always listened and never ever judged.

Dick’s life was enriched by loving family and good friends, real and meaningful conversation, music, literature, and simply being there for others. He was nourished by his deep spirituality … and he loved his crossword puzzles. He was a quiet and gentle man with a large and benevolent impact. We will miss him deeply.

Dick’s family is deeply grateful for the caring staff at the Converse Home in Burlington and Bayada Hospice in Colchester, Vt. No services are planned at this time. As he wished, a small graveside service will be held at a future date. Anyone wishing to formally honor his memory may send donations to All Saints Episcopal Church in Littleton, N.H., or All Saints Episcopal Church in South Burlington, Vt.

Arrangements are in the care of the Chittenden County Cremation Society, a division of Ready Funeral & Cremation Services. To send online condolences, please visit cremationsocietycc.com.

Keith F. Peters

AUGUST 11, 1938-JANUARY 28, 2026 BURLINGTON, VT.

Keith F. Peters, 87, of Burlington, Vt., died on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. He was born on August 11, 1938, the son of Lewis B. and Mary E. (McCluskey) Peters.

Keith graduated in the last class of Cathedral High School in 1958 and then entered the Army. He worked at Blodgett for over 40 years.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Ann (Irish) Peters of Burlington, and sons, Michael Peters of Florida and Andrew Peters of Burlington.

He is predeceased by his father and mother-in-law, Palmer (Joe) Irish and Helen (Cormier) Irish. He loved to hunt and ﬁsh and spent time with family at camp in South Hero. He taught hunter’s safety courses and assisted with the Boy Scouts.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in the spring, with details to be updated at a later date.

In lieu of ﬂowers, consider making a donation to the VNA Hospice Team at 1110 Prim Rd., Colchester, VT 05446.

John Kenneth DeBrosse

JULY 17, 1961-DECEMBER 22, 2025

COLCHESTER, VT.

We’re here to

obituary and in memoriam services

handled

After a gallant, 10year effort of living and dealing with the day-to-day challenges of Parkinson’s disease, John Kenneth DeBrosse passed away on December 22, 2025, quietly at his beloved home on the shores of Lake Champlain.

Please see the full obituary at vtfuneral homes.com.

Please donate to his University of Vermont Parkinson’s Legacy Fund at go.uvm.edu/debrosse.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday April 11, 2026, 2 to 5 p.m., with a service at approximately 3 p.m., at the Essex Farmhouse at the Essex Resort & Spa in Essex, Vt.

OBITUARIES

Llewellyn “Welly” Cobden

OCTOBER 29, 1967OCTOBER 13, 2025

HINESBURG, VT.

Llewellyn “Welly” K. Cobden, 57, of Hinesburg, Vt., beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly, seemingly at the pinnacle of health, on October, 13, 2025. Welly was born on October 29, 1967, to Geoff and Peggy Cobden in New Haven, Vt.

Welly was a kind, softspoken soul with a huge heart, a wonderful laugh and a brilliant smile. His twinkling eyes held love and humor for those around him. Welly

Philomena “Joy” Ferris-Prabhu

JULY 16, 1937FEBRUARY 7, 2026 SHELBURNE, VT.

Mrs. Philomena “Joy” FerrisPrabhu, 88, passed away suddenly into the arms of the Lord on February 7, 2026, at her home. She had returned to Vermont seven days previously from a sixweek trip to California to visit her son and family. She was blessed to be in good health in all respects until her passing.

Joy was born in Bombay, India, on July 16, 1937, the beloved eldest daughter of Julian and Ruby (Pinto) Colaco. She received her

shared a curiosity for the world surrounding us that fueled his sense of adventure and love of life.

Music was a profound part of Welly’s life from a young age, from guitar and singer

early education at St. Teresa’s Convent School and entered Sophia College for Women (established by the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and affiliated with the University of Bombay).

Simultaneously, she took private lessons in pianoforte

in a rock-and-roll band to a classically trained French horn player to trumpet and saxophone in jazz ensembles. Welly pursued his love of music and technology at the University of Vermont and then at the University of Washington. His love of the local live music scene was deep and unyielding, frequently enjoying the incredible depth of talent in our area. Welly spent 27 years at NRG Systems in Hinesburg, Vt., because he cared deeply about growing renewable energy globally. Over the last 12 years, he became their foremost expert in LIDAR (light detection and ranging) wind measurement. He was

fascinated by a technology that could shoot photons into the air and then create meaningful information from a few reflected back. He loved both working the hardware and working with customers and traveled the world extensively doing training and repairs. His coworkers described him as brilliant, clever and always low-key, focused on work and directly honest.

Perhaps the most important lessons we can all learn from Welly are the importance of setting boundaries around work, prioritizing family, and living a life of joy and fun. Every day held laughter, love and adventures, from mountain bike rides and hikes to river

dips and motorcycle trips. The joy and wonder was found in equal measure in our own backyard as it was traveling the world. Welly loved great food and was a wonderful and creative cook. Any tribute would be remiss without a mention of his love of beer and a good martini.

Welly’s greatest pride was his children, for their unwavering kindness, their curiosity for the world around them and their courage in facing life during our challenging times.

He is survived by his wife, Christa Shute; children, Bronwen Cobden and Olive Cobden, and their mother, Heather Rhodes; father, Geoff Cobden; mother, Peggy

Cobden; and brother, Dylan Cobden, wife Joanna, and their children, Carter, Chloe, Camden, Austin and Nolan. He was predeceased by his stepmother, Nancy Cobden. We appreciate the efforts, responsiveness and kindness of the Richmond Rescue EMT and ambulance services as well as the UVM Medical Center emergency and surgical teams.

A celebration of life and a dedication ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, 2 p.m., at NRG Systems in Hinesburg, Vt. For updates on the event and to share with the family your stories, photos, memories and thoughts, please visit awrfh.com.

and theory of music, receiving the L.T.C.L. from Trinity College of Music, London.

In 1960, she broke with tradition and worked as a private secretary to His Highness Maharaja Sriraj of Dhrangadhra, Gujarat, India. She spent summers at the vacation residence in Poona, and when it was remodeled, she played a significant role in the interior design.

She married Albert FerrisPrabhu on August 10, 1967, in Bombay, India, and joined her husband in Maryland, just outside of the nation’s capital. The following year, they moved to Vermont with their newborn son, Arjun, when Albert took a job with IBM Burlington.

In 1977, Joy began teaching piano lessons. This was

the start of an incredible 36-year journey of connection with students and their parents, leading to many lifelong friendships which she treasured.

In 1982, she graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology from the University of Vermont and received the department’s Outstanding Student Award. It gave her great pleasure to design her colonial house in 1984 and later to design a formal garden which was featured in the 2006 Flynn Garden Tour. She was a parishioner at St. Catherine of Siena from 1969 and a member of the Burlington Garden Club, followed by the Shelburne & Charlotte Garden Club.

Joy is remembered for her

kindness, gentleness, faith, grace, empathy and ability to forgive. She had an incredible memory and was a great storyteller. She loved playing mahjong, visiting gardens throughout the East Coast and always appreciated nature, especially birds. She was a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many.

She is survived by her son, Arjun (Catherine) Prabhu of Palo Alto, Calif.; two grandchildren, Jacob and Samantha; two granddogs, Tisco and Charli; sister Helen “Pearl” Mathias of Mumbai, India; brothers Claude (Anita) Colaco of Mumbai, India, Stephen (Miriam) Colaco of Santa Cruz, Calif., and Christopher (Berna) Colaco of Mumbai, India; and many wonderful nieces and

nephews from the Colaco and Ferris families. She was predeceased by her father in 1989; her mother in 1995; her husband of 29 years, Albert Ferris-Prabhu, in 1996; and her youngest sister, MarieTherese Colaco, in 2014.

Joy’s family would like to thank all the many dear friends in Vermont who made it possible for her to continue to live in the home and community she loved.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Shelburne, with burial following in the Shelburne Village Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held on Friday, May 1, at the Ready Funeral Home, South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Rd, Burlington, VT.

NEMPTY DESKS

Enrollment in Vermont’s K-12 schools is dropping at an alarming rate. Communities are on their own to deal with the problem.

BY ALISON NOVAK • alison@sevendaysvt.com

ortheast Addison County has an abundance of natural beauty and charm: verdant fields and family-friendly hiking trails, swimming holes and farmstands, and, in its hub of Bristol, a Main Street with eclectic gift shops, a homey brewpub and a stylish locavore café. There are also plenty of public schools: an elementary in each of its small towns and a shared middle and high school.

What the area lacks, though, is children. Twenty-five years ago, the region’s schools, which comprise the Mount Abraham Uniﬁed School District, collectively boasted more than 2,000 students from kindergarten through high school. This year, however, they are down to fewer than 1,200, and a further decline of about 160 students is projected over the next 10 years. Some schools in the district — which draws students from Bristol, Monkton, New Haven and Starksboro — have lost more than 40 percent of their pupils in the past decade alone, according to its superintendent, Patrick Reen.

The decline isn’t conﬁned to rural areas. In Burlington, the state’s biggest population center, school o cials are seeing a similar reduction, if not quite as steep. During the past 20 years, K-12 enrollment in the city’s school district has dipped from 3,528 students to 2,972 — a loss of about 1 in 6 pupils. The slide, which is forecast to continue over the next 10 years, is likely to prompt discussion soon over whether to close one of the district’s six elementary

schools. And Burlington High School, which is in the process of being rebuilt, will reopen in the fall in a state-of-the-art building with a capacity of 1,150 but currently only 850 students to ﬁll it.

What’s happening in these two school districts — one rural, the other urban — represents a wider demographic phenomenon affecting nearly every corner of the state. Vermont is watching young people vanish at an alarming rate. Over the past two decades, public schools

Where are Vermont's young people?

ABOUT THIS SERIES

Seven Days is delving into the far-reaching ramiﬁcations of the declining number of young Vermonters.

Got a tip or feedback? Write to us at genzero@sevendaysvt.com.

have lost more than a quarter of their K-12 students, going from around 98,000 students in fiscal year 2005 to 73,000 in 2025, according to state education data — the result of factors that include falling birth rates and a relatively low flow of immigrants to fill the gap. The state as a whole, meanwhile, added 20,000 people overall during the same period.

The demographic drop-o in public schools has led to a steep rise in the per-pupil cost of educating Vermont’s children and, in turn, to higher property taxes, prompting state leaders to push for major education reform. After months of debate last year, the General Assembly passed Act 73 as the vehicle for enacting those changes. But the reform plan is currently stalled in the Statehouse amid a fresh argument over whether the school district consolidation and funding changes it envisions are the best path forward.

It’s no mystery why Vermont, as a whole, is shedding school-age children. The state, with one of the oldest populations in the country, consistently ranks at the bottom of the list for birth rates. In 2022, 70 percent of Vermont households had just one or two members, and only 16 percent had four or more, according to the Vermont Housing Finance Agency. Despite the overall gain in recent decades, Vermont was one of only ﬁve states that lost population between 2024 and 2025, and at a steeper rate than any other. A chronic shortage of a ordable housing has exacerbated the problem.

Vermont’s dwindling cohort of schoolchildren has been long in the making. While schools elsewhere in the country have witnessed declines since 2019, following decades of growth, the downturn in Vermont began far earlier and is much more severe. Enrollment has remained stable in only a handful of school districts, in communities such as Colchester and South Burlington, which have seen an abundance of new homes built in recent years.

Gov. Phil Scott and Education Secretary Zoie Saunders have argued that consolidating Vermont’s 119 school districts would create a more cost-e ective and higher-quality education system by requiring each district to serve many more students. Others maintain that the solution lies in closing small schools, a wildly unpopular idea in a state that values local control and one that might necessitate building costly regional high schools. Yet another camp believes a less disruptive answer lies in bringing down the costs of big-ticket items such as employee health insurance. This group contends that closing schools in small towns will only hasten further enrollment declines by

Over the past two decades, public schools have lost more than a quarter of their K-12 students.

discouraging young families from settling in those places.

In the absence of a statewide plan to address the issue, individual districts must face the consequences on their own. Meanwhile, the broader, root causes of the slow disappearance of the youngest Vermonters are not likely to be solved anytime soon. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for Vermont’s economic vitality and its workforce and

PICK TWO

There’s a riddle that Reen, the Mount Abe superintendent, likes to pose to people when discussing the state of Vermont schools. Pick two of the following: high-quality education; reasonable tax rates; small districts with lots of small schools. Which do you choose? Despite the state’s best attempts, he says, we can’t have them all.

Reen has tried to balance all three since he took the job in 2016. But it hasn’t been easy.

Early in his tenure, he oversaw the merger of ﬁve town school districts and seven school boards, which had been organized under the umbrella of Addison Northeast Supervisory Union, into one school district served by a single school board. The merger allowed the district to reduce some administrative costs, create more ﬂexibility in sta ng, and provide equal funding and services to the elementary schools, Reen said. But in the years since, enrollment has continued to decline, and the district has been forced to cut sta and scale back services to keep property tax increases at bay.

In an attempt to turn the tide, Reen has advocated for both closing schools within his district and merging with other Addison County districts to create a system that is of higher quality and more a ordable. At every step of the way, though, he has faced resistance. Ahead of a potential closure, for instance, Lincoln residents voted in 2021 to leave Mount Abe and form their own micro school district of around 80 K-6 students; the State Board of Education approved the withdrawal the following year.

Still, Reen has not given up. For the past year, an advisory council of administrators, teachers and support sta has met regularly to design a conﬁguration that works better for students and teachers and costs less. Schools that have lost students aren’t just more expensive to run, Reen said — they often don’t use their space well and have smaller-than-desired class sizes, sometimes with students from multiple grades.

“We’re trying to stretch our dollars further and further, which is a noble idea and a lot easier said than done,” Reen said.

decide which of its communities thrive — and which do not.

Birth rates are “a huge ship, so when they start moving in one direction, it’s really hard to change the direction,” said Peter Nelson, a geography professor at Middlebury College who studies demographics.

“We can work to steer it, to alter the course,” he said, “but it’s very di cult, and it’s going to be very slow.”

The advisory council is now considering three options, two of which would involve closing two of the district’s four elementary schools. Sixth graders would start at Mount Abraham Union Middle and High School, which currently serves grades 7 through 12. Town votes would be required for the district to move forward.

Reen said he understands why communities often forcefully resist closures, but he isn’t convinced that keeping small schools open will prevent further decline.

“I’m not sure the evidence suggests that maintaining small schools is the way to attract families to Vermont, because we just haven’t seen it, and we’ve been utilizing that approach for quite some time,” Reen said.

The state’s education overhaul efforts led to the creation of the Rural School Community Alliance, which advocates for rural schools. But Margaret MacLean, a founding steering committee member, doesn’t agree with Reen. She argues that real damage can be done to communities and students when schools in their towns close. Research shows that closures are particularly detrimental to students of color or those from low-income households, she said.

There are some cases, MacLean acknowledged, where a school might lose so many students that it no longer makes sense to exist. But the burden of districts’ declining enrollment is often placed on small, rural schools rather than trying to make changes across the broader system.

OUT OF OPTIONS

The dilemma of whether to close two small schools in the towns of Calais and Worcester consumed many central Vermont families earlier this month. The debate, and the result of town-wide votes in each place, illustrated the difficulties of making big changes, even at a local level, in the face of declining enrollment and increasing costs.

The elementary schools are two of five in the Washington Central Unified Union School District. Over the past decade, the district has seen a 14 percent decline in enrollment, a trend that is projected to continue over the next 10 years, according to superintendent Steven Dellinger-Pate. The district’s middle and high school, U-32, can accommodate 950 students, but its current enrollment is only 671.

The steep drop has driven the district to a breaking point. In its current configuration, it can’t provide the resources needed to best serve students without sending property taxes skyward, Dellinger-Pate said. Last fall, after extensive deliberation, the administration and school board devised a plan to close the two smallest schools, Calais Elementary and Doty Memorial in Worcester, and to send their students to elementary schools in East Montpelier and Middlesex, respectively. The move, administrators said at the time, would provide appropriately sized classes, a fulltime nurse and librarian at each school, and band and chorus opportunities for older students. The expense of maintaining the five elementary schools, on the other hand, would mean substantially scaling back staff and programs across the district.

I’m not sure the evidence suggests that maintaining small schools is the way to attract families to Vermont, because we just haven’t seen it.

PATRICK REEN

“Closing schools isn’t our favorite option,” Dellinger-Pate said in an interview two weeks before the vote. “The problem is, we have to have kids. And getting more kids is a really slow and arduous process for our state right now. Without a grander plan ... our solutions are very limited.”

Ahead of the vote, a contingent of parents in each town organized efforts to persuade fellow residents to vote “yes” on closure, holding potlucks, writing letters and setting up online resource hubs.

Tara Lee Byrne, a Calais resident with a preschooler and kindergartner, said she’d been convinced by school officials that sending Calais students to East Montpelier would provide her children with more educational and social opportunities.

“Instead of this being a dystopian idea of Calais shuttering, I’m trying to think about what it could become,” Byrne said last month.

Noah Weinstein, a Worcester parent, was torn over how to vote. In the end, he was swayed to support the closure after speaking with a Doty teacher, who told him that the staff there felt “they would not be able to adequately meet the needs of our children under the five elementary school model.” The more robust academics and extracurriculars of a combined school were also a draw.

But he and Byrne were outnumbered. On February 10, residents in both Calais and Worcester voted decisively to keep their elementary schools open.

Since the school budget had already been finalized based on the assumption that there would be three elementary schools next year, administrators will now have to figure out how to spread that money across the larger number of schools.

HOUSING FIRST?

Even two cities in populous Chittenden County — both of which have undertaken expensive school construction projects in recent years — are feeling the pain. Student populations have declined in both Burlington and Winooski schools because of a lack of affordable housing suitable for families and fewer refugees and immigrants coming to the area.

Burlington saw a small enrollment increase — from approximately 3,500 students in 2003 to 3,659 in 2012 — followed by a sharp, 19 percent decline to 2,972 students by 2025.

When Burlington High School closed abruptly in 2020 because of contamination from toxic chemicals known as PCBs and learning was moved to a converted Macy’s department store, a dozen or so families pulled their students from the district and enrolled them in private schools or moved to other towns, according to superintendent Tom Flanagan. But the main reasons there are fewer students in Burlington, he believes, is a one-two punch represented by the state’s low birth rate and a housing shortage for families.

“We don’t have houses that most younger families can afford to live in,” Flanagan said.

A 2020 transplant from Providence, R.I., Flanagan said he was surprised by how expensive homes were in Burlington when he relocated with his family of five. The median single-family home went for $550,000 last year, city data show. In 2024, the median rent for a three-bedroom apartment was nearly $2,300, and rental vacancies were down to 2.2 percent,

Superintendent Steven Dellinger-Pate answering questions at an event in Calais ahead of the closure vote

among the lowest rates in the country. A healthy vacancy rate is around 5 percent.

In recent months, three or four families have told administrators that they were moving because they could no longer afford housing; they’ve appealed to the district to let their children finish the rest of the school year in town.

Miro Weinberger, who served as Burlington’s mayor from 2012 to 2024, said that when he led the city, one of his main concerns was slow housing growth. During his tenure, he said, the city made progress, with an average of 120 new housing units created every year between 2012 and 2021, but much more is needed. That’s the goal of Let’s Build Homes, the new statewide pro-housing coalition he launched last year.

To avoid a future of continued education cuts, Weinberger said, “we need to build more homes of all shapes and sizes for households of all income levels.”

New housing is in the pipeline, including a development in the city’s South End that could ultimately bring 1,400 new units. The first phase calls for 200 studio and single-bedroom apartments.

But those may not accommodate new American families, who tend to live with more people per household. For decades, immigrants have made up a sizable chunk of Burlington’s student population, but fewer are settling in the city, in part because of policies under President Donald Trump that effectively ban refugee resettlement. On top of that, the children of immigrants who arrived 20 years ago are leaving to raise their own families in more affordable communities, often outside of Vermont, Flanagan said.

Despite these challenges, Burlington’s relatively large size has allowed it to absorb population losses more efficiently than smaller places — one of the benefits

that proponents of Act 73 see in the bigger districts envisioned under the law.

As enrollment dropped over the past five years, Flanagan said, the district eliminated about 15 positions. Those employees were able to find other jobs in the district. Burlington has also not seen as large a property tax spike as other school districts with declining enrollment. That’s because of a 2022 law that counts students who are costlier to educate, such as those learning English or living in poverty, as more than one under the state’s current funding formula.

Burlington may need to close one of its six elementary schools in coming years. But that process, too, would be easier in the Queen City than in a more rural place. The decision wouldn’t require voter approval, and, with schools in relatively close proximity, students could get to a new campus without enduring long bus rides.

Nonetheless, the loss of a school is “painful,” Flanagan said, even if it’s the only way to preserve high-quality programming.

Flanagan said he hopes that Burlington’s new $200 million high school, slated to open in the fall, will attract more students, including from outside of Burlington. Vermont has a publicschool choice provision that allows a certain number of students to choose a different high school than the one they are assigned, as long as both districts approve. If Burlington continues to have unused capacity in its new high school, Flanagan said, he’s open to considering partnerships with other districts.

One natural partner would be Burlington’s smaller neighbor, Winooski, which is also feeling the effects of the housing shortage and the slowdown

Barbara McAndrew speaking at a community potluck and discussion about school closure in Calais

in refugee resettlement. In 2019, when voters approved a $57.8 million bond to renovate its school complex, student enrollment was projected to increase by 15 percent over the following decade. But the Winooski district now has several dozen fewer K-12 students than it did when voters passed the bond.

The possibility of a partial answer to its housing woes emerged late last year, when the Champlain Housing Trust submitted a proposal to build 30 affordable units, almost all with three or more bedrooms, on the site of the former Winooski Armory. At a Development Review Board hearing in December, local high school students spoke in favor of the project, sharing that their friends had been forced to leave the city because there was nowhere for them to live. School board vice president Nicole Mace made the case that more students would translate into lower property taxes.

But last month, the review board rejected the proposal, citing potential adverse effects on the city’s wastewater system and the development’s failure to conform to the “character of the area.”

Just a few miles away, the Colchester School District’s five schools are reaping the benefits of a more family-friendly housing landscape. The district experienced a small decline in student population between 2004 and 2011, according to Agency of Education data, but has maintained about 2,100 students since. Superintendent Amy Minor characterized enrollment as “stable and strong.”

Several large housing developments have helped offset the declining birth rate. Two of them, Severance Corners, which broke ground in 2004, and Sunderland Farms, which was approved in 2020, have added hundreds of new one- and twobedroom dwellings with amenities such as dog parks, fitness centers and green space — and both are still expanding.

Hundreds more units are in the pipeline, according to Zachary Maia, development manager of the town’s planning and zoning office. Colchester’s school enrollment is expected to grow by around 100 students in the next five years, according to projections by an outside firm.

That rosy outlook is one of the reasons Minor believes the district was able to pass a $115 million bond in 2024 to improve its aging HVAC and electrical systems and renovate and expand existing school buildings. Stable enrollment has also led to relatively low property tax rates compared to other communities. And while many Vermont districts have struggled at times to pass school budgets, Colchester residents haven’t rejected one since 2014.

NOT A BLIP

The current quest to overhaul Vermont’s education system can be traced to Town Meeting Day 2024, when voters across the state rejected one-third of all school budget proposals. That wave was seen as a taxpayer rebellion against rising costs that ultimately led to bipartisan passage of Act 73 last June.

This year’s Town Meeting Day, on March 3, doesn’t figure to be nearly as dramatic, thanks in part to a state decision to use other money to buy down the property tax rate. But in recent weeks, legislators have begun hammering out a proposal to create a more affordable, equitable and high-quality education system — permanently. Declining enrollment comes up regularly in their deliberations.

The drop in students “isn’t a blip,” said Saunders, the education secretary.

“Ten, 15 years ago, we might have been in a place where we could say, ‘Should we engage in this work?’ Saunders told legislators last week. “I think we’re at a crisis point where it’s not a ‘should’ but a ‘must.’”

Earlier this month, Rep. Peter Conlon (D-Cornwall), chair of the House Education Committee, introduced a prospective map that would carve the state into 27 school districts with between 2,000 and 4,000 students each. Under Conlon’s initial construct, some bigger districts, such as Champlain Valley and Essex Westford, would not be required to combine with others.

Merging smaller districts would enable the resulting school boards to make regional decisions, such as preserving small elementary schools while consolidating upper grades, Conlon said. He called his map a conversation starter, not a fully formed plan.

In testimony before Conlon’s committee last week, Chelsea Myers, executive director of the Vermont Superintendents Association, called the proposed map “an important turning point in the consolidation conversation.” It recognizes “the

We don’t have houses that most younger families can afford to live in.

TOM FLANAGAN

need for greater efficiency and effectiveness in governance and district operations, while not moving so far away from local identity that communities feel disconnected from their schools,” Myers said. She called Vermont’s current mix of supervisory unions “overly complex and increasingly misaligned with declining enrollment.”

Saunders and Gov. Scott, meanwhile, have advocated for larger districts, of up to 8,000 students, which they say would allow money to go further while still providing greater learning opportunities.

Larger districts funded under a so-called foundation formula, in which every district receives the same amount of money per student, Saunders told

lawmakers last week, “can offer more courses, more electives, more programming for students and can better support our educators in improving instruction.”

In the current funding system, school districts can maintain level spending if student enrollment declines, but that decision increases per-pupil spending and, by extension, property tax rates. With a foundation formula, which is proposed in Act 73, school districts that lose students would automatically forfeit the funding for those children. That could spur some schools to close, Saunders acknowledged. But she said having larger districts would create more options for school officials to allocate their resources.

“It’s really important to recognize that right now, school districts are closing schools. Right now, school districts are cutting staff,” Saunders said. “And it’s being done in a way that’s not strategic, and it’s not consistent in terms of how those decisions are made across the state.”

Some superintendents and education experts believe that building more schools may be part of the answer, even amid declining enrollment, by providing an incentive for smaller schools to combine within a new school. Consolidation at the school level, especially among secondary schools, could save more money than combining entire districts, they say.

“You’re going to get a reduction in the spending and an improvement in the quality when you take a high school from graduating 12 kids to graduating 200, or even 100, kids,” said Bruce Baker, a national school funding expert at the University of Miami who grew up in Rutland.

Saunders believes in regional, comprehensive high schools but argues that new governance and funding systems need to be in place before they’re built.

Some Vermont school districts can’t wait. While legislators pore over maps and spreadsheets in the Statehouse, communities are facing the realities of what it means to educate fewer students.

In November, the Taconic and Green Regional School District board voted by a 11-2 margin to close two small elementary schools in Sunderland and Danby. The week before, residents in both towns had said no to closure at the ballot box. But that vote was nonbinding.

And on Town Meeting Day, voters in Marlboro will decide on the fate of their town’s pre-K through 8 school. The school currently serves 53 students, with 3 to 10 students in each grade. Over the next few years, enrollment is expected to drop to 41 children. ➆

Signs urging residents to vote to close Calais Elementary

Host international exchange visitors

Students aged 15-18 Adult Chaperones

All

Striking Discord

Two Upper Valley writers with different ideological backgrounds contribute to a new book aiming to move Americans past the “politics of contempt”

BY KEN PICARD • ken@sevendaysvt.com

Two questions have been gnawing at the American body politic in recent years: How did we get to the point where, it seems, half of the country now hates the other half, and vice versa? And how do we claw our way back to something that resembles normalcy? While politicians and pundits are quick to offer their theories about the first question — often to advance their own agendas — few seem equipped to address the second.

Enter Doug Teschner, Beth Malow and Becky Robinson, authors from across the political spectrum who came together to write a book about how to heal our fractured nation. Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships in Divided Times, published in September, takes on what writer Amanda Ripley once dubbed the “conflict entrepreneurs” — people who fan the flames of division to gain power, influence and profit. But for the Americans who are tired of all the polarization — or the “exhausted majority,” as the authors refer to them — the three writers argue that it’s not too late to build bridges across the political divide, if you know how.

The authors have done so themselves. Teschner, 76, of West Lebanon, N.H., is a former Republican member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives who served as a Peace Corps country director in Ukraine and several African

countries. Dismayed by the divisive state of American politics, he made a New Year’s resolution in January 2024 to write this book.

Malow, 63, of Quechee, is a Long Island native. She grew up in a household that consistently voted Democratic and has spent most of her life in the Northeast. But Malow’s 21 years of living and working as a neurologist in the suburbs of

of her concern over the Trump administration’s policies toward the LGBTQ community, which directly affect her family.

Beyond the Politics of Contempt is the first book of its kind for all three authors and their first collaboration. This is Teschner’s first book; Malow previously wrote a book on solving sleep problems in children with autism; Robinson has written three on how to market books, causes and ideas. Their slim volume offers a mix of bite-size anecdotes from each writer, practical advice for minimizing conflict when discussing controversial subjects and bulleted questions for discussion.

Nashville, Tenn., helped broaden her ideological outlook. She and Teschner met through a New England chapter of Braver Angels, a national nonprofit that works to strengthen American democracy by bringing together people with different worldviews to find their shared values.

Robinson, 55, hails from a conservative evangelical Christian family in the Midwest. A lifelong Republican voter until 2020 now living in Michigan, she signed on to the book project the day after the November 2024 election, in part because

“This book is not about ‘kumbaya’ and compromise,” they write. “Disagreement and conflict are an inevitable part of democratic governance ... The problem is when those disagreements cross over into unhealthy conflict, demonizing people with different views. We need to respect those who disagree with us, to honor each person’s humanity.”

Seven Days spoke to Teschner and Malow recently by video call.

Do you think there’s something inherent in human nature or brain evolution that makes us want to choose sides?

BETH MALOW: I do. I’m a neurologist and was drawn into neurology because of these kinds of questions. Anthropology tells us that we needed to protect ourselves and our tribe, and this tendency

Beth Malow

Doug Teschner

extends into modern life: How do you ﬁt in with your group and make sure you’re all thinking the same way? We’ll often look at a news article or issue and impulsively ask ourselves, Is this idea consistent with my tribe or not? Does this ﬁt in with what I’m supposed to think as a Democrat or a Republican? It’s a very strong force.

DOUG TESCHNER: It’s human nature to protect myself and also want to reach out to other people, connect with them and show them kindness. Humans represent both sides of that coin. But what we’re seeing now is how certain factors — in particular, social media and the “conﬂict entrepreneurs” — are exploiting that division. It gets drummed into our heads, and we go down these rabbit holes on social media. People are more siloed than they’ve ever been. But when you get people to sit in a room together and talk to one another, there’s a lot less division.

How do we ﬁnd common ground when Americans live in completely different information ecosystems and can’t even agree on the most basic facts of what happened today?

BM: This is the No. 1 question we get. What I feel, and what Braver Angels has taught us, is that even though we don’t agree on the facts, if we dig deeper there are usually values that we agree on. During COVID, some people didn’t go for the vaccines and didn’t believe they were safe. Some people said, “Everybody has to be vaccinated.” Others asked, “Why are we closing the schools and businesses?” When you dig beneath the surface and really try to get at what we have in common, it’s about protecting the health of their family and community.

It’s OK to listen to people who tell you why they think the Earth is ﬂat. It doesn’t mean that you agree with them. You’re simply giving them the respect to say, “I’m listening to you.” Afterwards, you can tell them why you think the world is not ﬂat and do it in a way that’s not, “You’re stupid.”

DT: When I talk to people and they say, “I can’t talk to ‘those people’ because they don’t agree on the facts,” that’s a really dangerous point of view. You’ve got to be willing to talk to people. Where’s this going? Is your goal civil war? Because I don’t know what the other alternatives are.

Increasingly, Americans live in ideological bubbles. Eighty-ﬁve percent of Congressional seats are either solidly Democrat or solidly Republican. How do we address this siloed reality?

BM: Actually, I sometimes ﬁnd it harder to talk to progressives than conservatives, even though I’m more moderately left. It’s so

easy to go along with your tribe. Sometimes when I’ve questioned things, people will look at me like I’m a traitor: “Beth, it’s great that you’re such a nice person. But don’t you realize that this is a moral issue and the world is on ﬁre?” But this is how we put the ﬁre out: by talking to people.

What if the opposition doesn’t respect your rights or even your humanity and their views and policies are laced with racism, antisemitism or authoritarian tendencies?

DT: You have to start by talking to people as individuals. We all make quick assumptions about people and lump them into categories. Look at the person across from you and tease that out: Is that really true?

We’ve always had disagreements about policy — and we should. If you want your side to win, you’ve got to create a climate where people are thinking, OK, that guy is kind of reasonable. I might not agree with him, but he’s reasonable. Instead, we’ve gotten ourselves into camps where we say, “Those people are stupid, evil and dangerous.”

BM: In chapter 3, Doug wrote about Derek Black [now Adrianne Black, whose father, Don Black, is the founder of the far-right website Stormfront and godson of former Ku Klux Klan grand wizard David Duke]. These Jewish students at New College of Florida invited Black to their shabbat dinners, and they developed a relationship. Eventually, Black wrote an article renouncing white nationalism. So I’m of the ilk of, if you really want to give people a chance — even if your tribe thinks they’re racist, antisemitic or whatever — it’s not about being nice. It’s about being smart and pragmatic.

Do your positions of privilege ever blind you to the challenges that others, especially people of color, face when speaking to their political opponents?

BM: I’ve felt that a lot, even though I’m a woman and Jewish. I hate the term “privilege,” but I’ve had advantages. And I’m in a position where I have the ability to speak out and talk about the importance of bringing people together. Maybe it’s easier for me, but that’s why I’m doing this work. Every day I think about the issues you’re raising, asking: Is there a red line for people we cannot talk to?

Some issues are moral, and some issues aren’t moral but have been spun up by the media and conﬂict entrepreneurs to make us think that they’re moral.

DT: I agree. I have had enormous advantages, as I write in the book. But the use of language is critical. We have to be really careful with certain words, like “privilege.” It’s a normal word in English that’s taken on a new meaning, like “woke.” There’s a Braver Angels language guide, which includes words to be wary of. I’m not saying there isn’t privilege. Of course there’s privilege! I have enormous privilege. But some words have become charged in a way that turn people o .

Tell me about the work you’ve done with state legislatures.

DT: Braver Angels has an initiative, called Braver Politics, that’s done six workshops with the New Hampshire legislature. There’s now a caucus, called the Granite Bridge Legislative Alliance, whose steering committee is made up of three Republicans and three Democrats. The focus is on relationships. We’re not even talking about politics. The goal is: Let’s get to know each other better.

BM: I got to do these workshops where the Republicans and Democrats got together and realized that they have shared values, and they started doing things like going to baseball games together. We did workshops on how to deal with angry constituents, which is a common issue.

I did another workshop in Connecticut where it was two-to-one Democrats. Afterward, one of the Republicans commented about how good it felt to work across the aisle. They were meeting people they’d never met before. We’re hoping to make similar strides with the Vermont legislature. So it’s starting to happen, but it’s not easy. ➆

This interview was edited for clarity and length.

INFO

Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships in Divided Times by Doug Teschner, Beth Malow and Becky Robinson, Together Across Differences, 302 pages. $19.95.

Cannabis has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For use by individuals 21 years of age or older or registered qualifying patient only. KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN AND PETS. DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING. Possession or use of cannabis may carry significant legal penalties in some jurisdictions and under federal law. It may not be transported outside of the state of Vermont. The effects of edible cannabis may be delayed by two hours or more. Cannabis may be habit forming and can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Persons 25 years and younger may be more likely to experience harm to the developing brain. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product. National Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

food+drink Culture Club

At Fun With Ferments meetups in Burlington, fans of kimchi, kvass and kombucha unite

BY MELISSA PASANEN • pasanen@sevendaysvt.com

The first rule of Fermentation Club is: You must try your homefermented food or drink at least 24 hours before sharing it with others. And, unlike in that movie-famous club also starting with an F, the second rule of Fermentation Club is: You should absolutely talk about it. In fact, as far as club founder Cheyanne Rico is concerned, the more members spread the word about the delights of fermentation, the better. Every fermentation project “is like a science experiment,” Rico explained, as time and microbial cultures break down ingredients such as milk into yogurt or cabbage into sauerkraut. “It’s fun to tinker and see what works, [to] watch something transform into something else — often something more ﬂavorful and better for your gut,” the 30-year-old Burlington resident said. “I think of it as biological alchemy.”

Rico’s Burlington Fermentation Club is one manifestation of the current enthusiasm for fermented, or cultured, food and drink. From hard cider to sourdough bread, people are intrigued — but sometimes intimidated — by the ancient culinary traditions that can produce deliciously tangy, funky ﬂavors but also occasionally risk contamination with unhealthy forms of mold. Collective know-how helps.

Rico ﬁrst joined a fermentation club at her local food co-op on the southern coast of Oregon. After moving to Portland, Maine, for her work in natural resources and agriculture, she launched a similar club there.

“It was a way to bring fermentation back into my life and to build community,” she said.

When Rico relocated to Vermont in August 2024, she again resolved to make friends through fermentation. She hosted her ﬁrst Fun With Ferments meetup at Queen City Brewery in January 2025, spreading the word online and in person.

Rico struck up a conversation with Westin Reavis, for example, at a Burlington bookstore when she noticed he was buying books on fermentation. Reavis and his partner, Liz Getty, are now devoted club members. Getty, who owns the Burlington home-based bakery Getty Goods & Services, taught a sourdough workshop that brought 15 people to the November meeting.

Monthly meetups usually take the form of a tasting potluck and generally draw about half that number. Anybody is welcome to join the free gatherings, held on the ﬁrst Monday of the month at Queen City Brewery. Regardless of their level of fermentation experience, all are encouraged — though not required — to bring their own experiments or favorite store-bought ferments to share.

Rico, Reavis and Getty were among six at the February 2 meeting. A hightop table tucked in a back corner of the taproom held the fermented fruits of the group’s labor, from a neophyte’s inaugural batch of kimchi to a professional chef’s chocolate-dipped, maple-fermented mushrooms.

The spread included a bottle of deep purple kvass — an eastern European drink made with beets — and crackers featuring the fermented rice solids left after brewing

FOOD LOVER?

Cheyanne Rico’s ferments at Queen City Brewery in Burlington

DARIA BISHOP MELISSA

Burlington Fermentation Club

SIDEdishes

SERVING UP FOOD NEWS

Jones’ Donuts & Bakery in Rutland Sold in Its 103rd Year

A century-old Rutland institution known for its classic doughnuts has new owners as of January 20. Brothers GABE and CHRIS TURIELLO and Chris’ partner, MAIKE MUNDEN, bought JONES’ DONUTS & BAKERY at 23 West Street from LYNN and WALT MANNEY, who had owned it for more than a decade.

Gabe, 38, said the trio paid the asking price of $675,000, which includes the building. They plan no major changes, he added, but have started o ering doughnut specials and slightly expanded weekend hours.

“We are very aware of what this place means to the community,” Gabe said of the bakery, which was founded in 1923. “We just want to add to it.”

The Turiellos grew up in New Jersey, traveling frequently to ski in Vermont, mostly at Killington. Gabe moved from New York City to the Rutland area during the pandemic and continued working remotely in video production and marketing. Chris, 36, and Munden, 32, have many years of experience in the hospitality industry and were interested in relocating from Colorado to open a restaurant. Feeling ready for a career shift, Gabe recalled, he decided to partner with them.

When Gabe saw that Jones’ Donuts was for sale, he was immediately intrigued. “It felt much less scary to do this with an established, proven business than starting a totally new concept,” he said.

Chris and Munden will work on-site with the team of eight employees whom

From left: Chris Turiello, Maike Munden and Gabe Turiello

sake. To spread on the crackers or on flatbread leavened partly with koji, a Japanese starter used in miso and soy, there was cultured butter from Ploughgate Creamery in North Bennington and a cheese-like spread made from miso and hazelnuts.

processing. Cultured staples from around the world include South Indian steamed idli rice-and-lentil cakes, West African gari made from cassava, the Central Asian mare’s milk known as koumiss, and Italian prosciutto.

had salted and fermented cremini mushrooms, soaked them in maple syrup, dehydrated them and then coated them in dark chocolate. Crisp chocolate shells yielded to savory-sweet morsels of chewy, umami-rich mushroom.

“It’s so nerdy,” Rico admitted.

“It’s so cool!” Getty said, proving Rico had found her people.

Rico had also brought a large jar of pickled green tomatoes made by a coworker who could not attend the meeting. Her colleague had tried them the day before, though Rico — the tomatoes’ meeting “sponsor,” so to speak — acknowledged she had only tasted them a few hours earlier. “You’re still alive,” club member Ian McCallum-Cook said with an encouraging smile.

Even a food professional in the group had things to learn from the poster. “I didn’t know that vanilla beans were fermented,” said Eric Hodet, executive chef of Adventure Dinner, an event and catering operation with headquarters in Colchester.

By contrast, James Harig of South Burlington was sharing his first-ever venture into home fermentation. He set expectations low for his large jar of cabbage kimchi, dark red with Korean chile flakes. Harig cautioned the group that he had found it only “slightly palatable” and too salty.

“I’m curious what others think,” he said. “I brought the recipe so people could help me figure out what’s wrong.”

Hodet, an avid fermenter, had brought the most unusual treat to share. Following a method from the groundbreaking Copenhagen restaurant Noma, the chef

Everyone tasted the kimchi and chewed thoughtfully. Some thought it was fine and would mellow a bit as it

McCallum-Cook was sipping a Queen City beer, a category of fermented beverages subject to another club rule: In accordance with state liquor licensing regulations, participants may not bring home-fermented alcohol to meetings at the brewery. (The group did have one off-site meeting at a member’s home that featured a range of beverages, from dandelion wine to Mexican pineapple tepache to homebrewed beer.)

Snack on the ﬂavorful food coverage. It’ll hold you over until Wednesday.

BITE-CLUB NEWSLETTER for a taste of this week’s

SUBSCRIBE AT sevendaysvt.com/enews

But even with BYO alcohol off-limits, fermented options remained plentiful, as evidenced by a newly acquired poster Rico shared with the group. Her excitement bubbled as vigorously as an active ferment as she showed off the “Periodic Table of Fermented Foods” developed by Michael Gänzle of the University of Alberta.

The range of diagrammed foods and drinks was much broader than the average person might expect. Tea, coffee and chocolate are all fermented during

Culture Club « P.34

Cheyanne Rico (center) at the Burlington Fermentation Club meetup

PHOTOS: MELISSA PASANEN

The ferment potluck

aged. Others suggested adding cabbage to balance the salt. Rico proposed using it in soup, where the salt would be diluted. She also noted that one of her recipes, the crackers made with lees from a Massachusetts sake brewery, hadn’t come out as she’d hoped. “I need to tinker with it,” she said, “and probably roll them thinner.”

As the meeting wrapped up, Rico mentioned that she hoped some members might pitch in at a fermentation table planned for the February 28 Burlington Winter Farmers Market. The club will provide salt, clean jars and equipment to make sauerkraut. The event is BYOC (bring your own cabbage), ideally bought at the market. Rico added that she could also use help hosting a club information

food+drink

similar to a seed swap, to which people bring bags or jars of whatever culture they’d like to share. Those could include a kombucha SCOBY, a ginger beer bug or a vinegar mother. Last year, Irish recounted, someone brought 10 bags of her great-grandmother’s century-old sourdough starter with a sheet detailing its history.

Irish built Pitchfork Pickle from her own home experiments trying to put cosmetically imperfect local produce to good use. She’s tickled to see so many people become fermentation enthusiasts.

In addition to Burlington Fermentation Club, Irish said, a University of Vermont club will table at Ferment Fest. She has heard of a similar group at Saint Michael’s College, too. The more clubs, the merrier,

I THINK OF IT AS BIOLOGICAL ALCHEMY.

CHEYANNE RICO

table at the fourth annual Ferment Fest, to be held at the Soda Plant in Burlington on March 21.

The team at the Soda Plant business Pitchfork Pickle organizes Ferment Fest, which has drawn increasing numbers of fermentation fans every year. Although attendance isn’t tracked, Pitchfork Pickle owner Julia Irish acknowledged that the event has “blown up,” a testament to interest in fermented food and drink. She attributed that partly to the pandemicprompted sourdough baking craze.

The festival’s goal, Irish said, is to help “people realize how much of our food and other things in our lives are fermented — like indigo dye — and how much of that is being done in Vermont.”

The event will include an indigo demonstration and a starter swap,

SWITCH TO SQUARE AND STAY LOCAL . Square POS with local setup and support.

SWITCH TO SQUARE AND STAY LOCAL .

Square POS with local setup and support.

SWITCH TO SQUARE AND STAY LOCAL . Square POS with local setup and support.

Irish believes — all the better to share knowledge and cultivate fermented food fervor.

“I love when people walk in [to Pitchfork Pickle] and say, ‘I make my own. I don’t need yours,’” Irish said. ➆

INFO

Burlington Fermentation Club meets the first Monday of every month at Queen City Brewery in Burlington. The club will host a make-your-own sauerkraut table at the Burlington Winter Farmers Market on Saturday, February 28, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at Burlington Beer. Follow @btv.ferments on Instagram for more information.

Fourth annual Ferment Fest, Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Soda Plant in Burlington. Learn more at pitchforkpickle.com.

Serving Vermont since 2008.

www.burlingtonbankcard.com Call or text: 802-578-9536 Serving Vermont since 2008.

Serving Vermont since 2008.

www.burlingtonbankcard.com Call or text: 802-578-9536

Cheyanne Rico

Stay Awhile

In the new Burlington Square, Jitters Café & Lounge buzzes all day

STORY & PHOTOS BY JORDAN BARRY jbarry@sevendaysvt.com

There are immediate signs that a coffee shop is hospitable toward the laptop-toting student and remote-work crowd: It’s big, it’s got outlets, and the Wi-Fi password is easy to find.

Jitters Café & Lounge in Burlington checks those boxes. The cosmopolitan allday café sprawls through the ground-floor corner unit of downtown’s new Burlington Square, which rises triumphantly from what was known as “the Pit.” Of its 75-plus seats, some are luxe couches; others are small tables hidden in a back hallway. Internet info is prominently displayed on a whiteboard behind the register, and in just a quick glance I spied half a dozen places to plug in. Jitters’ owners and friendly staff seem to want people to linger, and they have an allday menu that encourages multiple meals.

For breakfast and lunch, that menu is a carbon copy of the reliable one at Jitters Café in Melrose, Mass., opened 13 years ago by University of Vermont alum Tim LaPrade. When the Burlington spot launched on December 23, it added a full bar and a rotating “bar bites” menu, too.

“The one in Melrose is more mom-andpop,” LaPrade said. “We built everything ourselves, learned how to lay tile, hang cabinets, all of that. Going into [Burlington Square], we knew we needed to step up.”

“We get this fun extra bit,” co-owner and general manager Sierra Beardsworth said of the additional offerings, which currently include nachos ($12) and a smash burger ($14). Last week, bar manager Abbey Haas launched a full menu of espresso martinis ($15 to $16; $22 for a flight of three) befitting the Jitters name. Like the shop’s elaborately flavored specialty lattes, they’re made with coffee from Atomic Coffee Roasters in Beverly, Mass.

“Any time of the day, we’ve got what you need,” Beardsworth said. “It’s a place for everybody.”

Beardsworth, a 17-year restaurant industry vet, was most recently assistant manager at EB Strong’s Prime Steakhouse on Church Street in Burlington. She met her husband, Niko, while working at South Burlington’s Windjammer Restaurant & Upper Deck Pub; he’s now the Windjammer’s general manager as well as a co-owner of Jitters with his wife and two college friends, LaPrade and George Martin.

As the day-to-day point person, Beardsworth said she’s already seeing regulars from the new building’s apartments, nearby businesses and the construction crew working on the tower next door.

The constant availability of Jitters’ four

types of avocado toast ($11.50 to $12.50) and 14 pressed panini options ($13 to $14.50) should appeal to guests staying in the building’s AC Hotel Burlington, whose travel schedules can mean odd mealtimes. But it’s a bonus for locals, too, Beardsworth

said: In the café’s first six weeks, there have been a number of evening DoorDash orders for build-your-own breakfast sandwiches. I stopped in recently for a more predictable noontime lunch. As I unpacked my laptop at a sunny high-top seat and waited for a friend, I watched the Olympics on a TV hung on the emerald green-tiled wall behind the bar.

My choice of a tuna melt ($14) might have been subconsciously influenced by the games — or, more accurately, “Heated Rivalry.” The hot Canadian hockey show has done wonders for the old-school sandwich’s popularity.

But Jitters’ version has always been surprisingly popular, LaPrade later told me. “I never envisioned that tuna would be one of our bestsellers,” he said, noting that it’s not overly mayo-y, like some can be. I appreciated the tuna’s tangy pop of pickles and an added smoky, salty crunch from thick slices of bacon, all stacked high on nicely toasted wheat.

Some may write off Jitters as a could-beanywhere hotel café, and there is something unusual — for Burlington — in its swanky appearance. But the Queen City needs more places to hang out, and the Jitters crew is happy to oblige. And isn’t an espresso martini on a comfy couch more pleasant than an empty pit? ➆

INFO

Jitters Café & Lounge, 130 Bank St., Suite 105, Burlington, 540-3070, jitters-cafe.com

Tuna melt and a Bitter Bubble seltzer

Sierra Beardsworth at Jitters Café & Lounge

SIDEdishes

they retained. Gabe will focus on administration and marketing.

The mainstays of Jones’ menu — classic glazed, maple-glazed, Boston cream, and raspberry-and-creamfilled doughnuts — will not change, Gabe said. “The recipes have been the same, as far as we know, for over 100 years,” he said. “We’re not touching that.”

The new owners are experimenting with specials, such as maple-bacon glazed doughnuts and a cinnamon-sugar cake doughnut sliced in half and sandwiched with fluffy maple cream.

MELISSA PASANEN

Saffron by Dodo’s Kitchen Brings a New Indian Menu to Stowe

SADANANDA HIRA is launching a new, takeout-only Indian restaurant in Unit 5 of 151 Main Street in Stowe. Hira, 31, said he will open SAFFRON BY DODO’S KITCHEN on February 20, serving northern Indian dishes such as chicken tikka masala, butter chicken and vegetable pakora.

Saffron replaces Raja Restaurant, which offered Indian and Nepali food. Hira said he named his new business for the nickname, Dodo, that he gave his young niece after the extinct bird.

This is Hira’s second Vermont restaurant venture. In January 2025, he took over Montpelier’s CAFÉ NOA with his cousin AMIT MOJUMDAR. The pair grew up together in Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, in West Bengal. Hira studied hospitality and hotel administration for three years in India before moving to the U.S. to work in the restaurant sector.

Hira said Saffron will also offer recipes and ingredients from his home region, such as Bengali-style salmon with coconut curry and the sweet rice pudding called kheer, made with aromatic gobindobhog rice from West Bengal.

“I want to take this opportunity to serve people our home food,” Hira said.

Saffron by Dodo’s Kitchen does not

CONNECT

Jordan Barry: @jordankbarry; Melissa Pasanen: @mpasanen.

yet have a website, but orders can be placed at 760-6685.

M.P.

Crumbs: King Arthur Baking Expands to Virginia; Southern Smoke Expands to Italian

KING ARTHUR BAKING fans outside Vermont will soon have a new permanent retail location to visit.

Unlike the Norwich company’s previous seasonal pop-ups around the U.S., the forthcoming year-round location in the Washington, D.C., area will include a baking school modeled after its Vermont flagship. Several Alexandria, Va., outlets reported the news on February 5; the company first mentioned it in a social media comment on January 30.

King Arthur’s second location will open in Alexandria’s Old Town neighborhood in late summer. Its current pop-up shop in Fairfax, Va., will remain open through June, and a pop-up in Denver, Colo., has extended its run through the end of 2026.

Also growing are the offerings from SOUTHERN SMOKE’s commercial kitchen in Winooski. Chef-owner BRIAN STEFAN will launch STEFANO’S RUSTIC NORTH COUNTRY ITALIAN, a separate catering company, this week.

Stefan has run Southern Smoke, his Cajun and Caribbean food truck and catering business, since 2011. The new Stefano’s will have options for pickup, delivery, large parties and weddings, Stefan said. He’ll also take the biz on the road, serving dishes such as eggplant piccata, porchetta on housemade focaccia and Chicago Italian beef sandwiches — like the signature dish in the popular television show “The Bear” — from one of his food trucks at events this summer.

“We’re branching out [simply] because I miss making Italian food,” Stefan told Seven Days. The New Jersey native said he grew up working in kitchens that “had Italian influence no matter what they served,” and he once ran an Italian restaurant in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Stefano’s will focus on “wellexecuted classics with local ingredients,” Stefan said, such as simple red sauce with garlic and fresh basil and “cozy baked dishes,” including lasagna and cavatappi mac and cheese. Learn more at stefanovt.com.

JORDAN BARRY

Cioppino from Brian Stefan of Stefano’s Rustic North Country Italian

Fresh-baked baguettes at King Arthur Baking

Sadananda Hira at Saffron by Dodo’s Kitchen

BOOKS

Lessons in Chemistry

Book review: Luminous Bodies: A Novel of Marie Curie, Devon Jersild

BY MARGOT HARRISON • margot@sevendaysvt.com

In November 1911, Marie Curie was e ectively canceled. A French newspaper published the groundbreaking physicist’s private correspondence with colleague Paul Langevin, a married man with whom she’d been having an a air. Xenophobic caricatures of Curie appeared on front pages. With the scandal at fever pitch, the Swedish Academy begged Curie not to come to Stockholm to accept her second Nobel Prize — the one she’d earned solo, without her late husband — in person. None of this was mentioned when we learned about the “First Great Woman in STEM” in elementary school. But the lowest moment of Curie’s reputation is the starting point of Luminous Bodies: A Novel of Marie Curie, a historical novel by Weybridge resident Devon Jersild that delves into the scientist’s life of the mind and the body.

To follow an elite calling in an era when few women even held professorships, Curie minimized her femininity and emphasized her intellect. “In science, the mind really has no sex,” she asserts in the novel. But

the pioneer who discovered radium and radioactivity was also a wife, a daughter, a mother and a lover. Debut novelist Jersild, a psychotherapist and winner of the O. Henry Award for her short ﬁction, brings all those aspects of Curie alive for the reader. Through her subject, she o ers a vibrant portrait of the conﬂicts facing women in the public eye that still resonates today.

The story opens in 1912, as Marie ﬁnds

FROM LUMINOUS BODIES

refuge on the English coast with her friend Hertha Ayrton, a fellow scientist and su ragette. Public harassment has taken a toll on Marie’s mental and physical health, and she dreads returning to her university post in Paris. At a crossroads, she travels back in memory to her ﬁrst meeting with Langevin — her beloved husband’s protégé — and from there to the rest of her unlikely journey.

Jersild narrates this lively story in

I like to linger over the details of my early discoveries in science in the same way that, in the weeks just after, I rehearsed every moment of Irène’s birth. Each of these happenings was a small rift in the universe that let me into a chasm of possibility, mesmerizing, glorious. After Irène, when I woke up in the mornings, I would call back to mind the ﬁrst tugs of contractions, like intense menstrual cramps, but a good, promising ache. en amniotic ﬂuid dripping down my legs, its faint, sweet smell. en contractions in massive swells, and learning to surrender, the pain peaking, intensifying, and passing through me, and coming back around. It was the pushing that most surprised me — not my own, but the force that muscled the baby from my body, and I pushed with it, because the pain was splitting me apart, and I needed to get this child out of me. And then she was there: an astonishing blue-and-red creature, squalling — a whole new sound in the universe. e timeless had somehow pushed into time and found a place for itself. It was like that with radioactivity. I had the wondrous sensation that I, an ordinary mortal, had been received into awareness of primordial forces.

Marie’s brisk, no-nonsense first person with painterly touches of lyricism. The daughter of a progressive schoolmaster, raised in Poland under repressive Russian rule, young Marie Sklodowska absorbs the credo that “only knowledge could free us,” Jersild writes. “Not violence, not grand speeches, just the slow stubborn work of the mind.”

But if she craves knowledge, this motherless girl also craves love. Marie nearly marries her first boyfriend before following her original plan of seeking higher education in Paris. There, she finds satisfaction for both needs in her scientific

JERSILD NARRATES IN MARIE’S BRISK, NONONSENSE FIRST PERSON WITH PAINTERLY TOUCHES OF LYRICISM.

mentor, Pierre Curie, who becomes her husband in 1895.

Shortly after the birth of her ﬁrst daughter, Marie begins the dissertation research that will lead to the discovery of radium. Her work soon absorbs Pierre as well, and in 1903, they receive a joint Nobel. But grief also shapes Marie’s life — a miscarriage, followed by Pierre’s 1906 death in a road accident.

Jersild writes movingly of Marie’s love for her gentle, egalitarian husband; her prolonged mourning; and her eventual struggle with her dawning feelings for Paul, who begins as her steadfast friend and collaborator. Even more illustrative of the author’s nuanced approach is her depiction of Marie’s troubled relationship with Jeannette, Paul’s wife, who could easily have been a stereotypical foil.

Rather than viewing this more traditional woman with suspicion, Marie initially approaches Jeannette as she does the rest of the world, with empathy and curiosity. “I liked the pulse of her femininity, which was a calling for her, and the spell she cast with her ﬂattering attention,” Jersild writes. But the “blissful calamity” of Marie’s feelings for Paul puts the two women on a collision course, and Jeannette will eventually hound her and paint her as a harlot in the press. Only later does Marie begin to peel the toxic onion that is Paul and Jeannette’s marriage and to grasp her lover’s culpability along with her own.

Devon Jersild

The Goddard Spark Brings Eclectic Courses Back to Plainfield Campus

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG • maryann@sevendaysvt.com

Goddard’s getting its groove back.

Six courses will be offered in April on the Plainfield campus of Goddard College, the tiny, alternative liberal arts school that closed in 2024. Although the school is not reopening, the weekend-long program is designed to revive its culture as a collaborative learning environment that cultivates creativity, critical thought and unusual courses of study.

Class offerings include “Star Trek as America’s Self Portrait,” “Engaging the Steelband as a Vehicle for Activism” and “Threads of Protest: Fabriculture as a Site of Resistance.” They run Friday through Sunday, April 10 to 12, and registration is open now.

The endeavor, called the Goddard Spark, is a pilot for the lifelong educational program that operators hope to establish, according to founder and director Adam Myers. Execusuite, a Lebanon, N.H., real estate development company, bought the 130-acre campus in 2024. Education is a “very important” component of the company’s vision for the property, officially known as Goddard Campus, Tim Sidore wrote in an email. Sidore, chief of operations for the Execusuite division that owns Goddard Campus, said the property is designed to be an extension of downtown Plainfield. It is home to performing arts events, a restaurant, permanent and hospitality-style housing, and several nonprofits.

Myers, a 2024 Goddard alum, said he proposed the idea of an education program to Execusuite “because Goddard matters,” he said. “For me, it was life-changing.”

Rather than choose from a list of majors, Goddard allowed students to develop their curriculum with instructors. Myers, 29, had long harbored a dream of creating an ethical entertainment production company that puts artists first. His two earlier attempts to earn a college degree had failed. “I went to Goddard, and they weren’t rolling their eyes,” he said. “They were saying … ‘What does that look like? How do we get there?’” In the course of his studies, he said, his political and intellectual awareness expanded as well.

“Everybody I talk to who went to

Goddard loves Goddard because of how it made them a deeper, richer person,” Myers said. Former students, who include actor William H. Macy, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Mamet, and Phish band members Trey Anastasio, Jon Fishman and Page McConnell, are “imbued with a certain spark of something deeper, something that isn’t just I got a degree,” Myers said. It’s “something more transformative than that. And that spark was what I wanted to make sure survived.”

Three Goddard graduates are among the Goddard Spark faculty. Writer and translator Mordecai Martin began publishing his writing as a Goddard undergrad. Now living in Mexico, he translates Hebrew and Yiddish into English. In April, he’ll teach a course called “De-Mystifying Translation as Writing Practice.” Georgie Darling, creative director at Spire, a Hinesburg company that teaches decision-making for high-stakes situations, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees at Goddard and will teach “AC/DC: How to Rock at Adaptive Leadership.” And Kat Gordon, an alum, former Goddard staffer and fiber artist, will lead a “Threads of Protest” class that explores why textile crafts provide marginalized groups an opportunity to connect and organize.

Other instructors include Emily Lanxner of Hardwick, whose Honeybee Steelband promotes pollinator protection. Lanxner’s class will explore the historical relationship of steel band and social activism in Trinidad. Adam Hughes, of the 50-year-old Tennessee group Statewide Organizing for Community eMpowerment, will teach “Introduction to Community Organizing.” And Jessie Earl, better known as YouTuber Jessie Gender, will teach the “Star Trek” class.

Each student may take two courses. The full-weekend package, which includes lodging, meals and tuition, costs $350. Meals and tuition without lodging are $156.96. ➆

Learn more at goddardspark-org. us.stackstaging.com.

Goddard College campus

Northern Stage Buys Former VFW Post to Expand Its Offerings

BY KEN PICARD • ken@sevendaysvt.com

The curtain is rising on the next act for Northern Stage: a new venue that will greatly expand its ability to host theatrical productions and year-round educational programs. The professional theater company in White River Junction announced earlier this month that it had purchased the building right behind its home in the Barrette Center for the Arts.

Northern Stage wasn’t in the market for new digs but has been tight on space for years, according to Carol Dunne, the company’s producing artistic director. The main stage and two tiny classrooms in Barrette are heavily scheduled, with events happening there nearly every day.

So when the Veterans of Foreign Wars post next door closed last fall and went on the market, the theater company jumped at the opportunity to buy the building. Managing director Jason Smoller described the hall as “lovingly taken care of by the VFW.”

“We walked into the building and said to each other, ‘Oh, my goodness! We don’t have to do anything!’” Smoller recalled. The 8,000-square-foot space includes a 3,000-square-foot dance floor with a stage, a beautifully maintained bar, and about 4,000 square feet of storage space for costumes, props and set pieces. Northern Stage will continue to operate its main stage

in the Barrette. The new theater will be able to seat about 150 people in various configurations.

“We want it to be that funky, cool space where we do plays that we’ve always wanted to do but we couldn’t put on the main stage” because they were edgier or more avant-garde, Dunne said.

The nonprofit company purchased the VFW hall for $800,000 with a bank loan, reserve funds and “not insignificant philanthropic support,” Smoller said. Despite the building’s good condition, several months of renovations are needed, including a new sprinkler system to bring the building up to code. Once Northern Stage adds theatrical lighting and a fresh coat of paint, the as-yet-unnamed venue should be ready to host productions and camps by summer. Northern Stage serves about 250 kids ages 6 to 18, as well as college students, throughout the year.

“What this building does for us is it gives our education program a home,” Smoller said. In fact, the first scheduled production in the new theater will be a musical performed by elementary and middle school students.

Northern Stage’s new theater is only the latest evidence of its real estate expansion. As Seven Days reported in September, the company completed construction last fall on 18 new apartments that can house as many as two dozen visiting artists and staff who come to White River Junction for traveling productions.

“We’re just growing,” Smoller added, noting that the company routinely sells out its shows. “To us, that’s everything. It means we matter to the community.” ➆

INFO

Learn more at northernstage.org.

Lessons in Chemistry

Writing about science and scientists tempts even the best of novelists to deploy potentially facile metaphors — love decaying like radioactive matter, destiny as elusive quantum particles — and Jersild doesn’t eschew these. When Marie describes feeling known and loved by Pierre, she calls the sensation “as potent as radium, and as miraculous.” But the author makes these flights of fancy sound convincing in Marie’s voice, and she doesn’t neglect to give us solid and straightforward explanations of her day-to-day lab work.

Some of the imaginative connections Jersild draws have a subversive potency. Recalling her “early days of starting out as a mother and a scientist,” Marie notes that women like her are often considered “anti-natural” and “doubly disqualified” from scientific work by the demands of motherhood. However, as she talks with Hertha, “we begin to wonder if this is the whole story. If some of what we have achieved is not in spite of, but because of, being mothers.”

In the memorable passage that follows (see sidebar on page 40), Marie compares the experience of giving birth to that of scientific discovery, daring to revel in her life as a luminous body rather than downplay it in favor of a sexless notion of genius. It’s a bold statement, even now.

Perhaps the real Marie Curie would have been more cautious and conservative in her thinking. When she received the 1911 letter asking her to stay home from the Nobel Prize ceremony, she replied that there was “no connection between my scientific work and the facts of my private life” — a necessary position for a woman trying to repair her reputation.

Curie braved public disapproval to show up and accept that prize, though. And the subsequent upheaval of World War I helped bury the scandal and vindicate her legacy. Using her discoveries to treat wounded soldiers, she transformed from a fallen icon into the celebrated figure we all know.

With this light-footed yet deeply thoughtful novel, Jersild reminds us that the greatest minds are indivisible from human bodies and foibles — and gives us a surprisingly relevant heroine for today. ➆

INFO

For the past ﬁve years, Maria Brown has been living her childhood dream at Hey June in Richmond. Brown sells cards, notebooks and more at her stationery store and letterpress studio but also makes connections with community members. Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger met some regulars and saw the letterpress in action.

Luminous Bodies: A Novel of Marie Curie by Devon Jersild, Paul Dry Books, 364 pages. $22.95.

Northern Stage team members outside the new space

« P.40

Welcome, new Super Readers!

ese wonderful people made their ﬁrst donation to Seven Days this week:

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on screen

Wuthering Heights ★★★

When Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights appeared in 1848, many reviewers were scandalized, calling it “coarse and loathsome” and lamenting its lack of sympathetic characters and a moral. The social media debates over writer-director Emerald Fennell’s new adaptation of the novel demonstrate that everything old is new again.

Many defenders of the movie ﬁnd the source material just as unsavory as Victorian critics did. They’re happy to take on literary purists, even suggesting that only a misogynist would disdain Fennell’s revision of Brontë for modern tastes. Meanwhile, some of their opponents have decried the ﬁlm as racist (because Fennell cast a white man as Heathcli , whom the book describes as ambiguously ethnically “other”). All this discourse started when the trailer dropped and was already exhausting months ago. But … how’s the movie?

The deal

Somewhere in Yorkshire, possibly in the 18th century (there are bodices to be ripped), motherless young Catherine Earnshaw (Charlotte Mellington) amuses herself by attending public executions.

When her drunkard father (Martin Clunes) brings home foundling Heathcli (Owen Cooper), the two children grow inseparable.

Then they grow up into Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi and develop a heaving bosom and rippling pectorals, respectively, while Catherine’s hired companion, Nelly (Hong Chau), watches them with a suspicious eye. Catherine plots to escape her violent home by marrying rich Edgar Linton (Shazad Latif). But after she spies on servants Joseph (Ewan Mitchell) and Zillah (Amy Morgan) having a kinky tryst in the stable, her own feelings for Heathcli awaken.

With Nelly’s help, misunderstanding separates the lovers. Catherine becomes the lady of Edgar’s Thrushcross Grange, which is basically the Saltburn mansion crossed with the Barbie Dreamhouse and redesigned by David Lynch. She befriends her husband’s eccentric ward, Isabella (Alison Oliver). Everything is ﬁne, if boring, until Heathcli returns with money and a thirst for vengeance.

Will you like it?

Full disclosure: I love Brontë’s Wuthering Heights. This ain’t it. But then, neither

but what of the story? Most of the novel’s dialogue (a few famous scenes excepted) has vanished in favor of ﬂat, “accessible” language. The multiple narrative layers are gone, too, along with most of Nelly’s ambivalent, shifting relationship to Catherine and Heathcli , which serves in the book as a foil for our own.

Instead, we have broadly written characters, starting with a bratty Catherine who repels us more than she wins us over. The dreamy montages set to Charli XCX songs do the heavy lifting of her character development. Elordi’s portrayal of Heathcli hints at the character’s passiveaggressiveness — how he practically goads the world to cast him as a villain. But the ﬁlm is too enthralled by its own Byronic imagery to dissect his troubled character.

Only the interpretation of the hapless Isabella in Fennell’s screenplay is truly bold, in ways that are alternately refreshing and questionable. At least Oliver’s sly antics give us a break from scene after ﬂorid romantic scene designed to make BookTok swoon.

Fennell has said the ﬁlm reﬂects her personal reading of the book as a teenager: Gone are the ghosts, the exhumations, the intricate framing, Heathcli ’s unforgivable brutality and anything else that might stop us from reveling in the doomed love of two very extra people.

was the lushly romantic 1939 version that persuaded me to read the book in the first place. For as long as filmmakers have been adapting this gothic story of obsession and generational trauma — whose author deliberately placed two layers of narrative insulation between us and its disturbed and disturbing protagonists — they’ve been watering it down into a more acceptable love story. So I gave Fennell the benefit of the doubt.

On the cinematic level, Wuthering Heights is a feast for the eyes. (Just set aside the disregard for Brontë’s own visual symbolism — a blond Catherine might have upset her more than anything else here.)

The titular house is a stunning expressionist creation, all jutting staircases and jagged angles. Linus Sandgren’s cinematography leans into hyperrealism and evokes iconic ﬁlm imagery (the red sky from Gone With the Wind) while giving a tender intimacy to green moors and interior candlelight.

When the action moves to the Grange, Wuthering Heights shifts into a positively surrealistic gear. Pulsing reds dominate the palette; Catherine wears gowns reminiscent of Princess Diana’s wedding or vinyl diner booths. Her bedroom has squishy walls designed to resemble her own skin, and when she’s ill, the prescribed leeches creep from her actual face onto its pasty facsimile.

All of this is deliciously creepy and fun,

Watching Wuthering Heights is a little like being trapped inside an early-’80s music video or reading an edgy Gen Z update of Classics Illustrated. There are worse things. Still, I can’t help worrying that, in our age of declining literacy, “Wuthering Heights” (as it’s styled on the posters) will replace Wuthering Heights entirely.

MARGOT HARRISON margot@sevendaysvt.com

IF YOU LIKE THIS, TRY…

WUTHERING HEIGHTS (1939; HBO Max, PLEX, Pluto TV, Prime Video, Sling TV, Tubi, YouTube Primetime, rentable): e Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon version does preserve the narrative framework and is a classic in its own right.

WUTHERING HEIGHTS (2011; AMC+, Pluto TV, Tubi, rentable): Andrea Arnold (American Honey) cast a Black actor as Heathcliff in this more naturalistic rendering.

“WUTHERING HEIGHTS” (five episodes, 1978; BritBox): This BBC version has been lauded for its faithfulness. ere’s also a 2009 version (two episodes; PBS, PLEX) with Tom Hardy, a Luis Buñuel version, an MTV version, and, for that Olympic synergy, Layne Fargo’s smart and entertaining novel e Favorites, which transports the story into the world of competitive ice dance.

Margot Robbie wears the “vinyl diner booth” dress in Emerald Fennell’s reworking of Emily Brontë’s classic.

NEW IN THEATERS

2026 OSCAR-NOMINATED SHORT FILMS: Choose from three separate programs: Animation (66 min), Live Action (114 min) and Documentary (153 min). (Savoy)

HOW TO MAKE A KILLING: Glen Powell plays a man determined to reclaim his inheritance by murderous means in John Patton Ford’s dark comedy thriller. (105 min, R. Capitol, Majestic)

I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2: Christian music star Bart Millard (John Michael Finley) faces new challenges in this biopic sequel. (110 min, PG. Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Star)

THE LOVE THAT REMAINS: A family weathers the parents’ separation in this comedy-drama from Iceland. (109 min, NR. Partizanfilm)

MIDWINTER BREAK: A couple (Lesley Manville and Ciarán Hinds) take a trip to Amsterdam and revisit memories in Polly Findlay’s drama. (90 min, PG-13. Majestic, Savoy)

MY FATHER’S SHADOW: Akinola Davies’ drama explores father-son relationships during a political crisis in Nigeria. (93 min, NR. Partizanfilm)

PSYCHO KILLER: A cop tracks the serial killer who slew her husband in this horror thriller directed by Gavin Polone. Georgina Campbell and Malcolm McDowell star. (92 min, R. Essex, Majestic)

CURRENTLY PLAYING

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASHHHH Pandora faces a conflict between Na’vi tribes. (195 min, PG-13. Majestic)

CRIME 101HHH1/2 A thief and an insurance broker team up in this caper drama, starring Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo and Halle Berry. (140 min, R. Bijou, Capitol, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Welden)

DEAD MAN’S WIREHHH1/2 Gus Van Sant directed this crime thriller inspired by a real 1977 hostage crisis, starring Bill Skarsgård. (105 min, R. VTIFF [Thu only])

DRACULAHH1/2 Luc Besson offers his take on the Bram Stoker tale, starring Caleb Landry Jones and Christoph Waltz. (129 min, R. Essex, Majestic)

GOATHHH A goat gets a chance to play “roarball” with his idols in this animated animal adventure. (100 min, PG. Bijou, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Star, Stowe, Welden)

GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIEHHH1/2 Diner patrons must save the world in Gore Verbinski’s action comedy. (134 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Paramount)

HAMNETHHHH/2 A couple (Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley) grapple with loss. (125 min, PG-13. Capitol, Majestic; reviewed 12/10)

IRON LUNGHH1/2 A convict explores a blood ocean in this postapocalyptic horror film from Mark Fischbach. (127 min, R. Essex, Majestic)

ISLANDSHHHH A tennis coach (Sam Riley) at a luxury resort forms a dangerous connection with a tourist in Jan-Ole Gerster’s psychological thriller. (121 min, NR. Partizanfilm)

IT WAS JUST AN ACCIDENT: A chance encounter ignites a quest for revenge in this Palme d’Or winner from Iranian director Jafar Panahi. (103 min, PG-13. Playhouse)

MELANIA 1/4H Brett Ratner directed this documentary about the First Lady. (104 min, PG. Majestic)

THE MOMENTHH1/2 Charli XCX stars in this mockumentary thriller about a pop star. (103 min, R. Majestic)

NIRVANNA THE BAND THE SHOW THE MOVIEHHHH A misfit band with an awkward moniker finds itself time traveling in this mockumentary. (95 min, R. Partizanfilm)

NO OTHER CHOICEHHHH1/2 A laid-off manager (Lee Byung-hun) would literally kill for another job in this dark satire. (139 min, R. Catamount; reviewed 1/14)

A PRIVATE LIFEHHH1/2 Jodie Foster plays a psychiatrist convinced her patient was murdered. (103 min, R. Partizanfilm)

SEND HELPHHH1/2 An employee and her boss are stranded on a desert island in Sam Raimi’s horror thriller. (113 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Star, Stowe; reviewed 2/4)

SOLO MIOHH1/2 Kevin James plays a jilted groom stranded in Rome in this rom-com. (100 min, PG. Big Picture, Bijou, Majestic)

THE STRANGERS: CHAPTER 3H The reboot of the home invader horror series continues. (91 min, R. Majestic)

STRAY KIDS: THE DOMINATE EXPERIENCE: The K-pop group performs in Los Angeles in this concert doc. (146 min, NR. Majestic)

WUTHERING HEIGHTSHHH Emerald Fennell’s steamy take on Emily Brontë’s novel stars Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. (136 min, R. Big Picture, Bijou, Capitol, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Star, Stowe, Welden; reviewed 2/18)

ZOOTOPIA 2HHH1/2 Disney’s animated critters return. (108 min, PG. Essex, Majestic)

OLDER FILMS AND SPECIAL SCREENINGS

BETTY BLUE (Partizanfilm, Wed 18 only)

THE BLOB (Catamount, Fri only)

CHARLIE THE WONDERDOG (Capitol)

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO (Catamount, Tue only)

THE MYSTERIOUS GAZE OF THE FLAMINGO (VTIFF, Fri only)

THREE COLORS: WHITE (Catamount, Wed 18 only)

VERMONT FILM SHOWCASE (Savoy, Thu only)

WALK WITH ME (Savoy, Tue only)

WISDOM OF HAPPINESS (VTIFF, Sat only)

OPEN THEATERS

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

*BIG PICTURE THEATER: 48 Carroll Rd., Waitsfield, 496-8994, bigpicturetheater.info

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*PARTIZANFILM: 230 College St., Unit 13, Burlington, 276-4588, partizanfilm.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paper Weight

Artists create big installations with colorful pulp at Southern Vermont Arts Center

with specimen pins. Samour creates them by drawing with squeeze bottles — think diner ketchup — ﬁlled with slushy pulp. Once dried, the cellulose becomes ﬂexible and translucent, like a skin.

BY ALICE DODGE • adodge@sevendaysvt.com

The newsprint you hold in your hand is both art and technology. It is easily folded, torn, organized into sections, manipulated. It’ll absorb the ink you use to ﬁll in the crossword puzzle, and when you’re done reading the news, you can light the woodstove with it.

It may feel reassuringly solid in an age of scrolling, but you are forgetting that before it was pressed or printed, this paper was liquid.

North Bennington artist Michelle Samour showcases paper as a sculptural medium in “Paper Transformed: Artists Exploring Colored Pulp,” which she curated at the Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum at the Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester. The show, on view through March 29, presents works by seven members, including Samour, of the “Pulparazzi” collective — artists who use wet pulp, bonded with mineral or synthetic pigments, to build surfaces, cast forms and saturate their paper creations with color.

The exhibition takes full advantage of the Wilson Museum’s large, airy galleries to feature several sprawling, wall-size installations. One of them, Samour’s 10-by-20foot “Land of Milk and Honey: Witness,” is composed of smaller, lacy forms in rich golds, reds and teals, attached to the wall

In a video on view alongside the exhibition, Samour demonstrates her process and talks about her creations, which seem to ﬂoat across the wall like cells under a microscope. “Paper is a living, breathing material,” she says. “It feels to me like the perfect material to use to make these forms that are organic and very much about the living world.”

Though some of Samour’s other works primarily reference the biological, this one gives her drawings a political twist: She based her looping forms on maps of Israel and Palestine. Each one is a solid color, decorated with smaller white or colored dots resembling symbols that defend against the evil eye. Combining these elements — human-created borders, ancient cultural practices and seemingly natural organic forms — offers a new perspective on questions of displacement and diaspora, blurring the boundaries between geography, biology and heritage.

Beside Samour’s installation, a no less political one by Bu alo, N.Y., papermaker Peter Sowiski hangs heavier on the wall. “A-!0” pictures, across a 6-by-20-foot grid made up of 12 large sheets of handmade paper, an A-10 “Warthog” Thunderbolt II ﬁghter jet in silhouette. Each panel includes a small diagram with a red dot indicating its position within the whole piece, almost as though the installation were part of the instructions for a model plane kit. What makes the work so arresting, in addition to its scale, is the blackness that Sowiski achieves. Rather than painted or drawn on the paper, the image is part of the paper, made from black pulp. That gives it the deep density of a solid void, a place where nothingness looms menacingly against a smoky background.

Sowiski’s smaller works on view also create commentary through silhouette, directly comparing the dark shapes of weaponry with those of places of worship. The monumental scale and intrinsic power of military technology, Sowiski seems to say, have allowed it to supplant such places as sites of reverence.

In the adjacent gallery, Jamestown, R.I., sculptor Joan Hall evokes an even bigger scope with “Sailing on a Sea of Heartbreak,” a 10-by-35-foot installation that positions the viewer underwater. Long strands of pigmented and printed papers, bits of glass strung together with metal wire, and, according to the label, “plastic detritus from a submarine, oyster shells, ﬁsh scales” create a kelp forest across an entire wall. Hall expertly deploys speciﬁcity and confusion to make something that feels like

Detail from “Sailing on a Sea of Heartbreak” by Joan Hall

“Printed rough Time and Space” by Lynn Sures

it came from the ocean. Baubles, shells and carefully cut leaves are recognizable in the morass, while other elements, such as swaths of printed, folded and cut wire fencing, aren’t clearly just one thing: These could be paper or plastic, drawn or solid, manufactured or natural. Unexplained splashes of blue or purple sit alongside translucent greens and deep reds. From a distance, paper fibers make a convincing algae-like haze. The piece is both sad and beautiful, evocative of an ocean realm on the verge of ecological collapse.

Shannon Brock, of Montgomery City, Mo., shifts the view entirely, bringing us above the clouds with “The Angel’s Perspective.” Round balls of different sizes, each painted with colorful triangles like the sections of an orange, protrude from the wall in clusters; though they look abstract, they’re meant to portray how hot-air balloons would appear from above. Though you wouldn’t necessarily know the pieces are hollow, they do seem to have an inflated lightness and an airy, joyous tone that’s a nice counterbalance to some of the headier works in the show.

Colesville, Md., artist Lynn Sures brings us all the way back to earth, and then some, with “Printed Through Time and Space” — 98 paper-pulp pieces that undulate across the wall, stacked salonstyle, each with a colorful imprint of a

foot. They are larger than life size, each almost 24 inches high, recalling thermal images in their cobalt blues, emerald greens, violets and reds on sandy backgrounds. The paper is embossed with swirls and whorls like a fingerprint. The feet, a label explains, are based on fossilized footprints made by early humans walking the same route in East Africa from millions to tens of thousands of years ago, leaving traces of their movement through wet ash; it notes that “Everyone alive today is descended from these shared ancestors.”

The piece provokes a sense of shared history and connection with the material that’s present throughout the works in the show and perhaps most apparent in an informational display where the artists provide samples of their work that visitors can touch and hold. Direct contact with the forms and textures they’ve created with pulp offers an intimate contrast to the massive scale of the installations. Perhaps it will remind readers that for a full experience, you’ve got to pick up the paper. ➆

INFO

“Paper Transformed: Artists Exploring Colored Pulp,” on view through March 29 at the Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum, Southern Vermont Arts Center, in Manchester. Closing reception with artist remarks, Sunday, March 29, 3-5 p.m. svac.org

"Land of Milk and Honey: Witness" by Michelle Samour

“A-!0” by Peter Sowiski

OPENINGS + RECEPTIONS

‘FROM VERMONT, WITH LOVE’: An exhibition of artwork speaking on all types of love, including love for Vermont. SEABA Center, Burlington, through February 28. Info, outreach@seaba.com.

DAMIAN STAMER: “Angels & Ghosts,” an exhibition continuing the artist’s acclaimed “Collaboration Series” of oil paintings that emerge from a partnership between human creativity and artificial intelligence. Middlebury College Museum of Art, through April 19. Info, 443-5007.

‘DAVID TENIERS’ THEATRUM PICTORIUM’: An exploration of the first art catalog, Flemish artist David Teniers the Younger’s work “The Theater of Painting,” published in 1660, which sought to catalog the collection of Archduke Leopold Wilhelm of Austria. Middlebury College Museum of Art, through April 19. Info, 443-5007.

DAVID KANIETAKERON FADDEN: “Visions from Mountains to Valley,” a series of paintings portraying and celebrating the Mohawk people, traditional Haudenosaunee teachings and Indigenous concerns. Burke Gallery, Plattsburgh State Art Museum, N.Y., through May 15. Info, 518-564-2474.

SUSAN SMEREKA: “Re:shape,” a solo exhibition exploring memory, place and the body through reclaimed materials and layered processes, including monotype printmaking, collage and sewing. Curated by Maedeh Asgharpour. Reception: Wednesday, February 18, 5-7 p.m. South Burlington Public Art Gallery, through March 26. Info, 846-4107.

JAY HAYWOOD: “lmani: Faith,” an exhibit of fashion photography by the New York City clothing designer and MFA candidate. Closing reception and artist talk: Thursday, February 19, noon-2 p.m. Julian Scott Memorial Gallery, Vermont State UniversityJohnson, through February 20. Info, 635-1469.

SAGE TUCKER-KETCHAM: “Before There Were Houses:” an exhibition of paintings based not on the architectural markers the artist is known for but instead featuring botanical imagery observed on daily walks. Artist talk: Thursday, February 19, 3 p.m.; Reception: 4-6 p.m. Champlain College Art Gallery, Burlington, February 19-March 27. Info, 865-8980.

JUNIOR ART & DESIGN MAJOR EXHIBITION: A presentation of artwork made by Art & Design students in the class of 2027 — Kayley Bell, Callie Boisvert, Chloe Brown, Dominic Douglass, Abbey Gyurko, Phoebe Hussey and Eden Milczanowski. Reception: Thursday, February 19, 6-7 p.m. McCarthy Art Gallery, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, through February 20. Info, bcollier@smcvt.edu.

SCHOLASTIC ART & WRITING AWARDS EXHIBITION: A selection of works by the 167 young artists and writers from across Vermont who have been recognized for their exceptional talent. Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, February 20-March 6.

JESSE WEISS: “simple/sample,” a collection of works centered around music by the visual artist and musician, including guitar pedal paintings and record cover collages made for realized and imagined albums. Extra Special With Cheese, Burlington, February 20-March 21. Info, extraspecialwithcheese@gmail.com.

MARCIA HAMMOND: An exhibition of paintings featuring bold colors and patterns rooted in Vermont’s seasons and landscapes by the artist, who is known for her textiles. Reception: Saturday, February 21, 3-5 p.m. The Tunbridge General Store Gallery, February 21-April 6, 3-5 p.m. Info, 889-3525.

THORLIEF ‘TJ’ PRIOR: “Elemental,” a solo exhibition serving as a capstone project in the Art & Design program. Reception: Thursday, February 26, 6-7 p.m. McCarthy Art Gallery, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, February 23-27. Info, bcollier@smcvt.edu.

EXHIBITION

Surface Level

Don’t get distracted by the vibrant colors: Rob Hitzig’s paintings are all about surface. At the Vermont Supreme Court Gallery, the Montpelier furniture maker turned painter presents a wealth of new works, many of them large, that showcase his attention to process and form. Paintings such as “Installation Information” highlight a humble material — construction-grade oriented strand board, or OSB — by carefully inlaying the plywood into a dynamic collection of bright stripes. By sanding, painting, sanding again and shellacking ad nauseam, the artist builds glossy, luscious layers that allow the light to play off the prosaic material as though it were the finest mahogany. Some works, such as “Laundry Day,” augment the wood’s choppy texture with gold leaf — perhaps a reference to the messy work happening next door under the Statehouse’s golden dome. We can’t know for sure, as Hitzig’s project eschews definitive meanings. “If my art does any good,” he says in his artist’s statement, “I hope that it undermines certainty.”

‘ROB

HITZIG: PLANTING CONFUSION, SOWING DOUBT’

On view through March 27 at the Vermont Supreme Court Gallery in Montpelier. curator.vermont.gov/vermont-supreme-court-gallery

ART EVENTS

‘STUDIO FEVER 2026’: An opportunity to paint on canvas-covered gallery walls; materials provided. Groups of 12 or more should reserve in advance. Artistree Community Arts Center, South Pomfret, through March 7. Free. Info, gallery@artistreevt.org.

‘NATURE DRAWING FOR ALL’: One in a four-part virtual drawing series that explores

the natural world through creative expression in a friendly and informative structure. Shelburne Museum, Wednesday, February 18, noon-1 p.m. Free; registration required. Info, 985-3346.

ARTIST TALK: NATALIE BAXTER: A presentation by the artist of her soft sculptures and quilted fine art. Vermont Studio Center, Johnson, Wednesday, February 18, 8-9 p.m. Free. Info, 635-2727.

LIFE DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event for artists working with the figure from a live model. T.W. Wood Museum, Montpelier, Thursday, February 19, 7-9 p.m. Free; $15 suggested donation. Info, 222-0909.

‘LOOMS, LINEN, AND LUXURY: THE ART OF WEAVING DAMASK’: A discussion with Carrie Anderson of the college art museum’s latest textile acquisition: a 17th-century damask linen napkin featuring the coat of arms of Prince Maurits from the House of Nassau. Justin Squizzero, director of the Newbury School of Weaving, explains the complexities of weaving damask, and Summer Jack will be available to talk informally about linen items in the antique collection. Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, Friday, February 20, 12:30-2 p.m. Free. Info, 443-2369.

‘FREE SELF-EXPRESSION’: An open forum in which the public is invited to celebrate community by sharing performance, music, reading, speaking, dancing, and take-home art and writing. Canal Street Art Gallery, Bellows Falls, Friday, February 20, 5-8 p.m. Free. Info, 289-0104.

‘SECURING ARTIST RESIDENCIES’ WORKSHOP: A “how-to” discussion with Middlebury College computer science professor, nature photographer and nonfiction writer Matthew Dickerson on attending artist residencies. Reserve tickets at addisonarts.org. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, Saturday, February 21, 1-3:30 p.m. Free. Info, tickets@townhalltheater.org.

ARTIST TALK: ‘OVER 8 OVER 80’: A discussion with Karen Seward, Ann McFarren, Mary Fran Lloyd, Betty Johannesen, Mary Crowley and Ginny Buckley about their works in the exhibition, which showcases artists age 80 and older. Chaffee Art Center, Rutland, Saturday, February 21, 3 p.m. Free; RSVP. Info, 775-0356.

WINTER ART COLLECTIVE WITH EDGEWATER

GALLERY: A reception with Edgewater Gallery artist Jim Westphalen, with a selection of his works and pieces by Dale Najarian and Dietlind Vander Schaaf. Addison West, Waitsfield, Saturday, February 21, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 528-7951.

“Installation Information” by Rob Hitzig

SOCIAL SUNDAY: An opportunity for children and caregivers to stop in and complete a 15- to 30-minute activity during the two-hour workshop. Milton Artists’ Guild Art Center & Gallery, Sunday, February 22, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

PORTRAIT DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event where artists can practice skills in any medium. T.W. Wood Museum, Montpelier, Monday, February 23, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; $15 suggested donation. Info, 222-0909.

ASSETS FOR ARTISTS: ‘POWER OF WEBSITES’: A Zoom workshop with artist and independent curator Jessica Burko on planning and designing a website that effectively presents an artist’s work and story. Register at assetsforartists. org/workshops. Vermont Arts Council, Montpelier, Wednesday, February 25, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@ vermontartscouncil.org.

CALLS TO ARTISTS

‘ALL THAT WE HOLD: A POP-UP ART SHOW’: Artists are invited to submit work that honors the many ways people live through, resist, grieve, heal and find joy after sexual harm. All mediums are welcome, and artists of all experience levels are encouraged to participate. Submissions that include explicit depictions of violence, hate speech or nonconsensual storytelling will not be accepted. Art will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions made by March 20 for the pop-up event on April 10. Submit via Google form in online listing. The Phoenix, Waterbury, February 18-March 20. Free. Info, info@mosaic-vt.org.

ARTS FOR ASYLUM SEEKERS: Chittenden Asylum Seekers Assistance Network (CASAN) invites artists to participate in a creative fundraising effort in April. Choose a creative project, recruit sponsors and share weekly progress updates. Register at casanvermont.org or email for details. February 18-28. Free. Info, artsforasylumseekers@casanvermont.org.

‘BY A THREAD’: Seeking submissions of fiber arts for a group show exploring the literal and metaphorical power of the single strand. Artists are invited to delve into themes of tension, connection, vulnerability and strength. Works due by March 4 if selected. Apply at seaba.com. SEABA Center, Burlington, February 18-March 1. Suggestedfee $10 for SEABA members; $15 for nonmembers. Info, director@ seaba.com.

‘FLOW’: Seeking submissions of works on any interpretation of the theme, from the spring thaw to a creative state, by artists in any medium. Works must be able to be hung on the wall, with a few spots on two corner shelves for small three-dimensional works. Show runs from March through May. Register via email. Jericho Town Hall, February 18-March 6. Info, catherine.mcmains@gmail.com.

Job of theWeek LEGAL PROJECT

MANAGER

‘NATURE’S PALETTE’: Seeking submissions for the second annual nature-focused show, this year with the theme “Rhythms in Nature.” All entries will be exhibited; submit artwork at mcavt.org. Montgomery Center for the Arts, February 18-March 15. Free. Info, montgomerycenterarts@gmail.com. ➆

EARLY DEADLINE! HAVE AN ART EVENT FOR THE MARCH 4 ISSUE OF SEVEN DAYS? SUBMIT IT BY MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23 AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POSTEVENT OR ART@SEVENDAYSVT.COM.

Vermont Land Trust

Get the scoop on this position from VT Land Trust Legal Director, Chrstine McShea

What are some speciﬁc challenges of this position and why is it important?

Our work can keep a generational family farm from being put on the market, promote climate resiliency and mitigate flooding, and provide permanent outdoor recreation spaces for generations to come. While no two projects are the same, the deep impact our work has on Vermont’s families, communities and landscapes is consistent and impactful. It is very fulfilling to know you are making a difference in both the short- and long-term vitality of Vermont. Legal Project Managers utilize problem-solving, collaboration and an aptitude for learning to combat tricky title issues and expand their legal knowledge. is position requires flexibility and a positive attitude to juggle tight deadlines with a variety of responsibilities. Behind the scenes, Legal Project Managers thoughtfully guide projects from onset through postconservation stewardship.

What is unique about working for the VT Land

Trust?

While the Legal Project Manager position is generally officebased, our staff have opportunities to get out on the land throughout the year. In your first few weeks at VLT, you can plan on joining a variety of staff members to visit conserved land, meet landowners, plant trees and see firsthand the impact VLT has on local communities. It is a great way to become immersed in VLT’s work and mission!

Apply for this great local job and many more: jobs.sevendaysvt.com

“Laundry Day” by Rob Hitzig

music+nightlife

Synthetic Psalms

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH •

farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com

Given Vermont’s most successful musical exports — guitar slingers Phish, Noah Kahan, Grace Potter and Anäis Mitchell — it’s understandable that the Green Mountains aren’t exactly known as a hotbed of electronic dance music. And yet, the state has had a long love a air with EDM, that pulsing world of breakbeats, laser lights, smoke machines and dancing, dancing, dancing.

Synthesizers, a hallmark of the genre, have strong roots in Vermont. German engineer Harald Bode moved to Brattleboro in 1954 to work for the Estey Organ Company, bringing with him designs for his early modular synthesizer. That famously served as inspiration for Robert Moog, the inventor of the ﬁrst commercial synth. Jon Appleton, an avant-garde composer and pioneer of using electronic sounds in classical music, lived and died in Vermont’s Upper Valley. He also helped invent the Synclavier, a high-end digital synth, in 1973.

With a history stretching back well over 70 years in Vermont, electronic music is a massive part of the Green Mountain sound. That’s particularly true in the Burlington area, where a slew of talented musicians, DJs, producers and promoters keeps bodies moving in clubs, basements and even country ﬁelds. From iconic and groundbreaking series, such as Nexus Artist Management’s long-running

Sunday Night Mass, to the DIY merchants at the Burlington Electronic Department, the electronic ecosystem is alive and well. This week, we’re shining a light on some pillars of the local EDM scene. While not comprehensive by any means — good luck ﬁnding all the underground shows! — here’s a road map to help track down the beat.

The OGs

SUNDAY NIGHT MASS, nexusartists.com

SOUNDS LIKE: house and techno

There’s one EDM event in Vermont that stands above any other: Sunday Night Mass. The series, hosted by Nexus Artist Management, has been going strong since

1998. Driving it for much of its history have been Justin Remillard, aka Justin R.E.M., and Chris Pattison, who have fashioned it into the preeminent EDM night in town, selling out clubs while bringing top-level DJs and producers to Burlington.

Remillard and Pattison got their start throwing raves as students at Champlain College. Soon they met the folks at local hip-hop label Flex Records, which launched Sunday Night Mass at Club Metronome. They eventually took over the series.

“When we started, the only spot in town to really catch great electronic dance music was Pearl’s,” Remillard said, referring to the iconic Burlington nightclub 135 Pearl that closed in 2006. There, Remillard saw, for the first time, an internationally touring EDM act come through the Queen City: San Francisco heavyweights Dubtribe Sound System.

That show inspired Remillard to try to book bigger EDM names and to form Nexus in 2001. Its events and catalog of artists focus mostly on house and techno, two foundational strains of EDM, which originated in the ’80s club sounds of Chicago and Detroit. Today Nexus represents a roster of DJs including San Diego house DJ Maris Moon and Los Angeles breakbeat pioneer Simply Je , as well as locals such as Craig Mitchell.

Sunday Night Mass lived at Metronome for the vast majority of its years. That long history ended in 2025 with the closure of the club and its sister venue, Nectar’s — a tragedy that had Remillard and Nexus thinking of ending the popular series. But ultimately, “We didn’t want to end Sunday Night Mass on anyone else’s terms,” Remillard said.

So Nexus brought the event to Higher Ground in South Burlington, where it continues as a quarterly series. The ﬁrst iteration at its new home took place in January and featured none other than Dubtribe Sound System.

“A lot of the old-school faces showed up, and that felt amazing,” Remillard said. “But what really got me was how many new, young attendees were there. New blood is so necessary to a scene’s health.”

The next Sunday Night Mass is scheduled for early summer, but Remillard isn’t sure how many more he’ll oversee. He acknowledges the series’ role in inﬂuencing young DJs and electronic music producers in town, and he’s ready to see where they take the scene.

“I’d love to stay on and do them until the 30th anniversary,” he said of Sunday Night Mass. “Maybe after that, I can hand

Justin R.E.M. at Sunday Night Mass Roost.World

YOU COME TO MY SHOW TO PARTY.

KATE KUSH

the keys off to someone else. The next generation of producers and promoters are starting to make stuff happen around town, which is so cool to see.”

The DIT Crew

ROOST.WORLD, Saturday, March 7, 11 p.m., at Light Club Lamp Shop, roost.bandcamp. com; BURLINGTON ELECTRONIC DEPARTMENT burlingtonelectronicdepartment.bandcamp. com; GROUNDHOG FEST, groundhog.world

SOUNDS LIKE: electro and dance

Zaq Schuster accepts that the Burlington music scene isn’t static — it will change. While others decry the loss of local venues and much-loved festivals, the Roost.World founder addresses the problem head-on, booking underground warehouse parties and the kinds of acts rarely seen on Burlington stages. With that experience, Schuster helped launch Groundhog Fest in 2025. The winter music festival focuses heavily on electronic artists.

This year’s iteration of Groundhog was its biggest yet, spread across 10 different downtown venues and featuring multiple

touring acts alongside Vermont artists. It was a daunting endeavor for Schuster and their crew in the Burlington Electronic Department collective, but it proved a point for the musician and promoter: It’s not about “do it yourself” anymore; it’s about “do it together.”

“There’s no way not to sound like an annoying dink when you say it, but it’s true,” said Schuster, who uses they/them pronouns. “We’re not a DIY organization; we’re DIT. And I think that’s really the trick that makes it all possible ... This year is going to be all about encouraging others to do this.”

To that end, the Burlington Electronic Department are putting out a party guide, explaining exactly how they’ve managed to plan their events and create bonds with local musicians, touring acts and venues. It’ll be a how-to for would-be local promoters who want to invent their own kind of Groundhog Fest — which is good, because Schuster has announced that next year’s will be the last, as the artist is ready to focus on other projects.

One thing not in the party guide? Any directives regarding genre within EDM, a hot topic in some circles of the fandom.

“Some people in electronic music get really obsessed with the ‘Are you a house DJ? Jungle? Techno?’ question,” Schuster said. “We don’t want to get pigeonholed. Ideally, if we’re doing our job right, no one can say our stuff is just one thing.”

That goes double for Schuster’s own music with Roost.World. Together with bandmate Mike Harris, the artist has just released a new LP, Q.D.A

“The new record isn’t a club record or a sit-and-chill kind of album; it’s both an electronic record and a throwback to when we were more of an actual band,” Schuster said. “Hopefully it comes across as unique.”

The Next Generation

KATE KUSH Wednesday, March 11, 5 p.m., at Doma Bar, katekushmusic.bandcamp.com

SOUNDS LIKE: hyper-pop, techno, UK garage

Though Maren Parker-Burns plays in local punk act Hissy Fit, there is something attractive to her about going it alone on the decks as a DJ.

“I started performing in 2023,” Parker-Burns said. “It was my sophomore year at UVM and at a basement show. That’s how I got my start, really — just playing mixes at parties and evolving from there.”

Charlap & Renee Rosnes, duo jazz piano

February 20 at 7:30pm

music+nightlife

Today, under the stage name Kate Kush, she spins a mix of hyper-pop, techno and UK garage at her Saturday night residency at Light Club Lamp Shop. Parker-Burns is making the show that she always wanted to see when she’d go looking for a good night of dancing with friends.

“Whenever I perform there, it feels like I’m in my own house,” she said. “I don’t play music to just listen to; I’m playing music to make you dance. It’s not background music for a conversation. You come to my show to party.”

Part of hosting a party is creating the right atmosphere. “A few years ago, a lot of the places you’d see EDM at weren’t necessarily the safest spots for women,” Parker-Burns explained. “It’s so maledominated in some places, there could be a creepy vibe — I’m not trying to worry about getting rooﬁed at a club. My style is rooted in gay club culture, so I wanted to bring that vibe to a place that felt fun and safe.”

She’s found that at Light Club Lamp Shop, as well as some of the other venues where she’s started to perform lately; that includes a new monthly series at Doma Bar. She’s also part of an EDM showcase called Burlington Blackout, on March 27 at the Higher Ground Ballroom — a blacklight rave featuring other local DJs such as Matt Payne and Newmantra.

“The scene itself is in pretty good shape, even with losing some venues recently,” Parker-Burns said. She pointed to Einstein’s Tap House, where her friend DJ Skipipop performs, as well as the SPARKOMATIK weekly series with DJ TrickyPat at Monkey House in Winooski. She also loves fellow local DJs GAYBAR and Slaytt.

As Parker-Burns put it, “There is so much enthusiasm for DJ sets and underground basement shows right now.”

The Collaborator

WILL ANDREWS, Willverine Wednesdays, 7 p.m., at Wallﬂower Collective and Friday, March 13, 8 p.m., at Foam Brewers (opening for Michael Wilbur), willverine.bandcamp.com

SOUNDS LIKE: indie electro-pop

If a remix could take human form, it might look like Will Andrews. The Burlington musician, composer and producer plays under the moniker Willverine and has a strong catalog of indie-electronica records. Formerly of the funk-jam outfit Japhy Ryder, Andrews has been the area’s go-to musical collaborator for the past ﬁve or so years, working and remixing tracks for everyone from indie-pop outﬁt Madaila to singer-songwriter Reid Parsons.

“Remixing is kind of a rush for me,” Andrews said. “It’s a variation that extends a song’s life, an expansion of the original story.”

It’s also a way for Andrews to form his own mini-scene, something he’s particularly proud of given his own initial diculty ﬁtting into the local music world.

“I play trumpet, but I never really ﬁt in

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH

with the jazz scene nor the electronic scene,” Andrews said. “But just working with my friends and musicians that I really respect, I feel like I’ve created my own thing.”

At his Wednesday residency at the Wallflower Collective in Burlington, which Andrews has been holding down for ﬁve years, he started out by composing new electronic pieces on the spot. He’d use synths, samples and loops, playing his trumpet over the compositions. As time went on, he started inviting friends to jam with him each week, creating a spontaneous remix that would never be heard again.

“It’s like a radio station that only exists for two hours every Wednesday,” Andrews said of the show.

His live collaborations can go in multiple stylistic directions, but on record he dwells in the bedroom electro-pop terrain of CHVRCHES and the trip-hop leanings of Gorillaz. His jazz and Afrobeat background often surfaces, but part of Andrews’ power is his ability to sonically shape-shift to meet his collaborators.

The artist shows no signs of slowing

PLUG IN

Looking for more Burlington electronica? Check out these popular EDM nights and proliﬁc producers, from drum and bass to dubstep to jungle.

1. NO FUN INTENDED: A record label launched by producer and promoter Andy Kershaw that specializes in house, techno and disco, though not exclusively. It also books shows at local venues such as Specs in Winooski. A new compilation, Rave Little State, is due out on the label this summer.

2. SPARKOMATIK: A monthly drum and bass showcase at Monkey House in Winooski curated by DJ Tricky Pat, featuring local and touring DJs.

3. DJ TAKA: DJ Takahiko Matsui has been holding down Friday nights at Radio Bean for years. “Taka is the GOAT,” Roost. World’s Zaq Schuster said. “A lot of the electronic scene’s success can be traced directly back to Taka’s residency.”

4. RED SQUARE’S BLUE ROOM: e club on Church Street hosts DJs, including Cre8, Matt Payne and Two Sev, multiple times a week.

5. THIRD THURSDAYS AND FIRST FRIDAYS AT GREEN DOOR STUDIO: Every ﬁrst Friday and third ursday, the South End studio hosts hip-hop and EDM. Local DJs such as Kanganade often play, with occasional touring artists.

down: He has a new album of instrumental tracks, Music Like Dirt Vol. 2, dropping this month, as well as an album of remixes of the new Carport Annie record — itself a reimagining of Freeway Clyde’s music — coming out on March 13.

And he plans to keep running his Willverine Wednesdays series at Wallﬂower for as long as the owners will let him.

“We’re getting near 200 shows,” he said. “I might have to think of something special to do to celebrate that.” ➆

1. Peaches at the Rialto eatre in Montréal, March 3

2. Pat Travers at the Stone Church in Brattleboro, March 12

3. Mike Gordon at the Higher Ground Ballroom in South Burlington, March 29-30

4. Melissa Etheridge at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington, March 31

Circle Jerks at the State eatre in Portland, Maine, April 11 6. Nate Bargatze at MVP Arena in Albany, N Y , May 15 7. e Bad Plus at the Mill in Westpor t, N Y , June 27

Peaches

Mike Gordon

Willverine (right)

CLUB DATES

live music

WED.18

Brandon ‘Taz’ Niederauer (blues, rock) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 8 p.m. $18.92.

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

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

Nathan Byrne (singer-songwriter) at American Flatbread Burlington Hearth, 6 p.m. Free.

Quick Fission, Fescue, Skrom (rock, pop) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

THU.19

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

Compa, Cotter & Chuck (funk, jam) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $10.

Devon McGarry Band (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. Free.

Gnomenclature (funk, rock) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7:30 p.m. $5/$10.

Lincoln Sprague (piano) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free.

e Miller Brothers (folk) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 7 p.m. Free.

Reprise (Phish tribute) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 8 p.m. $24.57.

Taz (rock, blues) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $19.78.

VT Bluegrass Pioneers (bluegrass) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.20

e Balconiers (jazz, funk) at the Alchemist, Stowe, 4 p.m. Free.

Ben Kogan Band (Americana) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Blotter & Friends (jam, psych) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Breanna Elaine (singersongwriter) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

e Bressetts (acoustic) at Gusto’s, Barre, 6 p.m. Free.

Chris & Erica (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 5 p.m. Free.

CombustOmatics (rock) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Corey & Friends (rock, blues) at St. John’s Club, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Dead Man Strumming (Grateful Dead tribute) at River Roost Brewery, White River Junction, 5 p.m. Free.

Garden State Radio (covers) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 8 p.m. $10.

True Grit

music@sevendaysvt.com or submit the info using our form at

When she released

Nashville, Price has a direct line to , even features a record. In the tradition of her heroes such as Johnny

Farm Aid’s board of directors in 2021. Price performs at

Midwest Farmer’s Daughter in 2016, MARGO PRICE hit the country music scene like a bolt from the blue. With a sound far from the pop-leaning hits and bro-country coming out of Nashville, Price has a direct line to the outlaw country of yesterday, full of grit and confessional songwriting. Her latest record, Hard Headed Woman, even features a cover of Waylon Jennings’ “Kissing You Goodbye” that the late country legend’s widow urged Price to record. In the tradition of her heroes such as Johnny Cash, Price has never shied away from speaking her mind or using her music for a cause — she joined the nonproﬁt Farm Aid’s board of directors in 2021. Price performs at the Higher Ground Ballroom in South Burlington on Sunday, February 22, with support from Los Angeles singer-songwriter PEARL CHARLES

e Gaslight Tinkers, Luke Concannon (folk) at the Stone Church, Brattleboro, 7 p.m. $20/$26.

Goodnight Nobody, Violet Crimes, Starvation Wages (punk) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Green Mountain Sound, Saguaro (indie rock) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10. IncaHoots (rock) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Jody Albright and John Penoyar (jazz) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Josh Panda (singer-songwriter) at Citizen Cider Press House Pub, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Lee Ross (funk, dance) at the Bullwheel Bar, Jay, 4 p.m. Free.

e Lifties (acoustic) at Afterthoughts, Waitsﬁeld, 7 p.m. Free.

Langhorn Slim, Laney Jones and the Spirits (Americana) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $32.22.

e Lowmen (rock) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free. moon ppl (funk, jazz) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10.

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

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

Rick Rude, Mad, Repelican (indie) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Ryan Osswald (jazz) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free.

Ryan Sweezey (singer-songwriter) at Switchback Beer Garden & Smokehouse, Burlington, 5:30 p.m. Free.

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

Sulk Fangs, Joe Adler, Jeremy Kizina, Mikayla Begins Kelemen (indie) at Burlington Odd Fellows Hall, 7 p.m. $10.

Swell (folk) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Tallgrass Getdown (bluegrass) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $10.

Tournesol (folk) at Two Heroes Brewery & Public House, South Hero, 6:30 p.m. Free.

SAT.21

3rd Chamber Sessions (hip-hop) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Alex Hutchinson (singersongwriter) at Stowe Cider, 4 p.m. Free.

CombustOmatics Play Bob Dylan (tribute) at Shelburne Vineyard, 6 p.m. Free.

e Eyetraps, YABAI! (indie rock, punk) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10. Forest Station, Dan Johnson (bluegrass, country) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free. Garden State Radio (covers) at Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Killington, 8 p.m. $10.

e Grift (rock) at Afterthoughts, Waitsﬁeld, 8:30 p.m. $10.

HiFi (funk) at the Alchemist, Stowe, 5 p.m. Free.

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

Leah Rocketship, Ryan James & the Cryin’ Shames (rock, folk) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8:30 p.m. Free.

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

Morgan Myles (country) at the Depot, St. Albans, 7:30 p.m. $25/$35.

North Mississippi All Stars (rock, blues) at the Stone Church, Brattleboro, 7 p.m. $40.

e Ray Vega Afro-Caribbean

Jazz Ensemble (Latin, jazz) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. $20.

Seth Yacovone Blues Trio (blues) at the Bullwheel Bar, Jay, 4 p.m. Free.

Smokey Newﬁeld Project (folk) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Soul Porpoise (funk, soul) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $10/$15.

Unruly Reloaded (hip-hop) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 10 p.m. Free.

SUN.22

Abstract VT: Live (live podcast, indie) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 5 p.m. $10.

Dueling Duets (Americana, bluegrass) at the Stone Church, Brattleboro, 6 p.m. $20/$26.

Madigan Linnane (singersongwriter) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsﬁeld, 3 p.m. Free.

Margo Price, Pearl Charles (country) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $35.33.

Marissa Nadler, Maria BC (folk, Americana) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $17/$20.

Seth Yacovone (acoustic) at the Alchemist, Stowe, 4 p.m. Free.

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

Wine & Jazz Sundays (jazz) at Shelburne Vineyard, 5 p.m. Free.

TUE.24

Big Easy Tuesdays with Jon McBride (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Bluegrass Jam (bluegrass) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free. Dead Is Alive with Dobbs’ Dead (Grateful Dead tribute) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15.

Honky Tonk Tuesday with Wild Leek River (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10. Kahil El’Zabar’s Legendary Ethnic Heritage Ensemble (jazz) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $25.

Red River North (Americana) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsﬁeld, 5:30 p.m. Free.

WED.25

Are You Now or Have You Ever Been with Paddy Reagan (indie) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

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

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

Lily Seabird, Eliza Niemi, Izzy Rae Jones (indie) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $12/$15. Will Sellenraad Trio (jazz) at the Alchemist, Stowe, 4 p.m. Free.

djs

THU.19

DJ Two Sev, JP Black (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free. Kizomba Class & Dance Party (DJ, dance) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Vinyl Night (DJ) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.20

DJ Ara$, Ron Stoppable (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

DJ LaFountaine (DJ) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.

DJ Taka (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10/$15.

DJ Vince (DJ) at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Whiskey Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

djlog, SLAYTT, Syd ( e Sloth), DJ Burger (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10.

Friday Night at Specs (DJ) at Specs Cafe & Bar, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

Lil’s Birthday! (DJ, karaoke) at Standing Stone Wines, Winooski, 8 p.m. Donation.

SAT.21

DJ Baron (DJ) at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Whiskey Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

SUN.22 // MARGO PRICE [COUNTRY]

music+nightlife

DJ Kwame (DJ) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.

DJ Raul, DJ Chaston (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

DJ Raul, Matt P (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Mr Cheng, DJ Chaston, DJ Aras (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Queer Takeover (DJ) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10. Sparkomatik (EDM) at Monkey House, Winooski, 8 p.m. $10/$15.

TUE.24

Bashment Tuesday (DJ) at Akes’ Place, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

open mics & jams

WED.18

Jazz Jam with Nina Towne (jazz) at the Phoenix, Waterbury, 6 p.m. $10.

Open Mic (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.19

Open Mic (open mic) at the Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

SUN.22

Olde Time Jam Session (open jam) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, noon. Free.

VT Synth Society Meetup (synth open jam, discussion) at Community of Sound, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free.

MON.23

Monday Night Open Mic (open mic) at Pearl Street Pub, Essex Junction, 6 p.m. Free.

TUE.24

Doug’s Open Mic (open mic) at Two Heroes Brewery & Public House, South Hero, 6 p.m. Free. Open Mic (open mic) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.25

Lit Club (poetry open mic) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Open Mic (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

comedy

WED.18

Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

THU.19

Live, Laugh, Lava: A Comedy Showcase (comedy) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $5. Mohanad Elshieky (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $25.

Dolfinitely Burlington’s masters of organ-driven funk and slow-burning R&B, SOUL PORPOISE are a powerhouse all-star band whose DNA traces to the likes of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Trey Anastasio Band and Barika. Organist and songwriter Ira Friedman and Tenderbellies vocalist Collin Cope are joined by a murderers’ row of iconic local players, including saxophonist Dave Grippo, guitarist Paul Asbell, trumpeter Connor Young and others. The stage at Zenbarn in Waterbury Center will certainly be jam-packed as the 10-piece band brings the funk on Saturday, February 21. And remember, please don’t feed the band any fish.

FRI.20

Mohanad Elshieky (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $25. Wit & Wine: Comedy at the Vineyard (comedy) at Shelburne Vineyard, 8 p.m. $10.

SAT.21

Mohanad Elshieky (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. $25.

SUN.22

Darcy & Jer (comedy) at Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 8 p.m. $43.25-$64.25.

MON.23

e Lowdown (comedy) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $19.94.

TUE.24

All at Jazz Open Mic Comedy (comedy) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.25

$5 Improv Night (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $5.

Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Whiskey Room, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.19

Country Line Dancing (line dancing) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7:30 p.m. Free.

Don Mahogany ird ursday

WED.18

Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Karaoke with Autumn (karaoke) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 p.m. Free.

Revenge of the Return of the Son of Live Band Karaoke Pt. XIII (karaoke) at Bent Nails Roadhouse, Middlesex, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Two Heroes Brewery & Public House, South Hero, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Alﬁe’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Butter Bar & Kitchen, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Karaoke Night (karaoke) at Gusto’s, Barre, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.20

Boogie Bingo (bingo, DJ) at the Alchemist, Stowe, 5 p.m. Free.

Trivia Monday with Top Hat Entertainment (trivia) at McKee’s Original, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia with Brain (trivia) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

Trivia with Craig Mitchell (trivia) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

TUE.24

Karaoke with DJ Party Bear (karaoke) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9:30 p.m. Free.

Taproom Trivia (trivia) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Gusto’s, Barre, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia Tuesday (trivia) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.25

Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Karaoke with Autumn (karaoke) at Monopole, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 9 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Alﬁe’s Wild Ride, Stowe, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Whiskey Room, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. ➆

Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Karaoke with DJ Big T (karaoke) at McKee’s Original, Winooski, 9 p.m. Free.

‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Viewing Party (watch party) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

SAT.21

Queeraoke with Goddess (karaoke) at Standing Stone Wines, Winooski, 9 p.m. Free.

Winter Is a Drag Ball (drag) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $32.22/$39.47.

SUN.22

Family-Friendly Karaoke (karaoke) at Old Soul Design Shop, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 5 p.m. Free.

Sunday Funday (games) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, noon. Free.

Sunday Night Trivia (trivia) at the Lazy Goat Tavern, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 5:30 p.m. Free.

Venetian Karaoke (karaoke) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

MON.23

Fighting Game Community

Biweekly with WNFC (gaming) at Lumière Hall, Burlington Beer, 4 p.m. $5.

Retro Game Night (gaming) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Monday (trivia) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

Listening In (Spotify mix of local jams)

1. “SWEETNESS” by HOLDING NAPOLEON

2. “MIDDLE MAN (LIVE)” by Night Protocol

3. “POP STAR CLUB NIGHT” by Roost.World

4. “BRIGHT STAR” by Anaïs Mitchell

5. “BOUND BY THIS” by Dutch Experts

6. “POKER” by the Pyros

7. “CANARIES” by Connor Young

SAT.21 // SOUL PORPOISE [FUNK, SOUL]

Evan Jennison, Standing Next to Nothing

(SELF-RELEASED, DIGITAL)

When Tom Holland was 9 years old, he enrolled in a dance class. Two years later, he was starring in Billy Elliot: The Musical in London. By the time he was 20, he was freaking Spider-Man. When I was 9 years old, I was pedantically correcting my teachers in class, and now I’m a critic. (Like, professionally.) Point is, sometimes people really do ﬁnd their calling early, which brings me to Addison County’s Evan Jennison.

At 11 years old, the Bristol resident ﬁrst enrolled in Clint Bierman’s Rock-It Science music camps in Middlebury, where he learned not only how to create music but also how to build a band. Now 22, Jennison is a singer-songwriter who has released his third recording — and debut LP — Standing Next to Nothing, with Bierman himself backing on electric guitar. And that’s just the ﬁrst of the local heroes Jennison assembled for this outing.

game / Well, I feel half used and so confused / A postcard in a frame.”

Then there are the small, surprising ﬂourishes that catch a listener o guard and lift the instrumentation to another level. In “Storm Clouds,” Bierman drops a guitar solo that suddenly transforms the plucky, country-tinged ditty into something harder, only for Lively’s soaring ﬁddle to bring it back to its roots. Al Schnier, of jam band moe., brings an extra dose of electric guitar to the rousing title track, making it the toetapping bar anthem of the album.

Pappy Biondo of Cabinet plays banjo on the final track, “White House,” his fluttering strum contrasting with Lively’s steady fiddle, which rises to meet Jennison’s vocals in harmony: “Don’t quit on me/ Don’t quit on me / We’ve all got a destiny to see.” Though the album is frequently contemplative and backward-glancing, “White House” closes it out on a softer note of hope.

Burlington Discover Jazz Festival

Announces Opening, Closing Shows

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH • farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com

Spring must be near, because early notes of the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival are in the air. e Flynn has announced the opening and closing shows for the jazz fest’s 43rd edition, which brings worldclass music to downtown Burlington from June 3 to 7.

The acoustic guitarist recruited two of Bierman’s bandmates from the Grift, Peter Day and Je Vallone, to support on bass and drums, respectively. Among other musical contributors, Ben Lively (Vermont Symphony Orchestra) adds ﬁddle to the mix, Josh Dobbs (Dobbs’ Dead) is on keys, and Matt Schrag lends his mandolin to a few tunes.

With its confident blend of folk, rock and bluegrass, Standing Next to Nothing displays an unexpected maturity across seven tracks. It’s there in Jennison’s lyrics, which are clever but never selfsatisfied, earnest yet wry. The album kicks o with “Gone for Good,” an upbeat meditation on a love that’s ended and the struggle to move on. The song launches out of the gate with the first of many startling visual metaphors: “Everybody’s playing the gold rush

Standing Next to Nothing showcases Jennison’s considerable talents, sure, but my biggest takeaway is his restraint. In a world of “Go big or go home,” Jennison has delivered an album of subtlety. He conﬁdently deploys his seasoned backing musicians as if they’re actual seasoning, sprinkling their gifts in moments that pop but never overwhelm. The songs themselves, while pitching slightly toward one genre or another, remain cohesive and speak to his clear vision.

As this is only Jennison’s third release — after an EP and a live album — I have no doubt he’s got what it takes to build a nice, long career for himself. If we’re lucky, maybe he’ll even stick around and be the one mentoring the next crop of Vermont talent.

Standing Next to Nothing is available at evanjennison.bandcamp.com and on major streaming services.

TORI PRESTON

As in recent years, the Flynn has selected a curator to helm the festival. is year that’s MacArthur Fellow, pianist and composer Jason Moran. e 51-yearold Houston native got his start playing with jazz saxophonist Greg Osby, who asked Moran to join him on a European tour when the pianist was still a senior at the Manhattan School of Music. After signing to Blue Note Records, Moran released his debut record, Soundtrack to Human Motion, in 1999. He composed the score for a stage reading of Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates in 2018, premiering the piece at the Apollo eater in Harlem.

At a press conference at the Flynn on Tuesday, Moran announced that this year’s jazz fest begins on June 3 with a program titled “ e Beat Beneath Us” on the Flynn Main Stage. Featuring dancer and choreographer Ronald K. Brown and his dance company, Evidence, the show starts with a tribute to Max Roach, the famous jazz drummer and icon of the civil rights movement.

Following that, tap dancer, actor and choreographer Savion Glover joins virtuoso drummer Chris “Daddy” Dave and Moran in an improvisational trio displaying the connection between movement and music.

“Music has always had a relationship with the body,” Moran said at the press conference. “We have to start the fest with that … ere’s nothing more incredible

than to hear a phrase of music activated by six dancers. It teaches you so much more about what the sound of music is, what it can do. Music becomes exponentially more powerful when you give it to dancers.”

Moran is particularly excited to perform with Glover and Dave. “Savion’s understanding of the history of dance, combined with my understanding of the history of the piano and Chris Dave’s understanding of the history of drumming … what comes out is incredible,” he said.

Closing out the fest this year is a program titled “A Nation Listens,” by guitarist Julian Lage and saxophonists Mark Turner and Chris Potter. Turner opens the show performing his 2025 album Reﬂections on: e Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man, inspired by a 1912 novel by James Weldon Johnson. Following that, Potter and Lage present the world premiere of a work about the legacy of the abolitionist John Brown.

“Chris Potter is an incredible saxophonist,” Moran said. “He’s been thinking about [John Brown] for a while. And if he’s thinking about it but not saying it out loud, shouldn’t we give him a place to say it out loud?

“ e fortunate thing about playing this kind of music is that you’re just kind of rare,” Moran added. “And if you listen to it, you’re rare as well. So it’s just a rare bunch, which makes for a great music experience.”

Tickets for both shows go on sale to the public on Friday, February 27. e rest of the festival’s lineup will be announced at a press conference on April 15. ➆ INFO Learn more at ﬂynnvt.org.

MUSIC

Jason Moran

calendar

FEBRUARY 18-25, 2026

WED.18

activism

COSA VOLUNTEER

INFORMATION SESSION:

Compassionate and committed neighbors learn more about the restorative program for those seeking positive change after incarceration. Greater Barre Community Justice Center, 3-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 272-7478.

business

EMERGENCY PLANNING

WORKSHOP: Local business owners receive pertinent information to help weather storms, floods and other unexpected natural disasters. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 8:30-10 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, director@montpelieralive.org.

‘REAL ESTATE CAREERS

101: WHAT IT TAKES TO GET STARTED (AND SUCCEED)’: An informative webinar hosted by Ridgeline Real Estate owner Blair Knowles pulls back the curtain on what it takes to build a career as a Realtor. Noon-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 540-1366.

crafts

YARN & YAK: A weekly club for fiber fanatics of all skill levels makes knitting and crocheting more sociable. Milton Artists’

Guild Art Center & Gallery, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 999-0516.

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: A drop-in meetup welcomes knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers and other fiber artists. BYO snacks and drinks. Must Love Yarn, Shelburne, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 448-3780.

environment

WINTER WEBINAR: ‘WHO’S RESPONSIBLE FOR WASTE? RETHINKING PRODUCTS & PACKAGING’: Chittenden Solid Waste District director of public policy and communications Jen Holliday breaks down Vermont’s Extended Producer Responsibility landscape for local listeners. 6-6:45 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 872-8100.

etc.

CHAMP MASTERS TOASTMASTERS CLUB: Those looking to strengthen their speaking and leadership skills gain new tools. Virtual option available. Dealer.com, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, cdmvt47@ yahoo.com.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

These community event listings are sponsored by the WaterWheel Foundation, a project of the Vermont band Phish.

LIST YOUR UPCOMING EVENT HERE FOR FREE!

All submissions must be received by Thursday at noon for consideration in the following Wednesday’s newspaper. Find our convenient form and guidelines at sevendaysvt.com/postevent

Listings and spotlights are written by Rebecca Driscoll Seven Days edits for space and style. Depending on cost and other factors, classes and workshops may be listed in either the calendar or the classes section. Class organizers may be asked to purchase a class listing.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

& City Hall, 2:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

health & fitness

ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN FILM

SERIES: ‘VAN GOGH: POETS & LOVERS’: This 2024 documentary examines the iconic artist’s pivotal years in the south of France, where he revolutionized his style. Virtual option available. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

‘BEST DAY EVER’: A powerful evening celebrating 20 years of the Kelly Brush Foundation includes a screening of the locally made 2025 documentary about adaptive mountain bikers, followed by a Q&A with Kelly and the film’s subjects. Elley-Long Music Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 6:30 p.m. $50. Info, 846-5298.

food & drink

COMMUNITY COOKING:

Helping hands join up with the nonprofit’s staff and volunteers to make a yummy meal for distribution. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

CUPPA ON CAMPUS:

Community members mingle over tea and coffee, swapping bright ideas for the future of the property. The Creative Campus at Goddard, Plainfield, 8-10 a.m. Free. Info, 821-0741.

RESTAURANT WEEK:

Gastronomes flock to the Capital City for a foodie-driven jubilee of local cafés, eateries and bars. See montpelieralive.com for full schedule. Downtown Montpelier. Various prices. Info, 262-6265.

games

ADULTS PUZZLE SWAP: Folks leave completed puzzles (250-plus pieces only) in a ziplock bag with an image of the finished product, then find something new to take home. South Burlington Public Library

CHAIR YOGA: Waterbury Public Library instructor Diana Whitney leads at-home participants in gentle stretches supported by seats. 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

RECOVERY DHARMA: Folks struggling with addiction gather weekly for an evening of meditation, topical readings and open discussion in a supportive environment. First United Methodist Church, Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 825-1815.

holidays

CHINESE NEW YEAR: Philanthropic foodies ring in the Year of the Horse with wine and traditional dishes. Proceeds benefit the Flynn. A Single Pebble, Burlington, 6 p.m. $150; preregister. Info, 863-5966.

language

ELL CLASSES: Fletcher Free Library invites learners of all abilities to practice written and spoken English with trained instructors. 6:30-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, bshatara@ burlingtonvt.gov.

SPANISH CONVERSATION: Fluent and beginner speakers brush up on their vocabulario with a discussion led by a Spanish teacher. Presented by Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 5-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@damlvt.org.

lgbtq

THE ALL INCLUSIVE DYKETACULAR: A weekly get-together and listening party celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with feelgood tunes, dancing and drinks. Doma Bar, Burlington, 5-10 p.m. Free; cost of food and drink. Info, sadie@doma.bar.

music

FIND MORE LOCAL EVENTS IN THIS ISSUE AND ONLINE:

art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

film

See what’s playing in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/music.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON

assistance for anyone who needs it. St. Albans Free Library, noon, 1:30 & 3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 524-1507.

AUDIO RECORDING 101: An informative evening examines the latest audio techniques and equipment, from microphones to boom poles. The Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

CPR & AED TRAINING: A community workshop features hands-on, life-saving instruction for folks with little or no medical training. Northwest Technical Center, St. Albans, 3:30-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 527-0614.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE

TENNIS CLUB: Ping-Pong players block, chop and lob in singles and doubles matches. Rutland Area Christian School, 7-9 p.m. Free for first two sessions; $30 annual membership. Info, 247-5913.

talks

ARMCHAIR NATURALIST SERIES:

DAVE ALLEN: A Middlebury College professor presents his research on the ecology of ticks and the diseases they carry. New Haven Town Offices, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 363-4789.

theater

‘MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’: The world’s greatest detective searches for clues before the killer can strike again in Vermont Stage’s production based on the classic Agatha Christie whodunit. Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $39-59 sliding scale. Info, 862-1497.

THU.19

agriculture

NO-TILL & COVER CROP

CONFERENCE: The University of Vermont Extension hosts a full day of exhibits and speakers relating to resiliency in cropping systems. DoubleTree by Hilton, South Burlington, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $50-75; preregister. Info, 656-7610.

business

FEBRUARY MIXER: Hors d’oeuvres and networking opportunities encourage warm community connections at this Franklin County Regional Chamber of Commerce event. Northwest Technical Center, St. Albans, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $15; free for members and firsttime attendees. Info, 524-2444.

HIRING2DAYVT VIRTUAL JOB FAIR: Time for a new gig? The Vermont Department of Labor offers a meet and greet with employers from around the state. 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 828-4000.

community

ALL ABOUT LOVE: The café serves up special soups and warm beverages while guests enjoy crafts, love notes and a book talk by storytelling artist Ferene Paris. August First, Burlington, 3-7:30 p.m. Free; cost of food and drink. Info, 540-0060.

crafts

KNIT FOR YOUR NEIGHBORS: All ages and abilities knit or crochet hats and scarves for the South Burlington Food Shelf. Materials provided. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

ELISAPIE: In “Inuktitut,” a Canadian artist and indie-music star reimagines iconic pop and rock songs in her native tongue. Spaulding Auditorium, Hopkins Center for the Arts, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 7:30-9:30 p.m. $35. Info, 603-646-2422. FARMERS NIGHT CONCERT SERIES: VERMONT YOUTH ORCHESTRA: An eclectic program of chamber music includes works by Antonio Vivaldi, Dmitri Shostakovich and Charles Ives. House Chamber, Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 828-2228.

TUVERGEN: A mesmerizing concert transports listeners to the interconnected soundscapes of Mongolia, Tuva and Inner Mongolia. Alexander Twilight Theatre, Vermont State University-Lyndon, 7 p.m. $10-25; free for VTSU community, families with children and students. Info, 748-2600.

seminars

AARP TAX HELP: Trained volunteers provide free filing

‘THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT’: Northern Stage mounts Don Nguyen’s funny and poignant play exploring the profound ways in which language can both divide and unite us. Byrne Theater, Barrette Center for the Arts, White River Junction, 7:30 p.m. $10-80. Info, 296-7000.

words

CIVIC READS SERIES: TOM SULLIVAN: The former University of Vermont president discusses his new book, The U.S. Presidency: Power, Responsibility and Accountability, exploring the historical foundations and modern evolution of the executive branch. A Q&A follows. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

THE HUMP DAY WRITING GROUP: Wordsmiths who delight in nonfiction convene for company, accountability and support in achieving their writing goals.

South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, nathaniel.eisen@gmail.com.

OPEN BOOK: Readers join the shop’s book buyer for a lively discussion about Samantha Hunt’s magical realist novel The Seas Phoenix Books, Essex, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 872-7111.

KNITTING GROUP: Knitters of every experience level get together to spin yarns. Latham Library, Thetford, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

WOODWORKING LAB: Visionaries create a project or learn a new skill with the help of mentors and access to makerspace tools and equipment. Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center, Middlebury, 5-8 p.m. $7.50. Info, 382-1012.

environment

BTV CLEAN UP CREW: Good Samaritans dispose of needles, trash and other unwanted objects. BYO gloves encouraged. Top of Church St., Burlington, 7:30-10 a.m. Free. Info, 863-2345.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BACKYARD WILDERNESS 3D’: Cameras positioned in nests, underwater and along the forest floor capture a year’s worth of critters coming and going. Dealer. com 3D Theater, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

CLASSIC FILMS SERIES:

Cinephiles delight in weekly screenings of 1930s flicks newly in the public domain, including masterpieces All Quiet on the Western Front and Hell’s Angels See stage33live.com for full schedule. Stage 33 Live, Bellows Falls, 6-8 p.m. $5. Info, 289-0148.

‘DEAD MAN’S WIRE’: Bill Skarsgård, Colman Domingo and Al Pacino star in this 2025 docudrama based on the infamous true story of a business deal gone horribly wrong. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 4 & 7 p.m. $612. Info, 660-2600.

‘DINOSAURS OF ANTARCTICA

3D’: Join scientists on a journey through a surreal world of bug-eyed giants and egg-laying mammals. Dealer.com 3D Theater, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10:30 a.m., 12:30, 2:30 & 4:30 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

HIRSCHFIELD INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES: ‘TIMESTAMP’: Kateryna Gornostai’s 2025 documentary follows Ukrainian students and teachers striving to continue their learning, even under constant threat. Snacks provided. Dana Auditorium, Sunderland Language Center, Middlebury College, 7-9:30 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: Viewers travel to the far reaches of the Pacific Ocean for a glimpse into the pristine environments vital to our planet’s health. Dealer.com 3D Theater, ECHO Leahy Center

FEB. 20 | MUSIC

Seabird’s the Word

Vermont is synonymous with many things — maple syrup and cows, for starters. More recently, however, the state has gained global attention for nurturing musical talent such as folk-pop god Noah Kahan. That pattern may just continue with Burlington rising star Lily Seabird, hailed as “an unflinching songwriter who’d make Leonard Cohen proud” by Rolling Stone. The introspective indie-rock breakout is taking America by storm with a tour winding from East Coast to West — including a stop at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe. Prepare to be swept away by the alt sensation’s twangy, raw vocals and evocative, humanist lyrics that haunt you long after the song ends.

SPRUCE PEAK UNPLUGGED: LILY SEABIRD

Friday, February 20, 7 p.m., at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe. $33.89-47.80. Info, 760-4634, sprucepeakarts.org.

FAMI LY FU N

Check out these family-friendly events for parents, caregivers and kids of all ages.

• Plan ahead at sevendaysvt.com/family-fun

Post your event at sevendaysvt.com/postevent.

WED.18

DADS’ NIGHT IN: JACKBOX

GAMES: Fathers log on for a virtual game night hosted by Dad Guild. 8:45-10 p.m. Free. Info, 318-4231.

burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: Curious minds dive into the science and history of Vermont’s most iconic legend at this family-friendly exhibit featuring interactive games, a design studio, multimedia displays, a 30-foot sculpture and photo ops. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

ART EXPLORERS: Young creatives ages 5 to 14 learn about art history and self-expression at this homeschoolerfriendly program from Davis Studio.

Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-3403.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: Young explorers take an unforgettable journey through a hands-on prehistoric world where life-size animatronic dinosaurs come to life. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

LIBRARY LITTLES PLAYGROUP: A weekly program brings babies, toddlers and their caregivers together for songs, stories, play and community building in a nurturing environment. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

STEAM SPACE: Youngsters in grades K through 5 explore science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics activities. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403. chittenden county

BABY TIME: Infants and their caregivers enjoy a slow, soothing story featuring songs, rhymes and lap play. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

GAME ON!: Kids take turns collaborating with or competing against friends using Nintendo Switch on the big screen. Caregivers must be present to supervise children below fifth grade. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

KIDS PUZZLE SWAP: Participants leave completed puzzles (24 to 300

pieces only) in a ziplock bag with an image of the finished product, then find something new to take home. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

PEN PALS: CARDS & LETTER WRITING: There’s no mail like snail mail! Riot Craft Studio hosts an all-ages opportunity for kids to pen sweet notes for their loved ones. BYO postage. Jericho Town Library, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, riotcraftstudio@gmail.com.

PLAY TIME: Little ones ages birth to 5 build with giant blocks and read together. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1010:45 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

WHIMSICAL WEDNESDAYS: Library patrons ages 6 and up play board games they know and love, or learn an entirely new one. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

barre/montpelier

BABY & CAREGIVER MEETUP: Wiggly ones ages birth to 18 months play and explore in a calm, supportive setting while adults relax and connect on the sidelines. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

FAMILY CHESS CLUB: Players of all ages and abilities test their skills with instructor Robert and peers. KelloggHubbard Library, 2nd Floor, Children’s Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

ROBIN’S NEST NATURE PLAYGROUP: Youngsters ages birth to 5 and their

for Lake Champlain, Burlington, noon, 2 & 4 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: Footage of paleontological digs from around the globe tells a compelling story of scientists working as detectives to answer questions about an ancient and mysterious ocean world. Dealer. com 3D Theater, ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 11:30 a.m., 1:30 & 3:30 p.m. $3-5 plus regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

VERMONT FILMS SHOWCASE: ‘BRAIDING A NEW LIFE’ & ‘LA LIGA’: Two documentary shorts exploring immigration in the Green Mountain State showcase the diversity of homegrown filmmaking and spark essential community conversations. A panel discussion follows. Savoy Theater, Montpelier, 7-9 p.m. $8.50-12. Info, 229-0598.

food & drink

RESTAURANT WEEK: See WED.18.

games

BRIDGE CLUB: A lively group plays a classic, tricky game in pairs. Waterbury Public Library, 12:304:30 p.m. Free. Info, 522-3523. CHESS FOR FUN: Players of all abilities select an opening gambit, go on the attack and protect their king in friendly competition. Cobleigh Public Library,

caregivers learn outdoors through exploration, song, themed crafts and storytelling. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; donations accepted. Info, 229-6206.

upper valley

MAGIC OF MAPLE: Who could say no to sugar on snow? Families embark on an arctic adventure celebrating this delightful gift from trees. Billings Farm & Museum, Woodstock, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $12-21; free for members and kids under 3. Info, 457-2355.

THU.19 burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.18.

BABY & ME CLASS: Parents and their infants ages birth to 1 explore massage, lullabies and gentle movements while discussing the struggles and joys of parenthood. Greater Burlington YMCA, 9:45-10:45 a.m. $10; free for members. Info, 862-9622.

BLACK DAD HANG: Dad Guild staff member Marlon Fisher hosts a casual monthly gathering for Black fathers looking to build community and connect with others. Refreshments provided. The Guild Hall, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 318-4231.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: See WED.18.

FLYNNZONE FAMILY NIGHT: HULA HOOP WORKSHOP: An all-ages seminar led by

Minty Fresh Circus invites participants to connect with each other through the simple joy of hooping. The Flynn, Burlington, 5:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-5966.

GROW PRESCHOOL YOGA: Colleen from Grow Prenatal and Family Yoga leads kids ages 2 to 5 in songs, movement and other fun activities. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

PRESCHOOL MUSIC WITH LINDA

BASSICK: The singer and storyteller extraordinaire guides wee ones ages birth to 5 in indoor music and movement. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

PRESCHOOL PLAY TIME: Pre-K patrons play and socialize after music time. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

STORY TIME: Little ones ages 2 to 5 learn from songs, crafts and picture books. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 1010:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

TODDLER TIME: Wiggly wee ones ages 1 and up love this lively, interactive storybook experience featuring songs, rhymes and finger plays. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 9:15-9:45 & 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

COURTESY

Lyndonville, 5-8 p.m. Free. Info, lafferty1949@gmail.com.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: Snacks and coffee fuel bouts of a classic card game. Burlington Bridge Club, Williston, 12:30 p.m. $6. Info, 872-5722.

FRIENDLY GAME OF BRIDGE: Strategic thinkers have a blast with the popular card game. Heineberg Senior Center, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 233-4395.

PEER SUPPORT DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Beginners wanted! Players get lost in the fantasyfilled tabletop role-playing game while focusing on teamwork, connection and community building. Morgan House, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 777-6185.

WEEKLY CHESS FOR FUN: Players of all ability levels face off and learn new strategies. United Community Church, St. Johnsbury, 5:30-9 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, lafferty1949@gmail.com.

health & fitness COMMUNITY

MINDFULNESS: Volunteer coach Andrea Marion guides attendees in a weekly practice for stress reduction, followed by a discussion and Q&A. 5-6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, andreamarion193@gmail.com.

KEEPING HOPE ALIVE: A FOURDAY MINDFULNESS COURSE: Inspired by the Plum Village tradition of Buddhist ethics, participants discover daily practices that cultivate deeper meaning in day-to-day life. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Upper Valley, Norwich, 6-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 703-727-5208.

SEATED TAI CHI: Adina guides at-home participants — including those

FOMO?

Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

film

See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magnificent 7 on page 11.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM THU.19 « P.57

with limited mobility or difficulty standing — through a sequence of slow, connected movements. Sponsored by the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 878-4918.

language

ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUP: Practitioners make strides — and new friends — at a stress-free discussion circle hosted by Fletcher Free Library. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, bshatara@ burlingtonvt.gov.

ITALIAN CONVERSATION GROUP: Parla Italiano? Language learners practice pronunciation and more at a friendly gathering. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

MANDARIN CONVERSATION

CIRCLE: Volunteers from Vermont Chinese School help students learn or improve their fluency. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 846-4140.

SPANISH CONVERSATION GROUP: ¿Hablas español? Conversationalists of all levels practice the Romance language in a stress-free environment. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

music

FEBRUARY FOLK: AUDREY PEARL & KING MARGO: A Vermont singer-songwriter and a Nashville duo take the stage for a mesmerizing concert of Americana music. Community Center in Jericho, 7-10 p.m. $18-25. Info, emily. algranati@gmail.com.

PARMALEE: A multiplatinum country outfit from North Carolina delivers Southern sounds to local listeners. Paramount Theatre, Rutland, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $35.5055.50. Info, 775-0903.

TUVERGEN: See WED.18. Dibden Center for the Arts, Vermont State University-Johnson, 7-8 p.m. $25. Info, dibdencentertheater@ vermontstate.edu.

seminars

IN-PERSON GRANT SESSIONS: The Vermont Arts Council gives an overview of grant programs and proposals for artists, nonprofits, municipalities and schools. College Hall, Vermont College of Fine Arts, Montpelier, 5 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 402-4614. VIRTUAL ROUNDTABLE: ‘50 FOR 250: HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE’: The Vermont Historical Society hosts a lunchtime exploration of its ongoing project curating 50 specific artifacts that encapsulate 250 years’ worth of Green Mountain State history. Noon. Free; preregister. Info, 479-8500.

talks

ADRIANA SANCHEZ-GUTIERREZ: In “An Inclusive Voice is a Multicultural Voice,” a University of Vermont professor invites participants to reflect on how embracing other perspectives strengthens communities,

Go With the Snow

FEB. 22 | FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Bundle up, snow sports fans! Burlington’s nonprofit Intervale Center hosts merrymakers at Wintervale, an annual celebration of seasonal recreation and outdoor education. No matter the weather, the joy- and community-filled day offers reasons for everyone to get outside, with free cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals, miles of sprawling trails, guided walks, and a competitive chili cook-off. Between activities, folks nosh on hearty fare courtesy of Skinny Pancake and Lake Champlain Chocolates. Don’t miss the s’mores station.

WINTERVALE

Sunday, February 22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Intervale Center in Burlington. Free. Info, 660-0440, intervale.org.

fosters a sense of belonging, and promotes social and intellectual growth. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

ALYSSA BENNET: In “Creatures of the Night: Conservation and Recovery of Vermont’s Bats,” a Vermont Fish & Wildlife small mammals biologist shares fascinating facts about the state’s nine species and offers insight into how folks can help threatened populations. Green Mountain Club Headquarters, Waterbury Center, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7037.

tech

GENERATING DEBATE: DISCUSSING THE ROLE OF AI IN INDIE MEDIA: Local producers and filmmakers talk about generative AI, large language models and deep learning at this roundtable conversation. The Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

theater

‘MOON OVER BUFFALO’: Smalltime actors with big dreams take center stage in Middlebury Community Players’ production of Ken Ludwig’s screwball comedy. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7:30 p.m. $15-35. Info, 382-9222. ‘MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’: See WED.18.

‘THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT’: See WED.18, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

words

MORNINGS, MUFFINS & MYSTERIES: Lit lovers link up to discuss the month’s twisty page-turner. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

STEPHEN RONSON: An English author launches his noir thriller The Blitz Secret, set in the darkest days of World War II, in conversation with Vermont writer Sarah Stewart Taylor. The Norwich Bookstore, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

FRI.20 film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘THE MYSTERIOUS GAZE OF THE FLAMINGO’: Diego Céspedes’ 2025 debut feature reimagines the start of the AIDS crisis in a remote Chilean mining town in 1982. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7-8:50 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘BACKYARD WILDERNESS 3D’: See THU.19.

‘DINOSAURS OF ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.19.

‘THE FLYING ACE’: Accompanist Jeff Rapsis improvises a live score on the venue’s Estey pipe organ for this groundbreaking 1926 silent crime thriller featuring an all-Black cast. Epsilon Spires, Brattleboro, 6:30 p.m. $25. Info, info@epsilonspires.org.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.19.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.19.

food & drink

RESTAURANT WEEK: See WED.18.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.19, 10 a.m.

MAH-JONGG: It’s not just for old ladies! Tile traders of all experience levels gather for a rousing game. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

health & fitness

GUIDED MEDITATION

ONLINE: Dorothy Alling Memorial Library invites attendees to relax on their lunch breaks and reconnect with their bodies. Noon-12:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, programs@ damlvt.org.

IN-PERSON MORNING

MEDITATION: Expert Zac Ispa-Landa helps participants gain tools to quiet their minds, slow down and reset. Outright Vermont, Burlington, 8-8:45 a.m. Free. Info, 825-1815.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION: Community members gather for an informal session combining stimulating discussion, sharing and sitting in silence. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

lgbtq

RPG NIGHT: Members of the LGBTQ community get together weekly for role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Everway. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 5:308:30 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692.

music

ANA GUIGUI: An acclaimed pianist and vocalist entertains listeners with a wide variety of styles and genres. The Brandon Inn, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 747-8300. ‘CALEDONIAN CONNECTIONS’: Middlebury College affiliate artist Timothy Cummings, accordionist Jeremiah McLane and cellist McKinley James perform traditional acoustic tunes exploring musical links across the region. Robison Concert Hall, Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Info, 443-5938.

HEARTLESS: Vocalist Jasmine White helms a note-for-note tribute to living legend Ann Wilson, front woman of iconic ’70s rock band Heart. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, 7-9 p.m. $1045. Info, 728-9878.

LANE SERIES: BILL CHARLAP & RENEE ROSNES: A jazz piano duo and real-life married couple perform works with masterful musicianship. The University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $5-40. Info, 656-4455. PATTI CASEY, COLIN MCCAFFREY & ERIC O’HARA: Local musicians with a mutual love of bluegrass

and other traditional genres assume the spotlight for an entertaining evening of powerhouse vocals and string wizardry. Seven Stars Arts Center, Sharon, 7-9 p.m. $20-25. Info, 763-2334.

QUERALT GIRALT SOLER TRIO: An adventurous three-piece delivers genre-blurring original music and reimagined works. Virtual option available. Next Stage Arts, Putney, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $10-25. Info, info@nextstagearts.org.

SPRUCE PEAK UNPLUGGED: LILY

SEABIRD: A Burlington indie-music star shows why Rolling Stone magazine hailed her as “an unflinching songwriter who’d make Leonard Cohen proud.” See calendar spotlight. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe Mountain Resort, 7 p.m. $33.8947.80. Info, 760-4634.

seminars

IN-PERSON GRANT SESSIONS:

See THU.19. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 1 p.m.

sports

BURTON WINTER JAM:

Champlain College students and community members ages 14 and up face off in ski or snowboard categories to win cash prizes. Helmets required. Finney Quad, Burlington, 6-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 585-6433.

talks

EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT FOR EVERYONE SPRING LECTURE

SERIES: DR. MARLENE TROMP:

The University of Vermont president discusses navigating uncharted terrain in higher education in 2026. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 2-3 p.m. $8 cash or check; free for members. Info, 395-1818.

tech

MORNING TECH HELP: Experts answer questions about phones, laptops, e-readers and other devices in one-on-one sessions. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 846-4140.

theater

‘BROADWAY’S BEN BOGEN: A ONE-NIGHT SOLO ENGAGEMENT’:

A musical theater star performs a selection of favorites from the Great White Way to benefit nonprofit org Acorn Youth Arts. Montpelier Performing Arts Hub, 7-9 p.m. $25. Info, acornyoutharts@zohomail.com.

‘LEGACY OF LIGHT’: Two female scientists living hundreds of years apart explore the meaning of love, motherhood and family in this contemporary comedy staged by the school’s department of theater. Daryl Roth Studio Theater,

Hanover, N.H., 7:30-9:30 p.m. $15. Info, 603-646-2422.

MINTY FRESH CIRCUS: An allBlack cast of acrobats infuses an eye-popping, gravity-defying performance with joy and resilience. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 6 p.m. $39. Info, 863-5966.

‘MOON OVER BUFFALO’: See THU.19.

‘MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’: See WED.18.

VALLEY IMPROV: Local laugh masters keep attendees roaring with original scenes and stories developed in real time with help from the audience. Grange Theatre, South Pomfret, 7 p.m. $10. Info, 457-3500.

‘THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT’: See WED.18.

SAT.21

activism

ORGANIZING MEETING: The Randolph Town Committee of the Vermont Progressive Party invites locals to learn more about its principals, get involved in political discourse and elect county officers. Orange County Restorative Justice Center, Chelsea, 2 p.m. Free. Info, 728-4305.

community

SISTERHOOD CAMPFIRE: Women and genderqueer folks gather in a safe and inclusive space to build community through journaling, storytelling, gentle music and stargazing. Leddy Park, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, sisterhoodcampfire@gmail.com.

crafts

CRAFTING CHANGE: Good Samaritans knit and crochet baby caps for the Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital at this meaningful communityfocused session led by the Yarn Bank. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, mrobinson@ stjathenaeum.org.

dance

CHALLENGING CONTRA DANCE: Missing Lynx provide the tunes and Steve Zakon-Anderson calls the steps for difficult dances. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. A potluck follows. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 4:30-6 p.m. $5-10 sliding scale. Info, 225-8921.

BERLIN CONTRA DANCE: Dancers of all ages and abilities learn at a gathering that encourages joy, laughter and friendship. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. See capitalcitygrange.org for callers and bands. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 8-11 p.m. $5-20 sliding scale. Info, 225-8921.

etc.

NIGHTLY DREAM EXPERIENCES: Eckankar in Vermont hosts an opportunity for neighbors to share dream-related experiences, questions and insights in an open, respectful environment.

South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1:30-2:45 p.m. Free. Info, eck.vermont@gmail.com.

fairs & festivals

CURDS & CURLING: Players sweep a wheel of Jasper Hill cheddar across the ice while spectators enjoy cheesy treats, live music and warming fires. Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $5-12. Info, 533-2000.

MASQUERADE JAZZ & FUNK

WINTER MUSIC CARNIVAL: BarnArts’ 14th annual familyfriendly fête lifts spirits with live music, mask making, a taco bar and a photo booth. BYOB. Barnard Town Hall, 5:30-9:30 p.m. $15-40 sliding scale; free for kids 6 and under. Info, 547-3027.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘WISDOM OF HAPPINESS’: The Dalai Lama speaks directly to the camera about inner peace, happiness and the potential for a conflict-free world in this

powerful 2024 documentary. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 3-4:30 & 7-8:30 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘BACKYARD WILDERNESS 3D’: See THU.19.

‘DINOSAURS OF ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.19.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.19.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.19.

food & drink

FLAVORS OF THE KINGDOM FOOD FEST: Gastronomes enjoy tasty samples from some of the town’s top purveyors, including the Buttery Kitchen + Pantry, New Century, and Salt Bistro. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 5-7 p.m. $40; preregister. Info, 748-8291. RESTAURANT WEEK: See WED.18.

games

CHESS CLUB: All ages and abilities face off and learn new strategies. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140. D&D & TTRPG GROUP: Fans of Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games embark on a new

adventure with a rotating cast of game masters. Virtual option available. Waterbury Public Library, 1-5 p.m. Free. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

health & ﬁtness

GENTLE YOGA: Practitioners hit the mat for a slow-paced, all-levels class focusing on breath work, stress reduction and mind-body awareness. BYO mat and props. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30-11:45 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

music

ANA GUIGUI: See FRI.20.

DAVID FEURZEIG: In “Play Every Town,” the proliﬁc classical pianist continues a statewide series of shows in protest of high-pollution worldwide concert tours. Newfane Congregational Church, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, playeverytown@ gmail.com.

G. LOVE & CHADWICK STOKES:

SOLD OUT. Two renowned artists take the stage for an electrifying concert in support of local nonproﬁts the Burke Mountain Academy and Catamount Arts. Burke Mountain Hotel & Conference Center, East Burke, 7-10 p.m. $35. Info, info@skiburke. com.

LIVIN’ IN THE BLUES: A seasoned group of Vermont musicians moves beyond the ordinary concert program with a diverse and unique repertoire. Grange Hall Cultural Center, Waterbury Center, 6 p.m. $15 suggested donation; preregister. Info, 244-4168.

MONTPELIER COMMUNITY

GOSPEL CHOIR: Director Dr. James Stewart leads an interactive workshop celebrating the life and legacy of Black composer Harry T. Burleigh, followed by a free concert by the much-loved vocal ensemble. Montpelier Performing Arts Hub, 1-4 & 5 p.m. $40 suggested donation; preregister. Info, 279-0464.

NATE SMITH: A Grammywinning jazz drummer delivers deep-pocket grooves and genre-blurring style with help from pianist Jacob Pollack and bassist Ben Carr. Vermont Jazz Center, Brattleboro, 7:30 p.m. $25-60 sliding scale. Info, 2549088, ext. 1.

VERMONT PHILHARMONIC: Conductor Lou Kosma directs the ensemble in “Heritage in Harmony,” a dynamic program exploring the powerful inﬂuence of folk music. Elley-Long Music Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 4 p.m. $20-25; free for students. Info, 223-9855.

WINTER CONCERT SERIES: JOHN

HUGHES: An internationally renowned composer, kora player, percussionist and vocalist takes listeners on a musical tour of universal expressions of joy and hope. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

Well Heeled

In the immortal words of Nancy Sinatra, these boots are made for walkin’! Tony Awardwinning musical Kinky Boots arrives at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington, bringing captivating choreography by Broadway vet Jerry Mitchell and a high-energy, can’tget-it-out-of-your-head score by pop luminary Cyndi Lauper. Based on true events, the snappy musical lifts spirits with the story of a shoe factory owner on the verge of bankruptcy — and the fabulous entertainer whose niche need ﬂips the script. Together, the unlikely duo join forces to curtail the factory’s impending closure and prove that life-changing things can happen when prejudice is left at the door.

‘KINKY BOOTS’

Tuesday, February 24, and Wednesday, February 25, 7:30 p.m., at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington. $70.75-95.75. Info, 863-5966, ﬂynnvt.org.

outdoors

IGLOO BUILD: Visitors witness ice blocks transform into sturdy structures at this long-running winter tradition. Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Regular admission, $18-21; free for members and kids under 2. Info, 649-2200.

MOUNT ABE VIA BATTELL TRAIL HIKE: Adventurers join the Green Mountain Club for a difﬁcult, moderately paced hike to the summit. Snowshoes required. Email for start time. Mount Abraham, Bristol. Free; preregister. Info, gmc@gmcburlington.org.

SNOWSHOE & 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: Snow sports enthusiasts hit the trails to discuss wildlife habitats, managed forests, invasive species control and a wetland restoration project on the property. Hot drinks and sweets follow. Bluffside Farm, Newport, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, 377-2725.

québec

‘DAVID YAZBEK: MY BROADWAY’: Audience members have an up-close encounter with one of the Great White Way’s most distinctive voices, live and off script at the grand piano. Sylvan Adams eatre, Segal Centre for

Performing Arts, Montréal, 7:30 p.m. $75-80. Info, 514-739-7944.

seminars

KNIT MENDING: Attendees bring their worn sweaters and other knitwear to a repair session led by local expert Sarah Graves. Jaquith Public Library, Marshﬁeld, noon-2 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 426-3581.

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION: Curious creatives and multimedia enthusiasts tour the facilities and check out available gear. e Media Factory, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

talks

SAM TALKS: CHRISTINE HADSEL: In “Vermont’s Historic eater Curtains,” the director of Curtains Without Borders sheds light on a unique artistic feature of rural New England towns and cities. Saint Albans Museum, St. Albans, 1-3 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 527-7933.

theater

‘LEGACY OF LIGHT’: See FRI.20, 3-5 & 7:30-9:30 p.m.

‘MOON OVER BUFFALO’: See THU.19.

‘MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’: See WED.18, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

‘THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT’: See WED.18, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

words

OPEYEMI PARHAM: An author reads selections from her 2025 memoir, Spirit of My Ancestors: A Black Woman Doctor’s Truth exploring family trauma, ancestral wisdom and personal transformation. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 244-7036.

WRITE NOW!: Wordsmiths of all experience levels hone their craft in a supportive and critique-free environment. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

WRITERS’ WERTFREI: Authors both ﬂedgling and published share their work in a nonjudgmental setting. Virtual option available. Waterbury Public Library, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

SUN.22

agriculture

SEED & PLANT SWAP: A workshop on determining seed

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.19, 1 p.m.

health & ﬁtness

KARUNA COMMUNITY

MEDITATION: A YEAR TO LIVE (FULLY): Participants practice keeping joy, generosity and gratitude at the forefront of their minds. Jenna’s House, Johnson, 10-11:15 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, mollyzapp@live.com.

NEW LEAF SANGHA

MINDFULNESS PRACTICE: New and experienced meditators alike sit together in the Plum Village tradition of ich Nhat Hanh. Hot Yoga Burlington, 6-7:45 p.m. Free. Info, newleafsangha@gmail.com.

holidays

viability inspires green thumbs preparing for their summer gardens. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, noon-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

community

MOBILE PET FOOD SHELF: Animal lovers in need stock up on pet products, with no residency or income requirements. Winooski Senior Center, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 655-6425.

environment

WEEKEND CLEAN UP CREW: Good Samaritans dispose of needles, trash and other unwanted objects. BYO gloves encouraged. Top of Church St., Burlington, 11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-2345.

fairs & festivals

WINTERVALE: Wondrous wintry activities, from snowshoe adventures and wildlife tracking to live raptor programming and a chili cook-off, highlight a seasonal celebration. See calendar spotlight. Intervale Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, 660-0440.

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BACKYARD WILDERNESS 3D’: See THU.19.

‘DINOSAURS OF ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.19.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.19.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.19.

food & drink

PUPS & PINTS: Brew hounds head to the taproom, four-legged friends in tow, for beers and hot dogs supporting Passion 4 Paws. Switchback Beer Garden & Smokehouse, Burlington, 1-5 p.m. Free; cost of food and drink. Info, 540-6965.

RESTAURANT WEEK: See WED.18.

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION: Revelers ring in the Year of the Horse with a luncheon and traditional stage performances at the Vermont Chinese School’s 32nd annual fête. Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School, South Burlington, noon-3 p.m. $10-25; free for kids under 3. Info, 307-6332.

lgbtq

BOARD GAME DAY: LGBTQ+ tabletop fans bring their own favorite games to the party. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 1-6 p.m. Free. Info, 622-0692. CRAFT CLUB: Creative queer folks work on their knitting, crocheting and sewing projects. Rainbow Bridge Community Center, Barre, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 622-0692.

music

DARTMOUTH COLLEGE GLEE CLUB: Student choral singers draw on their ever-expanding repertory for an uplifting concert. Rollins Chapel, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 2-3 p.m. $20. Info, 603-646-2422.

FOMO?

Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art.

ﬁlm

See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/ music.

Learn more about highlighted listings in the Magniﬁcent 7 on page 11.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM

FACULTY SCHOLARSHIP

CONCERT: The college’s music program presents an afternoon of riveting performances to benefit the Music Lesson Scholarship Fund. The University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 656-3040.

PM SUNDAYS SERIES: HEATHER

PIERSON DUO: A pianist and singer-songwriter delves into New Orleans jazz, blues and folk music with bassist Shawn Nadeau. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 4 p.m. $15-28. Info, 382-9222.

VERMONT PHILHARMONIC: See SAT.21. Barre Opera House, 2 p.m.

outdoors

TREE ID & NATURAL HISTORY

TOUR: Naturalist Gene O.

Desideraggio guides attendees in identifying local flora. Ethan Allen Park, Burlington, 10 a.m.-noon. $10-15; preregister. Info, info@ citymarket.coop.

WILDLIFE TRACKING CLUB:

Trackers of all ages learn how to distinguish the snowy paw prints of Vermont mammals. North Branch Nature Center, Montpelier, 10-11:30 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 229-6206.

québec

‘DAVID YAZBEK: MY BROADWAY’: See SAT.21, 2 & 7:30 p.m.

sports

SNOW GOLF: CHIP, DRIVE & PUTT FOR PRESERVATION: Spectators enjoy tasty refreshments as golfers gleefully take on a series of challenges, including Longest

Drive and Blindfolded Pick-AClub. Proceeds benefit Landmark Trust USA. Scott Farm Orchard, Dummerston, noon-3 p.m. $35130; preregister. Info, 254-6868.

talks

WINTER SUNDAY SERIES: ASH KERBY-MILLER: In “Owls in Winter,” a North Branch Nature Center staff naturalist shares fascinating facts about nocturnal predators living right in our backyards. Adamant Community Club, 3-5 p.m. Free. Info, 454-7103.

tech

DROP-IN TECH SUPPORT: Techsavvy library staff provide oneon-one guidance and support in 30-minute sessions. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

theater

‘MOON OVER BUFFALO’: See THU.19, 2 p.m.

‘MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’: See WED.18, 2 p.m. ‘THE WORLD IS NOT SILENT’: See WED.18, 5 p.m.

words

SEFAKOR KOMABU-POMEYIE: An author shares her deeply personal 2023 memoir, I’m Able: A Woman’s Advice for Disability Change Agents, following her experience growing up without systems to support her. Barnes & Noble, South Burlington, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 864-8001.

SHARON WEBSTER & DAVE

CAVANAGH: Verse lovers delight in a double book launch of new collections by the local poets,

followed by a signing and sale. Refreshments provided. SEABA Center, Burlington, 3 p.m. Free. Info, outreach@seaba.com.

MON.23

activism

PRIVATE TRUTH-TELLING

SESSION: The Vermont Truth and Reconciliation Commission invites marginalized locals impacted by state systems — past or present — to share their stories remotely. Free; preregister. Info, vtrc@vermont.gov.

business

LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST:

Members of the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region meet with

Vermont Chamber of Commerce vice president of government affairs Megan Sullivan over pancakes. Southside Steakhouse, Rutland, 7:30 a.m. $25; preregister. Info, 773-2747.

climate crisis

LAURA MANN INTEGRATIVE

HEALTHCARE LECTURE SERIES:

SARAH JAQUETTE RAY: In “Inner Skills for Climate Resilience: An Existential Toolkit for the Polycrisis,” a Cal Poly Humboldt professor of environmental studies explores the emotional dimensions of environmental justice. Virtual option available. Davis Auditorium, Medical Education Center Pavilion, University of Vermont Medical

Center, Burlington, 8-9 a.m. Free. Info, 656-7921.

crafts

FUSE BEADS CLUB: Aspiring artisans bring ideas or borrow patterns to make beaded creations. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

environment

REGIONAL LISTENING SESSION:

The Vermont Conservation Plan invites Green Mountain residents to share their perspectives about Act 59 — an ambitious goal of conserving 50 percent of the state’s landscape by 2050. Vermont State UniversityRandolph, Randolph Center, 4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 661-8958.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BACKYARD WILDERNESS 3D’: See THU.19.

‘DINOSAURS OF ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.19.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.19.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.19.

games

BURLINGTON ELKS BINGO: Players grab their daubers for a competitive night of card stamping for cash prizes. Burlington Elks Lodge, 6 p.m. Various prices. Info, 862-1342.

MAH JONGG MONDAYS: Tile traders gather for friendly bouts of the ancient game of skill, strategy and luck. St. Albans Free Library, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 524-1507.

health & fitness

LAUGHTER YOGA: Spontaneous, joyful movement and breath promote physical and emotional health. Virtual option available. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 1:15-2:15 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

language

GERMAN LANGUAGE LUNCH: Willkommen! Speakers of all experience levels brush up on conversational skills over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

music

ONION RIVER CHORUS

REHEARSAL: The non-auditioned community ensemble conducted by Richard Riley invites interested vocalists to join in spirited song. Bethany United Church of Christ, Montpelier, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 476-2541.

politics

LEGISLATIVE FORUM: Democratic state reps Emilie Krasnow, Martin LaLonde, Kate Nugent, Bridget Burkhardt and Brian Minier shed light on what’s being debated in the Statehouse. Virtual option

available. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

québec

‘DAVID YAZBEK: MY BROADWAY’: See SAT.21.

seminars

IN-PERSON GRANT SESSIONS: See THU.19. Cobleigh Public Library, Lyndonville, 1 p.m. talks

ARMCHAIR TRAVEL TALKS: No passport is required for this biweekly speaker series from folks who have ventured as far afield as Namibia, Scandinavia and Manitoba. Montpelier Senior Activity Center, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, saddleshoes2@gmail.com.

LUTZ KAELBER: A University of Vermont associate professor of sociology delivers a powerful lecture, “Women as Perpetrators: Female Physicians and the Killing of Children in Nazi Germany.” Memorial Lounge, Waterman Building, University of Vermont, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Info, jhuener@uvm.edu.

words

ITALIAN BOOK CLUB: Lovers of the language read and discuss Natalia Ginzburg’s 1962 collection of essays, Le Piccole Virtú. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

READ LIKE A WRITER: New England Readers & Writers hosts a virtual reading group for lit lovers to chat about short stories, both contemporary and classic. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, 372-1132.

SCRIPTWRITERS’ GROUP: Got a story to tell? Talented local writers swap techniques and constructive critiques. Junction Arts & Media, White River Junction, 5:30-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 295-6688.

TUE.24

activism

SHOWING UP FOR RACIAL JUSTICE COMMUNITY

GATHERING: Neighbors work on cultivating trust, appreciating and respecting differences, and building skills to interrupt racism and classism. Unitarian Church of Montpelier, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 223-7861.

community

CURRENT EVENTS DISCUSSION GROUP: Brownell Library holds a virtual roundtable for neighbors to pause and reflect on the news cycle. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6955.

crafts

ALL HANDS TOGETHER

COMMUNITY CRAFTING GROUP: Marshfield spinning maven

Donna Hisson hosts a casual gathering for fiber fans of all abilities to work on old projects

or start something new. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘BACKYARD WILDERNESS 3D’: See THU.19.

‘DINOSAURS OF ANTARCTICA 3D’: See THU.19.

‘FENCES’: Denzel Washington stars in this acclaimed 2016 period drama about a workingclass African American father trying to raise his family in 1950s Pittsburgh. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 540-3018.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.19.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.19.

‘WALK WITH ME’: This powerful 2024 documentary follows Charlie Hess and his wife, Heidi Levitt, as they navigate the challenges of his early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. A discussion follows. Savoy Theater, Montpelier, 5-6:30 p.m. $8.50-12. Info, edwin.demott@ vermont.gov.

games

BOARD GAMES FOR ADULTS: Locals ages 18 and up enjoy the library’s collection or bring their own to share with the group. Light refreshments provided. Essex Free Library, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 879-0313.

health & fitness

COMMUNITY MEDITATION: All experience levels engage in the ancient Buddhist practice of clearing the mind to achieve a state of calm. First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, 5:15-6 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 862-5630.

TAI CHI: Practitioners get a feel for the Chinese martial art combining controlled breathing, meditation and slow, gentle movements. Ida Boch Park, Bradford, 10-11 a.m. Free. Info, 304-0836.

language

ITALIAN LANGUAGE LUNCH: Speakers hone their skills in the Romance language over bagged lunches. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, noon-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

PAUSE-CAFÉ FRENCH

CONVERSATION: Francophones and French-language learners meet pour parler la belle langue Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-7 p.m. Free. Info, 343-5493.

music

KCP PRESENTS: RUCKUS: A collaborative ensemble with a playful approach to early music dazzles listeners with a unique sound the New Yorker calls “rough-edged intensity.” Fuller Hall, St. Johnsbury Academy, 7-9 p.m. $18-54; free for students. Info, 748-2600.

québec

‘DAVID YAZBEK: MY BROADWAY’: See SAT.21.

seminars

THE ARTIST’S WAY: A weekly study group invites participants to explore Julia Cameron’s celebrated method for creative unblocking and achieving transcendence. 3 Squares Café, Vergennes, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, kelseywoodmezzo@ gmail.com.

IN-PERSON GRANT SESSIONS: See THU.19. Weston Theater at Walker Farm, 1 p.m.

sports

EZ BREEZY BIKE RIDES: Costumes are encouraged at this monthly fun-filled, casual group ride around Burlington. BYO bike. Local Motion, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 861-2700.

OPEN GYM BASKETBALL FOR DADS: Fathers and masc-identifying caregivers team up for a lowkey pickup game. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, 318-4231.

tech

AFTERNOON TECH HELP: Experts answer questions about phones, laptops, e-readers and other devices in one-on-one meetings. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1-4 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 846-4140.

DROP-IN TECH SUPPORT: Library staff answer questions about devices of all kinds in face-to-face chats. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 12:30-2 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

ONE-ON-ONE TECH HELP: Adult services librarian Megan Robinson lends a hand with smartphones, laptops and e-readers in 30-minute sessions. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; preregister. Info, 748-8291.

theater

‘KINKY BOOTS’: A failing factory owner and a fabulous drag queen join forces to create a line of sturdy stilettos in this Tony-Award winning musical with songs by Cyndi Lauper. See calendar spotlight. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $70.75-95.75. Info, 863-5966. words

BURLINGTON LITERATURE GROUP: Over the course of five weeks, bookworms analyze Gustave Flaubert’s Madame Bovary a landmark novel about a woman who escapes her provincial life through adultery. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@nereadersand writers.com.

DAN CHIASSON: A Queen City native launches his new book, Bernie for Burlington, exploring the early days and inexorable rise of U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, in conversation with Middlebury College professor Megan Mayhew-Bergman. Dana Auditorium, Sunderland Language Center, Middlebury College, 7-9 p.m. Free. Info, jvadenbrooks@middlebury.edu.

EVENING BOOK GROUP:

Bibliophiles share their read on Jasmine Guillory’s 2018 contemporary romance novel, The Wedding Date. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

JULIA COOKE: A local author launches her new book, Starry and Restless: Three Women Who Changed Work, Writing and the World, and discusses the evolution of women in journalism with Dartmouth College professor Jeff Sharlet. Norman Williams Public Library, Woodstock, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 457-2295.

READER’S ROUNDTABLE BOOK

CLUB: Bookworms gather to gab about Lily Brooks-Dalton’s 2022 story of survival and resilience, The Light Pirate. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 12:301:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

WRITING CIRCLE: Words pour out when participants explore creative expression in a low-pressure environment. Virtual option available. Pathways Vermont, Burlington, 4-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 777-8691.

WED.25

activism

COSA VOLUNTEER INFORMATION SESSION: See WED.18.

community

CURRENT EVENTS: Neighbors have an informal discussion about what’s in the news. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 878-4918.

crafts

YARN & YAK: See WED.18.

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.18.

dance

MOVEMENT MATTERS MASTER

CLASS: A facilitated workshop led by Jimmy Joyner uses prompts and games to help participants explore new versions of themselves. Mahaney Arts Center, Middlebury College, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 443-5412.

etc.

TOASTMASTERS OF GREATER

BURLINGTON: Those looking to strengthen their speaking and leadership skills gain new tools. Virtual option available. Generator Makerspace, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 233-4157.

food & drink

COMMUNITY COOKING: See WED.18.

CUPPA ON CAMPUS: See WED.18.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: See WED.18.

RECOVERY DHARMA: See WED.18.

language

ELL CLASSES: See WED.18.

lgbtq

THE ALL INCLUSIVE DYKETACULAR: See WED.18.

music

FARMERS NIGHT CONCERT SERIES: CAPITAL CITY CONCERTS: In ”A Journey of Sound,” 40 regional musicians — including Vermont’s own Grammy-nominated flutist Karen Kevra — perform chamber music from the Middle East and Scandinavia. House Chamber, Vermont Statehouse, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 828-2228. québec

‘DAVID YAZBEK: MY BROADWAY’: See SAT.21.

seminars

AARP TAX HELP: See WED.18. STUDIO PRODUCTION: Media enthusiasts walk through the process of conducting interviews on set while switching between cameras and utilizing chroma-keyed backgrounds. The Media Factory, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted; preregister. Info, 651-9692.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE TENNIS CLUB: See WED.18.

theater

‘KINKY BOOTS’: See TUE.24.

words

CHUCK COLLINS: A celebrated Vermont author launches his new book, Burned by Billionaires: How Concentrated Wealth and Power Are Ruining Our Lives and Planet, exposing the impact of America’s ultra-wealthy on social landscapes. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 748-8291. THE HUMP DAY WRITING GROUP: See WED.18. ➆

FOMO? Find even more local events in this newspaper and online: art Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art. film See what’s playing at theaters in the On Screen section.

FAMI LY

barre/montpelier

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE STORY

TIME: Special guest Nora conveys stories, songs and silliness through the visual language. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

POKÉMON CLUB: I choose you, Pikachu! Elementary and teenage fans of the franchise — and beginners, too — trade cards and play games. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

STORY TIME: Kids and their caregivers meet for stories, songs and bubbles. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 2nd Floor, Children’s Library, Montpelier, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

stowe/smuggs

WEE ONES PLAY TIME: Caregivers bring kiddos under 4 to a new sensory learning experience each week. Morristown Centennial Library, Morrisville, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 888-3853.

mad river valley/ waterbury

BUSY BEES PLAYGROUP: Blocks, toys, books and songs engage little ones 24 months and younger. Waterbury Public Library, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

upper valley

MAGIC OF MAPLE: See WED.18.

northeast kingdom

ACORN CLUB STORY TIME: Youngsters 5 and under play, sing, hear stories and color. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391.

FRI.20

burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.18.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: See WED.18.

DROP-IN: An afterschool hangout space invites teens ages 13 to 19 to relax, connect, grab a snack or browse the nonprofit’s clothing closet. Outright Vermont, Burlington, 2:30 p.m. Free. Info, programs@outrightvt.org.

chittenden county

FRIDAY LEGO BUILDERS: Mini makers explore and create new worlds with stackable blocks. Recommended for ages 6 and up. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

HOMESCHOOL SOCIAL: Families meet for a morning of socializing, exploring, and learning about the library’s catalog and resources. Light refreshments provided. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

SPANISH STORY TIME: Hola, amigos! Toddlers and their caregivers listen to

stories and learn some Spanish words. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10:3011 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

TEEN ADVISORY GROUP: Students in grades 6 through 12 gather to plan programs for the spring, play games and eat snacks. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

barre/montpelier

BASEMENT TEEN CENTER: A dropin hangout session welcomes kids ages 12 to 17 for lively games, arts and crafts, and snacks. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 2-8 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

LEGO CLUB: Budding builders create geometric structures with snap-together blocks. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

STORY TIME & PLAYGROUP: Participants ages 5 and under enjoy themed science, art and nature activities. Jaquith Public Library, Marshfield, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

upper valley

MAGIC OF MAPLE: See WED.18.

STORY TIME: Preschoolers take part in tales, tunes and playtime. Latham Library, Thetford, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

northeast kingdom

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: Youngsters and their caregivers delight in beautiful books, silly songs, creative crafts and unplugged play in the library’s cozy children’s room. Craftsbury Public Library, Craftsbury Common, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 586-9683.

SAT.21

burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.18.

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: Step right up! Guests of all ages revel in hair-raising science shows, crowddazzling spectacles and hands-on activities about the wonders of electricity. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

DADS’ NIGHT OUT: SOBER SATURDAY NIGHTS: Fathers get together for a casual, substance-free night of food and games. The Guild Hall, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. Info, 318-4231.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: See WED.18.

FAMILY PLAYSHOP: A range of themes and rotating activities promote school readiness and foster creativity. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

READ TO CHEWY THE THERAPY DOG: Little tykes of all ages flock to the beloved pup for 15 minutes of stories and unconditional love. Essex Free Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 879-0313.

YOUTH FUN RUN: Breakfast with local mascots awaits beyond the finish line for joggers and walkers of all ages and

abilities. Rick Marcotte Central School, South Burlington, 9 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-8412.

mad river valley/ waterbury

STARK MOUNTAIN STORYSKI: Little skiers follow the pages of Sarah Dillard’s I Wish It Would Snow on an adventure through the glade. Mad River Glen, Waitsfield, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Price of lift ticket. Info, 583-3536.

champlain islands/ northwest

DAD GUILD PLAY GROUP: Fathers and masc-identifying caregivers and their kids ages 5 and under drop in for low-key playtime and connection. St. Albans Free Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 318-4231.

upper valley

FAIRY HUNTS: Kiddos search the forest for tiny hidden friends at an enchanting scavenger hunt adventure. Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $17-20; free for members and kids 3 and under. Info, 359-5000.

MAGIC OF MAPLE: See WED.18.

WINTER WILDLIFE CELEBRATION: Reptiles, raptors and reindeer, oh my! Curious families learn more about the many critters that call Vermont home. Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $17-20; free for members and kids 3 and under. Info, 359-5000.

northeast kingdom

SCIENTIFIC SATURDAYS: Participants explore the wonders of the natural world, from the life cycle of plants to the mysteries of animal habitats. Haskell Free Library & Opera House, Derby Line, 1-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 888-626-2060.

brattleboro/okemo valley

WINTER SUNSHINE SERIES: ‘PARTY ANIMALS’: Puppet Motion presents a traditional hand puppetry performance that deftly balances silly antics with deeper truths. Sandglass Theater, Putney, 11 a.m.-noon & 2-3 p.m. $8-16 sliding scale. Info, 387-4051.

SUN.22

burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.18.

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See SAT.21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: See WED.18.

SUNDAY MORNING FAM JAMS: Early childhood educator and musician Alex Baron hosts an instrument-powered playgroup. The Guild Hall, Burlington, 9:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 318-4231.

chittenden county

SOCIAL SUNDAYS: Families participate in fun and educational art activities with diverse mediums and themes. All supplies and instruction provided. Milton Artists’ Guild Art Center & Gallery, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

upper valley

MAGIC OF MAPLE: See WED.18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

MON.23

burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.18.

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See SAT.21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: See WED.18.

STORY ARTISTS: Wee ones ages 2 to 6 and their caregivers read a selection of books by a featured author, then make art inspired by the theme. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

EASY EATS: Budding chefs in grades 4 through 8 learn how to transform pantry staples into various goodies using beginner-friendly cooking methods. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

TEEN GAME NIGHT: Countless board games are on the menu at this fun-filled meetup for adolescent patrons. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 5-6 p.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

mad river valley/ waterbury

TODDLER TIME: Little kids ages 5 and under have a blast with songs, stories, rhymes and dancing. Waterbury Public Library, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

upper valley

STORY TIME WITH BETH: An engaging bookseller and librarian reads picture books on a different theme each week. The Norwich Bookstore, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 649-1114.

TUE.24

burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.18.

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See SAT.21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: See WED.18.

MINECRAFT MEETUP: Fans of the sandbox game from ages 7 to 12 gather with fellow enthusiasts to play on the library’s private server. Snacks provided. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 5-6:15 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

SING-ALONG WITH LINDA BASSICK: Babies, toddlers and preschoolers sing, dance and wiggle along with the local musician. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 11-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK STORY TIME: Families add sparkle to their evening with illuminating stories, dancing, shadow puppetry and light-up bracelets. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 6-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

SCHOOL VACATION CRAFTYTOWN: Kiddos express their inner artist using mediums such as paint, print, collage

and sculpture. Recommended for ages 8 and up, or 6 and up with an adult helper. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

STORY TIME: Youngsters from birth to 5 enjoy a session of reading, rhyming and singing. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 878-4918.

barre/montpelier

BASEMENT TEEN CENTER: See FRI.20, 2-6 p.m.

THE NEST: Good Beginnings of Central Vermont hosts a baby-friendly space where prenatal and postpartum families can connect. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

northeast kingdom

LAPSIT STORY TIME: Babies 2 and under learn to love reading while singing and playing with their caregivers. Siblings welcome. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: See FRI.20.

WED.25

burlington

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.18.

CIRCUIT CIRCUS FESTIVAL: See SAT.21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

DINOSAUR SAFARI EXHIBIT: See WED.18.

LIBRARY LITTLES PLAYGROUP: See WED.18.

MAGNATILE MASTERPIECES: Future architects ages 3 and up build imaginative creations with magnetic toys. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 10-10:45 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

STEAM SPACE: See WED.18.

chittenden county

DROP-IN DOODLE NITE: Riot Craft Studio hosts a creative evening of pressure-free drawing for all ages. Paper and pencils provided. Jericho Ale & Bean, 5-7 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, riotcraftstudio@gmail.com.

GAME ON!: See WED.18.

READ TO A DOG: Bookworms of all ages get a 10-minute time slot to tell stories to Emma the therapy pup. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, sbplkids@southburlingtonvt.gov.

WINTER WONDERLAND: An afternoon of outdoor amusement includes sledding, snowman building, s’mores, a hot cocoa bar and other seasonal goodies. Farrell Park, South Burlington, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4108.

barre/montpelier

BABY & CAREGIVER MEETUP: See WED.18.

FAMILY CHESS CLUB: See WED.18.

ROBIN’S NEST NATURE PLAYGROUP: See WED.18. K

classes

THE FOLLOWING CLASS LISTINGS ARE PAID ADVERTISEMENTS. ANNOUNCE YOUR CLASS HERE FOR AS LITTLE AS $21.25/WEEK (INCLUDES SIX PHOTOS AND UNLIMITED DESCRIPTION ONLINE).

NEWSPAPER DEADLINE: MONDAYS AT 3 P.M. POST CLASS ADS AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POSTCLASS. GET HELP AT CLASSES@SEVENDAYSVT.COM.

arts & crafts

SATURDAY WORKSHOP SERIES

AT ALYSSA DELABRUERE

STUDIO: “Intro to Watercolor — Skyscapes” art workshop for adults at Alyssa DeLaBruere Studio at Camp Meade in Middlesex! Date: Feb. 28, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cost: $125; materials incl. Location: Camp Meade, 961 Route 2, Middlesex. Info: 802-323-3355, alyssadelabruere@gmail.com, alyssadelabruere.com.

DAVIS STUDIO ART CLASSES: Discover your happy place in one of our weekly classes. Making art boosts emotional well-being and brings joy to your life, especially when you connect with other art enthusiasts. Select the ongoing program that’s right for you.

Now enrolling youths, teens and adults. Join and restore your faith in humanity. Info: 802-4252700, info@davisstudiovt.com, davisstudiovt.com.

dance

BEGINNING SWING DANCE CLASS

SERIES: Learn the basics of swing dancing in this four-week series with Vermont’s premier swing dance teacher. No partner necessary. Each hourlong class is followed by a free deejayed dance practice session. Preregister on the Vermont Swings website. Dates: Tue., Mar. 3, 10, 17 & 24, 7-8 p.m. Cost: $15 for just the ﬁrst class; $50 for the 4-week series. Location: North Star Community Hall, 20 Crowley St., Burlington. Info:

Terry Bouricius, 802-864-8382, contact@vermontswings.com, vermontswings.com.

food & drink

FARMYARD CUPCAKE

DECORATING CLASS: In this workshop, we will decorate four farmyard animal cupcakes to take home and one to enjoy during the class! Cake kits can be gluten-free, vegan or both. Please disclose all allergies in the ticket registration. Note: We are not an allergen-free facility. Date: Tue., Mar. 10, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Cost: $65. Location: Red Poppy Cakery, 1 Elm St., Waterbury. Info: 203-4000700, sevendaystickets.com.

martial arts

AIKIDO: THE POWER OF HARMONY — NEW TUESDAY

NOON CLASS: Beginners’ classes five days a week. Cultivate core power, aerobic fitness and resiliency. e dynamic, circular movements emphasize throws, joint locks and the development of internal energy. Join our community and find resiliency, power and grace. Inclusive training, gender-neutral dressing room/ bathrooms and a safe space for all. Visitors are always welcome to watch a class! Vermont’s only intensive aikido programs. Location: Aikido of Champlain Valley, 257 Pine St., Burlington.

Info: bpincus@burlingtonaikido. org, burlingtonaikido.org.

music

TAIKO TUESDAYS, DJEMBE

WEDNESDAYS!: Drum with Stuart Paton! New sessions each month. Community Taiko Ensemble Beginner’s Class, Mon., 5:30-7 p.m. Taiko on Tue.: Kids & Parents Taiko, 4-5:30 p.m.; Adult Intro Taiko, 5:30-7 p.m.; Accelerated Intro Taiko, 7-8:30 p.m. Djembe on Wed.: Intermediate Djembe, 5:30-7 p.m.; Beginner Djembe, 7-8:30 p.m. Drums provided. Cost: $92/4 weeks; 90-min. classes; $72 per person for Kids & Parents class. Location: Burlington Taiko, 208 Flynn Ave., Suite 3-G. Info: Stuart Paton, 802-448-0150, burlingtontaiko.org.

sports & ﬁtness

BIKE BASICS: An expanded version of our popular singleevening bicycle care clinic, Bike Basics is a three-week series for folks who would like a little more time, detailed instruction and hands on experience. With a 3-to-1 student-to-instructor ratio, this class is designed to empower participants by helping them understand and care for their bicycles. Dates: u., Feb. 19 & 26, & u., Mar. 5, 6-8 p.m. Cost: $115. Location: Old Spokes Home, 64 Riverside Dr.,

Burlington. Info: 802-863-4475, sevendaystickets.com.

BIKE BASICS: An expanded version of our popular single-evening bicycle care clinic, Bike Basics is a three-week series for folks who would like a little more time, detailed instruction and hands on experience. With a 3-to-1 student-to-instructor ratio, this class is designed to empower participants by helping them understand and care for their bicycles. Dates: Wed., Mar. 4, 11 & 18, 6-8 p.m. Cost: $115. Location: Old Spokes Home, 64 Riverside Dr., Burlington. Info: 802-863-4475, sevendaystickets.com.

wellness

LEARNING THE LANGUAGE OF YES: FROM SHOULDS AND SCRIPTS TO SOUL-LED MIDLIFE WELLNESS FOR WOMEN: is workshop is not about ﬁxing

your life, hacking your habits, optimizing your health or adding one more thing to your to-do list. It is about slowing down long enough to hear what your body, your intuition and this midlife season of your life have been trying to tell you all along. Together, we’ll explore how midlife asks us to shift from living by inherited scripts to making choices rooted in truth, values and self-trust. is is experiential, reﬂective and supportive — no slides, no information overload and no ﬁxing required. You won’t leave with a checklist: You’ll leave with a new, more healthy relationship — with yourself and with wellness as a midlife woman. Dates: Fri., Feb. 27, or Sun., Mar. 8, 6 p.m. Cost: $57 early-bird pricing; $77 after Feb. 14 (for Feb. 27) or Mar. 1 (for Mar. 8). Info, liza@ simply-healthcoaching.com, sevendaystickets.com.

Buy & Sell »

ANTIQUES, FURNITURE, GARAGE SALES

Community »

ANNOUNCEMENTS, LOST & FOUND, SUPPORT GROUPS

Rentals & Real Estate »

APARTMENTS, HOMES, FOR SALE BY OWNER

Vehicles »

CARS, BIKES, BOATS, RVS

Services »

FINANCIAL, CHILDCARE, HOME & GARDEN

Musicians & Artists »

LESSONS, CASTING, REHEARSAL SPACE

Jobs » NO SCAMS, ALL LOCAL, POSTINGS DAILY

Jasper

AGE/SEX: 8-year-old neutered male

ARRIVAL DATE: January 27, 2026

SUMMARY: Jasper is a sweet senior soul searching for a calm home in which to spend his golden years. Those who know Jasper often describe him as the “perfect dog,” and it’s easy to see why. He is wonderfully easygoing and content to follow your lead. Jasper likes having a few daily outlets and is just as content spending the rest of the day snoozing on the couch. If you’re looking for a sweet, steady companion who is happy simply being by your side, Jasper may be your new best friend.

DOGS/CATS/KIDS: Jasper is searching for a home as the only dog. He has experience living with cats. Jasper would thrive in a home with older children, teenagers and adults.

Visit the Humane Society of Chittenden County at 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, Tuesday-Wednesday 1-5 p.m., ursday-Friday 1-6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 862-0135 or visit hsccvt.org for more info.

DID YOU KNOW?

ere’s nothing like the life-changing love of an older dog! One of the many perks of having a senior pet is that they don’t need as much training and supervision as their younger counterparts. Consider opening your heart to a senior dog like Jasper!

Buy y & Se

HOME & GARDEN

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES

Prepare for power outages today w/ a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a free 5-year warranty w/ qualifying purchase. Call 1-866-381-0627 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (AAN CAN)

Communit y ommunit

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SLAVIC LIFE

e Slavic Life Movement is an organization dedicated to the preservation & evolution of Slavic culture.

VOLUNTEERS

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR OUR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

Hi, everyone! We’re Aging in Place With Pets. Our unique nonproﬁ t organization is dedicated to helping older adults & other vulnerable populations throughout our greater Burlington community to take care of, & keep, their pets. Our kind, compassionate & nonjudgmental volunteers (who we

refer to as “coaches”) provide participants in our Tuesday & ursday Program w/ social, emotional & physical support to help them & their pets stay together. Please email our founder & director, Dr. Blake Randell, if you’re interested in & avail. to become 1 of our coaches. Info, blake@ aginginplacewithpets. org, aginginplacewith pets.org.

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

water/sewer, trash, plowing/mowing incl. NS/no vaping, etc. No cats. Dog w/prior approval & fee. 3-, 6- or 12-mo. lease. 1st/last & dep. EV charger coming May or Jun. $2,200. Info, 802-363-5231, pammy@madriver.com.

BURLINGTON STUDIO APT. W/ DECK

Sunny studio w/ open ﬂ oor plan. New deck surrounded by trees. Reliable landlords. Contact gabeboutin@ gmail.com.

ESSEX JCT. STUDIO APT.

& their dogs. Enjoy a furnished separate unit on beautiful property. Minimal rent in exchange for help w/ daytime transportation, light handyperson projects, yard work & light snow removal. Perfect for someone working from home. Call 802-863-5625, email info@homeshare vermont.org or visit homesharevermont. org for application. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO.

ENJOY GARDENING & THE OUTDOORS?

MUSIC LESSONS

PIANO, VOICE, TROMBONE, SONGWRITING LESSONS Awarded for lifetime achievement from Who’s Who in America, Scott omas Carter is avail. for lessons at Music & Arts on Wed. & Sun. Call 802-651-1013.

Jericho: Professional w/ 2 delightful kids who love gardening & the outdoors seeking housemate to lend a hand in the house — perhaps cooking a meal or 2 each week & providing an evening of childcare — in exchange for reduced rent of $300/mo. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO. Call 802-863-5625, email info@homeshare vermont.org or visit homesharevermont. org.

S. BURLINGTON RENTFREE HOMESHARE CLOSE TO UVMMC

CREATIVE

FINE ART CONSERVATION & FURNITURE RESTORATION

Offering the highest quality oil painting repair, cleaning, etc., as well as antique & contemporary furniture repair, reﬁ nishing & restoration. Quechee, Vt. Info, 802-295-1309, meetinghouse restoration@gmail. com, antiques alchemist.com.

ELECTRONICS

AMERICA’S PREMIER MOBILE MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM

48 Cascade St. Furnished 1-BR, 1-BA, 320 sq.ft. Charming studio in great neighborhood. Freshly painted walls, large closet, separate entrance & separate driveway. Landlord pays heat, electricity, water, trash. Terrifi c location, near GlobalFoundries & IBM. Near the bus route, too. Well-kept property w/ many mature trees & Cascade Park w/ pickleball courts, baseball fi eld & basketball court. ere are open fi elds all around this location for nature walks. Also a short walk to 5 Corners & lots of restaurants there. Landlord lives on the other side of the party wall. Furnished. Responsible landlords.$1,450/mo. Info, gabeboutin@gmail. com, 802-355-8897.

APARTMENTS & HOUSES FOR

HINESBURG 2-BR APT. FOR RENT

14 Hawk Ln. Furnished 900 sq.ft. 2-BR/1-BA in owner-occupied duplex. Private parking, entry, deck, yard. Yard not fenced. W/D, DW, ﬁ repit area. Window A/C units avail. Walkable community, trails nearby. Parking, cold

BURLINGTON HOUSING AUTHORITY LOW WAIT LIST

BHA has a low wait list for apts. w/ a subsidy in Burlington. Income limits do apply. Income up to $27,300 for a 1-person household; up to $31,200 for a 2-person household. 1-BR & efﬁ ciency apts. avail. now. Apply today by calling BHA at 802864-0538 or stop by 65 Main St. in Burlington. Affordable housing for all. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Gentle 91-year-old who enjoys company & music offering to share his home at no cost in exchange for sharing conversation, heating an evening meal, light help around the house & an overnight presence. A well-behaved pet would be considered! Small utils. share. Wi-Fi can be added at a housemate’s expense. Shared BA. Convenient to UVMMC & the bus line. Interview, refs. & background checks req. EHO. Call 802-8635625, email info@ homesharevermont.org or visit homeshare vermont.org for application.

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long-term contracts. Free brochure. Call today! 1-877-667-4685. (AAN CAN)

All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for DIRECTV & get your 1st 3 mos. of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ & Cinemax incl. Choice package, $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-855-6064520. (AAN CAN)

WIRELESS HOME INTERNET

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

BURLINGTON HILL SECTION, SINGLE ROOM FOR RENT Furnished 1-BR at 27 Latham Ct. Single furnished room w/ a shared BA. No cooking, NS & no pets. Sheets & towels provided. On the bus line. $200/ week or $867/mo. Call 802-862-2389.

HOUSEMATES

WAKE UP TO STUNNING LAKE VIEWS

Alburgh: Lake Champlain views from your window, in a home shared w/ senior couple

HOUSING WANTED

WE BUY HOUSES

We buy houses for cash as-is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Call today for your fair cash offer: 1-877-9391331. (AAN CAN)

Connect to the best wireless home internet w/ EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G & 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, & data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-873-2215. (AAN CAN)

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET

If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote & see how much you can save: 1-844-588-6579. (AAN CAN)

FINANCIAL & LEGAL

SEEKING DISCREET FINANCIAL COACH (NOT CPA)

Looking for a thoughtful, trustworthy, nonjudgmental person to help review past bank/credit statements, understand

spending patterns, & create a realistic budget & lifestyle plan. Seeking practical, hands-on help & steady guidance — not accounting or tax work. Confidentiality important; financial documents shared only after agreement. Paid. Please reply w/ a brief introduction, relevant experience, typical fees & location. Contact blanchard_jen@yahoo. com

TIME-SHARE CANCELLATION EXPERTS

Wesley Financial Group, LLC, time-share cancellation experts. Over $50 million in time-share debt & fees canceled in 2019. Get free informational package & learn how to get rid of your time-share! Free consultations. Over

450 positive reviews. Call 888-960-1781. (AAN CAN)

STOP OVERPAYING FOR AUTO INSURANCE

A recent survey says that most Americans are overpaying for their car insurance. Let us show you how much you can save. Call now for a no-obligation quote: 1-833-399-1539. (AAN CAN)

GET DISABILITY

You may qualify for disability benefits if you are between 52 & 63 years old & under a doctor’s care for a health condition that prevents you from working for a year or more. Call now: 1-877247-6750. (AAN CAN)

Using the enclosed math operations as a guide, fill the grid using the numbers 1 - 6 only once in each row and column.

Show and tell. View and post up to 6 photos per ad online.

Complete the following puzzle by using the numbers 1-9 only once in each row, column and 3 x 3 box.

Open 24/7/365. Post & browse ads at your convenience. Extra! Extra! There’s no limit to ad length online.

WANT MORE PUZZLES?

Try these online news games from Seven Days at sevendaysvt.com/games.

Put your knowledge of Vermont news to the test.

CALCOKU BY JOSH

REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

SUDOKU BY JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. The numbers in each heavily outlined “cage” must combine to produce the target number in the top corner, using the mathematical operation indicated. A one-box cage should be filled in with the target number in the top corner. A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not the same row or column. ANSWERS ON P.70

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers one to nine. The same numbers cannot be repeated in a row or column.

ANSWERS ON P.70 » REPTILIAN EMPIRE

See how fast you can solve this weekly 10-word puzzle.

HOME & GARDEN

STOP HOME BREAK-INS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

CAREGIVING

Retired nurse doing light caregiving. NS, no heavy lifting. Part time, days & evenings. $20-25/hour. Contact Carly at 802-495-1954 or 802-891-1242 or email hopefulvt70@ gmail.com.

DENTAL SERVICE

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance — not just a discount plan. Get your free Dental Information Kit w/ all the details! 1-866-4305905. (AAN CAN)

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70 cents a day. Call 1-833-881-2713. (AAN CAN)

PEST CONTROL

Protect your home from pests safely & affordably. Roaches, bedbugs, rodents, termites, spiders & other pests. Locally owned & affordable. Call for a quote, service or an inspection today: 1-833-237-1199. (AAN CAN)

NEED NEW WINDOWS?

Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames? Need outside noise reduction? New, energy-efﬁ cient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & free quote today: 1-877-2489944. (AAN CAN)

CITY OF BURLINGTON

WARNING & NOTICE

2026 ANNUAL CITY MEETING

e legal voters of the City of Burlington, Vermont are hereby warned and notiﬁ ed to come and vote at the Annual City Meeting on Tuesday, the 3rd day of March, 2026

between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. in their respective wards, at the voting places hereinafter named and designated as polling places:

Ward One/East District:

Mater Christi School, 50 Mansﬁ eld Ave.

Ward Two/Central District:

Integrated Arts Academy, 6 Archibald St.

Ward ree/Central District:

Sustainability Academy, 123 North St.

Ward Four/North District:

Elks Lodge, 925 North Ave.

Ward Five/South District:

Burlington Electric Department, 585 Pine St.

Ward Six/South District:

Edmunds Elementary School, 299 Main St.

Ward Seven/North District:

Robert Miller Community & Rec. Center, 130 Gosse Ct.

Ward Eight/East District:

Fletcher Free Library, 235 College St.

e polls open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of electing certain city ofﬁ cers as follows:

WARD ONE/EAST DISTRICT – one Ward One City Councilor for a two-year term; one Ward One School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward One Inspector of Election for a three-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

WARD TWO/CENTRAL DISTRICT – one Ward Two City Councilor for a two-year term; one Ward Two School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward Two Inspector of Election for a three-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

WARD THREE/CENTRAL DISTRICT – one Ward ree City Councilor for a two-year term; one

Ward ree School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward ree Ward Clerk for a one-year term; one Ward ree Inspector of Election for a three-year term; one Ward ree Inspector of Election for a two-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

WARD FOUR/NORTH DISTRICT – one Ward Four City Councilor for a two-year term; one Ward Four School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward Four Inspector of Election for a three-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

WARD FIVE/SOUTH DISTRICT – one Ward Five City Councilor for a two-year term; one Ward Five School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward Five Inspector of Election for a three-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

WARD SIX/SOUTH DISTRICT – one Ward Six City Councilor for a two-year term; one Ward Six School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward Six Inspector of Election for a three-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

WARD SEVEN/NORTH DISTRICT – one Ward Seven City Councilor for a two-year term; one Ward Seven School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward Seven Inspector of Election for a three-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

WARD EIGHT/EAST DISTRICT – one Ward Eight City Councilor for a two-year term; one Ward Eight School Commissioner for a two-year term; one Ward Eight Inspector of Election for a three-year term; one Ward Eight Inspector of Election for a one-year term; all terms beginning April 6, 2026

e legal voters shall also vote upon three special articles being placed on the ballot by request of the City Council by Resolutions duly adopted and approved and one special article being placed on the ballot by request of the Board of School Commissioners by action of the Commissioners duly approved, with all said special articles being as follows:

1. Approval of School Budget for Fiscal Year 2027

“Shall the voters of the School District approve the

School Board to expend $140,807,830 which is the amount the school board has determined to be necessary for the ensuing ﬁscal year? Burlington School District estimates that this proposed budget, if approved, will result in per pupil education spending of $15,774.58, which is 6.40% higher than per pupil education spending for the current year.”

2. INCREASE IN POLICE & FIRE TAX RATE

“Pursuant to Section 102A of the City Charter, shall the property tax rate levied for the use of the police and fire departments be increased by five cents ($0.05), so that the combined public safety and police tax rates authorized under Section 102A are increased from a total maximum amount of ten and 85/100 cents ($0.1085) to fifteen and 85/100 cents ($0.1585), an approximate six percent (6%) increase from the FY26 overall municipal rate?”

3. CHARTER CHANGE RE: ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OFFICE OF RACIAL EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND BELONGING

“Shall the Charter of the City of Burlington, Acts of 1948, No. 298, as amended, be further amended as follows?:

§ 374 Enumerated:

Ofﬁ ce of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (a) e City of Burlington shall form an Ofﬁ ce of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (“REIB”) and establish a Director of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

(b) e REIB Director role shall be a permanent position in the City, selected and hired in accordance with City of Burlington Human Resources policies and procedures, and shall report directly to the Mayor.

(c) e REIB Ofﬁ ce shall be under the supervision, direction, and control of the Director, subject to the orders and ordinances of the City Council.

(d) e Ofﬁ ce of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging administrative ofﬁ cer shall have all of the powers, duties, and responsibilities as are provided in the Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Director position description.

(e) Subject to the orders and ordinances of the City Council, the Mayor and REIB Director shall develop and implement a comprehensive racial equity, inclusion, and belonging strategy for the City of Burlington.

(f) In furtherance of this work, the REIB Director shall, subject to the orders and ordinances of the City Council, have the following rights, powers, and duties, and implement such alongside all City departments:

To work on behalf of the City to advance equity and social justice by championing diversity, inclusion, belonging, and anti-racism

To develop, coordinate, implement, and administer racial equity and inclusion strategies and projects for the City.

To provide consultation and recommend to City departments, the Mayor’s Ofﬁ ce, and City Council policy and program changes to better advance racial equity and inclusion in the City.

To enhance representation in City government through decision-making bodies, community engagement initiatives, and policy development processes for folks who hold underserved community identities

To coordinate and facilitate constituent engagement in the City that encourages inclusive spaces for engagement with City government.”

* Material underlined added

4. COMPENSATION FOR SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS “Pursuant to the authority of Title 16, Section 562 of Vermont Statutes Annotated, shall annual remuneration for school board members in a total amount of two thousand ($2000) dollars, payable to Board members in quarterly installments of ﬁve hundred ($500) dollars and appropriately pro-rated for those members serving less than a full year, be approved?”

Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, Mayor

Dated this 27 day of January, 2026

NOTICE TO VOTERS FOR MARCH 3, 2026 ELECTION - BURLINGTON, VT

BEFORE ELECTION DAY:

CHECKLIST POSTED at Clerk’s Office by Sunday, February 1, 2026. If your name is not on the checklist, then you must register to vote. You may also check your voter registration status at https:// vote.vermont.gov. SAMPLE BALLOTS will be posted by Saturday, February 21, 2026.

HOW TO REGISTER TO VOTE: There is no deadline to register to vote. You will be able to register to vote on the day of the election. You can register prior by visiting the City Clerk’s office or going online to https://vote.vermont.gov.

EARLY or ABSENTEE BALLOTS: All registered Burlington voters will be automatically mailed absentee ballots for this election. The latest you can request ballots to be mailed for the March 3, 2026 Election is by the close of the City Clerk’s office at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026. Ballots can be requested in-person at the City Clerk’s office until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026.

WAYS TO VOTE YOUR EARLY BALLOT:

• Mail or deliver the ballot mailed to you back to the City Clerk’s Office before Election Day, drop off at one of the City’s five Drop Boxes, or return it to your polling place before 7:00 p.m. on Election Day.

• Please contact the City Clerk’s Office if you have not received your ballot in the mail by February 18th, 2026.

• If you are sick or disabled before Election Day, ask the City Clerk to have two Justices of the Peace bring a ballot to you at your home. (Ballots can be delivered on any of the eight days preceding the day of the election or on the day of the election.)

ON ELECTION DAY:

If your name was dropped from the checklist in error, or has not been added even though you submitted a timely application for addition to the checklist, you can fill out a new registration form.

• If the Clerk or Board for Registration of Voters does not add your name, you can appeal the decision to a Superior Court Judge, who will settle the matter on Election Day. Call the Secretary of State’s Office at 1-800-439-VOTE (439-8683) for more information.

If you are a first time voter who submitted your application to the checklist individually by mail and did not submit the required document, you must provide a current and valid photo identification, OR a bank statement, utility bill, or government document that contains your name and current address.

If you have physical disabilities, are visually impaired or can’t read, you may have assistance from any person of your choice. If any voters you know have disabilities, let them know they can have assistance from any person of their choice. You may also use the accessible voting system to mark your ballot. If you want to use the accessible voting system tell the entrance checklist official. An election official will take you to the accessible ballot marking device, enter a security code, and then leave you to mark and print your ballot privately. More details about our accessible ballot marking device are available at https://sos. vermont.gov/elections/voters/accessible-voting/

If you know voters who cannot get from the car into the polling place let them know that ballot(s) may be brought to their car by two election officials.

If you have any questions or need assistance while voting, ask your City Clerk or any election official for help.

NO PERSON SHALL:

• Vote more than once per election, either in the same town or in different towns.

• Mislead the Board for Registration of Voters about your own or another person’s true residency or other eligibility to vote.

• Hinder or impede a voter going into or from the polling place.

• Socialize in a manner that could disturb other voters in the polling place.

• Offer, bribe, threaten or exercise undue influence to dictate or control the vote of another person.

FOR HELP OR INFORMATION: Call the Secretary of State’s Office at 1-800-439-VOTE (439-8683). (Accessible by TDD)

If you believe that any of your voting rights have been violated, you may file an Administrative Complaint with the Secretary of State’s Office, 128 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05633.

If you believe you have witnessed efforts to commit any kind of fraud or corruption in the voting process, you may report this to your local United States Attorney’s Office.

If you have witnessed actual or attempted acts of discrimination or intimidation in the voting process, you may report this to the Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice at (800) 253-3931.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR VOTERS using Vote Tabulator Ballots

CHECK-IN AND RECEIVE BALLOTS:

• Go to the entrance checklist table.

• Give name and, if asked, street address to the election official in a loud voice.

• Wait until your name is repeated and checked off by the official.

• An election official will give you a ballot.

• Enter within the guardrail and go to a vacant voting booth.

MARK YOUR BALLOT:

To vote for a candidate using Ranked Choice Voting:

• Completely fill in the oval in the 1st column for your 1st choice candidate.

• Optionally fill in the oval in the 2nd column for your 2nd choice candidate.

• Continue to rank as many or as few of the candidates as you would like.

• To rank a write-in candidate, write the person’s name in the write-in space and fill in the oval for the ranking of your choice.

• Fill in no more than one oval for each row and one oval for each column.

To vote for a question:

• To vote IN FAVOR of a question, fill in the oval marked YES.

• To vote AGAINST a question, fill in the oval marked NO.

CAST YOUR VOTE by depositing your voted ballot into the vote tabulating machine.

LEAVE the voting area immediately by passing outside the guardrail.

PROPOSED STATE RULES

By law, public notice of proposed rules must be given by publication in newspapers of record. The purpose of these notices is to give the public a chance to respond to the proposals. The public notices for administrative rules are now also available online at https://secure.vermont.gov/ SOS/rules/ . The law requires an agency to hold a public hearing on a proposed rule, if requested to do so in writing by 25 persons or an association having at least 25 members.

To make special arrangements for individuals with disabilities or special needs please call or write the contact person listed below as soon as possible.

To obtain further information concerning any scheduled hearing(s), obtain copies of proposed rule(s) or submit comments regarding proposed rule(s), please call or write the contact person listed below. You may also submit comments in writing to the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, State House, Montpelier, Vermont 05602 (802-828-2231).

Vermont Hazardous Waste Management Regulations.

Vermont Proposed Rule: 26P002

AGENCY: Agency of Natural Resources

CONCISE SUMMARY: Vermont has maintained the Hazardous Waste Management Regulations since 1980. The Regulations are being revised to better align with federal regulations and guidance regarding the management and disposal of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) bulk product waste,

and to reduce the regulatory burden pertaining to the disposal of such waste in Vermont by introducing a new conditional exemption. The revisions also include a change to the management of state-listed cleanup debris generated as a result of an emergency response and cleanup actions; the revision will allow such wastes to be immediately transported from the outdoor locations where the wastes are generated to secure, indoor transfer facilities where the waste will be permitted to be temporarily stored as it undergoes waste characterization.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Anna Bourakovsky, Agency of Natural Resources, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 3, Montpelier VT 056203521 Tel: 802-477-2981

E-Mail: anna.bourakovsky@vermont.gov URL: https://dec.vermont.gov/waste-management/ hazardous-waste. FOR COPIES: Matthew Chapman, Agency of Natural Resources, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 3, Montpelier VT 05620-3521 Tel: 802-2494393 E-Mail: matt.chapman@vermont.gov.

WARNING CHAMPLAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNUAL MEETING

MARCH 2, 2026 AND MARCH 3, 2026

The legal voters of the Champlain Valley School District, are hereby notified and warned to meet at the Champlain Valley Union High School Library in the Town of Hinesburg at five o’clock (5:00pm) in the evening on March 2, 2026, to transact any of the following business not involving voting by Australian ballot, and to conduct an informational hearing with respect to Articles of business to be considered by Australian ballot on March 3, 2026. Virtual Zoom participation details: https://cvsdvtorg.zoom.us/j/88617104470 Meeting ID: 886 1710 4470 Passcode: cvsd11. Zoom Meeting phone participation: 1-312-626-6799 Passcode: 948811

ARTICLE I: To elect a moderator, clerk and treasurer. ARTICLE II: To hear and act upon the reports of the school district officers.

ARTICLE III: Shall the voters of the Champlain Valley School District authorize the Board of School Directors to borrow money by issuance of bonds or notes not in excess of anticipated revenues for the next fiscal year?

ARTICLE IV: Shall the voters of the Champlain Valley School District authorize the Board of School Directors to provide a mailed notice of availability of the Annual Report to residents in lieu of distributing the Annual Report?

ARTICLE V: To establish the date of the Champlain Valley School District Annual Meeting of Monday, March 1, 2027 at 5pm at CVU High School and recessed and opened back up at Australian ballot voting on Town Meeting Day.

ARTICLE VI: To transact any other business proper to come before the meeting.

BALLOT QUESTIONS

The legal voters of the Champlain Valley School District, are hereby notified and warned to meet at their respective polling places on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at seven o’clock in the forenoon (7:00am), at which time the polls will open, and seven o’clock in the afternoon (7:00pm), at which time the polls will close, to vote by Australian ballot on the following articles of business:

ARTICLE VII: Shall the voters of the Champlain Valley School District approve the school board to expend One Hundred Seven Million, Eight Hundred Sixty Thousand, Two Hundred Eight-Five Dollars ($107,860,285), which is the amount the school board has determined to be necessary for the ensuing fiscal year? The Champlain Valley School District estimates that this proposed budget, if approved, will result in per pupil education spending of Fifteen Thousand, Nine Hundred, Sixty-Two Dollars ($15,962), which is 2.7% higher than per pupil education spending for the current year.

ARTICLE VIII: Shall the voters of the Champlain Valley School District authorize the Board of School Directors to allocate its current fund balance, without effect upon the District tax levy, as follows: assign One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) of the school district’s current fund balance as revenue for the 2026 - 2027 operating budget, and assign the remaining balance, One Million, Six Hundred, Twelve Thousand, Four Hundred, Eighty-Nine Dollars ($1,612,489) as revenue for future budgets?

ARTICLE IX: Shall general obligation bonds or notes of the Champlain Valley School District in an amount not to exceed Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000), subject to reduction from the application of available state and federal grantsin-aid and reserves, be issued for the purpose of financing the cost of purchasing up to two (2) school buses and two (2) mini vans, the aggregate cost of such purchases is estimated to cost Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000)?

ARTICLE X: Shall general obligation bonds or notes of Champlain Valley School District in an amount not to exceed Thirteen Million Dollars ($13,000,000), subject to reduction from the application of available state and federal grantsin-aid and reserves, be issued for the purpose of financing the cost of the fiscal year 2027 capital improvement plan, namely (1) Charlotte Central School elevator, bathrooms, building envelope, (2) Champlain Valley Union High School roofing, HVAC, fire alarm system, (3) Hinesburg Community School roofing, HVAC, electrical (4) Williston Schools gym flooring, lighting, HVAC, the aggregate cost of such improvements estimated to be Thirteen Million Dollars ($13,000,000)? State funds may not be available at the time these projects are otherwise eligible to receive state school construction aid. The District is responsible for all costs incurred in connection with any borrowing done in anticipation of the receipt of school construction aid.

POLLING PLACES

Charlotte Charlotte Town Hall

Hinesburg Hinesburg Town Hall

Shelburne Shelburne Town Center – Gymnasium Williston Williston Armory

St. George St. George Town Hall Ballots shall be transported and delivered to the Champlain Valley Union High School in the Town of Hinesburg and there commingled and counted by members of the Boards of Civil Authority of several towns under the supervision of the District Clerk of the Champlain Valley School District.

The legal voters of the Champlain Valley School District are further notified that voter qualification, registration and absentee/early voting relative to said annual meeting shall be as provided in Section 739 of Title 16, and Chapters 43, 51 and 55 of Title 17, Vermont Statutes Annotated.

Adopted and approved at a duly noticed, called and held meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Champlain Valley School District on January 20, 2026. Received for record and recorded in the records of the Champlain Valley School District on January 20, 2026.

ATTEST: Lynne T. Jaunich, District Clerk; Meghan E. Metzler, Chairperson

IN ACCORDANCE WITH VT TITLE 9 COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 098: STORAGE UNITS 3905.

Enforcement of Lien, Champlain Valley Self Storage,LLC shall host a private auction of the following units on or after February 28, 2026: Contents: household goods

Location: 2211 Main St. Colchester, VT 05446

Amy Enos: #781

Michael Taylor: #744

Gregory Lamoureux: #505

Location: 78 Lincoln St Essex Jct. VT 05452

Stephen Thompson: #215

Stephanie Shuma: #238

Location: 485 Nokian Tyres Dr. Colchester, VT 05446

Jennifer Anderson: #2206

Auction pre-registration is required, email info@ champlainvalleyselfstorage.com to register.

CVSS,llc reserves the right to reject any bid lower than the amount owed by the occupant or that is not commercially reasonable as defined by statute. Any person claiming a right to the goods may pay the amount claimed due and reasonable expenses before the sale, in which case the sale may not occur.

WARNING OF THE 103RD ANNUAL WINOOSKI CITY MEETING

The legal voters of Winooski are hereby warned and notified to meet at the Winooski School District Auditorium on March 2,2026 at 6:00

Legal Notices

p.m. to discuss Article Three, Article Four, Article Five, Article Six and Article Seven to conduct an informational meeting on the Australian Ballot questions. A public hearing will coincide with the informational meeting to discuss Article Five, Article Six and Article Seven.

The meeting to be adjourned and to reconvene at the Winooski Senior Center, 123 Barlow Street on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 to transact any business involving voting by Australian Ballot to begin at 7:00 a.m. in the morning and closing at 7:00 p.m. The legal voters of the City of Winooski are further notified that voter qualification, registration and absentee voting relative to said meeting shall be as provided in Vermont Statutes Annotated Title 17 Chapters 43, 51 and 55, and Act No. M-6 (H.227)

Article One

To elect (1) Councilor for an one (1) year unexpired term expires in 2027

To elect (2) City Councilors for a term of two (2) years each.

Article Two

To elect (1) Mayor for an one (1) year unexpired term expires in 2027

Article Three

Shall the voters of the City of Winooski approve the budget for the Fiscal Year 2027 in the amount of Eleven Million Nine Hundred Eight Thousand FortyTwo Dollars and Fifty-Four Cents ($11,908,042.54). The amount to be raised from property taxes is Nine Million Three Hundred Nineteen Thousand Sixty-Five Dollars and Seventy-Nine Cents ($9,319,065.79).

Article Four

Shall the City Council be authorized to apply for and accept funds from sources other than property taxation, and to expend the same for the benefit of the City in addition to sums for which budget appropriation has been made? (Approval of this article will not impact property taxes.)

Article Five

Shall general obligation bonds of the City of Winooski in a principal amount not to exceed Five Hundred Eighty Thousand Dollars ($580,000) be issued for the planning, design, construction, repair, replacement, and upgrade of the Cascade Parking Garage elevator and related capital improvements?

A portion of the repayment is intended to come from parking fees, subject to any reduction for applicable state and federal grants-in-aid and any applicable general funds but backed by the full faith and credit of the City.

Article Six

Shall general obligation bonds of the City of Winooski in a principal amount not to exceed Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) be issued for the planning, design, construction, and installation of a sidewalk on a portion of East Spring Street and related capital improvements, with the total amount of such general obligation bonds to be reduced by the receipt of state and federal grants-in-aid?

Article Seven

Shall general obligation bonds of the City of Winooski in a principal amount not to exceed Nine Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($950,000) be issued for the planning, design, construction, repair, replacement, and upgrades to City Hall and Police Department and related capital improvements, with the total amount of such general obligation bonds to be reduced by the receipt of state and federal grants-in-aid?

Dated at Winooski, Vermont this 26th day of January,2026

Mayor Thomas Renner

Deputy Mayor Bryn Oakleaf

Councilor Aurora Hurd

Councilor Elsie Goodrich

Councilor Alison Turkos

PLACE AN AFFORDABLE NOTICE AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LEGAL-NOTICES OR CALL 802-865-1020, EXT. 142.

NORTHSTAR SELF STORAGE WILL BE HAVING A PUBLIC AND ONLINE SALE/AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING STORAGE UNITS ON FEBRUARY 26, 2026 AT 9:00 AM

Northstar Self Storage will be having a public and online sale/auction on February 26, 2026 at 9am EST at 205 Route 4A West, Castleton, VT 05735 (unit C21), 681 Rockingham Rd, Rockingham, VT 05151 (unit R51), 1124 Charlestown Rd, Springfield, VT 05156 (unit S23, S38), and online at www. storagetreasures.com at 9:00 am in accordance with VT Title 9 Commerce and Trade Chapter 098: Storage Units 3905. Enforcement of Lien

Unit # Name Contents

C21 Tara Dayton Household Goods

R51 Juston Decker Household Goods

S23 Amanda Duffy Household Goods

S38 Martha Ouellette Household Goods

TOWN OF JERICHO

INFORMATION PUBLIC HEARING ON FY 27 BUDGET & TOWN MEETING WARNING

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM, the Town of Jericho Selectboard will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY 2027 Budget. The hearing will take place at the Jericho Town Hall, located at 67 VT Route 15, Jericho, Vermont. The public is encouraged to attend and participate in the review of the proposed budget. Copies of the budget are available at Town Hall or online at www. jerichovt.org. The Zoom link is below.

Topic: Jericho Selectboard Meeting Time: Feb 19, 2026 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/ 89773860290?pwd=caVlEssCjQzFV02Y5raZqB70 TJfJtm.1

Meeting ID: 897 7386 0290 Passcode: 298257

WARNING

POLICY ADOPTION

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of School Directors gives public notice of its intent to act on local district policies dealing with the following at its meeting scheduled on March 17, 2026:

Code F7 Duty to Care to Students - Repeal

Code H6 Parent/Guardian Involvement - Repeal Code F23 Student Placement/Assignments

- Repeal

Code F24 Grade Advancement: Retention, Promotion & Acceleration of Students - Repeal Code G6 Tiered System of Supports and Educational Support Team - Adoption Code F25 Student Attendance/Truancy - Adoption Code F23 Student Placement and Grade Advancement - Adoption

Copies of the above policies may be obtained for public review at the Office of the Human Resources Dept. in Shelburne, VT.

STATE OF VERMONT

SUPERIOR COURT PROBATE DIVISION

CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO.: 25-PR-07797

In re ESTATE of Mark DeVarney

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: Mark DeVarney, late of Burlington, VT

I have been appointed to administer this estate. All creditors having claims against the decedent or the estate must present their claims in writing within four (4) months of the date of the first publication of this notice. The claim must be presented to me at the address listed below with a copy sent to the Court. The claim may be barred forever if it is not presented within the four (4) month period.

Dated: Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ John DeVarney

Executor/Administrator: John DeVarney

30 Westminster Dr., Burlington, VT 05408-2479

Phone number: (802) 863-8052

Email: john.devarney@gmail.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days

Publication Date: 02/18/2026

Name of Probate Court: State of VermontChittenden Probate Division

Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

STATE OF VERMONT

SUPERIOR COURT PROBATE DIVISION

CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO.: 25-PR-04582

In re ESTATE of Ruth Mackenzie

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

To the creditors of: Ruth Mackenzie, late of Burlington

Dated: February 6, 2026

Signature of Fiduciary: /s/ Andrew H. Montroll, Esq.

Executor/Administrator: Andrew H. Montroll, Esq. Mailing Address: PO Box 1045, Burlington, VT 05402

Phone number: 802-540-0250

Email: amontroll@mblawoffice.com

Name of Publication: Seven Days Publication Date: 02/18/2026

Name of Probate Court: Vermont Superior Court, Chittenden Probate Division Address of Probate Court: 175 Main Street, Burlington, VT 05401

BURLINGTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026, 5:00 PM PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Hybrid & In Person (at 645 Pine Street) Meeting

Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83225696227p wd=SGQ0bTdnS000Wkc3c2J4WWw1dzMxUT09 Webinar ID: 832 2569 6227 Passcode: 969186

Telephone: US +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

1. ZAP-26-2; 108; 108 South Winooski Avenue (FD5, Ward 8) L & M Properties, LLC / Merrill Jarvis Proposed appeal of administrative denial of ZP-25-620 for the after-the-fact installation of chain link fencing.

2. ZP-25-517; 355 Ethan Allen Parkway (RL, Ward 7) 355 Ethan Allen Parkway, LLC / Norman Benoit Proposed addition of 2 dwelling units to each existing building for a change from 12 to 18 dwelling units total.

3. ZAP-26-3; 25 Cherry Street (FD6, Ward 3) Burlington Harbor Hotel GP, LLC / Daniel Seff Proposed appeal of administrative denial of ZPS-26-4 of a sign package.

4. ZAP-26-1; 22 Clymer Street (RM, Ward 6) Amy Limoge / Tim Kiely Proposed appeal of administrative denial of ZPR-25-40 for the after-the-fact replacement of wooden siding with vinyl siding.

The programs and services of the City of Burlington are accessible to people with disabilities. Individuals who require special arrangements to participate are encouraged to contact the Zoning Division at least 72 hours in advance so that proper accommodations can be arranged. For information call 865-7188 (TTY users: 865-7142).

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.

The City of Burlington will not tolerate unlawful harassment or discrimination on the basis of political or religious affiliation, race, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, disability, HIV positive status, crime victim status or genetic information. The City is also committed to providing proper access to services, facilities, and employment opportunities. For accessibility information or alternative formats, please contact Human Resources Department at (802) 540-2505.

STATE OF VERMONT

SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL DIVISION CHITTENDEN UNIT CASE NO. 26-CV-00716

IN RE: ABANDONED MOBILE HOME OF JUSTIN LOOMIS

NOTICE OF HEARING

A hearing on The Housing Foundation, Inc.’s Verified Complaint to declare abandoned and uninhabitable the mobile home of Justin Loomis located at the Fernwood Manor Mobile Home Park, Lot #40A, 104 East Street in Bolton, Vermont has been set for March 4, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. You may participate in the hearing either in person at the Vermont Superior Court, Chittenden Unit, Civil Division located at 175 Main Street in Burlington, Vermont or remotely via Zoom video. The Zoom Login Information is as follows: App: “Zoom Workplace” or “Zoom Cloud Meetings” Website: https://vtcourts.zoomgov.com/join Meeting ID Number (access code): 160 481 0861 Meeting Passcode: 426268

If you do not have a computer or sufficient bandwidth, to appear by phone dial (833) 435-1820. When prompted enter the meeting ID number listed above, listen for the prompt, and enter the meeting ID followed by the “#” key. Then, enter the passcode followed by the “#” key if prompted and press “#” to skip the participant ID. If you have technical difficulties, call the Court at (802) 863-3467

Date: February 3, 2026

Nancy L. Bean, Judicial Assistant Chittenden Unit

VERIFIED COMPLAINT FOR ABANDONMENT

PURSUANT TO 10 V.S.A. § 6249(i) (Uninhabitable)

NOW COMES The Housing Foundation, Inc. (“HFI”), by and through its counsel Nadine L. Scibek, and hereby complains pursuant to 10 V.S.A. § 6249(i) as follows:

1. HFI, a Vermont non-profit corporation with a principal place of business in Montpelier, County of Washington, State of Vermont, is the record owner of a mobile home park known as the Fernwood Manor Mobile Home Park (the “Park”), located in the Town of Bolton, Vermont. The Park is managed by the Vermont State Housing Authority.

2. Justin Loomis (“Loomis”) is the record owner of a certain mobile home described as a 1978 Oxford mobile home, 72’ x 14’, bearing Serial #OHM486, (the “Mobile Home”) located at the Fernwood Manor Mobile Home Park, Lot #40A, 104 East Street in Bolton, Vermont according to the Town of Bolton Land Records. See attached Vermont Mobile Home Bill of Sale.

3. Loomis leased a lot in the Park from HFI pursuant to a written lease. Loomis paid a security deposit in the amount of $250.00 to HFI. See attached Lease.

4. Loomis’s last known mailing address is 104 East Street, Waterbury, VT 05676.

5. The mobile home has been abandoned and is empty/unoccupied. The last known resident of the mobile home was Loomis. All of Loomis’s personal property is believed to have been removed from the mobile home and utility services have been terminated. The Park’s Counsel has communicated with Loomis with respect to his intentions with her mobile home. On November 25, 2025 Loomis

contacted the Park’s Counsel via telephone and stated that he was working on moving or selling the mobile home. To date, Loomis has not sold the mobile home nor removed it from the Park. See attached.

6. Loomis was evicted from the Park for nonpayment of rent on or about September 4, 2025 by the Chittenden County Sheriff’s Department. The mobile home has been vacant since that time. The Court issued a Judgment Order and Writ of Possession to HFI on August 6, 2025. See The Housing Foundation, Inc. v. Loomis, Vermont Superior Court, Chittenden Civil Unit, Case No. 25-CV-01340. See attached.

7. The following security interests, mortgages, liens and encumbrances appear of record with respect to the mobile home:

a. Loomis is in arrears on obligations to pay property taxes to the Town of Bolton, Vermont in the aggregate amount of $276.15, plus interest and penalties. See attached copy of Tax Bill and Delinquent Tax Report.

b. Maybe subject to UCC Financing Statement #07212672 to Tammac Holdings Corporation dated October 2, 2007 filed with the Vermont Secretary of State. See attached UCC Financing Statement.

8. Mobile home storage fees continue to accrue at the rate of $532.00 per month. Rent/ storage fees due HFI through January, 2026 total $5,694.63. Attorney’s fees and court costs incurred by HFI currently exceed $2,000.00.

9. HFI sent written notice by certified mail to the Town of Bolton on January 6, 2026 of its intent to commence this action. See attached.

10. The mobile home is uninhabitable. Katie Edmunds, Property Manager, will testify under oath as to the poor and unlivable condition of this mobile home at the abandonment hearing. WHEREFORE, HFI respectfully requests that the Honorable Court enter an order as follows:

1. Declare that the mobile home has been abandoned;

2. Transfer the mobile home which is unfit for human habitation to the Park owner without a public auction so that it may be removed and disposed of accordingly.

3. Order pursuant to 10 V.S.A. § 6249(j) that the mobile home and any security deposit paid be conveyed to the Park Owner in “as is” condition, and free from all liens and other encumbrances of record.

DATED January 30, 2026. THE HOUSING FOUNDATION, INC.

BY: Nadine L. Scibek

Attorney for HFI

I declare that the above statement is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that if the above statement is false, I will be subject to the penalty of perjury or other sanctions in the discretion of the Court.

January 30, 2026 BY: Katie Edmunds Duly Authorized Agent for HFI

PUBLIC HEARING

COLCHESTER DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD

Pursuant to Title 24 VSA, Chapter 117, the Development Review Board will hold a public hearing on March 11, 2026, at 7:00pm to hear the following requests under the Development Regulations. Meeting is open to the public and will be held at 781 Blakely Road.

a) SP-26-24 & CU-26-11 SISTERS & BROTHERS INVESTMENT GROUP C/O RL VALLEE: Site Plan and Conditional Use application to amend a previous Site Plan approval for a 2,700 square foot Convenience Store with Gasoline Sales (Use 2.111) in the GD4 and GD4C Districts. Proposed amendment includes: 1) construction of a 1,860 sf addition to the principal structure; 2) site modifications including a 4 ft 6 in pavement extension to the northern parking area, relocation of the trash enclosure, relocation of guard rail, light poles, bollards, and air/vacuum station, new bicycle rack, and addition of five (5) parking spaces. No change of use is requested at this time. Subject property is located at 77 US Route 7, Account #17-009000-0000000.

b) CU-26-10 BRIAN & KATHERINE MILES:

Conditional Use application for an increase in the degree of encroachment in the Shoreland District pursuant to §7.03-D(1). Proposed increase in degree of encroachment to measure 24 square feet and accommodate a portion of proposed decks and balconies associated with an addition. No other scope of work requested for review at this time. Subject property is located at 21 Point Red Rock Road, Account #77-015000-0000000.

c) SP-26-28 & CU-26-12 COLCHESTER TOWN SCHOOL DISTRICT & TOWN OF COLCHESTER: Site Plan and Conditional Use Applications to amend a previous approval for a mixed-use property including a Local Public Garage (Use 11.410) located in the GD1 District. Proposed amendment is to construct a 9,600 square foot accessory building to measure 35 ft in height and to be used for salt

Support Groups

A CIRCLE OF PARENTS SUPPORT GROUPS

Please join our professionally facilitated, peer-led support groups designed to share our questions, concerns & struggles, as well as our resources & successes! Contribute to our discussion of the unique but shared experience of parenting. For more info or to register, please contact Heather at hniquette@pcavt.org, 802-498-0607, pcavt.org/ family-support-programs.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

If you want to drink, that's your business. If you want to stop, that's ours. Call the Vermont statewide anonymous hotline: 802-802-2288. Alcoholics Anonymous holds daily meetings all over Vermont, both in person & online. For meetings & events throughout Vermont, see aavt.org.

ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups meet to provide assistance & info on Alzheimer's disease & related dementias. They emphasize shared experiences, emotional support & coping techniques in care for a person living w/ Alzheimer's or a related dementia. Meetings are free & open to the public. Families,

storage. Proposed structure to be placed on top of existing impervious surface and to be located outside of the Water Protection District. Subject property is located at 425 Blakely Road, Account #07-056002-0000000.

d) SP-26-29 & CU-26-13 DOUGLAS CHESSEMAN & SARA WATTERS: Site Plan and Conditional Use Applications to amend previous approvals for a mixed-use, multi-tenant building in the LS2 District. Proposed amendment is to establish a Short Order Restaurant use (Use 8.121 – No Drive Up Service) in a vacant 600 square-foot suite. No site modifications are proposed at this time. Subject property is located at 97 Blakely Road, Account #66-022032-0000000.

February 18, 2026

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CHARTER AMENDMENTS PROPOSAL FEBRUARY 25, 2026

6:30 P.M.

The legal voters of the City of Essex Junction, Vermont are hereby notified and warned to meet at 6:30 p.m. on February 25, 2026, at the City Offices, 2 Lincoln Street, Essex Junction, Vermont and electronically on Zoom. You can find the link at www.essexjunction.org or join via conference call (audio only): (888) 788-0099 | Meeting ID: 944 6429 7825; Passcode: 635787. The purpose of these meetings is for the City Council to hear input on the proposed amendments to the Charter for the City of Essex Junction.

The proposed charter amendments include the following amendments (strikethrough represents a deletion, and underline represents an addition) to Subchapter 2: Governance Structure, Section 205. Compensation; and Subchapter 12: Amendment of Charter and Initiatives, Section 1202. Charter Review Committee.

Shall the voters approve an amendment to the City of Essex Junction Charter that changes the City Council President’s annual compensation to be twenty-five percent (25%) more than the annual compensation paid to the other City Council members? (strikethrough represents a deletion, and underline represents an addition):

Subchapter 2: Governance Structure

Section 205. Compensation(a)(1) The President of the Council shall be paid an annual compensation that is twenty-five percent

(25%) more than the annual compensation paid to the other Council members.

Shall the voters approve an amendment to the City of Essex Junction Charter where compensation paid to the City Council members adjusts annually, effective July 1 of each year, in a manner consistent with any percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for the Northeast Region, as published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for the most recent calendar year? (strikethrough represents a deletion, and underline represents an addition):

Subchapter 2: Governance Structure

Section 205. Compensation

(a) Compensation paid to the Council members shall be set by the voters at the annual meeting, adjusted annually, effective July 1 of each year, by the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for the Northeast Region, as published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for the most recent calendar year, with a minimum of . . . .

Shall the voters approve an amendment to the City of Essex Junction Charter that states that the City Council shall appoint a Charter Review Committee, at least once every 12 years, to conduct a comprehensive review of the City of Essex Junction Charter? (strikethrough represents a deletion, and underline represents an addition):

Subchapter 12: AMENDMENT OF CHARTER AND INITIATIVES

Section 1202. Charter Review Committee

The City Council shall appoint a Charter Review Committee at least once every twelve (12) years for the purpose of conducting a comprehensive review of this charter. A majority of the Committee’s members shall be residents of the City who are not members of the City Council.

Dated at Essex Junction, Vermont on the 22nd day of January 2026.

An official copy of the proposed charter amendments is on file and available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office at 2 Lincoln Street, Essex Junction, Vermont 05452. Copies will be made available upon request.

caregivers & friends may attend. Please call in advance to confirm the date & time. The Williston caregiver support group meets in person on the 2nd & 4th Tue. of every mo., 5-6:30 p.m., at the Old Brick Church in Williston. Contact support group facilitators Molly at dugan@cathedralsquare.org or Mindy at moondog@burlingtontelecom.net. The Middlebury support group for individuals w/ early stage dementia meets on the 4th Tue. of each mo., 3 p.m., at the Residence at Otter Creek, 350 Lodge Rd., Middlebury. Contact is Daniel Hamilton, dhamilton@residenceottercreek.com or 802-989-0097. The Shelburne support group for individuals w/ early stage dementia meets on the 1st Mon. of every mo., 2-3 p.m., at the Residence at Shelburne Bay, 185 Pine Haven Shores, Shelburne. Contact is support group facilitator Lydia Raymond, lraymond@residenceshelburnebay.com. The telephone support group meets on the 2nd Tue. of each mo., 4-5:30 p.m. Preregistration is required (to receive dial-in codes for toll-free call). Please dial the Alzheimer's Association's 24-7 Helpline, 800-272-3900, or visit alz.org for more info. For questions or additional support group listings, call 800-272-3900.

ANXIETY RELIEF GROUP

Anxiety Relief Group is a safe setting for relaxing & exploring your feelings w/ others through gentle socialization & self-expression, building up what makes you centered & strong. Wed., 4-5:30 p.m. Both in-person & Zoom options avail. In-person meetings are held at the Fletcher Free Library's Fletcher Room in Burlington. Email us for the Zoom link & more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP

Vermont Center for Independent Living offers virtual monthly meetings, held on the 3rd Wed. of every mo., 1-2:30 p.m. The support group will offer valuable resources & info about brain injury. It will be a place to share experiences in a safe, secure & confidential environment. To join, email Linda Meleady at lindam@vcil.org & ask to be put on the TBI mailing list. Info: 800-639-1522.

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR DRAGON BOAT TEAM

Looking for a fun way to do something active & health-giving? Want to connect w/ other breast cancer survivors? Come join Dragonheart Vermont. We are a breast cancer survivor & supporter dragon

boat team who paddle together in Burlington. Please contact us at info@dragonheartvermont. org for info.

BURLINGTON MEN'S PEER GROUP Tue. nights, 7-9 p.m., in Burlington. Free of charge, 30 years running. Call Neils, 802-877-3742.

CONVERSATIONS ABOUT SUICIDE

Conversations About Suicide is a judgment-free & open space to talk about personal experiences of suicidal ideation. The group is facilitated by peer support staff w/ lived experience of suicidality. Thu., 4-5 p.m., at Vermont Wellness Collaborative, 125 College St., 3rd Floor, Burlington. Email us for more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

DISABILITY SUPPORT GROUP

Our group is a space for mutual support, open to anybody who identifies as disabled, differently abled or having a disability. Whether your disability is visible, invisible, physical or cognitive, this group is for you! The group meets every Mon., 1:15-2:15 p.m., at Fletcher Free Library's Pickering Room in Burlington & online on Zoom. Email us for the Zoom link & more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

Facilities Manager

Send your resume to selena@windjammergroup.com

fresh,

1076 Williston Road, S. Burlington 862.6585 www.windjammerrestaurant.com

Windjammer Hospitality Group is hiring a full-time, Facilities Manager with a starting pay of 70k.

For full details and to apply, scan here.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT: JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POST-A-JOB PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

BETA Technologies Is Hiring — Apply Today!

Come build electric airplanes with us in Vermont. At BETA Technologies, we’re growing our hands-on team of technicians, manufacturers, and assemblers—and we’re looking for people who love working with their hands and building something that matters. Every role at BETA is mission-critical, and you’ll be surrounded by smart, supportive teammates who care deeply about the work and each other. We offer competitive pay, equity for full-time team members, free flight lessons, onsite lunches, access to a health clinic, and a truly people-first culture. Starting at $26 per hour plus equity. Join us as we shape the future of aviation. Learn more and apply at beta.team/careers

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Part-time Housekeeper

The Pitcher Inn in Warren Vermont is looking for an experienced housekeeper to join our team. Flexible schedule, $18 - $22 /hr based on experience, housing for a committed employee. Please respond to: info@pitcherinn.com.

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SPECIAL EDUCATOR

The Stern Center for Language and Learning is an education-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding the power of learning. We are currently hiring special educators who are ready to make a difference at a new level in their career. If you thrive in an educational setting that shakes up the traditional school model, apply to join our team in the lifechanging work of teaching reading. Work with students who need the support of caring educators who believe in them, in a context where social-emotional wellbeing and support is a critical part of the learning journey.

Ideal candidates will have a BA/BS in education, 2+ years’ experience in Special Education, enthusiasm for one-to-one instruction, and knowledge of assessment and interpretation. Experience with Orton-Gillingham, or similar qualifications a plus. This is a full-time, in-person position in Chittenden County, VT. The hiring range is $54,000 - $57,000 annually. Interested candidates can send a cover letter and resume to hcastillo@sterncenter.org

The Stern Center for Language and Learning is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NURSE EDUCATORS

Make real IMPACT. Teach. Mentor. Transform Nursing through Education at NVRH.

Make a meaningful impact at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH). We’re seeking an experienced and passionate Central Clinical Nurse Educator to support staff development, promote evidence‑based practice, and enhance patient outcomes across multiple clinical departments.

Willing to train all construction trades. Pay is commensurate with experience, range $20-$30/hr to start. We offer per diems, competitive pay and benefits. Stop by our office or fill out an application online: ccsconstructors.com

REQUIREMENTS: VT or Compact RN license; BLS (ACLS/PALS within 1 year); Master’s degree, or in progress or ability to complete within 2 years of hire; 3+ years recent acute care experience; strong mentoring and communication skills; evening availability.

PREFERRED: Curriculum development, simulation‑based learning, multi‑unit education, and experience with quality improvement and learning technologies. Why NVRH? Competitive pay, loan repayment, tuition reimbursement, generous PTO, free gym membership, affordable insurance, 401(k) match, and a mission‑driven culture. Apply today at nvrh.org/careers

passionate about hospitality in a mission-driven environment that centers diversity and caring for people and the land.

For more information and to apply, please visit: knollfarm.org/work-with-us

Architect/Draftsperson

Small residential designbuild firm seeking a junior architect or draftsperson with strong Revit skills. Role includes residential design, construction documents, and coordination with our in-house build team. Ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and comfortable managing multiple projects. Architecture or drafting background required. On-site carpentry or field experience is a plus. Full-time or flexible hours available. Generous compensation package based on experience. Family-driven, community-oriented team that genuinely cares about the work & each other.

Please send resume and work samples to jen@ accomplicemarketing.com

Farm & Forest Viability Grants Specialist

The Farm and Forest Viability Grants Specialist manages grant funding that supports Vermont’s farm, food, and forest businesses. This position oversees the complete grant lifecycle—from applications through reporting—ensuring resources reach the entrepreneurs who strengthen Vermont’s working lands. Working at VHCB’s Montpelier o ce with some remote flexibility, you’ll handle financial tracking, budget management, and program evaluation while analyzing data to measure impact. The role includes writing grant proposals, collaborating with Vermont’s Farm to Plate network, conducting occasional field visits to see your work in action, and ensuring user-friendly systems for grant recipients. This is an opportunity to combine strong organizational skills with meaningful work supporting Vermont’s agricultural economy and rural communities. Experience with grant management preferred; direct farm or forest business experience strongly preferred but transferable skills welcome.

VHCB is an E.O.E., and we strongly encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. To learn more, visit vhcb.org/careers.

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE LEARNING

The Flynn is seeking a Director of Creative Learning to lead programs at the intersection of artistic practice, education, and community partnership. This senior role will shape Creative Learning as a core function of the organization— designing and stewarding workshops, classes, residencies, school partnerships, and camps that expand access and deepen engagement with the arts while centering community needs and creative participation.

For complete job description and to apply, please visit: flynnvt.org/About-Us/Employment-and-InternshipOpportunities

phone calls, please. E.O.E.

Human Resources & Finance Manager

The Vermont Association of Conservation Districts (VACD) is seeking an experienced, knowledgeable, and hands-on manager to lead the organization’s human resources and finance functions and to provide Vermont’s 14 Natural Resources Conservation Districts with human resources support and guidance.

Starting salary range is $60k-70k, depending on qualifications and experience, with a competitive benefits package. This position is fully remote, with occasional in-person meetings throughout Vermont. Applications are due by March 6, 2026. Visit VACD.org for the

job description & application details.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Drop-Off Center Operator

CSWD is seeking a highly motivated individual to work at various busy Drop-Off Centers. Schedule is Tuesday-Saturday from 7:45am3:45pm. Must enjoy interacting with the public, have the ability to operate a point-of-sale system (training provided) and be able to keep cool under pressure. Moderate physical effort is required as is the ability to work outdoors. Customer service experience a plus. Self-starters and those with a passion for reducing waste, recycling, and composting, are strongly encouraged to apply. $21.52 per hour with an excellent benefits package.

For more information on the position and CSWD, visit cswd.net. Send a resume or a completed job application to Devin Ashwell at dashwell@cswd.net. Position is open until filled.

LEGAL PROJECT MANAGER

Join the Vermont Land Trust as a Legal Project Manager. Apply your legal expertise to help protect Vermont’s farms, forests, and natural areas!

We’re looking for an experienced legal project manager who:

• Is equipped with previous real estate experience including reviewing title documents

• Possesses strong project management skills

• Values teamwork and is highly collaborative

The starting salary for this full-time position is $69,216.00. Our benefits package includes:

• Annual cafeteria allowance of $26,839.20 to cover healthcare premiums and other benefits. (This is a cash benefit paid to staff for use at their discretion.)

• 6 weeks of combined time off, plus 12 days of sick time annually.

• 403b retirement plan with employer match.

• Flexible and hybrid work schedules.

Learn more and apply at vlt.org/employment. The position will remain open until March 15, 2026.

The Vermont Land Trust is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We honor & invite people of all backgrounds & life experiences to apply.

OG Certified Literacy Instructor

Full Time, In-Person

The Stern Center in Williston is seeking an in-person Orton-Gillingham Certified instructor to join our highly experienced and collaborative team of teachers. If you’re a qualified educator with training and experience in structured literacy instruction, this rewarding role allows focus and impact, teaching one-on-one to make a positive difference every day. Candidates should be certified in Orton-Gillingham or have had training in Orton-Gillingham and/or Wilson. Our ideal candidate will also have exceptional communication and organizational skills, an understanding of research-based interventions, and experience in developing individualized learning plans.

Specific duties include:

• Administer and interpret pre- and post-instructional assessments

• Create specific academic goals and objectives for each student

• Communicate with parents, schools, teachers, and special educators

• Strong progress monitoring and reporting skills

The starting salary range for this position is $54,000 to $57,000 annually.

The non-profit Stern Center for Language and Learning is dedicated to learning for all as we recognize that all great minds don’t think alike. We invite you to learn more about us at sterncenter.org. The Stern Center for Language and Learning is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

5v-SternCenterLITERACY021826.indd

The Unitarian Church of Montpelier seeks a part-time Director of Music beginning July 1 who will conduct the Church Choir and prepare and lead the music for worship services. We seek someone who is committed to liberal religious values, open to diverse musical traditions, and enjoys creative collaboration with a variety of people. Annual salary of $27,585 to $30,645 ($29.47 to $32.74/hr) commensurate with experience with additional beneﬁts.

Applications accepted starting March 15. See full job posting and application instructions here: https://tinyurl.com/ucm-music.

EQUITAS Life Sciences, LLC (Essex, VT) seeks Sr Engagement Advocate to condct primry & secndry resrch on human diseases, their causes & treatmnts, to dvlp stratgc & tacticl rcommndatns for clnts in pharma, biotech & hlthcare indstries. Reqs MS in Epidemiology or Publc Hlth +1yr exp in offrd pos or life sciences consultng role. All reqd exp mustv incld dlvrng consultng prjcts for pharma, biotech & hlthcare clnts; leadng primry & secndry rsrch acrss oncolgy, cardiolgy & ophthlmlgy; utlzng clincl trial databases, pipeline trackrs, earnings rprts & finc’l filngs to uncovr actionble insghts; usng Excel, PP, SQL, Stata, Tableau, Qualtrcs & PowerBI to anlyze & trnsfrm hlthcare data & commrc’l insghts into actionble implcatns; & dvlpng visual presntatns (e.g. slide decks) for comptitv lndscapes, mrkt trends, pipeline rvws, mrkt opprtunty assessmts & US mrkt accss dynmcs. #LI-DNI Salary: $100,000/yr. E-mail rés to: info@EQUITASLS.com

Vermonters for Criminal Justice Reform

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Help us create the operational foundation that will allow VCJR staff and programs to thrive. Lead operational systems development, support staff in day to day operations needs and steward operational readiness for growth.

Job Type: In person (Burlington, VT) with potential for hybrid.

Anticipated compensation: $45,000-$55,000/year plus benefits.

Please request a full job description or submit a cover letter and resume to Tom Dalton at tom@vcjr.org.

SERVICE COORDINATOR

Provide case management and related services for people living with substance use disorders. Some driving required with mileage reimbursement provided.

Job Type: Full-time in person (Burlington, VT).

Anticipated starting salary: $43,000 - $45,000 per year, plus benefits for full-time 40 hour per week employment.

Please request a full job description or submit a cover letter and resume to Jess Kirby via email at jess@vcjr.org.

FINANCE DIRECTOR

Are you interested in using your business and finance skills to support an inspiring mission? The Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is seeking a Finance Director to help lead the finance operations of a complex, multi-million dollar non-profit organization. Our Finance Director will work with our Chief Financial Officer and finance team to maintain and grow our excellent financial operations.

CCS has been voted one of the Best Places to Work in Vermont for the

Do you care about Vermont journalism and like the idea of working to support it? Burlington-based Seven Days is seeking a personable, über-organized individual to help businesses, municipalities and families achieve their goals through our newspaper and digital products.

Our ideal candidate has strong financial skills and extensive experience using computer-based financial management systems in a multi-funded organization with grant compliance and oversight experience. Minimum of 3 years’ finance, accounting or bookkeeping experience required, 5 years preferred. The Vermont Network is an amazing place to work – we prioritize the wellbeing of our staff, take our culture seriously, think big and orient toward what is possible.

For more information and the full job description, please visit our website at vtnetwork.org. Submit cover letter and resume to Jamie Carroll, Director of Administration, at jamie@vtnetwork.org. Deadline for applications is March 10th.

e ideal candidate is a motivated multitasker with excellent written and verbal communication skills, self-discipline, drive, and interest in local and national business trends. Experience in HR and recruitment is a plus. Digital ﬂuency is required.

e established account list is generating at least $60K in annual commissions. Beneﬁts include paid vacation, health insurance, 401K, and the ability to collaborate in-ofﬁce with a fun and entrepreneurial staff. Potential remote workdays, too.

Email your résumé and cover letter by March 2 to: salesjob@sevendaysvt.com. Please explain your current employment situation and career aspirations.

No phone calls or drop-ins, please.

Seven Days is an E.O.E.

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Now Hir ing!

Join our Caring Team and Advance Your Career in Senior Living

Join the Flynn & be part of a team striving to make the community better through the arts. All backgrounds encouraged to apply. This is a full-time, exempt, benefit eligible position.

ASSISTANT PRODUCER

thegaryresidence.com

HR@thegaryresidence.com

We are seeking a Part-time Chef/Cook to prepare meals for residents. Meals are cooked from scratch using local Vermont products.

thegaryresidence.com HR@thegaryresidence.com

We are seeking a Part-time Chef/Cook to prepare meals for residents. Meals are cooked from scratch using local Vermont products.

Commercial cooking experience desired; supervisory experience preferred.

Commercial cooking experience desired; supervisory experience preferred. 5h-GaryResidence021826.indd

SENIOR DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Building Bright Futures (BBF) seeks a Senior Development Manager to lead our fundraising strategy and strengthen relationships with donors and partners. This full-time position is supervised by the Policy and Program Director, working closely with the Executive Director to support organizational sustainability and growth.

Compensation and Benefits: Salary range: $82,000 - $88,000 annually, starting salary dependent on experience. Benefits include generous paid time off (including Fridays off June through August), healthcare insurance, dental insurance, and retirement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead fundraising across foundations, individual donors, and partners

• Manage the full lifecycle of grants, campaigns, and donor stewardship

• Develop and implement annual giving and fundraising strategies

• Write and oversee proposals, reports, and cases for support

• Create donor communications and storytelling in collaboration with staff

• Maintain fundraising systems, records, and performance reports

• Build and expand regional and national funder relationships

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in nonprofit fundraising and grant writing

• Strong relationship-building skills with donors, funders, and partners

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Highly organized with strong project and time management abilities

• Ability to connect programs, policy, and storytelling to fundraising goals

• Commitment to equity, social justice, and systems-change work

• Comfort using CRM systems and collaborative technology tools

Email a cover letter, resume, and three references as one PDF labeled: lastname_firstname_Development to: kmobbs@buildingbrightfutures.org

Position open until filled. To learn more about the position or Building Bright Futures, please visit buildingbrightfutures.org

The Flynn is looking for an Assistant Producer to support Flynn-produced and commissioned work across the Flynn campus and throughout Vermont. Working closely with the Producer, this role provides hands-on coordination and project support to help ensure artistic projects are successfully delivered. This role is suited to an early- to midcareer producing profession who is organized, collaborative, and motivated by bringing ambitious artistic work to life. For complete job description and to apply, please visit: flynnvt.org/About-Us/Employment-and-InternshipOpportunities

No phone calls, please. E.O.E.

Burlington Housing Authority (BHA)

Are you interested in a job that helps your community and makes a difference in people’s lives every day?

Consider joining Burlington Housing Authority (BHA) in Burlington, VT to continue BHA’s success in promoting innovative solutions that address housing instability challenges facing our diverse population of lowincome families and individuals.

We are currently hiring for the following position:

CO-RESIDENT MANAGER AT DECKER TOWER:

Position requires living on-site and being on-call outside of regular BHA business hours to respond to resident requests, site-based emergencies, light maintenance, cleaning of common areas, and other duties as assigned. In exchange for these duties, Resident Managers receive a free apartment with utilities included. Please note this is an unpaid, nonbenefited position.

For more info about these career opportunities please visit: burlingtonhousing.org

Interested in our career opportunity? Send a cover letter and resume to: humanresources@burlingtonhousing.org

Human Resources

65 Main St, Suite 101 Burlington, VT 05401 Burlington Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer

You’re in good hands with...

“Seven Days sales rep Michelle Brown is amazing! She’s extremely responsive, and I always feel so taken care of. I can only imagine how many job connections she has facilitated for local companies in the 20 years she has been doing this.”

CAROLYN ZELLER Intervale Center, Burlington

4t-Flynn021826.indd 1

Land Conservation Manager

Join our passionate wilderness team! Northeast Wilderness Trust seeks an experienced Land Conservation Manager to proactively research, manage, and close real estate transactions to advance our ambitious strategic conservation goals. Visit newildernesstrust.org/about/employment to learn more.

Head of School

Pacem School is hiring a Head of School to work collaboratively with an amazing team of teachers and students. We are looking for an experienced, energetic educator to lead our creative, intellectually-inspiring learning community.

Full details and to apply: pacemschool.org/about/employment

Executive Director

BARRE OPERA HOUSE –

The dreams of over a century thrive on our stage. What we’re looking for: We seek an Executive Director with experience in theater management to grow our reputation as a premiere performing arts space. The right candidate should have knowledge of a wide range of music (rock, jazz, folk, and R&B) in order to continue providing excellent and popular performances. The candidate would be responsible for facility management and comfortable handling emergency situations. They will be eager to make the performing arts accessible to all who wish to share in this transformative experience. Our Executive Director will be one who enjoys people and is inspired by the values of community-based performing arts and the historical relevance of the space itself. Guided by our strategic plan, and in collaboration with our Board of Directors, they will use their love of our contemporary genre of performance and history to act as the public face of the institution and prepare the opera house for important work ahead.

The right candidate will have:

• At least 3 years of experience leading or in a senior management position in a performing arts facility of a similar size and scope.

• Experience working with a board of directors (not for profit preferred) and demonstrated experience managing a public-facing organization with an eye to leadership strategy, community relationship building, grant acquisition, and advancement.

We include the following total compensation package: Annual salary ranges from $68,000 – $73,000 based on experience. $7,500 annually toward a medical plan E.O.E. Please send a resume and cover letter to Chair@BarreOperaHouse.org

For a more comprehensive job description, visit barreoperahouse.org/employment-opportunities.html

When you work for the State of Vermont, you and your work matter. A career with the State puts you on a rich and rewarding professional path. You’ll find jobs in dozens of fields – not to mention an outstanding total compensation package.

The CTE Methods of Administration (MOA) State Manager will ensure AOE is in compliance with federal and state requirements related to the state’s Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. This position plays a critical role in working with Vermont’s 17 regional CTE centers and directors. This position is expected to lead all MOA efforts and must have a demonstrated ability for independent problem-solving, data-based decision-making, and relevant communication and project management skills. For more information, contact Lisa Helme at lisa.helme@vermont.gov. Location: Montpelier.

Department: Education. Status: Full Time. Minimum Salary: $32.87. Maximum Salary: $51.52. Job ID #54353. Application Deadline: March 3, 2026.

CTE METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION MANAGER – MONTPELIER

FEBRUARY 18-25, 2026

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

Farm Retail Manager

Full-Time, Year-Round

Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center seeks a collaborative, communityminded Farm Retail Manager to steward our farmstand, café, and other retail sales channels. This role is ideal for someone who loves produce, understands seasonal farming, and is motivated by connecting people to food grown with care-while also bringing a strong, thoughtful approach to retail sales.

The Farm Retail Manager is a full time year-round position. Benefits include: health insurance (premium 100% employer paid, 50% paid for minor dependents); paid personal, sick, and parental leave; a 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer safe harbor match; short-term disability insurance (100% employer paid), 20% discount at our farmstand; 50% off summer camps for dependents; and access to an employee assistance program. Pay is $23-27 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references through our online application at: cedarcirclefarm.isolvedhire.com/jobs/1694171

Care Coordinator/ Case Management

Case Managers support older Vermonters in the community to stay as independent as possible in the environment of their choice by promoting health, rights, independence, and economic well-being.

This position is based in our Barre office, combined with in-home field visits. Staff are never asked to be on-call or work weekends.

Pay Range: $24-$26 per hour. Generous benefits including 401(k), health insurance, and paid time off.

For the full job description and to apply, please visit: cvcoa.org/employment

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

The Town of Richmond is seeking a skilled and motivated Financial Director to oversee and manage the Town’s financial operations across all departments, including Water Resources and the Library. This key leadership role works closely with the Town Manager and department heads to ensure accurate accounting, budgeting, payroll, tax administration, grants management, and financial reporting.

The ideal candidate brings strong accounting experience, excellent organizational skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office, and proficiency with or the ability to learn the NEMRC municipal finance software. This position offers meaningful work in local government, a collaborative environment, and the opportunity to make a real impact in the community.

If you’re detail‑oriented, enjoy problem‑solving, and want to help support Richmond’s financial health, we encourage you to apply.

Salary range $80,259 - $107,181.

See the full job description here: richmondvt.gov/departments/job-listings

Interested candidates should email their resume and cover letter to Town Manger Josh Arneson: jarneson@richmondvt.gov by Monday, March 2, 2026. 5h-TownofRichmond021126.indd

DEPUTY TOWN MANAGER

The Town of Colchester is seeking a Deputy Town Manager to provide day-to-day oversight of general operations and functions of the Town government, assist the Town Manager with special projects and assure the continuity of all services. In addition, the Deputy Town Manager will provide general management and business management; oversee budgeting, and coordinate public communications. The Town is engaged in long-range plans that balance economic development, respect the natural environment, community service, and physical improvements while being mindful of budgetary constraints and the impact on taxpayers.

The ideal candidate will be motivated, organized, with a desire to improve the operations of the Town government; should be an experienced municipal government professional with knowledge in general management, business management, budgeting, and have excellent communication skills. The ideal candidate will also have the ability to provide sound advice on business and policy matters to the Town Manager and Selectboard. Prior successful experience negotiating business and collective bargaining agreements is a plus. The successful candidate will be able to manage his/her own work while simultaneously leading others and overseeing tasks and projects.

Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field or significant equivalent knowledge and experience, 10 years of progressively responsible management experience; excellent communication skills, written and public speaking; and strong interpersonal skills. Hiring range is $115,000 to $125,000 depending on qualifications and experience, plus a competitive benefit package.

Submit application, cover letter, resume, and references to Ruby Tetrick, Communications Coordinator, rtetrick@colchestervt.gov

The Town of Colchester is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Assistant

The Montpelier Performing Arts Hub is a nonproﬁt performing arts organization serving Central Vermont. We are seeking a dependable, highly organized Administrative Assistant to provide 10hrs/week of in-person administrative support in coordination with Hub leadership. This part-time role is essential to daily operations and is well-suited for someone who enjoys independent work in a small, arts-focused nonproﬁt environment. $20–25/hour, commensurate with experience. Please submit a resume and brief cover letter to info@mpa-hub.org by March 5th.

Montpelier Performing Arts Hub is an equal opportunity employer

Heartwood School is seeking a Schoolhouse Coordinator (in-person/onsite) and a Student Services/Outreach Coordinator (largely remote) to support the daily operation of our non-profit timber framing and traditional trade school in Alstead, NH. Kind, fun working environment. For job description and to apply, please visit: heartwoodschool. com/join-our-team.

fun stuff

“I

love the smell of corn chips in the morning.”

JULIANNA BRAZILL

KYLE BRAVO

HARRY BLISS

PISCES

(FEB. 19-MAR. 20)

Big bright transitions are at hand: from thrashing around in the educational mire to celebrating your sweet escape; from wrangling with shadows and ghosts to greeting new allies; from messing around with interesting but confounding chaos to seizing fresh opportunities to shine and thrive. Hallelujah! What explains this exhilarating shift? The Season of Dazzling Self-Adoration is dawning for you Pisceans. In the weeks ahead, you will be inspired to embark on bold experiments in loving yourself with extra fervor and ingenuity.

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19): Saturn has entered Aries. I see this landmark shift as being potentially very good news for you. Between now and April 2028, you will have enhanced powers to channel your restless heart in constructive directions. I predict you will narrow down your multiple interests and devote yourself to a few resonant paths rather than scattering your intense energy. More than ever before, you can summon the determination to follow through on what you initiate. My Saturn-in-Aries prayer: May you be bold, even brazen, in identifying where you truly belong and never settle for a half-certain fit.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): I am issuing a Wow Advisory. Consider this your high-voltage wonder alert. Your future may offer you thrilling quests and epic exploits that could be unnerving to people who want you to remain the same as you have been. You will have a knack for

stirring up liberating encounters with lavish pleasures and rich feelings that transform your brain chemistry. The rousing mysteries you attract into your sphere may send provocative ripples through your own imagination as well as your web of allies. Expect juicy plot twists. Be alert for portals opening in the middle of nowhere.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun. 20): In Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, you find anatomical drawings next to flying machine designs, mathematical calculations alongside water flow observations and philosophical musings interrupted by grocery lists. He moved from painting to engineering to scientific observation as curiosity led him. Let’s make him your inspirational role model for now, Gemini. Disobey categories! Merge categories! Mix and match categories! Let’s assume that your eager mind will create expanded knowledge networks that prove valuable in unexpected ways. Let’s hypothesize that your cheerful rebellion against conventional ways of organizing reality will spawn energizing innovations in your beautiful, mysterious life.

CANCER (Jun. 21-Jul. 22): In falconry, there’s a practice called “weathering.” It involves regularly exposing trained birds to the wild elements so they don’t become too domesticated and lose their wildness. The falconer needs a partner, not a pet. Does that theme resonate, Cancerian? Is it possible that you have been too sheltered lately? Either by your own caution or by well-meaning people who think they’re protecting you? Let’s make sure you stay in touch with the fervent, untamed sides of your nature. How? You could expose yourself to an experience that scares you a little. Take a fun risk you’ve been rationalizing away. Invite touches of rowdiness into your life.

LEO (Jul. 23-Aug. 22): The loudest noise in history? It was the 1883 volcanic eruption of Krakatoa in Indonesia, heard thousands of miles away. The pressure wave circled the Earth multiple times. I am predicting a benevolent version of a Krakatoa event for you in the coming months. Not literal loudness but a shiny, bright expression of such magnitude that it

redefines your world and what people thought was possible from you. Can you be prepared for it? A little. You’ll be wise to cultivate visionary equanimity: a calm willingness to stay focused on the big picture. I predict your big boom will be challenging but ultimately magnificent and empowering.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sep. 22): Buddhism teaches about “near enemies”: qualities that may appear to be virtues but aren’t. For example, pity masquerades as compassion. Clingy attachment pretends to be love. Apathy and indifference pose as equanimity. In the coming weeks, Virgo, I hope you won’t get distracted by near enemies. Your assignment: Investigate whether any of your supposed virtues are actually near enemies. After you’ve done that, find out if any of your so-called negative emotions might harbor interesting powers you could tap into.

LIBRA (Sep. 23-Oct. 22): Many intelligent people think astrology is dangerous nonsense perpetrated by quacks. For any horoscope writer with an ego, this affront tends to be deflating. Like everyone else, we want to be appreciated. On the other hand, I have found that practicing an art that gets so much disdain has been mostly liberating. It’s impossible for me to get bloated with excess pride. I practice astrology for the joy it affords me, not to garner recognition. So in a backhanded way, a seemingly disheartening drawback serves as an energizing boon. My prediction is that you, Libra, will soon harvest an analogous turnabout. You will draw strength, even inspiration, from what may ostensibly appear to be a liability.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Mycologist Paul Stamets claims mushrooms taught him to think in networks rather than hierarchies. He sees how everything feeds everything else through vast webs of underground filaments. This is Scorpio wisdom at its most scintillating: homing in on the hidden circuitry working below the surface; gauging the way nourishment is distributed incrementally through many collaborative interconnections; seeing the synergy between seemingly separate sources. I hope you will accentuate this mode

of understanding in the coming weeks. The key to your soulful success and happiness will be in how well you map the mycelial-like networks, both in the world around you and in your inner depths. PS: For extra credit, study the invisible threads that link your obsessions to each other, your wounds to your gifts, and your rage to your tenderness.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The peregrine falcon dives at speeds exceeding 240 miles per hour, making it the fastest animal on Earth. But before the dive, there’s often a period of circling, scanning and waiting. The spectacular descent is set up by the patient reconnaissance that precedes it. I believe you’re now in a phase similar to the falcon’s preparatory reconnaissance, Sagittarius. The quality of your eventual plunge will depend on how well you’re tracking your target now. Use this time to gather intelligence, not to second-guess your readiness. You’ll know when your aim is true.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): There’s a certain miracle you could really use right now, Capricorn. But to attract it into your life would require a subtle and simple shift. In a related development, the revelation you need most is concealed in plain sight. To get these two goodies into your life, you shouldn’t make the error of seeking them in exotic locales. Ordinary events in the daily routine will bring you what you need: the miracle and the revelation that will change everything for the better.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Over the past 4,000 years, a host of things have been used as money in addition to precious metals and paper currency. Among them have been cows, seashells, cheese, tobacco, velvet, tulips, elephant tusks and huge stone wheels. I hope this poetic fact will inspire your imagination about financial matters. In the coming weeks, I expect you’ll be extra creative in drumming up new approaches to getting the cash you need. Here are questions to guide you. Which of your underused talents might be ready to boost your income? What undervalued gifts could you be more aggressive about giving? What neglected treasures or underutilized assets could you use to generate money?

Respond to these people online: dating.sevendaysvt.com

WOMEN seeking...

PEACEFUL AND PLAYFUL

I am a retired widow looking for companionship with a kind and honest man. I enjoy cooking, gardening and reading. I really enjoy the outdoors. I like fishing and kayaking. I enjoy playing pool and maybe a little foosball and bowling. I enjoy walks and I love dancing to rock and roll. Dilly, 65, seeking: M, l

LOW DRAMA, HIGH IMAGINATION

Yes, please, to outdoor water to swim in, float on or skate on; all animals; ridgetops; smart and funny and creative and kind people; books; laughter; sincerity; humility; not necessarily in that order. Am I delightful? Sometimes. Hopeful? Oh, the audacity, but yes, mostly. Longtime single and independent, and mostly I like that. Sometimes it gets lonely. Ohhey, 51, seeking: W, l

INQUISITIVE, JOYFUL AND OUTDOORSY

Heart open, future unwritten. Curious, high energy and athletic, with a practical mind and a romantic streak. Kids happily launched, leaving space for fun, connection and adventures. Emotionally steady and ready for the next chapter. Enjoys laughter, good conversation and discovering new places. Funny without trying too hard, grounded but optimistic. Seeking a curious, open-minded partner who enjoys travel. Central Vermont. TR2026, 59 seeking: M, l

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W = Women

M = Men

TW = Trans women

TM = Trans men

Q = Genderqueer people

NBP = Nonbinary people

NC = Gender nonconformists

Cp = Couples

Gp = Groups

SCOTTISH LASSIE LOOKING FOR LAD

My name is Michele, and I am a mental health counselor. I enjoy walking, hiking, gardening and spending time with my dog, Winnie. I also like to read. I have a very dry sense of humor that can catch people by surprise, and I have learned to manage it over time. I do enjoy a partner with a quick wit. Chelbelle 57, seeking: M, l

NEW IN TOWN

Will be moving to the Rutland area this summer and would look forward to meeting people. I will not know any except for family. I’m 61, and 61 years in Massachusetts. Teddy 61, seeking: W

OPEN TO SOMETHING NEW

Patient, busy, loving human who would like to meet new friends to perhaps develop into something more in the community. Preference to play and adventure instead of substance use. I’m tired of games and excuses. I love chess, snuggles and any activity in water. Sunshine_inVT, 46 seeking: M, l

SPONTANEOUS AND FUN

I would like someone to match my spontaneous personality! I’m a spontaneous, fun person. Spontaneous, as in, I could, on a dime, say, “Let’s get in the car and go!” Let’s go out to dinner. Let’s go dancing, bowling and so on. I enjoy dancing every weekend. Honesty and communication are important to me, as well as attraction. Aggie 73, seeking: M, l

WANNA JUMP IN THE RIVER?

I love being outside year-round, wandering the forests and wondering at their whimsy and beauty. Balancing that out with cozy time inside, I love a good cup of tea, a book, and attempting/ collecting random craft projects, usually made with nature or textiles. Building intentional community is something I am very dedicated to and consider very important, especially right now. ForestFairy, 32, seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l

POSITIVE, WELL-BALANCED MUSICIAN

I’m positive, bighearted, kind and helpful to others. Music is my passion, along with my pets and especially Friesian horses. Would love to see more of Vermont, as its mountains are breathtaking. Love to meet new people here. So far it’s been quite a whirlwind for me in Vermont. Ask me, and I’ll tell you why. Pianofairy 73, seeking: M

HOPEFUL ROMANTIC

Warm, grounded and quietly adventurous. I love nature, deep conversations, spiritual exploration and a good deadpan joke. I’m a hopeful romantic who values honesty, compassion, presence and intention. I’m happiest paddleboarding, hiking, wandering museums, traveling and discovering something new. Looking for a kind, emotionally aware, openhearted man — romantic, grounded, curious, and ready to grow, explore and build something genuine. Grateful18 51, seeking: M, l

MUST LOVE DOGS

I live on the New York side. My daughter went to UVM. I fell in love with Vermont. I hope to retire in five years. It would be wonderful to find a future partner in an area where I hope to move. Although I need to find a dog person: My favorite activity is hiking with my dog. ScaryLibrarian, 60 seeking: M, l

FUNNY, CONSIDERATE NATURE LOVER

I am looking for something that feels natural and effortless but keeps me coming back for more. I rarely take life seriously but also know when to be serious, if that tracks. I want happiness, peace and the company of someone who warms my soul! 98% content with my life, just missing my person. VTgirl06 33, seeking: M, l

FIT, GROUNDED, NOT DONE DANCING

Finishing grad school in mental health and currently working as a wellness coach. I’m 5’7”, fit, grounded and fun-loving, with a good life, close family and supportive friends. I enjoy hiking, XC skiing, gravel rides, dancing, cooking simple whole-food meals; and meditation, yoga and Qi Gong. Seeking companionship for adventure, deep conversation and easy time together. soulshine1975, 50 seeking: M, l

SEEKING FUTURE CO-PARENT

29-y/o woman seeking a man in his 20s or 30s who wants to raise kids. I’m an aspiring therapist (in grad school), farm worker, off-grid cabin dweller. Interests include: aikido, hide tanning, ritual gatherings, sewing, reading. Looking for someone who values authenticity, clear communication and reliability. Spirituality and carpentry skills a plus. I live in southern Vermont but could move north. WildFox, 29, seeking: M, TM, NBP, l

GREAT COFFEE DATE? MAYBE MORE?

I would like to meet a man for dating, possibly a partnership. I love to laugh; and my ideal person would be someone playful. I’m made happy by reading, socializing, hanging out at cafés or with dogs, walking, museum-ing, music, movies, No Kings! rallies, painting, gardening. Bonus points if you like to watch silent films or slow-paced, talky foreign ones. Pointer 69, seeking: M, l

FRIENDLY, CREATIVE AND FUN

Looking forward to more traveling. I like the outdoors but am not an athlete. Looking for a local, easygoing, like-minded guy who is in his 50s or 60s. Let’s enjoy playing cards with friends, dinners out, campfires, gardening, cooking together, a cruise, RVing (I don’t have an RV), cocktails on the porch (I do have a porch), road trips. ginger2468, 61, seeking: M, l

EXCITEMENT WANTED IN LIFE

I am looking for friendship and companionship. I also want to show my partner that I will love and cherish him for the rest of my life. Would like to do some traveling or just staying at home, reading or doing my knitting, crocheting or playing cards or Wii bowling. Also like boating and fishing. Just want to be happy. DebbieSmith 82, seeking: M, l

MEN seeking...

WIDOWER, 84, SEEKS ATHLETIC WIDOW

84-y/o recent widower seeks widow near my age for friendship, companionship and possible travel. My ideal would, like me, be thin, comfortable on a hearthealthy diet, mentally and physically fit, well educated, financially independent, like to garden, and still like to bicycle, hike, ski – both cross-country, Alpine and more. If so, please reach out to me. AthleticWidowerAt84, seeking: W, l

FUN, CREATIVE, FAMILY-ORIENTED, ACTIVE

Active ENFP (Myers-Briggs) seeks friendship and a someone with a good sense of humor. You can tell me to take a hike or go jump in the lake, and I’ll say, “When will you be ready to go?” Easygoing and up for making nice dinners and travel. Let’s get acquainted. AdventureBud 67, seeking: W, l

CURIOUS, IDEALISTIC, IMAGINATIVE, EMPATHETIC, INTROVERTED

New to this method of socializing and feeling it out. I’m looking to date, meet folks without a lot of pressure for a romantic connection/long-term compatibility. I like to be friends with interesting people, and if there’s chemistry beyond that, even better! dynamicwaters802 37, seeking: W, l

CONSERVATIVE, FRIENDLY, OLD SOUL

Hey there — I’m looking for a friendship that could grow into a relationship. I enjoy being outdoors (mostly in summer and fall, but I do enjoy skiing) and am also content to stay in and watch movies. I don’t have much dating experience, so I’m looking for someone who is OK with that and is willing to enjoy time together. OutdoorGuy92 33, seeking: W, l

IN SEARCH OF

The Moody Blues were In Search Of The Lost Chord. In my search for the meaning of life, I haven’t put my finger on it yet. In my search for the purpose of life, help someone less fortunate than myself. I’m a simple man with a simple desire. A hand to hold as I walk into eternity. Shall we begin? SLK 70, seeking: W, l

LAID-BACK OLD SCHOOL

Love music, going for walks as well as hiking or bicycling. Love animals. I’m shy. I’m a bit of a workaholic. Not too good at this — it’s all new to me. If you’d like to know more about me, drop me a line. Why_not50, 54 seeking: TM

PARENT OF DOWN SYNDROME

DAUGHTER

I don’t want a relationship — they hold you back. I want a best friend I can sleep with, make love to, hustle with, travel with and live with. I want a partner in crime, a life partner. Someone I can laugh with and build with. Somebody I am not afraid to lose, because I know they’ll always be there. HighBornFrost, 54, seeking: W, l

LAID-BACK, HAPPY

I’m looking to spend some time doing things that we like. Any adult time, sitting in sun, by the water or just together. AdultCompanion, 59, seeking: W

EDUCATED, OPEN-MINDED ARTS LOVER

Sensitive, unique, well-rounded guy looking to meet intelligent, insightful, interesting women to befriend and date. Vermonter forever but traveler, humanist, and lover of the outside and the arts; and kids, old people, food, the water and the mountains. You are comfortable being yourself, enjoy the good life and are looking for an interesting sidekick with whom to find your way. 3baldman 54, seeking: W, l

I’M A SHY PERSON

Hardworking, likes animals, raising chickens for eggs and meat, and maybe some bigger animals; I also run a sugaring business. Patch 40, seeking: W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l

YOUNG WRITER

Writer with a soft spot for doomed love stories, marginalia and conversations that accidentally last until 2 a.m. I split my time between literature, chemistry labs and overthinking sentences until they finally tell the truth. I believe romance should be intense but intelligent and that wanting meaning isn’t the same thing as being naïve. mentalis, 21, seeking: W, l

ONWARD AND UPWARD

I live a healthy life cooking nutritious food. Outdoor enthusiast, physically fit. I’m present, love to laugh; seeking same. Outwardbound 69 seeking: W, l

DISABLED, FUNNY, LOVING

I’m a laid-back guy. I have a dark sense of humor, and I often joke about my disability and health issues. I’m also a bit nerdy: I love horror, science fiction, fantasy and history. I’m hoping to find a fellow homebody to share my time with. (I also have muscular dystrophy, and I’m bedbound, FYI). dystrophydude 33 seeking: W, l

PEACEFUL

Life is good; just looking to find someone that will help make it even better. I have/ had many interests: fusing glass, pottery, massage, fixing up houses. I also enjoy the outdoors: hiking, kayaking, concerts, exploring new places. I don’t take things to the extreme. I’m pretty laid-back. Also I’m financially and mentally stable; looking for the same. livnlife 56, seeking: W, l

CURIOUS

I recently decided to leave work, take a break, and see where my energy and interests take me. In the meantime, I would love to meet someone with similar interests who is open to wonder and is curious, interested in deeper meaningful conversations, as well as light banter and playfulness, travel, road trips here and abroad. better2b 69, seeking: W, l

SIMPLE LIFE

I’m undergoing the next rediscovery phase of life. Working on a simpler existence. Always up for a beer at one of Vermont’s great breweries and exploring the natural splendor the world has to offer! My children are grown, live elsewhere and have babies of their own. I love road trips and time well spent with friends and family. LifeInMotion 58, seeking: W, l

TRANS WOMEN seeking...

NERDY LADY SEEKING ESCAPADES Nerdy trans lady looking for movie buddies and activity partners, maybe something more depending on chemistry. A work in progress, still taking shape thanks to the wonders of modern medicine. Single parent of three, so must be understanding of other demands on my time. Mostly interested in women, trans or gendernonconforming folks. stardustvt, 53 seeking: W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, Cp, Gp, l

COUPLES seeking...

CURIOUS COUPLE LOOKING FOR FUN

Honest, hardworking married couple who love passion and soft touches. Looking for woman to fulfill lustful fantasy of woman-on-woman playtime. CplSeeking 41 seeking: W

CITY HALL GROUNDHOG DANCING LADY

You hug-tackled your friend into me and then danced into me a couple times. Your friend apologized, but I found you quite delightful! TBH I had almost stayed in that weekend but was glad I saw you. It made my night. anks, Mr. Black Hoodie Green Fuzzypants. When: Saturday, January 31, 2026. Where: Burlington City Hall Auditorium. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916550

HOT BLONDE WITH BEAUTIFUL WHITE DOG

You are tall, stunning and you walk with conviction. Your dog is beautiful. I’ve seen you several times in Richmond. Are you single? When: Friday, January 23, 2026. Where: Richmond. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916548

MASS. PLATES JEEP

You swerved to avoid me in the crosswalk. Unknown to you, I pledged a life debt to you. In your darkest hour, I shall arrive. When: Tuesday, February 10, 2026. Where: Green St.. You: Man. Me: Man. #916547

MANGO MAMA

It’s been three years, and you still cross my mind regularly. Curious what life would be like if we met each other now instead of then. Who knows?

Hope you are doing well and life is fulﬁlling. When: Monday, February 9, 2026. Where: In my memories. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916545

TRANS GIRL CASHIER AT KOHL’S

Saw you while working. I was waiting in line. I noticed that you were a trans woman and hoped your register opened next. I am a man and was buying designer underwear. I was fumbling with my debit card. Was hoping that maybe we could meet again over a coffee? When: Saturday, February 7, 2026. Where: Kohl’s. You: Trans woman. Me: Man. #916544

If you’ve been spied, go online to contact your admirer!

SHELBURNE SUPERMARKET SHOPPING FOR SALSA

On Super Bowl Sunday you wore a black winter hat and I, the blue ball cap. We passed each other in a few aisles and then I was “in your way” when you were choosing your salsa. Your friendly hello and great smile made my day. I made the mistake of walking away without getting your name. Coffee sometime? When: Sunday, February 8, 2026. Where: Shelburne supermarket. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916546

BLOND AT SALSA AT SWITCHBACK

Your blond hair and energy drew me in. We danced a few times, and the vibe was real! Was just about to get your number, but you disappeared with your friend. (She had short hair.) You had a nice knit top. I wore a peach-colored shirt and have a beard. Your ﬁrst name starts with Br. Let’s connect soon! When: Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Where: Switchback Brewery. You: Man. Me: Man. #916543

SNOW. DITCH. TWO BABIES.

You pulled over, asked if I needed a pull. I said no despite very much wanting one. Great hair, conﬁdent energy, baby in back seat. I was stuck in a ditch, also with a baby in the back seat, deeply regretting my AAA membership. I’m open to a do-over, no snow required. When: Saturday, February 7, 2026. Where: Center Road - Middlesex. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916542

YELLOW LAB — SPARKY

I stopped to pet your yellow Lab, Sparky. We shared antics of yellow Labs in doggie boots and complained of chapped lips this time of year. (I hope yours is healing up okay?) Both you and Sparky seemed really nice, and I think it would be fun to chat with you again (and see Sparky, too). When: ursday, February 5, 2026. Where: Montpelier. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916541

CUTE BLOND GIRL, CUTE BEAGLE

To the beautiful blond girl I ran into while you were walking your beagle (beagle’s name was Dilly): I had a wonderful time talking to you and wish I had had the conﬁdence to ask for your info. Truly, the most gorgeous and hilarious person I have ever met! Felt an instant connection and have been thinking about it since. When: Sunday, February 1, 2026. Where: S. Williams Street. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916539

KEEPING PACE

You: wicked running machine on the corner treadmill. Me: hufﬁng through the miles next to you. We exchanged a quick smile — you’ve got a great one. I noticed that we were keeping pace with each other. How about a run together — inside or out? When: Sunday, February 1, 2026. Where: Burlington YMCA. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916538

LADYBUG COLLECTIVE

Dylan, you felt so familiar, like we had seen each other so many times before. I was busy with some work calls and didn’t want to disturb anyone. When I returned, you and your friends were having such a good conversations. You were pretty and funny. I left without asking for a way to connect again. Find me here? —C When: Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Where: Ladybug Collective. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916537

SKI SHOP GAL

You came into the ski shop where I work on Fridays. You were with your dad and looking for a used pair of XC skis for him. You are in the area for the winter, staying at your grandmother’s place. I couldn’t stop thinking about your smile all day. I’m hoping you’ll visit again some Friday. When: Friday, January 23, 2026. Where: small ski shop. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916535

CORTADO IN MIDDLEBURY

I don’t want to compromise your privacy, since you’re dealing with the public, but you looked out the window and said, “ e sun’s out, but it’s snowing.” I was glad it was crowded; it gave me more time to enjoy your lovely smile. And yes, as you said, I did have a wonderful day, indeed. When: ursday, January 22, 2026. Where: Middlebury. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916534

De Mauvais Lapin,

De Rev end,

I’m not a football fan, but I usually watch the Super Bowl halftime show. I had heard of Bad Bunny but never listened to his music, so I didn’t know what to expect this year. After seeing his performance, I have become absolutely obsessed, and I keep watching it over and over, with no end in sight. How do I stop?

GUTTERSON FIELDHOUSE

You: woman, purple socks, boots with good traction. Me: man, I have you by a few, a bit scruffy with light blue coat. We shared a smile and it felt nice. Would love to share a walk or coffee; if it was just a smile, that was lovely. When: Friday, January 23, 2026. Where: UVM hockey game. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916536

CHATTED AT TRADER JOE’S

We have spoken a few times at TJ’s, ﬁrst over the summer and most recently on MLK Day. We talked about riding bikes in Burlington and how you work at a brunch place. You’ve got me curious. I’d like to hear more. How about a snowy stroll? When: Monday, January 19, 2026. Where: Trader Joe’s. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916533

CHEF’S MARKET, RANDOLPH

While having a cup of soup, I saw you and a young man take a table and have lunch. We made eye contact several times, and then I left. If you read this and would like to meet, please reach out. When: Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Where: Chef’s Market, Randolph. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916532

BEAUTIFUL MAN WITH BEAUTIFUL DOG

I spied you at River Cove Animal Hospital with your black dog. e vet tech called her Helen. You had a nurturing way with her that only real men do. You were clad in a gray sweatsuit with a Buc-ee’s beaver logo on it. I gazed at you longingly, dreaming of a day when you might explore my Buc-ee’s beaver. When: Friday, December 19, 2025. Where: Williston. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916531

GRIEVES

You try to kill me every time you mess up, because you don’t listen. e damage you’ve done may not be ﬁxable when your ﬁve-year time is up. Or is that the whole point? When: ursday, July 31, 2025. Where: Grieves. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916530

BIG SMILES ON PERU ST.

You were walking by as I brought in my recycling bin. We both had on ﬁtted blue puffy jackets; yours had orange, too. When we made eye contact, we both got big smiles. I hope to meet up and share more smiles! When: Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Where: Peru St. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916529

1 S. PROSPECT WAITING AREA

I noticed your mysterious eyes, high cheekbones and dark brown hair in the waiting area of the UVM phlebotomy lab. You wore a dark red ﬂeece vest and light shirt. I was the tall guy on the phone in a black puffy coat, salt-andpepper beard, winter hat. May I buy you a coffee? When: Monday, January 12, 2026. Where: 1 S. Prospect Street, UVM phlebotomy lab waiting area. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916528

WILLISTON FOLINO’S BENCHWARMERS

ey forgot to put yours in; they failed to tell me mine was ready. Your smile truly made my day, and it had been the kind of day that needed making. I hope you didn’t wait long for your pizza. If you ever need a smile, let me know. I owe you one. When: Friday, January 9, 2026. Where: Folino’s Pizza. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916527

I HOPE FOR YOU

You persisted, though I told you my heart was closed / but once you had my love, you let it languish / now you’ll take all I gave and give it to someone else / you lied and betrayed and you broke me / I hope for you the kind of heartbreak you left me with / because I will never love again. When: Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Where: for the last time. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916526

BRITISH COLUMBIA NUMBER

Texted me in the afternoon, and it went to spam. I only just found it yesterday. Who are you, and why did you say I was getting? Why can you not speak to me to my face? When: Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Where: spam folder. You: Group. Me: Woman. #916525

WE MADE EYE CONTACT VSF

You were the older brawny guy on the treadmill. I was also working out, right behind you. Truth be told, I was checking you out because those jeans looked very nice on you. After your workout, you looked at me, and you gave me this gesture like you were exhausted. You also smiled at me. I would like to get acquainted. When: Saturday, January 3, 2026. Where: Vermont Sport & Fitness, Rutland. You: Man. Me: Man. #916524

Bad Bunny’s halftime show was one of the most watched in history: More than 135 million people tuned in live. According to NBC, the performance generated 4 billion views on social media within 24 hours, and the numbers have since continued to climb. So it’s safe to say you’re not alone.

wrapped up in music that you can’t help but shake your booty to. It’s no wonder so many people are obsessed. I’m one of those people. Instead of forcing myself to listen to something else, I decided to embrace a new favorite, and I invite you to do the same.

people

I put a pause on the halftime show and started watching Bad Bunny’s other videos and interviews online. He’s adorable, and his happiness is infectious. I downloaded his music and listen to it in my car. I even think my 813-day streak of learning Spanish on Duolingo is starting to kick in. ¡Es fantástico!

e show has had such a vast appeal because it’s a bright light in a very dark time of doomscrolling and despair. It starts off with a guy telling you to believe in yourself and ends with the message “ e only thing more powerful than hate is love.” In between is an intoxicating explosion of joy — with a real wedding — all

If you’re going to go down a rabbit hole, Bad Bunny’s is a delightful one to dive into.

Good luck and God bless,

30-y/o F (attractive, kind, smart) looking for older woman, 60-plus, for companionship and to have fun with. Liberal is a must. I am attracted to lived experience, not money. Relative attractiveness wouldn’t hurt. Red wine, records and lots of stimulating conversation. #1915

50-y/o man seeking adorable, soft goddess over 30. I’m built like a Greek god, with impressive package, but only recently realized I’m beautiful. I want to be a special treat that you feel so lucky to unwrap, and I want you to feel the same. #1914

I am a cross-dressing man, late 60s, youthful, very ﬁt, healthy, 150 lbs., 5’7”. Bottom, dress-up, femme cute! Want to meet other cross-dressers, trans people, men and men couples. Will text, exchange photos and bios if it is acceptable. #1913

I’m a 49-y/o man seeking a 32- to 50-y/o woman who enjoys connection, affection, playfulness and shared outdoor adventures. I’m tall, authentic, athletic. I enjoy nature, am willing to try new things, and value good conversation and laughter. Happy to build a meaningful connection with room to grow. #1912

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We’ll publish as many messages as we can in the Love Letters section above. 2

Interested readers will send you letters in the mail. No internet required! 3

25-year-old woman seeking a resourceful man/SD. Send me a letter for some underwear. No touching, but you can watch. #1911

I’m a 72-y/o male seeking a female, 30-60. Looking for times together. Lunch, dinner, heels a plus at times. I can be a good listener; caring, sensitive. Phone number, please. #L1910

BiWM seeks steady blow job. Single, bi, gay, Black, married, trans. Age no problem. My place and private. Phone number. I’m horny. Women, apply! Good head! #L1909

Single woman, 61. Wise, mindful. Seeking tight unit with man, friend, love. Country living, gardens, land to play on. Emotionally, intellectually engaged. Lasting chats. Appreciation for past experience. Please be kind, stable and well established. Phone number, please. #L1908

Retired, healthy, active, ﬁt, fun-loving queer male seeking female friend to share merry minge, happipenis and much, much more. #1907

I’m a 68-y/o woman seeking a 60- to 70-y/o gent. Must enjoy comedy movies, occasional deep conversations, deep thinking and cats. Must be located in the Northeast Kingdom. #L1904

Int net-Free Dating!

65ish woman seeking 65ish man. Friendship/dating. Wholesome, good-natured fun, laughter and conversations. Cribbage, other games. Attend music shows and events, leisurely walks. Sightseeing, café outings. Sound good? Drop me a line. I’m in the NEK. Namasté. #1906

I’m a 29-y/o woman seeking a man in his 20s or 30s who wants to start a family. My interests: aikido, hide tanning, fermentation, creative mending. I value authenticity, emotional awareness and intentionality. I’m in southern Vermont but could relocate. #L1905

If you are a gentle and kind man and would enjoy written intercourse for play and fun with a lady wordsmith, write! I have snail mail only. No strings attached! #L1901

Imagine all the wonderful things you could have spent that $5 on. Hmm, yeah, inﬂation. Might as well see what I’m all about. No sales tax. Seeking Y/O/U. #L1898

Describe yourself and who you’re looking for in 40 words below: (OR, ATTACH A SEPARATE PIECE OF PAPER.)

I’m a

AGE + GENDER (OPTIONAL) seeking a

AGE + GENDER (OPTIONAL)

I’m a 31-y/o man, ﬁt, 6’1” tall, dark skin, looking for a woman between 45 and 70. I like to work out, do outdoor activities, cook and craft, and learn new skills. I have a lot to teach. I’m independent and respectful. #L1899

I’m a 72-y/o SWF seeking a 60- to 70-y/o man. I live in Woodstock, Vt. I want a serious relationship with a man. Phone number, would meet in person. #L1891

Open-minded SWM, 60s, 170 lbs., 5’8”, seeks similar for friendship and more. Openminded, intelligent, liberal, slim males into fun activities and exploring various types of fun. #L1894

30-y/o lady ISO independent, slightly sarcastic, progressiveminded man. Someone who can entertain complex emotional and ethical thoughts. No boys necessary: Clean up your own mess. I’m a skier, thru-hiker and nature lover. #L1897

Required conﬁdential info: NAME ADDRESS

(MORE)

MAIL TO: SEVEN DAYS LOVE LETTERS • PO BOX 1164, BURLINGTON, VT 05402 OPTIONAL WEB FORM: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LOVELETTERS HELP: 802-865-1020, EXT. 161, LOVELETTERS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

THIS FORM IS FOR LOVE LETTERS ONLY. Messages for the Personals and I-Spy sections must be submitted online at dating.sevendaysvt.com.

Book Club: Open Book

WED., FEB. 18

PHOENIX BOOKS, ESSEX

Perfume Making Workshop with Bloom Lab Perfumerie

WED., FEB. 18

MIRROR MIRROR, SHELBURNE

Ted Perry & Friends feat. Ray Vega, Dwight + Nicole, and Special Guests

FRI., FEB. 20

SEABA CENTER, BURLINGTON

SAM Workshop // Historic Paint & Sip

SAT., FEB. 21

SAINT ALBANS MUSEUM

SAM TALKS // 'Vermont's Historic Theater Curtains' with Christine Hadsel

SAT., FEB. 21

SAINT ALBANS MUSEUM

Apres Ski Cookie Decorating Class

Featuring Laura's Cookies

SAT., FEB. 21

RED POPPY CAKERY, WATERBURY

Livin' in the Blues Concert

SAT., FEB. 21

GRANGE HALL CULTURAL CENTER, WATERBURY

THE GRIFT

SAT., FEB. 21

AFTERTHOUGHTS, WAITSFIELD

2026 Lunar New Year Celebration

SUN., FEB. 22

FREDERICK H. TUTTLE MIDDLE SCHOOL, SOUTH BURLINGTON

A Journey of Sound: Hungarian, Romanian, Hebraic, and Finnish Masterpieces

WED., FEB. 25

VERMONT STATEHOUSE, MONTPELIER

THU., FEB. 26

PHOENIX BOOKS, ESSEX

Comedy for a Cause

THU., FEB. 26

Book Club: Turning Pages with Mary

TWIGGS AMERICAN GASTROPUB, SAINT ALBANS CITY

Learning the Language of YES:

FRI., FEB. 27

ONLINE

Hotel Vermont Ice Bar

FRI., FEB. 27, & SAT., FEB. 28

HOTEL VERMONT, BURLINGTON

Supernova: Drag & Burlesque

SAT., FEB. 28

STANDING STONE WINES, WINOOSKI

Draa Hobbs Quartet

SAT., FEB. 28

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION, NORWICH

Explore Winter

WED., MAR. 4

BIRDS OF VERMONT MUSEUM, HUNTINGTON

Spice on Snow Winter Music Festival

FRI., MAR. 6, & SAT., MAR. 7

VARIOUS LOCATIONS, MONTPELIER

Hot Priest Sketch Show

FRI., MAR. 6

OFF CENTER FOR THE DRAMATIC ARTS, BURLINGTON

Carnevale

SAT., MAR. 7

THE FARMHOUSE AT THE ESSEX RESORT & SPA