Seven Days, November 19, 2025 by Seven Days

GROWING GAINS

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SUPER DUPE

That’s how many feet of snow have fallen on Jay Peak so far in November.

Sterling College to Close

Sterling College, an unorthodox, tiny school for students interested in the environment, will shut down at the end of this academic year and shutter its Craftsbury Common campus.

e college’s board of trustees announced the closure last week after concluding that Sterling could not attain stable ﬁnancial footing. Classes will remain in session through the spring semester, the board said.

Trustees have made arrangements with several schools, including Champlain College, Community College of Vermont and College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, for students to complete their degrees elsewhere. e wind-down plan provides “the most responsible way” for the college to honor its commitments while “preserving its values and legacy,” board chair Allison Hooper said in a statement.

Sterling College dates back to the 1950s but only became an accredited, four-year college in 1997. It is small and quirky by design, with a cap of 120 students who work in their ﬁeld of interest and on a farm as they pursue their ecologically focused courses. In recent years, enrollment dropped, however. Fewer than 40 students are studying at Sterling this semester, president Scott omas said last ursday, supported by roughly 30 faculty and staff.

“We dug a hole, and it was an expensive hole for a small college,” omas said.

omas, Sterling’s president since 2023, projected conﬁdence in the school’s ﬁnances when he spoke to Seven Days that year. “Sterling College’s future is not in question in my mind,” he said.

But Sterling’s minuscule size and tightly focused academic mission have not spared the school from the pressures facing higher education nationally and in New England in particular. Vermont colleges are competing for fewer college-aged students while navigating increasing costs.

Several of them have closed in recent years, including Green Mountain College in Poultney, Southern Vermont College in Bennington, College of St. Joseph in Rutland, Goddard College in Plainﬁeld and Marlboro College.

omas said small, rural colleges — especially those that are highly dependent on tuition — face grave dangers.

“It’s exactly what we need, but it’s exactly what doesn’t work ﬁnancially,” he said, adding that Sterling’s demise is “an artifact of our time.”

Read Derek Brouwer’s full story at sevendaysvt.com.

The AG’s O ce settled with Walgreens for $500,000 after the pharmacy was caught overcharging customers at the register — in some cases as much as $23.40.

TOP SHELF

UVM’s men’s soccer team won the America East championship and is the top overall seed in the NCAA tournament. Time to defend that national title!

STACKING UP

A 24-unit a ordable, energye cient housing development opened in West Rutland at a former blight site. Build back better.

CROWD PLEASER

MovieMaker magazine named the Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival one of the 25 coolest ﬁlm fests in the world. Cue the acceptance speech.

TOPFIVE

TOWNCRIER

LOCALLY SOURCED NEWS

All-Season Cyclists Ride rough It All

Sure, snow has already fallen and snarled trafﬁc. But that hasn’t stopped some intrepid year-round cyclists, the Community News Service reports. “Dress for the weather that’s actually out there,” said one rider, Peter Burns, “not the weather you hope for.” Read more at vtcommunitynews.org

GLORY DAYS

In 2025, Bruce Springsteen needs no introduction. His story is on the big screen in Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere

Not so 51 years ago, when the Boss performed live in Burlington. On December 8, 1974, Springsteen played in front of 1,000 people at the now-defunct Memorial Auditorium. Tickets were $4.50.

“When you talk to people, everybody you know [was] there,” said Bill Reilly, who booked the concert. “And I go, ‘No, you weren’t.’”

At the time, Reilly was working at Jay Peak and, with a partner, had a company that booked shows on the side. ey had an opening at Memorial on the night in question — and a

$5,000 budget — so Reilly called an agent he knew, Barry Bell.

Bell told Reilly he had two acts available for that price, that night: Billy Joel and Springsteen. At the time, Joel was on his way to stardom; his song “Piano Man” was a big hit, according to Reilly. He asked Bell: Who’s this Springsteen guy?

“He’s a Jersey bar band,” Bell replied. “He’s huge in certain areas, but you’ll love him.”

So that was that. e label sent up promo records, which Reilly gave away at college campuses in Burlington, Castleton and Lyndon.

“It was like, ‘Bruce who?’” he said. But Reilly liked his music, particularly “Rosalita,” and made handbills and posters for the show, hoping to sell about 2,400 tickets.

Springsteen and his E Street Band played 15 songs across a two-and-a-half-hour set,

including “Rosalita,” “4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)” and “ e E Street Shufﬂe.” Recordings still exist online.

“It was a great show,” Reilly recalled. “He played a Bruce show.”

Afterward, Springsteen asked how it went. Reilly had to admit that they’d come up short on ticket sales. But Springsteen assured him that his next time through, they’d do much better.

Springsteen never played Memorial again. His Born to Run album came out the next summer, and in October 1975, Springsteen was on the covers of both Time and Newsweek magazines.

Reilly, who lives in Burlington, has since seen the Boss play many times. Never again, though, for the low price of $4.50. SASHA GOLDSTEIN

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Bill Reilly

Sterling College

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GALS GAIN

I very much enjoyed “Womanning Up” [October 29] by Hannah Bassett. I am proud that Vermont has had a woman governor and happy that women in our state government were major drivers in passing a constitutional amendment protecting reproductive rights and legislation supporting childcare. It has always been my thought that only women should be voting on policies that deal with women’s issues such as reproductive rights.

The Emerge Vermont group should make Keb’ Mo’s “Put a Woman in Charge” their theme song.

Jane Reilly MIDDLEBURY

‘RELEVANT HUMOR’

It was nice to see Mr. [Robert Waldo] Brunelle back in your comics section [October 22]. Looking forward to seeing more of his relevant humor.

Brendan Martin MILTON

FEAR OF DEPORTATION IS REAL

[Re Feedback: “You Forgot the Word ‘Illegal,’” October 29]: David Stewart writes that he is “sure” that the Trump administration and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement “have no interest ... in deporting immigrants who have green cards or have been granted asylum.”

Unfortunately, that is not true.

Rümeysa Öztürk was illegally detained and had her student visa revoked at the discretion of Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Mohsen Mahdawi, a legal permanent resident and green card holder, was illegally detained by ICE in Colchester, and the U.S. State Department began deportation proceedings.

Mahmoud Khalil, a legal permanent resident and green card holder, was illegally detained by ICE and the State Department began deportation proceedings.

Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers have publicly stated that they are looking at revoking New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s citizenship. Heck, they’ve said they want to revoke the citizenship of Long Island native Rosie O’Donnell.

The current administration is duplicitously weaponizing free speech to amplify

supporters and criminalize critics, including those who are in this country legally. Many, including Mr. Stewart, seem very focused on punishing illegal actions; perhaps they should consider the numerous illegal arrests, detentions and deportations committed by the Trump administration.

ETHICS VIOLATION?

[Re “Québec Abenaki Say Research Proves Vermont Tribal Members Lack Native Heritage,” October 17, online]: Though I am not a professional genealogist, I do subscribe to the code of ethics for the Association of Professional Genealogists. That this work was done on living people without their consent is at least cringeworthy, if not unethical. I wonder whether it might also be a violation of informed consent laws.

Ann Forcier ORANGE

CHECK YOUR FACTS

I’ve read a number of letters to the editor about [“Tent City,” August 13] that have concerned me. There can be a narrow line between expressing an opinion and sharing disinformation. Before submitting feedback or passing on information that might be considered factual, I would encourage us all to check facts. There are some excellent fact-checking websites that are independent and committed to the truth. There are also very good websites on how to protect yourself from being fooled by mis- or disinformation.

An example: I read “Burlington Is a Cesspool” [Feedback, October 29] with skepticism when I saw it was being compared to Newark, Del. Then I read the “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets” order mentioned by the author. It does not advocate arresting and imprisoning people, as he suggested. It does claim that our governments “have spent tens of billions of dollars on failed programs that address homelessness but not its root causes.” Then it goes on to order more unproven programs that also don’t address root causes — and it opposes “housing ﬁrst.” Why? Evidencebased Housing First is the most successful approach globally. Look it up.

That’s the key. Do your own research. Think critically. Verify sources. Consider the tone. Look for reliable evidence. We are all in this together.

Tree Spaulding BURLINGTON

Dan Suder BURLINGTON

‘BOTH SIDES-ISM’ IS A TRAP

As a longtime reader and monthly supporter, I love Seven Days, but I was deeply disappointed that you too had fallen into the “both sides-ism” trap when reporting on the government shutdown [“Prognosis: Fiscal Pain: Many Vermonters Are Facing Sharply Higher Health Care Plan Costs, Fewer Options and Less Coverage,” October 29].

The offending paragraph leads off with: “Democrats in Congress say these exorbitant costs are why the federal government must remain shut down until a deal is reached on health care. But Republicans say they aren’t willing to negotiate while the shutdown persists.”

Damn, if that doesn’t say the Dems are equally the problem. How about starting with the reality that Trump demanded huge cuts to all social programs in order to fund his tax cuts for the very rich and targeted blue states like Vermont to feel the greatest pain, and the Republican-led Congress did his bidding. The Dems, in a minority position, have tried everything they can to mitigate the impact and are fighting every day to restore benefits, while the Republican House members are on vacation for six weeks and receiving full pay.

That’s the story. From the New York Times to Seven Days, the press is blindly helping Trump every step of the way. Please stop. Our lives and the future of our very country depend on the press getting the story right.

August Burns MIDDLESEX

ON THE OTHER HAND…

To suggest that Gov. Phil Scott needs to pick a side [Sunday Best newsletter: “Just Like a Grape,” November 2] underscores why Washington gets deadlocked on important legislation. Like many aphorisms, Mr. Miyagi’s in The Karate Kid is not applicable universally.

We talk about wanting our leaders in D.C. to work across the aisle, hoping they strike a balance. Yet when Scott governs with that balance, your editorial implies that he makes both sides unhappy, and it may cost him the next election. Do we expect governance with balance in D.C. — especially when the other side holds all the cards — but with total partisanship in Vermont?

I’m a Democrat who will continue to vote for Scott because he has the courage to step back from partisan zeal and make tough commonsense decisions to benefit all Vermonters. Perhaps his common sense says that thumbing his nose at Trump may have risks right now. In any case, it will not change Trump’s behavior. Face it. Only voters can, by ousting Trump and his sycophants in D.C. in 2026 and 2028 and electing commonsense politicians on both sides of the aisle.

Meantime, I’ll respect someone who’s the most popular governor in the U.S. because he governs sensibly regardless of party noise. Yes, he’s walking down the middle of the road. It’s I-89, and in that calm, grassy space surrounded by the din of traffic on both sides, he’s making decisions to benefit all Vermonters.

Earl Wester RICHMOND

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GROWING GAINS

NEWS+POLITICS 14

Legislative Lag

Crucial Vermont agencies rely on outdated tech — leaving lawmakers to operate in the dark

Molly Gray to Run for Lieutenant Governor Again

Maxed Out

Vermont’s prisons are full again. A crackdown on repeat offenders raises the question: Where will they go?

Burlington Council to Take Up UVM Housing Concerns

FEATURES

A Bard of Burlington Local historian David Blow receives the Chittenden County Historical Society’s inaugural lifetime achievement award

ARTS+CULTURE 42

Happening Here

e Flynn and Artistree join national artists’ resistance movement “Fall of Freedom”

New Town Hall Theater Series ‘Loops’ Audiences Into the Creative Process

Moms for Liberty Book reviews: A Mother Always Knows, Sarah Strohmeyer; e Board, Katy Farber

A Neighborhood Staple

e North End Food Pantry provides food and stability in Burlington

Cabinet of Curiosity

Steve Budington presents emergent paintings at the Phoenix in Waterbury

Night Moves

After two decades away, singersongwriter and Vermont native Caitlin Canty comes home

Jason Moran to Curate 2026 Burlington Discover Jazz Festival

Volunteers at the North End Food Pantry have been feeding their Burlington neighbors since 2013. Attendance

MAGNIFICENT

MUST SEE, MUST DO THIS WEEK BY REBECCA DRISCOLL

FRIDAY 21

From Vermont With Love

Superspies and femmes fatales don James Bond-worthy black-tie ﬁnery for the License to Give: Holidays Without Hunger Gala at Burlington Country Club. An evening of elegance and espionage includes music, dancing, gambling and even a diamond giveaway. In the spirit of the season, proceeds beneﬁt Feeding Champlain Valley, providing nourishment for neighbors in need.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 64

Spruce Peak Unplugged

An Evening With Livingston Taylor

Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe, where the younger brother of James delivers troubadour truths in spades. More than 50 years of performing inform the singer-songwriter’s concert of introspective

SATURDAY 22

Listen In

e cofounder of Vermont band the Grift takes the stage for Clint Bierman’s Listening Room, an intimate performance at Town Hall eater’s Anderson Studio in Middlebury. e musician reveals a tantalizing peek of a new album currently in development, as well as previously unreleased tracks and what he considers his “most vulnerable work.”

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 68

SATURDAY 22 & SUNDAY 23

Higher Love

Celebrated author, teacher and former Vermont poet laureate Chard deNiord dips a toe into collaborative theater making with his original play AfterTalk at Next Stage Arts in Putney. e timeless tale of divine lovers marries ancient mythology and modernity with help from some of the state’s most accomplished artists, from cellist Eugene Friesen to visual artist Eric Aho.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 68

SUNDAY 23

Green-Carpet Treatment

CLOSES TUESDAY 25

Side Tracked

Ann Young series presents at originals, peppered with relaxed renditions pop to gospel.

During the recent shutdown-induced stress of air travel, did you consider trading wings for rails? Enter Barton artist and her aptly titled exhibit “People & Trains” at Parker Pie in West Glover. Unassuming yet quietly powerful scenes of citizens en route — rendered in vibrant oils with dramatic lighting — portray the often overlooked power of locomotive transit.

SEE GALLERY LISTING AT SEVENDAYSVT.COM/ART

Ready, set, action! On Goldﬁsh Pond Creative’s curated screening series Hollywood, VT launches with Charles Shyer’s 1987 workplace dramedy Baby Boom — a timely tribute to the late, great Diane Keaton — at the Playhouse Movie eatre in Randolph. e series hypes movies made in or inspired by Vermont, aiming to spark and strengthen small-town creative culture through the magic of the silver screen.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 69

OPENS SUNDAY 23

Life in the Fast Lane

Five-time Tony Award-winning musical Kimberly Akimbo makes a statement with hilarity and heart at Segal Centre for Performing Arts in Montréal. Based on the play by Rabbit Hole writer David LindsayAbaire, the show follows a teenager with a rare (albeit ﬁctitious) condition that causes rapid aging. With the clock ticking faster each day, she must learn to live fully while confronting the inevitable.

SEE CALENDAR LISTING ON PAGE 69

The Personals Touch

Brandi was perusing the Seven Days iSpys online in 2010 when a man’s photo caught her eye. She liked what she saw. What she read, too; the words in Brian’s personal ad resonated. Twice in his profile he mentioned being a dad to two sons. Brandi also had two boys.

Now the divorcés are parents of five. The Littlefields married in 2011 and had a child together — another son — to create a blended family of seven.

On Monday they shared their love story with a crew from NBC’s “Today” — not at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, where the show is based, but in the Burlington office of Seven Days. The iconic morning program dispatched three pros to Vermont to get the scoop on our outlier matchmaking service. They braved Vermont’s stick season to schlep lights and microphones and tripods to our shop, where they interviewed me, personals coordinator Jeff Baron and two happy couples.

IT SEEMS THE NATIONAL MEDIA CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THE PERSONAL ADS IN SEVEN DAYS

The second set of satisfied customers was Marcia Gauvin and Chris Leister, who found each other through the Seven Days personals in May 2021. They share a third love interest: outdoor recreation. Last month, Ken Picard wrote a feature, “Chain Reactions,” about the four-year, 252-town biking project that grew out of their partnership. On Monday, the couple drove from Bethel to Burlington to talk about their romantic adventures with on-air host Yasmin Vossoughian and producer Hannah Van Winkle.

Did I mention that Van Winkle and cameraman Bill Angelucci arrived at 7:30 a.m., before any of us usually gets to work? At dusk, Angelucci was still on the job, loading equipment into the SUV he would drive back that night to New York. His two colleagues had already left for the airport to catch return flights.

It seems the national media can’t get enough of the personal ads in Seven Days, which, in the age of swiping for sweethearts, are viewed as old-fashioned — presumably, in a good way.

Last November the New York Times published a piece that explored the same topic: the unique way we serve the lovelorn. A freelance writer who grew up in St. Johnsbury penned “Dating App Fatigue? In Vermont, Personal Ads Still Thrive.” Whenever I get depressed, I go back and read the 184 comments on the story. One writes “Pretty much everybody here in Vermont peruses the Seven Days personals, whether they admit it or not.” Another: “What an amazing dating ad concept. This is how ‘personals’ should be vetted locally.” And my

PHOTOS: PAULA ROUTLY

favorite, from KHD of Seattle: “This is bottom-up community building at its finest. For those feeling despondent post-election, wondering ‘what can I do?’: find a way to create or support things like this in the place you live. It will make a difference.”

Four days after that NYT story published, the BBC wanted an interview — on Thanksgiving. If it were any other day, we probably would have agreed.

We’re tickled that our personal ads are drawing attention around the world. It’s no wonder, I guess, since the quest to find love is universal. But it’s just one of many anomalous things we do at Seven Days. I’d love to see more recognition of Margot Harrison’s brilliant film reviews and the fact that so few media outlets write them anymore. Ditto our food, music and visual arts coverage. Signed, verified letters to the editor. The handcrafted calendar of events. World-class illustrators and cartoonists. Diane “The Rev” Sullivan’s really good, and funny, original advice column.

In my interview with NBC on Monday, I tried to mention all of those things and more; Seven Days is a serious newspaper. Similarly, we steered Angelucci past our working staff journalists — there are 14! — and down a hallway decked with awards.

We’ll see if any of that makes the final cut when the segment airs — perhaps in early December, which is still “cuffing” season, during which singles seek each other out to cope with winter. It’s a good time, too, to snuggle up with Seven Days.

Paula Routly

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Chris Leister and Marcia Gauvin tell their personals story to NBC’s “Today” show at Seven Days

Seven Days personals manager Jeff Baron being interviewed by Yasmin Vossoughian from NBC’s “Today” show at the paper’s office in Burlington

Legislative Lag

Crucial Vermont agencies rely on outdated tech — leaving lawmakers to operate in the dark

BY HANNAH BASSETT • hbassett@sevendaysvt.com

Vermont’s school redistricting task force members knew from their first meeting in August that they had a tight timeline to meet a December deadline. So one of the ﬁrst things the group did was ask the Agency of Education for data. The information would be crucial to fulfill the group’s mandate to recommend new school district boundaries that could redefine the public education landscape in Vermont for generations.

But the data the education agency provided were “all over the map,” according to Sen. Martine Gulick (D-ChittendenCentral), who cochairs the task force. The agency did not provide some of the requested stats, including data describing the demographics of students who are tuitioned to schools in certain out-of-state border towns, the number of agency sta positions that are federally funded, and the

costs shared between school districts and state-contracted mental health providers. And some of the data sets the agency did provide were di cult to use because they were labeled inconsistently.

The redistricting task force members were facing a problem that Vermont policy makers encounter all too often, according to other state legislators who spoke with Seven Days: The data that state agencies release are frequently incomplete or inaccurate. Outdated information technology systems often are to blame.

That’s because many of state government’s data systems are relics of another era — built decades ago and stitched together over time on aging computer code. The network of antiquated information technology has slowed emergency response, wasted sta time, exposed citizens’ personal information and resulted in

POLITICS

Molly Gray to Run for Lieutenant Governor Again

BY COLIN FLANDERS colin@sevendaysvt.com

Molly Gray, the one-time Vermont lieutenant governor and 2022 Congressional candidate, told Seven Days on Tuesday that she intends to run for her former ofﬁce next year.

“I’m ready to get off the sidelines,” Gray said in an interview. “To bring my skills, strength and clarity to bear to help Vermont get through this moment and — with a lot of humility and perspective — get back to work in an ofﬁce where I had a lot to offer.”

Gray, 41, burst onto Vermont’s political scene when she emerged from a crowded primary field of Democratic LG candidates to easily defeat Republican Scott Milne in the 2020 general election. She was about halfway through her first term holding the state’s second-highest office when she entered the 2022 Democratic primary for Vermont’s lone U.S. House seat. Gray ultimately lost to eventual winner Becca Balint and stepped away from politics after her LG term expired.

ﬁnancial penalties. Attempts to modernize systems have repeatedly blown budgets and deadlines, leaving the state without lasting solutions.

As lawmakers confront increasingly complex issues, their ability to make evidence-based decisions still hinges on a digital infrastructure that too often can’t keep up.

“Data is incredibly important to everything we do in the legislature,” Gulick said. “If we don’t have the right data, the consequences could be devastating.”

Data from the Agency of Education are central to the ongoing e ort to transform Vermont’s public school system. Gaps and errors in the data pose a serious problem for lawmakers, Gulick said.

At a joint House and Senate education hearing in January, Education Secretary Zoie Saunders acknowledged longstanding data issues but said they had been

Gray, who is a licensed attorney, has spent the past few years serving as executive director of the Burlingtonbased nonproﬁt Vermont Afghan Alliance. e position has provided an up-close view to the “deeply inhumane and hurtful impacts” of the Trump administration’s policies, she said.

She also cited her own experiences. Since leaving ofﬁce, she gave birth to her ﬁrst child and has helped care for her mother, who has multiple sclerosis. Vermont continues to be unaffordable for working-class families, she said.

“It’s health care. It’s childcare. It’s paid leave. It’s a generation that’s still caring for kids and trying to care for parents at the same time,” she said. “If we refocus on those issues and try to address the cost of living and make lives better for working families, we can come out better on the other side.”

If Gray becomes the Democratic nominee, she may have to face an incumbent in the general election. Lt. Gov. John Rodgers, a Democrat-turnedRepublican, upset incumbent David Zuckerman last year. ➆

Molly Gray

Maxed Out

Vermont’s prisons are full again. A crackdown on repeat offenders raises the question: Where will they go?

BY COLIN FLANDERS • colin@sevendaysvt.com

Gov. Phil Scott met with local officials in Burlington last month to discuss persistent crime and disorder in Vermont’s largest city. Soon after, he unveiled a plan that he said would help the Queen City “turn the corner.” The plan laid out 14 action points, including ones that call for increased enforcement and prosecution of qualityof-life crimes.

The proposal was applauded by residents and business owners who have grown increasingly frustrated by the perception that repeat offenders go unpunished in Vermont. But locking those people up, in some cases before they’ve even been convicted, will run into a hard reality: The state’s prisons are already full.

WE NEED TO START TO THINK A LITTLE BIT ABOUT INCARCERATION AS A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO HEAL.

JAYE JOHNSON

Vermont’s prison population hit 1,648 this month, the highest it has been since 2019, before the numbers plummeted during the pandemic. The strain recently forced corrections officials to send two busloads of men to a privately run facility in Mississippi to make room for new detainees. And the transfers might not be the last.

State leaders say busier prisons are an unfortunate but inevitable side effect of the promised crackdown. But the newly crowded conditions may exacerbate longstanding problems for the Department of Corrections, including prison staffing, the need to replace an outdated women’s prison and the desire of some lawmakers

LAW ENFORCEMENT

to end the practice of shipping Vermont inmates out of state.

The recent pendulum swing from a more rehabilitative approach to a punitive one has triggered criticism from civil liberties advocates.

“We need to think about how we can be more effective at supporting folks in the community and diverting people away from the criminal legal system, as opposed to sending more people in,” said Falko Schilling, advocacy director of the ACLU of Vermont.

Vermont’s prison population — which includes federal and state inmates housed at six in-state facilities, plus those in Mississippi — peaked at around 2,200 in the mid-1990s, when about 700 people were being held out of state.

The prison population fell steadily in the 2000s and 2010s, thanks in part to efforts to divert more criminal cases away from the court system. The pandemic further reduced the ranks by disrupting court operations and prompting the release of many inmates to prevent the spread of COVID-19 inside prisons. By 2021, the number of inmates was down to 1,100, including slightly more than 100 out of state — the smallest overall prison population in decades.

But the population ticked up after the pandemic waned and then this year jumped by 250.

Some of the increase has been attributed to more federal detainees, including those scooped up by immigration authorities. But the bigger driver has been pretrial detainees: people who have been accused of a crime but not yet convicted.

About 550 people in Vermont prisons were awaiting trial this week, double the count in 2019. Most are accused of

resolved. Legislators continued to voice doubts.

“I’m a little concerned because [the Agency of Education] is very, very behind in data, and a lot of the data that they provided school districts this year was not correct,” Sen. Ruth Hardy (D-Addison) said during a Senate Finance Committee meeting later that month.

Staffing levels at the agency contribute to the data woes, legislators said. Fewer staff can lead to slower processing times, faster burnout and greater risk for mistakes. In May, after receiving a public records request from a parent for complaints to administrators about special education, the agency accidentally provided a spreadsheet that included confidential information that should not have been released, including the students’ names, birth dates, disabilities and parents. The agency blamed human error.

Effective IT processes can minimize the risk of such mistakes, whether staff are collecting and analyzing data or processing and redacting spreadsheets. To improve practices and standards, in 2017 Gov. Phil Scott established the Agency of Digital Services, which also oversees management of the state’s IT projects. The agency assumed maintenance responsibilities for all the state’s digital systems, many of which were built in the 1980s and 1990s.

The extent of the challenge facing the new agency was soon on display. At the time, Vermont’s Department of Labor was several years into a sweeping project to update its unemployment insurance processing system. It was built on an obsolete programming language, COBOL, that a shrinking number of employees could maintain. The state partnered with Idaho, Iowa and North Dakota to develop a new system, but after a series of delays, overspending and accountability concerns, the consortium collapsed in February 2020. Vermont had spent $10.5 million in federal funding on the project.

Just a few weeks later, the department’s beleaguered, 40-year-old unemployment system repeatedly crashed under a surge of COVID-19 claims, leaving more than 30,000 Vermonters waiting for benefits. Later that spring, yet another setback occurred when the department mailed the Social Security numbers of 5,500 claimants to the wrong employers. In 2024, the Department of Labor hired a vendor to replace the mainframe unemployment insurance system, with completion expected by next summer.

A different benefit system heightened state officials’ anxieties during this fall’s federal shutdown. Vermont’s food

IF WE DON’T HAVE THE RIGHT DATA, THE CONSEQUENCES COULD BE DEVASTATING.

SEN. MARTINE GULICK

benefits program, 3SquaresVT, faced unprecedented challenges as federal funds were suspended, said Rep. Theresa Wood (D-Waterbury), who chairs the House Committee on Human Services. State officials on the Vermont Emergency Board authorized $6 million in state aid to pay the benefits, but there were doubts about whether the 3SquaresVT IT system would be able to deliver the aid. Staff from various agencies scrambled to ensure distribution of benefits to more than 36,000 households within days — and pulled it off.

Wood called that a remarkable achievement, especially for a state government not known to move this quickly on major IT challenges. Wood said it’s more typical for lawmakers to ask agencies for data, only to be told that agency staff can’t respond immediately; the agency’s data systems can’t generate the requested information; or it could take weeks to produce.

Ivy Enoch, director of policy and advocacy at Hunger Free Vermont, urged the

state government to invest in IT advancements before another crisis tests the system.

“We need Vermont’s technology system to work for us, not against us,” Enoch said. “Investing in improvements and modernization will allow us to be more nimble in the future when so much is on the line.”

High-quality data systems should have been a policy imperative years ago, according to Matthew Bernstein, who leads the Office of the Child, Youth and Family Advocate, an independent office that closely monitors the Agency of Human Services’ Department for Children and Families.

“Our inability to have functional data systems is especially hard to understand given that, done well, they are really the key to unlocking safety and well-being and savings for the state,” Bernstein said.

DCF’s data systems are the oldest of their kind in the nation. A 2021 University of Vermont report commissioned by the legislature called the systems “insufficient to support effective decision making.”

Reporting by VTDigger two years later found the platforms struggled to track foster children’s allergies and basic custody information.

In a 2023 report to lawmakers, Bernstein’s office wrote that, “Without a reliable child welfare information system, the Vermont legislature does not have an accurate picture of the needs of Vermont’s children, youth, and families.” It also warned that, “The confidentiality of the system as

a whole means that the extent of the crisis is kept out of sight of the legislature and the governor.”

Earlier this year, DCF was simply unable to provide legislators with data they sought about the use of mechanical restraints such as handcuffs by sheriffs on children in the state’s custody. The department’s paper-based case management system can make it cumbersome — or at worst, unsafe — to obtain information about children in an emergency, according to Wood.

Aryka Radke, deputy commissioner of DCF’s Family Services Division, told legislators during a meeting of the Joint Information Technology Oversight Committee last week that existing systems cannot track some of the department’s most critical information, such as serious physical injuries of children, staff safety incidents and the fingerprint records of foster parents. Those limitations have serious consequences, Radke acknowledged, including wasted staff time, missed funding opportunities and data inconsistencies.

Bernstein said these shortcomings make it more difficult to ensure children’s safety and well-being, which should be the state’s top concern. Data enable efforts to hold agencies accountable and check that policies are working as intended.

Burlington Council to Take Up UVM Housing Concerns

STORY & PHOTO BY COURTNEY LAMDIN • courtney@sevendaysvt.com

Burlington city officials are taking steps to address living conditions at the University of Vermont after a student group started a public campaign to pressure leaders to act.

Students have reported finding leaks, pests and mold in their dorms and say UVM is slow to address the problems. Colleges are exempt from routine inspections by city officials and must instead certify every year that their dorms meet Burlington’s strict housing code. But UVM hasn’t done so for more than a decade.

A resolution unanimously approved by the Burlington City Council on Monday seeks to create more accountability. It asks both UVM and Champlain College to submit details about their inspection protocols and to provide data on housing code violations over the past two years, among other steps. The measure was sent to the council’s Ordinance Committee for further review.

Officials from both UVM and Champlain College attended Monday’s meeting and answered some — but not all — of councilors’ questions.

“This resolution is not about antagonizing our institutions. It is about accountability on their side and the city’s,” said Councilor Marek Broderick (P-Ward 8), a UVM student who sponsored the resolution. “I am optimistic and confident … that we can come together and get to work on this urgent matter.”

Broderick introduced the measure in response to advocacy by the UVM Student Tenant Union, which organized last year out of frustration with the condition of student housing. Members of the group have shared horror stories of dorm living at recent council meetings, Monday night’s included.

The council resolution doesn’t propose a new system; rather, it seeks more information about the current one. It also seeks to clarify whether the city can legally require colleges to comply with its housing code. The city maintains it has that authority, but Amanda Clayton, UVM’s executive director of facilities management, challenged that notion in a letter to city officials earlier this year.

At the meeting, Councilor Evan Litwin (D-Ward 7) attempted to grill Clayton and Erica Caloiero, UVM’s vice provost for student affairs, about that stance. When pressed, both officials referred him to UVM’s lawyers.

Councilor Becca Brown McKnight (D-Ward 6) wasn’t impressed.

“We heard UVM plead the fifth on some very direct, reasonable questions that were following up on the university’s own written communications to the city,” she said. “It proves the point that we need some more transparency and daylight into this system.”

UVM officials maintained that they have a robust inspection program but provided few details about how it works. Asked how the university could improve its system, Clayton said the school could better educate students about how to report housing issues using an online portal. But she added that there are parts of the city housing code that don’t apply to UVM, such as one about security deposits.

Nic Anderson, assistant vice president of planning and operations at Champlain College, said the school conducts room inspections twice a year and submits results to the city annually. He said the self-certification process works — if the institution follows through on it.

Councilor Melo Grant (P-Central District) said UVM may believe its dorms are well maintained, but the reality is far different. She recently toured residence halls and said she witnessed mold on the ceiling and walls of several bathrooms.

“You have a mold emergency,” Grant said. “Period, full stop.”

Earlier in the meeting, councilors discussed the elimination of the Burlington CARES program, which was designed to send mental health clinicians to certain emergency calls.

Launched last year, the program was funded by a state grant that will expire in December. City officials weren’t able to find replacement funding, and two city staffers will be laid off as a result.

On Monday, Progressive Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak faced criticism — including from members of her own party — that councilors weren’t informed earlier of the program’s impending demise.

Councilor Grant, who chairs the Public Safety Committee, said she learned about the cuts from one of the program’s clients.

“There didn’t seem to be a plan to notify us, and that’s deeply concerning to me,” she said.

Mulvaney-Stanak’s office has said other entities, including Howard Center’s Street Outreach Team, are already doing work being performed by CARES and are better equipped to do so. The city recently allocated nearly $250,000 to the outreach team, but the money will only backfill recent funding cuts and won’t pay to hire more workers. ➆

Erica Caloiero and Amanda Clayton

“We’re paying a lot of money as a state to care for these children, and at the very least, we have to have an aggregate understanding of how they are being cared for,” he said.

Radke pushed back against the criticisms in an emailed statement to Seven Days

“We respectfully disagree with the assertion that policymakers have been ‘kept in the dark,’” Radke wrote, explaining that some information is kept conﬁdential but the division provides qualitative updates and a variety of data to policy makers “even when doing so requires extensive manual compilation.”

The department is currently reviewing vendor proposals to replace its information system with a new one, estimated for completion in spring 2028, though the timeline may shift. Radke said the project will cost between $30 million and $50 million.

The state’s information technology projects since 2018 are estimated to cost more than $760 million, including all the anticipated expenses needed to implement, operate and maintain each project, according to this year’s Agency of Digital Services annual report. The report does not include projects with implementation and operating costs less than $500,000.

Agency of Human Services expenses account for more than half of the state’s IT spending. The most expensive line item, nearly twice as costly as the next largest, is a plan for a new, overarching eligibility and enrollment system for various health care and economic benefit programs, including Vermont Health Connect. The state’s health insurance marketplace was plagued by technical problems when it launched in 2013, confounding Vermonters who were trying to sign up for health insurance and ultimately leading the state to hire multiple vendors for expensive ﬁxes. The consolidated system will cost more than $230 million to implement and operate, according to estimates.

The public can see an overview of ongoing information technology projects on a public dashboard hosted by the Agency of Digital Services. Lawmakers mandated the tool after State Auditor Doug Hoffer recommended stronger reporting requirements for the agency in a 2023 audit of IT projects. Of the six Ho er reviewed, only one had been delivered on time and within budget.

The dashboard lists project start dates, initial and current estimated completion dates, and other indicators to track progress. But it does not show whether actual implementation costs outpace original estimates. For instance, the Agency of Transportation’s new software to track and manage department assets was originally projected to cost roughly $4.5 million. Now five years past the project’s initial delivery date, its implementation cost has increased by $8 million, nearly tripling the original price. Yet the dashboard displays both initial and current cost estimates as $12.7 million, masking the cost overrun.

The public-facing dashboard was one of several steps the Agency of Digital Services took in response to the 2023 audit, according to Chelsea Cockrell, communications strategist with the agency. Cockrell said it also tightened project management protocols, added oversight mechanisms and clariﬁed how project metrics are deﬁned.

Rep. Kathleen James (D-Manchester) said the agency’s dashboard is an example of a positive accountability feedback loop: The auditor identiﬁed the problem, legislators created a policy ﬁx, and the agency implemented the solution. James sits on the Joint Information Technology Oversight Committee and is chair of the House Committee on Energy and Digital Infrastructure, which oversees most information technology issues for the House.

“We’re working really hard to improve our oversight of how those systems are working and how the money that we’re investing in those systems is being spent,” James said.

Policy makers who want to protect public funds from blown budgets and

DCF told prospective vendors applying to build its new child welfare information system that the department preferred “an Agile implementation approach that fosters collaboration, iterative development, and flexibility.” But Bernstein, the youth advocate, worries that the project is actually structured to encourage longterm, high-value contracts. His office warned in a May letter that prioritizing process over outcomes could undermine the new technology’s success.

Plunkett plans to meet with James and Sen. Wendy Harrison (D-Windham), who chairs the Senate Committee on Institutions, to discuss how their committees can address data challenges when the legislature reconvenes in January.

“I do think that state information technology is one of the biggest issues for state government, and I don’t think it gets the attention it deserves,” Plunkett said.

For Vermont’s citizen legislature — typically in person only from January to May — every week counts. Lawmakers rarely have months to wait for data, whether related to federal food benefits or the state’s public school system.

“Our timelines are often very short, very intense, and if we don’t get the data on time, then the veracity of our work is, I would say, in question,” Gulick said.

timelines could take a cue from the private sector, according to Dimitri Garder, founder and former CEO of Global-Z, a technology company based in Vermont that provides address, email and name verification, plus other data-quality services, to retail companies worldwide.

Garder encourages state leaders to adopt a more innovative workflow known as an agile methodology: Instead of the traditional “waterfall” approach, where projects are defined up front and delivered years later, agile methods allow states to build software in short, flexible cycles. Garder argues that the approach allows agencies to save money and adapt to changing needs.

“This is the path to improving the way we do business as a state and the way we pass policy,” Garder said, adding that the state should start its transition to agile methodology with a pilot project. “The governor could bring in private-sector people to teach them how to do it, and it wouldn’t take 10 years; it’d take six months.”

Sen. Rob Plunkett (D-Bennington), who chairs the Joint Information Technology Oversight Committee, said state agencies are already using agile methodology. The challenge is adjusting vendor contracts as needs evolve.

That challenge will be especially acute as legislators resume major education reform, beginning with the school redistricting task force’s proposals. Policy makers will require additional data as the legislature and administration push for redistricting plans rooted in fundamentally different visions for Vermont’s public school system.

Last week, the task force endorsed a plan that would leave the state’s 119 existing school districts intact. It would instead create five regional “cooperative education service areas” within which school districts could merge voluntarily or share services such as special education and transportation. Scott and Education Secretary Saunders criticized the group for opting not to endorse an alternative map with district consolidation and new boundary lines, as they had directed the group to do.

The task force said in a press release that data analysis revealed that such a map would not improve access to technical education or reduce costs. ➆

The “Ways and Means” project details the inner workings of the Vermont legislature and explores how well it represents the interests of citizens. The yearlong series is funded by Vermont philanthropists through the nonprofits GroundTruth Project and Journalism Funding Partners.

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SEN. ROB PLUNKETT

violent crimes, but about one in three are nonviolent offenders.

Several factors are likely contributing to this trend. Judicial vacancies have been filled, meaning more cases are getting heard. And lawmakers recently gave judges more discretion on how and when they can order someone to be held in pretrial custody. A bill passed last year, for instance, removed the $200 cap on bail for certain minor crimes if the offense was committed while someone was on pretrial release. Accused offenders, unable to post the higher bail, are then jailed instead.

Prosecutors and judges have been under increasing public pressure to hold these accused offenders accountable by locking them up. That pressure has come directly from elected officials, including Scott.

“When those who victimize others are put back on the streets hours after being apprehended, only to reoffend again and again, Vermonters question law enforcement, prosecutors, our courts, and they question the wisdom of the work done here in this building,” Scott said during his 2024 State of the State address.

As part of his recently unveiled plan to help Burlington, the governor created a new court docket focused on repeat offenders with five or more pending cases. Coined “accountability court,” the docket will operate for up to four months, after which it may be expanded to other parts of the state.

The docket is designed to bring swifter resolutions to cases that may otherwise languish for years. While that often will mean connecting offenders to treatment, it may also mean sending them to prison, Jaye Johnson, general counsel for the governor’s office, said during a legislative hearing last month.

“We need to start to think a little bit about incarceration as a place where people have the opportunity to heal,” Johnson told lawmakers.

Whether the accountability docket will result in more frequent pretrial detention is not yet clear. It’s currently focused on about 120 people and has been moving through cases much more quickly than the rest of the court system, which is still digging out from a pandemic-induced backlog.

More frequent hearings might actually help keep some people out of prison, according to Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah George, because it makes it easier for them to remember when to show up.

VERMONT’S PRISON POPULATION HAS REACHED ITS HIGHEST POINT IN MORE THAN FIVE YEARS, AND THE CORRECTIONAL SYSTEM IS FEELING THE STRAIN.

Many defendants “don’t have housing, don’t have phones, or alarms, or calendars, and are struggling every day to meet their basic needs,” George wrote in an email. Scheduling hearings months out sets people up to miss court and land in prison, something that costs “taxpayers an enormous amount of money.”

The status quo “feels a bit like a selffulfilling prophecy,” she wrote.

Even a slight jump in the number of people being held before trial could be difficult for Vermont to handle. All six in-state prisons have recently had at least one unit filled beyond capacity.

The situation has been particularly acute at the Chittenden Regional Correctional Facility, the state’s only women’s prison. Long condemned as outdated and unsanitary, the facility in recent months has held upwards of 180 women despite having only 164 beds. That’s forced some inmates to sleep on plastic “sled beds” on the floor, officials say.

The overcrowding has come as the state contends with a chronic shortage of prison

The Department of Corrections has no say over who gets sent to prison, and so the only way it can alleviate pressure on its facilities is to move people out of state. Vermont has a contract with CoreCivic, a private company, to provide up to 300 beds at its prison in Tutwiler, Miss. After this month’s transfer of 28 inmates from Springfield, the state now has 153 prisoners in Mississippi, the highest out-of-state population in years.

Tim Burgess, who advocates for prisoners as executive director of Vermont CURE, said corrections officials may have a compelling argument for sending people to Mississippi given the current overcrowding. But he is bothered by the choice of prisoners the department sent south.

They included men who had been deeply involved in prison programs aimed at rehabilitation. Some were taking community college classes, and four served as coaches in a peer support program known as “Open Ears.”

“These guys have no opportunity to do anything for programs or to help them reestablish their reentry routine while they’re in Mississippi,” Burgess said.

In a statement, the Department of Corrections said it tries to keep people in state when they are involved in programming. But, the department said, it sometimes has no choice: Only inmates without future court dates are eligible for transfer out of state. That usually means people serving longer sentences who, in turn, are more likely to be taking part in rehabilitation programs.

staff that union officials say has created unsafe and unsustainable work conditions.

At the state’s largest prison, the Northern State Correctional Facility in Newport, only about 50 of 80 officer positions are filled. That’s forced the Department of Corrections to resort to mandatory overtime shifts, fueling burnout.

Gov. Scott’s accountability campaign has neglected an important piece of the puzzle, according to Steve Howard, head of the state employees’ union: “safe staffing in the actual facilities that keep people off the streets.”

The Department of Corrections says it has increased workers’ pay by 36 percent over the past three years, to the point that Vermont ranks in the top five states in terms of correctional officer compensation. But Howard said it’s not enough when vacancy and turnover rates remain stubbornly high.

“Our members believe that we are teetering on the edge of a major incident,” Howard said. “And then the governor is going to be dealing with trying to get control over a correctional facility. He’s ignoring it at his own peril.”

The department says it may need to make future transfers, too. But that won’t solve the problem at the women’s prison, since the Mississippi facility only accepts male inmates.

Instead, the department is focused on plans to construct a new women’s correctional facility to replace the one in South Burlington. The state received some bad news on that front last month when the Town of Essex denied a zoning change for a site there. The proposal had received pushback from prison abolitionists and local residents opposed to a prison in their backyard.

The verdict discouraged Rep. Alice Emmons (D-Springfield), chair of the House Corrections and Institutions Committee. She dismissed the argument that a new prison will encourage courts to lock more people up.

“They’re already filling up beds we don’t have right now,” she said.

She had even less sympathy for the NIMBY pushback. “The public wants folks to be locked up, but they don’t want to house facilities in their community,” she said. “You can’t have it both ways.” ➆

• Polina Alekhina, 13, Vergennes

• Uliana Alekhina, 9, Vergennes

• Alyce Ayer, 12, Bolton Valley

• Eli Bart, 15, Shelburne

• Adim Benoit, 13, Montpelier

• Jack Blazewicz, 14, Shelburne

• Violet Chamberlin, 12, Jericho

• Lila Crowley, 13, Middlesex

• Frank D’Amore, 14, Shelburne

• Grace Castillo, 10, Jericho

• Henry Leitz, 12, Jericho

• Molly McCarthy, 13, St. Albans

• Lindy Moynihan, 9, Underhill

• eophilius Parkinson, 7, Burlington

• Amelia Quante, 12, Underhill

• Lily Ryersbach, 16, Starksboro

• omas Schramm, 15, Shelburne

• Malhar Zach Sengupta, 11, South Burlington

• Yvette Shedrick, 11, Waterbury

• Jenna Sweeney, 14, Georgia

• Eva Tarrant, 14, South Burlington

• Julian Trahan, 15, Colchester

• Ella Twiggs, 11, Shelburne

• Jax Washburn, 12, Jericho

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“ “

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Dear Governor Scott and Vermont state legislators,

The second Trump administration has already done unprecedented damage to our democracy, violating bedrock constitutional principles and laws, and threatening the safety and well-being of our nation, our state, and our communities.

These assaults on our constitutional rights and democratic norms include unlawful attacks on immigrants, transgender people, and dissidents; threats to the autonomy of institutions to confront discrimination; the undermining of essential environmental protections; and the destabilization of civic infrastructure on which we all rely.

In the face of this rapidly escalating constitutional crisis, Vermont needs strong, responsive state leadership. We want you to know that if you speak up and take action to confront this onslaught of federal overreach, your constituents will have your backs. And we need to hear from you, our elected representatives, that you recognize this historical moment for what it is—and that you will act with the urgency and resolve that this moment requires.

We, the undersigned membership and community-based organizations, businesses, and faith leaders call on you to utilize the power of your office to defend our democracy, our communities, and our values. Specifically, we urge you to publicly commit to:

• protect Vermont’s immigrant communities;

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Vermonters pride ourselves on shared traditions of “Freedom and Unity.”

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We need you to join us in drawing on those traditions, defending our shared values, and meeting this moment with everything we have—together.

Respectfully,

165+ VT ORGANIZATIONS UNITED FOR DEMOCRACY

lifelines

Helene Marie (Limoge) McHugh

JUNE 5, 1933-OCTOBER 22, 2025 BURLINGTON, VT.

Helene Marie (Limoge) McHugh, 92, of Burlington, Vt., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Born on June 5, 1933, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Arthur and Grace Limoge née Fortin. Helene grew up in the Old North End of Burlington and attended Nazareth Primary School before graduating from Cathedral High School in 1951. After graduation, Helene became a telephone operator at New England Telephone. Always independent, she worked her way up to a supervisor position there. In 1960, she married Valere Dion. They had five children together, Thomas, Stephen, Matthew, Melissa and Nicole. In 1986, Helene found the love of her life in William “Bill” McHugh. Helene and Bill were married for many happy decades, together going to morning Mass and spending time with their family

and friends, traveling, and going to parades and picnics.

A woman of deep Catholic faith, Helene was a devoted parishioner and volunteer. She gave her time generously to Catholic Charities, Christ the King Church and Rice Memorial High School. Her commitment to service extended beyond her faith community — she was actively involved with Meals on Wheels and could be found most nights of the summer in the South Park concession stand. Helene was a proud Vermonter who cherished her Burlington roots. She was known for her independence, gratitude, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Everyone was “hon” to her. Her greatest joy was cheering on her children at their sporting events and spending time with her beloved grandchildren. She was predeceased by her sons omas and Stephen Dion; her husband, William McHugh; and her siblings Jackie (and husband Arnold Parker), Janice Robbins, Robert Limoge, and Richard Limoge (and wife Rita Limoge).

Willard R. Beecher

NOVEMBER 6, 1948NOVEMBER 10, 2025

STARKSBORO, VT.

Willard R. Beecher, longtime resident of Starksboro, Vt., died on November 10, at age 77. Will was born in Somerville, N.J., on November 6, 1948. He moved to Vermont as a young adult, where he would go on to enjoy years of bird-watching and spending time in the Vermont outdoors. While he would always celebrate a win for the New York Yankees, he was equally likely to be celebrating a rare bird sighting. Prior to settling in Vermont, Will

attended art school in Manhattan, where he studied commercial art. He continued to possess artistic talent over the years and created many artworks that will remain cherished by their owners.

In early adulthood Will spent time at car races, working as the pit crew for a number of events. He traveled to many destinations around the U.S. with his team to compete, including Daytona, Fla., for the Daytona 24-Hour Race.

During a long career at PJ’s Auto Village in South Burlington, Vt., Will was beloved by his coworkers and customers alike. If a stubborn automobile problem could

Helene’s memory lives on in her brothers Larry Limoge (and wife Kathy Limoge) and Roland Limoge (and wife Jay Limoge), as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by her children Matthew Dion, Melissa Dion (and husband Ken Carter), and Nicole Bauman née Dion (and husband Todd Bauman). “Meme” will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Elizabeth, omas and Jacob Dion; Izabella and Calvin Carter; and Abigail and Owen Bauman.

Helene’s family is deeply appreciative of the incredible care she received from Mansﬁeld Place, Dr. Susanna ach, and UVM Home Health & Hospice.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 — what would have been Bill’s 96th birthday — 11 a.m. to noon, at the Ready Funeral Home South Chapel in Burlington, with a funeral service at noon. Burial will immediately follow in Resurrection Park Cemetery on Hinesburg Road in South Burlington. A Celebration of Life Open House will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. at the St. John’s Club. In lieu of ﬂowers, please consider making a memorial donation in Helene’s name to the Vermont Foodbank, your local hospice/VNA or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements are in the care of Ready Funeral & Cremation Services. To share online condolences, please visit readyfuneral.com.

not be ﬁgured out, Will was known for being able to take a quick listen or look and immediately identify even the most obscure, confounding issue with a car. His understanding of mechanics and engineering was profound.

Will was known for his humor and harmless, creative pranks, which delighted those who knew him.

Will is survived by his wife, Ruth Beecher; daughter, Jodie Beecher (Ian Tewksbury); sister, Diane Farkas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Willard and Bertha Beecher, and brother-inlaw, Robert Farkas.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring, to be announced.

In lieu of ﬂowers, donations may be made to the Starksboro Volunteer Fire Department or Addison County Home Health & Hospice.

Kenneth M. Wade

JULY 29, 1947NOVEMBER 10, 2025

ST. ALBANS, VT. On November 10, the world lost Kenneth M. Wade, educator, wit and father.

Born in Arlington, Va., on July 29, 1947, Ken’s formative years were spent in Marin County, Calif.

Having granted his wife Sue’s (née Bartholomew) wish for a “year” on the East Coast (to be closer to family), Ken arrived in Vermont in 1978. With over 50 years in education, he was an associate professor in Champlain College’s Core (humanities), from which he retired in December 2016.

He was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth L. Wade and Katherine (Dougherty) Wade; his sisters, Carol-Sue Ripplinger and Kathleen Campagna; and his brother, Leon Merrick.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Wade; his children, Annemieke Wade (Cameron

Jonathan Duncan “JD” Langdon

OCTOBER 3, 1964NOVEMBER 10, 2025 WILLISTON, VT.

Jonathan Duncan “JD” Langdon, 61, of Williston, passed away unexpectedly on November 10, 2025, at the University of Vermont Medical Center. He was born on October 3, 1964, in Burlington.

JD was known for his friendly nature and genuine kindness. He spent his career in customer service, where his easygoing personality and warm laugh made him a familiar and trusted presence to many. He had a natural way of making people feel seen and valued.

A devoted father, JD cherished every moment with his son, Duncan. He loved coaching ﬂag football and sharing adventures, especially their early ski trips in Wyoming. Time on the boat on Lake

Johnston) of Toronto, Ont., Penelope K. Wade (N. “Rover” Sherry) of Colchester, Vt., and Vera Wade-Suzui (Masahiro “Hiro” Suzui) of St. Albans, Vt., and Tokyo, Japan; his grandchildren, Vesper Johnston, Lyric Johnston, Ariadne Suzui and Dryden Masakasu Suzui; his brother-in-law, Leon Ripplinger; and his chosen sons, Russell Wolff (Veronica Guzzardi) and Jonathan Brett (Adam Bailey).

Details of the celebration of life, and a full and more entertaining obituary, are available at healdfuneralhome.com.

Champlain was another favorite place for JD, often enjoying summer concerts drifting across the lake. He found joy in sailing, skiing and time spent outdoors, embracing each day with enthusiasm.

JD leaves behind his mother, Ann Langdon; his son, Duncan P. Langdon; Duncan’s girlfriend, Beka; and his brother, Chad Langdon. ey will carry his memory in the stories, laughter and love he shared so freely.

For the full obituary, please visit minorfh.com.

OBITUARIES

Gary R. Martin

JANUARY 17, 1947-NOVEMBER 13, 2025

JONESVILLE, VT.

Gary R. Martin, PhD., 78, of Jonesville, Vt., peacefully passed away at home on November 13, 2025, surrounded by his family’s love. He leaves his devoted wife, M. Sara McMahon; cherished daughter, Zoe Martin; and adored granddaughters, Adeline and Silvie. He was predeceased by his grandmother Adeline Terlecki, who raised him. He learned late in life he had a half sister, Jean Rauschenbach, who also predeceased him.

A native of Hartford, Conn., Gary was a proud graduate of Hartford Public High School, class of 1965, and Central Connecticut State University and earned an MSW from the University of Connecticut. He later was awarded a PhD from Capella University. He practiced as a psychologist in Burlington, Vt., for 40 years. Well respected by members of the local mental health community, he made a positive difference in his clients’ lives.

An athlete all his life, he was a lifeguard in the City of Hartford parks. He fondly remembered many adventures with Troop 5 Boy Scouts with his lifelong friend Dennis Foley. Seeking a more rural lifestyle after college, he first moved to Barre, Vt., later to Burlington and finally to Jonesville.

A love of the outdoors led him to running, skiing and later snowboarding with his daughter. Gary was immensely proud of Zoe and the accomplishments of his granddaughters. He took great pleasure in getting cords of wood on his property to keep the woodstove going all winter. With a dog by his side, multiple cats, a horse and chickens, this city boy fully embraced his vegetable garden and the pleasures of Vermont life.

A drummer since high school, where he performed as one of the Young Men, he was later a member of Burlington Taiko, with friends Harry Grabenstein, Fran Stoddard and Suzanne Hall. Gary was an avid fisherman, whether fresh or saltwater, especially at Eldora, Canaveral National Seashore, hosted by John Patrick at his fish camp.

Diagnosed 13 years ago with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, Gary, with the unwavering support of Sara, faced the many challenges PSP presented. Founder/director of Movement for Parkinson’s Dance, Sara created a community online and at the Flynn for Gary and others to express themselves at their highest level.

To honor Gary, memorial donations may be made to the Movement for Parkinsons Program, The Flynn, 153 Main St., Burlington, VT 05401; Frederick C. Binter Center, University of Vermont Medical Center, 111 Colchester Ave., Burlington, VT 05620; or Vermont Lands and Facilities Trust Fund, 1 National Life Dr., Montpelier, VT 05620.

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Mary Jewett Sylver

APRIL 12, 1948-NOVEMBER 6, 2025 WILLISTON, VT.

Mary Jewett Sylver, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on November 6, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with rheumatoid arthritis and spinal stenosis.

Born in Morrisville, Vt., Mary was known for her incredible strength, determination and loving nature. Despite years of pain and physical challenges, she remained steadfast and resilient, inspiring everyone who knew her with her courage and perseverance. If you knew her well, you knew her kind nature and no doubt felt blessed to have her in your life.

husband, Sven Linkruus. She was also a devoted grandmother to Sam and India Tareen, who brought endless joy and meaning to her life.

Mary was the proud and loving mother of Tausha Sylver and her husband, Adam Riesner; and Lisa Tareen and her

John Houle Jr.

SEPTEMBER 1, 1935AUGUST 7, 2025 WINOOSKI, VT.

John Houle Jr., a lifetime resident of Winooski, Vt., joined his Lord and Savior on August 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born on September 1, 1935, and was the son of the late John A. Houle and Gertrude (Garrow) Houle. John married the love of his life, the late Barbara (Pecor) Houle, and started a family in 1964, when their daughter, Laura “Laurie,” was born, followed by their son, Terry, in 1967.

Life was busy for John. He served in the Vermont Army National Guard for years and retired from General Electric after 35 years. In the early ’60s, John built a beautiful deer camp in Belvidere with a couple of close friends, where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He especially enjoyed weekend overnights with his son, Terry — hunting, trout fishing, walking in the

She was a role model for her daughters, teaching them the spirit of giving to others through countless volunteer opportunities with the Covenant Community Church and the JerichoUnderhill Food Shelf and by serving meals at the Salvation Army. She had a long career as a medical secretary in many different roles until retirement in 2013. She spent as much time as she could with her daughters, grandchildren and family and was the rock in their lives. In her later years, when her mobility was limited, she enjoyed spending her days doing puzzles and was an avid reader.

Mary is also survived by her sisters, Patricia Thompson and Nancy Becraft

woods and making beautiful memories together. John also had a love for the water and swimming, which began in his childhood. His father would take him and his sisters down to Malletts Bay quite frequently to swim and enjoy time with the family.

John’s love of the water extended into his later years. He would bring his own children swimming, down to the bay, almost every night after work. When his daughter, Laura, moved to Fort Myers, Fla., he would spend the winter months with her, swimming in the ocean and

and her husband, Bill Becraft, along with their four children and families. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frances and Silas Jewett, and we have no doubt there was a sweet reunion in heaven.

She also shared a special bond with her beloved cats, Buttons and Bows, who were her constant companions and a great source of comfort.

A private service for family and close friends will be held in early summer 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Essex-Jericho-Underhill Food Shelf (paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_ id=JA46A3W9X3QRE) or the Humane Society of Chittenden County (hsccvt. org/donate) in her honor.

Mary will be remembered for her warm heart, generous spirit and unshakable strength. Stubborn in the best way, she faced life’s challenges with courage and an unwavering love for her family. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” — A.A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh)

shelling at the beach in the sunshine. He made many new friends in Florida. A couple of times, his sister Patsy joined him in Florida, and the good times and the laughter they had together were priceless.

Everyone who knew John loved him. John loved to have fun, and he was a friend to everyone. Music was also a big pastime. John loved jazz and American classics, which he enjoyed listening to and singing with his wife, Barb. Frank Sinatra was their favorite. In his later years, John and his sister Patsy spent many nights out on the town on Church Street at Radio Bean and Red Square listening to music. John also spent many Friday nights at the American Legion with his son, Terry, his sister Patsy and old friends. John loved his family and his friends very much.

John is survived by his daughter, Laura (Houle) Young, of Omaha, Neb.; his son, Terry Houle, of Winooski, Vt.; his two sisters, Patricia Malaney of Burlington, Vt., and Pauline Chicoine of Winooski, Vt.; and many nieces and nephews, who will miss him dearly.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the University of Vermont Home Health & Hospice for coming into John’s home and caring for him.

At John’s request, a celebration of life was held with family members at his camp in Belvidere, where his ashes were spread on his property and where he joined his wife, Barbara.

John was always a healthy man, but old age took its toll the past couple of years, and our Lord and Savior came and took him home to be reunited with all those whom he loved and who were taken before him. John was predeceased by his wife, Barbara (Pecor) Houle, in 2007; his father, John Houle; and his mother, Gertrude (Garrow) Houle.

We all miss John so very much — his laughter, his sense of humor, his jokes. Until we meet again, “Love you, love you, love you.”

OBITUARIES, VOWS, CELEBRATIONS OBITUARIES

Ellen Bryant Voigt

MAY 9, 1943OCTOBER 23, 2025

CABOT, VT.

Ellen Bryant Voigt was raised on her family’s farm in Chatham, Va. e middle child of a schoolteacher and mail carrier, she grew up near a large, extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Ellen showed an early talent for the piano, earning her a scholarship to the music school at Converse College in Spartanburg, S.C. But it was during a summer job at a resort in Blowing Rock, N.C., that her interest in poetry was sparked, and she changed her major to English, graduating from Converse in 1964 and going on to earn an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. In her ﬁrst semester at Iowa, she met Francis Voigt (from Oskaloosa, Iowa) at a mixer for dorm counselors. Fran, despite his good looks, failed to make a good impression, but eventually he did get her to go out with him, and they were married less than a year later on September 5, 1965. Tempted by advertisements for inexpensive farmhouses and land in rural Vermont, they moved to central Vermont in 1969 when Fran took a job at Goddard College. ey found themselves in the middle of the back-to-theland movement of 1960s, and it was there they decided to put down their roots.

the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In 2013, Ellen was the visiting poet at Smith College and was also a popular and frequent faculty member at the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference in Ripton, Vt. She was the poet laureate of Vermont from 1999 to 2002 and served as a chancellor for the Academy of American Poets.

Ellen supported herself throughout college and graduate school playing the piano in bars and lounges and accompanying singers, dance classes and even the synchronized swimming team at Converse. She continued to be an in-demand pianist in Vermont, ﬁnding like-minded musicians, as well as playing for Taste of Opera, Barre Opera House, Plainﬁeld Opera House, Unadilla eater, Larry Gordon, various choirs and the Cabot School musicals.

Selected Poems, 1976–2006 (W.W. Norton, 2007), a ﬁnalist for the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry; Kyrie (W.W. Norton, 1995), a ﬁnalist for the National Book Critic’s Circle Award in 1995; e Lotus Flowers (W.W. Norton, 1987); and her debut, Claiming Kin (Wesleyan University Press, 1976).

Ellen also published two books on the craft of poetry: e Flexible Lyric (University of Georgia Press, 2011) and e Art of Syntax: Rhythm of ought, Rhythm of Song (Graywolf Press, 2009). With Heather McHugh, she coedited the anthology Hammer and Blaze: A Gathering of Contemporary American Poets (University of Georgia Press, 2002). With Gregory Orr, she coedited the essay collection Poets Teaching Poets: Self and the World (University of Michigan Press, 1996), a volume to which she also contributed.

Wanda Jane Finley Castner

JANUARY 31, 1936NOVEMBER 8, 2025

WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, VT.

Goddard College attracted an unusual mix of artists and intellectuals interested in creating unorthodox, experimental and alternative educational programs that inspired Ellen to cofound and direct a lowresidency MFA program — the ﬁrst of its kind, which would set the standard for the lowresidency program of graduate study throughout the U.S. She taught in the MFA Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College for nearly 40 years, following its move from Goddard in 1981. She also held teaching positions at Iowa Wesleyan College and

While in Iowa, Ellen was introduced to what became the extended Voigt family’s passion for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes football. is was just the beginning of what grew into a fervent interest in sports. She was a scrupulous scorekeeper for her son Will’s Cabot School sports teams and later could be found in the stands for his Vermont Frost Heaves and the other teams he coached. Both Ellen and Fran were deeply committed to Cabot School, which continued long after their children had graduated. Ellen and two other Cabot parents created the Cabot Enrichment Program, tapping community experts to offer a wide array of experiences from ice ﬁshing to photography. In addition to their enduring involvement in the community, Ellen and Fran cofounded New England Culinary Institute with John Dranow and Louise Glück, which changed the food landscape throughout Vermont and beyond.

Ellen was the author of nine poetry collections, including Collected Poems (W.W. Norton, 2023); Headwaters (W.W. Norton, 2013); Messenger: New and

Ellen’s other honors include the Literature Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the Folger Shakespeare Library’s O.B. Hardison Jr. Poetry Prize, and fellowships and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Guggenheim Foundation, the Academy of American Poets, and the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Fund. In 2015, she received a MacArthur Fellowship.

Ellen had a stroke in 2018, following the death of Fran after a long illness. rough her incredible determination and strength, she deﬁed and amazed the medical experts by making a remarkable recovery; embracing daily exercise and rehab, publishing her ﬁnal volume, working on her audiobook, giving readings around the country, spending cherished time with family and friends, doing every crossword puzzle she could get her hands on, and watching a lot of basketball. She spent the last seven years living with her daughter, Dudley, and dividing their time between Cabot and St. Paul, Minn.

Ellen Bryant Voigt was predeceased by her parents, Lloyd and Missouri Bryant, and her husband, Fran. She is survived by her sister, Joan Shelton; brother, L.G. Bryant; daughter, Dudley; son, Will (Sabrina); three grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of her life is being planned for April.

Wanda Jane Finley Castner died at age 89 on Saturday, November 8, 2025, while a resident at Valley Terrace in White River Junction, Vt. Born on the family farm in Malta, Ohio, on a winter day in the midst of the Great Depression, Wanda was the eldest of the four children of Mildred Rogers Finley and Clarence Ronald Finley. Wanda majored in music and early childhood education at Ohio University. After graduation in 1958, she was an elementary school teacher in Beverly, Ohio, where she met and married the love of her life, Edward (Ned) W. Castner, the new pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Beverly. Wanda learned a diligent work ethic growing up on the farm, taking care of gardens and animals, sewing, and cooking. She loved music, often playing the piano solo or with her family and singing in church choirs. As an adult, Wanda later lived in Plymouth, Mich.; Peekskill, N.Y.; Glenside, Pa.; Washington, D.C.; Ivoryton and Wallingford, Conn.; and ﬁnally in Vermont. In the 1970s, Wanda studied for a master’s degree in teaching from the College of New Rochelle, specializing in reading instruction. She taught at the St. Joseph’s School in Philadelphia, then in the Alexandria, Va., public schools. While being a homemaker and teacher, Wanda also had the unofﬁcial role as the pastor’s wife and choir member at the churches in each town where she

lived. She could be duly solemn when the occasion demanded but loved laughter with her family and friends. Following retirement, Wanda did not stop working. She was a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, a literacy volunteer for adult learners and a docent at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme, Conn. She traveled widely with her husband and family in North America, Europe and the Middle East and greatly enjoyed annual beach vacations with her family. She gamely learned to bicycle and ice-skate as an adult and loved to host family gatherings. Wanda is survived by her sister Elinor Finley LaFollette of Marietta, Ohio; her two children, Edward W. Castner Jr. of South Royalton, Vt., and Andrea Louise Castner Wyatt of Newtown, Conn.; and their partners, Cathy Lawson and Chuck Wyatt. She is also survived by her four granddaughters, Elizabeth and Julia Castner, Emma Wyatt, and Molly Wyatt Rubio; their partners; and many relations from the Finley and Castner clans. Wanda was predeceased by her husband, Ned Castner, and her siblings Janet Finley Stone and David Finley.

A celebration of Wanda’s life will be held by the family on Friday, November 28, 2025, in the Boston area. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook at knightfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of ﬂowers, donations could be made to Habitat for Humanity. e family wishes to thank the caregivers and staff at Valley Terrace and Bayada Hospice for their loving kindness and for making Wanda’s ﬁnal years happy and comfortable.

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GROWING GAINS

The disbanding of a civic organization may not seem cause for celebration. But optimism and an air of a job well done prevailed in September, when a businesscasual crowd gathered in Burlington to bid farewell to Let’s Grow Kids.

A decade earlier, the nonprofit had launched a campaign to create affordable, high-quality childcare in Vermont. It was a lofty goal for a system that felt almost irreparably broken. At the time, discouraged families faced long wait lists for childcare slots and, if they got one, struggled to pay exorbitant tuition. Childcare providers were limping along on razor-thin profit margins, and early childhood educators working for them earned far too little to support themselves. On top of all that, there existed no good model at the national or state levels for how to meaningfully address the worsening crisis.

Let’s Grow Kids, a broad and wellfunded coalition representing childcare providers, parents, business leaders and the politically connected, became the homegrown vessel for reform. The group gave itself 10 years — a term that ended this fall — to rally Vermonters to push for

major public investment in childcare that would begin to answer the state’s gaping needs.

That investment would ultimately take shape as Act 76, a sweeping law passed in 2023 that directed $125 million annually, largely through a payroll tax, to expand subsidies for families and funds for childcare providers. In the two years since the bill’s passage, Let’s Grow Kids focused on

childcare slots, according to state data, and the ranks of children enrolled in the state’s financial-assistance program for childcare have swelled by more than 4,000. Last year, more early childhood programs opened than closed — a first since officials started keeping track.

Although much evidence remains anecdotal, some middle-income families report feeling a lighter financial burden, childcare providers say they have been able to expand their programs and pay their workers better, and certain businesses report that their employees have had an easier time finding childcare as provisions of the law have been rolled out.

“Every step of the way, we were like, ‘Is this real?’” said Kristen Dunne, executive director of Mary Johnson Children’s Center in Middlebury. With the increased funding, she said, “we’ve been able to dream rather than just survive.”

Let’s Grow Kids’ longtime CEO Aly Richards told the crowd gathered for the farewell, which included Democratic

Vermont’s bold investment in childcare is largely paying off

BY ALISON NOVAK alison@sevendaysvt.com

Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Baruth and Republican Lt. Gov. John Rodgers, that her organization was now ready to “pass the baton.” The splashy event at the Hula coworking and event space — replete on this day with charcuterie and crab cakes, flower-themed Lego centerpieces, and the obligatory Ben & Jerry’s treats — reflected the wellappointed professionalism of the Let’s Grow Kids campaign, which at its height boasted 35 staff members and raised $77 million, much of which went to stabilize existing childcare programs. It was also an opportunity for Let’s Grow Kids to tout its success: During a panel discussion, policy experts hailed Vermont as a national model for investment in childcare.

monitoring the law’s rollout and making sure that other organizations were poised to take over the mission to fix early childhood education.

At a time when the cost of living has achieved remarkable political potency, Act 76 has made sizable strides in expanding the availability of affordable childcare in Vermont. The increased funding has helped create more than 1,700 new

Still, no one was bold enough to declare “mission accomplished.” Childcare workers still lack the recognition, salaries and benefits they deserve, Richards said in a subsequent interview. A bill to make early childhood education a regulated profession, like nursing, was introduced during the last legislative session and could face resistance when it is taken up again in the new year.

Aly Richards (in pink shirt) at the Courage to Care rally

Despite the program’s promising early gains, shortcomings remain: a continued dearth of spots for infants, persistent childcare deserts in rural areas and a subsidy program that hasn’t captured every family who is eligible. There still isn’t complete buy-in from the business community, one of the key groups that helped pass Act 76.

Yet Let’s Grow Kids had laid a sound foundation on which further improvements could be built, Richards said. The organization has spun off a lobbying arm, with a staff of three, that will continue to work at the Statehouse. And First Children’s Finance, a national nonprofit and lending institution, set up shop in Vermont in 2023 to provide grants and technical assistance to childcare businesses.

“We needed Let’s Grow Kids to put childcare on the map and to get a sustainable funding source,” Richards said. “And the movement will live on because of that work.”

‘A HUGE DIFFERENCE’

For Alison Byrnes and her husband, the availability of cheaper, high-quality childcare was the encouragement they needed to expand their family.

Three years ago, paying for two children to attend Montpelier’s Turtle Island Children’s Center was a struggle for the couple, both public school teachers. At the time, they were spending about $29,000 annually on tuition. Byrnes had to rely on her mother to pay for it.

“Everything about being a parent of young children in this state is so challenging,” Byrnes told Seven Days at the time. “People are choosing not to have kids because we have no support.”

But the passage of Act 76 changed the picture. Under the law, families making as much as $248,000 annually now qualify for some financial assistance, depending on how many children they have. That makes Vermont the state with the highest income eligibility for childcare assistance. Byrnes had a third child in 2024, months before that increased subsidy threshold took effect. Though her oldest child is now in elementary school, her two younger ones attend Turtle Island full time. The new subsidy, on top of separate pre-K assistance for the middle child, now saves Byrnes more than $1,100 a month, bringing her annual bill to less than $12,000.

“There’s no way we could have afforded a third child without the subsidy,” Byrnes said. The expanded eligibility has “made a huge difference for so many families.”

Data suggest that Byrnes is right. In the two years after September 2023, 4,355 additional children were enrolled in the expanded childcare financial assistance

program, with an 82 percent jump in infant enrollment. A two-parent, twochild Vermont household earning enough to maintain a modest standard of living can now save between $7,400 and $23,000 a year using the subsidy, depending on where they live. Nonetheless, advocates believe that hundreds, or even thousands, more families are eligible to take advantage of the expanded program but may be unaware.

“We still have a lot of families who just truly have no idea what the subsidy is, who would apply, where they would apply,” said Jocelyn York, executive director of Turtle Island. York herself does provide that information when families enroll.

The state has worked to spread the word, according to Janet McLaughlin,

deputy commissioner of the Child Development Division at Vermont’s Department for Children and Families. It collaborated with a marketing agency to create digital ads, social media posts and radio spots. And it sends posters and brochures about the program to doctors’ offices, libraries and other social service agencies. The state also contracts with 12 organizations, mostly parent-child centers, across Vermont that help people sign up.

At one such center, the Family Place in Norwich, Chastity Macie assists low- and middle-income parents with applications. Beneficiaries have been able to use their savings for other necessities, such as housing, clothing and food.

Macie said she’s heard of families just across the river in New Hampshire who

There’s no way we could have afforded a third child without the subsidy.

ALISON BYRNES

moved to Vermont to take advantage of the expanded childcare opportunities.

“We are working with so many families who previously applied but didn’t qualify,” Macie said.

Families seeking subsidies are required to provide extensive documentation, which can prove a barrier for those with nontraditional work or family arrangements.

Bethan Rowlands, whose income as an occupational therapist varies widely from month to month, said she and her husband weren’t able to get a tuition discount after she declared income from a particularly busy working period, alongside his fixed annual salary. The Addison County couple were told they’d have to reapply for the subsidy every time their income changed, which felt too onerous to pursue.

Kelly, a single mom in Winooski who asked that her last name not be used because of her family situation, said she was initially denied a childcare subsidy for her three children because she hadn’t yet divorced an abusive husband, whom she had left years before. Eventually, she

Alison Byrnes and family

The Growing Tree childcare center in Addison

Growing Gains « P.29

worked with Child Care Resource, an organization in Chittenden County that contracts with the state, to receive a separate “family support” subsidy to cover care for a year.

Macie, the Family Place employee, said that amid the current housing crisis, some parents who have separated continue living together to avoid multiple rents. That can complicate their ability to prove eligibility.

But while the subsidy expansion has created some bureaucratic hurdles, Sara Cicio, a Barre resident, said she was pleasantly surprised by the state’s responsiveness. As a federal employee, she was working unpaid during the government shutdown. During normal times, she and her husband, an HVAC technician, qualified for childcare financial assistance that left them with a “family share,” or copay, of $275 a week. With help from the Family Center, she submitted a new application reflecting her loss of income. In about two days, Cicio said, the state temporarily slashed her copay to $75 a week.

PROVIDER PAYOFF

Sunlight pours through large windows into the Growing Tree childcare center in the town of Addison, throwing a cheerful glow over picture books, wooden blocks and play areas. Outside, children frolic on swings and new play equipment against a picturesque backdrop of farm fields and mountains.

The animated scene is a stark contrast from just a few months ago. The sunsplashed building once housed the town’s elementary school, which closed in 2020 and sat empty, a depressing emblem of the aging state’s population trend lines. But in August, center director Michelle Bishop brought the building back to life with the Growing Tree, which now serves 16 highspirited toddlers and preschoolers.

Bishop’s program is one of more than 100 childcare programs that have opened since Act 76 went into effect two years ago, creating around 1,700 spaces for children and 400 jobs for early childhood educators. Dozens more centers have been able to expand with the help of state-funded grants.

Access to funds enabled by Act 76 made opening her center possible, Bishop said: “I will be forever grateful.”

Before she did it, though, she crunched the numbers with the help of First Children’s Finance, the national nonprofit that set up shop in Vermont using state money. The organization helped her develop a business plan and navigate licensing regulations. Through First Children’s and

a separate organization, Building Bright Futures, Bishop was awarded more than $100,000 in grants — money she used for furniture, educational toys, art supplies and playground equipment, as well as for insurance and hiring staff.

Eighty percent of Bishop’s families, most of whom live in the small town of Addison, qualify for full or partial childcare subsidies. The help has allowed Bishop to pay her three full-time teachers between $18 and $24 an hour, depending on their education and experience. She’s also adding a new classroom that will provide spots for 10 more children.

Wendy Chase and Jackie Prime, teachers at Middlebury’s Mary Johnson, said Vermont’s increased investment in the childcare system encouraged them to go back to school to get college degrees through a publicly funded program that provides tuition support. Both now make more money because they are on a higher rung of the childcare center’s pay scale.

Systemic issues persist, though. While a majority of centers have been able to pay teachers a higher salary, many haven’t been able to offer health insurance, the costs of which have skyrocketed in recent years. And there remains a dearth of spots for infants, who require the most intensive supervision.

Nearly four in five Vermont childcare owners and directors reported increased wages in the previous year, according to a 2024 survey, but some still have trouble hiring because they are unable to offer health care benefits.

“Health insurance is a huge gap and more of a reason than pay that people don’t take jobs,” said Phoenix Crockett, who co-owns Crockett Academy for Early Liberal Arts, a Williston program for infants, toddlers and preschoolers that opened in May.

Crockett said he would offer a health plan for his employees if he could find one that was reasonably priced. But when he reached out to MVP Health Care to inquire, he learned that doing so would run him an additional $800 a month per employee, which he said wasn’t financially feasible.

In addition, centers that offer infant care find the finances more challenging than those catering to older children, in large part because of more rigorous staffing mandates. State rules limiting enrollment to no more than four babies per teacher mean that running an infant room doesn’t always pencil out, even with the increased subsidy reimbursement rate. Crockett said he offers infant care because he sees the yawning need: Crockett Academy’s eight slots were quickly filled, so he added four more, but the center still has a wait list of more than 70 families.

Home-based programs have also benefited from the state largesse. Taylor Brink runs one out of her St. Johnsbury home, where children spend most of the day exploring the outdoors. She enrolls 12 children, most of whose families qualify for financial assistance. The state money allowed her to hire a full-time infant teacher and a part-time teacher, she said. Two grants have helped her renovate her home to comply with safety regulations, boost staff pay and purchase outdoor equipment.

In Barre Town, all but one of the families who send their children to Alexandria Whitcomb’s home-based program qualify for financial assistance. One mom with a child at the program was able to quit a second job that she’d taken solely to pay for childcare. Whitcomb, meanwhile, has used the additional funds to purchase higher-quality art supplies and hire teachers to come in for weekly art, yoga and music lessons.

His infant program is “not even close” to meeting the community demand, Crockett said.

Sonja Raymond has run into technical difficulties and laborious data entry requirements while trying to manage the subsidies for her Apple Tree Learning Centers in Stowe and Morrisville, which together serve close to 200 children. She’s also worried about a new provision in the law that caps how much tuition can be raised in a given year, based on inflation. That limit could jeopardize her ability to pay employees a competitive wage, she said.

Yet overall, Raymond said money from Act 76 has enabled her to renovate rooms and increase the number of kids served by the centers. She said she has attended childcare conferences and described the positive impacts of the new subsidies to providers from elsewhere.

“People are pretty flabbergasted about what’s happening in Vermont,” she said. “It’s just not like this in other states.”

Michelle Bishop at the Growing Tree

Danielle Sullivan with Growing Tree students

PHOTOS: CALEB KENNA

A CAMPAIGN WITH CAPITAL

The man behind Let’s Grow Kids is an 80-year-old real estate developer and philanthropist from Stowe. Rick Davis was drawn to the childcare cause decades ago during an encounter at one of his construction sites. A group of kids had stolen some tools, and, rather than pressing charges, he asked to meet with them and their parents.

Let’s Grow Kids, a broad and well-funded coalition, became the homegrown vessel for reform.

“They had the cards stacked against them simply due to the circumstances in which they were born,” Davis wrote in an email. “The unfairness of it struck me; also the cost to the State of Vermont by not addressing it.”

That prompted Davis, along with private-equity investor Carl Ferenbach, to found the Permanent Fund for Vermont’s Children, which bankrolled a range of initiatives, from early intervention services for babies and toddlers to youth mentoring. The organization was instrumental in the passage of a 2014 law that provides all 3- and 4-year-olds

in Vermont with 10 hours a week of free preschool.

Around that time, Davis decided to narrow the organization’s scope to ensuring that all Vermont children had access to high-quality childcare. That campaign became known as Let’s Grow Kids.

Davis recruited Aly Richards, who was then-governor Peter Shumlin’s deputy chief of staff, to lead the effort. She had helped shepherd passage of what is known as the Universal Prekindergarten law, and Davis saw her as a dynamic leader who could get things done.

From the start, Let’s Grow Kids distinguished itself from other public-policy campaigns. For one, it leaned aggressively into fundraising, ultimately amassing $77 million, a sum that included $42 million from individual donations, $20 million from government grants and contracts, and another $15 million from foundations and corporations. A good chunk of that went to help stabilize and expand existing childcare programs.

But the millions also funded a polished campaign, including television ads, yard signs and rallies, to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood education. In 2017, the group even produced a music video on Church Street featuring an original song by local musicians Kat Wright and Chris Dorman.

At its height, Let’s Grow Kids employed 35 staff; hundreds more volunteers acted as field organizers across the state. The organization convened a leadership circle to train early childhood educators how to tell their stories publicly.

Richards, a Vermont native who worked in Washington, D.C., politics after college, said she heard criticism about how much money Let’s Grow Kids was spending, but running a campaign that felt professional, and even slick at times, was part of the strategy.

“We were a nonprofit,” Davis said, “but we acted a little bit more like a startup.”

Having a 10-year deadline kept the organization disciplined and accountable, Richards said.

The pandemic likely helped the cause. Childcare centers were closed, and working parents were juggling Zoom calls with rambunctious kids in the room. Others had to stop working to take care of their kids.

Let’s Grow Kids leaned into the economic argument to help convince businesses: A better funded, more affordable childcare system would not just make life easier for parents and providers but would also enable companies to hire and retain a dependable workforce. The

FIBER

Rick Davis with his grandson

Growing Gains « P.31

group called upon brain experts to boost the case for why high-quality early childhood education was critical to the success of society at large.

Some business leaders initially resisted taxation as a way to support a major investment in childcare, but they eventually came to embrace the idea of a payroll tax, leaving it to legislators to hammer out details. Act 76 levies a 0.44 percent tax on employee wages; employers can choose to shoulder the full tax themselves or pass on up to a fourth of that to their workers. The self-employed pay that smaller sum, 0.11 percent.

Republican Gov. Phil Scott ultimately vetoed Act 76, saying he could not support a payroll tax that he believed would unfairly burden lower-income Vermonters. But the Democrat-dominated legislature overrode Scott’s veto in a show of tripartisan support, securing a $125 million annual investment in childcare through a mix of payroll taxes and general fund revenues, thus paving the way for a possible transformation of the system.

Others, including former Burlington mayor Miro Weinberger, have drawn inspiration from the model. Earlier this year, Weinberger launched Let’s Build Homes, an organization aimed at addressing Vermont’s housing shortage. The name is no coincidence; Weinberger said he called both Davis and Richards to get their approval before he went public with it.

“We’re trying to do in a lot of ways for housing what they did for childcare: elevate this issue, change the narrative, educate Vermonters, think of housing in a new way and inspire action,” Weinberger said. “We’ll be fortunate if we can do what they did.”

NOT DONE YET

If one had to select a poster child for the future of early childhood education, Alora Zargo would be a good choice. A first-year student at the University of Vermont, Zargo began working in childcare three years ago while a student at the Windham Regional Career Center. By the time she graduated high school in June, she’d earned 18 college credits in early childhood education.

Now 18, Zargo is taking four classes at UVM, where she hopes to graduate with a major in early childhood education or psychology.

“We’re molding the future generation,” Zargo said, “and helping children build pathways to become adults who can regulate and take care of themselves.”

Zargo has testified in the legislature about the importance of early childhood education. She hopes to return to the Statehouse to support a bill that would make it a more viable long-term career. That’s just one of the ways advocates are hoping to build on the legacy of Let’s Grow Kids.

The bill Zargo supports would require that early childhood educators be licensed by the state, according to three classifications based on experience and education. It also calls for fair compensation and benefits for workers.

The so-called professionalization bill didn’t make it to the finish line this year but is scheduled to be taken up again in 2026. One of its biggest proponents is the Vermont Association for the Education of Young Children, which represents teachers working in the field. The organization’s executive director, Sharron Harrington, said the bill is critical to ensuring the continued success of Act 76.

“Every new childcare space depends on having well-prepared early childhood

The increased funding has helped create more than 1,700 new childcare slots.

educators in the classroom,” Harrington said.

Though many early childhood educators have rallied behind the bill, some have doubts.

Growing Tree owner Bishop, for one, worries that the legislation could penalize people who have experience in early childhood education but aren’t ready or able to go back to school to earn more credentials. Vickie Gratton, who owns two childcare centers in Swanton, is torn: She said her decision to go back to school for a bachelor’s degree after working in the field for decades made her a better educator, but she worries that more requirements might discourage others.

Sen. Becca White (D-Windsor), one of the supporters of the bill, acknowledges it may face an uphill battle to reach the governor’s desk.

In the meantime, childcare advocates say they have plenty else to focus on to cement earlier wins. One goal is to ensure that the money intended for early childhood education doesn’t get clawed back amid other state priorities and federal uncertainty.

Assessing the law’s impact and making necessary changes are also key priorities.

“Anybody who runs a business knows when you make a huge investment, it’s

not just done,” said Michele Asch, chief people officer at Twincraft Skincare and a board member of Let’s Grow Kids Action Network, the spin-off organization that will focus on lobbying. “You have to keep tweaking it, making it better, evaluating what’s working and not working.”

Built into Act 76 is a monitoring process, led by Building Bright Futures, a nonpartisan state advisory group that reports its findings to the legislature each year. Its next report is due in January.

Dimitri Garder, the founder and former CEO of Bennington-based Global-Z, an analytics firm, is collecting data for Building Bright Futures to examine the impact of Act 76 on businesses.

“I haven’t heard anybody say, ‘Oh, it’s so much better since Act 76 has passed,’” Garder said. “They said, ‘Yeah, you know, it’s incrementally better.’” He acknowledged that it might take businesses longer than parents or providers to see the fruits of Act 76.

Garder points to Smugglers’ Notch Resort in Jeffersonville as an example of a company benefiting from the state’s investment in childcare. In 2022, Smuggs began offering free childcare to its employees at an on-site program to attract and retain workers. It has been able to continue only because of the state’s increased subsidy reimbursement, said Harley Johnson, director of children’s programs. The resort requires all new employees seeking childcare to apply for the state assistance; Smuggs then covers whatever the state does not. Johnson said free childcare has attracted workers to all departments of the resort, from rental shop employees to housekeeping staff.

Even amid early signs of success, Davis, the founder of Let’s Grow Kids, is careful not to overstate them.

“Had I hoped it would be further along in this 10-year period? Yes,” said Davis. “Policy … and systems change takes time.”

Davis also concedes that Vermont’s challenges are many, from aging demographics and the housing shortage to the ailing health care system. He hopes that some of those issues can be addressed with the same ingredients employed by Let’s Grow Kids: strong leadership, resonant messaging and ambitious coalition building.

“We should be doing whatever we can to attract families, keep young people in the state of Vermont, and to make it possible for them to have children and raise their children here,” Davis said. Childcare is just “one piece of the puzzle.” ➆

Caceirra Burton (right) and Shelly Weeks consult on a financial assistance application at the Family Center of Washington County

Alora Zargo (right) and her cousin

COURTESY

Winner, Winner, Burger Dinner!

Thank you to the a-bun-dance of diners who gobbled up all of the tasty burgers last Week.

“Meat” the randomly selected winners of our photo contest:

Alpine Hall, Stowe

Backyard, Stowe

Archie's Grill, Shelburne

Backyard Bistro, Charlotte

Barkeaters, Shelburne

Black Radish at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans

Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington

Butter Bar & Kitchen, Burlington

Church Street Tavern, Burlington

Copper at Dorset, South Burlington

The Daily Planet, Burlington

special thanks to the burger heroes who served it up Nov. 7-16!

Dumb Luck Pub & Grill, Winooski

EB Strong's Prime Steakhouse, Burlington

The Farmhouse Tap & Grill, Burlington

Fire & Ice Restaurant, Middlebury

Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski Grazers, Williston

Halvorson's Upstreet Café, Burlington

Hinesburgh Public House

Idletyme Brewery & Restaurant, Stowe

Jericho Country Store

Juniper Bar & Restaurant, Burlington

Kate’s Food Truck, Jericho

Ladder 1 Grill, Barre

The Lazy Goat Tavern, Essex

Leunig's Bistro & Café, Burlington

The Lounge at von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, Stowe

The Mad Taco, Essex, Middlebury, Montpelier, Waitsﬁeld

Park Squeeze, Vergennes

Piecasso Family Pizzeria, Stowe

Ranch Camp, Woodstock

The Skinny Pancake, Burlington

Switchback Beer Garden & Smokehouse, Burlington

Three Penny Taproom, Montpelier

Tourterelle, New Haven

Windjammer Restaurant and Upper Deck Pub, South Burlington

The Vermont Pub & Brewery, Burlington

The Village Tavern, North Ferrisbugh

Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall, Stowe

Carl Groppe of Gaysville won a Solo Stove ﬁre pit from WhistlePig Whiskey for his photo of the “Mac the Knife” burger (left) at Three Penny Taproom in Montpelier. Debbie Sullivan won a super cool Igloo cooler from Athletic Brewing Co. for her burger feast photo with hubby Lawrence at Barkeaters in Shelburne (right).

A Bard of Burlington

Local historian David Blow receives the Chittenden County Historical Society’s inaugural lifetime achievement award

BY STEVE GOLDSTEIN • sgoldstein@sevendaysvt.com

In 1960, David J. Blow was discharged from his U.S. Army post in Germany and, with no plan in mind, headed back to his hometown of Burlington. He spent days working at the University of Vermont’s library just “puttering around,” he said, and reading ancient Roman history. Eventually, he attracted the attention of Tom Bassett, then the head of Special Collections at the library.

“Why don’t you research Burlington history?” Bassett asked him. “You’re not in Rome anymore.”

Indeed, books about Vermont’s largest city were not plentiful. In 1965, Blow took Bassett’s advice and accepted the challenge of correcting the Burlington deficit. That same year saw the birth of the Chittenden County Historical Society, which Blow soon joined and which would eventually publish Blow’s masterly three-volume Historic Guide to Burlington Neighborhoods

“I think it’s safe to say that he knows more about old Burlington than any living person,” said Bob Blanchard, administrator of the historical society’s Facebook group as well as the popular Burlington Area History Facebook group.

Blow, now 88, was recently honored by the historical society with the inaugural Lilian Baker Carlisle Lifetime Achievement Award. The shy, extremely modest octogenarian put the kibosh on a public ceremony and received the award from some close friends at his Burlington apartment. “I’m going to put it up on my wall,” Blow reassured his friends and colleagues. “I’ll be proud to display it.”

Blanchard noted that was about as boastful as Blow gets. Friends say he deflects praise as if it were radiation.

Blow was born in 1937 and raised in Grand Isle, which for years had been known as “Blowville” for the multiple like-named families residing there since the 19th century. Blow’s carpenter father, James, and his mother, Blanche, a homemaker and crafter, moved the family to South Burlington in 1948. After high school, Blow enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Germany. While there, he completed a degree in history from the University of Maryland.

Though Blow’s nature is mildmannered and reserved, a love of history is the music that draws this wallflower onto the dance floor. “I was always interested in the past,” he told Seven Days. “Why this

road goes there. The placement of houses. What made my world the way it is.”

Carlisle, the local historian for whom the award is named, was a kindred spirit. They met while she was working in the Special Collections department at the UVM library. During the 1965 celebration of the city’s centennial, Blow and Carlisle gave walking tours of the Burlington waterfront. Blow never married, but Carlisle’s daughter Diana described her mom as “David’s special friend.” The prolific Blow collaborated with Carlisle on several of his scores of long history articles.

HISTORY

Bassett, a founding member of the Chittenden County Historical Society and Burlington native who had served as archivist to the United Nations, hired and trained Blow to work in Special Collections. In 1966, Blow also took on the management of the university’s own archives, then located in the Waterman Building. He retired from UVM in 2000. As he embarked on his archival research, Blow suddenly realized that he was overlooking a valuable but perishable resource: Burlington residents who’d lived in the 19th century. Real witnesses could provide a very clear picture of how the Queen City — or anything of that time — looked and felt.

Friends said Blow’s natural reticence serves him well as a researcher. People are eager to speak with him. His superpower is shutting up.

“David is a terrific listener, and he is really extraordinary at absorbing facts and descriptions,” said Joe Perron, president of the Winooski Historical Society. Perron has become a kind of acolyte to Blow, who is happy to mentor a young historian.

Perron, a Winooski resident, said there are many large reference files at UVM that relate to Vermont and particularly Burlington. “David could reach in and pull out information on the most arcane subjects,” he said.

In 1970, Connell Gallagher came to UVM as a curator of manuscripts. His department had large binders full of print editions of the Burlington Free Press from 1820 to 1940. “David loved that,” recalled Gallagher, now living in Underhill. “I think he read the whole thing.”

That research led Blow to create a city history database “before there was such

David Blow receiving the Lilian Baker Carlisle Lifetime Achievement Award from Diana Carlisle

William Goss and David Blow, circa 1976

Blanchard asked if he had known or met the family.

“It turned out that David used to have regular long conversations with my grandfather, which he loved and remembered in great detail,” Blanchard said. Blow told him a number of details about his family that were news to him.

“He went way beyond what I had asked about,” Blanchard said, “following up several times with me via email, adding more interesting information each time.”

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What questions and concerns do you have for your community? Are you curious about how others make sense of these questions?

a thing,” Gallagher said with a chuckle. “He was very happy being left alone in the university archives.”

Blanchard discovered on a very personal level that Blow was not your run-of-the-mill historian. In the course of some local family research, Blanchard established that his grandfather came to Vermont in 1908 and had a house built on the corner of Burlington’s Howard and Hayward streets in the 19-teens. Knowing that a much younger Blow had lived across the street from that house,

For this story, Seven Days asked local authors whether Vermont was a good place to be a historian. J. Kevin Graffagnino, a veteran historian of the state, who last year published a wellreceived Ira Allen biography, said yes and cited David Blow as one reason why.

“Standout, respectable historians, men and women who wrote big, thick tomes on the history of Brattleboro, Barnard or Newbury — Blow is the principal representative of that tradition,” Graffagnino said. “A walking encyclopedia. Anybody who worked on Burlington subjects in the last 40 years knew: Go to David Blow for help!” ➆

Spend a year learning with the people and places that matter most to you. Vermonters ages 18+ receive funding, skills, and ongoing mentorship to create collaborative research projects.

Learn more and apply by Dec. 14: vtfolklife.org/ communityfellows

AUTHOR EVENT

Monday, Nov. 24, 6-7:30 pm

South Burlington Public Library 180 Market St. S.Burlington, 05403

From left: Lilian Baker Carlisle, Blow and Sarah Dopp in 1990

Blow (far right) with friends on Hayward Street in Burlington in 1946

Word to the Wise

Years before chef Elliot Sion opened the Wise Fool in Burlington’s Old North End, he knew what he wanted to call his restaurant. The Middle Eastern folk character known as the wise fool has ﬁgured in Sion’s life since he was small.

“When me or my siblings did anything dumb, our parents would accuse us of being like Goha,” Sion recalled recently, using an Arabic name for the cheerful, bumbling man. The wise fool is always digging himself out of some kind of ﬁx, Sion explained — never with smart or e cient tactics.

If his parents meant to invoke Goha as a cautionary tale, their 37-year-old son freely admits that he has taken the wise fool’s approach to heart in a more positive way. “My life has just been a series

FOOD LOVER?

of questionable decisions, and somehow I’m still here doing this,” Sion said with a smile.

He was perched on a window-counter stool in the Wise Fool’s month-old dining room next to his wife and co-owner, Becca Christie. (Getting married earlier this year, Sion noted, was not among his questionable decisions.)

The Wise Fool opened on the corner of North Street and North Winooski Avenue for sit-down dining in mid-October after eight months of o ering takeout only. As Sion and Christie chatted, the restaurant team bustled, preparing for the evening’s service. One cook rolled dough for ﬂaky, griddled rounds of laffa bread while another whizzed up one of many sauces to lavish over platters of rice made with freshly simmered stock topped with ﬁnely chopped salad, housemade pickles, herb-packed falafel and spit-roasted, griddle-crisped chicken shawarma.

“Everything we serve here, we make ourselves, except for the ketchup,” Sion said. “I don’t make my life easy. Everything’s a three-step process or more.”

Sion describes his menu as Middle Eastern street food that pays homage to the global diaspora to which his Jewish-Egyptian-Syrian family belongs.

“The Wise Fool is as much influenced by the halal carts in New York as it is by a vendor in Beirut,” he said.

The chef’s insistence on labor-intensive, fromscratch cooking also shows the inﬂuence of his almost two decades spent in professional, often high-end kitchens. Those years included one studying at the Culinary Institute of America, where the New York City native enrolled after dropping out of the University of Vermont.

While in college, Sion began working in Burlington-area kitchens simply to earn money but soon realized he thrived in restaurants. “I love food. I just love ﬂavor. I grew up in a very food-centric family,” he said. “I ﬁgured I should learn how to cook, if I love to eat.”

As culinary students sometimes do, Sion opted to skip completing his degree in favor of staying on at his ﬁrst internship,

Clockwise from left: Fatayer, fattoush salad, loaded Dutch shawarma fries, laffa, a Northender with mint, hummus with laffa, house pickles and chicken wings with zhoug at the Wise Fool in Burlington

Becca Christie and Elliot Sion

SIDEdishes

SERVING UP FOOD NEWS

Specs Opens

Long-Awaited Cocktail Bar in Winooski

SAM NELIS has been hosting Friday night cocktail pop-ups in his café-bar-beverage market for well over a year. As of Sunday, November 16, customers can enjoy the SPECS bar in Winooski seven nights a week.

Specs opened at 7 West Canal Street in December 2023, initially as a café serving coffee, tea and espresso drinks. The attached retail shop followed in May 2024, with educational workshops and the Friday cocktails soon after. Specs remained open while Nelis built the 10-seat bar, which a curtain has hidden since the back wall came down in the spring.

Now, he’s realizing the full Specs vision: a café-bar open morning ’til night. During the day, a small menu of daytime cocktails joins the usual roster of coffee drinks. At 4 p.m., the full cocktail menu is available with “many, many more” options, Nelis said, starting with around 100 classics.

Housemade ingredients, including fresh-squeezed juices and crystal-clear ice, star in Manhattans; mojitos; 50/50 martinis; cosmopolitans; tropical piña coladas, mai tais and blue Hawaiians; and the vermouth-forward Adonis. For each, the menu lists the bar’s “specs,” or detailed recipe specifications.

“If you’re a cocktail bar, a bar-bar, you should be able to make these drinks anyway,” Nelis said. He and his team

of three bartenders narrowed the list down from 400.

The expansion increases Specs’ capacity to 50 people in the café-bar. The coffee menu is available into the evening, along with coffee cocktails such as espresso martinis and white Russians. Four beers are on tap, and the attached shop supplies more beer, wine and nonalcoholic options. A small snack selection includes popcorn, chips, nuts, dips and a pickle trio plate.

Otherwise, “it’s drinks, drinks, drinks, all of them, all the time,” Nelis said.

JORDAN BARRY

Eat Vermont Invests in Bristol’s Farmhouse Chocolates

SENATOR ROCKET, the founder of the EAT VERMONT media and technology platform, and two silent partners have invested a six-figure sum in Bristol’s FARMHOUSE

CHOCOLATES. The specialty chocolate company’s married co-owners, ELIZA LA ROCCA and ERLÉ LABOUNTY, will remain involved with the business they have grown over more than a decade to annual sales of $400,000. This first investment of its kind for Eat Vermont may serve as a model for future deals in the state’s specialty food and drink sector, Rocket said.

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Sam Nelis at Specs in Winooski

LOVE SCOTCH?

with chef Ana Sortun’s flagship Oleana in Cambridge, Mass.

Working in Massachusetts, the young cook met chef Cara Chigazola Tobin, who also worked for Sortun’s restaurant group. When she asked if he was interested in joining her team to launch Honey Road in 2017, Sion jumped at the chance to return to Burlington. He rose to chef de cuisine before leaving in 2024 to work briefly at the Tillerman in Bristol until deciding to finally strike out on his own.

Christie grew up in Chittenden County and started working in hospitality at 15, scooping ice cream at the Ben & Jerry’s on Church Street in Burlington. She was general manager of Burlington’s New Moon Café for six years and, unlike her husband, successfully completed a degree — in business.

On their first Tinder date, in 2018, the pair drank beer and ate fries “with a side of mayo,” Christie said. That kind of casual restaurant outing is what the couple is shooting for with the Wise Fool.

Over the years, Sion had become frustrated with the exclusivity of pricier restaurants. “This is my quiet rebellion,” he said. The Wise Fool aims to be a neighborhood spot that is accessible to everyone, while also keeping quality

high. “Affordable doesn’t mean cheap,” Sion cautioned.

“I want to be a place where you can come with some friends, get a bottle of wine, get a bunch of snacks, or get a big plate of food to share and just have a good night without losing all your money,” he said.

In February, the couple opened the Wise Fool for takeout and quickly grew a following for their reasonably priced, scratch-made menu, led by their chicken shawarma or falafel ($15) dressed with

fresh veggies, sweet pickles and sauces. This all comes either rolled in housebaked laffa or served over plain or “fancy” chicken stock-seasoned rice, also called yellow rice. The late-night Donkey Meal adds fries and a nonalcoholic drink for $20.

When I picked up my first order in March, another customer gushed, unprompted, “This place is such a vibe.” It only took one takeout meal for me to taste what she meant: The shawarma wrap and falafel over rice delivered a

A family meal for two with chicken shawarma and falafel and an old-fashioned

Wise Fool

wholly satisfying hearty riot of spice and pucker, chew and crunch. Subsequent orders included the fattoush salad ($9) with a zingy pomegranate-sumac dressing and crisp pita chips; and sous-chef Frank Willis’ butter-poached fingerling potato and whipped feta special ($6), punchy with pickled Fresno peppers, herbs and za’atar spice. I have since become a broken record begging for their return.

Sion and Christie used the takeout income to gradually renovate the restaurant’s interior. Their casual, no-frills eatery officially seats about 25 with standing room for a few more. Seats around the L-shaped bar are full service, but the rest of the room is counter service. The menu’s core has not changed, with a few past takeout specials, such as the beef kofta and wings, now made permanent — though not those fingerlings, yet.

Based on the brown bags lined up during a pair of recent visits, the Wise Fool is still doing brisk takeout business, but I recommend eating in for two main reasons. First, it’s hard to beat the drool-worthy crunch of certain dishes when hot and freshly plated — especially the falafel, wings and fries. Second, I believe Wise Fool offers the cheapest pours of eminently drinkable house wines in a Burlington restaurant: $6 for a sangiovese or a grüner veltliner. If you prefer beer or liquor, the house beer is Peroni (10 ounces for $4, 16 ounces for $6) and the non-fussy but classy cocktail list includes an intriguing Northender ($13) made with gin, black lime and mint.

food+drink

from Grand Isle’s Pomykala Farm, which were brined for a week before becoming pepper sauce.

My dining companion and I also shared a very good “NYC diner-style Greek salad” special ($9) with Pomykala tomatoes, creamy Bulgarian feta, olives and pickled peppers. That same sheep’s milk feta starred in the cheese version of fatayer ($6) we sampled. The small Lebanese pastries are made with the laffa dough folded around a mixture of feta, herbs and fried onions (my fave) or the same seasoned local ground beef used in the kofta.

Even if we hadn’t ordered these extras, I would have taken home at least one generous portion of leftover rice and protein after we ate our fill. We had to make ourselves stop to leave room for a few bites each of maple konafa ($6), a wonderfully savorysweet, syrup-soaked pastry made with shredded phyllo dough wrapped around a soft cheese filling.

ELLIOTT SION

On a return visit, I tried the mejadrah ($7), a filling combo of rice and lentils garnished with potato chip-crisp fried onions. Sion said the dish is a comfortfood touchstone of his childhood. That and half a dozen of the restaurant’s signature, and excellent, wings ($8) made an ample and very reasonably priced meal for one.

The wings are brined overnight, marinated in the shawarma spice blend for another night and then roasted. When an order comes in, the chicken heads into the fryer before being dusted with another spice mix that also finishes Wise Fool fries.

For my inaugural sit-down meal, a friend and I ordered one of the new family meals ($32 for two with two proteins, or $64 for four with all three proteins). The meals start with a small pot of silky house hummus and a soft round of laffa followed by a tray loaded with rice, veggies and your choices of shawarma, kofta or falafel all abundantly sauced with the holy trinity of creamy garlic, hot sauce and tahini.

The first two “are an ode to New York, and the tahini is an ode to the Middle East,” Sion said. The hot sauce also honors Vermont. In late October and early November, Sion bought about 150 pounds of Fresno chiles and red jalapeños

Originally, Sion said, he was throwing the wings from the whole local chickens he buys for shawarma into his stockpot. Then he realized they’d make a great menu addition.

To deploy the wings in this way is definitely wise. To bother with so many steps to make them this good — and charge so little — one could call foolish. But as I dipped each crisp-skinned, deeply seasoned wing into the Wise Fool’s peppery green-herb zhoug sauce, both decisions struck me as very wise. ➆

SMALL PLEASURES

In addition to her soybean miso, Tarrant sells a sweeter, nontraditional miso paste made with chickpeas (both sell for $13 per 12-ounce package), for customers seeking a milder ﬂavor or avoiding soy. Both can be used for homemade soup or to boost ﬂavor in marinades, sandwich spreads and dips. Tarrant suggests using the chickpea miso to add complexity to sweet baked goods such as chocolate chip cookies.

IBY RACHEL STEARNS

Miso in a Minute

Sampling a Montpelier-made shortcut to the savory soup

t was closing in on 9 p.m. The first snow of the season swirled outside.

Inside, smoke billowed from the wok on the stove as my husband stir-fried mushrooms and peppers. A blast of icy air hit me as I frantically set up a window fan, just in time to prevent the ear-splitting, pet-terrorizing ordeal that is the ﬁre alarm. Sigh. Just another manic Monday.

This called for a little treat. Remembering the miso soup balls I had picked up at the Burlington Farmers Market that weekend, I boiled some water, and in a minute ﬂat we had steaming soup to sip by the time the last tendrils of smoke cleared.

What are these secret weapons, you ask? They’re Yoko Tarrant’s clever convenience-food take on the popular Japanese soup. And they belong in your fridge.

Tarrant started making miso after she and her Vermonter husband moved from her home in Kyoto to Montpelier in 2009. Here, she found herself unsatisﬁed with American miso o erings; the two or three brands of fermented soybean paste she could buy lacked the rich ﬂavor she was used to.

“Stores in Japan have, like, hundreds of di erent types of miso,” a staple of the country’s soups and sauces, Tarrant explained. Lacking that choice, she taught herself to make the paste with the help of the internet and advice from a sister in Japan. “It was really good. I was surprised,” she recalled with a laugh.

A mother of two, Tarrant left a job at a Montessori preschool during the pandemic and, in 2022, turned her homemade miso making into a business. Since the fermented paste must be aged, her ﬁrst Umamiso products weren’t ready to sell until January 2024.

STORES IN JAPAN HAVE, LIKE, HUNDREDS OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF MISO.

YOKO TARRANT

In the 15 years since she made those initial batches for herself, Tarrant has refined her recipes, even attending miso-making workshops in Japan. The standard variety of the umami-rich soup base is made from just four ingredients: soybeans, salt, water and koji as a fermenting agent. Tarrant makes her own koji by inoculating rice with fungus spores. The whole process is time-consuming: four days to make the koji, another day to mix the paste, then eight to nine months of fermentation to reach ﬁnished miso.

For total newbies to the miso scene, the soup balls I’m obsessed with are a perfect introduction to the ingredient. Using soybean miso as a base, Tarrant adds shiitake, cabbage and onion powders to the Play-Dohtextured paste. She then makes two di erent flavors, adding wakame (seaweed) to one and bringing Vermont flair to another with a bit of seasonal produce, switching up her flavors and garnishes for each market day.

The soup balls come four to a box ($15), two of each ﬂavor. In the box I purchased, the seaweed balls were adorned with elegant wheat-gluten ﬂowers Tarrant brought back from a recent trip to Japan.

Legend has it that portable miso balls are a long-standing tradition in Japan. “I’ve heard that samurai soldiers used to bring them to wars. Because of the salt content, they last a long time,” Tarrant said. “I’m sure they were not pretty like these, though.”

For Vermonters not steeped in Japanese tradition, Tarrant includes an instruction sheet, though the prep couldn’t be easier: Place a soup ball in a bowl or mug and pour 6 to 8 ounces of boiling water over it. Wait one minute, stir, et voilà: comforting, delicious miso soup.

Tarrant makes a batch of miso every other week and, by last May, had doubled annual production over the prior year, to 1,800 pounds. Her expanded stock should be ready for sale by February. She currently sells miso in several Montpelier-area stores, but the soup balls are only available at farmers markets. Check Umamiso’s social media for market locations and dates.

If my recent experience taught me anything, it’s that a warm bowl of miso soup can go a long way toward a reset of the psyche. With winter’s cold and dark ahead, I’m considering giving these magic balls as gifts. I just might be No. 1 on the list. ➆

Small Pleasures is an occasional column that features delicious and distinctive Vermont-made snacks or drinks that pack a punch. Send us your favorite little bites or sips with big payo at food@ sevendaysvt.com.

INFO

Learn more at Umamiso Vermont on Instagram or Facebook.

Soup made with an Umamiso soup ball

Umamiso soup balls

Yoko Tarrant making koji

SIDEdishes

The ownership stake in Farmhouse Chocolates supports Rocket’s goal of building a more resilient local food system, he told Seven Days

Since the 33-year-old launched Eat Vermont in 2015, it has garnered nearly 40,000 Instagram followers and about 7,000 downloads for the associated app. Over that time, Rocket said, he has witnessed the highs and lows of trying to build artisanal food companies in Vermont.

“The great advantage of specialty foods is that we can import dollars by exporting food,” he said. However, while “there are many talented artisans and there are many talented businesspeople, there are fewer people who are talented at both.”

Rocket sees his investment strategy as a way to share some of the risk — and potential rewards — of experimenting with new tactics. The aim is “to help accelerate small artisanal businesses in Vermont, growing them to a comfortable, healthy, livable scale,” he said.

Like many entrepreneurs, LaBounty, 44, and La Rocca, 40, have poured all of their time and energy into their line of confections made with certified organic, fair- and direct-trade chocolate. A couple of years ago, they began the search for a buyer. “The business was at a point where it was ready to keep on growing, but we didn’t have anything left in the tank,” LaBounty said.

The couple’s decade-long friendship with Rocket helped seal the deal. They met when LaBounty worked at Otter Creek Bakery in Middlebury, where Rocket, then a college student, was a regular. While working with a business broker, the couple asked Rocket if he knew any potential buyers and were surprised when he showed interest.

LaBounty and La Rocca eventually did get an offer to buy the business outright. But they liked the idea of staying involved with Farmhouse’s next phase, providing continuity for customers and serving as a “test case” for “how much Rocket can leverage the network and resources that Eat Vermont has built for small companies like us,” La Rocca said.

“I knew he would present opportunities for the business that we couldn’t,” her husband added.

MELISSA PASANEN

Ruth, a Kosher Food Truck, Launches in Burlington

Chef MENACHEM CONE has opened a kosher food truck named RUTH, offering what he describes as “world food from a kosher lens” in the parking lot of the Chabad of Burlington community center at 57 South Williams Street in Burlington. He plans to operate through the winter, serving the families of 90 students who attend the preschool and day school housed at Chabad, as well as the general public.

“Just because it’s kosher, it’s not exclusive,” Cone said. “It’s for anyone and everyone. I just love to feed people.”

Cone, 37, became a Hasidic Orthodox Jew after growing up in Topsham in a Jewish family he described as “very, very assimilated.”

He named his business for a beloved, now-deceased family dog, who was, in turn, named in honor of Old Testament matriarch Ruth, who “chose to be Jewish,” he said.

The chef comes from a family of artists and moved to New York City for art school, but he soon left and started cooking for a living. Over six years, Cone worked his way up in kitchens helmed by notable chefs, learning Italian technique under Michelin-starred Missy Robbins, pan-Latin cuisine from Ulrich Sterling and the farm-to-table approach from the Green Table’s Mary Cleaver.

After Cone returned to Topsham in 2012, he opened a food truck called In the Road, which catered festivals and private events for about a decade. As he became more observant, it felt wrong to work on Shabbat and cook food he would no longer eat himself, Cone said.

This summer, he gutted and rebuilt his small, stainless-steel truck to comply with strict kosher rules. Ruth’s menu will vary weekly but always include a housemade pastrami sandwich; falafel made from scratch with dry chickpeas; freshly cut shoestring fries; and kids’ meals. Since the truck offers meat, it does not serve dairy.

Follow @ruthtruck on Instagram for hours.

CONNECT

Menachem Cone in his Ruth food truck with sabich eggplant and pastrami sandwiches

From left: Senator Rocket, Eliza La Rocca and Erlé LaBounty

Farmhouse Chocolates salted caramels

FILE: CALEB KENNA

culture

Happening Here

e Flynn and Artistree join national artists’ resistance movement “Fall of Freedom”

BY MARY ANN LICKTEIG • maryann@sevendaysvt.com

The Flynn in Burlington and Artistree Community Arts Center, Theatre & Gallery in South Pomfret are among hundreds of arts presenters across the country staging events to protest the actions of President Donald Trump and his administration.

The demonstration, titled “Fall of Freedom,” is “an urgent call to the arts community to unite in deﬁance of authoritarian forces sweeping the nation,” its mission states. “Our Democracy is under attack. Threats to free expression are rising. Dissent is being criminalized. Institutions and media have been recast as mouthpieces of propaganda.” National organizers, who include visual artist Dread Scott and playwright Lynn Nottage, have issued an open invitation to theaters, museums, libraries, schools, concert halls and comedy clubs to join a “nationwide wave of creative resistance” this Friday and Saturday, November 21 and 22.

Planning began just two months ago. Participants include the Institute of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, Berkeley Repertory Theatre in California, the Public

Theater in New York City and Woolly Mammoth Theatre in Washington, D.C.

Artistree will present “Small Staged Works,” staged readings of plays by three local playwrights at the Grange Theatre.

The Vastness Within by Daniel Patterson is on Friday; Discord in Concord by Peter Rousmaniere and Shrimp Pudding by Kyle Mumford take the stage on Saturday.

The Flynn will offer a free staged reading of Sinclair Lewis’ It Can’t Happen Here on Saturday, in its Flynn Space black-box theater. The 1935 novel, adapted for stage in 2016 by Tony Taccone and Bennett S. Cohen, is a cautionary tale about the fragility of democracy and the way fascism can take hold in America. Set in Vermont, in the ﬁctional town of Fort Beulah, the story features blustery demagogue Berzelius “Buzz” Windrip, who defeats Franklin Roosevelt in the 1936 Democratic presidential primary. Leveraging fear and stoking patriotic fervor, Windrip campaigns on a promise to return the country to greatness, and he wins. Once in o ce, he declares martial law, weakens the Supreme Court and takes control of the media.

Protagonist Doremus Jessup is a local newspaper editor who observes the tyranny

from the sidelines, trusting that the system will ﬁx itself — until he ends up in a prison camp.

For its production, the Flynn has assembled a cast of actors, politicians and arts administrators, including Vermont Rep. Carol Ode (D-Burlington), former Burlington mayor Miro Weinberger, Vermont Arts Council executive director Susan Evans McClure, Vermont Humanities executive director Christopher Kaufman Ilstrup and Flynn executive director Jay Wahl.

Mixing actors with nonactors, Wahl said, illustrates how “the arts bring people and voices and ideas together and how critical that is — which, of course, is the whole point of the national movement.”

Margo Whitcomb will direct. “It’s a real guerilla-theater approach,” she said, “because it’s just a reading.” Though actors will have scripts in advance, they will rehearse for just four hours.

Perfection is not the point, Wahl said. “The act of it,” he said, “that’s the work.”

Lewis’ 90-year-old story “depicts a world very similar to the sort of fractured American culture we find ourselves in today,” Whitcomb said. Though deemed political satire, the show is highly exaggerated, she said, but not funny.

Lewis wrote the story on the farm he and his wife owned in Barnard. According to Vermont historian Mark Bushnell, Lewis, like other Americans, was alarmed by the rise of fascism in Europe led by Adolf Hitler in Germany and Benito Mussolini in Italy. But Lewis would not have written the novel if it weren’t for his wife, journalist Dorothy Thompson, Thompson biographer Peter Kurth wrote in Seven Days in 2004. Thompson first met and interviewed Hitler in Germany in 1931 and wrote about his “utter insigniﬁcance.”

“He is inconsequent and voluble, ill-poised, insecure,” Thompson wrote.

“He is the very prototype of the Little Man.”

Hitler expelled Thompson from Nazi Germany in 1934, and Lewis wrote It Can’t Happen Here the next year. Fearing that real-world events might overtake his narrative, the Nobel Prize winner wrote for 12 hours a day, seven days a week, historian Bushnell wrote in VTDigger. While fascism rose in Europe, Huey Long eyed a presidential run in the U.S., promising to obliterate privilege and wealth and make “every man a king.”

“At the same time,” Bushnell wrote, “Long ran Louisiana with an iron ﬁst while facing credible claims that he committed bribery, election fraud, and voter intimidation; put loyalists into state jobs, proﬁted from ties to oil companies doing business with his state, and even tried to get his bodyguard to kill a political rival.”

“It Can’t Happen Here speaks directly to this moment and to the importance of defending democracy through community and creativity,” Wahl said.

“Art matters,” Fall of Freedom organizers said in their mission statement. “Artists are a threat to American fascism.” ➆

INFO

It Can’t Happen Here, Saturday, November 22, 6 p.m., at Flynn Space in Burlington. Free. Reservations encouraged at ﬂynnvt.org.

e Vastness Within, Friday, November 21, 7 p.m.; Discord in Concord, Saturday, November 22, 3 p.m.; and Shrimp Pudding, November 22, 7 p.m., at the Grange eatre in South Pomfret. $5. artistreevt.org. Learn more at falloffreedom.com.

©ARNOLDGENTHE

Sinclair Lewis

New Town Hall Theater Series ‘Loops’ Audiences Into the Creative Process

BY MADELEINE KAPTEIN

Singer and composer Moira Smiley and choreographer Laurel Jenkins will already have broken into song and dance by the time doors open to the inaugural edition of the “The Loop,” a new series debuting this week at Middlebury’s Town Hall Theater.

After mingling over drinks in Jean’s Place lounge in the theater’s new wing, attendees will make their way into the Anderson Studio. There, they’ll settle into a semicircle seating arrangement around Smiley and Jenkins to witness the artists’ work in progress come to life. Afterward, they’ll return to the lounge to debrief about what they saw, sharing their observations with the artists and each other.

Smiley, a 49-year-old Grammynominated artist, will sing short original songs, to which Jenkins, 46, will perform a fixed dance routine. When a song ends, Jenkins will continue to dance, and Smiley will improvise tunes to match her movement. The idea, the duo said, is to allow the audience to witness their creative process in real time and eliminate the dynamic of a consistent “leader” and “follower” in performance.

The series “is shifting the model away from product and entertainment,”

Jenkins said, noting the pressure on performing artists to “commodify, package and sell” their work. But commercialization often comes at a cost, she continued, “because if you’re doing that, you’re not doing the other things. You’re not playing. You’re maybe not evolving.”

Jenkins and Smiley will incorporate costumes and props into their performance. They’re still working out the details, but sparkly suits, large pieces of paper, and real tree branches to move and create sound are all possibilities, Smiley said.

“I love the metaphor of infinity,” Jenkins said, describing the sort of constructive feedback loop she hopes the show will create. “It’s always happening. You just have to tap in.”

Launching this Thursday, November 20, with Smiley and Jenkins’ collaboration, “The Loop” is a series of four performances at Town Hall Theater throughout the winter and spring that invite audiences into the artists’ creative processes.

“The point of ‘The Loop’ is to open that secret door to the audience and let them in on this language that we know deeply but maybe isn’t apparent,” Jenkins said.

Each of those open doors will reveal aspects of art making in varied performance disciplines. In January, Middlebury College visiting assistant acting professor Craig Maravich will set up interactive stations for audience members around the studio related to the school’s winter-term musical, Urinetown. For semiprofessional jazz pianist Bill Viteck’s jazz and poetry performance in March, visitors will witness the live composition of a poem. Smiley and Jenkins will share their back-andforth, improvisational practice.

“Objects can have a lot of meaning and storytelling potential,” Jenkins said. “So, this is like a DIY opera.”

“A DIY abstract opera,” Smiley chimed in, “with no subtitles.”

After each performance in the series, audiences will reconvene for a moment of reflection, thus closing “the loop.”

According to Lindsay Pontius, director of the Center for Learning and Engagement at Town Hall Theater, this debrief won’t necessarily take the form of a regular Q&A session; for her performance with Smiley, Jenkins suggested they might provide audience members with materials to write a letter about what they saw.

“We really want to make that the key part of it — not just ‘Let’s see what you think,’ or ‘Let’s see what you’re getting from us,’ Pontius said. “It’s like, ‘What’s happening in the room?’” ➆

INFO

“The Loop” with Moira Smiley and Laurel Jenkins, Thursday, November 20, 6 p.m., at Town Hall Theater in Middlebury. $1020 suggested donation. Reservations recommended. townhalltheater.org.

through January 24, 2026

4T-BCA2-111925 1

COURTESY

Laurel Jenkins

Moira Smiley

COURTESY OF MARILIA DESTOT

Do We Say Goodbye? Grief, Loss, and Mourning is supported in part by the Maslow Family Foundation, Bill Gottesman and Debra Lopez Gottesman, and Ernie Pomerleau. Programmatic Partners: Vermont Association of Psychoanalytic Studies (VAPS) and Middlebury College. Hospitality sponsor: Lake Champlain Chocolates. Burlington City Arts is supported in part by the Vermont Arts Council & the National Endowment for the Arts.

Do We Say Goodbye? Grief, Loss, and Mourning, BCA Center installation, 2025 | P: Liza Voll Open

Moms for Liberty

Book reviews: A Mother Always Knows, Sarah Strohmeyer; e Board, Katy Farber

BY MARGOT HARRISON • margot@sevendaysvt.com

Reading new thrillers by Middlesex-area authors Sarah Strohmeyer and Katy Farber, I was struck by their similar openings. Chapter 1 of Strohmeyer’s A Mother Always Knows takes place in the Cambridge (Mass.) Public Library, where librarians meet with an activist parent. Farber’s The Board also opens with its protagonist in a library, attending a school board meeting to weigh in on her daughter’s education.

The common setting is more than coincidence, given that both books are about motherhood. Libraries are increasingly the battleground for questions of how children should be raised, hence the primary target of the real-world book-banning group Moms for Liberty. While neither of the moms in these books would have any truck with that organization, they champion their own versions of liberty for themselves and their daughters.

BOOKS

Farber is a former Vermont public school teacher and current assistant professor of education at Saint Michael’s College who clearly knows her way around such debates. The novel’s narrator, Liv Wilcox, has recently left her husband and taken her 8-year-old daughter, Piper, to live in her late aunt’s house in a small New Hampshire town. The setting seems idyllic. But at that ﬁrst school board meeting, Liv learns that the principal/superintendent, Bob Stewart, is a believer in oldschool pedagogy who rules with an iron hand. He disciplines Piper for expressing her big emotions, dismisses her mother’s concerns and belittles her at every turn. The townspeople back him up, enforcing an almost Stepford level of conformity. “It was like a big town secret,” Farber writes, “this militant school, and everyone knew it.”

Insecure Liv wishes she could be a ﬁery feminist like her aunt, who stood up to Stewart as the town librarian. But Liv’s own law school training has given her a love for “researching, following leads, putting together a giant puzzle, seeing how it all connected.” Hoping “to make things better,” she applies those skills to investigating the principal and his posse,

who may be profiting from shady side deals.

Vermonters are no strangers to smalltown power politics, and it’s easy to root for the single mom in this scenario. While Stewart and his smug, intolerant minions verge on evil cartoons, Farber ﬂeshes out Liv’s background to give more dimensions to her crusade. By standing up to the board, she confronts the sexism that she hopes won’t shape her daughter’s life as it did her own.

As a thriller, The Board su ers from a slow start and a lot of action crammed into the last act. While I cheered on Liv’s transformation from fearful mouse into kick-ass whistleblower, her risky actions don’t always feel su ciently motivated, and her legal acumen ends up not playing much of a part in the story’s resolution. Still, her fierce love for her daughter makes her likable. Thriller readers who are less interested in ﬁendish twists than in meaty book-club discussions should check this one out.

While The Board has a single present-tense narrator and story thread, Strohmeyer’s A Mother Always Knows is a more densely plotted novel that unfolds in multiple time frames and perspectives. Our primary narrator is 30-year-old Stella O’Neill. When she was 10, her mom, Rose — the mother in the title — was brutally murdered on the grounds of a Vermont new-age commune devoted to spiritual dowsing. Rose had left her husband to join charismatic leader Radcli e MacBeath, bringing Stella along. The crime remains unsolved, though Stella has fragmentary memories of a possible killer.

Adult Stella is living under the radar in Boston when a true-crime show puts her lurid past online. The exposure makes her and her dad targets of the cult, the Diviners, who are about to hold their annual solstice celebration in (where else?) the Bennington Triangle, known to Joe Citro fans as a site of unexplained disappearances. Determined to set the past to rest, Stella returns to Vermont. MacBeath

may be a charlatan, but Stella’s dowsing powers are real, as were her mother’s. And she hopes to use them to ﬁ nd the killer.

Stella’s narrative alternates with chapters set during the last few days of Rose’s life and with present-day chapters from the perspective of Priti, the socialite wife of a tech bro who may have had something to do with Rose’s death.

For this reader, Rose’s story was by far the most compelling. It gives us a window into the customs of the cult, which Strohmeyer has worked out in engrossing detail. And Rose’s plight has a primal pull: Originally a free-spirited believer in MacBeath, she now recognizes him as a creepy hypocrite and plots to escape his clutches with her precious daughter.

Strohmeyer has authored a slew of novels ranging from mysteries to romcoms, and the other two narratives of A Mother Always Knows veer toward the lighter tone of the latter. Priti’s tale delves into the well-heeled milieu of Dutton, Vt. (reminiscent of Dorset), with satirical gusto, introducing us to country club denizens with names like “Bogey Grovey.”

In Stella’s narrative, however, the novel’s humor becomes a disadvantage, as her cutesy voice makes it tough to take the dangers she encounters seriously.

Captured by the cult, she muses on the Yelp review she’d give her prison: “There’s absolutely no view, the bed is rock hard, the food sucks, and the customer service is terrible.” A snappy one-liner sums up a cult member who was once her playmate: “Not only does he drink the Kool-Aid, he mixes it up by the pitcher.”

Sure, humor can be a coping mechanism. But after the grim depiction of the cult’s murderous discipline in Rose’s story, Stella’s constant quipping feels misplaced. Because of this tonal ﬂuctuation, only about half of A Mother Always Knows feels like a thriller. Trying to jack up tension, Strohmeyer yields a few too many times to the temptation to fake out the reader with misleading chapterending cli angers.

Those shortcomings aside, the novel

is layered enough to keep us guessing whodunit. Vermonters will appreciate its wealth of references to local history and lore, from the 1984 raid on the Island Pond community to the ghost town of Glastenbury. Strohmeyer also shows a healthy respect for the tradition of dowsing, citing her sources in the acknowledgments while noting that “I also made up a bunch of stu .” That cheeky, freewheeling spirit permeates the book, for all its serious concerns.

Farber’s Liv and Strohmeyer’s Rose would probably agree that society places an overwhelming burden on mothers. Both characters pay a price for putting their own needs first. Rose acknowledges that her peers would see her choice to join the cult as “incredibly selfish or just plain nuts.” As a single mom in a hostile new town, Liv is terrified of being “branded ‘that’ parent. The one that brought her kid in late, picked her up late … used their grocery money for booze…”

By the end of the book, however, Liv has realized those fears are the lever the town patriarchs and matriarchs use to enforce social control. “Weren’t women always in trouble?” she wonders. “Trouble for being too much, too little.” Like Rose, she decides the best way to set an example for her daughter is not to give in. ➆

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fl ticipant arts festival and the longestrunning regional burn in New England. We are an experienced and insured volunteer-run organization dedicated to running a safe, sustainable event. We are looking for a MA, VT, NH or ME site for our next event, to be held in July 2026. If interested please contact: firefl tive.org

Calendar events and art listings happening 12/3-12/10 are due by: Wednesday, 11/26, at noon sevendaysvt.com/postevent

Advertising reservations due by: Wednesday, 11/26, at noon 802-864-5684 or sales@sevendaysvt.com

e Board by Katy Farber, Blackstone Publishing, 290 pages. $18.99. A Mother Always Knows by Sarah Strohmeyer, Harper Perennial, 336 pages. $18.99. ﬂ tive seeks 50-100 acres for a six-day, leave-no-trace event

A Neighborhood Staple

North End Food Pantry provides food and stability in Burlington

Americans may not be able to agree about much these days, but most would say there is a lot to be anxious about. The cost of everything seems to be rising, and social safety net programs are being cut. In Burlington’s New North End, a group of volunteers is doing its best to provide relief and stability at the North End Food Pantry.

During the longest government shutdown in our country’s history, SNAP beneﬁts were frozen, leaving 42 million Americans and 65,000 Vermonters hungry. The State of Vermont issued partial beneﬁts to Vermonters through 3SquaresVT, but food banks were seeing increased need and attendance even without the shutdown.

The North End Food Pantry is open Saturday and Sunday from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Odd Fellows Lodge on North Avenue and serves almost 700 people monthly. Everyone is welcome, and there is no paperwork to fill out. Founder Thom Fleury greets guests at the entry and also accepts a steady stream of donations from community members. People arrive by 8:50 a.m. and head upstairs to receive a number. When their number is called, they choose fresh produce and baked goods, then pick up clothing, shoes, diapers, shelf-stable food and toiletries downstairs.

people and learning about the volunteerled organization.

Sollberger spoke with Seven Days about ﬁlming the episode.

Why did you pick this story?

Where does the food come from?

were a treat. Zachary York is the noble grand and elected leader at the Odd Fellows Lodge. York also volunteers for the pantry and picked up food donations earlier in the morning. He shared that “It’s a vital lifeline for people in this community.”

Why did you interview more volunteers than guests?

senior multimedia journalist Eva Sollberger spent a few mornings at the pantry meeting

Food banks have been in the news a lot lately, but I actually started talking to Linda Looney, board secretary at the pantry, back in January. Looney’s daughter emailed me when I did an open call on social media searching for stories about people helping their communities. Looney’s husband and grandkids also volunteer at the pantry. We planned to do this video before the government shutdown happened and the need grew more intense.

The produce, deli and bakery items are picked up earlier in the morning from Hannaford supermarkets. Every Friday, vegetables are donated from the Intervale Community Farm. On a Sunday morning I met retired farmer Larry Pillsbury, who was dropping o boxes of food from Hannaford and the Williston Community Food Shelf, which is not open on Sundays. A steady stream of donations came in all morning from community members as well.

Have you been to the Odd Fellows Lodge?

It was my first time visiting, and the majestic throne-like chairs and funky décor

I would have liked to include more stories from the people picking up food, but I can also understand why they might be nervous about appearing in a video. There is a stigma attached to being food insecure, even though it is something anyone could experience. A number of visitors were not comfortable being ﬁlmed, so Looney announced that I would only ﬁlm hands and feet and any faces would be blurred.

Any ﬁnal thoughts?

As one woman was leaving with full bags of food, she called out to me by name and said, “This place is a lifesaver.” She didn’t want to be interviewed, but I hope she will be OK with me sharing her sentiment here, which is probably felt by many neighbors in the New North End. ➆

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

754: North End Food Pantry

edgewatergallery.com

on screen

Frankenstein ★★★★

As a former English lit professor, I love nothing more than to open up social media and see a fierce debate over what Mary Shelley or Emily Brontë would have thought of a modern adaptation of her work. Recently, the trailer for Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights (due on Valentine’s Day) got everyone buzzing, and now Guillermo del Toro’s take on Frankenstein has dropped on Netflix. Coincidentally (or not?), both films star Jacob Elordi.

The deal

In 1857, a Danish expedition to the North Pole encounters Swiss Baron Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac), who is pursuing a seemingly monstrous and immortal Creature (Elordi) to the ends of the earth.

Victor tells the captain his story. Raised by his cold, abusive father (Charles Dance) to be a great surgeon, he became obsessed with the idea of reviving the dead. A German arms dealer (Christoph Waltz) offered to fund Victor’s unorthodox experiments. The dealer’s niece, Elizabeth (Mia Goth), quickly won Victor’s heart — though, inconveniently, she was already engaged to his own brother.

In an abandoned tower, Victor pieced

together a collection of corpses scavenged from gallows and battleﬁelds, then applied electricity to bring his composite Creature to life. While Elizabeth found the Creature enthralling, Victor was dismayed by its apparent lack of intelligence, as shown by its failure to speak any word but his name. By imitating his own father’s parenting methods, he placed events on a tragic course.

Will you like it?

A lifelong passion project of del Toro’s, this Frankenstein is no straight retelling of Shelley’s 1818 novel. Describing his approach to the material, the director of Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water told El Mundo that when dealing with a “universal myth … the myth itself rises so far above the original material that any interpretation is equally faithful if done with sincerity, power, and personality.”

His Frankenstein has no shortage of those qualities. Visually, a ﬁlm couldn’t have much more “personality” than this one, from the decadent, jewel-toned costumes to the elaborate practical sets to the Creature’s design.

Del Toro’s vision is more operatic and rife with Catholic imagery than Shelley’s, but it also reﬂects a loving knowledge of

Elizabeth’s fascination with the Creature, of course, isn’t in the book. Del Toro has transformed Victor’s love interest into a self-willed woman with her own scientific curiosity, who rejects Victor because she senses his toxicity. I use that anachronistic term on purpose, because Isaac plays Victor like a 19th-century tech bro, reveling in his own arrogance.

REVIEW

her era. Snowy Alps and looming towers embody the Romantic aesthetic of the sublime. Dark interiors, lit spectrally from above, recall French Revolutionary painter Jacques-Louis David. The Creature’s muscular form, both ideal and grotesque, suggests the art of William Blake.

The sensibility is compatible with Shelley’s, too — up to a point. One early, muchridiculed review of the ﬁ lm expressed surprise at the sympathy with which del Toro portrays the Creature. But if you’re familiar with more than the Universal Monsters renditions of Frankenstein, you know Shelley’s “monster” was more like the ultimate emo teen — if emo teens still read Paradise Lost

Del Toro follows the original in switching narrators halfway through to let the Creature tell his side of the story. It’s a heart-wrenching tale of parental rejection, innocence giving way to experience and frustrated love curdling into hatred. While we may roll our eyes at Hollywood dressing up a hunky actor as a monster, Elordi’s borderline glam-rock appearance matches the book’s description. His speech and movements are convincingly o -putting and uncanny, too, allowing us to grasp how Victor can recoil from the Creature while Elizabeth is drawn to him.

This big, bold, fun performance underlines del Toro’s message: The “monsters” we fear are actually our own reﬂections. Mirrors appear in scene after scene. Victor rejects the Creature for doggedly repeating his name and thus reminding him of his own rejecting father, who gave it to him. It’s no shocker when the initially gentle Creature mimics his creator’s violence. But I wish del Toro hadn’t chosen to make the Creature more sympathetic than he is in the book — sympathetic to the point of martyrdom. Unkillable like Marvel Comics’ Wolverine, Elordi’s Creature demands that Victor make him a mate only because he can’t end his own tormented existence. Shelley’s version is more selﬁsh and survival-driven, telling Victor that “Life … is dear to me, and I will defend it.” When his creator fails to give him what he wants, he exacts a hideous vengeance. Without the monster’s monstrousness — which, as Shelley makes clear, is profoundly human — the story’s setup and denouement make far less sense. Del Toro’s Frankenstein is a beautifully realized gothic fever dream, worth seeing on the biggest screen you can. But its ultimate messaging panders to an audience that can’t tolerate ambiguity, yanking us back into 21st-century reality.

MARGOT HARRISON margot@sevendaysvt.com

IF YOU LIKE THIS, TRY…

CRIMSON PEAK (2015; Kanopy, rentable): If you love the costumes and production design of Frankenstein, keep exploring del Toro’s gothic side with this sumptuous Victorian haunted-house tale.

POOR THINGS (2023; Disney+, Hulu, rentable): Emma Stone plays a sort of female Creature in Yorgos Lanthimos’ adaptation of a novel that riffs on the Frankenstein mythos. Next spring, look for Maggie Gyllenhaal’s e Bride!, a feminist Frankenstein take.

FRANKENSTEIN (2004; Peacock, Pluto TV, Roku Channel, Tubi): For a more strictly faithful adaptation of the novel, fans often cite this two-episode Hallmark miniseries starring Alec Newman and Luke Goss.

Oscar Isaac plays Mary Shelley’s scientist antihero in a reimagining that is both gross and gorgeous.

NEW IN THEATERS

RENTAL FAMILY: Brendan Fraser plays an American actor in Japan who gets a most unusual gig in this comedy-drama from writer-director Hikari. (103 min, PG-13. Capitol, Majestic)

SISU: ROAD TO REVENGE: In the sequel to the action hit from Finland, set in 1946, a former army commando (Jorma Tommila) will do anything to avenge his family. Jalmari Helander again directed. (88 min, R. Essex, Majestic)

WICKED: FOR GOOD: Outcast witch Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) flies high in the conclusion of the Broadway musical adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu and also starring Ariana Grande and Jeff Goldblum. (138 min, PG. Big Picture, Bijou, Capitol, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Playhouse, Star, Welden)

WISDOM OF HAPPINESS: The Dalai Lama discusses finding inner peace in our current hellscape in this documentary from Philip Delaquis and Barbara Miller. (90 min, NR. Savoy)

ZOOTOPIA 2: Disney’s allegorical animated critters return for another mystery starring the unlikely duo of a rabbit cop (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) and a fox con (Jason Bateman). (108 min, PG. Starts Tuesday at Capitol, Essex, Paramount)

CURRENTLY PLAYING

BUGONIAHHHH Conspiracy theorists (Jesse Plemons and Aidan Delbis) abduct a CEO (Emma Stone) who they believe is an alien in the latest dark satire from Yorgos Lanthimos (Poor Things). (118 min, R. Essex, Majestic, Stowe; reviewed 11/5)

DIE MY LOVEHHH Jennifer Lawrence plays a writer and mother experiencing a mental breakdown in this drama from Lynne Ramsay, with Robert Pattinson and Sissy Spacek. (118 min, R. Savoy; reviewed 11/12)

ELEANOR THE GREATHH1/2 A nonagenarian (June Squibb) makes an unexpected friend in Scarlett Johansson’s feature directorial debut. (98 min, PG-13. Catamount)

KEEPERHH1/2 A couple’s cabin-in-the-woods getaway goes very wrong in this “dark trip” from Osgood Perkins (Longlegs), starring Tatiana Maslany and Rossif Sutherland. (99 min, R. Majestic)

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON’THH1/2 The crew of illusionist pranksters returns for a new heist. Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson and Dave Franco star. (112 min, PG-13. Bijou, Capitol, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Star, Stowe, Welden)

NUREMBERGHHH Rami Malek plays a psychiatrist trying to assess the sanity of imprisoned Nazi Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe) in this historical drama. (148 min, PG-13. Capitol, Essex, Majestic)

PREDATOR: BADLANDSHHH1/2 An outcast Predator (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi) finds an unusual ally (Elle Fanning). Dan Trachtenberg (Prey) directed. (107 min, PG-13. Bijou, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Paramount)

REGRETTING YOUH1/2 A young widow (Allison Williams) clashes with her teenage daughter (Mckenna Grace) in this Colleen Hoover adaptation. (117 min, PG-13. Majestic, Stowe)

THE RUNNING MANHHH Edgar Wright directs a new version of the Stephen King novel about a contestant (Glen Powell) fighting for his life in a futuristic game show. (133 min, R. Bijou, City Cinema, Essex, Majestic, Marquis, Paramount, Star, Welden)

SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHEREHHH Jeremy Allen White plays the Boss in this drama about his struggles while recording Nebraska. (120 min, PG-13. Majestic)

TRAIN DREAMSHHHH1/2 Joel Edgerton plays an early 20th-century logger in this adaptation of Denis Johnson’s novella. (102 min, PG-13. Savoy)

OLDER FILMS AND SPECIAL SCREENINGS

ANGELS WITH DIRTY FACES (Catamount, Wed 26 only)

BABY BOOM (Playhouse, Sun only)

BACK TO THE FUTURE 40TH ANNIVERSARY (Majestic)

THE BOY AND THE HERON (Essex, Wed 19 only)

BOY WONDER: THE LUC GATES STORY (Welden, Wed 19 only)

THE ICE STORM (VTIFF, Sat only)

IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU (VTIFF, Thu & Fri only)

METROPOLITAN OPERA: ARABELLA (Essex, Sat only)

ONE, TWO, THREE (Catamount, Wed 19 only)

PRICKLY MOUNTAIN AND MY DESIGN/BUILD LIFE (Big Picture, Thu-Mon only)

THANKSGIVING (Catamount, Fri only)

WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY (Savoy, Wed 26 only)

WICKED (Majestic)

THE WORST PERSON IN THE WORLD (Savoy, Mon 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

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

Shelburne Mind Body Medicine

Wicked: For Good

Cabinet of Curiosity

Steve Budington presents emergent paintings at the Phoenix in Waterbury

BY ALICE DODGE • adodge@sevendaysvt.com

As a kid, I was captivated by C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe — not so much by the story as by the fantastical possibility that inside the known, shallow, contained space of a closet, I might ﬁnd a mysterious, expansive snow-covered forest.

Though Steve Budington’s mostly abstract paintings are a world away from Narnia, they provoke that same sense of magical exploration, of discovering something just on the edge of what’s known by opening up an overlooked space — not a wardrobe, in this case, but a canvas.

In his solo show, “Rain Cabinet,” on view through the end of the year at the Phoenix

in Waterbury, Budington presents works that are arguably sculptural reliefs but are too much about painting to be called anything else. He layers canvases and panels on top of each other, some facing the wall. Pieces of frames bound empty space or lead the eye from one surface to the next. Here and there, a ﬂuorescent edge or a wood stretcher peeks out to highlight just how the picture is constructed.

As well as literally deconstructing his canvases, Budington breaks his artworks’ subject — our relationship to the natural world — into more metaphorical component parts. Though Budington’s style varies from careful patterns and subtle gradients

to loose, scrubbing brushstrokes, the work is landscape-adjacent: While there may not be anything picturing a tree or a field, elements add up to suggest the environment.

In the central canvas of “window out,” for instance, shades of blue and green are overlaid with short, bright red directional strokes. Up close, some of the paint is peeling and scraped: Multiple layers blend together. From far away, the red marks read like a map of wind directions. A partial frame, painted ﬂuorescent orange, creates another level in the work — a corner that vibrates starkly against deep blues but almost dissolves into the red layer of paint

where its edge is worn down and full of holes. In front of both, a smaller panel, half ocean blue and half grayish cream, recalls the calm after the storm.

“Glacier” likewise uses bright color to great e ect. This time, lavender shadows and blue ponds describe an aerial view of a glacier. A deep-purple texture of dots bleeds through like a bruise on skin, as though the glacier is melting from beneath. The canvas is offset from the icy-blue edge of a frame, which in turn lies atop a red-orange ﬂuorescent panel; that layer is like magma in a tectonic sandwich, lending energy and motion to a precariously stacked composition.

“rain cabinet”

“window out”

Symbols play a role in Budington’s work, from a marine signal flag in “the waves and the signal (call shore)” to hurricane weather-map icons in “storm cursive” and “another untitled event.” The latter combines two panels and a partial frame in an snowy palette of grays and blues. An organic-seeming curve on the rear panel could equally represent a bent sapling (seen from the side) or a road or a river (from above) against a background the color of an ominous sky. In front, smooth white swaths have overtaken a field of the little hurricane symbols, as well as whatever scene or information they illuminated, which filters through in patches. What might’ve once resembled a map has given way to experiential chaos, the legend and its meaning both lost.

Other works seem close and intimate, particularly the show’s titular “rain cabinet,” one of the largest works at 60 by 54 inches. It’s made up of four separate canvases butted up against each other. Two of them feature angled blue planes and realistic raindrops, suspended as though on glass. Budington di erentiates the surfaces through his paint handling: Here, washes create a translucent feel; there, opacity with the slightest of gradients describes a shallow space. A creamand-white rectangle portrays folds in fabric — maybe a sheet, maybe the canvas itself — with believable softness. Amid these, one panel shows the pu y ridges of a charcoal sleeping bag, bordered by

“glacier”

a red zipper and a tag. Once you realize what it is, that piece situates the otherwise abstract scene and immediately brings to mind the cozy sound of rain heard from inside a tent.

It makes sense that Budington’s paintings don’t look like completed landscapes as much as they emerge as such from assembled parts. In addition to being a painter and an associate professor at the University of Vermont, he is a landscape designer and master gardener. (Shelburne residents might have seen his work at the Pierson Library, where he designed the front garden and o ers public programs on sustainable landscaping.)

Budington seems to approach painting the way one would plant and maintain a garden — seeding, transplanting, pruning and watering, seeing what components take root, how colors change over time, how shapes play against each other. In his statement for the show, he writes, “I wonder what the painting contains, hides, or reveals in its compressed visual volume.” The answer is usually quite a lot. There’s always a sense that more is hidden behind a layer of paint or on the back side of a panel, heightening the notion that each artwork is a real, if strange, space worth exploring. ➆

INFO

“Steve Budington: Rain Cabinet,” on view through December 31 at the Phoenix in Waterbury. thephoenixvt.com

4T-WarrenMiller111225 1 11/10/25 3:03 PM

CALL TO ARTISTS

SMALL WORKS: Seeking entries of up to six small works per artist for the annual “Celebrate the Smalls” exhibition, in any media. Rules and details at axelsgallery.com. Axel’s Frame Shop & Gallery, Waterbury, Sat., November 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Info, 244-7801.

OPENINGS + RECEPTIONS

MEMBERS’ ART SHOW AND SALE: The 44th edition of the annual exhibition and sale, which showcases works by regional artists in all media. The Current, Stowe, through December 12. Info, 253-8358.

ROBERT W. BRUNELLE JR.: “The Cat in the Window,” a show of 12 acrylic paintings, presented by Studio Place Arts. Morse Block Deli & Taps, Barre, through February 20. Info, 479-7069.

‘VERMONT VICE’: The annual winter exhibition and closed-bid auction, which features 22 artists and foreshadows the summer 2026 exhibition “Vermont Vice: Sex, Drugs, Money and Murder.” Proceed from the works — inspired by bad habits, guilty pleasures, and immoral and wicked behavior in the Green Mountain State — will be split equally between artist and museum. Auction closes on December 18 at 11 p.m. Bid at benningtonmuseum.org. Bennington Museum, through December 31. Info, 447-1571.

CHRYSTAL BEAN AND JULIE GRIFFITH: “Candidates,” a two-person show by the MFA candidates, both of whom are nontraditional students whose work explores connection, healing and the complexities of human existence in today’s world. Reception: Friday, November 21, 4-6 p.m. Vermont State University-Castleton Bank Gallery, Rutland, through January 31. Info, 468-1119.

‘SMALL WORKS 2025’: An exhibition of small-format works including new pieces by Bonnie Baird, Julia Purinton, Margaret Gerding and Julia Jensen, among others. Edgewater Gallery on the Green, Middlebury, November 22-December 31.

LYNN IMPERATORE: “Remembering Lynn,” a memorial installation in the Nuquist Gallery of works by the late artist, curated by Sabrina Fadial and Janet Fredricks. Imperatore’s work engaged questions of how art-as-process can enhance and expand our understanding of perception. Memorial Reception: Saturday, November 22, 3 p.m. T.W. Wood Museum, Montpelier, through November 22. Info, 222-0909.

JUSTIN HIGHET: A solo exhibition of landscapes, nature studies and minimalist fine-art prints from the photographer, who won first prize in Axel’s 2025 Photography Shoot-Out contest. Closing reception: Friday, November 22, 5-7 p.m. Axel’s Frame Shop & Gallery, Waterbury, through November 22. Info, 244-7801.

‘EVERYONE SUCKS’: A group show acknowledging negativity and attempts to alleviate, clear, balance or

EXHIBITION

Silk Road

“Rainfall in Dyer’s Chamomile”

Picture art that’s “architectural” and you might think of origami — points, angles and planes. But Lexington, Ky., artist Crystal Gregory redefines the term entirely with her sculptural reliefs that combine delicately woven silk and poured concrete. The textiles, made from brightly colored threads that Gregory dyes with botanicals she grows herself, seem to float atop heavy concrete slabs, creating a delicious textural contrast. In other works, loose weaves start with a single surface and branch into two and back again, creating complex draped forms within a metal scaffold. Look at the sculptures from all angles to see the colors shift and dance between space and open air, hardness and softness.

‘THE OCEAN NEVER GIVES UP’

On view through November 22 at Soapbox Arts in Burlington. soapboxarts.com

Personalized integrative primary care that blends conventional medicine, functional medicine, and holistic wellness to support long-term health.

talk about it as a response to the frustrating nature of reality and a counter to toxic positivity. Reception: Saturday, November 22, 7 p.m. Spiral House Art Collective, Burlington, Saturday, November 22, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sunday, November 23, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Info, pamelaeasterday@gmail.com.

‘ANNUAL MEMBERS’ 10 BY 10 SHOW’: An open-call exhibition showcasing works 10 by 10 inches or smaller in all media by museum members. Reception: Friday, December 5, 5-7:30 p.m. T.W. Wood Museum, Montpelier, November 26-January 24. Info, 222-0909.

CARA ARMSTRONG: “Windows and Horizons: Light, Dwelling and Memory,” digital drawings that explore the relationship between neuroscience and architecture using drawing as a form of research. Reception: Friday, December 5, 5-7:30 p.m., with artist remarks at 6 p.m. T.W. Wood Museum, Montpelier, November 26-January 24. Info, 222-0909.

ART EVENTS

OPEN STUDIO: REBECCA JACOBY: An opportunity to see mixed-media works by the Catamount Arts artistin-residence, as well as photos and samples from the class she taught during the residency and the public art project she has worked on for First Night North in St. Johnsbury. 560 Railroad, St. Johnsbury, Wednesday, November 19, 4-6 p.m. Free. Info, 748-2600.

PHOTOGRAPHY TALK: MAKEDA BEST: A talk by the deputy director of curatorial affairs at Oakland Museum of California on how photographers in the 1970s responded to and visualized environmentalism. Williams Hall, Room 301, University of Vermont, Burlington, Wednesday, November 19, 5:15 p.m. Free. Info, soa@uvm.edu.

COURTESY

LIFE DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event for artists working with the figure from a live model. T.W. Wood Museum, Montpelier, Thursday, November 20, 7-9 p.m. Free; $15 suggested donation. Info, 262-6035. ‘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, November 21, 5-8 p.m. Free. Info, 289-0104.

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, November 23, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

ARTIST TALK: KATHY STARK: A discussion by the artist of her exhibition “Memories and Dreams” and her mixed-media art practice. The Front, Montpelier, Sunday, November 23, 4 p.m. Info, info@thefrontvt.com.

PORTRAIT DRAWING AND PAINTING: A drop-in event where artists can practice skills in any medium. T.W. Wood Museum, Montpelier, Monday, November 24, 10 a.m.-noon. Free; $15 suggested donation. Info, 262-6035. ➆

Ask us about all of our primary care and support therapies! We have locations in Colchester, Stowe, & Shelburne

Photos: Renée Greenlee

music+nightlife

“Ican recall where we stood, way back in the mountains,” Caitlin Canty sings on “Hotter Than Hell,” the opening track of her latest record, Night Owl Envies the Mourning Dove. Her voice injects a devastating tenderness into the melody, as she continues, “Black cherry wood, hotter than hell / your heart in my hand, the thunder of blood drumming through the land / my body the land.”

Released last month, Canty’s fifth full-length album is the ﬁrst the native Vermonter has released since returning to her home state. She’s spent the past two decades building a successful music career in New York City and Nashville. Recorded just after moving back to Vermont last year, and just before giving birth to her second child, Night Owl Envies the Mourning Dove is a record of transition, a snapshot of the artist as she eases into a new phase of her personal and professional lives, takes stock of her career, and revels in setting down roots after living most of her adult life like a troubadour.

“My Vermont upbringing was, like, children’s book-style idyllic,” the 43-year-old artist said in a recent phone call from the Midwest, where she was touring. “My parents were both teachers, and it felt like everyone in the community would come out to support each other. What more can you wish for your own children?”

Canty grew up in the small Rutland County town of Proctor. After attending Williams College, she moved to New York City, where she recorded her 2010 EP, Neon Streets, with the band Darlingside. She garnered critical acclaim in 2015 with Reckless Skyline before releasing her 2018 breakout, Motel Bouquet, a gritty Americana record that helped establish her as rising star in the world of indie folk. That album, recorded in Nashville, featured Crooked Still vocalist Aoife O’Donovan as well as Punch Brothers and Leftover Salmon banjo player Noam Pikelny, whom she later married.

Last year, while eight months pregnant, Canty recorded the songs for the new album at a studio in rural Maine. The record was created just as Canty and Pikelny left Nashville for Vermont, moving into a cabin with a view of Dorset Mountain — the cabin her mother grew up in.

As excited as Canty was to raise her two children in the Green Mountains, leaving the “Country Music Capital of the World” was no easy call. Staying would have better served the couple’s music careers, but

Night Moves

After two decades away, singer-songwriter and Vermont native Caitlin Canty comes home

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH • farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com

their growing family had changed the way Canty thought about the future.

“Becoming a mother sharpens your intensity and focus because your time to be artistic is sort of limited,” she said. “It also made me question what the concept of ‘home’ even is.

“When you’re on tour, the van is your home. It’s all that exists in that moment,” she continued. “The stage can be your home, too. So home moves with you. We loved Nashville, but we realized it didn’t matter so much where we planted our ﬂag, career-wise. It just wasn’t about that anymore.”

THERE’S JUST THIS PRECIOUS TIME FOR A SONG WHEN IT’S YOUNG AND FRESH, AND YOU REALLY WANT TO CAPTURE THAT.

as a successful musician who has worked tirelessly to build a career in the heart of the country music world, then leaves it all to raise her young family in the Green Mountains. With her son’s due date approaching, the album was essentially recorded at the last possible moment. The deadline gave the recording process a sort of vibrant tension.

CAITLIN CANTY

Night Owl Envies the Mourning Dove captures Canty right at that intersection,

“We knew we had an exact amount of time to try and track the record,” she said. “And it sort of mirrored the songs’ creation as well. There’s just this precious time for a song when it’s young and fresh, and you really want to capture that. That desperation was so present, but I trusted my band and I

trusted the songs. So in the end, it actually felt like one of the easiest records I’ve ever made.”

There’s a sense of arrival to the record, of someone ﬁnding her place and putting down roots in a very tangible way. On the album’s tender closing track, the folk-leaning ballad “Heartache Don’t Live Here,” Canty seems to look at her new surroundings and realize what she’s accomplished.

“For the ﬁrst time in a long time, the sun shines and the shadows have nowhere to hide,” she sings over a glacially paced acoustic arrangement. “The old place … has a little more space than it used to … heartache don’t live here no more.”

While Canty is excited to call Vermont home once more, she hasn’t had a lot of time to reacquaint herself with the local music world. A newborn baby and the couple’s touring schedules have kept them from properly immersing themselves in the Green Mountain scene. That changes this week as she plays a homecoming show in Rutland and plans for a series of Vermont performances in the new year, including in Lincoln and at South Burlington’s Higher Ground.

“I used to play Vermont once a year, but now I’m doing four [shows] this winter alone,” Canty said with a laugh. “So it’ll be interesting to see what that looks like, if Vermont can handle that much of me!”

She’s particularly looking forward to her show at the Paramount Theatre in Rutland this Friday, November 21, a venue that helped start her career. Canty ﬁrst played the Paramount when she was 18 years old, opening for Eric Burdon and the Animals.

“It was like getting shot out of a cannon,” she recalled. “But it was this beautiful moment and the ﬁrst time I’d ever heard thunderous applause after I played. It totally sparked my desire to do this on a professional scale.”

With family and childhood friends coming out for the show, which features guest spots by Pikelny and others, the performance marks a big moment for Canty as she both comes full circle and transitions to the next chapter of her life.

“It all feels like I’m coming into a type of understanding and peace,” she said. “I’m a fortysomething mother of two. I’m not worried about suddenly blowing up or making or breaking my career. I’m exactly where I want to be.” ➆

INFO

Caitlin Canty, Friday, November 21, 7 p.m. at Paramount eatre in Rutland. $35/40. paramountvt.org.

Caitlin Canty

On the Beat

“Love, love is a verb. Love is a doing word.” So go the unforgettable opening lines of MASSIVE ATTACK’s 1998 trip-hop hit “Teardrop.” The tune might hold the crown for greatest vibe of any song ever, if such a thing were quantiﬁable, with its ghostly beat, chiming synths and ELIZABETH FRASER’s hauntingly gorgeous vocal. The COCTEAU TWINS singer’s voice is so intrinsic to the song’s ethereal beauty that it takes either a very brave or a very foolish artist to eschew vocals on a cover of the track.

Fortunately, Burlington jazz and experimental trio BREATHWORK’s new cover of “Teardrop” comes o as courageous rather than empty. Guitarist XANDER NAYLOR teases evocative and searching notes from his trusty Telecaster. It’s wild to take a song with that much atmosphere and make it even spacier, but Naylor and bandmates PAT MARKLEY and ETHAN SNYDER have done just that. Check it out now, streaming on Spotify.

Montpelier punks MAGIC USER have a brand-new single, “Bullhorns in Bed,” a ska-adjacent explosion of punk rock

This version of everyone's favorite property trading game celebrating the Vermont side of the Lake Champlain valley is a fundraiser for arts programming and education by cathedralarts.org.

Listening In

(Spotify mix of local jams)

1. “BIRD DOG” by Caitlin Canty

2. “AVALON” by Paper Castles

3. “EARTHWORM SHIT” by the War Turtles

4. “AND THE SHAME” by Cosmic the Cowboy

5. “LABOR DAY” by Silverlined

6. “ICARUS” by Acqua Mossa, Billy Dean omas

7. “ADRÉNALINE” by bad tuner, Francesca Blanchard Scan

and pure energy. According to bassist NATE INGHAM, who also runs the Naive Melody Instrument Exchange shop in

Jason Moran to Curate 2026 Burlington Discover Jazz Festival

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH • farnsworth@sevendaysvt.com

The Flynn announced last Friday that pianist, composer and educator Jason Moran will curate the 2026 Burlington Discover Jazz Festival. Moran is the latest jazz star to take the reins of the long-running festival, following Michael Mwenso, Lakecia Benjamin, Adi Oasis and Anthony Tidd in recent years.

Moran, 50, first hit the scene performing with saxophonist Greg Osby before signing a deal with Blue Note Records and releasing his 1999 debut, Soundtrack to Human Motion. He formed the Bandwagon, featuring bassist Tarus Mateen and drummer Nasheet Waits, and released the 2001

record, Black Stars, which NPR’s “All Songs Considered” included in its “The 50 Most Important Recordings of the Decade” list. He now has more than 15 records to his credit.

Moran became a MacArthur Fellow in 2010. The following year he was named the artistic director for jazz at the Kennedy Center. He left that position in July and is one of several artists who’ve cut ties with the center since President Donald Trump removed president Deborah Rutter and board chair David Rubenstein earlier this year and named himself chair.

Moran will helm the 43rd iteration of Burlington’s jazz fest, which runs from June

New and Upcoming Vermont Releases

BY CHRIS FARNSWORTH

1. Magic User, *FREE PILE, out December 15

2. Ben Patton, Dinner, out now

3. LACES, LACES EP, out now

4. Vallory Falls, Porch Lights & Field Guides, out now

5. The Path, Godless Vermont, out now

6. Deep River Saints, A Good Place to Die, out now

7. Seth Yacovone Band, SYBlings VOL 2, out November 29

3 to 7, and will focus on “the Black traditions that shaped American jazz,” according to a press release from the Flynn.

“This music is built on community reflection and deep listening — the way we learn from one another in real time,” Moran wrote in the press release. “The intensity of the present always finds its way into the sound, especially in those layers of listening on the stage, on the street, and in the crowd. With more than four decades of this festival’s history, I know Vermont will be all ears.” ➆

INFO

Learn more at flynnvt.org.

Eye on the Scene

Last week’s highlights from photographer Luke Awtry

OPENING NIGHT AT DOMA BAR, BURLINGTON, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7: The South End Arts District feels more alive on Friday nights than it has in quite some time. Not only are more studios opening their doors and embracing the “First Friday” of the month as the night to showcase new works, but also previous mainstays along Pine Street that have sat dormant are now home to new endeavors. One of them, Doma Bar, celebrated its official opening earlier this month with a marathon dance party featuring a different DJ on the hour, every hour, including local selectors DILLANWITHAQ DJ FERNETIC DJ LIV DISCO PHANTOM, JUBILEE, FOUR-D and DJ CRE8. Doma Bar, in the former Paradiso Hi-Fi space, is the new iteration of the vinyl lounge concept at 388 Pine Street. The addition of a disco ball and red lighting, and the subtraction of Paradiso’s fine-dining focus, immediately give the room a much more comfortable after-party atmosphere. I look forward to Doma Bar becoming the late-night hang spot in our once again bustling South End.

say you saw it in

Jason Moran

Seth Yacovone Band

On the Beat

Montpelier, the track is a tribute to the band’s late friend RYAN THORESEN CARSON, a community organizer and poet who was stabbed to death in Brooklyn in 2023. Carson’s poem “Title Track” provides the song’s lyrics, which repeat the cry “Community is resistance!”

The tune is an advance single from the forthcoming LP *FREE PILE, which drops on December 15 on CD, vinyl and streaming. Check out “Bullhorns in Bed” at magicuservt.bandcamp.com.

“Nobody gives a fuck about an artist until they die, but I avoid suicide out of spite,” raps Burlington MC OMEGA JADE on her latest single, “Dark Night of the Soul.” Over a classic boom-bap beat cooked up by DMYTRO KHOMENKO and mixed and mastered by ZACH CRAWFORD, aka SKYSPLITTERINK, Jade drops bars about resilience, icing out the haters and staying true to oneself. Give this latest track from a prolific local artist a listen now, streaming on major services and at omegajade.bandcamp.com.

CHRIS FARNSWORTH

Omega Jade

Posting a job ad in Seven Days was an awesome learning process for me. It was really cool to see how people read the paper in print and online. We did just one week and received 70 applications. I’m still getting them, honestly. I sent sales rep Michelle Brown a blob of text, and she said, “How about these sentences?” She’s so good. Everyone on the Seven Days team is amazing.

EMMA ARIAN Executive Director, Vermont Brewers Association

music+nightlife

CLUB DATES

live music

WED.19

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

Dark Star Project (Grateful Dead tribute) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 7 p.m. $12.19.

Disco Biscuits, Three Piece Meal (jam) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8 p.m. $54.49.

Irish Night with RambleTree (Celtic) at Two Brothers Tavern, Middlebury, 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.

Wet Aid 6 (indie rock, punk, DJ) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10/$15.

Will Sellenraad Trio (jazz) at the Alchemist, Waterbury, 4 p.m. Free.

THU.20

156/Silence, Split in Half, No Soul (hardcore) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $22.95.

3rd Thursdays Presents: Drent, Big Homie Wes & Sam Guihan, Claytone at the Green Door Studio, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Alex Stewart & Friends (jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Disco Biscuits, Three Piece Meal (jam) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 8 p.m. $54.49.

Eric George (folk) at the Skinny Pancake, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

Familiar Faces Funk Jam (funk, jazz) at the 126, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

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

Soundhound, Green Mountain Sound (indie) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. $10. Sweet Cicely (bluegrass) at Black Flannel Brewing & Distilling, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.21

Ashna Hille, Matthew Linkkila, yon võ búi (singer-songwriter) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 7 p.m. $10.

The Balconiers (funk, jazz) at the Alchemist, Waterbury, 4 p.m. Free.

Bob Gagnon and Friends (jazz) at Two Heroes Brewery & Public House, South Hero, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Boxcar Breakdown (folk) at the Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

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

Dave Mitchell’s Blue’s Revue (blues) at Red Square, Burlington, 2 p.m. Free.

WED.26 // THANKSGIVING EVE COMEDY NIGHT [COMEDY]

Holiday Hijinks

In what has become a Thanksgiving Eve tradition, New York City comic and Vermont native KENDALL FARRELL (pictured) is returning home to host a night of laughs featuring some of the Green Mountain comedy scene’s best and brightest, as well as other expatriate jokesters like himself. This year’s lineup features plenty of former Vermont comics, such as TINA FRIML, NIC SISK and LIAM WELSH, joined by the still-local talents of TRACY DOLAN and ZOE BERNSTEIN. It all goes down on Wednesday, November 26, at Foam Brewers in Burlington.

Echoes of Floyd (Pink Floyd tribute) at the Stone Church, Brattleboro, 7 p.m. $25.

Emalou & the Beat (folk) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 4 p.m. Free.

Evan Jennison & Friends (live music) at Afterthoughts, Waitsfield, 8 p.m. $10. Forest Station, Dan Johnson & Windy Mountain (bluegrass) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $12.19.

Jamie Gravelin (acoustic) at Switchback Beer Garden & Smokehouse, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

The Lloyd Tyler Band (folk rock) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Matt Hagen (acoustic) at Bleu Northeast Kitchen, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free.

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

Monachino, Jarrett & Stats (jazz) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

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

The Movement, Kabaka Pyramid (reggae) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $33.10.

Nancy Johnson (singersongwriter) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

Northern Ramble (roots rock) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

ok commuter (rock) at 1st Republic Brewing, Essex, 6 p.m. Free.

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

Peter Mulvey (singer-songwriter) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 7 p.m. $22/$25.

Queer Takeover Presents: Rocky Horror Picture Show (rock, jazz, drag) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

Rap Night Burlington (hip-hop) at Drink, Burlington, 9 p.m. $5. Robbery, Model 97, Mr. Doubtfire and the Skizm (punk) at the Underground, Randolph, 7:30 p.m. $14.

Vallory Falls, Dog Water, YABAI!, We’re Here! To Kill (punk, rock) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7:30 p.m. $10.

Weakened Friends, Nova One, Burly Girlies (indie rock) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $19.84.

SAT.22

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

CHALI 2NA & CUT CHEMIST (EDM, hip-hop) at Afterthoughts, Waitsfield, 8 p.m. $40.

Shane Goodwin (singersongwriter) at Jay Peak Resort, 6 p.m. Free.

Sky Blue Boys (bluegrass) at the Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

Sneezy (jam) at Stowe Cider, 8 p.m. Free.

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

Switchel (folk) at Jericho Café & Tavern, 7 p.m. Free.

Wild Leek River (bluegrass) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

SUN.23

The Crane Wives, Spencer LaJoye (indie folk) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $35.17.

Django Soulo (acoustic) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 1 p.m. Free.

Phineas Gage (acoustic) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 3 p.m. Free.

Poranguí (world music) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $37.04.

Seth Yacovone (acoustic) at the Alchemist, Waterbury, 4 p.m. Free.

Sunday Brunch Tunes (singersongwriter) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 10 a.m.

Tammi Snapped: Food & Fund Raiser (rock, DJ) at Standing Stone Wines, Winooski, 3 p.m. Donation.

Wine & Jazz Sundays (jazz) at Shelburne Vineyard, 5 p.m. Free.

Dexter and the Moonrocks, High June (rock) at Higher Ground Ballroom, South Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $32.06.

Evan Jennison, Matt Schrag (folk, rock) at Shelburne Vineyard, 6 p.m. Free.

HiFi (house) at the Alchemist, Waterbury, 5 p.m. Free.

Last Kid Picked (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 9 p.m. Free.

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

Manuela Sánchez-Goubert, Cal Humberto (jazz, folk) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 8 p.m. $12/$15.

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

Mirage (rock) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Morgan Myles (folk, country) at the Depot, St. Albans, 7:30 p.m. $25-$35.

Pat Faking, Remi Russin (indie rock) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 10:30 p.m. $10.

The Path, Get a Grip, Do Crime, Fifth World, the Last Mile (hardcore) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $19.84.

The Returnables (rock, Americana) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 9 p.m. Free.

If you’re a

Jarv, Coyote Reverie, Jahte Renmus, Subtex G (hip-hop) at the Stone Church, Brattleboro, 7 p.m. $20/$26.

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.

Leah Rocketship (rock) at CharlieO’s World Famous, Montpelier, 8 p.m. Free.

Troy Millette & the Fire Below (Americana) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. $10.

Zach Nugent (Grateful Dead tribute) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7:30 p.m. Free.

djs

WED.19

DJ Chalango, DJ Tarzana Salsa Night (DJ) at Hugo’s, Montpelier, 7 p.m. Free.

The Mid Week Hump with DJs Fattie B and Craig Mitchell (DJ) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.20

DJ JP Black (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

DJ Paul (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

DJ Two Sev (DJ) at Red Square, Burlington, 11 p.m. Free.

MON.24

Jake Minch, Darryl Rahn (singer-songwriter) at Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington, 7 p.m. $26.42.

TUE.25

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.

Dale and Darcy Band (folk) at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Waitsfield, 5:30 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 Pony Hustle (country) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 9 p.m. $10.

Sprezzatura (jazz) at Original Skiff Fish + Oysters, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

WED.26

90 Proof (covers) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

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

Cozy (funk, jazz) at 14th Star Brewing, St. Albans, 6 p.m. Free.

Jamie Lee Thurston, Fran Briand (country) at the Old Post, South Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

For the Record with DJs Colin Hagood and Mike Frank (DJ) at Monkey House, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

Local Dork (DJ) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free. Lucky Luc, DJ Chaston (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 9 p.m. Free.

Mi Yard: Reignition with DJ Big Dog (DJ) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 10 p.m. Donation.

Vinyl Night with Ken (DJ) at Poultney Pub, 6 p.m. Free.

Vinyl Thursdays (DJ) at Hotel Vermont, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

FRI.21

DJ Kanganade (DJ) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

DJ Taka (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 11 p.m. $10/$15. Friday Night at Specs (DJ) at Specs Cafe & Bar, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

HiFi Listening Hour (DJ) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 5 p.m. Free.

John’s Jukebox (DJ) at Gusto’s, Barre, 9 p.m. Free.

SAT.22

DJ Fattie B (DJ) at Monkey House, Winooski, 9 p.m. Free.

DJ Raul (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

music+nightlife

Freak Fest 4: Freaks at Sea (DJ) at Light Club Lamp Shop, Burlington, 10 p.m. $10.

Kapital Pressure, DJ Astral (rave) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 8 p.m. $12.19.

Matt Payne (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 10 p.m. Free.

Molly Mood (DJ) at Red Square Blue Room, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

Stick Together: A Stick Season Dance Party (DJ) at the Phoenix, Waterbury, 9 p.m. $15/$20.

TUE.25

Bashment Tuesday (DJ) at Akes’ Place, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

open mics & jams

WED.19

Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.20

Open Mic Night (open mic) at Parker Pie, West Glover, 6 p.m. Free.

Open Mic Night & Songwriting Salon with Krystofer Maison (open mic) at Artistree Community Arts Center, South Pomfret, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Open Mic with Artie (open mic) at the Whammy Bar, Calais, 7 p.m. Free.

Songwriter’s Circle Open Mic (open mic) at Radio Bean, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free.

SUN.23

Olde Time Jam Session (open jam) at the Den at Harry’s Hardware, Cabot, noon. Free.

MON.24

Bluegrass Etc. Jam with Ben Kogan (bluegrass jam session) at Ottauquechee Yacht Club, Woodstock, 6:30 p.m. Free.

WED.26

Open Mic with Danny Lang (open mic) at Poultney Pub, 7 p.m. Free.

comedy

WED.19

Pass the Potatoes (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $6.99.

Standup Open Mic (comedy open mic) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 8:30 p.m. Free.

THU.20

Fruits of Our Loins (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. $11.99.

Speakeasy Shenanigans (comedy) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 6 p.m. $15.

FRI.21

Chris Gethard (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. $30.

SAT.22

Chris Gethard (comedy) at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington, 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. $30.

TUE.25

Open Mic Comedy with Levi Silverstein (comedy open mic) at the 126, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.26

Thanksgiving Eve Comedy Night Hosted by Kendall Farrell (comedy) at Foam Brewers, Burlington, 7 p.m. $20.

trivia, karaoke, etc.

WED.19

Citizen Cider Trivia Night (trivia) at Citizen Cider Press House Pub, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free.

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.

This Is Pit Burlington

punk rockers the PATH formed 10 years ago behind a mission to bring fast hardcore sounds to the Queen City. As they hit the decade mark, the band is celebrating by … breaking up? Yep, the Path have decided to call it a day, just as they release their furious new recording, Godless Vermont. The band says goodbye with one last show on Saturday, November 22, at the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge in South Burlington. Rutland hardcore act GET A GRIP reunite to help see the Path off, joined by Buffalo’s DO CRIME, Montréal punks the LAST MILE and Burlington act FIFTH WORLD

Queer Bar Takeover and Drag Show (drag) at Charlie-O’s World Famous, Montpelier, 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 Night (trivia) at Parker Pie, West Glover, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Dumb Luck Pub & Grill, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Whiskey Room, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

THU.20

Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

Line Dancing & Two-Step Night (dance) at Zenbarn, Waterbury Center, 6 p.m. Free.

Music Trivia (trivia) at Standing Stone Wines, Winooski, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia (trivia) at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Blackbird Bistro, Craftsbury, 6 p.m. Free.

Trivia Thursday (trivia) at Einstein’s Tap House, Burlington, 8 p.m. Free.

FRI.21

Boogie Bingo (bingo, DJ) at the Alchemist, Waterbury, 5 p.m. Free.

Karaoke Friday Night (karaoke) at Park Place Tavern & Grill, Essex Junction, 8 p.m. Free.

SAT.22

Green Mountain Cabaret (drag) at Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 8 p.m. $15. Queeraoke with Goddess (karaoke) at Standing Stone Wines, Winooski, 9 p.m. Free.

SUN.23

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.

Venetian Karaoke (karaoke) at

Venetian Cocktail & Soda Lounge, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free.

MON.24

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.

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.25

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 Tuesday (trivia) at On Tap Bar & Grill, Essex Junction, 7 p.m. Free.

WED.26

Citizen Cider Trivia Night (trivia) at Citizen Cider Press House Pub, Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Free. 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 Night (trivia) at Parker Pie, West Glover, 6:30 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Dumb Luck Pub & Grill, Winooski, 7 p.m. Free.

Trivia Night (trivia) at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Whiskey Room, Burlington, 7 p.m. Free. ➆

SAT.22 // THE PATH [HARDCORE]

Weakened Friends, Feels Like Hell

(DON GIOVANNI RECORDS, CD, VINYL AND DIGITAL)

On their 2021 LP, Quitter, Portland, Maine, indie-rock act Weakened Friends took a torch to the romantic notion of the touring band. All about burnout and the cost of trying to make it as a musician, the album seethed with frustration and a sense of claustrophobia.

The trio has returned four years later with Feels Like Hell, which widens the lens to capture a society writhing in contradiction, controversy and heartbreak. “Remember when they told you you’d be great?” vocalist and guitarist Sonia Sturino sings on “Weightless,” a raging, Pixies-esque rocker. “Now every single day’s a bill that you can’t pay, / You scroll your life away until there’s nothing.”

2018 debut LP, Common Blah. That fuzzed-out, post-punk Fleetwood Mac situation makes for high drama and songs brimming with passion, love and heartbreak. But Feels Like Hell isn’t a gorgeous piece of music full of recriminations and bursts of jealousy like Rumours. Rather, it’s an emotional roller-coaster ride through all the hopes and fears of modern love.

“I’m so tired,” Sturino sings on “Great Expectations,” a stirring ballad that builds to a massive, pulsating coda with drummer Adam Hand exploding across the kit. “I keep lighting ﬁres, / I keep making it hell for myself.”

The album’s 12 tracks serve as a warning against nihilism, even as they straddle the edge of that tempting trap. From the exhaustion of late-stage capitalism on “Tough Luck (Bleed Me Out)” to frustration with AI bullshit on “NPC” — the latter featuring a truly bonkers guitar solo from shredder extraordinaire Buckethead — Sturino describes feeling surrounded by adversaries at every turn.

Feels Like Hell is the ﬁrst record the band has released since Sturino came out as nonbinary. “I feel like I don’t have the anxiety around feminizing my voice,” they told New Noise Magazine in October. “Just from a sound point of view, it’s been nice to just be able to be me.”

Sturino is married to bassist Annie Ho man, and much of this record focuses on the ups and downs of their relationship, as did Quitter and their

That tune feels like a tentative step into more hook-driven, pop-adjacent sounds for a band known as a raucous live act full of punk energy, and it’s typical of the album. Feels Like Hell is by far the band’s most accessible record, hewing closer to the sonic textures of ’90s altrock radio hits than its previous, more DIY work.

Feels Like Hell has plenty of tough love for listeners, reminding us that life is messy, love is ﬂawed, and the world will try to destroy you if you don’t rally around your people and your joy. The theme of raging against the dying of the light gives the record a needed punk sneer, yet beneath it all runs a surprisingly optimistic spine. Is everything going to be all right? Probably not, but Weakened Friends are saying that through all the hell, you can still feel human and let yourself love, as long as you know what you’re signing up for.

Feels Like Hell is out now on major streaming services. Weakened Friends play the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge in South Burlington on Friday, November 21.

Weakened Friends

calendar

NOVEMBER 19-26, 2025

WED.19

bazaars

LOCAL ARTISAN & MERCHANT

MARKET: Holiday shoppers sip and snack their way through an eclectic bazaar, made merrier by WhistlePig drink specials and food by Vermont chef Matt Folts. Last Stop Sports Bar, Winooski, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, laststopvt@gmail.com.

business

WORK YOUR WAY: A PARTTIME & SEASONAL JOB

FAIR SERIES: Curious and career-minded individuals meet with prospective employers and partner state agencies face-to-face. Barre Job Center, 3:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 476-2600; Burlington Job Center, 3:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 863-7676; Rutland Job Center, 3:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 786-5837; Springfield Job Center, 3:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 289-0999; St. Johnsbury Job Center, 3:30-6 p.m. Free. Info, 748-3177.

conferences

VERMONT MANUFACTURING

SUMMIT: Manufacturers, suppliers and experts from across New England convene for two days of collaboration, shared insights and opportunities to address the critical challenges shaping the sector. Hotel

Champlain Burlington, 12:30-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, info@vtchamber.com.

crafts

YARN & YAK: A weekly drop-in 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 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. 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.

ALBERTINE FILM FESTIVAL: ‘DAHOMEY’: Mati Diop’s 2024 documentary follows the return of 26 plundered royal treasures in Paris back to their rightful home of Benin. Dana

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.

Whitney leads at-home participants in gentle stretches supported by seats. 10 a.m. Free. Info, 244-7036.

Auditorium, Sunderland Language Center, Middlebury College, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Free. Info, 443-5527.

ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

FILM SERIES: ‘MY BONES ARE WOVEN’: This inspiring 2021 documentary sheds light on the life and work of iconic British artist, author and educator Ann Sutton. Virtual option available. Burlington City Hall Auditorium, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

‘WARREN MILLER’S SNOCIETY’: Snow sports enthusiasts get stoked for the stacked lineup of noteworthy boarders and skiers featured in the latest flick in the long-running series. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7:30 p.m. $25. Info, 382-9222.

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.

games

ADULTS PUZZLE SWAP:

Participants 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 & City Hall, 2:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

BOARD GAME NIGHT: Game lovers enjoy an evening of friendly competition with staples such as Catan, Dominion, chess and cards. KelloggHubbard Library, Montpelier, 5:30 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: Waterbury Public Library instructor Diana

FIND MORE LOCAL EVENTS IN THIS ISSUE AND ONLINE: art

Find visual art exhibits and events in the Art section and at sevendaysvt.com/art. film

See what’s playing in the On Screen section. music + nightlife

Find club dates at local venues in the Music + Nightlife section online at sevendaysvt.com/music.

= ONLINE EVENT

= GET TICKETS ON SEVENDAYSTICKETS.COM

WHOLE HEALTH CONNECT SERIES: ‘INTEGRATING MEANING IN PSILOCYBIN-ASSISTED THERAPY’: Research scientist Cynthia Peterson and research assistant Anusha Satheesh share a look at how psychedelic-assisted therapy can support people with cancer who are struggling with depression. Osher Center for Integrative Health, Burlington, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, oshercenter@ uvm.edu.

language

ELL CLASSES: Fletcher Free Library invites learners of all abilities to practice written and spoken English with trained instructors. 6:30-8:30 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.

music

ME2 CHORUS REHEARSAL: Conductor Stefanie Weigand leads vocalists ages 16 and up in a stigma-free, supportive environment created for people with mental illnesses and their supporters. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, phoenix@me2music.org.

seminars

FAMILY-TO-FAMILY: NAMI

Vermont hosts an informative weekly seminar for individuals with a loved one who is struggling with mental health. 6-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 876-7949, ext. 100.

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.

VIRTUAL WINTER HIKING

101: Want to hit the trails but not sure where to start? The Green Mountain Club hosts an informative workshop on seasonal basics, including important gear and how best to prepare. 6-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 244-7037.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE

TENNIS CLUB: Ping-Pong players swing their paddles in singles and doubles matches. Rutland Area Christian School, 7-9 p.m. Free for first two sessions; $30 annual membership. Info, 247-5913.

talks

DECLAN MCCABE: In “Life in Fresh Water,” an aquatic ecologist dives into facts about the many stunning organisms found in Vermont lakes and streams. Grace Congregational Church, Rutland, 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, birding@ rutlandcountyaudubon.org.

HONFLEUR SISTER CITY

UPDATE: Members of the Burlington-Honfleur Sister Cities Committee present on their September visit to France’s Normandy region. Farrell Room, St. Edmund’s Hall, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, bbrodie@aflcr.org.

words

THE HUMP DAY WRITING

GROUP: Wordsmiths who delight in nonfiction convene for company, accountability and support in achieving their goals. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, nathaniel.eisen@gmail.com.

THU.20 agriculture

FARM TO PLATE ANNUAL NETWORK GATHERING: Farmers and farm workers convene to consider the current political and cultural landscape and create pathways for effective collaboration in the future. Burke Mountain Resort, East Burke. $90-145; preregister. Info, 828-5669.

business

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.

NOVEMBER MIXER: Franklin County Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts an evening of networking, refreshments and community engagement. Saint Albans Messenger, 5:30-7:30 p.m. $15; free for members; preregister. Info, 524-2444.

community

STORY SLAM: ‘RESISTANCE IS NOT FUTILE’: Anecdote admirers attend an evening of entertaining tales stemming from real-life moments of personal, cultural and political defiance. Proceeds support Queen City VT Indivisible. Black Box Theater, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 6:308:30 p.m. $15; donation of nonperishable food items accepted. Info, annieqcvi@gmail.com.

conferences

VERMONT MANUFACTURING

SUMMIT: See WED.19, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

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.

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.

dance

MIDDLEBURY AFROPOP BAND AND AFRICAN MUSIC & DANCE PERFORMANCE CLASS: A joint concert of music and movement highlights the dynamic, communal and interactive nature of African societies. Wilson Hall, McCullough Student Center, Middlebury College, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Info, 443-6433.

education

OPEN HOUSE & COLLEGE FAIR: Inquiring minds pop in and check out the career center’s exciting programs. Central Vermont Career Center, Barre, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 476-6237.

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.

RECYCLING 101: A crash course clarifies the ins and outs of sorting household items to be reprocessed. Virtual option available. Chittenden Solid Waste District, South Burlington, 6-7 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 872-8100.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: Audience members are guided through an exploration of stunning animal worlds, from frozen snowy forests to the darkest depths of the ocean. Dealer.com 3D Theater, ECHO Leahy Center 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.

‘CYCLING WITHOUT AGE’: A heartwarming short film follows a retired teacher and his group of volunteers as they use pedal-powered rickshaws to bring joy to those who have lost the ability to pedal themselves. Bespoke Bikes & Everyday Special Things, Essex Junction, 5:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 861-2700.

‘IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU’: Mary Bronstein’s 2025 psychological drama follows one woman’s attempt to navigate life with an absent husband and mysteriously ill child. Film House, Main Street Landing Performing

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.19

burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: Museumgoers embark on an immersive journey to create stories using techniques such as storyboarding, sketching and stop-motion moviemaking. 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.

‘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.

LIBRARY LITTLES: 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.

QUEER FAMILY PLAYGROUP:

LGBTQ+ families and allies with little tykes ages birth to ﬁve drop in for play time and connection. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 2:15-3:15 p.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.

TEEN DROP-IN: Patrons ages 12 to 18 pop by to chat with teen services librarian Miriasha, play card and board games, and build community. Snacks provided. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 2:153:15 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

THERAPY DOG MICK VISIT: An English setter registered with erapy Dogs of Vermont doles out companionship, acceptance and unconditional love. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

chittenden county

BABY TIME: Infants and their caregivers enjoy a slow, soothing story featuring songs, rhymes and lap play. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

GAME ON: Kids take turns collaborating with or competing against friends using Nintendo Switch on the big screen. Caregivers must be

Brayden Crickenberger, Molly Kirschner and Catherine Grace in e Imaginators

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.

LIBRARY OF THINGS GAME DAY: Players of all ages sample board games from the library’s collection while making new friends. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

PLAY TIME: Little ones ages birth to 5 build with blocks and read together. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.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: Participants test their skills with instructor Robert and peers. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 2nd Floor, Children’s Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

THU.20 burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: See WED.19. ‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.19.

‘LES MISÉRABLES: SCHOOL EDITION’: Burlington High School Drama student performers act out Victor Hugo’s work about an ex-con seeking redemption

amid the throes of revolution in 19th-century France. Hunt Middle School, Burlington, 7-10 p.m. $6-10. Info, pbowley@bsdvt.org.

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.

FLYNNZONE FAMILY NIGHT: WEST AFRICAN DANCE & DRUMMING: Shidaa Projects presents an energizing evening of rhythm and movement led by Ghanaian drummer Jordan Mensah and dancer Samuel Maama Marquaye. e Flynn, Burlington, 5:30 & 6:20 p.m. Free. Info, 863-5966.

chittenden county

‘CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION’: All that jazz gets an age-appropriate remix in this rendition of the beloved musical following rival vaudevillian murderesses. Essex High School, Essex Junction, 7-9 p.m. $510. Info, bﬂynn@ewsd.org.

ART RELAYS: In this fast-paced event, team members take timed turns building a shared masterpiece using a rotating selection of supplies and silly prompts. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

PRESCHOOL MUSIC WITH LINDA BASSICK: e 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.

TODDLER TIME: Wiggly wee ones ages 1 and up love this lively, interactive storybook experience featuring songs, rhymes

Imagine That

Suitcase Stage, Vermont Stage’s inaugural education program, delivers boundless joy and encouragement to area elementary school students. e initiative introduces future music makers and dreamers to the empathy- and conﬁdence-building world of theater through accessible productions such as this month’s e Imaginators at Off Center for the Dramatic Arts in Burlington. e show follows siblings Anne and Tim, who move to a new town and quickly discover that their neighbor is a master of make-believe. rough the power of imagination, budding thespians discover the true meaning of bravery and strength, reinforcing the importance of using creativity to face fears both on and off the stage.

‘THE IMAGINATORS’

Saturday, November 22, and Sunday, November 23, 11 a.m., at Off Center for the Dramatic Arts in Burlington. $20-30 sliding scale. Info, 862-1497, vermontstage.org.

NOV. 22 & 23 | FAMILY FUN

barre/montpelier

and ﬁnger plays with Miss Valerie. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 9:159:45 & 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

INDIAN FOLK TALES STORY TIME: Little patrons step into a world of wonder with special guest Satya’s vibrant stories, captivating characters and timeless lessons. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 2nd Floor, Children’s Library, Montpelier, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

POKÉMON CLUB: I choose you, Pikachu! Elementary and teenage fans of the franchise — and beginners, too — trade cards and play games. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, Montpelier, 3:30-5 p.m. Free. Info, 223-3338.

STORY TIME: Kids and their caregivers meet for stories, songs and bubbles. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 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.

middlebury area

northeast kingdom

‘ANASTASIA: THE MUSICAL’: More than 90 student performers dance, sing and shine their way through a musical version of the classic story of a lost Russian princess. Mount Abraham Union High School, Bristol, 7 p.m. $12-15. Info, fmafminc@ gmail.com.

ACORN CLUB STORY TIME: Youngsters 5 and under play, sing, hear stories and color. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Info, 745-1391. outside vermont

FALL CONCERT: e Lebanon High School music program presents an end-ofterm shindig featuring its concert band, choir, jazz band and more. Lebanon Opera House, N.H., 7 p.m. Free. Info, 603-448-0400.

FRI.21

burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: See WED.19.

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.19.

‘LES MISÉRABLES: SCHOOL EDITION’: See THU.20.

YOUTH POETRY SUMMIT: Emerging wordsmiths embark on a day packed with immersive workshops, free writing time and an open mic session. Lunch provided. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 9:15 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, mbureau@ﬂynnvt.org.

chittenden county

‘CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION’: See THU.20.

‘THE WILD ROBOT’: Kiddos settle in to watch Chris Sanders’ 2024 animated feature about an intelligent robot stranded on an uninhabited island. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 3-4:30 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140. FRI.21 » P.70

Arts Center, Burlington, 4 & 7 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

‘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 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.

‘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, 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.

‘SPACE: THE NEW FRONTIER 3D’: Astrophiles witness history in the making — from launching rockets without fuel to building the Lunar Gateway — in this 2024 documentary narrated by Chris Pine. 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.

‘WARREN MILLER’S SNO-CIETY’: See WED.19.

games

BRIDGE CLUB: A lively group plays a classic, tricky game in pairs. Waterbury Public Library, 12:30-4:30 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, 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, 12:30-4 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.

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. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, andreamarion193@gmail.com.

language

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.

music

ALAN CHIANG: An accomplished pianist from South Burlington plays reflective and eclectic works, including Sergei Prokofiev’s Piano Sonata No. 7. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 861-0244.

THE LOOP SERIES: LAUREL JENKINS & MOIRA SMILEY: Professional artists offer a peek behind the curtain and create in real time at this intimate workin-progress performance. Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 6 p.m. $10-20 suggested donation. Info, 382-9222.

PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE: Professor D. Thomas Toner directs the students in diverse works, including a stirring piece by Cuban composer Amadeo Roldan and traditional music from the Indonesian island of Java. The University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 656-3040.

SPRUCE PEAK UNPLUGGED: AN EVENING WITH LIVINGSTON TAYLOR: Guitar in tow, the brother of James Taylor brings more than 50 years of experience to the stage. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, Stowe Mountain Resort, 7 p.m. $38.71-53.15. Info, 760-4634.

WINDERMAN, COLMAN & KIMOCK: The latest sonic adventure from three jamscene stalwarts blends lush textures and improvisational magic to conjure a genre-fluid musical journey. Alexander Twilight Theatre, Vermont State University-Lyndon, 7 p.m. $10-25; free for VTSU community. Info, 748-2600.

outdoors

NOVEMBER BIRD MONITORING WALK: New and experienced avian admirers take an outdoor stroll to observe flying, feathered friends. Green Mountain Audubon Center, Huntington, 9-11 a.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 434-3068.

talks

RED BENCH SPEAKER SERIES: ‘CELEBRATING

VERMONT’S OLYMPIANS: INSPIRING JOURNEYS TO THE WINTER GAMES’: Television sportscaster Peter Graves moderates this virtual conversation with four trailblazing women Olympians. Hosted by Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. See

Piste de Résistance

NOV. 20 | TALKS

works to knitwear to pottery — plus specialty foods, demos and live music. DoubleTree by Hilton, South Burlington, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Info, 734-6332.

WINTER ART FEST: Early birds looking for that one-of-a-kind gift consider paintings, ceramics, stained glass, photography and ornaments. Warren Public Library, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Info, 498-7494.

dance

CONTRA DANCE FUNDRAISER: Indivisible Calais hosts an evening of community building through movement, featuring live music by Atlantic Crossing and calling by Luke Donforth. Proceeds benefit Migrant Justice. Bring clean, soft-soled shoes. Capital City Grange, Berlin, 7-10 p.m. By donation. Info, 229-9425.

etc.

LICENSE TO GIVE: HOLIDAYS WITHOUT HUNGER GALA: A black-tie evening of espionage and elegance with a James Bond theme beckons superspies, villains and femmes fatales for music, dancing, gambling and a diamond giveaway. Proceeds benefit Feeding Champlain Valley. Burlington Country Club, 7 p.m. $75; preregister. Info, 864-4683.

SILENT AUCTION: Attendees place bids on a bevy of practical and fun offerings, including gift certificates for local restaurants, a handmade quilt and a free car inspection. Proceeds benefit Burlington Republicans. Burlington Elks Lodge, 6-7 p.m. Free. Info, thebtvgop@gmail.com. film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

You don’t have to be a snow sports fanatic to appreciate Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum’s Red Bench Speaker Series. And if you’re still without snow tires, some welcome news: You can experience November’s panel discussion, “Celebrating Vermont’s Olympians: Inspiring Journeys to the Winter Games,” from the comfort of home, so brew a cozy cuppa and hunker down! Renowned sportscaster Peter Graves leads Olympic gold medalist Barbara Ann Cochran, cross-country trailblazer Trina Hosmer, snowboarding spearhead Betsy Shaw and freestyle icon Donna Weinbrecht in a metaphoric schuss through their personal paths from the bunny slopes to the world stage.

RED BENCH SPEAKER SERIES: ‘CELEBRATING VERMONT’S OLYMPIANS: INSPIRING JOURNEYS TO THE WINTER GAMES’ Thursday, November 20, 7 p.m., online. $10; preregister. Info, 253-9911, vtssm.org.

calendar spotlight. 7 p.m. $10; preregister. Info, 253-9911.

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.

WRITING WORKSHOP: In a supportive environment, attendees explore different techniques for engaging with visual art

through the page. Hood Museum, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 6-7:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 603-646-2808.

FRI.21 agriculture

FARM TO PLATE ANNUAL NETWORK GATHERING: See THU.20.

bazaars

ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET: Festive shoppers flock to a onestop gift destination featuring handmade jewelry, ceramics, paintings, fiber arts and household goods. Chandler Center for the Arts, Randolph, noon-5 p.m. Free. Info, holidaymarket@ chandler-arts.org.

CELEBRATE CRAFT HOLIDAY FESTIVAL: Locavores find much to take in with three full days of artisan displays, from glass

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

Trina Hosmer, circa 1972

Job of theWeek SERVICE TEAM MEMBER

Tell us about how Vermont Mechanical developed into a stalwart company.

Vermont Mechanical began operations in 1988 in a 2,000-square-foot leased space in South Burlington. Our primary focus was on commercial piping, plumbing installations and HVAC design. A year later we started our HVAC service department, which has grown into one of the largest and most experienced service companies in the region. We’re proud to be one of the ﬁrst mechanical contractors in the region to implement digital estimating technology.

What is challenging and unique about working for Vermont Mechanical?

We’re currently a team of 128 serving Vermont, New Hampshire and upstate New York. A challenge we face as a business and as an industry is keeping pace with the alwaysevolving technology. Taking a proactive approach through the company’s investment in our ongoing development — along with our self-disciplined learning — is the key to keeping pace. Vermont Mechanical is unique in that it offers the choice of a 40-hour/ﬁve-day or a 40-hour/four-day workweek, which gives the opportunity for a three-day weekend. Additionally, the company is unique in that it sets the industry standard, rather than just trying to meet it. We’re a tight-knit group that supports one another in a likeminded approach to solving some of the most complex customer issues.

Get the scoop from Vermont Mechanical’s Senior Technical Lead, Tom Pope

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.20.

‘IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU’: See THU.20.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.20.

‘PRICKLY MOUNTAIN AND MY DESIGN/BUILD LIFE’: Director Allie Rood presents the Vermont premiere of an empowering 2025 documentary about counterculture architecture in her hometown of Warren. e Big Picture Community Hub for the Arts, Waitsﬁeld, 7-11 p.m. $18. Info, 496-8994.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.20.

‘SPACE: THE NEW FRONTIER 3D’: See THU.20.

‘TERESITA’S DREAM’: is 2025 documentary short tells the story of Cuban scientist Teresita Rodríguez and her quest to ﬁnd a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease after her mother’s diagnosis. A virtual Q&A with the director follows. 118 Elliot, Brattleboro, 6-8:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, admin@ windhamworldaffairscouncil.org.

food & drink

JASPER HILL FONDUE NIGHTS:

Foodies channel the ’70s retro vibe with an evening of out-of-this-world cheese and platters packed with dippable goodies, paired with pours from top Vermont winemakers. Adventure Dinner Clubhouse, Colchester, 6-9 p.m. $75. Info, sas@adventuredinner.com.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.20, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.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.

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.

holidays

A FOREST OF LIGHTS: A magical landscape ﬁlls up cups with enchanting illuminated displays, including a sparkle dome, a ﬁery tower and a dancing lights pavilion. Vermont Institute of Natural Science, Quechee, 4:30-7 p.m. $9-15; free for kids 3 and under. Info, 359-5000.

WINTER LIGHTS: Bedecked buildings and gardens glow with

multicolored bulbs in spectacular scenes for the holiday season. Shelburne Museum, 4-7:30 p.m. $10-30; free for kids under 3. Info, 985-3346.

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: A lauded pianist and vocalist entertains listeners with a wide variety of styles and genres. e Brandon Inn, 7-8 p.m. Free. Info, 747-8300.

BEAUSOLEIL & RICHARD

THOMPSON: Spellbinding ﬁddle playing fuses with soulful vocal stylings at this spicy double bill featuring the masters of Cajun music and the English folk-rock icon. Lebanon Opera House, N.H., 7:30 p.m. $51-61. Info, 603-448-0400.

CAITLIN CANTY: An acclaimed singer-songwriter harnesses the grit and spark of American folk and blues music, tempered with a voice both haunting and distinct. Paramount eatre, Rutland, 7-9 p.m. $35-40. Info, 775-0903.

HUG YOUR FARMER: ‘DEEP ROOTS REVIVAL’: Listeners kick up their heels for all-star performances inspired by legends of American roots, rock, folk and soul music. Proceeds beneﬁt Vermont farmers. See calendar spotlight. e Flynn, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $35-55. Info, 863-5966. THREE CELLISTS & THREE DANCERS IN CONCERT: A unique, collaborative project merging movement and music features works by David Popper, Pablo Casals, Gary Schmidt and Joni Mitchell. Stone Valley Arts, Poultney, 7 p.m. $10-20. Info, stonevalleyartscenter@ gmail.com.

WESTFORD MUSIC SERIES: LYNNE HANSON: A Canadian singer-songwriter delivers soulful folk songs to local listeners. Westford Common Hall, 7-8 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 734-8177.

talks

EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT FOR EVERYONE FALL LECTURE SERIES: BILL MCKIBBEN: A Vermont author, educator and activist reels listeners in with his talk titled “Back to the Wall, Face to the Sun: e Desperate and Beautiful Fight for the Planet in 2025.” 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.

NOV. 21 | MUSIC

Cream of the Crop

Here’s something to smile about: Hug Your Farmer events have raised nearly $1 million to support Green Mountain farming operations through the Vermont Community Foundation. Listeners at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington take up the cause when local legends assume the spotlight for “Deep Roots Revival,” a funk-tastic soul and American roots-rock revue. Familiar faces the likes of Mike and Tessa Gordon, Bob Wagner, Kat Wright, Josh Panda, and Brett Hughes perform a heartfelt, harmonyfilled tribute to influential figures from Otis Redding to Bill Monroe — all to keep our food systems strong.

HUG YOUR FARMER: ‘DEEP ROOTS REVIVAL’ Friday, November 21, 7:30 p.m., at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington. $35-55. Info, 863-5966, ﬂynnvt.org.

theater

HUNGER BENEFIT CABARET: e

Parish Players present a bevy of Broadway hits and sidesplitting comedic skits. Proceeds beneﬁt the Vermont Foodbank and Listen Community Services. Eclipse Grange eater, etford, 7-9 a.m. $15-25. Info, 785-4344.

‘MIDDLETOWN’: New Stage Players mounts Will Eno’s deeply moving yet humorous stage play zooming in on life in a small American town. Grange Hall Cultural Center, Waterbury Center, 7:30 p.m. $10-20. Info, 244-4168.

SMALL STAGED WORKS: ‘THE VASTNESS WITHIN’: Featured playwright Daniel Patterson’s sci-ﬁ stage play about a man found dead on the surface of the moon grabs audience members’ attention. Artistree Community Arts Center, South Pomfret, 7 p.m. $5. Info, 457-3500.

words

ALISON BECHDEL & TILLIE WALDEN: e Center for Cartoon Studies celebrates 20 years with a must-see live stream event featuring the beloved graphic novelist in conversation with Vermont’s current cartoonist

laureate. 3-4 p.m. Free. Info, 295-3319.

SAT.22

bazaars

ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET: See FRI.21.

CELEBRATE CRAFT HOLIDAY FESTIVAL: See FRI.21.

CHRISTMAS MARKET: Local vendors and crafters sell a variety of handmade goods, including jewelry, books, food items and décor. Mater Christi School, Burlington, 1-4 p.m. Free. Info, 658-3992.

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR: Art lovers delight in a day of crafters and vendors, rafﬂe and bake sale tables, and a scrumptious hot lunch. St. Francis Xavier School, Winooski, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 999-6205.

HOLIDAY SHOWCASE & CRAFT

SALE: Dozens of vendors put forth local crafts, art and foods, perfect for seasonal gift giving. Proceeds beneﬁt the BFA Fairfax baseball team’s spring trip. Bellows Free Academy, Fairfax, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 355-0832.

LOCAL VENDOR NOVEMBER:

Local artisans show off their products — from maple syrup to dog treats — with delicious demos and tastings. Original

General Store, Pittsﬁeld, noon-2 p.m. Free. Info, 746-8888.

MERCY MARKETPLACE: Savvy shoppers browse an array of handmade goods crafted by local artisans and small businesses. Mercy Connections, Burlington, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Info, 846-7063.

WINTER ART FEST: See FRI.21.

community

LANTERN PARADE & BRIDGE

LIGHTING CELEBRATION:

Neighbors celebrate a community-wide effort to illuminate the city’s historic structures with a procession and a special performance by Cirque de Fuego. Downtown Montpelier, 5-6:30 p.m. Free. Info, 262-6265.

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

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, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 426-3581.

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.

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. =

Bob Wagner

ese

Donna Heney Travis Redman Dave Sharpe Pat Sharpe

Debra Clemmer

Rich Cohen

Evi Cundiff

Heather Dodge

Robert Hale

Cameron Higby-Naquin

Eleanor Lanahan

Barbara McGrew

Jonathan McNally

Jerrilyn Miller

Betsy Pond

Alison Prine

Travis Redman

Maryanne Roberts

Dennis Scannell

Dee Steffan

Sandra Sundarabhaya

Caro Thompson

Katie Titterton

Garvin Warner

James Whiting

dance

Library, 1-5 p.m. Free. Info, judi@ waterburypubliclibrary.com.

holidays

theater

A FOREST OF LIGHTS: See FRI.21.

RUTLAND COMMUNITY DAY OF DANCE: A day of free workshops for teens and adults concludes with a work-in-progress showcase of new choreography by artists from Marble Valley Dance Collective. West Rutland Town Hall Theater, 10 a.m., 1 & 7 p.m. $10 suggested donation for performance. Info, 438-3154.

film

HOLIDAY TASTING: A festive sampling of wine, cider and beer paired with a curated spread of cheese and other goodies gets guests in the mood for the season. Bar Renée, Burlington, 2-6 p.m. $15. Info, 540-1477.

‘AFTERTALK’: A new work of poetic theater by award-winning author Chard deNiord reimagines an ancient text as a contemporary exploration of love, power and memory. Next Stage Arts, Putney, 7:30 p.m. $10-20. Info, 387-0102.

HUNGER BENEFIT CABARET: See FRI.21, 7-9 p.m.

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.20.

THANKSGIVING DINNER: Live music completes a delicious meal of roasted turkey or tofu, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and all the usual fixings. South Burlington Senior Center, 5 & 7 p.m. Free. Info, klikhite@ southburlingtonvt.gov.

WINTER LIGHTS: See FRI.21.

music

ALASDAIR FRASER & NATALIE

‘IT CAN’T HAPPEN HERE’: Margo Whitcomb directs this staged reading of an adaptation of Sinclair Lewis’ 1935 dystopian political novel, mounted in collaboration with the national Fall of Freedom project. Flynn Space, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-5966. ‘MIDDLETOWN’: See FRI.21. words

‘THE ICE STORM’: Academy Award-winning director Ang Lee’s 1997 drama follows two dysfunctional upper-class families trying to deal with extreme social changes of the early ’70s. The Screening Room @ VTIFF, Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, Burlington, 7-8:55 p.m. $6-12. Info, 660-2600.

MET OPERA IN HD: ‘ARABELLA’: The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Richard Strauss’ elegant three-act comedy features soprano Rachel Willis-Sørensen as a young noblewoman searching for love on her own terms. Anderson Studio at Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 1-5:15 p.m. $10-24. Info, 382-9222; and Spaulding Auditorium, Hopkins Center for the Arts, Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H., 1-5:15 p.m. $1022. Info, 603-646-2422.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.20.

‘PRICKLY MOUNTAIN AND MY DESIGN/BUILD LIFE’: See FRI.21.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.20.

‘SPACE: THE NEW FRONTIER 3D’: See THU.20.

‘WARREN MILLER’S SNO-CIETY’: See WED.19. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 7:30 p.m. $27. Info, 863-5966.

food & drink

STUFFED SHELLS TO STUFF HUNGRY BELLIES: A delicious Italian feast — including vegetarian and gluten-free options — helps fight world hunger. Preorder, takeout and drop-ins welcome. United Church of Ludlow, noon. $15; preregister. Info, 558-9055.

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

HAAS: A fiddler and a cellist join forces to revive traditional Scottish dance tunes. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Upper Valley, Norwich, 7 p.m. $30. Info, 649-8828.

ANA GUIGUI: See FRI.21.

ATLANTIC CROSSING: Rick Klein, Viveka Fox and Peter Macfarlane share their unique mix of folk songs from Québec, the British Isles and New England. Adamant Community Club, 7-9 p.m. $15. Info, 454-7103.

BURLINGTON CHORAL

SOCIETY: The vocalists inspire a more compassionate world with a performance of Karl Jenkins’ 1999 work, “The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace.” Elley-Long Music Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 7:30 p.m. $30; free for kids under 18. Info, 800-762-8000.

CLINT BIERMAN’S LISTENING

ROOM: The legendary local multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and educator delivers an intimate concert experience, featuring sneak peeks of a new album in development. Anderson Studio at Town Hall Theater, Middlebury, 7-9 p.m. $20-35. Info, 382-9222.

‘FOLKSGIVING’: A night of cozy folk music includes special performances by Alexa Woodward, Ben Cooley, Fisher Wagg and Town Crier. Proceeds benefit the North End Food Pantry. Odd Fellows Lodge, Burlington, 7-10 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Info, oddfellowsbtv@gmail.com.

THE LOCAL FOLK ORCHESTRA: Greensboro musician Roy MacNeil and friends old and new draw influences from myriad genres. Highland Center for the Arts, Greensboro, 7-10 p.m. $5-20. Info, 533-2000.

PAT LAMBDIN & AMIT

KAVTHEKAR: A Burlington sarod artist and a lauded tabla player perform captivating North Indian classical songs. Montpelier Performing Arts Hub, 3:30-5:30 p.m. $25-30. Info, 798-6717.

BEER & BROADSIDES: An afternoon of verse, conversation and drinks celebrates new work by poet Jack Christian. Ruth Stone House, Goshen, 4-7 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Info, 216-0558.

JACK ROWELL: Fans file in to celebrate the fifth-generation Vermonter’s magnum opus, Jack Rowell: Photographs which features more than 120 full-page portraits and scenes of rural life. White River Craft Center, Randolph, 2-5 p.m. Free. Info, 728-8912. THE POETRY EXPERIENCE: Local wordsmith Rajnii Eddins hosts a supportive writing and sharing circle for poets of all ages. Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 1-3 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403. WRITE NOW!: Authors 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.

SUN.23

bazaars

CELEBRATE CRAFT HOLIDAY FESTIVAL: See FRI.21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

FALL FARMERS MARKET: More than a dozen vendors display their local produce, meat, wellness items and artwork, perfect for a pantry refresh. Winooski Senior Center, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, farmersmarket@ downtownwinooski.org.

WINTER ART FEST: See FRI.21, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

crafts

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.19, 1-3 p.m.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.20.

HOLLYWOOD, VT SERIES:

‘BABY BOOM’: Cinephiles flaunt their flannel for a screening of Charles Shyer’s 1987 workplace drama starring the late, great Diane Keaton as a super-yuppie thrown into turmoil when she unexpectedly inherits a baby.

Playhouse Movie Theatre, Randolph, 6 p.m. $7-10. Info,

ongoldfishpondcreative@ gmail.com.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.20.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.20.

‘SPACE: THE NEW FRONTIER 3D’: See THU.20.

games

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.20, 1-4:30 p.m. health & fitness

KARUNA COMMUNITY

MEDITATION: A YEAR TO LIVE (FULLY): Participants practice keeping joy, generosity and gratitude at the forefront of their minds. Jenna’s House, Johnson, 10-11:15 a.m. Free; donations

accepted. Info, mollyzapp@ live.com.

NEW LEAF SANGHA MINDFULNESS PRACTICE: New and experienced meditators alike sit together in the Plum Village tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Hot Yoga Burlington, 6-7:45 p.m. Free. Info, newleafsangha@gmail.com.

holidays

WINTER LIGHTS: See FRI.21.

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.

QUEER BINGO: Drag artist Vincent Goldmine hosts six rounds of the beloved game of chance, increasing in difficulty as the evening progresses. Spiral House Art Collective, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. $5 per board. Info, spiral.house. collective@gmail.com.

music

EQUINOX WIND QUINTET: Joined by pianist Michael Sitton, the five-piece shows off its stunning range with a program of French music featuring works by Francis Poulenc and Claude Debussy. The University of Vermont Recital Hall, Burlington, 3 p.m. Free. Info, 656-3040.

RIBBON SING FOR CONNECTION: Community

singing finds roots at an online gathering in which attendees vocalize songs connected by an idea, while also connecting with singers from around the world through a live loop. 4-5 p.m. Free. Info, patricia@juneberrymusic. com.

THREE CELLISTS & THREE DANCERS IN CONCERT: See FRI.21, 3 p.m.

UPPER VALLEY SYMPHONY

ORCHESTRA: An ensemble of area musicians performs rich symphonic masterpieces by Georgian composer Giya Kancheli and 20th-century Black composer William Grant Still. Lebanon Opera House, N.H., 3 p.m. $25; free for kids under 18. Info, 603-448-0400.

outdoors

TREE ID & NATURAL HISTORY

TOUR: SOLD OUT. Naturalist

Gene O. Desideraggio guides attendees in identifying local flora. Oakledge Park, Burlington, noon. $10-15; preregister. Info, info@citymarket.coop. québec

‘KIMBERLY AKIMBO’: This five-time Tony Award-winning musical follows a teenager with a rare condition who endeavors to make sense of her family life and romantic relationships. Sylvan Adams Theatre, Segal Centre for Performing Arts, Montréal, 2 p.m. $75-80. Info, 514-739-7944.

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

‘AFTERTALK’: See SAT.22, 2 p.m. ‘MIDDLETOWN’: See FRI.21, 2 p.m.

MON.24

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.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.20.

FAMI LY FU N

northeast kingdom

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.20.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.20.

‘SPACE: THE NEW FRONTIER 3D’: See THU.20.

food & drink

COOKEE’S SUPPER CLUB: A pop-up farm-to-table dining experience satisfies foodies with a seven-course tasting menu and wine pairing. Blackbird Bistro, Craftsbury, 4:30-8 p.m. $100. Info, kathryn@cookeesvt.com.

Paul Winter's Solstice Celebration

Seven-time Grammy-winning Paul Winter Consort, with beloved vocalist Theresa Thomason, will present the timeless music of their legendary New York Winter Solstice Celebration, in a joyous and profound celebration of this season of renewal.

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.

SPANISH STORY TIME: Mini amigos learn new words at a fun and educational morning. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10:30 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

barre/montpelier

BASEMENT TEEN CENTER:

A drop-in 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.

MEET TEDDY THE THERAPY

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.22 burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: See WED.19.

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.19.

‘LES MISÉRABLES: SCHOOL EDITION’: See THU.20.

‘THE IMAGINATORS’: Themes of friendship, courage, creativity and cooperation punctuate this family-focused production by Vermont Stage. A meet and greet with the actors follows. See calendar spotlight. Off Center for the Dramatic Arts, Burlington, 11 a.m. $20-30 sliding scale. Info, 862-1497.

FAMILY ART SATURDAY:

king. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free; preregister. Info, nliuzzi@southburlingtonvt.gov.

READ & PLAY: Little ones ages birth to 5 build with blocks and hoops, sing songs, and read together. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10 a.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

RUG CONCERT: Vermont Youth Orchestra enthralls its youngest concertgoers with an interactive morning of music. Elley-Long Music Center, Saint Michael’s College, Colchester, 11 a.m. $20; free for kids; preregister. Info, 655-5030.

mad river valley/ waterbury

HAYLEY MORRIS: An Emmy Award-winning animator entertains little listeners with a reading of Brooke Hartman’s Lotte’s Magical Paper Puppets: The Woman Behind the First Animated Feature Film, followed by a themed craft and a stop-motion demo. Inklings Children’s Books, Waitsfield, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Info, 496-7280.

middlebury area

DOG: Animal lovers pop by the library to make friends with a very good boy, learn about his therapy duties and see some of his astounding tricks. Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 2nd Floor, Children’s Library, Montpelier, 3:30 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.

middlebury

area

‘ANASTASIA: THE MUSICAL’: See THU.20.

upper valley

STORY TIME: Preschoolers take part in tales, tunes and playtime. Latham Library, Thetford, 11 a.m. Free. Info, 785-4361.

Families get creative at a dropin activity inspired by the healing power of creativity and the center’s current exhibition, “Do We Say Goodbye? Grief, Loss and Mourning.” BCA Center, Burlington, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info, 865-7166.

FROG AND TOAD ARE FRIENDS

DAY: The beloved duo from Arnold Lobel’s award-winning children’s book series invites families to an inspired day of meet and greets, story readings, and live frog demos.

A sensory-friendly hour is offered at 9 a.m. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Regular admission, $17-23; free for members and kids 2 and under. Info, 864-1848.

chittenden county

‘CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION’: See THU.20, 1-3 & 7-9 p.m.

KIDS CHESS CLUB: Checkmate! Players ages 5 and up make strategic moves and vie for the opposing

‘ANASTASIA: THE MUSICAL’: See THU.20, 2 & 7 p.m. OFF STAGE SERIES: THE BIG BLUE TRUNK: Mike Randall’s inspired balloon twisting delivers laughter and magic to attendees of all ages. lu.lu Ice Cream, Vergennes, 2 p.m., and Rockers Pizzeria, Vergennes, 5 p.m. Free. Info, vergennespartnership@gmail. com.

TOY SWAP: Neighbors save money on holiday shopping and find like-new toys, games and puzzles for the whole family. Burnham Hall, Lincoln, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Info, ekeenan00@gmail.com.

northeast kingdom

COMIC BOOK CLUB: Kiddos collaborate to create their very own masterpiece to print and take home. Haskell Free Library & Opera House, Derby Line, 1-2:30 p.m. Free. Info, 888-626-2060.

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.

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.

SUN.23

burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: See WED.19.

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.19.

‘THE IMAGINATORS’: See SAT.22.

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, 12:302:30 p.m. Free. Info, 891-2014.

manchester/ bennington

MOVIE MAGIC FAMILY FILM

SERIES: ‘THE MUPPET

MOVIE’: Film buffs of all ages bring a stuffed animal to watch Kermit and his felted friends embark on a musical road trip in this nostalgic 1979 adventure comedy. Bennington Theater, 2 p.m. $2. Info, 500-5500.

MON.24

burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: See WED.19.

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE

MONSTER’: See WED.19.

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

SCHOOL VACATION MINUTE-

TO-WIN-IT GAMES: The clock is ticking! Players ages 5 and up enjoy some friendly competition and vie for a chance to win prizes. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 2-3 p.m. Free. Info, 846-4140.

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.

québec

‘KIMBERLY AKIMBO’: See SUN.23, 7:30 p.m.

words

READ LIKE A WRITER: New England Readers &

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.25

burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: See WED.19.

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.19. BUILD IT BIG! RIGAMAJIG WORKSHOP: Budding engineers ages 7 to 12 work together to create towers, forts, vehicles — and anything else they can dream up — with the library’s building tool. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3:304:30 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 863-3403.

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 New North End Branch, 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.

STUNT NITE: Rice Memorial High School students compete with songs, skits and dances in this 96-year-old tradition. Flynn Main Stage, Burlington, 4 & 8 p.m. $30-35. Info, 863-5966.

chittenden county

SCHOOL VACATION

CRAFTYTOWN: Kiddos express their inner artist and create clothespin people. Recommended for ages 8

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.

TUE.25

bazaars

ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET: See FRI.21.

and up, or 6 and up with an adult helper. South Burlington Public Library & City Hall, 11 a.m.-noon. 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.21, 2-6 p.m. northeast kingdom

LAPSIT STORY TIME: Babies 2 and under learn to love reading, 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.21.

WED.26 burlington

‘ANIMATIONLAND’: See WED.19.

‘CHAMP: AMERICA’S LAKE MONSTER’: See WED.19.

LIBRARY LITTLES: See WED.19.

QUEER FAMILY PLAYGROUP: See WED.19.

VISIT WITH VASYA: See WED.19.

chittenden county

BABY TIME: See WED.19. SCHOOL VACATION MINUTETO-WIN-IT GAMES: See MON.24, 1-2 p.m.

TEEN BOARD GAME DAY: Students in grades 6 and up convene to snack, play and socialize in honor of International Games Month. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. Info, 878-6956.

barre/montpelier

BABY & CAREGIVER MEETUP: See WED.19.

FAMILY CHESS CLUB: See WED.19. K

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:

See SAT.22, 4:30-6 p.m.

CRAFTERS DROP-IN: Community members converse and connect through knitting, crocheting, mending, embroidery and other creative pursuits. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

film

See what’s playing at local theaters in the On Screen section.

‘ANIMAL KINGDOM 3D’: See THU.20.

‘OCEAN PARADISE 3D’: See THU.20.

‘SEA MONSTERS 3D: A

PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE’: See THU.20.

‘SPACE: THE NEW FRONTIER 3D’: See THU.20.

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.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE GAMES: See THU.20.

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.

québec

‘KIMBERLY AKIMBO’: See SUN.23, 7:30 p.m.

sports

EZ BREEZY BIKE RIDE: FALL

FORMAL: Cyclists don their finest bow ties, ball gowns and cummerbunds for a fancy, casually paced ride around Burlington. BYO reflective wear. Local Motion, Burlington, 6 p.m. Free. Info, 861-2700.

tech

AFTERNOON TECH HELP: Experts answer questions about phones, laptops, e-readers and other devices in one-on-one sessions. 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 sessions. Fletcher Free Library New North End Branch, Burlington, 12:30-2 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

TECH TUESDAYS: LEARN GOOGLE

DRIVE: Patrons get assistance with the cloud storage service, which allows users to store, access and share files online. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

➆ Good G�avy!

Calendar events and art listings happening 12/3-12/10 are due by: Wednesday, 11/26, at noon sevendaysvt.com/postevent

Advertising reservations due by: Wednesday, 11/26, at noon 802-864-5684 or sales@sevendaysvt.com

words

BOOK LAUNCH: Seven local authors read their essays from 2050: Vermonters Take a Swipe at the Future, a collection of humorous, serious and dystopian stories assembled by the late Bill Mares. Phoenix Books, Burlington, 6:30-8 p.m. Free; preregister. Info, 448-3350.

BURLINGTON LITERATURE GROUP: Over the course of three weeks, bookworms analyze Franz Kafka’s The Trial, about a man arrested and prosecuted by an inaccessible authority. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Info, info@ nereadersandwriters.com.

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.26 bazaars

ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET: See FRI.21.

LOCAL ARTISAN & MERCHANT MARKET: See WED.19.

community

COMMUNITY PARTNERS DESK: Neighbors connect with

representatives from the Turning Point Center and learn about its addiction-recovery services. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 2-4 p.m. Free. Info, 863-3403.

CURRENT EVENTS: Community members 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.19.

YARN CRAFTERS GROUP: See WED.19.

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.19.

health & fitness

CHAIR YOGA: See WED.19.

language

ELL CLASSES: See WED.19.

music

THE ALBANY SOUND: A local band plays a rich combination of country, folk and rock originals, paired with renditions of rarities by John Prine, Bobby Charles and other noteworthy names. The Tillerman, Bristol, 6-8 p.m. Free; cash bar. Info, 643-2237.

québec

‘KIMBERLY AKIMBO’: See SUN.23, 7:30 p.m.

seminars

FAMILY-TO-FAMILY: See WED.19.

sports

GREEN MOUNTAIN TABLE TENNIS CLUB: See WED.19.

theater

‘KISSES DEEP’: A young man consumed by high fashion channels his creativity and obsession into a singular mission — to restore the tarnished reputation of his mother — in the English premiere of Michel Marc Bouchard’s poignant play. Centaur Theatre, Montréal, 8 p.m. $22-71. Info, 514-288-3161.

words

THE HUMP DAY WRITING GROUP: See WED.19. ➆

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

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.

business

CANNABIS WORKSHOPS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES: Vermont State University’s Cannabis Studies Certiﬁcate Program, through the Center for Workforce & Professional Education, is offering a series of in-person cannabis business development workshops at the Johnson Campus on Dec. 5 and 6. e workshops are open to all Vermont-based cannabis business owners and members of the public, with priority access and special beneﬁts for social equity license applicants and holders. Vermont State University is partnering with the Vermont Department of Economic Development to provide social equity license applicants to the CCB and licensed cannabis businesses with lower registration costs and extra support for participating. For non-social equity participants, funding may be available through VSAC’s Short-term Training Advancement Grant. Dates: Dec. 5 & 6, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $250 per workshop; $50 per workshop for social equity license holders or applicants, with tuition support available through ACCD. Location: VTSU-Johnson, Willy Library and Learning Center, 337 College Hill Rd., Room 208, Johnson. Info: Philip Lamy, 802-468-1345, philip.lamy@vermontstate.edu, vermontstate.edu/news/ cannabis-education-workshopsoffered-at-vermont-stateuniversity-johnson-in-december.

dance

Fri., Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m. Cost: $60; $15 for additional decorators.

Location: Red Poppy Cakery, 1 Elm St., Waterbury. Info: 203-4000700, sevendaystickets.com.

‘THE BASICS’ CAKE DECORATING CLASS: In this workshop, we will talk through the basics of ﬁlling a cake, crumb coating, working on getting nice smooth edges and some rosette piping. You’ll go home with some great new techniques as well as a two-layer six-inch cake that serves eight. Wed., Dec. 3, 6 p.m. Cost: $85; $15 for additional decorators.

7-8 p.m. Cost: $50 for the 4-week series or $15 for just the 1st class. Location: North Star Community Hall, 20 Crowley St., Burlington. Info: Terrill Bouricius, 802-3101034, terrybour@gmail.com, vermontswings.com.

LEARN TO DANCE TANGO: Tango El Camino offers intro and intermediate classes starting on Nov. 6 and running for six weeks. e intro class is a 45-minute class focusing on the basics of tango steps and musicality, progressing over six weeks. Following each intro class, we will teach a 45-minute intermediate class focusing on solid fundamentals, musicality and the joy of tango dancing. e evening will ﬁnish up with a one-hour guided practica session. Dates: u., 7-9:30 p.m. Cost: $10 for class & practica; $5 for practica only; $50 for 6-week session. Location: North Star Community Hall, 20 Crowley St., Burlington. Info: 425-502-5564, tango.elcamino@ gmail.com, Tango El Camino on Facebook.

food & drink

BEGINNING SWING DANCE CLASS

DECEMBER SERIES: Learn the basics of swing dancing in this four-week series. No partner necessary. Each hourlong class is followed by a free deejayed dance for practice. Preregister on the Vermont Swings website. Dates: Tue., Dec. 2, 9, 16, & 23,

REINDEER CAKE DECORATING CLASS: In this workshop, we will decorate four-inch cakes to look like Santa’s reindeer! We will make fondant decorations, work on piping on the top and enjoy a slice of cake during our time together. Everyone will take home their own reindeer to enjoy.

Location: Red Poppy Cakery, 1 Elm St., Waterbury. Info: 203-4000700, sevendaystickets.com.

healing arts

REIKI SECOND DEGREE ATTUNEMENT AND TRAINING: A beautiful training day in the powerful and gentle beam of learning second-degree Reiki! Reiki means “spiritually guided life force” and offers relaxation, soothing, healing and transformative energy. If you have been attuned to ﬁrst degree, you are welcome to join us in the sacred space of the Lightheart Sanctuary in New Haven, Vt. Maureen Short — an energy healer for 34 years — loves to attune and teach the Reikilovelight! Date: Tue., Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $250, incl. training, attunement, textbook & lunch. Location: Lightheart Sanctuary, 236 Wild Apple Rd., New Haven. Info: 802-453-4433, maureenseventeen@gmail.com, lightheart.net.

home & garden

HOLIDAY FLOWERS AND WINE WITH BLOSSOM LLC: An evening of ﬂoral arranging and wine at Leo and Co. with wine from Salt & Bubbles. Date: u., Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. Cost: $75. Location: Leo & Co., 21 Essex Way, Suite 418, Essex. Info: blossomvermont@ gmail.com, sevendaystickets. com.

HOLIDAY BLOSSOMS AT FIG: Join Blossom LLC at Fig in Shelburne for an evening of holiday ﬂoral creation and a cocktail or mocktail! Participants will create a holiday ﬂower arrangement to bring home while sipping on a delicious drink of their choice. (One drink included with ticket.) Sun., Dec. 14, 4:30 p.m. Cost: $75. Location: Fig, 5573 Shelburne Rd. Info, sevendaystickets.com.

language

FRENCH CLASSES: JOIN

WINGSPAN’S WINTER SESSION!: e 2026 session starts Jan. 5! ree levels. Parlez-vous français? Elevate your French journey with encouraging, small-group classes! Attend in person or virtually. Instructor Madame Maggie has beaucoup experience, attended top schools in Paris, did graduate work in francophone Africa and holds a Vermont French teacher license. For an individual approach, inquire about private lessons. Start the New Year off fantastiquely! Nurture brainpower and open doors to friends, travel, experiences! Date: Session starts Jan 5. Cost: $275/8-week session, 1.5-hour classes. Location: Wingspan School & Studio, 4A Howard St., Burlington. Info: Maggie Standley, 802-233-7676, maggiestsandley@gmail.com, wingspanstudioeduc.com.

martial arts

AIKIDO: THE POWER OF HARMONY: 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

especially if you’re riding through the winter! e Winter One-Night Stand at Old Spokes Home will teach cold-weather specific tips for maintaining your bike through the slush and salt. It will help you stay safer, keep your bike running longer, and give you confidence in either getting what you need at the bike shop or figuring out how to deal with it on your own. u., Nov. 20, 6 p.m. Cost: $66.18. Location: Old Spokes Home, 331 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington. Info: sevendaystickets.com.

wellness

TAI CHI AT THE MIND BODY

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

RAR BIKE BASICS WORKSHOP FOR WTNB: 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 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio, this class is designed to empower participants by helping them understand and care for their bicycles. Reserved for women/trans/nonbinary identities. Dates: Fri., Dec. 5, 12 & 19, 11 a.m. Cost: $189.54. Location: Old Spokes Home, 331 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington. Info, sevendaystickets.com.

THE WINTER ONE-NIGHT STAND: A SINGLE-EVENING COURSE IN COLD-WEATHER BICYCLE CARE: Having a basic understanding of your bike and knowing how to care for it is empowering,

HARMONY SCHOOL IN BURLINGTON: Tai Chi is sometimes described as moving meditation. e art contains movements which are so varied that they put into play every part of the body with harmonious design and graceful patterns. Each form ﬂows with the grace of a speciﬁc aspect of nature, working with nature’s energy. Movements are slow and deliberate without exerting force or power. e speed of the breathing matches the speed of the movement. Dates: Tue. & u, 2:30 p.m., & Sat., 1:15 p.m. Cost: 1st class is free. Location: Oom Yung Doe Vt, 1127 North Ave., Burlington. Info: Inst. Wade, 802-495-6034, inst.wade@ gmail.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

Humane

Society of Chittenden

County

Hoss

AGE/SEX: 6-year-old neutered male

ARRIVAL DATE: October 13, 2025

SUMMARY: Hoss came to us when his guardian’s lifestyle changed, and he’s ready to start a new chapter filled with activity, connection and plenty of playtime. A true cattle dog, he’s sharp, energetic and endlessly curious. Hoss loves being around people, greeting everyone with his tail wagging, body wiggling, eyes bright with anticipation. He’s the kind of dog who wants to be part of the action, share his joy with his humans and play lots of fetch! Hoss will thrive in a home where he can stretch his legs, use his brain and stay connected to his people. He’s the perfect match for someone who appreciates a dog with spirit, spunk and intelligence. Could you have room in your home and heart for handsome Hoss?

DOGS/CATS/KIDS: Hoss would prefer to be the only dog in his home. He has experience living with cats. Hoss may thrive in a home with teenagers and adults.

Visit the Humane Society of Chittenden County at 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. or Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. Call 862-0135 or visit hsccvt.org for more info.

DID YOU KNOW?

Behavior that gets rewarded gets repeated! Training is all about bridging a communication barrier with your dog, and HSCC recommends positive reinforcement training. Using rewards such as treats, toys and attention is always the best way to help your dog learn!

WANT MORE PUZZLES?

Try these online news games from Seven Days at sevendaysvt.com/games.

Put your knowledge of Vermont news to the test. NEW ON FRIDAYS:

CALCOKU BY JOSH

REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HH

Fill the grid using the numbers 1-6, only once in each row and column. The numbers in each heavily outlined “cage” must combine to produce the target number in the top corner, using the mathematical operation indicated. A one-box cage should be filled in with the target number in the top corner. A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not the same row or column.

SUDOKU BY JOSH REYNOLDS

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK: HHH

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers one to nine. The same numbers cannot be repeated in a row or column.

ON P.78

See how fast you can solve this weekly 10-word puzzle.

24-7 LOCKSMITH

OR CALL 802-865-1020, EXT. 121.

RESTORATIVE CLEANING SERVICE FOR RENTAL PROPERTIES

Has a tenant left your rental property in an uninhabitable state?

Offering a “1-time” restorative/deep cleaning service specializing in rental properties. Very thorough & meticulous work done. Stellar references avail. upon request. Free estimates gladly given. Please contact Shawn at 802-660-2645.

GREEN MOUNTAIN PAINTERS

Refresh your home for the holidays w/ thoughtful, professional interior painting. Local, reliable & trusted tradespeople since 2005. Free estimates at vtpainters.com. Call 802-825-1578.

NEED NEW WINDOWS?

Drafty rooms? Chipped or damaged frames?

Need outside noise reduction? New, energyefﬁ cient windows may be the answer! Call for a consultation & free quote today: 1-877-2489944. (AAN CAN)

We are there when you need us for home & car lockouts. We’ll get you back up & running quickly! Also, key reproductions, lock installs & repairs, vehicle fobs. Call us for your home, commercial & auto locksmith needs: 1-833-237-1233. (AAN CAN)

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE?

You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind its work. Fast, free estimate. Financing avail. Call 1-888-292-8225. (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)

MOVING & HAULING

MOVING

Markoski’s has established a local reputation for being a team of friendly professionals who treat their customers like family. Based out of Chittenden County, we go across Vermont & out of state. Please inquire at markoskismoving.com.

NORTHSTAR SELF STORAGE WILL BE HAVING A PUBLIC AND ONLINE SALE/AUCTION FOR THE FOLLOWING STORAGE UNITS ON NOVEMBER 30, 2025 AT 9:00 AM

Northstar Self Storage will be having a public and online sale/auction on November 30, 2025 at 9am EST at 205 Route 4A West, Castleton, VT 05735 (units C138, C143), 130 Taconic Business Park, Manchester Center, VT 05255 (unit M203) 3466 Richville Road, Manchester Center, VT 05255 (unit 109), 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

C138 Devin Bruno Household Goods

C143 Ashlee Brown Household Goods

M203 Corey Hazelton Household Goods 109 Stracy Martin Household Goods

STATE OF VERMONT

SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL DIVISION

CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO. 25-CV-04386

RIVER WATCH HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff, v.

GLORIA DIEHL and any OCCUPANT(S) of 133 Hildred Driv e, Unit 133, Burlington, VT 05401, Defendants.

SUMMONS AND ORDER OF PUBLICATION

THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO: GLORIA DIEHL

1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has filed a lawsuit against you. A copy of Plaintiff’s Complaint against you is on file and may be obtained from the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division, Chittenden Unit, 175 Main Street, Burlington, Vermont 05401. Do not throw this paper away. It is an official paper that affects your rights.

2. PLAINTIFF’S CLAIM. Plaintiff’s claim against you is for unpaid homeowners’ association fees

for real property located at 133 Hildred Drive, Unit 133, Burlington, VT 05401.

3. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 42 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail the Plaintiff a written response, called an Answer, within 42 days after the date on which this Summons was first published on November 12, 2025. You must send a copy of your Answer to the Plaintiff’s attorney: Renee L. Mobbs, Esq. SHEEHEY FURLONG BEHM P.C. PO Box 66 Burlington, VT 05402-0066 You must also give or mail your Answer to the Court: Vermont Superior Court Chittenden Civil Division 175 Main Street Burlington, VT 05401

4. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

5. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT GIVE YOUR WRITTEN ANSWER TO THE COURT. If you do not send the Plaintiff and the Court your Answer within 42 days, you will probably lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the Complaint.

6. YOU MUST MAKE ANY CLAIMS AGAINST PLAINTIFF IN YOUR ANSWER. Your Answer must state any related legal claims you have against the Plaintiff. Your claims against the Plaintiff are called Counterclaims. If you do not make your Counterclaims in writing in your Answer, you may not be able to bring them up at all. Even if you have insurance and the insurance company will defend you, you must still file any Counterclaims you have.

7. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you should ask the Court Clerk for information

about places where you can get free legal help. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still give the Court written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

ORDER

The verified Complaint or Affidavit filed in this action shows that service cannot be made with due diligence by any of the methods provided in Rules 4(d)-(f), (k), or (1) of the Vermont Rules of Civil Procedure. Accordingly, it is ORDERED that service of the Summons set forth above shall be made upon the Defendant, Gloria Diehl, by publication as provided in Rules 4(d)(1) and (g) of those Rules.

This Order shall be published once a week and at least 7 days apart for 2 successive weeks in Seven Days, weekly newspaper of general circulation in Chittenden County, Vermont, starting on November 12, 2025. A copy of this Summons and Order as published shall also be mailed by certified mail, return receipt request and by US first class mail to the Defendant, Gloria Diehl, at her last known address, and sent to any and all email addresses for the Defendant known to Plaintiff.

Electronically signed pursuant to V.R.E.F. 9(d) Date: 11/08/2025 10:40:38 AM Megan J. Shafritz Superior Court Judge

RFP - PAVING SERVICES ON MILTON WESTFORD RD.

The Town of Westford is working with a grant to pave a section of the Milton-Westford Rd, and replace a culvert. The RFP is available at https:// westfordvt.us/careers-rfps/

Any questions can be sent to Tommy O’Connor –Town Administrator at townadmin@westfordvt. us or call the office at 802-878-4587

STATE OF VERMONT

SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL DIVISION

CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO. 24-CV-00916

NORTHCOUNTRY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff, v. TINA MCGRATH, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LEO W. RICH, SR., and ALL OCCUPANTS RESIDING AT 35 GROVE STREET, CITY OF ESSEX JUNCTION, VT Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE

By virtue and in execution of the Judgment and Decree of Foreclosure by Judicial Sale dated June 24, 2025, for a breach of a Mortgage dated October 31, 2019, and recorded in Book 1024, Pages 677-691 in the Town of Essex Land Records (the “Mortgaged Property”); and for the purpose of foreclosing the same, the Mortgaged Property will be sold at public auction on December 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Mortgaged Property, 35 Grove Street, Essex, more particularly described as follows:

Being all and the same land and premises conveyed to Leo W. Rich by Warranty Deed of David R. Farnham and Ruth M. Farnham dated January 22, 1975, and recorded in Volume 117 at Pages 388-390 of the Town of Essex Land Records.

Being a lot of land with trailer and addition thereto located on the easterly side of Grove Street, the dwelling house being known and designated as No. 35 Grove Street, said lot contains 3/16 acre, more or less.

Patricia Rich spouse of Leo W. Rich, joins in this mortgage to permit the above-described marital property to be mortgaged to NorthCountry Federal Credit Union.

TERMS OF SALE: The Mortgaged Property will be sold “AS IS WHERE IS” to the highest bidder for cash or wire funds only. The sale of the Mortgaged Property is subject to confirmation

by the Vermont Superior Court, Chittenden Unit, Civil Division. The Mortgaged Property will be sold subject to unpaid taxes, municipal assessments, and superior liens, if any.

The public sale may be adjourned one or more times for a total time not exceeding 30 days, without further court order, and without publication or service of a new notice of sale, by announcement of the new sale date to those present at each adjournment or by posting notice of the adjournment in a conspicuous place at the location of the sale. Notice of the new sale date shall also be sent by first class mail, postage prepaid, to the mortgagors at the mortgagors’ last known address at least five days before the new sale date.

Defendant Tina McGrath, Administrator of the Estate of Leo W. Rich, Sr. and all Occupants residing at 35 Grove Street are entitled to redeem the Mortgaged Property at any time prior to the sale by paying the full amount due under the Mortgage referenced above, including the costs and expenses of the sale.

MORTGAGED PROPERTY DEPOSIT: A nonrefundable deposit for the Mortgaged Property in the amount of $10,000.00 shall be paid by the high bidder by cash, certified check or bank draft to Prozzo Auctions, which shall hold the deposit until the closing. The balance of the purchase price for the Mortgaged Property shall be due and payable within the latter of 10 days from the date of confirmation of said sale by the Vermont Superior Court, Chittenden Unit, Civil Division, or 45 days from the date of public auction. If the balance of the purchase price for the Mortgaged Property is not paid within the period set forth herein, the deposit shall be forfeited and shall be retained by Plaintiff herein as agreed liquidation damages and the Mortgaged Property may be offered to the next highest bidder still interested in the Mortgaged Property.

PURCHASE AND SALE CONTRACT: The high bidder for the Mortgaged Property shall be required to sign a no contingency contract of Purchase and Sale at the public auction, agreeing to purchase the Mortgaged Property in its “AS IS WHERE IS” condition, as a result of being the successful and high bidder at the sale.

OTHER TERMS TO BE ANNOUNCED AT SALE: Inquiries can be made to Prozzo Auctions, 207 N Main St, Rutland, VT 05701; (802) 773-2691.

Dated: November 12, 2025.

NORTHCOUNTRY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

By: /s/ Alexandra E. Edelman

Alexandra E. Edelman, Esq. Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer PC 30 Main Street, Suite 500 P.O. Box 1489 Burlington, VT 05602-1489 (802) 864-0880 aedelman@primmer.com

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 Wetland Rules.

Vermont Proposed Rule: 25P040 AGENCY: Agency of Natural Resources, Environmental Conservation CONCISE SUMMARY: This rule amendment to the Vermont Wetland Rules (VWR) will provide that housing projects are an allowed use in unmapped Class II wetlands located within appropriate locations; specifically growth areas, Tier 1A or 1B designations under 10 V.S.A. §6033, and locations meeting the eligibility requirements established in 10 V.S.A § 6081(z)for an interim exemption from an Act 250 permit or amendment. It will also provide greater flexibility to allow housing construction to occur within the buffer of a mapped Class II wetland within the areas listed above. The elimination of the reconsideration process removes an interim step between permit issuance and appeal which typically takes a month. This will reduce permit and appeal processing time for housing projects throughout the state. The amendments related to the wetland maps will streamline edits. Wetland maps provide notice and regulatory certainty for developers.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Misty Sinsigalli, Commissioner, Department of Environmental Conservation, Agency of Natural Resources, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, VT 05620-3522 Tel: 802-490-6137 Fax: 802-828-1544 E-mail: misty.sinsigalli@ vermont.gov URL: https://dec.vermont.gov/ watershed/wetlands/rulemaking.

FOR COPIES: Catherine Gjessing, Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, 1 National Life, Davis 2 Montpelier, VT 05620-3522 Tel: 802-595-3331

Fax: 802-828-5144 E-mail: catherine.gjessing@ vermont.gov.

STATE OF VERMONT

VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL DIVISION

CHITTENDEN UNIT CASE NO. 25-CV-04979

Date: November 12, 2025

NOTICE OF HEARING

North Avenue Coop, Inc. v. Randy Lavalette

This is to notify you to appear at the Court named above in connection with the abovenamed case on:

DATE: December 11, 2025

TIME: 9:15 AM

DURATION: 15 Minutes

A hearing on North Avenue Cooperative, Inc.’s verified complaint to declare abandoned the mobile home of Randy Lavalette located at the North Avenue Mobile Home Park, 47 Avenue B (1963 Princess Model No. 1513, 10’ x 60’, Serial No. 029-2052-042) in Burlington, Vermont to authorize the transfer without a public auction, so it may be removed and disposed of, has been set for Thursday December 11, 2025 @ 09:15AM.

“YOU MUST ATTEND THIS HEARING IN PERSON AT THE COURTHOUSE UNLESS YOU RECEIVE ADVANCE PERMISSION FROM THE COURT TO ATTEND REMOTELY (BY PHONE OR VIDEO).”

Electronically signed Wednesday, November 12, 2025 pursuant to V.R.E.F. 9(d) /s/ Nancy L. Bean Nancy L. Bean

Judicial Assistant – Chittenden Civil Division Vermont Superior Court 175 Main Street Burlington, Vermont 05401

VERMONT SUPERIOR COURT

SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL DIVISION

CHITTENDEN UNIT DOCKET NO: 25-CV-04979

IN RE: ABANDONED MOBILE HOME OF RANDY LAVALETTE

VERIFIED COMPLAINT FOR ABANDONMENT

PURSUANT TO 10 V.S.A. 6249i (Uninhabitable)

NOW COMES Plaintiff North Avenue Cooperative,

Request for Proposals (RFP) Inspection & Compliance Alignment Project

The Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, in coordination with Vermont Housing Finance Agency, Vermont State Housing Authority and the Vermont Community Development Program, is seeking proposals from qualiﬁed consultants to assess and align inspection and compliance systems across Vermont’s affordable housing portfolio. This project will include evaluating current practices, developing streamlined procedures, and recommending system improvements to enhance efﬁciency and consistency.

The full RFP is available at vhcb.org/resources/procurement

Proposals are due Friday, December 5, 2025.

VHCB is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We strongly encourage proposals from diverse consultants and teams.

6h-VHCBlegalnotice110525.indd 1 11/3/25 10:42 AM

Inc. by and through counsel Steven J. Kantor, Esq., of Doremus Kantor & Zullo, and hereby makes this complaint:

1. Plaintiff North Avenue Cooperative, Inc. is a Vermont Cooperative Housing Corporation which was formed by the owners of mobile homes to own and manage the North Avenue Mobile Home Park (the “Park”) located in the City of Burlington.

2. Randy Lavalette (“Randy”) is the record owner of a certain mobile home in the Park, described as a 1963 Princess Homes Model No. 1513, 10’ x 60’, Serial No. 029-2-052-042 (the “Mobile Home”) located at 47 Avenue B in Burlington, Vermont (the “Lot”). A true and accurate copy of the Bill of Sale from Theresa Lavalette conveying the Mobile Home to Randy is attached hereto as Exhibit 1 and made a part of the Complaint.

3. Randy’s last known mailing address is 47 Avenue B in Burlington, VT.

4. Unauthorized occupant Sonya Hamner (“Sonya”) also resided in the Mobile Home, without prior approval or notice of Plaintiff.

5. On October 2, 2025 Randy verbally informed the Park that he and occupant Sonya Hamner had vacated the Mobile Home and would be taking down a shed on the property. He authorized the Park to shut off water and power to the home, indicating they did not intend to return nor to remove the Mobile Home from the lot.

6. On or about October 10, 2025, the Park inspected the Mobile Home and Lot and, upon information and belief, confirmed that Randy, Sonya, and all other occupants had vacated the Mobile Home and Lot. Furthermore, the Park discovered that the heating system had been removed from the Mobile Home, the windows were broken, and large holes had been made in the floors and walls, rendering the Mobile Home uninhabitable.

7. Upon information and belief, the Mobile Home has been abandoned.

8. No liens or encumbrances appear of record with respect to the mobile home.

9. The Mobile Home is unsafe and unfit for habitation. The Affidavit of Timothy Seagroves verifying the uninhabitable condition of the Mobile Home is attached hereto as Exhibit 2 and made a part of the Complaint.

10. Lot Rent was last current on July 15, 2025, with a past due balance of $861.00. Rent is delinquent by two months and continues to accrue at the rate of $435.00 per month. A true and accurate statement of amounts owed is attached as Exhibit 3 and made a part of the Complaint.

10. Plaintiff sent written notice by certified mail to the Burlington City Clerk on October 21, 2025 of Plaintiff’s intent to commence this action, more than 20 days prior the filing of this Complaint.

WHEREFORE, Plaintiff respectfully requests that the Honorable Court enter an order as follows:

1. declaring that the Mobile Home has been abandoned; and

2. declaring that the Mobile Home is unfit for human habitation pursuant to 10 V.S.A. §6249(i); and

3. approving transfer of the Mobile Home to the Plaintiff without a public sale in “as is” condition, free and clear of all liens, taxes and all other encumbrances of record pursuant to 10 V.S.A. 6249(j).

DATED AT Burlington, this 11 day of November, 2025.

NORTH AVENUE COOPERATIVE, INC.

/s/ Steven J Kantor, Esq. Steven J Kantor, Esq. Doremus Kantor & Zullo 346 Shelburne Road, Suite 603 P.O. Box 445 Burlington, VT 05402-0445 (802) 863-9603

Attorney for NORTH AVENUE COOPERATIVE, INC.

I understand that the statements in the above Complaint are true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief

DATED AT Burlington, Vermont this 11 day of November, 2025.

/s/ Timothy Seagroves

Timothy Seagroves, Duly Authorized Agent of NORTH AVENUE COOPERATIVE

STATE OF VERMONT

CHITTENDEN COUNTY, SS.

At Burlington, in said County and State, this 11th day of November, 2025, personally appeared Timothy Seagroves, Duly Authorized Agent of NORTH AVENUE COOPERATIVE, INC., and he swore to the truth of the foregoing. Before me,

/s/ Erin L. Anderson

Notary Public

Print Name: Erin L. Anderson

Commission Expires: 1/31/2027

Commission No.: 157-0015691

TOWN OF JERICHO-DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Jericho Development Review Board will hold the public hearing at 7:00 pm on WEDNESDAY

Legal Notices

December 10, 2025, at the Jericho Town Hall to consider the following applications

• A request to the DRB by Laura Hershorin to amend conditions of a previously approved PUD subdivision. The property is located at 91 Raceway Road which is located in the Rural Agricultural Residential Zoning District.

• A request to the DRB by KCS, LLC for Preliminary Plat review to amend a PUD and Stipulated Final Judgement order. The property is located at 20 Morgan Road which is located in the Low-Density Residential Zoning District.

All interested persons may appear and be heard. Additional information related to this application may be viewed at the Jericho Planning and Zoning Office during regular business hours.

Chris Flinn Zoning Administrator cflinn@jerichovt.gov

AUCTION – MOBILE HOME

Sale Date and Location: Monday, 11/24/25 at 11:00 a.m. – French Hill Manor Mobile Home Park, Lot #104, 104 French Hill Manor, Williston, Vermont.

For more info. call (802) 860-9536.

1994 Liberty mobile home, 14’ x 70’, Min. bid $15,671.15

Must be moved 5 days after sale.

Auctioneer: Uriah Wallace – Lic. #057-0002460

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 December 12, 2025: Location: 485 Nokian Tyres Dr. Colchester , VT Contents: household goods

Lynette Fuller: #2078

Jacob Reilly: #2169

Michael Charbonneau: #2109

Ray Laplante: #2098

Auction pre-registration is required, email info@ champlainvalleyselfstorage.com to register.

PLACE AN AFFORDABLE NOTICE AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/LEGAL-NOTICES OR CALL 802-865-1020, EXT. 142.

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.

TOWN OF ESSEX DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

DECEMBER 4, 2025, 6:30 PM

Hybrid & In Person (Municipal Conference Room, 81 Main St., Essex Jct.) Meeting. Anyone may attend this meeting in person at the above address or remotely through the following options:

Join Online: Zoom Meeting ID: 821 7131 4999 | Passcode: 754119

Join Calling (audio only): 888-788-0099

1. Site Plan – Shenk Enterprises and Black Bay Ventures XIV, LLC are proposing a 41,250 square foot warehouse and associated parking at 55 Thompson Drive (Parcel ID 2-072-011-000) located in the Resource Preservation-Industrial (RPD-I) District.

2. Final Site Plan Amendment – Kana Properties LLC is proposing to add 8 additional units to the third floor of the building addition at 1 Kana Lane (Parcel ID #2-010-074-000) located in the High Density Residential (R3) and Business-Design Overlay (BD-C) Districts. No new sitework or exterior building construction is proposed by this application.

Application materials may be viewed before the meeting at essexvt.gov/applications. Please call 802-878-1343 or email communitydevelopment@essex.org with any questions. This may not be the final order in which items will be heard. Please view the complete Agenda, at https://essexvt.portal.civicclerk.com or the office notice board before the hearing for the order in which items will be heard and other agenda items.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PURSUANT TO 24 V.S.A. §4384(a), THE TOWN OF RICHMOND SELECTBOARD WILL BE HOLDING A PUBLIC HEARING ON MONDAY, JANUARY 5TH, 2026, AT 7:00 PM, IN THE RICHMOND TOWN CENTER MEETING ROOM AT 203 BRIDGE STREET

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. See burlingtonaa.org for meetings, news & events in Chittenden & Grand Isle counties. For meeting & 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.

TO RECEIVE COMMENT REGARDING THE CURRENT DRAFT OF THE UPDATED TOWN PLAN.

TOWN PLAN UPDATE DRAFT SUMMARY:

PURPOSE: THE TOWN OF RICHMOND IS STATUTORILY REQUIRED TO HAVE A NEW/ UPDATED TOWN PLAN EVERY EIGHT YEARS AND POSSESS AN ACTIVE TOWN PLAN IN ORDER TO UPDATE OR AMEND CURRENT ZONING REGULATIONS. THE CURRENT TOWN PLAN WAS APPROVED ON NOVEMEBER 6, 2018 AND EXPIRES ON NOVEMBER 5, 2026. THIS NEW TOWN PLAN DRAFT, IF ADOPTED, WOULD FULFILL THE REQUIREMENTS OF 24 VSA §§§4302, 4382 4384.

GEOGRAPHIC AREA AFFECTED: The Town of Richmond and Environs.

SECTION HEADINGS: Introduction, Technical Plans and Associated Maps (Sections below), Implementation Plan, Appendices.

Technical Plan sections include the following: (1) Community Development, (2) Economic Development, (3) Education, (4) Emergency Resilience, (5) Energy, (6) Future Land Use (FLU), (7) Historic Resources, (8) Housing, (9) Natural Resources, (10) Transportation, (11) Utilities and Facilities.

THE FULL TEXT OF THE PROPOSED ZONING AMENDMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE RICHMOND TOWN CENTER OFFICES AT 203 BRIDGE STREET BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8:00am and 4:00pm, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE RICHMOND PLANNING/ZONING OFFICE AT 802-336-2289 or koborne@richmondvt.gov.

POSTED: 11/19/2025

TOWN OF ESSEX FACILITIES CLEANING CONTRACT BID

The Town of Essex invites you to prepare a Bid for the Cleaning Contract. Work associated with this bid is a 3-year contract for cleaning 6 Municipal buildings. Bid packages are available at the Town Public Works Office, 5 Jericho Road, Essex Center or by e-mail to smcnamara@essex.org. Sealed bids will be received at the Town of Essex Public Works Office at 5 Jericho Road or mailed to the

Town of Essex, Department of Public Works, 81 Main Street Essex Jct., VT 05452 until 10:00 AM on Monday, December 29, 2025. Questions can be directed to the Town Public Works at (802) 585-5883.

PUBLIC HEARING

COLCHESTER DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD

Pursuant to Title 24 VSA, Chapter 117, the Development Review Board will hold a public hearing on December 10, 2025, 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) CU-26-06 MICHAEL & BARBARA BARFORD: 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 63 square feet and accommodate conversion of an existing unfinished porch to finished space. No other scope of work requested for review at this time. Subject property is located at 50 Bluff Road, Account #30-002002-0190000.

b) CU-26-07 TOBI & KEITH VAN ORDEN: 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 125 sf and accommodate a new three-season porch and a new entry porch. No other scope of work requested for review at this time. Subject property is located at 249 Goodsell Point, Account #70-015003-0000000.

c) PP-26-10, FP-26-11 & SP-26-16: CBST LIVING TRUST: Preliminary Plat, Final Plat and Site Plan Applications for a major Planned Unit Development to convert a building from a dormitory/office use to a 12-unit Multi-Unit Dwelling (Use 1.310) in the GD2 and HPD Districts. Proposed project includes renovations to the existing building and site modifications to support the proposed use. No new buildings are proposed at this time. Subject property is located at 224 Ethan Allen Avenue, Account #20-004011-0000000.

November 19, 2025

Meetings are free & open to the public. Families, caregivers & friends may attend. Please call in advance to confirm the date & time. The Williston caregiver support group meets in person on the 2nd & 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.

CONTACT CLASSIFIEDS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM OR 802-865-1020 EXT. 115 TO UPDATE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP

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 & online on Zoom. Email us for the Zoom link & more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

Support Groups

FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERY ANONYMOUS (FA)

Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? FA is a free 12-step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia. Local meetings are held on Mon., 4-5:30 p.m., via Zoom. For more info & a list of additional meetings throughout the U.S. & the world, call 603-630-1495 or visit foodaddicts.org.

FRESH START: A TOBACCO/VAPE QUIT WORKSHOP

Join a free 4- or 5-week group workshop facilitated by our coaches, who are certified in tobacco treatment. We meet in a friendly, relaxed & virtual atmosphere. You may qualify for a free limited supply of nicotine replacement therapy. Info: call (802) 859-5913 or email quittobaccoclass@uvmhealth.org to get signed up, or visit myhealthyvt.org to learn more about upcoming workshops.

GRIEVING A LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

A retired psychotherapist & an experienced life coach host a free meeting for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The group meets upstairs at All Souls Interfaith Gathering in Shelburne. There is no fee for attending but donations are gladly accepted. Meetings are held on the 1st & 3rd Sat. of every mo., 10-11:30 a.m. If you are interested in attending please register at allsoulsinterfaith. org. (More information about the group leader at pamblairbooks.com.)

HEARING VOICES SUPPORT GROUP

This Hearing Voices Group seeks to find understanding of voice-hearing experiences as real lived experiences that may happen to anyone at any time. We choose to share experiences, support & empathy. We validate anyone’s experience & stories about their experience as their own, as being an honest & accurate representation of their experience, & as being acceptable exactly as they are. Tue., 2:30-4 p.m. Vermont Wellness Collaborative (125 College St., 3rd Floor). Email us for more information: pvcc@pathwaysvermont. org.

INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS/PAINFUL BLADDER

SUPPORT GROUP

Interstitial cystitis (IC) & painful bladder syndrome can result in recurring pelvic pain, pressure or discomfort in the bladder/pelvic region, & urinary frequency/urgency. These are often misdiagnosed & mistreated as a chronic bladder infection. If you have been diagnosed or have these symptoms, you are not alone. For Vermont-based support group, email bladderpainvt@gmail.com or call 802-735-5735 for more info.

KINDRED CONNECTIONS PROGRAM OFFERED FOR CHITTENDEN COUNTY CANCER SURVIVORS

The Kindred Connections program provides peer support for all those touched by cancer. Cancer patients, as well as caregivers, are provided w/ a mentor who has been through the cancer experience & knows what it’s like to go through it. In addition to sensitive listening, Kindred Connections provides practical help such as rides to doctors’ offices & meal deliveries. The program has people who have experienced a wide variety of cancers. For further info, please contact info@ vcsn.net.

LIVING THROUGH LOSS

The Volunteer Chaplaincy Program of Gifford Medical Center sponsors a weekly meeting of its “Living Through Loss” grief support group. Anyone who has experienced a significant loss over the past year or so is warmly invited to attend the free weekly meetings every Fri., 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For info, contact the Rev. Tim Eberhardt, Gifford’s Spiritual Care Coordinator, at 802-728-2107.

MARIJUANA ANONYMOUS

Are you questioning the role marijuana plays in your life? Check out Freed From Weed, a free Marijuana Anonymous 12-step group. Mon., 7 p.m., at First United Methodist Church (Red Door

Church), 21 Buell St., Burlington. Contact: jointsession@newenglandma.org.

MYELOMA SUPPORT GROUP

Area myeloma survivors, families & caregivers have come together to form a Multiple Myeloma Support Group. We provide emotional support, resources about treatment options, coping strategies & a support network by participating in the group experience w/ people who have been through similar situations. 3rd Tue. of every mo., 5-6 p.m., on Zoom. Info: Kay Cromie, 655-9136, kgcromey@aol.com.

NAMI SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Vermont offers several Connection Peer Support Groups & Family Support Groups that meet virtually &/or in person throughout the state. All groups are confidential, volunteer-led & 100% free. Find a group that suits your needs at namivt.org/support-groups.

NARCANON BURLINGTON GROUP

Group meets every Mon. at 7 p.m., at the Turning Point Center, 179 S. Winooski Ave., Suite 301, Burlington. The only requirement for membership is that there be a problem of addiction in a relative or friend. Info: Amanda H., 338-8106.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS

Narcotics Anonymous is a group of recovering addicts who live without the use of drugs. It costs nothing to join. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using. Held in Burlington, St Albans, Morrisville, Barre & Stowe. Info, 833-436-6166 or cvana.org.

NEW (& EXPECTING) MAMAS & PAPAS & EVERY PRIMARY CAREGIVER TO A BABY

Drop-in play every day: The Children’s Room is open Mon.-Fri. for anyone w/children ages 0-6 to come & play. Check the TCR calendar for hours & school closure days. Caregiver & Baby Circle: Weekly drop-in on Mon., 11 a.m., at the Children’s Room. We are pleased to offer a weekly gathering for babies (0-18 mos.) & their caregivers, sponsored by Good Beginnings & hosted by the Children’s Room. Nature Explorations: Tue,, 10-11:30 a.m., at various trailheads in the area. Get outside for some fresh air & fun! Every week we go to a different trailhead or natural area to explore. Ages 0-6; carriers are helpful for little ones. Email childrensroom@huusd.org to sign up; enrollment is always open. Music & Movement: drop-in, Wed., 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Children’s Room in Brookside Primary School. We begin by singing songs & moving together & allow time at the end to play w/ instruments, as well as time for adults & kids to socialize. Ages 0-6. Exploration & Art Fridays: drop-in, Fri., anytime from 9 a.m.-noon at the Children’s Room in Brookside Primary School. We’ll be engaging in different hands-on explorations & using various mediums every week — sometimes combined. Come to TCR to explore, play & create! For info, email childrensroom@huusd.org.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (OA)

A 12-step program for people who identify as overeaters, compulsive eaters, food addicts, anorexics, bulimics, etc. No matter what your problem w/ food, we have a solution! All are welcome, meetings are open, & there are no dues or fees. See oavermont.org/meeting-list for the current meeting list, meeting format & more, or call 802-863-2655 anytime!

PARKINSON’S MUTUAL AID GROUP

For individuals & caregivers dealing w/ the challenges of Parkinson’s, we meet to share resources & practical ideas for improving quality of life. This in-person group is free & open to the public. Every 2nd Tue. of the mo., 2-3 p.m., at the Old Meeting House, 1620 Center Rd., East Montpelier. Please contact admin@oldmeetinghouse.org or 229-9593.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The Champlain Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group meets online on the 2nd Tue. of the mo.,

CONTACT CLASSIFIEDS@SEVENDAYSVT.COM OR 802-865-1020 EXT. 115 TO UPDATE YOUR SUPPORT GROUP

6-7:30 p.m., via Zoom. Whether you are newly diagnosed, dealing w/ a reoccurrence or trying to manage the side effects of treatment, you are welcome here! More info: Andy Hatch, group leader, ahatch63@gmail.com.

RECOVERY DHARMA

Recovery Dharma uses Buddhist practices & principles to help people recover from all kinds of addictions & addictive behaviors. This peer led, non-theistic group offers opportunities to deepen understanding, explore personal inquiry & connect w/ others. We meet every Wed. from 6-7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Burlington (the Red Door Church, 21 Buell St.). Enter through the administrative office door (at far left when viewed from Buell St.) We also meet on Thu., 1-2 p.m., at the Turning Point Center, 179 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington. No meditation experience required; all are welcome. Email rd.burlington.vt@gmail.com for more information.

SMART RECOVERY

We welcome anyone, including family & friends, affected by any kind of substance or activity addiction. SMART Recovery is an abstinenceoriented program based on the science of addiction treatment & recovery. Online: Sun., 5 p.m. Info: meetings.smartrecovery.org/meetings/1868. Face-to-face: Thu., 1:15 p.m., & Fri., 5:30 p.m., at the Turning Point Center of Chittenden County. Family & Friends online, Mon., 7 p.m. Info: meetings.smartrecovery.org/meetings/6337. Volunteer facilitator, Bert: 399-8754. You can learn more at smartrecovery.org.

SEX & LOVE ADDICTS ANONYMOUS

12-step recovery group. Do you have a problem w/ sex or relationships? We can help. Info: Visit slaafws.org or saa-recovery.org for meetings near you.

SEXUAL VIOLENCE SUPPORT

HOPE Works offers free support groups to women, men & teens who are survivors of sexual violence. Groups are avail. for survivors at any stage of the healing process. Intake for all support groups is ongoing. If you are interested in learning more or would like to schedule an intake to become a group member, please call our office at 8640555, ext. 19, or email our victim advocate at advocate@sover.net. Visit hopeworksvt.com for more information.

STEPS SUPPORT GROUP

Steps offers a weekly support group w/ drop-in options for those who have experienced or who have been affected by domestic violence. Women’s Support Group meets virtually every Tue., 5-6:30 p.m. Gender Inclusive Support Group meets virtually every Thu., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Both groups offer a safe, supportive & confidential place to connect w/ others, heal & recover. For more info, call us at 658-1996 or email steps@ stepsvt.org.

STUTTERING SUPPORT GROUPS

We offer 3 monthly National Stuttering Association (NSA) stuttering support groups for adults, teens & school-age children (7-12). Meetings take place monthly at UVM & by Zoom. Contact burlingtonstutters@gmail.com for more information.

SUICIDE HOTLINES IN VT

Brattleboro, 257-7989; Montpelier (Washington County Mental Health Emergency Services), 2290591; Randolph (Clara Martin Center Emergency Service), 800-639-6360.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN Group for women who have experienced intimate partner abuse. Facilitated by Circle (Washington Co. only). Please call 877-543-9498 for more info.

SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE: SOUTH BURLINGTON

This group is for people experiencing the impact of the loss of a loved one to suicide. 1st Wed. of each mo., 6-7:30 p.m., at the Comfort Inn & Suites, 3 Dorset St., S. Burlington. Info: Bob Purvee at

922-4283 or ripurvee1@yahoo.com, or Aya Kuki at 881-3606 or ayakokuki@gmail.com.

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS SUPPORT GROUP

The Compassionate Friends international support group for parents, siblings & families grieving the loss of a child meets every 4th Tue. of the mo., 7-8:30 p.m., at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 160 Hinesburg Rd, S. Burlington. Call/email Alan at 802-233-0544, alanday88@gmail.com, or Claire at 802-448-3569.

TRANS & GENDER-NONCONFORMING SUPPORT GROUP

As trans & GNC people in the world, we experience many things that are unique to our identities. For that reason, the Transgender Program hosts a support group for our community on the 1st & 3rd Wed. of every mo., 6:30-8 p.m., virtually, & on the 2nd & 4th Wed. of every mo., 6:30-8 p.m., at Pride Center of Vermont. The Trans & GNC support group is for Vermonters at all stages of their gender journey to come together to socialize, discuss issues that are coming up in their lives & build community. We welcome anyone whose identity falls under the trans, GNC, intersex & nonbinary umbrellas & folks questioning their gender identity. Email safespace@pridecentervt. org w/ any questions, comments or accessibility concerns.

TRANS PARENT GROUP

This support group is for adult family members & caregivers of queer &/or questioning youths. It is held on the 1st Mon. of every mo., 6-7:30 p.m., online; & on the 3rd Mon. of every mo., 6-7:30 p.m., at Outright Vermont, 241 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington. This group is for adults only. For more info, email info@outrightvt.org.

TRANSGUARDIANS SUPPORT GROUP

We will be in community w/ parents of trans kids of all ages & supporting each other w/ storytelling, listening, learning & love. If we want to protect our trans kids, our 1st line of defense is uplifting their parents & guardians! This is a peer-support group & will be facilitated by Alison & Shawna. 4th Tue. of every mo., 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Rainbow Bridge Community Center. Contact 622-0692 or info@rainbowbridgevt.org or go to rainbowbridgevt.org.

TRAUMA SUPPORT GROUP

Our group is a space for mutual support for everyone who is living w/ mental/emotional trauma. The group meets every Fri., 2:15-3:15 p.m., at the Fletcher Free Library’s Fletcher Room & online on Zoom. Email us for the Zoom link & more info: pvcc@pathwaysvermont.org.

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

YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL SOURCE. JOBS.SEVENDAYSVT.COM

Registered Nurse, Infusion Therapy Department

Make a Real Difference in the Community!

Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) is seeking a compassionate Registered Nurse to join our dynamic Infusion Therapy Department in St. Johnsbury, VT. The Opportunity: Provide direct patient care in a rewarding role serving 15-20 patients daily. Administer IV therapies, coordinate care, and educate patients in our collaborative, patientcentered environment.

RN License (VT or compact state) BSN degree 2+ years

Why NVRH?

Student loan repayment

Tuition reimbursement Competitive pay/comprehensive benefits

Apply Now! nvrh.org/careers.

Office Manager

Johnson, VT, Full-Time

Starting Salary | $57,000 + benefits Reports to Chief of Stability

Stewardship Coordinator

The Vermont Historical Society, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, seeks a Stewardship Coordinator to assist with membership, fundraising, and office management. The Stewardship Coordinator supports the mission of the Vermont Historical Society through the stewardship of members and volunteers and the handling of day-to-day operations of the organization. The Stewardship Coordinator will perform a variety of specialized recordkeeping and reporting tasks related to membership, annual fundraising campaign, planned giving, special events, and general office management. This position serves as VHS’s first point of contact for community inquiries, responding as appropriate via phone and written correspondence.

GIV is hiring for several roles at their summer Institutes for teenagers.

Health & Medicine Institute Director

This is an exempt, full-time, permanent position reporting to the Director of Stewardship and Public Relations with a salary equivalent to Vermont State Pay Grade 20 with full benefits, including defined-benefit pension. Associate’s degree or equivalent training with at least two years’ clerical/administrative/ technical experience. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Knowledge of database management preferred. Applicants please send resume and two references to Jennifer Blair, finance@vermonthistory.org.

Full job description can be found at vermonthistory.org/career-opportunities

The Vermont Studio Center (VSC), the largest international artist and writer residency program in the U.S., seeks an organized and welcoming Office Manager to support the smooth daily operation of our campus and community.

This key role serves as the first point of contact for residents, applicants, alumni, donors, and the public, offering professional and friendly communication that reflects VSC’s mission and values. The Office Manager supports the Executive Director, Advancement, Experience, and Stability teams by managing office communications, scheduling, supplies, and administrative systems.

Responsibilities include managing the info@ inbox and phone line, processing mail and invoices, maintaining records in Salesforce, supporting board and executive functions, assisting with donor acknowledgments, and helping coordinate resident arrivals, events, and HR onboarding activities.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, & collaborative, with strong communication skills and 3–5 years of administrative experience in an arts, nonprofit, or hospitality setting.

To apply: Send a cover letter and résumé to jobs@ vermontstudiocenter.org with “Office Manager” in the subject line. Resumes will be accepted through November 30th, 2025.

Full job description: vermontstudiocenter.org/jobs-at-vsc

$6,000 Health Advisor

$2,000

Various dates and locations; see details and apply at giv.org/jobs

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Production Technician/ Field Producer

Record high quality video productions and support the needs of our community producers at the Media Factory. A strong commitment to the field of community media and to the principles of Free Speech is preferred, along with a high level of professionalism, excellent communication skills, technical video production skills, and the ability to collaborate with others in dynamic situations.

Send resumes to: careers@ mediafactory.org

Maintenance Technician

Winooski Housing Authority

Winooski Housing Authority is looking for a Maintenance Technician to provide basic repairs, replacements, and maintenance to our apartments and properties. We are willing to train the right person. Training programs come with promotional opportunities.

A fully trained applicant will have three years of experience in maintenance with a demonstrated background in making household repairs.

If you have one year continuous work experience, a valid Vermont Driver's License, and aptitude with tools and equipment, and a willingness to provide a clean, safe, affordable, and cool place for folks to live, consider joining our team. Please send us a summary of your work history and a statement of why you want to come work for us.

Pay $22-25/hour, depending on experience.

To apply or to inquire, please contact Susan Perkins at sperkins@winooskihousing.org or call (802) 655-2360

Position is open until filled.

South Burlington School District

Leading construction company is seeking Carpenters and Lead Carpenters in the Addison & Chittenden County area.

We offer a rewarding work environment with comprehensive compensation packages ranging from $65,000/yr to $95,000/yr based on experience. Benefits include paid holidays, 3+ weeks paid time off, 401k, employer healthcare contribution, profit sharing, bi-annual bonuses, and more.

Basic function: To plan, implement, evaluate, organize, and direct facilities management activities for a campus of Vermont State University, including the maintenance and operation of all physical assets.

Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, facilities management, or other appropriate discipline, plus five to seven years of relevant technical and supervisory experience in facilities or construction management, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.

Location: VTSU Johnson Campus, Johnson, VT

Compensation: The compensation for this position is $80,000 - $85,000.

The Legislative support oﬃces are currently hiring. The nonpartisan oﬃces are an interesting, challenging, and exciting place to work.

You will be part of a highly professional and collegial team that is proud of, and enthusiastic about, the mission of the state legislature.

To apply, please go to 'Career Opportunities' at legislature.vermont.gov. Judiciary

Benefits Package: Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Retirement Plan, Tuition Waiver to Vermont State Colleges, Tuition Waiver to UVM for dependent children, Employee Assistance Program, Long Term Disability, 14 Paid Holidays, and Medical, Personal, and Vacation Leave

Apply online: https://7dvt.pub/VTSUoper

Automotive Tech Instructor

The Northlands Job Corps Center has a need for an Automotive Tech Instructor to join our school. This is a full time, year round position that o ers a competitive wage, major medical insurance plan, dental, vision, 401K and more. Northlands Job Corps provides career training to students 16 to 24 years of age who come to our center to gain valuable skills and start a career. Our students are mostly from the Northeast US and about 40% are from Vermont. We are probably the most diverse school in the state and our success, as measured by our students’ performance, is one of the best in the country. The ideal instructor would be someone who wants to be in a teaching role, ASE certiﬁed or willing to be certiﬁed, understands employment skills as well as automotive, and desires to run their own shop. Our program includes classroom instruction, hands on experience in our automotive shop and work based learning opportunities with local businesses. Class sizes are small to allow for one-on-one support. At Northlands we build success that lasts a lifetime. Our current openings are online. Please contact us to learn more: 7dvt.pub/NJCorpsAUTO

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

DIRECTOR

Part-Time, Remote $30.00/hr

Responsible for overseeing and maintaining the day-to-day operations of the organization.

This is a new position and posted as a part-time, hourly position, it is expected that the role could increase to a full-time position as the relaunch of the “Show” in 2027 nears. Initially, the Director is expected to work no more than 20 hours per week. The individual filling this key role has room to grow both the organization and the position.

Please send cover letter & resume to vermontfarmshow@gmail.com 2v-VTFarmShow111925.indd 1

Drop-in & Shelter Youth Coaches

On Call Respite

Youth Development Coordinator

Scan QR code to apply.

2v-Spectrum111925.indd

TOUR COORDINATOR

Join our Burlington-based team!

Music Contact International creates unforgettable group travel experiences for choirs, bands, dragon boat teams, and specialinterest groups around the world.

Salary: 50k

If you’re organized, love travel, & thrive on creating memorable journeys, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more & apply: 7dvt.pub/MusicTC

No phone calls, please.

Lake Champlain Education & Outreach Steward

Part-time/seasonal position, Spring 2026. Burlington & Grand Isle, Vermont. Help to protect the Lake Champlain Watershed! Support public engagement initiatives and gain hands-on experience in environmental education, outreach and communications.

More information: neiwpcc.org/about-us/careers

To apply: send a cover letter, resume and writing sample to jobs@neiwpcc.org

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 CVCOA office, combined with in-home field visits.

Pay Range: $24-$26 per hour.

For the full job description and to apply, please visit: cvcoa.org/employment

New Possibilities™ Your Career at NDI is Waiting

Software Developer

We are looking for a Software Developer to join our R&D team in the development of embedded systems for use in medical devices and simulations. You will be responsible for the design and development of multiple GUI-based software utilities, data processing libraries, and other innovative solutions as required. As part of a cross-functional R&D group, you will also create tools for use by the internal NDI design team. The successful candidate will be highly organized, resultsdriven and effective at software design, implementation and testing. The successful candidate will be joining our team of professionals at the Northern Digital Inc office located in Shelburne, Vermont.

Compensation Range: $70,000.00 - $95,000.00

Education and professional qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Software Engineering, or related field.

• Proficiency in programming languages (C++, Python) and software development.

• Experience with version control (Git), CI/CD tools, and automated testing frameworks.

Scan here for full description and to apply:

“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

Get a quote when posting online. Contact Michelle Brown at 865-1020, ext. 121, michelle@sevendaysvt.com

Mechanic

$27.43 – 30.08/hr. DOE with an excellent benefits package

Dept. of Public Works is seeking a Mechanic with experience in equipment maintenance and repair. Experience with heavy equipment, emergency service vehicles and repair of small gasoline and diesel-powered engines preferred.

Successful applicants will have a minimum of five years of related experience, the ability to diagnose specific problems to determine the correct repair, and maintain accurate parts and labor records. A valid Commercial Driver’s License and Motor Vehicle Inspectors License, or ability to obtain, is required. Town provides all tools required to perform the job.

This full-time opportunity offers work/life balance, with a Mon. thru Fri., 7AM – 3PM schedule. Opportunities for overtime.

If you are mechanically inclined, take pride in your work and enjoy working as part of a fun, collaborative team, we want to hear from you!

To view a complete job description and apply online or to print an Employment Application, please visit colchestervt. gov/321/Human-Resources today! Paper applications are also available by visiting the Town Offices at 781 Blakely Rd., Colchester, VT 05446.

Position open until filled. Equal opportunity employer.

Justice Programs Manager

The City of Burlington’s Community Justice Center is hiring a Justice Programs ManagerCommunity Programs.

This position is part of an integrated management team and oversees reentry and facility-based services, community-based programming, victim service work, and volunteers. The position will oversee service delivery throughout Chittenden County, and work in close partnership with county town and city managers, police departments, the VT Department of Corrections, and community members. This position is primarily based out of the CJC Headquarters, but flexibility and travel throughout the county will be required.

This role is essential for fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes restorative practices, timely communication, and supportive supervision. The ideal candidate will be an exceptional communicator and a team player, dedicated to building strong relationships with a strong record of supervision and fostering a restorative culture.

We believe our team is strongest when it reflects the diversity of the communities we work with, and we welcome candidates who bring varied backgrounds and lived experiences. The pay range for this position is: $71,988.80-$80,288.00 annually and comes with a comprehensive benefits package.

The City of Burlington is an equal opportunity employer and we encourage applicants who can contribute to our growing diversity. To learn more and to apply: 7dvt.pub/BTVcjc

NOW HIRING: FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR

This is a vital role in supporting CAE’s mission by ensuring strong financial stewardship and effective administration operations. The Director will oversee budgeting, accounting, payroll, benefits administration, and insurance policies while maintaining accuracy, transparency, and compliance across all financial activities. This position will work closely with CAE staff and board of directors, develop annual budgets, financial forecasts, and audits, and be a resource of financial management and planning for the organization.

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Senior Human Resources Consultant

The Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) is seeking an experienced Senior Human Resources Consultant to support municipal officials with HR guidance, training, and consultation.

As part of our Field Risk Services team, you’ll be a trusted resource for Vermont’s cities and towns on a full range of HR issues.

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience); master’s preferred but not required

• At least five years in progressively responsible professional HR roles; public sector or Vermont municipal experience a plus

• Strong knowledge of HR practices, employment law, policy development, and HR trends; labor relations experience helpful

• Ability to work independently, confidentially and professionally

• Ability to work efficiently on a highvolume caseload

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with prompt responsiveness

• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or similar certification preferred

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

• VLCT offers a collaborative environment and the chance to make a meaningful impact on communities across Vermont. Our comprehensive compensation package includes:

• Health, dental, and employer-paid life insurance

• Optional vision, voluntary life, and pet insurance

• 401a retirement plan and VMERS pension

• Generous paid vacation, sick, volunteer, and holiday leave Ready to Apply?

View the full job description and apply at www.vlct.org/careers. Please plan to upload your resume and a cover letter explaining your interest.

Deadline: December 5, 2025. Resumes will be reviewed as they are received.

Estimated start date is early January.

Salary: $100,000–$110,000, commensurate with experience

Schedule: Full-time, mostly remote with required in-person meetings and other events, ability to occasionally work outside of regular business hours.

Join VLCT and help strengthen Vermont’s local governments!

Equal Opportunity Employer

Join Our Team at the Vermont League of Cities and Towns!

Operations Manager

This position combines day-to-day management with care of people and programs. You’ll foster an inclusive, caring environment; ensure organizational systems match our values; and help fellowships and retreats blossom for national and local changemakers. Please send a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Ed Richters with “Operations Manager Application” in the subject line. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Ed@knollfarm.org

Education Coordinator

$20.90/hr

Distribution Coordinator

$20.90/hr

We’re a community of media makers who work in tv, film, radio, and more. At the Media Factory, we provide the tools, training, space and access to distribution that give you the power to share your story.

For full details and to apply go to: mediafactory.org/ careers.

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Water/Sewer Clerk I or IIAccounts Payable

Join our Finance team! Water/Sewer Clerk I or II - Accounts Payable role is responsible for supporting approximately 4500 tax and utility bills and the accounts payable distribution of $17m operating budget.

This role administers and coordinates all components of Town Water/Sewer billing, collection and troubleshooting activities. Maintains robust and detailed database of all Town water and sewer accounts. Bookkeeping and clerical work in administering and maintaining the accounts payable process for all Town funds and accounts. This position also performs all other work related to the operation of the Water/Sewer department and accounts payable process as these operations pertain to the Finance Department.

Essex will consider any combination of education and experience that allows for successful performance in this role. We, therefore, encourage persons with non-traditional skill sets and experiences to apply, even if candidates believe they do not meet 100% of the qualification and hiring criteria described.

Full job descriptions can be found at essexvt.bamboohr.com

The pay range for this role is between $19.54 - $36 per hour with the actual starting salary based on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time, exempt position eligible for the Town’s competitive benefits package.

This role is AFSCME union eligible. Applications can be submitted online by visiting essexvt.bamboohr.com, or interested candidates can pick up a paper application at 81 Main St, Essex Junction, VT 05452. This position is open until filled. Join us.

The Town of Essex is hiring! Please visit essexvt.bamboohr.com/ careers for current opportunities.

The Town of Essex is an equal opportunity employer.

Why

not have a job you love?

Make a career making a difference with a job in human services at Champlain Community Services.

Benefit package includes 29 paid days off in the first year, comprehensive health insurance with premium as low as $30 per month, up to $6,400 to go towards medical deductibles and copays, retirement match, generous sign on bonus and so much more.

And that’s on top of working at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont” for seven years in a row.

Great jobs in management and direct support at an award-winning agency serving Vermonters with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

ccs-vt.org/current-openings

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Fulfillment Position

We own and operate two synergistic businesses in Shelburne Vermont: A Time to Heal & Qi Veterinary Clinic.

ATTH is a distributorship with a loyal clientele of 2000+ Holistic Veterinarians across the US who practice an integrated approach to medicine as we do at Qi Vet Clinic: atimetohealherbs.com and www.Qivet.com

We are looking for the right person to help us run the fulfillment side of our business. This is a fun and unique job for the right person.

Are you a creature of habit? Do you like routines? Are you conscientious and good with details? Do you like to get up early and finish work by 3:30-4pm? Then this might be the job for you.

The job entails arriving around 8am to pick and pack orders and process them for afternoon drop offs to UPS and USPS. Afternoons are spent restocking shelves, reordering supplies, and checking in new inventory.

You get to work in a beautiful, recently renovated building with huge windows to the outdoors that let in lots of natural light and the companionship of our four-legged mascots.

We offer competitive wages, great benefits, which include healthy homemade meals cooked onsite and holistic veterinary care for two of the four-legged creatures in your household.

If interested, contact Therese Fafard, tfafard@comcast.net Please, write a personalized cover letter to accompany your resume. Thank you!

Burlington Housing Authority (BHA)

Are you interested in a job that helps your community and makes a difference in people’s lives every day? Consider joining Burlington Housing Authority (BHA) in Burlington, VT to continue BHA’s success in promoting innovative solutions that address housing instability challenges facing our diverse population of low-income families and individuals.

We are currently hiring for the following positions:

Construction Project Specialist:

Performs physical condition inspections of all owned and managed properties for assessment of capital needs and housing standards compliance, coordinates small to medium sized renovation and repair projects, and assists in the development and preparation of construction project bid specifications, requests for proposals and project requirements, manuals and plans, as well as other aspects of project management. Pay $26.00 to $30.00 per hour

Housing Retention Specialist

– Site Based: Responsible for supporting those who have mental health and substance use challenges and/or who have moved from homelessness to Bobbin Mill, Wharf Lane, and other BHA properties. The position works closely with property management and other site-based staff to identify challenges and respond with appropriate direct service and coordination of community services, with a goal of eviction prevention and facilitating a healthy tenancy. Pay $24.00 to $25.00 per hour.

Maintenance Technician:

Performs general maintenance work in BHA owned and managed

properties. This includes building exteriors, common areas, apartments, building systems, fixtures, and grounds. Our Building Operations Techs are required to participate in the on-call rotation, which covers night and weekend emergencies. Current rotation is once every 6-7 weeks. Pay $24.00 to $26.00 per hour, with a $1,500 Sign On Bonus.

For more info on our benefit package and these career opportunities please visit: burlingtonhousing.org

Interested in our career opportunity? Send a cover letter & resume to: humanresources@ burlingtonhousing.org

Burlington Housing Authority Human Resources 65 Main

ATTENTION RECRUITERS:

POST YOUR JOBS AT: SEVENDAYSVT.COM/POSTMYJOB PRINT DEADLINE: NOON ON MONDAYS (INCLUDING HOLIDAYS) FOR RATES & INFO: MICHELLE BROWN, 802-865-1020 X121, MICHELLE@SEVENDAYSVT.COM

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Support local journalism — make a contribution today!

If you like what we do and can a ord to help pay for it, please become a Seven Days Super Reader. Your donation will help to keep our community informed and connected. Join the Super Readers at sevendaysvt.com/super-readers. Or send a note (and a check) to: Seven Days c/o Super Readers PO Box 1164 Burlington, VT 05402 Contact Gillian English at 865-1020, ext. 115 or superreaders@sevendaysvt.com.

Seven Days on the press in Mirabel, Québec

fun stuff

“Is there something you’d like to say to me?”

JEN SORENSEN

HARRY BLISS

TIM SNIFFEN

JULIANNA BRAZILL

KYLE BRAVO & PAUL NESJA

SCORPIO

(OCT. 23-NOV. 21)

Your theme for the coming weeks is the fertile power of small things: the transformations that happen in the margins and subtle gestures. A kind word that shifts someone’s day, for instance. Or a refusal to participate in casual cruelty. Or a choice to see value in what you’re supposed to ignore. So I hope you will meditate on this healing theme: Change doesn’t always announce itself with drama and manifestos. The most heroic act might be to pay tender attention and refuse to be numbed. Find power in understated insurrections.

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 19): In the coming weeks, I invite you to commune intimately with your holy anger. Not petulant tantrums, not the ego’s defensive rage, but the fierce love that refuses to tolerate injustice. You will be wise to draw on the righteous “No!” that draws boundaries and defends the vulnerable. I hope you will call on protective fury on behalf of those who need help. Here’s a reminder of what I’m sure you know: Calmness in the face of cruelty isn’t enlightenment but complicity. Your anger, when it safeguards and serves love rather than destroys, is a spiritual practice.

TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): The Korean concept of jeong is the emotional bond that forms

between people, places or things through shared experiences over time. It’s deeper than love and more complex than attachment: the accumulated weight of history together. You can have jeong for a person you don’t even like anymore, for a city that broke your heart, for a coffee mug you’ve used every morning for years. As the scar tissue of togetherness, it can be beautiful and poignant. Now is an especially good time for you to appreciate and honor your jeong. Celebrate and learn from the soulful mysteries your history has bequeathed you.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun. 20): Over 100 trillion bacteria live in your intestines. They have a powerful impact. They produce neurotransmitters, influence your mood, train your immune system and communicate with your brain via the vagus nerve. Other life forms are part of the team within you, too, including fungi, viruses and archaea. So in a real sense, you are not merely a human who contains small organisms. You are an ecosystem of species making collective decisions. Your “gut feelings” are collaborations. I bring this all to your attention because the coming weeks will be a highly favorable time to enhance the health of your gut biome. For more info: tinyurl.com/enhancegutbiome

CANCER (Jun. 21-Jul. 22): Why, yes, I myself am born under the sign of Cancer the Crab, just as you are. So as I offer you my ongoing observations and counsel, I am also giving myself blessings. In the coming weeks, we will benefit from going through a phase of consolidation and integration. The creative flourishes we have unveiled recently need to be refined and activated on deeper levels. This necessary deepening may initially feel more like work than play and not as much fun as the rapid progress we have been enjoying. But with a slight tweak of our attitude, we can thoroughly thrive during this upcoming phase.

LEO (Jul. 23-Aug. 22): I suggest that in the coming weeks you care more about getting things done than pursuing impossible magnificence. The simple labor of love you actually finish is worth more than the masterpiece you never start. The healthy but makeshift meal you throw together feeds you well, whereas

the theoretical but abandoned feast does not. Even more than usual, Leo, the perfect will be the enemy of the good. Here are quotes to inspire you. 1) “Perfectionism is self-abuse of the highest order.” —Anne Wilson Schaef. 2) “Striving for excellence motivates you; striving for perfection is demoralizing.” —Harriet Braiker. 3) “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.”

—Vince Lombardi.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sep. 22): Now is an excellent time to practice the art of forgetting. I hope you formulate an intention to release the grievances and grudges that are overdue for dissolution. They not only don’t serve you but actually diminish you. Here’s a fact about your brain: It remembers everything unless you actively practice forgetting. So here’s my plan: Meditate on the truth that forgiveness is not a feeling; it’s a decision to stop rehearsing the resentment, to quit telling yourself the story that keeps the wound fresh. The lesson you’re ready to learn: Some memories are worth evicting. Not all the past is worth preserving. Selective amnesia can be a survival skill.

LIBRA (Sep. 23-Oct. 22): A Navajo blessing says, “May you walk in beauty.” Not just see beauty or create it, but walk in it, inhabit it and move through the world as if beauty is your gravity. When you’re at the height of your lyrical powers, Libra, you do this naturally. You are especially receptive to the aesthetic soul of things. You can draw out the harmony beneath surface friction and improvise grace in the midst of chaos. I’m happy to tell you that you are currently at the height of these lyrical powers. I hope you’ll be bold in expressing them. Even if others aren’t consciously aware and appreciative of what you’re doing, beautify every situation you’re in.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A day on Venus (one rotation on its axis) lasts about 243 Earth days. However, a year on Venus (one orbit around the sun) takes only about 225 Earth days. So a Venusian day is longer than its year. If you lived on Venus, the sun wouldn’t even set before your next Venusian birthday arrived. Here’s another weird fact: Contrary to what happens on every other planet in the so-

lar system, on Venus the sun rises in the west and sets in the east. Moral of the story: Even planets refuse to conform and make their own rules. If celestial bodies can be so gloriously contrary to convention, so can you. In accordance with current astrological omens, I encourage you to exuberantly explore this creative freedom in the coming weeks.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Let’s revisit the ancient Greeks’ understanding that we are all born with a daimon: a guiding spirit who whispers help and counsel, especially if we stay alert for its assistance. Typically, the messages are subtle, even half-disguised. Our daimons don’t usually shout. But I predict that will change for you in the coming weeks, especially if you cultivate listening as a superpower. Your personal daimon will be extra talkative and forthcoming. So be vigilant for unexpected support, Capricorn. Expect epiphanies and breakthrough revelations. Pay attention to the book that falls open to a page that has an oracular hint just for you. Take notice of a song that repeats or a sudden urge to change direction on your walk.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Awe should be one of your featured emotions in the coming weeks. I hope you will also seek out and cultivate reverence, deep respect, excited wonder and an attraction to sublime surprises. Why do I recommend such seemingly impractical measures? Because you’re close to breaking through into a heightened capacity for generosity of spirit and a sweet lust for life. Being alert for amazement and attuned to transcendent experiences could change your life for the better forever. I love your ego — it’s a crucial aspect of your makeup — but now is a time to exalt and uplift your soul.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): What if your anxiety is actually misinterpreted excitement? What if the difference between worry and exhilaration is the story you tell yourself about the electricity streaming through you? Maybe your body is revving up for something interesting and important, but your mind mislabels the sensation. Try this experiment: Next time your heart races and your mind spins, tell yourself “I’m excited” instead of “I’m anxious.” See if your mood shape-shifts.

Volunteers at the North End Food Pantry have been feeding their Burlington neighbors since 2013. Attendance has been on the rise: ey serve almost 700 people monthly. Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger visited the Odd Fellows Lodge on North Avenue, where the pantry is open Saturday and Sunday from 9 to 11 a.m.

LET ME MARK YOU HAPPY

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WOMEN seeking...

VIBRANT, ADVENTUROUS, GROUNDED

Outside-the-box thinker with an adventurous spirit looking for a curious, open-minded, healthy man. Snowdrop14 47, seeking: M, l

SENSITIVE, EXPLORER, OCEANS AND COASTERS

I’m a sensitive, adventurous, happy-golucky person looking for a close friend or more with similar interests to experience the world with. I like varied music, colors, animals, oceans, camping, long walks, earthy scents, salty air, soft textures, roller coasters, boogie boarding, road trips, kindness, comforting arms and emotional moments. I look for quality friendship and a deeper connection over quantity. Kestrel77 48, seeking: M, l

ADVENTUROUS, SUBSTANCE, HUMOR

Grounded, hardworking, ducks in a row. Love to explore but also enjoy a nice night in — proper decompression is a lovely thing. Love my profession, with decent grip on work/life balance. Honesty and integrity are core values. I keep on the sunny side of the street. Love a deep dive, asking questions, hearing stories, people of substance. CedarLane, 44, seeking: M, l

INSIGHTFUL, GROUNDED, STRONG, DISCERNING, COMPASSIONATE

On here for a moment to see potential connections with other men. onceuponariverjen 36, 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

LOOKING FOR A FRIEND

I’m honest, caring and thoughtful. melriv66, 59, seeking: M, l

SEXY, FUN, ADVENTURES, CUDDLES, MORE

Sensual, fun woman looking for a partner in crime to go on adventures with and to have fun sexy times. This could lead to a long-term relationship or just someone to hang with or both. Let’s see what happens and go from there! Live music, dancing, dinners out as well as snuggles and kisses and sexual fun. Let’s explore!! FunGal 57, seeking: M, l

LET’S PLAY TOGETHER

Sixtysomething single female seeks sixtysomething male to have endless adventures. Imagining paddling on smooth waters, biking with a tailwind, skiing powder, hiking to top of Camel’s Hump at sunrise and everything in between. Indoors fine dining and indie concerts. Satisfying wanderlust with many trips across the world. Let’s have fun together. VTLOON, 65, seeking: M

YOUTHFUL OLD SOUL AWAKENING HEART

Youthful old soul; awakened heart, discerning mind welcomes aligned connections to nurture conscious, kind, harmonious peace promoting culture. Aiming to grow chosen beyond nuclear family with a life partner. Inquisitive, playful, kind, adventurous, content, open. Let’s drink tea, walk, watch, listen, sing, dance. Seeding mindful, low throughput, liberation oriented community. youthfuloldsoul, 50, seeking: M, W, TM, TW, Q, NC, NBP, l

THOUGHTFUL, OUTDOORSY, SWEET TOOTH!

My passions include my family and friends, a healthy lifestyle, and enjoying the great outdoors through hiking, cycling, running, XC skiing and paddling! Also love baking, volunteering, craft beer, travel, live music and dancing. Looking for an active, thoughtful guy! hikerbaker, 45, seeking: M, l

SOMEWHAT FEISTY

I know the world best through reading, writing and listening; the NEK woods and trails. A clumsy but enthusiastic Nordic skier, cheerful gardener and admirer of others’ gardens, with a tendency to laugh at inappropriate moments. Petite, decently educated, cancer survivor. Maybe your way of knowing the world can widen mine? Larch, 57 seeking: M, l

PEACE-MINDED SOUL SEEKS SAME

Creative live-music lover looking for some new people to go to shows with, take a hike with, get some coffee, take a road trip or just hang with my dogs. Looking for friends to start, and if something else should spark, to just go with it. Sugarmags68 56 seeking: M, TM, l

SEEKING FUN AND ADVENTURE

The world is full of adventures just waiting to be had: a long hike and walk to a waterfall, a fabulous show, a great meal, a beautiful ski. All these are adventures I like to go on. Care to join me? wildflower762, 54, seeking: M, l

NOT A POET

I worked on these three haiku for awhile: Friends call me JLew / I love to dance. I’ve got moves / that will split your pants // “I wish I could work / on a farm with you” is my / highest compliment. // Dragonfly days and / firefly nights, the best world / a North Woods delight. JLew, 54, seeking: M, l

ONE STITCH AT A TIME

Widow, 75, Shelburne. Warm, thoughtful and family-oriented. Retired PhD in social work, lover of gardening, knitting, books and quiet evenings by the fire. Nonsmoker, nondrinker, progressive, and active in nature and community. Seeking friendship and companionship with openness to a deeper connection. Diane50, 75, seeking: M, l

NOT A FAN OF FAKES

Trusting my heart to you will take some time, but if you’re patient it will be worth it. I’m a romantic woman who loves to watch sunsets. I have a big heart and tend to trust people. Honesty is what I expect and deserve. I’m a one-man woman, and I want a one-woman man, nothing less. Patty802, 67 seeking: M, l

FULL OF STARS

My friends tell me I’m the nicest and most Zen person they know. I love music, art and history. Oh, and maybe you and/or your pets. I use “y’all” in unexpected places. I do not have a Dick Cheney tattoo. Tell me about you. NotAngryMittens, 53, seeking: M

UNPRETENTIOUS, CARING

WORD-LOVER

Outdoorsy retired journalist seeking intelligent, irreverent soul to share mutually enjoyable pursuits. For me these include music — roots, alt-folk, blues; cold winters, summer sun, hiking, skiing, cycling. I’m drawn to those who don’t take themselves too seriously. My son, grandkids and Labrador Nina mean everything. Treading lightly after losing my life partner, seeking friendship that may evolve into something deeper. elkaytee 68 seeking: M, l

DOWN-TO-EARTH NATURE LOVER

Looking for sincere, real spirituality connected to nature, and friends for hiking and exploring the outdoors. Theotherside, 51, seeking: M, NC, NBP, l

MEN

seeking...

KIND GENTLEMAN SEEKS

CHARMING LADY

I am caring and thoughtful and enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, cooking, creative pastimes and family. I seek a kind, caring, attractive, easygoing and charming lady who seeks a long-term relationship. Interesting backgrounds intrigue me. Being highly educated, accomplished, successful or foreignborn are not requirements, nor are they off-putting. I divide my time between Vt. and other pretty New England states. OneWomanMan, 65, seeking: W, l

HAPPY AND FRIENDLY

Interested in seeing how we get along and going from there. Deciduous 65, seeking: W, l

FOLLOW YOUR BLISS

Find the joy in watching the sun rise, the way candlelight sets the perfect mood, laughing uncontrollably until your belly hurts or how comfortable silence gives room for deep connection. Life seems to be moving quickly as birthdays roll by. Maybe some things are better when shared. amorfati, 57 seeking: W, l

TIME FOR NEW FRIENDS

Time to meet other adventurers! I spend my winter days on my skis as much as possible. Alpine and Nordic. Looking to find someone to share fun with. I haven’t gone dancing in years, but I would love to find someone to converse with, laugh with and have the support of a friend. I’m quiet, observant, caring. jetalone, 68 seeking: W, l

MISS ME YET?

Single dad. Been cheated on, shared custody. Show me what it’s like to be needed and to need. soloisboring 43, seeking: W, Cp, Gp, l

NEW TO BURLINGTON

Looking to find that “one” but also enjoying the journey getting there. rcg2504 49, seeking: W, l

OLD SCHOOL, KIND AND POLITE

Older guy looking for a clean, wellgroomed man who likes to have fun. I enjoy long, slow sex that feels romantic. Man with a foot fetish is a plus; willing to paint toes and any other thing that makes you freaky. Metoo, 62, seeking: M, TM, Q, NC, NBP, Cp, Gp

LOOKING FOR A KIND HEART

Male looking for a relationship or partner. I love skiing, movies and just hanging out. Jeffplace51, 54, seeking: W

CRAZY CAT-LOVING POET GUY

57-y/o artist, woodcarver and poet is seeking laid-back friends of all sorts to hang out with; and a 25- to 55-y/o woman with a creative soul and open heart to explore the possibilities with together, however far your heart desires to go. Dan_o_Shanter, 57 seeking: W, l

LAID BACK, OUTDOORSY

Back in Burlington and wondering why I ever left. Excited to spend time enjoying everything the state has to offer. I enjoy hiking, craft beer, long walks, and spending time with friends and family. I’m a genuinely nice guy and looking for someone who respects that. I am in good shape, liberal politics. Looking for an honest partner. MattyW 36, seeking: W, l

NEW TO VT

While I have owned property in Vermont for 20 years, I’m finally living here permanently. I’ve worked in a corporate environment for 30 years and looking forward to getting back to my roots. Looking to fill my house with laughter and love. NewVermonter 52, seeking: W, l

ACTIVE, KIND, ADVENTUROUS

Looking for a long-term partner who wants to share in travel, adventure, winter sports and a healthy, positive lifestyle. funnyfarm, 53, seeking: W, l

INTELLECTUALLY CURIOUS

Physically fit, intellectually curious, nature-loving, Ph.D., retired, Caucasian male with many interests looking for a woman to share a long-term relationship. Bonus if you enjoy backcountry hikes, dancing or home-brewing. PerpetualCuriosity 69, seeking: W, l

I’m looking to find that woman who wants to have a good, safe and happy life. I have a camp up north and love to spend time up there as much as I can. I love the way my other half looks at me and how she loves for her man to look at her. Snacky 59, seeking: W, l

OUTGOING INTROVERT SEEKING FELLOW ADVENTURER

Howdy! I’m an active and adventurous man seeking like-minded ladies to share in this beautiful journey called life. I would love to meet someone that I can have a deep emotional, intellectual, spiritual and physical connection with. Open, honest communication and kindness matter. If any of this sounds interesting to you, then let’s chat. Be well. Letstakeitoutside, 53, seeking: W, l

CAREFULLY, AS MENU HAS CHANGED 74-y/o M seeks relaxed, humorous sex-plus partner/companion. St. J/ Littleton area. Longtime divorced, mostly celibate. Masturbating is yearning/ memories. I need insighful, generous woman touching, give/receive. I have herpes, vasectomy, hearing loss. All respect for preferences and boundaries. Remote areas off-grid DIY homesteader, antiques picker, accomplished hoarder, acoustic musician, poet, builder, recluse. Sex is both nutrient and gateway. LTR/ LAT if chemistry match ignites love. Northcountrypicker, 74, seeking: W, l

BE THERE DRAGONS?

Living just south of the Vermont border, I am sorry to admit that most of Vermont is off my mental map — “There Be Dragons!” is scrawled across most of the state. Help me change that. Looking to explore, discover and share stories with someone I can connect with on a deep and essential level. Bardic_Blunderer, 57, seeking: W, l

IT’S TIME — I’M READY

Just a nice, honest, loyal, young-atheart and -mind single guy looking for one wonderful, caring, honest woman. Plenty of fun and great times will be had. Ask away: nothing to hide, strong believer that things in life happen for reasons. I’m taking a chance; so are you. Brooksie 69, seeking: W, l

TRANS WOMEN seeking...

ADVENTUROUS, WHIMSICAL AND SILLY Brand new to Vermont living, from the West Coast! Looking for love in hopefully the right place. Always up for a good time and wanting to find someone who loves yacht rock, movies and going on the wackiest side quests. YachtRockGal, 27 seeking: M, W, TM, TW, NBP, l TRANS WOMAN LOOKING

I am not your typical transgender woman as I’m a MAGA Republican, unvaccinated, goth, redneck, Christian metalhead. Call it a contradiction if you want — you simply don’t understand the complexity of who I unapologetically am. I am searching for the one forever woman with core values in common who is loyal and honest.

TransRebecca 32 seeking: W, TW, l

COUPLES

seeking...

FUN COUPLE LOOKING FOR EXPLORATION

We are a secure couple who enjoy the outdoors, good wine, great food, playing with each other, exploring our boundaries and trying new things. We are 47 and 50, looking for a fun couple or bi man to play and explore with us. We are easygoing, and we’d love to meet you and see where our mutual adventures take us. vthappycouple 52, seeking: M, Cp, Gp

ATTRACTIVE BRUNETTE AT SHAW’S, COLCHESTER

Attractive, statuesque brunette with your hair up, black puffer jacket, blue jeans and black boots. Saw you pushing your cart this afternoon. Would love the chance to meet for coffee some time! When: Sunday, November 16, 2025. Where: Shaw’s, Colchester. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916485

YOU CAN STEAL MY HEART

I saw you on the news and just wanted to reach out. You were wearing a white ski mask and white gloves at the Lowell General Store around 2 a.m. Saturday. I am very curious who you are. I was wearing a state trooper outﬁt and driving a green SUV. Would love to connect with you. Hit me up. When: Saturday, November 8, 2025. Where: Lowell General Store. You: Man. Me: Man. #916484

SEA SHANTIES IN CALAIS

What a scene in Calais. To the man in the gray sweater: ank you for picking up my tab, very sweet. I had no idea until after you left. e bartender passed along your card and a few kind words. But after receiving it, I misplaced it and can’t recall its contents. Figure this is worth a shot. Lowlands, away! When: Saturday, November 8, 2025. Where: Whammy Bar, Calais. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916483

DADDY VISITING — WE CHATTED IN LINE

You were the next person after me at the checkout. You noticed all my fresh veggies; you said, “I’m coming to your place for dinner.” I wanted to invite you so badly, but I knew you were married. I waited in my car to give you my cell. I want you over for dinner! You are visiting. You were wearing sweatpants and a sweatshirt. When: Saturday, November 8, 2025. Where: Market 32, Rutland. You: Man. Me: Man. #916482

De Rev end,

If you’ve been spied, go online to contact your admirer!

AQUA ZUMBA CUTIE

You: young, dark-haired man, late 20s/ early 30s with a beard, at the Wednesday evening aqua Zumba class at the Y. Surrounded by older women, locked in on the pulsating beats of Missy Elliot. Me: green sports bra, having my post-workout sauna session. If interested, I’d like to get to know the handsome demographic outlier in that class. When: Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Where: Burlington YMCA. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916480

ROSIE, WHERE ARE YOU?

Tell your daddy that this is his last chance to get his daughter in a ﬁne romance! Adventuring, loving, being cared for and connected for so long. Is it not time to say someday we will look back at this and it will all seem funny? When: Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Where: everywhere. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916478

WHEN AND WHERE?

You said to keep moving — so here I am. / But this time, you better show up in time. / Don’t leave me waiting in the echoes again. / I keep dreaming of you, again and again. / Let’s make it real — no ghosts, no delay. / Just us, meeting where hearts ﬁnally stay. / Tell me, how are we meeting? When: ursday, October 30, 2025. Where: my dreams. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916477

GREEN STATE HOTTIE

I stopped at Green State to get a preroll for my peeping drive. Hottie in the ball cap picked a ﬁre sativa they said they grew there. I was pretty lit while driving there so I sat in a chair there. I could see you watching me. Was there something there? e peeping drive would have been lit with a passenger. When: Saturday, October 18, 2025. Where: Dispensary. You: Man. Me: Man. #916476

My boyfriend and I have history together. We were classmates and hung out as friends way back when. After all these years, we’ve gotten reacquainted, and now we’re dating. We’ve been together for more than two years. I feel that I love him, but should I tell him?

CHILLING AT THE Y

You: black top and bottom, small gold hoop earrings, silver ring on your right middle ﬁnger. Where: sauna at the Y. Me: I was the hot guy. When: Sunday, November 9, 2025. Where: GBYMCA. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916481

CITY MARKET TRIPLE TAKE

Pulling into the downtown parking lot at 5:40 p.m. You were walking across the lot to your car. You did a triple take and we made eye contact all three times, so it must be real. You: stunning, mid-late 20s, probably ﬁve-foot-sevenish, brown hair half tied back. I think you drove a white Honda/Subaru. I was in the old black SUV. When: Tuesday, October 28, 2025. Where: City Market downtown. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916475

GNEISSGUY

I regret, and I do want to be saved. / is light I hold is true, not brave facade or wave. / When and where could we meet, to mend what is frayed? / You heard me silent, thought I’d fade, / But I stayed, adrift, awake, unscathed. / Not false light, but love engraved. When: Tuesday, October 28, 2025. Where: now. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916472

JERSEY BOY

You were behind me in line when my poodle was trying to beeline it out the door of Petco with his treat, like a thief. You looked handsome and familiar — perhaps we met in the ’90s at LBI one of those summers. I’m glad you gave me your name; wish I had your number. When: Saturday, October 25, 2025. Where: Petco in Barre. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916471

PHO HONG PHLIRTATION

You commented how nice it was of me to buy everyone dinner. I said I’m the nicest person I know. Are you single? Maybe we grab a drink? When: Saturday, October 25, 2025. Where: Pho Hong. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916470

JULIO’S MONTPELIER ISPY MOMENT

You were with a group of ladies near my table. As you were leaving, you were excited about seeing the next iSpys. You asked to see my copy of Seven Days. I was happy to let you look. You wondered if you would be in the iSpys. Here you are, Sweetheart! If you can ﬁnd me, let’s have dinner! When: Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Where: Julio’s, Montpelier. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916468

GLITCH(ES)

Wild Wabbit, / wonging for wesoltution / Birdshot wanced my wear / Wost in your dark hole / My heart forever stole. When: Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Where: Milton Hannaford’s. You: Man. Me: Man. #916464

SWEETLAND

I was trying to ﬁgure out how to pay for the corn. You helped by ﬁnding the right code to put in the register. I wish I had gotten your name. I’d love to meet again and have dinner. When: Saturday, October 11, 2025. Where: Sweetland Farm store, Norwich. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916462

CUTE MAN DRIVE-BY

I was at the No Kings protest on Saturday. You drove by in a black pickup truck hauling a trailer. You stopped and told us all thank you for being out there. I was in a tan and pink ﬂannel — thought you were very handsome. When: Saturday, October 18, 2025. Where: Enﬁeld, N.H. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916461

PLAINFIELD MAPLEFIELDS

I was walking in; you were walking out. You held the door for me and said, “Here ya go, handsome!” Guys rarely receive compliments like that, thus my blank stare and momentary confusion. anks! Made my morning. When: Friday, October 17, 2025. Where: Plainﬁeld Mapleﬁelds. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916460

OLD BRICK STORE

You made an effort to talk to me, even though you were busy working. I thought you were very pretty. Let’s meet at KGB if I’m ever down in your neck of the woods. When: Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Where: Charlotte. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916459

GENTLEMAN IN CUTE PLAID HAT

I nearly ran you over in front of Barnes & Noble on Dorset Street. You graciously tried to speak to me in the store, but I ran away, mortiﬁed. Please give me another chance to converse. When: Sunday, June 30, 2024. Where: Dorset Street. You: Man. Me: Woman. #916458

BOLTON LIFT SERVE MOUNTAIN BIKING

You: cute mom worried about getting your bike on the lift. Me: giving you encouragement — you were going to be OK. Would you like to go for a mountain bike ride together? When: Saturday, October 11, 2025. Where: Bolton Valley Lift Serve. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916457

YO I complimented your pompadour cut and your handlebar moustache in the parking lot the other afternoon. I was the guy with the Skynet shirt. If you ever want to do non-toxic bro stuff, hit me up. Just friendship. When: Friday, October 10, 2025. Where: Kirkland. You: Man. Me: Man. #916456

WE MET ON HINGE

Hi, Heidi: we met on Hinge and spoke about loyalty. Unfortunately your proﬁle disappeared. I’d love to continue chatting, if you’re interested! When: Sunday, October 12, 2025. Where: Hinge. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916455

SEEKING BEAUTIFUL BLOND HIKER MOM

Descending Sunset Ridge, I passed so close you (kinda hot and sweaty) took my breath away. At “How are you?” I was going to say, “Better!” But, having heard the mom in your voice, wasn’t sure who followed. Just a teenage son? Should have mentioned my daughter and asked: Are you from the Burlington area? Are you single? If yes and yes, why not get in touch? When: Saturday, October 11, 2025. Where: Mount Mansﬁeld. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916454

CROSSWORD BUDDY AT MINIFACTORY

Sois mon ami! You know everyone in town, claim you aren’t famous (but your name is), and have the most friendly and charming smile. Turns out a crossword is a great way to get to know someone. Invite me back to town. I promise not to distract you too much. When: ursday, October 9, 2025. Where: Minifactory. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916453

LAUGHTER AT THE MILL MARKET

You walked in. ought you were who I had met the night prior on the Spirit of Ethan Allen. You have a twin, LOL. I joked about you riding a motorcycle. Your laughter was contagious. In today’s world, we need more of that. Just wanted to say hi again. When: ursday, October 2, 2025. Where: Mill Market. You: Woman. Me: Woman. #916452

JOGGING AT SHELBURNE FARMS

You were jogging, I was walking with my daughter. Your smile made my day. A walk or lunch would be a treat. When: Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Where: Shelburne Farms. You: Woman. Me: Man. #916450

De N vous Nellie,

is could be a one-word answer, but I think there’s more to the question — and we’ve got some space to ﬁll — so I’m going to go about it the long way.

What is it that’s holding you back from telling your boyfriend that you love him? Are you worried that he doesn’t feel the same way about you? You’ve been a couple for a long time, and friends even longer, so you must know him well enough to have an inkling about what he’s thinking.

a bad experience with a similar situation in the past. All of these possibilities are completely understandable. But also kinda silly. Certainly, none of them are worth keeping your true feelings under lock and key.

Are you waiting for him to say it ﬁrst? Perhaps you’re holding on to the old-fashioned notion that the man should be the one to profess his love. Possibly you’re nervous that declaring your love for him will somehow change the good thing that you’ve got going. Or maybe you’ve had

I ﬁrmly believe that we should tell the ones we love how we feel way more often than we do. e only thing that truly stops us is fear, and in the words of the great Franklin D. Roosevelt, “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”

I say you ought to throw the unnecessary caution to the wind and tell this fella that you love him. It doesn’t have to be a big production number; you can just lay it on him casually sometime when you gather up your nerve. I’m willing to bet that you’ll be happy that you did.

Good luck and God bless, The Rev end

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

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

I am a 49-y/o woman seeking a 38- to 52-y/o man. I am ready to meet a life partner to grow a kind, conscious family with. Are you ﬁt, curious, ecologically and socially attuned? Let’s meet for tea, a peddle or hike. #L1896

Open-minded SWM, 60s, 170 lbs., 5’8”, seeks similar for friendship and more. Open-minded, intelligent, liberal, slim males into fun activities and exploring various types of fun. #L1894

I’m a 70-y/o male, 6’1”, 265 lbs., seeking a woman between 60 and 79 y/o who smokes cigarettes. I am looking for a long-term relationship. Drives, meals, cuddles, watching movies. #L1893

I’m a 65-y/o woman seeking a ﬁt, 45- to 70-y/o man. I am a woman with a lot of energy! Clean houses. Love the outdoors, swimming, rides and Maine. I’m 5’2”, 130 lbs. Love to laugh! #L1892

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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

Very discreet bi guy loves the outdoors: camping, hiking, ﬁshing, etc. Looking for other guys with similar interests to share fun times and have good times with. Hit me up! #L1890

Perverted tales. Hedonistic confessions. Bold, erotic and sensual? Titillating? Incredible and luscious? Yes, please! Extreme, deviant, obscene perversity helps incite lust. I am eager to hear from all you perverts. Conﬁdential. I dare you to shock me. #L1889

I’m a SWM, 60s, 5’7”, 165 lbs. seeking slim males who enjoy a nice, long, slow, relaxing blow job or a regular one, if desired. NSA, just pleasure. #L1882

Male looking for female, age 59 to 69. I am disabled but still get around on my own. Looking for someone to hang with, since I am all alone and hate it. My partner passed from cancer. #L1888

I’m an 81-y/o woman seeking a male. I am a widow of ﬁve years. Looking for companionship. Love music, reading, knitting, crocheting and playing card games, etc. #L1887

Int net-Free Dating!

Gracious, attentive, educated, humorous soul seeks a ﬁt, tender and unassuming female counterpart (58 to 68) for woodland walks, shared meals and scintillating conversation. Won’t you join me? #L1885

I’m a 19-y/o male college student seeking a kind, curious, adventurous woman around my age. I enjoy meditating, being outside and long conversations. Looking for someone I can value and appreciate who can help me to value and appreciate life. #L1881

I’m a 43-y/o male seeking a woman, 30 to 50. Adventure seeker building an off-grid cabin in Newport. I’m 5’8”, redheaded, ﬁt, living between western Mass. and Vt. I like to cook, bathe, hike, camp and travel. Seeking ﬁt, fun-loving, cuddly companion for potential future. #L1880

I have the dreams; you have the sugar. Let us maybe travel a bit and figure out what this country needs. F, 24, seeking someone intellectual, active and financially afloat. #L1878

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 74-y/o male. It’s been a long, long time without feeling a woman’s touch. I miss sex. I would love to meet a single, divorced or widowed woman in her 70s or 80s. Did I mention I miss sex? Phone number, please. #L1879

I’m a 44-y/o bi male seeking a male, female or bi couple for casual sex. I am clean, easygoing and anything goes. No judgment here. Let’s talk. Call/text. #L1877

I’m 65 y/o and gay. Male, seeking my partner/lover and best friend. Gregarious and fun-loving. Laughter and a sense of humor are the cornerstones of my life. As Jimmy Buffet says, “If we couldn’t laugh, we would all go insane!” #L1875

Divorced white female, 66 y/o. Looking for a single male, 45 to 60, who is tall, not big. Who is loving, caring and fun to be with. I like being outdoors. I am disabled and use a wheelchair. I am loving, caring and honest and don’t play games. Like animals, and I am easy to get along with. I live in Winooski. #L1876

Required conﬁdential info: NAME ADDRESS

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