Best of Burlington - Spring 2020

SPRING 2020

VOLUME 13 NO 2

KWINIASKA GOLF CLUB HEN OF THE WOOD COMING BACK FROM THE FIRE

READY TO SHOW OFF ITS NEW “ELBOW”

TO YOUR

SPECIAL SECTION

Contents 56 KWINIASKA!

After successful golf course surgery, Kwiniaska is ready to show off its new “elbow.”

BY JAY MURRY

Spring features

63 HEN OF THE WOOD

Coming back from the fire.

BY SUZANNE PODHAIZER

68 TAKE A SPIN WITH THE GREEN MOUNTAIN BICYCLE CLUB

Good times with good people.

BY PHYL NEWBECK

50 29

TO YOUR

SPECIAL SECTION

30 13 PUBLISHERS’ NOTE 14 ONLINE HUB

35 BARE SPA: BIG GAIN, NO PAIN 36 YOGA ROOTS 38 TURN TO CHROMA OPTICS 40 RADIANCE MEDICAL AESTHETICS AND WELLNESS SPA 42 TRAIN RIGHT TO STAY FIT LONGER

18 GATHERINGS 50 years of getting Vermont greener.

BY KATE ALBERGHINI, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GREEN UP VERMONT

20 PETS & PEOPLE News, products, and furry facts.

22 SPOTLIGHT

50 LIVING THE GOOD LIFE

Welcome Spring Shopping and fun things to do in the local Burlington area.

Shelburne Tap House.

BY JEN ROSE SMITH

Mud, glorious mud

BY JENNIFER DUBY

78 HAPPENINGS A calendar of events.

87 ADVERTISERS INDEX 88 LAST GLANCE

Contents departments

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BY MOLLY RITVO

74 VERMONT VIEWS

49 UVM HEALTH NETWORK MYCHART

62

A new chapter at the Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery.

45 OTTER CREEK AWNINGS

48 LET GO OF WORKOUT MYTHS

Discover, Dine, Stay & Shop

24 ART SCENE

52 HOT SPOT

47 DORSET STREET DERMATOLOGY

Shelburne, Vermont

Life doesn't come with a manual, it comes with a mother.

44 FREEDOM FROM THE PRESCRIPTION MERRY-GO-ROUND

46 KISS THE COOK

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

16 CONTRIBUTORS

30 NURSEGROWN ORGANICS

28

Coffee Table Publishing, LLC 32 Hermit Thrush Lane South Burlington, VT 05403 www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

PUBLISHERS

Robin Gales John Gales Bob Frisch CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Deb Thompson COPY EDITOR

Jennifer Goss Duby ART DIRECTION/DESIGN

Robbie Alterio ADVERTISING DESIGN

Hutchens Media, LLC WEB DESIGN

Locable ADVERTISING

Robin Gales (802) 299-9086 John Gales (802) 558-2719 coffeetablepublishing@comcast.net Keep us posted. Best of Burlington wants to hear from our readers. Correspondence may be addressed to Letters to the Editor, Best of Burlington, 32 Hermit Thrush Lane, South Burlington, VT 05403. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing ctpublishing@comcast.net or coffeetablepublishing@comcast.net. Best of Burlington is published quarterly by Coffee Table Publishing, LLC, ©2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. Best of Burlington accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, or photographs.

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PUBLISHERS’ NOTE

Spring!

E

ven the word makes you want to move. Time for rebirth, coming out, opening up. Our spring issue exemplifies all of these. When it comes to rebirth, there’s no better example than Hen of the Wood restaurant on Cherry Street in Burlington. “The Hen” is back.

We’re excited to present a special section, To Your Health. As in past spring issues, we’re focusing on various local health services and information for you to take advantage of.

We’ve included everything from starting a fitness training program that is tailored to your needs to the advantages of yoga, health and beauty options, and much more.

And since you’re going to be getting out, we’re introducing you to the new course design at Kwiniaska, the golf club in Shelburne. The way they managed to redesign the course is absolutely incredible. We can’t wait to try it, and we’re sure you’ll want to check it out soon as well.

We hope your spring is full of pleasant renewals and rebirths.

John and Robin Gales To all things spring!

Publishers

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FF A GO OW O IASK Y TO SH LBOW” READ “E KWIN S NEW IT

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SPRING CLEANING When you get to the kitchen, don’t forget your spice cabinet. www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

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contributors MOLLY RITVO is a freelance writer who lives in Burlington, Vermont, with her husband and daughter. She holds a BA from Tufts University and an MFA in Creative Writing from Emerson College. Molly is writing a novel as well as a collection of essays on motherhood.

Learn more about Molly at mollyritvo.com.

BART BEESON is a freelance writer and photographer based in Burlington, Vermont. He is a regular contributor to Travel Weekly and Everett Potter’s Travel Report, and has been published in The Washington Post, USA Today, Foreign Policy, and other media outlets.

When he’s not traveling, Bart can be found hiking with his dog Kesey or spending time with his family in central New Hampshire.

SUZANNE PODHAIZER is a cooking educator, writer, and chef living in Winooski, Vermont.

She used to be a goose farmer and owned a farm to table restaurant in Montpelier called Salt. She also studies kizomba, bachata, and salsa as a member of the DsantosVT dance team.

PHYL NEWBECK is a former flatlander from New York City. She lives in Jericho, where she has learned to stack a mean pile of firewood. When not skiing, skating, bicycling, swimming, or kayaking, she writes for several local publications. Phyl is the author of Virginia Hasn’t Always Been for Lovers: Interracial Marriage Bans and the Case of Richard and Mildred Loving.

16 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

JAY MURRY wears a trio of hats on any given day. He is a published freelance writer whose previous work has been featured in Marathon & Beyond and Ultrarunning magazines; the sports play-by-play “Voice of the Bears” at Washington University in St. Louis; and a special-education paraprofessional at Fort Zumwalt West High School in O’Fallon, Missouri.

GATHERINGS

BY KATE ALBERGHINI, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GREEN UP VERMONT

50 Years of Getting Vermont Greener Green Up Day celebrates its 50th Anniversary on Saturday, May 2

G

reen Up Day, always the first Saturday in May, was launched in 1970 by Governor Deane Davis.

It is an annual statewide event, activating over 22,000 volunteers to get outside and pick up litter from Vermont’s roadsides and waterways. It is the organization’s mission to promote the stewardship of our state’s natural landscape and the livability of our communities by involving people in Green Up Day. Work includes educating and involving the state’s youth to develop their sense of pride for taking care of the environment they live in, so it becomes a lifelong commitment to our planet.

A HEALTHIER VERMONT 365 DAYS A YEAR Green Up Vermont, the private nonprofit that produces Green Up Day, works year-round

18 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

with Vermont’s 251 municipalities, solid waste districts, and private corporations for funding, educational support, and to discover innovative ways to achieve a cleaner, healthier Vermont. Green Up Day is a culmination of that work and is really celebrated every year as a collective day of action across the state that builds strong communities for the good of all our residents, our businesses, our visitors, and our future.

50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS To celebrate Green Up Day’s 50th anniversary, the group will participate in a special art show at the statehouse during the month of March in conjunction with the Vermont Art Teachers Association and Youth Art Month. They will also be sharing special groups’ stories on their unique ways

of Greening Up, and they are providing all towns with sugar maple saplings to plant in common areas to highlight the beautification aspect that has always been a tradition of Green Up Day. Visit the website at www.greenupvermont .org for information on how you can get involved with Green Up. You can also find the group on Facebook at www.facebook.com /GreenUpVermont and Instagram at www .instagram.com/greenupvermont.

ONLINE EXTRA Discover the impact of Green Up Day by the numbers at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com.

PETS AND PEOPLE SPONSORED BY BEVS

Are Your Plants Pet-Friendly?

With warmer weather coming our way, your dog may be spending more time outdoors, so you’ll want to make sure your yard is safe for your furry best friend. There are more than 700 plants that have been identified as poisonous, meaning they produce toxic substances that cause harmful effects in animals. Poisonous plants may cause reactions ranging from mild nausea to death.

Below are a few of the most common problem-causing species.

PLANTS TOXIC TO DOGS Apple (seeds) Hydrangea Azalea Iris Daffodil (bulbs) Larkspur Delphinium Lavender English ivy Lily of the valley Foxglove Rhododendron Hosta Yarrow Hyacinth (bulbs) Yew For a complete list of plants harmful to dogs and cats, go to the websites of The Humane Society of the United States at www .humanesociety.org or the ASPCA at www.aspca.org/pet-care /animal-poison-control. If you think your pet has ingested a harmful substance, contact your vet or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Bath Time!

The next time your dog needs a bath, visit Pet Wash Express at the Williston Road Pet Food Warehouse. There you’ll find a self-service pet wash, designed for bathing your pet without the hassle and mess of trying to do it at home. The washroom area features elevated tubs to make bathing your pet easy. Each tub also has a ramp to allow your pet to walk into the tub without being lifted. Everything you need to wash and dry your pet is available to use, and when you are done, the staff cleans up the mess.

Williston Road Pet Wash Express includes: • Elevated tubs with ramps • Hooks in the tub to secure your pet while washing • 6-foot hose with adjustable sprayer nozzle • Hypo-allergenic shampoo and conditioner • Protective apron and gloves • Towels and dryers to completely dry your pet with ease and efficiency • Grooming table and tools • Free treats for your pet when finished.

Pet Wash Express is open Monday–Friday from 9am–5:15pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9am–4:30pm. Call (802) 862-5514 during business hours to schedule an appointment, or stop in to try for walk-in availability.

Lawn Safety Besides harmful plants, your grass can also be a source of toxins for dogs and cats. In the yard, keep pets off grass and gardens treated with chemical fertilizers.

Better yet, use pet-safe products. Note that organic fertilizers require caution too, as dogs may be drawn to the aroma of manure. If you’re fertilizing with bone meal, dogs—bone lovers that they are—might find it tasty. Bone meal can severely sicken a dog, but diluting it and other fertilizers with lots of water usually renders it harmless for dogs, but be extra careful if you have a tiny best friend.

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Is Your Pet Overweight?

Just like their owners, many pets pack on pounds over the winter. Losing weight isn’t easy—for us or them—but it’s critical. Research shows that overweight or obese dogs face higher risks of chronic diseases and orthopedic problems. One study with more than 50,000 dogs representing 12 popular breeds found overweight dogs had a lifespan up to 2.5 years shorter than their normal-weight cousins.

Aim for walking your pet at least 30 minutes twice a day, depending on its age and health. Measuring how much we feed pets is also important, but only one in five of us do this. Also consider feeding pets twice a day instead of once, so their intake is spread out. Ask your vet if your pet needs to slim down, and follow his or her advice to keep the love of your life around longer.

Shelburne Museum Exhibit According to a 2017/18 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, 85 million families, or 65 percent of all households in the United States, have at least one animal companion. Through August 23, the Shelburne Museum is exhibiting Creature Comfort: Animals in the House, which explores the creative ways animal forms have been adapted to create beautiful and functional household items. Dating from the 18th century to the present, the objects explore themes including domestication, emotional connections, and ethical treatment.

Find more information at shelburnemuseum.org.

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 21

SPOTLIGHT MOTHER’S DAY

Life

DOESN’T COME WITH A MANUAL

it CoMes witH

MotheR A mother’s love for her child is universal, but every mom is unique, so celebrating mom has to be unique too. How do you celebrate the one who knew you before anyone else? Below are some readers’ responses to our Mother’s Day survey:

She showed you the way; how do you show her your thanks?

One thing I’ve discovered is a day at the Essex Resort with a spa and dinner. It’s so much fun getting caught up with Mom and catching her up on the family.

Mom and I usually start the day off together, just the two of us. We usually take a walk along the lake then pop into a place for coffee and a treat to share.

Mom has passed and I miss her so. We always place flowers and handmade cards from the kids on her grave after church.

With a glass of wine!

My mom lives in Phoenix, so the kids and I make and send her cards.

My three sisters and I always surprise Mom every Mother’s Day morning, either at her front door or waiting for her at her favorite breakfast spot.

Last year we met her for breakfast with a table full of flowers and balloons. Yes, she cried.

My mom and I always spend part of the day walking Church Street. We love to grab coffee or a glass of wine at lunch and check out all our

22 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

favorite stores. She picks out something she loves as a present for Mother’s Day. We like to stock up Mom’s house with flowers and plants. On Mother’s Day, all the kids come over to plant them. Then, of course, we enjoy a nice dinner with the whole family.

I’ll give my mom a huge and grateful hug on Mother’s Day and maybe bring her and Dad some Lake Champlain Chocolates to celebrate mom love!

Mom always says she doesn’t want anything, but I have a feeling if the kids and I showed up without flowers, chocolates, the kids’ cards, and gifts, she’d be disappointed, so we always come through and surprise her.

ART SCENE

BY MOLLY RITVO PHOTOS COURTESY OF FURCHGOTT SOURDIFFE GALLERY

A New Chapter at the

FURCHGOTT SOURDIFFE

Gallery

Longtime employee Lara Maloy and partner Nico Sardet take the helm

O

n a snowy morning in Shelburne, the Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery looks warm and welcoming. It’s housed in a large blue Victorian Queen house on Falls Road, across from Barkeaters Restaurant. Upon entering the gallery, patrons will experience a sense of calm and reverence for artists. The gallery takes up two floors. Some rooms are quite small, but

24 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

the inviting lighting and stained-glass windows create additional space as the sunlight hits some of the pieces in a striking way. Fine art covers every space of the walls and transforms nooks, corners, and even a staircase into showcases.

On display are permanent exhibits of watercolor and acrylic paintings, newer collections of different mediums, fashionable jewelry for sale,

one-of-kind sculptural lamps, and a workshop in the back where new owners Lara Maloy and her partner Nico Sardet concentrate on the framing and restoration aspect of the business.

MOVING FORWARD Lara, a longtime employee of the gallery, is thrilled to be a new owner and is setting the tone

Clockwise from top left: Shelburne Farms Summer II by Bonnie Acker, Sempre Dolce (Still Music) by Daniel Gottsegen, Sunshine by Kate Longmaid, and Transformation Series by Leon Applebaum. Opposite: Lara displays a custom framing project.

for a productive new chapter at Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery (FSG). With a petite frame and wide eyes, Lara is thoughtful and quiet and almost fades into the background to allow the art to shine as she busily works behind the counter.

The Castleton, Vermont, native has worked

at FSG since the fall of 2005. She remembers responding to a job posting and recalls that she knew the job description was “immediately for me! The gallery job essentially described my strengths: attention to detail, interest in art and design along with a friendly demeanor,�

she recalls. Besides offering customer service, Lara would be needed in the frame shop and would need to learn how to cut and clean glass, prep the frame, and assemble the picture with backing paper and hardware, often while using potentially dangerous equipment.

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 25

Top: The Ostrich Zone by Adelaide Murphy.

Bottom: Lara Maloy and Nico Sardet. Opposite: Untitled pieces from Brandywine Glassworks by Robert Burch.

The former gallery owners and namesakes, Joan Furchgott and Brad Sourdiffe, owned and operated the business beginning in 1991. They quickly became respected in the art world for displaying an eclectic collection of contemporary fine art and for their efforts in offering exceptional custom framing and restoration services. Lara has worked closely with Joan and Brad over the years and enjoys how the gallery has two components: the creative art side and the more delicate framing aspect. “Our gallery provides a relaxed atmosphere where art can be viewed without sales pressure. Members of the community stop by simply to be refreshed and study other artists’ techniques,” she says.

“Art collectors from Shelburne as well as from across the country make a point to visit us and find art that resonates with them personally.” Lara says that FSG exhibits artists with a diverse range of artistic disciplines and often those creating at a master level.

Lara continues to describe how the custom frame shop functions as another branch of the gallery. “We offer a wide variety of frame profiles, mats, and unique approaches to displaying everything from historical documents, maps, children’s art, and objects to photographs, paintings, textiles, posters, and prints.” she says.

When asked what unique types of items she has framed, Lara says that they have framed everything from “baby shoes to golf clubs to hawk wings, teacups, antique lace fans, leaves, puzzles, beadwork, puppets, awards, and fly-fishing lures among various other things.”

NEW PARTNERSHIPS AT FSG As well as learning the ins and outs of running a successful gallery, over the years Lara has established meaningful relationships with artists and has developed personal contacts with vendors as well. As Joan and Brad were getting ready to embrace retirement, Lara recalls that they had “discussions about the opportunity of my taking over the business” and says that she felt “overwhelmed with the idea at first. There are numerous tasks involved with operating a small business. However, I’ve learned bits of 26 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

each component gradually over the years.”

One of the biggest factors that helped propel Lara to take ownership was the inclusion of her partner, Nico Sardet, a carpenter and artist who was born and raised in France. His skillset and knowledgeable understanding of trade

secrets from his years of woodworking, graphic design, and decorative painting makes him an “ideal partner,” says Lara. “His skills combined with mine make us a strong team.” Nico will be learning how to create custom frame finishes from Brad and says his “keen eye for colors,

natural finishes, and interior decoration will help me with the custom frame finishes.”

As Lara and Nico settle into their new roles, they say that their regular patrons won’t see too many changes at the gallery, but they do want to put their own stamp on the place. “We do have plans to welcome a few specific new artists as well as fresh work from those we currently represent,” Lara notes. “We’ll also bring in new glass and jewelry artisans.”

Lara remains eager to support the exciting art community in Vermont. “The best part about running the gallery is when a patron finds a meaningful piece of artwork that we know will enrich their everyday life. It feels really good to tell the artist about the sale and, frankly, send them a check! I also love the days when the artists we are working with bring in their new artwork for an upcoming exhibit,” she says, adding how she also finds joy in helping her clients with the unique framing design process.

And Nico continues to find inspiration in his surroundings. “I feel like Vermonters really appreciate art; they are curious and creative people at large,” he says.

Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery 86 Falls Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-3848 fsgallery.com Hours: Tues–Friday, 9:30am–5pm, Saturday: 10am–5pm Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 27

Discover, Dine, Stay & Shop

Shelburne, Vermont Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery Custom Framing • Fine Art Restoration • Gifts 86 Falls Road Shelburne, VT

Dutch Mill Family Restaurant and Catering 4309 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-3568 www.dutchmillvt.com

Village Wine and Coffee 5288 Shelburne Road #1 Shelburne, VT (802) 985-8925 www.villagewineandcoffee.com

(802) 985-3848 www.fsgallery.com

Mon–Sun 7:30am–2pm

Spalon Euphoria

The Automaster

A Little Something

3328 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT

Gifts, Jewelry, and More!

145 Pine Haven Shores Suite 2022 Shelburne, VT (802) 276-5275 www.spaloneuphoria.com

Yoga Roots Daily Yoga • Workshops Teacher Trainings Shelburne & Williston, VT (802) 985-0090 www.yogarootsvt.com

(802) 985-8482 TheAutomasterMercedesBenz.com

Jamie Two Coats Toy Shop 54 Falls Road In the of the Village Shelburne, VT (802) 985-3221 Open daily 10am–6pm

Mon–Sat 7am–6pm Sun 8:30am–4pm

Shelburne Bay Plaza 2989 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-9909 www.alittlesomethingvt.com FB: A Little Something (Gifts)

Shelburne Tap House 2989 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-4040 www.shelburnetaphouse.com

TO YOUR

A look at local choices for diet, exercise, health options and more

TO YOUR

BY BART BEESON

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATT LEONETTI AND JESSILYN DOLAN

NurseGrown Organics Ensuring quality and purity

30 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

Clockwise from above: A powerful topical CBD balm infused with organic arnica and frankincense. Vegan CBD capsules and oil tinctures with organic hemp seed oil. When summer winds down, the plants begin to show signs of flowering.

T

he story behind Vermont-based CBD company NurseGrown Organics can basically be summed up by the old saying, “If you want something done right, do it yourself.” Founders Jessilyn Dolan and Matt Leonetti searched the market for years for a CBD product that they were completely confident in—one that had been grown cleanly and organically and was thoroughly tested.

Despite the growing number of products on the market, they weren’t able to find one that fit the bill. So they tapped into their entrepreneurial spirit and founded NurseGrown Organics, which released its first products in late 2019.

“It made sense for us to finally stop looking for something else and be dissatisfied or disappointed and do it the way we really want it to be done,” says Jessilyn. “Then we could have the complete assurance and trust to say, ‘This is something I recommend and stand behind.’”

NurseGrown Organics, LLC PO Box 4 Underhill, VT nursegrown.com Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 31

Clockwise from above: Fragrant terpenes (aromatic oils) of hemp attract pollinators.

NurseGrown Organics’ top-selling products.

The sun rises on a maturing fall harvest.

GETTING STARTED Both Jessilyn, an herbalist and registered nurse (hence the “nursegrown”), and Matt, a horticulturalist, say the decision to make their own CBD products was a natural one. “I gave up a landscape business that I had put together and run for 15 years, she changed her job out of the nursing and addiction realm. It kind of organically happened and we just dove in,” says Matt.

He adds that it was not an overnight decision to start the company. “It took us a while. We kind of sat on it and didn’t move as quickly as we should have, but it kind of nudged us each time we looked into it and weren’t finding what we were looking for.”

Both partners emphasize that making their product affordable is very important to them.

“We definitely made our products affordable comparatively, because how can we think this is going to help people if it’s not accessible? We’ve worked really hard to make that happen, and that’s part of what took us a while to get this out there, between quality and ensuring we could get a good price point for people,” says Jessilyn.

32 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

The couple, who describe themselves as life partners , were surprised to learn how little regulation there was in the CBD market. Matt says they started the company, in part, to provide some transparency. “We wanted to offer the consumer some kind of clarity to what they were buying, knowing that we could add some value to it, rather than just false empty promises which seem to litter the industry all over the place,” he says.

Both partners emphasize that educating consumers is a big part of their business model, so that people will know what to look for when buying a CBD product and reading a label.

Jessilyn says that when she was looking for products for herself, it was hard to determine whether or not they were grown organically and cleanly, if they were lab tested, or how they were processed. She adds that even products that say they are lab tested may only be tested for certain things. “Realistically, a lot them are only testing for CBD, they’re not testing for mold, mildew, metals, pesticides, and all the other things that we need to ensure safety.”

NURSEGROWN TODAY Today, NurseGrown Organics offers three different CBD products: balm, capsules, and tincture, all of which are full spectrum. (Fullspectrum CBD products contain all the cannabinoids that are naturally found in the cannabis plant in nature, rather than just cannabidiol, or CBD.) They are Vermont’s first hemp farm to be certified by Clean Green, a third-party national organization that certifies cannabis producers who maintain clean and sustainable business environments. NurseGrown’s plants are organically grown and processed on land they lease from several Vermont community farmers, and their products are full-panel lab tested. They also offer individualized treatment plans, and provide group presentations and workshops, as well as in-person and virtual appointments. And they offer discounts for people who are experiencing financial hardship or who have disabilities. For 2020, which has been designated the Year of the Nurse by the World Health Organization, they are offering a 25 percent discount for nurses.

Currently, CBD producers are prohibited from making specific medical claims. But Jessilyn says that they have heard many testimonies about how CBD products have helped people. “What I can say is that anecdotally we know we’re having a lot of Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 33

Above: The greenhouse houses Clean Green Certified hemp starts.

Below: Hemp plants in full bloom.

success in a number of different areas,” she says. She adds that with more research and funding for studies, they hope to see more documented evidence of CBD’s healing properties in the future.

LOOKING AHEAD As for the future of NurseGrown Organics, the two say that a lot depends on what happens with the state and federal laws regarding cannabis. Jessilyn, who is a medical marijuana patient herself, says they would eventually like to be able to offer a full range 34 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

of cannabis-related products. “For myself as an herbalist and nurse, and Matt as a cultivator, we feel strongly that it’s the entire plant that makes a difference and that it’s important that we can offer different ratios for different health concerns and different ways of consuming it. That means having full access to that without any legal reasons holding you back from using certain kinds of medicine,” she says.

Their products can currently be purchased through their website and at select local stores.

For more information visit nursegrown.com.

w

TO YOUR

Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center prides itself on providing the highest quality medical-aesthetic services. They are always researching the latest and greatest trends and are committed to offering their patients proven medical spa treatments using the latest technology. One of the staff’s favorite treatments at Bare is Emsculpt.

NO DOWNTIME, NO PAIN Emsculpt is a procedure that helps both women and men build muscle and tone and sculpt their body. It’s the first FDA-cleared energy device approved to burn fat and build muscle mass. As opposed to other medical treatments, Emsulpt is a no-downtime, pain-free, nonsurgical way to define your abs and lift your buttocks. One of the greatest benefits of this treatment is that it not only tightens and tones your muscles and burns fat, but it also strengthens your core muscle groups, which can result in relief of lower back pain.

Bare’s Emsculpt treatments are performed in a series of four 30-minute ssessions over a two-week period. The Emsculpt device is placed on the surface of the target area and delivers High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology that causes supramaximal contractions to the abdominal or buttocks muscles. It’s equivalent to doing 20,000 crunches or squats. During the treatment, you lie down in a comfortable position, a paddle is placed over the targeted muscle, and the machine does the work for you!

Big Gain, No Pain Emscuplt at Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center gets results

BEST WORKOUT OF YOUR LIFE The reason Emsculpt is so effective is due to the increased usage of your muscle strength compared to a standard workout. When you work out, you are only able to use about 30 percent of your muscle strength. Emsculpt contracts your muscle using 90 to 100 percent of its strength with no discomfort at all. It also has the ability to flush out the lactic acid that can build up during this treatment so you aren’t sore the next day.

When you receive your Emsculpt treatment at Bare, you will get the best workout of your life in a fraction of the time and without the soreness!

Bare Medical Spa + Laser Center 95 St. Paul Street, Suite #110 Burlington, VT (802) 861-2273 wwwbarevt.com Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 35

TO YOUR

Yoga Roots

Learning to slow down and find calm

H

ave you ever had one of those crazy, chaotic days and found yourself thinking, “I need to slow things down a bit? I am so stressed. I need to try yoga.” According to Yoga Roots co-owners Lynn Alpeter and Heidi Kvasnak, yoga is different from other forms of exercise in that you are invited to explore every layer of yourself: physical, mental, and emotional. When these layers are balanced, you feel a greater connection to yourself and the world around you.

PRACTICE, BUT YOU DON’T NEED TO BE PERFECT Whether you attend a vinyasa, gentle, or restorative class, yoga in its true form asks you to slow down, to still the mental noise, to feel your emotions, and to make space for your wisdom and creativity to flow. Yoga was designed to be a practice, one that helps develop and strengthen your capacity to be the best version of you!

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People come to yoga for many reasons. They might feel stiff, or have tight hamstrings, back pain, stress, depression, or trauma. Or they may come because their doctor sent them.

Whatever the reason one comes to yoga, after a few classes, and sometimes even after the first class, there can be an overall feeling of wellbeing, vibrancy, and ease. The committed yogi will often say they crave the calm, clear energy they get after a yoga class.

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY Yoga asks a lot of us. It is not just a “run in the park.” Yoga asks us to show up on our mat with dedication and a great big “yes” in our heart, so whether you are just starting out or returning to the practice, the most important thing is to find a home yoga studio where you feel welcomed, safe, and part of a supportive community.

It is never too late to start. Yoga is for everybody and every body. So if you are ready to slow it down, reduce your stress levels, and build strength and flexibility in your mind, body and spirit, yoga might just be the practice for you.

Yoga Roots

120 Graham Way, Suite 140 Shelburne, VT 373 Blair Park Road, Suite 205 Williston, VT (802) 985-0090 studio www.yogarootsvt.com Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 37

TO YOUR

BY TOM BRANDES

Turn to Chroma Optics

See Your Way to Clear Vision Nearly 65 percent of US adults complain of headaches, neck/shoulder pain, and eyestrain when using digital devices.

“IN DECEMBER we began using our

Chroma Optics in Burlington provides complete eye care services, including exams, diagnoses, and treatments of all disorders of the eyes or vision. Licensed optometrist Dr. Dora Sudarsky works hard to stay up to date on the latest advances in eye health and vision care so she can provide Burlington-area patients with the best, most progressive care possible.

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new Neurolens measurement instrument, which allows us to more accurately measure eye alignment,” says Dr. Sudarsky. Because technology has changed our world so much in the past 20 years— with people often spending 8 or 10 hours or more a day looking at computer monitors as well as their phone screens and other devices—people are having issues, including headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and eyestrain, aggravated by eye alignment. These symptoms are a result of trigeminal dysphoria. (See sidebar.)

“We’re the only eye clinic in the state to have this advanced machine, which allows us to more accurately measure how the eyes work together and then prescribe contoured lenses to alleviate the issues, providing comfort and relief,” adds Dr. Sudarsky.

WHAT IS TRIGEMINAL DYSPHORIA? The trigeminal nerve is the largest and most complex nerve connected to the brain, sending sensations to the head, eyes, neck, and shoulders.

Nerve fibers in the extraocular muscles provide feedback to the brain about the location of each eye. This feedback is required to avoid binocular misalignments.

These signals are transmitted through the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for detecting sensation and reporting pain.

When the eyes are not aligned, the visual system must work constantly to compensate for the misalignment.

This plays a large role in the overstimulation of the trigeminal nerve, resulting in symptoms associated with trigeminal dysphoria.

Got Symptoms?

You Are Not Alone.

More than 56% of eye exam patients reported having 3+ symptoms related to use of digital devices, reading, or detail work.

Most Common Symptoms 36%

HEADACHES

50%

NECK PAIN/STIFFNESS

42%

DISCOMFORT AT COMPUTER

53%

TIRED EYES

37%

DRY EYES SYMPTOMS

18%

DIZZINESS

42%

LIGHT SENSITIVITY

From www.neurolenses.com/eye-care

Chroma Optics 370 Shelburne Road Burlington, VT (802) 497-1676 www.chromaoptics.com

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 39

TO YOUR

BY COLLEEN PARKER, MD BOARD-CERTIFIED ANESTHESIOLOGIST, COSMETIC PHYSICIAN, AND FOUNDER/ OWNER OF RADIANCE SPA

Four things that age your skin‌ and what you can do about it

Radiance Medical Aesthetics and Wellness Spa

The aging process is not just about looks. Aging damages the different layers of our skin, which exposes us to infection and malignancy. There are steps we can take that can not only help our skin look its very best but also make it healthier. 40 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

ULTRAVIOLET DAMAGE The light from the sun is responsible for warming the earth and helping plants grow, not to mention raising our spirits. But while certain ultraviolet (UV) rays help our skin develop vitamin D, those UV rays are also responsible for causing sunburn, wrinkles, cancer, and damage to our DNA. What can you do? Physicians are constantly recommending sunscreen.

Listen to them! A good quality physical screen for the face is critical and should be used daily, rain or shine, regardless of the season. A physical sunscreen is one made with zinc or titanium. Unlike chemical sunscreens, zinc and titanium do not encourage additional pigmentation changes or irritation in the skin, and they block the two types of UV radiation that cause damage (UVA and UVB).

ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE We wear gloves for our hands and we protect and cover our bodies, but we often neglect our faces. Our faces are exposed not only to UV rays but also to environmental factors like pollution and harsh conditions such as cold and wind in our northern climate.

What can you do? In addition to a physical sunscreen, using an emollient (moisturizing) cream protects and nourishes the skin when hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, boating, or enjoying any of the wonderful recreational opportunities that Vermont offers.

SKIN IMMUNITY DAMAGE With exposure to UV light, environmental factors, infection, and chemicals, our skin is under constant attack. These factors destroy the building blocks that make up the structure of our skin, leaving us vulnerable to viruses and bacteria and causing us to look older than we feel.

What can you do? To combat fine lines, laxity, redness, and sunspots, medical advancements have been developed to stimulate collagen and elastin production and get rid of unnatural pigmentation. Laser technology, microneedling, prescription medications, and microdermabrasion are the tools a qualified medical aesthetician has at her disposal to improve the quality and radiance of your skin. MUSCLE AND BONE LOSS As we age, our bone and muscle mass decrease, not just in our bodies but in our faces as well.

We can try to prevent this aging process for our bodies by lifting weights, building muscle, and eating healthy, but how can we do the same thing for our face? Unfortunately, we cannot replace the bone and muscle mass in our face.

What can you do? We can, however, replace lost volume with filler made of hyaluronic acid, which is also made naturally in our bodies. This filler can provide a youthful and refreshed appearance to the skin.

Injecting hyaluronic acid also has the benefit of stimulating collagen production in your own cells, improving the overall health and longevity of your skin. When done safely by

a physician, a little can go a long way with natural looking results.

Radiance Spa is a luxury medical spa committed to providing the best procedures, technology, and care to their patients. They want their patients to be informed and to have the confidence that comes from not only looking great but also from feeling amazing.

Radiance Medical Aesthetics and Wellness Spa 5399 Williston Road, Suite 101 Williston, VT (802) 777-7300 www.radiancevt.com

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 41

TO YOUR

Train Right to Stay Fit Longer

Personalized attention at Fitness Options Personal Training Studio

Fitness Options Personal Training Studio specializes in helping clients who are over the age of 50 live stronger and healthier lives. Personal trainers focus on safe, functional training designed to meet the needs of the client at his or her current level of fitness. As we age, we lose muscle mass, bone density, function, and mobility. A proven way to prevent this from happening is to safely weight train with a personal trainer. The goal at Fitness Options is to help people continue to do all that they love with the confidence of good balance, a strong core, and an able body.

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LIFE SKILLS Clients use a BOSU ball (stability ball), practice single leg exercises, and work on reaction and agility skills. These exercises translate into real life. They develop skills needed while walking on ice, stepping onto a boat, skiing, playing paddle tennis, golfing—activities that make up a full, rich life. The personal trainers at Fitness Options are experts at working with clients who are recovering from various injuries, limited range of motion, and general weaknesses. Working closely with physical

therapists and general practitioners ensures that the program is safe and effective for each individual.

KEEPING UP WITH THE YOUNG GUNS Fitness Options member Rick Stoner had some concerns about an upcoming backcountry skiing trip. “Confronted with snowcat skiing with guys 20 years younger than me, I was concerned with my strength to keep up,” he says. “My trainers at Fitness Options more than prepared me for the task at hand, and

I’m happy to report that no one was waiting for me at the bottom of the runs.”

DOING IT RIGHT For Allie Stickney, the personal attention and education she received came as a pleasant surprise. “When I first started working with a trainer at Fitness Options several years ago, I thought I would learn a few of the routines and then do the work on my own,” she says.

“Wrong. In addition to the discipline of a regular workout, I get instruction on how to do exercises correctly. I learn how to use the right muscle groups and train for the real-world tasks and exercises I do, from cross-country skiing to better balance and correct lifting for an older body.”

Fitness Options Personal Training Studio also specializes in creating community. The Fitness Options tribe can often be found sharing bananas and stories in the waiting room (usually with Tilly the dog at their feet), enjoying dinner together, or celebrating each other’s special moments or accomplishments.

Together, we are stronger in all aspects of life.

Fitness Options Personal Training Studio 89 Rye Circle, Suite 1 South Burlington, VT (802) 863-4848 www.fitnessoptionsvt.com

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 43

TO YOUR

Freedom from the Prescription Merry-Go-Round

Turn to Freedom Pharmacy Wouldn’t it be great if there was a pharmacy that could help you organize your medications and supplements? How about synchronizing them so they all come at the same time each month? Doesn’t that sound like a dream?

VISITING THE PHARMACY SHOULD BE SIMPLE, RIGHT? Wake up and make a visit to Freedom Pharmacy in Williston, Vermont. They utilize specialized packaging and work with your physicians to synchronize your daily medications and supplements into a monthly package that’s delivered directly to your door.

Their goal is to make the pharmacy experience simpler and more convenient than what is currently available at your traditional pharmacy.

No more wondering if you took your medications and supplements each day. No more showing up to the pharmacy on your short lunch break, only to be told you don’t have refills left. No more multiple trips per month to the pharmacy because your refills aren’t lined up.

Although a lot of us wish we didn’t have to take daily medications, as we age and strive to live longer and healthier lives, medications and supplements become an integral part of our longevity. Sometimes our ailments are genetic and we can’t do anything about them. Other times, our ailments are related to our lifestyle choices. It is true that with diet, exercise, and healthy habits, some of us are fortunate enough to reduce our dependence on medications altogether. But for the majority of us, having to take prescription drugs is sometimes necessary.

MANAGING THE CHAOS Life these days seems to be so chaotic, with all of us on our phones and computers day in and day out, running around with our kids or for various appointments, that we often forget to take our medications or—worse yet—can’t remember if we took them and end up taking more than we should. It’s estimated that 50 percent of medications prescribed today are either taken incorrectly or not taken at all.

When you need medications or supplements, who do you turn to?

Your pharmacist, right? Of course, they are the experts. So, what do you do when you leave the pharmacy with the three new prescriptions and two supplements that your doctor wants you to take? It doesn’t seem that complicated, and the first few days go well. But then life catches up with you and you suddenly realize you’ve forgotten to take your pills.

Next thing you know, you are back at the doctor’s office.

Stop the runaround and simplify your life. Visit Freedom Pharmacy and get a little of your freedom back.

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Freedom Pharmacy 434 Hurricane Lane Williston, VT (802) 655-3544 www.freedompharmacyvt.com

TO YOUR

Otter Creek Awnings

Offering more than shade

A

wnings have many uses, such as providing shade on a sunny day, reducing home cooling costs, and enhancing your home’s curb appeal. In addition to these great benefits, awnings also provide a refuge from the heat while blocking some of the sun’s harmful rays. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and shading from an awning can provide a path for prevention.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SUN PROTECTION With over three million Americans developing skin cancer each year, sun protection has become very important. In addition to the daily use of SPF sunscreen, proper clothing, sunglasses, and hats, awnings help protect you from the damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays that can lead to skin cancer. Did you realize that awnings are recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, an international organization dedicated to the prevention of skin cancer?

The residential awnings of Otter Creek Awnings are made with Sunbrella fabric, which is a solution-dyed acrylic product.

Sunbrella fabric is a recognizable brand here in the United States and has an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating of 30 and has the Skin Cancer Foundation’s seal of approval as a method of prevention of harmful UV rays affecting your skin.

NOT ALL AWNINGS ARE THE SAME Not only does Sunbrella fabric have a UPF rating, it is mold, mildew, and fade resistant. It’s also available in hundreds of colors and patterns. Prior to shopping for outdoor shading options, visit the Skin Cancer Foundation’s website (www.skincancerfoundation .com) to see which fabric manufacturers have made the list for UPF rated fabrics. Not all outdoor shading fabrics are the same or make this list. The staff at Otter Creek Awnings is happy to help you find the right shading solution for your home that is both stylish and functional while helping to keep your skin safe from the sun.

Otter Creek Awnings 19 Echo Place Williston, VT (802) 864-3009 ottercreekawnings.com

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 45

TO YOUR

Make Advance Meal Prep Easy Follow these tips from Kiss the Cook

O

ne recent trend in promoting healthy eating is the concept of “advance meal prep” to help ensure healthier food choices throughout the week. Most of us lead busy lives, so it can be easy to grab food on the go, or worse, skip meals.

Taking a little time to think about your meals for the upcoming week can create healthier and less stressful mealtimes. While the blogosphere may lead you to believe otherwise, this doesn’t have to be complicated, nor does it require you to have dozens of fashionable containers. If you’re organized enough to have a week’s worth of meals portioned out in individual containers, that’s great. For the rest of us, there are simpler ways to help make weekday meals easier.

THINK AHEAD If you’re not currently planning your meals ahead, start by focusing on one meal.

Regularly skipping breakfast? Try some overnight oats recipes or something else that will help you get your day off to a healthy start. Are you often picking up take-out on your way home from work? Think of ways to “cheat” so that cooking a whole meal after work isn’t too daunting. This could mean cooking a big batch of rice and/ or roasting a large batch of vegetables on a Sunday that can be reheated as sides throughout the week. Use your slow cooker to make something that could yield 46 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

enough leftovers to last for additional dinners or lunches later in the week. That’s right—healthy eating can be as simple as leftovers!

FUNCTIONAL PRODUCTS Your kitchen probably already has everything you need to accomplish this, but there are a few items we might recommend if you don’t already have them. First, glass storage containers that are rated to go in the freezer, the oven, and the microwave. Second, Nordic Ware makes a sheet pan called The Big Sheet. It’s bigger than the average sheet pan but still fits in standard-sized ovens, so you can roast more veggies at one time. Multicookers have been one of the most popular items the last several years. The Zavor Multicooker can function as a slow cooker or as a pressure cooker, creating slow cooker results in a fraction of the time. It also has settings to function as a rice cooker, yogurt maker, and more so you can have all these appliances while dedicating storage space to only one.

With a little planning, you can take mealtime from frantic to fantastic!

Kiss the Cook 72 Church Street Burlington, VT (802) 863-4226 www.kissthecook.com

TO YOUR

BY MITCHELL SCHWARTZ, MD BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST ANDÂ FOUNDER/DIRECTOR OF DORSET STREET DERMATOLOGY

Dorset Street Dermatology D

orset Street Dermatology recently opened a beautiful new state-of-the-art medical facility and office building in South Burlington and introduced new medical and cosmetic treatments to provide the best possible patient experience and outcomes.

Dorset Street Dermatology is a combination of a cutting-edge medical dermatology practice with an advanced medical spa and skin care store, all in a brand-new building.

WHOLE-BODY CARE The new Laser Focus medspa and SkinCeuticals flagship store allow personal attention to be given to anyone coming to the skin care store without needing an appointment. Medical and surgical treatments include full body skin exams, mole and skin cancer removals, treatment for

The latest and best in skin care

problems with acne and rashes, and Botox and facial filler injections.

Licensed medical aestheticians and medical providers in the Laser Focus medical spa offer a full range of services from laser skin resurfacing, laser hair removal, and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments, to chemical peels and semi-permanent makeup.

WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING? One of the most popular treatments at the medspa is microneedling because of its versatile application. Microneedling uses a device with multiple tiny sterile needles to painlessly make microperforations in the upper layers of the skin. A very pure and highly concentrated human growth-factor serum derived from stem cells is applied during the

treatment, and the almost invisible perforations significantly increase the penetration of the topically applied medication.

The medical providers at Dorset Street Dermatology combine scientifically proven cosmetic procedures with skin care products to rejuvenate the skin and maximize results. Now everyone can get their skin care advice from skin care experts.

Dorset Street Dermatology 321 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT (802) 660-8808 www.dorsetstreetdermatology.com Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 47

TO YOUR

BY ALLISON CAMPBELL, MARKETPLACE FITNESS GROUP FITNESS COORDINATOR

Let Go of Workout Myths

MYTH #1: Cardio training is the best way to lose weight.

It is true that losing weight relies on expending energy, but an important component of weight loss is the neuroendocrine system, which regulates hormones in the body. Hormones are chemicals that control cellular actions. Too much cardiorespiratory exercise can elevate the hormone cortisol, which can convert protein, normally used to repair damaged muscle tissue, into energy, which lowers the amount available to repair and grow new muscle tissue. Including strength training with weights in weight loss efforts is important not only because it can burn excess calories but also because it can elevate levels of growth hormone, which helps metabolize fat for fuel as well as promoting the growth of new muscle. Muscle is more metabolically active than fat: one pound can burn five to seven calories per day at rest. Adding five pounds of muscle can help increase your resting metabolism over 200 calories a week, which is the equivalent of an additional two mile run.

MYTH #2: Muscle definition is the result of using light weights for a lot of repetitions.

False. Muscle definition requires activation of the larger type II muscle fibers. Type II fibers are recruited when an external resistance is really heavy OR after the type I muscle fibers fatigue. Using lighter weights will rely on the aerobic type I fibers (meaning they use oxygen to produce

Marketplace Fitness 110 Cherry Street Burlington, VT (802) 651-8773 www.marketplacefitness.com

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Tips from Marketplace Fitness energy). The type II fibers will not be activated until the type I fibers fatigue. You can use light weights for high reps ONLY if you do enough reps that you reach momentary fatigue—meaning not capable of doing another rep. Either way, in order to achieve definition, you should lift to fatigue.

MYTH #3: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is the best way to burn calories.

It can be, but remember that exercise is stress applied to the body. The type of stress (exercise), the amount applied, and how frequently the body is subjected to the stress will determine the adaptions. HIIT can be effective for burning calories, but it is also extremely effective at causing metabolic fatigue (meaning depleting all energy stores within a muscle) and mechanical damage (the actual physical damage to the involved muscle fibers). Muscle fibers will replenish energy and initiate repair during the recovery time after a workout. Doing HIIT workouts too many days in a row will not give your muscles time to repair, replenish, and recover.

TO YOUR

UVM Health Network MyChart

L

An online portal connecting patients to more than just health information

ast November, the University of Vermont Health Network unveiled MyChart, an enhanced online patient portal. The launch of MyChart is part of a UVM Health Network-wide transition to Epic, the industry standard of electronic health record systems. In the coming years, all patients and providers of the UVM Health Network will be able to access health records, no matter where they receive care. Epic and MyChart integrate seamlessly to create a more connected, safe, secure, and convenient online experience for patients and providers alike.

WITH MYCHART, PATIENTS CAN: • Request appointments with specific providers.

• Send secure messages to their care team.

• Request prescription renewals.

• Begin the check-in process online, seven days before an upcoming appointment.

• Request to be added to the waitlist to get an appointment sooner.

• Download and review doctor’s notes and After Visit Summaries from past appointments.

• Get reminders about upcoming appointments and receive health alerts.

• View real-time updates on blood work and other test results.

• Share a personal health record electronically with family and other providers.

• Link their accounts to other organizations that use MyChart.

• Update their address, phone number, and insurance information, and choose a preferred name and pronoun.

• Plus MyChart users can look forward to additional features rolling out this year, like eVisits and direct scheduling for primary care visits.

“The transition is about giving patients a whole new set of tools to allow them to take an active role in managing their health,” says Doug Gentile, MD, UVM Health Network Chief Medical Information Officer.

From reducing phone calls to medical offices and improving trust and direct communication between patients and their care team, patient portals have a lot of benefits. MyChart, accessed via a mobile app or website, delivers the best of all worlds when it comes to health care portals: Simple, secure, and instant access to vital health information, services, and providers.

UVM Health Network Patients of the following UVM Health Network hospitals who do not currently have a MyChart or MyHealth Online account are invited to activate their account today.

The University of Vermont Medical Center Central Vermont Medical Center (outpatient practices) Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (outpatient practices) Porter Medical Center (outpatient practices) Visit MyChart.UVMHealth.org to sign up.

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 49

TO YOUR

BY LISA NARDELLA MCCOSKEY

Living the Good Life

Addressing thoughts and toxicities for improved health

W

hen we isolate and identify the cause of health problems, we can begin to seek a solution for restoration of wellness. The following tips are from the book, The Living Well Code, which shares guiding principles to optimize your days and vitalize your life.

BE MINDFUL OF THOUGHTS Thoughts rule our world. Think a happy thought and you smile. Think a sad thought and you cry. They aren’t good or bad but knowing that thoughts affect our emotional health and being aware of that connection is critical to well-being. Researchers at Michigan State University Extension’s Stress Less with Mindfulness program say that a person has 80,000 thoughts a day. We’ve had 90 percent of these thoughts before, and 80 percent of them are negative.

MANAGE STRESS Stress has become the new normal for many people. We have come to accept it. However, being stressed distresses your body and creates and exacerbates traumas, unhealthy thoughts, and toxicities. Even children are affected as they manage the stress of school, youth activities, 50 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

peers, their environment, and the residual stress that they feel from their parents. Look for new opportunities and innovative ways to enjoy a positive life. To gain peace in your world, open your mind to the possibilities. Be diligent and aggressive at making choices that maximize balance in your day-to-day life. Learn to say no.

This was the conclusion from a study done in 2010 and published in Future Oncol. “In modern lifestyle societies, chronic stress has been associated with the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer. Chronic stress results in the activation of specific signaling pathways in cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment, leading to tumor growth and progression. Elucidation of these pathways is essential for the development of novel approaches to block the deleterious effects of stress biology on cancer growth and metastasis.”

Find your own way to reduce stress. Some people find meaning and encouragement in a higher power while others rely on nature to revive and refresh their spirits. Trailblaze a path that is ideal for you and your family and go to your happy place—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—as often as possible.

LIMIT TOXINS Toxins are found in almost every household.

Categories include but are not limited to cleaning, personal care, and baby products, like deodorant, shampoo, hand sanitizer, lotions, candles, plug-in air fragrance, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, lipstick, and other cosmetics. The average home today contains at least 62 toxic chemicals, more than an entire chemistry lab at the turn of the century. The average woman

FOODS TO AVOID PROCESSED FOODS have been cooked, canned, frozen, packaged, or changed in nutritional composition by fortifying, or preserving or altering in some way.

FAST FOODS. REFINED WHITE SUGAR, which feeds cancer cells and other pathogens.

SMOKED MEATS, including processed meats, which contain high levels of nitrites, sodium, and sugars. Many of these meats are preserved by smoking, which adds flavor but also increases exposure to carcinogens.

MANAGE YOUR THOUGHTS TRY SOME OF THESE TIPS TO HELP: • Actively clear your mind and energy field of negative emotions.

• Practice forgiveness.

• Turn off the news.

• Avoid violent video games.

• Listen to classical music.

• Keep a “junk journal.” Write down all the negative thoughts that pop into your mind. At the end of the day, release them by burning the page or shredding it. It’s a highly effective method of purging overwhelming thoughts and emotions.

uses 12 such products daily, exposing her to 168 unique untested chemicals per day. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG.org), one of every 13 women are exposed to a known or suspected carcinogen every day, while one out of every 23 men are. More than 82,000 synthetic chemicals have been produced since WWII with less than two percent of synthetic chemicals being tested for toxicity.

As a culture, we must evaluate everything that we are using in us, on us, and around us.

Carcinogens cause all types of diseases, and endocrine disruptors create hormonal challenges like early puberty, infertility, and menopausal issues. Industrial chemicals are hazardous to our health, and heavy metals that poison the blood and the brain are potentially causing neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s, MS, and dementia.

The toxicity of products we put in us is just as critical. If we choose unhealthy, chemical-laden processed foods, we are creating traumas and toxicities for our body to manage. Feeling bad physically makes us feel bad emotionally too.

Choose eating plans with a heavy emphasis on organic, non-GMO fruits and vegetables.

Herbs also have properties that protect against and inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells while strengthening, cleansing, and repairing the body.

These include green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage), sea vegetables (kelp and dulse), fruits (especially berries and dark grapes with seeds and skins), garlic, ginger, turmeric, and green tea, among many others. A diet containing an abundance of organic plant foods—at least 80 percent—provides layers of nutritional protection. Using herbs and spices like rosemary, oregano, cayenne, curry, basil, cilantro, and black pepper are also highly beneficial for optimizing health.

GET MOVING Activating your lymphatic system by moving your body will maximize your efforts by

reducing toxicities while promoting healthy, healing thoughts. One of the most effective and fun ways to get lymph fluid flowing is by using a rebounder, or a mini trampoline. You can be as gentle or aggressive as you’d like, but be safe and get one with a handlebar.

Walking 30 minutes a day is very effective as well, plus it has the added benefit of reducing cortisol that can build up in the body creating toxicity. Walking also increases serotonin, your happy hormone. A recent study concluded that walking 30 minutes a day could reduce the recurrence of breast cancer by 50 percent.

For more information, go to www.alivingwell life.com.

ONLINE EXTRA Are your dishes safe? Find out at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com.

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 51

HOT SPOT

BY JEN ROSE SMITH PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHELBURNE TAP HOUSE

Shelburne Tap House Warm company and cold chardonnay on Shelburne Road As an early winter afternoon turned to night, cars crawled northbound along Shelburne Road, their headlights dulled by a dusting of fresh snow. Set just back from the traffic, Shelburne Tap House is shoulderto-shoulder with a lineup of storefronts that comprise one of Vermont’s most eclectic strip malls. “You can get your hair done, you can mail off packages, and get a beer,” says Shelburne Tap House owner Barbara Cote, who bought the bar in 2017. “It’s the perfect location.”

52 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

Opposite: Salad and wine lineup.

Above: Tuna Poke Platter.

Right: The Champlain Valley’s best Bloody Mary bar.

Why stop there? Bar patrons looking for last-minute holiday gifts might duck across the street to Sweet G’s Smoke Shop, with an inventory that includes rolling paper-themed frisbees, vape pen batteries, and vintage clothing. Just next door, tattoo artist Michael Helz—a.k.a. Helz Kitchen Tattoo—etches more permanent designs in detailed swirls of black and gray.

Continue south, and the storefronts give way to ranks of shiny Volvos and Minis parked in sprawling lots. “Lots of people come by when they’re car shopping,” says Barbara. That’s when a writer, considering the power of lowered inhibitions, wonders aloud whether the Shelburne Tap House should demand a cut of future vehicle and tattoo sales.

Barbara laughs: “I agree!”

FRIENDS GATHER HERE Once inside the cozy tap house, whose walls are painted in warm saffron, the miscellaneous scene and evening traffic recede. A wooden bar runs the length of the room,

scuffed and scarred in the way that invites sidelong barstool conversations between strangers. “We have a slogan, ‘Friends Gather Here,’” says Barbara. “It’s kind of that whole Cheers thing.”

FACES BOTH FAMILIAR AND FRESH Barbara, who has worked in hospitality for 16 years, says the crowd at the bar changes with the day. “There are some days I don’t recognize anybody,” she says. “That’s a great thing Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 53

Clockwise from top: Fresh draft pours, lobster roll and spiked Arnold Palmer, Taco Tuesday and house Margarita.

54 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

because there are people still finding us.” On other nights, familiar faces from South Burlington and Shelburne settle in at the barstools.

“Our staff does a really great job taking care of the regulars,” Barbara says. “The minute they sit down, their cocktail or beverage of choice is sitting in front of them.”

Behind the bar, 12 draft lines feature a rotation of local draft beers, ciders, and spiked seltzer. High on a shelf, a pair of tomato-red trophies memorialize the Shelburne Tap House’s triumphs at the Champlain Valley Best Bloody Mary competition, complete with plastic garnishes of celery and olives.

Barbara says that “Taco Tuesday” is a popular time to gather at the bar, with $5 tacos, margaritas, and a regular crowd.

(Her impromptu batch of meatloaf tacos earned rave reviews on one recent Tuesday, but chicken, beef, and fish are the kitchen’s standbys.) “Thirsty Thursday” is another favorite, drawing hungry commuters for $3 Pabst beers and piles of chicken wings sauced with one of the Tap House’s seven housemade flavors.

WHY LIMIT HAPPY? On that particular wintry night, though, it was “Wine Down Wednesday.” Outside, snow began to pile in front of the hair salon, dry cleaners, and Shelburne Tap House. Inside, a new arrival shook white flakes from his scarf and hat. He ordered the house chardonnay—a screaming deal at $5—and the bartender glugged a lavish pour into a round-bellied glass. On the opposite wall, booths began to fill with small groups, cheeks ruddy with the sudden heat of the room. Perched on a shelf behind the bar sat a slender, black sign lettered in gold: “Why limit happy to an hour?”

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Shelburne Tap House 2989 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-4040 www.shelburnetaphouse.com

ONLINE EXTRA Find out about the area’s best Bloody Marys at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com.

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 55

BY JAY MURRY PHOTOS COURTESY OF KWINIASKA

Kwiniaska!

After successful golf course surgery, Kwiniaska is ready to show off its new “elbow” 56 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

l

oosely translated by locals from the Abenaki Native American language, “kwiniaska” means “long elbow,” and refers to the area around the LaPlatte river as it bends its way through what is now Shelburne. Kwiniaska Golf Course in Shelburne has had lengthy elbow surgery and recuperation that has spanned over two years. That medical attention was needed, because since its inception in 1965, Kwiniaska had picked up its fair share of chronic aches and pains. The chief surgeon in charge of the surgery was noted golf course designer P.B. Dye; and after you see the results of his makeover, you will smile broadly and exclaim “Kwiniaska!” in breathless amazement.

Opposite: The sun rises over the willows and the 18th green.

This page: The new #8 features a dogleg to the right with a blind shot to the green.

Below: Your round is almost complete when you reach the 18th green.

PREPPING FOR SURGERY In the fall of 2017, Bonnie Caldwell sold Kwiniaska Golf Course to Robert and Marcia Nappi. However, before that, Bonnie had sold the land containing holes 1 through 6 to Snyder Development. That left holes 7 through 18 for the new ownership of Kwiniaska. Charli Kail, Director of Operations at Kwiniaska, says that presented a problem. “This was definitely a challenge. We went from a 127-acre course down to 93. You’re trying to make it a great experience for golfers of all abilities, trying to get 18 holes in and still keep a length that people will want to see.” That extreme makeover couldn’t be left to just anyone. Enter P.B. Dye as the architect of Kwiniaska’s redesigned restoration.

HIGHLY REGARDED CHIEF SURGEON As part of the transition team that would perform the surgical redesign of Kwiniaska, Stephen Gonsalves became the owner of the golf course’s practice facility. Stephen is a longtime golf pro and member of the Vermont PGA, and he has spent valuable time around golf in both Vermont and Florida. Stephen knew a Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 57

Ihilitiberum et rerione ommossi utemporio is dit quae resecae solecto tatur, nobis dunt, custibus et vit incillam et quaepuda prestot atquistrum faccabo rpossus.

Above: View of the 8th fairway while it was under construction.

Right: The 12th hole was dug up during the construction process.

friend from his travels that would be perfect for the transformation of Kwiniaska.

P.B. Dye is the son of famed golf course architect Pete Dye, but P.B. has been making an equally impressive name for himself in this country and in places like Brazil and Cancun.

Charli says P.B. knew with the drop in acreage to work with, he had to change Kwiniaka’s tradition of being a long golf course. “It’s no longer what some people call a grip-it-andrip-it course. It’s a shorter course—a par 70 instead of a par 72—but it’s a more challeng58 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

ing course where golfers will need to have more control of their shots.”

Charli adds that P.B. kept some holes from the original course design, but he did get actively involved in changing others. “When he was on site, he was definitely jumping on a machine to help shape a green or move dirt out of the way, or to build a mound or bunker.”

As a result of his methodical work, P.B. didn’t take long to get the makeover of Kwiniaska completed, says Charli. “The greens had all of last year to mature, and the course was practically finished in 2018. Last year, we were just tweaking stuff—doing more sodding, drainage, and irrigation work.” The operation thus has been declared a success. All that is left is determining when to unveil the redesign of Kwiniaska.

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Owners Robert and Marcia Nappi.

Opposite: View of new #8 from the tee.

THE BIG REVEAL Charli does know that when she gets the green light to begin the 2020 season at Kwiniaska, golfers will be able to enjoy all 18 holes in their full glory. For the first month or so after opening, final work will be finishing up, such as completing bunkers. And she tells newcomers about Kwiniaska’s panorama of glorious scenery. “You’ve got the northern mountain range of the Green Mountains on one side, and you can also see the Adirondack Mountains of New York, across Lake Champlain. Sunrise to sunset, it’s gorgeous!”

Charli also knows that golfers will be warmly welcomed every time they visit Kwiniaska. “The big thing that Mr. Nappi has emphasized is customer service. It doesn’t matter who you are, walking through that door. You’re always greeted with a smile and respect, and we do whatever we can to make your round enjoyable.”

Kwiniaska may have had its “long elbow” shortened a bit, but rest assured that its new range of motion will please Vermont golfers for generations to come.

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Kwiniaska Golf Club 5531 Spear Street Shelburne, VT (802) 985-3672 www.kwiniaska.com Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 61

Welcome Spring!

Shopping & Fun Things to do in the Burlington Area!

Istanbul Kebab House Offering Burlington’s only rooftop dining, Istanbul Kebab House in downtown Burlington takes you to Istanbul and back with every bite.

Delicious and healthy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and takeout, all made with 100 percent fresh Turkish ingredients. A truly authentic Turkish dining experience.

175 Church Street Burlington, VT (802) 857-5091 www.istanbulkebabhousevt.com

Shelburne Vineyard and Wine Tasting Room As winter draws to a close, join us for a taste of our newest wine releases and a tour of the winery. Let us share our adventure growing grapes and making award-winning wines here in Vermont’s cold climate. Watch as winter fades and the vines awaken and bud to produce next year’s fruit. Then stay for a glass of wine in our cozy loft or, as the weather warms, on the patio overlooking the vines. Check our website to find out about our concerts and special events, or consider planning your own private or business event here. We’re always here to welcome you and help make your visit memorable.

6308 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-8222 www.ShelburneVineyard.com

ECCO Clothes Boutique

ECCO, Burlington’s original designer boutique, has been your favorite store with top brands for almost 30 years! From denim to dresses, boots to stilettos, ECCO has it all! Premium denim lines like J Brand, AG, Paige, Mother, DL1961, and Citizens of Humanity; tops by Velvet, Bella Dahl, and Greylin; basics by James Perse and Michael Stars; dresses by Adrianna Papell, Amanda Uprichard, BCBG, Susana Monaco, and Aidan Mattox; shoes from Dolce Vita, Steve Madden, TOMS, and Blondo; and handbags by Latico and Day & Mood. From basic to anything but, ECCO has you covered, including a great selection of denim for men too! Visit ECCO on the Church Street Marketplace in the heart of Burlington.

81 Church Street Burlington, VT (802) 860-2220 www.eccoclothesboutique.com

Petra Cliffs Petra Cliffs Climbing Center and Mountaineering School focuses on climbing and mountain-related education and recreation, accessible to all ages and abilities. We offer premium instruction and services through experience-based education in an inspiring atmosphere for families and friends to gather for a challenge and fun. Petra Cliffs is also home to an indoor ropes course for birthday parties, teams, and groups.

105 Briggs Street Burlington, VT (802) 657-3872 www.petracliffs.com

BY SUZANNE PODHAIZER PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEN OF THE WOOD

HeN of The WooD COMING BACK FROM THE FIRE

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n the night of August 6, 2019, flames began pouring out of a vent atop Burlington’s chic Hotel Vermont, and visitors were roused from their beds to evacuate the building. The duct that was aflame ran down six stories from the roof to Hen of the Wood Burlington, a second location of what is arguably Vermont’s most renowned restaurant. In the aftermath, Hen’s owners Eric Warnstedt and William McNeil announced that the restaurant

would be closed for the foreseeable future.

In late November, once insurance claims were settled and ductwork rebuilt, the Burlington Hen reopened, with just a small amount of fanfare and, according to Eric, not a single change that a customer would notice. Like a fairy tale princess awakening from a magical sleep, the restaurant simply picked up where it had left off.

“The opening was pretty seamless,” said Eric, “It didn’t even feel like we’d been closed.”

IN THE BEGINNING The original Hen, located in a former grist mill in Waterbury, opened in 2005, serving Vermont ingredients in simple, but elegant permutations.

Visitors sat in a glow of candlelight while water rushed by outside, eating short ribs with vegetable purées that changed based on the season; ricotta gnudi pasta made by hand; and the eatery’s signature dish, maitake mushrooms— otherwise known as “hen of the wood”—on a Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 63

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slice of grilled bread with housemade bacon and an egg.

Acclaim followed. In 2007, Hen was mentioned in Food & Wine magazine. The next year, Mark Bittman, in the pages of The New York Times, confessed to being “sort of in love” with the almost-rural restaurant. James Beard Award nominations were frequent.

The Queen City location opened in 2013 and rapidly became a hub for those seeking seasonal fare in cozy environs. Watching cooks slip pans in and out of a wood-fired hearth in the open, flame-driven portion of the kitchen added visual interest. Patrons could sink into brown leather banquettes while dining on fried rabbit with smoked crème fraîche or lemony scallop crudo while others would sit at the bar and slurp down $1 oysters and elegant cocktails.

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A HUGE RELIEF Despite the post-fire hiatus, those who dine these days will notice familiar faces. Save for one bartender, who “left to follow a girlfriend somewhere,” Eric says, the entire staff returned to the restaurant when it reopened. Five or six days after the fire, the owners learned that they would be able to pay employees during the closure. It was, he says, a huge relief. “It was an amazing three and a half month paid vacation for them,” he notes.

FREEDOM TO PLAY According to Eric, some staffers took advantage of the break to go on vacation. Others sought out opportunities for professional development, crafting collaborations and pop-ups so they could try out new ideas. “It was cool to see them motivate themselves. They had freedom to play.” Meanwhile, Eric and William worked on insurance claims, logistics, and the operation of their other restaurants, Doc Ponds in Stowe, Prohibition Pig in Waterbury, and the original Hen. Although both restaurant locations share a name and an ethos, the menus differ based on the interests of individual chefs. Nevertheless, ideas flow between them. Eric says that one current focal point at both Hen locations is handmade pasta. “Everything else is kind of business as usual, but the fresh pasta game has been really amazing. There are new shapes, new fillings, new ways to show off. They all seem to have been gravitating towards it lately.”

It began, he says, with a sous chef in Waterbury who had a lot of experience working with dough. “That has morphed things in Burlington too. They have more manpower, so they’re taking it and running with it.”

FRESH AND LOCAL The interest in pasta is evident from the Hen Instagram feed, which is heavy with pasta pics. The most recent shows black pepper chitarra—a type of noodle cut on a wooden tool strung with wires—sprinkled with cheese from Parish Hill Creamery. Eric mentions a recent favorite, rabbit tortellini served with coppa, rabbit broth, and aged goat cheese.

Just after the new year, there was scarpinocc, a ravioli-like pasta shaped like an old-fashioned 66 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

wooden shoe, stuffed with pheasant.

Like everything on the Hen menus, the pastas only stick around for a short amount of time. Dishes change daily with availability and the focus of the kitchen staff. What doesn’t change is the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing local ingredients and supporting the farms that supply them. That means using eggs, cheeses, root vegetables, and meats in

cold weather and dazzling, evanescent produce in the summer.

HITTING RESET “We’re happy to get back to what we are doing here, what’s important to us,” Eric notes. But, he says, the unasked-for pause came with some unexpected benefits. “Restaurants hardly ever get to just breathe for a while. You get into the

EXPLORE THE OPTIONS Love the sound of Hen but want a more casual experience? Eric Warnstedt and William McNeil also own two restaurants that are perfect for a drop-in while you’re driving around Vermont, but each is worth a trip on their own.

DOC PONDS on Mountain Road in Stowe offers some of the best comfort food around in a location that makes it easy to access for hikers, skiers, and bikers. The menu features hearty fare such as baked mac and cheese, wings, calamari, and a taco bowl. There are plenty of veggie dishes too, including a super Vermont-y kale salad with blue cheese, miso broccoli with roasted sweet potatoes, and crispy Brussels sprouts.

Finish off your meal with a shake, a slice of pie, or a hot fudge sundae.

THE PROHIBITION PIG RESTAURANT AND BREWERY is a few miles down the road, close to the original Hen of the Wood location in Waterbury. The restaurant is full-on BBQ with pulled pork, brisket, and smoked chicken taking center stage and paired with classic sides like cheesy grits, baked beans, and collard greens. The Pro Pig brewery menu centers around street food and Nate Johnson´s house beers. The brews include a pale ale called Little Fluffy Clouds and the double dry-hopped Corneal Haze. House beers are $5 on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, along with specials on tacos, ramen, and ribs, respectively.

groove of unlocking the doors, going to work, going home. We got to hit a really huge reset button and set ourselves up for the next couple of years. It was awesome.”

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Hen of the Wood 55 Cherry Street Burlington, VT (802) 540-0534 www.burlington@henofthewood.com Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 67

BY PHYL NEWBECK PHOTOS COURTESY OF GMBC

TAKE A SPIN WITH

THE GREEN MOUNTAIN BICYCLE CLUB Good times with good people

68 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

Opposite, clockwise from top: GMBC club riders prepare to leave for the annual St. Albans Explorer ride. Training rides are offered by the GMBC on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. Photos by Gerry Malavenda. Vermont’s most visible cycling event, the Richard Tom Foundation Criterium, is held every Labor Day weekend in Burlington. Photo by Jonathan Miller.

Above: Every Sunday the GMBC puts on a slate of touring rides, which appeal to the casually fit cyclist.

Here riders prepare to leave Shelburne on the Kingsland Bay ride. Photo by Gerry Malavenda.

Below: Riders with aero bicycles and equipment ride a 15-mile course in a race against the stop watch.

The events take place every Thursday of the season. Photo by Gerry Malavenda.

3.

For almost 50 years, the Green Mountain Bicycle Club (GMBC) has offered cyclists in Chittenden County and beyond a chance to ride and race with friends. With almost 300 members, the club has a little bit for everyone, from touring rides on Sundays and faster-paced VP rides on Saturdays to time trials and practice criteriums. In addition, the club starts the season with introductory rides to provide tips for those who have not done much riding with others. All you need to get in on the fun is a bicycle, a helmet, and a sense of adventure.

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he club’s four-pronged mission is to promote cycling for fitness and friendship; encourage safe and courteous riding practices; organize weekly recreational rides, training rides, and competitive events; and engage in bicycling advocacy at the state and local level. The group partners with organizations like Local Motion and the Richard Tom Foundation and organizes the Burlington Criterium, which is part of the annual Green Mountain Stage Race.

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 69

Above: Wonder rider June “June-Bug” Yates, 11 years old, takes direction from senior club riders as she hones her race technique in criterium riding skills.

The criterium is a short course where riders race a number of laps according to their ability. Sanctioned

by USA Cycling, the GMBC Criterium series runs from early summer through late August. Photo by Gerry Malavenda.

Below: Green Mountain Stage Race/Richard Tom Foundation Criterium 2019. Winner of the women’s pro event Marie-Soleil Blais crosses the finish line.

Photo by Jonathan Miller.

EDUCATING NEW RIDERS The introductory rides are an important part of GMBC’s outreach. There are generally four such rides each year, and they take place on Saturdays in May and June. Since those who attend have varying degrees of cycling proficiency, there are at least two leaders who teach the rules of the road and take the cyclists out for a 10- to 20-mile ride starting at Veterans Memorial Park in South Burlington. Often, those who attend the introductory rides end up joining the club for either Wednesday night or Sunday rides.

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Holly Creeks is one of the GMBC’ers who leads the intro rides. “New riders learn some tips on being safe on the road,” she says. “It enables them to build confidence in

their abilities or perhaps conclude they are not quite ready to be on the ride.” Holly is thankful there are always at least two leaders to help with the group. “Not every ride leader

can answer every question,” she says, “so it helps to have a variety of experienced riders.

The intro rides contribute to knowledge and information that leads to safe riding, and safe riding is fun riding.”

GROUP RIDES The Wednesday night rides also start from Veterans Memorial Park. They follow the same 28-mile route every week, but riders are divided into groups based on speed, and veteran riders offer assistance to those newer to the sport. The A group averages over 22 mph, the Bs go between 17 and 20 mph, and the C group rides at 15 to 17mph and regroups at key locations. These are considered workout rides with an emphasis on sharing the road and riding responsibly. The Wednesday rides are organized by club VP John Williams who also leads the eponymous Saturday VP rides which are designed for strong riders and often include significant elevation gain. John notes that although many local racers take part in the Wednesday rides, the goal is to highlight group dynamics rather than individual efforts. “The camaraderie comes through in a big way at the finish,” he says, “where riders hang out to talk about the high or low point of the ride.”

Probably the most popular club outings are the Sunday touring rides, which take place every week from April to October. All Sunday rides are planned well in advance and maps are available on the club website and distributed at the start of each ride. Early season routes are in the 30- to 40-mile range and the culmination of the season is a 100mile ride (known as a century) in September.

Touring rides have two leaders and usually include at least one food stop. On the more complicated routes, leaders will wait at key intersections to make sure everyone gets back safely. In addition to rides in Chittenden County, the club visits Addison, Franklin, Lamoille, and Grand Isle Counties, and the schedule features two-day trips to the Upper Valley and the Northeast Kingdom. Many of the touring rides also feature a “social rider” group for those who prefer a more leisurely pace with longer breaks.

INTERESTED IN RACING? For those wishing to test their skills against others, the GMBC offers two kinds of racing.

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Left: This cyclist is about to start his time trial.

Below: Practice criterium riders receive last-minute race instructions from course marshal Andre Strum.

Also working the practice criterium as race timer is club veteran Dorothy Pumo. Whatever club event you choose to ride in, there are several experienced club volunteers working the ride to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Photos by Gerry Malavenda.

Every Thursday from May to September there are time trials where cyclists, departing one after the other at one-minute intervals, race the clock and each other. Courses range from six to sixteen miles and include both flatter routes and serious hill climbs. Three routes are deemed championship courses and are raced more than once. The winner of each of those in his or her age category gets a plaque at the end of the season, and the club keeps track of who holds the record on each course.

Other racers may want to test their skills at the practice criteriums held at Water Tower Hill in Colchester five times during the course of a summer. Divided into classes A, B, and C, cyclists go around a 500-yard course as often as possible for 20, 30, or 40 minutes, depending on their category. These are the only events that cost money, in that a seasonal or one-day racing license through USA Cycling is required.

Club President Kevin Bessett is happy with how the club has progressed over the years.

“At nearly 50 years and counting, GMBC is one of the oldest bicycle clubs in the US, and dedicated volunteers have contributed greatly to its success,” he says. “With its wide variety of options, GMBC offers something for just about everyone, from serious racers and folks who ride many miles a year to those just learning the rules of the road. The club is well positioned to keep rolling along for another 50 years.”

For more information check out www.thegmbc.com or www.facebook.com /GreenMountainBikeClub.

LOOK FOR IT WHERE YOU GET YOUR FAVORITE BREW

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ONLINE EXTRA Find more photos online at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com.

Your guide to

LOCAL BREWERIES, CIDERIES, DISTILLERIES, AND WINERIES Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 73

VERMONT VIEWS

BY JENNIFER DUBY

Get out and explore with great hikes

Mud, Glorious Mud

Mud Season in Vermont brings the promise of warmer weather, longer days, and of course, mud.

Winter has us locked down with cold temperatures for weeks on end, and when the mercury starts trending up, we want—need—to get outside. What better way to replenish those vitamin D supplies than by taking a hike?

MIND YOUR HIKING MANNERS Not so fast! Mud season hiking calls for some prior planning. Hiking on muddy trails can do a lot of damage, causing erosion and soil compaction. Often, hikers will go off-trail to hike around boggy areas or large puddles, which destroys vegetation alongside the trail.

74 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

But with a little care and some judicious trail selection, the housebound looking to break free from cabin fever can still get out on the trails.

• Choose trails with southern exposure. They dry out sooner.

• Avoid the conifer forests and higher elevations. Stick to the hardwood forested areas at lower elevations.

• Abide by trail closures. Volunteers put a lot of hard work into maintaining the trails for the rest of us to enjoy all summer. By staying off closed trails, hikers don’t add to their labor.

• If a trail gets impassably muddy, your best bet is to turn back and choose another hike.

10 MUD SEASON HIKES To find out where to go, we turned to the experts at Outdoor Gear Exchange, who recommend the following locations: MALLET’S BAY CAUSEWAY affords spectacular views as it takes you out into Lake Champlain.

MOUNT PHILO in Charlotte is less than a mile long and not quite a thousand feet of elevation

but well worth the visit.

MOUNT ELMORE in Wolcott is a 4.3-mile loop with a fire tower at the summit.

CROSS-VERMONT TRAIL is a network of trails across the state.

LIBERTY HILL TRAIL is an easy point-to-point hike in Pittsfield.

WEST RIVER TRAIL follows a former railbed.

MOUNT TOM in Woodstock is part of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.

STOWE RECREATION PATH is over 5 miles of paved trail from Stowe Village to Top Notch Resort.

TRAIL AROUND MIDDLEBURY (TAM) is 16 miles long and circumnavigates the town of Middlebury.

ALBURGH RECREATIONAL RAIL-TRAIL is 3.5 miles long and is known for its opportunities for wildlife sightings and birdwatching.

See page 76 for all your hiking gear!

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 75

VERMONT VIEWS

MUD SEASON GOT YOU DOWN? Get Out in It

Outdoor Gear Exchange on Church Street in Burlington has been outfitting the adventurous for over 20 years. They’ve got what you need to break cabin fever and get outside. Don’t fear the mud.

Embrace it.

AMC’S BEST DAY HIKES IN VERMONT: A four-season guide to 60 hikes within the Green Mountain State. It includes turn-by-turn directions, detailed maps, and essays on the history and nature of Vermont.

Getting out in the woods with your four-legged companion is delightful. Stay responsible with a high-visibility bandana from Spot the Dog, a Vermont-based company, to make sure your pooch will be seen while exploring outdoors.

Waterproof hiking shoes are a no-brainer for spring hiking in Vermont. Matched with a hearty wool sock, the Merrell Moab 2 will get you anywhere you want to go in the mountains of the state.

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Mountainsmith’s Tour Lumbar Pack is one of the best options for hauling everything you need for a day in the hills and mountains. With nine liters of pack space and pockets that can fit two 32-ounce water bottles, you’ll be able to bring an extra layer, food, and maps.

Rain is a fact of life in springtime, especially in Vermont.

Keeping a reliable and full-featured rain jacket on hand is an essential piece for spring hiking. Marmot’s Precip is the store’s best-selling rain jacket. New for this year, it is made with PFC-free recycled nylon.

Keeping mud and water off socks is a great way to have happy feet while hiking in wet and muddy conditions.

These Outdoor Research Bugout Gaiters have the added benefit of being treated with Permethrin, which is lethal to ticks and other insects.

OUTDOOR GEAR EXCHANGE 37 Church Street Burlington, VT (888) 547-4327 www.gearx.com

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SPRING HAPPENINGS | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FLYNN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS SLEEPING BEAUTY

MARCH 17

Peking Acrobats

CHICAGO

MainStage, 7pm

MARCH 18

Peking Acrobats MainStage, 9:30am

MARCH 19

Sleeping Beauty MainStage, 7:30pm

MARCH 20

Celtic Women MainStage, 7:30pm

MARCH 20

Broadway’s Next Musical FlynnSpace, 8pm

APRIL 2

Matilda

See website for additional dates and times MainStage, 7:30pm

FLYNN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 153 Main Street Burlington, VT (802) 86-Flynn www.flynncenter.org 78 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

APRIL 3

APRIL 9

FlynnSpace, 6pm

MainStage, 10am

SF Jazz Collective

Encore

APRIL 4

APRIL 12

FlynnSpace, 8pm

FlynnSpace, 2pm

Green Mountain Cabaret

Lucy Shelton

APRIL 7

APRIL 13

See website for additional dates and times MainStage, 9:30am

See website for additional dates and times MainStage 9:30am

Penguins

Llama Llama Live

APRIL 15

Wild Kratts Live 2.0

See website for additional dates and times MainStage, 6pm

APRIL 17

Charles Lloyd & The Marvels MainStage, 8pm

APRIL 17

Sara Juli

FlynnSpace, 8pm

APRIL 23

Peppa Pig Live MainStage, 6pm

APRIL 24

Stand up, Sit Down & Laugh FlynnSpace 8pm

APRIL 25

Green Mountain Cabaret FlynnSpace 8pm

APRIL 29

Renée Fleming MainStage, 7:30pm

APRIL 30

Improvised Shakespeare Company See website for additional dates and times FlynnSpace, 6pm

MAY 2

VSO Hymns of Happiness MainStage, 7:30pm

MAY3

VYO Spring Concert MainStage, 3pm

MAY 9

TURN Music FlynnSpace, 8pm

MAY 12

Chicago

See website for additional dates and times MainStage, 7pm

MAY 14

David Gonzalez At Spruce Peak, 10am

MAY 21

The Welkin

Palace 9 Cinemas, 2pm

MAY 23

Stand up, Sit Down & Laugh FlynnSpace, 8pm

JUNE 6

Myra Flynn

MainStage, 10am

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 79

SPRING HAPPENINGS | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

VERMONT COMEDY CLUB

EMMY BLOTNICK

Friday shows at 7pm Saturday and Sunday 7pm & 9:30pm

THE SKLAR BROTHERS

THE SKLAR BROTHERS

KYLE KINANE

MARCH 6–8

Kyle Kinane MARCH 12–14

Gina Brillon MARCH 19–21

Emmy Blotnick MARCH 26–28

Matteo Lane MARCH 29

Ian Fidance APRIL 2–4

Jay Larson APRIL 16–18

Ted Alexandro VERMONT COMEDY CLUB 101 Main Street Burlington, VT (802) 859-0100 www.vermontcomedyclub.com

APRIL 23–25

Tracey Ashley MAY 14–16

The Sklar Brothers MAY 21–23

Ryan Niemiller 80 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MARCH 21

Epic Mozart

Flynn Center, 7:30pm

MARCH 22

Epic Mozart

Rutland, Paramount Theatre, 3pm

APRIL 22

Taste Test

Deli/126, 6:30pm

APRIL 24

Jukebox

Weston Playhouse, Walker Farm, 7:30pm

APRIL 25

Jukebox

ArtsRiot, 7:30pm

MAY 2

Hymns of Happiness

Guest conductor Sarah Ioannides Flynn Center, 7:30pm

VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 2 Church Street Burlington, VT (802) 864-5741, (800) VSO-9293 ext. 10 www.vso.org Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 81

SPRING HAPPENINGS | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

BURLINGTON CITY ARTS

FEBRUARY 22–MARCH 25

APRIL 8

11am

Estefania Puerta

Family Art Saturdays MARCH 25

GUEST CURATOR TALK

Stella Marrs 6pm 82 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

ARTIST PERFORMANCE 6pm

APRIL 25

Family Art Saturday

with artist Brigitta Varadi 11am

MAY 2

SPECIAL EVENT

Apocalypse Diet Presents The Collaborative Urban Resilience Banquet (C.U.R.B) Part urban walk, part group cooking experience, 1:30pm

MAY 13

Art and Conversation, in the galleries 9:30pm

EXHIBITIONS: FEBRUARY 21–JUNE 7

APOCALYPSE DIET: WHAT WILL WE EAT? FEBRUARY 21–JUNE 7

BRIGITTA VARADI: EXPLORING THE INVISIBLE FEBRUARY 21–JUNE 7

ESTEFANIA PUERTA: SORE MOUTH SWORE

BURLINGTON CITY ARTS 135 Church Street Burlington, VT www.burlingtoncityarts.org

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 83

SPRING HAPPENINGS | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SHELBURNE MUSEUM

The Museum’s collections are housed in thirty-nine buildings spread out over forty-five beautifully landscaped acres. Among these are twenty-five significant examples of historic New England architecture, relocated to the Museum grounds to provide a historic setting for the Museum’s treasures. The result is an unconventional and totally immersive museum experience that delights visitors of all ages. Come and enjoy the many collections.

EXHIBITIONS MARCH 15–AUGUST 23

Creature Comfort: Animals in The House MARCH 28–MAY 31

Short List: Animation Today

SHELBURNE MUSEUM 6000 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT www.shelburnemuseum.org

84 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE Burlington, VT (802) 863-1648 www.churchstmarketplace.com

CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE Suite 2A Burlington, VT (802) 863-1648 www.churchstmarketplace.com

PHAROAH SANDERS DISCOVER JAZZ FESTIVAL

CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE MARCH 30

Magic Hat Mardi Gras

Enjoy music, comedy, and other live performances at the Annual Magic Hat Mardi Gras celebration.

JUNE 5–14

Discover Jazz Festival JUNE 5

Blues Rocker, Fantastic Negrito Flynn MainStage, 8pm

JUNE 6

Pharoah Sanders Saxophone Player Flynn MainStage, 8pm

JUNE 9

Chicago Trumpet Player Jaimie Branch FlynnSpace, 6pm & 8:30pm

JUNE 10

Afro-Cuban fusion player Yosvany Terry FlynnSpace, 6pm & 8:30pm

JUNE 13

Adventurous guitarist Marc Ribot FlynnSpace, 6pm & 8:30pm

JUNE 14

British Saxophone player Nubya Gracia FlynnSpace, 6pm & 8:30pm

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 85

OTHER NOTEWORTHY EVENTS MARCH–SEPTEMBER

Return to the Butterflies exhibit Echo Leahy Center

MARCH 25

Worksite Wellness Conference Burlington Hilton

MARCH 24–26

St. Albans Maple Fest Weekend APRIL 4–5

Made in Vermont Marketplace, Double Tree Hilton, Burlington MAY 1–3

Waking Windows Tour, 10th Year Winooski, VT

CAMP TA-KUM-TA APRIL 19

Super Bingo

A huge bingo event hosted by the Knights of Columbus at the Double Tree Convention Center in South Burlington, all going to support sending more kids to camp! Visit www.facebook.com /kofcsouthburl for more information.

JUNE 20

Motorcycle Ride for Camp Ta-Kum-Ta A benefit motorcycle ride throughout Vermont ending at Camp Ta-Kum-Ta with a southern BBQ and raffle celebration.

86 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

ADVERTISERS INDEX

For more information about print and online advertising opportunities, contact John or Robin Gales at (802) 558-2719 or email coffeetablepublishing@comcast.net.

A Little Something.................................................................. 28, 33

Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty.......................... 23

Shelburne Tap House ............................................................28, 43

Adirondack Audiology.................................................................. 37

Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery..........................................................28

Shelburne Vineyard Winery and Tasting Room ....................62

Ann Roche Casual Furniture........................................................85

Hickock & Boardman Realty........................Outside Back Cover

Slate ..................................................................................................65

Bare Medical Spa............................................................................... 1

Inspired Closets.............................................................................. 37

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont............................................43

Istanbul Kebab House...................................................................62

Burlington City Arts.......................................................................65

Jamie Two Coats Toy Shop...........................................................28

Burlington Emergency and Veterinary Services......................21

Kiss the Cook................................................................................... 27

Burlington Harbor Hotel............................................................... 75

Kwiniaska.......................................................................................... 39

Burlington Marble and Granite.....................................................11

Landshapes...................................................................................... 55

The Residence at Quarry Hill.........................................................7

Burlington Paint and Sip................................................................12

Lawson’s Finest Liquids.................................................................12

The Spot on the Dock . ................................................................. 59

Burlington Surf Club...................................................................... 75

Marketplace Fitness.......................................................................71

Tina’s Home Design..........................................Inside Front Cover

Catamount Physical Therapy......................................................86

NurseGrown Organics.................................................................. 27

Tom Moore Builders.......................................................................17

Chroma Optics................................................................................ 33

Otter Creek Awnings......................................................................61

UVM Medical Center...................................................................... 4

Church Hill Landscapes ................................................................61

Outdoor Gear Exchange................................................................71

Vermont Handcrafted Furniture Design..................................... 6

City Market......................................................................................34

Pauline’s Café.................................................................................. 83

Close To Home . ............................................................................... 9

Peregrine Design/Build.................................................................. 13

Culligan Water.................................................................................19

Petra Cliffs . .....................................................................................62

Davis & Hogdon Associates........................................................60

Pines Senior Living......................................................................... 55

Dorset Street Dermatology......................................................... 59

Play Dog Play...................................................................................85

Village Wine and Coffee...............................................................28

Dutch Mill Family Restaurant and Catering ...........................28

Radiance Wellness Spa.....................................Inside Back Cover

Wake Robin...................................................................................... 87

Ecco................................................................................................3, 62

Red House Building........................................................................ 39

Windows and Doors by Brownell............................................... 67

Flynn Center for the Performing Arts........................................82

Renewal by Andersen of Vermont................................................5

Yoga Roots................................................................................28, 79

Spalon Euphoria..............................................................................28 Stern Center for Language and Learning................................... 51 The Automaster..........................................................................2, 28 The Essex Resort and Spa.......................................................15, 81

Vermont Kitchen Design by Bouchard-Pierce Candlelight.. 79 Vermont Kitchen Design by Bouchard-Pierce Wolf...............81 Vermont Real Estate Company................................................... 73

Spring 2020 | Best of Burlington | 87

LAST GLANCE

 POSSIBILITIES Springtime in Vermont

are endless . . .

88 | www.bestofburlingtonvt.com

COFFEE TABLE PUBLISHING, LLC 32 Hermit Thrush Lane South Burlington, VT 05403