BURLINGTON
BEST OF
SUMMER 2012
L I F E A N D C U LT U R E I N T H E C H A M P L A I N VA L L E Y
VOLUME 5 NO. 3 $4.95
The Best of
Summer HARPOON Point to Point Bike Ride
Shelburne Vineyard
Cynthia Knauf’s Landscape Design
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Contents
FE AT U R E S
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26 Harpoon Point to Point
Pedaling to fight hunger.
by mark aiken
34 SGardens helburne Farms’ Formal
More beautiful than ever. by NANCY HUMPHREY CASE
46 CDesign ynthia Knauf Landscape
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Creating beauty for home owners and the community. by SARAH ZOBEL
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Editor’s Note
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Contributors
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Online Exclusives
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Gatherings
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What’s New A smartphone without apps is just a phone. by ryan adam
16 Art Scene The SPACE Gallery. by JENNIFER ROSE SMITH
20 Cooking Healthy Delicious salsa. by chef JJ Vezina
d epart m e n ts
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What’s Hot Tour the islands.
56 What’s in Store City Lights: Illuminating ideas for every need. by mary gow
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Community Spotlight Camp Ta-Kum-Ta. by E. senteio
70 Vine to Table At Shelburne Vineyard, the glass is always half full. by sarah tuff
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63 Special Adv
er tising Se
c tionS
t spots in th
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by MARK AIKEN
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Dining & Entertainment Guide A calendar of events.
88 Burlington Buzz
o Cool creemee h
Shop area. local Burlington
The USAT Age Group Nationals come to Burlington.
83 Happenings
emee! re C a t e G o G s t’ 24 Le e area. mer Fun ings to do in our 42 Sumpin g and fun th
Physical Rx
Cover photo courtesy of Harpoon Brewery.
The staff of Spruce Mortgage. by mike morin
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BEST OF
BURLINGTON Coffee Table Publishing, LLC PO Box 1460, Quechee, VT 05059 (802) 295-5295 www.bestofburlingtonvt.com Publishers
Robin Gales John Gales Bob Frisch editor
Deborah Thompson ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Kristy Erickson Copy EDITOR
Elaine Ambrose Art direction/Design
CW Design Solutions, Inc. advertising design
Hutchens Design, LLC web design
Ryan Frisch advertising
Robin Gales John Gales (802) 295-5295 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, PO Box 1460 Quechee, VT 05059. Or e-mail editor@bestof burlingtonvt.com. Advertising inquires may be made by e-mailing ctpublishing@comcast.net or coffeetable publishing@comcast.net. Best of Burlington is published quarterly by Coffee Table Publishing, LLC Š, 2012. 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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B ES T O F B U R L I N G T O N
Contributors Mark Aiken
Mike Morin
A travel writer who specializes in outdoor living, recreational pursuits, and all topics in between, Mark lives in Richmond, Vermont. When he’s not writing, he trains for marathons, plays pickup hockey, teaches skiing at Stowe, and plans bigger and better vacations.
Mike is a 41-year radio and TV personality who has worked in New York City, Boston, and currently co-hosts New Hampshire in the Morning on WZID-FM in Manchester. He serves as the celebrity chef writer for Northeast Flavor magazine and has written for the Boston Globe and Chicken Soup for the Soul books.
Jack Rowell
Jennifer Rose Smith
Jack has been capturing personalities with his photography for more than 40 years. His work has been published in Time, Newsweek, the New York Times, Times of London, and more. One-man exhibitions include the Hopkins Center at Dartmouth College and, in Vermont, at the Chandler Gallery in Randolph and the Governor’s Reception Area in Montpelier.
Sarah Tuff Sarah writes about health, fitness, travel, and more for a variety of regional and national publications. She lives with her husband, Carlton Dunn, and their two young children in Shelburne, Vermont.
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Jennifer is a freelance writer, baker, and assistant sugarmaker. She writes about food, travel, and culture, and her work has appeared in Best of Burlington, Vermont Magazine, and Local Banquet. She lives in Burlington.
Sarah Zobel Sarah writes about health and wellness and parenting for regional and national publications. She lives with her husband and two sons in Essex Junction, Vermont.
Summer’s Gifts
e d i tor ’ s n ote
It’s the time of year to head outdoors for picnics and cookouts, hiking and swimming, and games of softball, badminton, and croquet. Kids are on their bikes and at Little League practice, moms are preparing favorite dishes with fresh produce, and dads are firing up their grills. There’s nothing better than the long, lazy days of summer. During this special season, we’re heading out to join the participants in the Harpoon Point to Point bike ride (page 26). This is the tenth year for the event, which helps to raise money for the Vermont Foodbank. We’re also taking you to the USA Triathlon Age Group Nationals, which are being held in Burlington for the second year in a row (page 76). Come out and see some of the best triathletes in the country run, bike, and swim their way to victory. Shelburne is buzzing with activity this summer. The restoration of the formal gardens at Shelburne Farms is continuing (page 34), and work at Shelburne Vineyard Winery is in full swing (page 70). Stop in to visit both of these local treasures, and be sure to tell them you saw their stories in Best of Burlington. We’re also touring some stunning properties featuring landscape designs by Cynthia Knauf (page 46). A picture truly is worth a thousand words when it comes to describing her work, and we’re sure you’ll enjoy viewing her remarkable projects. You’ll also want to drop in to see Bradford Hume at City Lights (page 56), where you’ll find thousands of lighting options, many of them made on site. Don’t forget to check out our new website at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com. You’ll find exclusive content not in the magazine and much more. Wherever this beautiful season takes you, make the most of it—it doesn’t last long. Enjoy!
Deborah Thompson Editor editor@bestofburlingtonvt.com
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B ES T O F B U R L I N G T O N O N L I N E
Online Exclusives Only at www.bestofburlingtonvt.com Teach Kids to Swim An expert offers tips for creating a good experience in the water, including teaching kids how to float.
Gifts for Grads Check out these seven practical suggestions for gifts that every graduate will be glad to receive.
Best Berry Recipes Make the most of summer’s succulent berries with these delicious dishes.
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Gatherings ENJOYING EVENTS AROUND TOWN
Crosshair Communications, in partnership with Danforth Pewter, presented The Finer Things 2012 event at the Vermont National Country Club. Billed as a Private Showcase of Luxury Products and Services, Finer Things was the idea of Crosshair Communications president Jeff Pierce and was developed in partnership with Bram Kleppner, CEO of Danforth Pewter (both shown at top left). The event featured the products and services of 17 of the area’s leading luxury brands, including Otter Creek Awnings, Topnotch Resort & Spa, Shearer Acura/Audi, TruexCullins, Shelburne Museum, Lippa’s Jewelry, and many others. Attendees were awarded with door prizes worth more than $7,000, and the event raised more than $250 for SLAM Diabetes. The Finer Things will be held again in the spring of 2013.
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Send photos of your event to editor@bestofburlingtonvt.com.
W H AT ’ S NE W b y r y an a d a m
amazing apps A smartphone without apps is just a phone
If you can do it on your computer, chances are you can do it on your phone. Smartphones—running on either Google’s Android or Apple’s iPhone platforms— let you surf the web, check your e-mail, update your Facebook status, or find the nearest Starbucks. But mimicking your laptop is only part of the equation. Smartphones also let you do things no computer would dare to attempt, things that make you ask, “How did I ever live without that?” Here are a few:
Ev e rnot e (www.evernote.com) Remember everything. Evernote keeps notes. What kinds of notes? Typed, handwritten, audio, video, snapshots—everything. Evernote even has its own apps such as ShopAdvisor, which tells you where you can find your items at the best prices. Once you have all your notes in there, it’s easy to find them later with the search function. Android Fl ashlight Tiny Fl ashlight + LED (www.amazon.com/Nikolay-AnanievTiny-Flashlight-LED/dp/B004Q3CJQ0) and i Phone iHandy Fl ashlight (www.ihandysoft. com/flashlight.html) Right now, you’re thinking there is no way you’re going to waste your time downloading an app that does nothing other than simply light up your screen or turn on the flash. Novelty or not, this will be the first thing you think of the next time the power goes out. Life360 (www.life360.com) A winner of the Android Developers Challenge, this app demonstrates just how much smartphones can do. Life360 uses GPS, cellular, and Internet data to pinpoint the location of each member of your family. It’s easy for each person to check in or send an alert for help. The app also shows the locations for nearest hospitals and police stations and even goes so far as to show you where registered sex offenders live. Pintley (www.pintley.com) Tired of the same old beers? Tried something exotic at a bar last month but you have no idea what it was? You need Pintley, which keeps track of the beers you’ve tried and lets you rate how well you enjoyed them. Rate a few and the next time you’re feeling adventurous, Pintley will suggest something right up your alley. Googl e (www.google.com/mobile/google-mobile-app_exp/index.html) Yes, you can use Google Search on any Internet browser, but the Google Search app lets you search with both your voice and your camera. The speech recognition is top-notch, and you’ll be amazed at what you can learn just by snapping a photo of the stores you walk by downtown and then letting Google Goggles process the image. The image search can also work on UPC codes so you can compare prices and find product reviews before you buy. Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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ART SCENE S P O N S O R E D B Y V er m ont ener g y by j enn i f er rose s m i t h P h otos by P a u l B o i svert
SPACE Gallery where burlington’S art takes shape In the heart of Burlington’s South End Arts District, the SPACE (Soda Plant Artist Collective Environment) Gallery is hard to miss. A bright-red spaceman covers the front wall of the artists’ studio and gallery, painted by former Vermont artist Adam DeVarney. According to creative facilitator Christy Mitchell, the mural is emblematic of the artwork that the SPACE Gallery seeks out. “We try to show local artists or emerging artists who want to get their work out there for the first time.” Unlike traditional galleries, SPACE relies on studio fees rather than art sales to stay afloat, and Mitchell appreciates the resulting freedom to choose fun, esoteric themes and artists. “It’s not about profit or what people are used to seeing,” she says. “It’s about being able to show work that’s different, always evolving, and accessible.” 16
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Familiar & Surprising Mitchell organizes a new exhibit each month featuring solo artists or themed shows. Past favorites have included Robots and Ray Guns and The Cute Show, full of artists’ renderings of all things adorable. Some themes are so beloved that they reappear each year, like the the conceptual
Clockwise from far left: Space Man mural by Adam DeVarney. Bukowski’s Laughing Heart by Adrienne Goulette. Clear & Bright by Ashley Roark. Elizabeth Bunsen next to her encaustic and mixed-media collage work. Hunter Rising by Jeff Bruno. Untitled by Elvira Tripp.
Make Art, Repeat, which explores artists’ use of repetition and patterns, and The Art of Horror, a Halloween exhibit of scary art. She also strives to educate the community about the artistic process, and a stroll through the SPACE Gallery sheds light on the techniques and materials the artists use. In a studio that belongs to metal artist Jake Rifken, the ceiling is thickly hung with filigreed wire sculptures. A partially completed project dangles above his workbench, suspended above spools of silver wire. He twists each filament by hand, wrapping and turning countless wires into a painstaking web. Across the gallery, artist Beth Robinson creates her creepily gorgeous “Strange Dolls” in a studio filled with some surprising raw materials; tiny drawers are neatly labeled with their contents, which include “albino eyes” and “bird eyes.” I examine a pair of eerie Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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Top row: Christy Mitchell in The SPACE Gallery. Visitors to the gallery. Visitors participating in the 30-foot Interactive Collage. Jackie Bishop’s Cappadocia: Goreme, Turkey and Shadow of a City: Istanbul, Turkey. Center row: View of Coachella Valley by John K. Alexander. Ann Street Bailey in her studio. Kimberly R. Greeno with her pieces, Rebirth and Mustard Seed. Memory by Mary Provenzano. Bottom row: Cry, Cry My House by Katherine TaylorMcBroom. Sparkly Cukes by Jaclyn Bishop. Ann Street Bailey’s Kinda Blue.
SPACE Gallery 266 Pine Street, Suite 105 Burlington, VT (802) 578–2512 www.spacegalleryvt.com Hours: Thu–Sat 11am–4pm
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dolls with gnarled, bumpy heads that seem otherworldly until Robinson reveals that she built them with decorative gourds.
So Much to See The SPACE Gallery’s unique blend of art and the artistic process was on display during a recent reception for its newest opening, Shaping Pages, which examines books and the written word. Sipping glasses of wine, visitors mingled with artists, peered into studio spaces, and enjoyed the diverse work that had been contributed for this popular show. In the gallery’s newly developed area called The Backspace, Sarah Bush displayed her first-ever solo show, a collection of human-like galvanized sculptures entitled We’re Not Made of Metal. In the gallery’s front room, local artist Abby Manock worked intently on a series of drawings depicting a variety of people—and creatures—trapped in bottles. A small crowd observed from a few feet away, nibbling hors d’oeuvres and watching Burlington’s newest art take shape. Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington 19
Delicious
salsa
c e l e b r at e s u m m e r w I t h f l av o r f u l c o n d i m e n t s
b y J J V E Z I N A , e x e c u t ive c h e f A T TH E W I N D J A M M E R R E S T A U R A N T P H O T O S BY B R E N T H A R R E W Y N
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When I think of summer flavors, I think of everything you could put into a great salsa, picante, or pico de gallo. “Salsa” denotes a sauce in which the ingredients have been chopped; it is chunky. “Picante” represents a sauce in which the ingredients have been pureed; it has a smoother consistency. A third salsa condiment is called “pico de gallo” and represents salsa (chunky) with extra peppers. What I like most is that salsas are as unique as the regions they come from, and when it comes to creating them, there are no rules. They can be sweet, spicy, chunky, or saucy. The recipes that follow are some of my favorites that we’ve featured at the restaurant.
Coo k in g h ea l t h y
Pico de Gallo
“Pico de Gallo” is Spanish for “rooster’s beak.” Traditionally, it was eaten with the thumb and forefinger, and retrieving and eating the condiment resembled the actions of a pecking rooster. Our Pico de Gallo is a key ingredient that sets our nachos apart from the rest. Makes just over 1 quart 3 cups Roma tomatoes, medium dice 1 cup red onions, medium dice 1 ⁄3 cup scallions, cut thinly on the bias 3 Tbsp cilantro 1 jalapeno, seeds removed 1 Tbsp white sugar 2 Tbsp honey 1 ⁄4 cup red wine vinegar Juice of two limes Salt and pepper to taste
Mix the first three ingredients together in a bowl and set aside. Blend the next six ingredients in your blender or food processor until smooth. Pour on top of the onion and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Salsa Picante
The most traditional of our salsas—and the sauciest—we pair this with our house-made corn chips. Salsa Picante is what I use on enchiladas, quesadillas, veggie burgers, and salmon. Makes 1 quart 24 oz canned tomatoes 5 oz fresh lime juice 1 ⁄4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped 2 Tbsp fresh garlic, chopped 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp dark chili powder 21⁄2 Tbsp Sriracha* hot sauce, or to taste 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp brown sugar 21⁄2 tsp blend of salt and pepper, or to taste 11⁄2 cups chopped scallions
11⁄2 Tbsp honey 1 cup finely diced Roma tomatoes (set aside) *Sriracha can be found at Asian markets and most specialty grocery stores. Add all ingredients except Romas in your food processor. Lightly blend and pour into a mixing bowl. Mix in diced Roma tomatoes with a spoon.
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Mango-Pineapple Salsa
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Fruit-based salsas are commonly used in the Caribbean as an accompaniment to fish. This salsa is great with fish tacos. Makes approximately 31⁄2 cups 1 cup fresh mango 1 cup pineapple, diced small Juice of one fresh lime 1 ⁄2 cup red onion, cut into paper-thin slices 1 ⁄2 cup Peppadews, cut in rings* 1 Tbsp cilantro, minced 1 ⁄4 cup scallions, thinly cut on the bias 2 Tbsp juice from the Peppadews 1 ⁄4 cup green chilis Salt and pepper to taste *Peppadew is the brand name for sweet piquanté peppers. Both Peppadews and canned green chilis can be found at most specialty grocery stores. Peel mangos with paring knife. Pull fruit away from seed and dice into small pieces. Do the same with the pineapple. Sliver red onion. Add all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and toss well. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Tomatillo Avocado Verde 4
A cousin to the tomato, the tomatillo is the key ingredient in fresh and cooked Latin American green sauces. This green sauce has more vinegar and cilantro flavor and is typically not a spicy sauce. We use this sauce in the Upper Deck Pub on our enchiladas, but it can also be paired nicely with beef and fish. Makes roughly 11⁄2 cups 8 oz canned tomatillos 1 tsp chopped jalapeno 1 tsp minced chipotle 1 ⁄3 cup chopped yellow onion 1 Tbsp fresh garlic, chopped 1 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped 1 fresh peeled avocado 1 hand-squeezed lime
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2 tsp white sugar ⁄4 cup white vinegar 1 ⁄2 tsp salt and pepper blend 1
Add all ingredients in your blender and puree until smooth. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
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Let’s go get a Creemee! Cool creemee hot spots in the area. Take a tasty treat tour through Chittenden County this summer. I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!
Burlington Bay Market & Café
Ray’s Seafood Market and Restaurant & Take-Out Creemee Stand
Voted Best Creemee Stand! Located on Burlington’s Waterfront. We offer a little of everything— breakfast, pastries, sandwiches, homemade soup, creemees, and a Vermont State Liquor outlet.
Family-owned and -operated market and restaurant in Essex. We have fresh lobster, whole-belly clams, bucket of fish, chicken, and broiled and boiled dinners to eat in or take home. Enjoy soft-serve creemees yearround. Call for all your catering needs.
125 Battery Street Burlington, VT (802) 864–0110 www.burlingtonbaycafe.com Open daily 7am–9pm Find us on Facebook
7 Pine Crest Drive Essex Junction, VT (802) 879–3611 www.raysseafood.com Open daily 10am–8pm Find us on Facebook
Underhill Country Store
Ice Cream BOB’S
Summer means time on the Waterfront in Downtown Burlington, and that means time for delicious Bob’s Ice Cream, right on the bike path, across from ECHO. Creemees including maple, raspberry, chocolate, vanilla and more. Plus cold milkshakes, slush puppies, and hot dogs.
Underhill Center
Essex Junction Burlington
On the bike path across from ECHO Downtown Burlington. www.icecreambobs.com
Jericho
Williston
The Underhill Country Store, “where the trail begins.” We feature famous signature sandwiches, homemade pizzas, and delicious creemees. Hikers and bikers make this a required stop every time. 1 Pleasant Valley Road Underhill Center, VT (802) 899–4056 Weekdays 7am to–8pm Sat 7:30am–8pm; Sun 7:30am–6pm Find us on Facebook
Shelburne QTee’s
Joe’s Snack Bar
Once known by another name, QTee’s has been owned by the same family since 1959. Serving great soft-serve treats and exceptional eats. Choose from banana splits, a Peanut Cluster Parfait, or creemee cones dipped in chocolate, butterscotch, and cherry. Other QTee’s favorites include the steak sandwich, clam roll, 3 Alarm Burger, and the Yumpster.
Since 1950 Joe’s Snack Bar has been serving creemees with great toppings: cookies and cream, M&M’s, Reese’s, and more, plus milkshakes and sundaes galore. Don’t forget the great lunch and dinner menu. Fresh meats prepared daily. All sauces are Joe’s recipes. Homemade fries and real cheese—American, Swiss, mozzarella, and provolone.
237 N Winooski Avenue Burlington, VT (802) 658–3668 Mon–Sat 9am–9pm; Sun 12–9pm Find us on Facebook
Route 15 Jericho, VT Call in orders to go: (802) 899-3934
Shelburne Country Store
Gourmet and Vermont specialty foods including fudge, creemees, cheeses, and homemade jams. Toys for children of all ages plus books and bath and beauty products. Stop by in the heart of the village of Shelburne for a creemee summer treat. 29 Falls Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985–3657 www.shelburnecountrystore.com Open daily 9am–6pm Find us on Facebook
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Clark’s Sunoco
Clark’s Sunoco is an independently owned and operated gas station, convenience store, deli, automotive service, and car wash located in Williston, Vermont. We are a part of the Sandri, Inc. family of stations servicing the greater New England area. Our people and hospitality are the keys to our success. We are committed to providing the best customer experience, every customer, every day! We look forward to serving you! 2939 St. George Road Williston, VT (802)-878–4430 Find us on Facebook
• please note that locations are approximate.
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Photos courtesy of Harpoon Brewery
Harpoon by mark aiken
Point to Point
pedaling to fight hunger
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A teacher in the Burlington school system, Jason Reed faces the realities of hunger every day in the classroom. “I see students who are so hungry they can’t concentrate,” he says. When hunger results in absenteeism related to illness, sleep deprivation, and stress, it is no surprise that daily assignments, homework, and test scores suffer. Ten years ago, Reed found himself wondering how he could help. On August 11, hundreds of cyclists will pedal from Catamount Family Center in Williston to the Harpoon Brewery in Windsor as part of the 10th Harpoon Point to Point ride. The event raises funds for the Vermont
Foodbank, a nonprofit that provides 8 million pounds of food per year to 280 food shelves, school programs, church groups, and other food assistance organizations. While the foodbank receives some state and federal aid in addition to grants from private foundations, 95 percent of its support comes in the form of charitable donations. Reed has participated in every Point to Point ride, and he plans to be there this year. “It’s an opportunity for me to combine one of my recreational passions with trying to create better opportunities for some of the kids I stand in front of every day,” he says. 4
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Brewery with a Mission When Rich Doyle and Dan Kenary founded Harpoon in Boston in 1986, they were concerned about more than beer. “They wanted to be good neighbors,” says Jessie Cox, promotions manager at Harpoon and organizer of the Point to Point ride. “A big part of our mission is to be a local business that gives back to our community.” In addition to “Harpoon Helps,” the philanthropic arm of their business that supports New England charities through donations of beer, merchandise, and volunteer hours, Harpoon had organized several successful charity athletic events. After beginning operations in Vermont when it purchased Windsor’s Catamount Brewing Company in 2000, Harpoon began working to establish an event in its new home. Early Point to Point rides were multiday stage rides combined with concerts in Burlington, but Harpoon and Vermont Foodbank worked together to streamline the event to create the best experience possible. While many Vermont businesses fight hunger through donations and volunteerism, Harpoon’s relationship with the Foodbank is unique. “This is a real collaboration,” says Foodbank spokesperson Judy Stermer, who has seen the ride from both sides—as a staffer and as a participant. She 28 www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
Above (inset): Celebrating a great ride for a great cause. Taking time to wave. Left: Jason Reed saddles up for his tenth Point to Point. A sign provides inspiration. Below: Morning mist rises off the Winooski River in front of Camel’s Hump in the distance.
did the 115-mile ride in 2009. “It was a great experience,” she says. “The Harpoon and Foodbank staff members and all the volunteers were really there for the riders.”
Hours in the Saddle Participating riders register for a distance— 25, 50, or 115 miles. Cyclists commit to raising $150 for the Vermont Foodbank (50- and 115-milers only—there is no fundraising requirement for 25-milers, although it’s encouraged). Last year, 630 riders raised more than $120,000. The different distances make the event accessible to a range of abilities; however, according to Cox, preparation is key. “There are plenty of hills,” she says. “This is, after all, Vermont.” The 115-mile ride starts at 7am at Catamount Family Center in Williston, one of many partners who team up to hold the event. Catamount provides parking and free onsite camping for those who travel from afar; meanwhile, other partners include The Point radio station, Montpelier’s Onion River Sports,
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the Bike Hub of Norwich, Windsor’s Paradise Sports, and the Green Mountain Bike Patrol. “The vibe first thing in the morning is excitement,” says Jason Reed. “Everyone knows they have hours ahead in the saddle, but everyone also knows it’s for this greater thing—combating hunger.” The finish line for all riders—at the top of a 3-mile-long hill—is the Harpoon Brewery in Windsor, where riders are treated to free food, music, and Harpoon beer. Organizers also take care of the ride home: participants can take advantage of buses to get a lift back to the starting lines.
Skipping the Party There are three components to the Point to Point ride: fundraising, riding, and celebrating. Having participated in the ride every year since its inception, Jason Reed takes the fundraising seriously—so seriously that this year he’s prepared to skip the party. Not one who loves asking for money, Reed gives people his personal observations about hunger and lets them decide whether to donate. He usually raises in the neighborhood of $500 to $600, but this year he hopes to raise the bar, and he has offered this challenge to his supporters: “If I can double my fundraising number,” he says, “I will reach the Harpoon Brewery, turn around, and pedal all the way home.” Really? Skip the party? After nine Point to Point rides, nobody knows better than Reed how good the party is. “Harpoon really goes all out,” he says. “There are very few fundrais30 www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
A scenic Vermont ride.
ers where you feel so appreciated.” The scene is festive, with families meeting riders, music playing, dogs chasing Frisbees, and everyone in attendance feeling a general sense of accomplishment for achieving something important and worthwhile. “I’ll miss talking about all the hills over a beer,” Reed says. But that’s not why he’s here. “It’s a hell of a lot of fun,” he says. “But we’re here to raise money for an issue that affects our state—because the people of Vermont really need it.”
For More Information Harpoon Point to Point ride: www.harpoonpointtopoint.com Vermont Foodbank: www.vtfoodbank.org
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Islands
Tour the
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Alice Dunn painted and photographed Colorful Horses.
lake champlain is where the action is
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Raku Fish-Bone Plate was created and photographed by Sherry Corbin.
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Chair Overlooking the Lake, photograph by Jessica Remmey.
Mark your calendars for the weekend of July 14 and 15. You don’t want to miss the Discover the Heart of the Islands: Open Farm and Studio Tour from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday on the islands located at the northern end of Lake Champlain. The tour has become one of the premier summer events in the islands, with over 50 artists, artisans, and small farms opening their studio doors and swinging back the barnyard gates to showcase the variety, creativity, and hospitality of Vermont’s archipelago— Grand Isle County. Get off the main road and watch demonstrations by potters, jewelers, painters, wood turners, and papermakers. The weekend offers an opportunity to purchase items directly from the hands of the artists in their studios. Sample savory delights from island producers and chefs at the Farmers’ Market on Saturday and at the Taste of the Islands food celebration on Sunday. Visit island farms and chat with the folks who provide the fresh meats, cheeses, and produce for our local markets. See angora goats, alpacas, llamas, and sheep, and get a chance to see how yarn is handspun. For those who are more adventurous, plan to get your shoes dirty and learn how real farming happens. For more information, visit www.openfarmandstudio.com.
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w h at ’ s h ot
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Stained glass by Jennifer Buckner.
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Three angora goats, photographed by Jim Holzschuh at Yellow Dog Farm.
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by nancy humphrey case
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Shelburne Farms’ Formal Gardens
more beautiful than ever!
It’s June 2011. The marble and silk-damask dining room at the Inn at Shelburne Farms is set up with long tables, with a large projector screen at their head. After a delicious luncheon featuring spring vegetables fresh from the Farms’ market garden, Doug Porter, a University of Vermont professor and architectural conservator, educates us about one of the most extraordinary and ambitious projects Shelburne Farms has ever undertaken: the restoration of the formal gardens behind the inn. 4 34
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For more than a century, the formal gardens at the Inn at Shelburne Farms have been a place of peace and beauty.
Photos courtesy of Shelburne Farms
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Perhaps more than any other aspect, these gardens represent the mark Lila Vanderbilt Webb made on Shelburne Farms. By the time she had finished with them, they included a series of terraces with a formal rose garden, a “grand allee� bordered by perennials, a wild garden, a lily pool with fountain, another pool with a pergola, and ample brick and concrete hardscaping, including an elegant balustrade bowing out over Lake Champlain. But over the decades the elements had taken a heavy toll on the gardens. A hurricane in the 1950s flattened the pergola and exacerbated the eroding of the shoreline. Elements of the balustrade began falling into the lake. Frost pushed bricks apart and cracked the concrete in the walls and other structures. By 2005, although the inn had been beautifully restored and a volunteer had nurtured the plants in the gardens, Lila’s century-old garden hardscape 36
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Birgit Deeds has played a key role in the restoration of the formal gardens, tending the plantings throughout the year, and sharing the story with other lovers of gardens. Photo top left by Janice Heilmann.
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Doug Porter led the restoration project, gathering a team of restoration professionals in the historic Breeding Barn to tackle the exacting process of repairing the damage of wind, weather, and time, and in some cases creating replicas of pieces too far gone to save.
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12 was essentially in ruins. Then a fortuitous thing happened: an anonymous donor gave a major gift to begin the restoration of the formal gardens.
A Labor of Love It was a daunting task, as our luncheon slide show illustrates. “It had a unique set of problems, and the size of the project was formidable,” says Doug Porter, who guided and supervised the work. First, to build a new seawall and stabilize the shoreline, 4,000 tons of rock were deposited by a backhoe working in a small window of time when the lake was frozen. Next, research was conducted that revealed why the concrete in the walls had failed so massively. “Concrete in 1911 was a relatively new product,” Porter explains. “It was found that the silica in the gravel they used reacted with the Portland cement to produce a gel that expanded when it got wet and caused the concrete to crack.” In 2009 the balustrade was dismantled and carried in 500 labeled pieces into Shelburne Farms’ Breeding Barn. Porter used a laser scanner and computer software to produce shop drawings detailing cracks that needed repairing. To fill fine cracks, a special grout was injected through a needle, then stippled with a brush and colored slightly to blend invisibly into the original pieces. The lily pool and fountain were similarly restored. Today a pristine balustrade sits solidly over a stable shoreline. The effect it gives one of leaning out high over the lake is possibly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The breezes, the sounds of water washing against the shore, and the cries of gulls, combined with a vast view of sparkling water and blue mountains, is profoundly beautiful. “How many spots like this are there in the world?” asks Alec Webb, president of Shelburne Farms. “Maybe in the lake district of Italy.”
Inspired by Lila’s Vision Clearly, Alec has the same deep affection for this place that his great-grandparents did. So does Birgit Deeds, a longtime friend of the Webbs and supporter of Shelburne Farms. Birgit has been tending these extensive gardens almost single-handedly for 25 Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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The restoration work continues with plans for restoration of the pergola and upper garden walls, and friends and garden lovers are stepping up to help.
years—as a volunteer. Her interest began in 1984 when a student at UVM named Susan Hayward wrote a thesis on a plan for restoring the gardens. A member of the Shelburne Farms board at the time, Birgit picked up where Susan Hayward left off. When she discovered Lila’s driving influence was British designer Gertrude Jekyll, she enrolled in the landscape design program at Harvard-Radcliffe College to learn more about Jekyll. Her studies gave her a window into Lila’s design rationale, and her goal became to maintain the Jekyll color scheme in Lila’s gardens: blues and pinks at the south end, transitioning to yellows, oranges, and reds, with blues and whites at the north end. Some of the plants Lila planted still thrive in the gardens: long runs of pale pink Queen Victoria peonies, white Immortality iris, which bloom again in the fall, and the purple baptisia, with its vibrant foliage all summer. “What really inspired me was that Lila didn’t have Jekyll design this,” Birgit says. “She did not have a plan drawn up by a landscape architect. Her maintenance guy, Gebhardt, helped her, but it was her vision of what she wanted. To me, this embodies what Shelburne Farms is.” Asked if she feels close to Lila when working in these gardens, Birgit suddenly chokes up. “Birgit would understand Lila’s love of this landscape and her experience here more than 40
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12 Intrigued by the idea of visiting the Formal Gardens at Shelburne Farms? The gardens are part of the daily property tours, four times each day through Oct. 21, 2012. There are House and Garden Tea Tours every Tuesday and Thursday through Oct. 21, 2012. And walking in the gardens is always a delightful addition to breakfast, dinner, or Sunday brunch at the Inn. For details, go to the Shelburne Farms website at www.shelburnefarms.org.
anyone,” Alec suggests. Birgit concludes that Lila would be thrilled at what is now taking place on this property. Now in its fifth year, the project has expanded to a 3.3 million dollar proposition, with the restoration of the pergola area and the upper garden walls and stairs still to come. Donors with a special interest in the gardens have donated 2.3 million dollars, and fundraising continues. How does this fit with the nonprofit’s educational mission? “It’s the same logic that’s behind all the improvements we’ve made over the last 40 years,” Alec says. “It’s about giving people the opportunity to experience a beautiful place and having those people support our mission. The gardens strengthen the inn as an enterprise that supports our educational programs.” Already people are inquiring about holding weddings on the new lower terrace. Asked how Shelburne Farms will handle this, Alec takes his glasses off and rubs his eyes. “We’ll try to find a balance between preserving it as a place of quiet reflection and making it more accessible to the public.” That’s a tall order, but Shelburne Farms has once again demonstrated its ability to take on grand challenges and master them with grace and integrity.
How to Contribute To make a gift to the Shelburne House Formal Gardens Restoration Project, contact Sue Dixon, special gifts coordinator, sdixon@shelburnefarms.org or (802) 985-0322.
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Summer Fun SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Shopping & fun things to do in our local Burlington area! Mason Brothers
Natural Body Pilates “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness.” —Joseph H. Pilates For a strong, flexible, and beautifully relaxed body, enjoy private sessions and small group classes in a relaxed professional atmosphere. Flexible pricing options and annual memberships for pilates, yoga, and Art of Relaxation sessions. Chace Mill 1 Mill Street, Suite 372 Burlington, VT (802) 863-3369 info@NaturalBodiesPilates.com www.NaturalBodiesPilates.com
Offering the finest reclaimed and antique building materials, Mason Brothers’ Architectural Salvage Warehouse’s 13,000-square-foot warehouse is filled with fireplace mantels, stained and beveledglass windows, lighting, hardware, columns and pillars, marble and pedestal sinks, claw-foot tubs, stripped doors, windows, furniture, and unique artifacts. 11 Maple Street Essex Junction, VT (802) 879-4221 www.greatsalvage.com Mon–Sat 9am–5pm
The Willow House
Salaam & The Men’s Store
At the Willow House we offer a fine selection of furniture in primitive, country, and cottage styles. We carry a large selection of antique pieces as well as handcrafted period reproduction furniture. We offer our customers many furniture choices with our custom fabrics, styles, finishes, and size options.
A savvy boutique on Church Street Marketplace featuring our own locally made Salaam line as well as a fantastic selection of clothing, jewelry, and accessories for men and women by your favorite brands such as Desigual, Lucky, and Ben Sherman.
10 Patchen Road South Burlington, VT (802) 864-3540 www.countryhomevermont.com Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 11am–4pm
90 Church Street Burlington, VT (802) 658-8822 www.salaamclothing.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Furchgott Sourdiffe Gallery For over 20 years, FS Gallery has been a destination for discerning art lovers seeking the finest in original art, museum-quality custom framing, and restoration services. We also offer an eclectic and affordable selection of handmade and fair trade crafts and gifts. Local shopping made easy! 86 Falls Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-3848 www.fsgallery.com
Cheese Traders & Wine Sellers Discover thousands of wines (Vermont’s largest selection!), more than 150 local and international cheeses, discount gourmet products, and delicious made-in-Vermont specialties at bargain prices. We find the deals, you enjoy the savings! There’s only one Cheese Traders in the world—come treat yourself. 1186 Williston Road South Burlington, VT (802) 863-0143 www.cheesetraders.com Open daily (including Sun) 10am–7pm
Jamie Two Coats A magical place in the heart of Shelburne Village, filled to the brim with your favorite things! Beautiful dolls, wooden toys, fun dress up, art supplies, Lego, Playmobile, pogo sticks, and hula-hoops are just the beginning. We now have Zutano and Angel Dear clothing to add to our wonderful baby collection. Come in and explore! 54 Falls Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-3221 Mon–Sat 10am–6pm; Sun 11am–5pm
Shelburne Vineyard Winery and Tasting Room Join us for a taste, a tour of the winery, or an afternoon picnic at the vineyard. Learn about our adventures growing grapes and making wine in Vermont’s northern climate, and then sip a selection of our awardwinning wines while you relax and enjoy the best of Vermont on our patio overlooking the vines. Ask us about planning your special event here! 6308 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-8222 www.shelburnevineyard.com Open daily 11am–5pm; Fridays until 7pm
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Summer Fun!
Fabulous finds in the greater Burlington area!
The Vermont Farm Table Store Specializing in made-to-order tables and benches, we take pride in traditional building techniques, nontoxic finishes, and a commitment to handcrafted furniture that works just as hard as you do.
Lake Champlain Ferries Three ferry crossings on Lake Champlain: • Grand Isle, VT to Plattsburgh, NY: Open 24 hours daily • Burlington, VT to Port Kent, NY: Open mid June–Columbus Day • Charlotte, VT to Essex, NY: Open all year, ice conditions permitting. Public cruises and private charters available during the summer season. Visit www.ferries.com for more information.
197 College Street Burlington, VT (888) 425-8838 www.vermontfarmtable.com
1 King Street Burlington, VT (802) 864-9804 www.ferries.com
Evolution Yoga Evolution Physical Therapy, Yoga & Massage offers a warm, inviting space where you can come to care for yourself—body and mind. This summer, treat yourself to a massage with Annemarie or Natalia, or join us for a special nature-inspired weekend retreat in Starksboro with yoga, massage, and more! 20 Kilburn Street Burlington, VT (802) 864-9642 www.evolutionvt.com
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ECCO Clothes Burlington’s original designer boutique has this summer’s hottest looks! From denim to dresses and everything in between, this is the store for big-city labels with small-town charm. Find what you are looking for at ECCO! Brands include AG Jeans, Paige Premium Denim, Velvet, Ella Moss, Vince, BCBG, 7 for All Mankind, and dozens more! 81 Church Street Burlington, VT (802) 860-2220 www.eccoclothesboutique.com
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Cynthia Knauf
Landscape Design
by SARAH ZOBEL
C R E AT I N G B E A U T Y F O R H O M E O W N E R S & T H E C O M M U N I T Y
Cynthia Knauf spent childhood weekends
helping her father dig up and transplant trees around their property in eastern Pennsylvania. Fast-forward to 2012. Knauf is once again siting trees, but she’s also installing shrubs, native plants, ponds, water walls, and hiking trails—as well as baseball and soccer fields. As the owner of her eponymous landscape design firm, Knauf (pronounced “noff”) creates unique outdoor spaces for residences, schools, businesses, and municipalities around Vermont and Quebec. 4
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A series of level outdoor spaces step down the steep slopes of this narrow, ridge-like property in Stowe, Vermont, all affording spectacular views to the ski trails on Mt. Mansfield. Photos by Susan Teare.
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h Fieldstone was gathered from the property for this net-zero home and landscape overlooking the Mad River in Vermont. Photos by Susan Teare.
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An Open Mind & Love of Plants It was not a straight path to landscape design for Knauf, who enrolled in Moravian College in Pennsylvania with plans to become a veterinarian—until she decided the science courses were too dry. She switched to journalism and found a post-graduation job with Rodale Press, where she stayed for eight years as an editor in
the direct-marketing department. An intended three-month sabbatical from Rodale to work as a naturalist for the Appalachian Mountain Club in the White Mountains turned into a two-year stay. “It opened my mind to the possibilities,” says Knauf, explaining that at AMC she fully realized her love of plants and the outdoors,
and also discovered enjoyment in working on projects on both a broad, conceptual level and in greater detail. “A lot of landscape architecture is architecture and civil engineering, and that requires really getting into the details to make a space function.” Knauf then earned a degree from Conway School of Landscape Design in western Massachusetts and continued north to Stowe, where she worked briefly for a land planner before joining forces with Ernie Ruskey, an architect, to form Ruskey-Knauf Associates. They collaborated on residential projects until Knauf established CKLD in 2005.
Beyond the Backyard Knauf continues to work with architects on both new builds and renovations, specifically those who share her passion for green design and sustainability. Often that focus goes beyond—even above—the backyard; Knauf has designed two examples of what is perhaps the ultimate green build: a roof garden. One is atop the Burlington headquarters of environmentally sensitive household-products manufacturer Seventh Generation. The company’s goals were to have a rooftop patio where meetings could be conducted, but also where edibles could be grown. So among the ornamental grasses and flowers, Knauf made space for strawberries and blueberries. In keeping with both Knauf’s and Seventh Generation’s commitments to sustainability and staying local, the walkways are slate Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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h Owners of this family mountain retreat, which overlooks the Stowe Valley and Mt. Mansfield, enjoy the year-round color and interest of their gardens.
from southern Vermont, while the terraces are crafted of Barre granite. The second of Knauf’s roof gardens is atop a new net-zero (energy) house in Moretown. It helps moderate the temperature indoors; like most roof gardens, it also absorbs rainwater, releasing any overflow to the garden below through downspouts. Such roofs, says Knauf, are easy to maintain once they’ve been established. The plants selected will depend on the depth of growth medium used, but they should be native to the area so they don’t require special
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h Overlapping textures and colors in the plants and stone of this Morrisville, Vermont, Japanese-style landscape mimic the patterns found in nature. Two small photos by Carolyn Bates.
attention. Sedum is a popular roof choice, though with more medium it’s possible to include shrubs—even small trees. While roof gardens are not yet commonplace, Knauf expects to be called on to design more of them in the near future. “Home owners are really becoming curious about what, exactly, is green design,” she says, “and how a landscape can be sustainable and low maintenance.” They’re seeking Zen-like spaces outside their homes where they can enjoy peace and calm. “I like finding opportunities for the home owner to enjoy everything on their property,” Knauf says. “I try to break it down to differ52
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ent experiences; you can admire the view or the morning sun with a cup of coffee, or you can go to an intimate space where you feel wrapped in your garden and secure.”
A Variety of Projects Knauf happily tackles properties of all sizes. Recent projects ranged from the revitalization of a backyard in Burlington’s Five Sisters neighborhood to the renovation of a landscape—including a pool, spa, and water wall, all within a half-acre—of a modern house in Montreal, and the comprehensive design of a 75-acre property in Stowe, complete with pond and hiking trails. 4 Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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She’s also collaborating with two colleagues to create a master plan for the village of West Dover, in the interest of making it more pedestrian friendly through narrower streets in the downtown area, more streetlights and sidewalks, and the planting of trees, whose canopies have a slowing effect on drivers. Municipal planning is nothing new to Knauf, who worked with a civil engineer on reclamation plans for a 15-acre site of tailings from an old talc mill in Johnson. That land now includes soccer and baseball fields, as well as a playground area, open spaces, and walking trails. Resort projects in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Sonora, Mexico, have allowed Knauf to work in different climates and with diverse flora. Regardless of a property’s size, Knauf will first familiarize herself with the landscape to determine the various grades and which areas get the most sun and shade or are particularly dry or wet. Refining her initial big-picture concept, Knauf offers two or three proposals to the client, listens to their feedback, and revises to a final plan that they fully agree on. “That’s the most important thing,” Knauf says. “The client has to be involved with it and know it’s going to work for them.” As for her own backyard, for now Knauf lives in a South End townhouse. There’s just room for a small garden, which, given her busy work schedule, is just fine.
Cynthia Knauf Landscape Design, Inc. 215 College Street, Studio 2C Burlington, VT (802) 655-0552 www.cynthiaknauf.com 54
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ne Shelbur Vineyard
Knauf’s Cynthiae Design Landscap
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Above: Welcome to City Lights! Near right: Double pendant with “willow� stained glass shades. Center: Hundreds of colored pendants are available. Far right: Owner Brad Hume with a new creation.
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w h at ’ s in s to r e b y M ARY G OW P HOTOS BY J A C K ROWE L L
City
Lights i l l u m i n at i n g i d e a s f o r e v e ry n e e d
“Lighting has a certain magic to it that other home furnishings just don’t have. That’s always intrigued me, and does to this day,” says Bradford Hume. “Your home, your furniture and draperies, everything looks better with lighting that is done right.” 4
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Handsome pendant lamps, light glowing through frosted and colored glass shades, sculptural table lamps, flexible reading lamps that direct light exactly where it is wanted— there’s a lot of magic in Hume’s airy City Lights Lighting in Burlington. From elegant and formal to sleekly functional to traditional Early American-inspired, the high quality lamps on display here cover a range of styles. “My forte is lighting with a more or less Northeastern bent to it,” says Hume, who has been in the lighting business in the Burlington area for 24 years. That “Northeastern bent” covers a lot of distance. Hume works with over 60 vendors, including several New Englandbased lighting designers and manufacturers, among them Vermont’s own Hubbardton Forge and House of Troy and New Hampshire’s Northeast Lantern. Hume also designs and makes lamps.
From Inspiration to Entrepreneurship
Above: Barn light pendant. Top row, from left: Many lamps are made at City Lights. Take your pick of pendants of any shape and color. The famous “flex” reading lamp is made here! Bottom row: Industrial is IN! Shoji torch lamp. You’ll find shades of every description.
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City Lights, now located on Bacon Street facing Shelburne Road, first shined as Lighting 11 in Winooski. Hume had worked in lighting for several years when his entrepreneurial instincts led him on “8/8/88” to open his own business. His interest was sparked back when he was an undergraduate. “In college, I had a roommate who had all this lighting that would go with the music. He had colored lights that pulsed to the music and manual light organs. He had every kind of lighting toy.” Hume’s business became City Lights when he moved it to downtown Burlington, where
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Above: Interior wall display shows just a few of the available options. Right: Pinwheel chandelier with floral shade.
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he stayed for nearly two decades. Then, while on his regular running route near his home, he eyed a Shelburne Road building under construction. Its location and large windows were ideal, and as a new space, he could plan his electrical outlets and wiring ahead of time—just as he encourages home owners to do.
Form, Function, and a Fire-Hose Nozzle Certified as a lighting specialist by the American Lighting Association, Hume urges home owners to think about illumination early in their construction or renovation process. “Bring in your blueprints and I’ll help you. With recessed lighting and layout Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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of lighting, you’re putting in junction boxes and holes in the ceiling. You want to get it right the first time.” Home owners’ photos on smartphones and iPads facilitate Hume’s work with them in his store. Beyond the well-selected inventory in his showroom, with his extensive resources he can help customers find and fine-tune lighting that fits their tastes and lifestyles. Spectacular choices are available through Hume’s suppliers. Hubbardton Forge’s wrought iron renaissance has introduced a new world of creative design in metal lamps, some with intriguing cork and fiber shades. Northeast Lantern makes brass and copper outdoor lights in styles from colonial to contemporary. From bath and vanity sconces to chandeliers, Hudson Valley has extensive collections for every room. “I also make a lot of my own lighting,” says Hume. “I make table lamps—the firehose nozzle is one of my flagship designs.” Hume’s double-pendant lamps are especially suited to hang over kitchen islands. “I found that no one else was doing them simply. Simplicity is next to Godliness when it comes to Early American design— you can’t have a lot of extra pieces of metal flying around. You want the form and the function. “My flex lamps are pretty much the best reading lamps made in America, if I do say so myself,” says Hume. “I started [making them] because no one else was making a good reading lamp.” Hume sought out suppliers for the best parts to make attractive, long-lasting, flexible lamps that stand on the floor and can be directed over a couch or chair—and stay in place while illuminating a newspaper, magazine, needlework, or other focus. “I’ve always found that lighting is more than the sum of its parts—that’s what I like about it,” says Hume.
City Lights Lighting Co. 12 Bacon Street Burlington, VT (802) 658–5444 www.city-lights.com
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COMMUNIT Y SPOTLGHT b y e . S e nt e io P hotos cou r t e sy o f C a mp T a - K um - T a
Camp
Ta-Kum-Ta not because they’re kids with cancer, but because they’re kids Ah, there’s nothing like a warm summer day, splashing in the pond, surrounded by friends. Those days are especially precious when you’re a child, and even more so when you’re a child dealing with cancer. Camp Ta-Kum-Ta (TKT) is determined never to let cancer stop children from doing what they do best—being kids. 4 Above: Counselor and camper on their first fishing excursion. As you can see, he caught the big one! Left: Thanks to many donors and volunteers, spacious, beautiful new cabins have replaced the army tents that were used the first few years.
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Camp
Ta-Kum-Ta
When Ted Kessler’s four-year-old son Todd was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, he watched him go from handball and Little League to years of cancer treatments. “The ‘C’ word,” Ted says, “just took everything away from him.” One summer, Ted and his wife Debby sent then seven-year-old Todd to a residential camp for kids with cancer in upstate New York. He came back a different child, Ted recalls. “His illness consumed him, but here he was now pulling practical jokes, playing pranks.” Everything about him was better; he was more like the child he had been before the cancer. “We made up our minds at that point that we would see what we could do for kids here in Vermont.” Two and a half years later, in 1984, Camp 64
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Ta-Kum-Ta welcomed 37 children to its first weeklong residential summer camp. All programs, then and now, remain free to the children and their families. It took a village to start a camp. Ted and Debby worked with Todd’s pediatric oncologist and his nurse practitioner; they talked with the people at Camp Good Days and Special Times, where Todd had visited; they talked to members of the community, raised funds, and formed a board.
The First Year, The First Child There are a lot of people Ted remembers from that first year, but the memory of a child named Michael remains indelibly. Michael showed up at camp from Canada a day early, and they became fast friends. “Michael
Far left: Children returned in October for the Ta-Kum-Ta Halloween Party. Far left, inset: Jack is contemplating his first adventure up the climbing wall. Left, inset: Whether you were 7 or 70, everyone participated in the night climbs at the new ropes course.
was 15 years old and had testicular cancer. He had been in the hospital for months, not even walking because of the pain. We knew he had just a short time. I asked him what the three things were that he’d like to do most. He said, ‘Drive something really fast, dance with a girl, and play ball.’ “Well, one of the volunteers let us take Michael out on his speedboat,” Ted laughs remembering Michael behind the wheel. “He nearly killed me—he scared me so bad.” They held a dance on the ferry on Lake Champlain, which they still hold every year. “Since he couldn’t walk at that point, I put him on my shoulders, and by the end of the night, he had danced with every girl there—not only the kids but also the staff. Toward the end of the week, he was able to get up from the golf cart and walk a little bit, so we got him up to bat. The instructions were, ‘Nobody gets him out.’ By the time he reached home base he was not even touching the ground he was so excited.” It wasn’t very long after that that Ted headed into the mountains of Canada for Michael’s funeral. There are hundreds of Camp Ta-Kum-Ta stories, some with happier endings, and others with just happy memories. “When we lose children that hurts. It really, really does. So everyone thinks it’s a sad place up Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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Camp
Ta-Kum-Ta
here, but it’s just the opposite. These kids are having the time of their lives. I’ve got staff members who are here only to teach pranks.” Ted emphasizes, “The thing you have to remember is that these are kids. They have to be treated like kids. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, every parent goes into protective mode. I did it, my wife did it. They’re put in a cocoon. The kids lose their childhood. But when they come to camp, we’ve got them zip lining, taking night hikes, hot air ballooning—something they can do that’s theirs. Not because they’re kids with cancer, but because they’re kids.”
between the camp and the hospital, according to Ted, is that, “At a hospital kids have chemo and are put back in bed. Everybody sits around for hours waiting for them to get over the treatment. Here, they head over to the ‘Med Shack’ in our medical building, have chemo, wait a while, have breakfast, and then they are back outside, or on the ropes course, and they just go on.” They have a lot to choose from: polar bear swims, sports, dances, Zumba. Televisions are for game playing only. “We have an event every hour and a quarter,” says Ted.
Everything Old Is New Again Happiness and Health While at TKT, every child, ages 7 to 17, always has someone watching over him or her—24/7. There is a full pediatric oncology medical staff that handles all medications and chemo. “They do everything except radiation,” says Ted. TKT’s medical director, Monica Ploof, APRN, is a nurse practitioner at Fletcher Allen. “She’s also a colonel in the Vermont National Guard,” Ted laughs. “So the kids don’t give her any static. I always tell them, ‘oh, she’s tough,’ but she’s really a sweetheart.” Besides the fun, one of the differences 66
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What began almost three decades ago as a one-week summer camp renting space at Camp Holy Cross is now a year-round camp located on 103 acres in South Hero, Vermont. Countless volunteer hands, hearts, and funds have gone into the new space. According to Hattie Johnson, director of development at TKT, “It’s all private donations and volunteers that make the camp possible. We receive no federal or state funds at all.” As Ted puts it, “Without our volunteers and donors, we would be nothing.” It is only through the largesse of the community that they have been able to bring the new facility
Left: Young camper with face paint. Top: Counselor with young camper. Smiles are seen often at Camp Ta-Kum-Ta. Above: Three campers are quickly becoming lifelong friends.
to pediatric oncology standards, to expand— and to have a bit more fun. In support of TKT, every December KOOL 105 holds a one-week radiothon; for more than two decades, South Burlington Knights of Columbus have held an annual Super Bingo event; CUFF Cancer (Cops United for Fighting Cancer) raises funds through a head-shaving event, annual dinner, and silent auction. There are various golf tournaments, dinner dances, and lobster bakes. Individual donors, businesses, and groups recently funded and built 8 new cabins that hold 20 kids each. Another cabin is still in progress. In memory of their son Jeff, Tom and Diane Wyand have made donations to fund the Memorial Garden. But it is never just about the money, says Hattie, “Tom comes up here for weeks at a time and helps us out, recently on building the cabins.” Each contribution of time or money is incalculable in the life of a child. Although the location was purchased in 2008, only since 2011 has TKT been able to offer year-round events. “Now,” says Hattie, “we have Winter Weekends for the kids, Halloween and Holiday Weekends for families, and a reunion for the kids every June. They even get a yearbook.” Hattie is excited about Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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Camp
Ta-Kum-Ta
The entire camp family has decided they just can’t get enough Zumba.
the program expansions. “We just had our first Moms’ Retreat—weekends just for moms to come, relax, and talk with other moms.” Let’s not forget spa treatments and Zumba. TKT is also hoping to offer a sibling program. “We want to be a camp not just for the child with cancer,” says Hattie, “but for the families as well.”
Missing Pieces However, not everything is rosy. The newest building, the Activity Barn, was built in July of 2011. It holds a 200-seat theatre (funded by Dragonheart Vermont) and a teen center, called Teeta’s Center (sponsored by Antonio and Rita Pomerleau in memory of their daughter Ellen, aka Teeta). But some critical pieces are missing in the camp’s newest additions; there is no running water, no toilets, no showers. TKT desperately needs a septic system. “Right now,” Ted and Hattie agree, “that is the camp’s most critical need.” The septic system would support both the Activity Barn and the cabins. “It’s not the prettiest project in the world,” acknowledges Hattie, “but it’s absolutely necessary.” For now, they rent portable toilets and showers—at $30,000 a week. When an event is over, Hattie says, “That $30,000 just rolls out of the driveway.” Undaunted, Ted continues to look toward the future of Camp Ta-Kum-Ta. “One of my dreams is that eventually this becomes a camp for chronically ill children, not just pediatric oncology. But we can’t move forward until we get bathrooms.” Although Ted hasn’t had a day off in eight weeks—and has no restrooms—he 68
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has every reason to remain hopeful. Having spent four years as president of Children’s Oncology Camps of America (COCA)—the organization which oversees oncology camps worldwide—Ted knows how very special Camp Ta-Kum-Ta is. “It’s the only camp that has two past presidents of COCA on its board, Dennis DePaul and me.” But Ted is quick to point out, it is not just them—it’s everybody else as well. Ted knows the community that’s made the camp possible for almost three decades, and the individuals, families, and children that make the struggles and celebrations worthwhile. He also knows that his son Todd recently celebrated his fortieth birthday. Miracles happen. Overall, sometimes there are good days and sometimes there are bad, but in the long run, there is one thing Ted knows for sure—Camp Ta-Kum-Ta is here for children and families dealing with the ‘C’ word: “I have never said no to a child, and I never will.”
Camp Ta-Kum-Ta 77 Sunset View Road South Hero, VT (802) 372–5863 or (802) 917–4441 Camp Ta-Kum-Ta is open year-round. There is never a charge for a child or family to attend any programs. For more information, to volunteer, or to donate, visit www.takumta.org.
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Grape
Nuts
by Sarah Tuff
Photos courtesy of Shelburne Vineyard
at s h e l b u r n e v i n e ya r d , t h e g l a s s i s a lw ay s h a l f f u l l
Above: Marquette grapes ripen outside the Shelburne Vineyard Winery and Tasting Room. Right: LaCrescent vines in late summer, with netting unfurled to keep the birds from feasting on the ripening grapes.
It’s a wonder there aren’t more fender benders on the stretch of Route 7 just south of the Shelburne Museum. It’s here, after all, that many a curious driver has done double takes at the sign proclaiming “Shelburne Vineyard” next to rows of grapes and a handsome shingle-styled building designed by Shelburne’s own Selin & Selin Architecture. 4 70 www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
V INE T O T ABLE
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Wine Country, Vermont Style
Top: Vinyasa in the Vineyard, an event taking place beside the Marquette vines. Above, inset: Seasonal work in the vineyard. Opposite, inset: A ripe cluster of LaCrescent grapes.
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A winery? In northern Vermont? “People don’t come to this part of Vermont for wine,” admits Ken Albert. But thanks to Shelburne Vineyard, which he founded in 2001, that’s starting to change. And people are coming to this part of town not only for wine but also for weddings, parties, local products, even yoga. “Whether you’re passionate about wine or passionate about sustainability, this place works really well,” says Gail Albert, the director of marketing and events. “You aren’t getting a script—people in the tasting room also work in the fields, and they have their own stories to tell. They’re not just doing a job; they’re living it.” The same could be said of the Alberts, who began growing grapes in their shady Shelburne backyard when Ken was working as an engineer for IBM. But the woodland critters nibbled on the vines, and what was left received too little sunlight. “It was not good,” says Ken of his early vintages, with a laugh.
But he also knew, thanks to frequent business trips to Quebec in the early ’90s, that vineyards could thrive in the North Country. So after retiring from IBM in 1998, he became a full-time vintner, partnering with fellow Shelburne winemaker Scott Prom to produce their first vintage in 2001. It was good enough to launch a thriving business that has since grown to encompass 24 acres of land divided into 4 vineyards, more than 80 awards, 5 full-time equivalent employees year-round with an expanded crew working part-time throughout summer and fall in the tasting room and fields, 9 varieties of grapes, and 8 new “releases.” Nearly all the grapes that Shelburne Vineyard grows are hybrids, a blend of North American hardiness and disease resistance and European quality. (The exceptions are the purely European Rieslings.) Lately, Ken is most excited about the Marquette, a pinot noir hybrid developed by the University of Minnesota. “This is what is going to put Vermont on the map,” he says, stepping out of the winery’s offices to inspect a few vines.
“Instead of crossing native European grapes with those that grow in the Northeast, they crossed them with grapes that grow wild in the Midwest, and these grapes, it turns out, actually make better wine and they’re good to 30 degrees below zero.”
Wine, Weddings, Jazz & Yoga Back in the winery, he and Gail walk through the rows of gleaming stainless steel tanks where white wines such as the Lake View White and LaCrescent are fermenting; in oak barrels, red wines including Marquette and NuMondo are aging for 7 to 15 months. As anyone who participates in the regular free tours sees, there are high-tech bottling machines, boxes of 20,000 corks, and filters gurgling; it’s a state-of-the-art scene of sustainable agriculture that sees its busiest time during the fall harvest. Year-round, however, Shelburne Vineyard stays hopping with its tasting room of terrazzo floors and copper light fixtures beneath soaring pine ceilings. A loft with a cherry-wood floor offers a perch over the terrazzo floors and Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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the cherry-wood bar below; the rows of sparkling wine glasses and local goods, from Fat Toad Caramels to Shelburne Farms cheese, are for sale. It’s easy to see how the place has attracted more than oenophiles. Gail shows off a series of pastels on the wall, part of a quarterly art exhibit of work by Vermont artists. The first Thursday of every month, musicians play in the loft, and Shelburne Vineyard often holds nonprofit fundraisers and private events. While Shelburne has yet to become a Sonoma or Napa,
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the Alberts collaborate with other wineries such as Lincoln Peak and Charlotte. Their very first wedding was an Alice in Wonderland theme for 14 guests; since then, dozens of brides and grooms have said “I do” either in the handsome tasting room or outside among the vines. The picnic tables on the terrace seem to cry out for a languorous afternoon or evening with a glass of wine, but there are more active pursuits here, too—such as the yoga festival last year that saw practitioners perfecting their downward-
facing dog not far from the Marquette vines. This summer will see lawn picnics for jazz performances by the Burlington Ensemble (July 25), among other events. Despite the allure of the outdoors, Gail says she prefers to work on the indoor aspects of the vineyard. “I’m the tree-hugger type, so if I go out there to help with the pruning,” she says, “I contemplate forever which one to cut.” Says Ken, “We can’t afford to hire people who work that way.” Top left: Working in the vineyards. Center, left, and middle: Collecting the harvest of Louise Swenson grapes. Above: Visitors tour the winery during bottling. Left: A Winter Festival in the Tasting Room. Below, inset: Crystal “Best in Show” Award for Shelburne Vineyard Marquette from 2011 International Cold Climate Wine Competition.
Shelburne Vineyard 6308 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-8222 shelburnevineyard.com
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swim,, bike,run! by mark aiken
t h e u s at a g e g r o u p n at i o n a l s come to burlington
When the USA Triathlon Age Group National Championships come to Burlington in August, be prepared for some unusual sights. For example, Interstate 189 between Shelburne Road and Dorset Street—ordinarily filled with cars traveling at 65 miles per Photos by Paul Phillips/ Competitive Image unless otherwise noted
hour—will have no cars at all. Instead, for a few hours, cyclists wearing cone-shaped helmets and pedaling high-tech, lightweight tri-bikes will be the only drivers allowed on 189. 4
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Top: Not a peaceful dip in the lake. Above: Prepping the bike. Opposite: Crossing the finish line! Photo by Brightroom.com.
PPHYSI HYSICC AL AL Rx RX
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”
These are the best amateur triathletes in the country. They’re competing for the honor of being a National Champion and the opportunity to represent their country at the world championships.
“
Above: Swimming in Burlington Harbor. Center: The run—the final leg.
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Meanwhile, Burlington Harbor—usually dominated by boats, kayaks, and the occasional Lake Champlain Ferry—will be taken over by waves of wetsuit-wearing swimmers sporting swim caps and numbers tattooed on shoulders and calves. Finally, the epicenter of it all, Burlington’s Waterfront Park, will be transformed into a transition area known as the “T-Zone” where athletes transition (go figure) from one event to the next, frantically tearing off wetsuits and slipping on cycling gear or depositing bikes in favor of running shoes.
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Left: RunVermont’s Peter Delaney expects 7,000 spectators on race day. Below: They can run, swim, and bike, but how fast can they peel off a wetsuit?
Don’t Mi
ss It!
“These are the best amateur triathletes in the country,” says John Martin, spokesman for USA Triathlon, the sport’s national governing body. “They’re competing for the honor of being a National Champion and for the opportunity to represent their country at the World Championships.”
Sat, USAT Olym August 18: pic Distan ce Age G National C hampionsh roup ips 1.5K swim , 40K bike, 10K run Sun, Augu st 19: USAT Sprin t National Champion ships VTri Sprint Triathlon 500-meter swim, 20K bike, 5K ru n
Community and National Event USA Triathlon doesn’t just decide on a whim to hold championship events in a location; like the Olympics, communities bid to hold the Age Group Nationals. “The initiative started several years ago,” says Peter Delaney, executive director of RunVermont, the same organization that has organized the KeyBank Vermont City Marathon for the last 24 years. “Local business leaders brainstormed how we could bring other events like the marathon to Burlington.” The Lake Champlain Chamber of Commerce worked with RunVermont to prepare a bid, and USAT selected Burlington as the host of the 2011 and 2012 Nationals. Once RunVermont identified a title sponsor (People’s United Bank), it quickly discovered that organizing a triathlon is different from organizing a marathon. A triathlon covers more ground, so RunVermont found itself coordinating with recreation departments, fire departments, and police departments from three municipalities instead of just Burlington. Furthermore, swimming in Burlington Harbor falls under US Coast Guard jurisdiction. “Closing the interstate requires approval from the Legislature,” Delaney says. The biggest challenge, according to Delaney, was getting the word out to the general public regarding which roads would be closed—and when. In the end, the event came off swimmingly (excuse the pun) with competitors from 50 states and several foreign countries. Delaney estimates that less than a third of competitors had visited Vermont prior to the event and that the economic impact on the Burlington area last summer was more than $4 million. The weather, meanwhile, was perfect—despite the fact that Hurricane Irene was lingering off the Atlantic Coast and devastated Vermont less than a week later. “After Irene,” says Delaney, “we answered phone calls and e-mails from many, many competitors who wanted to donate to flood relief efforts.” Clearly, our state made lots of new friends that weekend in August. Summer 2012 / Best of Burlington
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The Home-Field Advantage The 2012 event features three races. The USAT Age Group National Championships is an Olympic-distance race (1.5K swim, 40K bike, 10K run), held on Saturday, August 18. The following day, it’s the USAT Sprint National Championships and the VTri—both 500-meter swims, 20K bikes, and 5K runs. The VTri is a fun race open to everyone. Participants in the two National Championships must qualify by finishing in the top 10 percent of their age groups in other USATsanctioned triathlons. Jessie Donavan of Shelburne qualified for the 2011 Olympic distance in a highly competitive age group: women 35 to 39. Donavan is an accomplished triathlete who has raced all over the United States. “It felt great to compete in a race that literally went past my driveway,” she says. “I’ve ridden these roads hundreds of times.” The homefield advantage worked in Donavan’s favor; she finished third in her age group and was the top female Vermont finisher. Having raced in plenty of triathlons, Donavan thought USAT and RunVermont made this event feel special. “And I am always interested in feeling safe,” says Donavan, a mother of three. “This race felt very safe.” After a highly successful 2011 event, RunVermont’s Delaney looks for 2012’s Nationals to be even better. Holding events over two days instead of one will make organization smoother. He expects over 7,000 spectators and 200 volunteers, and he looks forward to seeing athletes running down the Burlington Bikeway—just like the final stretch of the Vermont City Marathon. Meanwhile, although Jessie Donavan won’t compete in this year’s Nationals, she plans to be on the sidelines cheering her husband, Peter Schneider. “It’s just great to have everyone in the triathlon world come to Burlington,” Donavan says. “They can see how beautiful it is, how great it is to train here, but then you can race and still sleep in your own bed.”
For More Information USA Triathlon: www.usatriathlon.org RunVermont: www.runvermont.org
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2012
best of
burlington
special advertising section
Dining & Entertainment Guide Great places to eat locally in and around Burlington.
The Wooden Spoon Bistro
Key to Symbols $ most entrées under $10 $$ most entrées $10 to $25 $$$ most entrées over $25
Visit us at 1210 Williston Road for remarkable food, outstanding drinks, and the best service around! Our American Pub Food cuisine and uncommon offerings such as shrimp corn dogs and Vermont short ribs smothered in apple cider gravy are sure to please every palate. A family-owned bistro, The Wooden Spoon hopes to fill the family-friendly dining void in South Burlington. Serving dinner Tuesday to Saturday 3-10pm and Sunday 3-8pm, and Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm, featuring a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar. $$ 1210 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT (802) 399-2074 www.woodenspoonbistro.com
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special advertising section
Beyond the Menu
entertainment and dining guide for burlington and the surrounding area
The Bearded Frog An American bistro. Whether it’s the delicious pub fare or dinner with friends, the menu will never disappoint. Located in the recently renovated historic Shelburne Inn. Complete selection of food-friendly wines by the glass, half bottle, or full bottle. $$ 5247 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-9877
Leunig’s Bistro Burlington’s best bistro for over 30 years. Serving local food with a worldly accent. Every meal provides the panache of Paris and the value of Vermont, right in the center of town. Lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. $–$$ Between Church and College Streets Burlington, VT (802) 863-3759 www.leunigsbistro.com
The FarmHouse Tap & Grill A farm-to-table gastropub serving award-winning local burgers, Vermont cheeses, charcuterie, and innovative entrées. The taproom features unique beers from Vermont’s backyard and beyond. $$ 160 Bank Street Burlington, VT (802) 859-0888 www.farmhousetg.com
Pauline’s Cafe
The Spot
Chef owned, featuring American cuisine, from casual to fine dining, local and wild food, and our famous crab cakes! Open seven days for lunch and dinner. Private dining rooms. $–$$
Enjoy our surf-style ambiance and delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrées. Conveniently located on Shelburne Road in Burlington. Free parking, free Wi-Fi. $–$$
1834 Shelburne Road South Burlington, VT (802) 862-1081 www.paulinescafe.com Open daily. Lunch, dinner. Sunday brunch.
210 Shelburne Road Burlington, VT (802) 540-1778 www.thespotvt.com
Discover local palate pleasers and wonderful atmosphere right here in the Burlington area! The Wooden Spoon Bistro A family-owned bistro featuring American pub food. Steak frites, Caesar salad, bruschetta with roasted fresh corn, basil, and tomatoes. The area’s only Oyster Shooter cocktail. Dinner Tuesday to Sunday and Sunday Brunch. $$ 1210 Williston Road South Burlington, VT (802) 399-2074 www.woodenspoonbistro.com
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Happenings
A Calendar of Events
SUMMER 2012 July 28
4
Green Mountain Draft Horse Field Day Watch demonstrations of draft horses plowing, haying, and logging, and chat with the teamsters about what it’s like to farm with horses in today’s world. Shelburne Farms, 10am–2pm
June 30
Garden Tea Party Bring your family to enjoy the colorful, fragrant gardens at the Inn at Shelburne Farms! Registration: (802) 985-8686 1–3pm July 4
Vermont Symphony Orchestra Info: www.vso.org Tickets: (802) 863-5966, www.flynntix.org Inn lawn July 7
National Brown Swiss Sale & Cattle Auction Breeding Barn, 10:30am–1pm July 7
Shelburne Farms
1611 Harbor Road Shelburne, VT (802) 985-8442 www.shelburnefarms.org Hours: 9am–5:30pm daily
June 22–24
June 25–30
Words Take Wing: A Retreat for Poets & Writers
Dear Pina
Tour Two Great Country Houses: The Brick House & Shelburne House
On the shores of Lake Champlain, you will have time to read, reflect, and wander. No experience necessary. Registration: (802) 985-8686
A dance/theater tribute to Pina Bausch, the well-known German choreographer. Info: www.hannahdennison.org Tickets: (802) 863-5966, www.flynntix.org Breeding Barn, 7pm
June 23
June 28
Many Voices, One Orchestra: 25th Gala Concert of the Essex Children’s Choir
A Toast to the Season: Dinner in the Vineyard
Tickets: www.flynntix.org, (802) 863-5966 Breeding Barn, 3pm
A family-style dinner in a spectacular vineyard setting, featuring ingredients produced on the farm. Registration: (802) 985-8686 6pm
Info and registration: (802) 985-3346, ext. 3368, brickhouse@shelburnemuseum.org 1–4pm July 8–13
Nature Connection & Regenerative Leadership Explore leadership practices for creating change in our own communities, organizations, fields, and regions. A partnership with UVM. Registration for noncredit: www.8shields. org; for credit: www.uvm.edu/~summer/ course-detail/?Crn=61323
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HA P P E N I N G S
Shore Explore July 14
July 11 & August 8
Sun to Cheese Tour A behind-the-scenes look at farming and cheesemaking! Registration: (802) 985-8686 Welcome Center, 2–4pm July 12
Propagating Mystery: Saving Seeds for Food & the Future Lunch at the Inn and program. Registration: (802) 985-8686 12–2:30pm July 14
Shore Explore Wade along some of the farm’s two miles of shoreline with naturalist Walter Poleman and Shelburne Farms’ Marshall Webb. The program runs rain or shine, but if it’s very wavy, expect less wading and more walking. This program is physically challenging and requires sturdy water shoes. Expect to get soaked! Registration: (802) 985-8686 9am–4pm July 17–19
Project Seasons Summer Workshop
July 22
July 30–August 3
Vermont Cheesemakers Festival
The Summer Institute on Education for Sustainability
Info and tickets: www.vtcheesefest.com 11am–4pm July 24
Burlington Ensemble: A Benefit Concert for Vermont Feed Tickets: www.burlingtonensemble.com Info: burlington.ensemble@gmail.com Coach Barn, gates open at 5:30pm for picnicking followed by the 7:30pm indoor concert July 28
Enrich your childhood curriculum with exciting, interdisciplinary, and hands-on activities on environmental and agricultural topics. Info: Linda Wellings, lwellings@shelburnefarms.org 9am–4pm
Shelburne Farms 40th Anniversary Cookout & Dancing
July 20 & 24
Mindfulness Connections
Bats in the Barn
The program supports teens’ connections to self and to the environment while building inner resiliency. Info: Margaret Burke, (802) 985-0327, mburke@ shelburnefarms.org 9am–3pm
We’ll learn about the benefits of bats and then venture out with Barry the bat guy to watch the flight of the barn’s bats as they leave for their evening hunt. Registration: (802) 985-8686 7:30–9pm
Tickets: store.shelburnefarms.org 4–9pm July 30–August 3
An opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of Education for Sustainability—part conference, part workshop, part retreat. Info: Jen Cirillo, jcirillo@shelburnefarms.org Mon–Thu 8:30am–4:30pm, Fri 8:30am–12pm August 2–5
Earthtime: Living Practice/Practice for Living A retreat focusing on creating sacred space for reciprocal communication and relationship with nature and the unseen world. To apply: (802) 985-8686, ktwotrees@gmail.com August 5
16th Annual Vermont Fresh Network Forum Tickets and info: (802) 434-2000, www.vermontfresh.net Coach Barn, 5–9pm August 16
Vermont Fresh Network Farmers’ Dinner on Sheep’s Knoll Registration: (802) 985-8686 6pm August 18
3 June 21 & 22
dug Nap: Napshots of the Suburbs dug Nap takes an honest look at his early suburban life in the fictional town of Starksbend. FlynnSpace, 8pm
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Moonlit Campfire Enjoy listening to (non-scary) stories while sitting around a campfire on a warm summer evening. There will be a live owl presentation following the story. Registration: (802) 985-8686 7–9pm August 25
Create a Fresh Flower Arrangement Fit for the Inn Learn how to create amazing flower arrangements using flowers from Shelburne Farms’ own cutting garden. 10am–12pm
July 5–8
Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
153 Main Street Burlington, VT Tickets: (802) 863-5966 Info: (802) 652-4500 www.flynncenter.org
FlynnSpace, 5, 7pm; 6 & 7, 2 & 7pm; 8, 2pm July 15
16th Annual Flynn Garden Tour Gardens Located in Charlotte, 10am
June 21 & 22
July 19–22
dug Nap: Napshots of the Suburbs
Zombie Prom
FlynnSpace, 8pm
FlynnSpace, 19, 7pm; 20 & 21, 2 & 7pm; 22, 2pm
June 23
Stand Up Showcase FlynnSpace, 8pm
July 26
June 24
FlynnSpace, 7:30pm
Jazzismo
Carol Caldwell-Edmonds FlynnSpace, 3pm
Vermont Symphony Orchestra Summer Festival Tour The VSO’s TD Bank Summer Festival Tour brings picnicking, music, and fireworks to outdoor venues across the state. June 29
Sugarbush Resort, Warren Gates at 5:30pm, concert at 7:30pm June 30
Jay Peak Resort, Jay Gates at 5:30pm, concert at 7:30pm July 1
Chittenden Gates at 5:30pm, concert at 7:30pm July 2
Cassandra Hotaling, Rutland Herald
Manchester Gates at 5pm, concert at 7:30pm July 3
Grafton Gates at 5:30pm, concert at 7:30pm July 4
Shelburne Gates at 5:15pm, concert at 7:30pm July 6
Suicide Six, South Pomfret Gates at 5pm, concert at 7:30pm
July 8
Stowe Gates at 5:30pm, concert at 7:30pm
July 7
Randolph Gates at 5pm, concert at 7:30pm
Please check the VSO website at www.vso.org or call (800) VSO-9293, ext. 10 for additional information.
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HA P P E N I N G S
Echo Lake Aquarium and Science Center/Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
1 College Street Burlington, VT (877) ECHOFUN www.echovermont.org June 25–29
Camp: Explore the Shore Partnering with their instructors, campers investigate the geology and ecology of Lake Champlain on foot and in canoes while learning basic wilderness skills. Info and registration: www.echovermont.org/ events/camps.html 8am–2:30pm
July 9–13
Camp: Science & Stories Inspired by our popular Science & Stories preschool program, this half-day camp will cultivate your future kindergartener’s sense of wonder through inquiry-based storytelling and hands-on play. Info and registration: www.echovermont.org/ events/camps.html 8:30–11:30am
Other Noteworthy Summer Events Through June 30
June 30, July 14 & 28, August 11 & 25
266: The Soda Plant Showcase
Shipwreck Tour
Info: (802) 587-2512, spacegalleryvt.com The SPACE Gallery
Info: (802) 457-2022, www.lcmm.org Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, 11am–12pm
June 23
July 3
Burlington Wine & Food Festival
Burlington Independence Day Celebration
The festival will once again feature 300 wines from across the globe and a variety of Vermont artisan cheeses, breads, charcuterie, and some new food offerings by local purveyors, all available for sampling. Tickets and info: www.burlingtonwineand foodfestival.com Waterfront Park, 12–4pm or 5–9pm
Music, entertainment, food, and the best fireworks display in Vermont! Info: www.enjoyburlington.com Waterfront Park, 5–11pm July 6–28
Tossed Salads; Dropped Food Paintings by Robert Waldo Brunelle Jr. & Will Patlove & Katie Harrington Info: (802) 587-2512, spacegalleryvt.com The SPACE Gallery July 14–15
Champlain Islands Open Farm and Studio Tour Come to Grand Isle County, Vermont, located at the northern end of Lake Champlain, and discover the heart of the islands. Join us and visit vineyards, farms, art studios, galleries, and markets. Meet the artists and agricultural producers and their animals, living and working at the edge of magnificent Lake Champlain. Info: www.openfarmandstudio.com July 17
All Hands on Deck: Annual LCMM Fundraiser June 23–24
Native American Heritage Festival Info: (802) 457-2022, www.lcmm.org Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
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Info: (802) 457-2022, www.lcmm.org Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
July 16–20 & July 30–August 3
Camp: ECHO Adventures Combining hands-on science with behind-thescenes animal encounters, ECHO Adventurers will experience exclusive access to our lakeside Science Center & Aquarium. Info and registration: www.echovermont.org/ events/camps.html 8am–2:30pm July 23–27
Camp: Animal Ambassador Over the course of the week, campers will adopt an animal of their choosing. They will work alongside our animal care crew tending to and studying their animals. Info and registration: www.echovermont.org/ events/camps.html 8am–2:30pm July 20–22
Vermont Brewers Festival Enjoy a tasty selection of the best brews on the East Coast. Info and tickets: vtbrewfest.com
July 21–22
Small Boat Festival Info: (802) 457-2022, www.lcmm.org Lake Champlain Maritime Museum July 25–27
Church Street Marketplace & Downtown Sidewalk Sale Info: www.churchstreetmarketplace.com
Vermont Brewers Festival July 20–22
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BURLINGTON BUZZ
BY MIKE MORIN
The Top-Producing Group at
Spruce Mortgage
h e i d i h ay w a r d u r i s h , i n g r i d a n t r i m s e r a f i n i , a n d d e n i s e v i g n o e Job Titles: Marketing Manager and Mortgage Loan Originators • Where they live: South Burlington, Williston, and Burlington
What is it about your team that makes it work so well together? First of all, we really like each other! Second, we laugh every day! We appreciate and respect what each of us brings to our partnership. On any team, each member has an important and distinct role that contributes to its success. This is certainly true for our team, and we integrate and support one another to ensure that our team is delivering the best service to our customers. Have we turned the corner on the market-draining foreclosure situation that has suppressed residential growth? Fortunately, here in Chittenden County we have been fairly insulated from the rash of foreclosures that we are seeing nationwide. This is largely due to ACT 250, which carefully controlled growth during the housing/real estate boom. We did not experience the same rapid growth that was present in other areas of the country. We have seen the housing market slow as a result of the recession, but overall we have remained in fairly good shape. With lending rates remaining historically low, what’s a good rule of thumb to refinance? This depends on what the client’s goal is through the refinance. The home owner may want to consolidate debt, take cash out for home improvements or children’s college 88 www.bestofburlingtonvt.com
expenses; they may want to go into a shorter term to pay off the mortgage faster, or they may simply want to lower their monthly obligation. We take their goals into consideration when working through all available options. How is Spruce Mortgage helping nonprofit organizations in Burlington? Spruce Mortgage believes in giving back to our community. Our CEO and founder, Gene Richards, sets the tone for encouraging volunteerism and participation on service boards and committees. We have 100 percent participation in United Way and in community service in general. Not only do we have full staff involvement, but each of us genuinely enjoys and looks forward to the opportunities to make a positive difference in our community. What activities do the three of you enjoy away from the office? We are all family oriented and are happiest when we are with our families. Whether helping with a school science project or college essay or driving to gymnastics, our families come first. We enjoy recreation such as skiing, walking, yoga, and swimming. And for certain, we enjoy vacations. We organize our time away from the office to ensure full coverage and exceptional service for our customers.
Coffee Table Publishing, LLC P.O. Box 1460 Quechee, VT 05059
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