Vermont Country November-December 2023 by New England Newspapers, Inc.

‘Like drinking a campfire’

Restaurants and bars to warm your soul this winter

Vermont’s finest tomcats NOV/DEC 2023

Miss Kitty introduces us to her favorite local business owners

New Agey holiday shopping

Don't forget your local cannabis stores

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November-December 2023

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Early Winter Adventures in Southern Vermont

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

MANCHESTER, VT DROP LOCATIONS 1. Equinox Golf Resort & Spa 3567 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254 802-362-4700 2. Kimpton Taconic Hotel 3835 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254 802-362-0147 3. Manchester Business Assoc 4826 Main Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255 617-869-3591 4. Northshire Bookstore 4869 Main Street, Manchester Center, VT 05255 802-362-2200 5. Reluctant Panther 9W Road, Manchester Vt • 802-362-2568 6. Casablanca Motel 5927 Main St, Manchester Center, VT 05255

Pick up a courtesy copy at one of our Distributer Partner locations BENNINGTON, VT DROP LOCATIONS

MANCHESTER, VT DROP LOCATIONS

436

BRATTLEBORO, VT DROP LOCATIONS

NORTH BENNINGTON, VT DROP LOCATIONS

49 7

3 6 10

2 4

BRATTLEBORO, VT DROP LOCATIONS

OTHER VT DROP LOCATIONS

12 10

6 2

41 3 7

PITTSFIELD, MA & TROY, NY DROP LOCATIONS

10 4

TURNERS FALLS, MA DROP LOCATIONS

1. Brattleboro Chamber of Commerce 180 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301; 802-254-4565 2. Hempicurean 257 Marlboro Road, Unit 102, West Brattleboro, VT 05301 802-246-4367 3. Brattleboro Food Coop 2 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301 4. Latchis Hotel 50 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301 802-254-6300 5. Stone Church 210 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301 802-579-9960 6. Vermont Country Deli 436 Western Avenue, Brattleboro, VT 05301 802-257-9254 7. Vermont Market Place 580 Canal Street, Brattleboro VT 05301; 802-254-5861 8. Whetstone Station 36 Birge Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301 9. Vermont Welcome Center I-91 North MM 5, 4, Guilford, VT 05301 10. Holiday Inn Express 100 Chickering Drive, Brattleboro, VT 05301; 802-257-2400

PUTNEY, VT DROP LOCATIONS 11. Putney General Store 4 Kimball Hill, Putney, VT 05346 12. Putney Diner 128 Main St Putney VT • 802-387-5433 13. Putney Food Co-op 8 Carol Brown Way, Putney VT NORTH BENNINGTON, VT DROP LOCATIONS 1. Park McCullough Historic Governors Mansion 1 Park St, North Bennington, Vt • 802-442-5441 2. Pangaea 3 Prospect St. North Bennington • 802-442-4466 3. Powers Market 9 Main St North Bennington Vt • 802-440-0871 4. Prospect Coffee House 1 Prospect St, North Bennington • 802-753-7847 OTHER VT DROP LOCATIONS

1 BENNINGTON, VT DROP LOCATIONS

1. The Knotty Pine 130 Northside Dr, Bennington, VT • 802-442-5487 2. Bennington Chamber 100 Veterans Memorial Drive, Bennington, VT • 802-447-3311 3. Better Bennington Corp. 215 South Street, Bennington, VT 05201 • 802-442-5758 4. Madison’s 428 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201 • 802-442-7397 5. Bennington Welcome Center 100 VT-279 Bennington, VT 05201 6. Avocado Pit 201 South St, Bennington, VT 05201 7. Juniper Lane 445 Main St Bennington, Vt • 802-440-5755

BENNINGTON, VT DROP LOCATIONS 8. Silver Therapeutics 201 Northside Dr Bennington, Vt • 802-440-5170 9. The 421 Craft Bar and Kitchen 421 Main St, Bennington, Vt • 802-440-5972 10. Jay’s Art & Frame Gallery 115 South St Bennington, Vt • 802-447-2342 11. Elm Street Market 251 Elm St, Bennington, Vt • 802-753-7366 12. Bennington Bookshop 109 south St, Bennington, Vt 0501 • 802-442-5059 13. Bennington Museum 75 Main St, Bennington, VT • (802) 447-1571 14. South Shire Inn 124 Elm Street, Bennington

OTHER MA DROP LOCATIONS 1. 253 Farmacy 253 MIllers Falls Rd., Turners Falls, MA • 413-863- 5765

1. Greater Falls Regional Chamber of Commerce 17 Depot Street, Bellows Falls, VT • 802-463-4280 2. The Dorset Inn 8 Church Street, Dorset, VT • 802-867-5500 3. Village Roost 20 W. Main Street, Wilmington, VT • 802-464-3344 4. Vermont Distillers 7755 Route 9 East, Marlboro, VT • 802-464-2003 5. The Newfane Store 596 VT-30 Newfane VT • 802-365-7775 6. Four Columns inn 21 West Street Newfane VT • 802-365-7713 7. Harmonyville Store 1412 Vt-30 Townsend VT • 802-365-9417 8. Riverbend Farm Market 625 Vt-30 Townsend VT • 802-365-4600 9. HN Williams, Dorset 2732 VT-30 Dorset, Vt • 802-867-5353 10. Willow Vermont 369 Dover Rd, South Newfane, VT 05351 • (802) 380-4939 11. Smitty’s Chester Market 526 Depot St. Chester VT 12. The Arlington Inn

3904 Vermont Rte 7a, Arlington, VT 05250•(802) 375-6532

13. Stone House Antique Center 557 - VT-103 Chester VT

PITTSFIELD, MA & TROY, NY DROP LOCATIONS 1. Berkshire Roots 501 Dalton Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201 • 413-553-9333

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

C O N T R I B U TO R S Bob Audette is a cranky old white guy experiencing the world anew under the tutelage of an 12-year-old forest sprite. He’s been writing for the Brattleboro Reformer for nearly two decades. Dan Tebo is a Boston-based film critic whose work regularly appears on his mother’s refrigerator. He works as a waiter and amateur archivist and runs a VHS blog with a readership in the high single digits. Kristopher Radder has been a photojournalist for the Brattleboro Reformer for eight years. There is nothing more magical than small-town community gatherings to celebrate the holiday seasons. Roberta C. Stone is a freelance writer who has written for The New York Times, Connecticut Magazine, the Deerfield Valley News, the Brattleboro Reformer and the Connecticut Post. She is also a children’s book author. She lives in West Dover with her husband, Bob. Stewart Cairns is a photographer for the Bennington Banner. Growing up in the NYC suburbs, he didn’t make it to the mountains much as a kid, but when he was 8, his family visited the Adirondacks, and he was convinced that he photographed Bigfoot. He was certain that the picture would be in the newspaper, and that he would be famous. His parents broke the news to him that he actually photographed a very hairy man who was renting the cabin next door, searching for firewood. He was disappointed but undaunted. He has photographed many barely believable things over the years, and now that he roams Route 7 throughout Vermont, he always keeps his gaze focused deep into the woods … just in case. Kathleen Hawes, aka "Miss Kitty,” is a creative writer who enjoys morning cocktails and holding grudges. You can read her work in The Sun Magazine, The Massachusetts Review, and other rando publications. Gabriel Schatz is a Bennington local who enjoys getting lost in the woods with his two black labs. When Gabriel isn't exploring the wilder parts of the Green Mountains, he can usually be found in the kitchen where he enjoys cooking Mexican and South Asian cuisine, or on the couch starting an epic fantasy novel that he will inevitably give up on halfway through in favor of yet another Stephen King book. Chris Mays is a reporter for the Brattleboro Reformer. He plays guitar in three groups and has a Yorkie named Lemon, who can be followed on Instagram @lemon_the_yorkie. He enjoys spending time in the mountains and etching blankets on Saturday mornings.

Katharine A. Jameson, still living in the urban sprawl of Los Angeles, is originally from Vermont. She returns with her children as often as she can and enjoys yachting in an inflatable rowboat in the pond at her childhood home. She writes a bi-monthly food and health column for Vermont News & Media called “Food For Thought with Kat.” She regularly rails against Big Food and advocates for simpler ingredients on various television programs and offers some healthy (but tasty) recipes on Instagram @foodforthoughtwithkat. Robyn Jensen is a young whippersnapper who spends all her time on that dang phone. On the brief occasions that she gets off it, she works as a freelance writer with interests in media and theater. Michael Albans fancies himself a Brooklyn ruffian but is really a Pee-wee Herman and Barney mashup with a bad attitude. Mike takes nice photos and writes about most anything besides the outdoors or clothing trends. He has no friends but loves his wife. Jennifer Brandt is a born and raised Vermonter and a recent Brooklyn transplant. She has worked as a freelance writer and event coordinator for the past decade focusing on food and intersection with social justice issues. She has combined her passion for food and sustainable food systems with her Indigenous heritage by creating a series with MOFAD celebrating North American Indigenous folks in the food world. When not touring cities and the back roads of the Vermont countryside in search of the endless array of food and culture, you can find her taking Instagram photos of her rescue pup Bagel.

President and Publisher Jordan Brechenser jbrechenser@reformer.com

Editor Gena Mangiaratti gmangiaratti@reformer.com

Windham County Sales Manager

Lylah Wright lwright@reformer.com

Senior Sales Executive Richard Lolatte rlolatte@reformer.com

Sales Executives Richard Battista rbattista@reformer.com

Bennington County Sales Manager Susan Plaisance splaisance @benningtonbanner.com

Sales Executive Ahmad Yassir ayassir @benningtonbanner.com Gabriel Schatz gschatz @manchesterjournal.com

Vermont Country magazine is a publication of

Telly Halkias found his way to Bennington County on a blind date while in college, and vowed to live here one day. While the romance fizzled, years later he made good on that promise. Telly has spent two decades freelancing features, reviews and columns for so many regional outlets that he's often mistaken by readers as a staff writer somewhere — but where exactly they have no clue. Telly has also been fired a few times, only to be rehired almost immediately after minor subscriber revolts. His greatest source of joy is when locals stop him while grocery shopping to discuss 15-year-old columns from which they can still quote lines. Joe Rivers is a member of the Brattleboro Historical Society. He is also a teacher at Brattleboro Area Middle School. The historical society and BAMS have been collaborating on various projects for more than a decade. Mr. Rivers and Lee Ha collaborated on the article about Brattleboro winters past. Gordon Dossett writes often about food. He sees no socially redeeming value in lima beans.

On the cover Stewart Cairns — Vermont Country

Wintry drinks at the Dorset Inn include a cranberry mimosa and the pumpkin pie cocktail.

vermontcountry.com | 3

EDITOR’S NOTE

Winter's back, but so is Miss Kitty

By Gena Mangiaratti Vermont Country Here we are again. Soon it's going to start getting dark at 3 p.m. The good news, or inevitable news, is we have the winter holidays to give us some hope amid the darkness and the (shudder) snow and driving through it (shudder harder). I'm going to do something different for this editor's note. If you like music, stay with me. If you are one of those people who don't like music (it's a thing: Look up "musical anhedonia" on Wikipedia), you may want to turn the page. I was raised in a Christmas-celebrating household, and I can't remember exactly how old I was when most Christmas music stopped hitting the same way, but I would guess it was somewhere around the teen years. Even more so as an adult, it's hard to access the magic when there are bills to pay and snow to plow and drive through and seasonal depression to combat. If any of this resonates, these post-idyllic holiday songs might better capture your mood: Among my favorite tracks to listen to while driving slushy roads in the dark is "I Think Of You (Holiday Edition)" on Manchester resident Maxine Linehan's holiday album, "This Time of Year." The sanity-restoring ditty details all of the frustrations of the season, right down to being "stuck behind the tourists staring at a tree." I play it on repeat. When Ingrid Michaelson introduced her song "Happy, Happy Christmas" at a show at the Orpheum Theatre in Boston, she warned the audience that it's not a cheery holiday carol as the title might suggest. The song off her holiday album "Songs for the Season" is an ode to loss and nostalgia and loving the ones you're with. Northampton, Mass., singer-songwriter Heather Maloney's holiday EP "Christmas Anyway" came out during one of the roughest parts of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Table for the Feast," a harmonic, bittersweet carol, is longing and accepting at the same time, and makes us hopeful we can let go of past gripes. A few others: Fiona Apple's soulful cover of "Frosty the Snowman" ("when he heard him holler 'STOP!'"), the dystopian "Ho

organizes concerts at The Coffee Bar (yes, rock concerts at a coffee shop) in Bennington. Vermont Country contributor Roberta Stone introduces us to a new art space in Wilmington, aptly named I Love Art Space. Telly Halkias, a local favorite theater columnist, takes us inside Bennington's Monument Arts & Cultural Center. Bob Audette also talks to a local musical duo — though educators by day — and Chris Mays and Kristopher Radder take us inside a high-profile show at The Stone Photos by Gena Mangiaratti Church in Brattleboro. — Vermont Country And since you can't have winter holidays The author holds a sprig of rosewithout nostalgia, Joe Rivers and Lee Ha mary found in a drink at the dug up some photos from Brattleboro's Dorset Inn while "helping" writer winters past.

Gordon Dossett review the wintry menu options. ho ho" by Liz Phair ("That ain't no sleigh bells jingling on the rooftop / The landlord is here and he's changing the locks") and the breezy "Till the End of the Year (Bye Buy By)" by Anna Nalick that muses on shopping away the heartbreak ("I hauled my heart to the nearest cashier"). If you'd like to shop your tortured heart out in Southern Vermont, Jennifer Brandt takes us on a holiday shopping tour of our region's downtowns. I hope Jen had a less frustrating experience than the one Maxine sings about ("I dodge a city plow, a salter and an SUV / That's when some drunken Santa crashes down right into me"), and if not, I hope she listened to some good music in the car. We do know she enjoyed some good food: She also takes us on dining excursions to Reluctant Panther in Manchester and Niramit in Bennington. For more in Bennington, Gabriel Schatz recommends four new restaurants in town.

As dependable as the sun coming up each day, even if behind clouds and snow: We have some recommendations of local cannabis shops, this time with a focus on holiday shopping options, and a list of soul-soothing movies (they're not always soul-soothing, but this time they are) from our cultured contributor Dan Tebo. And how could I forget: Miss Kitty is back, and friskier than ever. As the days get shorter, may you take whatever light you can find, even if artificial. And when the frustration hits, like Maxine Linehan sings, think of the good ones. Gena Mangiaratti, whose first name sounds like "Jenna," is editor of Vermont Country magazine and is arts & entertainment editor for Vermont News & Media. She lives in Brattleboro with her cat, Theodora, and welcomes your post-idyllic holiday music recommendations at gmangiaratti@reformer.com.

For straight-up food porn, Gordon Dossett and Stewart Cairns visited, photographed, and graciously tested several options for wintry cocktails and dishes in the Northshire — a region also known for its shopping options. For stuff you can make at home, our nutrition columnist Katharine A. Jameson is back with a healthier twist on popular winter comfort food. On the entertainment front, our young correspondent Robyn Jensen takes us inside the Hooker-Dunham in Brattleboro, and I had a brief chat with the fellow who

4 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

The author recommends kissing your cat to ward off the winter blues.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Southern Vermont edition By Gordon Dossett

By Joe Rivers and Lee Ha

By Telly Halkias

By Gena Mangiaratti

with Kat: Comfort table By Katharine A. Jameson

into Bennington: 18 Bite 4 new restaurants By Gabriel Schatz

By Bob Audette

concerts and more 42 Holiday at The Coffee Bar

quirky theater 25 Cozy, in Brattleboro

45 Vermont Country Homes shops offer 53 Cannabis gift fodder column: Feel-good 56 Movie films for your seasonal ennui

By Jennifer Brandt

By Robyn Jensen

By Jennifer Brandt

teachers become 39 Local music duo by night

to Thailand from Bennington 19 Journey

The Art of Gifting 13 Drink & Dine 27 Reluctant Miss Kitty escapes the 32 17 The Panther: History doldrums of winter and innovation invigorate the plate

The Stone Church: Intimate venue draws big names By Chris Mays

A look back at Brattleboro winters

Arts & cultural center on the rise

3 Contributors 4 Editor’s note For 7 Food Thought

Eat, drink, be merry:

By Miss Kitty

By Gena Mangiaratti

By Dan Tebo

34 New art space in Wilmington By Roberta C. Stone

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT WITH KAT

Comfort table

We don't need to lose control around the holidays

Jill Wellington — Pixabay

By Katharine A. Jameson Vermont Country correspondent ozy slippers by the fire, a hand wrapped around yours, a kiss under the mistletoe. Many things represent holiday comfort to us — feelings, people, clothing, locations and food. Especially food. A fleeting thought can drive us to the kitchen cabinet or a fast-food drive-thru. Emotional triggers happen quickly. It’s easy to grab the foods that symbolize comfort and safety without a second thought. Add that to the stress of the holidays, and off we go ...

We often eat for reasons other than hunger. Who hasn’t experienced get-

ting upsetting news and reaching for the chocolate? While family gatherings can be incredibly joyful, they can also be stressful. Stress cravings seem innocuous enough, but sometimes comfort foods can sabotage … well, everything. No matter our mental state or the place we are in our lives, emotional triggers are real and happen quickly. They often seem beyond our control. What, exactly, makes us reach for food for comfort and how can we manage our triggers? Level of comfort: A lot or a little? It’s normal to eat in response to our

emotions. After all, many of our positive experiences, like holidays and other events, revolve around food. Those associations are integral to what triggers our cravings and determines the foods for which we grab when we’re feeling a little off. While it’s customary, the degree to which we grab for comfort foods varies. When the holiday pounds don’t come off quite as easily once the calendar year changes, it may be helpful to trace the root cause of why we seek consolation through food. Stress: Stress eating isn’t just in your head. It’s a real phenomenon for which there’s a scientific explanation. When vermontcountry.com | 7

Inside-Out we stress out (and who doesn’t?) we produce higher levels of a hormone called cortisol. Elevated levels of cortisol make us crave sweet, salty and fatty foods — all the stuff we seek for comfort! Managing stress may be easier said than done, but knowing more about its effect not only on our mood, but on our waistlines, may provide more impetus to destress in other ways. So why does stress eating feel so good in the moment? When we eat carbs, we secrete insulin. This rise in insulin causes a serotonin release, leading to a boost in mood. If only for a moment, we feel happier and have a sense of well-being. Protein lacks this effect, which explains why we gravitate to foods that are higher in carbohydrates. What to do? Identify where you’re hungry. I asked my kids the same thing my mother asked me. “Where are you hungry? Your stomach or your mouth?” Sometimes we just want to eat a delicious morsel for the benefit of our taste buds. Once you know where the craving comes from, you have more control to defeat it. Restriction vs. satisfaction. Very few positive things come from restriction. When we restrict foods, we’re more likely to eat for comfort. Guess what we grab? Those foods on our no-no list! We are less likely to be satisfied if we’re eating to fill a void or to destress. Tune into your body’s cues as soon as you realize you may be eating for comfort and redirect if possible. Mindless eating. Whether it’s at a party or a holiday meal, eating without consciously paying attention to what we’re putting in our mouths or how much we’re chewing is

Katharine A. Jameson — Vermont Country correspondent

Enjoy this healthier version of a crowd fave that comforts with less fat and more hearty ingredients, while maintaining all the taste. Ingredients

½ teaspoon dried rosemary

2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts

¼ teaspoon dried sage

2 tablespoons butter or ghee

Salt and pepper to taste

1 medium onion, diced

1 large red potato, diced (about 1 ½ cups)

2 carrots, peeled and diced

¼ cup white wine

3 stalks celery, chopped

4 cups chicken stock

3 sprigs fresh thyme

1 cup peas, frozen

2 bay leaves

½ cup yellow corn, frozen

4 tablespoons white unbleached flour, divided

¼ cup heavy cream

8 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Chicken Pot Pie Method

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat ghee and add chicken breasts, skin side down. Brown on both sides. Remove and set aside. Add onion, carrots, celery, thyme and bay leaves. Sauté until onions are translucent. Add 3 tablespoons of flour, rosemary, sage, salt and pepper. Stir to combine and allow to cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat.

Add potato, wine, broth, stirring to combine. Add back in the chicken breasts, cover and simmer for low-medium heat for about 30 minutes or more. Taste for seasoning. Before serving, stir in corn, peas and cream. Remove chicken and peel off skin. Cut into cubes and return to mixture. Thicken with additional tablespoon of flour if desired. Serve over rice, quinoa or biscuits!

Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits Ingredients 2 cups unbleached white organic flour 4 teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon baking soda 1½ teaspoons sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1/3 cup frozen butter, grated or cut with a pastry cutter 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup whole milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar added to it) Method Preheat oven to 450°F. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar and salt in a large cold bowl. Mix in cut butter and mush using hands until the mixture is

coarse and looks like pea-size crumbles. Add in 3/4 cup of the buttermilk and mix until the batter is moistened. Add more if needed. Transfer to floured surface and knead until batter sticks together. Press out until about ½ inch thick. Fold and repeat about 4-5 times so you have layers when the biscuits bake. Press out until dough is about 1” thick. Use a glass to cut out discs of the dough, placing on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 10-11 minutes or until fluffy and golden brown. Serve immediately!

common among us all. When possible, be mindful not only about food choices, but about how and why you’re eating, too. Triggers. Psychologists suggest identifying triggers by keeping a food/mood journal. If this seems daunting or likely to compound the problem, the first step is attributing eating habits to their source. Am I eating because I’m physically hungry or because I’m feeling a certain way emotionally? It may sound trivial, but knowing the WHY is all powerful in stopping the WHEN. Rewards. Identifying the positive triggers that can drive us to the cupboard to celebrate is just as important as recognizing the negative ones. Perhaps stemming from childhood, food is something we can use to reward ourselves. From a festive meal to a celebratory snack after a job well done, it’s difficult to unravel a feeling of reward in connection to a specific food. Try a non-food reward to get away from that link. Destressing. Connecting the event that triggered the craving is a pivotal clue for the reason we grab for comfort. A positive non-food activity from a walk down the office hall or stairs to a five-minute meditation is a huge start. Food choices. Comfort food choices offer us contentment with rich ingredients like carbs, cheese and cream — combined, if possible. Making healthier choices is a great step toward curbing habits that may sabotage our health. Though this rich winter recipe has a touch of cream in it, enjoy a healthier version that comforts with less fat and more hearty ingredients — while maintaining all the taste. ~ vermontcountry.com | 9

MONUMENT ARTS AND CULTURE

Like a Phoenix rising

One of the galleries at the Monument Arts & Cultural

Monument Arts & Cultural Center is rebranded and plots an ambitious future By Telly Halkias Vermont Country correspondent BENNINGTON — If ever a world-class events venue gone dormant was ripe for a new life, it was the former Bennington Center for the Arts. With close to five years of having either very little activity or its doors completely closed, the spacious and very noticeable structure in Bennington’s West End is now in new hands, and heading toward the future with hope, anticipation and a sense of community needed to make it fit in Southwest Vermont. It’s a familiar building, now with a new name, the Monu-

ment Arts & Cultural Center (MACCenter). The sprawling 36,000 square-foot structure sitting on 5.8 picturesque acres just off of Vt. Route 9 in Bennington’s West End is now finding itself like a phoenix rising from a previous life where it sat in silence and shadows since before the pandemic. Executive Director Kristine Lewis, who had had a long career in professional dance, theater, and casting, and who also ran an arts center in Bucks County, Pa., relocated to Bennington this year “to take on this new challenge which is totally a labor of love.” “When this opportunity was presented to me, it was too

10 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

MONUMENT ARTS AND CULTURE All of this, and more, according to Lewis, is “on the way back and already ongoing.” Changes in ownership started in 2017, when Laumeister and Small donated the center to now-defunct Southern Vermont College, and then reacquired it before its current holder, the Monument Arts & Cultural Center, organized as a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

The Monument Arts & Cultural Center is at 44 Gypsy Lane, Bennington

Photos by Michael Albans — Vermont Country good to pass up,” Lewis said in the aftermath of a recent gallery opening, the center’s first return to showing art. “Bennington has so much positive energy surrounding it, and the people here have been welcoming and very open to working with us to find ways for the center to reintegrate itself into the community, a place it held for a long time.”

The lobby at the Monument Arts & Cultural Center.

Indeed, the center was the brainchild of the late Bruce Laumeister, a photo developing mogul, and his wife Elizabeth Small, an artist and gallery owner, who built the structure in three phases over the course of a decade, starting in 1994. For years, it housed a professional theater company, a vast permanent collection of paintings, a museum on the history of Vermont covered bridges, a gift shop, various studios, and residential space to accommodate visiting VIPs. The property also includes spacious parking, and once hosted outdoor sculpture exhibits.

"Soldier's Joy," a pastel by artist Corey Pitkin, in a gallery at the Monument Arts & Cultural Center.

The performing arts theater at the Monument Arts & Cultural Center.

Already, it’s been a busy year. The Berkshire Dance Theatre relocated its Bennington studio there. This spring, the center’s 315-seat, two-tiered theater hosted the annual “Bennington’s Got Talent” competition, and the local community troupe, Walloomsac River Theatre Company (WRTC), has begun staging its plays in the same space. The Covered Bridge Museum is being moved to one of the vacant art galleries, and its former space is already leased to another nonprofit organization soon to be announced. Vincent Tatro, president and artistic director of WRTC, vermontcountry.com | 11

MONUMENT ARTS AND CULTURE room, resurrection of the gift shop through a leased opportunity and the establishment of a Norman Rockwell museum space.

George Van Hook stands next to one of his paintings at the Monument Arts & Cultural Center. said that “the rebirth of the venue that is now Monument Arts & Cultural Center in Bennington has opened up more opportunities for the local community to engage with each other, while expanding the local arts scene.” “WRTC is proud to be among the first of many local organizations to collaborate with the Center, and we are grateful to have access to the venue’s beautiful 315-seat proscenium-stage theatre,” Tatro said. “Performing there is like being a part of history.” Nationally renowned watercolorist Tony Conner, a Bennington resident and member of New York City’s legendary Salmagundi Club, is currently showing nine paintings as part of MACCenter’s recently opened exhibition, “Vermont Landscapes & Corey Pitkin Pastels,” which also served as a new gallery launch under the center’s new “reimagined” mantra. Conner described the center as a place that in the past “has always been a marvelous venue for painting exhibits.” “Much of the gallery space back then was used to display a permanent collection with some limited room and opportunities for new shows,” Conner said. “The resurrected Monument Center is really committed to rotating exhibits that will display varied styles and genres from a wide variety of artists. I’m looking forward not only to exhibiting there, but having the chance to view terrific work from many other artists as well.”

It doesn’t stop there. There’s also the future possibility of launching a kitchen and restaurant in one of the former galleries to complement event-planning. This would also support engaging local establishments for catering. Also, the center is pursuing increased professional theater shows focusing on hiring locals. This is for both Actor’s Equity and non-union roles, such as for the upcoming play “Love Letters,” and the holiday season staging of “The Sound of Music,” whose casting calls emphasize local talent, both for adults and children. On top of all that, MACCenter plans to work with local schools to help stand up a children’s theater. The list is nearly dizzying, but executive director Lewis remains undaunted in her drive, vision, and passion for the journey ahead. “The potential is here at the Monument Center for the entire community to come together and make the place its own,” Lewis said. “That’s really what this is all about, and it’ll take some effort to get there. But everything I have seen so far is so affirming and positive and we’ve had a great start. I’m adding events to the calendar every day. This beautiful treasure was never meant to be for just some people or a gathered few. It’s here in Bennington to be for everyone.” The Monument Arts & Cultural Center is at 44 Gypsy Lane, Bennington. For more information, call 802-3184444, email MonumentCenterVT@gmail.com or visit monumentcentervt.org. ~

What's to come ... November

Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28: Yoga in the Gallery, every Tuesday 10:30 a.m. for the month Nov. 10 & 11: Two ballroom classes with Pat & Peg Walsh – plus an evening dancing with the band Nov. 17 & 18: Theater: “Love Letters”

December Dec. 3: Comedian Rabbi Bob Alper

The vibe surrounding anyone associated with the “reimagined” center is clear to see: excitement, hope, hard work, but more than anything, community.

Dec. 10: Bennington County Choral Choir – Christmas Concert

Short- and long-term plans include more leased space to local organizations, creating a cultural hub in the West End. These include events such as weddings and other gatherings, business meetings to be held in the world-class conference

Dec. 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30: Theater: “The Sound of Music” with Oren Gradus, Taylor Mitchell with a Q & A from Sam Von Trapp.

Dec. 17: “The Nutcracker” – Manchester Dance

12 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Drink & Dine

Photo by Lorianna Weathers

Visitors to Niramit can admire the intricate Victorian architecture in the dining room while they enjoy their food.

vermontcountry.com | 13

Treat yourself to food and drink for the holidays

here are places to go. (And if you’re thinking of dinner, book well ahead to avoid coal in your stocking.)

The Reluctant Panther

Stewart Cairns — Vermont Country

Drinks at the Reluctant Panther in Manchester include Dear John, named for a beloved regular, featuring an in-house limoncello which gives the drink a lively citrus edge; The Reluctant Panther, which blends Vermont vodka, lemon juice, Chambord and Prosecco; and Sugar Bob’s Old Fashioned, with smoked maple syrup, blended with Vermont maple bourbon, smoked bitters, cherry and orange. By Gordon Dossett Vermont Country In December 1922, an iconic poem of the last century (T.S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land”) declared “April is the cruelest month.” In Vermont, most non-skiers would pick, oh, January

(the coldest month), as being cruelest. Still, we have the holidays to cheer us, which brings me to the subject of this article: places to ward off the winter chill, elegantly. If we are fortunate enough this holiday season to be able to treat ourselves,

The Reluctant Panther has a tangled history, which in the last century involves a British owner, confusion of a catamount and panther, and beasts being reluctant because of too many humans traipsing around. As striking as the establishment’s name are its food and drinks. A drink made only here, called The Reluctant Panther, blends Vermont vodka, lemon juice, Chambord and prosecco — creating an elixir that is smooth, soothing and dangerous. Sugar Bob’s Old Fashioned is — in the words of one of my companions — “like drinking a campfire” — in a good way: a subtle smokiness emerges from smoked maple syrup, blended with Vermont maple bourbon, smoked bitters, cherry and orange. Dear John, named for a beloved regular, features an in-house limoncello which gives the drink a lively citrus edge (not the cloying sweetness of some limoncellos). The drinks pair beautifully with lobster fondue. Dipping slices of tasty French bread into the fondue delivers velvety warmth, the lobster and soft brie little moguls on the bread. The inn part of The Reluctant Panther holds just 20 rooms. The dining room, a hushed oasis, is open both to inn guests and the public. For winter, Chef Sigal Rocklin envisions a menu with

14 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

HOLIDAY TREATS

Stewart Cairns — Vermont Country

Pumpkin pie served with a fossil of a maple leaf in powdered sugar at the Dorset Inn.

Gordon Dossett — Vermont Country

The Silver Fork is serving the Horchata Eggnog (left) and the Winter Solstice to warm up holiday guests.

venison osso buco, short ribs braised in Switchback ale, and seasonal vegetables (Brussels sprouts, purple potatoes, carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes). The Reluctant Panther 39 W Road, Manchester, VT 05254 Open for dinner and drinks Tuesdays-Saturdays, 5:30-8:30 p.m. 802-362-2568 reluctantpanther.com

The Dorset Inn Built in 1796, The Dorset Inn claims on its website to be “Vermont’s Most Historic and Charming Inn.” In its graceful, cozy rooms, artfully ushered into this century, and in the cheerful, heartfelt welcome of its staff, the inn’s history and charm abound. Dining areas befit the smaller scale of an old inn, which in turn creates a quiet warmth. For our group, that warmth meant moments when

the food and drink turned us inward, reliving idyllic moments from our past. The smoked trout appetizer, accompanied by light, crisp potato chips, cast one of us back to memories of smoked whitefish suffused with nostalgia for a Long Island childhood. The pumpkin pie cocktail hinted at a joyous Christmas morning, scented by vanilla Yankee Candles. And the vegan lentil-stuffed squash flavored with coconut cream had a savory richness that cast me back to my first glorious vegetarian dinner in a farmhouse on the windswept west highlands of Scotland. Drinks for the holiday season include a light, refreshing cranberry mimosa (with sugared cranberries and a hint of orange); a Vermont mapletini (Smugglers’ Notch Gin, Whistlepig maple syrup and a sugared rim); the Pumpkin Pie cocktail (Stoli vanilla vodka, pumpkin pie liqueur, Bailey’s Irish cream, a dash of cream, pumpkin sugar rim); and a frosted margarita (Hornitos Reposado tequila, Cointreau, Pama liqueur, cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, lime and lemon juice, sugared rim). For wintry food, Executive Chef Jon Gatewood features a New York strip steak (with mushrooms from Sole Connection Farm in Arlington and hand-cut fries); pan-seared duck (with an orange and cranberry reduction); and the vegan red lentil stuffed squash. All entrees come with vegetables, cooked to crisp, fresh perfection.

9 p.m.; also open to the public and guests for breakfast, Saturdays and Sundays 8-9:45 a.m. 802-867-5500 dorsetinn.com/fooddrink/dining-at-thedorset-inn

The Silver Fork Owners Melody and Mark French transformed the midcentury Mark Skinner library into less Jetsons, more Frank Sinatra (as Melody puts it). It’s cool and warm at the same time. For winter, it features the Winter Solstice, with pear vodka, prosecco, a fig shrub made with champagne vinegar and blue cheese — the latter two ingredients giving a balance of bitter with the sweet pear. The Horchata Eggnog drinks at first as a traditional eggnog: rich, creamy, sweet, with a touch of cinnamon, but on its finish comes a surprising burst of heat from jalapeño peppers. I confess: I’m not a huge fan of horchata or jalapeño heat — but my hand mysteriously kept reaching for the eggnog to have just one more sip. To fend off the cold, bartender Camille Horace also whips up a warm mojito with mint tea. For winter fare, Chef Mark French prepares osso bucco and lamb, flavored with stone ground mustard, accompanied by red potatoes and yellow squash.

Dessert can mean pumpkin pie, served at your table or in a sitting room in front of a roaring fire. Or you can have a Dorset Inn Milkshake (not for kids since it features Captain Morgan rum, ice cream, and what I taste as Bailey’s Irish Cream) — a surprising finish for a wintry evening.

The Silver Fork 48 W Road, Manchester, VT 05254 Open for dinner and drinks Tuesdays-Saturdays, 5-9 p.m. 802-768-8444 thesilverforkvt.com

In short, a visit to the Dorset Inn is not just wonderful food and drink, artfully prepared; it is a cozy comforter of a place — perfect for a snowy evening.

The menu for winter has not been set at the publication deadline; however, it is likely to feature duck and coq au vin. The arancini appetizer is especially delectable: deep fried risotto that creates a slight crunch flavored wonderfully with its tomato dip — smoky from the chorizo, sweet as sun-dried tomatoes.

The Dorset Inn 8 Church St., Dorset, VT 05251 Open for dinner and drinks daily, 5:30-

The Copper Grouse

vermontcountry.com | 15

HOLIDAY TREATS Bartender Patrick Cote-Abel poured me a glass of armagnac, which will be featured for winter months. This is one specially blended for the Copper Grouse by Bhakta Spirits, now housed in what used to be Green Mountain College in Poultney. This armagnac is created from 21-year-old stock (distilled white wine) and aged in Islay whisky barrels. After selecting the blend, this armagnac aged a year in Vermont.

(Monkey’s Tail). It’s a traditional Chilean drink, harkening back to Sofia’s roots, a cool drink for Chile’s warm winters, an excellent substitute for an eggnog. Sofia applies the sous vide technique to Marie biscuits and pisco (a Chilean brandy) and strains the mixture, creating a rich vanilla base. Blend in milk, cream, cardamom and orange peel and top it with a Marie biscuit. Smooth, creamy and luscious.

It has a hint of vanilla on the nose, and going down, this armagnac’s peaty soft burn tosses off any puny outdoor chill.

The penicillin is named for its curative powers. (True, just one sip cures what ails you.) Not every penicillin is going to have a 14-year-old Glenlivet (aged in cognac casks) as its base. Olivia also adds a ginger liqueur and honey syrup for sweetness and fresh lemon juice for balance. The result is a scotch-forward, bright, refreshing cocktail with a subtle undertone of ginger.

Pair it with the dark chocolate tartlet (setting aside, for a moment, its scoop of vanilla ice cream). The crisp, crunchy crust and smooth midnight chocolate complements the armagnac’s peaty warmth. The Copper Grouse 3835 Main St., Manchester, VT 05254 Open at 5 p.m. for dinner and drinks daily except Wednesdays 802-362-0176 coppergrouse.com

The Restaurant at Hill Farm Opened to the public about a year ago, The Restaurant at Hill Farm strives to be “creative without being intrusive,” according to general manager Sofia Villalón. This means drawing heavily on herbs and vegetables in the Inn’s garden for both meals and cocktails. Bartender Olivia Lombardo served my companions and me four winter cocktails. She was runner-up in a bartender competition recently — her Bee’s Knees winning over judges — which suggests she knows her way around swizzle sticks, muddlers, fresh fruits and old spirits. I will confess right here: Faced with a line-up of cocktails, I usually like most and love one. For the four on offer at Hill Farm, try as I might, and I tried mightily, I loved all four equally. Each was enticing and delicious in its own way. The Cola de Mono sounds better in Spanish than its English translation

Liv’s A Few Words is a play on The Last Word, a drink created over 100 years ago. Olivia’s version substitutes hibiscus-infused pisco and mescal for gin and lime juice, and adds in the traditional Luxardo, and yellow Chartreuse. It’s a sweet, but not overly sweet, full drink, complemented by a Luxardo cherry. The Great Pumpkin blends pumpkin puree, cognac, amaretto, lemon and egg whites for a frothy “pumpkin pie in a drink,” as one of my companions said. Like the Cola de Mono, this, too, could stand in for an eggnog. The pumpkin is in harmony with the amaretto, the sweetness offset by the lemon. The Inn at Hill Farm has 28 rooms for guests. The bar is open to the public, as is the dining room. The winter holiday menu was not set when we visited, but Sofia says chef Austin Poulin probably will feature a parsnip and raclette schnitzel; stuffed koginut squash from Clear Brook Farm in Shaftsbury; celery root cordon bleu; a lamb rack from Studio Hill Farm, also in Shaftsbury; Woodlawn Farms rib eye; Wilcox pork; and Sweet Pickins Farm duck. The newly outfitted dining room and bar features a spectacular view of the Green Mountains. The interior dining

16 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Gordon Dossett — Vermont Country

The Copper Grouse's silky dark chocolate tartlet pairs well with a quickly vanishing Bhakta armagnac, blended specially for the restaurant.

Stewart Cairns — Vermont Country

The margherita pizza at the Restaurant at Hill Farm.

hall is a large, open space: a sleek, modern-yet-cozy barn. One of my companions even raved about the bathroom, straight out of an upscale camp with Dorset Daughters almond blossom soap and a flickering candle bathing the light pine walls in an amber glow. In short, a visit to the Restaurant at Hill Farm is a retreat to an idyllic cabin that has a dash of urban sophistication in the hills of Vermont. The Restaurant at Hill Farm 458 Hill Farm Road, Sunderland, VT 05250 Thursday-Sunday, 5-8:30 p.m. (bar stays open until 9 p.m.) 802-392-0770 sagrafarms.com/farm-retreats/hill-farm/ dining

Drink & Dine

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A Journey to Thailand in Bennington Niramit Thai's authentic experience

I had never experienced in my life. Jariya has mastered the craft of service after many years of honing her skills in hospitality, owning her own spa in Bangkok for 15 years before deciding to begin a new journey in Bennington, Vermont. Jariya outlines the five elements she keeps in mind when cultivating a guest's experience. The flavor: how all of the elements of the dish balance and how every element of the meal is balanced with each other The sound is everything from the music to the sound of others enjoying each other's company and their meals. The feel of not just the food, but the plates, the glasses, the tablecloth The aroma: While many Americans may balk at the appearance of oil on, let's say, a soup, Jariya insists that it's essential to leave the oil on to release the aromas of the food truly. The visual of how the food looks: Is it beautiful and captivating? Does it capture the essence of the dish? Dinner is a multi-course presentation, and while Jariya accommodates all of her guests, trust me when I say you want to let her take you Photos by Stewart Cairns — Vermont Country on a culinary journey.

Tom Kha Gai, a Thai coconut chicken soup, is prepared at Niramit in Bennington. By Jennifer Brandt Vermont Country correspondent

BENNINGTON — Walking into Niramit Thai, at 124 Elm St., Bennington, nestled within South Shire A Little Hotel, feels like stepping through a portal to another place and time. Drawing inspiration from diverse facets of Thai culture, from the grandeur of King Chulalongkorn of Siam during the Victorian era to the organic marvels of the Jariya brothers' rural Thai hometown, this intimate Victorian Inn conceals a gem that's as extraordinary as it is hidden (though, hopefully not for much longer). The first thing you will notice about the exquisite space is the Thai art woven into the elegant sitting room. Open sliding doors welcome guests into a formal dining room and transport you into a Thai flavor paradise. Full disclosure: the author loves Thai cuisine and culture, so much so that she spent her honeymoon in Thailand, so this country's cuisine was quite familiar to me before I walked in the door. The service, however, was something

She has planned the menu out so that you get a full Thai experience, and the way that dinner is served is exactly how it would be served in a Thai home. Although Thai restaurants exist in Thailand and are increasing in popularity, locals in Thailand typically cook their meals at home, or, if they do eat out, it’s typically from a cart or truck during the day. We began with two traditional soups, one after the other, Tom Yum Nam Khon and Tom Kha Gai. The first was a twist on a Tom Yum, which is a clarified soup, whereas this version had milk added to the shrimp, chili, herb, and mushroom base, creating a creamy version. The second soup is one of my favorites, featuring lemongrass and coconut milk with tender mushrooms and chicken floating in the tangy, creamy broth. We had Laab Gai in an unusual presentation to bridge the first and second courses, prettily cupping the minced chicken, herbs, and chilis inside lettuce leaves. This was a perfect palate cleaner for the next course.

Having already experienced a symphony of flavors, the next course served family-style continued the symphonic journey. Laid out before us were Masamun curry with chicken, creamy, sweet, and earthy, and Gaeng Gari, a mellow tangy yellow curry made hearty with potato and carrots; Choo Chi Pla, salmon in a spicy but balanced red curry and Goong Pad Prew Wan, a sweet and sour crispy prawn dish. All of this was accompanied by large steaming bowls of jasmine rice doled out by our hosts. Everything ties back to extraordinary service, and we were told that the host served the first bite of each serving, and the rest of the dish left on the table to go back for more, which you will surely be tempted into. The lunch experience here is more casual but not any less extraordinary in flavor. Much like the Thais eat lunch, the experience at Niramit for lunch is like what you would find in Thailand. Typically, lunch is a quicker affair, a one-pot meal that you might grab from a local street vendor and a dish that is easy to transport (some things are cross-cultural). Designed with lunch breaks in mind, whether it’s dine-in or takeout, the meals at lunch will be quick and easy for dine-in or takeout, but certainly not short on flavor. In addition to the luxurious multi-course dinner experience, the chefs were also happy to share new items from their upcoming lunch menu with us, including their shrimp pad thai and beef noodle soup. For fans of Pad Thai, this version may be different than you are used to if you are only familiar with the versions in American Thai restaurants created to please Western palates. The version at Niramit is less sweet and more earthy than other versions stateside, owing to being created with tamarind paste, which is the traditional preparation. The briny shrimp contrasts the earthy sauce, and even after several courses, I kept going in for more bites. The beef noodle soup had star anise and clove notes and reminded me of Chinese five spice. The dish was balanced with bean sprouts and (celery leaf herbs), creating a warming and fresh-tasting dish.

The fried banana with honey and sesame, at Niramit in Bennington. vermontcountry.com | 19

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Cozy, quirky theater Don't pass by the Hooker-Dunham in Brattleboro

Photo provided by Shannon Ward

"Thorn In My Side," a comedy game show, is the flagship of this iteration of the theater. By Robyn Jensen Vermont Country correspondent BRATTLEBORO — If you have lived in or near the Brattleboro area, and have never been to the Hooker-Dunham Theater and Gallery, 139 Main St. #407, the venue's co-managers wouldn't be surprised. "The amount of people that come in for some random event, [and say] 'I've lived here all my life and never knew this was here' is incredible," says Shannon Ward, who handles com-

munication, while her co-manager Cameron Cobane mostly handles the physical handiwork involved in theater maintenance. Despite its nature as a literal hole in the wall in the Hooker-Dunham building in downtown Brattleboro, accessed in the back of an alley, the theater is a thriving space of native Vermont art and culture. "People com[ing] in from out of town often say, 'Oh, this is like one of many off-off-Broadway theaters that I've seen

in New York,'" says Cobane. Its weird and wonderful events include game shows, stand-up comedy, live readings, in-house theater, touring theater, live music, and even hypnotists. Over this holiday season, planned events include a performance by the Vermont Suitcase Company, the regular monthly game show "Thorn in My Side," and a live reading from the Baker Street Readers on New Year's Day. The Readers get their name from the vermontcountry.com | 25

Sherlock Holmes stories they most often read, but have also dipped their toes into Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" during the holiday season. This time, they are venturing out into a new set of stories, P.G. Wodehouse's "Jeeves and Wooster" tales, about an incompetent English noble and his hyper-competent valet. If you get invested in the stories, keep an eye out, as the Readers occasionally host periods of regular readings. And though these events predate the current managers, this philosophy of regular programming was one of the things that led to the flagship of this iteration of the theater, the game show "Thorn in My Side."

When we were super locked down in quarantine, a bunch of friends and I would play 'Jeopardy' on Zoom, and we would write our own 'Jeopardy' games and stuff. They got very silly and very creative. Shannon Ward "When we were super locked down in quarantine, a bunch of friends and I would play 'Jeopardy' on Zoom, and we would write our own 'Jeopardy' games and stuff. They got very silly and very creative. And so when we took over the theater, kind of as things were opening up again, a couple friends and I were like, 'Let's keep doing that, but let's make it a show," says Ward. After about two years of iteration and development, the comedy game show has only gotten bigger. The show mostly takes the form of several mini-games, some close to the original "Jeopardy" idea, and some not so close, all put together after a particular theme, which can include things such as Fitness, Breakfast, or the End of the World. But the main draw of the show is the chaotic energy that it brings to the table. "'Thorn in My Side' has only grown

since it started because it really is unlike anything else you can see live in person anywhere near Brattleboro," says Cobane. Another feature of "Thorn in My Side" is the community that has sprung up around it. In a more populated place, or even just with a bigger venue, the same might not be true, but if you come enough, the people who put on the show will recognize you just as much as you recognize them. The theater has a sense of coziness, and promotes a sense of closeness between everyone there. And when there is intensity and action, as there was in the summer's production of "Year of the Rooster" by Olivia Dufault, you can feel the closeness there, too, the feeling of being right there in the action. The Vermont Suitcase Company show rounds out the program as a more accessible, all-ages retelling of the story of Good King Wenceslas. The Suitcase Company is a group of local comic actors that usually tours the state over summers. This will be its first time touring in the winter. The weird and eclectic, yet intimate and communal space of the Hooker-Dunham theater is the kind of thing that could only really exist in Vermont. So come check out the Baker

Kristopher Radder — Vermont Country file photo

TOP: Cameron Cobane and Shannon Ward hold a plaque to dedicate an art space to Bill Wieliczka at the Hooker-Dunham Theater in May 2022.

Photo provided by Shannon Ward

MIDDLE: Vermont Theatre Company has put on "Earnest" at the Hooker-Dunham Theater.

Photo provided by Shannon Ward

BOTTOM: "Thorn In My Side," a comedy game show, is the flagship of this iteration of the theater. Street Readers, or "Thorn in My Side." Or, better yet, look into renting the space for your own weird projects. The gallery space is also available for rent, and as a smaller venue, it functions as a good "practice space" for future exhibitions, according to Ward. So don't pass by the Hooker-Dunham Theater and Gallery. Though it may be out of your way, it is worth your while. Contact the Hooker-Dunham Theater and Gallery at hookerdunhamtheater@ gmail.org. ~

26 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

The Art of Gifting Southern Vermont's Unique Holiday Shopping Experiences

Photo provided by Malisun

The Malisun store in Brattleboro's Vermont Marketplace by the I-91 Exit 1. By Jennifer Brandt Vermont Country correspondent

BENNINGTON Bennington Museum

After exploring 14 galleries, a research library, and a 10-acre park with ever-changing sculptures, bring home a piece of the Bennington Museum that will last a lifetime. Show off your Jane Stickle quilt print tote bag at the nearest farmers market while donning your one-of-a-kind BELART Eco-Resin Opaque with Gold Leaf Necklace, a FairTrade, socially responsible, Vermont small business that supports and empowers artisan communities. Photo provided by Bennington Museum store

The Bennington Museum store located in the museum at 75 Main St. in Bennington.

Have a Grandma Moses fan in your life? After taking in her dazzling collection, the museum store has you covered with everything you could want, from books to prints to puzzles, celebrating the beloved Vermont folk artist.

Does someone in your life need pampering? Treat them to locally made goat soaps from Elmore Mountain Farms and lotions with scents like fennel and geranium lemongrass, and transport your loved ones to the gentle breeze of a summer day. Have a history buff in your life? The Bennington Museum Store has history books about both Bennington and Vermont history and about local residents Robert Frost, Norman Rockwell, Benjamin Franklin, and Abraham Lincoln's family, just to name a few. For the artisan in your life, the store has an extensive, unique, historic folk toy kit collection, including a beginner quilt kit, a clothespin doll kit, a weaving loom, sock monkey, and knit sets. For the young or the young at heart, the museum has several children's books written by local authors, historical children's games, old children's folk songs and so much more!

vermontcountry.com | 27

Gamers Grotto

For nearly two decades, Keith Carey has been an indispensable figure in the vibrant Bennington gaming community, nurturing a haven for gamers of all ages within a 30-mile tri-state radius. The Gamers Grotto, at 457 Main St., whose original focus was Magic The Gathering, has transformed into a beloved hub for card collectors, Dungeons and Dragons aficionados, Magic the Gathering masters as well as beginners, and aspiring Pokémon trainers. While most of the store is still focused on Magic The Gathering, pre-owned video games come in a close second. Any game that is currently not gathering at the space is always welcome. Carey’s goal is to be a welcoming gathering space for gamers of all types. The way Carey sees it: “Grow our youth and community into the gaming community. Getting people together within is more important than ever, and having a space for that is invaluable.” The Gamers Grotto is introducing a Youth League and learning sessions for aspiring gamers aged up to 17. Isabel Wissner — Vermont Country file photo

Jay's Art Shop & Frame Gallery at 115 South St., Bennington. Whether you're a fan of art, history or simply the joy of discovery, the Bennington Museum Store has something for everyone. From unique jewelry pieces to locally crafted artisan goods and books celebrating Vermont's treasures, this store is a testament to the heart and soul of this incredible community.

Jay's Art Shop & Frame Gallery

The beating heart of Jay’s Art Shop and Frame Gallery is Jay Zwynenburg. It all began in 1972 when the Manhattan native decided to trade the hustle and bustle of city life for the charm of Bennington, Vermont. The weekly Bennington-to-Manhattan commute had taken its toll, and he was ready for a change. While the Bennington Bookstore wasn't actively on the market then, the owners saw the perfect steward for their beloved shop in Jay. On May 1, 1972, he became the proud owner of the Bennington Bookstore, a role he held until 1984. Since then, he's remained integral to Bennington's business landscape. There are 10 departments inside Jay's Art Shop & Frame Gallery — including greeting cards, clothing, a beautiful framing studio, and artistic hardware — but the owner's favorite section of the store is an upstairs

office with barred windows that overlooks the main sales area on the first floor. It is an early version of a modern customer service desk. His space occupies the longtime home of the Alexander Drysdale & Son department store. Jay's Art Shop & Frame Gallery has a retro feel because it operates from an authentic old retail building. According to Zwyneburg, "Drysdale’s was like the R.H. Macy of Southern Vermont.” Jay’s Art Shop and Frame Gallery caters to all. His Vermont gift section does a brisk business with tourists, and his frame and art supplies cater to crafty locals. Framing is not just for artists: Have a piece from a loved one you think is particularly wonderful? Utilize the expertise of Jay’s framing shop this holiday season. Jay’s also stocks a wide range of items, including toys, fashion jewelry, accessories, Vermont-made bowls and plates, garden supplies, authentic handmade decor, calendars and clothing for the whole family. You'll find candles, Vermont products, greeting cards, wrapping paper, and more delightful treasures you won't want to miss. As always, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Jay’s is around to answer any and all questions you may have, from framing to gift-giving.

"I go in to Gamers Grotto a lot more often now that my kids are a little older into magic. Each time, it impresses me a little bit more. They spend endless time with my kids picking out 50¢ and $1 magic cards, with a sense of humor and good-natured attitude that was irresistible." David Traver Adolphus The store welcomes new gaming opportunities, and its shelves are brimming with games and accessories waiting to be discovered. Meet friendly and knowledgeable game master, Taylor Cobb, who will guide you through your gaming journey. See what satisfied customers have to say: "Great selection, does most tournaments (MTG, Pokemon, etc). The owner is a genuinely great person, and the shop is clean. Best place to go if you are looking for a brick-and-mortar games shop." — A, local guide

28 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

"I go in to Gamers Grotto a lot more

often now that my kids are a little older into magic. Each time, it impresses me a little bit more. They spend endless time with my kids picking out 50¢ and $1 magic cards, with a

sense of humor and good-natured attitude that was irresistible." — David Traver Adolphus The Gamers Grotto is more than a store;

it's a dynamic and evolving story of passion, dedication and community.

Hawkins House

Looking for a one-stop shop for hand-selected handmade jewelry, pottery, home decor, clothing and accessories? Look no further than Hawkins House at 262 North St. When founder Ron Spivak first opened the Hawkins House in 1977, Jimmy Carter was President, a new car cost $4,785, a loaf of bread went for 36¢, gas was 65¢ a gallon, and Vermont had more cows than people. Over the past 40 years, a lot has changed, but one important thing has not changed — Hawkins House's commitment to the community by providing exceptional quality handcrafted jewelry, crafts, unique gifts and customer service.

Photos provided

Northeast Mountain Footwear, above, is at 580 Canal St., Brattleboro. Gamers Grotto, below, is at 457 Main St., Bennington.

If you've ever visited Hawkins House, you may have been surprised by its size. "We have over 3,200 square feet of retail space, making it a haven for browsers," says owner Elizabeth Ganger. "We have the work of hundreds of artisans, including an exceptional selection of handcrafted jewelry in gold and silver." The Hawkins House crafts market has grown over the years to include two historic buildings with a modern expansion. "The additional space has allowed us to add new lines, including a whole new section for "Zippy Chicks" — an exquisite collection of new and gently used clothing." Hawkins House is well known as "the place to shop for jewelry," and even a quick look around will show you why. There is a wide selection of gold and silver earrings, necklaces, pendants, and bracelets, with or without stones. There is religious jewelry, including crosses and St. Christopher's medals. There is a large selection of sterling silver chains as well in a variety of styles and lengths — all at very reasonable prices. In addition to its extensive collection of handcrafted jewelry, Hawkins House has everything from blown glass to pottery, from books and cards to leather-bound journals and planners, from handbags to scarves, woodenware and cutting boards, jewelry boxes, aromatic candles, toys, games, clothing and much more. With so much to offer, how do you summarize what Hawkins House is? A jewelry store? A gallery? A gift shop? "We are all that," explains Elizabeth. "But most importantly, we are a fun place to shop, filled with beautiful things to amuse you, delight the senses, adorn you, and pamper you." Elizabeth and her husband Jonah are always looking for ways to improve the shop-

vermontcountry.com | 29

ping experience at Hawkins House. "New products are coming in every week." Online shopping is becoming more and more popular, not to mention convenient! Hawkins House is pleased to offer one of its most popular jewelry lines for secure online purchases — handcrafted jewelry by Ed Levin. Hawkins House is a second-generation family business proud of its 43-year history of providing exceptional quality jewelry, crafts. and gifts. The secret of their success? "Customer service," says Elizabeth. "We love our customers, and we do everything possible to reward them for their business." One way is by offering free gift-wrapping, and another is the Frequent Buyer Program. "Simply sign up and get 3% back on your purchases all year long. It’s our way of saying 'thanks!'" Visit Hawkins House and experience the joy of shopping in a place where beauty, art, and warmth come together.

BRATTLEBORO Zpots

Zpots - Where Vermont's Heart Meets Artistry Zpots, at 141 Main St., Brattleboro, embodies all that is Vermont, creating not merely pottery but a visionary experience. The mission is to nurture artistic freedom and share this vision with the world, ensuring that every purchase at Zpots represents more than just a beautiful piece of pottery; it signifies a connection to the Zpots ethos.

"The 'art' of our work is not the work itself... the experiences and moments cultivated around the pieces... the genuine feeling that happens when you are with them... give them... and receive them... that is the art…" Eric Hendrick and Noelle VanHendrick This family-run business is rooted in Vermont, where Eric Hendrick and Noelle VanHendrick, along with their three grown

Photo provided by Northeast Mountain Footwear

Northeast Mountain Footwear in the Vermont Marketplace, 580 Canal St, Brattleboro. sons, have not only homeschooled their children but also cultivated a sense of family within the Zpots crew. The biographies of their artisans on the website reveal a genuine sense of belonging to something greater than a pottery store. Every piece that Zpots lovingly produces exudes whimsy, joy, and, above all, love. Zpots boasts an extensive collection that includes mugs, serving trays, vases, plates, and an array of other handcrafted products, and you can buy entire sets for your home and matching mugs for the family. In addition to pottery, they offer whimsically designed handmade greeting cards. To complement these exquisite pieces, they provide a selection of warming teas, perfect for those cozy winter moments with a good book as the snow gently falls outside. Zpots also takes its commitment beyond the store's walls, demonstrating a strong commitment to a renewable future. They power their electric kilns with solar panels and the Vermont Cow Power program, which sources electricity from neighboring Vermont farms. This dedication reflects a genuine commitment to a sustainable future. For the notoriously hard-to-shop-for individuals in your life, Zpots offers a solution that ensures you won't leave empty-handed. Their handcrafted pieces embody nature, holiday spirit, joy, and love, making them the perfect choice for even the most discerning friends and family members.

Northeast Mountain Footwear Step into excellence with Northeast Mountain Footwear Northeast Mountain Footwear, a cherished family-run business, has been at the hearts of Swanzey, N.H., and Springfield, Mass., for over two decades. Newly opened in the recently revamped Vermont Marketplace, right off Exit 1 of I-91, there is ample free parking in a safe and well-lit lot. As a three-generation family business, the dedicated and experienced team is all about personalized service. With 25 years of serving the Brattleboro community, Northeast Mountain Footwear takes pride in providing top-notch customer service paired with the finest brands and an extensive selection. Vermonters understand the value of exceptional footwear, especially during the winter months, and NorthEast Mountain Footwear has you covered, specializing in the finest work boots, with a range that accommodates all types and includes extra large sizes and extra width options. Can't make it to the store? No problem! They will bring the boots to you. In addition to an extensive shoe and boot collection, the Brattleboro store carries Carhartt work clothing, including big and tall sizes. There is more than just work boots, with also a wide selection of top brands, including Chippewa, Red Wing, Keen,

30 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Carolina, New Balance, Skechers, and many more.

Malisun

Malisun: A journey of love, craftsmanship and sustainability In 2006, Kim, a native of Thailand, embarked on a journey that would take her from the heart of Southeast Asia to the picturesque shores of Block Island, Rhode Island. She was working on a work and travel program while her future husband was there renovating houses. They met aboard the ferry, where he tenderly attended to her as she battled seasickness, offering a comforting glass of ginger ale and a Dramamine. Little did she know that this journey would not only lead to a loving marriage but also the creation of Malisun, a thriving boutique and gift store that blends the cultural richness of Thailand with the artisanal spirit of New England. Today, Malisun is a testament to Kim's unwavering dedication to quality, community and environmental responsibility. After completing her master's degree, Kim settled in the United States. Despite the physical distance from Thailand, Kim's heart was always close to her homeland. She began crafting handmade jewelry in 2006, starting as a hobby and hosting jewelry parties in her home. The demand for her creations quickly grew, leading her to offer her jewelry at local markets in Putney and the farmers market in Brattleboro. Eventually, her designs made their way into some of the biggest craft shows in the Northeast.

Customers like Katie S. attest to the exceptional service and products at Malisun: “Malisun is a fabulous place to find unique styles and gifts. The staff is helpful and kind without being pushy. Give yourself the wonderful experience of shopping at Malisun.” Malisun stands out with its exceptional clothing line. Designed by Kim in collaboration with longtime partners, every piece is exclusively handmade in Thailand. The seamless blend of craftsmanship and creativity truly sets Malisun apart. This direct connection to Thailand allows Kim to maintain ethical and fair practices and support the people in her homeland. Every design adjustment is made based on over 15 years of customer feedback, making the clothing line a true collaboration between the owner and the community. In addition to supporting her home country, Kim also carries products from Nepal, India, Peru, Ecuador, the U.S. and other countries. Malisun's multicultural approach distinguishes it as a versatile boutique and gift store that caters to various interests and tastes, from clothing, jewelry, accessories, toys, and gifts that can't be found elsewhere. One particularly endearing aspect of Malisun is the dedication to sustainability. The store proudly sources products from ethical and fair trade suppliers, and contributes to climate action by planting trees and reducing carbon emissions through projects

at ecologi.com/malisun. To date, Malisun has been behind the planting of over 20,000

“Malisun is a fabulous place to find unique styles and gifts. The staff is helpful and kind without being pushy. Give yourself the wonderful experience of shopping at Malisun.” Katie S. on Google reviews trees and the avoidance of over 100 tons of carbon emissions. Malisun further demonstrates its environmental commitment by carrying products from the Vermont Clothing Company, a family-owned business, and prioritizing sustainability by operating as a carbon-neutral company and utilizing green energy from GMP cow power. The dedicated employees at Malisun are always willing to help you find the perfect gift, and they offer gift wrapping, adding a personal touch to every purchase. Malisun celebrates culture, craftsmanship and community. When you step into Malisun, you're not just shopping; you're becoming a part of a larger, heartwarming narrative — one that blends the richness of Thailand with the spirit of New England, creating a truly exceptional shopping experience.

The success of her jewelry business prompted Kim to establish her first open studio. Later, she expanded her studio into a boutique, sharing space with another business while still offering her signature jewelry. In 2020, Malisun faced the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a move from their downtown location to the newly renovated Vermont Marketplace. She expanded into a 4,000-square-foot space and added a large selection of gifts to the boutique, ensuring the business continued to thrive. At Malisun, the shopping experience is just as important as the product itself. Everyone who walks through the door feels Kim's warm presence and dedication to her business. The convenience of free parking and proximity to other shops, restaurants, a tailor, and a hair salon make it a one-stop destination for customers. With over 100 five-star reviews on Google and more than 250 on the store's website, it's evident that Kim's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is unwavering.

Kristopher Radder — Vermont Country

Gifts at Malisun in the Vermont Marketplace, 580 Canal St, Brattleboro.

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Photo provided Beowulf Sheehan

Tom Bodett is a married man, so look, but paws off.

Candy for Kitty

Miss Kitty — Vermont Country

Matt Paakkonen, owner of Lucky Lansdownes, is a Pisces, a water sign, so it's no surprise he enjoys any activity on the water.

Miss Kitty escapes the doldrums of winter

t is with much trepidation this Kitty looks toward the coming of winter. The discourteous descent of glacial temperatures, not to mention the limited (and hideous) footwear the bitter elements afford, may leave a Kitty listless and glum. In addition, this Kitty does not partake in the ridiculous hibernal rituals of Vermont. She is not a skiing or skating kind of kitty. Nor does she wish to tramp across frigid hillsides with aluminum waffle irons stuck to her feet.

Then, wretchedly, her left arm gets jammed up in the sleeve of the coat. The Tomcat does not even notice, and instead stands there like stupid statue, still gripping the shoulders of her garment. Only after she hops up and down and attempts to yank her arm free of the coat while crying aloud, “Ow, ow, David, I’m stuck!” does the Kitty notice her date’s head is locked in the direction of a top-heavy 20-something laced into a red Versace bent over the hostess stand.

As such, a Kitty must search for alternative entertainment during the doldrums of winter. The reader may already know, this author prefers to spend her time surrounded by kitty comforts: white linen, a crackling fire, a brandy or two ...

This Kitty is not a catty Kitty. She simply tires of such ordinary occurrences. It is no secret that when one heads out for the night, one will likely encounter a fetching young woman, whether she be the buxom waitress with an agreeable smile or the nubile pixie who flits bewitchingly behind the bar. How much more so annoying this becomes when one gazes across the table at her slackjawed dinner companion whilst he bumbles through his order.

On the other hand, as a Kitty of a certain age, one is aware even the most elegant night out (accompanied by the most dashing of Tomcats) has potential to sour. For example, imagine a Kitty has just walked into a restaurant, cheeks flush with winter wind. Maybe she feels quite the lady when her Tomcat goes to remove her coat. She might even think to herself, “Wow, this new night cream is really working!” Tom Bodett, Owner of the High Street and Green community arts and culture center Kitties, if you like a rugged renaissance man, this salt-and-pepper fox shall not disappoint. In addition to swinging his hammer up and down the Alaskan coast, Tom Bodett is a prolific author and longtime radio personality whose tenure includes aired work on “All Things Considered,” appearances on “The Moth Radio Hour” and a regular panelist’s seat on NPR’s gameshow, “Wait, Wait ... Don’t Tell Me!” However, many of you

Still, this Kitty does not look with disdain upon her sister kitties, rather, yearns for a little eye candy of her own. For this reason, she has spent endless hours of field research to compile a list of “Candy for Kitty,” a winter catalog of hunky Brattleboro business owners, sure to put the bow-wow in your meow-meow.

know him as the sexy baritone that is the voice of Motel 6: “I’m Tom Bodett for Motel 6, and we’ll leave the light on for you.”

nity woodworking shop co-founded by Bodett that provides instruction, tools and space to professional and novice woodworkers.

Oh Tommy, Tom, Tom. This Kitty will leave the light on for you all night long.

To be fair, this Kitty has zero interest to clomp about amongst swarms of sawdust and the unruly roar of table saws. That said, were Tom to offer some firm oneon-one power tool instruction, Kitty won't be complaining.

Tom is now the owner of the High Street and Green building, a five-story arts and culture center in the heart of Brattleboro that houses, among other organizations, a community pottery studio, the local radio station, WVEW, a vintage pinball arcade, and HatchSpace, the commu-

Tom is a Pisces. 178cm or 1.94 yds tall. In public, his favorite snack is blue cheese with Anjou pears. At home,

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it’s Flaming Hot Cheetos. While he’s made his home in the Green Mountains with his wife, Rita, some mornings he still yearns for the salty wind and silver shores of Homer, Alaska. Zach Corbin, Chef / Owner at Peter Havens Restaurant Nothing sparks Kitty’s appetite like a man who knows his way around the kitchen. Zach Corbin, the smokin’ hot owner and chef of Peter Havens Restaurant, knows how to satisfy even the most insatiable hunger. For cocktail: “Sage and Briar” made with Tito’s vodka, blackberry sage, simple syrup and fresh lemon. For appetizer: Duck liver pate with mustard, red onion jam and crostini OR tuna tartare with seaweed salad (all kitties loooove tuna). For main: Filet of beef with truffled mashed potatoes and haricot vert, though do ask to hear the specials, as Zach often creates a swordfish steak that will melt on a Kitty’s tongue. For dessert: Paws down, crème brûlée. While everything one eats at Peter Havens will be delectable, this Kitty suggests making one’s order very complicated, so much so that the waitress simply gives up, and Zach is forced to leave the confines of his steamy kitchen to come to one’s table. A single glance across the dining room at this brown-eyed beauty will make a Kitty forget altogether her complicated order as she admires Zach’s boyish swagger and devil-may-care smile. The only thing more pleasurable than to watch Zachary come to the table, is to watch him walk away. Meeeeeeeow. Zach is a Cancer. His misses running his food cart back in the day when life was simple and curly fries were the house specialty. His favorite meal to cook for the ladies is eggs benny with homemade hollandaise. Dear Zachary, this Kitty will work up an appetite with you any morning. Bryan Gelke, Owner at Kipling’s Tavern Bryan Gelke, co-owner of Kipling’s Tavern on Elliot Street, is master of the cocktail and (with any luck) commander

of this Kitty. Bryan has a secretive smile and stormy eyes. On any given night, one might hear The Ramones, Dead Milkmen or The Clash make the loop on his to-die-for playlist. But don't let the '80s punk fool you. His wildly popular tavern has all the bustling charm of a local bar, while still offering craft cocktails and the sophisticated dinner menu a Kitty requires. One of Kitty's favorite activities when visiting Bryan at the bar is to watch him grow agitated, as he becomes exponentially more handsome the more brooding he gets. To do so, a Kitty might casually comment that her cocktail is a little on the weak side, or, if she really wants to get that sexy storm raging, she’ll suggest to Bryan that his playlist would benefit from some Grateful Dead. But hands off Kitties! You can look but you can’t touch, as this rebel without a cause is spoken for. Maggie Bernhard, the stunning Amazon Princess of Elliot Street and co-owner at Kipling’s Tavern, is also Bryan’s better half. Candy for all! Bryan is a Leo. He’s 6’2” (kitty like!) with brown eyes. In his spare time, he enjoys making paella. Matt Paakkonen, owner of Lucky Lansdownes There may be no finer specimen of Green Mountain Tomcat than Matt Paakkonen, owner of Lucky Lansdownes, a vintage sports mercantile in the historic Brooks House on Main Street. To catch a glimpse of this delectable dish, this author suggests a Kitty loiter around Lucky Lansdownes feigning vast knowledge of Matt’s impressively curated retro and antique memorabilia, which includes a Brattleboro Union High School Athletic Hall of Fame display, a museum collection devoted to Red Sox Hall of Famer, Ted Williams, not to mention any number of trading cards, rare collectables and novelty items. In addition to being a longtime athlete, Matt currently works in sports broadcasting; not a surprise when one hears his deep voice, which alone may get a Kitty quite flustered. And while this author tends not to bother with the perspiration-inducing savageries referred to as “team sports,” she might not mind working a sweat up with Mr. Paakkonen.

Miss Kitty — Vermont Country

Bryan Gelke, co-owner of Kipling’s Tavern on Elliot Street, is master of the cocktail. Did Kitty mention this lanky former basketball player stands 6 feet, 8 inches in his tube socks? One’s whiskers quiver at the thought! But Matt is no brutish Brobdingnagian. With a kind gaze and chivalry not seen since Arthur’s round table, any kitty would feel a princess in his arms.

Matt is a Pisces, and enjoys any activity on the water. His greatest love is travel, though he prefers to do so in nature. Raised by his grandparents, Matt considers himself an old-school gentleman. Oh Matty, you don’t need to be gentle with this Kitty! As the shadows grow long and days dark, this Kitty encourages the reader to persevere. She also guarantees that should one follow her guide to “Candy for Kitty,” you shall no doubt stay entertained, even under the bitter fall of Jack Frost’s icy cloak. For it is the truth as this author swears it, that nothing gets a Kitty through the doldrums of winter like a hot treat on a cold night! As usual kitties, be good, drink well, and be thankful you are not camping!!!

Xoxoxox Miss Kitty Artwork by @SnowFairy29 on X (Twitter)

Miss Kitty has compiled a list of “Candy for Kitty,” a winter catalog of hunky Brattleboro business owners. vermontcountry.com | 33

Photo provided by Jeannette Eckert

This photo of a horse is part of Moments in Time Photography by Jeannette Eckert, a board member for the new art space.

New art space comes to Wilmington

Bright Lights Craft Fair set for Dec. 9 By Roberta C. Stone Vermont Country correspondent

n this valley, festivals come and go. In the past, there was the Chili Fest, the Highland Games, a rodeo, Summerfest Music series, the TV Fest film series, The X-Games, the Tough Mudder, cross-country ski races, several spring running races and Art on the Mountain, to name a few. There were even Halloween pumpkin-carving contests and snowman-building contests. There are still a number of events in the valley today, but things changed

drastically after Hurricane Irene and COVID. It seemed like the area was gun-shy and many of the events listed above were lost. Now, the vibrancy of the valley has a lifeline, thanks to a new nonprofit organization called I Love Art Space, whose mission is “to connect the arts to communities through education, creative spaces and artistic opportunities. Our inclusivity offers creative cultural experiences for all.” The organization will focus on providing the community with specialty shows and

festivals, workshop space and studio space. Jane Jones, longtime area resident and head of the organization, has big dreams for the group she began a year ago. She wants to run free children’s programs partnering with the library as a space. In addition, the group hopes to provide a permanent space for artists to work and perhaps run workshops on their craft. Right now, says Jones, this poses a challenge, because the church on

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South Main Street in Wilmington where the art space was supposed to be housed has retreated from the original agreement, causing I Love Art Space to seek a permanent home. But, that has not deterred Jones’ determination to see this through and carry her project forth. Her mantra is, “I try to keep moving forward.” And she is. The Bright Lights Craft Fair is the first event under their new title, and Jones is anxious to make it a success. She recalls that this fair was the first thing revitalized after Hurricane Irene devastated the valley.

Photo provided by Jeannette Eckert

This photo of a butterfly is part of Moments in Time Photography by Jeannette Eckert, a board member for the new art space.

Having begun the process of forming this art group a year ago at the suggestion of local resident Janet Boyd, Jones met with the Art Council of Wilmington, who was glad to help her fill the “gap,” as they termed it, of artistic endeavors in Southern Vermont. The council was more than willing to throw its support as long as she complied with three things: to provide workshops for artists, furnish gallery-style shows, and provide studio space for artists. Jones has a long history with the town, having come to stay in the valley for six months as a lark when she was 31. “Two days later, I met my husband, and that was that.” They married soon after and she has been here ever since. Jones has worn many hats over the years, but her passion is in art because Jones herself is a watercolor artist whose work has appeared in Art on the Mountain, The Kaos Gallery and in various craft shows in Dover and at Mount Snow. She also runs watercolor workshops in the area. The Bright Lights Craft Fair is the first event under their new title, and Jones is anxious to make it a success. She recalls that this fair was the first thing revitalized after Hurricane Irene devastated the valley. “To me, the fact that we are undertaking this fair as our first endeavor in bringing art back to

Photo provided

Macrame by Madison Howe, a participant of Bright Lights Craft Fair. the valley has a lot of meaning to me.” The fair will be held on Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Memorial Hall in Wilmington and promises to showcase several artists whose wares range from pottery to watercolors to knits and jewelry. The hall will be filled with original items just in time for the holidays as well as food goodies. The money raised will be to finance other

Photo provided by Jane May Jones

A sunflower collage by Jane May Jones.

projects and workshops hosted by I Love Art Space. Jones is very excited to have the event there because of the history of the building and the connection to the town. It is the first of five events the group has scheduled for the 2023-2024 year. Find more information about the organization at iloveartspace.com. ~ vermontcountry.com | 35

A look back at

Caleb Lysander Howe via Brattleboro Historical Society

The photo featured here was taken in 1885 and shows a stretch of Main Street between Elliot and High streets. 36 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

Brattleboro winters Historical images remind us of old businesses, and a time when mail was delivered by horse By Joe Rivers and Lee Ha Brattleboro Historical Society

BRATTLEBORO — The Brattleboro Historical Society benefits from the tens of thousands of photographic images that have become part of its artifact collection. Through the years, the town has had more than its share of fine photographers and we are pleased to share a few local winter images with you from our collection. Robert George has been taking pictures of Brattleboro since the 1980s. His images capture everyday life and point out the ever-changing surroundings of our community. In a recent conversation, the trope, “a picture is worth a thousand words” floated into the discussion. Bob’s eyes began to twinkle and he offered, “I once heard that a photograph doesn’t actually say anything. It has no words.” And that is a window into Bob’s wisdom. His images enter us into a Socratic dialogue with ourselves. One that can bring us to new understandings of the world around us. In November 1997, Bob stood on the stairs that led from Elliot Street to Flat Street and captured an image of the Bradley Lot and Bushnell Block. Over the course of the next five years, the Bushnell Block was demolished and a parking garage/transportation center was constructed in the space. In January 1994, Bob headed outside with his camera after a winter snow and captured an image at the intersection of Main and Flat streets. It remains one of our favorites and speaks to the warm feelings and joy that can be found during the winter months (even though there are no words in the photo). One of the early photographers of Brattleboro was Caleb Lysander Howe. He opened his business on Main Street in 1856. Eventually, his sons became his partners and the photography studio continued to operate after his death in 1895. In 1923, one of his sons sold the business to Carleton Shorey. The photo featured here was taken in 1885 and shows a stretch of Main Street between Elliot and High streets. One of the major winter events of the 1800s was the blizzard of 1888. We feature a Wyatt Studios photo of Spencer Knight, postman, who was delivering mail on Washington Street soon after the blizzard. Spencer Knight came to Brattleboro with his family when he was 7 years old. He began working for the post office a year before the blizzard hit town. He would go on to deliver mail for 38 years. Many of those years were spent as a mounted carrier. His favorite horse was “Molly,” a white mare, who often traveled the 25-mile mail route without bit or bridle. vermontcountry.com | 37

Photographer Arthur Wyatt opened a photography studio in 1882. He had learned the business from Caleb L. Howe. His family moved to Brattleboro when he was 12 years old and he soon apprenticed at Howe Studios. Wyatt Studios operated for 33 years before Arthur Wyatt also sold out to Carleton Shorey. The Montgomery Ward store came to Brattleboro in 1929. The building was constructed near the corner of Main and High streets. It is now Brown and Roberts Hardware. The Montgomery Ward store operated until 1975.

Wyatt Studios via Brattleboro Historical Society

One of the major winter events of the 1800s was the blizzard of 1888. Spencer Knight, postman, delivers mail on Washington Street soon after the blizzard. Knight came to Brattleboro with his family when he was 7 years old. He began working for the post office a year before the blizzard hit town.

Lewis R. Brown via Brattleboro Historical Society

The Montgomery Ward store, shown in winter 1946, came to Brattleboro in 1929. The building was constructed near the corner of Main and High streets. It is now Brown and Roberts Hardware. The Montgomery Ward store operated until 1975.

The 1946 winter photograph of Montgomery Ward also features the Masonic Lodge, old Brooks Library, post office and the steeple of the All Souls Church. If you look closely, you will also see chains on the tires of the vehicles. The photograph was taken by Lewis R. Brown. In 1899, Lewis R. Brown was born in Chesterfield, N.H. At a young age, his family moved to Brattleboro. After World War I, Brown began working at Dunham Brothers and started taking pictures as a hobby. His first dark room doubled as his bathroom. He developed film in the bathtub. In 1927, he opened a photography studio on Main Street and continued the business until his death in 1959. The first image of Brattleboro, which we know about, was a daguerreotype by Thomas Easterly that was taken from Mt. Wantastiquet in 1845. Since then, there have been many wonderful photographers who have captured images of life in our area. When you get a chance, please stop by our Research Room in the Municipal Building on Main Street. The historical society photo collection is worth a look. The Research Room is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

Robert George via Brattleboro Historical Society

In January 1994, Bob headed outside with his camera after a winter snow and captured this image at the intersection of Main and Flat streets. It remains one of our favorites and speaks to the warm feelings and joy that can be found during the winter months, (even though there are no words in the photo).

Robert George via Brattleboro Historical Society

In November 1997, Bob stood on the stairs that led from Elliot Street to Flat Street and captured this image of the Bradley Lot and Bushnell Block. Over the course of the next five years, the Bushnell Block was demolished and a parking garage/transportation center was constructed in the space.

38 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

'Doing it the best we can do it'

Local teachers become music duo by night By Bob Audette Vermont Country BRATTLEBORO — During the day, they're mild-mannered teachers, one at Keene State College in Southern New Hampshire and the other a special educator at Brattleboro Area Middle School. But occasionally, on weekends around the region, Julio Del Sesto and Paul Kohler can be spotted, and heard, as their alter egos in the duo known as Life on Venus.

before with a goal of playing a clean cover," said Del Sesto. "Once we started playing out live again, it just sounded natural." Their repertoire starts in the early 1960s with songs like "Stand By Me" and folk standards like "Leaving on Jet Plane," lots of Beatles and Elton John and on and on.

"We actually play 'Gangsta's Paradise' by Coolio now," said Del Sesto. "There's a reason that song was so popular. It has a good melody and you Kris Radder — Vermont Country can strip it right down." "I always was into music," said "We've worked hard to stay true to the songs Kohler, the singer and special educator, especially singers like but not sound like the original songs," said Julio Kohler started singing in high Del Sesto of the duo Life on Venus. "We play it school in Southbury, Conn., Elton John, Billy Joel, John as us and not as somebody else." and Del Sesto learned to play Denver and Freddie Mercury. College in 2007 and also has a master's while growing up in Attleboro, As Del Sesto accompanies him on in fine arts from the Academy of Art Mass., but neither one is searching for guitar, Kohler belts out songs as varied University in San Francisco. a spotlight. as "Cats in the Cradle," "Bad Moon They've known each other for more "We're sort of both uncomfortable Rising," "Sweet Child O' Mine" and than a decade and played together with attention," said Del Sesto. "It's "Every Breath You Take" and not break more about the music. Let us share this in a local bar band, Version Six, for a a sweat. music with you, let us entertain you, number of years. "We've worked hard to stay true to the don't focus on us. Focus on the music. "And then it got hard," said Del Sesto. songs but not sound like the original It's more about playing the music and songs," said Del Sesto. "We play it as us "I have three kids and he has two and sharing it with people." getting home at three or four o'clock in and not as somebody else." "And doing it the best we can do it," the morning was not sustainable." "When you play a song enough, and added Kohler. you know it inside and out, that's when They stayed in contact and when the you really can play with it," said Kohler. COVID-19 pandemic hit the country, Life on Venus plays every other Saturday at Granita Enoteca in Keene and "You can do whatever you want with it they began making music from their has played at the Northfield, Mass., own homes, with Del Sesto recording and that's where it gets really fun." Golf Club, Heritage Park in Hinsdale, his guitar and sending it off to Kohler Kohler, who graduated from Keene N.H., and Saxtons River Distillery and to add lyrics. State College in 1998, has been in edThe Stone Church in Brattleboro. They recorded close to 90 songs, ucation for 26 years as a special-needs The duo plays weddings and other many of which can be found on Youteacher in schools in Westminster and private events and can be contacted Tube and Instagram. Bellows Falls and in Keene, N.H. through its Facebook page, facebook. "We had played together as a duo Del Sesto graduated from Keene State com/LOVband. vermontcountry.com | 39

Courtney Barnett finds 'lovely, supportive' crowd in Brattleboro Stone Church eyes more big-name bookings

Kristopher Radder — Vermont Country

Courtney Barnett, an Australian singer-songwriter, starts her American tour at The Stone Church in Brattleboro on Oct. 11. By Chris Mays Vermont Country BRATTLEBORO — Courtney Barnett needed no introduction when she took the stage at The Stone Church nor did she immediately make one.

Barnett began the night by playing songs from her new instrumental album, "End Of The Day," which features 17 improvisations originally recorded in 2021 as part of the score to the film "Anonymous Club." The tracks were remixed, reordered and re-framed

last year into "a seamless meditative collage," states an event announcement. Stella Mozgawa performed the instrumental songs and improvisations with Barnett, whose guitar playing is recognizable despite her style of atmospheric

40 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

music being new to fans. Behind them played a visual accompaniment created in collaboration with filmmaker Claire Vogel and inspired by the album's artwork, which has an image of distant figures in blue raincoats climbing a hill near Niagara Falls. "Anyone who was confused in the first half-hour, I'm sorry," Barnett said at the show. "But thank you very much." Tickets for the Oct. 11 show sold by the venue ran out in less than two minutes. At least one local resident grabbed a ticket by waiting outside the venue, looking to get lucky. In these shows, Barnett played the songs from the instrumental album in one set, then other tunes from her catalog in a second set. She told the audience The Stone Church was the first stop on the tour. "Lovely and supportive," she said of the crowd, which swayed to the instrumentals and quietly listened except when to cheer her on. "Now I'm going to sing some songs you've heard." After playing a few fan favorites, Barnett described The Stone Church as "a beautiful venue." She thanked the attentive crowd for singing along, and one attendee thanked her for coming to Brattleboro. Her setlist included "Avant Gardener," "Depreston," "Rae Street" and "Before You Gotta Go." The night ended with "Different Now," a Chastity Belt cover she recorded with psych-folk singer/ songwriter Kurt Vile. Barnett said she's friends with Chastity Belt and wished she had written the song. The concert was one the best that Rob Cartelli of South Newfane has seen in years. Getting to see Barnett and the opening act Anjimile perform at The Stone Church was "priceless," he said. "The first set of ambient music and video was totally beguiling and gave you a window into her dynamic musicality," Cartelli said. "And of course her solo set of tunes, when she encouraged singing along, was just unbelievably special. I’m still having a hard time be-

lieving it happened in Brattleboro. I’m so grateful to the folks at The Stone Church for making it happen." Other stops for the tour with "End Of The Day" included National Sawdust in Brooklyn, Sanctuary First Unitarian Church in Philadelphia, The Atlantis in Washington, D.C., Bimbo's 365 Club in San Francisco, Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever in Los Angeles, and Ventura Music Hall and Gundlach Bundschu Winery in California. Barnett also is scheduled to play some dates with the Foo Fighters in June 2024 in the United Kingdom. "I'd be lying if I said it didn't give us a huge amount of gratification and validation to see little tiny Brattleboro, Vermont, on these mega tour posters," said Erin Scaggs, programming director at The Stone Church. "We feel super proud when that happens." Scaggs described being "blown away" by Barnett's performance. She said she didn't know what to expect with the instrumental segment but enjoyed it.

About 40 people were on the waiting list. After a month and a half or so and dealing with about 800 emails, Scaggs said most of the people on the waiting list received tickets. She spoke with fans who traveled more than five hours for the show. Having people outside looking to buy tickets to a sold-out show at a venue in a town of about 13,000 is a big deal. "It's really a testament to what Robin has accomplished here," Scaggs said of Robin Johnson, who owns the venue. Other highly anticipated shows at The Stone Church recently included M. Ward, Caroline Rose, King Tuff, The Felice Brothers, Sam Amidon and Marc Ribot, and Martin Sexton. Haley Heynderickx will be playing at the venue in December.

"That's how we keep moving forward. We keep getting bigger, we keep growing and doing more." Erin Scaggs

Booking Barnett is an example of how The Stone Church has made connections throughout the music industry. Each one leads to a dozen more, Scaggs said. Through The Stone Church's inaugural Field Day Music Festival in Guilford in June, the venue formed a relationship with Barnett's management that led to her concert in Brattleboro. Tickets initially were sold through a pre-sale code made available to Barnett's fans on social media platforms. "That went out Monday prior to tickets dropping on our site," Scaggs said. "So when we released what was left of those by the end of the week, many were already gone." Scaggs said the quick sale of remaining tickets was "exciting" but also frustrating for fans who couldn't get tickets. The Stone Church set up a waiting list to transfer tickets when someone couldn't make it to the show.

"That is an enormous get for us," Scaggs said. "That show will unequivocally sell out. I feel these things have this inertia where you get yourself on the map, then you're on people's radar — consumers, artists, booking agents. That momentum carries you forward to more and more of these bigger name bookings." Scaggs said The Stone Church keeps its head down and focuses on the product it's providing to ensure it's "consistent, solid and exceptional." "That's how we keep moving forward. We keep getting bigger, we keep growing and doing more," she said. Asked if Barnett was invited back, Scaggs said, "Heck yeah." "The opener is invited back, too," she said. "He blew my mind. I knew almost nothing about him. I enjoyed his set immensely." ~ vermontcountry.com | 41

HOLIDAY CONCERT

Coffee shop by day, music venue by night

Photo provided by Kat Wright

Kat Wright and Brett Hughes plan to return to The Coffee Bar in Bennington for this season's holiday show. By Gena Mangiaratti Vermont Country

But did you know that by night, it becomes a hip, intimate music venue?

BENNINGTON — If you've been in downtown Bennington, you may have stopped for a maple latte and even viewed the art at The Coffee Bar, which opened last year.

"There's been shows where people have their feet up on the stage right in front of the musician, and they're looking them right in the eye, and it creates this really intimate

42 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

HOLIDAY CONCERT environment where the performer can really connect with the audience," said Will Seeders, a local musician who books and organizes shows in the space at 109 South St. He describes the venue as a long, narrow space, at least four times as long as it is wide. He recalls that when the owner, his friend Paul Carroccio, set it up, he purposefully placed the stage in the middle, facing the narrower portion of the room. "There's people spread out all on the side, kind of 180 degrees around the stage, and it creates a really intimate environment," Seeders said. "We have a really excellent sound system that rivals any sound system in any small venue in the Northeast, honestly. It might be one of the best. Because of the quality of gear that Paul decided to put in the room, it sounds incredible."

Stewart Cairns — Vermont Country file photo

Talented young musicians who took part in a local Chamber Music Intensive play at The Coffee Bar in Bennington over the summer.

"We have a really excellent sound system that rivals any sound system in any small venue in the Northeast, honestly. It might be one of the best. Because of the quality of gear that Paul decided to put in the room, it sounds incredible." Will Seeders Seeders noted that in most clubs with a long listening space, the stage is at one of the shorter ends, meaning there are always people in back who can't hear as well. "The Coffee Bar is kind of the opposite where everybody has a good seat. Everybody can hear really well and it creates a really intimate, really fun place to see a show," he said. He said the venue has hosted full bands with sets that resemble a rock

Susan Allen — Vermont Country file photo

Satyrdagg perform to a full crowd at The Coffee Bar in Bennington last year. show, as well as solo musicians playing folk shows. "They've all worked pretty well," he said.

announced. To stay updated on future shows, visit The Coffee Bar on Facebook, facebook.com/morethanacoffeebar.

Among upcoming shows is a holiday concert with Vermont favorites Kat Wright and Brett Hughes, Dec. 2, specific time and ticket sales to be

Performers this year have included Cliff Westfall, The Clements Brothers, Peter Mulvey / Betty Soo, and Kat & Brad (Kathleen Parks & Brad Bensko). vermontcountry.com | 43

Among upcoming shows is a holiday concert with Vermont favorites Kat Wright and Brett Hughes, Dec. 2, specific time and ticket sales to be announced. To stay updated on future shows, visit The Coffee Bar on Facebook, facebook.com/ morethanacoffeebar.

HOLIDAY CONCERT

Seeders said some performers that have played The Coffee Bar have gone on to become festival headliners and tour the country. "All of the performers are so happy when they leave because of the quality of the audience, the sound and just the experience of that connection with the audience in the room and how they feel like it really showcased their music," Seeders said. "On top of all of this, a really unique feature of The Coffee Bar is, it's not just a coffee bar. It's also kind of a local art gallery. Every inch of the walls is covered in incredible art, mostly by local artists." ~

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Some 'alternative' gift ideas Cannabis shops offer holiday inspiration

ermont families have a long-standing tradition of sharing their homegrown cannabis with friends and family during the holidays. Now, with the emergence of local retailers offering a wide range of gifts and supplies, this tradition has taken on a new dimension. Whether it's for wellness purposes, smoking accessories, or merchandise, Vermont's burgeoning cannabis scene provides shoppers with a fresh category of holiday gifts. So when you're doing your shopping, don't forget your local cannabis retailers — they sell more than the actual flower, with plenty of options for your friends and family who enjoy the color green and things related.

Vermont Bud Barn From owner, Scott Sparks: "Vermont Bud Barn offers accessories that would make a great gift (new pipe?) along with some really great locally grown flower. We have chocolate bars and miniature chocolates that are great adult stocking stuffers. People could buy a few eighths and create a cannabis 'flight' as a gift. Pre-rolls make perfect stocking stuffers too. T-shirts could compliment a cannabis gift from Vermont Bud Barn and we offer gift certificates to let someone choose their own gift. "(In the same place,) Vermont Hempicurean offers bath bombs, soaps, and bath salts as well as lots of lotions and salves. We also offer gummies and tincStewart Cairns — Vermont Country

Colleen McQuade, owner of Juniper Lane Cannabis Dispensary in Bennington, shows off some of her products. vermontcountry.com | 53

~Holiday Shop tures and capsules all with CBD for relaxation and pain relief. We also have gift certificates available, and they can be purchased online and sent to anyone in the U.S. as CBD can be purchased and shipped from our website across the country."

Chris Mays — Vermont Country

Bill Prennan, budtender, weighs out cannabis at Ratu's Cannabis Supply LLC in Wilmington on Saturday, Dec. 4.

Vermont Bud Barn and Vermont Hempicurean 257 Marlboro Road, Suite 101,West Brattleboro hempinfo@vthempicurean.com 802-246-4367 vtbudbarn.com and vthempicurean.com Kingdom Kind Cannabis Company

Kingdom Kind Kingdom Kind carries or plans to carry in the near future: - Its own lines of dabs and vape cartridges, which are solventless, full-spectrum and feature only intrinsic terpenes. - Its own hash as well as THC oil tinctures for those who like edibles but want something stronger than 5 or 10mg. - Locally made glass and wooden pipes, as well as Magic Touch Smokeless Instruments, which are a fantastic gift item, according to store manager Michael Bottiggi. - Holiday-specific edible items, including, but not limited to, maple sugar THC candies and Altitude Drops gummies and chocolate bars. - As a "seed-to-shelf hemp outfit," the store also has CBD items ranging from oil tinctures to topicals to bath and body items. - A full line of store-brand hats, shirts and hoodies as well

Scott at Bud Barn.

Photo provided

- Regular sales and promos each and every day, including: Munchy Monday (discount on edibles), Top-Shelf Tuesday (discount on high THC flower), Wicked Wednesday (discount on carts and dabs), $35 Thursday (cheap weed), Friendly Friday (chance for a free pre-roll) and Old School Saturday (discount on hash, kief and dabs). "I was also planning to carry holiday 'big bud jars' and probably do a holiday raffle to win some nice gifts and, of course, some great weed," Bottiggi said.

Photo provided

Kingdom Kind, viewed from the inside register.

Kingdom Kind Cannabis Company 290 Glover Road, Barton info@nekhemp.com 802-243-4367 nekkind.com Ratu’s Cannabis Supply

54 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

ping Guide ~ Ratu’s Cannabis Supply Ratu’s Cannabis Supply has an apparel shop between it and a liquor store. The owners own all three and sell the work of local artists’. According to the company's website, the cannabis shop features an array of unusual edibles, including Vermont Herbal Essentials Maple Candy. Products are available to meet lower and higher budgets. Customers who have a medical card for cannabis, issued in or out of state, will receive 15 percent off their purchase. Veterans also will get the same discount. Locals receive a 4.20 percent discount. Ratu’s is the second cannabis retailer to open in Windham County.

Tory Rich — Vermont Country

Juniper Lane employee Cass Eckley serves a customer at the shop on Tuesday, May 23.

Ratu's Cannabis Supply 36 West Main St.,Wilmington ratuscannabis@gmail.com 802-464-1390 ratuscannabis.com

Juniper Lane At Juniper Lane, you'll find salves, glass pipes, bongs, beanies in different colors bearing the business's name, and edible CBD options such as gummies and drinks. For your furry friends, there are even dog and cat treats with CBD and fish oil. The treats can have a calming effect and also be good for joints. Owner Colleen McQuade opened Bennington’s first retail cannabis shop last October. Retail is just one step in the chain within a budding industry, and McQuade is branching out into others.

Chris Mays — Vermont Country

Willie Queenie, budtender, lets customers into the waiting room at Ratu's Cannabis Supply LLC on Saturday.

A fantastic shopping destination in downtown Bennington, this vibrant area is bustling with new eateries and businesses that proudly showcase local Vermont products. McQuade, with her prior experience as a pipe wholesaler, possesses extensive knowledge in sourcing and selecting the finest pipes in the region, in addition to her diverse array of offerings.

Juniper Lane 445 Main St., Bennington Info@juniperlanecannabis.com 802-440-5755 juniperlanecannabis.com Photo provided

Kingdom Kind as viewed from 290 Glover Road, in Barton.

vermontcountry.com | 55

10 feel-good remedies For your seasonal ennui By Dan Tebo Vermont Country correspondent The last few years have been easy on few of us and, for some, the holiday season provides a welcome respite from the daily grind: a weeks-long banquet of unbridled merriment. For others, it’s a stressful and mirthless march toward the bitter heart of winter. Every year around this time, we try to come up with a list of offbeat holiday films to help you escape your seasonal ennui and hopefully avoid having to watch “Home Alone” for the 300th time. This year, however, we’re going to simply pretend the holidays aren’t happening. This year, we’re going to focus on movies that make us feel good, also known as feel-good movies: The underdog sports story, the romantic comedy, the animated bear prison saga. Films that will help stanch out the seasonal depression and leave you tickled the deepest shade of shrimp. So black out the windows, crank up the heated blanket, and wait for that serotonin boost that these 10 feel-good flicks are guaranteed to provide.

The Muppet Movie (1979): The ferociously lovable Muppets made their big screen debut with this origin story that follows the ever-endearing Kermit the Frog and his crew of bears, pigs, dogs and whathave-yous as they travel to Hollywood in search of the Standard Rich and Famous Contract. Pee-wee’s Big Adventure (1985): For folks of

a certain generation (mine), few things stir the soul like the sight of recently departed comedian Paul Reubens’ singular creation: the gleefully offbeat, too-tight-suit-wearing Pee-wee Herman. Reubens partnered with first-time director Tim Burton to bring Pee-wee to the big screen in this kaleidoscopic hero’s journey about a man-child traversing the country in search of his stolen bicycle. Coming to America (1988): A rarely better Eddie Murphy stars as a Zamundian Prince (and a barber … and a lounge singer) who travels to Queens in search of, you know, his Queen. Possibly the greatest comedy that exists, this flick also works as a rom-com or a holiday film, depending on your mood. The Commitments (1991): In Alan Parker’s gut-busting, toe tapper of a comedy, a motley crew of F-bomb dropping Dubliners decide that starting a band that plays covers of American soul and R&B is the perfect vehicle to help escape their hardscrabble surroundings. The Mighty Ducks (1992): No list of feel-good movies would be complete without a sports flick about a group of ragtag misfits who claw their way to unlikely glory. Here I present to you this flick about a boozy lawyer forced to, um, coach a hockey team full of ragtag misfits to

56 | VERMONT COUNTRY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023

unlikely glory. This beloved film spawned a fleet of sequels, a reboot, and one actual NHL franchise. The Shawshank Redemption (1994): OK, so this is admittedly a prison movie full of gnarly prison-type things. It’s also a perennial cable TV mainstay that’s regularly cited as one of the greatest and most uplifting movies ever made. I mean ... it has the word “redemption” right there in the title! It was apparently one of Nelson Mandela’s favorite films, so there’s also that. Notting Hill (1999): Writer/director Richard Curtis is a one man feel-good factory, having delivered everything from “Four Weddings and a Funeral” to “Love Actually.” His crowning achievement just might be this rom-com that finds Julia Roberts sharpening her acting chops as a Julia Roberts-esque superstar who strikes up an unlikely romance with a nervous, floppy-haired bookshop owner played by Hugh Grant (natch). Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009): Even the darker Wes Anderson films (if that’s even a thing) are often still whimsical enough to melt the hearts of indie cinephiles everywhere. Anderson struck feel-good gold with this animated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s novel that plays like a 90-minute full-force hug.

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Paddington 2 (2017): This exceedingly adorable yarn about an adolescent bear who wants nothing more than to bring his elderly bear aunt to London briefly usurped “Citizen Kane" as the highest rated film in the history of Rotten Tomatoes. Much like the hero of “Shawshank,” the titular bear winds up in the slammer for a crime he didn’t commit. A prison flick for the whole family! Barbie (2023): Few could’ve predicted that the movie industry would be single-handedly rescued by this sly indie flick masquerading as a summer blockbuster. Greta Gerwig’s film exploded like a pink rainbow bomb in the summer of 2023 and brought smiles to faces all around the world. Speaking of bombs: “Barbie” was unofficially, yet successfully, paired with the nuclear war thriller “Oppenheimer,” which made moviegoers feel the opposite of good.~

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