Burlington Vermont Homes, Condos, and Real Estate For Sale» Burlington Happenings

Burlington School District and Magnet Schools

Pike — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 21:18:25 +0000

I occasionally work with home buyers looking to purchase a home in a particular neighborhood in Burlington so that their children can attend the school located within the neighborhood. In the fall of 2009, Burlington opened two magnet schools and has changed the way children are enrolled in the district. As one school commissioner wrote in an email to me recently, “moving into a particular area of town does not at this time guarantee that one’s children will be able to attend the school closest, especially if registering late.”

The first of the magnet schools is the Sustainability Academy at Lawrence Barnes, the first magnet school in the country with an emphasis on sustainability. “It includes things like social justice, civic engagement, things as simple as local foods, as recycling in the school, composting, things like that,” explained Anne Tewksbury-Fry, a sustainability schools coach at Barnes Elementary in a WCAX interview.

The second school is the Integrated Arts Academy at the H.O Wheeler school.

The schools were conceived in part because schools like Champlain Elementary were filled to capacity with students and in part to counter the high poverty rate and low test scores at Wheeler and Barnes by encouraging parents and children from other parts of the city to enroll in these two schools. Not all parents are pleased that they may need to send their children to a school not in their immediate neighborhood. People buy real estate in particular neighborhoods of Burlington so as to send their children to a particular school. Real estate in the south end of Burlington is more expensive in part because of the school district. Some real estate agencies, particularly Coldwell Banker Hickok Boardman, have made the wise decision not to advertise a parcel of Burlington real estate as within any one particular school district and instead advertising that the school is “district assigned.”

Burlington is not alone in its struggle to weigh the concerns of parents and student test scores against education costs, and property taxes. I expect that in the future Vermont will see many school districts merge into fewer, larger districts in order to cut costs. This has worked successfully in Maine.

Big Joe Burrell Statue Plays on Church Street

Pike — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 19:02:21 +0000

The long awaited statue of Big Joe Burrell has been set in front of Halverson’s Upstreet Cafe on Church Street just in time for the 2010 Burlington Discover Jazz Festival. Big Joe was a much loved Burlington jazz/blue saxophonist/singer who passed away in 2005. Big Joe Burrell played in both B.B King’s and Count Basie’s band and moved to Burlington Vermont in the mid-70s.

The statue is covered up for its official unvieling, but here are a few sneak peeks– my first news scoop.

Burlington Might Finally See the Southern Connector

Pike — Fri, 21 May 2010 13:02:13 +0000

The Southern Connector has been a controversial topic for over 40 years. Some say that building it will lead to additional sprawl in Chittenden while only increasing driving time from one end to the other by about 8 minutes. Others say that it will relieve what they think is traffic congestion in Chittenden County. At a time when we need to move away from automobile use and embrace public transportation, constructing the Southern Connector seems like a giant step backwards. However, the section in Burlington will include a bike lane. There may be less expensive ways of building bike lanes. I will need to learn more about the project.

The following is from Joe Reinert, Assistant to the Burlington Mayor. The opinion below are from Mayor Kiss and do not represent my opinions:

The City will hold four public informational meetings related to the Champlain Parkway project. Each meeting will provide an overview of the entire project, while also focusing on a specific topic:

- Mobility Issues: Project Performance for Automobiles, Bicycles, and Pedestrians. TUESDAY, MAY 25, 6:30 PM, Champlain Elementary School, 800 Pine Street.

- Neighborhood and Community Issues. WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 6:30 PM, Contois Auditorium, City Hall.

- Economic Development. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9, 6:30 PM, Water Treatment Plant Conference Room, 234 Penny Lane (at the south end of Lake Street).

- Environmental Issues. THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 6:30 PM, Burlington Electric Department, 585 Pine Street.

The Champlain Parkway will construct and rehabilitate approximately 2.4 miles of roadway, pedestrian, and bicycle facilities commencing at the interchange of I-189 with US 7 in the City of South Burlington and extending westerly and northerly to the intersection of Pine Street with Main Street within the City of Burlington’s City Center District (CCD). Between Home Avenue and Lakeside Avenue, new roadway will be constructed on already acquired right-of-way. From Lakeside Avenue to Pine Street and terminating at Main Street the Parkway will use existing roadways, and construction will consist of rehabilitation and improvements to the existing streets. The roadway will consist of one lane in each direction with turn lanes and traffic signals at certain intersections. Pedestrian facilities include sidewalks, shared-use paths, cross-walks and actuated pedestrian phasing at signalized intersections. Bicycle facilities include the shared-use paths and on-road components.

Mayor Kiss encourages residents to come to the meetings to learn more. “The Champlain Parkway is a project that benefits Burlington in several ways. It will provide relief to South End neighborhoods from truck traffic they currently experience and improves intersections throughout the entire route of the project, while enhancing bicycle and pedestrian access. It will create and enhance economic development opportunities in the Pine Street corridor. It complements and supports potential access to and development within the south end of the Waterfront. I look forward to continuing to move forward on the project and making the Champlain Parkway a reality after more than 40 years of planning and analysis. I hope residents come to these meetings to learn more about the project and ask any questions they may have.”

After holding the informational meetings the City will apply for an Act 250 permit for the project. At its May 17 meeting, the City Council passed a resolution endorsing the public informational process and authorized the City to move forward with the Act 250 permit (http://www.ci.burlington.vt.us/docs/1988.pdf ). For more information about the project, go to http://www.ci.burlington.vt.us, call the Burlington Department of Public Works at 863-9094, or read more about at Vermont Department of Transportation.

Historic Burlington Vermont Diner For Sale

Pike — Wed, 12 May 2010 16:56:31 +0000

Interior of the Diner

This diner, delivered to Shelburne Road in 1954, was known as Wesson’s Diner and Cosmos Diner.
It is in excellent condition, complete with original booths, tables, stools and pie case. The interior is yellow and grey with original Formica counter and yellow and grey ceramic floor tile. Booth and stool upholstery were redone in the ’70s.
A new rubber membrane roof was installed in October 2003 and windows were reglazed. The green enamel vertical fluted panels are included, but not currently on the diner. The diner has been well cared for since removal
from its original site in 2001.

Because of the role that diners have played in American cultural history as well as this diner’s role in Burlington’s history, buyers will need to use the building as a community gathering spot, open to the public. Appropriate uses include a restaurant, coffee shop, a pub or some other related use. As with any historic structure, the architectural integrity should be preserved, and restoration be consistent with the design, materials and style of the period in which the diner was built.

The diner is being offered for $45,000. The diner is currently stored on private property and can be shown to interested buyers demonstrating they can and will use the diner as a public gathering place. For more information, please call me at 802.233.2600

Keller Williams comes to Vermont

Pike — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 01:40:26 +0000

Rumor has it the Keller Williams will open a franchise in the Burlington area in the next few months. Brian Armstrong, former broker at Century 21 Jack Associates, has partnered with Adam and Sarah Hergenrother, formally of Re/Max North Professionals in Colchester to open Green Mountain Real Estate with the intent, as I understand it, to buy a Keller Williams franchise in February. I had spoken with the KW regional manager before opening Castle Porter Real Estate and learned a bit about their business model. I learned more from the Keller Williams website and a Stanford case study of the company.

The Keller Williams business model is an agent driven model that profits by the economies of scale. Keller Williams business model is structured so that individual franchises become profitable only after recruiting 40 agents on average. A market center will try to recruit as many agents as possible in the “launch period”– the first 18 months of a market center’s operation. So, while the average brokerage firm had 49 agents per office in 2006, KW offices–called market centers– had 174 agents. Consequently, even though the average sales production per agent is lower at Keller Williams market centers (in 2004 the average KW agent had 6.7 sides while the national average was 10.8), this is more than compensated by the higher transaction volume than its competitors.

Keller Williams calls principle brokers “team leaders,” and it is the team leader’s responsibility to jump start the launch period by recruiting five influential, high-earning agents who can recruit additional agents. In fact, Keller Williams does not give final approval to a new franchise until the franchise owner, called the ”operating principle,” and the team leader recruit these core agents. If there are not at least five agents that the international franchise approves of, it does not approve the franchise agreement.

To recruit agents, the Keller Williams franchise provides a recruitment incentive call “profit sharing” that rewards an agent who recruits a second agent with a small portion of the profits the second agent makes as well as the profits of any agents the second agent recruits, up to seven degrees of separation from the original agent. Consequently, because the operating principle and team leader are at the top of the pyramid, they have much incentive to recruit other agents as quickly as possible.

There are other franchise models with different agent compensation arrangements and many are represented here in Chittenden County. Re/Max for example, let’s agents keep most of their commission but charges a desk fee of $2,000/month. Century 21, Coldwell Banker, and others start agents of at a 50/50 split after taking 8% of the top of the commission and increase the agent split as agent performance increases.

I chose not to associate myself with any franchise simply because a franchise is primarily in the business to sell itself, not homes. This is apparent in the KW business model that needs a market center of at least 40 agents to survive and profit-sharing scheme which rewards agents for recruiting other agents who recruit other agents. Real estate is a local product–bought locally and sold locally–and a national franchise is, when you add the dollars and cents, not a necessary part of the equation. The money that goes back to the franchise could be put to better use in the pocket of the seller, who could have paid a lesser commission, the buyer, who could see money back at closing, or in the pocket of the agent who doesn’t need to pay the franchise fee.

Most of what I’ve discussed can be found on the Keller Williams website in a Stanford University Keller Williams case study.

Read a Keller Williams sales script.

Burlington Happnenings 2/23/09

snyce — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:00:52 +0000

Here is your Neighborhood BUZZ for the week of February 23rd (and a bit for this weekend, check it out!)

I. Find Local Resources in 2009: Free Tax Help, Food Assistance, Heating and More

II. Recognize your Neighbors at the 9th Annual Neighborhood Night of Success

III. CEDO to Convene Economic Summit

IV. BURLINGTON DOG LICENSE REMINDER

V. Tips and Things to Know about Town Meeting Day in Burlington

VI. Mayoral Candidates Debates – More Will Be Added as Information Comes In

VII. DREAM is hiring!

VIII. Burlington Area Community Gardens Registrations Now Available

IX. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

X. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

XI. Save the Dates – Kids on the Block – Vermont has Exciting Events coming up!

XII. City Positions Available

XIII. Neighborhood Calendar

* * * * * * NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ * * * * * * * *

I. Find Local Resources in 2009: Free Tax Help, Food Assistance, Heating and More

CEDO’s Center for Community & Neighborhoods (CCAN) has produced a resource guide full of money saving tips for you and your family. Information includes Free Tax Help, Food Assistance, Heating & Housing Resources and much more: http://www.cedoburlington.org/neighborhoods/ccan_local_focus.htm

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II. Recognize your Neighbors at the 9th Annual Neighborhood Night of Success

Recognize a neighbor you admire by making a nomination for a Neighborhood Leader Award to be given at the 9th Annual Neighborhood Night of Success. This annual event honors the people that make Burlington a great place to live, work and play.

Neighborhood Night of Success
Community Dinner & Awards
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
5:30pm-7:00pm

Nominations of persons, groups and businesses are welcomed. Due by March 6th!

E-mail, call or write the following information:
-Your Name & Contact info
-Nominee Name & Contact Info
-Description of nominee making Burlington a better place to live, work and play.

Send to: Ita Meno
125 College St, 2nd Floor
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 865-7172
imeno@ci.burlington.vt.us

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III. CEDO to Convene Economic Summit

CEDO and the Micro-Business Alliance will hold an Economic Summit in the Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall on February 13, 2009 from 8:30 – 11AM. “Building A Vision for Our Community’s Economic Future” will be the theme of this collaborative session.

The City of Burlington’s Community and Economic Development Office (CEDO) and the Micro Business Alliance have hosted three meetings since early December 2008, with focused discussions on commercial lending, economic development and workforce training. With the success and collaborative spirit of these recent gatherings, CEDO seeks to broaden the scope, soliciting the community’s input on what can be accomplished in five years if the City, citizens, business owners and local organizations work together. This Summit is part of concerted effort by CEDO and the Alliance to be proactive in responding to the economic crisis. “We need to be there for the entrepreneurs,” says Bruce Seifer, CEDO’s Assistant Director for Economic Development. “Many of our local companies have thus far weathered this situation quite well. But for a business to grow, or to get started, entrepreneurs need access to capital, need well-trained employees, and need physical space. We’ve helped many innovative and resilient businesses start or expand during past downturns, and we aim to do an even better job this time out.”

Pre-registration strongly recommended. If you have any questions about the Economic Summit, or would like to pre-register,
please contact:
Jon Adams-Kollitz
jadamskollitz@ci.burlington.vt.us
802.865.7187

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IV. BURLINGTON DOG LICENSE REMINDER

All dogs in Burlington, that are over six months old, must be licensed each year before April 1st. To license your pet, come to the Burlington Clerk/Treasurer’s Office at City Hall or send the rabies & spay/neutering info in the mail to 149 Church Street with a self addressed/stamped envelope (with 2 stamps affixed to it to cover postage). Please note below the hours we are open and the licensing fees (we do not take credit/debit cards). You must bring or send proof that the animal has been currently vaccinated against rabies with a vaccine comparable to that required in the State of Vermont. If the dog was licensed last year we may have a valid rabies certificate on file, so you can just mail in the fee payable to the City of Burlington. To receive a reduced licensing fee, you must provide a certificate of sterilization from a licensed veterinarian or it must be indicated on the rabies certificate under sex (i.e. MN=male neutered or FS*=female spayed). Anyone missing the April 1st deadline is charged a late fee (see fee schedule below).

Please call the Clerk/Treasurer’s Office (865-7000) if your dog is no longer with you so that we may update our files.

Clerk/Treasurer’s Office Hours
Monday – Fridays 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Fees on or before April 1st

Neutered/Spayed – $26.00
Un-Neutered or Un-Spayed – $46.00

Fees after April 1st
Neutered/Spayed – $28.00
Un-Neutered or Un-Spayed – $48.00

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V. Tips and Things to Know about Town Meeting Day in Burlington

(1) Vote Early or Vote from Home: Voting is easier and more convenient than ever. Call the City Clerk’s office at 865-7000 if you would like to use any of the voting options below. If you prefer voting in person on Election Day and don’t know where to vote, go to http://www.burlingtonvotes.org/ for a map and directions to the City’s polling places.

(2) Vote By Mail: Any voter can request that the city clerk send them a ballot so they can vote by mail. Family members may also request ballots on behalf of spouses, children, or parents. This ballot will arrive with a return envelope so that the ballot, once voted, can be returned to the clerk and counted on Election Day. The clerk must receive the ballot by the close of polls (7 p.m.) on Election Day in order to be counted. If you forget to mail it in, you can hand deliver your ballot to the polling place on Election Day or bring the blank ballot with you and vote in person.

(3) Vote at Home on Election Day: If you are sick or disabled a ballot can be delivered to your home on Election Day. The deadline to request this assistance is 5 p.m. on the day before the election (March 2nd). Two justices of the peace (of different parties) will deliver a ballot to you, and then will bring the ballot back to the polling place to be counted (on Election Day or the 8 days preceding the election).

(4) Vote Early: A voter may vote in person at City Hall within 20 days of Election Day – March 3, 2009.

(5) Register to Vote or Change Your Address: The deadline to register to vote for Town Meeting Day is February 25th at 5:00 p.m. Applications are available at City Hall, the Department of Motor Vehicles on North Avenue, and most candidates are happy to help
register constituents to vote.

(6) What are the Ballot Items? What would Town Meeting Day be without a pile of ballot items? This year, we’ll be considering everything from our school budget to the airport. Attached is a listing of the 7 ballot items that will appear on the Burlington ballot this March. To read through them, click on the attachment above. For an explanation of the three school items, go to http://www.bsdvt.org/.

(7) Instant Runoff Election: As in 2006, Burlington will use the instant runoff election (IRV) this year for mayor to avoid having to hold a second election in the event no candidate wins a majority (over 50%) of votes.

Here’s how it works:

When you vote for mayor, you choose the candidates in order of your preference (1st choice, 2nd, etc.). If one candidate receives a
majority of first preferences, that candidate is elected. However, if no candidate is the first choice of at least half the voters, the instant runoff re-tabulation will be performed. The candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated. In the next round, every ballot then counts as a single vote for each voter’s preferred candidate who has not been eliminated. If your favorite candidate is still in the running, your ballot counts for that person in this runoff round as well. If your favorite candidate has been eliminated in the runoff, your ballot automatically counts for your next choice. This process of eliminating candidates and re-tabulating the votes continues until just two candidates remain. Whichever of these two finalists has the most votes is the winner.

To get answers to your questions about IRV visit: http://www.burlingtonvotes.org/faq/

Who’s Running? To find out who is a candidate for mayor, city council, school board and inspector of election, visit: http://www.ci.burlington.vt.us/ct/elections/

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VI. Mayoral Candidates Debates – More Will Be Added as Information Comes In

(1) Watch Town Meeting 2009 Election Forums on Channel 17 Candidates, Ballots Items and Budgets to Air in Feburary

Channel 17’s Live Coverage of Town Meeting 2009 election forums begins on Wednesday, Feburary 4th at 5:25PM and runs through February 17th. Viewers can call in and ask questions of candidates for Mayor, City Council, Selectboard and School Board in Burlington, South Burlington, Essex, Williston and Winooski. The live election series also covers ballot items before the voters in these communities. The forums will be repeated several times before March 3d Town Meeting and can be viewed online at www.channel17.org. Don’t forget to watch Live Election Results on March 3d at 7:30 p.m. — only on Channel 17.

http://www.cctv.org/news/live-town-meeting-election-forums-run-24-217-channel-17

(2) Ohavi Zedek – Mayoral Candidates Debate
at Ohavi Zedek Synagogue (“O.Z.”)
188 N. Prospect St., Burlington
Sunday, Feb. 22nd, 3 to 5 pm

Note: debate will start promptly at 3 pm.

Moderated by attorney and O.Z. member Mark Kaplan.

The four major candidates for Mayor — Bob Kiss, Andy Montroll, Dan Smith, and Kurt Wright — have accepted an invitation from the Ohavi Zedek congregation to participate in a wide-ranging, two hour mayoral debate. The
debate is open to the public, and we encourage Burlington residents to attend, especially as this debate will be held just a little over one week before the election.

Our format: following brief opening statements, questions will be posed to all candidates, allowing time for each to respond, with brief rebuttals if needed. There will be short closing statements.

Questions on any relevant issues are welcome, and we expect the debate to cover a variety of issues. Questions will be invited from the audience. Index cards will be provided on which questions can be written.

** Child care and light refreshments (cookies/cider) will be available at no charge. RSVP to Laura Merit (lauramerit@comcast.net; 862-2445) if you need child care.
** Those attending are asked to turn off or silence their cellphones on entering.

For any questions about the debate, contact either Laura Merit (see contact information above) or Wayne Senville: wsenville@gmail.com (864-9083). OZ sponsored a similar debate in the 2006 mayoral election.

(3) PEOPLE’S FORUM on the Burlington Mayor’s Race

Tuesday, February 24, 7-9pm
Imani Center, 294 N Winooski Ave, Burlington

This is a forum for working and low-income people, tenants, and youth to help shape the future of our city.
The candidates for mayor will be there to hear about community issues including lead poisoning, jobs and economic recovery,
tenants’ rights, healthcare and transportation.

Got a question you’d like to ask the mayoral candidates?
Log on to workerscenter.org/peoplesforum to send us your question
Sponsored by the Burlington Livable City Coalition – Vermont Workers Center and the Imani Youth and Family Center
More information: (802) 861 2877 or www.workerscenter.org

* PLEASE HELP SPREAD THE WORD BY FORWARDING THIS MESSAGE TO PEOPLE WHO MIGHT BE INTERESTED

(4) Burlington Democracy ForAmerica and Green Mountain Daily

Event Date: Feb 26, 2009
Event Time: 7:00 PM EST
Venue Name: Sapa Coffee and Tea
Address: 9 Center Street
City: Burlington
Potholes. Disc golf. A dome over Burlington. There’s a lot to think about when deciding who should be the next mayor of Burlington and you’ve probably got a lot of questions you want to ask.
Well, if you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers… or, at least, a mayoral candidate forum in which you can ask your questions.
That’s right, Burlington DFA and Green Mountain Daily, Vermont’s finest political blog, are co-hosting a mayoral candidate forum to get you the answers to your question. Three candidates — Bob Kiss, Andy Montroll and Dan Smith — have already confirmed, so we hope to see you there!
7:00 p.m. – Doors open / mix and mingle
7:15 p.m. – Forum question and answer period
8:00 p.m. – Mix and mingle
8:30 p.m. – Wrap up

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VII. DREAM is hiring!

We have positions open that we’re excited to share with you. Are you seriously motivated? Passionate about making change? Do you love working with young people? We’re looking to hire a team of individuals who are innovative, adventurous, and have a contagious energy for DREAM’s work. We provide a supportive team, amazing opportunities for professional and personal growth, and incredible, life changing experiences. We believe in DREAMing BIG and helping kids in the State of Vermont do the same. Interested? Check out our positions below!
You may apply by sending a letter of interest and your resume to recruit@dreamprogram.org . Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.
Want to know more about what it is like to work for DREAM? Read our Current Reality.
Check out our website for our Job Openings!

http://www.dreamprogram.org/resources/jobs.htm

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VIII. Burlington Area Community Gardens Registrations Now Available

Spring is right around the corner and now is the time to sign up for a garden plot. Through BACG, you can register for a Full size, Half size, or Novice/Family Friendly garden plot and grow fresh veggies, herbs, and flowers for your enjoyment.

Our newest site opens on Myrtle Street this year! At least 10 Novice/Family Friendly plots will be available.

All 11 community garden sites are equipped with water and most have community tools sheds. In addition, each site (except for no-till areas) is tilled in the spring. Space is limited. Plots are reserved first come first serve. Descriptions of individual sites are available on-line at www.enjoyburlington.com

Full Size plots are $55.00 for the season.
Half size plots are $37.00 for the season.
Youth sized plots are $20.00 for the season.

Registration forms can now be downloaded from our website at www.enjoyburlington.com!

Scholarships are available; please contact Chittenden Community Action Office at 863-6248 for more information.

To register call 863-0420 or stop by the Burlington Parks & Recreation Office, at 645 Pine Street

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IX. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

Imagine a free service where a technician came to your home and tested for the presence of toxic lead paint dust so that you got a clear picture about the safety of your home.

FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling is now available through the City of Burlington’s Lead Program to all Burlington residents. This free service will help parents keep their children safe from lead poisoning by making sure you are aware of potential lead hazards.

Burlington has over 10,000 housing units with lead-based paint hazards. Take advantage of this FREE testing to keep your children safe from the life-long health, social and behavioral problems associated with lead poisoning.

For more information, or to set up an appointment please call Burlington Lead Program at 802-846-0149 or 865-LEAD (5323).

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X. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market will be held the third Saturday of each month all winter, December through April (February 21, March 21, and April 18).

Fresh eggs, cheeses, wines, maple syrup, veggies and much, much more, straight from local farmers, artists, and bakers. A great place to shop for the Thanksgiving meal or get a start on holiday shopping.

For more information www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.org or info@burlingtonfarmersmarket.org.

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XI. Save the Dates – Kids on the Block – Vermont has Exciting Events coming up!

Wednesday, March 18, 5-9pm
Three Tomatoes Trattoria in Burlington, Williston, Rutland and Lebanon
will donate $1 per entree to Kids on the Block-Vermont.

Come enjoy a delicious rustic Italian dinner at any one of their locations. You may see us with the “kids,” so be sure to say “hi!” Visit http://ent.groundspring.org/EmailNow/pub.php?module=URLTracker&cmd=track&j=259502911&u=2763770 to see a complete listing of menus and locations.

“At Three Tomatoes Trattoria, we take great pride in supporting the local communities that sustain our restaurants. One night each month we host a non-profit organization at our four restaurants and donate $1 per entree ordered to the cause.” – Jed Davis

Saturday, March 21, 7:30-9:30pm
Karen McFeeters CD Release Concert for her new CD “Here and Now,” contempoaray folk and pop music.

Concert Guests include: Carol Abair, Sarah Allerton, Craig Anderson, Peter Engisch, Adam Frehm, John Gibbons, Alec Julien, Colin McCaffrey, Melissa Morrison and Brendon Taylor

McCarthy Arts Center Recital Hall, St. Michael’s College, Colchester, VT
Doors open at 7pm and show starts at 7:30pm

Tickets are $12, available in advance at 802.860.3349 or at the door.
Last year was a near sell out! Get your tickets early!

100% of concert proceeds will support KOBVT’s programs and
10% of all CD sales at the concert will be donated to KOBVT.

Thursday, April 2, 6:00-9:00pm
9th Annual Puppets’ Choice Award
Honoring Vermont author Katherine Paterson

Katherine Paterson’s literary works for children & young adults include Bridge to Terabithia; Jacob Have I Loved; The Great Gilly Hopkins; Bread and Roses, Too; and many other acclaimed stories.
Please join us for dinner, silent and live auctions, and to honor Ms. Paterson at The Elley-Long Music Center in Colchester.

For more information call 802.860.3349 or email Sarah@KidsontheBlockVermont.org

Keep your eyes open for all the exciting new things happening with
Kids on the Block-Vermont!

In the fall of 2009 we’ll be debuting our new program on Autism Spectrum Disrorders.

Kids on the Block-Vermont is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving children in elementary and middle schools throughout Vermont. We rely on the generosity of individuals and businesses to keep our programs affordable to schools, especially in these hard economic times.

Visit http://ent.groundspring.org/EmailNow/pub.php?module=URLTracker&cmd=track&j=259502911&u=2763771 to learn more about our 21 different programs
or how you can help.

Please contact us if you would like to engage Kids on the Block-Vermont for your school or organization

Educating Children Through the Magic of Puppets
Kids on the Block – Vermont
294 North Winooski Ave., Suite 125
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 860-3349

http://ent.groundspring.org/EmailNow/pub.php?module=URLTracker&cmd=track&j=259502911&u=2763772

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XII. City Positions Available

March 4, 2009
Public Works Department
Plant Mechanic Water
Full Time
$20.56/hr

March 5, 2009
Community and Economic Development Office
Community Development Specialist (Yes, this is my job)
Full Time
$771.75/wkly

Open
Parks and Recreation Department
Park Planner/Project Manager
Temporary Full Time
$24.00/hr

Open
Burlington Electric Department
Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$57,390/yr – $94,083/yr
DOE

Open
Burlington Electric Department
Senior Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$62,475/yr – $102,418/yr
DOE

Open
Burlington Police Department
Police Officer**
Full Time
$41,503.00 – $49,269.00/yr
DOE

For more information about these and other positions with the City of Burlington, visit: http://www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html

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XIII. Neighborhood Calendar

Monday, February 23

-Special Meeting of the Board of Finance
-To discuss: Business Matters of the City
-5:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 865-7019

-Regular Meeting of the City Council
-7:00p.m., Contois Auditorium, 2nd floor of City Hall
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 865-7136

Tuesday, February 24

-Regular Meeting of the Design Advisory Board
-3:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 865-7188

-Regular Meeting of the Burlington Telecommunications Advisory Committee
-4:00p.m., Burlington Telecom, 200 Church Street
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 846-5013

-Special Meeting of the Cable Advisory Council
-To discuss: Cable Carriage Policy
-4:00p.m., Burlington Telecom, 200 Church Street
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 860-6473

-Special Meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners
-To discuss: Youth Representative on Commission and Various Reports
-6:00p.m., Burlington Police Department, 1 North Avenue
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 540-2107

-Special Meeting of the Development Community and Neighbor Revitalization Committee
-To discuss: Results of the Survey held at and for NPAs and other business
-6:00p.m., Planning and Zoning Conference Room, 1st floor of City Hall
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 865-7174

Wednesday, February 25

-Special Meeting of the Board of the Burlington Employee Retirement System
-To discuss: Dahab Associates, Retirement Applications, and Ratify Fund
-8:30a.m., Burlington Electric Department, 585 Pine Street
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 865-7097

-Special Meeting of the Waterfront Marketplace Downtown Advisory Group
-To discuss: Waterfront Access North, Appropriations budget overview, and Transportation Projects and Stimulus
-11:30a.m., Department of Public Works, 645 Pine Street
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 865-7284

-Regular Meeting of the Chittenden County Transportation Authority
-5:00p.m., 15 Industrial Parkway
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 864-0211

-Regular Meeting of the Chittenden Solid Waste District
-7:00p.m., Williston Police Station Conference Room
-For more information about this meeting please call (802) 872-8100

Burlington Happenings 2/2/09

snyce — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 22:24:05 +0000

I. 2009 Local Focus Resource Guide Now Available

II. Recognize your Neighbors at the 9th Annual Neighborhood Night of Success

III. CEDO to Convene Economic Summit

IV. Volunteers Create Groomed Ski Trail In Burlington’s Intervale

V. A Call for Volunteer “Readers”

VI. GospelFest

VII. Mayoral Candidates Debate at Ohavi Zedek

VIII. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

IX. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

X. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

XI. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

XII. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

XIII. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

XIV. Save the Dates – Kids on the Block – Vermont has Exciting Events coming up!

XV. City Positions Available

XVI. Neighborhood Calendar

* * * * * * NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ * * * * * * * *

I. 2009 Local Focus Resource Guide Now Available

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II. Recognize your Neighbors at the 9th Annual Neighborhood Night of Success

Neighborhood Night of Success
Community Dinner & Awards
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
5:30pm-7:00pm

Nominations of persons, groups and businesses are welcomed. Due by March 6th!

E-mail, call or write the following information:
-Your Name & Contact info
-Nominee Name & Contact Info
-Description of nominee making Burlington a better place to live, work and play.

Send to: Ita Meno
125 College St, 2nd Floor
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 865-7172
imeno@ci.burlington.vt.us

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III. CEDO to Convene Economic Summit

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IV. Volunteers Create Groomed Ski Trail In Burlington’s Intervale

Now there’s another reason to get out of the house and get active. As a demonstration this winter, Local Motion volunteers are grooming Burlington’s Intervale Trail for both classic and skate skiing (weather permitting of course).
The 2.5-mile trail connects Intervale Compost to Ethan Allen Homestead. The trail map, snow conditions and more info can we found at www.skiburlington.blogspot.com.
Parking:     South: Intervale Road by the Tommy Thompson community gardens
    North: Ethan Allen Homestead (first parking lot off the Beltline)
This is a mixed-use trail so please be courteous to all users (walkers, dogs, other skiers). We’re grooming the trail every other day (snow permitting). The Intervale is not a resort so don’t expect exquisite conditions, but it is a convenient and fun place to ski! Please note that all who use the trail are doing so at their own risk.
Local Motion has raised $2,000 to acquire the used grooming equipment, but another $1,100 is needed to complete the purchase. Tax-deductible contributions can be made on Local Motion’s website or mailed to Local Motion. To celebrate this new recreational resource, come to “Wintervale Day” – a wintertime introduction to fun in the Intervale on Sunday, Feb. 8th, 10am to 2pm!
*    Free ski & snowshoe demos
*    Hosted by Skirack and Local Motion
*    Weather permitting, check www.skiburlington.blogspot.com for status
*    Directions: Off Riverside Avenue, follow Intervale Road down the hill.
*    Park at the Intervale Community Farm.
As a demonstration project, we want your feedback. Send comments to Lisa Coven at Parks & Recreation (lcoven@ci.burlington.vt.us or 863-0420). If the grooming is well received, we’ll explore expanded operations or maybe other locations next winter.

Thank you to the Skirack, Intervale Center, Burlington Parks & Recreation, Winooski Valley Park District, Intervale Compost, Gardener’s Supply, Catamount Trail Association and the many Intervale farmers for making this project possible.

More Intervale Trail info can be found at our Trail Finder: www.localmotion.org/trails. This
grooming project was initiated by members who wanted an in-town skiing option, but we want to remind people about the great outdoor centers in Chittenden County that also have groomed skiing – Catamount Outdoor and Sleepy Hollow!

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V. A Call for Volunteer “Readers”

On February 11,17 and 19 2009 three Burlington elementary schools (Champlain, Edmunds and Flynn) will participate in a community initiative called Reading to End Racism to support the District wide goal of promoting and valuing diversity. This project creates an opportunity for students to listen to new literature, hear personal stories and join age-appropriate forums to explore and explain racism.

Classroom presentations are led by volunteer “readers” who are solicited throughout the community, all of whom are committed to undoing racism. These “Readers” serve as powerful role models for students, and in the past have included police officers, elected officials, educators, artists, business professionals, parents and school board members. Entire schools are enlisted in one-day presentations involving all classes, with book readings, personal stories and discussions on ways students can help end racism. Results from Boulder Valley School District in Boulder, Colorado where thousands of students were offered Reading to End Racism show over 85% believed they had an increased understanding of racism after participating.

This project is a collaborative effort by the Burlington School District, The Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and VARAT (The Vermont Anti-Racism Action Team).

Please join us for a community wide volunteer readers training on Thursday evening January 29, 2009 at Burlington School District offices on Colchester Ave. We will meet in the Ira Allen Boardroom from 6 pm to 7:30pm.

For more information about this exciting initiative, or to sign up to be a volunteer reader, please contact:

Denise Dunbar
Chittenden County Council coordinator
Email: Denise.H.Dunbar@uvm.edu
802-578-2062

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VI. GospelFest

Come and shake off the winter blues and enjoy some of Vermont’s finest musical talents which include the New Alpha Missionary Baptist Church Choir, the New Alpha Children’s Choir, and the Burlington Ecumenical Gospel Choir!

GospelFest, Sunday, February 15, 5pm, The Flynn Center, Burlington, adults $15, children $10. Tickets available at the Flynn Box Office, 802-863-5966, www.flynncenter.org.

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VII. Mayoral Candidates Debate at Ohavi Zedek

Mayoral Candidates Debate
at Ohavi Zedek Synagogue (“O.Z.”)
188 N. Prospect St., Burlington
Sunday, Feb. 22nd, 3 to 5 pm

Note: debate will start promptly at 3 pm.

Moderated by attorney and O.Z. member Mark Kaplan.

The four major candidates for Mayor — Bob Kiss, Andy Montroll, Dan Smith, and Kurt Wright — have accepted an invitation from the Ohavi Zedek congregation to participate in a wide-ranging, two hour mayoral debate. The debate is open to the public, and we encourage Burlington residents to attend, especially as this debate will be held just a little over one week before the election.

Our format: following brief opening statements, questions will be posed to all candidates, allowing time for each to respond, with brief rebuttals if needed. There will be short closing statements.

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VIII. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

The Climate Action Plan update team – composed of dozens of residents, business leaders, non-profit representatives, city staff and others – wants to hear from you! Since September, this team of 8 working groups has collected over a 100 ideas and recommendations on how to reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Please take a moment to review this initial work and weigh in with your own ideas, feedback or recommendations by visiting http://www.cedo.ci.burlington.vt.us/legacy/cap.html . The success of the final product depends on broad citizen input and participation – so thank you for your time and input!

For additional information on the Climate Action Plan, please contact Sandrine Thibault, Comprehensive City Planner, at sthibault@ci.burlington.vt.us (tel: 865-7193), or Jennifer Green, co-coordinator of the Burlington Legacy Project at jgreen@ci.burlington.vt.us (tel: 865-7532).

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IX. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies are looking for help from you! Please take 5 minutes to complete this Neighborhood PLanning Assembly Report Card:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=PwTNBtkSkp3ZHYDdFDt42g_3d_3d

Thanks,

Your NPA Steering Committees, Staff and City Council

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X. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

The Burlington Police Department has provided law enforcement services to the Queen City since 1865. Since 1999 we have operated using community policing as our primary methodology. Described succinctly, community policing is a model of community safety in which all members of a community play a role in ensuring a safe, healthy, and self-reliant city.

The role of the police department, in addition to providing emergency response and criminal investigation (key parts of traditional policing), is to foster and facilitate community engagement and partnerships, and to be a foundational player in problem solving initiatives community-wide.

As we approach 2009 and the ten-year anniversary of our contemporary community policing efforts, we believe it is time to assess what strategies have been successful, which require improvement, and what lies ahead for Burlington’s community policing efforts. To that end, with the assistance of an Advisory Board made up of seven representatives from around the City, we have designed a community engagement process that will be deployed in January and February of 2009.

The primary goals of this process are three-fold. First, we hope to have an opportunity to discuss the future of policing with a sizable number of Burlington residents and businesses. Next, working from a list of ideas about future partnerships, initiatives, and programs we seek to gain the community’s assistance in refining and prioritizing these ideas. Finally, working from the discussions and the ideas we present, we will solicit new ideas from throughout the Burlington community.

To obtain meaningful feedback during this process, we will use a variety of strategies, including public forums, focus groups, and surveys. Meetings are to be held:

February 2 at 6pm
Heineburg Senior Center
Heineburg Road
(North location)

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XI. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

Food Stamp Rules Have Changed

In the past many people could not get food stamps because they had too much savings. Now you can have retirement and education savings accounts and still get the help you need, even if you have been denied before.

The Food Stamp Program is an important federal nutrition program that helps make sure people have enough food to be active and healthy. Households that participate can also receive other benefits like free school meals for your children and phone bill assistance!

For a food stamp application, call 1-800-287-0589 or visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com. For help with your application, dial 2-1-1, free from anywhere in Vermont, and ask to be connected to your nearest Community Action Agency.

If you are a senior, call the Senior Helpline at 1-800-642-5119.

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XII. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

Imagine a free service where a technician came to your home and tested for the presence of toxic lead paint dust so that you got a clear picture about the safety of your home.

For more information, or to set up an appointment please call Burlington Lead Program at 802-846-0149 or 865-LEAD (5323).

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XIII. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market will be held the third Saturday of each month all winter, December through April (February 21, March 21, and April 18).

For more information www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.org or info@burlingtonfarmersmarket.org.

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XIV. Save the Dates – Kids on the Block – Vermont has Exciting Events coming up!

Wednesday, March 18, 5-9pm
Three Tomatoes Trattoria in Burlington, Williston, Rutland and Lebanon
will donate $1 per entree to Kids on the Block-Vermont.

Come enjoy a delicious rustic Italian dinner at any one of their locations. You may see us with the “kids,” so be sure to say “hi!”
Visit http://ent.groundspring.org/EmailNow/pub.php?module=URLTracker&cmd=track&j=259502911&u=2763770 to see a complete listing of menus and locations.

Saturday, March 21, 7:30-9:30pm
Karen McFeeters CD Release Concert for her new CD “Here and Now,” contempoaray folk and pop music.

Concert Guests include: Carol Abair, Sarah Allerton, Craig Anderson, Peter Engisch, Adam Frehm, John Gibbons, Alec Julien, Colin McCaffrey, Melissa Morrison and Brendon Taylor

McCarthy Arts Center Recital Hall, St. Michael’s College, Colchester, VT Doors open at 7pm and show starts at 7:30pm

Tickets are $12, available in advance at 802.860.3349 or at the door. Last year was a near sell out! Get your tickets early!

100% of concert proceeds will support KOBVT’s programs and
10% of all CD sales at the concert will be donated to KOBVT.

Thursday, April 2, 6:00-9:00pm
9th Annual Puppets’ Choice Award
Honoring Vermont author Katherine Paterson

Katherine Paterson’s literary works for children & young adults include Bridge to Terabithia; Jacob Have I Loved; The Great Gilly Hopkins; Bread and Roses, Too; and many other acclaimed stories. Please join us for dinner, silent and live auctions, and to honor Ms. Paterson at The Elley-Long Music Center in Colchester.

For more information call 802.860.3349 or email Sarah@KidsontheBlockVermont.org

Keep your eyes open for all the exciting new things happening with
Kids on the Block-Vermont!

In the fall of 2009 we’ll be debuting our new program on Autism Spectrum Disrorders.

Please consider making a gift to Kids on the Block-Vermont. Your donation will help
educate children on how to keep themselves safe and healthy and to appreciate each other’s
physical and cultural differences.

Visit http://ent.groundspring.org/EmailNow/pub.php?module=URLTracker&cmd=track&j=259502911&u=2763771 to learn more about our 21 different programs
or how you can help.

Please contact us if you would like to engage Kids on the Block-Vermont for your school or organization

Educating Children Through the Magic of Puppets
Kids on the Block – Vermont
294 North Winooski Ave., Suite 125
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 860-3349 http://ent.groundspring.org/EmailNow/pub.php?module=URLTracker&cmd=track&j=259502911&u=2763772

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XV. City Positions Available

February 4, 2009
Burlington Telecom
Help Desk Technician
Full Time
$17.60/hr

February 4, 2009
Code Enforcement Office
Case Management Specialist
Full Time
$879.88/wk

Open
Burlington Electric Department
Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$57,390/yr – $94,083/yr
DOE

Open
Burlington Electric Department
Senior Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$62,475/yr – $102,418/yr
DOE

Open
Burlington Police Department
Police Officer**
Full Time $41,503.00 – $49,269.00/yr
DOE

For more information about these and other positions with the City of Burlington, visit: http://www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html

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XVI. Neighborhood Calendar

Monday, February 2

-Special Meeting of the Public Works Commission
-To discuss: 2009 Paving Plan
-9:00a.m., Department of Public Works, 645 Pine Street

-Regular Meeting of the Conservation Board
-5:30p.m., Planning and Zoning Conference Room, 1st floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the Disc Golf Committee
-To discuss: Impact of creating disc golf at Leddy Park
-6:00p.m., Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center, Gosse Court

-Regular Meeting of the Housing Board of Review
-7:00p.m., Burlington Police Department, 1 North Avenue

Tuesday, February 3

-Regular Meeting of the Development Review Board
-5:00p.m., Contois Auditorium, 2nd floor of City Hall

-Regular Meeting of the Board of Registration for Voters
-6:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the Planning Commission
-To discuss: Committee Recommendations
-7:30p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

Wednesday, February 4

-Special Meeting of the Institutions and Human Resources Policy Committee
-To discuss: Changes to the Personnel Polices
-7:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

Thursday, February 5

Ward 6 Neighborhood Planning Assembly

Friday, February 6

-Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission Ordinance Committee
-1:15p.m., Planning and Zoning Conference Room, 1st floor of City Hall

For more information, please visit http://www.ci.burlington.vt.us/events/

Burlington Happnenings 1/23/09

snyce — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 23:35:27 +0000

I. Recognize your Neighbors at the 9th Annual Neighborhood Night of Success

II. Burlington Economic Summit

III. Reverse Angle Parking in the Downtown

IV. GospelFest

V. IMANI/New Alpha Dinner

VI. Peace & Justice Center Celebrates 30 years

VII. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

VIII. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

IX. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

IX. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

X. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

XI. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

XII. City Positions Available

XIII. Neighborhood Calendar

* * * * * * NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ * * * * * * * *

I. Recognize your Neighbors at the 9th Annual Neighborhood Night of Success

Neighborhood Night of Success
Community Dinner & Awards
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
5:30pm-7:00pm

Nominations of persons, groups and businesses are welcomed. E-mail, call or write the following information: -Your Name & Contact info -Nominee Name & Contact Info -Description of nominee making Burlington a better place to live, work and play.

Send to: Ita Meno
125 College St, 2nd Floor
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 865-7172
imeno@ci.burlington.vt.us

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II. Burlington Economic Summit

CEDO and the Micro-Business Alliance invite you to attend The Burlington Economic Summit, to be held on Friday, February 13, 2009 from 8:30-11AM in Contois Auditorium. The theme of this collaborative session will be “Building A Vision for Our Community’s Economic Future.” More details to follow.

Please confirm your attendance with me, and feel free to share this invitation:
Jon Adams-Kollitz
(802) 865-7187
jadamskollitz@ci.burlington.vt.us

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III. Reverse Angle Parking in the Downtown

What: Public meeting to discuss Reverse Angle Parking

When: Thursday, January 29
9 am at the Fletcher Free Library Pickering Room
6 pm in Room 12 of City Hall

Why: Reverse angle parking has many benefits, and some challenges. We would like to introduce the concept of reverse angle parking and receive feedback from the community to determine if it should be considered for on-street parking in the downtown area.

If you’re unable to attend, we will post information on reverse angle parking on DPW’s website.

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IV. GospelFest

GospelFest, Sunday, February 15, 5pm, The Flynn Center, Burlington, adults $15, children $10. Tickets available at the Flynn Box Office, 802-863-5966, www.flynncenter.org.

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V. IMANI/New Alpha Dinner

IMANI/New Alpha Dinner: January 24 from 6pm – 8pm
Take a break from cooking and eat a homemade Southern dinner!
Menu includes: BBQ or fried chicken, black-eyed peas, collard greens, and cornbread.

$10/plate Delivery available as well!
To order your plate, please call IMANI at: 864-2631 or New Alpha Baptist at: 879-0076

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VI. Peace & Justice Center Celebrates 30 years

On January 30th, the Peace & Justice Center will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary at 7pm, City Hall, Burlington. We will have 30 cakes, some speakers and the Starline Rhythym Boys! Free/donations appreciated. We will have a parade of the 30 cakes down Church St at noon that day. We could use some more volunteers who would like to bake a cake and/or carry one in the parade. Contact Anise at 863-2345 x6.

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VII. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

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VIII. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies are looking for help from you! Please take 5 minutes to complete this Neighborhood PLanning Assembly Report Card:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=PwTNBtkSkp3ZHYDdFDt42g_3d_3d

Thanks,

Your NPA Steering Committees, Staff and City Council

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IX. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

January 28 at 6pm
Greek Orthodox Church
600 South Willard Street
(South location)

February 2 at 6pm
Heineburg Senior Center
Heineburg Road
(North location)

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IX. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

Food Stamp Rules Have Changed

If you are a senior, call the Senior Helpline at 1-800-642-5119.

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X. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

Imagine a free service where a technician came to your home and tested for the presence of toxic lead paint dust so that you got a clear picture about the safety of your home.

For more information, or to set up an appointment please call Burlington Lead Program at 802-846-0149 or 865-LEAD (5323).

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XI. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market will be held the third Saturday of each month all winter, December through April (February 21, March 21, and April 18).

For more information www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.org or info@burlingtonfarmersmarket.org.

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XII. City Positions Available

February 4, 2009
Burlington Telecom
Help Desk Technician
Full Time
$17.60/hr

February 4, 2009
Code Enforcement Office
Case Management Specialist
Full Time
$879.88/wk

January 30, 2009
Planning and Zoning
Planning and Zoning Clerk
Full Time $17.10/hr

Open
Burlington Electric Department
Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$57,390/yr – $94,083/yr
DOE

Open
Burlington Electric Department
Senior Distribution Engineer
Full Time
$62,475/yr – $102,418/yr
DOE

Open
Burlington Police Department
Police Officer**
Full Time $41,503.00 – $49,269.00/yr
DOE

For more information about these and other positions with the City of Burlington, visit: http://www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html

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XIII. Neighborhood Calendar

Monday, January 26

-Special Meeting of the Board of Airport Commissioners
-To discuss: Monthly Reports, Board Reorganization and Managers Report
-12:00p.m., Burlington International Airport

-Special Meeting of the Planning Commission-Executive Committee
To discuss: Status Reports, Committee Updates, and upcoming items
-4:00p.m., Planning and Zoning Conference Room 1st floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the Board of Finance
-To discuss: Business Matters of the City
-5:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the City Council Worksession
-To discuss: Open Government Transparency Committee Recommendations
-5:30p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

-Regular Meeting of the City Council
-7:00p.m., Contois Auditorium, 2nd floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the Board of Civil Authority
-To discuss: Request for Review of BTA Decision
-7:00p.m., Contois Auditorium, 2nd floor of City Hall

Tuesday, January 27

-Regular Meeting of the Burlington City Arts Board of Directors
-2:00p.m., Firehouse Gallery

-Regular Meeting of the Design Advisory Board
-3:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

-Regular Meeting of the Burlington Telecommunications Advisory Committee
-4:00p.m., Burlington Telecom, 200 Church Street

-Special Meeting of the Police Commissioners
-To discuss: Personnel Matter and Chief and Chair Reports
-6:00p.m., Burlington Police Department, 1 North Avenue

-Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
-6:30p.m., Contois Auditorium, 2nd floor of City Hall

Wednesday, January 28

-Regular Meeting of the Chittenden County Transportation Authority Board of Commissioners
-5:00p.m., 15 Industrial Parkway

-Special Meeting of the Community Development Block Grant Advisory Board
-To discuss: Public Service Applications
-6:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the City Council Ordinance Committee
-To discuss: Fire Ordinances, Zoning Ordinances, and Housing Amendments
-7:00p.m., Burlington Police Department, 1 North Avenue

Burlington Happenings January 19th

snyce — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 00:22:27 +0000

I. PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION CEREMONY TO BE BROADCAST AT CITY HALL

II. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration

III. GospelFest

IV. IMANI/New Alpha Dinner

V. Peace & Justice Center Celebrates 30 years

VI. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

VII. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

IX. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

X. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

XI. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

XII. City Positions Available

XIII. Neighborhood Calendar

* * * * * * NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ * * * * * * * *

I. PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION CEREMONY TO BE BROADCAST AT CITY HALL

Burlington, VT – January 16, 2009. The City of Burlington will broadcast the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony in Contois Auditorium on January 20, open to the public. The broadcast will begin at Contois at 10:30 am. The swearing-in of President-elect Obama is scheduled to start at 11:30 am, followed by the Inaugural Address. The broadcast will be closed-captioned, in addition to audio.

The entire schedule is as follows, with on-site events starting at 10 am:

Musical Selections

The United States Marine Band

The San Francisco Boys Chorus and the San Francisco Girls Chorus

Call to Order and Welcoming Remarks

The Honorable Dianne Feinstein

Invocation

Dr. Rick Warren, Saddleback Church, Lake Forest, CA

Musical Selection

Aretha Franklin

Oath of Office Administered to Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden, Jr. By Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, The Honorable John Paul Stevens

Musical Selection, John Williams, composer/arranger

Itzhak Perlman (Violin), Yo-Yo Ma (Cello), Gabriela Montero (Piano), Anthony McGill (Clarinet)

Oath of Office Administered to President-elect Barack H. Obama By the Chief Justice of the United States, The Honorable John G. Roberts, Jr.

Inaugural Address

The President of the United States, The Honorable Barack H. Obama

Poem

Elizabeth Alexander

Benediction

The Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery

The National Anthem

The United States Navy Band “Sea Chanters”

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II. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration

The Community and Economic Development Office (CEDO) AmeriCorps*VISTA Team will host the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service & Celebration on Monday, January 19, 2009. CEDO cordially invites community members to join us as we honor Dr. King with inspirational speakers, community projects at area non-profits and enjoy a free community dinner and celebration for all. Event organizers are also seeking service project sites, and businesses to sponsor the evening’s community meal by providing cash or in-kind donations. This is a growing tradition calling Martin Luther King Day to be a “day on, not a day off” for Burlington residents.

On Monday, January 19, the King federal holiday, family, friends, community members and fellow VISTAs will gather from 12pm until 7pm to honor the life and teachings of one of our country’s greatest civil rights activists, Dr. King. The day will open with at City Hall’s Contois Auditorium, 149 Church St., Burlington where fellow community members will choose service projects and spend the afternoon helping at various sites. Participation in these service activities help celebrate and commemorate the life of service led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All ages are welcome; feel free to stay for a few hours or the whole day! Participants should contact Annie Reinhart for more information at 701-430-9430 or areinhart@ci.burlington.vt.us.

Earlier this month, the Presidential Inaugural Committee announced that President-elect Obama and Vice President-elect Biden and their families will participate in service on the King Holiday in the Washington, D.C. area. We also anticipate that the President-elect will urge Americans to serve on the King Holiday. This involvement from President-elect Obama, which continues a tradition started by former President Clinton and continued by President Bush, will add significant momentum to what was already shaping up to be the largest King Day ever. We urge Vermonters to spend the day in service and community in honor of a man that spent his whole life serving others.

“Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.” Martin Luther King Jr.

The tentative schedule for Monday January 19 is:

1:00pm Sign Ups for Community Service Projects, please wear suitable work attire

Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall

1:30 – 4:30 Community Service Projects, at sites around Burlington and neighboring communities

5 pm Keynote speaker- Oliver Barkley, local activist and comedian

Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall

6 – 7 pm Free Community Dinner and Celebration, with Urban Flava Step Team and Very Merry Theatre

Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall

A list of community service projects will be finalized and distributed shortly. Sign-ups for projects will take place in the Contois Auditorium at 1pm.

Last year’s project sites included:

The Turning Point Center of Chittenden County

Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program

ECHO Lake & Aquarium

Winooski Family Center

VEIC Change a light Winooski

VEIC Change a light Burlington

VNA Family Room

Flyering in Burlington Neighborhoods

Operation Snow Shovel

Bike Recycle Vermont

Welcome Baby Program

Riverside Housing Area

Franklin Square Apartments

Humane Society of Chittenden County

Joseph’s House

C.O.T.S.

The service project will be one of hundreds of activities held in states and cities nationwide to honor the legacy of Dr. King. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, directing the King Center and the Corporation for National and Community Service to carry out a day of service reflecting Dr. King’s life and teachings. Please join this commemoration of Dr. King’s Life and Legacy in Burlington.

CEDO’s Center for Community and Neighborhoods (C-CAN) is home to a broad spectrum of programs that improve our city through community participation and citizen action. CCAN works to engage residents in partnership with the public and private sector. We work together to shape municipal plans, allocate resources, respond to crime, resolve conflict, and improve neighborhoods. Each year over 4,000 citizens are involved in innovative activities from study circles on racism to neighborhood planning and problem solving, from graffiti removal to restorative justice panels, and in a variety of community improvement projects.

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III. GospelFest

GospelFest, Sunday, February 15, 5pm, The Flynn Center, Burlington, adults $15, children $10. Tickets available at the Flynn Box Office, 802-863-5966, www.flynncenter.org.

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IV. IMANI/New Alpha Dinner

IMANI/New Alpha Dinner: January 24 from 6pm – 8pm

Take a break from cooking and eat a homemade Southern dinner!

Menu includes: BBQ or fried chicken, black-eyed peas, collard greens, and cornbread.

$10/plate Delivery available as well!

To order your plate, please call IMANI at: 864-2631 or New Alpha Baptist at: 879-0076

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V. Peace & Justice Center Celebrates 30 years

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

VI. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

VII. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies are looking for help from you! Please take 5 minutes to complete this Neighborhood PLanning Assembly Report Card:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=PwTNBtkSkp3ZHYDdFDt42g_3d_3d

Thanks,

Your NPA Steering Committees, Staff and City Council

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VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

To obtain meaningful feedback during this process, we will use a variety of strategies, including public forums, focus groups, and surveys. Meetings are to be held:

January 19 at 6pm

Burlington Police Department

1North Avenue

(Central location)

January 28 at 6pm

Greek Orthodox Church

600 South Willard Street

(South location)

February 2 at 6pm

Heineburg Senior Center

Heineburg Road

(North location)

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IX. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

Food Stamp Rules Have Changed

If you are a senior, call the Senior Helpline at 1-800-642-5119.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

X. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

Imagine a free service where a technician came to your home and tested for the presence of toxic lead paint dust so that you got a clear picture about the safety of your home.

For more information, or to set up an appointment please call Burlington Lead Program at 802-846-0149 or 865-LEAD (5323).

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

XI. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market will be held the third Saturday of each month all winter, December through April (January 17, February 21, March 21, and April 18).

For more information www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.org or info@burlingtonfarmersmarket.org.

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XII. City Positions Available

February 4, 2009

Burlington Telecom

Help Desk Technician

Full Time

$17.60/hr

February 4, 2009

Code Enforcement Office

Case Management Specialist

Full Time

$879.88/wk

January 30, 2009

Planning and Zoning

Planning and Zoning Clerk

Full Time $17.10/hr

Open

Burlington Electric Department

Distribution Engineer

Full Time

$57,390/yr – $94,083/yr

DOE

Open

Burlington Electric Department

Senior Distribution Engineer

Full Time

$62,475/yr – $102,418/yr

DOE

Open

Burlington Police Department

Police Officer**

Full Time $41,503.00 – $49,269.00/yr

DOE

For more information about these and other positions with the City of Burlington, visit: http://www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html

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XIII. Neighborhood Calendar

Monday, January 19

MLK Day of Service

Contois Auditorium 1pm – 7pm

Tuesday, January 20

-Regular Meeting of the Burlington Fire Commission

-8:00a.m., Chief O’Neil’s Office, 136 South Union Street

-Regular Meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission

-5:00p.m., Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center on Gosse Court

-Regular Meeting of the Development Review Board

-5:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the Development Review Board-Deliberative Session

-To discuss: 07-363CA; 431 North St. (RL, Ward 1)

-Following the Regular Development Review Board Meeting, Conference Room 12

Wednesday, January 21

-Special Meeting of the City Council

-To discuss: School Budget Presentation

-5:30p.m., Contois Auditorium, 2nd floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the Board of Finance on Wednesday January 21, 2009 at 5:00p.m. in Conference Room 12

-Regular Meeting of the Neighborhood Planning Assembly-Ward 5

-7:00p.m., Department of Public Works, 645 Pine Street

Thursday, January 22

-Special Meeting of the Institutions and Human Resources Policy Committee

-To discuss: Consideration of AFSCME grievance

-7:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

For more information, please visit http://www.ci.burlington.vt.us/events/

Burlington Happenings

snyce — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 03:15:54 +0000

I. WINTER BUSINESS FAIR

II. Free Curbside Christmas Tree Pick Up – Tuesday, Jan 13th @ 7 am!

III. Operation Snow Shovel Needs Volunteers!

IV. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration

IV. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

V. .Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

VI. Bicycling and Walking Advocacy Groups to Merge: Singular Group Will Provide Stronger Voice on Local Projects

VII. Vacation Planning – Crime Prevention Message from your Burlington Police Department

VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

IX. 4th Annual Holiday Dinner for Seniors

X. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

XI. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

XII. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

XIII. City Positions Available

XIV. Neighborhood Calendar

* * * * * * NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ * * * * * * * *

I. WINTER BUSINESS FAIR

The Small Business Administration and The Community and Economic Development Office invite you to attend the Winter Business Fair on January 15, 2009 from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M.

Come to Contois Auditorium in City Hall and get answers to your questions about starting or maintaining a business. Whether it is business planning, borrowing money, marketing or assistance with energy efficiency, this business fair will have it all; in one place for one day, on January 15!

Three free workshops will be held during the Winter Business Fair. Workshops will include: *Commercial Lending from 10 – 10:45AM *Starting Your Own Business with Steve Densham of VT Small Business Development Center and Jerry Johnson of SCORE.

*Energy Efficiency for Your Commercial Space with Chris Burns of Burlington Electric

The workshops will have limited seating, so reserving a space is suggested. Call 802-865-7187 or email mailto:jadamskollitz@ci.burlington.vt.us or contact Vallerie Morse of SBA at:

802-828-4422 x211 or Vallerie.Morse@sba.gov

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II. Free Curbside Christmas Tree Pick Up – Tuesday, Jan 13th @ 7 am!

Turn your tree into fuel for the McNeil Generating Plant!

Trees must be curbside at 7am Only completely bare trees will be collected – no tinsel or decorations No wreaths or garlands Questions? Call 863-9094Let me know if you need anything else.

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III. Operation Snow Shovel Needs Volunteers!

The City of Burlington is pleased to announce the return of Operation Snow Shovel, a referral program that connects residents who need help shoveling with volunteers who are willing to help them out. Assistance is available for Burlington residents who need snow shoveled from their walkways this winter.

This program is offered to only those people who are unable to pay for this assistance, and/or who are physically unable to shovel themselves.

Volunteers are matched with a person in need of shoveling who lives in a location convenient to them. Volunteers commit to shoveling the walk leading up to the front door of their match’s residence within 24-48 hours of each snowfall, when it snows over three inches. Operations Snow Shovel volunteers ensure that the most vulnerable of our citizens who cannot remove snow from their own walkways can get out and otherwise remain independent. It is a great and simple way to give back this winter. At present there are many people waiting to be matched up in the New North End of Burlington, so if you live in that neighborhood, please consider signing up to volunteer.

To volunteer or if you are interested in receiving this service please call 865-7548 or email Abby Knapp at aknapp@ci.burlington.vt.us.

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IV. Save the Date for CEDO’s Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service & Celebration

Burlington, Vt, December 17, 2008– The Community and Economic Development Office (CEDO) AmeriCorps*VISTA Team will host the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service & Celebration on Monday, January 19, 2009. CEDO cordially invites community members to join us as we honor Dr. King with inspirational speakers, community projects at area non-profits and enjoy a free community dinner and celebration for all. Event organizers are also seeking service project sites, and businesses to sponsor the evening’s community meal by providing cash or in-kind donations. This is a growing tradition calling Martin Luther King Day to be a “day on, not a day off” for Burlington residents.

“Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.” Martin Luther King Jr.

The tentative schedule for Monday January 19 is:

1:00pm Sign Ups for Community Service Projects, please wear suitable work attire

Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall

1:30 – 4:30 Community Service Projects, at sites around Burlington and neighboring communities

5 pm Keynote speaker- Oliver Barkley, local activist and comedian

Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall

6 – 7 pm Free Community Dinner and Celebration, with Urban Flava Step Team and Very Merry Theatre Contois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall

A list of community service projects will be finalized and distributed shortly. Sign-ups for projects will take place in the Contois Auditorium at 1pm.

Last year’s project sites included:

The Turning Point Center of Chittenden County

Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program

ECHO Lake & Aquarium

Winooski Family Center

VEIC Change a light Winooski

VEIC Change a light Burlington

VNA Family Room

Flyering in Burlington Neighborhoods

Operation Snow Shovel

Bike Recycle Vermont

Welcome Baby Program

Riverside Housing Area

Franklin Square Apartments

Humane Society of Chittenden County

Joseph’s House

C.O.T.S.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

IV. The Climate Action Project Update: Recommendations and feedback welcomed & encouraged!

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

V. Neighborhood Planning Assembly Survey – There is still time!

Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies are looking for help from you! Please take 5 minutes to complete this Neighborhood PLanning Assembly Report Card:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=PwTNBtkSkp3ZHYDdFDt42g_3d_3d

Thanks,

Your NPA Steering Committees, Staff and City Council

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

VI. Bicycling and Walking Advocacy Groups to Merge: Singular Group Will Provide Stronger Voice on Local Projects

Walking and biking advocates in Burlington will soon be able to offer a stronger, unified voice on Burlington projects. Beginning in 2009, the Burlington Bicycle Council (BBC) and Burlington Walking Work Group (BWWG) will merge into a single walking/bicycling advisory council.

A kick-off celebration will be held Monday, January 12, 5:00 p.m. in the Firehouse Center for the Visual Arts, downtown Burlington. The group – so new they have yet to determine their official name – will promote walking and bicycling in city and regional transportation projects; make recommendations on bicycle and pedestrian-related policies, programs and plans; promote safety for all transportation modes; and encourage public input on bicycle and pedestrian issues.

There is wide support among members of the two groups for the merger. A shared sentiment is that a combined bicycle/pedestrian advisory council will offer a stronger, unified voice on city projects that could potentially affect walking and bicycling. The recent “No Biking on Sidewalks” stencil project on downtown sidewalks is an example of a completed collaborative project. The merged group will also continue providing comments on local plans, such as the Burlington Transportation Plan.

The merged group will continue to enjoy broad support from agencies and organizations such as the City of Burlington, Local Motion, AARP Vermont, Burlington’s Community & Economic Development Office, Campus Area Transportation Management Association, Vermont Department of Health, and Chittenden County Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Meetings will be held the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Center for Community and Neighborhoods (CCAN) offices at 125 College Street, 2nd floor and food will be provided. The new advisory council will also have an elected steering committee to lead programs and projects, but everyone who attends the open meetings will have a vote in matters, similar to Burlington’s Neighborhood Planning Assemblies.

The BBC was established by the Mayor’s office in 1990 when the Department of Public Works was directed to identify and create a comprehensive system of bike lanes and routes. The ad hoc BWWG grew out of the 2006 Pedestrian Summit calling for more focus on the City’s walking environment.

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VII. Vacation Planning – Crime Prevention Message from your Burlington Police Department

Planning a trip for vacation, business or other is often stressful. So many details need to be addressed prior to travel. Thinking about crime prevention usually isn’t a priority, but when your away for an extended period of time, your home is even more vulnerable to crime. Dark windows, driveway not plowed, lawn not mowed, absent vehicles in the driveway, trash left at curbside, a build up of mail or newspapers all advertise your absence to a potential burglar. In today’s world, we must now also consider what we post on the internet. Be careful not to post too many details regarding your departure and return plans when asking for house sitter referrals, car sharing, etc. For other crime prevention tips, please visit the Burlington Police Department website at www.bpdvt.org

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VIII. Statement & Invitation to the Community – Community Policing Re-Assessment Process Meeting Information

To obtain meaningful feedback during this process, we will use a variety of strategies, including public forums, focus groups, and surveys. Meetings are to be held:

January 19 at 6pm

Burlington Police Department

1North Avenue

(Central location)

January 28 at 6pm

Greek Orthodox Church

600 South Willard Street

(South location)

February 2 at 6pm

Heineburg Senior Center

Heineburg Road

(North location)

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IX. 4th Annual Holiday Dinner for Seniors

With the help of Champlain Valley Agency on Aging, Burlington Parks & Rec, Burlington Food Service and lots of local businesses and volunteers, we’re planning a FREE ham dinner for both delivery and a sitdown dinner on Christmas Day at 1:00 p.m. at Burlington High School so that senior citizens won’t be alone for the holiday. We’re hoping to deliver and serve 250 dinners and hand out that many giftbags.

There’s free transportation, too!

If you’d like to help out, please spread the word to seniors that you may know in your neighborhood. Folks can call the Champlain Valley Agency on Aging at 865-0360 to reserve a meal.

To donate to the giftbags, here’s the list of things we still need—-we’re really looking for basics in a tough year (PLEASE, NO

candles or sugar candy):

> Small giftbags

> Scotch tape

> Food items: peanut butter, canned soups, canned fruits or vegetables, tuna, meals in a can, packages of peanut butter and crackers, granola bars, etc.

> Toiletries: toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, kleenex, hand lotion, etc.

> Socks

> Hats

> Gloves

> Scarves

> Fleece blankets

> Sugar-free candy

> Crossword puzzle books

> Magazines

> Stationery

> Handmade cards with non-denominational “Happy Holidays” themes

> Simple decorations for the tables—it would be nice if they were a generic theme of “Winter”

> $10 giftcards for such things as CCTA bus passes, local grocery

> stores, businesses that seniors frequent, etc.

Thank you for making someone else’s holiday nicer!!

Happy Holidays!

Cheers,

Megan

864-7528

meganh@sover.net

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X. Save for Retirement – Save for Your Child’s Education – And Still Get Food Stamps!

Food Stamp Rules Have Changed

If you are a senior, call the Senior Helpline at 1-800-642-5119.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

XI. FREE Lead Dust and Soil Sampling

Imagine a free service where a technician came to your home and tested for the presence of toxic lead paint dust so that you got a clear picture about the safety of your home.

For more information, or to set up an appointment please call Burlington Lead Program at 802-846-0149 or 865-LEAD (5323).

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

XII. BURLINGTON WINTER FARMERS MARKET

Burlington Winter Farmers’ Market will be held the third Saturday of each month all winter, December through April (December 20, January 17, February 21, March 21, and April 18).

For more information www.burlingtonfarmersmarket.org or info@burlingtonfarmersmarket.org.

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XIII. City Positions Available

Open

Burlington Electric Department

Distribution Engineer

Full Time

$57,390/yr – $94,083/yr

DOE

Open

Burlington Electric Department

Senior Distribution Engineer

Full Time

$62,475/yr – $102,418/yr

DOE

Open

Burlington Police Department

Application & Technology Support Specialist

Full Time

$37,772/yr – $42,029/yr

DOE

Open

Burlington Police Department

Police Officer**

Full Time

$41,503.00 – $49,269.00/yr

DOE

For more information about these and other positions with the City of Burlington, visit: http://www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html

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XIV. Neighborhood Calendar

Monday, December 29

-Special Meeting of the Board of Airport Commissioners

-To discuss: Airport Parking Garage Project

-4:00p.m., Burlington International Airport

-Special Meeting of the Board of Finance

-To discuss: Business Matters of the City

-5:00p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

-Special Meeting of the Planning Commission Joint Institutional Development Committee

-To discuss: Champlain College Zoning Requests and Future Meeting Dates

-6:30p.m., Conference Room 12, 1st floor of City Hall

For more information, please visit http://www.ci.burlington.vt.us/events/