Friday, February 7th

Hello, Burlington!

Despite a frisky week of snow, wind gusts, and a hint of winter mischief, today’s forecast looks calmer, though you’ll still want to bundle up for those 40 mph gusts that occasionally whip through. Heading into Saturday, we’re eyeing a quick blast of snow overnight, with southern counties possibly racking up more inches than we do up here. By Sunday afternoon, flurries should ease off, making way for seasonable (if slightly chilly) vibes into next week. That’s winter in Vermont: half cozy hibernation, half “better strap the shovel on your back just in case.”

Tomorrow and Sunday promise more frigid fun; so if you’re aiming for the Penguin Plunge or a stroll at Leddy Park, you’ll likely be layering. Monday remains brisk but less rowdy than earlier in the week. Perfect timing if you’re planning to check out some of Burlington’s local music spots, trivia nights, or that yoga class you’ve been eyeing. Read on for the scoop!

On February 7, Burlington’s average high is 31°F, low is 13°F; today’s forecasted high is 31°F, low is 18°F, and about 0.2″ precipitation—indicating a slightly milder night and a touch more moisture than usual.

Trivia Question

Which Vermont county accounted for the highest share of the state’s $4 billion in tourism revenue in 2023? (check the bottom for answer)

Local News (All Links Clickable)

UVM Researchers Investigate Pain Treatment Options

“Fentanyl is commonly used to treat pain in trauma patients but can lower oxygen levels and blood pressure,” Wolfson said in a statement. “There’s also a risk of long-term opioid dependency.” Per Burlington Free Press

This study hopes to figure out if ketamine might be an equally potent alternative—minus some of fentanyl’s more challenging side effects. If it can help treat pain without fueling the opioid crisis, that’s a conversation worth having.

UVM Medical Center Reduces Dependence on Traveling Nurses

“We couldn’t have done it without them, but we also need to look at the long term for what’s best for Vermonters,” said UVMMC’s Sarah Hoffman. Per WCAX

With travel nurses costing a small fortune, the hospital is recruiting permanent staff to save money and ensure continuity of care. Let’s hope this trend holds since nurse retention is always good medicine.

Proposal to Convert Empty State Offices into Housing

“So we can save taxpayer dollars on maintaining state buildings that aren’t full, stimulate business activity downtown, and fill a hole in the housing that’s so desperately needed these days,” said Rep. Conor Casey.Per WCAX

Hey, if we can transform empty cubicles into cozy apartments, that might just help with Vermont’s perennial housing crunch; and turn ghostly hallways into vibrant new neighborhoods.

Nectar’s to Honor Legendary Sound Engineer Sergei Ushakov

“To say that Sergei was a pillar of Burlington’s music community would be an understatement,” Nectar’s posted on social media. Per Burlington Free Press

On February 15, the iconic music venue will host an all-day tribute to the man who helped countless local acts find their groove. Expect a live “superjam” that would make even the pickiest audiophile smile.

Rare Pancake Ice Appears at Leddy Beach

“They’re constantly bumping into each other, and so any rough edges get rounded out, and you form these pancakes,” said oceanographer Ted Maksym. Per Seven Days

File under “Things you never thought you’d see in Vermont.” If you missed this fleetingly delicious-looking phenomenon, keep an eye on the lake, Mother Nature might dish up seconds if conditions align again.

Local Man’s Cross-Country Trek for Democracy

“I didn’t meet a single person who thought [Congress was] doing their job,” said Rick Hubbard, 83, who finished a 3,081-mile journey across 14 states. Per Other Paper SBVT

Determined to nudge our government back to “we the people,” Hubbard strolled from LA to D.C. to spread the word. Clearly, some folks are willing to go the distance, literally, when it comes to civic engagement.

Sports Corner

Lake Placid Hosts Historic Women’s World Cup Ski Jumping

“I’m confident when competition begins, the prize awards for men and women will be equal,” said event spokesperson Darcy Norfolk. Per WCAX

Just a hop and a skip across the lake, Lake Placid is making headlines with a first-ever U.S. women’s ski jumping World Cup. If your winter weekend needs an adrenaline fix, you know where to find it.

UVM in Talks for Men’s Soccer Coach Contract

“Dow just finished up the second year of a four-year deal… and acknowledged the entire coaching staff has gotten external interest.” Per NBC5

After a dream season, it’s no shock that UVM’s beloved coach is drawing attention. Fans are crossing their fingers (and tail feathers, for that Catamount flair) for a deal that keeps him on the pitch right here.

Women’s Hockey Falls to BC Despite Early Goal

“Vermont was able to capitalize… 5:24 into action on the power play, scoring first in Beecher’s 100th career game.” Per UVM Athletics

A tough final score for the Catamounts, but an early tally in a milestone matchup is always something to celebrate. Here’s hoping they bounce back at Gutterson with a home crowd advantage next time.

Events: Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Friday, February 7

• Live Music:

• Cows on the Moon, Sound Hound (Indie) – Light Club Lamp Shop, 9 pm

• Evan Jennison and Friends, The Neon Ramblers (Singer-Songwriter) – Nectar’s, 8 pm

• Fitter Happier: A Radiohead Tribute – Higher Ground (South Burlington), 7 pm

• Frankie and the Fuse (Indie Rock) – Foam Brewers, 8 pm

• Parker Shper and Friends (Ambient Jazz, Electronic) – Light Club Lamp Shop, 7:30 pm

• Rap Night Burlington (Hip-Hop) – Drink, 9 pm

• Troy Millette (Americana) – Venetian Cocktail and Soda Lounge, 8 pm

• Zach Nugent’s Dead Set (Grateful Dead Tribute) – ArtsRiot, 8:30 pm

  Other:

• Comedy Night – The Den at Harry’s Hardware (Cabot), 8 pm

• Banff Mountain Film Festival – Flynn Main Stage, 6:30 pm

• Cozy and Candlelit: Fondue Night – Adventure Dinner, 6-9 pm

• Karaoke with Jenny Red – Park Place Tavern and Grill (Essex Junction), 8-11:30 pm

  Saturday, February 8

  Live Music:

• Duncan MacLeod (Jazz) – Bleu Northeast Kitchen, 7:30 pm

• Jarv, King Green, Damn Skippy (Hip-Hop) – Nectar’s, 8 pm

• Jelly (Jam) – Orlando’s Bar and Lounge, 9 pm

• Mickey Western (Singer-Songwriter) – Radio Bean, 6:30 pm

• Moon Ppl (Jazz Fusion) – Radio Bean, 9 pm

• Split Spirits Block Party – ArtsRiot, 5 pm

  Other:

• Lit and Lust Market – Putnam’s Vine Yard (White River Junction), 4-7 pm

• Sisterhood Campfire (Journaling, Stargazing) – Leddy Park, 7-9 pm

• Saturday Night Swing Dance – North Star Community Hall, 8-10:30 pm

• Frida Fiesta Film Soirée – Billings Farm and Museum (Woodstock), 5-7:30 pm

  Sunday, February 9

  Live Music:

• Django Soulo (Folk) – Foam Brewers, 1 pm

• Sunday Brunch Tunes (Singer-Songwriter) – Hotel Vermont, 10 am

  Other:

• Penguin Plunge (Lake Champlain Winter Swim) – Waterfront Park, 11 am-2 pm

• The Poetry Experience – Fletcher Free Library, 1-3 pm

• The Magnetica Sound Bath – The Magnetica Performance Space, 3-4 pm

Discussion:

Found Dog Spotted in Burlington

A local Redditor reported finding a stray dog wandering the area, with community members chiming in to help locate its owner. Read more

Encounter with a Homeless Man

One user described a poignant run-in with a homeless man earlier today, sparking thoughtful discussion on local social challenges. Read more

Strange Dreams

A Burlington resident shared a photo of a poster asking folks if they’ve encountered any strange dreams for their dream survey study, inviting quiet curiosity and conversation among locals. Read more

That’s All, Burlington!

Thanks for tuning into today’s Btown Brief. Stay warm, support your local scene, and if you happen to see pancake ice out on the lake, snap a photo. As always, send along your tips, snapshots, or that new coffee shop discovery we all need to hear about. Have a great weekend!

Answer: Chittenden County

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