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- Monday, May 12th
Monday, May 12th
Monday Brief: Brisk Tonight, Then Summer Warmth! – Downtown "Crisis" & City Cuts; VTSU Up, Overdose Prevention Center Debated – Warm, sunny days lead into a bustling Burlington week. From Queen City's "Knot Knite" and Four Quarters' Bluegrass BBQ to Vermont Green FC's kickoff bash, your social schedule's covered. Plus: Over 100 businesses demand downtown solutions, city layoffs hit amid budget woes, and we dish on whether Shanty on the Shore still reels you in.
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Table of Contents
Weather & Monday Rundown
Tonight is looking partly cloudy, and you might notice a bit of a brisk feel to the air thanks to those north winds as we head overnight. But don't let that temporary chill fool you; a southerly flow is setting up to bring some decidedly warm and dry conditions for the first half of our week. Get ready for mostly sunny skies tomorrow, Burlington, with just a few high, wispy cirrus clouds, and temperatures soaring into the upper 70s – a true taste of early summer! Wednesday will keep that warmth coming, though we'll see a bit more of that high cloud cover making for partly sunny conditions. As we roll towards the end of the week, that high pressure system starts to break down, meaning Thursday and Friday will likely see increasing chances for some pop up afternoon thunderstorms and showers. So, the plan is to soak up that guaranteed sunshine and warmth while it's here, and perhaps keep an umbrella at the ready for later.
This beautiful start to the week, especially those sunny and warm Tuesday and Wednesday forecasts, is just perfect for getting out and about. If your bike needs some attention, Wednesday afternoon's Zero Gravity Bike & Gear Repair Fair will be a fantastic (and free!) opportunity to get it road ready in the sunshine. Come Sunday, you can still plan for that unique lakeside wellness at the Burlington Sauna Social down at North Beach, hoping the weekend weather plays nice.
And there's plenty to fill those lovely upcoming evenings. Tuesday evening's Garden Party! May Knot Knite at Queen City Brewery sounds like a delightful way to enjoy the warmth, sharing crafting tips over a lager. Then on Wednesday, with more warmth on tap, the patio at Four Quarters Brewing will be calling for their BBQ & Bluegrass night – smoked meats and high lonesome picking are a classic combo. For those craving something a bit more intense that evening, A Place to Bury Strangers, "the loudest band in NYC," hits the Higher Ground Showcase Lounge. And looking to Thursday, let's hope any of those potential pop up showers hold off for the Vermont Green FC Season Kick Off Party at Zero Gravity on Pine Street. It’s your chance to meet the squad, snag some new merch, and toast the season.
Today in Burlington, Vermont, the high is forecasted at 78°F and the low at 49°F, compared to the historical average of 68°F and 47°F. The record high for this date is 90°F, and the record low is 28°F. Over the next three days, highs will range from 75°F to 80°F and lows from 55°F to 60°F—warmer than typical mid-May weather.
Guess where the photo of this Burlington gem was taken. We’ll reveal the location at the bottom of the newsletter:
Hint: "A rocky perch near a park’s entrance, opposite the sandy shores—where driftwood meets the lake”
Local News (All Links Clickable)
"Businesses are closing their doors, valued long term employees are leaving, and residents are increasingly choosing to avoid the downtown area. Those of us who remain feel neglected and increasingly unsafe." (per Seven Days)
A significant coalition of downtown businesses has voiced serious concerns to city leadership, outlining a 10 point call to action. The letter highlights impacts on foot traffic and safety, urging measures from increased police presence to relocating a pop up soup kitchen and even addressing public nudity. It’s a stark reminder of the pressures facing our local merchants, who are also appealing for community support by encouraging continued local shopping.
"About 75 vendors showcased local products, some missing the first day because of the weather. Organizers usually see about five to six thousand people, but Saturday they say they saw about four thousand." (per WCAX)
Despite a damp welcome this past Saturday, the Burlington Farmers Market still drew a respectable crowd. It’s a testament to Burlington’s hardy spirit and love for local goods that even a bit of rain couldn't entirely wash out opening day. Here’s to sunnier market Saturdays ahead for the rest of the summer.
"Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney Stanak announced today that the city will reduce its workforce by 25 positions, which will result in 18 workers being laid off. While the budget gap at $8 million for the new fiscal year is far smaller than the $14.2 million gap for FY25, the ability to balance the budget is far more difficult this time." (per Vermont Biz)
The city is navigating some challenging financial waters, leading to the difficult decision of workforce reductions intended to address an $8 million budget gap. Mayor Mulvaney Stanak emphasized that these measures followed careful assessment, aiming to maintain core services despite what she described as unsustainable growth in city positions and an outdated tax structure. These fiscal constraints certainly add another layer of complexity to the recent requests for significant city support from our downtown business community.
"On April 28, the Burlington City Council unanimously approved preliminary plans for the center, green lighting the project’s planning phase, which is expected to take nine to 12 months. It’s seen by many as a crucial development to curbing the city’s staggering overdose and substance use crisis." (per VTDigger)
The green light for an overdose prevention center is a significant step, but the conversation is now shifting to its location. Advocates stress the need for a downtown presence to be effective, while some neighborhood groups express concerns and suggest placement near medical facilities. This will undoubtedly be a complex discussion as the city moves forward.
"Vermont State University is seeing a 15% increase in preliminary enrollment deposits for the fall semester. School officials say first year deposits are up 20% over last year, and deposits for CCV students moving on to VTSU are also up by more than 30%." (per WCAX)
Some encouraging news from Vermont State University, as preliminary numbers show a notable uptick in enrollment deposits for the upcoming fall semester. This positive trend is particularly welcome as the university system navigates its final year of state bridge funding, aiming for financial sustainability.
"After 15 years as a Burlington staple, The Farmhouse Tap & Grill is expanding, with a new location planned in Williston." per Burlington Free Press.
Fans of The Farmhouse Tap & Grill will be pleased to hear the Burlington favorite is branching out. Fifteen years after establishing itself as a go to spot in the city, a new location is set to open in Williston, bringing its popular farm to table fare to Williston
Events:
Monday, May 12, 2025
General Events
6:00 PM: Burlington Elks Bingo at Burlington Elks Lodge (entry varies by card pack)
6:00 PM: Monday Night Line Dancing – Burlington Beer Company
6:30 PM: Can’t Look Away documentary + discussion at Fletcher Free Library (Free)
6:30 PM: Collage Collective – drop‑in art night at Expressive Arts Burlington (donation‑based)
6:30 PM: Beginning Pole Dance – 5‑Week Series – Lines Vermont Studio + Store
7:00 PM: Open Mic at Despacito, Burlington (Free)
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
General Events
8:30 AM: Perspectives 2025: Confronting Stigma, Cultivating Compassion – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Burlington Vermont
5:00 PM: Trivia Night: ’80s & ’90s Music – Switchback Brewing Company
6:00 PM: Garden Party! – May Knot Knite – Queen City Brewery
6:00 PM: Tandem Charleston with Vermont Swings
6:30 PM: Art & Craft Supply Swap (ODD HOUR) – 1416 North Ave
7:00 PM: ‘Friends’ Trivia at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington (Free)
7:00 PM: Beginning Swing with Vermont Swings
7:00 PM: Lindy 2 – Integrating Solo Jazz into Your Lindy Hop with Vermont Swings
7:00 PM: Comedy Open Mic with Levi Silverstein at the 126, Burlington (Free)
Live Music/DJ
7:00 PM: Cecilia at Radio Bean, Burlington ($10)
7:00 PM: Joe Friday, Folk Therapy & Friends at Monkey House, Winooski (Free)
8:00 PM: Grateful Tuesdays at Nectar’s, Burlington ($10)
8:30 PM: Grateful Tuesdays ft. The Grift‑ful Dead – Nectar’s
9:00 PM: Honky Tonk Tuesday w/ The Wormdogs at Radio Bean, Burlington ($10)
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
General Events
11:15 AM: How to Increase Profit in Your Business – The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
4:00 PM: Zero Gravity Bike & Gear Repair Fair – Zero Gravity Craft Brewery
6:00 PM: Vermont: Intro to Tools (May) – New Frameworks Natural Design/Build
6:00 PM: Cribbage Night – The Boardroom – Board Game Cafe
6:00 PM: Scrabble – The Boardroom – Board Game Cafe
7:00 PM: Trivia Night at Dumb Luck Pub & Grill, Winooski (Free)
7:00 PM: May Wednesday Lessons & Social with Vermont Swings
8:30 PM: Stand‑up Open Mic at Vermont Comedy Club, Burlington (Free)
Performances
7:00 PM: World Ballet Company: The Great Gatsby – The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
7:30 PM: [title of show] – Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center
Live Music/DJ
6:30 PM: BBQ & Bluegrass at Four Quarters Brewing, Winooski (Free)
7:00 PM: The Mid‑Week Hump — DJs Fattie B & Craig Mitchell at Monkey House, Winooski (Free)
7:30 PM: A Place to Bury Strangers + The Mall – Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington ($20–25)
8:00 PM: The Ophelias + english major at Radio Bean, Burlington ($12–15)
8:30 PM: Jazz Night with Ray Vega at Hotel Vermont, Burlington (Free)
9:00 PM: Jazz Sessions at the 126, Burlington (Free)
Thursday, May 15, 2025
General Events
12:00 PM: Lunch Meetup at Schmanska Park – Schmanska Park
5:00 PM: Thru‑hiking Q & A – Outdoor Gear Exchange
6:00 PM: South Burlington City Center Collaborative Annual Meeting – South Burlington Senior Center
6:00 PM: Vermont Green Kick Off Party – Zero Gravity
6:00 PM: Mah Jongg – The Boardroom – Board Game Cafe
6:45 PM: Beginner & Intermediate Kizomba – South End Studio
8:00 PM: Lag Baomer Night Out! – UVM Campus
Performances
4:00 PM: A Nice Indian Boy – Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center
7:00 PM: A Nice Indian Boy – Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center
Live Music/DJ
5:00 PM: TOWER OF POWER – Hotel Champlain (Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain)
7:00 PM: Ian Mack Mack Trio – Foam Brewers
8:00 PM: Moon Hooch – Higher Ground
Sunday:
Looking into the weekend:
12:00 PM: Burlington Sauna Social – North Beach, Burlington (can use link to get tickets $9 per hour)
202+ Things to Do in Burlington (Summer Activities)
Here are five more solid picks from the 202+ list—each one a simple way to make the most of the season without overthinking it. Ride the Colchester Causeway and take the bike ferry across the cut to South Hero, one of the most memorable cycling experiences in the state. Step into Radio Bean for an evening of live music in a cozy, offbeat setting that always draws a loyal local crowd. Visit ECHO on the waterfront for interactive exhibits about Lake Champlain—it’s indoors, informative, and a good pick when the weather turns. Take a quiet moment at the Earth Clock in Oakledge Park, a stone circle by the water where people go to sit, reflect, and watch the lake. And if you’re heading toward the mountains, make a stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury for cider donuts, fresh air, and that classic Vermont roadside charm. The full list’s still growing: https://btownbrief.beehiiv.com/c/202-activites
This Week’s Comic
John went Dunkin'. Mistakes were made.
View all of my comics: https://btownbrief.beehiiv.com/c/my-comics
Eating Out On A Budget (Food & Drink Deals)
This Week’s Food & Drink Picks
• Monday: $1 pizza and drafts at Three Needs (after 4 PM) and ½-price burgers at McGillicuddy’s
• Tuesday: $5 tacos at Shelburne Tap House and margarita specials with tacos at Four Quarters Brewing
• Wednesday: $5 off burgers & sandwiches at Daily Planet and $2 corn dogs at Mule Bar
• Thursday: $10 for 2 pizza slices + a pint at Four Quarters Brewing and $0.75 wings at Shelburne Tap House
View the full list of food & drink deals here: https://btownbrief.beehiiv.com/c/food-drink-deals
This Week’s Restaurant Review: Shanty on the Shore
If you're after that classic New England seafood experience right here in Burlington, Shanty on the Shore has been holding down its spot near Waterfront Park since 1985, and for good reason. It’s nestled in a building with impressive, original thick wood beams that have seen nearly two centuries pass since its 1833 beginnings as a waterfront store, giving it a genuinely rustic, nautical charm. It's the kind of place where you can enjoy some truly picturesque views of Lake Champlain, especially if you time your visit for sunset, making it a popular choice for folks wanting that quintessential lakeside meal, and a reliable spot to take out of town guests looking for that specific vibe.
When it comes to the food, you’re diving into a menu that champions New England seafood traditions—think baked and broiled favorites alongside satisfyingly crispy fried platters. Their clam chowder boasts a reputation stretching well beyond Burlington (the Boston Globe famously counted it among New England's best), and the lobster roll remains a consistently solid choice. Now, those Champlain views are undeniably a main draw, and the seafood generally delivers on freshness. However, its prime location and enduring popularity mean it can indeed feel like a well trodden path, especially during peak season, which might translate to a bustling, sometimes loud, atmosphere and potentially a bit of a wait for a table. Plus, while the steadfastly classic approach to seafood is comforting and exactly what many are looking for, those seeking more adventurous or contemporary culinary creations might find the offerings quite traditional. The check also reflects its desirable spot and reputation, leaning a bit higher than your average casual eatery in town. Still, if you’re set on that quintessential taste of the coast with an unbeatable lakeside backdrop, and you’re prepared for the full, popular waterfront experience, the Shanty generally won’t disappoint.
View the full list of reviews here: https://btownbrief.beehiiv.com/c/restaurant-reviews
That’s All, Burlington!
Stay engaged, support your local businesses and neighbors, and keep making Burlington the vibrant place it is. There's always something happening, and your participation is what makes our community thrive.
If you've got a tip or something interesting for us to share, don't hesitate to send it our way.
See you Thursday!
Mystery Photo Location: Oakledge Park, the rocks right across the beach area.
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