Friday, February 21st
Good evening, Burlington!
The weekend’s snow showers are tapering off, but cold temperatures are sticking around. Friday stays breezy with highs in the low 20s, while Saturday morning will be frigid, starting near 0°F before climbing to the upper 20s by the afternoon. Increasing clouds Saturday night could bring another round of light snow showers, with Sunday staying mostly cloudy and a chance for mountain flurries. By early next week, highs could push near 40°F, though a wintry mix may come with the warm-up.
If you’re heading to Van Gogh night at Paint & Sip, bluegrass at Nectar’s, or the UVM hockey game against #2 Boston College, bundle up—temps stay in the low 20s with lingering icy spots. Saturday’s Vermont Swings Ballroom Dance, Circuit Circus Festival at ECHO, and Pipo Romero Trio at UVM Recital Hall will see slightly warmer weather, but light snow could return by evening.
Today's high of 24°F and low of -3°F are both below Burlington's typical February 21st averages of 33°F and 16°F, respectively.
But first, here’s a trivia question to see how well you’re caught up with recent news: (Answer at the bottom)
Jay Peak is on pace to potentially break its all-time snowfall record. How much snow did the mountain receive during its record-breaking winter two decades ago?
A) 450 inches
B) 500 inches
C) 550 inches
D) 600 inches
Local News (All Links Clickable)
$1 Billion Sale of Vermont Information Processing Will Lead to Worker Windfalls
“Hundreds of employee-owners of the Colchester-based firm are expected to receive life-changing payments.” (per Seven Days)
Some employees could see up to $10 million each after the private equity firm Warburg Pincus buys the company for about $1 billion, including debt. The sale’s windfalls highlight Vermont’s growing focus on employee stock ownership plans.
Burlington Telecom Scheduled Maintenance Next Week
“Work will take place from roughly 2:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. on February 25, 26, and 27.” (per MyNBC5)
BT customers may experience brief overnight network disruptions as system upgrades are performed. Officials say the maintenance is part of ongoing efforts to provide better broadband services.
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Vampire Weekend to Play Show in Essex Junction, Vermont
“The alt-rock group will be stopping in Vermont this spring as part of their latest tour.” (per NBC5)
Frontman Ezra Koenig and crew are set to perform on the Midway Lawn at the Champlain Valley Expo on May 27, with tickets on sale starting Feb. 28. Expect a memorable outdoor show as part of their “Only God Was Above Us” tour.
Vermont’s Greenest Building Awards Competition Now Open for Submissions
“This statewide contest recognizes buildings that excel in water, health, transportation, affordability, and proven energy performance.” (per Vermont Business Magazine)
Applicants have until March 21 to apply, with winners announced April 17 in Burlington. It’s a key event for architects, developers, and property owners dedicated to sustainable design in Vermont.
Several New Shops, Restaurants Coming to Finney Crossing in Williston
“Three new businesses are slated to open once a new mixed-use building is completed on the property later this year.” (per NBC5)
Expect a boutique women’s clothing store, an independent bookstore and café, plus a casual Italian-American eatery among the new arrivals. Each locally owned shop hopes to enhance Williston’s bustling retail scene.
UVM Health Network to Maintain Dialysis Centers
“Officials say no other providers stepped forward to take over, so the clinics in Newport, Rutland, and St. Albans will remain open.” (per WCAX)
Amid cost-cutting measures, the network initially planned to shutter the centers but will continue operations at a loss. Patient advocates praised the move, calling it critical to rural healthcare access.
Judge Rejects Effort to Block Noncitizen Voting in Burlington
“A Vermont judge dismissed the case, noting local school votes are considered municipal, not statewide.” (per Valley News)
The challenge came from a national conservative group arguing the city’s charter amendment violated the state constitution. But Burlington joins Montpelier and Winooski in allowing noncitizen residents to vote in local elections.
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A Cannabis-Themed Magic Act Will Play Tricks on Your Mind
“Las Vegas-based magician Ben Zabin’s ‘Smokus Pocus’ performs illusions with bongs, lighters, and plenty of 420 humor.” (per Seven Days)
Zabin brings the show to Main Street Landing on Friday, Feb. 21. You don’t have to partake to enjoy — the illusions combine classic sleight-of-hand with a modern twist sure to dazzle.
Sports
Men’s Hockey: Catamounts Return to Gutterson to Host #2 Boston College
“The teams face off at Gutterson Fieldhouse this weekend after UVM’s strong run on the road.” (per UVM Athletics)
Following an impressive stretch of away wins, the Catamounts look to upset a top-ranked Boston College squad. The two-game series marks UVM’s first home appearance in over a month.
Women’s Basketball: Catamounts Fall to Bryant, 61-53
“Nikola Priede recorded her second career double-double, but UVM’s offense couldn’t keep pace.” (per UVM Athletics)
Despite Priede’s 17 points and 12 rebounds, Vermont dropped to 10-3 in America East play. The Cats head to UMass Lowell next, hoping to regain momentum before the conference tournament.
Swimming & Diving: Catamounts Set New Conference Relay Record
“Vermont’s 200 Freestyle Relay team swam a 1:32.17, a new America East benchmark.” (per UVM Athletics)
Powered by standout performances across multiple events, UVM holds first place in the conference championships. The meet continues through the weekend, with the Cats eyeing more podium finishes.
Men’s Basketball: Defense Propels Vermont Over Bryant, 59-55
“TJ Hurley’s 17 points led UVM, and a late steal sealed the victory at Patrick Gym.” (per UVM Athletics)
Tight defense in the final minutes helped the Catamounts hold Bryant’s offense in check. Up next, UVM hosts UMass Lowell Saturday, looking to continue its run toward the top of the conference standings.
Events
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Time: 7 PM
Location: Burlington Paint and Sip Studio (135 Church St)
Time: 9 PM
Location: Nectar’s (188 Main St)
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Vermont Swings (20 Crowley St)
Time: 6 PM
Location: Ohavi Zedek Synagogue
Full Melt & DiCE MaN Present: The Ars Poetica Tour
Time: 9 PM
Location: Nectar’s
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: UVM Recital space
Experience the Healing Benefits of Ear Acupuncture & Acupressure
Time: 11 AM
Location: Turning Point Center
Reiki & Restorative (at Chace Mill)
Time: 6 PM
Location: 1 Mill St
More Friday Music & Nightlife
Dead Gowns, Lily Seabird (Indie) – Foam Brewers, 8 PM, $10/$12
DiCE MaN, Second Nature, Rasp Cinco, Lufilthy (EDM) – The Lounge at Nectar’s, 8 PM, $10/$20
Earthshine, Comatose Kids (Rock) – ArtsRiot, 7 PM, $10
Josh Panda (Singer-Songwriter) – Hotel Vermont, 4 PM, Free
moon ppl (Jazz Fusion) – Radio Bean, 9:30 PM, $10/$15
Rap Night Burlington (Hip-Hop) – Drink, 9 PM, $5
OrangePeelMystic, Kate Kush, NEWMANTRA (Psych Pop/DJ) – Radio Bean, 9:30 PM, $12/$15
DJ Taka (DJ) – Light Club Lamp Shop, 11 PM, $10/$15
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Time: 10 AM
Location: ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
Time: 9 PM
Location: Nectar’s
Time: 12 PM
Location: Simple Roots Brewing
Sons of Arrakis / Sundrifter / Dust Prophet / Evil Bong
Time: 8 PM
Location: despacitovt
Time: 1 PM
Location: Burlington Paint and Sip Studio
Time: 1 PM
Location: 1 Mill St
Time: 6 PM
Location: North Star Community Hall
CHS Project Grad Paint and Sip
Time: 4 PM
Location: Burlington Paint and Sip Studio
Modernism and the World of Yesterday
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: The Flynn
Bruiser and Bicycle w/ Silver Tree & Barbacoa
Time: 8 PM
Location: Foam Brewers
More Saturday Music & Nightlife
Bruce Sklar Jazz Band with David Grippo (Jazz) – Venetian Soda Lounge, 8 PM, $15
Josh Panda (Singer-Songwriter) – Bleu Northeast Kitchen, 7:30 PM, Free
Pons, the Bubs, Neato (Indie Rock/Punk) – Radio Bean, 8:30 PM, $15
Ponyhustle, Mia Valentini (Country) – ArtsRiot, 7 PM, $10
David Chief (DJ) – Einstein’s Tap House, 10 PM, Free
Habibi Funk, DJ Chia, Prince Nablus (DJ set) – Light Club Lamp Shop, 10 PM, $10/$15
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
Mike Birbiglia: Please Stop the Ride
Time: 6 PM
Location: The Flynn
Nicholas Tocci, baritone, & Claire Black, piano
Time: 4 PM
Location: 2 Cherry St
Time: 6 PM
Location: Venetian Soda Lounge
More Sunday Music & Nightlife
Bobbo Byrnes (Indie Folk) – Venetian Soda Lounge, 4:30 PM, $10
Mi Yard Reggae Night w/ DJ Big Dog – Nectar’s, 9 PM, Free
Leslie Liao (Comedy) – Vermont Comedy Club, 7 PM & 9 PM, $25
Community Buzz
Always Full Now Has Boba
South End favorite Always Full has officially added boba tea to their menu, and locals are already lining up to try it. If you’re a fan of bubble tea, this might be your new go-to spot. See what people are saying.
Myers Leaves Large Dumpster in the Middle of the Road
Residents are frustrated after Myers Container Service left a large dumpster obstructing traffic. Some call it an oversight, while others say it’s a pattern of careless placement. What’s your take? See what people are saying.
Vermont Police Officer Charged in Fatal Crash
A local police officer is facing charges after a tragic car crash that resulted in a fatality. The case has sparked discussions about accountability and police oversight. Follow the conversation.
UVM Doctor Takes a Knee and Stands Up for the Community
A University of Vermont physician made headlines after taking a knee during a campus demonstration in support of social justice causes. Is this activism making an impact? Read more and weigh in.
That’s All, Burlington!
Stay warm, watch those roads for slick spots, and enjoy a jam-packed weekend of music, art, dance, and local fun. If you’ve got a story tip, a neighborhood scoop, or an interesting photo of the city, we’re all ears. And if you head to that cannabis-themed magic show — well, maybe keep an eye on your lighter.
Thanks for tuning in to Btown Brief. Keep sending your events and updates our way, and we’ll keep the coffee hot for Monday’s edition. Enjoy the weekend!
Trivia Answer:
C) 550 inchesJay Peak received 550 inches of snow about two decades ago, and if this season's pace keeps up, it could be on track to break that record.
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