Local Lowdown - 1/14/10

Drop-in Bridge

Jan. 14, 2 – 4 p.m.

Looking for a new bridge partner, or just a chance to improve your bridge game? Join Gisela Palmer, local bridge expert, at the Ilsley Public Library for an informal celebration of a much-loved card game. More information is available at (802) 462-3373.

Verbal Onslaught

Jan. 14, 8:30 – 11:00 p.m.

Celebrate spoken word performance art at this month’s Verbal Onslaught, dedicated to poetic verse inspired by the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. Share your work or listen to others share theirs at 51 Main. There will be a special performance by Crystal Belle ’04. Sign-ups start at 8:30 p.m.

Maple School

Jan. 16, 7:00 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

The Addison County Sugarmakers will host their annual Maple School at Middlebury Union High School with a full day of workshops, a trade show and door prizes. Whether just learning about making maple syrup or an experienced sugarmaker, there will be events for all abilities covering the Asian Longhorned Beetle, energy usage in the sugarhouse, off-flavors, beginning sugarmaker workshops and much more. Register at http://www.addisoncountyvtmaple.org or call (802) 388-4815 for more information.

Snowshoe trek in Starksboro

Jan. 16, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Meet at the Jerusalem Schoolhouse for a moderate three-mile trek with a 600-foot elevation gain hosted by the Bread Loaf Section of the Green Mountain Club. Contact leader Cecilia Elwert to sign up at (802) 453-8447.

After Dark Music Series

Jan. 16, 7 p.m.

Enjoy an evening out with Chris Smither as he brings his growling vocals and quick finger-picking to the Middlebury Congregational Church. By all accounts a riveting live performer, Smither spices up Americana and classic blues. Tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door. Call (802) 388-0216 or visit http://www.afterdarkmusicseries.com for more information.

Sleigh Ride Weekend

Jan. 16 – 18, all day

Head out to the Billings Farm and Museum at 5302 River Road in Woodstock for a weekend of merry sleigh rides and classic wintertime fun in true Vermont fashion. Visit http://www.billingsfarm.org for more information.

Bingo

Jan. 17, 1 – 2 p.m.

Spend your extra free time wisely this J-Term and compete for over $1,500 in cash and prizes at the American Legion in Middlebury. The Vergennes Union High School class of 2010 will host the event to benefit this year’s Project Graduation.