Shake Your Silly’s Out With Derek Burkins At Burlington’s UMall

Preschoolers are sure to love Shake Your Silly’s Out at Burlington’s University Mall every Monday morning from now until March 31. Bring the kids, and join in the fun provided by Derek Burkins and his guitar, singing live from 10:30 until 11:00. Derek’s rousing music is guaranteed to have the little ones, and maybe an adult or two, on their feet and shaking to the beat. Gather on the carpeted area right in front of Sears, and say goodbye to the late winter blahs.

All the feet stomping, body waving music Derek sings is either original music composed by him or popular songs the kids know borrowed from the public domain. The event is free, but come early; Derek’s performances are popular with the kids, and space fills fast. As a father himself, Derek knows exactly what makes kids giggle and laugh. A good time for adult and child is assured.

If you can’t make the University Mall, you can catch another preschool music session with Derek on other days around the area. On Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. he is at the Jericho Town Library, on Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 he can be seen at the Burnham Memorial Library in Colchester. He is at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library in Williston at 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays, and on Friday mornings at 10:00 you can catch him, also in Williston, at the Buttered Noodles.

Mr. Burkins is much more than just a kid’s entertainer. He is an accomplished musician who has played guitar for over 30 years. He has also played brass and about five years ago, he started playing the clawhammer banjo and mandolin. He studied music at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and released his first album in 2013. In 2012 he won the Vermont SolarFest Songwriting Competition.

Derek Burkins is a representative of the best of Vermont’s homegrown talent. If you have preschoolers and are looking for a fun and free way to entertain them, try to get to the University Mall on Monday mornings. The children’s glee will make you glad you did.

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Burlington’s Restorative Justice Panels Help Prevent Low Level Crimes

Restorative justice panels are working to prevent low level crimes that occur inside of the Burlington community. The Restorative Justice Panels are made up of a team of three to five volunteers. These volunteers meet with the victims of the crimes and the offenders. They address the harm that has been caused by the low level crimes. The mission of the Restorative Justice Panel is to hold offenders accountable for the harm that they have caused to others and their actions. The restorative justice panel will discuss ways that offenders can prevent the crimes from occurring in the future.

There are currently three ways that cases get referred to the Restorative Justice Panels:

Alternative Justice

These types of referrals come directly from the police department inside of Burlington. The panel will be used in the place of the traditional court process, (prosecution, conviction). In many cases, Youth Panel cases will be placed in this category.

Reparative Probation

These referrals will come from the criminal court. They are a part of the sentencing order that the judge signs. Offenders will be supervised by the Reparative Service Unit and the Department Of Corrections Court.

Rapid Arrangement Community Court

These referrals come from the state’s attorney office. After the Restorative Panel process has been completed, a person can avoid getting a charge place on the permanent record. However, people will typically be required to pay restitution to the victim. Other requirements will also need to be fulfilled, such as going to counseling or substance abuse treatment.

How Do Victims Get Involved?

In every case, an attempt will be made to contact the victims. A victim liaison volunteer will explain the process. He or she will also support the victim. While some victims will choose to attend the offender’s meeting others will choose to not to attend. People who choose not to attend may ask the victim liaison volunteer to speak on their volunteer. The victim will be kept informed of the process during the entire case.

What Types Of Crimes Can Be Addressed By A Restorative Justice Panel?

Resisting arrest

Vandalism

Underage drinking

Simple assault

Driving under the influence

Fraud

Possession of marijuana

Buying alcohol for minors

Operating a vehicle in a negligent manner

Disorderly conduct

Impersonating an officer

Petty larceny

Drinking under age

Simple assault

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The 2014 Burlington Irish Heritage Festival Kicks Off March 8

The 2014 Burlington Irish Heritage Festival begins Saturday, March 8 with a lecture titled “The Irish in the American Civil War” and a concert. It continues through Sunday, March 16. On Saturday morning, author Liam McKone delivers the Civil War lecture. McKone authored “Vermont’s Irish Rebel,” which is about Captain John Lonergan, a Medal of Honor recipient for his valor at Gettysburg. Vermont Genealogy Library, 377 hegeman Avenue, Room 202, Dupont Building, Fort Ethan Allen, Colchester, Vermont. Donation.

Music is prominent at the Burlington Irish Heritage Festival. On Saturday evening March 8, the Alan Kelly Gang will perform. The group performs Celtic songs using vocals, accordion, flute, fiddle and guitar. A $20 donation is suggested. St. Michael’s College, 1 Winooski Park, Colchester, Vt. Following are some of the other musical events:

Sunday, March 9, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. The duo O’hAnleigh performs at the Westford Church in Westford, Vermont. Donation.

Tuesday, March 11, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Trinity, a Vermont band, performs at Ri RA Irish Pub, 123 Church Street in Burlington. Free.

Saturday, March 15, 8 p.m. Danu, a group from County Waterford in Ireland performs at the Flynn Theater, 153 Main Street in Burlington. $15 to $40.

Among events designed for children are:

Saturday, March 15, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Instrument Petting Zoo. Children will be able to touch instruments. Outside the Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, 235 College Street, Burlington. Donation. At the same time at the library will be the Bodhrans, Spoons and Bones Workshop for adults and musically inclined children with an interest in percussion instruments can bring their instruments. Donation.

A filling, traditional Irish meal with entertainment will be served on Thursday, March 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. North End Studios, 294 North Winooski Avenue, Burlington. $15 and $18. (802) 863-6713.

The Festival Ceili is the concluding event. Taking place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Contois Auditorium, 149 Church Street, Burlington on Sunday, March 16, there will be music and dance. At the end of the event, a roundtrip flight for two to Ireland from Boston or New York will be raffled off. Raffle tickets are $10 each. Purchasers do not have to be present to win. Nine tickets are $90. Send a check payable to the Burlington Irish Heritage Festival with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to BIHF, P. O. Box 311, Burlington, VT 05402.

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How much cash do I need to buy a house?

One of the first questions potential home buyers ask is “how much cash do I need to buy a house?” Most of the time, some cash will be needed for a down payment and closing costs. The exact amount of cash will depend on several factors, including the type of loan.

Conventional loans

A conventional loan is made by a bank, mortgage company, or another type of financial institution without government insurance. Conventional loans typically require a down payment in the 5% – 20% range, depending on location and specific loan structure. For some people, this will price them out of using this loan product. However, the ability to put down a large amount of cash brings certain advantages with it. 20% down will usually eliminate the need for Private Mortgage Insurance. A large down payment means a smaller mortgage payment giving you less overhead on a monthly basis.

VA Loans

VA loans are administered by the Veterans Administration. This program was originally created to help veterans purchase a home by providing loans with low down payments and low interest rates. Because VA loans are guaranteed by the federal government, it is still possible to buy a home with up to 100% financing. Other benefits of VA loans are that no PMI is required and loans are usually a little bit easier to qualify. Although the loans are administered by the VA, they are made through a private lender.

FHA Loans

Loans obtained under the guidance of the Federal Housing Administration carry low down payments, usually 3.5% or less. For a $100,000 home, then, a person would need about $3,500 down. One advantage to FHA loans is that the down payment can actually come in the form of a gift. This means it could be a gift from parents or another relative. It will be necessary, though, to document that the funds are available and that the donor intends to provide them as a gift. Every situation is different so be sure to address your goals with your loan officer and Realtor so they can advise the best program for you.

Other Type Loans

Other type loans are available, such as those for investment property. Additionally, down payments are sometimes provided through governmental assistance and charities. More information can be shared by contacting your Benchmark loan officer and discussing how much cash you will need to buy a house.

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A Historic Landmark, Shelburne Farm Is A Must See For Burlington Families

A visit to Shelburne Farms is an experience you will not want to miss. This picturesque 1,400-acre wonder situated on Lake Champlain is a National Historic Landmark and a sustainable working farm. The entire staff is dedicated to supporting the sustainability of the earth and cultivating an appreciation of the environment.

The Shelburne Farms experience began in 1886 when Dr. William Seward and Lila Vanderbilt Webb initiated plans to develop an agricultural estate. Family descendants revived the farm in the early 1970s, and today it is a thriving nonprofit educational organization and sustainability model.

Here are some activities you can enjoy at Shelburne Farms:

• Welcome Center. The Welcome Center is open year round and offers Vermont food products and crafts as well as information on the environment. It is also where you sign up for nature walks.

• Nature Walks. Shelburne Farms offers more than 10 miles of walking trails for all ages. If you have a baby or toddler who needs transportation, try the stroller trail. Otherwise walk the half-mile Lone Tree Hill trail, the 4.5-mile Farm Trail, or others. Trails are open year round, weather permitting.

• Children’s Farmyard. The Children’s Farmyard provides activities from 10:30 AM until 4:00 PM. Volunteers and trained educators are available to help children learn about milking cows, collecting eggs, caring for farm animals, spinning wool, gardening, and interacting with a wide range of farm animals.

• Farm Lunch. During the regular season, the Farm Cart serves lunch. The menu includes local produce and items from Shelburne and nearby farms.

• Programs. Shelburne Farms offers dozens of educational programs for preschoolers, kids, teens, and adults. Topics range from owls to sustainability, making cheese, flower arranging, and much more.

• Stay at the Inn. The restored historic Inn at Shelburne Farms offers 24 guest rooms and 4 guest cottages year round. A public restaurant serves breakfast, dinner, and a Sunday brunch.

• General Admission. From May 10 to October 19, 2014, the entire Shelburne Farms is open to the general public. That includes not only the nature walks and welcome center, but the children’s farmyard and various guided tours. General admission prices are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for children 3-17 and free for children younger than 3 and for Shelburne residents and members.

Shelburne Farms is a historic and natural treasure you and your family can enjoy. Don’t miss it.

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Tax Tips for Homeowners Claiming a Home Office Deduction

A recent survey by the Small Business Administration indicates that nearly half of all businesses are based in American homes. These home-based businesses for the self-employed run the gamut from accounting services to providing medical care. American professionals surveyed by Telework Research Network indicate that the number is expected to grow in the next five years. With that number of Americans going to the self-employment route to earn money, it’s imperative that these small entrepreneurs know what the rules are when reporting income to the IRS. One of the primary things to learn is how to use the home office deduction. Here is a brief breakdown of the rules.

Evidence to Show that the Home is the Primary Base of that Business

To use the home deduction, the entrepreneur must use a part of the home to conduct business regularly. That part of the home must be used exclusively for business. To meet that requirement, it’s best that an actual office be set up. A good way to meet that requirement is to set up a phone, a desk, filing cabinets, a computer station and other things that are needed to conduct business in that room. All material goods in this office may be written off as expenses for the business. That would include the cost of the computer, paper, business forms and even stamps. Curtains, desks, rugs and chairs can also be deducted.

Deducting Expenses

Hooking up a phone and Internet line into the home office is a monthly expense that can be deducted. These are classified by the IRS as ordinary and necessary expenses that are essential to the business. All lawful deductions must meet the necessary expenses requirement in order to qualify as a deduction. Deducting a portion of the mortgage payments and real estate taxes is also allowed as are repairs, utilities, insurance and depreciation.

Calculating the Deductions

All deductions will be based on the percentage of the home used for business. This will be calculated by measuring the number of square feet used for business in the home. For example, if one-quarter of the home is used for business, one-quarter of all utility bills can be lawfully deducted as a home office expense. Form 8829 explains how this is done.

Keep Records

All receipts for the business should be filed away for reference when calculating the home office deduction. These deductions will be entered in Schedule C. Publication 587 titled “Business Use of Your Home” explains in detail how to keep records and what the IRS recognizes as allowable deductions.

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Sail Away From The Ordinary Aboard Burlingtons Largest Cruise Ship

Sail away from the ordinary aboard the Burlington, Vermont’s largest cruise ship. This amazing 363 passenger ship operates from April to November and features three heated and air conditioned dining decks. The Burlington sets sail on Lake Champlain, the largest freshwater lake in the country following the five Great Lakes. The ship cruises along the lake’s unique geographic formations while being surrounded by the incredible beauty of the Adirondack and Green Mountain ranges. The lake is even known to contain Champ, a friendly lake monster that lives beneath the surface!

There are many different types of cruises that take place aboard the Burlington throughout the operating season. Families will especially enjoy the educational Scenic Narrated Cruise that departs four times during the day. During the cruise, the captain narrates the interesting history of the region including stories of Indians, the Revolutionary War and Ethan Allen. There are also Lunch and Brunch cruises where passengers can enjoy a lavish buffet while among the spectacular Vermont views. The various dinner cruises in the Burlington are also very popular! On Sunday and Monday nights, passengers can enjoy a delicious Italian family-style dinner. Tuesday and Wednesday nights feature a BBQ on the Bay Dinner that includes everything from brisket to Chef’s special corn on the cob. Finally, on Thursday through Saturday nights, the ship offers dinnertainment cruises that feature mouthwatering dinners, entertainment, dancing and more. The Interactive Murder Mystery Thursdays are an especially fun night out for couples and groups.

For cruises that are more casual than the dinner cruises, the Burlington has nightly sunset cruises that are perfect for small gatherings. While enjoying a gorgeous sunset, passengers can purchase a cocktail, a bite to eat from the snack bar, or even a picnic basket that contains cured meats, cheeses, fresh fruit, French baguette slices, and a glass of sparkling wine or water. For a more casual meal on board, passengers can have a pizza party that comes with a 16 inch cheese or pepperoni pizza with four sodas. Finally, the Celebration Package is available on any of the Burlington’s cruises and offers champagne, wine or sparkling cider, a celebration cake for two, and two souvenir toasting flutes.

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Leunig’s Bistro Brings The Panache Of Paris To Burlington,VT

Leunig’s Bistro and Café is a restaurant located in Burlington, Vermont. It serves lunch and dinner seven days a week. Brunch is served on the weekends. Leunig’s Bistro and Café serves French cuisine. It also has a French look and feel.

People who eat at Leunig’s Bistro and Café will be able to choose from a number of delicious food items on the menu. Duck tacos, burgers, roasted chickpea wraps, crab cake rissoles and heirloom baby spinach salad are some of the lunch items on the menu. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Filet mignon, almond crusted chicken, the bistro burger and pumpkin stuffed pork tenderloin are some of the dinner options that people have. Dinner is served every day starting at 5 p.m.

Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Roasted veggie hash, eggs benedict and sausage and apple frittata are some of the items on the Brunch menu.

People who have to follow a gluten-free diet often have trouble finding restaurants that have gluten-free options. However, Leunig’s Bistro and Café has a gluten-free menu. La platte river farm angus beef burger, steak frittes and corned beef hash are some of the gluten-free options that you can choose.

If you are still hungry after enjoying brunch, lunch or dinner, then you will be happy to know that there are a number of great delicious desserts. You can have white chocolate caramel cheesecake, maple crème brulee, peanut butter pie, vanilla ice cream and many more delicious dessert items. Additionally, wine and cocktails are served at this restaurant.

A lot has changed about Leunig’s Bistro and Café ever since it first opened its doors in 1980. When it first opened, it was a coffee shop and café. Today, it is a full service restaurant that is opened 363 days out of the year.

Bob Conlon is the co-owner and Donnell Collins is the executive chef. They both strive to make sure that every customer has a good experience at the restaurant. Chef Donnell Collins keeps customers coming back for more by whipping up delicious meals with local ingredients. Bob Conlon ensures that customers feel comfortable by greeting them at the door and offering them gracious, friendly and accommodating services.

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2nd Annual Big Spring Art Party At Burlington College Starts April 19th 2014

Looking for something fun and inexpensive to do in Burlington, VT? Why not explore what Burlington College has to offer the community?

Situated on 32 lush acres of rolling New England landscape, Burlington College provides a vibrant environment that encourages its students to develop their own individuality and creativity. The college seeks to involve students in their communities on a local and global scale through a dynamic combination of academic work and experience. Burlington College’s annual Big Spring Art Party is one example of how the institution strives to build student-community relationships.

In fact, the Big Spring Art Party is just around the corner. A much-loved community event, you will not want to miss this cultural extravaganza. Held in mid-April, this event celebrates visual and performing arts created and performed by Burlington College faculty, students, alumni and board of trustee members. A weekend filled with internationally diverse multi-media art experiences, there is something to please everyone. Be sure to bring your family and friends along!

On Friday April 18, festivities begin at 6 pm with an opening reception of the GUMBO Art Exhibit. A campus-wide event, the Burlington College community invites everyone to enjoy unpredictable and eclectic performing and visual art experiences that include photography exhibits, woodworking pieces, live musical performances, readings and more. Delicious food is available throughout the evening. Fantastic door prizes will also be given away.

Visitors may enjoy this exhibit through Sunday, April 20. The galleries are located at 351 North Avenue and are free and open to the public.

Love to watch movies?

The fun continues on Saturday, April 19, with the 14th Annual Burlington College Student Film Festival. This event proudly showcases the best work written, directed and produced by students enrolled in Burlington College’s film program this year. Viewers will enjoy thought-provoking documentary, experimental and other short films.

The opening reception begins at 6 pm at the Main Street Landing Performing Art Center, 60 Lake St. Wonderful door prizes will be given away to select lucky attendees. Film screenings start promptly at 7 pm. Top the evening off by staying for the Big Spring Awards After Party where the best student films receive honors from categories that include Best of Show, Audience Choice and more. Winners will take home customized Big Spring trophies.

Saturday’s event is also free and open to the public.

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Burlington’s Shelburne Museum Displays More Than 150,000 Works Of Art

Vermont’s Shelburne Museum is known for its extensive collection of artwork and buildings. To visit Shelburne is to step back in time into a quaint village filled with artifacts that furnish a feast for the eyes and ears. The grounds feature 38 distinct buildings, of which 25 are actual historic buildings that were relocated from another place. The displays are extensive enough that many people find a single day insufficient to truly take in all that the museum has to offer. The scenic beauty of the Lake Champlain Valley adds to the appeal of this unique tourist destination that is fit for the whole family.

American folk art collector Electra Havemeyer Webb created the Shelburne Museum in 1947, eager to create a museum experience that would be vibrant and truly excite the sensibilities of those who visit. The museum is focused on art and architecture from the 1600s to the 1900s and includes more than 150,000 works of art, with particular emphasis on folk art, as well as more utilitarian examples of craftsmanship such as carriages and quilts. Together, the museum’s 38 buildings and numerous gardens form a village in which patrons are free to wander, interacting with the exhibits and taking part in the many educational programs the museum has to offer.

The buildings that make up the museum give a good taste of what life was like in previous centuries in New England. The buildings that act as galleries house not only American paintings but also many examples of toys, circus memorabilia, decoys and costumes. Among the buildings that are displays in and of themselves are the apothecary, the jail, the schoolhouse and the blacksmith shop.

The museum boasts more than 20 different gardens, each offering its own natural beauty to complement the human ingenuity on display within the buildings. Among the many flowers on display, particularly prominent are lilacs, of which there are over 400 plants on the museum grounds. Peonies are also plentiful, with 25 different varieties to peruse, and visitors will find geraniums, zinnias and daylilies aplenty.

The full grounds of the Shelburne Museum are open from mid-May through October. During that time, adult admission is $22, while children cost $10. During the rest of the year, when only the main building is open, adults cost $10 and children cost $5. Hours are generally Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. See http://ift.tt/SZsoQ1.

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