Vermont Humanities Events Statewide   

 

February

February 15 — Book Discussion: March by Geraldine Brooks and America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Alan Berolzheimer. Hosted by the Grafton Public Library. Grafton Public Library, 6:30 pm. Michelle Dufort, (802) 843-2404.

February 16 — Book Discussion: Medea by Euripides. Part of the Eight Great Greek Tragedies series. Delve into the greatest works of the ancient Greek tragedians, including Sophocles, Aeschylus, and Euripedes. Led by Suzanne H Brown. Hosted by the Blake Memorial Library. East Corinth, Blake Memorial Library, 4:30 pm. Ken Linge, (802) 439-5338.

February 16 — Book Discussion: Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri. Part of the Women's Literature: Dual Heritages series. This series features contemporary, multicultural female voices. In novels and short stories, these foreign-born American writers celebrate the diversity of their dual heritages. Led by Gina Logan. Hosted by the Cobleigh Public Library. Lyndonville, Cobleigh Public Library, 14 Depot St, 7:00 pm. Cindy Karasinski, (802) 626-5475.

February 16 — Young at Art: Courage. A Vermont Reads Event. All are invited to an evening of outstanding visual and performing arts interpretations of courage by youth of all ages from Franklin and Grand Isle counties. In this Vermont Reads 2012 event, youth explore the poignant theme of courage inspired by the Vermont Reads 2012 selections Bull Run by Paul Fleischman and The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane, through art, music, poetry, and dance. Event attendees will be able to view a gallery of student artwork from 6 to 6:30 pm. At 6:30 pm, performances will begin. Hosted by the Franklin Grand Isle Bookmobile. Swanton, Missisquoi Valley Union High School, Trahan Theater, 100 Thunderbird Dr, 6:00 pm. Karyn Norwood, (802) 868-5077.

February 20 — Book Discussion: An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917-1963 by Robert Dallek. Part of the 20th Century Presidents: Post-WWII series. Which 20th-century U.S. Presidents most dramatically impacted the direction of the country—for good or ill—and its standing in the world? Arguably, every president has had a dramatic impact on the country, but some have loomed larger than others—and larger than life. This series examines four 20th-century presidents who left a stong imprint on America following World War Two. Led by Jon Margolis. Hosted by the Barton Public Library. Barton Public Library, 100 Church St, 6:30 pm. Toni Eubanks, (802) 525-6524.

February 20 — Abigail Adams: Remember the Ladies. The tumultuous events of the American Revolution swept Abigail Adams far beyond her humble roots in Weymouth, Massachusetts. Through Linda Myer's portrayal, experience Abigail's journey—from loyal British subject to ardent revolutionary, from Weymouth to the White House. Throughout her life Abigail wrote reams of letters about everything from potatoes to politics, revealing her strengths, passions, heartaches, and wry opinions. Hosted by the Billings Farm and Museum. Woodstock, Billings Farm & Museum Visitor Center Theater, 53 Elm St, 3:00 pm. Billings Farm and Museum, (802) 457-2355.

February 21 — Book Discussion: Wolf Totem by Jian Rong. Part of the China's Transformation series. How has China's dynamic growth affected its people, its culture, its environment? What has been gained? And lost? Led by Helene Lang. Hosted by the Walden Community Library. West Danville, Walden Community Library, 135 Cahoon Farm Rd, 7:00 pm. Stuart Smith, (802) 563-2630.

February 21 — Book Discussion: Crossroads of Freedom: Antietam by James McPherson, America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Eric A. Bye. Hosted by the Dorset Village Library. Dorset Village Library, 10:00 am. Barbara Howland, (802) 867-5376.

February 22 — Book Discussion: Women of the Asylum: Voices from Behind the Walls by Jeffery Geller and Maxine Harrison. Part of the Outsiders: Those Who Fell Outside the Cultural Norm series. This discussion series examines the treatment of populations outside the cultural norms of the late 19th and early 20th century America. The books cover the historical conditions and treatments of Native Americans, women deemed mentally ill and locked away, and those considered developmentally handicapped, mentally handicapped and/or genetically inferior. Led by Mary Hays. Waitsfield, Joslin Memorial Library, 4391 Main St, 9:30 am. Joy Worland, (802) 496-4205.

February 22 — Book Discussion: Seven Deadly Sins Sampler by Various Authors. Part of the Seven Deadly Sins Sampler series. Part of the Seven Deadly Sins Sampler series. Delve into selections from the Great Books’ Foundation’s new volume, The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler, and discover why, according to Dartmouth professor of ethics and human values Ronald M. Green, these short stories “remind us that most of our problems arise in the hidden recesses of the human heart.” Led by Rachael Cohen. Hosted by the Hartland Public Library. Hartland Public Library, 6:30 pm. Theresa Gregory, (802) 436-2473.

February 22 — Book Discussion: Five Great Short Stories by Anton Chekhov. Part of the Masters of the Short Story series. Short stories, as a modern genre, emerged in the early 19th century, and mushroomed with the development of journals and magazines. This series reflects both the short story’s 19th century roots and its later development as a 20th century art form. Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the South Burlington Community Library. South Burlington Community Library, 540 Dorset St, 7:00 pm. Louise J. Murphy, (802) 652-7076.

February 22 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by John R. Turner. Hosted by the Kimball Public Library. Randolph, Kimball Public Library, 67 N Main St, 7:00 pm. Lynne Gately, (802) 728-5073.

February 23 — Book Discussion: The Giver by Lois Lowry. Part of the Futures: Utopia and Apocalypse series. In this series, participants explore 19th and 20th century visions—utopian to apocalyptic—of the future. Themes include repression, community, socialism, capitalism, feminism, creativity, ethics, and evolution. Led by Linda Bland. Hosted by the Morristown Centennial Library. Morrisville, Morristown Centennial Library, 7:00 pm. Frances Ruggles, (802) 888-2616.

February 23 — RJSHS Monthly Book Club. A Vermont Reads Event. Join the Richford Jr.-Sr. High School Monthly Book Club for free pizza and a discussion of Paul Fleischman's Bull Run. Please RSVP. Hosted by the Richford Jr.-Sr. High School. Richford Jr.-Sr. High School Library, 1 Corliss Hts, 6:00 pm. Annette Goyne, (802) 848-7416 x263.

February 27 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Alan Berolzheimer. Hosted by the Latham Memorial Library. Thetford, Latham Memorial Library, 7:00 pm. Peter Blodgett, (802) 333-9724.

February 28 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Eric A. Bye. Hosted by the Dorset Village Library. Dorset Village Library, 10:00 am. Barbara Howland, (802) 867-5376.

February 29 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Alan Berolzheimer. Hosted by the Grafton Public Library. Grafton Public Library, 6:30 pm. Michelle Dufort, (802) 843-2404.

February 29 — Book Discussion: The Promise of Rest by Reynolds Price. Part of the Ties that Bind: Take Two series. A rich selection of three novels and one memoir that explores family and deals with some of the most emotional aspects of blood relationships: the generational divide, communication, betrayal, reconciliation, forgiveness, and love. Led by Patricia S Norton. Hosted by the Pope Memorial Library. Danville, Pope Memorial Library, 7:00 pm. Deidre O. Palmer, (802) 684-2522.

February 29 — Facing Horror: Responding to Human Rights Atrocities. Norwich professor Rowland Brucken outlines the strengths and weaknesses of using trials, truth commissions, indigenous processes, and amnesty laws in the aftermath of mass suffering. Hosted by Landmark College and supported by a VHC grant. Putney, Landmark College, East Academic Building Auditorium, 7:00 pm. Landmark College, (802) 387-4767.

March 

March 1 — Book Discussion: Oedipus Rex, Antigone, Electra by Sophocles. Part of the Eight Great Greek Tragedies series. Delve into the greatest works of the ancient Greek tragedians, including Sophocles, Aeschylus, and Euripedes. Led by Suzanne H Brown. Hosted by the Blake Memorial Library. East Corinth, Blake Memorial Library, 4:30 pm. Ken Linge, (802) 439-5338.

March 5 — Book Discussion: Klee Wyck by Emily Carr. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by William Tortolano. Hosted by the Wake Robin Retirement Community. Shelburne, Wake Robin Retirement Community, 200 Wake Robin Dr, 7:30 pm. Natalie Albers, (802) 985-0659.

March 7 — The Book of Kells. Dartmouth professor Jane Carroll considers one of the treasures of Western civilization, the Book of Kells, and how the Irish monks’ lavish illustrations of the twelve-hundred-year-old Gospel manuscript illuminate the artists’ thoughts about theology and the power of the word.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Brooks Memorial Library. Brattleboro, Brooks Memorial Library, 224 Main St, 7:00 pm. Jerry Carbone, (802) 254-5290 x101. 

March 7 — The 2012 Presidential Campaign. Former ABC News correspondent Barrie Dunsmore considers which Republican will likely face President Obama in November and analyzes the domestic and foreign policy issues most likely to dominate the campaign.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Brownell Library. Essex Junction, Brownell Library, 6 Lincoln St, 7:00 pm. Penelope Pillsbury, (802) 878-6957. 

March 7 — Winslow Homer and the Civil War. Marc Simpson, American art history scholar at Williams College and the Clark Art Institute, explores the early career of Winslow Homer, whose first paintings illustrated the Civil War—the battlefields, the camps, and the war’s effects on the home front. A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Mark Skinner Library. Manchester, First Congregational Church, 7:00 pm. Cindy Waters, (802) 362-2607. 

March 7 — The Revolutionary Achievements of the American People. Distinguished Northwestern University professor T.H. Breen argues that the people—often with no guidance from the Founding Fathers—established the foundations for an enduring civil society during a period of extraordinary political turmoil.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Ilsley Public Library. Middlebury, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St, 7:00 pm. Chris Kirby, (802) 388-4095. 

March 7 — The Door That Led to The Night Strangers: A Novel Born in a Basement. Bestselling novelist Chris Bohjalian talks about the inspiration for and the writing of his latest novel.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Montpelier, Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St, 7:00 pm. Rachel Senechal, (802) 223-3338. 

March 7 — Finding Higher Ground: Adaptation in the Age of Warming. Scientist and author Amy Seidl explains why the long-term nature of climate change forces us to redesign how we structure our societies and considers our ethical role as planetary stewards.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Goodrich Memorial Library. Newport, Goodrich Memorial Library, 202 Main St, 7:00 pm. Carol Nicholson, (802) 334-7902. 

March 7 — The Vanishing Twentieth-Century American Composer. The well-known pieces of twentieth-century American classical music (e.g., pieces by Copeland, Gershwin, and Barber) are only a slice of a far larger body of work. Dartmouth music professor Steve Swayne considers how this music was viewed in the 1940s and 1950s compared to now.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Norwich Public Library. Norwich Congregational Church, 15 Church St, 7:00 pm. Lucinda Walker, (802) 649-1184. 

March 7 — The History of Herbal Medicine in America. Expert herbalist Rosemary Gladstar examines the early history of herbalism in America and how herbs play a role in healthcare today.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Rutland Free Library. Rutland Free Library, 10 Court St, 7:00 pm. Paula Baker, (802) 773-1860. 

March 7 — The Soul Selects Her Own Society: The Life and Work of Emily Dickinson. Reclusive poet Emily Dickinson published only a fraction of her poetry during her lifetime. Dartmouth professor Colleen Boggs looks at Dickinson’s life and at how we should consider her writings in our highly public modern age.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 1171 Main St, 7:00 pm. Lisa von Kann, (802) 748-8291 x301.

March 7 — Agatha Christie: Creator of Miss Jane Marple and Hercule Poirot. In this living history performance by Helene Lang, Ms. Christie tells you how a typewriter in Torguay spawned over 80 mysteries and created Miss Jane Marple and Hercule Poirot. Learn about her life and walk in her footsteps in England. Discover why she was so knowledgeable about the poisons used in her stories; what influences in her life informed the creation of her famous leading detectives; some personal information about her family; and why she went to Yorkshire under an assumed name. Hosted by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Central Vermont. Montpelier, Vermont College of Fine Arts, Noble Hall, 36 College St, 1:30 pm. Priscilla Daggett, (802) 454-1234.

March 7 — Book Discussion: Seven Deadly Sins Sampler by Various Authors. Part of the Seven Deadly Sins Sampler series. Delve into selections from the Great Books’ Foundation’s new volume, The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler, and discover why, according to Dartmouth professor of ethics and human values Ronald M. Green, these short stories “remind us that most of our problems arise in the hidden recesses of the human heart.” Led by Suzanne H. Brown. Hosted by the Norwich Public Library. Norwich Public Library, 4:00 pm. Mary McKenna, (802) 296-2191.

March 7 — Book Discussion: To Be A Slave by Julius Lester. Part of the Slavery and the Civil War series. With the 150th anniversary of the Civil War beginning in 2011, this series examines the root causes of the War, and the experience of soldiers on both sides. Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. Williston, Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 21 Library Ln, 6:30 pm. Martine Fiske, (802) 878-4918.

March 8 — Book Discussion: Hunting for Hope: A Father's Journey by Scott Russell Sanders. Part of the Earth Tones series. These authors strike a variety of provocative and poignant environmental notes—haunting, satirical, delicate, mysterious, hopeful, wise—as they look with fresh eyes at the age-old question of how to live in harmony with nature. Led by Linda Bland. Hosted by the Fairfax Community Library. Fairfax Community Library, 75 Hunt St, 6:30 pm. Chantal Marlinski, (802) 849-2420.

March 8 — Book Discussion: America's Dream by Esmeralda Santiago. Part of the Women's Literature: Dual Heritages series. This series features contemporary, multicultural female voices. In novels and short stories, these foreign-born American writers celebrate the diversity of their dual heritages. Led by Gina Logan. Hosted by the Cobleigh Public Library. Lyndonville, Cobleigh Public Library, 14 Depot St, 7:00 pm. Cindy Karasinski, (802) 626-5475.

March 9 — Book Discussion: Five Great Short Stories by Anton Chekhov. Part of the Masters of the Short Story series. Short stories, as a modern genre, emerged in the early 19th century, and mushroomed with the development of journals and magazines. This series reflects both the short story’s 19th century roots and its later development as a 20th century art form. Led by Elayne Clift. Hosted by the Springfield Town Library. Springfield Town Library, 43 Main St, 10:30 am. Nancy Tusinski, (802) 885-3108.

March 9 — The Western Abenaki: History and Culture. Who were the native people of Vermont and how did they live? This lecture, by Jeanne Brink, examines the importance in Abenaki society of elders and children, the environment, and the continuance of lifeways and traditions. Hosted by the Milton Public Library. Milton Public Library, 39 Bombardier Rd, 3:00 pm. Kathy Dulac, (802) 893-4644.

March 9 — Vermont and the Civil War. From Cedar Creek to Gettysburg, Vermonters were central to the Union cause. Vermont author and Civil War historian Howard Coffin addresses the Vermont contribution to the Civil War. Hosted by the Shrewsbury Library. Cuttingsville, Shrewsbury Library Meeting Room, 7:30 pm. Joan Allan Aleshire, (802) 492-3550.

 March 10 — Book Discussion: The Great Work: Our Way into the Future by Thomas Berry. Part of the Earth Tones series. These authors strike a variety of provocative and poignant environmental notes—haunting, satirical, delicate, mysterious, hopeful, wise—as they look with fresh eyes at the age-old question of how to live in harmony with nature. Led by Linda Bland. Hosted by the Varnum Memorial Library. Jeffersonville, Varnum Memorial Library, 3:00 pm. April Tuck, (802) 644-6632.

March 12 — Vermont History through Song. Singer and researcher Linda Radtke, joined by pianist Arthur Zorn, brings Vermont history to life with engaging commentary about the songs found in the Vermont Historical Society's collection of sheet music. Dressed in period costume, Ms. Radtke takes listeners through state history, using the songs Vermonters published in their communities. Hosted by the Burnham Memorial Library. Colchester, Burnham Memorial Library, 898 Main St, 6:00 pm. Joshua Muse, (802) 879-7576.

March 13 — Book Discussion: Before the Deluge by Deirdre Chethem. Part of the China's Transformation series. How has China's dynamic growth affected its people, its culture, its environment? What has been gained? And lost? Led by Helene Lang. Hosted by the Walden Community Library. West Danville, Walden Community Library, 135 Cahoon Farm Rd, 7:00 pm. Stuart Smith, (802) 563-2630.

March 13 — Book Discussion: The Last Chinese Chef by Nicole Mones. Part of the Gastronomy: Novels about Food and Culture series. One of the most tantalizing ways to learn about a culture is through its food. These mouth-watering novels highlight how what we eat is closely aligned with who we are. Led by Arthur W Biddle. Hosted by the Fairfax Community Library. Fairfax Community Library, 75 Hunt St, 6:30 pm. Chantal Marlinski, (802) 849-2420.

March 13 — Letters to Vermont. The Civil War saw newspapers come of age in reporting war news. Soldiers not only recorded their daily activities in journals and letters; they also shared their experiences in the home press. Thirteen correspondents wrote anonymously to the Rutland Herald from different regions of the United States. This presentation by Donald Wickman introduces the audience to the eloquent prose of the writers, and tells of their careers during the war. Nearly all the letter writers have been successfully identified. Hosted by the West Rutland Historical Society. West Rutland Town Hall, 35 Marble St, 7:00 pm. Mary Reczek, (802) 688-8561.

March 14 — Book Discussion: Inventing the Feeble Mind by James W. Trent Jr.. Part of the Outsiders: Those Who Fell Outside the Cultural Norm series. This discussion series examines the treatment of populations outside the cultural norms of the late 19th and early 20th century America. The books cover the historical conditions and treatments of Native Americans, women deemed mentally ill and locked away, and those considered developmentally handicapped, mentally handicapped and/or genetically inferior. Led by Helene Lang. Hosted by the Joslin Memorial Library. Waitsfield, Joslin Memorial Library, 4391 Main St, 9:30 am. Joy Worland, (802) 496-4205.

March 14 — Vermont Folk Art. Much of Vermont's folk art is narrative in impulse: a stair rug capturing the history of a family, a weathervane symbolizing the artist's career in the railroad, or a quilt representing the memories of farm life. This slide presentation and lecture by Jane Beck touches on the informal process of learning a traditional art, life crises that spur the creation of folk art, and the emotional bond that exists between the maker and the receiver of a folk art object. Hosted by the Hartland Public Library. Hartland Public Library, 7:00 pm. Theresa Gregory, (802) 436-2473.

March 14 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Alan Berolzheimer. Hosted by the Grafton Public Library. Grafton Public Library, 6:30 pm. Michelle Dufort, (802) 843-2404.

March 14–April 1 —  Red Revealed Lecture Series. This lecture series examines the production of the play Red, written by John Logan and directed by Brooke Ciardelli, about the life of the painter Mark Rothko. Hosted by the Northern Stage Company and supported by a VHC grant. White River Junction, Various locations, 4:30 pm. Fee for series. For more information, Northern Stage Co., (802) 296-7000 or northernstage.org.

March 15 — Book Discussion: Galapagos by Kurt Vonnegut. Part of the Futures: Utopia and Apocalypse series. In this series, participants explore 19th and 20th century visions—- utopian to apocalyptic—of the future. Themes include repression, community, socialism, capitalism, feminism, creativity, ethics, and evolution. Led by Linda Bland. Hosted by the Morristown Centennial Library. Morrisville, Morristown Centennial Library, 7:00 pm. Frances Ruggles, (802) 888-2616.

March 15 — The Green Mountain Chronicles: Oral Histories of the 20th Century. Created for the Vermont Historical Society and broadcast on Vermont Public Radio, “The Green Mountain Chronicles” presented a wide variety of Vermonters sharing their memories of the people, events, and developments that helped shape Vermont in the 20th century. In this program, Mark Greenberg discusses the process of choosing the topics, collecting the oral histories, and some of the interesting things that emerged. Hosted by the Springfield Town Library. Springfield Town Library, 43 Main St, 6:30 pm. Nancy Tusinski, (802) 885-3108.

March 15 — Disappearing Alphabets and the Future of the Written Word. What does the age of Digital Convergence, Twitter, and eBooks mean for the future of the written word? Writer/carver/painter Tim Brookes offers remarkable and thought-provoking perspective on this question by looking at thirteen forms of writing from all over the world that are in danger of extinction. He displays a sample of each script, leading a discussion on how technology will help —and always has helped—define the nature of communication, and shows how the story of a culture can be seen in its writing—even if that writing is (as in these examples) beautiful, bizarre, utterly unfamiliar, and disappearing. Hosted by the Bixby Memorial Free Library. Vergennes, Bixby Memorial Free Library, 258 Main St, 7:00 pm. Karlene DeVine, (802) 877-6392.

March 16–25 — 15th Annual Green Mountain Film Festival. This ten-day festival includes multiple film screenings and special events such as discussions and presentations involving filmmakers, writers and other guests. Hosted by the Focus on Film, Inc. and supported by a VHC grant. Montpelier, various locations. Donald Rae, (802) 262-3423 or greenmountainfilmfestival.org.

March 17 — The Irish "Wave" in the Green Mountains. Beginning in the late 1840s and lasting through the 1860s, thousands of Irish immigrants, escaping the potato famine in their homeland, settled in Vermont. They arrived in the Green Mountain State just as Vermont was undergoing a mini industrial revolution—a revolution based on railroad construction, the quarrying of slate and marble, and on textile production. Vince Feeney, author of the recently published history of the Irish in Vermont, Finnigans, Slaters and Stonepeggers, tells the little-known story of the impact of Irish immigrants on Vermont life in the middle of the nineteenth century. Hosted by the Essex Free Library. Essex Free Library, 2:00 pm. Caitlin Corless, (802) 879-0313.

March 18 — Vermont's Flood of 1927: A New Look. The flood is remembered as the greatest natural disaster ever to strike Vermont, and stories of loss, tragedy, and heroism abound. Yet it is far more than an episode restricted to the history of a single state. An examination of the flood and reconstruction helps shed light on important facets of our national history, and helps us understand better America's passage through the often anxious and difficult years of the 1920s. The speaker is historian Nicholas Clifford. Hosted by the Weathersfield Historical Society. Ascutney, Martin Hall, 5259 Route 5, 2:00 pm. Ginger Wimberg, (802) 263-5626.

March 19 — Book Discussion: LBJ: A Life by Irwin and Debi Unger. Part of the 20th Century Presidents: Post-WWII series. Which 20th-century U.S. Presidents most dramatically impacted the direction of the country—for good or ill—and its standing in the world? Arguably, every president has had a dramatic impact on the country, but some have loomed larger than others—and larger than life. This series examines four 20th-century presidents who left a stong imprint on America following World War Two. Led by Jon Margolis. Hosted by the Barton Public Library. Barton Public Library, 100 Church St, 6:30 pm. Toni Eubanks, (802) 525-6524. 

March 19 — Book Discussion: The Mistress of Spices by Chitra Divakaruni. Part of the Gastronomy: Novels about Food and Culture series. One of the most tantalizing ways to learn about a culture is through its food. These mouth-watering novels highlight how what we eat is closely aligned with who we are. Led by Lesley Wright. Hosted by the Burnham Memorial Library. Colchester, Burnham Memorial Library, 898 Main St, 6:00 pm. Joshua Muse, 802-879-7576.

March 21 — Book Discussion: Seven Deadly Sins Sampler by Various Authors. Part of the Seven Deadly Sins Sampler series. Delve into selections from the Great Books’ Foundation’s new volume, The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler, and discover why, according to Dartmouth professor of ethics and human values Ronald M. Green, these short stories “remind us that most of our problems arise in the hidden recesses of the human heart.” Led by Suzanne H. Brown. Hosted by the Norwich Public Library. Norwich Public Library, 4:00 pm. Mary McKenna, (802) 296-2191.

March 21 — Book Discussion: My Garden (Book) by Jamaica Kincaid. Part of the Farms and Gardens series. Vermonters know as well as anyone the rich metaphors inherent in farming and gardening. These authors dig deep to explore the philosophical roots, family dynamics, and personal enrichment associated with tending and growing. Led by Rachael Cohen. Hosted by the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Montpelier, Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St, 6:30 pm. Rachel Senechal, (802) 223-3338.

March 22 — An Apprentice Boat Builder in Japan. When people think about Japan, they often think of manga and anime, busy urban centers, and an economy based on innovations in electronics. People may not know of a “second Japan,” with a rich history of traditional arts and crafts, many of which are fast disappearing as modernization has broken down the traditional apprentice system. Since 1996, writer and researcher Douglas Brooks has apprenticed with four boat builders in Japan, building five types of Japanese boats. In this slide talk he shares his experiences with these traditional crafts. Hosted by the Norwich Public Library. Norwich Public Library, 7:00 pm. Wendy Forrester, (802) 649-1184.

March 22 — Book Discussion: The Lives of the Artists by Giorgio Vassari. Part of the How They Lived series. Great biographies are as much social histories as they are stories about individual lives. These celebrated works illuminate historical eras and professional pursuits long gone by. Led by Victor R. Swenson, Judith Yarnall. Hosted by the Stowe Free Library. Stowe Free Library, 90 Pond Dr, 7:00 pm. Megan Carder, (802) 253 -6145.

March 23 — Book Discussion: Poetry and Tales by Edgar Allan Poe. Part of the Masters of the Short Story series. Short stories, as a modern genre, emerged in the early 19th century, and mushroomed with the development of journals and magazines. This series reflects both the short story’s 19th century roots and its later development as a 20th century art form. Led by Mary Findley. Hosted by the Springfield Town Library. Springfield Town Library, 43 Main St, 10:30 am. Nancy Tusinski, (802) 885-3108.

March 26 — Book Discussion: Nightjohn by Gary Paulsen. Part of the Slavery and the Civil War series. With the 150th anniversary of the Civil War beginning in 2011, this series examines the root causes of the War, and the experience of soldiers on both sides. Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. Williston, Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 21 Library Ln, 6:30 pm. Martine Fiske, (802) 878-4918.

March 28 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by John R. Turner. Hosted by the Kimball Public Library. Randolph, Kimball Public Library, 67 N Main St, 7:00 pm. Lynne Gately, (802) 728-5073.

March 28 — Book Discussion: Selected Works of Flannery O'Connor by Flannery O'Connor. Part of the Masters of the Short Story series. Short stories, as a modern genre, emerged in the early 19th century, and mushroomed with the development of journals and magazines. This series reflects both the short story’s 19th century roots and its later development as a 20th century art form. Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the South Burlington Community Library. South Burlington Community Library, 540 Dorset St, 7:00 pm. Louise J. Murphy, (802) 652-7076.

March 28 — Book Discussion: Crossroads of Freedom: Antietam by James McPherson and America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Alan Berolzheimer. Hosted by the Grafton Public Library. Grafton Public Library, 6:30 pm. Michelle Dufort, (802) 843-2404.

March 28 — Book Discussion: Montana 1948 by Larry Watson. Part of the Ties that Bind: Take Two series. A rich selection of three novels and one memoir that explores family and deals with some of the most emotional aspects of blood relationships: the generational divide, communication, betrayal, reconciliation, forgiveness, and love. Led by Suzanne H Brown. Hosted by the Pope Memorial Library. Danville, Pope Memorial Library, 7:00 pm. Deidre O. Palmer, (802) 684-2522.

March 28 — Feminism and Identity Politics in the Visual Arts: 1970 through 2010. Landmark College Associate Professor of Art Humberto Ramirez will present an overview of the practitioners and theories that constitute the development of “Identity” as a trajectory in cultural theory and in the visual arts. Hosted by Landmark College and supported by a VHC grant. Putney, Landmark College, East Academic Building Auditorium, 7:00 pm. Landmark College, (802) 387-4767.

March 29 — Book Discussion: Breath, Eyes, Memory by Edwidge Danticat. Part of the Women's Literature: Dual Heritages series. This series features contemporary, multicultural female voices. In novels and short stories, these foreign-born American writers celebrate the diversity of their dual heritages. Led by Gina Logan. Hosted by the Cobleigh Public Library. Lyndonville, Cobleigh Public Library, 14 Depot St, 7:00 pm. Cindy Karasinski, (802) 626-5475.

March 29 — Book Discussion: Seven Deadly Sins Sampler by Various Authors. Part of the Seven Deadly Sins Sampler series. Delve into selections from the Great Books’ Foundation’s new volume, The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler, and discover why, according to Dartmouth professor of ethics and human values Ronald M. Green, these short stories “remind us that most of our problems arise in the hidden recesses of the human heart.” Led by Rachael Cohen. Hosted by the Hartland Public Library. Hartland Public Library, 6:30 pm. Theresa Gregory, (802) 436-2473.

April

April 1–30 — PoemCity 2012.  PoemCity 2012 (formerly Poetry Alive) will celebrate poetry with a month-long calendar of events, including author visits, poetry readings, a poetry slam, films, and poems by Vermonters on display in downtown windows and as part of the Montpelier’s Art Walk. Montpelier, various locations. Hosted by Kellogg-Hubbard Library and supported by a VHC grant. Rachel Senechal, (802) 223-3338.

April 1 — PoemCity 2012 Kick-off Event. Details TBA. Hosted by the Kellogg-Hubbard Library and supported by a VHC grant. Montpelier, Vermont State House, State Street, 4:00 pm. Rachel Senechal, (802) 223-3338.

April 2 — Book Discussion: Pelagie-La-Charrette by Antonine Maillet. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by William Tortolano. Hosted by the Wake Robin Retirement Community. Shelburne, Wake Robin Retirement Community, 200 Wake Robin Dr, 7:30 pm. Natalie Albers, (802) 985-0659.

April 3 (Tuesday) — Competition and Collaboration: Painting in Early Renaissance Florence. Middlebury professor Katy Smith Abbott explores how competition led to great artistic achievements in fifteenth-century Florence—and how simultaneously a network of collaboration among artists, workshops, and patrons characterized painters’ daily experiences and productivity. Note: This talk takes place on a Tuesday.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Brownell Library. Essex Junction, Brownell Library, 6 Lincoln St, 7:00 pm. Penelope Pillsbury, (802) 878-6957. 

April 4 — An Evening of Latin American Poetry. Amherst College professor Ilan Stavans considers poems by Rubén Darío, Jorge Luis Borges, Gabriela Mistral, Pablo Neruda, Octavio Paz, and others—parts of a tradition in which words are mechanisms of resistance against oppression.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Brooks Memorial Library. Brattleboro, Brooks Memorial Library, 224 Main St, 7:00 pm. Jerry Carbone, (802) 254-5290 x101. 

April 4 — If You Don’t Want Your Slave to Speak Freely, You Should Forbid Him to Sing! In this performance lecture, Middlebury College Artist-in-Residence Dr. Francois Clemmons illustrates how the Negro Spiritual grew out of slaves’ experiences.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Mark Skinner Library. Manchester, First Congregational Church, 7:00 pm. Cindy Waters, (802) 362-2607. 

April 4 — Religion and Identity in the Near East. Former president of Kenyon and Carleton Colleges and Religion scholar Rob Oden considers how constructs from the ancient Near East inform Westerners’ identity, the Near East’s transition to Islam, and what Islam shares with and how it departs from Judaism and Christianity.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Ilsley Public Library. Middlebury, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St, 7:00 pm. Chris Kirby, (802) 388-4095. 

April 4 — They Do Still Write Them the Way They Used To. Refuting the notion that modern poetry is formless and self-absorbed, poet Michael Palma considers contemporary poets who use rhyme, meter, and figurative language to explore timeless, universal themes.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Montpelier, Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St, 7:00 pm. Rachel Senechal, (802) 223-3338. 

April 4 — Asphalt, Culture, and Community: The Impact of the Interstate Highway on Vermont. UVM professor and lifelong Vermonter Frank Bryan considers the cultural and historical impact of the interstate highway system on Vermont.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Goodrich Memorial Library. Newport, Goodrich Memorial Library, 202 Main St, 7:00 pm. Carol Nicholson, (802) 334-7902. 

April 4 — Letters to Jackie: Condolences from a Grieving Nation. Author Ellen Fitzpatrick discusses the public’s response to President Kennedy’s death and shares condolence letters written to Mrs. Kennedy, which provide a remarkable window into the nation’s character at the time.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Norwich Public Library. Norwich Congregational Church, 15 Church St, 7:00 pm. Lucinda Walker, (802) 649-1184. 

April 4 — Poetry’s Spiritual Language. Using the poetry of Dickinson, Kenyon, Rumi, and Kabir—poets from diverse religious traditions—poet Nancy Jay Crumbine examines poetry’s language of spirituality.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Rutland Free Library. Rutland Free Library, 10 Court St, 7:00 pm. Paula Baker, (802) 773-1860. 

April 4 — The Supreme Court Argument that Saved the Union. President Lincoln justified the Emancipation Proclamation as a “necessary war measure.” But was the Civil War, in point of law, a war? Former Vermont Chief Justice Jeffrey Amestoy tells the thrilling story of Richard Henry Dana, Jr.’s oral argument before the Court in the Prize Cases.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 1171 Main St, 7:00 pm. Lisa von Kann, (802) 748-8291 x301.

April 4 — Book Discussion: Seven Deadly Sins Sampler by Various Authors. Part of the Seven Deadly Sins Sampler series. Delve into selections from the Great Books’ Foundation’s new volume, The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler, and discover why, according to Dartmouth professor of ethics and human values Ronald M. Green, these short stories “remind us that most of our problems arise in the hidden recesses of the human heart.” Led by Suzanne H. Brown. Hosted by the Norwich Public Library. Norwich Public Library, 4:00 pm. Mary McKenna, (802) 296-2191.

April 5 — Book Discussion: A Midwife's Tale: The Life of Martha Ballard, Based on Her Diary, 1785-1812 by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich. Part of the How They Lived series. Great biographies are as much social histories as they are stories about individual lives. These celebrated works illuminate historical eras and professional pursuits long gone by. Led by Victor R. Swenson. Hosted by the Stowe Free Library. Stowe Free Library, 90 Pond Dr, 7:00 pm. Megan Carder, (802) 253-6145.

April 9 — Book Discussion: The Boys' War: Confederate and Union Soldiers by Jim Murphy. Part of the Slavery and the Civil War series. With the 150th anniversary of the Civil War beginning in 2011, this series examines the root causes of the War, and the experience of soldiers on both sides. Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. Williston, Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 21 Library Ln, 6:30 pm. Martine Fiske, (802) 878-4918.

April 10 — The Irish "Wave" in the Green Mountains. Beginning in the late 1840s and lasting through the 1860s, thousands of Irish immigrants, escaping the potato famine in their homeland, settled in Vermont. They arrived in the Green Mountain State just as Vermont was undergoing a mini industrial revolution—a revolution based on railroad construction, the quarrying of slate and marble, and on textile production. Vince Feeney, author of the recently published history of the Irish in Vermont, Finnigans, Slaters and Stonepeggers, tells the little-known story of the impact of Irish immigrants on Vermont life in the middle of the nineteenth century. Hosted by the West Rutland Historical Society. West Rutland Town Hall, 35 Marble St, 7:00 pm. Mary Reczek, (802) 688-8561.

April 11 — George Houghton: Vermont's Civil War Photographer. A hidden gem in Vermont's history is the photographic work completed by Brattleboro photographer George Houghton. He took poignant views of Vermont soldiers in the field, camp, and at home. This program by Donald Wickman will explain some of Houghton's life and show a number of the images that brought the Civil War back to Vermont via photography. Hosted by the Hartford Historical Society. Hartford, Greater Hartford United Church of Christ, 1721 Maple Street, 7:00 pm. Mary Nadeau, (802) 295-2123.

April 11 — Book Discussion: Peyton Place by Grace Metalious. Part of the New England Uncovered series. What lies hidden beneath the popular images of New England with its white spires and Yankee frugality? More than meets the eye! Led by Barbara Mieder. Hosted by the South Hero Community Library. South Hero Community Library, 75 South St, 7:00 pm. Diana Cleborne, (802) 372-6209.

April 11 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Alan Berolzheimer. Hosted by the Grafton Public Library. Grafton Public Library, 6:30 pm. Michelle Dufort, (802) 843-2404.

April 11 — Book Discussion: Here and Nowhere Else: Late Seasons of a Farm and It's Family by Jane Brox. Part of the Farms and Gardens series. Vermonters know as well as anyone the rich metaphors inherent in farming and gardening. These authors dig deep to explore the philosophical roots, family dynamics, and personal enrichment associated with tending and growing. Led by Linda Bland. Hosted by the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Montpelier, Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St, 6:30 pm. Rachel Senechal, (802) 223-3338.

April 11 — How Might We Use Artistic Practice in Service? Marlboro College Photography professor John Willis will present his explorations in using photographic explorations, artistic process, and education as a means of relating to others and attempting to make a positive contribution to the world. Hosted by Landmark College and supported by a VHC grant. Putney, Landmark College, East Academic Building Auditorium, 7:00 pm. Landmark College, (802) 387-4767.

April 12 — Book Discussion: A Friend of the Earth by T.C. Boyle. Part of the Earth Tones series. These authors strike a variety of provocative and poignant environmental notes—haunting, satirical, delicate, mysterious, hopeful, wise—as they look with fresh eyes at the age-old question of how to live in harmony with nature. Led by Rachael Cohen. Hosted by the Fairfax Community Library. Fairfax Community Library, 75 Hunt St, 6:30 pm. Chantal Marlinski, (802) 849-2420.

April 12 — Vermont and the Civil War. From Cedar Creek to Gettysburg, Vermonters were central to the Union cause. Vermont author and Civil War historian Howard Coffin addresses the Vermont contribution to the Civil War. Hosted by the Washington County Retired Teachers Association. Barre, Aldrich Public Library, Milne Room, 6 Washington St, 10:00 am. Janet Poeton, (802) 476-5965.

April 13 — Book Discussion: Park City by Ann Beattie. Part of the Masters of the Short Story series. Short stories, as a modern genre, emerged in the early 19th century, and mushroomed with the development of journals and magazines. This series reflects both the short story’s 19th century roots and its later development as a 20th century art form. Led by Richard M Wizansky. Hosted by the Springfield Town Library. Springfield Town Library, 43 Main St, 10:30 am. Nancy Tusinski, (802) 885-3108.

April 13 — Agatha Christie: Creator of Miss Jane Marple and Hercule Poirot. In this living history performance by Helene Lang, Ms. Christie tells you how a typewriter in Torguay spawned over 80 mysteries and created Miss Jane Marple and Hercule Poirot. Learn about her life and walk in her footsteps in England. Discover why she was so knowledgeable about the poisons used in her stories; what influences in her life informed the creation of her famous leading detectives; some personal information about her family; and why she went to Yorkshire under an assumed name. Hosted by the Jeudevine Memorial Library. Hardwick, Memorial Building, 7:00 pm. Lisa Sammet, (802) 472-5948.

April 15 — Cranky Yankees: All Together, Now! Jim Cooke is known for "Calvin Coolidge: More Than Two Words" — a one-man show that has changed popular perceptions and challenged scholarly misperceptions of Vermont's only elected president. Jim has created other one-man performances based mainly on New England characters. "Cranky Yankees" is a chance to see Calvin Coolidge, Daniel Webster, and John Quincy Adams joined by Ethan Allen, James Whitcomb Riley, Samuel Sewall, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Joseph P. Kennedy, to name but a few. While not exactly a "How to," this lecture/performance features Jim's cranky process of giving actuality to the past. Hosted by the Weathersfield Historical Society. Ascutney, Martin Hall, 5259 Route 5, 2:00 pm. Ginger Wimberg, (802) 263-5626. 

April 16 — Book Discussion: Nixon Agonistes: The Crisis of a Self-Made Man by Garry Willis. Part of the 20th Century Presidents: Post-WWII series. Which 20th-century U.S. Presidents most dramatically impacted the direction of the country—for good or ill—and its standing in the world? Arguably, every president has had a dramatic impact on the country, but some have loomed larger than others—and larger than life. This series examines four 20th-century presidents who left a stong imprint on America following World War Two. Led by John Margolis. Hosted by the Barton Public Library. Barton Public Library, 100 Church St, 6:30 pm. Toni Eubanks, (802) 525-6524.

April 16 — Book Discussion: Crescent by Diana Abu-Jaber. Part of the Gastronomy: Novels about Food and Culture series. One of the most tantalizing ways to learn about a culture is through its food. These mouth-watering novels highlight how what we eat is closely aligned with who we are. Led by Lesley Wright. Hosted by the Burnham Memorial Library. Colchester, Burnham Memorial Library, 898 Main St, 6:00 pm. Joshua Muse, 802-879-7576.

April 17 — Book Discussion: China Road: A Journey into the Future of a Rising Power by Rob Gifford. Part of the China's Transformation series. How has China's dynamic growth affected its people, its culture, its environment? What has been gained? And lost? Led by Helene Lang. Hosted by the Walden Community Library. West Danville, Walden Community Library, 135 Cahoon Farm Rd, 7:00 pm. Stuart Smith, (802) 563-2630.

April 18 — The Old Country Fiddler: Charles Ross Taggart, Vermont’s Traveling Entertainer. Having grown up in Topsham, Vermont, Charles Ross Taggart went on to a forty-year career performing in countless stage shows across the country, including the famous Red Path Chautauqua circuit. A fiddler, piano player, humorist, singer, and ventriloquist, he made at least 25 recordings with the Victor, Edison, and Columbia companies, and appeared in a talking movie picture four years before Al Jolson starred in The Jazz Singer. Fiddler Adam Boyce portrays Mr. Taggart near the end of his career, circa 1936, sharing recollections of his life and career interspersed with live fiddling and humorous sketches. Hosted by the Gilbert Hart Library. Wallingford, Gilbert Hart Library, Klock Room, 7:00 pm. Betty Emery, (802) 446-3366.

April 18 — Book Discussion: Seven Deadly Sins Sampler by Various Authors. Part of the Seven Deadly Sins Sampler series. Delve into selections from the Great Books’ Foundation’s new volume, The Seven Deadly Sins Sampler, and discover why, according to Dartmouth professor of ethics and human values Ronald M. Green, these short stories “remind us that most of our problems arise in the hidden recesses of the human heart.” Led by Rachael Cohen. Hosted by the Hartland Public Library. Hartland Public Library, 6:30 pm. Theresa Gregory, (802) 436-2473.

April 18 — Book Discussion: Park City by Ann Beattie. Part of the Masters of the Short Story series. Short stories, as a modern genre, emerged in the early 19th century, and mushroomed with the development of journals and magazines. This series reflects both the short story’s 19th century roots and its later development as a 20th century art form. Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the South Burlington Community Library. South Burlington Community Library, 540 Dorset St, 7:00 pm. Louise J. Murphy, (802) 652 -7076.

April 18 — Book Discussion: What Went Wrong? Western Impact and Middle Eastern Response by Bernard Lewis. This book examines the clash between Islam and the West in the Middle East. Led by Richard M Wizansky. Hosted by the Brooks Memorial Library. Brattleboro, Brooks Memorial Library, 224 Main St, 7:00 pm. Jerry J. Carbone, (802) 254-5290 x101.

April 18 — An Apprentice Boat Builder in Japan. When people think about Japan, they often think of manga and anime, busy urban centers, and an economy based on innovations in electronics. People may not know of a “second Japan,” with a rich history of traditional arts and crafts, many of which are fast disappearing as modernization has broken down the traditional apprentice system. Since 1996, writer and researcher Douglas Brooks has apprenticed with four boat builders in Japan, building five types of Japanese boats. In this slide talk he shares his experiences with these traditional crafts. Hosted by the South Hero Community Library. South Hero Community Library, 75 South St, 7:00 pm. Diana Cleborne, (802) 372-6209.

April 19 — Book Discussion: Eminent Victorians by Lytton Strachey. Part of the How They Lived series. Great biographies are as much social histories as they are stories about individual lives. These celebrated works illuminate historical eras and professional pursuits long gone by. Led by Victor R. Swenson, Judith Yarnall. Hosted by the Stowe Free Library. Stowe Free Library, 90 Pond Dr, 7:00 pm. Megan Carder, (802) 253-6145.

April 19 — George Houghton: Vermont's Civil War Photographer. A hidden gem in Vermont's history is the photographic work completed by Brattleboro photographer George Houghton. He took poignant views of Vermont soldiers in the field, camp, and at home. This program by Donald Wickman will explain some of Houghton's life and show a number of the images that brought the Civil War back to Vermont via photography. Hosted by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UVM. Burlington, University of Vermont, L403 Lafayette Hall, 5:30 pm. Cathi Cody-Hudson, (802) 656-2085.

April 24 — Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin: The Odd Couple. This slide lecture will focus on the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh, 1853-1890, and Paul Gauguin, 1848-1903, two giants of modern art. With hopes that his yellow house in Arles would become the center of the “School of the South,” Van Gogh persuaded Gauguin to join him in October of 1888 to create an artists’ commune. A clash of personalities doomed the relationship after only two months. Extensive use will be made of the correspondence between Van Gogh and his brother, Theo, and Gauguin’s “Intimate Journals.” Hosted by the Good Living Senior Center. St. Johnsbury House, Dining Room, 1207 Main St, 1:30 pm. Susan Shaw, (802) 748-8470.

April 25 — Book Discussion: Affliction by Russell Banks. Part of the New England Uncovered series. What lies hidden beneath the popular images of New England with its white spires and Yankee frugality? More than meets the eye! Led by Peter Burns. Hosted by the South Hero Community Library. South Hero Community Library, 75 South St, 7:00 pm. Diana Cleborne, (802) 372-6209.

April 25 — Book Discussion: Crossroads of Freedom: Antietam by James McPherson. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by John R. Turner. Hosted by the Kimball Public Library. Randolph, Kimball Public Library, 67 N Main St, 7:00 pm. Lynne Gately, (802) 728-5073.

April 25 — Book Discussion: My Old Man and the Sea by David and Daniel Hays. Part of the Ties that Bind: Take Two series. A rich selection of three novels and one memoir that explores family and deals with some of the most emotional aspects of blood relationships: the generational divide, communication, betrayal, reconciliation, forgiveness, and love. Led by Robert M Johnson. Hosted by the Pope Memorial Library. Danville, Pope Memorial Library, 7:00 pm. Deidre O. Palmer, (802) 684-2522.

April 26 — The Western Abenaki: History and Culture. Who were the native people of Vermont and how did they live? This lecture, by Jeanne Brink, examines the importance in Abenaki society of elders and children, the environment, and the continuance of lifeways and traditions. Hosted by the Springfield Town Library. Springfield Town Library, 43 Main St, 6:30 pm. Nancy Tusinski, (802) 885-3108.

April 27 — Book Discussion: Selected Works of Flannery O'Connor by Flannery O'Connor. Part of the Masters of the Short Story series. Short stories, as a modern genre, emerged in the early 19th century, and mushroomed with the development of journals and magazines. This series reflects both the short story’s 19th century roots and its later development as a 20th century art form. Led by Mary Hays. Hosted by the Springfield Town Library. Springfield Town Library, 43 Main St, 10:30 am. Nancy Tusinski, (802) 885-3108.

April 30 — Book Discussion: Canoe Lake by Roy McGregor. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by William Tortolano. Hosted by the Wake Robin Retirement Community. Shelburne, Wake Robin Retirement Community, 200 Wake Robin Dr, 7:30 pm. Natalie Albers, (802) 985-0659.

May

May 2 — One Nation under Contract. Middlebury College professor Allison Stanger provides a disturbing look at an important trend in politics: the privatization of American foreign policy and its consequences.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Brooks Memorial Library. Brattleboro, Brooks Memorial Library, 224 Main St, 7:00 pm. Jerry Carbone, (802) 254-5290 x101. 

May 2 — Beethoven’s Sketchbooks. In this performance lecture, pianist Michael Arnowitt considers Beethoven’s creative process by exploring Beethoven’s sketchbooks.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Brownell Library. Essex Junction, Brownell Library, 6 Lincoln St, 7:00 pm. Penelope Pillsbury, (802) 878-6957. 

May 2 — Welfare Brat. Dr. Mary Childers's childhood in the Bronx was marred by violence, alcoholism, and neglect. Referencing her own story, she discusses paths out of poverty and away from welfare dependence, as well as ethical issues associated with publishing memoirs.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Mark Skinner Library. Manchester, First Congregational Church, 7:00 pm. Cindy Waters, (802) 362-2607. 

May 2 — The Life and Times of Thelonious Monk. Artistic Director of the Vermont Jazz Center Eugene Uman considers the life and improvisational style of American jazz pianist and composer Thelonius Monk, widely considered one of the giants of American music.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Ilsley Public Library. Middlebury, Ilsley Public Library, 75 Main St, 7:00 pm. Chris Kirby, (802) 388-4095. 

May 2 — Why Stephen King Still Matters. UVM English Department Chair Tony Magistrale examines Stephen King within the tradition of the American Gothic, which included writers such as Poe, Hawthorne, and Twain, and considers King’s faith in individualism.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Montpelier, Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St, 7:00 pm. Rachel Senechal, (802) 223-3338. 

May 2 — The History of Magic. Magic is a metaphor for the mysteries of the human mind, upending our assumptions about how the world works. Circus Smirkus founder Rob Mermin traces the history of magic as performing art using colorful illustrations and amazing demonstrations.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Goodrich Memorial Library. Newport, Goodrich Memorial Library, 202 Main St, 7:00 pm. Carol Nicholson, (802) 334-7902. 

May 2 — Why Lincoln Matters: To Presidents, to History, and to Us. Lincoln’s memory has been used, boldly updated, and occasionally abused by those following in his footsteps. Preeminent Lincoln historian Harold Holzer considers how we see, appreciate, adopt, and interpret Lincoln—and why he still very much matters.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by Norwich Public Library and presented with the Dartmouth History Department. Hanover, Dartmouth College, Filene Auditorium, Moore Hall, 7:00 pm. Lucinda Walker, (802) 649-1184. 

May 2 — Horses Like Lightning: A Story of Passage through the Himalayas. Dartmouth anthropologist Sienna Craig recounts her years spent living in the remote Himalayan kingdom of Mustang, Nepal.A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the Rutland Free Library. Rutland Free Library, 10 Court St, 7:00 pm. Paula Baker, (802) 773-1860. 

May 2 — Speak to Me . . . A Program of Words and Chamber Music. A piano quartet from the acclaimed ensemble the Craftsbury Chamber Players performs music inspired by literature. A First Wednesdays lecture. Hosted by the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum. St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 1171 Main St, 7:00 pm. Lisa von Kann, (802) 748-8291 x301.

May 5 — Of Burqas and Bikinis: Afghani Women and the War on Terror. This slide presentation by Sanjukta Ghosh focuses on how media constructions of Afghani women were used to mobilize war against an already beleaguered nation. Using images from mainstream as well as alternative media such as the feminist press, it shows that the rhetoric of the media and their neat cultural icons was reminiscent of that used by Victorian feminists. In making this analogy, the presentation brings into focus how Muslim women's images have been used throughout history to further social and political ends. Hosted by the American Association of University Women, Bennington Branch. Manchester, The Inn at Willow Pond, Route 7A North, 11:30 am. Mary P. Feidner, (802) 442-5441.

May 9 — Book Discussion: A Brother's Blood by Michael White. Part of the New England Uncovered series. What lies hidden beneath the popular images of New England with its white spires and Yankee frugality? More than meets the eye! Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the South Hero Community Library. South Hero Community Library, 75 South St, 7:00 pm. Diana Cleborne, (802) 372-6209.

May 9 — The Irish "Wave" in the Green Mountains. Beginning in the late 1840s and lasting through the 1860s, thousands of Irish immigrants, escaping the potato famine in their homeland, settled in Vermont. They arrived in the Green Mountain State just as Vermont was undergoing a mini industrial revolution—a revolution based on railroad construction, the quarrying of slate and marble, and on textile production. Vince Feeney, author of the recently published history of the Irish in Vermont, Finnigans, Slaters and Stonepeggers, tells the little-known story of the impact of Irish immigrants on Vermont life in the middle of the nineteenth century. Hosted by the Cambridge Historical Society. Jeffersonville, Cambridge Historical Society, Warner Lodge Building,  7:00 pm. Georgeana Little, (802) 644-5675.

May 9 — Book Discussion: Fountain and Tomb by Naguib Mahfouz. This Nobel Prize-winning Egyptian writer's vivid novel looks at the life of a young boy growing up in Egypt in the 1920s.  Led by Richard M Wizansky. Hosted by the Brooks Memorial Library. Brattleboro, Brooks Memorial Library, 224 Main St, 7:00 pm. Jerry J. Carbone, (802) 254-5290 x101.

May 10 — Book Discussion: Mean Spirit by Linda Hogan. Part of the Earth Tones series. These authors strike a variety of provocative and poignant environmental notes—haunting, satirical, delicate, mysterious, hopeful, wise—as they look with fresh eyes at the age-old question of how to live in harmony with nature. Led by Cheryl Heneveld. Hosted by the Fairfax Community Library. Fairfax Community Library, 75 Hunt St, 6:30 pm. Chantal Marlinski, (802) 849-2420.

May 15 — Who is My Neighbor? Reflections on the Rescue of the Danish Jews. During World War II, after putting up brief but futile military resistance to Nazi Germany, Denmark was defeated and occupied by the Nazis. In October 1943, the Nazis attempted to round up the Danish Jews, just as they had rounded up Jews in every part of Europe they controlled, and send them to concentration camps for eventual extermination. Of all the occupied countries, only Denmark successfully protected virtually all of its Jewish citizens from what would have been certain death. In the end, approximately ninety eight percent of Denmark's Jews survived the war. How and why did this happen? What can we learn from this event? Historian Brian Kirmmse attempts to answer these questions. Hosted by the Jewish Community of Greater Stowe. Stowe, Jewish Community of Greater Stowe, 7:30 pm. Carole Lichtenstein, (802) 253-7408.

May 17 — The Group of Seven. Canada's regions create an artistic mosaic with their diversity: the Maritimes, Rockies, Plains, Old Quebec, First Nations, and more. Inspired by Thom Thomson, Canada's unique artists (known as The Group of Seven) felt that Canadians would recognize themselves if they saw the beauty of their landscape. This program presents their works with many slides, video clips and commentary by Dr. William Tortolano Hosted by the Montgomery Historical Society. Montgomery Historical Society, 7:30 pm. Scott Perry, 802-326-3135.

May 19 — Vermont and the Civil War. From Cedar Creek to Gettysburg, Vermonters were central to the Union cause. Vermont author and Civil War historian Howard Coffin addresses the Vermont contribution to the Civil War. Hosted by the Green Mountain Folklore Society. Richmond Congregational Church, 1:00 pm. Ina Isham, (802) 879-1925.

May 21 — Book Discussion: President Reagan: The Role of a Lifetime by Lou Cannon. Part of the 20th Century Presidents: Post-WWII series. Which 20th-century U.S. Presidents most dramatically impacted the direction of the country—for good or ill—and its standing in the world? Arguably, every president has had a dramatic impact on the country, but some have loomed larger than others—and larger than life. This series examines four 20th-century presidents who left a stong imprint on America following World War Two. Led by Jon Margolis. Hosted by the Barton Public Library. Barton Public Library, 100 Church St, 6:30 pm. Toni Eubanks, (802) 525-6524.

May 21 — Book Discussion: Island by Alistair MacLeod. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by William Tortolano. Hosted by the Wake Robin Retirement Community. Shelburne, Wake Robin Retirement Community, 200 Wake Robin Dr, 7:30 pm. Natalie Albers, (802) 985-0659.

May 23 — Book Discussion: I’m a Stranger Here Myself: Notes on Returning to America After Twenty Years Away by Bill Bryson. Part of the New England Uncovered series. What lies hidden beneath the popular images of New England with its white spires and Yankee frugality? More than meets the eye! Led by Merilyn Burrington. Hosted by the South Hero Community Library.  South Hero Community Library, 75 South St, 7:00 pm. Diana Cleborne, (802) 372-6209.

May 23 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology by edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by John R. Turner. Hosted by the Kimball Public Library. Randolph, Kimball Public Library, 67 N Main St, 7:00 pm. Lynne Gately, (802) 728-5073.

May 28 — Book Discussion: Paper Fish by Tina de Rosa. Part of the Gastronomy: Novels about Food and Culture series. One of the most tantalizing ways to learn about a culture is through its food. These mouth-watering novels highlight how what we eat is closely aligned with who we are. Led by Lesley Wright. Hosted by the Burnham Memorial Library. Colchester, Burnham Memorial Library, 898 Main St, 6:00 pm. Joshua Muse, 802-879-7576.

May 29 — The Vermont Civil War Songbook. Dressed in period costume, singer/researcher Linda Radtke shares songs from Vermont during the Civil War period, with engaging commentary and letters from Vermont soldiers. Seldom-heard songs from the Vermont Historical Society include the comic but poignant "Grafted into the Army," "Yankee Robinson at Bull Run," "Neath the Pines of Vermont" (in which a soldier returns home to die), a satirical song about Jefferson Davis, and sentimental ballads from Vermont during the period. Linda Radtke is joined by pianist Arthur Zorn in this program for all audiences that brings the Civil War period in Vermont to life through music and letters. Hosted by the Quechee Library. Quechee Library, 7:00 pm. Kate Schaal, (802) 295-1232.

June

June 14 — Book Discussion: The Great Work: Our Way into the Future by Thomas Berry. Part of the Earth Tones series. These authors strike a variety of provocative and poignant environmental notes—haunting, satirical, delicate, mysterious, hopeful, wise—as they look with fresh eyes at the age-old question of how to live in harmony with nature. Led by Peter Burns. Hosted by the Fairfax Community Library. Fairfax Community Library, 75 Hunt St, 6:30 pm. Chantal Marlinski, (802) 849-2420.

June 18 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Suzanne H Brown. Hosted by the Quechee Library. Quechee Library, 4:30 pm. Kate Schaal, (802) 295-1232.

June 21 — Book Discussion: Klee Wyck by Emily Carr. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by Arthur W Biddle. Hosted by North Hero Public Library. North Hero Public Library, 7:30 pm. Judy Poquette, (802) 372-5458.

June 27 — Book Discussion: Guns, Germs and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond. Part of the Single Book series. Jared Diamond examines the technological, biological, and geographical origins of the rise of Western civilization in this Pulitzer Prize winning book. Led by Rachael Cohen. Hosted by the Hartland Public Library. Hartland Public Library, 6:30 pm. Theresa Gregory, (802) 436-2473.

July

July 4 — Vermont and the Civil War. From Cedar Creek to Gettysburg, Vermonters were central to the Union cause. Vermont author and Civil War historian Howard Coffin addresses the Vermont contribution to the Civil War. Hosted by the Bakersfield Historical Society. Bakersfield Historical Society and Museum, 3:00 pm. Nancy Hunt, (802) 827-4418.

July 11 — A Sense of Place: Vermont's Farm Legacy. The character of a place is shaped by its cultural heritage and folklife, the informal traditions of family and community that guide the ways in which a person plans a meal, treats a neighbor, or understands civic responsibility. In Vermont the cultural legacy of farming has strongly influenced the identity of Vermonters, and it is these distinctive traditions, which have persisted even with the decline in farm numbers, that help make the state unique. This lecture by Gregory Sharrow explores the fabric of farm culture in the past and probes its relationship to the world of Vermont today. Hosted by the New Haven Historical Society. New Haven Congregational Church, Town Hill Road, 7:00 pm. Patricia Sheffert, (802) 453-2999.

July 12 — Book Discussion: Pelagie-La-Charrette by Antonine Maillet. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically-acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by Arthur W Biddle. Hosted by North Hero Public Library. North Hero Public Library, 7:30 pm. Judy Poquette, (802) 372-5458.

July 16 — The Irish "Wave" in the Green Mountains . Beginning in the late 1840s and lasting through the 1860s, thousands of Irish immigrants, escaping the potato famine in their homeland, settled in Vermont. They arrived in the Green Mountain State just as Vermont was undergoing a mini industrial revolution—a revolution based on railroad construction, the quarrying of slate and marble, and on textile production. Vince Feeney, author of the recently published history of the Irish in Vermont, Finnigans, Slaters and Stonepeggers, tells the little-known story of the impact of Irish immigrants on Vermont life in the middle of the nineteenth century. Hosted by the Woodstock Historical Society. Woodstock History Center, 26 Elm St, 7:00 pm. Jennie Shurtleff, (802) 457-1822.

July 16 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Suzanne H Brown. Hosted by the Quechee Library. Quechee Library, 4:30 pm. Kate Schaal, (802) 295-1232.

July 19 — More than Books: Reflections on Libraries, Community and Historic Preservation. Museum scholar, preservationist and photographer Bill Hosley examines almost 200 years of American library history with a special focus on New England and its many municipal and research libraries. This armchair tour and examination of library history reminds us of the richness of New England’s (and Vermont’s) heritage and the states’ commitment to life-learning and broad social access to ideas. Hosted by the Bixby Memorial Free Library. Vergennes, Bixby Memorial Free LIbrary, 258 Main St, 7:00 pm. Karlene DeVine, (802) 877-6392.

August

August 2 — Book Discussion: Canoe Lake by Roy McGregor. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically-acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by Arthur W Biddle. Hosted by North Hero Public Library. North Hero Public Library, 7:30 pm. Judy Poquette, (802) 372-5458.

August 20 — Book Discussion: America's War: Talking About the Civil War and Emancipation on Their 150th Anniversaries anthology edited by Edward L. Ayers. Part of the Making Sense of the American Civil War series. Developed by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, this Civil War sesquicentennial commemorative series uses works of historical fiction and interpretation, speeches, diaries, memoirs, biographies, and short stories to examine a broad range of perspectives in an exploration of the American Civil War. Led by Suzanne H Brown. Hosted by the Quechee Library. Quechee Library, 4:30 pm. Kate Schaal, (802) 295-1232.

August 23 — Book Discussion: Island by Alistair MacLeod. Part of the Canadian Cultural Diversity series. Travel through Canada with four critically-acclaimed books that make manifest Canada's cultural diversity. Led by Arthur W Biddle. Hosted by North Hero Public Library. North Hero Public Library, 7:30 pm. Judy Poquette, (802) 372-5458.

October

October 2 — The Changing Music Scene of the 1940s. Catamount Arts’ Martin Bryan takes a look at the popular music scene of the 1940s — how it was affected by war, the musicians’ union, and the war’s aftermath — and how music styles evolved from the beginning of the decade to its end. Martin’s talk includes selections from original 78 rpm recordings, ranging from Big Band swing to wartime music, from popular Broadway musicals to bebop, and more. Americans marched off to war and returned to a changed society; Martin documents that time through its music. Hosted by the Rutland County Retired Teachers. Rutland, American Legion Post 31, 33 Washington St, 1:00 pm. Martha St. Onge, (802) 775-1642.

October 6 — The Vermont Civil War Songbook. Dressed in period costume, singer/researcher Linda Radtke shares songs from Vermont during the Civil War period, with engaging commentary and letters from Vermont soldiers. Seldom-heard songs from the Vermont Historical Society include the comic but poignant "Grafted into the Army," "Yankee Robinson at Bull Run," "Neath the Pines of Vermont" (in which a soldier returns home to die), a satirical song about Jefferson Davis, and sentimental ballads from Vermont during the period. Linda Radtke is joined by pianist Arthur Zorn in this program for all audiences that brings the Civil War period in Vermont to life through music and letters. Hosted by the Varnum Memorial Library. Jeffersonville, Cambridge United Church, 1:00 pm. Georgeana Little, (802) 644-5675.

November

November 11 — The Old Country Fiddler: Charles Ross Taggert: Vermont's Travelling Entertainer. Jim Cooke is known for "Calvin Coolidge: More Than Two Words"— a one-man show that has changed popular perceptions and challenged scholarly misperceptions of Vermont's only elected president. Jim has created other one-man performances based mainly on New England characters. "Cranky Yankees" is a chance to see Calvin Coolidge, Daniel Webster, and John Quincy Adams joined by Ethan Allen, James Whitcomb Riley, Samuel Sewall, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Joseph P. Kennedy, to name but a few. While not exactly a "How to," this lecture/performance features Jim's cranky process of giving actuality to the past. Hosted by the Weathersfield Historical Society. Ascutney, Martin Hall, 5259 Route 5, 2:00 pm. Ginger Wimberg, (802) 263-5626.

November 18 — Shipwrecks of Lake Champlain. Learn about Lake Champlain's most harrowing shipwreck stories from the Revolutionary War to the present day with Lake Champlain Maritime Museum archaeologist Adam Kane. With over 300 wrecks in its dark, cold waters, Lake Champlain has witnessed feats of heroism and terrible tragedies. Take a memorable tour through slides, drawings, and video of what lies beneath the waves. Hosted by the Woodstock Historical Society. Woodstock History Center, 26 Elm St, 2:00 pm. Jennie Shurtleff, (802) 457-1822.