Howdy folks,

tomorrow (Thursday, 02.25.10) marks the start of a new tradition…the Farm to Fork Film Series debuts at 7 pm at the Montpelier Mini-Skinny, 89 Main St.

Here’s the scoop: there are a slew of great localvore films out there…but nobody is actively airing them and its not likely that you’re going to go out and buy them. SO…we thought we’d help spread the good word and generate conversation in the process. Thus, we will be showing one or more “Localvoriented” films on the final Thursday of each month starting tomorrow!!!

Locavore, Local Diet, Healthy Planet new documentary about the inevitable return to the local diet. Less than a generation ago human beings worldwide traveled less than 10 miles to obtain the majority of the food they ate. Today the average conventionally grown vegetable has traveled more than 1500 miles by the time it has reached your pantry. Our food today is over processed, stale, and lacks nutrition. This new film, featuring some of the neo-pioneers of the Locavore movement will educate, inspire, and revitalize bringing health to our bodies AND our communities.

February Thaw (Burlington): BBQ Misty Knoll Chicken, our new and improved Rookies Root beer BBQ Sauce, Cabot Cheddar, on a Butterworks Cornmeal Crepe. $9.00.

This week in music at the Skinny Pancake:

Thursday, 02.25.10
Mohanty-Krag Duo (Jazz)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/katemohantysax
www.myspace.com/peterkrag
http://www.myspace.com/themohantykragduo

Saturday, 02.27.10
Shane Hardiman Trio (Jazzin’ up Mardi-Gras)
***$5 suggested donation

Shane…friend of Burlington. Please accept my apologies for burying your plug beneath the art above. Well…at least it was for a good cause.

For the uninformed: Shane Hardiman is a staple in the Burlington jazz scene. He’s an eminently talented pianist and a very understated guy. Take, for example, the fact that he does not have a myspace page and this is the only photo I could find of him on the internet. Thanks for keeping it real, Shane.

Thursday, 03.04.10
Phineas Gage (acoustic/bluegrass)
***$5 suggested donation
www.reverbnation.com/phineasgage

Friday, 03.05.10
Jim Seem & Melissa Hyman (R&B/Soul/Acoustic/Bedroom Pop)
***$5 suggested donation
www.reverbnation.com/jimseemandmelissahyman

Saturday, 03.06.10
Holy Ghost Tent Revival (Dirty Jazz/Thrash-Grass/Roots)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/hgtr

Signs of Spring in February? Seems that way ’round here as “Sueno“, the Skinny Pancake bio-diesel bus, emerges from winter hibernation!

Sueno & the Skinny Pancake crew are rolling out on the streets of Burlington for the 15th annual Magic Hat Mardi Gras Parade. Pancaker Kelly Coons is busy clearing, detailing, and funking-out Sueno in full Fat Tuesday style for Saturday’s Mardi Gras celebration. Raucous revelers can look forward to catching moonpies & the scent of french fries when Sueno & the Skinny Crew pass through.

Sueno at '09 MRG SIPtember Fest

A former school bus salvaged & converted into a bio diesel vehicle by Benjy Adler, Sueno is a steadfast partner in Skinny Pancake capers— serving mainly as chief mobile crepe unit, festival tour bus, & dutiful winter storage.  When not parked in Burlington’s Old North End, Sueno can be found at regional music fests, beer tastings, and foodie events.

The Art of Sueno

You can’t miss this beast of a bus with the brightly spray painted exterior–which even captured the attention of artist Don Sholl, who paid homage to Sueno’s metal beauty in this digitally produced piece o’ art. Nice!

Not only is Sueno eye-catching AND utilitarian, but also a really fun ride–just our kind of thing. With spring nearing, we’ve got many crepe makin’ adventures ahead. We’ll keep you posted—and be sure to keep an eye out for Sueno at great local events near you!!

Howdy folks,

well, the Skinny didn’t write itself last week. There were fits & starts, technical obstacles, unanticipated tasks and ultimately other priorities. The good news is that this publication is free.

Having said that, let’s get right into it:

Main Street Landing Presents…

Green Drinks is TODAY, Tuesday, February 23rd from 6 pm to 8 pm in the Lake Lobby of Main Street Landing.

Please spread the word: bring your friends, relatives, neighbors, colleagues, connections, teammates, partners…the more the merrier!!! The Lake Lobby has a capacity of 220 people…that’s alot of connections to be made!!! Speaking of connections, you can join the Burlington Green Drinks facebook page here.

As always, there are 100 pints of Wolaver’s Organic Ale generously provided by the sponsors & awaiting your thirsty conversations. Of course, there is also free food.

This month’s sponsor: NOFA-VT (www.nofavt.org/): While they hardly requires a formal introduction, below is a bit of boilerplate about our buddies at NOFA-VT. We strongly encourage you to come out and meet them in person as their passion for VT agriculture is infectious and comes across even better in person than in print…

“NOFA Vermont was founded in Putney in 1971, making it one of the oldest organic farming associations in the United States. Today, we are proud to have over 1200 members throughout the state and to certify over 525 farms and processors to the USDA National Organic Program Standards. We are passionate about increasing the acreage of certified organic land in Vermont while also increasing the access of local organic food to all Vermonters. All our programs strives to meet these goals, whether it involves working with schools to bring local foods into the cafeteria or providing business planning services to farmers to ensure their businesses stay viable. Whether you are a Vermonter who gardens, farms, eats local food, or enjoys our rural communities, NOFA Vermont welcomes you.”

Appreciation is very due for our sustaining sponsors:

Green Drinks Burlington loves Seven Days (www.7dvt.com) for their sustaining support & help in getting the word out!!!

Wolaver’s Organic Ales (www.ottercreekbrewing.com/wolavers.html): One of the nation’s original certified organic breweries, Wolaver’s is committed to producing the best beer in the most ecologically sound way. Our craft ales are brewed using the finest organic malts, hops, our special house yeast and pure Vermont water.

The Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce (www.vermont.org/): if it were not for the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce, this monthly meet-up would be lucky to have half the turnout it has each month. Thanks to all the hard-workin’ folks over at LCRCOC!!!

February Thaw (Burlington): BBQ Misty Knoll Chicken, our new and improved Rookies Root beer BBQ Sauce, Cabot Cheddar, on a Butterworks Cornmeal Crepe. $9.00.

Locavore, Local Diet, Healthy Planet new documentary about the inevitable return to the local diet. Less than a generation ago human beings worldwide traveled less than 10 miles to obtain the majority of the food they ate. Today the average conventionally grown vegetable has traveled more than 1500 miles by the time it has reached your pantry. Our food today is over processed, stale, and lacks nutrition. This new film, featuring some of the neo-pioneers of the Locavore movement will educate, inspire, and revitalize bringing health to our bodies AND our communities.

This week in music at the Skinny Pancake:

Thursday, 02.25.10
Mohanty-Krag Duo (Jazz)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/katemohantysax
www.myspace.com/peterkrag
http://www.myspace.com/themohantykragduo

Saturday, 02.27.10
Shane Hardiman Trio (Jazzin’ up Mardi-Gras)
***$5 suggested donation

Shane…friend of Burlington. Please accept my apologies for burying your plug beneath the art above. Well…at least it was for a good cause.

For the uninformed: Shane Hardiman is a staple in the Burlington jazz scene. He’s an eminently talented pianist and a very understated guy. Take, for example, the fact that he does not have a myspace page and this is the only photo I could find of him on the internet. Thanks for keeping it real, Shane.

Thursday, 03.04.10
Phineas Gage (acoustic/bluegrass)
***$5 suggested donation
www.reverbnation.com/phineasgage

Friday, 03.05.10
Jim Seem & Melissa Hyman (R&B/Soul/Acoustic/Bedroom Pop)
***$5 suggested donation
www.reverbnation.com/jimseemandmelissahyman

Saturday, 03.06.10
Holy Ghost Tent Revival (Dirty Jazz/Thrash-Grass/Roots)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/hgtr

For the first event, we will be showing the following film:

Locavore, Local Diet, Healthy Planet new documentary about the inevitable return to the local diet. Less than a generation ago human beings worldwide traveled less than 10 miles to obtain the majority of the food they ate. Today the average conventionally grown vegetable has traveled more than 1500 miles by the time it has reached your pantry. Our food today is over processed, stale, and lacks nutrition. This new film, featuring some of the neo-pioneers of the Locavore movement will educate, inspire, and revitalize bringing health to our bodies AND our communities.

Howdy folks,

once again, the astute observer might point out that there was no edition of “The Skinny” last week. My humble apologies, the rug got out from under us. But fear not…

First, a word about our “Haitian Crepe” series: 

Two weeks ago in The Skinny, we explained that “in the spirit of ‘Eating locally, thinking globally’ and ‘Consumer Power’, the Skinny Pancake has a plan to raise funds for Haiti by developing a series of ‘Haitian Crepes’ based on traditional Haitian recipes, using local Vermont ingredients wherever possible. 10% of proceeds from this series all month at both locations will be donated to Partners In Health (standwithhaiti.org/haiti).

And yet despite this tantalizing first announcement, you–our loyal readers–were dished up a week of radio silence from this publication…and during that time, a Haitian Crepe has come and gone.Thank goodness, we have the next installment in our “Haitian Crepe” series starting TODAY:

Griots and Pikliz: Citrus marinated Winding Brook Farm Pork and Rice in a Savory Crepe Served with Pickled Local root Veggies from Pete’s Greens. $10.00

Come check it out any day this week and help us raise some money in the process. As mentioned, we will donate 10% of the sale of each of these crepes to Partners In Health.

Montpelier Green Drinks:

Well, I’ve now realized that between Burlington & Montpelier we will be writing about Green Drinks every other week. To make matters a bit more confusing…last month’s sponsor for Burlington Green Drinks–the Vermont Natural Resources Council–was so thrilled, they’ve signed up to sponsor Green Drinks in Montpelier this month!!!

Ok…before get too turned around, here are the basics on dates, times & “the deal”: come to Montpelier Green Drinks at the “mini-Skinny” at 89 Main St this Tuesday, February 9th from 6 pm to 8 pm and enjoy one of 50 drinks generously purchased by the sponsors at no cost to you!!!

Can’t make Green Drinks? Bummer! If you visit on any of the following three Tuesdays between 6-8 pm, we’ll donate 5% of proceeds from that time period to VNRC!

About the VNRC: For over forty years, VNRC has been Vermont’s leader in protecting and restoring our natural resources. By building coalitions, working together, and offering common sense solutions, VNRChas set the standard for an approach to environmental protection that endures.  VNRC is the Vermont affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation.

From the State House to your Town Hall, VNRC keeps Vermonters informed on the environmental issues that you and your family care most about. We keep a constant presence in the Vermont State House to promote a vision of a Vermont that is healthy and sustainable. We empower our members to take action when the voice of concerned citizens is needed to make a difference. Some of the important issuesVNRC focuses on include: clean water, healthy forests, clean air, sustainable communities & energy.

VNRC is part of the Vermont Environmental Collaborative (VEC). Have you heard of VEC? It consists of 14 statewide environmental and conservation organizations.  These groups come together to determine which environmental and conservation issues are the most critical to address in the upcoming legislative session. Every month in 2010, Montpelier Green Drinks will feature a different member-group of VEC. Last month, the Vermont League of Conservation Voters was the sponsor. This month, VNRC…

Thursday, 02.04.10
Jamie Kent (jazz/pop/rock)
Seth Gallant (folk/indi/minimalist)
***$5 suggested donation
www.jamiekent.com
www.myspace.com/sethgallant

Opening this night is local tunesmith Seth Gallantwww.myspace.com/sethgallant, who recently joined Maryse Smith for a night at the Cake in January. This Indie-folk musician has garnered praise as a 2009 musical highlight by Seven Days Music Editor Dan Bolles. Seth released a solo EP Songs for a Snowstorm in 2009 to much local acclaim. As lead for the Burlington rock band, In Memory of Pluto, Seth proves his musical stylings are not easily pigeonholed.

Friday, 02.05.10
Jeremy Harple (Rebel Folk)
Kelly Ravin (American/Folk)
www.myspace.com/kellyravin
www.jeremyharple.com

Jermey Harple www.jeremyharple.com can craft an original song as well as put unique spin on covers. Jeremy writes his own music, which he later referred to as ‘Rebel Folk’:

“‘Rebel Folk’ is a name I came up with after being asked time and time again what kind of music I played. My musical styles range from bluegrass, to rock, reggae…to folk, and everything in between. ‘Rebel Folk’ seemed a fitting description. Generally my music includes social commentary, songs about love, the journey through life, and rebelling against what you believe is wrong in the world.”

Friday night come listen to Jeremy in a rare Burlington performance.www.jeremyharple.com

Kelly Ravin www.myspace.com/kellyravin kicks off the night. Smart lyrics, rootsey. Known in the New England music scene as a consummate Americana acoustic music performer, Kelly’s music spans the range of acoustic music, from straight-ahead bluegrass to rock influenced new acoustic music, to songwriter-oriented folk. He is an innovative guitar picker which he backs with solid vocals.

Saturday, 02.06.10
The Michele Fay Band (bluegrass)
***$5 suggested donation
www.michelefayband.com

Sweet Saturday night of bluegrass with theMichele Fay Band www.michelefayband.com. The Michele Fay Band is a mix of traditional, swing and bluegrass influenced music with rich female harmonies. Many of the songs are Michele’s originals, inspired by life in Vermont – past and present.

From their website, “Together, the four members put forth captivating sounds from upbeat fiddle tunes to thought provoking ballads. Michele sings with acoustic guitar and banjo, her husband Tim Price embellishes on mandolin, acoustic guitar and electric guitar, Lausanne Allen adds fiddle, whistle, and vocal harmonies, and Mike Santosusso drives the beat on upright bass.”

Seven Days Magazine says of Michele’s 2007 cd release: “… a solid debut from a talented writer with highly capable musical gifts.”

According to Benjy, “Last time the Michele Fay band played, I had people coming up to me for two weeks telling me about the show. We booked ‘em again, but like most hot acts, they don’t overplay. So we’ve had to wait many months. Catch ‘em this time ’round at the ‘Cake or risk waiting many more months…”

Thursday, 02.11.10
Antara (folk/rock/indi songstress)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/antaralittleweirdgirl
www.littleweirdgirl.com

Friday, 02.12.10
Zach duPont (singer/songwriter)
***$5 suggested donation
http://www.myspace.com/zackdupont

Saturday, 02.13.10
Grass Gypsys (Americana/Roots/World)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/thegrassgypsys

Howdy Folks,

last week I plugged a talk by Minnesota Local Foods advocate Ken Meter….it turned out to be a great one. For those of you who missed it, here are two chances at redemption:

1. Check out Ken Meter’s website at www.crcworks.org/rural.html. Not a lot of flash, but solid substance.

2. A special presentation at City Market: join local author Ron Krupp for a visual tour of his new book,Lifting the Yoke: Local Solutions to America’s Farm and Food Crisis, followed by a facilitated discussion. Please sign up at the Customer Service desk at City Market. All classes are free and open to the public.
Thursday, January 14, 2010 -7:00pm - 9:00pm

“It is time to revitalize America’s local food networks. Ron Krupp navigates the issues and provides exemplary stories of people doing just that. The grim tale of our global food system may leave you feeling powerless, but you are sure to find inspiration in this book, thick with examples of grassroots efforts focused on putting people, integrity, and real food back into America’s food consciousness.”
-Meghan Sheridan, Vermont Fresh Network

Thursday, 01.13.10
Nicole Carey (indi/folk)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/nicoleerincarey

Nicole Erin Carey www.myspace.com/nicoleerincarey is at it again…bringing her blend of indie folk back to the Cake! A sweet spirited singer songwriter, Nicole is no stranger to the Vermont music scene. From time to time, she has filled our stage with extra special guests. Come see what she has in store on Thursday

Friday, 01.14.10
Sarah Wallis (Pop/acoustic/indi)
www.myspace.com/sarahwallis
Greta Frost (Soul/Blues/Electronica)
www.myspace.com/gretafrost
***$5 suggested donation

Sarah Wallis www.myspace.com/sarahwallis has made a career of touring around the US playing her music. From her website, “Singer/songwriter and sound engineer, her heart lies in Pittsford, Vermont. Sarah started making a name for herself from her early introduction to music at the age of 4.  She exudes a sense of intimacy and a voice that encompasses softness and power. some describe her sound as ‘Pure Love’.  She felt a restlessness and went with it.  She has since been traveling the US playing shows in coffeehouses, restaurants, and bars creating a ripple effect, while capturing America’s heart, one little town at a time!”

Fresh off tour with Melvin Seals & JGB, Greta Frostwww.myspace.com/gretafrost of the Desolation Angels, returns to Burlington for a solo performance. Known for her urban soul sound, Greta blends vocals and guitar with creative technology.  We could dub her the “Techno-Troubadour.”

Saturday, 01.15.10
Maryse Smith & Seth Gallant (Indie/Folk/Americana)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/marysesmith
www.myspace.com/sethgallant

Maryse Smith’s new album got rave reviews this week from Dan Bolles of Seven Days: www.7dvt.com/2010maryse-smith-becomes-was.Don’t feel like “clicking through?” Ok, here are some excerpts:

“Smith’s voice flits and dances in sprightly, carefree fashion.”

“Smith’s vocal charm is outstripped only by her clever wordplay, particularly on sly tracks such as “The Fear” and “Fast One.” An uncommonly gifted songwriter, she wields both assets with such seamless fluidity, they appear inextricable from one another.”

Ok? Now come out and listen to her play!!!
Maryse with be sharing the stage with Seth Gallant, who was alsorecently mentioned as a 2009 musical highlight by Seven Days Music Editor Dan Bolles. The indie-folk artist released a solo EP Songs for a Snowstorm in 2009 to much local acclaim. As lead for the Burlington rock band, In Memory of Pluto, Seth proves his musical stylings are not easily pigeon-holed.

Thursday, 01.21.10
Local Folks Series

Friday, 01.22.10
Pat McDermott & Kyle Toomey
www.myspace.com/thedaysweight

Saturday, 01.23.10
Jim Osborne

Howdy friends,

many of the changes we’ve alluded to will become apparent in the next few months. One of the focal points for this planning has been to increase our “localvorientation” to a flat-out remarkable degree. While we have picked much of the low-hanging fruit already, there is still plenty to glean.

This effort spans a wide range of initiatives including our second annual food forecast, which we will share with our farmer-friends to guarantee our demand for the food they grow.

We have also resolved to host more “localvoriented events.” Last week we unveiled “Green Drinks” in Montpelier. Starting in late February, we will be hosting a Farm to Fork Film Series. In the most immediate future:

We cordially invite you to an evening with Vermont wine producer Lincoln Peak Vineyards & Vermont cheese producer The Cellars at Jasper Hill.

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS:

Zoe Brickley, Monger at Large, Cellar at Jasper Hill.
Vintner Chris Granstrom from Lincoln Peak.

Chris & Zoe will present the selections & discuss the art of crafting wine & cheese in Vermont as we sample pairings of these local cheeses and wines.

Did you know:

• Lincoln Peak Wine recently won FIVE awards at an international wine competition, including “Best in Show” Red Wine?!
• The Cellars at Jasper Hill is a collaborative space of 22,000 sq ft, storing artisan cheese from multiple producers throughout the state.
• JASPER HILL WILL BE DEBUTING A NEW CHEESE THEY MADE ON CHRISTMAS DAY, 2009. Come be amongst the first to try it!!!
  

Come learn much much more!!! This event will be held on Monday January 25, 2010 from 6:00p.m. to 8:00 pm at The Skinny Pancake, 89 Main Street Montpelier. $30.00 Per Person, does not include tax. To Reserve: call us at 802.262.CAKE or emailjeremy@skinnypancake.com.

PS: here’s the facebook invite: www.facebook.com/profile.php

Specials this week at the Skinny Pancake:

In the spirit of “Eating locally, thinking globally” and “Consumer Power”, the Skinny Pancake has a plan to raise money for Haiti:

We considered a one-day benefit, but struggled with the thought of a one-off effort paired with this long-term Haitian crisis. Thus, we are currently working on developing a series of “Haitian Crepes” based on traditional Haitian recipes, using local Vermont ingredients wherever possible. We plan to run these specials for at least a month and donate 10% of every sale of the “Haitian Crepe” to relief efforts.

In full disclosure, we have not determined the relief organization with the most bang-for-the-buck…if you have a suggestion, we’re all ears. Please note that this idea just “hatched” yesterday, so the crepe won’t be available until the weekend or possibly early next week….we’ll mention it again, promise

In the meantime, the following are the light-hearted specials we’ve concocted for the week:

Fudd’s Fantasy (Burlington): New Zealand White Rabbit from Fresh Tracks Farm, Pete’s Kohlrabi, Vt Butter and Cheese Chevre, Champlain Orchards Macintosh Apples wrapped in a Savory Crepe. $10.00

La Vida Local (Montpelier): Misty Knoll Turkey Chili, Cabot Cheddar, and Screaming Ridge Spinach wrapped in a Gleason’s Whole Wheat Crepe. $9.00

Main Street Landing Presents…
Burlington Green Drinks 2010:

Burlington Green Drinks is next Tuesday, January 26th from 6 pm to 8 pm in the Lake Lobby here at Main Street Landing. This month’s sponsor will beThe Vermont Natural Resources Council(www.vnrc.org/).

As always, there will be 100 pints of cold Wolaver’s Organic Ales at no cost to you!!! Of course, there will also be a nice spread of free food available too. Add to that the friendly folks that come out each month…and we’ll see you there.

About the VNRC: For over forty years, VNRC has been Vermont’s leader in protecting and restoring our natural resources. By building coalitions, working together, and offering common sense solutions, VNRC has set the standard for an approach to environmental protection that endures.  VNRC is the Vermont affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation.

From the State House to your Town Hall, VNRC keeps Vermonters informed on the environmental issues that you and your family care most about. We keep a constant presence in the Vermont State House to promote a vision of a Vermont that is healthy and sustainable. We empower our members to take action when the voice of concerned citizens is needed to make a difference. Some of the important issues VNRC focuses on include: clean water, healthy forests, clean air, sustainable communities & energy.

Appreciation is due for our sustaining sponsors:

Green Drinks Burlington loves Seven Days (www.7dvt.com) for their sustaining support & help in getting the word out!!!

Wolaver’s Organic Ales (www.ottercreekbrewing.com/wolavers.html):One of the nation’s original certified organic breweries, Wolaver’s is committed to producing the best beer in the most ecologically sound way. Our craft ales are brewed using the finest organic malts, hops, our special house yeast and pure Vermont water.

The Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce (www.vermont.org/): if it were not for the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce, this monthly meet-up would be lucky to have half the turnout it has each month. Thanks to all the hard-workin’ folks over at LCRCOC!!!

Music this week at the SP:

Thursday, 01.21.10
Local Folks Series
www.kevgreenblottmusic.com/
www.myspace.com/jonahsalzman
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Charlie-Messing-Duo/114148339847

Introducing the Local Folks Series, a winter music session in three parts on third Thursdays: January 21, February 18, & March 18.

Thankfully, there is a large pool of local music out there…which is nice, since we’ve kinda got a penchant for doing things local. In homage to those who persistently pursue their passion for performing music, we introduce the first session of the Local Folks Series: three acoustic acts from the 802 will rotate within the night, performing their favorite tunes. Genres range from Americana and Classic Folk to Blues and Old time.

The featured line-up (in order of appearance) on Thursday Jan 21st: Kev Greenblott (duo) www.kevgreenblottmusic.com/, Jonah Salzmanwww.myspace.com/jonahsalzman, Charlie Messing (duo)http://www.facebook.com/pages/Charlie-Messing-Duo/114148339847.

Friday, 01.22.10
Pat McDermott & Kyle Toomey
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/thedaysweight

Returning to the ‘Cake on Friday are Patrick McDermott  and Kyle Toomey. These guys last performed at the ‘Cake with their Alt/Rock band The Day’s Weight. Friday night they return to their roots in a duo acoustic performance.

The mysterious McDermott…strong voice, unique self styled sound, take a listen: www.myspace.com/patrickjmcdermott or watch:http://pjmcdermott.tumblr.com/. Legend has it that Pat is the son of Chuck Mcdermott, who backed–among others–John Stewart. Chuck’s first studio record with John was the 1982 “blondes.” That said, we’re here to talk about Pat, not Chuck…and word on the street is that Pat is a talented musician. Indeed, his recordings sound promising.

Their website relays these two long-time friends have been playing music together since middle school and began writing and recording original music during the summer of 2006.Their music “mixes the various influences of it’s founding fathers including Country, Folk, Americana and good old Rock & Roll. Their live performances showcase an array of musical techniques including Patrick and Kyle’s vocal harmonies, acoustic and electric guitar sounds, as well as Patrick’s often inventive and searing guitar solos.”

Saturday, 01.23.10
Jim Osborne
***$5 suggested donation
www.moosebearbuffalo.com/

We warmly welcome back to the Cake stage Jim Osborn an independent songwriter who captivates the room with his very fine folk. Jim’s original songs showcase his bright voice accompanied by bold, edgy guitar playing.

From his site, www.moosebearbuffalo.com/,  “Jim learned to perform, sing, and write while playing with rock trio The Nuclear Suite for several years, opening for such acts as Badfish and Joshua James”…his first album has “notable country and folk influences with a fresh balance between candid humor and cathartic poetry…Responding to the success met by his solo outings, Jim recorded The Northerners in the twilight of winter 2009. Continuing to grow in both skill and stature, Jim has expanded his sights throughout the northeast and welcomes all opportunities to sing, explore, and love in the infinite world ahead.”

A recent article in The Cynic reports, “Thematically, Osborn tends to focus on his personal life — his songs reflect moments in his life that changed his world outlook, and thus ultimately his musical style.” To read more go to, http://www.vermontcynic.com/arts/singer-strums-personal-1.2114896 and come down Saturday night to catch Jim live.

Opening is UVM student Taylor Morse. An evening of fine folk, not to be missed. Taylor on Taylor, “I’m from right outside of (and for all reasonable purposes from) Chicago, IL, though living and going to school in Burlington at the moment. I’ve been writing songs for as long as I can remember although I only started performing last year. My brothers introduced me to music when I just a babe, them being 8 and 11 years older than me, giving me my first album: Tommy. The last album I bought was Townes Van Zandt Live at the Old Quarter. I’m very much a fan of the blues and old ‘outlaw’ country, if you will. My influences stem from bluegrass, Americana folk, and mid 20th century rock and roll.”

Thursday, 01.28.10
The Wiley Dobbs Duo (acoustic/newgrass/gypsy)
***$5 suggested donation
www.wileydobbs.com

Friday, 01.29.10
The Willoughby’s (americana)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/thewilloughbys

Saturday, 01.30.10
Let’s Whisper (indi/pop/acoustic)
***$5 suggested donation
http://www.myspace.com/letswhispermusic

Friends of the Pancake….

well, I must admit: I’m excited to start this new year! We have a lot of “new beginnings” in 2010. For starters, we will begin hosting Green Drinks in Montpelier on the second Tuesday of each month. The first one will be this Tuesday, January 12th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the “Mini-Skinny”, 89 Main St. There will be 50 drinks available at no cost to you, courtesy of our sponsors.

Sponsors? Yup! Each month, Green Drinks Montpelier will have a different monthly sponsor from the Environmental Collaborative for each month of 2010. We will also have ongoing support from the Green Drinks sustaining sponsor, Seven Days (www.7dvt.com/)

This month’s sponsor will be the Vermont League of Conservation Voters (www.vlcv.org/): “The Vermont League of Conservation Voters (VLCV) serves as the non-partisan political voice of the state’s environmental community. VLCV seeks to make environmental protection a top priority for elected officials, candidates and voters.” Come learn more about the VLCV and enjoy a drink on our sponsors at Green Drinks Montpelier this Tuesday, January 12th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the “Mini-Skinny”, 89 Main St. While you’re at it, you can meet, mingle & network with other environmentally minded folks who just happen to like beer too…

Oh yeah…come visit us on one of the three Tuesdays following Green Drinks Montpelier each month between 6-8 pm and we will donate 5% of your purchase towards the monthly sponsor!!!

Specials at the SP this week…

Sass-Squash (Montpelier): Curried Pete’s Organic Squash with Champlain Orchard Apples, VT Chevre, and Organic Baby Spinach in a Gleason’s Whole Wheat Crepe. $8.50

Cabin Fever Reliever (Burlington): Lemon infused Crepe with 2 scoops of Wilcox Vanilla Ice Cream drizzled with house made Raspberry Coulis Sauce and topped with Cabot whipped cream. $9.00

Ken Meter in Vermont:

Ok, I’ll admit it: I don’t know much about this guy. But he is holding three events in the area this week and there have been a number of emails ping-ponging & plugging him…so why not join the club…

What I do know about him: “Ken Meter is one of the most experienced food systems analysts in the United States. He consults with food initiatives in 45 regions in 20 states and also manages the national review panels for USDA’s Community Food Projects Grant.”

THE EVENTS:

“Evaluating Local Food Systems,” A brown bag lecture by Ken Meter. Thursday, 01.07.10, Noon to 1:30 p.m. UVM, Jost Foundation Room, Davis Center Room 422, UVM Campus. More info: Rachel Schattman, rschattm@uvm.edu or 802-656-9140.

NOFA-VT Direct Marketing Conference: Saturday January 9, 2010 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.  South Royalton, VT. NOFA Vermont holds an annual Direct Marketing Conference to provide a networking and educational opportunity for farmers market managers and vendors and farmers marketing through Community Supported Agriculture and farm stands. This year Ken Meter is the conference keynote speaker and, in addition to excellent in-depth marketing workshops, we will host roundtable and networking sessions. For more information and to register, visit www.nofavt.org/annual-events/direct-marketing-conference or call 802-434-4122.

“Building Resilience and Recovery through Regional Foods.” Thursday, January 7th, 7 pm. Vermont College of Fine Arts Chapel (off College Street, upstairs from the Wood Art Gallery), Montpelier. “Ken Meter will discuss how local food networks thrive, how local officials can help strengthen economies, and how regionally-grown foods can help reduce public health costs. His recent study of the Minnesota Food Economy, “Mapping the Minnesota Food Industry,” found that community-based food businesses build a more resilient future by forming strong relationships of trust.”

Still reading? Maybe you’re wondering about the plural in “new beginnings” I wrote about up top?

Well, there is a localvore wine & cheese pairing in the works as well as plans to start a monthly screening of local food documentaries. We’re also developing our second annual food forecast based on an audit of all the food we purchased in the prior year. It is our hope and intention that we will be better able to use this forecast in 2010 to offer reliable demand (and orders) for local farmers. Of course, that’s not all…we’ve got a BIG project developing in Burlington…but since I want you to keep reading “the Skinny,” we’re going to keep this cliffhanger hanging…

MUSIC THIS WEEK AT THE ’CAKE:

Thursday, 01.07.09
Abbie Barrett (Indie/Folk/Rock-Pop)
***$5 suggested donation)
www.myspace.com/abbiebarrett

Jazz on Saturday night with the Harrison Shulman Quartet.  The HSQ features Harrison Shulman on guitar, Phil Zuckerman on bass, Jordan Lewis on piano, and Brian Reid on drums. Coming from the UVM jazz department, the group has been playing a wide range of both standards, and originals in the Burlington area.

Thursday, 01.13.10
Nicole Carey (indi/folk)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/nicoleerincarey

Friday, 01.14.10
Sarah Wallis (Pop/acoustic/indi)
www.myspace.com/sarahwallis
Greta Frost (Soul/Blues/Electronica)
www.myspace.com/gretafrost
***$5 suggested donation

Saturday, 01.15.10
Maryse Smith & Seth Gallant (Indie/Folk/Americana)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/marysesmith
www.myspace.com/sethgallant

Howdy friends!

2010 already? Seems like there were futurist movies made in the mid-80’s that were set around 2010 with flying cars & peculiar “futuristic” clothing styles. Well, we’ve got a flying car (see www.youtube.com/watch), but cloths haven’t come that far…at least here in VT. Anyhow, on to more pressing matters:

We have BIG New Year’s Eve plans right around the corner!!! Of course, the entire city, state, country and world have “big” plans…but we’ve got a secret weapon...Joshua Panda…or as Dan Bolles of 7Days writes, “explosive local soul man Joshua Panda.”

In anticipation of this major cultural event, we will be making some changes: tables will be removed to make way for dancing, a tent will be set up on our patio complete with space heaters, crepe griddles, Christmas lights & a portable kegerator. Music and mayhem will ensue until nearly 2 am!!!

This evening of Pancakes & Panda-monium will begin with a 7:30 explosion of fireworks…drop in before or after to warm up. At 9 pm, the Old Dirty String Band takes the stage to rev up the crowd. Joshua and Company will begin their high-octane performance at 10:30…and a second set of fireworks will explode at midnight.

I think the fireworks are in honor of Joshua’s performance…that said, I’ve heard some mumbling about other events going on around town too…for more information, I recommend consulting the following two websites: www.firstnightburlington.com/ & www.findandgoseek.net/ (for kid friendly activities).

Please note: there will be a $10 cover starting at 9 pm. We know it’s a dear price, but the cash is all for one cause: supporting Joshua Panda and his fellow musicians.

This week’s specials at the Skinny Pancake:

Midwinter’s Dream (Burlington): Misty Knoll chicken with VT Cranberries, Boucher Farm Gore-Dawn-Zola and organic arugula on a Gleason’s Whole Wheat Crepe. 9.00

And now, a quick plug for a local foods event in Montpelier:

Still reading…aww, shucks…thanks! If you’ve made it this far, than you must really care about us (or you’re seriously bored). Well…I’ll probably repeat this next week, but we want to share our New Year’s Resolution. As a pre-amble (and cliffhanger), I’m excited to leak the news to Skinny subscribers that we have HUGE plans for 2010 to “improve our game”…details will be divulged in the coming weeks!

A FAT RESOLUTION FOR 2010:

Massively expanding our localvorientation to unparalleled levels.
Big Plans for Burlington:
Changes to increase seating, decrease wait time, and provide amazing service.

So how are we going to take one small step for Burlingtoners but one big step for the Skinny Pancake? Mmmm…its still a secret But rest assured: there are ENORMOUS changes coming to the SP in 2010!!! Stay tuned to the Skinny for emerging details.

Music in 2010:

Thursday, 12.31.09
Joshua Panda Band (glam-folk, neo-soul)
***$10 COVER STARTING AT 9 PM
www.joshuapanda.com/

Y’all…check out the plug that kicked this email off…

Friday, 01.01.10
NO MUSIC

We’re open for business, but giving the microphones a rest after a the double-shot of espresso that is Joshua Panda & Company.

Saturday, 01.02.10
Myra Flynn Duo
***$5 suggested donation
www.myraflynn.com

Burlington is not that big and there are plenty of people competing for musical attention. Meanwhile, Myra always draws a crowd. That, in the context of this town, is a testament to her talent. Also, take a look at her website…it’s really professional & full of information. What does that tell you? It tells me she’s taking her musical career very seriously. Finally–and most important of all–listen to her tunes…that should help you come around & then COME ON DOWN…hear what its all about this Saturday night at 8 pm.

Solid line-up next weekend…in particular, take a listen to Ramblin’ Red!!!

Thursday, 01.07.09
Abbie Barrett (Indie/Folk/Rock-Pop)
***$5 suggested donation)
www.myspace.com/abbiebarrett

Friday, 01.08.09
Ramblin’ Red (folk/bluegrass)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/ramblinredmusic

Saturday, 01.09.09
Harrison Shulman Quartet (jazz)
***$5 suggested donation

Ahhhhhhhhhh, ladies and gentlemen, are you up for some heavyweight musical entertainment this New Years Eve?!

The Skinny Pancake kicks off 2010 with the Josh Panda Band www.reverbnation.com/joshuapanda…this show flies after the fireworks…

Once in awhile we are blown away by a band and JPB lifts the roof off…almost literally.  The Seven Days just caught up with Josh Panda http://www.7dvt.com/2009gospel-joshua from the church to the street, this Panda is always singing.

Hope to see ya’ll  heading down the hill to the ‘Cake on New Years Eve to check out Josh & Company…And for your year ahead, be sure to calendar other notable shows….http://www.skinnypancake.com/music-calendar/.

Happy New Year & Musically Yours, The Skinny Pancake