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The Skinny Appleseed: Fruit Trees for Riverside Community Garden

Monday, April 26th, 2010

On Sunday April 25th, The Skinny Pancake Crew joined forces with Grow Team ONE and Shelburne Orchards planted two apple trees at the Riverside Community Garden. We planted  a Cortland and a McIntosh, both about three years old.

A bit about these trees:
Every McIntosh apple has a direct lineage to a single tree discovered in 1811 by John McIntosh on his farm in Dundela, a hamlet in Dundas County, Ontario, Canada. He discovered the tree as one of several apple seedlings while clearing a farm which he had just purchased. The Cortland is red with some yellow spots.  This all-purpose apple was developed at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva, New York in 1898. The apple was named after nearby Cortland County, New York.  As a result of crossing a McIntosh and a Ben Davis apple, the flavor is a bit sweeter than McIntosh and it’s considered to be a wonderful dessert apple.

Donating apple trees to the Riverside Garden is a simple way to give back to our community, who has provided us with steadfast support. We look forward to watching these trees grow & fruit in the years to come.

The Skinny 4.22.10 through 4.28.10

Monday, April 26th, 2010

Howdy folks,

and…HAPPY EARTH DAY!!! There’s a bunch of good stuff going on, so I’m just going to launch into it:

First: in the name of Earth Day, please mark your calendar for the 40th Annual Green-Up Day, Saturday May 1st. This statewide effort is a beautiful example of civic participation…come join the fun!!! Much more info at www.greenupvermont.org/.

Now, on to a number of great events happening this week:

1. Earth Day Celebration (Montpelier): Hunger Mountain Co-op hosts their annual Earth Day celebration today. Meet the people who make your environmentally friendly products, Take away free samples, Raffles, Great food demos, Coop canvas bag giveaways! Kids will get a chance to plant their own seedlings at the kids gardening table. For more information, please contact Krystal 223-8004 x 202.

2. Take a Walk on the Wild Side: Edible & Medicinal Wild Plants of the Intervale (Burlington): City Market invites you to join naturalist, herbalist, and registered dietitian Melanie Putz Brotz for a Wild Plant Treasure Hunt in the Intervale. There are so many amazing edible and medicinal plants growing in this region; come join the adventure. Participants in this workshop traditionally uncover many delectable surprises, from Wild Pheasant Back mushrooms to Stinging Nettles, Burdock Root, Lambs Quarters, and invasively prolific and delicious Garlic Mustard Greens. Meet at the small parking lot on the right after the dirt road begins, by the entrance to the Rena Caulkins trail. Sign up at the Customer Service desk. Free.

3. Art Walk (Montpelier): Montpelier hosts the annual spring Art Walk on Friday, April 23rd from 4 to 8 pm. Pick up a guide (available at the Skinny Pancake and other participating venues) for a list of exhibits, free artist receptions, and events. The Skinny Pancake hosts artist Christa Manns exhibit “She Falls to Pieces”, a mixed media display of collage, black and white photography and oil paintings.

4. Tree Planting (Burlington): this Sunday, the Skinny Pancake will join forces with Grow Team ONE and Shelburne Orchards to plant two apple trees at the Riverside Community Garden. We will be planting a Cortland and a McIntosh, both about three years old.

A bit about these trees:
Every McIntosh apple has a direct lineage to a single tree discovered in 1811 by John McIntosh on his farm in Dundela, a hamlet in Dundas County, Ontario, Canada. He discovered the tree as one of several apple seedlings while clearing a farm which he had just purchased. The Cortland is red with some yellow spots.  This all-purpose apple was developed at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva, New York in 1898. The apple was named after nearby Cortland County, New York.  As a result of crossing a McIntosh and a Ben Davis apple, the flavor is a bit sweeter than McIntosh and it’s considered to be a wonderful dessert apple.


Specials this week at the Skinny Pancake:

Folks…we’re in the heart of foraged fiddlehead & ramp season…get ‘em while you can, ‘cuz supplies won’t last!!!

Ramp It Up Lasagna (Burlington): Lasagna inspired layering of locally foraged Fiddleheads and Native Wild Mushrooms blended with a house made Ramp Pesto Ricotta and tied together with a béchamel sauce. Served with our classic side salad. $10.50

Rampage (Montpelier): Greenfield Highland Beef Sirloin with Herb Roasted Potatoes from Pete, Caramelized Ramps, and Green Mt. Blue’s Gore- Dawn-Zola on a Gleason’s Whole Wheat Crepe. 100% Local. $10.00

Music this week at the Skinny Pancake:

First, a quick plug for a hot show tonight in Montpelier:

The Low Anthem on TODAY at the Bethany Church. Doors open 6:30 p.m and show begins at 7:30p.m. The show is open to all ages and is $13 in advance or $15 for the day of the show. Order tickets online or by calling 510-888-7409.  Tickets on sale now at Burlington Records or at http://nekmf.frontgatetickets.com.

The Low Anthem are one of the most dynamic, up and coming new-folk bands worldwide, coming off sold out shows across Europe, The Newport Folk Festival, Bonnaroo, and a recent appearance on the David Letterman Show. The church sanctuary where the show will take place has excellent acoustics and an austere atmosphere that is perfect for The Low Anthem’s exquisite music.

Now, onto music at the SP in Burlington:

Thursday, 04.22.10
The Sleepwells (Indi-Folk-Rock)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/thesleepwellsmusic

Phili based indie-folk rock quintet The Sleepwells www.myspace.com/thesleepwellsmusic stop by the Cake for a Thursday night of original music. Really folks, click on the above link & listen…sweet harmonies…!

From their site, “The Sleepwells have just performed 2 CD release parties to packed houses at The Bitter End (NYC) and Connie’s Ric Rac (Philadelphia), and are moving forward booking a tour and releasing new singles while promoting their newly released Somewhere Over the Radar. ” The album was recorded at the state-of-the-art Sine Studios in Philadelphia…

The Sleepwells were formed in 2006 after Barbato packed her guitar and left Boston, Massachusetts after a sold-out performance at the House of Blues, and regular rotation on WERS 88.9 FM and WBCN 104.1 FM – She moved down the coast to Philadelphia, and joined old friends Lawson and Teacher. The band made its debut performance on July 30th, 2006 on Gene Shay’s legendary radio show on WXPN 88.5 FM. Since then, The Sleepwells have been rocking the East Coast playing such venues as Club Passim and The Middle East in Boston, The North Star, The Tin Angel, World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, and Pianos in New York City.”

Friday, 04.23.10
The Points North (folk)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/thepointsnorth

Boston-based band The Points North www.myspace.com/thepointsnorth bring their creative acoustic folk to Vermont. Soulful vocals meld beautifully with flute, strings, accordion, tamborine. The Points North compose hushed minimalist New England-inspired folk songs, delivering a twenty-first century take on traditionalist country folk songs.

Boston Globe- “By turns somber and joyous, sturdy and delicate, this debut was a folk feast fashioned by the campfire and drawn from hearth-warmed living rooms. A tapestry of piano, mandolin, and wintry atmospheres made this one of ’09’s most enigmatic local releases.”

Call it Folk- “[The Points North] isn’t folk pop, or twangy sounding acoustic guitars with soundhole pickups, played unknowingly, by singer-songwriters singing banal little nothings about themselves. These songs are socially relevant to our times and speak to issues not often tackled by the progressive arts community…contrary to what the old timers think of as in-your-face protest music. This is more musically satisfying…a hauntingly brilliant performance.”

Performer Magazine-
“[The Points North's] sound is cohesive and their vision of creating pure, traditional folk music is apparent. Light, beautiful vocals by Regina Peterson are grounded by Chris Alspach’s and Dylan Clark’s steady leads. Their instrumental arrangements – haunting mandolin, resonating bass drum, tambourine, occasional foot stomping and ethereal flute – flow together, weaving an intricate pattern of phonetic and auditory story telling.”

Saturday, 04.24.10
Birch Bones
(acoustic/folk)
David Rhynhart (modern folk/americana)
***$5 suggested donation
http://www.davidrynhart.com
http://www.myspace.com/birchbonesband

Former Burlington resident (and short-term housemate of mine), David Rynhart returns!!! It’s been a few years since David departed for the West. But from ‘06-’08, he was a jewel of talent for the Burlington music scene….David was a regular at open mics, coffee shops & stages. A uniquely talented instrumentalist, I often felt David was in a league by himself. Come & help us fill the room & welcome him back to VT this Saturday.

“David Rynhart, serves up a full flavored dish expertly with taunt acoustic guitar playing that is finger plucking good as well down home but slick playing on banjo, piano and Irish flute.”

…All in all this an expertly played and cogently summing up of the American landscape in poetic pastiches that invite the listener to come along for the ride bumpy as that ride maybe but still pleasing to the season as David’s beautiful aching tenor runs roughshod over your initial skepticism. Certainly he seduced mine and reworked it so that I too am a believer. Two thumbs up.”-Nik Beat, Lipstik Indie Reviews

Opening this night is Birch Bones http://www.myspace.com/birchbonesband, a new acoustic, folk duo from Burlington. They’ll perform a 45 minute set.


In the pipeline…

Thursday, 04.29.10
Mandarax
(formerly known as the Harrison Shulman Quintet) (jazz)
***$5 suggested donation

Friday, 04.30.10
Slick Martha’s Hot Club
(gypsy jazz)
***$5 suggested donation
www.facebook.com/video/video.php

Saturday, 05.01.10
Patrick Coman
(singer/songwriter)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/patrickcoman

The Mini-Skinny To Dish-up Brunch!

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010

Montpelier ‘Cake springs into the season with a farm fresh Brunch Menu!

Beginning April 10th, our cozy Main Street CrĂŞperie will offer a new brunch menu featuring local egg dishes, meats and cheeses, as well as seasonal side salads.

The Brunch Menu is “Local, Really” as its wholly inspired by Vermont seasons, local foods and producers.

There will be a Brunch Special of the day in addition to staple selections such as the Crepe Quiche made with seasonal local veggies, baked in a crepe shell and served with a salad of local greens as well as Crepes Benedict featuring Winding Brook Farm Canadian Bacon, two sunny side up eggs, served over two savory crepes with hollandaise sauce and a salad of local greens. More than a side, poutine fans will love this variation on the Quebecois fare–Brunch Poutine: A plate of fresh cut fries with Maple Brook Farm Cheddar cheese curds, served with delicious chicken and bacon gravy and a Sunny Side up egg. YUM!!

Pair your brunch dish with Farnham Hill Hard Cider or go for a coffee creation from the full espresso bar brewed with Vermont Coffee Company Roasts. A cup of green, black, or herbal tea from the extension Vermont Love & Tea selection is always recommended!

While one can still order “Breakfast All Day”, Montpelier General Manager Jeremy Silansky finds Brunch to be a hardier meal and suggests, “While adding variety, the new brunch menu is a playful breakfast take on items that may cross categories as a breakfast and lunch items.”

The Brunch Menu will be available Saturdays & Sundays from 11am-2pm beginning Saturday April 10, 2010. Of course, ya’ll can still order your favorites from the full menu.

The Skinny Pancake, Montpelier is open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch, dessert and now BRUNCH! Located at 89 Main Street in Montpelier, Vermont, in the center of town. The patio is now open & ready for the sun!

Skinny GM to Judge Vermont’s JR Iron Chef

Monday, March 22nd, 2010

Jr. Iron Chef VT is happening on March 27th and Montpelier Skinny Pancake General Manager Jeremy Silansky will be one of twelve judges appraising students’ culinary creations. 60 teams of area middle & high school students will gather at the Champlain Valley Expo to showcase their cooking skills.   According to the organizers, “Students will cook an original recipe highlighting seasonally available local foods.  Three teams from each middle school and high school will be selected as winners in the following categories: Most Local Ingredients, Most Creative, and Best in Show.  As in most cooking competitions, the recipes will be judged on appearance and taste, but will also be assessed for their compatibility with school food environments (Do kids like it? Can school food service providers make it?  Does it fit school food nutrition requirements?)”.

The competition organizers approached individuals involved in the growing farm-to-school movement to judge the competition.  Most Judges are involved in school food and Vermont agriculture as farmers, chefs, legislators, students, state employees, and community advocates. The Skinny Pancake & Jeremy Silansky are pleased & honored to participate in this event! For more information on  the Jr. Iron Chef Vermont, check out their website www.jrironchefvt.org.

Big News!!

Monday, March 22nd, 2010

Howdy folks,

we’ve got even more big news to announce this week:

The Skinny Pancake on the Burlington Waterfront will be CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS for 12 days starting Monday, March 22nd.

Whew! I’ve been waiting a long time to make that announcement…

If all goes according to plan, we’ll be back open on Saturday, April 3rd.  The good folks at the Main Street Landing Company (our wonderful landlord) have consistently bolded and underlined their verbal statement of “if all goes according to plan.” Here’s to hoping…and to diligently trying.

What gives? Well…after last summer, we took a very serious stock of our performance with the ravenous determination to become a world-class semi-service establishment. We found that at peak volumes, the shortcomings of our physical space sometimes frustrated staff & patrons alike…so we very deliberately set out to fix those problems.

While we are not expanding our footprint, we will be improving our kitchen layout to help get the food out faster and altering the seating arrangement to remove some pesky bottlenecks. We will also be adding a 10′ bar, two more beer taps, a wine cooler and a customer water spigot!!!

Please note: if you or anyone you know experiences symptoms of withdrawal from your crepe addiction, we strongly encourage you to visit our Montpelier location.


This week’s specials:

The St Patty Fatty (Burlington): Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage on a Whole Wheat Crepe. $9.00.

Just Ducky (Montpelier): Labelle Farm Duck Confit with VT Cranberry Co. Chutney, Local Spinach from Screaming Ridge Farm and Candied Walnuts on a Gleasons Whole Wheat Crepe. 10.00


The Farm-To-Fork Film Series
Thursday, March 25th, 7-8:15

At the Montpelier Mini-Skinny

At the focal point of the local foods movement–and of this film–are the farmers and chefs who are creating a sustainable food system. Their collaborative work has resulted in great tasting food and an explosion of consumer awareness about the benefits of eating local.

A feature-length documentary, INGREDIENTS illustrates how people around the country are working to revitalize their connection to food. Narrated by Bebe Neuwirth, the film takes us across the U.S. from the diversified farms of the Hudson River and Willamette Valleys to the urban food deserts of Harlem and to the kitchens of celebrated chefs Alice Waters, Peter Hoffman and Greg Higgins. INGREDIENTS is a journey that reveals the people behind the movement to bring good food back to the table and health back to our communities.


Music this weekend at the ‘Cake:

Friday, 03.19.10
Seth Gallant (indi/folk)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/sethgallant

Good things come in threes: Local tunesmith Seth Gallant www.myspace.com/sethgallant first joined us with Maryse Smith for a night at the Cake in January then opened for Jamie Kent in February–and this March appearance makes three times a charm!

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 pigeon-holed.

Saturday, 03.20.10
Lokum Trio
(world/indi/roots)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/lokummusic

Burlington’s own Lokum performs as a three-piece poly-rhythmic Baltic percussion powerhouse. They joined us for jazzfest as a 9 piece and had people dancing in the streets.

The word lokum literally translates as a Turkish delight and this nine piece band is certainly sweet. Lokum performs music of the Balkans, Turkey and Armenia using authentic instruments and oriental modes (makams). The upbeat, dramatic tone of their music is driven by beautiful, complex melodies artistically woven through tight percussion. Lokum masterfully puts a fresh contemporary spin on traditional world music. Check ‘em here www.myspace.com/lokummusic and come on down, it will be sweet!


In the pipeline…

RENOVATIONS!!!!
At our 60 Lake St location in Burlington
Monday March 22nd through Friday, April 2nd
Planned re-opening: Saturday, April 3rd.

The Skinny 2.24.10 through 03.02.10

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

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!!!

For this 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.


This week’s food specials at the SP:

Sass-squash Returns! (Montpelier): Pete’s Squash puree with VT Chevre, Champlain Orchards Apples and Organic Baby Spinach on a Gleason’s Whole Wheat Crepe. $8.50

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

We’re jazzing up our repertoire with another musical addition to our calendar of events–a once monthly jazz series. From classic standards to experimental originals, you can now find jazz at the ‘Cake on the final Thursday of each month!

Heading off the first of our monthly jazz installation is The Mohanty-Krag Duo featuring Kate Mohanty on alto sax & Peter Krag on the keys. The duo is gigging this month with Burlington’s Vacant Lots. Catch them in their own performance for the opening night of the SP Jazz series.

From their website:The Mohanty-Krag Duo is comprised of Peter Krag on piano and Kate Mohanty on alto saxophone. They frequently play in Burlington as well as Stowe, Middlebury and other Vermont locations. Their music is a combination of creative takes of the jazz standard repertoire, as well as original compositions by both members. Their intention is to be as creative and original as possible in representing jazz and its many forms. Peter and Kate met at the University of Vermont while studying music formally and have been playing together for two years


Friday, 02.26.10
Dan Blakeslee
(Lyrical/Acoustic)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/danblakeslee
www.danblakeslee.com/

HEY. HEY! HEY!!!!!! Are you listening? Not yet…click on that link above…jeez, its good. I personally want you to come to this show for you…not me. Frankly, I just hope the place is reasonably quiet and that I can find a place to sit. And listen.

We found Dan Blakeslee through the very remarkable group, Brown Bird (www.myspace.com/brownbird). They share a label, www.peapodrecordings.com/. Sometimes following artists to their labels can open some exciting doors…

Its also worth noting that Dan makes all the art on his websites…which is always a good indication of an individual’s creativity. See below…


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.


In the pipeline

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

Celebrating Sueno: Skinny Pancake Bio-Diesel Bus

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010

Sueno Skinny Pancake Bio Diesel BusSigns 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.

skinny.siptemberfest

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

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 Shall, 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!!

The Skinny 2.23.10 through 03.02.10

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010

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:

We are deeply grateful to our host sponsor, the Main Street Landing Company, for donating this wonderful space to us each month. MSL has spaces available for daily or long term rentals, you can learn more by visiting them at www.mainstreetlanding.com.

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!!!


This week’s food specials at the SP:

Sass-squash Returns! (Montpelier): Pete’s Squash puree with VT Chevre, Champlain Orchards Apples and Organic Baby Spinach on a Gleason’s Whole Wheat Crepe. $8.50

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.


A quick reminder:
The Farm to Fork Film Series debuts this week!!!
Localvore Films shown on the final Thursday of each month
At the “Mini-Skinny”, 89 Main St, Montpelier
First showing: Thursday, 02.25.10, 7-8 pm

Burlingtoners: if this event gets going and thrives, we’ll bring it to the waterfront asap!

For this 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.


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

We’re jazzing up our repertoire with another musical addition to our calendar of events–a once monthly jazz series. From classic standards to experimental originals, you can now find jazz at the ‘Cake on the final Thursday of each month!

Heading off the first of our monthly jazz installation is The Mohanty-Krag Duo featuring Kate Mohanty on alto sax & Peter Krag on the keys. The duo is gigging this month with Burlington’s Vacant Lots. Catch them in their own performance for the opening night of the SP Jazz series.

From their website:The Mohanty-Krag Duo is comprised of Peter Krag on piano and Kate Mohanty on alto saxophone. They frequently play in Burlington as well as Stowe, Middlebury and other Vermont locations. Their music is a combination of creative takes of the jazz standard repertoire, as well as original compositions by both members. Their intention is to be as creative and original as possible in representing jazz and its many forms. Peter and Kate met at the University of Vermont while studying music formally and have been playing together for two years


Friday, 02.26.10
Dan Blakeslee
(Lyrical/Acoustic)
***$5 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/danblakeslee
www.danblakeslee.com/

HEY. HEY! HEY!!!!!! Are you listening? Not yet…click on that link above…jeez, its good. I personally want you to come to this show for you…not me. Frankly, I just hope the place is reasonably quiet and that I can find a place to sit. And listen.

We found Dan Blakeslee through the very remarkable group, Brown Bird (www.myspace.com/brownbird). They share a label, www.peapodrecordings.com/. Sometimes following artists to their labels can open some exciting doors…

Its also worth noting that Dan makes all the art on his websites…which is always a good indication of an individual’s creativity. See below…


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.


In the pipeline…

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

Farm to Fork Film Series

Wednesday, February 10th, 2010

Announcing…
The Farm to Fork Film Series
Localvore Films shown on the final Thursday of each month
At the “Mini-Skinny”, 89 Main St, Montpelier
First showing: Thursday, 02.25.10, 7-8 pm

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

locavoreLocavore, 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.


The Skinny 02.03.10 through 02.09.10

Monday, February 8th, 2010

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…


Music this week at the SP:

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

Jamie Kent www.jamiekent.com kicks off his Vermont tour at the ‘Cake. This promising new talent hails from Massachusetts. Based on a listen, I’dventure a strong guess this singer songwriter grew up amidst the sounds of Jack Johnson–breezy pop songs grounded by sleepy, mellow vocals. Jamie puts his talent for singing into a catchy blend of roots music.

From the artist,I have been writing music for about six years, and studying voice for about the same. I’ve proudly played in a Mariachi band, performed in an a capella group, and crooned for a sixteen piece big band. I’m pretty sure that I am a better singer than guitarist.”

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

“…a wealth of interesting lyrics about love and life, wicked acoustic guitar playing, lots of unself-conscious vocalizing and some fine, bluesy harmonica work. All this good music meshes together seamlessly. One of the best things about Harple’s music is the already developed “Harple sound.” Listen to the disc and you’ll hear practically nothing that sounds like someone else. “ Robert Resnick VPR

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…”


In the pipeline…

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