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Next Stage Arts Presents Dynamic Eight-piece Band Hazmat Modine on 11/16

by hahrenholz | Music

Next Stage Arts presents dynamic eight-piece band Hazmat Modine, on Saturday, November 16 at 7:30 pm at Next Stage Arts, 15 Kimball Hill, in Putney.

Hazmat Modine is “a uniquely intercontinental sonic collage encompassing a tremendous range of instrumental, vocal, and conceptual originality–all with a lot of soul and groove.” This dynamic eight-piece band has toured and performed original songs for 25+ years with genre-defying music that is quintessentially New York–vibrant international cultures meets American Roots. Diverse backgrounds in Gypsy Jazz, Downtown Avant Guard loft music, Blues, Soul, Country, Rock n’ Roll, and Roots is written and performed by musicians whose ages span every decade from their 20s to 70s.

Next Stage Arts Presents Portland-based String Ensemble Palaver String on 11/15

by hahrenholz | Music

Next Stage Arts presents Portland-based string ensemble Palaver Strings, on Friday, November 15 at 7:30 pm at Next Stage Arts, 15 Kimball Hill, in Putney.

“Last time they performed at Next Stage, they opened a new world of musical compositions I’ve never heard – the ensemble is bringing light to the careers of composers living and dead, from around the world,” says Keith Marks, Executive Director of Next Stage Arts. “For sure, any classical music-loving audience member is going to fall in love. What was also apparent was that even for those adventurous music lovers, this is music that is relevant and heartfelt.”

The ensemble’s current program, Ready or Not Revisited, celebrates the groundbreaking visions of women, queer, trans, and nonbinary composers from the medieval period to the present day. This program builds on the concept of Palaver’s 2022 album Ready or Not, which “blew the tent flap open to embrace new contemporary classical fans” (Midwest Record) and left BBC Music Magazine “wanting more.” Repertoire includes wide-ranging selections by Jessie Montgomery, Hildegard von Bingen, inti figgis-vizueta, Tanner Porter, Sato Matsui, Leilehua Lanzilotti, Pétalo Seslar and Lili Boulanger. Ready or Not Revisited disrupts our expectations, challenges our narratives, and uplifts a multitude of voices who have always been here, whether the concert hall was ready or not.

Next Stage Arts and Potash Hill Present a Concert by World-renowned JACK Quartet

by hahrenholz | Music

Next Stage Arts and Potash Hill present a public performance by world-renowned JACK Quartet, on Friday, November 8 at 7:00 pm at Ragle Hall, in Marlboro.

This fall, the world-renowned JACK Quartet and its cadre of musical collaborators will descend upon Potash Hill to workshop and develop new musical work. Three resident artists of the quartet’s JACK Studio program will work closely with the ensemble on new material and receive mentorship from current JACK Studio commissioned composer, Anthony Cheung, who will also work with JACK on a new work for its premiere on November 10 at the 92NY.

WSESD Board Meeting Minutes October 8, 2024

by Not Signed In | Education

Summary
● English Language Learners Program: A new program was proposed by student rep to support TOFEL practice and cultural immersion, which could also benefit introverted students.
● Safety Concerns: The Board discussed traffic safety issues on Atwood Dr., near the high school
● Budget and Finance: The Finance Committee reviewed the first quarter of FY25 and the board explored alternative ways to engage with the budgetary process and communication.
● Cell Phone Usage: Concerns were raised about the impact of cell phones in schools, particularly at BUHS, with discussions about limiting usage and teaching responsible technology use.
● Approval of Funds: The Board approved the carryover of $223,577.49 in excess Head Start funds, with considerations for environmentally friendly spending on items like playground materials and hybrid vehicles.
● Policy FI, Student Conduct and Discipline was approved by the Board.

Windham Southeast Supervisory Union School Board Meeting Minutes October, 9, 2024

by Not Signed In | Education

New Business – The Chair read the following statement regarding the Superintendent’s contract.

“On February 16, 2024, I negotiated and signed a new three year contract with our Superintendent, Mark Speno, at the direction of the WSESU Board. The Board voted unanimously to authorize me to do this at a regularly scheduled and duly warned meeting on February 14, 2024.

The contract began on July 1, 2024 and expires on June 30.2027. It contains provision for an annual raise for each of those years. This is a usual and customary contract in the state of Vermont. Annual raises are a standard component of educational contracts, which protect school personnel from the prevailing winds of politics.

WSESD Independent Budget Review Committee Oct 9, 2024 Meeting Minutes

by Not Signed In | Education

1. Introduction of members. Members introduced themselves and their backgrounds.

2. Election of chair and secretary.

Maggie nominated Kristina for Chair, motion was seconded by Ellie. The vote was unanimous. On a motion by Ellie seconded Kristina, Maggie was unanimously elected secretary.

3. Training -committee discussed Training with Frank on the chart of accounts. The IBRC committee will plan a funding formula training in the upcoming weeks.

Charlie Light on “Here We Are”

by Wendy O'Connell | Entertainment

“FAR OUT: Life On and After the Commune” is winning awards and acclaim – CHARLIE LIGHT’s new documentary is a celebration and a tribute to the power of late-60’s activism and creativity. And the film is a blast to watch! Tune in for some great back stories of those exciting years.

WSESD Board Meeting Minutes September 24, 2024

by Not Signed In | Education

Summary
● Policy Review and Accountability: The Board discussed the requests for self-reflection and accountability regarding response to comments from the Dummerston Leadership Council, but an amended motion to direct the Policy and Amendment Committee for review did not pass. Original motion tabled.
● Leadership Council Updates: Leadership Councils provided updates on community engagement efforts and the importance of tools and support for effective communication and collaboration, including recording meetings for accuracy.
● Continuous Improvement Plan (CIP): The Board adopted the district’s proposed CIP goals.
● Panorama Survey Process: The Panorama Task Force outlined a new approach to administering climate surveys in both Fall and Spring, emphasizing student input to enhance school safety and support.
● Budget Considerations: The board reviewed budget reduction strategies presented at the Annual Meeting and their implications for student support services

Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas and San Miguel Fraser at Next Stage

by hahrenholz | Music

Next Stage Arts and Twilight Music present an evening of traditional and contemporary Scottish and fiddle music by duos Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas and San Miguel Fraser (Galen Fraser & Maria San Miguel) on Sunday, October 20 at 7:00 pm at Next Stage.

The musical partnership between consummate performer Alasdair Fraser, “the Michael Jordan of Scottish fiddling,” and brilliant Californian cellist, Natalie Haas, spans the full spectrum between intimate chamber music and ecstatic dance energy. Over the last 16 years of creating a buzz at festivals and concert halls across the world, they have truly set the standard for fiddle and cello in traditional music. This seemingly unlikely pairing of instruments is the fulfillment of a long-standing musical dream for Fraser. His search eventually led him to find a cellist who could help return the cello to its historical role at the rhythmic heart of Scottish dance music, where it stood for hundreds of years before being relegated to the orchestra. Alasdair and Natalie blend a profound understanding of the Scottish tradition with cutting-edge string explorations. In addition to performing, they both have motivated generations of string players through their teaching at fiddle camps across the globe.

Ize Trio Concert and Percussion Workshop at Next Stage Arts

by hahrenholz | Music

Next Stage Arts presents Ize Trio, performing music from their debut album, The Global Suites on Friday, October 25 at 7:30 pm at Next Stage. Members of the Trio will present a free workshop focused on Middle Eastern percussion and rhythmic cycles on Friday afternoon, from 3:00 to 4:30pm.

“Global sounds from Palestine, Cyprus, and the US, this trio has been here in various iterations – every single time commanding an all-star performance and inspiring our community to ask us to book them again,” says Keith Marks, Executive Director of Next Stage Arts. “The trio is composed of three music professors who prioritize a global sound, mixing their jazz education with their cultural origins. This is the high water mark of performances, and we’re overjoyed to have them come to southern Vermont.”

“Family Matters: A Tour of Vermont Short Films” Will Screen at Next Stage Arts

by hahrenholz | Entertainment

Next Stage Arts screens “Family Matters: A Tour of Vermont Short Films” on Saturday, October 19 at 6:00 pm at Next Stage.

Presented by The Vermont Production Collective, a group of four award-winning filmmakers explore what it means to be a family in Vermont. The program features four short fiction films that offer a uniquely Vermont perspective on the pains and joys of being a family. The film screening will be followed by a filmmakers mixer in the Next Stage community room. All are welcome to join and build the Southern Vermont creative community.“Bloodroot” is a tender relationship portrait of two brothers, told over the course of their lives. In

“Bad Mother,” a mother copes with her husband’s confession of infidelity on the eve of a funeral. “I Guess It Might Be Selfish” is a poetic reflection on the clash between individual and family needs. “The Thaw” is a beautifully rendered 19th century Vermont horror story.

Arun Ramamurthy Trio To Perform at Next Stage in Support of Their Newly Released Album, “New Moon”

by hahrenholz | Music

Next Stage Arts presents an evening of South Indian classical Carnatic music and contemporary American jazz by Brooklyn-based Arun Ramamurthy Trio (ART) on Friday, October 18 at 7:30 pm at Next Stage. ART is touring in support of their latest album, “New Moon,” released on September 20th.

Arun Ramamurthy Trio (ART) brings together South Indian classical Carnatic music and contemporary American jazz. Boundaries are blurred in this organic and seamless integration of styles as the group expands on traditional forms in explosive, improvisational flights of fancy. ART explores the kindred spirit of raga music and jazz, resulting in a deeply invigorating and spiritual experience. Their sound is driven by the dynamic rhythm section of drummer Sameer Gupta & and electric bassist Damon Banks. ART released their latest album “New Moon” on Greenleaf Music this September 20, 2024. New Moon reflects on the inspiration of ancestors, family and tradition, while embracing a spirit of creation and freedom.

The similarities between American Jazz and Indian Classical music can often be found within the spirit of the musicians themselves. The shared artistic pursuit of carefully crafting a fluent, spontaneous voice, and the deep reverence for artists who came before are just two common threads between the kindred traditions.

Windham Southeast School District (WSESD) Policy and Amendment Committee Meeting Minutes Sept 25, 2024

by Not Signed In | Education

The committee decided to incorporate the following changes:
● Add to section 3: “The use of prone or supine restraint is strictly prohibited.”
o The definitions for prone and supine restraint were already in the policy, but there was no statement that their use was prohibited. The district does not use prone or supine restraint, and this edit will highlight that fact, stating it clearly in the policy.

Donate to the Amazing Hospice Hunt!

by giddyitup | Culture

The Hospice Amazing Hunt is happening again this Saturday, September 28 to support Brattleboro Area Hospice. This is the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year and we could use more donations! Teams of four will be racing around downtown Brattleboro, searching for clues in unexpected places around town.

If you are able, please donate to the team of your choice here! All proceeds go to Brattleboro Area Hospice’s multitude of free programs supporting those who are dealing with serious illnesses, at the end of their life, and grieving loved ones. For more information about their programs, visit: https://brattleborohospice.org/