Vermont State University – Castleton is now offering a cannabis-studies certificate program for students wanting to explore careers in cannabis.

“From the very beginning, we knew our program would be attractive to nontraditional students,” said professor Philip Lamy, who helped create the certificate six years ago.

In an aging state, the cannabis curriculum addresses many of the problems that policy makers have been discussing for years. The program is attracting young people to Vermont, educating them in a sector now worth tens of billions of dollars nationally.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF SEVEN DAYS VT HERE

Embrace the final days of summer and celebrate Labor Day weekend amidst the stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene of the Champlain Valley! From August 30th to September 2nd, 2024, a diverse array of events and activities promises an unforgettable experience on both sides of Lake Champlain.

Vermont Festivities

Champlain Valley Fair: Grand Finale Festivities The Champlain Valley Fair in Essex Junction, VT, culminates in a Labor Day weekend extravaganza! Don’t miss out on the final days of thrilling rides, captivating entertainment, and delectable fair food.

• Cole Swindell Concert: Friday, August 30th, 7:00 PM. Country music star Cole Swindell takes the stage with special guest Tigirlily Gold. Grab your tickets and get ready to sing along to chart-topping hits. Champlain Valley Fair Website
• Roots N’ Boots Tour: Saturday, August 31st, 7:30 PM. Experience a night of classic country music with Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin, and Collin Raye. This unforgettable concert will have you tapping your toes and reminiscing about the good old days. Champlain Valley Fair Website
• Pentatonix Concert: Sunday, September 1st, 7:30 PM. The Grammy-winning a cappella group Pentatonix will mesmerize you with their incredible vocal harmonies. Prepare to be amazed by their unique blend of pop, R&B, and soul. Champlain Valley Fair Website

New York Celebrations

Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration: Immerse yourself in history as Plattsburgh, NY, commemorates the pivotal Battle of Plattsburgh. Witness reenactments, parades, and historical exhibits that bring this significant event to life.

• Annual Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration: Events happening throughout the weekend, including a Grand Parade on Saturday, September 1st. Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration Website
• Ticonderoga Area Farmers Market: Sunday, September 1st, 10 am-2 pm. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Ticonderoga Area Farmers Market, where you’ll find fresh, local produce, artisanal crafts, and live music. Ticonderoga Area Farmers Market Facebook Page [invalid URL removed]
• Peru Community Church Chicken BBQ: Sunday, September 1st, 11 am-2 pm (or until sold out). Savor a delicious chicken barbecue while supporting the Peru Community Church. It’s a great way to enjoy a Labor Day meal and contribute to a good cause. Peru Community Church Website [invalid URL removed]

Champlain Valley Adventures

Beyond the fairs and festivals, the Champlain Valley offers boundless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

• Lake Champlain Exploration: Set sail on a scenic ferry ride, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax on the sandy shores of Lake Champlain. The breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Lake Champlain Ferries Website
• Hiking and Biking in the Adirondacks and Green Mountains: Lace up your hiking boots or hop on your bike and explore the majestic Adirondack and Green Mountains. Discover hidden waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and charming villages nestled amidst the verdant landscape. Adirondack Mountain Club Website | Vermont State Parks Website
• Farm-Fresh Delights: Visit local farmers’ markets and farm stands on both sides of the lake to sample the bounty of the Champlain Valley. From juicy berries and crisp apples to artisanal cheeses and handcrafted maple syrup, you’ll find a delicious array of local products to savor.

A Labor Day to Remember

Labor Day weekend in the Champlain Valley is a time to honor the spirit of hard work, connect with loved ones, and celebrate the beauty of the region. With its diverse offerings, this long weekend promises to be one to remember.

Opening day of the Champlain Valley Fair on Friday did not disappoint! With clear skies and 70 degree temperatures, fair-goers enjoyed $8 admission, $25 ride bracelets and Flo-Rida kicking of the entertainment in the grandstand. Country acts Cole Swindell and The Roots ‘n Boots tour with Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Colin Raye round out the week.

GET THE FULL FAIR SCHEDULE HERE

If you’ve attended the local barrel racing in Vermont or New York, chances are, you’ve seen either Cassidy or Paige competing while their father quietly coaches from the sidelines and occasionally smooths the arena with the tractor. Both the Superneau sisters are competing at the NBHA Nationals in Virginia this weekend with purses that will help feed their hay burners, Hank, Jet, Millie and Jaycee.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF THE ST. ALBANS MESSENGER HERE 

Whether looking for something fun to do for a quick date or showing off the North Country to out-of-town guests, we’ve combed the area looking for the best places to picnic. Some of these locales are Seven Daysies Award-Winners while some are haunts we’ve check out on our own:

1. 1. Shelburne Farms – Located off Route 7, the majestic farm and seasonal mansion offer $40 picnic basket for two with a pre-made box, available exclusively to Shelburne Farms Inn guests and bar patrons for $40. This curated selection showcases the finest local flavors, including Shelburne Farms’ cheddar, salami from Agricola Farm, crisp apples, jam, and crackers. Enhance your picnic experience with additional treats from the Farm Cart or a freshly baked loaf from O Bread Bakery, both conveniently located on the property.
   2. Mt. Philo State Park – If you continue south on Route 7, hang a left and head up Mt. Philo. Whether taking the 2 mile hike up the paved road or driving up, the view does not disappoint! Pack your own picnic, sit in the Adirondack chairs and enjoy!
   3. Crown Point State Park – About an hour south, you can enjoy the ruins of the French and British colonial wars while munching on your picnic looking at the beauty of Lake Champlain.
   4. Fort Ticonderoga – Now this is a jaunt, (maybe 1 1/2 to 2 hour drive,) but certainly worth it for the history buff! Corn mazes, the Fort and adventure await

The 17th Annual Festival of Fools begins Saturday, August 3rd from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.  and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All weekend long you can find performers from around the globe bringing their talents to the heart of the Queen City.

Zach Williamson, director of Burlington City Arts, said from dancers to musicians and even circus acts, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

“You get to watch amazing skills: acrobats, fire juggling, really insane stuff,” Williamson said.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF WPTZ HERE

It was the beer can hurled ’round the world… her response to a heckler at her comedy show in New Jersey went viral and thrust Ariel Elias into the spotlight with guest appearances on Jimmy Kimmel, to name a few.  Elias is gearing up to tape her first standup special Saturday night, August 3rd and she’s chosen to record it at the Vermont Comedy Club in Burlington.

“Well, I’ve never headlined in Burlington, so I haven’t burned an audience yet,” the New York City-based comic joked when asked why she chose the Queen City to tape her special.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF SEVEN DAYS VT HERE

The Paris Olympics kicks off with opening ceremonies on Friday night and both the St. Albans Messenger and 98.9 WOKO sent well-wishes to Vermont competitor, Elle St. Pierre. On Thursday, St. Pierre won the first round of the 1500 meter!

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF THE ST. ALBANS MESSENGER HERE: 

While the housing squeeze and drug issues have a stranglehold on some communities, St. Johnsbury has become a hub for creative, cooperative community businesses.

FULL STORY COURTESY OF SEVENDAYS VT HERE

Back for it’s 31st Season, enjoy the Vermont Brewers Festival on the beautiful Burlington Waterfront! Make sure you sign up for sessions before they’re sold out:

• Session 1 Friday July 19, 5:30pm-9:30pm
• Session 2 Saturday July 20th, 12:00pm-4:00pm
• Session 3 Saturday July 20, 5:30pm-9:30pm

Get your tickets and details courtesy of the Vermont Brewers Festival HERE