Although bad weather was predicted, the sun was shining as about 130 people enjoyed some cheery Irish entertainment at Maple Tree Place. Lawn chairs and blankets sprinkled the green as the audience lounged with their coolers and umbrellas in tow.

Young and old alike were captivated by the music of Trinity, a pair of fellows that played generally upbeat Irish tunes, encouraging the audience to heartily clap along while children danced in the open space.... Read more

As a full-time babysitter this summer, I’m always looking for events to shake up the daily routine. This week’s treat came in the form of Island Road Theater’s “Sleeping Beauty” and “The Hat.”

The 3-year-old theater group is composed of 14 actors ranging from third- to eighth-graders. Island Road’s performance at the Colchester Meeting House, filled with parents in chairs and children scattered across a rug, was one of seven on a summer tour.... Read more

I spotted numerous “Obama for President” signs scattered across the lawn on the corner of Intervale and Riverside avenues, and knew I was in the right place. Music was blaring and excitement was in the air. The occasion was a bake sale to benefit Senator Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.

Across the nation there were more than 700 bake sales like Burlington’s. MoveOn.org, a political action organization working to get progressive candidates elected, coordinated these “Hungry for Change” events.... Read more

The dog days of summer were off to a fresh start Saturday in downtown Burlington. My new puppy was at the vet, but I still took the chance to visit some four-legged friends including Jack Russell terriers, golden retrievers and various mixed breeds at the “Scrub-A-Pup” YMCA fundraiser.

A volunteer named Julia told me that the idea for the dog wash came as a creative alternative to a car wash. Plus, as an organization all about family, it seemed right to include the beloved family pets.

“In case I didn’t want a dog already, now I really do!” added Julia.... Read more