The Discover Jazz Festival was here again this week and is getting ready to wrap up this weekend.  I look forward to this time every year.  Downtown Burlington is always a fun place, but I am always amazed at how alive it is during this annual event.  It seems more and more people come out every year, and bigger and better performances make it to the stage.  If you can snag an outdoor table, Leunigs is a great place to sit for a nice lunch or dinner during this festival, while taking in the music being played all around you on Church Street.  But whether you can make it to Church Street, the Flynn Theater, or the waterfront tent, you can always find something you will enjoy.

The Ice Factor is the worlds biggest indoor climbing wall. Located in Scotland, the facility features indoor rock and ice climbing walls, and outdoor courses as well. There are things to do for every skill level, and even a sauna/steam room and a restaurant to relax after your climbing experience.

I have not been to the Ice Factor, but the reason it intriques me so much is that there has been talk about it coming here to Burlington! I was against the idea at first but I have attended some city hearings about the possibility, and while I am still struggling with the economics of it, I think it has the potential for having the same economic boom that it has had in Scotland.

Check out the Ice Factor website for additional information as well as their specific page regarding their Burlington plans.

It’s that time again: Green Up Day is Saturday May 3rd. Since the first Green Up Day in 1970, this state-wide effort has grown into a must-do activity for many Vermonters. This year, more than 12,000 volunteers will remove trash from our roadsides, in an event that brings the community together for a great cause.

The coordinator for Burlington is Beth Truzansky. She can be reached at 865-7178 or btruzansky@ci.burlington.vt.us. If you’re in another community, learn how to participate in Green Up Day in your town.

Inspired by Vermont’s culture of environmental awareness and commitment, Hickok & Boardman has initiated a “go green” initiative across the company. We’ve stepped up our office’s recycling efforts, made changes in products we purchase, and are committed to reducing our electricity usage through a variety of methods.

Hickok & Boardman has put together a team of more than 40 employees and their families who will join the effort on May 3rd. We hope to see you out there!