Chris Bohjalian
Lincoln
What's it like to watch a stranger reading one of your books?
It wasn't all that long ago that my books sold briskly -- but only among people with my last name. Consequently, I enjoy watching anyone not related to me by blood reading one of my novels. My two favorite moments were the evening when I saw seven people, including a flight attendant, on an airplane reading one of my titles, and the afternoon on a beach when my wife and I saw a woman who was clearly exasperated by another of my books. She was livid, absolutely detesting every word I had written. I would have introduced myself, but she was topless.
Kwiniaska Golf Club
Shelburne
Location may be part of what makes these links such a strong draw. The closest public golf club to Vermont's most populous city -- out Spear Street, just south of the South Burlington border with Shelburne -- is "Kwinny," as local golfers call it. But it is much easier to reach than to master. The par-72 course boasts three holes longer than 500 yards, and with total yardages of 5627 and 6789 from the women's and men's tees, respectively, that's at least 3 or 4 miles of walking no matter how you slice it. Still, thick woods frame much of the course, giving it a remote feel, and the club's adjacent practice range gives duffers a fighting chance at a decent round.
Club Metronome
Burlington
What's your all-time favorite dance music?
My most favorite dance song is "Mountain Music" by Alabama. Because it's a hoedown.
-- Damon Brink, owner
Merrill's Roxy Cinema
Burlington
What's the most popular movie you've ever shown?
I'd have to look it up, but I would say Fahrenheit 9/11. People were lined up around the block for the first three weekends to see it.
-- Merrill Jarvis, owner
Firehouse Gallery
Burlington
What's the most memorable question a gallery visitor ever asked you about an exhibit?
Are there flavors in these colors?
-- Ruth Erickson, curator
DJ A-Dog
Burlington
Vermont's DJ culture has its fair share of talented turntablists, but DJ A-Dog is in a class of his own. For nearly 10 years he's provided dope beats and clever cross-fades to audiences looking to dance or chill. With his easygoing demeanor and soulful touch, it's no surprise he's still top Dog.
