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Good morning, this is your Burlington Local Frequency for Thursday, April 17, 2025.

There is a definite buzz around town as Burlington wakes up to another beautiful spring Thursday. Looking ahead to today’s events, anyone interested in local democracy can join the Neighborhood Planning Assembly for Ward 5, a meeting where residents have their say in shaping the neighborhood’s future. Staying engaged at the civic level is what keeps Burlington vibrant and responsive to community needs.

For some movement and friendly competition, stop by the local recreation center for Drop-In Intermediate Pickleball. It’s happening in the second-floor gym and is a fantastic way to meet neighbors and get in some exercise, especially for those who already know their way around the pickleball court.

Local literature lovers can mark their calendars for tonight’s edition of the New England Review Ulysses Reading Series. This special gathering celebrates National Poetry Month and is a great chance to experience creative voices from across the region. Whether you’re a poetry aficionado or just looking for inspiration, it should be an energizing listen.

On the arts and entertainment front, the highlight tonight is the Burlington GrandSLAM Championship at the Flynn Center. The show brings together the best storytellers from previous StorySLAMs to compete for the crown. Expect touching, hilarious, and jaw-dropping tales from your neighbors. The doors open at 7:15 and stories start at 8:00, so you might want to grab your tickets early and make an evening of it.

For anyone looking to network and connect with like-minded folks passionate about the planet, don’t miss the Climate Action Collective Networking Night at the Burlington Friends Meeting House, another opportunity to be part of positive change in the community.

And as we look ahead, Burlington’s event calendar is bustling. The Vermont City Marathon is coming up on May 25, and then there’s the much-anticipated Burlington Discover Jazz Festival from June 4 through 8, with music set to spill into every corner of the city. If you’re already in the mood for summer, get ready for the Champlain Valley Fair in August and the South End Art Hop in September, plus keep your ears open for details about the Grand Point North Music Festival.

In the headlines, Burlington’s Police Chief Jon Murad has announced that he will not seek reappointment this June, a development that could bring changes to local law enforcement leadership and policy in coming months.

With so many ways to get involved, get inspired, and get out in the community, Burlington sure is humming with excitement as we charge into the spring season. This has been Burlington Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.