Poutine

Local Food: While there are many different regional variations of poutine, the classic comfort food from Quebec, Steven stays close to tradition: salty cheddar cheese curds from Maplebrook Farm in Bennington, melted in a bowl of French fries and hot chicken gravy to create a rich and creamy appetizer. Try it topped with a fried egg for Sunday Blunch. By the way, Calvin Trillin called poutine the Canadian national dish (and explained its unique pronunciation) in this New Yorker article from November.

The Romance of History: Vermont's original republic might have missed out on the Declaration of Independence and drafting the Constitution, but we can still celebrate George Washington and Abraham Lincoln on President's Day this weekend, when we're open every day for dinner, with baked goods, coffee and bar service from 2:30-5. Look for a Presidential Cocktail for Monday's bar specials.

President's Weekend also coincides with Valentine's Day this Sunday. At Claire's, that means Blunch and dinner service, as we welcome couples, families, and friends for a collective "be my Valentine" to our local farmers. Call for reservations.

Around the Galaxy: The Galaxy will host two exciting world premiers in March. Pre-order Howard Frank Mosher's new novel before March 2nd and be entered in a drawing to enjoy dinner with Howard at Claire's after the event. On March 16th we welcome Ben Hewitt and his book about the Hardwick area, The Town That Food Saved. Pre-order the book before the event and Galaxy will give $5 to the Hardwick Area Food Pantry. Read more about great reading here.

Local Events: Come to Claire's and The Center for an Agricultural Economy on Wednesday February 10 at 5:00 for a fundraiser to support the Neges Foundation and earthquake relief in Haiti. If you have an auction item you would like to donate, please do so at the Buffalo Mountain Co-op. For more information, contact Emily Lanxner at 472-5913.

Music Notes: Hardwick native Matt Renaud and Geoff Greemore join us with their acoustic covers this Thursday, February 11 at 7:30. Don't miss the opportunity to support our local musicians.