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Table of Contents
Cheeks Luxury Skin Clinic
By Phyl Newbeck
By Dr. Kateryna Latypova, DMD
Vermont Symphony Orchestra Performs Annual Family-Friendly Event, ”Holiday Pops.“ December 5-7, 2025 in Barre, Burlington, and Rutland
by Vermont Symphony Orchestra
By Keith Neil-Champlain
By Jim Miller
Our reception lounge reflects the essence of Cheeks: understated elegance paired with the most advanced skincare. From Environ to MBR, Skinbetter Science, Biologique Recherche, and Colorscience, every line we carry is carefully chosen to deliver uncompromising results.
Luxury
CHEEKS Skin Clinic
By Phyl Newbeck
In 2021, Gena Boyden and Anna Gilcris founded Cheeks Concierge Aesthetics on Blair Park Road in Williston. A year or so later they changed the name to Cheeks Luxury Skin Clinic. “We needed a name that explained who we are,” Boyden said. “We are a clinic which addresses different skin issues.” Gilcris added that since not everyone knows what an aesthetician is, they wanted their name to be more specific and identifiable. Their motto is ”relax your mind, revitalize your skin, and radiate your beauty.”
deserves to feel seen, supported, and confident in their own skin. We combine science-backed technology with a personalized approach because there is no one-sizefits-all when it comes to skincare.”
“At
Cheeks, our philosophy is simple,” Boyden said. “We offer results-driven treatments delivered with intention and care. Every client who walks through our doors
Cheeks has three aestheticians at the clinic: Boyden, Gilcris, and Kasey Goodrich, who has years of experience helping clients address a wide range of skin concerns. Gilcris explained that aestheticians attend state-approved schools and get certified and then licensed by the state. Aestheticians can treat skin issues and manage conditions like aging, acne, and pigmentation with professional or medical grade products and equipment.
The word ‘luxury’ was deliberately added to the name because Boyden says she often hears from clients that their experience at Cheeks is unique, focusing on high quality skincare treatments
Spa Treatments at Cheeks Luxury Skin Clinic- Customize, resultsdriven facials that blend advanced technology with luxury techniques.
in a relaxing, luxurious environment. “We want to help people achieve healthy skin,” she said, “but we also want it to be in a setting that can be nurturing and even spiritually uplifting. Our treatments are soothing, comforting, and results driven.”
In addition to being a luxury skin clinic, Cheeks provides medical spa treatments, many which are exclusive to Cheeks. Emface, which is a non-surgical face lift, is a series of four treatments seven to ten days apart and can result in 37% fewer wrinkles and a 23% improvement in lifting. Other treatments include EXION RF (Radio Frequency) Microneedling, which is fantastic for skin tightening, diminishing lines and wrinkles and even acne scars for the face and neck. EXION Clear RF is a microablative treatment to diminish brown and red spots, giving a more even skin tone, improving texture and resulting in a beautiful luminosity. EXION Face is a luxurious treatment that stimulates your Hyaluronic Acid by 224% in a series of four treatments. All of our EXION RF treatments, as well as Emface, are collagen and elastin induction treatments as well.
Gilcris added that Cheeks not only treats people for skin conditions which might either appear or be exacerbated later in life, but it also provides education on these conditions. “We don’t just
“As we get older,” Boyden explained, “a lot of our skin issues become more problematic, or we face additional aging conditions.” Boyden doesn’t like to use the phrase “anti-aging”, preferring to say that their clinic helps people age beautifully. “We want people to have the best skin for the age they are,” she said. “Our goal is not for them to look younger but to look the best for where they are in life.”
Emface at Cheeks Luxury Skin Clinic- A non-surgical facelift that is needle-free, lifts, tones and stimulates collagen while leaving skin naturally refreshed and rejuvenated.
treat our clients in the moment,” she said, “but we help them create a routine to carry them forward.”
Boyden explained that while many women in their 30’s and 40’s today were raised to value self-care; older generations often didn’t grow up with that same mindset. “We see many women who have been used to doing so much for everyone else,” she said “but after a treatment they’ll often recognize that this is something they should be doing for themselves. “It’s almost like they’re giving themselves permission to prioritize their own well-being and that it’s okay for them to pamper themselves,” she said. Boyden noted that although most of their clients are female, they also have a large number of men who come in for treatments.
Gilcris said that one of the things that separates Cheeks from other skin clinics are their product lines.
“We do extensive research on products and try them out ourselves,” she said. “We work with brands that offer professional grade skincare, several of which are exclusive to Cheeks. Among the products Gilcris is proud to use are those made by Biologique Recherche
which is based in Paris. They carry a wide assortment of treatments including cleansers, serums, creams, and masks designed to deliver professional grade results.
Other product lines include the South African brand Environ, known for their powerful Vitamin A based products. Cheeks also carries a German brand called MBR (Medical Beauty Research), recognized for their medical grade anti-aging products and advanced solutions for sensitive skin like rosacea. Skinbetter Science, another of their product lines, also carries nourishing creams and targeted therapy for pigmentation and aging, while Colorscience is a mineral based sunscreen line. “We like to meet people where they are,” she said. “If we prescribe something new, it’s to enhance what they already have- not replace it. That way, their investment in skincare goes further and nothing goes to waste.”
Since every treatment is curated for each client, Boyden explained, Cheeks Luxury Skin Clinic charges
by time, not treatment. Their signature session is 75 minutes, but they offer a mini treatment of 45 minutes and longer treatments that last either 90 or 120 minutes. We have innovative technology that is only available at Cheeks, and nowhere else in Vermont. We draw upon the best technology for each treatment, so we simplify by having our clients just choose the amount of time in the treatment room, and not worry about which treatment to select. We will decide the technology after our client consultation has determined their skincare goals.
Boyden added that every single treatment is curated especially for the client. Treatment is based on what is needed that day and may change from session to session. Their Advanced Face Treatment includes a facial that can also incorporate oxygen infusion, microcurrent electrotherapy, lymphatic massage and LED Light Therapy. “We want to make each treatment feel unique,” she said. “No two treatments are the same.” Because pricing is based on time, any added enhancements are included. This allows us to give the best treatment possible for each client.”
“What sets Cheeks apart is that we treat skincare as a partnership,” said Gilcris. Our clients trust us to curate the right combination of products, treatments, and technologies for their unique needs. It’s about creating an experience that transforms skin while also giving each client the time and space to truly care for themselves.” VM
Phyl Newbeck writes for a wide variety of Vermont newspapers and magazines. She is the author of Virginia Hasn’t Always Been for Lovers: Interracial Marriage Bans and the Case of Richard and Mildred Loving.
Hair restoration with Exosomes- A cutting-edge approach that uses medicalgrade exosomes to restore vitality at the roots, helping clients achieve thicker, healthier hair over time.
Periodontal practice in the age of maturity
By Dr. Kateryna Latypova, DMD
My name is Dr. Kateryna Latypova, DMD. I lived the first half of my life in Ukraine, which seems like a dream now. This year will mark my 50/50 split in my life between Ukraine and USA. Maturity has been a personal quest for me ever since I turned 50. It seems both inevitable and unexpected. These 50 numbers appear to follow me everywhere.
My professional focus as a periodontist is largely in the over-50 age group, as the prevalence of periodontal disease increases significantly with age. Around 2 in 5 adults between ages 45 and 64 experience periodontitis, unfortunately it often goes undiagnosed. Additional risk factors are seen in individuals with diabetes or who smoke, as well as in certain racial and ethnic minorities.
My periodontal practice was first started in 1997 by Doctor William Guild. What began as a celebrityfilled periodontal practice in New York City turned into a dental office in the scenic Vermont town of Bennington. Dr. Guild was in his 50s when he made the radical decision to move from NYC to VT. Maturity spoke to him loud and clear. He slowly built dental relationships in the community, and the part-time
practice became bustling and busy. When the practice became too busy for one provider in 2008, he posted an ad looking for an associate. Long story short, I took the position and joined the practice.
Fast forward a few years - he sold the practice to me, and we continued to practice side by side until the time of the 2020 pandemic. He chose retirement over returning to the practice as he had reached retirement age.
The COVID impact gave us a reality check and showed the vulnerability of a referral business in a small town. We were closed for almost four full months, and it is a blessing we were able to bounce back. Many patients had reservations about coming back to an office setting for dental care.
The disaster of the COVID closure did have certain victories – we were awarded a state grant, which allowed us to buy a new CBCT scan unit. It is essential for quality implant placement and assists in various ways
with many other procedures. I’m very thankful that I have a high-quality machine that allows me to do very precise work. We had to adapt to the new circumstances after 2020. After a sharp turn our practice flows with generous new perks.
A few years ago, I took the necessary courses to become an Invisalign Provider. I can successfully treat periodontally involved ortho cases. Periodontal patients with orthodontic problems are generally not a welcome scenario for a traditional orthodontist. This skill became a niche. I’ve learned to help people realign their teeth, open spaces for implants, or sometimes close the spaces and not have implants.
Additionally, I have embraced lasers. I regularly utilize a small but powerful diode laser tool that helps treatment of periimplantitis and aids with photobiomodulation of a surgical site.
Despite a nationwide hygiene shortage, we feel fortunate and proud to have hygienist extraordinaire Kate Smith on our team. She works efficiently to deliver
a completely thorough and painless visit. Kate also employs an airflow machine that helps to keep inflammation at bay around teeth and implants, which does not damage any of the dental work as opposed to the conventional tools.
Speaking of advantages of maturity, over 20 years of professional experience covered proverbial 10,000 hours more than twice. That, combined with wisdom, enables the stable discerning of right from wrong; clinically and otherwise. Diagnosing periodontal diseases is no longer tricky. Having the internal compass calibrated by experience provides confidence and peace of mind. I am constantly learning, and the science of periodontology broadens my horizons.
I continuously participate in a multitude of continued education courses that help me improve my skills and stay on top of my game.
Periodontal specialty is closely related to the medical profession as it addresses systemic disease. The whole person is treated, not just parts.
I’m so full of joy and contentment to be in my beautiful practice along with my wonderful staff working by my side. I take pride in the professionalism of the practice, and the fact that we get to help people every day.
Maturity is a constant practice, an ongoing process. I strive to continue to share the fruits of my labor with the community. VM
MARCH 3-7, 2026
visit iconic sites like Independence Hall and the L iber t y Bell, explore the grand Masonic Temple , and step inside the haunting Eastern State Penitentiar y. Savor the vibrant atmosphere of the Philadelphia Flower Show before traveling to Wilmington for a two -night stay at the legendar y Hotel du Pont . Known for its Gilded Age grandeur and modern luxur y, this historic hotel offers sumptuous accommodations and fine dining in an unforgettable setting. In the Brandywine Valley, stroll through Longwood Gardens, explore the Hagley Museum’s industrial heritage , and admire the Wyeth family masterpieces at the Brandywine River Museum of Ar t . With Champlain Tours handling ever y detail, this getaway promises histor y, culture , and the refined comfor t of a truly iconic hotel.
AUGUST 7 9-29, 2026
This is your chance to experience Southern France and Spain in ultimate st yle -we’ ve chartered the entire MS Anne -Marie exclusively for our group, with space for just 18 guests . Your journe y begins in sun-drenched Aries , gliding along tranquil canals through the Camargue , where wild white horses and pink f lamingos roam. E xplore medieval cities , taste fine wines , and savor che f-prepared meals onboard your f loating boutique hotel. Then cross into Catalonia for vine yard lunches , Dalf ’s surreal ar tistr y, and the vibrant streets of Barcelona. From Montserrat ’s sacred peak s to the sparkling Cava cellars of Penedes , ever y day blends culture , histor y, and indulgence. No crowds , no rush-just
unforgettable moments shared with a select few. With space this limited, hesitation means missing out .
Performs Annual Family-Friendly Event,
The Vermont Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops
December 5-7, 2025 in Barre, Burlington, and Rutland
Submitted by The Vermont Symphony Orchestra
Burlington, VT – October 16, 2025 – The Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO) returns with its beloved Holiday Pops concert series, taking place December 5–7, 2025, in Barre, Burlington, and Rutland. This festive tradition features classic holiday favorites, including Richard Hayman’s Carol of the Bells, excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite, readings from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, and Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride to close the program.
“Each year, we eagerly anticipate sharing this cherished program with communities across Vermont,” said Andrew Crust, VSO Music Director. “Featuring beloved seasonal classics, an exciting new commissioned work, and evocative spoken narrations woven
throughout the performance, this year’s program offers something to delight every listener.”
The 2025 Holiday Pops concerts include young singers from the Opera Company of Middlebury (OCM) and two Vermont-based guest narrators. M.T. Anderson, an award-winning children’s author, will read excerpts from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, accompanied by musical selections. Jazz legend Marty Fogel will narrate the world premiere of local composer Michael Schachter’s The First Snow of Chelm, inspired by a Jewish folktale.
“The Opera Company of Middlebury is thrilled to collaborate in this beloved holiday program with gifted young singers, ages 10 to 17, from its Youth Opera
and Children’s Chorus programs,” said Sarah Cullins, OCM’s General Director and Director of Education and Outreach.
The full program includes:
• Samuel Coleridge-Taylor/arr. Baynes –Christmas Overture
• Richard Hayman – Carol of the Bells
• A reading of excerpts from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, with musical selections from:
• Kelly-Marie Murphy – Huron Carol Interlude
• Ralph Vaughan Williams – Fantasia on Greensleeves
• Peter Warlock – Pied-en-l’air and Pavane from “Capriol Suite”
• Howard Blake – Walking in the Air
• Sergei Prokofiev – Lieutenant Kijé, op. 60: Troika
• Delvyn Case – Rocket Sleigh
• Arr. Sheldon – A Most Wonderful Christmas
• Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky – Excerpts from The Nutcracker Suit
• Traditional/Rutter – The Twelve Days of (Vermont) Christmas
• Arr. Finnegan – Christmas Sing-a-Long
• Michael Schachter – The First Snow of Chelm (world premiere; with narration)
• Leroy Anderson – Sleigh Ride
EVENT DETAILS:
December 5, 2025 at Barre Opera House in Barre, 7:30-9:30 PM
December 6, 2025 at The Flynn in Burlington, 7:30-9:30 PM
December 7, 2025 at Paramount Theatre in Rutland, 3:00-5:00 PM
To purchase tickets to these concerts, visit vso. org. Discounted tickets are available for students, under 12s, and AARP members.
This series is supported by Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty, AARP Vermont, Community Bank, N.A. and the State of Vermont.
ABOUT THE VERMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA:
With a legacy of more than 90 years delivering toptier musical performances and educational programs, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra is a cultural cornerstone in the region, enriching communities and the lives of Vermonters statewide. With a commitment to artistic excellence, innovative programming, and community engagement, the VSO has established itself as one of the country’s premier state orchestras. VM
For more information about the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, visit VSO.org. For press release related questions, please contact Abbey at abbey@cultivatepr.co.
ABBIATI MONUMENTS
• Highest Quality Monuments • Custom Engraving
• Bronze Plaques • Granite Posts • Benches
• Steps • Delivery and Installation available
What happened when I let someone else handle everything (including Greece)
By Keith Neil-Champlain Tours
I’ll admit it: I used to be one of those travelers who had to plan every single thing. I packed highlighters. I made spreadsheets. I thought comparing five ferry websites made me “connected to the culture.”
But when I saw an itinerary for a small-group Greek Isles trip—fully escorted, with someone named Kim meeting me at my local airport—I thought: Maybe just this once… I’ll let someone else take the wheel.
Spoiler: Best decision I’ve ever made.
From the moment we landed in Athens, everything just worked. No scrambling for taxis. No awkward translation apps. No double-checking museum hours. Just a thoughtful pace and the kind of organization that makes you feel taken care of without feeling herded.
I stayed in a charming hotel a stone’s throw from the Acropolis. Explored the Parthenon with a local guide who made ancient columns sound like juicy gossip. Wandered streets where emperors once strolled, then sat down for a glass of wine in the shadow of Hadrian’s Gate. I didn’t look at my phone once. (Okay, once—for a photo.)
Then came the real magic: boarding a four-masted sailing yacht with fewer than 150 passengers. The Wind Spirit felt less like a cruise and more like a floating hideaway. It had teak decks, crisp sea air, and just enough gentle sway to remind me I wasn’t in a meeting anymore. Each island was like unwrapping a new chapter:
• Nafplio’s cobblestones and bougainvillea
• Mykonos, with its windmills and whitewashed bliss
• Santorini, which looks fake but absolutely wisn’t
• Ephesus, where we had dinner under the stars, next to the Celsus Library, and I briefly questioned whether I’d timetraveled
Some days I joined guided excursions. Other days, I wandered and got “pleasantly lost.” Onboard, I swam off the back of the ship, danced in a taverna, and fell asleep with the balcony door open to the Aegean breeze.
What made the difference wasn’t just the itinerary. It was that someone else had thought of everything, right down to the luggage tags. For me, that was Champlain Tours, and yes—they’re offering this same trip again: May 11–21, 2026. VM
Things You Won’t Have to Worry About on Your Greek Isles Adventure:
✔ “Should we tip the guide?” (Already done.)
✔ “Do we need ferry tickets?” (Nope, you’re on a yacht. With sails.)
✔ “Is this hotel safe?” (It has a rooftop bar and a view of the Acropolis. You’ll survive.)
✔ “What if I lose my sunglasses?” (Our tour manager probably already found them.)
✔ “I forgot to book dinner.” (That’s adorable. It’s already reserved.)
✔ “Did I leave someone at the last stop?” (We counted. Twice.)
✔ “Are we having fun yet?” (Yes. And it’s only day two.)
If you’re tired of “vacations” that leave you needing another vacation… maybe it’s time to let go. Let someone else plan. Let the wind carry you. Let Greece do what Greece does best: surprise you.
New 2026 coming to mailboxes soon!” “Contact us for a copy”
SENIOR
What seniors need to know about this Fall’s vaccines
By Jim Miller
Dear Savvy Senior,
With a longtime vaccine critic leading the nation’s health departments, can you give me updated information on which vaccines are recommended for Medicare seniors this fall?
Medicare Mary
Dear Mary,
Even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is undergoing major cultural changes and upheaval, to date, the overall fall vaccine recommendations for “older adults” resembles last year. But there are a few new tweaks you need to be aware of. Here’s what you should know.
FLU SHOTS FOR SENIORS
Just as they normally do, the CDC recommends a seasonal flu shot to everyone 6 months of age and older, but it’s especially important for older adults who have weaker immune defenses and have a greater risk of developing dangerous flu complications compared with younger, healthy adults.
For people age 65 and older, there are three different FDA approved flu vaccines
(you only need one) that are recommended over traditional flu shots. These include: the Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, Flublok Quadrivalent (recombinant, egg free vaccine), and Fluad Quadrivalent.
These vaccines are formulated to create a more robust immune response, helping the body produce more antibodies, which makes them more effective in preventing the flu.
All flu vaccines are covered 100 percent by Medicare Part B as long as your doctor, health clinic or pharmacy agrees not to charge you more than Medicare pays.
RSV SHOTS
In addition to the flu shot, the CDC also recommends a single-dose of RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine for all adults age 75 and older, as well as to high-risk adults between ages 50 and 74. These are people who have chronic heart or lung disease, weakened immune systems, diabetes with complications, severe obesity, or who live in long-term care facilities.
RSV is responsible for 6,000 to 10,000 deaths and up to 150,000 hospitalizations each year.
The three RSV vaccines approved and available in the U.S. – Arexvy, Abrysvo and mResvia – are all covered under Medicare (Part D) prescription drug plans. But note that if you got an RSV shot last year, or when it first became available in 2023, you do not need to get a second dose this year. For now, only one dose of RSV vaccine is recommended.
COVID BOOSTER
If you haven’t had a Covid booster shot lately, the Food and Drug Administration recently approved the 2025–2026 Covid-19 vaccine, which has been updated to target the dominant strain. This vaccine is recommended for all adults 65 and older and younger people that have a health condition that makes them vulnerable to severe Covid. That includes people with asthma, cancer, heart or lung problems, obesity, depression, a history of smoking or physical inactivity.
Covid still causes at least 40,000 hospitalizations and approximately 47,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. Covid shots are covered by Medicare Part B.
PNEUMONIA VACCINES
If you haven’t been vaccinated for pneumonia, you should also consider getting the pneumococcal vaccine this fall. These vaccines are now recommended by the CDC to adults age 50 and older, instead of age 65, which was the previous recommendation.
Pneumonia causes a whopping 1.2 million people to visit medical emergency departments in the U.S. each year and causes roughly 50,000 deaths.
If you’ve never been vaccinated for pneumonia, the PCV20 (Prevnar 20) or PCV21 (Capvaxive) are the top choices because they cover the most common serotypes. Medicare Part B covers pneumococcal shots, and you only need to get it once.
SIDE-EFFECTS AND SAFETY
You should be aware that all these vaccines can cause mild side effects like pain or tenderness where you got the shot, muscle aches, headache, fever or fatigue.
Also note that it’s safe to receive these vaccines at the same time, but it may be best to spread them out a week or two because multiple vaccinations on the same day may cause increased side-effects. VM
Send your questions or comments to questions@ savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
Philip Soltau has be en name d the 20 25 w inner of the A ARP A ndrus Award for Communit y Ser vice in Vermont
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteer Philip Soltau has been named the 2025 winner of the AARP Andrus Award for Community Ser vice in Vermont. The award is named for AARP founder, Dr Ethel Percy Andrus, an educator and tireless advocate of community ser vice and volunteerism who coined the motto, “ To Ser ve, Not to be Ser ved,” which remains part of the AARP credo to this day. The Andrus Award is AARP’s highest honor and is presented annually to a volunteer who has made a powerful difference in their community.
As the District Coordinator for Chittenden County for the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program, Phil has been a leader not only in promoting the program but also in ensuring his team is prepared and eager to provide free tax-filing assistance to those who need it most, with sessions held in senior centers, libraries, and assisted living facilities. In 2025, the Chittenden County team of 57 volunteers, under Phil’s leadership, generated $1.3 million in Federal and State refunds by preparing 1,859 tax returns.
Are you interested in volunteering with AARP or the AARP Foundation? AARP Vermont is hosting an Open House on Januar y 14, 2026, at 1:00 pm at our Burlington office for prospective volunteers to learn more about each program area. Whether you can spare a few hours or commit long-term, you can make a difference—and new friends, too
Learn more at: events .aarp.org/VolunteerVermont26
SMarilu Henner made her mark on Hallmark
By Nick Thomas
ince its debut as the Hallmark Channel in 2001, the network has become a beloved TV destination for millions of viewers, especially during the holiday season with its Christmasthemed features. While Hallmark has cultivated a recognizable roster of its own stars, their programs have also featured an impressive lineup of veteran film and television icons over the years, including Ed Asner, Christopher Lloyd, Shirley MacLaine, Roger Moore, Danny Glover, Burt Reynolds, and Carrie Fisher.
Marilu Henner.
Best known to TV fans of the late 70s and early 80s hit the NBC comedy series “Taxi” where she played a part-time cabbie, Henner has continued to work in film and television including some 30 Hallmark productions
such as their murder mystery movie series, “A Teagarden Mystery.”
The channel does have its critics, given the oftenrepetitive nature of their movies and predictable happy boy-always-gets-girl outcome.
“Yeah, it’s the same formula but it works,” said Henner of the Christmas movies. “They’re just kind of feel-good stories that the whole family can watch. There’s always hot chocolate, cookies baking, cutting down their own Christmas tree, and of course a final kiss.”
She especially remembers one film from 2020.
“Of all the Christmas movies I’ve done, ‘Love, Lights, Hanukkah! is one of my favorites,” she recalled. “The story is about a girl (played by Mia Kirshner) that I gave up for adoption when I was young. She finds out that she’s not just all Italian but half Jewish after a DNA test and reconnects with me and my family. It’s such a sweet holiday movie.”
In 2022, she played Gramma Mia in “A Kismet Christmas” where she is the keeper of a famous family recipe for kismet cookies. If placed under one’s pillow, the sweet treats allow the sleeper to dream of their true love kismet – a Turkish word synonymous with destiny.
“My character is very nurturing with a certain wisdom and she’s always cooking, like me,” said Henner.
“We filmed in Victoria (Canada) and had some scenes in traditional Dickens-like costumes which was fun.”
Henner has appeared in some 20 of the Hallmark Teagarden mysteries where she plays the mother of a librarian named Aurora Teagarden who belongs to a group of enthusiasts who study true historical crimes. Unlike other network or cable crime dramas, the on-screen violence is minimal.
“You’re not going to see dead bodies or pools of blood everywhere, so I can watch it with my young niece,” she explained.
“Taxi” was one of Henner’s first onscreen appearances. Given the co-stars who would go on to become huge stars (including Danny DeVito, Judd Hirch, and Tony Danza), there are plenty of stories to share from the show’s four seasons.
unemployment check, his last clean shirt, and he had no money when he read the script for ‘Taxi’ and felt it was a great part. He goes to the audition and is in a room full of studio suits with the script in his hand. He throws it down and says, ‘Who wrote this ‘crap’ (censored!)? and they said ‘that’s our Louie.’ He was the only truly irreplaceable character in the show.”
“Taxi” may have launched Marilu’s career, but at 73 she has made her mark on Hallmark.
“First of all, they are really nice people to work with and I always have a great time with them,” she said of her association with the network. “They pick interesting locations and there’s always something in the characters that I relate to. People come up to me all the time and tell me how much they love Hallmark movies.” VM
“Want to hear a great Danny DeVito story?” asked Henner, referring to the actor who played Louie, the grumpy cab dispatcher. “Danny was down to his last
Nick Thomas has written features, columns, and interviews for numerous magazines and newspapers.
See www.getnickt.org.
Reading the Vermont market through a senior lens
By Ben Durant
As the leaves turn and Vermont settles into its quiet November rhythm, many older homeowners begin to reflect on the year behind and the years ahead. For some, that reflection includes a big question: Is it time to sell? Whether you are considering downsizing, relocating, or simply simplifying, understanding the current real estate market through a senior lens can help you make a confident and informed decision.
The Emotional Landscape
Selling a home is not just a financial transaction. It is a deeply personal milestone. For many Vermont seniors, their home is a place of legacy, filled with memories of family gatherings, snowy mornings, and summer evenings on the porch. Letting go of that space can feel daunting, even when the practical reasons are compelling.
That is why timing matters. Selling when the market is favorable, when your health and energy allow for a smooth transition, and when you have had time to emotionally prepare can make all the difference.
What the Market Is Saying
As of late 2025, Vermont’s real estate market remains resilient. Inventory is tight, especially in Chittenden County and surrounding towns such as Charlotte, Shelburne, and Underhill. Well-maintained homes with character are in high demand, particularly those with energy-efficient upgrades or flexible layouts.
Buyers are looking for homes that offer warmth, charm, and functionality. If your property includes features such as a first-floor bedroom, updated insulation, or a cozy wood stove, you are already ahead of the curve. And if your home needs a little polish, do
not worry. Many buyers are willing to invest in cosmetic updates if the structure is solid.
Seasonal Considerations
While spring and summer are traditionally the busiest seasons for real estate, fall and early winter can be surprisingly productive. Serious buyers are still active, and with fewer listings on the market, your home may stand out more. November offers a unique window. Buyers looking to settle before the holidays or plan ahead for the new year are motivated and ready to move.
That said, Vermont’s weather can be a factor. Snow-covered driveways and icy walkways are not ideal for showings. If you are planning to list in late fall or winter, make sure your property is safe, accessible, and inviting. A warm fire, tasteful seasonal decor, and clear paths can make a lasting impression.
Senior-Specific Selling Strategies
If you are a senior homeowner, your priorities may differ from younger sellers. You might be looking for a smaller, more manageable space, proximity to family or healthcare, or a home that supports aging in place. Here are a few strategies to consider:
sellers and can guide you through the process with empathy and expertise. • Declutter with purpose. Downsizing is not just about space. It is about clarity. Let go of items that no longer serve you and highlight the features of your home that buyers will love. • Stage for comfort. Create a welcoming atmosphere that showcases your home’s warmth and livability. Soft lighting, clean lines, and Vermont touches such as maple syrup or local art can make a lasting impression. • Plan your next step. Whether you are moving to a condo in Burlington, a cottage in Vergennes, or joining a senior living community, having a clear plan for your next chapter will ease the transition.
The Bottom Line
Selling your home is a big decision, but it does not have to be overwhelming. By understanding the market, preparing thoughtfully, and leaning on trusted professionals, you can turn this moment into an opportunity for renewal. VM
• Work with a Senior Real Estate Specialist. These professionals understand the unique needs of older
Ben Durant is the owner of The Durant Agency, a Vermont-based real estate company specializing in helping seniors and Boomers navigate the downsizing journey with confidence and care. With a deep understanding of the local market and a passion for community. Ben offers personalized support and a passion for community, Ben offers personalized support to make transitions smoother; whether you’re selling a longtime home or exploring new housing options.
Vermont’s Area Agencies on Aging
expect spike in Medicare Counseling Demand due to Medicare Advantage Cancellations
By Mary Hayden, Executive Director of Vermont Association of Area Agencies on Aging
Many Vermonters with Medicare Advantage Plans received cancellation notices effective at the end of 2025. Affected beneficiaries should carefully review and save their cancellation letter, which provides information on how and when to timely enroll in a new plan.
Vermont’s five Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) administer the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (“SHIP”), offering free, unbiased, and confidential health insurance counseling, including assistance with Medicare Plan changes, for individuals, their families, and caregivers during annual open enrollment.
The annual Medicare open enrollment period runs from October 15 through December 7. This is the time for Medicare beneficiaries to review and make changes to their coverage. With the reduction in available Medicare Advantage plans, Area Agencies on Aging expect a significant increase in the number of Vermont Medicare beneficiaries seeking SHIP open enrollment appointments to make plan changes. AAA SHIP counselors will schedule as many open enrollment appointments as possible, while serving the most vulnerable beneficiaries with complex plan changes, and those eligible for low-income programs.
AAAs are also increasing the number of SHIP volunteers and interns. Area Agencies on Aging Information, Assistance, Referral and HELPLINE (800-642-5119) staff will be available to provide general information and assistance to callers. AAAs may refer beneficiaries directly to Medicare.gov or 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227) for enrollment assistance.
1-800-Medicare is staffed 24/7 and can assist with your enrollment needs.
Vermont is the third oldest state in the nation, with 155,000 Medicare beneficiaries.
“Vermonters are feeling the impact of fewer Medicare insurance plans coupled with an increasing need for many other services for older and disabled Vermonters,” according to Sam Carleton, Statewide SHIP Director. “Federal funding for SHIP Programs has been reduced or remained flat year over year while the nation’s aging demographic has grown, with 11,000 baby boomers turning 65 every day. SHIP counselors are working hard to schedule as many Medicare
beneficiaries with individual appointments as possible under these circumstances,” noted Carleton.
SHIP Programs are funded and regulated under the federal Administration for Community Living (ACL) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Each year, SHIP programs assist over 6,000 Vermonters in choosing the most cost-effective Medicare Plan to meet your healthcare needs. If you need to review and change your Medicare plans, please go to Medicare.gov or contact 1-800-Medicare (1-800-6334227) for assistance. If you are 60+ or a disabled adult under 60 in need of aging services, including health insurance counseling, please call the HELPLINE at 1-800-642-5119 to be referred to your local Area Agency on Aging.
Vermont’s five Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) coordinate and provide free supports that enable Vermonters and individuals with disabilities to meet their health-related social needs and age with dignity, both at home and in their communities.
Our services include: case management (long-term care coordination); home-delivered meals (“Meals on Wheels”); community meals; caregiver support; information and assistance helplines; Medicare counseling and education; wellness activities and programs; and outreach and application assistance for benefits, such as VPharm, Medicare low-income savings, housing, fuel assistance, and 3SquaresVT.
VERMONT’S AREA AGENCIES ON AGING INCLUDE:
✔ Age Well
(Grand Isle, Franklin, Chittenden, Addison)
✔ Central Vermont Council on Aging (Central Vermont)
✔ Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging (Caledonia, Essex, Orleans)
✔ Senior Solutions (Southeastern Vermont)
✔ Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (Bennington, Rutland) VM
AN UNPARALLELED LEVEL OF EXPERTISE IN SKINCARE + SELF-CARE
