If I were in Vermont next week I'd definitely head to Brattleboro for the annual Strolling of the Heifers. So much more civilized than the Running of the Bulls. The parade takes place June 7, and is followed by a Dairy Fest and Market Place and - new this year - the Miss VerMOOOOnt Beauty Pageant.

Clearly, Vermont is a state interested in the graceful, because up in Killington Ballroom Vermont is hosting a 5 and a half day Dance Camp for Grownups. Sessions are July 20-25 and July 27-Aug. 1.

Across the country, Cannery Row in Monterey, California, is celebrating its 50th birthday. Actually, it's been around longer but, in honor of John Steinbeck, the town christened the stretch of old canneries with the name of his novel in January of 1958. It offers a new IMAX 3D Theater and InterContinental hotel. And the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is still one of the world's great marine ecosystems and popular with both kayakers and sea otters.

Speaking of the sea, The Great Canadian Travel Company (something about that name, boastful as it is, that I like) is conducting a one-week tour to Baffin Island called "Igloolik Whales and Wildlife" (another catchy name). Base camp at Igloolik Point, with guided book expeditions daily. The place apparently is ripe with mammals - walruses and seals in addition to whales - and birds: loons, snowy owls, plovers, etc. Price per person (double occupancy) is $4,999 and includes airfare between Ottawa and Igloolik.