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After July 2023 floods devastated the Vermont Studio Center, tearing down its iconic Wolf Kahn Studio, a major federal lifeline arrived—nearly $2 million from FEMA, part of a $4 million grant for Vermont’s flood recovery. The center isn’t just rebuilding; it’s relocating the studio to higher ground, a bold climate adaptation move. Three years of bureaucratic hurdles and community rallying—dozens showed up the day after the flood—finally paved the way. The new studio is set to open by April 2028, with resilience projects on the horizon, proving this vital arts hub’s enduring role in both creativity and the local...

Three adorable cats at Franklin County Animal Rescue are ready to steal your heart—each with their own charm and quirks. Hansel, the one-year-old, starts shy but melts into drooling, lick-loving devotion once he warms up. Mama Cat, an affectionate eight-year-old at 22 pounds, craves lap cuddles and is working toward a healthier weight. Pumpkin, sweet and kid-friendly, just needs a dog-free home to feel secure. If you’ve got love and space, one of these feline friends might be your perfect new family member.

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This Saturday, join a moving bus tour from the Underground Railroad Museum honoring Juneteenth by exploring hidden stops where freedom seekers once found refuge on their journey to Canada. Discover the hauntingly preserved cellar of Stephen Keese Smith’s Quaker farm, where secrecy and courage saved lives. Feel the quiet reverence of these sites, where history whispers through original floors and hinges. Even without full access, each stop offers profound insight into the bravery of those who risked everything for liberty. This Juneteenth, walk in their footsteps and remember the long road to freedom.

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Tillie Walden, a Vermont-based cartoonist and wife of a woman, spent three years meticulously crafting her graphic novel “Charity and Sylvia,” honoring two pioneering same-sex partners from 19th-century Vermont. Drawing from her own life and surroundings, Walden painstakingly hand-drafted every panel, weaving history with personal resonance. The story of Charity Bryant and Sylvia Drake—documented as one of America’s first same-sex couples—echoes through time and place, with Vermont serving as both sanctuary then and now. Find the book statewide, or snag a signed copy at Norwich’s bookstore.

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Discover the powerful stories of Black Vermonters through “Vibrant Lives,” a groundbreaking oral history project by Rajnii Eddins and René Rentería. Fifteen young interviewers, including Eddins’ daughter and niece, captured intimate tales from elders like Civil Rights activist Christine Longmore Hughes, refugee Aden Haji, and Afro-jazz artist Irene KeruBo Webster. Combining video, audio, and striking portraits, this exhibit—opening June 30 at the South Burlington Public Library—celebrates overlooked voices and fosters connection across generations. Don’t miss this moving tribute to resilience, identity, and community.

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IPOs may sound like golden opportunities, especially with big names like SpaceX, but financial expert Dan Cunningham warns against jumping in on the hype. He argues that historically, IPOs carry high risk and often disappoint long-term investors chasing early-mover rewards. While the broader market tends to stabilize over time, individual IPOs remain volatile and unpredictable. The takeaway? Stay cautious—let the dust settle before committing your money.

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Vermont’s governor just signed H.955, a landmark education reform bill that lets school districts voluntarily merge—no forced consolidations here, but a chance to team up on their own terms. Over the next year, districts will explore options through 20 committees, aiming to form contiguous districts with at least 2,000 students, blending local elementary schools with regional middle and high schools. By Town Meeting Day in 2028, voters will decide whether to join. But there’s a catch: new funding rules give the state more control over spending, pushing districts toward partnerships to survive budget pressures. This voluntary path may feel like A...

Vermont just added two more confirmed tornadoes, bringing its total since records began to at least 74—making it a state with a surprisingly stormy past. From a 1782 tornado that crossed into New Hampshire and killed one, to the 1962 record year with five twisters, Vermont’s mountainous terrain once hid these storms—but today’s tech is revealing more. Franklin County leads with eight, most rated EF-2, though 23 remain unclassified. Even without Midwest-style monsters, Vermont’s tornado history is far from quiet.

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Two tornadoes ripped through Vermont on Thursday, June 18, 2026, slamming Lincoln and Woodstock with devastating force. While exact details like wind speeds and path lengths are still pending from the National Weather Service, drone footage from Woodstock revealed roofs torn off and trees snapped clean in a wake of destruction. Meteorologists had issued warnings for embedded tornadoes earlier that afternoon, and the WCAX First Alert Weather Team is urging everyone to download their app and enable alerts—because when the next storm hits, you can’t afford to miss a warning.

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Juneteenth kicked off in Burlington with a lively block party at the Richard Kemp Center—complete with bounce houses, face painting, spoken word, and historical exhibits—where organizers remind us learning must continue beyond the festivities. The Root Social Justice Center in Brattleboro helps preserve and showcase Black Vermonters’ achievements right here in Burlington, keeping history alive and visible. The party ended around 5 PM, but don’t miss today’s Juneteenth celebration at City Hall Park, starting at 1 PM. It’s your chance to honor freedom, reflect on equality, and join the ongoing journey toward justice.

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A devastating fire at Saratoga Casino Hotel killed 17 horses, sparking urgent statewide scrutiny of fire safety at all 11 New York racetracks. Officials are now pushing for stricter, uniform fire prevention standards beyond basic building codes, aiming to protect these animals and prevent future tragedies. An ongoing investigation seeks to uncover why the blaze spread so fast, with the hope of turning grief into lifesaving reform.

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Two tornadoes ripped through Vermont on Thursday— one in Woodstock, another in Lincoln— confirmed by radar, drone footage, and aerial surveys after storms left thousands without power and snapped trees clean off. Storm chasers like Henry Swenson helped seal the evidence, highlighting how fast and deadly these weather systems can strike. Now, communities focus on recovery as they brace for the aftermath of back-to-back twisters.

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Senator Peter Welch warns of growing threats to free speech, especially targeting non-citizens, pushing his Land of the Free Act to shield visa holders and residents. Meanwhile, the Governor vetoes S.190, a bill meant to slash health insurance costs via reference-based pricing — critics say it misses a chance to ease Vermonters’ financial burden. On the bright side, $3 million in federal grants fuel park and trail upgrades statewide, while Kristin McClure steps into the role of Human Resources Commissioner after Beth Fastiggi’s tenure. And with over $7 million from the Northern Border Regional Commission’s Catalyst Program, rural Vermont communities are pois...

City officials are finally moving forward on downtown traffic solutions after five years of waiting, with new ideas gaining traction — including turning Wales Street back to two-way traffic to ease congestion if Center Street goes one-way. But that could mean losing parking for groups like the VFW. Other options include making Center Street pedestrian-only or tweaking its one-way layout to curve around the Paramount Theater. Community feedback shows strong support for the one-way plans, signaling a shift toward bold, long-overdue changes.

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The Champlain Parkway, a 60-year dream, is finally opening—and you’ve got one last chance to experience it firsthand. This Sunday, over 400 runners will race a mile on the brand-new road before cars take over Monday. With staggered starts based on pace, it’s a one-of-a-kind event—and once traffic hits, it’s nearly impossible to shut it down again. Miss the race? No problem: Local Motion is hosting a community bike ride afterward, the first and last time bikes will roll on this highway-style stretch. It’s a fleeting, unforgettable moment for Vermonters to celebrate a monumental road before...

Vermont’s cracking down on high-powered electric motorcycles—any e-bike over 30 mph or 750 watts is now classified as a motorcycle, requiring registration, licensing, and a motorcycle endorsement. Officials are enforcing these rules strictly to keep roads and bike paths safe from dangerous speed and power mixes, especially as e-motos grow in popularity. Know the rules before you ride—or risk a ticket.

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A lost toddler found wandering alone on Railroad Street in St. Johnsbury—with no ID, no parents in sight, and unable to speak—has the whole community on edge. Police and child welfare are racing to identify the child and reunite him with his family, urging anyone with even the tiniest clue to call 802-748-2314. This heartbreaking mystery is testing everyone’s compassion—and their eyes are everywhere.

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A Vermont woman faces up to 15 years in prison after her pit bull allegedly killed her 76-year-old father and injured two others — a case that could redefine criminal liability for dog owners. Despite prior incidents requiring stitches and court-ordered muzzle restrictions, prosecutors argue she failed to act responsibly, potentially exposing a new legal precedent on pet ownership and gross negligence. The dog, Jack, was euthanized after the fatal attack, and the woman remains on probation, barred from owning any new dogs, with her next court date set for August 26.

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Burlington’s downtown overdose crisis is showing early signs of relief—with EMS calls down sharply and confirmed overdoses dropping to just thirteen by April. But officials warn warmer weather could trigger a rebound, prompting continued vigilance. The city’s collaborative “Situation Table” connects people with over twenty organizations, while the Howard Center’s Street Outreach Team—funded with nearly $250K—focuses on proactive mental health support and relationship-building, reaching both housed and unhoused individuals. Police Chief Burke emphasizes tackling root causes to reduce reliance on emergency services, as the community works together to turn the tide.

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Sarah King turns heartache into harmony with a haunting, deeply personal cover of Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here,” recorded in Wisconsin after surviving thyroid cancer and losing her father—just as she was ready to return to music. Joined by collaborator John Galgano, who also recently lost his dad, they poured their grief into the track, releasing it for Father’s Day as a tribute to all fathers missed. A moving testament to resilience, love, and the healing power of music.

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Get ready for summer fun at the Fletcher Free Library with their brand-new “Unearth a Story” challenge kicking off June 20th and running through August 17th. Kids and adults alike can dive into reading adventures, from giant inflatable dinosaurs and live musicals like “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus” to classic shows like “The Secret Garden” and “Moana Jr.” Plus, new this year: “Read to a Dog” Wednesdays and library staff bringing activities straight to your local parks. Sign up via the Beanstack app to track progress, earn badges, and enter prize raffles. Teens and adults can play Summer Challenge...

A tornado ripped through Woodstock, Vermont, leaving behind shattered trees, downed power lines, and damaged homes—mostly in the west neighborhood. Though the storm struck in under a minute, its impact is massive. Yet, amid the devastation, neighbors are rallying together, showing incredible resilience. Officials urge residents to document damage and report downed lines, with power restoration expected by Friday. The National Weather Service will soon confirm the tornado’s path. This community’s spirit is already lifting them up, one neighbor at a time.

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Vermont’s Governor Phil Scott signs sweeping new laws to expand optometrist authority, compensate landowners for boundary encroachments, and overhaul career tech education—while vetoing a fair employment bill he deemed unnecessary, signaling his priorities for state progress.

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Five arrests made in a major drug bust across St. Albans and Highgate, with police seizing weapons, drugs, and packaging gear — a coordinated effort by state, FBI, and Northern Vermont Drug Task Force shutting down a significant operation.

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Don’t miss the Vermont Heart Walk on June 20th at Centennial Field—where real survivors share stories, bystanders learn life-saving CPR in 90 seconds, and community heroes step up to save lives. Join Dan Werme, Chloe Labelle (19, who survived cardiac arrest), and Chelsea Manor (the hero who saved her) as we rally for faster, more prepared responses to cardiac emergencies. Over 350,000 people outside hospitals face cardiac arrest each year—most don’t survive. But immediate CPR from a bystander can change that. Sign up now at Heart.org/VTHeartWalk.

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A full academic year after banning cell phones in North Country schools, the results are surprising: students are paying more attention, teachers are teaching without constant phone interruptions, and kids are actually connecting with each other—both in class and outside—without their devices. Even students who resisted the ban admit they’re enjoying the newfound social and academic benefits of putting phones down.

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At 90 years young, Stew Park still lights up the classroom at Village School with his bright smile and unwavering dedication to traditional teaching—reading, writing, arithmetic, and kindness. Once a railroad worker turned substitute teacher after personal hardship, he now mentors sixth graders who adore his firm yet fair presence and the safe, uplifting environment he’s built. As his students prepare to move on next year, they’re heartbroken to lose him—but his legacy of joy, discipline, and love for learning lives on in every lesson he’s ever taught.

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Vermont’s highest court is now deciding whether Governor Scott overstepped his authority when ordering state workers back to the office three days a week — a move unions say bypassed essential collective bargaining. The case stems from a 2012 telework policy the state claims gives it “sole discretion,” but the union argues that only applies to individual cases, not sweeping mandates. A labor board already sided with the union, and the state’s appeal has landed before the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the state rolled out a new policy reverting to pre-pandemic telework arrangements — but with no timeline for when the court’s fina...

Rutland’s gearing up to transform Center Street as part of major water and sewer upgrades approved by voters — and a new downtown hotel is on the way. City leaders are weighing a one-way street option to improve traffic flow, but parking remains a top concern. Mayor Tom Donahue emphasized balancing driver convenience with pedestrian needs. With construction slated for next year, the city is holding community meetings to gather input before finalizing plans — ensuring the revamped street serves everyone.

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Vermont took a direct hit from brutal thunderstorms yesterday, with heavy rain, high winds, and tornado warnings rocking Rutland, Middlebury, and Montpelier. Over 20,000 homes and businesses lost power, especially in Windsor and Bennington counties, while flash floods hit Dorset and Sandgate after nearly two inches of rain fell in minutes. Crews restored power to 10,000 customers by evening, but more storms are expected Friday night through the weekend—so stay alert and keep those umbrellas handy.

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Vermont’s highest court is now deciding whether Governor Phil Scott’s mandate for state employees to return three days a week to the office violates union agreements — a clash between management’s push for efficiency and workers’ rights, with potential taxpayer reimbursements hanging in the balance until a ruling arrives.

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Thursday’s storms unleashed chaos across the region—high winds tore through, snapping power lines and toppling trees, forcing road closures from Western Avenue to Route 7. Rivers roared out of control, flooding intersections and sending water into basements. While officials still investigate whether a tornado hit Woodstock, the damage is undeniable. Cleanup and power restoration are underway—but recovery will take time. Stay safe and keep watching the skies.

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A groundbreaking new athletic complex is coming to Champlain Valley Union, thanks to the Community Field Project—a privately funded, state-of-the-art turf field designed to unite the community, spark joy, and foster real connections. With ADA accessibility, environmental upgrades, and year-round usability, this isn’t just about sports—it’s a gift to the region, built on transparency and community input, and poised to become a revenue generator while solving long-standing drainage issues.

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Tornado suspected in Woodstock, Vermont—Route Seven blocked by downed trees and power lines, with dramatic photos showing widespread damage. Meteorologist on scene notes classic tornado indicators, but NWS needs to survey before confirming. Travelers should proceed with caution as cleanup begins.

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Congresswoman Becca Balint blasts the new Iran deal as a dangerous concession that fails to honor American sacrifice, while Senator Peter Welch cautiously welcomes ceasefire progress but remains critical of the war’s devastating toll on civilians and the economy.

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A dramatic tree crash onto power lines in Plattsburgh captured on Ring camera sent sparks flying—thankfully with no injuries. Amid widespread storm damage from thunderstorms and high winds, emergency crews are on alert, urging residents to treat all downed lines as live and dangerous. Officials are securing buildings, cutting power where needed, and pushing cleanup efforts while stressing public safety and immediate reporting of hazards.

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Woodstock, Vermont, took a brutal hit from what looks like a tornado—trees snapped, power outages surged, and damage was widespread. Meteorologists spotted the telltale radar rotation and wild destruction, but without confirmed debris signatures, it’s not officially classified yet. A National Weather Service team is heading in Friday to survey the damage, measure wind speeds, and confirm the storm’s strength. Residents are urged to stay cautious amid downed lines and trees as cleanup begins—official confirmation is still pending.

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Heaven Dashnaw’s trial took a major turn this week in Plattsburgh, as prosecutors introduced four key NY State Police witnesses to detail her alleged role in helping Keith Henry hide his wife Chloe’s body—after Keith had already confessed to killing her. With cameras barred from the courtroom, the public gets updates through official reports, but the prosecution’s case is clearly building momentum around Dashnaw’s actions post-murder. The court paused for Juneteenth, and proceedings resume Monday—watch for new evidence as the legal drama unfolds.

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Severe thunderstorms tore through New York and headed east, slamming Vermont and New Hampshire with power outages that are still spreading—especially in Central and Southern Vermont. Families are struggling without electricity as officials scramble to assess damage and restore power, with updates coming as conditions evolve.

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Governor Phil Scott celebrates signing a bill rolling back restrictive land use laws, calling it a victory for rural development and balanced governance—but he’s frustrated lawmakers still aren’t tackling the housing crisis head-on. With Democrats no longer holding a supermajority, Scott argues his voice and constituents’ concerns now carry more weight, citing past vetoes overridden as proof the Legislature ignored the people. Developers and rural business owners cautiously welcome the repeal, seeing it as a start but urging more tailored, practical solutions that respect Vermont’s unique character while making housing affordable and accessible.

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