Winooski has French bread and Quebecois roots — and now the taste of chicken banh mi from Vietnam, colorful weave-work crafted by Nepalese hands and Kenyan folk music.
Racing waiters, baking bread and a visit from Lafayette fill Vermont’s French Heritage Day
Weapons scare at Lake Willoughby on July 4 sparks investigation
Suspicious death in Pittsford. Gun charges related to military discharge. 102 MPH, drugs, brass knuckles. Woman’s body ID’d 51 years later.
VT Headlines: Howard Center announces service cuts and layoffs to fill $2.5M hole
Vermont towns try to move, or fortify, their flood-prone buildings; Rutland’s karate kid is only Vermonter picked for world championships
Tallest tree in Vermont grows in Colchester
Situated next to railroad tracks (offering plenty of sunlight) and near the pond (offering plenty of water), the thirsty softwood dwarfs all other Vermont trees with a height of 127 feet.
Scott names new fish & wildlife, conservation, health care leaders
Governor Phil Scott July 9 announced a trio of high-level appointments to key leadership positions within Vermont state government, naming Sara Teachout to the Green Mountain Care Board, Jason Batchelder as Commissioner of the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Misty Sinsigalli as Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Pure white whistle pig sighted in Vermont
Its pure white fur could be due to one of two conditions: albinism or leucism.
Vermont Climate Superfund lawsuits pile up as advocacy groups join defense
The Vermont Climate Superfund Law aimed at holding oil companies financially responsible for flooding and other damages caused by climate change is facing a flurry of litigation that Gov. Phil Scott anticipated when he declined to endorse the measure last year.
Vermont Climate Plan update recognizes federal climate $$ is “abruptly ending”
The adoption of the new Climate Action Plan comes at a time when the federal government is pulling back on key policies, such as support for electrification of vehicles and deployment of renewable energy, and curtailing funding.
Migrant Justice leader from Milton remains jailed in Border Patrol case
Migrant Justice has claimed Heidi “Fabi” Perez Alfaro, 18, a recent Milton High graduate, and her stepfather, Jose Ignacio “Nacho” De La Cruz, 29, had been delivering meals to farm workers in Richford when they were stopped about noon Saturday June 14 by a U.S. Border Patrol Agent.
Livingston: Cut it out—before it spreads
That’s us—America—riddled with ideological trench lines and carpet-bombed by generations of political theater.
Today’s the birthday of Vermont’s pioneering Jewish community
The July 9, 1888 incorporation of Congregation Benai Israel in Poultney
VT Headlines: Wrong prisoner is brought to Court, derailing a hearing
Funeral procession for Shelburne police chief Wednesday morning; New Shelter To Open in Montpelier; VINS to Host Incredible Insect Festival this Saturday in Quechee
Roper: Civil Unions was “Jim Crow” for same-sex couples
Why celebrate this “separate but equal” policy?
14-year-old drowning victim remembered
The Fairfax youth died July 2 in a drowning accident in Windsor.
Maland bust leads to prison term for fentanyl dealer
Bear Mountain Road in North Troy is known for both human and drug smuggling almost on a daily basis.
Another state trooper crashes his cruiser
Katz’s cruiser hydroplaned during heavy rain at 3:28 AM.
Accused ringleader of $30M senior scam faces extradition to Vermont
The indictment, returned on February 20, charges the defendants with participation in a sophisticated “Grandparent Scam” that spanned more than 40 states, including Vermont, and targeted elderly victims with false claims that a loved one was jailed and in urgent need of bail money.
America’s gun violence story isn’t what you think
Lumping together high-crime metro areas with low-crime rural states may make for easy national statistics, but it doesn’t help us understand the problem. Worse, it leads to policy debates that treat Vermont like Chicago or Montana like Baltimore — even though the lived reality is worlds apart.
Soulia: School libraries and movie ratings
A growing discrepancy over content standards
Trooper shot man he thought was armed. No gun found
Garvey had made threatening statements and had barricaded himself in his apartment.
VT requires ‘textured hair’ training for all cosmetology schools
Defined as curly, coily, and wavy hair in their curricula, the requirements are part of a broader set of professional regulation changes.
Man shot by trooper dies
The man was pronounced deceased on scene. The trooper who fired his service weapon was uninjured.
IRS to allow political endorsements in churches/ free concert/ newspaper suspends operation
“The Founders envisioned a Nation in which religious voices and views were integral to a vibrant public square, and in which religious people and institutions were free to practice their faith without fear of discrimination or retaliation by the Federal Government.’
What the One Big Beautiful Bill for Vermonters
What changes and what doesn’t
Federal school choice program launches
Will Vermont get on board?
BREAKING: Jiron who helped in double homicide pleads guilty
The defendant, the nephew of state judge Justin Jiron, admitted he conspired with Theodore “Theo” Bland, 29, of Burlington, who gunned down two people and then concealed evidence about the double homicide in Lowell on Oct. 12, 2023.
These two lawmakers blocked popular Veterans’ Bill for eight years
With two chairs who didn’t consider a tax exemption for veterans important enough, the bill was never brought up for a vote.
VT Headlines: AG, Scott admin disagreements undermined EV lawsuit
Vermont’s climate-crusading attorney general didn’t get the support she wanted from the Scott administration for her lawsuit seeking to recover EV-charger federal $$.
DOJ, FBI: No Epstein client list, he killed himself
This systematic review revealed no incriminating “client list.” There was also no credible evidence found that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals as part of his actions.
Burlington cops seek repeat grocery store thief
Through threats of having a weapon, a male suspect robbed the Jakes ONE Market at 242 N Winooski Ave. multiple times, obtaining $547 cash.
Hardwick woman strangled to death
Daigle died from asphyxiation due to compression of the neck, the medical examiner said.
Battle of Hubbardton 248 years ago today
The British and Hessian troops met unexpectedly stiff resistance from the Green Mountain Boys.
Dimming the sun? Conspiracy no more. Paul Bean and Rob Williams join UK’s Dan Astin-Gregory for an interview on geoengineering
But beneath the public “blackboard” narrative lies a deeper and more disturbing story — one of covert military projects, hidden agendas, and atmospheric manipulation without informed consent.
Chinese consulate responds to VDC commenters following diplomat’s visit
The visit prompted a flurry of questions and concerns from readers of the Chronicle, many focused on transparency, national security, and the political implications of growing U.S.-China ties.
Letter: Chinese consulate responds to VDC readers’ comments
China continues to prioritize environmental protection and the transition to a green economy, a consulate press officer tells VDC.
Mott: Want to end political violence? Try friendship.
With an increase in political violence across the nation, one worries what could happen in Vermont. Do our legislators need more security? Are our public officials at risk of attack? Support for political violence has recently surged amongst Democrats.
Bean’s Birthday Bash- Support the Chronicle!
This year, my birthday (July 16) is on a Wednesday, which happens to align with my weekly “Cars and Creemees” promotional night. Free Cake?
Fayston pedestrian killed, teen driver charged
Drug user wanted to trade bomb for fentanyl. Homeless man charged with lewd behavior outside library. Habitual offender charge for suspected shoplifter.
VT Headlines: fed funding freeze prompts head-to-head of Saunders and Sanders
Roadside sculptor settles with wayward truck driver. Champlain College retools academic offerings due to $$ problems.
BREAKING: Burlington Mayor pulls plug on free overnight parking for homeless
Even before it started, the City of Burlington has pulled the plug on a controversial plan to allow up to a dozen homeless families park overnight on the shores of Lake Champlain.
No flooding predicted for July 10
This morning in Barre, Welch plans to listen to flood survivors, local officials, and emergency responders share their frustrations with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and long delays in receiving critical recovery assistance.
Koch: Brainless law allows anyone to sue the state
It is no surprise, then, that the Conservation Law Foundation, which is proficient in bringing lawsuits, has taken the state up on its offer.
CLG: Tucker Carlson interviews the president of Iran
Marjorie Taylor Greene says her bill would make the release of “weather-altering chemicals” a felony offense; At least 51 dead in Texas floods, with dozens still missing from summer camp; FBI blocked probe into alleged Chinese 2020 election meddling to protect Wray, documents show
Vandals deface Veterans Memorial with hate messages in Shelburne
The politically driven hate messages were discovered as people arrived for a farmers’ market.
VT Headlines: Search team recovers body from Kennedy Pond in Windsor
Swimmer rescued from Dog River in Berlin; Senator Welch to introduce bill aiming to improve FEMA’s long-term disaster recovery
ATF agents bust illegal immigrant for attempted murder at South Burlington bookstore
Michael A. Wilson, 24, of Burlington was wanted on a state charge of attempted second-degree murder for the shooting outside the Barnes & Noble at 102 Dorset Street, South Burlington Police said.
Deputy sheriff helps get the AC working
“I didn’t want to just walk away knowing how uncomfortable—and potentially dangerous—that heat could be,” Keefe said.
Vermont State Police, Game Wardens urge Vermonters to boat safely this Fourth of July weekend
The Vermont Warden Service, Vermont State Police and other local law enforcement agencies will be partnering with the National Association of Boating Law Administrators and the U.S. Coast Guard by participating in the Operation Dry Water heightened awareness and enforcement weekend, which takes place July 4-6, 2025.
Livingston on ‘Trump 3:16’: More results, less ‘performative outrage’
The One Big Beautiful Bill isn’t a war between billionaires and the poor. It’s a reckoning with a state that’s too big headed to succeed and too entrenched to change—until we stop rewarding failure with more funding and start demanding accountability instead of performative outrage.
VT and NY governors battle over ‘Maple Syrup Supremacy’
Stick that in your maple creemee, Governor Hochul!
Soulia: Student privacy vs. parental rights
What schools must disclose in 2025 (and why Vermont isn’t all there yet)
Burlington sets up free overnight parking for homeless on the waterfront
Households meeting homeless criteria will be able to park up to 12 vehicles overnight on the shores of Lake Champlain under a new pilot project by the city of Burlington. There are rules, but no indication as to who, if anyone, will enforce them.
Letters: Prison pastor called to mercy, media AWOL on rabbi’s departure
Prison can be a rescue shelter for God’s children who have wandered away and find themselves lost.
State bail laws ‘make me want to tear my hair out,’ departing prosecutor says
“You can’t impose bail unless they’re a flight risk or have no community ties. And that’s hard to prove,” Zaleski told the Caledonia County Republican Committee.
Roper: State will deduct 5% of some workers’ wages unless they opt out of VT Saves
Employees can opt-out of the program but have to actively do so after being forcibly enrolled.
VT Headlines: State college dental program scrapped
Hundreds now on the street as hotel voucher program ends.
Idaho quadruple killer studied Vermonster Ted Bundy
Killer Bryan Kohberger reportedly researched Burlington, Vermont native Ted Bundy’s killing style
ER metal detector flags thousands of weapons
The changes were sparked by a close call in April 2024, when an emergency department triage nurse encountered a patient with a four-inch switchblade.
Senior China diplomat visits Vermont, meets state leaders
Notable Vermont companies doing business in China include snowboard maker Burton. China’s winter sports industry has boomed following its hosting of the 2022 Winter Olympics.
Breaking: Senate passes Big Beautiful Bill
The OBBB now returns to the House, where the lower chamber will consider Senate changes to the bill it passed on May 22.
Keelan: Public schools’ uncertainty
The crisis facing Vermont’s education had its genesis, not 30 years ago but 50-plus years ago.
The untold history of genetic modification
The artificial split between “genetically modified” and “natural” foods obscures reality: all domesticated species result from human-directed genetic change. The choice isn’t between “natural” and “artificial” foods, but between different methods of genetic modification.
Klar: Genetically engineered trees, coming soon to a grove near you
Controversial GE chestnut tree under review for USDA approval.
Blotter: OnStar stops stolen pickup truck
Suddenly, the engine in the stolen pickup truck turned off.
Green: Grateful for progress seen in Dobbs, removal of Iran nuclear threat
The darkness and chilling long winter of the pro-death culture is retreating.
One last win for Attorney for the Defense as gavel falls on 40-year career
“I had a strong desire to be a rock star,” Benning said, recalling failed attempts to land a music deal after college.
Breaking: Shelburne Police Chief Mike Thomas dies
Thomas had fought a couple of courageous battles with cancer off-and-on for several years, but succumbed on Monday evening, officials said. Thomas had spent two dozen years in law enforcement, including three years as police chief in Shelburne.
Marlene Tromp starts as UVM President
Tromp comes to UVM after serving six years as president of Boise State University. The UVM Board of Trustees announced her selection on March 20, 2025, following a search that examined over 100 candidates.
Cohen: Fired Vermont rabbi made “inappropriate comments”
Ohavi Zedek Synagogue officials have a new cover story for ousting Aaron Philmus
Judge’s nephew admits helping lawyer’s son in slaying of two drug dealers
Bland faces a possible death penalty if convicted.
Montpelier parade, festivities July 3
The fun begins at 3pm with the July 3rd Food Truck Festival and FamilyFest on the State House Lawn. The Montpelier Mile Road Race begins at 6 PM and kicks-off the Community Parade.
Two men from India charged in VT with medical fraud
Charged Medicare for medical equipment it never provided. Sold misbranded drugs to Americans.
What’s really in the One Big Beautiful Bill?
$45 billion for adult alien detention capacity and family residential centers. $2.5 billion for surface water storage. A 10% transfer tax on silencers. Funding prohibited for “specified gender transition procedures.”
Sanders compares Republicans to ‘Stalinist party’
Sanders pointed to potential repercussions for those who disagree with Trump, noting, “In five minutes, they will be announcing a primary to your election.”
VT Headlines: New VT laws for July 1 affect library books, bake sales and job ads
Grand Isle bake shop becomes an unexpected destination on Route 2 in Vermont; The Skinny Pancake, Einstein’s Tap House team to bring free Grateful Dead series to Burlington
Soulia: New tuition rules take effect July 1
Families have until Monday to lock in funding for independent schools
High court dismisses cannabis merger fraud suit/ Welch listens about floods/ Bernie’s Covid $$ recovery
Just weeks after the merger, Lynn discovered at a board meeting that Slang needed to borrow $18 million simply “to survive,” with “onerous” loan terms.
Burlington sex crime arrest, Montpelier sex crime conviction
The AG announced that Grace Gamble (charged as Peter Gamble), 29, of Montpelier was given a suspended sentence in Vermont court after pleading guilty.
Honduran fugitive wanted for trafficking weapons detained on immigrant charge
An illegal immigrant listed as a wanted international fugitive for a weapons trafficking charge in Honduras has been ordered jailed in Vermont by a federal judge. Yubert Yasiel Lopez-Lopez, 31, of Burlington appears to have been living in Vermont for at least two years despite having been ordered removed from the United States four times over the past 11 years, federal court records show.
CLG: Multiple dead as snipers ambush firefighters and police in Coeur d’Alene, ID, after ‘blaze set as bait’
Africa peace deal brokered by Trump tied to U.S. resource push; Kash Patel claims he has proof former FBI bosses buried evidence that China interfered in 2020 election; Iranian nuclear scientist and his family killed in Israeli attack;
A Paul Bean original song: “The Ballad Of Butt Wipe Becca”
Introducing a Paul Bean Original Tune: “The Ballad of Butt Wipe Becca”
Rep. Balint’s statement on floor of Congress prompts discussion, satire on The Vermont Podcast
Political satire song lampoons Vermont congresswoman who says on the floor of the U.S. House that ICE agents are ‘vigilantes’ who ‘kidnap’ their immigrant targets.
Pro-lifers rally to defund Planned Parenthood Saturday morning
The demonstration follows a landmark ruling this week by the U.S. Supreme Court that upholds South Carolina’s decision to exclude abortion providers from its Medicaid program.
Breaking: U.S. Supreme Court rules against ‘universal injunctions’
The landmark decision came in a case involving challenges to President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order No. 14160, which sought to redefine American citizenship based on parents’ immigration status.
Swanton Sector Border Patrol reports 300+ apprehensions from 45 nations
Fire displaces 10; Sledgehammer assault in St. J; Child beating
Roper: Climate action plan demands spend, spend, spend!
But no clue where the money will come from?
New historical marker recognizes early same-sex couple
“Sylvia Drake and Charity Bryant lived together in Weybridge from 1807 until Charity’s death in 1851 as one of the most well-documented same-sex couples in early America,” according to a Middlebury College website.
VT Headlines: Lafayette, strawberries make triumphal return
The Marquis de Lafayette toured Vermont 200 years ago.
Migrant Justice leader linked to earlier smuggling case, feds say
The Border Patrol asked about his citizenship and De La Cruz began speaking rapidly and in a low voice that the agent could not understand. De La Cruz was asked to slow his speech, but he didn’t comply and the agent believed he was being evasive.
Deal: Balint “vigilante” comment incites sedition
Balint owes the family of slain Vermonter and Border Patrol agent David Maland an apology.
Cohen: Top Vermont lawyer goes nat’l defending “socialism s—“
“If we don’t plow the streets and fix the roads, the people aren’t going to put up with this socialism s—.” – John Franco, ex-aide to socialist Bernie Sanders
The surprising shifts climate change is bringing to Vermont farms
Vermonters turn climate uncertainty into new opportunity.
Sanders, Welch urge Hegseth to save VT veterans support program
Sens. Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch wrote a letter to the Department of Defense on Wednesday, urging Secretary Pete Hegseth to restore funding for Beyond the Yellow Ribbon (BYR) programs — a nationwide network of support services that includes Vermont’s Veterans and Family Outreach Program.
Coester announces 2026 bid for Congress
Pledges to “finish what we started”
White House responds to Balint’s comparing ICE agents to “vigilantes”
Balint’s remarks, delivered Wednesday during debate over immigration enforcement policy, sparked immediate backlash from the White House, with a statement calling Balint’s comments “deeply irresponsible and dangerous.”
Cohen: when Iran held a Vermont educator hostage
Former Burlington school superintendent was one of Iran’s U.S. hostages in 1979
Ex-Burlington Police Chief Murad appears to be out of the running for SB Police post
Baker said the city received 14 applications to replace Chief Shawn Burke, who resigned, effective in March, to take a two-year post as the interim police chief in Burlington.
Klar: New York bill limiting cows sparks farmer revolt
Big city sponsors face off against rural dairies.
Soulia: Why Constitutions define the law — not public opinion
Many people seem genuinely shocked when the law is enforced as written. But that kind of surprise often stems from not understanding the rules in the first place. And in the United States, those rules are defined by constitutions — at both the federal and state level.
Mexican consulate at Christ Church in Montpelier once again
Overshadowed by the recent detention of two migrant workers in Vermont, the annual mobile Mexican Consulate event at Christ Church in Montpelier brought at least 132 people from around Vermont to the capital city on Saturday, June 21. Notably fewer people attended compared to last year, when over 200 attended.
Recent Comments