

Cover Story
In ‘Bernie for Burlington,’ a Queen City Native Charts Sanders’ Political Rise
Dan Chiasson’s unauthorized biography is part origin story, part author’s memoir about the mayor who transformed the Queen City before ascending nationally.
News
Former Burlington Athletic Director Settles Equal Pay Suit for $475,000
Jeanne Hulsen argued that a younger man with less experience earned a significantly higher salary than she’d made after 22 years with the district.
Scott’s Proposal to Ease Wetlands Protections Hits a Muddy Patch
To spur housing development, the governor wants to relax wetlands regs. Environmentalists are saying it’s a bad idea.
Vermonters With Developmental Disabilities Can Fish for Free
During a nearly eight-year quest, Raymond Bapp of East Middlebury lobbied the state to offer permanent licenses to passionate anglers such as himself.
From the Publisher: ‘Don’t Watch If This Will Upset You’
Following the murder of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, publisher Paula Routly considers the importance of trustworthy journalism to make sense of bystander videos.
Arts+Culture
Book Review: ‘Bernie for Burlington: The Rise of the People’s Politician,’ Dan Chiasson
The Burlington native’s exhaustive look at the Vermont socialist senator’s formative years offers the definitive origin story of a unique political career.
Meet the Vermonters Going to the 2026 Winter Olympics
In addition to stars such as Ryan Cochran-Siegle and Jessie Diggins, Vermont’s Olympic delegation includes many lesser known hopefuls going for gold.
Kent Monkman’s Monumental Queer, Indigenous History Paintings
The Montréal Museum of Fine Arts presents a massive solo show of the Cree First Nations artist’s work, which uses humor to turn history painting on its head.
Character Study: Naomi Moser at Extra Special With Cheese
In a show of videos and lenticular photos, the artist interrogates the idea of breaking character and the ways we present different versions of ourselves.
Q&A: Vermonters Are Stuck in a Health Care Quagmire
Vermonters are struggling with the rising costs of health insurance, and some are choosing to go without. Go behind the scenes of this “Stuck in Vermont” video.
Theater Review: ‘Fool for Love,’ Shaker Bridge Theatre
The White River Junction theater company’s production of Sam Shepard’s classic play about human passion holds tension throughout.
Magnificent 7: Must See, Must Do Vermont Events, January 28-February 4
Explore our editor’s picks for must-do events in Vermont this week, including outspoken standup comic Kathy Griffin at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington.
Food+Drink
Ice Fishing With River Run’s Former Chef Jimmy Kennedy
The professional bass angler grew up in Louisiana. When he moved to Vermont, he thought winter fishing through the ice sounded crazy. Now, he’s all in.
Farm-Grown Homecoming Seeds Launches in Northfield
Charlie Watt’s online seed catalog specializes in varieties adapted for Vermont’s cold, short growing season, from watermelon to early-ripening tomatoes.
Music+Nightlife
Christopher O’Riley and Matt Haimovitz Decode Bach
The two classical musicians take on the “father of harmony” with their new album, The Bach Dialogues.
Vermont Musician Grace Palmer Steps Up With a New Album
The Burlington singer-songwriter embraces authenticity in her music as she gets ready to drop a new record rooted in subjects such as social justice.
Album Review: Ben Patton, ‘Dinner’
The Burlington composer and musical chameleon serves up a heaping dish of power pop and guitar rock.
Eye on the Scene: The Volcanos Play at Light Club Lamp Shop
Photographer Luke Awtry takes in an explosive set from a powerful Burlington band whose sound channels both Jimi Hendrix and Elliott Smith.
On Screen
Empathy Is Courage in Historical Dramas ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’ and ‘All That’s Left of You’
Unconventional period pieces profile an 18th-century American religious leader and a 20th-century Palestinian family, respectively.
Now Playing in Theaters, January 28-February 4
In addition to Hamnet, here’s what is playing in Northern and Central Vermont movie theaters this week. Listings include new movies, vintage films and a directory of open theaters.
Fun Stuff
Ask the Rev: My Sister and I Got Matching Tattoos. Can I Cover Mine?
One sibling wonders if it’s OK to cover her fading tattoo with something new. Here’s advice for refreshing your ink while retaining the memories behind it.
Free Will Astrology (1/28/26)
Check out Rob Brezsny’s expanded weekly audio horoscopes & daily text message horoscopes: realastrology.com or 1-877-873-4888.
Life Lines
Obituary: Andrew L. “Bud” Knauf, 1947-2026
Dedicated Norwich University English professor generously gave his time and attention to generations of advisees
In Memoriam: Lori Marie Bullock Sullivan, 1962-2025
The children of Lori Marie Bullock Sullivan warmly invite family and friends to join them in a celebration of her life on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2 p.m. ET. The service will be held at the First Unitarian Universalist Society Meeting House, 152 Pearl Street, Burlington, Vt. A reception with light refreshments will follow.…
Obituary: Ruth Marion Lougee, 1944-2026
Animal lover always had a dog or cat, adopted whales and wolves, and was greeted by manatees while swimming in Florida
Obituary: Paul Henry Magnant, 1953-2026
West Glover man leaves behind numerous relatives and many lifelong friends
Obituary: Albert Roupp, 1930-2026, Susan Roupp, 1941-2025
Husband and wife shared 59 years of marriage and lived full lives with numerous interests
Obituary: William “Bill” John Norton Sr., 1942-2026
Lincoln man served for decades in state and city government, as well as in roles with his local fire department and high school
Obituary: Iris McDonald, 1942-2025
Family, friends and countless strangers benefited from nurse’s endless compassion
Obituary: Margery Keasler, 1959-2026
World traveler, acupuncturist and loving mother was known for her bright presence and boundless affection
Obituary: James “Jim” Conrad Bremer, 1960-2026
Automotive professional, sports-car lover and amateur photographer was always the first to lend a hand
Obituary: Shirley Logan, 1950-2026
Nurse, medical office manager and beloved mother and grandmother was known for her kindness
Obituary: Edward Alan Kazan, 1946-2026
Vietnam veteran received the U.S. Navy’s meritorious service medal and was dedicated to helping those less fortunate
Obituary: Patricia Mosley, 1947-2026
Devoted mother and grandmother found joy in her grandchildren and loved making memories with them
Obituary: Miles Dragonfly Anthony Trombley, 2002-2026
Artist and thinker loved fiercely, fought bravely and burned brightly
Obituary: Beebe Callahan Gregoire, 1932-2026
Avid do-it-yourselfer and Celtics fan cherished her family and created beautiful gardens






