

Cover Story
Vermont’s School Enrollment Is Dropping at an Alarming Rate
The demographic drop-off in public schools has led to a steep rise in the cost of educating Vermont’s children and, in turn, higher property taxes, prompting state leaders to push for reform.
News
Progressives Hope to Gain Power on Burlington City Council
Democrats’ advantage on the body has allowed them to pass measures over objections from the Progressives, who hold just five of 12 seats.
As Insurers Drop Weight-Loss Drug Coverage, Vermonters Lose Access
The popular and growing class of drugs help people lose weight. But insurers say they are simply too costly to cover.
A Vermonter Repairs Sailboats in Spain for Gaza Aid Flotilla
John Bauer has advocated for Palestinian causes for decades. He decided to use his sailing experience to help build a flotilla of aid.
From the Deputy Publisher: Introducing ‘Gen Zero’
Deputy publisher Cathy Resmer announces a new series about Vermont’s waning youth demographic — and talks about the options her own Gen Z kids are weighing.
Food+Drink
Burlington Fermentation Club Bubbles With Enthusiasm
Cheyanne Rico’s club brings together fans of kimchi, kombucha and more. Catch the group at the Burlington Winter Farmers Market and Ferment Fest.
Jitters Café & Lounge Buzzes All Day in Burlington Square
The sprawling café anchors the corner of the new building in the former downtown pit, serving breakfast, paninis and espresso martinis from morning ’til night.
Jones’ Donuts and Bakery in Rutland Sold in Its 103rd Year
Two brothers and one of their partners bought the local institution known for classic doughnuts made with recipes dating to 1923. They promise no major changes.
Saffron by Dodo’s Kitchen Brings a New Indian Menu to Stowe
Owned by Sadananda Hira, co-operator of Café NOA in Montpelier, the restaurant will offer a classic northern Indian menu and some Bengali specialties.
King Arthur Baking Expands to Virginia; Southern Smoke Expands to Italian
A second permanent store and school for the Norwich baking biz will open near D.C., while Brian Stefan launches Stefano’s from his Winooski catering kitchen.
Arts+Culture
New Book Teaches Civil Discourse to Heal a Fractured Nation
In Beyond the Politics of Contempt three authors from across the political spectrum offer practical ideas for building positive relationships in troubled times.
Northern Stage Acquires New Performance and Teaching Space
The 8,000-square-foot venue, in a former VFW post, allows the Upper Valley theater company to greatly expand its repertoire of shows and educational programs.
Book Review: ‘Luminous Bodies: A Novel of Marie Curie,’ Devon Jersild
The Vermont author’s absorbing historical novel delves into the scientific discoveries and the tumultuous love life of the woman who discovered radium.
The Goddard Spark Brings Eclectic Courses Back to Plainfield Campus
Classes on leadership, resistance, community organizing and the progressive ideals of “Star Trek” embody the spirit of defunct, alternative Goddard College.
Big, Colorful Paper Sculptures Come to Southern Vermont Arts Center
Artists present works made with paper pulp, including several large sculptural installations, in this Manchester exhibition curated by Michelle Samour.
Artist Rob Hitzig Goes Surface Level at the Vermont Supreme Court Gallery
The Montpelier furniture maker turned painter presents a suite of new, large works that highlight humble materials and eschew definitive meaning.
Magnificent 7: Must-See, Must-Do Events in and Around Vermont, February 18-25
Explore our editor’s picks for must-do events in Vermont this week, including Ann Wilson tribute act Heartless at Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph.
Music+Nightlife
A Road Map to Burlington’s Electronic Music Scene
Need help navigating the EDM world? Start with these highlights of the local scene, from Sunday Night Mass to artists like Willverine and Kate Kush.
Album Review: Evan Jennison, ‘Standing Next to Nothing’
On his debut LP, the Addison County musical prodigy enlists the help of his mentors, including members of the Grift, moe. and Cabinet.
On Screen
Emerald Fennell’s ‘Wuthering Heights’ Is All Glam, No Grit
While the reworking of Emily Brontë’s classic is a feast for the eyes, it strips out most of the novel’s substance in favor of florid romantic imagery.
Now Playing in Theaters, February 18-25
In addition to Dead Man’s Wire, 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: Am I Too Obsessed With Bad Bunny’s Halftime Show?
Is repeated viewing of the infectiously joyful Super Bowl performance really a problem? The Rev says: There are worse rabbit holes to fall into.
Free Will Astrology (2/18/26)
Check out Rob Brezsny’s expanded weekly audio horoscopes & daily text message horoscopes: realastrology.com or 1-877-873-4888.






