

Cover Story
The Rocky Road That Led to the ‘Free Ben & Jerry’s’ Campaign
The strange marriage of Unilever and Vermont’s activist ice cream brand began as a study in enlightened capitalism. But politics and lawsuits created a bitter impasse.
Vermont Lawmakers Consider Facility for Mentally Ill Offenders
The forensic facility would likely be located within an existing Vermont prison and would house people facing potential life sentences.
Now Playing in Theaters, March 25-April 1
In addition to ‘Anniversary,’ 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.
News
Vermont Sugar Makers Are Tapping Migrant Workers for Help
Dozens of laborers have gotten visas to help syrup makers during the short, unpredictable and demanding season.
‘Take Apart’ Class Shows Kids What’s Inside Household Devices
Shelburne resident Deb Sigel, a former NASA engineer, started offering the workshops 16 years ago to make engineering fun and accessible.
From the Publisher: Teach Your Readers Well
Alison Novak has quietly become Vermont’s most knowledgeable education reporter — at a time when K-12 education has been turned upside down.
Arts+Culture
New Middlebury Play Aims to Save the World From Nuclear War
‘Treaty: A Play About How to Not Blow Up the Planet’ is equal parts theater, documentary storytelling and audience dialogue featuring real disarmament negotiators.
Book Review: ‘You Are Now Old Enough to Hear This,’ Aaron Starmer
The Vermont author’s new middle-grade novel is a twisty puzzle with a creepy atmosphere and themes that should resonate with readers of any age.
Q&A: Meet the Family Behind the Loaves of O Bread Bakery
Chuck Conway and Carla Kevorkian founded O Bread at Shelburne Farms almost 50 years ago. Go behind the scenes of this “Stuck in Vermont” video.
Jennifer McCandless Presents a Bevy of Animals at Soapbox Arts
The Burlington sculptor’s ceramic creatures include monsters, aliens, politicians and middle-aged women: All are weird, funny and demand a close look.
Magnificent 7: Must-See, Must-Do Events in and Around Vermont, March 25-April 1
Explore our editor’s picks for must-do events in Vermont this week, including smoky-vocals icon Melissa Etheridge at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington.
Food+Drink
Life Story: Robert Fuller Was ‘the Godfather of Chef-Restaurant Owners’
The energetic chef-restaurateur grew Chittenden County landmarks Leunig’s Bistro and Pauline’s Café, hatched Bristol’s Bobcat Café, and mentored many.
SILO Distillery’s New Owner Has an ‘Open Barn-Door’ Policy
Erin Bell has relaunched the Windsor biz, and its sprits are back in Vermont stores. She talks amaro, her all-women team, feminist cider and creating space for all.
Neighborhood Noodle Ramen Shop & Izakaya Opens in Manchester
Emily and Ian Shore started their Japanese-inspired biz as a pop-up two years ago. Now, they’re serving slurpable bowls and shareable snacks year-round.
Music+Nightlife
Getting Bach to Bluegrass: A Q&A With Chris Thile
The mandolin virtuoso takes on the works of Johann Sebastian Bach in an upcoming performance at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington.
Album Review: Roost.World Full-Length Release ‘Q.D.A.’
The Burlington electronic duo delivers a buzzing danceteria on its first full-length LP, drawing listeners in with liberating music and insider intimacy.
Remembering Matthew Stephen Perry, My Best Friend
The death of a beloved Burlington musician and scene stalwart leaves a hole in the heart of the Queen City as big as the man himself.
On Screen
Family Values Don’t Stand a Chance in ‘Anniversary’ and ‘Ready or Not 2: Here I Come’
A timely dystopian drama and a horror comedy sequel both cast the rituals of privileged clans in new and sinister lights.
Fun Stuff
Ask the Rev: I Went From a Poly Lifestyle to a Vanilla Relationship
After having a polyamorous lifestyle, one partner misses the adventure in their new monogamous, heteronormative relationship. Here’s how to reclaim some spark.
Free Will Astrology (3/25/26)
Check out Rob Brezsny’s expanded weekly audio horoscopes & daily text message horoscopes: realastrology.com or 1-877-873-4888.
Life Lines
In Memoriam: Louise Dawson, 1928-2026
Grandma Louise, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, celebrated teacher, foster grandparent and honored community volunteer. Thank you for many years of commitment to inspire, support and care for others. Lived well, “I’m still here.” Yes, Louise, your creative spirit and loving presence remain forever in our hearts. Your loving family
In Memoriam: Laura Ellen Cooley, 1956-2024
Health worker and acupuncturist’s life’s work was providing free care for underserved communities
Obituary: Arthur James Vento, 1949-2026
Burlington native was an active advocate for gun-ownership rights and loved riding and collecting Harley-Davidson motorcycles
Obituary: Rev. Anne Carol Young Roberts, 1938-2026
Teacher and Methodist pastor conquered the challenge of hearing loss in serving her churches
Obituary: Pamela Parent, 1959-2026
Williston woman loved being a mother and found great joy cooking, baking and sewing for her family
Obituary: Ann Rose Ratner Porter, 1942-2026
Cofounder of Island Arts in North Hero was committed to education, the arts and her community
Obituary: Jane Pomykala, 1948-2026
“Beating heart” of Grand Isle’s Pomykala Farm loved nature and teaching and inspired the next generation of farmers
Obituary: Craig Tomlinson Martin, 1952-2026
Man of keen intellect and infectious laughter was a beacon of support throughout the community
In Memoriam: Willard “Will” Beecher, 1948-2025
Please join us for a Celebration of Life honoring Willard “Will” Beecher of Starksboro, Vt. A service will be held on Sunday April 19, 2026, 12:30 p.m., at Green Mount Cemetery, 210 Cemetery Rd., Starksboro VT. A memorial celebration will follow to share food and memories at Sleepy Hollow Inn’s Round Barn Pavilion at 427…
Obituary: Matthew A. Spiro, 1931-2026
Teacher and guidance counselor made friends in every area of his life and always wanted to hear other people’s stories
Obituary: Roy V. Johnson Jr., 1951-2026
Dedicated community member “was Vermont in the truest sense” and remained rooted in its land
Obituary: Stratton Matteson, 1997-2026
Passionate, talented and humble split boarder was well known for his strong environmental ethic







