

Cover Story
The Cartoon Issue Is One for the History Books
Vermont punches above its weight in all sorts of things. But there’s one unexpected arena in which the state shines bright: cartooning.
The Cartoon Issue
An Illustrated Guide to Burlington’s Champlain Parkway
Cartoonist Glynnis Fawkes lives in the South End, where new roads and paths have changed the way we travel around the city. Get a look at the new landscape.
Catching Up With Vermont Cartoonist Laureate Stephen R. Bissette
The iconic artist talks about his career, the rebirth of a passion project and why he almost turned down the state’s most prestigious cartooning honor.
A Staples Employee — and Illustrator — Keeps His Sketchbook Nearby
Bill Lutz is a staple at the Burlington Staples store. When he has some down time at work, he picks up his pens and draws.
What’s the Story Behind ‘The Boy With the Leaking Boot’?
Wallingford has long been home to an unusual statue and town mascot. Here’s the history behind it and how it has become a symbol of resilience.
A Statewide Quilting Project Celebrates Queer Joy in Vermont
Local artists and community members forge meaningful connections and support Outright Vermont at this summer’s Pride + Joy craft meetups.
Is the Lake Monster Champ the Muse of Rock ‘n’ Roll?
Cryptozoologists unveil exciting new evidence linking Lake Champlain’s storied serpent to a musical phenomenon. Warning: Fact-checkers cannot verify their claims.
Italian Americans Have Been Farming in Colchester for a Century
A new historic marker recognizes the impact of Italian immigrants who settled there in the early 1900s. Here’s how four families created a Colchester cornucopia.
News
The Long Road Taken to Open Burlington’s Champlain Parkway
Over the course of 61 years, the parkway has been reimagined and redesigned; rerouted; and delayed by environmental studies, lawsuits and shifting priorities.
An Illustrated Guide to Burlington’s Champlain Parkway
Cartoonist Glynnis Fawkes lives in the South End, where new roads and paths have changed the way we travel around the city. Get a look at the new landscape.
A Staples Employee — and Illustrator — Keeps His Sketchbook Nearby
Bill Lutz is a staple at the Burlington Staples store. When he has some down time at work, he picks up his pens and draws.
Access to Evolving Estrogen Therapy Remains Uneven in Vermont
Hormone therapy was once pushed to the margins, but guidelines have shifted. Now, in-demand products such as patches can be tough for women to obtain.
From the Publisher: Watching With the World
Seven Days publisher Paula Routly has Soccer Fever. As she watches the FIFA World Cup during America’s 250th year, she reflects on patriotism and connection.
Arts+Culture
Stuck in Vermont: Revisiting Plainfield, Two Years After a Devastating Flood
Episode 771: In Plainfield, the owners of 28 properties are awaiting FEMA buyouts, and one group of locals plans to build on higher ground.
‘Charity & Sylvia’ Illuminates a 200-Year-Old Queer Love Story
From a fragmented archive, Norwich cartoonist Tillie Walden’s new graphic biography tells the story of two women who lived together in 19th-century Weybridge.
New Local Documentary ‘Land’ Examines the Creation of a Zionist Identity
Drawing on her family’s deep roots in the founding of Israel in 1948, Burlington filmmaker Orly Yadin comes to terms with her complicated history.
Page 32: Short Takes on Five Vermont Books (7/8/26)
Here’s the read on new releases from local writers, including a historical account of Vermont forests and a graphic novel on the Trump presidency.
Painter Noni Stuart Shares Portraits of Local Unhoused People
The Grand Isle artist is donating a new painting and other portraits to a Burlington church, where they’ll welcome visitors to community meals.
Magnificent 7: Must-See, Must-Do Events in and Around Vermont, July 8-15
Explore our editor’s picks for must-do events in Vermont this week, including alt-rock royalty Jack White at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction.
Food+Drink
Italian Americans Have Been Farming in Colchester for a Century
A new historic marker recognizes the impact of Italian immigrants who settled there in the early 1900s. Here’s how four families created a Colchester cornucopia.
Squish Burger Grills Up Smashed Patties in South Burlington
Adam Hineman, chef-owner of Taco Truck All Stars, has opened a burger-and-fries spot in the former Williston Road home of Thingz From Yaad Jamaican Cuisine.
Sabor Ecuatoriano Serves Ecuadorian Cuisine in Winooski
The Main Street restaurant highlights the South American country’s most popular dishes, owner Alberto Alejandro Castro Guaman said. It will add a bar this month.
Music+Nightlife
Is the Lake Monster Champ the Muse of Rock ‘n’ Roll?
Cryptozoologists unveil exciting new evidence linking Lake Champlain’s storied serpent to a musical phenomenon. Warning: Fact-checkers cannot verify their claims.
On the Beat: Noah Kahan Isn’t Taking Any More Crap
Following an incident in Philadelphia, the Strafford pop star made Busyheads at a show in Toronto swear not to poop their pants.
Album Review: Bo Malcolm, ‘Life of Passion’
The Burlington singer-songwriter shows off his troubadour credentials on a debut LP. Each lyric is a story within a story — a Russian nesting doll of Americana.
On Screen
Sampling Three Summer Streaming Options: ‘From,’ ‘Human Vapor,’ ‘The Sheep Detectives’
Our critic watched an under-the-radar yet weirdly addictive horror series, a twisty Asian import with cinematic action, and a new family classic.
Now Playing in Theaters, July 8-15
In addition to The Invite, 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: Kids Are Using My Condo’s Pool Without Adult Supervision
Swimming accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Here are steps to take to look out for unattended kids using a shared pool.
Free Will Astrology (7/8/26)
Check out Rob Brezsny’s expanded weekly audio horoscopes & daily text message horoscopes: realastrology.com or 1-877-873-4888.
Life Lines
Obituary: Robert E. “Bob” Rehm, 1951-2026
Norwich man completed numerous road races and marathons and loved hiking and being outdoors with his family
Obituary: Kathleen Thelma Babits
Registered nurse and avid reader and writer loved and prioritized her family above all else
Obituary: Mary “Candy” Ellen Stokes, 1942-2026
Cambridge woman had an outgoing personality and an adventuresome spirit and participated in many community activities
Obituary: Michel “Mich” Daniel Allen, 1943-2026
Retired sergeant in the Vermont Army National Guard placed others before himself and was a cornerstone of his Essex neighborhood
Obituary: Angela Jean Comeau, 1972-2026
“Beacon of infectious energy” had an inspirational impact wherever she was
Obituary: Renee Marie Korst, 1952-2026
Registered nurse’s true passion was painting, and she later developed a passion for dance
Obituary: Kenneth Michael Kretzer, 1956-2026
Former Williston resident had a fun-loving spirit and a legendary ability to make friends
In Memoriam: Kristine Sheathelm Gerson, 1957-2025
Friends and family celebrate the enduring spirit of “a powerful force in the lives of all who knew her”
In Memoriam: Dr. Robert Martell, 1963-2026
Family, friends and colleagues gather to share love and memories






