Good morning, Burlington.

Federal immigration agents detained Somali refugee Hussien Noor Hussien while he was working as a taxi driver outside Burlington International Airport on Jan.

1, leaving his family worried as his immigration hearing is set for 2027 and his legal team files to keep him in state.

Groundhog Fest kicks off Friday and runs through Sunday in downtown Burlington, featuring local bands like TallGrass GetDown at Radio Bean and Foam Brewers.

The festival brings together up-and-coming and familiar talent that showcases the city's enduring music scene.

Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale introduced bill S.214 to allow Essex County school districts to pay tuition for pre-K students to attend New Hampshire programs starting July 1, removing a longstanding barrier for rural families.

Lawmakers discussed a bill on Friday that would add four voting student positions and two non-voting roles to school boards; the proposal, developed by students through The Governor’s Institute, may let youths vote on school budgets when approved.

Matt Wormser, a Shelburne selectboard member, warned that Vermont's education system is unsustainable as high per-pupil spending drives up costs and forces cuts to essential services.

He calls for statewide reform to consolidate resources (HR, transportation, food service) that can improve accountability and student outcomes.

More than a dozen towns across Vermont, including Burlington (and Rutland), adjusted road treatment operations after suppliers ran out of salt during the winter following a DMV declaration on Jan.

15 and an expected replenishment by Jan. 29. Municipal leaders urged drivers to take extra caution with alternative methods.

Social Security announced that recipients will receive February benefits on Feb.

11, Feb. 18, and Feb. 25 while SSI checks were sent on Jan. 30, reflecting a 2.8% cost-of-living increase. Recipients in Burlington and statewide can use the schedule to plan their budgets.

Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour 2026

6:30 PM – 12:00 AM — The Flynn — Ticket pricing varies — Experience adrenaline-fueled action and breathtaking landscapes from around the world.

Penguin Plunge

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Burlington Waterfront Boat Ramp — $25 – $50 — Dive into Lake Champlain for a chilly plunge in support of Special Olympics Vermont.

Love In Motion: A Valentine's Trolley Experience

5-8 p.m. — Delta Hotels Burlington — $ — Step onto a red carpet and enjoy a charming, romantic trolley ride filled with nostalgia and curated moments for couples.

TAZ Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the electrifying talent of TAZ, a rising star who has graced major stages worldwide.

2026 Burlington Weekend Food Art and Crafts Show

10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. — Burlington City Arts @ The BCA Center — Vendor fees apply — Discover tasty eats, cool crafts, and fun vibes at this vibrant community showcase.

The Lowdown at Higher Ground

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Vermont's funniest at this new comedy event.