Good morning, Burlington.

Vermont Afghan Alliance announced Monday that Ellen Yount of Starksboro will be its new executive director effective March 4.

She succeeds Molly Gray, who is running for lieutenant governor, and will lead efforts to support Afghan refugees & strengthen community ties.

A Burlington man named Johnny is delivering free propane to unhoused residents at Waterfront Park to help them stay warm during freezing nights.

He refills up to 10 tanks on regular trips and teaches heater safety—an effort that began when he noticed a dire need.

Intervale Center added seven board members today who bring expertise in social entrepreneurship, sustainable agriculture and public service; the group includes experts (such as a Master Sommelier, counsel and professor) and will guide the nonprofit’s work to support Vermont’s food system and address challenges like farm viability.

On Saturday, The Village Scoop in Colchester hosted its drive-thru to give away free ice cream *served in mini plastic Myers trash cans* to support the Vermont Food Shelf; Myers donated $1 per scoop and nearly $3,000 was raised as long lines stretched down the road.

Emma Paradis and Lisa Grefe, now co-directors of Common Good Vermont, say nonprofits strengthen local communities by providing food, shelter, and youth programs, especially in crisis.

They call on residents to volunteer and support these essential efforts to keep Vermont strong.

Valentine's Day is nearly here and Love Burlington has launched BTV Love Notes — displayed at local spots including Henry's Diner and Jitters Café — inviting residents to share supportive messages for local businesses until Feb.

18. The initiative spreads community warmth throughout Burlington.

Beta Technologies said board member Dean Kamen recused himself from all board activity on Feb.

4 after files linked him to Epstein. The South Burlington-based electric plane company hired an external law firm for review.

Barnard local photojournalist Kelly Burgess (who moved from Boston) is using her Too Tired Project to raise mental health awareness through photography.

She aims to help residents connect by sharing personal experiences.

Burlington School District’s Office of Equity partners with Burlington High School seniors Esther & Victoria to run the Sankofa Project, a year-round series of events that celebrate Black history and enhance student engagement.

The next event takes place Sunday, Feb. 15 from 1-4 p.m. at the Contois Auditorium in City Hall.

St. Michael's College received a one-million-dollar gift today to launch a scholarship program to lower tuition.

The donation supports expanded financial aid efforts—including initiatives for Vermont households earning under 100K and local commuter tuition options—boosted by additional funds.

Burlington-area Nordic skiers Lauren Jortberg and Chloe Levins (representing Vermont and Team USA) are competing at the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.

Mansfield Nordic Pro, based in Chittenden County and training on Sleepy Hollow trails in Huntington, marks a local milestone in Olympic ski competition.

High school sports fans can cast their vote for the boys Athlete of the Week presented by Delta Dental at burlingtonfreepress.com; voting runs until 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb.

12 — winners will be announced on Friday, Feb. 13.

High school sports fans can vote for the Vermont Varsity Insider Girls Athlete of the Week contest powered by Delta Dental until 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb.

12 via burlingtonfreepress.com. Top nominees include standout athletes like Lillianna Fournier and Zoey McNabb, with winners to be announced on Feb. 13.

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.

Reprise Concert

7:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — All ages — Experience the Phish revival with an all-star band led by Cal Kehoe.

Bridal Hairstyling Masterclass with Sara

2-7:30 p.m. — This is Urban Salon — Two ticket options available — Enhance your hairstyling skills with a live demo and hands-on workshop focused on bridal styles.

Bosch eBike Systems MY26 Dealer Training

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Burlington Vermont — Registration required — Enhance your expertise in eBike technology and service with Bosch's latest dealer certification training.