Good morning, Burlington.

Burlington-based Gardener’s Supply filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last Thursday — it plans to keep running and to sell its Burlington headquarters in a tentative $9 million deal with competitor Gardens Alive!

The filing shows the company has $8.2 million in secured debt and cites a slow retail market, a problematic software rollout and high stock option obligations as key challenges.

Alicia Estey has been hired as Vice President for Finance and Administration at UVM and will take over later this summer—succeeding Richard Cate who retires on June 27 after 17 years of service.

Estey brings over 19 years of higher education leadership experience from her roles at Boise State, where she managed a large budget and led financial strategy.

A UVM study found that Vermonters used 91% fewer plastic bags per week after the ban took effect on July 1, 2020—shoppers now bring reusable bags or pay 10 cents for a paper bag.

The survey also showed strong public support and suggested that the ban's approach may work in other areas.

Hinesburg Emergency Management opened a cooling center at the CVU High School Library on Monday and it remains open today from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., while Burlington offers several cooling centers and a shade tent at City Hall Park to help residents beat near 100 degree heat + Barre provided free pool access on Monday with proof of residency and Lebanon in New Hampshire opened cooling areas at the public library, Kilton Library, the airport terminal and a senior center on Monday and Tuesday.

City councilors approved a $600,000 two-way traffic plan on Main Street on Monday to help downtown businesses overcome construction disruptions; the new pattern will start Friday at 5:30 p.m. between Pine and Church and as soon as August 1 for the block between Church and South Winooski—a move that extends contractor S.D. Ireland’s schedule using funds from the TIF bond.

Burlington City Council unanimously voted Monday night to advance an ordinance banning public nudity in most circumstances, responding to concerns raised by downtown residents and business owners.

The proposed measure now moves toward a final vote at a future council meeting—without an official date—aiming to balance personal freedoms and community standards.

Vermont officials said the Department of Health has posted a map of over 400 cooling centers to help Vermonters cope with the state’s first heat wave; the National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning for parts of Franklin, Grand Isle, Chittenden, and Addison counties.

Residents are advised to call ahead before visiting centers since some may charge an entry fee or operate only on limited hours.

Golden Hour at HULA - Vermont Tech Meetup

4:30-6:00 p.m. — HULA — Free entry — Network with tech professionals over drinks, pizza, and scenic views of Lake Champlain.

Latin Dance Night

5-9 p.m. — Switchback Brewing Co. — $20 for the class, $10 for the social — Enjoy a vibrant evening of Latin dance with beginner-friendly lessons and a lively dance social.

BTV Independence Day Celebration

5-11 p.m. — Waterfront Park — Free entry — Celebrate with food, music, and a stunning fireworks display over Lake Champlain.

Father John Misty Concert

6:45-8:15 p.m. — Shelburne Museum — Presale from Feb 25 — Enjoy an evening with Father John Misty and Lucinda Williams at the Ben & Jerry’s Concerts on The Green.

Joe List Live

7:30-9 p.m. — Vermont Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with stand-up comedian Joe List while supporting a charitable cause.

Joe List Comedy Show

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Vermont Comedy Club — Tickets start at $106 — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Joe List at a top-rated comedy venue.

Joe List Comedy Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Vermont Comedy Club — VIP tickets available — Experience a night of laughter with Joe List in an intimate setting.

The Future of Vermont’s Food & Farm Economy: Trends & Predictions

5-8 p.m. — Intervale Center — Free entry — Discover insights on Vermont's food and farm economy while networking and enjoying local refreshments.

SB Nite Out #5 - B-Town & Fireworks

5:30-8 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Park — Free entry — Enjoy delicious food from local vendors followed by a spectacular fireworks display to celebrate the community.