Good morning, Burlington.

Vermont spends nearly $4 million yearly to maintain seven petroleum-based peaker plants that run between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. during peak demand on hot summer evenings and cold winter nights; Burlington utilities encourage off-peak power use (to lower costs and emissions) as climate advocates push for cleaner energy.

The National Weather Service has warned Burlington and the Champlain Valley of extreme heat with highs in the mid-to-upper 90s and heat indices near 100, effective until 7 p.m. Friday (residents are urged to seek air conditioning at designated cooling centers).

Neighbors in Sutton and Enosburgh voiced frustration over slow cleanup of illegal dumping and piled tires, as officials let owners remove limited amounts each month.

The DEC plans to boost its enforcement team to help clean up but resource limits mean progress may be slow (a process that takes decades).

State data shows SNAP enrollment fell 7% since last summer because of new work rules, and state lawmakers are funding over 60 benefits assisters (with $3.5 million) to help Vermonters with SNAP and Medicaid applications starting in September.

Under Vermont law only sparklers and select novelty smoke devices are allowed without a permit, so selling or using other fireworks can incur fines and jail time.

Permits require approval from the ATF and local officials, and public displays must be approved by police and fire departments 15 days ahead.

After 61 years of planning and delays, Burlington opened the Champlain Parkway to connect Interstate 189 to the South End via Pine Street — easing local traffic.

Milton resident Lara Grell, who received a double-lung transplant, competed in the Transplant Games in Colorado + joined 966 recipients and donors in a Guinness World Record effort.

She hopes her journey encourages more residents to register as organ donors.

Burlington's Independence Day Fireworks Celebration

3-11 p.m. — Burlington Waterfront Boat Ramp — $2 round-trip for shuttle service — Experience Vermont's most spectacular fireworks display along with family-friendly activities.

Level 1 Yoga Class

5-6 p.m. — Hot Yoga Burlington Vermont — $10 fee for late cancellations — A relaxing class perfect for beginners and post-activity recovery.

Latin Dance Night

6-9 p.m. — Switchback Brewing Co. — Salsa Class $20, Dance Social $10 — Enjoy an evening of vibrant Latin dancing and connect with fellow dance enthusiasts.

YUUF Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Higher Ground — Support TBD — Experience the unique musical blend of Yuuf in their Burlington debut during summer tour.

All Levels Hot Yoga Class

9-10 a.m. — Hot Yoga Burlington Vermont — Reservation required — Engage in a continuous flow of poses suitable for all active levels.

Yoga Nidra and Sound Bath

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Hot Yoga Burlington Vermont — Reservations required — Experience guided meditations and relaxing yogic sleep in a cozy setting.

Level 1 Yoga Class

9-10 a.m. — Hot Yoga Burlington Vermont — Reservations required — Enjoy a relaxing yoga session ideal for beginners and post-vigorous activity.

All Levels Hot Yoga Class

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Hot Yoga Burlington Vermont — Sign-up required — Engage in an intermediate yoga flow suitable for all active individuals.

Live Comedy with King Dumb

8:30-11:30 p.m. — Vermont Comedy Club — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of laughter with Nathan Hartswick, Natalie Miller, and Brian De La Bruere.

33rd Annual Vermont Brewers Festival

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Waterfront Park — Admission with tasting tabs — Celebrate Vermont's craft beer scene with local brewers and scenic Lake Champlain views.