Good morning, Burlington.

Letters to the Editor published on July 16 showed local residents weighing in on political controversies and changes to homelessness policy.

Some letters criticized a divisive opinion piece at the statehouse while others praised bipartisan efforts and discussed protecting Vermont’s wildlife — a snapshot of community views.

Federal prosecutors said they will not delay a decision on whether to seek the death penalty for Teresa Youngblut, who is accused of shooting a border agent during a traffic stop on January 20 despite her attorneys requesting a six-month extension (the deadline is set for July 28 and the investigation remains ongoing).

The Vermont Health Department expects to lose $1M in federal funds for its tobacco control program after the CDC eliminated its Office on Smoking and Health—this cut will lead to unfilled staff positions and a 50% reduction in media campaigns that support quitting smoking and vaping.

Burlington native Ilona Maher, an Olympic bronze medalist and champion rugby player, was named to the Time100 Creators list for her body-positive social media message—she has gained over 3.6 million TikTok followers and inspired fans on Dancing With the Stars and on the digital cover of Sports Illustrated.

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.

Bonny Light Horseman

7-9:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — Cost not specified — Experience the heartfelt melodies of Bonny Light Horseman as they celebrate humanity through music.

The Ramble Roller Disco

2-4 p.m. — Pomeroy Park — $5 suggested donation — Roll with us at the 4th annual roller disco while supporting a great cause.

Robert Lester Folsom Live Performance

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Higher Ground — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of melodic sounds from southern singer-songwriter Robert Lester Folsom.

Vermont Lake Monsters 50/50 Raffle Night

5-9 p.m. — Vermont Lake Monsters Baseball — Enjoy a night at the ballpark selling raffle tickets to support Camp Ta-Kum-Ta.

Grieves Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Higher Ground — $51+ — Enjoy a night of powerful music with Grieves at Higher Ground in South Burlington.

The Red Rocks 5K Run

9:30 a.m. — Red Rocks Park — Registration fee applies — Experience a scenic 5K trail run through the beautiful woods of Red Rocks Park.