Shelters rally for homeless during cold
February 19, 2026
News
Leicester couple’s work rooted in forestland stewardship
February 19, 2026
For the Raisharts, the forest is more than a physical place — it’s a means of connection t … (read more)
Sports
Two Tigers take first in Nordic freestyle state championships
February 20, 2026
MUHS skiers snagged first place wins in the freestyle state championships, with another da … (read more)
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK
- Progressing nicely VERGENNES OPERA HOUSE stakeholders on Feb. 12 proudly led Preservation Trust of Vermont members on a tour of the 129-year-old performance hall, which is undergoing substantial renovations that are expected to wrap up next month. Here, visitors stand in front of the opera house stage, which is protected by plastic sheeting during the All Access Project renovations. Independent photos/Steve James
- Winter pattern AFTER A COUPLE rounds of generous snowfalls, the branches of the Middlebury crabapple tree were nicely outlined this week in white stuff. Independent photo/John S. McCright
- Fresh air CHILDREN ENGAGED IN a youth cross-country skiing program at Rikert Outdoor Center in Ripton early this month converge on a little hillock on the edge of the big field, looking for a chance to enjoy a short downhill. Photo submitted by Derrick Cram
- Progressing nicely VERGENNES OPERA HOUSE stakeholders on Feb. 12 proudly led Preservation Trust of Vermont members on a tour of the 129-year-old performance hall, which is undergoing substantial renovations that are expected to wrap up next month. Here, ; Friends of the Opera House President Gerianne Smart and Mike Louer of Naylor & Breen Builders stand in front of the opera house’s new, north-side elevator, which will improve accessibility to the performance space. Independent photo/Steve James
- Progressing nicely VERGENNES OPERA HOUSE stakeholders on Feb. 12 proudly led Preservation Trust of Vermont members on a tour of the 129-year-old performance hall, which is undergoing substantial renovations that are expected to wrap up next month. Pictured are examples of fundraiser bricks that will help underwrite the project. Independent photo/Steve James
- Progressing nicely VERGENNES OPERA HOUSE stakeholders on Feb. 12 proudly led Preservation Trust of Vermont members on a tour of the 129-year-old performance hall, which is undergoing substantial renovations that are expected to wrap up next month. Pictured are the group of Preservation Trust dignitaries on the steps of the Opera House (also city hall) entryway. Independent photo/Steve James
- Performance space A NEWLY CONSTRUCTED lift, seen at the right of this photo, will soon connect the Vergennes Opera House dressing room with the main stage. It’s expected to make its debut on March 28, at the conclusion of the VOH’s All Access Project renovations. Independent photo/Steve James
Op/Ed
Editorial: Jesse Jackson, a true giant
February 19, 2026
“Jackson often spoke of the power of unity and of bringing the American people together to … (read more)





























