Explore

Rapid Read Rapid Read
Vermont Estate with Underground Tunnel and Secret Rooms Set for Auction

Vermont Estate with Underground Tunnel and Secret Rooms Set for Auction

A luxurious estate in Stowe, Vermont, known as The Preserve at Wade Pasture, is being auctioned with no minimum bid or reserve. The property, owned by Adam and Sarah Hergenrother, features a climate-controlled underground tunnel, a reinforced concrete vault, and numerous high-end amenities. Originally listed for $15.8 million in June 2025, the price was reduced to $15 million but failed to attract a buyer, leading to the decision to auction. The estate includes a 10,000-square-foot residence with a Nordic-inspired wellness wing, a sports complex, and a heated pool. The property is designed as a private family sanctuary, offering a blend of craftsmanship, engineering, and natural beauty.
Trendline Trendline
Vermont Attorney General Investigates Kraft Heinz Over Ultra-Processed Foods Compliance

Vermont Attorney General Investigates Kraft Heinz Over Ultra-Processed Foods Compliance

Vermont Attorney General Investigates Kraft Heinz Over Ultra-Processed Foods Compliance
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Transmissible Cancer Detected in Catfish at Lake Memphremagog Raises Concerns

Transmissible Cancer Detected in Catfish at Lake Memphremagog Raises Concerns

Researchers have identified a transmissible cancer affecting brown bullhead catfish in Lake Memphremagog, which spans northern Vermont and Quebec. The discovery was made by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department during their annual fish census. The cancer manifests as dark streaks on the fish, resembling black tar, and is believed to spread from fish to fish. This type of cancer is rare, previously identified in only a few animal species. The study, published in Nature, suggests that the cancer cells can survive outside the host and infect new fish, potentially during spawning when fish are in close contact. The tumors' genetics are similar across affected fish, indicating a clonal origin. Researchers are investigating the transmission mechanisms and potential environmental or viral factors that may be affecting the fish's immune systems.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Montpelier Graduate Wins Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, Paving Way for Women in STEM

Montpelier Graduate Wins Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, Paving Way for Women in STEM

A Montpelier high school graduate, McKenna Stark, has made history as the first Vermont student to receive the Amazon Future Engineer scholarship. Stark will attend the Rochester Institute of Technology, receiving up to $40,000 over four years to cover college expenses. This scholarship, along with other state grants, will allow her to focus on her education without the burden of maintaining multiple jobs. Stark, who plans to study electrical engineering, hopes her achievement will inspire other young women to pursue careers in STEM fields, where women are traditionally underrepresented.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Brattleboro Considers Tax Hike to Support Endangered Birthing Center

Brattleboro Considers Tax Hike to Support Endangered Birthing Center

Brattleboro, Vermont, is considering a municipal tax increase to support the local hospital's birthing center, which is facing closure due to financial challenges. The Brattleboro Memorial Hospital announced it might close its obstetric services within six to nine months if it cannot cover a projected $4.8 million loss. Local leaders are debating whether to hold a special Town Meeting to discuss the tax hike, which could range from $100,000 to $1 million. The hospital is the only facility providing obstetrical services in Windham and Windsor counties, making its potential closure a significant concern for the community.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Vermont Scientists Discover Transmissible Cancer in Catfish

Vermont Scientists Discover Transmissible Cancer in Catfish

Researchers from the University of Vermont have identified a transmissible cancer in brown bullhead catfish in Lake Memphremagog. The cancer, which behaves like a parasite, is the first of its kind found in a freshwater fish species. The discovery raises questions about the role of pollution, habitat stress, and climate change in disease evolution. The cancer cells spread between fish, particularly those of spawning age, and are not a threat to humans. The study highlights the need for further research into the environmental factors contributing to the spread of such diseases.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Vermont State Police Seek Public Help in Identifying Vehicle After Illegal Tire Dumping in Willoughby Forest

Vermont State Police Seek Public Help in Identifying Vehicle After Illegal Tire Dumping in Willoughby Forest

The Vermont State Police are seeking public assistance in identifying a vehicle involved in the illegal dumping of 40 tires in Willoughby State Forest, located in Sutton, Vermont. The incident was reported on July 22, 2026, when troopers responded to the scene and discovered the tires discarded at the edge of the road. A vehicle of interest was observed in the vicinity shortly before the tires were dumped. The police have released a photograph of the vehicle and are encouraging anyone with information about the incident or the individuals involved to contact Trooper Benjamin Goodwin at the St. Johnsbury Barracks. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Democratic Candidates for Vermont Governor Seek to Energize Voters Ahead of Primary

Democratic Candidates for Vermont Governor Seek to Energize Voters Ahead of Primary

In Vermont, Democratic candidates Aly Richards and Amanda Janoo are campaigning to unseat Republican Governor Phil Scott in the upcoming election. Richards, known for her work in childcare funding, emphasizes her experience and pragmatic approach. Janoo, an economist, advocates for structural change and universal healthcare. Both candidates face the challenge of low voter recognition, with a recent poll indicating that many voters are unfamiliar with them. The primary election will test their ability to connect with voters and present viable alternatives to the popular incumbent governor.
Trendline Trendline
Vermont Hosts Array of Cultural Events in Late July

Vermont Hosts Array of Cultural Events in Late July

Vermont Hosts Array of Cultural Events in Late July
Rapid Read Rapid Read
District of Columbia Faces Longest Credit Card Debt Payoff Time in the U.S.

District of Columbia Faces Longest Credit Card Debt Payoff Time in the U.S.

The District of Columbia has been identified as having the most severe credit card debt issue in the United States. According to recent data, the median credit card debt in the District is $3,647, spread across an average of three credit cards per person. Residents typically pay $255 monthly towards their credit card debt, which results in an average payoff period of over 16 months, accruing $541 in interest. Alaska follows closely with a median debt of $3,827, requiring more than 16 months to clear, with $564 in interest. Vermont, despite having the 28th-highest median debt, ranks third in payoff duration due to low monthly payments, taking 14.7 months to clear $2,735 in debt.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Vermont's Catholic Church Seeks to Sell Rice Memorial High to Avoid Liquidation

Vermont's Catholic Church Seeks to Sell Rice Memorial High to Avoid Liquidation

Vermont's Roman Catholic Diocese is seeking to sell Rice Memorial High School in South Burlington to a nonprofit entity, RMHS Inc., to protect the school from potential liquidation. The diocese, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2024 due to financial strains from priest misconduct settlements, aims to reorganize its finances through this sale. The proposed transaction involves the school's building and surrounding property for $4.3 million. The diocese has requested court approval for a private sale to avoid negative impacts on student enrollment and to maximize proceeds for the bankruptcy estate.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
University of Vermont Researchers Develop Climate-Resilient Crops

University of Vermont Researchers Develop Climate-Resilient Crops

Researchers at the University of Vermont are using the state as a living laboratory to develop climate-resilient agricultural systems. Led by Dr. Eric von Wettberg, the team is studying the genetic diversity of crops to breed more resilient varieties. At the university's Horticulture Research and Education Center, they are experimenting with crops like kernza, mung bean, and buckwheat, which are designed to withstand unpredictable climate conditions. These efforts aim to address the challenges posed by rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events.