Public Safety & Health: Howard Center is launching a Public Inebriate Program (PIP) in Burlington, offering a voluntary, supervised alternative to ER or jail for people intoxicated or under the influence, with staff screening and short-term support plus referrals. Mental Health: The Brattleboro Retreat will host its inaugural Move Forward Together 5K for Suicide Awareness on Sept. 12, with proceeds supporting mental health resources and stigma reduction. Community & Culture: Rockport Opera House’s Flying Shoes dance returns every second Sunday, Aug. 9, with live music from Molly & Pepin and a family-friendly community dance. Heritage & Tourism: Vermont Covered Bridge Week is back Aug. 1–8, with statewide events and a guided tour in Rockingham on Aug. 8. Local Lifestyle: The historic JJ Hapgood General Store in Peru—featured in “Baby Boom”—has reopened after a revival and is now listed for sale. Education & Youth: A new Lake Champlain Sea Grant program is placing Vermont high school students aboard UVM’s research vessel for hands-on rotifer study this summer. Arts & Music: Central Vermont Chamber Music Festival marks its 34th season with concerts Aug. 3–15 in Randolph, including a live radio chat with Walter Parker. State Snapshot: U.S. News ranks Vermont No. 10 overall in its 2026 Best States list, with top marks for opportunity and crime/corrections.