A section of Vermont Route 125 in Hancock is going to be closed for two days so crews can replace a culvert damaged by flooding from Tropical Storm Irene. The area to be closed beginning this Saturday is about two miles west of the highway's intersection with Vermont Route 100. The permanent culvert replacement will be made of concrete and have a larger opening than the original. The goal is to reopen Route 125 on November 21.
Otter Creek Brewing suffered a minor explosion Monday morning when a small fermentation tank over pressurized and suddenly burst. No one was hurt in the incident. Middlebury fire crews responded with four trucks but there was no fire and no major structural damage was done to the facility. Otter Creek officials say the cause is unclear and the plant has shut down to assess and investigate the situation. Despite the shutdown, they say there is plenty of beer on hand to meet demand.
Police say three people lost their lives following a Monday morning car crash on Route 4 in Fair Haven. The crash occurred at about 12:30AM near the Vermont Welcome Center. Police say the car went off the right side of the road, smashed into a concrete bridge and burst into flames. Two truck drivers, who reported the accident, were able to get two people out of the car before it was completely engulfed in flames. A woman survivor was transported to Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington with head injuries. Police say the victims are not from the area and their names have not been released. The crash remains under investigation.
Vermont State Police are investigating the burglary into a camp located on Carp Cole Rd. in Starksboro. The burglary occurred sometime between November 6th and the 11th. Among the items stolen were a Husqvarna chainsaw, a single shot 12-gauge shotgun with a large amount of ammunition, and 2 pair of VT Tubbs snowshoes. Also on November 14th State Police received a burglary complaint located on Brown Hill East in the Town of Starksboro. A residence was broken into sometime between November 9th and the 14th. Anyone with any information is urged to contact the State Police New Haven barracks. (802-388-4919)
Finding the money to start and run ventures that keep our landscape open and productive was the challenge a “Financing the Working Landscape” conference last Thursday addressed at the American Legion here in Middlebury. The event brought some 120 entrepreneurs, capital providers and others interested in the topic to this daylong meeting. Vermont Agriculture Secretary Chuck Ross said the event’s turnout and the ideas and businesses represented in the crowd demonstrated the sheer energy surrounding agricultural entrepreneurship.
Bristol Rep. David Sharpe has been a longtime member of the House Ways and Means Committee. Now he has been appointed to the Vermont Legislature’s Joint Fiscal Committee. The JFC is a panel made up of 10 lawmakers that includes five House members and five senators, primarily charged with overseeing the fiscal responsibilities of the Legislature when the General Assembly is not in session. Sharpe becomes the first Addison County lawmaker to sit on the JFC in about two decades.
Earlier this year more than 1,800 Addison County middle and high school students, took the statewide biennial Youth Risk Behavior Survey, which is administered by the Vermont Department of Health. The results of the survey show a decrease in substance abuse since 1999, an increase in sexual activity and an increase in bullying. It also showed that almost one-in-five middle school students have considered taking their own lives. The survey meant to increase awareness about these behaviors, stimulate a community-based conversation and encourage schools and communities to create strategies for dealing with these issues that put their youth at risk.
The former president of the Historical Society in Manchester is facing more charges that he defrauded local authors out of thousands of dollars. Peter Cambell Copp pleaded not guilty Monday to a new felony charge. The 62-year-old is facing a total of 15 charges. Police say he took between $8-$10 thousand to edit and publish authors' works, but never finished the jobs.
Visitors to the new M Gallery at 3 Mill Street who fail to discuss the art are missing the point. One of their goals is to create a community that communicates with each other. Through Thursday, the M Gallery will display “Vision Obscured,” an exhibit of abstract photography by seven Middlebury students. The show opened last Friday.
The Monkton Community Coffeehouse and the Monkton 250th Founding Celebration Committee announce the launch of the Monkton Flag Project to design a town flag and postmark for the town’s 250th anniversary on June 24, 2012. Kristen Farrell is a Mt. Abraham Union High School history teacher and the chairman of Monkton’s 250th Founding Celebration Committee. She wants Monkton residents of all ages to know that designing a town flag and postmark is a great opportunity to get everyone involved and excited about being part of a community art project to commemorate the 250th birthday celebration of Monkton. It will provide a legacy for future generations and foster pride in our town.
The American Dog tick and the Black Legged tick, also known as the Deer tick, are Vermont's two most popular ticks. The State Of Vermont says there have been reports of a lot of ticks in a lot of places this year. In the first two weeks of November, the temperature in many location has gotten to 60 degrees or higher 5 times, and that's keeping the ticks very active. The Deer tick carries Lyme Disease. So far this year the Vermont Health Department has more than 500 confirmed and probable cases of Lyme Disease. Hunters or people outdoors should be aware of ticks and get them off within 36 hours if they bite you.
Farms in parts of New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine are eligible for low-interest loans to cover losses from flooding, hail and heavy rains, including Tropical Storm that started on May 1st. The United States Department of Agriculture designated eight counties in New Hampshire, five in Vermont and two in Maine as natural disaster areas on November 9th. The designation means the qualified farmers in those counties are eligible for low emergency loans from United State Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency. The areas covered include Caledonia, Essex, Orange, Windham and Windsor counties in Vermont.
Vermont State Police say they are looking for the suspect or suspects in the killing of a 48-year-old Bethel man and attempted killing of a 19-year-old woman. Investigators aren't releasing the cause of death of Scott Hill, but his death has been ruled a homicide. The chief criminal investigator of the state police, says police want to hear from anyone who may have seen or heard from Hill last week. Police say there does not appear to be a threat to the public.
The big question about federal disaster aid for Vermont in the wake of Tropical Storm Irene appears to have been answered in the state's favor. U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy announced Monday that a House-Senate conference committee on Capitol Hill had agreed to a new federal highway funding package that lifts funding caps for disaster relief. The bill still must pass the full House and Senate.
College students and Vermont law enforcement professionals have a new resource to help them hone their skills at conducting criminal investigations on computers, smart-phones and other digital devices. Officials gathered Monday at the new Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Investigation at Champlain College in Burlington. The center provides a high-tech educational setting and a fully equipped, secure digital forensics lab. Vermont U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy helped secure a series of federal grants that Champlain used to help set up the center.
New York budget officials are projecting a $350 million deficit in this year's general fund, followed by a deficit ranging from $3 billion to $3.5 billion next year. In the midyear update released Monday, the Division of the Budget cites weak economic conditions around the world, volatility in financial markets and persistently disappointing data on employment, consumer confidence and income. Officials say they expect to better gauge the tax receipts shortfall in the coming weeks and will immediately institute a financial management plan to eliminate the shortfall. If that fails, Gov. Andrew Cuomo is expected call the Legislature back to consider additional measures.
You are invited to join the Addison County Chamber Of Commerce this Thursday from 5 – 7PM for this month's mixer, which is being held at People's United Bank in Middlebury. As in past year's you can help People's United collect items for the Addison County food shelf. Bring two non-perishable food items and you'll receive free entry to the mixer! If you bring more than two items, you will receive an extra door prize ticket for your generous donation. The mixer will be catered by Middlebury Natural Foods Co op. There was no winner at October's mixer, so the pot is now valued at $700. For more information and to RSVP just visit the Chamber’s Website.
The Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce November “After Business Mixer” will be held on Thursday at Inter-Lakes Health from 5:30 to 7PM. Sponsors providing door prizes will be Achieve Fitness, Frenchman’s Restaurant and the Wagon Wheel Restaurant. Inter-Lakes Health is located on Wicker St. in Ticonderoga. For more information visit the Ti Chamber's Website.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Monday, November 14, 2011
WVTK Local & State News November 14, 2011 (Afternoon Update)
Police say a beer tank at Otter Creek Brewing exploded around 10 AM this morning. No one was hurt in the explosion. Authorities say a large fermenting tank blew, damaging piping and knocked over two or three other tanks. There was no fire and the beer that spilled was mostly contained within the building. The building was deemed safe before employees were allowed to return to work. The incident remains under investigation.
Three people are dead after a fiery crash on Route 4 in Fair Haven early this morning. Police say a car heading east went off the road, overturned, and burst into flames after midnight. The driver and another passenger died at the scene. Their names have not been released. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Town residents in Brandon are brainstorming ways to move forward following the August storm that took out a portion of Route 7 and devastated several roads and homes in Brandon. At a public forum sponsored by the Brandon Downtown Alliance at the Brandon Congregational Church this week, more than 40 town residents listened to a panel of local officials and concerned residents on ways the town can move forward to revitalize Brandon’s downtown community after the storm.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reminding Vermonters hurt by Tropical Storm Irene that the deadline for applying for federal assistance is looming. Homeowners, renters and business owners have until tomorrow to apply for aid. According to FEMA so far nearly 7,000 individuals and businesses have applied for aid and about $43 million in disaster assistance has been distributed in grants and low-interest loans.
Students studying forensic science at Champlain College are about as close to the real world as possible. The college dedicated its new Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Investigation this morning, known as the LCDI. The state-of-the-art lab is a fully equipped, secure facility that gives students, professionals and law enforcement professionals the latest tools to unlock computer crime.
You may not be able to see it, but two weeks ago, workers completed installation of a high-tech, fiber-optic cable on the new Lake Champlain Bridge. This new line will eventually provide broadband access to schools, homes and business; it will also increase data capacity for local telephone companies and wireless carriers.
Vermont transportation officials want to hear from residents about the future of public transit systems ranging from buses and trains to ride-share programs. The first meeting is set for tonight in Winooski. A second will be held on Wednesday at Vermont Interactive Television sites around the state. The third meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Rutland.
Three people are dead after a fiery crash on Route 4 in Fair Haven early this morning. Police say a car heading east went off the road, overturned, and burst into flames after midnight. The driver and another passenger died at the scene. Their names have not been released. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Town residents in Brandon are brainstorming ways to move forward following the August storm that took out a portion of Route 7 and devastated several roads and homes in Brandon. At a public forum sponsored by the Brandon Downtown Alliance at the Brandon Congregational Church this week, more than 40 town residents listened to a panel of local officials and concerned residents on ways the town can move forward to revitalize Brandon’s downtown community after the storm.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reminding Vermonters hurt by Tropical Storm Irene that the deadline for applying for federal assistance is looming. Homeowners, renters and business owners have until tomorrow to apply for aid. According to FEMA so far nearly 7,000 individuals and businesses have applied for aid and about $43 million in disaster assistance has been distributed in grants and low-interest loans.
Students studying forensic science at Champlain College are about as close to the real world as possible. The college dedicated its new Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Investigation this morning, known as the LCDI. The state-of-the-art lab is a fully equipped, secure facility that gives students, professionals and law enforcement professionals the latest tools to unlock computer crime.
You may not be able to see it, but two weeks ago, workers completed installation of a high-tech, fiber-optic cable on the new Lake Champlain Bridge. This new line will eventually provide broadband access to schools, homes and business; it will also increase data capacity for local telephone companies and wireless carriers.
Vermont transportation officials want to hear from residents about the future of public transit systems ranging from buses and trains to ride-share programs. The first meeting is set for tonight in Winooski. A second will be held on Wednesday at Vermont Interactive Television sites around the state. The third meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Rutland.
WVTK Local & State News November 14, 2011
As of Friday afternoon police were still searching for the pair of men who invaded a home in Goshen Thursday morning. Police had received no information about their whereabouts. While other burglaries have been reported in the Goshen area recently, police said they had no evidence that the assailants in the home invasion were linked to any other break-ins. The suspects are described as two white men roughly 5 feet, 8 inches to 5 feet, 10 inches tall. The home invasion was described as an isolated incident, however police are encouraging people in the community to remain vigilant and take precautions to deter criminal activity.
A sophomore at Castleton State College has died from an apparent suicide. According to college officials, Brian Dagle of East Lyme Connecticut died at an off-campus house on South Street. The college was notified of his death early Saturday morning. Castleton State campus officials made councilors available to students. A vigil was held Saturday night at the campus wellness center. Vermont State Police are handling the investigation did release a statement saying no foul play is suspected.
Essex VT Police are looking for man who robbed a local gift shop Sunday afternoon. Police say the suspect walked into the Dragonfly Treasures Shop on Carmichael St. around 3:15PM and demanded money from the clerk. No weapon was displayed. The suspect, described as a 5', 9" with blonde hair and Carhart pants, fled in a tan SUV. Call the Essex Police if you have any information: 878-8331.
Town residents in Brandon are brainstorming ways to move forward following the August storm that took out a portion of Route 7 and devastated several roads and homes in Brandon. At a public forum sponsored by the Brandon Downtown Alliance at the Brandon Congregational Church this week, more than 40 town residents listened to a panel of local officials and concerned residents on ways the town can move forward to revitalize Brandon’s downtown community after the storm.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reminding Vermonters hurt by Tropical Storm Irene that the deadline for applying for federal assistance is looming. Homeowners, renters and business owners have until tomorrow to apply for aid. According to FEMA so far nearly 7,000 individuals and businesses have applied for aid and about $43 million in disaster assistance has been distributed in grants and low-interest loans.
Vermonters are raising money through barbecues, benefit concerts and campaigns to help those affected by flooding from the remnants of Hurricane Irene. Officials say donors have been generous, but figuring out how much more money is needed and raising it months after the storm is the challenge. The Vermont Long Term Disaster Recovery Group says an estimated 5 to 15% of the 7,000 applicants for federal aid are expected to need extra help. The Vermont Community Foundation has collected about $3.3 million in contributions or pledges for funds dedicated to flood-related relief.
You may not be able to see it, but two weeks ago, workers completed installation of a high-tech, fiber-optic cable on the new Lake Champlain Bridge. The new cable will revolutionize electronic data transmission services in the greater Champlain Valley region when completed in late 2012. According to industry reports, the cable is expected to be connected to the Burlington infrastructure while another line will be extended across the terrain linking Whitehall and Rutland next year. This new line will eventually provide broadband access to schools, homes and business; it will also increase data capacity for local telephone companies and wireless carriers.
Moriah Central School Board will hold its regularly scheduled board meeting at 6PM Tuesday in the High School library. Items of interest include: declaration of surplus, staff changes and discussion of December events.
If Rutland splits its pension fund, it will not be because of a state mandate. The proposal to split the pension into one fund for municipal employees and another for school employees has been described as necessary due to a clause in Act 60 requiring the segregation of municipal and education funds. However, state officials said they have issued no directives on the subject and local officials say the current arrangement meets the requirements of the law.
Vermont transportation officials want to hear from residents about the future of public transit systems ranging from buses and trains to ride-share programs. The first meeting is set for tonight in Winooski. A second will be held on Wednesday at Vermont Interactive Television sites around the state. The third meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Rutland.
The state's education finance system will be in the spotlight this week. Several public hearings are planned across the state so that consultants can gather input about how schools are funded in Vermont. The first will take place this Tuesday night at 5:30 in Brattleboro. Vermonters can also weigh in by visiting one of the state's interactive television sites. Lawmakers want to know if the system has improved since the passage of Act 60 almost 15 years ago. The system ties funding to property values.
The governors of Vermont and Massachusetts are urging Congress for more home heating help. Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick are spearheading a bipartisan effort to urge level-funding for LIHEAP. The low-income home heating program faces up to a 50% reduction.
Members from the Occupy Vermont movement are trying to figure out their next move after police told them they could no longer use tents after one person died this week. The meeting took place at the North End Studios Saturday afternoon. The usual city hall meeting space had to be changed, because half of it is still taped off as police continue to investigate a fatal shooting.
City Democrats in Burlington worked very hard Sunday afternoon and evening, but still failed to come up with a winning candidate in the race for mayor. The city caucus went through three rounds, and out of 1,085 votes cast, it was dead even for the two remaining candidates, Tim Ashe and Miro Weinberger. Democrats will gather for another caucus within the next month.
A published report says no one keeps records of how many search warrants are issued each year in Vermont to help police enter homes and businesses, record conversations secretly and obtain GPS tracking information on personal vehicles. According to the Burlington Free Press, police who seek the warrants, prosecutors who review the requests and the state judges who ultimately approve them all say they are not required to provide any type of annual report or compile statistics about search warrants.
In honor of Veterans Day more than 6-thousand American flags were planted at the University of Vermont. It was to recognize all the men and women whom have sacrificed their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. Meanwhile Veterans Day was a big day for the Green Mountain Post #1 in St Albans. It is the state's first legion post, founded in 1919. Along with supporting veterans and their families, this post is involved in a number of community fundraisers.
Discussions are under way on whether the New England Culinary Institute might become part of the Vermont State Colleges system. VSC Chancellor Tim Donovan said that the culinary institute founder reached out to him to explore whether the institute might find a home within the state college system, which now has five schools. The institute has been experiencing financial challenges, and they both say it might fit in because the state college system already trains students in a number of fields. If the culinary institute were to become one of the state colleges, it would take an act of the Legislature.
U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer is pushing retailers to clearly show how layaway plans can actually cost a consumer more than using a credit card. Schumer is asking major retail associations to advise their members to more clearly present their layaway fees to customers. The Democrat said the ultimate cost of a layaway with a $5 fee could equal 40 percent interest over two months. Major retailers nationwide are reviving the layaway plan that started during Great Depression as a way to help low-income people without access to credit to buy presents during the holidays.
Though simplistic in its name, Live Well on Main St. in Essex, NY offers a multi-faceted approach toward well-being. Live Well's mission is to provide their clients with the highest quality of health services to support their pursuit of wellness. For more information you can visit livewellessexny.com.
A sophomore at Castleton State College has died from an apparent suicide. According to college officials, Brian Dagle of East Lyme Connecticut died at an off-campus house on South Street. The college was notified of his death early Saturday morning. Castleton State campus officials made councilors available to students. A vigil was held Saturday night at the campus wellness center. Vermont State Police are handling the investigation did release a statement saying no foul play is suspected.
Essex VT Police are looking for man who robbed a local gift shop Sunday afternoon. Police say the suspect walked into the Dragonfly Treasures Shop on Carmichael St. around 3:15PM and demanded money from the clerk. No weapon was displayed. The suspect, described as a 5', 9" with blonde hair and Carhart pants, fled in a tan SUV. Call the Essex Police if you have any information: 878-8331.
Town residents in Brandon are brainstorming ways to move forward following the August storm that took out a portion of Route 7 and devastated several roads and homes in Brandon. At a public forum sponsored by the Brandon Downtown Alliance at the Brandon Congregational Church this week, more than 40 town residents listened to a panel of local officials and concerned residents on ways the town can move forward to revitalize Brandon’s downtown community after the storm.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reminding Vermonters hurt by Tropical Storm Irene that the deadline for applying for federal assistance is looming. Homeowners, renters and business owners have until tomorrow to apply for aid. According to FEMA so far nearly 7,000 individuals and businesses have applied for aid and about $43 million in disaster assistance has been distributed in grants and low-interest loans.
Vermonters are raising money through barbecues, benefit concerts and campaigns to help those affected by flooding from the remnants of Hurricane Irene. Officials say donors have been generous, but figuring out how much more money is needed and raising it months after the storm is the challenge. The Vermont Long Term Disaster Recovery Group says an estimated 5 to 15% of the 7,000 applicants for federal aid are expected to need extra help. The Vermont Community Foundation has collected about $3.3 million in contributions or pledges for funds dedicated to flood-related relief.
You may not be able to see it, but two weeks ago, workers completed installation of a high-tech, fiber-optic cable on the new Lake Champlain Bridge. The new cable will revolutionize electronic data transmission services in the greater Champlain Valley region when completed in late 2012. According to industry reports, the cable is expected to be connected to the Burlington infrastructure while another line will be extended across the terrain linking Whitehall and Rutland next year. This new line will eventually provide broadband access to schools, homes and business; it will also increase data capacity for local telephone companies and wireless carriers.
Moriah Central School Board will hold its regularly scheduled board meeting at 6PM Tuesday in the High School library. Items of interest include: declaration of surplus, staff changes and discussion of December events.
If Rutland splits its pension fund, it will not be because of a state mandate. The proposal to split the pension into one fund for municipal employees and another for school employees has been described as necessary due to a clause in Act 60 requiring the segregation of municipal and education funds. However, state officials said they have issued no directives on the subject and local officials say the current arrangement meets the requirements of the law.
Vermont transportation officials want to hear from residents about the future of public transit systems ranging from buses and trains to ride-share programs. The first meeting is set for tonight in Winooski. A second will be held on Wednesday at Vermont Interactive Television sites around the state. The third meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Rutland.
The state's education finance system will be in the spotlight this week. Several public hearings are planned across the state so that consultants can gather input about how schools are funded in Vermont. The first will take place this Tuesday night at 5:30 in Brattleboro. Vermonters can also weigh in by visiting one of the state's interactive television sites. Lawmakers want to know if the system has improved since the passage of Act 60 almost 15 years ago. The system ties funding to property values.
The governors of Vermont and Massachusetts are urging Congress for more home heating help. Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick are spearheading a bipartisan effort to urge level-funding for LIHEAP. The low-income home heating program faces up to a 50% reduction.
Members from the Occupy Vermont movement are trying to figure out their next move after police told them they could no longer use tents after one person died this week. The meeting took place at the North End Studios Saturday afternoon. The usual city hall meeting space had to be changed, because half of it is still taped off as police continue to investigate a fatal shooting.
City Democrats in Burlington worked very hard Sunday afternoon and evening, but still failed to come up with a winning candidate in the race for mayor. The city caucus went through three rounds, and out of 1,085 votes cast, it was dead even for the two remaining candidates, Tim Ashe and Miro Weinberger. Democrats will gather for another caucus within the next month.
A published report says no one keeps records of how many search warrants are issued each year in Vermont to help police enter homes and businesses, record conversations secretly and obtain GPS tracking information on personal vehicles. According to the Burlington Free Press, police who seek the warrants, prosecutors who review the requests and the state judges who ultimately approve them all say they are not required to provide any type of annual report or compile statistics about search warrants.
In honor of Veterans Day more than 6-thousand American flags were planted at the University of Vermont. It was to recognize all the men and women whom have sacrificed their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. Meanwhile Veterans Day was a big day for the Green Mountain Post #1 in St Albans. It is the state's first legion post, founded in 1919. Along with supporting veterans and their families, this post is involved in a number of community fundraisers.
Discussions are under way on whether the New England Culinary Institute might become part of the Vermont State Colleges system. VSC Chancellor Tim Donovan said that the culinary institute founder reached out to him to explore whether the institute might find a home within the state college system, which now has five schools. The institute has been experiencing financial challenges, and they both say it might fit in because the state college system already trains students in a number of fields. If the culinary institute were to become one of the state colleges, it would take an act of the Legislature.
U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer is pushing retailers to clearly show how layaway plans can actually cost a consumer more than using a credit card. Schumer is asking major retail associations to advise their members to more clearly present their layaway fees to customers. The Democrat said the ultimate cost of a layaway with a $5 fee could equal 40 percent interest over two months. Major retailers nationwide are reviving the layaway plan that started during Great Depression as a way to help low-income people without access to credit to buy presents during the holidays.
Though simplistic in its name, Live Well on Main St. in Essex, NY offers a multi-faceted approach toward well-being. Live Well's mission is to provide their clients with the highest quality of health services to support their pursuit of wellness. For more information you can visit livewellessexny.com.
Friday, November 11, 2011
WVTK Local & State News November 11, 2011
Vermont State Police are searching for two men who broke into a Goshen home and threatened a woman who had been sleeping inside. Police say the two men stole the victim's pickup truck and fled following the incident that began about 10AM Thursday. The woman was not hurt. The vehicle was later found abandoned on Vermont Route 73. The suspects had fled on foot. The suspects are described as white males, both 5-feet-8 inches to 5-feet-10 inches tall. Both were wearing black sweatshirts and black pants. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the state police.
A hospital spokesman says the 35-year-old military veteran who protesters say shot himself at an Occupy Wall Street encampment in Vermont's largest city has died. Mike Noble of the Fletcher Allen Health Care confirmed that a man died after the shooting in City Hall Park. Burlington Police would not confirm that the shooting was a suicide, but the veteran's fellow protesters told reporters at the scene that the man shot himself. Others at the Occupy encampment say the man was a victim of inadequate mental health services being offered to veterans. Authorities haven't released the man's name.
A fire at the top of Walker Mountain in Clarendon was doused Wednesday night with the help of firefighters from 10 communities and neighbors living on the mountain that helped out by donating all-terrain vehicles and a tractor that hauled water to the summit. The cause of the fire was still under investigation on Thursday but fire officials said it appeared embers from a campfire left unattended near the summit started the blaze. While the fire doesn’t appear to have been intentionally set it is a violation of state law to leave a campfire unattended.
Secretary of State Jim Condos spoke with a group of local officials and others on Monday here in Middlebury. He said, “The best government not only does its business in the open, but also allows its citizens to participate.” On his 12-stop “Vermont Transparency Tour,” he also urged boards to limit executive sessions, and officials to cooperate with requests for documents and information. Condos focused on the state’s open records law, which the Legislature changed earlier this year, and its open meeting law.
Middlebury select-board members learned earlier this week that the fiscal year 2013 municipal budget could require a 5-cent hike in the local tax rate, even before crunching the initial numbers on the new spending plan. The potential tax increase is associated with four financial outlays that could add over $348,000 to the town-spending plan that will cover July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013.
Addison County Transit Resources is proposing a new bus route along the Route 116 corridor that would take passengers from Bristol to Burlington, with stops in Starksboro and Hinesburg. The executive director of ACTR, James Moulton, said the new service could start as soon as April, pending funding.
The final stage of a two-year, $4.7 million project that improved the water distribution system in Pittsford, connected the Pittsford and Florence systems and installed new meters is nearing completion. The project contractors will complete work in the village within the next two weeks. The town is also working to complete a $1.9 million sewer project that looks to keep storm-water and groundwater out of the sewer.
The Pittsford Police Department is expanding its vehicle fleet with a new, all-wheel drive Dodge Durango. The town’s Select Board approved the purchase of the vehicle from a New Jersey dealership that specializes in detailing vehicles with most of the necessary police equipment. The town will pay approximately $27,000 for the 2012 Dodge Durango from the town’s cruiser replacement fund. The new vehicle is expected to arrive in January.
A public vote in Charlotte on a solar energy project was canceled. A special town meeting was scheduled for yesterday for residents to consider whether to authorize the project on Thompson's point. The project needs to be underway by January in order to qualify for a federal green energy tax credit. Critic’s say in the rush to get that credit, the town is sacrificing a piece of open land in a conservation district. Now, the whole decision is on hold because the town attorney says the vote was not properly warned, and the meeting was canceled.
Governor Peter Shumlin is joining 15 governors and mayors in calling for repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act, which they say discriminates against same-sex couples. The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee voted 10 to 8 along party lines today to repeal the law, with Senator Patrick Leahy leading the effort to do so. But it's unclear whether the effort to scrap the Clinton-era law will succeed.
The annual Farm Show, which Barre has hosted for the past 50 years, is moving to the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction. The loss of the show, held each January, is the third hit the Barre Civic Center has taken recently. Last month, the Barre Rotary Club announced it would no longer hold the annual Barre Rotary Spring Exposition and Home Show. In January the center lost a revenue generator when the Frost Heaves folded.
The stock price for Green Mountain Coffee Roasters continues to fall after Wednesday's earnings shortfall. The Waterbury Company actually had a fantastic year with net sales of over $2.6 billion. That's 95 percent of last year. But the company fell short of its earning goals and investors are taking flight. The stock price was down 37 percent from Wednesday to about $41 at midday. The popularity of its K-cup line and big deals with Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts have fueled the growth.
Vermont lawmakers were briefed on the Comprehensive Energy Plan by the Shumlin administration in Montpelier yesterday. Hours before that briefing, opponents gathered in the Statehouse to discuss concerns for Vermont's energy future. Gov. Peter Shumlin wants to change the way Vermont produces energy by turning to resources like sun, wind and water. Opponents say that plan does not appropriately balance the costs and benefits to Vermont's economic climate. The Shumlin administration's draft plan assumes Vermont Yankee will not be a part of the state's energy future, something opponents of the plan would also like to see change.
The Vermont Attorney General's office says police were justified in fatally shooting a mentally ill man during a 2006 confrontation, even if he did not grab his gun. The office filed court paperwork in response to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Joseph Fortunati of Corinth. The Fortunatis said police gave differing accounts about whether Fortunati had a gun, and if he did so, whether he aimed it. Police say Fortunati ignored repeated commands to surrender and that officers believed they were in danger.
New York state officials have ordered 11 companies to refund $114.5 million to holders of health insurance policies covering more than 570,000 people who were overcharged for premiums last year. Under state law, insurers are required to spend 82 cents of every dollar collected in premiums on providing medical care. If they fall short they are required to refund the difference to policyholders.
New York state officials have identified what they say is an unprecedented number of schools that need improvement under the federal No Child Left Behind program. They say 1,325 elementary and high schools must bolster academic performance under the law. A school that fails to do better may ultimately be closed, but almost all succeed. The state has 4,685 public schools. More than 1,100 of the schools receive additional aid to provide extra help for low-income students and students in 416 will be allowed to choose other public schools.
The town of Moriah and Champlain Area Trails are nearing completion of the new Cheney Mountain Trail. Nineteen people came out November 5th to hike and finish opening up the trail. Cheney Mountain Trail will be a new resource for residents and visitors in Moriah. It starts by the town’s former landfill and follows an old logging road to the summit for spectacular views. For more information just visit www.champlainareatrails.com.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is releasing a redesigned custom license plate that is available to U.S. veterans with vehicles registered in New York State. The updated veteran plate features the U.S. flag in the background, and the word "Veteran" appears to the left of the plate number. It is available for both passenger and commercial vehicles.
The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife is urging deer hunters to wear orange in the woods. Vermont Hunter Education coordinator Chris Saunders says that in the past ten years, almost half of the state's hunting accidents might have been prevented with hunter orange. The state says the most common cause of hunting-related shootings involves visibility problems, and both underscore the need for hunters to see and be seen during the fall firearms deer season. Vermont's 16-day rifle deer hunting season opens Saturday.
A hospital spokesman says the 35-year-old military veteran who protesters say shot himself at an Occupy Wall Street encampment in Vermont's largest city has died. Mike Noble of the Fletcher Allen Health Care confirmed that a man died after the shooting in City Hall Park. Burlington Police would not confirm that the shooting was a suicide, but the veteran's fellow protesters told reporters at the scene that the man shot himself. Others at the Occupy encampment say the man was a victim of inadequate mental health services being offered to veterans. Authorities haven't released the man's name.
A fire at the top of Walker Mountain in Clarendon was doused Wednesday night with the help of firefighters from 10 communities and neighbors living on the mountain that helped out by donating all-terrain vehicles and a tractor that hauled water to the summit. The cause of the fire was still under investigation on Thursday but fire officials said it appeared embers from a campfire left unattended near the summit started the blaze. While the fire doesn’t appear to have been intentionally set it is a violation of state law to leave a campfire unattended.
Secretary of State Jim Condos spoke with a group of local officials and others on Monday here in Middlebury. He said, “The best government not only does its business in the open, but also allows its citizens to participate.” On his 12-stop “Vermont Transparency Tour,” he also urged boards to limit executive sessions, and officials to cooperate with requests for documents and information. Condos focused on the state’s open records law, which the Legislature changed earlier this year, and its open meeting law.
Middlebury select-board members learned earlier this week that the fiscal year 2013 municipal budget could require a 5-cent hike in the local tax rate, even before crunching the initial numbers on the new spending plan. The potential tax increase is associated with four financial outlays that could add over $348,000 to the town-spending plan that will cover July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013.
Addison County Transit Resources is proposing a new bus route along the Route 116 corridor that would take passengers from Bristol to Burlington, with stops in Starksboro and Hinesburg. The executive director of ACTR, James Moulton, said the new service could start as soon as April, pending funding.
The final stage of a two-year, $4.7 million project that improved the water distribution system in Pittsford, connected the Pittsford and Florence systems and installed new meters is nearing completion. The project contractors will complete work in the village within the next two weeks. The town is also working to complete a $1.9 million sewer project that looks to keep storm-water and groundwater out of the sewer.
The Pittsford Police Department is expanding its vehicle fleet with a new, all-wheel drive Dodge Durango. The town’s Select Board approved the purchase of the vehicle from a New Jersey dealership that specializes in detailing vehicles with most of the necessary police equipment. The town will pay approximately $27,000 for the 2012 Dodge Durango from the town’s cruiser replacement fund. The new vehicle is expected to arrive in January.
A public vote in Charlotte on a solar energy project was canceled. A special town meeting was scheduled for yesterday for residents to consider whether to authorize the project on Thompson's point. The project needs to be underway by January in order to qualify for a federal green energy tax credit. Critic’s say in the rush to get that credit, the town is sacrificing a piece of open land in a conservation district. Now, the whole decision is on hold because the town attorney says the vote was not properly warned, and the meeting was canceled.
Governor Peter Shumlin is joining 15 governors and mayors in calling for repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act, which they say discriminates against same-sex couples. The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee voted 10 to 8 along party lines today to repeal the law, with Senator Patrick Leahy leading the effort to do so. But it's unclear whether the effort to scrap the Clinton-era law will succeed.
The annual Farm Show, which Barre has hosted for the past 50 years, is moving to the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction. The loss of the show, held each January, is the third hit the Barre Civic Center has taken recently. Last month, the Barre Rotary Club announced it would no longer hold the annual Barre Rotary Spring Exposition and Home Show. In January the center lost a revenue generator when the Frost Heaves folded.
The stock price for Green Mountain Coffee Roasters continues to fall after Wednesday's earnings shortfall. The Waterbury Company actually had a fantastic year with net sales of over $2.6 billion. That's 95 percent of last year. But the company fell short of its earning goals and investors are taking flight. The stock price was down 37 percent from Wednesday to about $41 at midday. The popularity of its K-cup line and big deals with Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts have fueled the growth.
Vermont lawmakers were briefed on the Comprehensive Energy Plan by the Shumlin administration in Montpelier yesterday. Hours before that briefing, opponents gathered in the Statehouse to discuss concerns for Vermont's energy future. Gov. Peter Shumlin wants to change the way Vermont produces energy by turning to resources like sun, wind and water. Opponents say that plan does not appropriately balance the costs and benefits to Vermont's economic climate. The Shumlin administration's draft plan assumes Vermont Yankee will not be a part of the state's energy future, something opponents of the plan would also like to see change.
The Vermont Attorney General's office says police were justified in fatally shooting a mentally ill man during a 2006 confrontation, even if he did not grab his gun. The office filed court paperwork in response to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Joseph Fortunati of Corinth. The Fortunatis said police gave differing accounts about whether Fortunati had a gun, and if he did so, whether he aimed it. Police say Fortunati ignored repeated commands to surrender and that officers believed they were in danger.
New York state officials have ordered 11 companies to refund $114.5 million to holders of health insurance policies covering more than 570,000 people who were overcharged for premiums last year. Under state law, insurers are required to spend 82 cents of every dollar collected in premiums on providing medical care. If they fall short they are required to refund the difference to policyholders.
New York state officials have identified what they say is an unprecedented number of schools that need improvement under the federal No Child Left Behind program. They say 1,325 elementary and high schools must bolster academic performance under the law. A school that fails to do better may ultimately be closed, but almost all succeed. The state has 4,685 public schools. More than 1,100 of the schools receive additional aid to provide extra help for low-income students and students in 416 will be allowed to choose other public schools.
The town of Moriah and Champlain Area Trails are nearing completion of the new Cheney Mountain Trail. Nineteen people came out November 5th to hike and finish opening up the trail. Cheney Mountain Trail will be a new resource for residents and visitors in Moriah. It starts by the town’s former landfill and follows an old logging road to the summit for spectacular views. For more information just visit www.champlainareatrails.com.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is releasing a redesigned custom license plate that is available to U.S. veterans with vehicles registered in New York State. The updated veteran plate features the U.S. flag in the background, and the word "Veteran" appears to the left of the plate number. It is available for both passenger and commercial vehicles.
The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife is urging deer hunters to wear orange in the woods. Vermont Hunter Education coordinator Chris Saunders says that in the past ten years, almost half of the state's hunting accidents might have been prevented with hunter orange. The state says the most common cause of hunting-related shootings involves visibility problems, and both underscore the need for hunters to see and be seen during the fall firearms deer season. Vermont's 16-day rifle deer hunting season opens Saturday.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
WVTK Local & State News November 10, 2011 (Afternoon Update)
Members of the House and Senate were at the Statehouse today for an informal meeting. They received an in depth report on the impact of Irene including the number of roads, bridges and homes effected. The state now estimates that 1,400 households suffered damages. Also during the meeting Legislators gave a standing ovation to state transportation workers for their efforts since Irene.
A special town meeting on a solar project in Charlotte that was scheduled for tonight has been cancelled. During the special town meeting, residents were going to decide whether to authorize the project on Thompson's point. In order to qualify for federal tax credits, the project needs to start before January. The town attorney says the vote was not properly warned so the meeting has been canceled.
New Haven Troopers responded to a home burglary in the Town of Monkton. It is suspected that burglars forcefully entered the residence through a locked window. A large amount of family jewelry was stolen. State Police are looking for any information regarding this incident is being asked to contact the new haven Barracks. (802-388-4919)
Police are searching for thieves who they say robbed a Ripton, Vermont hunting camp of dozens of items. Police say several thousand dollars of items were stolen from the camp, including a 4-wheeler, log splitter and air compressor. The burglary occurred sometime in the last four weeks. Authorities say the thieves left footprints around the property. Anyone with information is asked to call police.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has missed the first deadline aimed at creating a transparent and on-time budget, with no new date scheduled. Under state law, the governor needed to submit his midyear update and projected revenues available for the next fiscal year by last Saturday. Cuomo says the projections will take more time because of global economic volatility.
Schools in Chazy and Westport are vying for funds in Clorox's Power A Bright Future competition, which is decided by online voting. Students in the marketing class at Westport Central School put together the application for submission. The aim there is to win funding to make improvements to school grounds, including tennis courts, ball fields and a nature trail. To vote, go to www.powerabrightfuture.com.
A special town meeting on a solar project in Charlotte that was scheduled for tonight has been cancelled. During the special town meeting, residents were going to decide whether to authorize the project on Thompson's point. In order to qualify for federal tax credits, the project needs to start before January. The town attorney says the vote was not properly warned so the meeting has been canceled.
New Haven Troopers responded to a home burglary in the Town of Monkton. It is suspected that burglars forcefully entered the residence through a locked window. A large amount of family jewelry was stolen. State Police are looking for any information regarding this incident is being asked to contact the new haven Barracks. (802-388-4919)
Police are searching for thieves who they say robbed a Ripton, Vermont hunting camp of dozens of items. Police say several thousand dollars of items were stolen from the camp, including a 4-wheeler, log splitter and air compressor. The burglary occurred sometime in the last four weeks. Authorities say the thieves left footprints around the property. Anyone with information is asked to call police.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has missed the first deadline aimed at creating a transparent and on-time budget, with no new date scheduled. Under state law, the governor needed to submit his midyear update and projected revenues available for the next fiscal year by last Saturday. Cuomo says the projections will take more time because of global economic volatility.
Schools in Chazy and Westport are vying for funds in Clorox's Power A Bright Future competition, which is decided by online voting. Students in the marketing class at Westport Central School put together the application for submission. The aim there is to win funding to make improvements to school grounds, including tennis courts, ball fields and a nature trail. To vote, go to www.powerabrightfuture.com.
WVTK Local & State News November 10, 2011
Another state highway damaged by Tropical Storm Irene has reopened. Route 73 connecting Rochester to Brandon has been closed to through traffic since the storm. You are still urged to use caution on the repaired stretch of road and to expect delays from small repair projects along the route. Just nine miles of roadway remain closed in Vermont; sections of Route 106 in Weathersfield and Route 107 in Stockbridge.
A big vote in Charlotte today is pitting land preservation against renewable energy. This issue was presented at public meeting in October. Town officials are going after a green tax credit that requires they break ground on a solar project before January 2012, but some residents are concerned they are rushing a decision on a special piece of land. Voters will get to decide tonight where and if the panels should be installed. The tax credit would only save the town $300 per year. Officials say the project could power the town hall, library, senior center, and wastewater treatment facility.
New Haven Troopers responded to a home burglary in the Town of Monkton. It is suspected that burglars forcefully entered the residence through a locked window. A large amount of family jewelry was stolen. State Police are looking for any information regarding this incident is being asked to contact the new haven Barracks. (802-388-4919)
The Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce and the Addison County Chamber of Commerce have recognized the Lake Champlain Bridge Community and its co-founders, Lorraine Franklin and Karen Hennessy, twice in recent months. The Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce held its 2011 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner & Awards Ceremony on October 26th. The Lake Champlain Bridge Community was the recipient of the 2011 TACC Appreciation Award. During its Annual Meeting on September 8th, the Addison County Chamber presented its Buster Brush Citizen of the Year Award, which is given to an individual who has made numerous contributions to the community without the expectation of acknowledgement. This year Franklin and Hennessy were co-recipients of the award.
Police are searching for thieves who they say robbed a Ripton, Vermont hunting camp of dozens of items. Police say several thousand dollars of items were stolen from the camp, including a 4-wheeler, log splitter and air compressor. The burglary occurred sometime in the last four weeks. Authorities say the thieves left footprints around the property. Anyone with information is asked to call police.
Charles Harrington has been elected Crown Point supervisor. Harrington, who is a Republican, defeated incumbent Democrat Bethany Kosmider by a 454-316 margin in voting Tuesday. Meanwhile Supervisors were re-elected in North Elba, Westport, Keene, Newcomb, Willsboro and Essex. Incumbent supervisors lost in Elizabethtown and Crown Point. All results remain unofficial until certified by the Essex County.
The Westport Central School Board will meet at 6:30 this evening in the library. Agenda items include superintendent's report, acceptance of donations and policy revisions. All meetings are open to the public.
Middlebury Fire Department facilities planning is moving ahead according to a report cited at the town select-board meeting on Tuesday. Middlebury Fire Department's Station Committee is working with Breadloaf Construction to refine the designs for the Seymour Street and East Middlebury stations. Meanwhile news that a Middlebury River Management Planning Task Force will be formed was discussed at the meeting. Following the model of the successful river management planning effort in Ripton, the Board endorsed forming a Task Force to develop a plan for on-going management of the Middlebury River as it flows through East Middlebury.
A computer-mapping program that lets you calculate your carbon footprint developed by a company in Shelburne was just recognized in a national challenge by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Hootroot, developed by Brighter Planet, was given the overall runner-up award in EPA’s Apps for the Environment challenge, which encourages the development of innovative environmental applications. The mapping program provides directions and carbon footprints for driving, transit, flight, and human-powered transportation options on any route.
Schools in Chazy and Westport are vying for funds in Clorox's Power A Bright Future competition, which is decided by online voting. Students in the marketing class at Westport Central School put together the application for submission. The aim there is to win funding to make improvements to school grounds, including tennis courts, ball fields and a nature trail. To vote, go to www.powerabrightfuture.com.
The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation has agreed to pay $115,000 to settle claims that its environmental lab violated hazardous waste disposal laws. Court paperwork says the department within the Agency of Natural Resources admitted to 24 violations that were documented during inspections this year by the attorney general's office. The agency agreed to pay $85,000 in penalties and $30,000 into a fund to provide services to stabilize hazardous wastes that might be brought to local waste centers. The Waterbury lab was displaced by Irene-related flooding and is operating temporarily at the University of Vermont.
Vermont's doctors have formed a new organization to allow them to take an active role in forming a new state health care system in the coming years. The new organization is needed to comply with federal anti-trust laws. One of the primary goals of the newly appointed Green Mountain Care Board is to develop policies that will slow down the rising cost of health care in Vermont. This is important because Governor Peter Shumlin says he won't pursue a single payer system in 2014 if the state hasn't been able to control costs.
State and federal biologists in the Connecticut River basin and New York are trying to decide whether they will have to destroy almost 450,000 lake trout and salmon being raised in a Vermont fish hatchery that was contaminated by flooding from Tropical Storm Irene. Flood waters known to be contaminated with the invasive algae swept into portions of the White River National Fish Hatchery in Bethel.
State police say a truck driver was injured when a large object was dropped from an interstate overpass onto his tractor-trailer. Police say the object was described as either a stone or a pumpkin. It smashed the windshield of the truck on Interstate 89 south in Milton.
Vermont's emergency rooms have become ground zero in psychiatric crises around the state since Irene flooding closed the state hospital in Waterbury, as mentally ill patients have put themselves and others in danger. The head of emergency services at the hospital in St. Albans told lawmakers on Wednesday the problem has gotten much worse. The director of the emergency department at Northwestern Medical Center says he collected testimonials from emergency room staff around the state that told stories of patients and staff in danger.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has missed the first deadline aimed at creating a transparent and on-time budget, with no new date scheduled. Under state law, the governor needed to submit his midyear update and projected revenues available for the next fiscal year by last Saturday. Cuomo says Wednesday the projections will take more time because of global economic volatility.
Crown Point and Ticonderoga students will take part in concerts with a message. Hall Pass, a professional music troupe, will perform at Ticonderoga Middle School Monday, November 21st from 1 to 2:30PM. It will repeat its performance Tuesday the 22nd from 1 to 3PM at Crown Point Central School. They hope to inspire more students and concert attendees, in general, to consider higher education and give them the spark and confidence to actively pursue their dreams.
Black Friday. Cyber Monday. If you need another reason to shop, this year the Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce will participate in Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday, a national effort, will be held Saturday, November 26th. Its goal is to promote local businesses. Small Business Saturday was created in 2010 by American Express in response to small business owners’ most pressing need; create more demand for their products and services. For an area business directory, visit www.ticonderogany.com.
A Ticonderoga woman has been recognized for her culinary skills. Mountain View Center, a Genesis HealthCare skilled nursing facility, has announced the Vermont Health Care Association recognized Deborah Mackey of Ticonderoga and the dietary team as Food Service Director of the Year and Dietary Team of the Year, respectively. The awards were presented at the Vermont Health Care Association’s annual convention.
This is turning out to be a record setting November. Wednesday's record-breaking temperatures made it feel and look more like late summer. Burlington's waterfront was packed with people taking advantage of the unusual weather. Burlington broke its past record for this day with a high of 68 degrees. The last time Burlington saw temperatures this high on this date was in 1945.
A big vote in Charlotte today is pitting land preservation against renewable energy. This issue was presented at public meeting in October. Town officials are going after a green tax credit that requires they break ground on a solar project before January 2012, but some residents are concerned they are rushing a decision on a special piece of land. Voters will get to decide tonight where and if the panels should be installed. The tax credit would only save the town $300 per year. Officials say the project could power the town hall, library, senior center, and wastewater treatment facility.
New Haven Troopers responded to a home burglary in the Town of Monkton. It is suspected that burglars forcefully entered the residence through a locked window. A large amount of family jewelry was stolen. State Police are looking for any information regarding this incident is being asked to contact the new haven Barracks. (802-388-4919)
The Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce and the Addison County Chamber of Commerce have recognized the Lake Champlain Bridge Community and its co-founders, Lorraine Franklin and Karen Hennessy, twice in recent months. The Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce held its 2011 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner & Awards Ceremony on October 26th. The Lake Champlain Bridge Community was the recipient of the 2011 TACC Appreciation Award. During its Annual Meeting on September 8th, the Addison County Chamber presented its Buster Brush Citizen of the Year Award, which is given to an individual who has made numerous contributions to the community without the expectation of acknowledgement. This year Franklin and Hennessy were co-recipients of the award.
Police are searching for thieves who they say robbed a Ripton, Vermont hunting camp of dozens of items. Police say several thousand dollars of items were stolen from the camp, including a 4-wheeler, log splitter and air compressor. The burglary occurred sometime in the last four weeks. Authorities say the thieves left footprints around the property. Anyone with information is asked to call police.
Charles Harrington has been elected Crown Point supervisor. Harrington, who is a Republican, defeated incumbent Democrat Bethany Kosmider by a 454-316 margin in voting Tuesday. Meanwhile Supervisors were re-elected in North Elba, Westport, Keene, Newcomb, Willsboro and Essex. Incumbent supervisors lost in Elizabethtown and Crown Point. All results remain unofficial until certified by the Essex County.
The Westport Central School Board will meet at 6:30 this evening in the library. Agenda items include superintendent's report, acceptance of donations and policy revisions. All meetings are open to the public.
Middlebury Fire Department facilities planning is moving ahead according to a report cited at the town select-board meeting on Tuesday. Middlebury Fire Department's Station Committee is working with Breadloaf Construction to refine the designs for the Seymour Street and East Middlebury stations. Meanwhile news that a Middlebury River Management Planning Task Force will be formed was discussed at the meeting. Following the model of the successful river management planning effort in Ripton, the Board endorsed forming a Task Force to develop a plan for on-going management of the Middlebury River as it flows through East Middlebury.
A computer-mapping program that lets you calculate your carbon footprint developed by a company in Shelburne was just recognized in a national challenge by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Hootroot, developed by Brighter Planet, was given the overall runner-up award in EPA’s Apps for the Environment challenge, which encourages the development of innovative environmental applications. The mapping program provides directions and carbon footprints for driving, transit, flight, and human-powered transportation options on any route.
Schools in Chazy and Westport are vying for funds in Clorox's Power A Bright Future competition, which is decided by online voting. Students in the marketing class at Westport Central School put together the application for submission. The aim there is to win funding to make improvements to school grounds, including tennis courts, ball fields and a nature trail. To vote, go to www.powerabrightfuture.com.
The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation has agreed to pay $115,000 to settle claims that its environmental lab violated hazardous waste disposal laws. Court paperwork says the department within the Agency of Natural Resources admitted to 24 violations that were documented during inspections this year by the attorney general's office. The agency agreed to pay $85,000 in penalties and $30,000 into a fund to provide services to stabilize hazardous wastes that might be brought to local waste centers. The Waterbury lab was displaced by Irene-related flooding and is operating temporarily at the University of Vermont.
Vermont's doctors have formed a new organization to allow them to take an active role in forming a new state health care system in the coming years. The new organization is needed to comply with federal anti-trust laws. One of the primary goals of the newly appointed Green Mountain Care Board is to develop policies that will slow down the rising cost of health care in Vermont. This is important because Governor Peter Shumlin says he won't pursue a single payer system in 2014 if the state hasn't been able to control costs.
State and federal biologists in the Connecticut River basin and New York are trying to decide whether they will have to destroy almost 450,000 lake trout and salmon being raised in a Vermont fish hatchery that was contaminated by flooding from Tropical Storm Irene. Flood waters known to be contaminated with the invasive algae swept into portions of the White River National Fish Hatchery in Bethel.
State police say a truck driver was injured when a large object was dropped from an interstate overpass onto his tractor-trailer. Police say the object was described as either a stone or a pumpkin. It smashed the windshield of the truck on Interstate 89 south in Milton.
Vermont's emergency rooms have become ground zero in psychiatric crises around the state since Irene flooding closed the state hospital in Waterbury, as mentally ill patients have put themselves and others in danger. The head of emergency services at the hospital in St. Albans told lawmakers on Wednesday the problem has gotten much worse. The director of the emergency department at Northwestern Medical Center says he collected testimonials from emergency room staff around the state that told stories of patients and staff in danger.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has missed the first deadline aimed at creating a transparent and on-time budget, with no new date scheduled. Under state law, the governor needed to submit his midyear update and projected revenues available for the next fiscal year by last Saturday. Cuomo says Wednesday the projections will take more time because of global economic volatility.
Crown Point and Ticonderoga students will take part in concerts with a message. Hall Pass, a professional music troupe, will perform at Ticonderoga Middle School Monday, November 21st from 1 to 2:30PM. It will repeat its performance Tuesday the 22nd from 1 to 3PM at Crown Point Central School. They hope to inspire more students and concert attendees, in general, to consider higher education and give them the spark and confidence to actively pursue their dreams.
Black Friday. Cyber Monday. If you need another reason to shop, this year the Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce will participate in Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday, a national effort, will be held Saturday, November 26th. Its goal is to promote local businesses. Small Business Saturday was created in 2010 by American Express in response to small business owners’ most pressing need; create more demand for their products and services. For an area business directory, visit www.ticonderogany.com.
A Ticonderoga woman has been recognized for her culinary skills. Mountain View Center, a Genesis HealthCare skilled nursing facility, has announced the Vermont Health Care Association recognized Deborah Mackey of Ticonderoga and the dietary team as Food Service Director of the Year and Dietary Team of the Year, respectively. The awards were presented at the Vermont Health Care Association’s annual convention.
This is turning out to be a record setting November. Wednesday's record-breaking temperatures made it feel and look more like late summer. Burlington's waterfront was packed with people taking advantage of the unusual weather. Burlington broke its past record for this day with a high of 68 degrees. The last time Burlington saw temperatures this high on this date was in 1945.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
WVTK Local & State News November 9, 2011 (Afternoon Update)
The Rutland Police Commission meets at 6 this evening to discuss the process for selecting a new police chief. Chief Anthony Bossi announced last week that he plans to retire in January. The commission plans to convene a search committee made up of city officials, union and non-union department members and private citizens. The commission will meet in the downstairs conference room in City Hall.
The deadline is nearing for Vermonters who want to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help them recover from damage caused by Tropical Storm Irene. Governor Peter Shumlin is reminding Vermonters they have until November 15 to apply. Officials say homeowners, renters, businesses, or others who suffered losses during flooding from Irene are eligible for assistance to repair their homes or recover other losses.
Vermont's Green Mountain Club is taking responsibility for maintenance of another section of the Appalachian Trail in the state. At a meeting earlier this month, the club, which maintains the Long Trail, agreed to assume responsibility for a stretch of the Appalachian Trail between Route 12 in Woodstock and the Connecticut River, where the trail crosses into New Hampshire.
Vermont Lt. Gov. Phil Scott felt right at home at Stafford Technical Center yesterday. During his appearance at the school to pitch his Everyday Jobs Initiative, he said the solution to fixing Vermont’s unemployment problem was to get hammers in the hands of kids. Scott said many of Vermont’s problems could be solved if focus was put on developing a more skilled workforce.
Teachers in the Bennington area will meet tomorrow to finalize a new contract. Teachers in the Southwest Vermont Education Association returned to the classroom last week after going on strike for 9 days. School boards and teachers were at odds over pay, health care contributions, and the amount of time teachers have to collaborate. Once teachers formally approve the 3-year deal it will still need to be ratified by the 6 school boards in the supervisory union.
The town of Killington is vying for Vermonters to visit with a new deal called 'Vermonters Days.' During the month of November discounts of up to 50 percent will be offered to residents with valid state drivers licenses at 35 local businesses including hotels, lift tickets, and shopping. November is typically an off month for tourism sandwiched between fall foliage and ski season. According to Vermont Department of Tourism, the promotion is the only of its kind in the state during the month of November.
The deadline is nearing for Vermonters who want to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help them recover from damage caused by Tropical Storm Irene. Governor Peter Shumlin is reminding Vermonters they have until November 15 to apply. Officials say homeowners, renters, businesses, or others who suffered losses during flooding from Irene are eligible for assistance to repair their homes or recover other losses.
Vermont's Green Mountain Club is taking responsibility for maintenance of another section of the Appalachian Trail in the state. At a meeting earlier this month, the club, which maintains the Long Trail, agreed to assume responsibility for a stretch of the Appalachian Trail between Route 12 in Woodstock and the Connecticut River, where the trail crosses into New Hampshire.
Vermont Lt. Gov. Phil Scott felt right at home at Stafford Technical Center yesterday. During his appearance at the school to pitch his Everyday Jobs Initiative, he said the solution to fixing Vermont’s unemployment problem was to get hammers in the hands of kids. Scott said many of Vermont’s problems could be solved if focus was put on developing a more skilled workforce.
Teachers in the Bennington area will meet tomorrow to finalize a new contract. Teachers in the Southwest Vermont Education Association returned to the classroom last week after going on strike for 9 days. School boards and teachers were at odds over pay, health care contributions, and the amount of time teachers have to collaborate. Once teachers formally approve the 3-year deal it will still need to be ratified by the 6 school boards in the supervisory union.
The town of Killington is vying for Vermonters to visit with a new deal called 'Vermonters Days.' During the month of November discounts of up to 50 percent will be offered to residents with valid state drivers licenses at 35 local businesses including hotels, lift tickets, and shopping. November is typically an off month for tourism sandwiched between fall foliage and ski season. According to Vermont Department of Tourism, the promotion is the only of its kind in the state during the month of November.
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