WVTK Local & State News April 25, 2014

The 71-year-old man accused of attempted murder in a Hinesburg shooting incident last night appeared in court today. Kenneth Clark plead not guilty to the shooting charges that reportedly took place last night around 8 o’clock at a residence on Richmond Road in Hinesburg. The female victim is in stable condition and is still receiving medical treatment. The victim was shot in the hand and chest. Police say the victim and shooter knew each other. No one else was injured in the incident.

Vermont State Police are investigating a theft of a utility trailer from a residence located on Route 17 in Addison yesterday. If you have information regarding this incident, contact State Police at 802-388-4919. Information can also be submitted online at www.vtips.info or text CRIMES (274637) to keyword VTIPS.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released data yesterday that reveal a dramatic rise in measles outbreaks in the U.S. More people have been infected in the U.S. over the first four months of 2014, than have been infected in the first four months of the past 18 years. Health officials say 13 outbreaks and 129 cases have been recorded so far this year. California is reporting the highest numbers, with 58 cases. The Vermont Department of Health says they haven't seen any cases, but they are monitoring the national situation.

Vermont Technical College announced layoffs today. The school says it cut six employees, who will be done as of June 30. School officials say the action is part of a financial strategy intended to improve the college's budget position by $1.3 million. Interim President Dan Smith said it was a tough decision.

Starting in May, the University of Vermont is going to be part of a trial to find a vaccine to prevent West Nile virus. UVM is joining the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and the National Institutes of Health for the tests. The vaccine to prevent the potentially deadly disease spread by mosquitoes has already been tested in adults ages 18 to 50. Now, the question is how it does with people who are older. UVM is looking for healthy adults, ages 50 to 65, who want to participate. The vaccines will be given with a booster following in six months.