It's Columbus Day and a number of businesses are closed in observance. In fact, all local, state, and federal courts and offices are closed today. All post offices are closed today with no delivery except for express mail. Some banks are open.
The next public meeting regarding the possible consolidation of schools in the Addison Northwest Supervisory Union will be held tomorrow from 6:30 – 8:00 PM at the Ferrisburgh Central School. The union is exploring a possible unification vote on Town Meeting Day 2011.
Crown Point residents will mark the year anniversary of Champlain Bridge closure. A "Community Gathering" will be held at 1:30 PM Saturday, October 16, at the Crown Point State Historic Site, adjacent to the now demolished bridge. The event will include a question-and-answer session with Flatiron Construction personnel. The new bridge is expected to be open to traffic by December of 2011.
Police are looking for $9,000 worth of guns and other valuables taken from a West Addison home sometime in the last two weeks. Police say between Sept. 22 and Oct. 5 someone forced their way into a home on Route 17 and stole 13 firearms, ammunition, a safe, camera, bows and arrows and fishing tackle valued at more than $9,000. Anyone with any information is asked to call the Vermont State Police at the New Haven barracks.
About 500 pounds of powdered calcium carbonate became airborne after spilling out of the Omya Inc. plant in Florence early yesterday morning. The fine powder was a finished product and mixed with other elements but does not pose a risk to human health or the environment. Cleanup efforts were under way yesterday and will continue today.
Views from the other side of education policy reform, including that of a longtime Vermont superintendent, are now available online. Reports and briefs critical of federal education policies from the Colorado-based think tank National Education Policy Center, managed by William Mathis, are available to the public for free or for purchase on their website (www.nepc.colorado.edu).
Mathis is the former head of the Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union and was the longest-serving superintendent in the state.
More problems are being reported at the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant with the radioactive element tritium. Vermont health officials announced Friday it had been detected in a drinking well on the plant property. The well apparently had not been used since March, and the EPA says the levels of tritium are within what's considered a "safe" range. The state health department is now looking into whether ongoing testing at the plant may have cross-contaminated the well.
Candidates misspeaking, mangling descriptions of their opponents' proposals and getting historic facts wrong have become a big feature in this year's campaign for governor of Vermont. Peter Shumlin vastly exaggerated the amount of electricity Germany gets from solar power and Brian Dubie falsely described a list of crimes he waved around at a Bennington debate as a list of inmates. Political observers say the rhetoric has strayed from the truth this year more often than is the norm in campaigns for governor of Vermont.
Vermont Gov. Jim Douglas is helping get the word out about the need to prevent home fires. On Friday the governor signed a proclamation at the St. Johnsbury Elementary highlighting fire prevention week, which ends Saturday. The governor says working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for the safety of Vermonters.
A Vermont advocacy group is pushing for a law that would ban cleaning products that have toxins in them from schools. Environmentally friendly cleaning products have been required in state buildings since 2004, but now Vermont Public Interest Research Group wants lawmakers to extend that to schools. Vermont lawmakers considered a bill to ban them in the Legislature's last session, but the bill didn't make it out of committee.
Seven time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong is going to be in Vermont this week to help raise money to fight ovarian cancer. Armstrong is planning to speak at the 2nd Annual Mary E. Haas Ovarian Cancer Fundraiser & Awareness Dinner at the Sugarbush resort in Warren. The dinner is scheduled for Wednesday. Armstrong is a cancer survivor.
Sen. Bernie Sanders is hoping to help Social Security recipients who face another year without cost-of-living adjustments. The COLA adjustments are automatically set each year based on inflation. And The Bureau of Labor Statistics is expected to announce Friday that there will be no increase in the coming year. He plans to introduce a measure calling for a one-time payment of 250 dollars in lieu of the COLA adjustment.
There is good news for those out of work right now ... the seasonal hiring season has started. Many major retailers like JC Penny, Kohls, and Best Buy all say they will be bringing on more employees this season than last year. And as an added bonus, if you get a job of this early in the season, it increases your chances of keeping it after the holidays are over.
The grow an extra row campaign is coming to an end, but officials say they still need a lot more food. Rutland are farm and food link collects donations from families and farmers at the Saturday farmers market. The food is distributed to food shelves across Rutland County to provide fresh produce to struggling families. Organizers say they have seen lots of generosity so far, but they are still short on their goal. They have set a goal of collecting 20 THOUSAND POUNDS OF FOOD by the end of next month.
Foreclosures around the country are being halted. Bank of America-- the nation's largest bank-- announced Friday it's stopping sales of foreclosed homes due to potential flaws in foreclosure documents. The move comes amid evidence that mortgage company employees and their lawyers may have finalized foreclosure documents without verifying them. Vermont currently has the lowest foreclosure rate in the country, so realtors predict the impact here will be minimal.
New voting machines malfunctioned in most New York counties during last month's primary election. The New York Comptroller says 44 of the 57 counties outside of New York City experienced problems. Machines malfunctioned in 21 counties, small print caused voter confusion in 15 counties and privacy issues were reported in 20 counties. The new machines replaced an 80-year-old mechanical lever system.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
WVTK Local & State News October 8, 2010
Local businesses appear to be making ends meet. Recently some business professionals from around Addison County we asked about the area economy. Some were cautiously optimistic others said they were skeptical but hopeful. It appears though that Vermont and Addison County are better off compared to other parts of the country.
After almost closing last year the Shard Villa residential care home continues its recovery. The historic mansion is now at capacity with 17 senior residents. Its top administrator recently received a statewide award for her stewardship of the facility. The Vermont Health Care Association named Deb Choma the 2010 Residential Care Administrator of the Year. Shard Villa is even exploring the possibility of renting out its grounds for occasional weddings, meetings and other special events to increase revenue.
In March Middlebury residents will likely be asked to approve a $3 million bond issue to address a growing backlog of road improvement projects. These projects would more than likely remain on the town’s to-do list due to a lack of available resources.
Members of the Fenn family have decided to appeal to the Vermont Environmental Court the recent decision by the Middlebury Development Review Board. The board denied their application for a proposed gravel pit off Route 116.
Lead negotiators on both sides said they are satisfied with the new two-year Addison Northwest Supervisory Union teachers’ contract. It will expire in June 2012 and preserves teachers’ existing health-care benefits and base pay. Negotiators reached agreement in mid-August. In late September both the Addison Northwest Teachers’ Association and the Supervisory Union board gave final approval.
After more than a year officials in the Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union are hopeful that negotiations may be nearing an end. However the issues of salary and benefits remain on the table. Superintendent John Castle remains optimistic there will be a resolution in the next couple of months.
A Rutland Judge was asked yesterday by David Schauwecker’s attorney whether alleged misconduct amounted to a criminal offense and, if it did, what harm came from his actions. But the assistant attorney general prosecuting the former Rutland Police sergeant said his alleged tampering of evidence and lying to police warranted a criminal charge whether his actions produced harmful results or not. The Judge didn’t make a decision on the motion to dismiss but said she would issue a written decision after considering the arguments.
A Vermont man is going to prison for a minimum of 4 years after being convicted on charges stemming from a burglary at a Rutland home in which a note was left inside threatening the family if a $1 million ransom wasn't paid. The mother of the family living at the home asked a judge to reject a plea deal that 46-year-old Michael Bousquet made with prosecutors and charge him with extortion.
Sen. Bernie Sanders is fighting efforts to raise the retirement age. A White House Commission is looking at raising retirement for Social Security to 68, 69 or 70 years old. Supporters say the Social Security system is not sustainable in the long run and some changes are needed.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Governor David Paterson want to stop New Yorkers from spending food stamps on sugary drinks. They're asking the federal government to add sugar-sweetened drinks to the list of banned items that include cigarettes and alcohol. City leaders say about 1.7 million New Yorkers use food stamps, and spent more than $130 million on sugary drinks last year.
A bomb threat at Essex High School yesterday forced the evacuation of hundreds of students. Administrators say they discovered the bomb threat around 9 AM, but they aren't giving details about the threat. They evacuated students into the parking lots and quickly cleared the ice rink of any threat so they could move students in there. Essex Police conducted a full sweep of the school. Police did not find anything and classes resumed a short time later.
The United States Green Building Council has recently granted Fort Ticonderoga's Deborah Clarke Mars Education Center the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification. The certification is a national accreditation honor given to buildings that have been rated as "green" for their efforts to minimize negative impacts on the environment, and that actually make a positive contribution through their structure and design.
The downtown Ticonderoga street art project has generated tangible results. An auction of the 32 decorated wooden soldiers that stood guard in the community this summer raised $5,000 for new lighting at the Liberty Monument. More than 60 people turned out for auction at Adam's Rib on September 30th when the soldiers and four other pieces of donated artwork were put up for auction by the Ticonderoga Montcalm Street Partnership.
Dozens of area children will now have adequate supplies for the school year thanks to donations made by those who participated in the Ticonderoga Federal Credit Union School Supplies Drive. School supplies were collected at the Credit Union offices and ATM locations beginning in mid-August through Labor Day. The donations were delivered to eight area schools.
Moriah Central School will again host a professional orchestra in concert. The Count Basie Orchestra will perform at the school Monday, October 25, at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. Tickets for the jazz show are $16 each and proceeds will benefit the Moriah music department.
Despite standing water and muddy fields, apple orchards are still going to be open for business in South Hero this weekend. This is the usual weekend for the annual AppleFest, but on this 21st year, there's a big problem with finding a place to park, as recent heavy rains left the primary parking field waterlogged. Orchard owners are encouraging people to visit this weekend, but is also cautioning them about limited parking.
After almost closing last year the Shard Villa residential care home continues its recovery. The historic mansion is now at capacity with 17 senior residents. Its top administrator recently received a statewide award for her stewardship of the facility. The Vermont Health Care Association named Deb Choma the 2010 Residential Care Administrator of the Year. Shard Villa is even exploring the possibility of renting out its grounds for occasional weddings, meetings and other special events to increase revenue.
In March Middlebury residents will likely be asked to approve a $3 million bond issue to address a growing backlog of road improvement projects. These projects would more than likely remain on the town’s to-do list due to a lack of available resources.
Members of the Fenn family have decided to appeal to the Vermont Environmental Court the recent decision by the Middlebury Development Review Board. The board denied their application for a proposed gravel pit off Route 116.
Lead negotiators on both sides said they are satisfied with the new two-year Addison Northwest Supervisory Union teachers’ contract. It will expire in June 2012 and preserves teachers’ existing health-care benefits and base pay. Negotiators reached agreement in mid-August. In late September both the Addison Northwest Teachers’ Association and the Supervisory Union board gave final approval.
After more than a year officials in the Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union are hopeful that negotiations may be nearing an end. However the issues of salary and benefits remain on the table. Superintendent John Castle remains optimistic there will be a resolution in the next couple of months.
A Rutland Judge was asked yesterday by David Schauwecker’s attorney whether alleged misconduct amounted to a criminal offense and, if it did, what harm came from his actions. But the assistant attorney general prosecuting the former Rutland Police sergeant said his alleged tampering of evidence and lying to police warranted a criminal charge whether his actions produced harmful results or not. The Judge didn’t make a decision on the motion to dismiss but said she would issue a written decision after considering the arguments.
A Vermont man is going to prison for a minimum of 4 years after being convicted on charges stemming from a burglary at a Rutland home in which a note was left inside threatening the family if a $1 million ransom wasn't paid. The mother of the family living at the home asked a judge to reject a plea deal that 46-year-old Michael Bousquet made with prosecutors and charge him with extortion.
Sen. Bernie Sanders is fighting efforts to raise the retirement age. A White House Commission is looking at raising retirement for Social Security to 68, 69 or 70 years old. Supporters say the Social Security system is not sustainable in the long run and some changes are needed.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Governor David Paterson want to stop New Yorkers from spending food stamps on sugary drinks. They're asking the federal government to add sugar-sweetened drinks to the list of banned items that include cigarettes and alcohol. City leaders say about 1.7 million New Yorkers use food stamps, and spent more than $130 million on sugary drinks last year.
A bomb threat at Essex High School yesterday forced the evacuation of hundreds of students. Administrators say they discovered the bomb threat around 9 AM, but they aren't giving details about the threat. They evacuated students into the parking lots and quickly cleared the ice rink of any threat so they could move students in there. Essex Police conducted a full sweep of the school. Police did not find anything and classes resumed a short time later.
The United States Green Building Council has recently granted Fort Ticonderoga's Deborah Clarke Mars Education Center the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification. The certification is a national accreditation honor given to buildings that have been rated as "green" for their efforts to minimize negative impacts on the environment, and that actually make a positive contribution through their structure and design.
The downtown Ticonderoga street art project has generated tangible results. An auction of the 32 decorated wooden soldiers that stood guard in the community this summer raised $5,000 for new lighting at the Liberty Monument. More than 60 people turned out for auction at Adam's Rib on September 30th when the soldiers and four other pieces of donated artwork were put up for auction by the Ticonderoga Montcalm Street Partnership.
Dozens of area children will now have adequate supplies for the school year thanks to donations made by those who participated in the Ticonderoga Federal Credit Union School Supplies Drive. School supplies were collected at the Credit Union offices and ATM locations beginning in mid-August through Labor Day. The donations were delivered to eight area schools.
Moriah Central School will again host a professional orchestra in concert. The Count Basie Orchestra will perform at the school Monday, October 25, at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. Tickets for the jazz show are $16 each and proceeds will benefit the Moriah music department.
Despite standing water and muddy fields, apple orchards are still going to be open for business in South Hero this weekend. This is the usual weekend for the annual AppleFest, but on this 21st year, there's a big problem with finding a place to park, as recent heavy rains left the primary parking field waterlogged. Orchard owners are encouraging people to visit this weekend, but is also cautioning them about limited parking.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
WVTK Local & State News October 7, 2010
Rutland’s Mount St. Joseph Academy recently received accreditation by a respected New England education association. The New England Association of Schools and Colleges required the school to submit a long-range plan for how it would maintain enrollment in the future and finance the school operation in order to remain a candidate for accreditation. The private Catholic high school is already accredited by the Vermont Department of Education but it was seeking the additional accolade.
Killington is requesting proposals from contractors to do a water study in town. The Select Board unanimously accepted a recommendation this week from a newly formed water committee to go forward with the study to determine what the town’s water resources are. A water study would provide a mapping of the wells in town, which would assist in future town development.
About 16,000 Vermont households whose food benefits are being reduced under a program called 3SquaresVT have been given a reprieve. The state Department for Children and Families has notified them that their benefits - once known as food stamps - would be reduced beginning Oct. 1. But the reduction is being postponed for three months.
A man police have been looking for in both Vermont and New Hampshire the past several weeks is finally in custody. Sean McGurk was arrested Wednesday morning when a Vermont State Police task force surrounded an abandoned home in Bradford McGurk now faces several criminal charges in both states.
Parents and students in the Morristown school district are saying they've had it with bullying, and accuse People's Academy of not doing enough to stop it. They set up a picket line near the school, saying the schools in the district need to take control. The superintendent of the school system says they have very clear expectations for positive student behavior and clear guidelines and consequences when those guidelines are crossed.
Funeral arrangements have been made for Pat O'Hagan. Calling hours for the Sheffield woman are Sunday afternoon and her funeral is Monday morning at the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Lyndonville. Instead of sending flowers, O'Hagan's children are asking Vermonters to support one of the nonprofits their mom most loved. Pat O'Hagan volunteered at the Sheffield Food Pantry, which serves about 200 families.
Vermont state police officers and members of the public were honored yesterday for public safety achievements. Troopers and their families from around the state gathered at the Statehouse for the annual ceremony. Promotions were handed out and troopers and civilians received awards for savings lives and other acts of valor and heroism.
Peter Shumlin and Brian Dubie are actually agreeing on something. Both candidates for governor said Wednesday, they are committed to funding Doctor Dynasaur. There are currently 64,651 children enrolled in the low cost health insurance program for Vermont children and pregnant women.
Green Mountain Coffee Roasters is being sued by some of its shareholders over the company's accounting practices. The suit names the company and 12 members of the board of directors, alleging they artificially inflated prices on nearly $200 million in personally held stock so they could profit when the stock took a nose dive.
A lawyer who was refused access to police video of state Auditor Tom Salmon's drunken driving arrest is suing the Vermont Department of Public Safety over it. John Franco, a supporter of Salmon's Democratic opponent, Doug Hoffer, filed suit yesterday in U.S. District Court. The suit, which names Public Safety Commissioner Thomas Tremblay and Salmon as defendants, maintains that the dashboard camera video is a public record and should be publicly released.
Police say another Vermont political candidate has had some trouble behind the wheel. Jim Condos, a Democrat running for secretary of state, rear-ended another car in traffic Tuesday in Montpelier. Neither he nor the other driver was hurt and police don't expect charges.
Struggling homeowners in our region are getting some help hanging on to their homes. Under the federal Emergency Homeowners Loan Program Vermont will get about $4.8 million, New Hampshire about $12.7 million and New York over $111 million to offer zero-interest bridge loans. Those loans are for people who are facing foreclosure because unemployment, income cuts or medical emergencies have kept them from making mortgage payments.
The Ticonderoga Police Department has hired another part-time officer in an effort to cut costs. Ron O'Neil, a former detective lieutenant with the Paramus, N.J., Police Department now living in Ticonderoga, was hired at the Sept. 9 town board meeting. O'Neil is the fourth part-time officer hired by the town.
Ticonderoga Middle School is one of the best learning centers in the country — and it has proof. The school was presented with a large banner noting its selection as a School of Distinction by the College For Every Student program during a ceremony September 23rd. College For Every Student granted the awards to 15 schools nationwide for their success in meeting goals during the 2009-10 academic year.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and that's why one of the most well-known bus companies in Vermont is joining the fight against the disease. Yesterday, dozens of breast cancer survivors and supporters loaded onto the bus dubbed, "the magnificent pink lady." The hot pink bus is the newest addition to the Premier Coach Company in Burlington. Remember you can support the American Cancer Society by joining or donating to the “WVTK Addison County Striders” for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer on Sunday October 17th. Get all of the details here!
The Doll house Restaurant, run by the students of the Stafford Technical Center’s Culinary Arts Program, will open to the public as of Tuesday for the school year. The students run the entire restaurant including serving, cooking and cleaning up and its open to the public during the school year on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 AM to 1 PM.
A new analysis of the fifty states shows Vermont among the best-run in the land. The web site 27/4 Wall St. ranked Vermont No. 4, based on factors that include prudent budgeting, a manageable debt load, and relatively low unemployment rate. The high percentage of residents with health insurance coverage and low crime rate also figured into the ranking.
Killington is requesting proposals from contractors to do a water study in town. The Select Board unanimously accepted a recommendation this week from a newly formed water committee to go forward with the study to determine what the town’s water resources are. A water study would provide a mapping of the wells in town, which would assist in future town development.
About 16,000 Vermont households whose food benefits are being reduced under a program called 3SquaresVT have been given a reprieve. The state Department for Children and Families has notified them that their benefits - once known as food stamps - would be reduced beginning Oct. 1. But the reduction is being postponed for three months.
A man police have been looking for in both Vermont and New Hampshire the past several weeks is finally in custody. Sean McGurk was arrested Wednesday morning when a Vermont State Police task force surrounded an abandoned home in Bradford McGurk now faces several criminal charges in both states.
Parents and students in the Morristown school district are saying they've had it with bullying, and accuse People's Academy of not doing enough to stop it. They set up a picket line near the school, saying the schools in the district need to take control. The superintendent of the school system says they have very clear expectations for positive student behavior and clear guidelines and consequences when those guidelines are crossed.
Funeral arrangements have been made for Pat O'Hagan. Calling hours for the Sheffield woman are Sunday afternoon and her funeral is Monday morning at the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Lyndonville. Instead of sending flowers, O'Hagan's children are asking Vermonters to support one of the nonprofits their mom most loved. Pat O'Hagan volunteered at the Sheffield Food Pantry, which serves about 200 families.
Vermont state police officers and members of the public were honored yesterday for public safety achievements. Troopers and their families from around the state gathered at the Statehouse for the annual ceremony. Promotions were handed out and troopers and civilians received awards for savings lives and other acts of valor and heroism.
Peter Shumlin and Brian Dubie are actually agreeing on something. Both candidates for governor said Wednesday, they are committed to funding Doctor Dynasaur. There are currently 64,651 children enrolled in the low cost health insurance program for Vermont children and pregnant women.
Green Mountain Coffee Roasters is being sued by some of its shareholders over the company's accounting practices. The suit names the company and 12 members of the board of directors, alleging they artificially inflated prices on nearly $200 million in personally held stock so they could profit when the stock took a nose dive.
A lawyer who was refused access to police video of state Auditor Tom Salmon's drunken driving arrest is suing the Vermont Department of Public Safety over it. John Franco, a supporter of Salmon's Democratic opponent, Doug Hoffer, filed suit yesterday in U.S. District Court. The suit, which names Public Safety Commissioner Thomas Tremblay and Salmon as defendants, maintains that the dashboard camera video is a public record and should be publicly released.
Police say another Vermont political candidate has had some trouble behind the wheel. Jim Condos, a Democrat running for secretary of state, rear-ended another car in traffic Tuesday in Montpelier. Neither he nor the other driver was hurt and police don't expect charges.
Struggling homeowners in our region are getting some help hanging on to their homes. Under the federal Emergency Homeowners Loan Program Vermont will get about $4.8 million, New Hampshire about $12.7 million and New York over $111 million to offer zero-interest bridge loans. Those loans are for people who are facing foreclosure because unemployment, income cuts or medical emergencies have kept them from making mortgage payments.
The Ticonderoga Police Department has hired another part-time officer in an effort to cut costs. Ron O'Neil, a former detective lieutenant with the Paramus, N.J., Police Department now living in Ticonderoga, was hired at the Sept. 9 town board meeting. O'Neil is the fourth part-time officer hired by the town.
Ticonderoga Middle School is one of the best learning centers in the country — and it has proof. The school was presented with a large banner noting its selection as a School of Distinction by the College For Every Student program during a ceremony September 23rd. College For Every Student granted the awards to 15 schools nationwide for their success in meeting goals during the 2009-10 academic year.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and that's why one of the most well-known bus companies in Vermont is joining the fight against the disease. Yesterday, dozens of breast cancer survivors and supporters loaded onto the bus dubbed, "the magnificent pink lady." The hot pink bus is the newest addition to the Premier Coach Company in Burlington. Remember you can support the American Cancer Society by joining or donating to the “WVTK Addison County Striders” for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer on Sunday October 17th. Get all of the details here!
The Doll house Restaurant, run by the students of the Stafford Technical Center’s Culinary Arts Program, will open to the public as of Tuesday for the school year. The students run the entire restaurant including serving, cooking and cleaning up and its open to the public during the school year on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 AM to 1 PM.
A new analysis of the fifty states shows Vermont among the best-run in the land. The web site 27/4 Wall St. ranked Vermont No. 4, based on factors that include prudent budgeting, a manageable debt load, and relatively low unemployment rate. The high percentage of residents with health insurance coverage and low crime rate also figured into the ranking.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
WVTK Local & State News October 6, 2010
Vermont fire investigators say a laptop computer left unattended on a bed likely caused a fire that damaged a condominium here in Middlebury. No one was injured in the 9 a.m. Monday fire at the Otterside Court Condominiums. Fire damage was limited to the upstairs, but the entire unit suffered smoke and water damage. The fire was ruled accidental.
Vermont State Police say a body found by hunters over the weekend is that of a missing 78-year-old grandmother. Police announced yesterday that an autopsy concluded the body is that of Pat O'Hagan of Sheffield. The manner of death was ruled a homicide, but police wouldn't release the cause of death.
The Town of Ferrisburgh is turning green when it comes to energy. A new 140-acre, 1-megawatt solar electric power array is under construction along Route 7 and a high-tech wind turbine is towering over the Ferrisburgh Central School. Everyone is invited to attend the Ferrisburgh Green Energy Celebration, Thursday, Oct. 14, 6-7:30 PM, at the central school and join in a fun and informative evening to ask about the pros and cons of alternative energy.
The Rutland Board of Aldermen have approved a $45,000 settlement in a lawsuit brought by a man pepper-balled last winter while in a city police holding cell. By a vote of 7 to 1 the aldermen voted to settle the three-month-old lawsuit brought by Jamek Hart.
Police say a Rutland woman stole prescription narcotics from work. Ann Gallagher allegedly stole 50 pills from the Mountain View Center nursing home in Rutland where she used to work. Co-workers noticed suspicious paperwork in the medication register and reported her. She pled innocent to the embezzlement charges. Her nursing license has been suspended.
Sixty people gathered on Lincoln Hill in Hinesburg to honor the pioneering spirit of America and Vermont last week. The group was instrumental in urging the state to create a new historical marker near the site of one of Vermont's earliest African-American farming communities. After an unveiling ceremony dedications were read as well as the text of the marker.
Organizers of Peru Central School's homecoming weekend are hoping the annual event will be bigger and better than ever. This year, the committee of students and faculty behind the event has added a bonfire and 5K run to the weekend's festivities as a means of drawing in more people from the community. It all begins with the community bonfire to the right of the varsity football field Friday, October 15, at 8:15 PM with the 5K run taking place Saturday morning.
The candidates for Vermont governor disagree over the future of the state's only nuclear power plant. Democratic state Sen. Peter Shumlin said during a debate Tuesday night that the Vermont Yankee plant should close as currently scheduled in 2012, while Republican Lt. Gov. Brian Dubie says the plant's application for a license renewal should be reviewed by state regulators.
A former city manager fired two years ago is taking his case to the Vermont Supreme Court. Former Winooski City Manager Joshua Handverger, who was dismissed two years ago amid criticism, went before the state's highest court Tuesday, his lawyer telling justices that Winooski officials improperly removed Handverger.
A municipal pension plan that racked up almost $9 million in shortfalls is stirring calls for an investigation in one Vermont City. City Council members in South Burlington say former city manager Chuck Hafter, who had the job for 21 years, failed to alert them to the problem. They have written to International City-County Management Association about the matter.
Vermont police will soon have a new tool for the "CSI" part of their work. State officials unveiled a new Public Safety Forensic Laboratory yesterday, calling the $12.8 million facility in Waterbury a giant step over the existing lab in technology, space and equipment.
The Republican candidate for Vermont secretary of state has received a traffic ticket following an accident in which he drove his car into a ditch. Police report that 34-year-old Jason Gibbs fell asleep at the wheel at 12:45 a.m. Sept. 17 near his home in Duxbury. Gibbs says the accident happened after he was campaigning at the Tunbridge World's Fair, a meeting of Washington County Republicans and at 24-hour convenience stores on his way home.
Ski resort marketing directors are already gearing up for the winter with all kinds of offers and incentives. Ski Vermont is offering a fifth grade passport, allowing fifth graders to get out on the slopes all season for just ten dollars. Ski Vermont says everyone wins, from the families to the ski resorts. And, proceeds from the ten-dollar processing fee go to a group called "Keep Local Farms" which supports dairy farms in New England.
Charles Schulz’s Peanuts gang has turned 60! Now, his family is working to keep Snoopy, Lucy and the rest alive for generations to come. A handful of new projects are in the works. The first new animated film in five years is set for release next spring called "Happiness is a Warm Blanket, Charlie Brown." ABC just signed on for five more years of airing Charlie Brown holiday specials. A new social media game began on Facebook and Twitter last month to "Countdown to the Great Pumpkin," and the comic strip has made its way to a popular gaming website for millions of children.
Vermont State Police say a body found by hunters over the weekend is that of a missing 78-year-old grandmother. Police announced yesterday that an autopsy concluded the body is that of Pat O'Hagan of Sheffield. The manner of death was ruled a homicide, but police wouldn't release the cause of death.
The Town of Ferrisburgh is turning green when it comes to energy. A new 140-acre, 1-megawatt solar electric power array is under construction along Route 7 and a high-tech wind turbine is towering over the Ferrisburgh Central School. Everyone is invited to attend the Ferrisburgh Green Energy Celebration, Thursday, Oct. 14, 6-7:30 PM, at the central school and join in a fun and informative evening to ask about the pros and cons of alternative energy.
The Rutland Board of Aldermen have approved a $45,000 settlement in a lawsuit brought by a man pepper-balled last winter while in a city police holding cell. By a vote of 7 to 1 the aldermen voted to settle the three-month-old lawsuit brought by Jamek Hart.
Police say a Rutland woman stole prescription narcotics from work. Ann Gallagher allegedly stole 50 pills from the Mountain View Center nursing home in Rutland where she used to work. Co-workers noticed suspicious paperwork in the medication register and reported her. She pled innocent to the embezzlement charges. Her nursing license has been suspended.
Sixty people gathered on Lincoln Hill in Hinesburg to honor the pioneering spirit of America and Vermont last week. The group was instrumental in urging the state to create a new historical marker near the site of one of Vermont's earliest African-American farming communities. After an unveiling ceremony dedications were read as well as the text of the marker.
Organizers of Peru Central School's homecoming weekend are hoping the annual event will be bigger and better than ever. This year, the committee of students and faculty behind the event has added a bonfire and 5K run to the weekend's festivities as a means of drawing in more people from the community. It all begins with the community bonfire to the right of the varsity football field Friday, October 15, at 8:15 PM with the 5K run taking place Saturday morning.
The candidates for Vermont governor disagree over the future of the state's only nuclear power plant. Democratic state Sen. Peter Shumlin said during a debate Tuesday night that the Vermont Yankee plant should close as currently scheduled in 2012, while Republican Lt. Gov. Brian Dubie says the plant's application for a license renewal should be reviewed by state regulators.
A former city manager fired two years ago is taking his case to the Vermont Supreme Court. Former Winooski City Manager Joshua Handverger, who was dismissed two years ago amid criticism, went before the state's highest court Tuesday, his lawyer telling justices that Winooski officials improperly removed Handverger.
A municipal pension plan that racked up almost $9 million in shortfalls is stirring calls for an investigation in one Vermont City. City Council members in South Burlington say former city manager Chuck Hafter, who had the job for 21 years, failed to alert them to the problem. They have written to International City-County Management Association about the matter.
Vermont police will soon have a new tool for the "CSI" part of their work. State officials unveiled a new Public Safety Forensic Laboratory yesterday, calling the $12.8 million facility in Waterbury a giant step over the existing lab in technology, space and equipment.
The Republican candidate for Vermont secretary of state has received a traffic ticket following an accident in which he drove his car into a ditch. Police report that 34-year-old Jason Gibbs fell asleep at the wheel at 12:45 a.m. Sept. 17 near his home in Duxbury. Gibbs says the accident happened after he was campaigning at the Tunbridge World's Fair, a meeting of Washington County Republicans and at 24-hour convenience stores on his way home.
Ski resort marketing directors are already gearing up for the winter with all kinds of offers and incentives. Ski Vermont is offering a fifth grade passport, allowing fifth graders to get out on the slopes all season for just ten dollars. Ski Vermont says everyone wins, from the families to the ski resorts. And, proceeds from the ten-dollar processing fee go to a group called "Keep Local Farms" which supports dairy farms in New England.
Charles Schulz’s Peanuts gang has turned 60! Now, his family is working to keep Snoopy, Lucy and the rest alive for generations to come. A handful of new projects are in the works. The first new animated film in five years is set for release next spring called "Happiness is a Warm Blanket, Charlie Brown." ABC just signed on for five more years of airing Charlie Brown holiday specials. A new social media game began on Facebook and Twitter last month to "Countdown to the Great Pumpkin," and the comic strip has made its way to a popular gaming website for millions of children.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
WVTK Local & State News October 5, 2010
A fire ripped through a condo here in Middlebury yesterday morning. Firefighters say the fire broke out in the bedroom. Neighbors called 911. By the time emergency responders arrived, the bedroom and other areas were already up in flames. Middlebury Fire Chief Rick Cole says no one was at home when the fire broke out. He says firefighters were able to keep it from damaging other condos.
A driver from Addison was killed yesterday morning in a two-car collision at Route 7 and New Haven Road in Ferrisburgh. State Police say 68-year-old Roberta Anderson died from massive internal injuries, while the other driver, 54-year-old Laurie Byrne of Charlotte received minor injuries. The car driven by Anderson on New Haven Road failed to stop at the intersection.
The Middlebury-Monterey Language Academy is looking to expand again in the summer of 2011. They are looking at adding an additional five sites to the three satellite schools that were already put in place this past year.
Long-anticipated renovations to the historic Pulp Mill Bridge on Seymour Street in Middlebury could be further delayed or possibly expedited. Bats have been discovered in the rafters of the covered bridge.
The city of Rutland will look at generating power at the sewage plant. With $25,000 from the Vermont Clean Energy Development Fund, the Rutland Redevelopment Authority has put out a request for proposals to conduct a feasibility study of “small-scale energy production projects” at the facility.
Angry Rutland residents and business owners were at City Hall yesterday in response to the Board of Aldermen’s recent decision to raise utility rates more than 10 percent. For more than an hour, the aldermen heard complaints from residents but didn’t take any action that altered their decision to raise the utility rates. However, the board voted 7 to 2 on a motion calling for a freeze on city employee raises for the coming fiscal year.
Community College of Vermont has been given permission by the state to tear down a church in Rutland on the state’s register of historic places. The church on West Street is the former home of Rutland City Prayer and Worship and was the point of contention at a recent city Development Review Board meeting where some residents objected to the school not preserving the site.
Vermont State Police investigators say they're awaiting the results of an autopsy before they will be able to say for certain if a body found in Wheelock is that of Pat O'Hagan, who was abducted from her Sheffield home September 11. Investigators suspect the death was caused by foul play.
Federal prosecutors say Dartmouth College has agreed to pay $275,000 to settle allegations of improper conduct involving the college's administration of contracts at a VA Medical Center in White River Junction. The "potential civil claims" settled had to do with Dartmouth's work on six contracts. Prosecutors said the contracts involved improper invoices and violations of a law that bars federal employees from being paid by a private source for their federal job duties.
A heads up for New Yorker shoppers: on Oct. 1, the state re-instituted its 4 percent sales tax on clothing and shoes. The state had temporarily suspended that tax on purchases under $110. It's now back in place, though New York City is still waiving the tax. In April shoppers will again get a break on that tax, but it will only apply to clothing and footwear purchases under $55.
Vermont is getting $8.8-million-dollars in grant money for public transportation. The money is being split up between 2 separate agencies, the Vermont Agency of Transportation, or VTrans, and the Chittenden County Transportation Authority. The money will be used to rehabilitate current buses, and to purchase new buses.
Governor Jim Douglas has signed a proclamation making the month of October, Cyber Security Awareness Month. Governor Douglas is joining other governors across the country in recognizing the 7th annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Douglas says, “Cyber security is the one area where every person, making small, positive changes, can make a huge difference.”
The CVPS Fill the Cupboard Challenge made a huge rebound from last year and beat its goal to collect 20,000 food items for the Rutland Community effort. 67 local businesses, community groups, schools and organizations collected a total of 21,654 items. The food collected during the Fill the Cupboard Challenge is expected to last up to the holiday season, when donations are at their peak. The Castleton State College Field Hockey team won the challenge by collecting a total of 1,982 food items. CVPS will donate $500 to the Cupboard in their name.
An independent documentary film will make an appearance in Middlebury this week. “Queen of the Sun: What are the bees telling us?” briefly features Bridport bee expert Kirk Webster and his mite-free colonies. It’s an effort to share an alternative look at what people are calling a “global bee crisis” currently in effect. The documentary has already been featured at film festivals from Rhode Island to Seattle to Maui. The screening will take place at the Marquis Theater on Wednesday at 7:30 PM.
The Ticonderoga Knights of Columbus have a new home thanks to its members. The Knights of Columbus hall on Montcalm Street, constructed in 1920, has been renovated. Knights will formally open their renovated building with a public dinner this Saturday at 6PM. People can call the hall at 585-6520 for reservations.
A driver from Addison was killed yesterday morning in a two-car collision at Route 7 and New Haven Road in Ferrisburgh. State Police say 68-year-old Roberta Anderson died from massive internal injuries, while the other driver, 54-year-old Laurie Byrne of Charlotte received minor injuries. The car driven by Anderson on New Haven Road failed to stop at the intersection.
The Middlebury-Monterey Language Academy is looking to expand again in the summer of 2011. They are looking at adding an additional five sites to the three satellite schools that were already put in place this past year.
Long-anticipated renovations to the historic Pulp Mill Bridge on Seymour Street in Middlebury could be further delayed or possibly expedited. Bats have been discovered in the rafters of the covered bridge.
The city of Rutland will look at generating power at the sewage plant. With $25,000 from the Vermont Clean Energy Development Fund, the Rutland Redevelopment Authority has put out a request for proposals to conduct a feasibility study of “small-scale energy production projects” at the facility.
Angry Rutland residents and business owners were at City Hall yesterday in response to the Board of Aldermen’s recent decision to raise utility rates more than 10 percent. For more than an hour, the aldermen heard complaints from residents but didn’t take any action that altered their decision to raise the utility rates. However, the board voted 7 to 2 on a motion calling for a freeze on city employee raises for the coming fiscal year.
Community College of Vermont has been given permission by the state to tear down a church in Rutland on the state’s register of historic places. The church on West Street is the former home of Rutland City Prayer and Worship and was the point of contention at a recent city Development Review Board meeting where some residents objected to the school not preserving the site.
Vermont State Police investigators say they're awaiting the results of an autopsy before they will be able to say for certain if a body found in Wheelock is that of Pat O'Hagan, who was abducted from her Sheffield home September 11. Investigators suspect the death was caused by foul play.
Federal prosecutors say Dartmouth College has agreed to pay $275,000 to settle allegations of improper conduct involving the college's administration of contracts at a VA Medical Center in White River Junction. The "potential civil claims" settled had to do with Dartmouth's work on six contracts. Prosecutors said the contracts involved improper invoices and violations of a law that bars federal employees from being paid by a private source for their federal job duties.
A heads up for New Yorker shoppers: on Oct. 1, the state re-instituted its 4 percent sales tax on clothing and shoes. The state had temporarily suspended that tax on purchases under $110. It's now back in place, though New York City is still waiving the tax. In April shoppers will again get a break on that tax, but it will only apply to clothing and footwear purchases under $55.
Vermont is getting $8.8-million-dollars in grant money for public transportation. The money is being split up between 2 separate agencies, the Vermont Agency of Transportation, or VTrans, and the Chittenden County Transportation Authority. The money will be used to rehabilitate current buses, and to purchase new buses.
Governor Jim Douglas has signed a proclamation making the month of October, Cyber Security Awareness Month. Governor Douglas is joining other governors across the country in recognizing the 7th annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Douglas says, “Cyber security is the one area where every person, making small, positive changes, can make a huge difference.”
The CVPS Fill the Cupboard Challenge made a huge rebound from last year and beat its goal to collect 20,000 food items for the Rutland Community effort. 67 local businesses, community groups, schools and organizations collected a total of 21,654 items. The food collected during the Fill the Cupboard Challenge is expected to last up to the holiday season, when donations are at their peak. The Castleton State College Field Hockey team won the challenge by collecting a total of 1,982 food items. CVPS will donate $500 to the Cupboard in their name.
An independent documentary film will make an appearance in Middlebury this week. “Queen of the Sun: What are the bees telling us?” briefly features Bridport bee expert Kirk Webster and his mite-free colonies. It’s an effort to share an alternative look at what people are calling a “global bee crisis” currently in effect. The documentary has already been featured at film festivals from Rhode Island to Seattle to Maui. The screening will take place at the Marquis Theater on Wednesday at 7:30 PM.
The Ticonderoga Knights of Columbus have a new home thanks to its members. The Knights of Columbus hall on Montcalm Street, constructed in 1920, has been renovated. Knights will formally open their renovated building with a public dinner this Saturday at 6PM. People can call the hall at 585-6520 for reservations.
Monday, October 4, 2010
WVTK Local & State News October 4, 2010
The Addison County Humane Society says the number of animals in their care has doubled in recent years, and they are struggling financially to keep up. On Saturday the big fundraiser "Woofstock" was a big hit! About 75 dogs and their owners came out to support the Addison County Humane Society, and have a little fun. Many of the canines on hand were alumni of the Humane Society including Hobbes. This week you’ll have another chance to support the Addison County Humane Society as Bruce & Hobbes raise money with the Fabulous Fall Foliage Tour that gets underway this Thursday! Get the details and make a donation right here!
A Vermont plant has earned a $31.5 million contract to make helicopter maintenance diagnostic systems for the U.S. Army. Sen. Patrick Leahy says the units will be produced at Goodrich Corp.'s facility in Vergennes and be used on the Army's Black Hawk and Pave Hawk helicopters. The contract announcement comes a month after the company was awarded an extension of a $5.7 million Navy contract.
Nearly a thousand people came Saturday to mourn the death of a young Vermont Marine, and to share good memories of him. The funeral Mass for Lance Corporal Anthony Rosa was held at Missisquoi Valley Union High School in Swanton, where he graduated two years ago. He died late last month while on patrol in Afghanistan.
Heavy rainfall Thursday and Friday left flooded roads and areas in Essex well into the weekend. Pettingtill Road off of Route 128 was shut down all day Saturday, with North Williston Road closed until noon that day. Cornfields right off of Williston Road were heavily flooded. The clean up got underway Sunday, but it will be a while before its all back to normal.
The Centers for Disease Control is recommending that anyone over 6 months of age receive the flu shot this year except for those allergic to the vaccine. This year's shot also includes vaccine for the H1N1 virus. The new recommendation means that anyone seeking a flu shot should be able to receive one.
A new grant will help provide more protection for those who protect and serve. Senator Patrick Leahy announce on Friday that the state of Vermont will receiving a $1-million-dollar grant for bulletproof vests.
Vermont author Katherine Paterson, who's been named national ambassador for young people's literature, will speak about the importance of reading in child development in an appearance Thursday at St. Michael's College in Colchester. Her address, "The Child Left Behind," will cap Vermont Reads Day, a statewide celebration organized by the Vermont Humanities Council.
Shot down once, the owners of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant continue pushing for a second vote by state lawmakers for a license extension allowing it to stay open past 2012. Vermont is the only state that has given itself the power to turn thumbs down on a re-licensing. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission typically has that authority.
A group of Russian and Norwegian nuclear scientists, regulators and activists is visiting Vermont and Massachusetts to learn about nuclear decommissioning. The group is meeting with anti-nuclear groups, including the New England Coalition and Citizens Action Network, as well as visiting the Vermont Law School to meet with students and faculty in the school's environment and energy programs.
Vermont's Fletcher Allen Health Care will be in the spotlight today at a national health care summit being held in Washington. The Burlington hospital will be included because of its steps to boost quality while cutting costs. Fletcher Allen was recommended for the event by U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy.
A national children's group has given Vermont's two U.S. Senators its second-best honor for their support of legislation favorable to kids. First Focus Campaign for Children honored 50 members of Congress as Champions for Children for their extraordinary efforts on children's behalf. A second 50, including Sens. Patrick Leahy and Bernie Sanders, were labeled Defenders of Children.
Verizon Wireless could pay out up to $90 million in refunds to cell phone customers who were improperly charged for inadvertent Web access or data usage over the past several years. The FCC had asked Verizon Wireless last year about $1.99-a-megabyte data access fees that appeared on the bills of customers who didn't have data plans but who accidentally initiated data or Web access by pressing a button on their phones.
Volunteers gathered in Bristol to help make the Fletcher Allen Pediatric Unit a little warmer. Over 100 people made 600 baby blankets in 6 hours. The groups Mothers Without Borders and Brady's Smile collaborated on the event. Brady's Smile focuses on making a family's experience in the hospital a little easier. The blankets will be donated to Fletcher Allen's Pediatric Unit, making it the first hospital in Vermont to participate in the Brady's Smile program.
The Ticonderoga Federal Credit Union will host Shred Fest, a free paper-shredding event to increase public awareness of identity theft prevention, October 18 and 19 as part of their annual Credit Union Week celebration. Documents will be shredded on site in a mobile shredder. The Credit Union asks participants to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the local food pantries, in exchange for the free service. Shredding will be at the Ticonderoga office 11AM to 1PM October 18 and at the Port Henry office 9-11 AM October 19.
A Vermont plant has earned a $31.5 million contract to make helicopter maintenance diagnostic systems for the U.S. Army. Sen. Patrick Leahy says the units will be produced at Goodrich Corp.'s facility in Vergennes and be used on the Army's Black Hawk and Pave Hawk helicopters. The contract announcement comes a month after the company was awarded an extension of a $5.7 million Navy contract.
Nearly a thousand people came Saturday to mourn the death of a young Vermont Marine, and to share good memories of him. The funeral Mass for Lance Corporal Anthony Rosa was held at Missisquoi Valley Union High School in Swanton, where he graduated two years ago. He died late last month while on patrol in Afghanistan.
Heavy rainfall Thursday and Friday left flooded roads and areas in Essex well into the weekend. Pettingtill Road off of Route 128 was shut down all day Saturday, with North Williston Road closed until noon that day. Cornfields right off of Williston Road were heavily flooded. The clean up got underway Sunday, but it will be a while before its all back to normal.
The Centers for Disease Control is recommending that anyone over 6 months of age receive the flu shot this year except for those allergic to the vaccine. This year's shot also includes vaccine for the H1N1 virus. The new recommendation means that anyone seeking a flu shot should be able to receive one.
A new grant will help provide more protection for those who protect and serve. Senator Patrick Leahy announce on Friday that the state of Vermont will receiving a $1-million-dollar grant for bulletproof vests.
Vermont author Katherine Paterson, who's been named national ambassador for young people's literature, will speak about the importance of reading in child development in an appearance Thursday at St. Michael's College in Colchester. Her address, "The Child Left Behind," will cap Vermont Reads Day, a statewide celebration organized by the Vermont Humanities Council.
Shot down once, the owners of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant continue pushing for a second vote by state lawmakers for a license extension allowing it to stay open past 2012. Vermont is the only state that has given itself the power to turn thumbs down on a re-licensing. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission typically has that authority.
A group of Russian and Norwegian nuclear scientists, regulators and activists is visiting Vermont and Massachusetts to learn about nuclear decommissioning. The group is meeting with anti-nuclear groups, including the New England Coalition and Citizens Action Network, as well as visiting the Vermont Law School to meet with students and faculty in the school's environment and energy programs.
Vermont's Fletcher Allen Health Care will be in the spotlight today at a national health care summit being held in Washington. The Burlington hospital will be included because of its steps to boost quality while cutting costs. Fletcher Allen was recommended for the event by U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy.
A national children's group has given Vermont's two U.S. Senators its second-best honor for their support of legislation favorable to kids. First Focus Campaign for Children honored 50 members of Congress as Champions for Children for their extraordinary efforts on children's behalf. A second 50, including Sens. Patrick Leahy and Bernie Sanders, were labeled Defenders of Children.
Verizon Wireless could pay out up to $90 million in refunds to cell phone customers who were improperly charged for inadvertent Web access or data usage over the past several years. The FCC had asked Verizon Wireless last year about $1.99-a-megabyte data access fees that appeared on the bills of customers who didn't have data plans but who accidentally initiated data or Web access by pressing a button on their phones.
Volunteers gathered in Bristol to help make the Fletcher Allen Pediatric Unit a little warmer. Over 100 people made 600 baby blankets in 6 hours. The groups Mothers Without Borders and Brady's Smile collaborated on the event. Brady's Smile focuses on making a family's experience in the hospital a little easier. The blankets will be donated to Fletcher Allen's Pediatric Unit, making it the first hospital in Vermont to participate in the Brady's Smile program.
The Ticonderoga Federal Credit Union will host Shred Fest, a free paper-shredding event to increase public awareness of identity theft prevention, October 18 and 19 as part of their annual Credit Union Week celebration. Documents will be shredded on site in a mobile shredder. The Credit Union asks participants to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the local food pantries, in exchange for the free service. Shredding will be at the Ticonderoga office 11AM to 1PM October 18 and at the Port Henry office 9-11 AM October 19.
Friday, October 1, 2010
WVTK Local & State News October 1, 2010
The National Weather Service continues its Flood Watch through late tonight. The Weather Channel says Rain today with a High around 63.
Five of the Addison Central Supervisory Union’s seven elementary schools are going to explore the feasibility of merging their educational resources and governance in the future. The new panel is the next step in what has been an ongoing study of whether education services in the union could be offered more efficiently with fewer governing boards and fewer elementary schools. Bridport, Cornwall, Weybridge, Shoreham and Middlebury have voted to participate.
On Sunday October 10th the “10/10/10 Global Work Party” will take place. This is a way for Bill McKibben and 350.org to encourage people worldwide to work in their own communities on solving the global warming issue. In Addison County, at least 10 different events are planned. To get involved with an event or to register your own, visit 350.org.
Bristol selectboard members indicated this week they are hopeful that offices for the Bristol Police Department can remain in their current location on South St. instead of moving to Howden Hall. However selectmen cautioned that they are still negotiating a lease with the owners of the property.
The Vergennes Police Department has added Taser stun guns to their equipment lists. Chief George Merkel said the department now owns two Tasers, which he believes are a safer tool for subduing suspects. He said enough people are now familiar with Tasers that even their potential use can defuse situations.
This weekend, the Vergennes Opera House will host a lively program titled “Dance Mix.” However it may not appear to be what you think. Instead, the Champlain Philharmonic Orchestra’s set list will feature upbeat selections from the likes of Tchaikovsky, Brahms and Benjamin Britten. Performances take place Saturday at 7:30PM and Sunday afternoon at 4.
The Sand Hill Bridge on Route 125 in East Middlebury has survived three major floods since it was built in 1924. Now it’s in need of repair and a debate is underway regarding its replacement and the major detours that could be required during construction.
Middlebury firefighters want to hire a consultant to help determine if the department’s current two firehouses can be preserved and improved, or whether it would make better financial sense to build a new, more centrally located station. The Fire Chief feels it’s time for a feasibility study as a first step.
Town of Moriah transfer station will return to its winter hours today. The station will be open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8AM to Noon and 1-4 p.m.
Police say a South Royalton teenager has admitted shooting three cows from two roadways in Vermont. The 16-year-old male, who has no prior criminal record, has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty and unlawful mischief, both felonies, as well as disorderly conduct.
The new teachers contract in Winooski doesn't contain step raises for teachers, long a staple of Vermont teacher contracts. Teachers union spokesman Brent Litterer says a committee will study the step-raise issue and see whether and how the system should be modified in future.
U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont is joining with colleagues in the Senate to sponsor a measure aimed at protecting seniors from cuts in Social Security benefits. Their measure, filed on Wednesday, is being offered because a White House budget panel is considering cuts.
A 48-year-old Vermont man convicted nine years ago of impersonating a police officer is going to spend four months in jail after pleading guilty to stopping two motorists and pretending to be an officer. The Rutland Herald says Joseph Marro of Shrewsbury was arrested in July after a pair of fake police stops were traced back to him. Marro's attorney told the court his client was stopping motorists because he was frustrated by how fast they were going past his home.
No one is saying just what the punishment is, but the Williston town manager confirms Police Chief Roy Nelson has been disciplined for showing up at a crime scene after drinking. The manager says Nelson violated the town's policy for off-duty officers, and while he will not say what the disciplinary action was, he confirms the chief still has his job.
A food drive sponsored by CVPS to benefit the Rutland Community Cupboard rallied groups from across the county to donate nearly 20,000 food items to fill the shelves this fall. As of Wednesday the organization had 19,000 items, just shy of the 20,000-item goal. The cupboard expects to meet the goal with a few more deliveries through the weekend, including a large donation from Vermont Country Store.
The Diamond Run Mall is delinquent on almost $200,000 in impact and utility fee payments to Rutland City. The mall is located in Rutland Town pays the city for its water and sewer utilities and is obligated to pay impact fees totaling $100,000 annually until 2020. Rutland’s next step in collecting the unpaid fees remains unclear.
And today marks an important milestone here on WVTK! We are celebrating 1 year of Mr. Bruce Zeman as the host of the Wake-Up Crew program! Since Bruce has joined our team he works tirelessly everyday to keep you informed and entertained here in and around Addison County. Bruce’s dedication to being a voice for our furry friends has helped many animals in our region find loving homes through the Pet Of The Week Program with the Addison County Humane Society including his very own co-host Hobbes. I would like to send out a personal thanks to Bruce for all he does not only for the radio station but the community as well AND not to mention has become a great friend of mine! We’re glad you’re here Bruce!
Five of the Addison Central Supervisory Union’s seven elementary schools are going to explore the feasibility of merging their educational resources and governance in the future. The new panel is the next step in what has been an ongoing study of whether education services in the union could be offered more efficiently with fewer governing boards and fewer elementary schools. Bridport, Cornwall, Weybridge, Shoreham and Middlebury have voted to participate.
On Sunday October 10th the “10/10/10 Global Work Party” will take place. This is a way for Bill McKibben and 350.org to encourage people worldwide to work in their own communities on solving the global warming issue. In Addison County, at least 10 different events are planned. To get involved with an event or to register your own, visit 350.org.
Bristol selectboard members indicated this week they are hopeful that offices for the Bristol Police Department can remain in their current location on South St. instead of moving to Howden Hall. However selectmen cautioned that they are still negotiating a lease with the owners of the property.
The Vergennes Police Department has added Taser stun guns to their equipment lists. Chief George Merkel said the department now owns two Tasers, which he believes are a safer tool for subduing suspects. He said enough people are now familiar with Tasers that even their potential use can defuse situations.
This weekend, the Vergennes Opera House will host a lively program titled “Dance Mix.” However it may not appear to be what you think. Instead, the Champlain Philharmonic Orchestra’s set list will feature upbeat selections from the likes of Tchaikovsky, Brahms and Benjamin Britten. Performances take place Saturday at 7:30PM and Sunday afternoon at 4.
The Sand Hill Bridge on Route 125 in East Middlebury has survived three major floods since it was built in 1924. Now it’s in need of repair and a debate is underway regarding its replacement and the major detours that could be required during construction.
Middlebury firefighters want to hire a consultant to help determine if the department’s current two firehouses can be preserved and improved, or whether it would make better financial sense to build a new, more centrally located station. The Fire Chief feels it’s time for a feasibility study as a first step.
Town of Moriah transfer station will return to its winter hours today. The station will be open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8AM to Noon and 1-4 p.m.
Police say a South Royalton teenager has admitted shooting three cows from two roadways in Vermont. The 16-year-old male, who has no prior criminal record, has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty and unlawful mischief, both felonies, as well as disorderly conduct.
The new teachers contract in Winooski doesn't contain step raises for teachers, long a staple of Vermont teacher contracts. Teachers union spokesman Brent Litterer says a committee will study the step-raise issue and see whether and how the system should be modified in future.
U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont is joining with colleagues in the Senate to sponsor a measure aimed at protecting seniors from cuts in Social Security benefits. Their measure, filed on Wednesday, is being offered because a White House budget panel is considering cuts.
A 48-year-old Vermont man convicted nine years ago of impersonating a police officer is going to spend four months in jail after pleading guilty to stopping two motorists and pretending to be an officer. The Rutland Herald says Joseph Marro of Shrewsbury was arrested in July after a pair of fake police stops were traced back to him. Marro's attorney told the court his client was stopping motorists because he was frustrated by how fast they were going past his home.
No one is saying just what the punishment is, but the Williston town manager confirms Police Chief Roy Nelson has been disciplined for showing up at a crime scene after drinking. The manager says Nelson violated the town's policy for off-duty officers, and while he will not say what the disciplinary action was, he confirms the chief still has his job.
A food drive sponsored by CVPS to benefit the Rutland Community Cupboard rallied groups from across the county to donate nearly 20,000 food items to fill the shelves this fall. As of Wednesday the organization had 19,000 items, just shy of the 20,000-item goal. The cupboard expects to meet the goal with a few more deliveries through the weekend, including a large donation from Vermont Country Store.
The Diamond Run Mall is delinquent on almost $200,000 in impact and utility fee payments to Rutland City. The mall is located in Rutland Town pays the city for its water and sewer utilities and is obligated to pay impact fees totaling $100,000 annually until 2020. Rutland’s next step in collecting the unpaid fees remains unclear.
And today marks an important milestone here on WVTK! We are celebrating 1 year of Mr. Bruce Zeman as the host of the Wake-Up Crew program! Since Bruce has joined our team he works tirelessly everyday to keep you informed and entertained here in and around Addison County. Bruce’s dedication to being a voice for our furry friends has helped many animals in our region find loving homes through the Pet Of The Week Program with the Addison County Humane Society including his very own co-host Hobbes. I would like to send out a personal thanks to Bruce for all he does not only for the radio station but the community as well AND not to mention has become a great friend of mine! We’re glad you’re here Bruce!
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