Current News

by Timothy McQuiston, Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Department of Health reported last week that the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations fell again after an increase in cases that began in August and ran into early fall. Other indicators like wastewater virus and outbreaks also declined. Neither the VDH nor the CDC are any longer reporting COVID fatalities or total cases in Vermont or in the US. WastewaterSCAN testing of treatment plants indicates that in Vermont both COVID-19 and Norovirus levels are moderate to low but recently have been higher in Vermont than they are nationally.

U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders Each year, cities and towns across Vermont hold ceremonies to honor our veterans. These are important opportunities to honor those who have put their lives on the line to defend our country. Regardless of the political climate in Washington, I would hope that all of us understand the importance of honoring the sacrifice of our servicemembers, veterans and their families. There is much that we can learn from them and what they have experienced.

Vermont Business Magazine U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont) today released the following statement after voting against a continuing resolution that fails to extend urgently needed health care tax credits: “I cannot vote for a government funding bill that kicks millions of Americans off their health care. The heart of this government shutdown is, and always was, about access to health care. There was an early recognition from my Republican colleagues that working families, small businesses, and farmers in their states would be really hurt by these premium increases—just as they will be in Democratic states, too. That’s why it is so disappointing that Republicans refused to come to the table to extend the Affordable Care Act’s premium tax credits. Millions of hardworking people, in every state, will face higher premiums and many will go without health coverage altogether."

Community Health Centers Did you know nearly 1 in 9 adults worldwide have diabetes? Whether you’re managing diabetes or working to prevent it, small habits like staying active, eating well, and caring for your mental health can make a big difference. Take charge of your health by managing your A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol, taking medications as prescribed, and partnering with your CHC provider.

Vermont Business Magazine Governor Phil Scott today issued the following statement: “It was on this day in 1918 when the world celebrated the end of the Great War. Like many Vermonters, my grandfather, Clem Beckley of Plainfield, served in World War I. He enlisted on June 11, 1917, at Fort Ethan Allen and arrived on European soil on October 3, where he served as a wagoner delivering ammunition to the front lines in France. They called it the “war to end all wars,” but we know that didn’t prove true."

Vermont Business Magazine On Veterans Day, the Vermont Department of Labor (VDOL) extends its deepest gratitude to those who have served our country. The Department’s Veteran Services Program remains committed to helping veterans transition to meaningful civilian careers through priority employment services, training opportunities, resume support, and connections to Vermont employers. The Department’s Veteran Services staff provides one-on-one guidance, helping individuals identify career paths, enhance job readiness, and connect with employers who recognize the value of military experience. 

Vermont Business Magazine On this Veterans Day, Vermont State University proudly recognizes and thanks all who have served in our nation’s armed forces. Your courage, commitment, and sacrifice inspire and humble us. We are honored to share this community with you. We extend special appreciation to VTC Alumni Association President and U.S. Army/Desert Storm veteran Mark Moyer '96 for his continued service and leadership in connecting veterans across VTSU’s five campuses. His work helps ensure their unique needs are met and their contributions are celebrated. 

Vermont Business Magazine The Veterans Legal Assistance Project (VLAP) at Vermont Law and Graduate School (VLGS) has been awarded a two-year, $490,000 grant by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide civil legal services to veterans who are experiencing or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. The grant follows last year’s 14-month, $300,000 award, which enabled VLAP to assist more than 250 Vermont veterans. VLAP — which has honored and served more than 950 veterans since its founding in 2014 — is the only legal service provider in the state to receive a grant in this round of awards.

Vermont Business Magazine National Adoption Month is a time to celebrate and honor those whose lives are touched by adoption. It is a month to recognize the importance of maintaining connections between children and their family of origin, whether through post-adoption contracts, or reunification. Moreover, it highlights the 80 Vermont children and youth who are awaiting their forever families. Project Family, a partnership between Lund and the Department for Children and Families (DCF), works to find permanent families for children and youth. However, more families are needed, especially for youth over the age of 14. The chances of a child under 8 being adopted are almost nine times greater than for one over the age of 14. 

Vermont Business Magazine Thirty-three health care providers from various disciplines have joined University of Vermont Health supporting the regional health system’s commitment to strengthening access to primary and specialty care for the communities it serve. Successful recruitment of providers from a wide range of specialties strengthens regional access to primary, specialty care.

Vermont Business Magazine This Veterans Day, the American Red Cross honors the tremendous service and sacrifice of all veterans and active-duty service members. At the Red Cross, our support for military communities isn’t just one day; it’s every day. From the day a service member joins the military through life as a veteran, Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) volunteers are committed to providing a continuum of care to the military community. In Vermont, four dedicated SAF volunteers log more than 650 hours each year supporting our military members, veterans and their families.

Vermont Business Magazine Rutland County Head Start and Early Head Start are pleased to announce the opening of a new state-of-the-art playground at its Meadow Street location. This exciting project marks the first time the program has received dedicated funding to enhance its outdoor play environment, made possible through one-time support from the Office of Head Start.  The playground represents a collaborative effort between Community Care Network’s finance and facilities departments, program leadership, and early childhood experts.