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Vermonts restorative justice programs, handling low-level crimes outside the court system, have shown promising results. Over the past three years, one-fifth of misdemeanor cases have been diverted, saving taxpayer money and reducing re-offending. However, the program faces challenges with repeat offenders and driving with a suspended license cases. Officials are working to refine the approach for improved effectiveness.

President Trump delivered a year-end address, touting his administrations achievements and asserting it brought more positive change than any other. However, the speech omitted challenges like rising jobless rates, Republican dissent, and declining approval ratings. His first year of the second term saw significant actions, including reducing the federal workforce, implementing high tariffs, and signing numerous executive orders. Despite his strong hold on the Republican party, cracks are emerging, with some Republicans breaking ranks and the Senate reasserting congressional oversight. The upcoming midterm elections pose a significant challenge, as recent off-year elections saw Democrats win governorships and Trumps approval rating remains at thirty-six percent, similar to his first terms rating before Republicans lost forty seats and control of the House.

President Trump to Deliver Speech, Outlining Agenda and Aiming to Boost Approval Ratings President Donald Trump is set to deliver a live speech from the White House this Wednesday night, focusing on his administrations achievements and plans for the remainder of his second term. The speech comes at a critical time as Trump aims to boost his declining approval ratings. He will emphasize that his administration inherited a difficult situation and has since made the country stronger. The speech will also address the upcoming midterm elections in 2026, which will determine control of both the House and the Senate. Trumps policies, such as halting border crossings and income tax cuts, have had mixed results. His administration believes that new factory investments and increased tax refunds will reverse the decline in manufacturing jobs and boost consumer activity. Trump has been active on social media and television, but formal addresses are typically more serious. The speech comes as a report reveals a fragile job market, with monthly job gains dropping since Trump announced broad tariffs in April.

Vermont Governor urges Trump to consult Congress on Venezuela military actions; Vermont Air National Guard deployed in Southern Spear operation amidst escalating tensions and criticism of legality under international law.

Vermonts Scott Administration Proposes Education Tax Relief: A Temporary Fix or Long-Term Solution? The Scott administration is proposing a plan to alleviate Vermonters education property tax burden, using $75 million to reduce a projected 12% tax increase. This buy down is seen as a temporary fix, as the Governor advocates for redistricting schools to create a new education funding model. However, some districts express concerns about the potential negative impact on student services. The administration aims to address inefficiencies and ensure equal education for all students, while local districts worry about immediate community and student impacts.

The Chaffee Art Center in Rutland, Vermont, hosts its annual gingerbread house contest, transforming the center into a winter wonderland. Families vote for their favorite edible creations, with this years contest featuring an impressive array of houses. The center also offers holiday activities like ornament making, hot cocoa, and a peaceful space for relaxation. Visitors praise the center for accessible and affordable holiday activities, with the contest running for about two more weeks.

Winter backcountry rescue calls surge as unprepared enthusiasts venture into the wild. Richmond Rescue urges full equipment and route selection matching skill level. Stay put if lost, as movement can hinder rescue efforts.

Mel Allen, a legendary editor and writer, shares his journey and new book, Here in New England: Unforgettable Stories of People, Places, and Memories That Connect Us All. Allen, known for his unique editorial style at Yankee magazine, has significantly impacted New Englands literary landscape. His dedication to storytelling extends beyond editing, as he teaches magazine writing and creative nonfiction. His new book features diverse stories, from meeting the last horse-and-buggy egg delivery man to a tragic search for a lost boy in Maine. Allen believes in the power of stories to unite people and advises aspiring journalists to follow their inner calling to tell stories.

Parents in Lyon Mountain, New York, raise serious safety concerns over a newly designated school bus stop on Firehouse Lane, directly in front of the fire department. The stop lacks signage and is described as unsafe, with potential hazards including lack of visibility, narrow road, no sidewalks, high commute traffic, and snowplow activity. Parents fear for their childrens safety, urging district officials to reconsider the location. Despite these concerns, district officials have stated that this will be the final bus stop change for the remainder of the school year, with students scheduled to begin using this controversial stop starting on January fifth.