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The House of Representatives passed a healthcare bill, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, aiming to reduce costs. However, it lacks extended tax credits and includes abortion restrictions, potentially causing one hundred thousand people to lose insurance each year. The bill faces challenges in the Senate, while Democrats push for a separate healthcare subsidy extension.

Tragic Wrong-Way Crash on I-89: Young Woman Dies, Driver Cited A 21-year-old woman, Hailey Westcot, lost her life in a multi-vehicle crash on I-89 near Bolton, Vermont, after a wrong-way driver, Timothy Wooster, collided head-on with her vehicle. Wooster, 45, was cited for grossly negligent operation with death resulting, causing significant delays and chaos during evening commuter traffic.

Afghan allies, who supported U.S. missions, have resettled in Vermont since 2021, filling critical workforce gaps and contributing significantly more in taxes than initial resettlement aid. With a history of service in Afghanistan, these allies, many of whom risked their lives alongside U.S. forces, are now working in various sectors, strengthening Vermonts rural economy and enriching communities. The Vermont Afghan Alliance, established in 2022, has been instrumental in assisting these new arrivals with employment, housing, legal services, and health programs.

Champlain Valley Head Start in Burlington, Vermont, faced a hurdle in securing federal funding due to using the phrase cultural and linguistic responsiveness in their application. This term was flagged as too similar to DEI, a sensitive topic for federal funding. Despite the language being directly from federal Head Start performance standards, the organization had to make semantic revisions to receive funding. This issue arose during a difficult period for Head Start providers, as a government shutdown caused significant funding delays. The focus on scrutinizing DEI-related language has become a new norm under the current administration, creating confusion for many programs and even contradicting the Head Start Act itself.

Zero Gravity Craft Brewery introduces Green State Zero and Conehead Zero, nonalcoholic versions of their popular beers, to cater to the growing demand for alcohol-free options. These new additions, with less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, will be available this winter across their distribution area. The brewery, with experience from their Rescue Club brand, aims to provide familiar flavors in a nonalcoholic format, expanding their portfolio to meet the needs of beer enthusiasts seeking an alcohol-free choice.

Bolton Valley Resort in Vermont kicks off night skiing season, drawing excitement from skiers and snowboarders. High demand and enthusiasm from the community, with unique atmosphere and good terrain. Night skiing available Tuesday through Saturday, four to ten PM.

Discover Vermonts Free Tuition and Training Programs for Post-High School Careers! Vermont is making education more accessible with programs like 802Opportunity and Freedom and Unity, offering free tuition at Community College of Vermont and Vermont State University, respectively. These initiatives cater to students of all ages and backgrounds, with income limits and diverse program options. Additionally, VSAC provides workforce development programs with interest-free loans for free training in skilled trades and critical-need jobs. Vermonts commitment to supporting educational and career goals fosters a stronger community and economy.

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.