Montpelier News Today | 2 Min New | The Daily News Now!

Wood four Good, a Vermont-based initiative, is expanding its free firewood program to reach more families, especially in rural and underserved areas. New processing and distribution sites in Rochester, Burke, and Rutland County will be established, relying on volunteers and donations. The expansion aims to combat harsh winter conditions and ensure families can afford heating support. The first firewood from these new locations will be available next winter, with preparations underway. Community support is crucial for this mission to build a warmer Vermont.

On International Migrants Day, Burlington held a candlelight vigil for migrant worker rights. Organized by Vermont Faith Communities for Immigration Justice, the event at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington featured songs, prayers, and speeches. Despite the absence of some communities due to fear, organizers emphasized the importance of privilege holders advocating for migrant workers. The vigil underscored the need for collective action to ensure dignity and rights for all, highlighting the ongoing struggle for migrant worker justice.

In response to Copley Hospitals closure, a new freestanding birth center, Green Mountain Birth Center, is being established in Vermont. With Copleys donated equipment and a goal of $2 million, the center aims to provide prenatal services and natural childbirth options for low-risk patients. The center hopes to open in two years, offering a personalized approach to maternal care.

Suspect in Brown University and MIT Shootings Found Dead in New Hampshire A multi-state manhunt comes to an end as the suspect in the recent mass shooting at Brown University and the killing of a MIT professor is found dead in a storage facility in southern New Hampshire. The individual, who was identified as a person of interest in both incidents, was discovered following a coordinated effort from various law enforcement agencies, including Providence police, U.S. Marshals, New Hampshire State Police, and the FBI. The motive behind the shootings remains under investigation.

Rutland and Vermont prepare for heavy rain and strong winds this Friday, with Rutland Fire Departments water rescue team and boats on standby. State Emergency Management Director Eric Forand confirms coordination with towns and three search and rescue teams. Both entities advise residents to make a plan before storms hit, and to avoid downed power lines.

Jeanne Hulsen, a former Burlington High School athletic director, accused the district of gender-based wage discrimination. After a lawsuit and mediation, the district agreed to a $475,000 settlement, with Hulsen receiving $295,000 for lost wages and her lawyer getting $180,000 for legal costs. The settlement comes after the girls soccer teams equal pay activism, highlighting ongoing pay disparity issues in the district.

Vermont students ornaments adorn the National Christmas Tree in Washington D.C. Karsens Abenaki history-inspired piece and Bellas maple syrup tribute are among the artworks showcasing Vermonts culture and natural beauty. The display, part of the America Celebrates exhibit, runs until New Years Day, offering a glimpse of Vermont to global visitors.

35-year-old Sandra Barber from Northern New York was resentenced to 364 days in jail for violating her probation on animal cruelty charges. She was initially sentenced to three years of probation, banning her from owning or caring for animals and using illegal drugs. However, she was found with a cat and tested positive for cocaine, leading to her arrest and resentencing.