Reader Bulletins: Aug. 9-15, 2024 (2024)

Do you have an item you would like to see in Community News? A milestone? A public announcement? A short news release about something entertaining going on in your town? Simply email the information to us at news@rutlandherald.com. Be sure to put For Community News in the subject line. (Note: We do reserve the right to edit for length.)

UVM

BURLINGTON — The Robert Larner, M.D., College of Medicine at UVM, alongside the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the College of Education and Social Services, has received its first SEPA (Science Education Partnership Award) grant from the NIH. This $1.3 million award will fund the New American Youth on the Rise (NAYR) program, designed to guide girls from immigrant backgrounds into health science careers.Health care futures

CASTLETON — Southern Vermont Area Health Education Center, in collaboration with the Governor’s Institutes of Vermont, held the GIV 2024 Health & Medicine South Institute at Vermont State University Castleton.

This program welcomed 60 Vermont high school students for a week-long immersion into the world of health and medicine. Rutland County students attending were Emma Bonsignore, Rutland High School; Riley Collins, Mount St. Joseph; Ezra Hertzberg, Fair Haven Union High School; Luke Johnston-Cayan, Mill River High School; and Emma Ward, Rutland High School.

Guided by mentors from the UVM Robert Larner College of Medicine, VTSU Castleton, and UVM, students participated in activities designed to explore various health careers. They also experienced college campus life by residing in the dorms, dining in the cafeteria and engaging in recreational activities like volleyball and dodgeball during their free time.

Casella Waste

RUTLAND — Casella Waste Systems Inc., a regional solid waste, recycling and resource management services company, was named to Time’s “America’s Best Mid-Size Companies 2024” list.

Casella was the only company in the waste, recycling and resource management services industry, and the only company headquartered in Vermont, to be recognized among the list of 500. The three evaluation criteria were employee satisfaction, revenue growth and sustainability transparency.

Peregrine nesting

Hikers and rock climbers can return to Vermont cliffs now that peregrine falcon nesting season has ended. Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, in collaboration with Audubon Vermont, has confirmed all the young falcons have learned to fly and should not be disturbed by human presence on the cliffs. Biologists and volunteers monitored peregrine pairs that occupied at least 45 Vermont cliffs in early spring and summer.

Peregrine falcons were removed from the state’s Threatened and Endangered Species List in 2005. Ongoing cooperation from recreationists and continued monitoring efforts will help ensure the peregrines’ recovery in future years.

Community Health

Community Health’s Rutland and southern Addison counties’ primary care network celebrates 20 years during National Health Center Week, “Powering Communities Through Caring Connections,” Aug. 4 to 10, For more information, visit www.chcrr.org or call 802-779-9169.

The Community Health Diabetes Support Group meets the second Wednesday monthly in two different locations at two different times: 1 to 2 p.m. at Rutland Diabetes & Endocrinology Center; 5 to 6 p.m. at Castleton Community Health.

Ski & Snowboard

KILLINGTON — Induction of the class of 2024 into the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, at Killington’s K1 Lodge. The event, hosted by Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum in Stowe, will also honor recipients of the Paul Robbins Journalism Award, First Tracks Award, and the Bill McCollom Community Award.

This year’s inductees include Kelly Clark, winningest athlete in snowboard history; Carl Ettlinger, ski safety crusader; Peter Graves, the voice of skiing in America; and Henry Lunde, a pioneering contributor to the Vermont ski industry. The Paul Robbins Journalism Award will go to Lisa Gosselin Lynn. The First Tracks Award will go to Abby Crisostomo and Hana Saydek of Unlikely Riders. The Bill McCollom Community Award will go to Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports.

Visit www.vtssm.org for tickets and more information. Sponsors include Killington Resort and Vermont Orthopaedic Clinic.

Call for trustees

Vermont Adult Learning invites applicants to join its board of trustees. VAL has physical Learning Centers in seven of Vermont’s 14 counties, as well as an Online Learning Center offering remote classes.

Interested candidates must be willing to commit to attending board and virtual committee meetings a minimum of two to four hours per month. Applicants must disclose any potential conflicts of interest arising from potential board participation. Candidates from central and southern Vermont are particularly needed.

Applications are available online at tinyurl.com/VALBoard24 and will be accepted through Friday, Aug. 16.

Call for artists

The Vermont Arts Council is now accepting applications for its Artist Development Grants, which support artists at all stages of their careers. Grants are up to $2,000, and there are two grant rounds each year.

This year, a new random draw method for selecting grantees will be in place. Also new this year, if recent flooding has significantly and adversely affected your ability to produce, perform and/or market your work and created a need for immediate relief funds and/or assistance, flood relief is available for eligible expenses.

Proposed activities must begin after Sept. 1 and end no later than Aug. 31, 2025. Award notifications are typically made within three weeks of each application deadline. The next round will open in November with a deadline of Jan. 28.

Apply online at www.vermontartscouncil.org/grants/find-a-grant/artists/artist-development. Application deadline is Sept. 10.

VICA scholarships

The Vermont Italian Cultural Association (VICA) announced it will name one of its three annual scholarships in honor of VICA members, retired Sen. Patrick Leahy and his wife, Marcelle Leahy to recognize their commitment to promoting and sharing Italian history and cultural heritage in Vermont.

The Leahy Scholarship provides financial assistance to Vermonters and individuals with strong connections to the state who seek to broaden their knowledge of Italy and Italian culture and history through research and study focused on one of the disciplines in fine arts, agriculture or food.

The 2025 application cycle will begin in fall 2024. Visit www.vermontitalianculturalassociation.org/scholarships-grants for more information and how to apply.

Open Farm Week

For the 10th consecutive year, farmers across Vermont will open their barn doors and garden gates to welcome the public for a behind the-scenes look at Vermont’s working landscapes during Vermont Open Farm Week, Sunday, Aug. 4, through Sunday, Aug. 11. Vermont Open Farm Week started in 2014 as “CSA Open Farm Day” and now, the week features 49 farms at 157 events statewide.

A few highlights of the 2024 schedule:

— Meet the Sheep at Cynefin Farm, daily during Open Farm Week, 11 a.m. to noon, Townsend.

— Pasture Walk & Whole Hog Barbecue with live music at Snug Valley Farm, Aug. 10, 4 to 9 p.m., Hardwick.

— Tomato Trot 5K at Cate Farm, Aug. 12, 5 p.m., Plainfield.

Many events are free and some require pre-registration. Not all farms are open every day, so visit DigInVT.com for the event schedule and plan a visit. Because of recent flooding, some roads are still damaged and under repair; use 511 to check road conditions if traveling around the state.

Grant award

Vermont Historical Society announced it has been selected to receive a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services 21st Century Museum Professionals Program. This grant program supports institutions across the country in preparing museum professionals to tackle contemporary challenges in the field.

This grant will allow VHS to work with local historical societies statewide to enhance museum volunteer workforce development. Project components include an Online Resource Center, workshops and work with two cohorts of historical societies to provide training, resources and direct assistance on self-selected components of collections-based projects.

CCV honored

Community College of Vermont announced its selection as one of 18 nationwide recipients this year to join the Metallica Scholars Initiative. This honor comes as part of expansion of the Initiative, supported by a $75,000 grant aimed at enhancing career readiness among students pursuing IT and cybersecurity programs.

The Initiative will enable CCV to better serve underrepresented populations of Vermonters, including people with disabilities, people who were formerly incarcerated, new Americans, veterans, high school students, women and people in poverty.

Hunter courses

Vermont’s volunteer hunter education instructors are now hosting a limited number of courses throughout the state. Education courses are basic hunter, bowhunter, trapper, and hunter-bowhunter combination. Courses will be listed as they become available at www.vtfishandwildlife.com online; on the Home page, click on Hunt and then Hunter Education, and Find a Certified Course. Go to www.register-ed.com/programs/vermont to register for a course. For more information, call 802-828-1193.

A person must pass the basic hunter education course before they can purchase their first hunting license. You must be age 18 and a resident of Vermont to take the online hunter or bowhunter education courses. A Vermont hunter education card entitles you to hunt in all 50 states, as well as some international locations.

Duck Derby

PITTSFORD — Rutland County Humane Society will hold its Duck Derby 2024 fundraiser Thursday, Sept. 5, at 5:30 p.m. at Pittsford Recreation Area. “Adopted” plastic ducks will be launched into the stream in a race to the finish. All Duck Derby proceeds support the programs and homeless animals at the shelter.

The first four ducks to reach the finish line win cash prizes. Prizes are First place $200, Second place $100, Third place $50, Fourth place $25; also a prize for Last place $50. You don’t need to be present to win.

To adopt a duck (or more), go to rchsvt.org.

Composting

To learn how to compost at home or in your community, the UVM Extension Community Horticulture Program is offering its annual Vermont Master Composter course, beginning on Aug. 30. The online course runs for eight weeks and covers how to make and use compost, compost ecology, community composting and relevant Vermont policies, and for those interested in becoming a Vermont Master Composter volunteer, a session on volunteerism.

The fee is $50 for Vermonters, $150 for non-residents, and covers instruction and all materials. Registration is due no later than Aug. 23. Visit go.uvm.edu/vtcompost to learn more and to register. For more information, email debra.heleba@uvm.edu. To request a disability-related accommodation, contact her by Aug. 9. Anyone interested in becoming a Vermont Master Composter volunteer is required to attend live Zoom sessions each Thursday evening from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 to Oct. 24, and attend an in-person workshop to gain hands-on experience with backyard and community composting systems.

RRMC honor

RUTLAND — Rutland Regional Medical Center has been named by U.S. News & World Report to its 2024-25 Best Hospitals list as a High Performing hospital for Hip and Knee Replacements. This is the highest distinction a hospital can earn for U.S. News’ Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions ratings. RRMC is one of only two hospitals in the state to receive High Performing ratings for both procedures.

Cabot Creamery

WAITSFIELD — Cabot Creamery received high marks at two contests, the American Cheese Society and International Cheese and Dairy Awards.

The American Cheese Society Awards, announced in Buffalo, New York, going to Cabot are First Place, Extra Sharp Cheddar, White Oak Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Salted Butter; Second Place, Alpine Cheddar, New York Sharp Cheddar; Third Place, Unsalted Butter.

The International Cheese and Dairy Awards, held in Staffordshire, England, last month, won by Cabot are Gold, White Oak Cheddar (USA); Silver, Alpine Cheddar (USA), Salted Butter (USA), 10% Plain Greek Yogurt (All Countries); Bronze, Pimento Cheese Spread (All Countries), Sharp Cheddar (USA), Alpine Cheddar (USA).

Border crossing and dogs

Starting Aug. 1, dogs entering or returning to the United States must meet new specific requirements set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This includes day and extended trips to Canada, as well as all other countries. If these requirements are not met, your dog’s re-entry to the U.S. will be delayed or denied

— Age requirement: Dog must be at least 6 months old upon entry or re-entry to the U.S.

Kayak Days

Blue Cross VT’s Kayak Days 2024 (formerly known as Hike, Bike & Paddle) gives Vermonters an opportunity to try a new paddle sport to gain mental and physical health benefits of being active on the water. This year’s events are:

Summer Virtual Challenge — Blue Cross VT wants to see you out enjoying the lakes and streams of Vermont. Beginning July 20, for every post that it’s tagged in on Facebook or Instagram, it’ll donate $5 to Camp Exclamation Point, a residential summer camp for underserved Vermont youth. You can also participate by emailing your photo to events@bcbsvt.com. On Sept. 6, one submission will be randomly picked to receive a new kayak, paddle and personal flotation device. Share as many photos as you like.

GEAR UP

Rutland resident Kristin Hubert will lead VSAC’s GEAR UP, an acronym for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs. She replaces Dianne Griggs, who retired.

Hubert served as an elementary school principal, director of curriculum, instruction and assessment, and most recently, superintendent, for Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union. She also serves the faculty for VTSU-Castleton Principal Preparation Program and in the Transformative School Leadership doctoral program at Northeastern University.

VSAC’s GEAR UP works in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education to enhance college and career readiness for Grades 6 through 12 in 35 middle and high schools across the state.

Antlerless permit

Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department reminds hunters that muzzleloader season antlerless deer permit applications are available on its website until Wednesday, July 31. A lottery drawing of the permit recipients will be held Sept. 11. The muzzleloader seasons from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 and Dec. 7 to 15 will have antlerless permits available for each of Vermont’s 21 Wildlife Management Units.

Landowners who post their land may not apply for a landowner priority muzzleloader antlerless deer permit. They are eligible to apply in the regular lottery for an antlerless deer permit.

WIC anniversary

For 50 years, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children — better known as WIC — has promoted the health and well-being of millions of young children, parents and families country-wide.

To celebrate this milestone, Vermont WIC and Vermont Parks Forever are hosting a series of events and activities at several state parks. WIC families are invited to attend these anniversary celebrations, connect with other families, talk with WIC staff, learn more about food package updates, and participate in nutrition education activities.

Vermont WIC celebration:

— Brighton State Park on Spectacle Pond in Island Pond, Friday, Aug. 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, visit HealthVermont.gov/Family/WIC/wic-nutrition#WIC50th

Call for vendors

WEST RUTLAND — The Town of West Rutland is looking for vendors (ethnic food, artisan and/or makers) for its annual Community Block Party from 2:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, on the Town Hall Green and Marble Street.

Marble Street from Campbell to Main Street will be blocked off to traffic to host the festivities. The day will feature games, craft vendors and food trucks. The musical entertainment will feature West Rutland School’s Rock Lab, Tony’s Polka Band, Extra Stout and Satin & Steel. The event will be topped off with an evening fireworks display.

A 10-foot by 10-foot space is $30. To register for a space or for more information, call 802-438-2263 or email sjagodzinski@westrutlandvt.org or info@westrutlandvt.org before Sept. 2.

Art of the Pig

BRANDON — Brandon Artists Guild presents Brandon’s Art of the Pig. Approximately 90 decorated pigs can be seen around town in shop windows and restaurants. All pigs will be auctioned Aug. 16-18 at Brandon Town Hall.

Adult Learning

Vermont Adult Learning, provider of adult education and literacy services, announces the hiring of Tara Brooks as executive director. Brooks previously served as director of Vergennes Recreation Department, events manager for Vergennes Opera House, executive director of Vergennes Partnership, director of after-school and summer services for Addison Northwest School District and most recently, director of Operations for Heartworks Early Education.

Welsh Church

POULTNEY — Poultney Welsh Church Preservation Alliance’s building preservation work continues. Fundraising efforts include raffle tickets, one for $5 and three for $10, for 1st prize “Walk Through The Woods” quilt; 2nd prize a Mini Frig; 3rd prize “Pampered Chef Pop Corn Maker.” Raffle prizes will be awarded Aug. 10 on the annual East Poultney Day 2024; one does not need to be present to win.

Monetary donations earmarked for “repairs” are tax-deductible and may be made via GoFundMe appeal or check payable to P.W.C.P.A. and mailed to Treasurer Erin K. Stoneberg, 179 East Main St., Poultney, VT 05764.

{span style=”font-size: 1.17em;”}Master angler{/span}Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has released the Vermont Master Angler Program 2023 Annual Report (tinyurl.com/4sxrdkwh) with 989 entries and 72 Master Angler Award recipients.

The program recognizes anglers who catch trophy-sized fish, from 34 eligible species, in Vermont waters and celebrates clean water and healthy habitats allowing these fish to survive and grow to exceptional sizes.

Anglers catching a fish exceeding the minimum qualifying length can receive a certificate; their names and catches are also included in the Vermont Master Angler Annual Report posted annually on the Vermont Fish & Wildlife website. Anglers demonstrating the skill necessary to catch multiple species that all exceed the minimum qualifying lengths in the same calendar year, are recognized as “Vermont Master Anglers” and receive a lapel pin at the end of the year; to qualify, an angler must submit qualifying entries for five or more species within a calendar year. Youth anglers have a slightly lower minimum qualifying length for each species.

Grant program

Dairy processors across the Northeast United States can now apply for the Dairy Processor Modernization Grant through the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC). With a total of $1.2 million in funding, this grant will fund specialized equipment to help processors expand capacity, increase efficiencies, and improve packaging. Grants will range from $15,000 to $350,000 with a 25% (cash or in-kind) match commitment required. Hosted by Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, the NE-DBIC is funded through the USDA-AMS.

This grant is open to existing dairy processors in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. For more information, visit nedairyinnovation.com/grants/dairy-processor-modernization-grant.

Maternity care

RUTLAND — Improving quality of care for birthing people is the focus for Rutland Regional Medical Center’s Women and Children’s Unit and Birthing Center. This past January, the hospital was named a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont — the only hospital in Vermont to receive this honor.

Rutland Regional put in place various evidence-based trainings and procedures to reduce traumatic births, severe maternal morbidity events, and cesarean sections. Over the past four years, RRMC’s Women and Children’s Unit and Birthing Center has decreased cesarean and episiotomy rates, decreased obstetric complications, and increased breastfeeding rates. Last year, the hospital also expanded their care team to include midwifery.

Patient access

The Community Health Patient Portal provides secure online access to portions of your medical record and communication with your providers. You can send and receive non-urgent messages; request appointments; request medication refills; view test results; print your medical record; notify your provider of changes in your insurance or contact information; review and pay your bill.

Ask your provider or check online for more information about setting up your Community Health patient portal at www.chcrr.org/prtient-portal.

{span style=”font-size: 1.17em;”}Workplace wellness{/span}A record 129 employers in Vermont will receive awards for their efforts to promote wellness initiatives within the workplace. The awards to business owners, company presidents, chief officers, and human resources directors will be held Oct. 10 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Burlington. Registration is open now on the event website. Early bird registration ends Aug. 16; final deadline to register is Sept. 13.

The awards ceremony takes place in conjunction with the Vermont Worksite Wellness Conference where participants share best practices for worksite health and wellness, participate in workshops, and meet with exhibitors sharing tools and strategies to inspire and support employees in making healthy choices. This year’s award recipients include schools, banks, utilities, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, health care organizations, retailers, manufacturers, insurance companies and ski resorts.

Girl Scouts STEM

Girl Scouts make the most of the council’s science, technology, engineering and math program, brought to them by a special STEM on-the-go van.

Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, the council serving Girl Scouts in New Hampshire and Vermont, acquired the van just before the pandemic shut down in-person activities. Now on the road, its mission is ensuring location is no barrier to bringing STEM experiences to Girl Scouts across the two states.

For the spring STEM Months, the council brought 35 programs to Girl Scouts across Vermont and New Hampshire, serving 450 members. October will be STEM Month in Vermont, and November will be STEM Month in New Hampshire. For more information, visit www.girlscoutsgwm.org.

Art show

HUNTINGTON — The Birds of Vermont Museum is hosting its 2024 art show, The Power of Perspective, with over 50 artists, photographers and poets of all ages exhibiting their work; most are from Vermont.

The show runs through Oct. 31 at the Birds of Vermont Museum in Huntington, open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays.

Art award

BRATTLEBORO — Artist Sarah Amos, of Enosburg Falls, has been selected as the third recipient of The Vermont Prize.

Established in 2022 by four of Vermont’s contemporary art organizations — Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, Burlington City Arts, The Current, and the Hall Art Foundation — The Vermont Prize celebrates and supports visual art being made in Vermont today. Awarded to one artist annually, the winner receives $5,000, and their work is showcased on The Vermont Prize website and social media.

Amos joins previous winners (2022) Will Kasso Condry, of Brandon, and (2023) Terry Ekasala, of East Burke. Amos has been making mixed-media hybrid prints on both paper and fabric for over 25 years. Amos has taught at Dartmouth College, Williams College, and Bennington College. Her work has been exhibited throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Applications for The Vermont Prize are accepted from visual artists working in any medium and at any stage of their career. There is no fee to apply. To learn more, visit vermontprize.org.

Vermont 211

Vermont 211 announced its hours returned to 24/7/365 service as of July 1. Vermont 211 is a free, confidential program where Vermonters connect by phone, text and email to find community, health and human services and resources to help with everyday needs and in difficult times.

Contact Vermont 211 by dialing 211 or 802-652-4636 from anywhere in Vermont at any time, visit vermont211.org or text your zip code to 898211 (between 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday).

Forest guide

Forests play a vital role in mitigating global climate change. As “natural climate solutions,” they capture carbon from carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and store it in wood and soil.

To help forest landowners and managers make informed land-use and forest management decisions for carbon benefits, Ali Kosiba recently released “A Guide for Forest Carbon in the Northeast.” Kosiba is a licensed Vermont forester and the UVM Extension forester.

The illustrated guide can be viewed online at go.uvm.edu/forest-carbon. Print copies are available to pick up at no cost at UVM Extension offices (Check go.uvm.edu/offices for locations) and state forestry offices in New England and New York. Individual copies also are available by mail through Northern Woodlands for $7 with discounts available for bulk orders. Go to go.uvm.edu/buyguide to order a copy.

{span style=”font-size: 1.17em;”}Mental health podcast{/span}The Brattleboro Retreat nonprofit psychiatric hospital begins its latest educational outreach initiative: the “Unravelling” podcast. Hosted by therapist Kurt White and journalist Mary Wilson, “Unravelling” conversation on mental health discusses the complexities to provide more perspective than typically found in public discourse.

Each bi-weekly episode will feature insight from professionals and people with lived experience. Inaugural guests are the Retreat’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Karl Jeffries, who has personal and professional experience in advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community, and Dallas Ducar, a leader in transgender health care and a trans woman herself.

“Unravelling” is available for streaming on the Brattleboro Retreat’s website, www.brattlebororetreat.org/unravelling-podcast, and all major podcast platforms.

LGBTQ+ support

Funding is now available through the Samara Fund, a group of queer and trans Vermonters, of grants and scholarships for people and groups throughout Vermont who focus on the empowerment, health and safety of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and HIV positive (LGBTQ+) people.

Grant funding includes general organizational support, project-specific support, emergent support for organizations (unplanned needs), and sponsorship of queer events. Samara also offers scholarships to Vermont LGBTQ+ youth, which is a separate process through Vermont Student Assistance Corp.

The Samara Fund will accept applications for up to $5,000 from LGBTQ+ led projects and organizations in Vermont through 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27. For more information and to apply, visit vermontcf.org/samara.

Payroll tax

Beginning July 1, employers and self-employed individuals will be required to pay the Vermont Child Care Contribution tax.

Per Act 76 of 2023, enacted by the Vermont Legislature, employers will pay a 0.44% payroll tax on wages paid, with an option to withhold up to 25% of the tax from employees. Self-employed individuals will pay a 0.11% tax on self-employment income.

Employers will remit Child Care Contribution payroll tax payments to the Department in the same manner and frequency as they remit Vermont Income Tax Withholding, with quarterly reporting on the WHT-436 Quarterly Withholding Reconciliation. Self-employed individuals will pay the self-employment Child Care Contribution when filing their 2024 Vermont personal income taxes in calendar year 2025.

Employees may see information related to the tax on their paychecks beginning after July 1. Information may include the portion of the tax their employer has chosen to withhold and the employer-paid portion.

For more information, visit tax.vermont.gov/business/child-care-contribution.

Tacitly Inc.

RUTLAND — The Green Mountain Accelerator Fund, dedicated to supporting rural Vermont tech startups, has invested $75,000 in Rutland-based Tacitly Inc. Tacitly, a company with a team of five, specializes in creating augmented reality and virtual reality technology for training purposes, suited for situations where hands-on equipment is either costly or easily damaged. Their debut product is an AR training environment designed for nurses to practice using code carts. Recently, they secured their first sale with Dartmouth-Hitchco*ck Medical Center.

GMAF is capitalized by U.S. Department of Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative and created in partnership with the Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) and Vermont Economic Development Authority.

Pollinator research

NORWICH — When you purchase native plants from a nursery in New England, they may have actually been imported from other regions across the U.S. Due to funding from the One Hive Foundation, scientists at the Vermont Center for Ecostudies are beginning a research project in collaboration with the Native Plant Trust to understand how plant seeds’ geographic origin (i.e., plant provenance) may affect insect pollinators. The results from this experiment will provide restoration practitioners, home gardeners and landscape designers with information on whether non-locally sourced native plants benefit or hinder pollinator conservation.

Invasive pests

Summer camping, hiking and other outdoor recreation can spread invasive plants, insects and diseases, unless steps are taken to minimize damage to the environment.

UVM Extension, Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation and Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets join to educate outdoor recreationists about preventing the introduction or spread of these pests through the new Arrive Clean, Leave Clean campaign.

Three steps to follow when leaving the woods are clean your gear, check your vehicles for egg masses or other life stages of spotted lanternfly, and not to move firewood.

Because invasive plant seeds and insects can lodge in dirt in boot or bike treads, or hide in the folds of clothes or gear, it’s important to clean all gear before and after heading outdoors to avoid dispersing insects or their eggs to new areas. Consider keeping a brush in your vehicle to brush off boots, clothing, bicycles and gear, especially any gear that has been stored outdoors, before heading out on a trip, and when returning from the forest.

If you have traveled to a state where spotted lanternfly is established, inspect your vehicle before returning to Vermont. The adults especially like to lay eggs on rusty metal, so carefully examine wheel wells and other areas on vehicles. The egg masses look like patches of dried mud and are not easy to detect.

One of the most common ways invasive pests are spread is by campers moving firewood long distances, whether within Vermont or from outside the state. Most insect eggs or diseases are too small to see, or are hidden inside the log, so campers and hunters can inadvertently introduce a forest pest to a new area. Buy or gather firewood close to where it will be burned or buy certified treated firewood.

Scams target seniors

As part of continuing efforts to protect the senior community, the Internal Revenue Service warns about the rising threat of impersonation scams.

These scams are targeting older adults, by posing as officials from government agencies such as the IRS, to steal sensitive personal information and money. These fraudsters use claims of problems or prizes, pressure for immediate action, specified payment methods.

If an individual receives an unexpected call from someone alleging to be from the IRS, but they have not been notified by mail about any issues with their IRS account, they should hang up immediately. The call is likely from a scammer. Do not return the call using the number provided by the caller or the one displayed on their caller ID. If taxpayers are uncertain about the legitimacy of IRS communications, they can contact IRS customer service for verification at 800-829-1040, or for the hearing impaired, TTY/TDD 800-829-4059.

Bear safety tips

Forest Service officials in Vermont announced they have had several reports of bear sightings on Green Mountain National Forest, including bears entering campgrounds and obtaining improperly stored human food. This week, the agency began posting alert notices at developed campsites to notify recreation users about the recent spike in bear activity on the Manchester Ranger District. It is illegal in the state of Vermont to feed bears. All recreationists have a responsibility to ensure their own safety and that of future campers by not purposefully or inadvertently feeding bears. Given this, remember:

— Always keep a clean camp.

— Don’t leave any food (including condiments and pet food) out when not in use.

— Store food in bear-resistant units (available to borrow from the Ranger Station), hard-shelled vehicles, or car trunks.

— Keep sleeping areas, tents and sleeping bags free of food and odor (like toothpaste or deodorant).

— Don’t sleep in clothes you cooked or handled fish or game in.

— Never bury or burn food waste.

If camping in the backcountry, hang your food bag at least 12 feet off the ground and 6 feet out from a tree limb that could support a bear, or pack and use bear-resistant containers. If possible, place sleeping tents at least 100 yards away from food storage and cooking areas.

Report bear incidents or damage caused by bears to VTF&W at anrweb.vt.gov/FWD/BearIncidentPublic/AddMyIncident.aspx.

{span style=”font-size: 1.17em;”}Women’s Fund grants{/span}The Vermont Women’s Fund at Vermont Community Foundation announced the recipients of its 2024 annual grant round. A total of $365,180 was awarded to 36 organizations across Vermont.

Grant recipients by location:

Barre — Green Mountain United Way, $10,000.

Bennington — Ethiopian Community Development Council, $15,000; Project Against Violent Encounters, $15,000; Sunrise Family Resource Center, $15,000.

Brattleboro — Building a Better Brattleboro/Downtown Brattleboro Alliance, $5,000; Epsilon Spires, $15,000; Root Social Justice Center, $10,000; SUSU commUNITY Farm, $15,000.

Burlington — Center for Women & Enterprise, Burlington/Boston, $5,000; Champlain College, $5,000; Education Justice Coalition of Vermont, $10,000; Greater Burlington YMCA, $5,000; Janet S. Munt Family Room, $7,500; Milk with Dignity Standards Council, $10,000; Steps to End Domestic Violence, $15,000; United Immigrant & Refugee Communities (UIRC) of Vermont, $15,000; Vermont Afghan Alliance, $12,180.

Dummerston — Green Mountain Camp for Girls, $5,000.

Hyde Park — Dismas of Vermont, $15,000.

Johnson, Jenna’s Promise, $15,000; Johnson Health Center, $15,000.

Milton — Milton Family Community Center, $11,000.

Montpelier — Ishtar Collective, $10,000.

Randolph — Girls Empowered, Motivated, Strengthened (G.E.M.S.), $10,000.

Rutland — Downtown Rutland Partnership, $5,000; The MINT, $5,000; NewStory Center, $10,000.

St. Johnsbury — Umbrella of St. Johnsbury, $5,000.

South Burlington — Safety Team, $15,000.

Tunbridge — Orange County Parent Child Center, $10,000.

Waitsfield — Hannah’s House, $5,000; Yestermorrow, $15,000.

White River Junction — COVER Home Repair, $7,500.

Williston — Girls in STEM, $2,000.

Winooski — Governor’s Institutes of Vermont, $5,000; Vermont Works for Women, $15,000.

Fish with a Warden

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is offering “Fish with a Warden” sessions to provide an opportunity for the public to go fishing while getting their questions answered. For example, new anglers would benefit from a mentored fishing outing before heading out and fishing on their own.

The sessions will last an hour or more. Participants need to have a fishing license and their own fishing equipment. The state park day use fee has been waved for the duration of the program for participants who have registered in advance.

Scheduled to start at 6 p.m. on the following Thursday, Aug. 22 at Little River State Park, Waterbury.

Pre-registration for up to 30 people for each session is available at Fish_With_Wardenand in the list of Upcoming Events on the right side of the home page.

Cyanobacteria danger

Now is the time to look out for cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) and health officials want you to know what these potentially hazardous blooms look like so you can avoid them. Cyanobacteria are tiny microorganisms that are a natural part of freshwater ecosystems. Under certain conditions, cyanobacteria can multiply quickly, create blooms on the water’s surface and wash up along shorelines. They can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.

Cyanobacteria blooms are usually green or blue-green and can make the water look like pea soup or spilled paint, but they can be other colors and consistencies as well. For a video and photos of what is, and isn’t, a cyanobacteria bloom, visit HealthVermont.gov/Cyanobacteria.

If you think it’s a cyanobacteria bloom:

— Avoid contact with the water.

— Do not let pets or livestock swim in or drink the water.

— If you come in contact with cyanobacteria, rinse off thoroughly as soon as possible.

— Talk with your health care provider if you have concerns about possible exposure.

Heat waves and dementia

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is providing important tips to help families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses keep their loved ones safe during dangerously high temperatures and triple-digit heat indexes.

— Take steps to prevent wandering. Wandering is a common behavior for individuals with dementia. That danger heightens in extreme heat conditions, where hyperthermia can develop very quickly. Try creating walking paths around the home with visual cues, engaging the person in simple tasks; and providing activities (i.e., exercise, music, crafts).

Wandering can also be a response to excessive stimuli, triggered by the need to get away from noise and people. It can also be an expression of an unmet need (i.e., hunger, thirst, needing to use the bathroom).

Have a plan of action in case your loved one does wander off. Use a permanent marker to write their name, or sew identification into their clothes that includes your contact information. Keep a recent photo and medical information on hand, as well as information about familiar destinations they used to frequent.

— Help the person stay hydrated. Dementia can diminish a person’s ability to know when they are thirsty, making it critically important for caregivers to monitor them and encourage them to drink frequently. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as these drinks may contribute to dehydration.

— Watch for warning signs of heat-related illnesses. Dementia can impair a person’s ability to detect changes in temperature and decrease their skin sensitivity. Watch for excessive sweating; exhaustion; flushed, red, or hot skin; muscle cramps; a fast pulse; headaches, dizziness; nausea; or sudden changes in mental status. Resting in an air-conditioned room, removing clothing, applying cold compresses and drinking fluids all help cool the body. If the person faints, shows excessive confusion or becomes unconscious, call 911 immediately.

Know where to cool down. If the person with dementia does not have air conditioning, find the nearest cooling center and take them to spend time there.

— Be proactive. Make sure the person has plenty of water and access to air conditioning or other cooling mechanisms. Fully charge cellphones, tablets and other electrical devices and have flashlights easily accessible, as blackouts and other power failures can occur during heat waves. Have the emergency contact numbers for local utility providers, police and fire departments, readily accessible. If you don’t live near your loved one, arrange for someone who does to check on them; inform them of emergency contacts and where important medical information can be found, such as their insurance card.

Dogs vs. hot weather

The Animal Legal Defense Fund, a national legal advocacy organization for animals, has some tips to keep dogs safe.

— Never leave a dog in a hot car.

Leaving an animal in a car for any amount of time is dangerous. Cracking a window doesn’t eliminate the risk of heatstroke or death, and in some states, negligent owners can face up to one year imprisonment.

Leave your dog at home where he is safe and comfortable in the air conditioning. If you have your dog with you, visit animal-friendly restaurants and shops; bring a friend who can stay with your dog while you run into a store.

— If you see an animal in distress, call 911. Most states allow a public safety officer to break into the car and rescue an animal if its life is threatened.

— Social media posts have circulated urging people to break a window if they see a dog trapped inside a hot car, but you should know your local laws.

Only 12 states — Arizona, California, Colorado, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Florida, Ohio, Vermont, Oregon, Tennessee — allow “good Samaritans” to break a car window to save an animal. Almost all of those states require “good Samaritans” to contact law enforcement before breaking into the car.

In 14 states, only public officials such as law enforcement and humane officers can legally break into a car to rescue an animal (Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington).

In New Jersey and West Virginia, although it is illegal to confine an animal in a hot car, no one has the statutory authority to break into a vehicle to save the animal, not even law enforcement.

— Let people know it’s not OK to leave an animal unattended in a car.

If you see someone leave their animal in a parked car, consider politely approaching to let them know that, even if it’s a pleasant day outside, the temperature inside the car can skyrocket fast.

WPND widespread

The Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation has observed significant symptoms of white pine needle damage (WPND) affecting eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) trees across Vermont. WPND is caused by a complex of four fungal species, that infects newly emerged needles. Although the infected needles remain asymptomatic in the first year, the following spring, they turn yellow, then brown, and eventually fall off prematurely. WPND symptoms manifest in the late spring/early summer.

While WPND rarely kills trees outright, it can reduce their growth and overall health. Residents are advised not to panic if they observe these symptoms in their backyard trees. Vermont’s white pines are resilient, and otherwise healthy trees are expected to recover from this damage. There is no need for removal of affected trees.

Pick-your-own

Hosted by Vermont Vegetable and Berry Growers Association, find a pick-your-own farm by going to vermontpickyourown.org. The new website will help you find out what is in season and where to pick.

Strawberry pick-your-own is in full swing now across the region. Blueberries, raspberries and flowers come later in the summer. Apples and pumpkins arrive in early fall, and Christmas trees can be cut starting in November. Some farms offer unusual pick-your-own crops like elderberries and herbs.

This website was designed by farmers, UVM Extension personnel and Tamarack Media Cooperative, with funding from Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets.

Veterans’ Home

BENNINGTON — The Vermont Veterans’ Home has been recognized as a 2024 recipient of the Bronze — Commitment to Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living, for its commitment to improving the lives of residents through quality care. This distinction is the first of three progressive award levels through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program.

Fishing clinic

Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department will hold an “Introduction to Fishing Clinic” open to the public throughout the summer. The clinic focus on a general introduction to fishing. The introductory clinic is open to all ages.

Introduction to fishing — Friday, Aug. 9, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Bakers Pond, Brookfield. Register at www.register-ed.com/events/view/214701.

AGC/VT

Associated General Contractors of Vermont (AGC/VT) was honored with the national AGC In The Community Chapter Award for leadership and dedication in combatting substance use disorders and promoting mental health awareness in Vermont’s construction sector. AGC/VT initiative has saved five lives, distributed more than 50,000 Narcan doses, and 12,000 harm reduction kits to contractors, organizations and businesses in Vermont.

{span style=”font-size: 1.17em;”}UVMMC{/span}Inclusive health care practices have earned UVM Medical Center national recognition for its commitment to advancing health equity in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) community. The Human Rights Campaign named UVM Medical Center a health care equality high performer in its 2024 HealthCare Equality Index annual survey.

Protect shorelands

The Vermont Lakes and Ponds Program is offering guidance to help property owners protect and restore their lakeside properties.

The Shoreland Protection Act regulates new activities in protected shoreland areas that are within 250 feet of the shoreline of lakes and ponds 10 acres in size or greater. Property owners need a Shoreland Protection Permit for activities in protected shoreland areas that create cleared areas (removing vegetation like trees or shrubs or disturbing the natural ground cover) or impervious surfaces (any hard or solid surfaces like roofs, roads, and parking lots where water runs off instead of soaks in).

Shoreland property owners can use the Sharing the Edge booklet to learn more about regulations, can reach out to their regional lake and shoreland permit analyst, also visit the online Permit Navigator.

Summer pass

RUTLAND CITY — The Rutland Recreation & Parks Department will offer its Middle School Maverick Summer Pass, providing free access to the Rutland Community Center and White Memorial Park pool from June through August for all sixth- to eighth-grade Rutland City residents. Visit rutlandrec.com or contact 802-773-1822 for more information about the Middle School Maverick Summer Pass and other Rutland Recreation & Parks Department programs.

MENTOR Vermont

MENTOR Vermont’s DEI Committee has released a Statement of Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the mentoring field in Vermont. This commitment is joined by 19 mentoring program signatories from across the state that have pledged to lead by example in their dedication and promotion of diversity, equity and inclusion through collective action.

Volunteers needed

This summer, the Vermont Lakes and Ponds Program is seeking volunteers to help monitor and collect information about lakes and ponds in the state. Volunteers to get involved with lay monitoring, invasive patrolling, public access greeter, cyanobacteria monitoring. For more information, call 802-490-6130 or email Peter.Isles@Vermont.gov, 802-490-6126 or Mark.Mitchell@Partner.Vermont.gov.

Silent films

BRANDON — Silent film classics with live music return to the big screen at Brandon Town Hall and Community Center, Route 7. Admission is free; donations are welcome to help support ongoing Town Hall renovation efforts. Screenings are held 7 p.m. generally on Saturday nights once a month starting in May and running through November.

Aug. 10, “Four Horsem*n of the Apocalypse” (1921), starring Rudolph Valentino, drama of a divided family with members caught up on opposites sides during World War I.

Sept. 21, “Speedy” (1928), starring Harold Lloyd, a tribute to New York City, baseball, and the idea that nice guys can indeed finish first.

Oct. 19, “Phantom of the Opera” (1925), starring Lon Chaney, pantheon of horror and romance.

Nov. 16, “Barbed Wire” (1927), starring Pola Negri, Clive Brook, French government commandeers a family farm for use as a WWI camp for German POWs.

Gun safety

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont hosted a press conference to highlight the efforts of the GunSafeVT initiative. The initiative’s accomplishments include launch of the gunsafevt.org website, promotion of Vermont State Police’s program to have Federal Firearms Licensees serve as secure gun storage locations, and the distribution of over 4,000 free cable gun locks around the state.

Do you have an item you would like to see in Community News? A milestone? A public announcement? A short news release about something entertaining going on in your town? Simply email the information to us at news@rutlandherald.com. Be sure to put For Community News in the subject line (Note: We do reserve the right to edit for length.)