The eclipse is expected to boost Vermont’s economy by $50 million or more, according to Vermont Tourism Commissioner Heather Pelham. She highlights Vermont’s ability to unite for events like the eclipse and during emergencies, ensuring smooth operations due to strong community ties. Pelham also notes that the timing is favorable, being the tourist off-season, showcasing Vermont is a good place to visit all year.
Vermont state Sen. Dick Mazza is resigning from his position in
Montpelier. The longtime Vermont lawmaker sent a letter to Gov. Phil
Scott saying due to health reasons, he is unable to continue to serve
his hometown of Colchester and Grand Isle County. Mazza was
diagnosed with cancer which has kept him away from the Statehouse.
The Democrat has served for more than 42 years in Montpelier.
New details have emerged regarding the arrest of an alleged arsonist accused of attempting to set fire to Sen. Bernie Sanders’ office in downtown Burlington. Shant Michael Soghomonian, 35, was apprehended by federal authorities on Sunday. The manager of the Inn at Burlington contacted authorities after recognizing Soghomonian from surveillance photos, as he had been staying at the hotel for several weeks. Police were able to confirm his identity by comparing photos from the scene with the hotel’s surveillance footage. Soghomonian was arrested at 4 a.m. on Sunday in a hotel room at the Quality Inn in Shelburne by Williston police. The court documents did not provide any information about a possible motive. A federal court date for Soghomonian has not yet been set.
Two individuals have been arrested for drug possession following a traffic stop in Bernardston on Friday. The Bernardston Police Department conducted the stop due to multiple moving violations. After a brief investigation, K-9 Artie from the Montague Police Department alerted officers to possible drug activity. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 109 grams of crack cocaine, 16 grams of powder cocaine, heroin, 12 methadone pills, and three throwing stars with double-edged blades.
Spring weather is just around the corner. Grace Cottage Hospital is getting ready for the 15th annual Grace Cottage Family Health & Hospital’s Spring into Health 5K. The event begins with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start on Saturday, May 11, on the Townshend Common. You can run, walk, roll, stroll, or push your baby carriage for this fun, family-friendly event. There is a registration fee per participant – children ages 17 and under are free with signed parent/guardian permission – and registration is open now at gracecottage.org/events.