In light of the challenging academic years during the pandemic, schools in Vermont have taken steps to prioritize the mental health of their students. Recent data has revealed an increase in suicidal attempts among students, prompting new guidance for suicide prevention in schools. According to the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 35% of high school students in Vermont struggle with poor mental health. Health officials in the state report that 7% of students attempted suicide in the past year, a statistic that both schools and the state are determined to decrease.
Bernie Sanders held a roundtable with first responders in Burlington on Monday, hoping to address their challenges and secure federal support. Topics discussed included recruitment, pay, training, and equipment. Vermont’s congressional delegation is supporting a bill that would guarantee payment for first responders, even if they do not transport someone to the hospital. Representative Becca Balint has introduced a similar bill in the House.
A 24-year-old man from Claremont is facing various charges for allegedly shooting a teenager during a confrontation on Sunday, after the teen caught him committing a theft in another car. The stolen firearm used in the shooting, along with other stolen items, were recovered by officers during their investigation. The victim is in stable condition at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. Strickland, who was out on bail, has been charged with assault and other offenses.
On Monday, Vermont Senator Peter Welch visited the Mamava manufacturing facility in Springfield. The company, founded by women, specializes in creating lactation pods that offer a private space for breastfeeding and chest-feeding parents to nurse or pump. During his tour, Welch spoke with employees and business leaders at the Springfield facility. According to Mamava, there are currently over 4,000 of their pods in use across all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
Inquiries regarding cannabis? A hotline exists for that purpose. Jessilyn Dolan, a registered nurse and expert on cannabis, established the Cannabis Nurse Hotline in conjunction with the launch of Vermont’s adult-use market. She collaborates with various dispensaries to provide guidance to both staff and customers. According to Dolan, many individuals call seeking information on whether cannabis is suitable for them or which strains are most effective for their symptoms. She notes that the majority of callers are older Vermont residents looking to explore cannabis use or alleviate pain. Currently, Dolan is the sole nurse on the hotline, but she plans to expand the team in the future to handle incoming calls. The hotline offers complimentary 15-minute consultations on Fridays.
A man has been apprehended by the Vermont State Police for committing arson in Randolph. According to authorities, Clair Sherman, aged 40, was observed entering a residence on 10 Dudley Street in Randolph with a “flammable device” and setting fire to the property. Sherman was eventually located in his own residence and taken into custody. There is currently no information available regarding the motive behind the arson or the owner of the affected home. Police are continuing their investigation into the matter.
WTSA SPORTS FOR TUESDAY JANUARY 29TH 2024
IT WAS THE CELTICS OVER THE PELICANS YESTERDAY 118 – 112. THE CELTICS ARE SITTING 36 AND 11. THE CELTICS PLAY THE INDIANA PACERS LOOKING FOR THEIR 4TH STRAIGHT WIN TONIGHT AT THE GARDEN, TIP OFF AT 730 TONIGHT.
Jerod Mayo and the New England Patriots attempted to enlarge their coaching staff this week, but were unsuccessful. According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 in Houston, the team offered the special teams coordinator role to Marquice Williams, but he turned it down. Williams has been serving as the Atlanta Falcons’ special teams coordinator since 2021, but was granted permission to look for similar opportunities after the Falcons let go of head coach Arthur Smith at the conclusion of the season.