Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer and improve their communities, according to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. President Ronald Reagan signed the King Holiday Bill into law on Nov. 2, 1983, thus designating the third Monday in January a federal holiday in observance of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, according to the museum. While most restaurants, grocery stores, and retail stores will remain open today, that will not be the case for banks, post offices, and the stock market. Brattleboro Town Offices will be closed today except for emergency services. Parking will be free at metered spaces and pay-and-display lots, although other violations will still be enforced. Brooks Memorial Library will also be closed. Trash, recycling, and composting collections will proceed as scheduled, unaffected by the holiday.
The inaugural year of sports betting in Vermont has concluded. Last year, the state generated $6.3 million in tax revenue following the legalization of sports wagering. However, this year, players have won larger payouts, resulting in lower-than-expected state revenue. Officials assert that these substantial winnings benefit the economy. Additionally, Vermont manages resources for problem gambling. A recent report indicates that only $34,000 of the $250,000 budgeted for programs has been spent, attributed to ongoing contract negotiations with providers.
Vermont has received federal approval to utilize Medicaid funds for homeless sheltering. This initiative aims to assist vulnerable individuals in securing housing while they regain stability. Monica Ogelby, Vermont’s Medicaid director, stated that starting January 2026, the state can allocate Medicaid dollars for short-term rental assistance and medical respite for six months, along with setting aside up to $10 million for new housing development. The funding will specifically target homeless individuals or those at risk, particularly those with disabilities or heightened needs, without affecting overall healthcare costs.
Some Vermont lawmakers are advocating for harsher penalties for murders involving corpse abuse. H.41 proposes a new felony for actions such as dismemberment, burning, or sexual assault of a deceased individual. This initiative follows the July 2024 murder of 82-year-old Roberta Martin, allegedly committed by 23-year-old Darren Martell, who is accused of assaulting and killing her before incinerating her body. While unauthorized burial or removal is already a felony, one bill sponsor emphasizes the need for accountability. Rep. Tom Burditt, R-West Rutland, noted that if the murder charge is dismissed on a technicality, serious charges could still apply for body defilement. If enacted, the new offense could result in up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Five individuals have been arrested for allegedly aiding the escape of Scott Mason, the shooter who injured St. Johnsbury police captain Jason Gray. Jonathan Russell, Tisa Russell, William Drew, and Amber Labrecque, all from St. Johnsbury, face charges as accessories to Mason’s concealment. Patrice Mason, also from the area, is charged with assisting in the shooting and negligent firearm storage leading to serious injury. Captain Gray was shot while responding to a domestic violence call involving Scott and Patrice Mason. The accused, including the Russells and Drew, are set for arraignment on Tuesday, January 21st, at 12:30 p.m. at St. Johnsbury Superior Court, while Labrecque’s arraignment is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on February 10th.
On Friday, shortly after 11 a.m., Troopers from the Vermont State Police executed a traffic stop following the observation of a motor vehicle infraction on Old Route 5 South in Putney. Further investigation revealed that the driver, identified as Lee M. Stockwell, aged 41, was found to be in possession of cocaine. Lee has been issued a citation to appear in the Vermont Superior Court, Windham Criminal Division, on February 18th.
WTSA SPORTS FOR MONDAY JANUARY 20th 2025
THE CELTICS ARE IN SAN FRANCISCO TO VISIT THE WARRIORS LATE THIS AFTERNOON, TIP OFF AT 5PM
THE BRUINS ARE BACK HOME TO TAKE ON THE SHARKS THIS AFTERNOON THEY DROP THE PUCK AT 1PM.
THE NFL CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES ARE SET. NEXT SUNDAY WILL BE THE COMMANDERS AND EAGLES AT 3PM, AND THE BILLS AND CHIEFS AT 6:30PM. THE WINNERS OF THOSE GAMES GO TO THE SUPERBOWL.