A hiker passed away on Thursday following a sudden medical emergency while trekking in Pisgah State Park located in Hinsdale, New Hampshire. According to New Hampshire Fish and Game, the hiker collapsed around noon while making their way back to the trailhead on the Kilburn Trail. A hiking companion promptly initiated life-saving measures, which were subsequently continued by first responders upon their arrival. The identity of the hiker is being kept confidential until family members have been notified.
As the government shutdown extends into its ninth day, the Republican governor of Vermont is calling for unity between both parties, while also adopting distinctly Democratic viewpoints. The shutdown is primarily due to conflicts between the parties regarding the extension of tax credits for the Affordable Care Act, which GOP legislators eliminated this summer and are set to expire shortly. Recently, Governor Phil Scott penned a letter to congressional leaders, urging them to approve a straightforward, bipartisan bill to finance the government. However, on Thursday, Scott clarified that he believes any budget resolution must incorporate an extension of health care subsidies, which are essential for many residents of Vermont.
On Thursday, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) announced that David Scherr, State Director, will be departing the office and taking on a new role in Vermont. Scherr has served as State Director, leading the Vermont offices, since day one of Rep. Balint’s tenure in Congress. Jessica Nordhaus, Director of Community Outreach, will serve as interim State Director.
Authorities report that a man from New York is facing charges for the sexual assault of a minor in New Hampshire. New Hampshire State Police have stated that troopers apprehended Eric Isaac, 47, from Hillsdale, New York, and Pittsfield, Massachusetts, on Thursday following an investigation that revealed he had sexually assaulted a minor in Coos County. It has been indicated that Isaac was acquainted with the victim. He is currently in custody awaiting an arraignment at Lancaster District Court.
A previous substitute teacher from Barre Town, who is accused of bringing cocaine to school and being under the influence of the substance, appeared in court on Thursday. Melissa Martin, 42, a permanent substitute teacher at Barre Town Middle & Elementary School, attended the Washington County courtroom in person on Thursday morning, where she pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges of cocaine possession and reckless endangerment stemming from her arrest last week.
Nighttime single-lane closures will be in place Tuesday night through Saturday morning from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Work will continue on Vermont Route 9 (Western Avenue and High Street) and U.S. Route 5 (Main Street). Flaggers will be present to direct one-way alternating traffic through the work zones. Motorists should be aware of wet paint. Work zones throughout the rest of downtown will be present as needed for clean-up and finishing operations.