The Vermont Department of Labor diligently strives to ensure that employers, workers, and others involved in the programs we administer follow the laws, rules and required procedures, to the extent of...
Cross State Travel Information: The State of Vermont has suspended its leisure travel map and implemented a mandatory quarantine for anyone returning or traveling to Vermont.
How about making testing easier to get??? Just saying took me 4 hours of phone calls and run around just to get one with symptoms! Should have been able to just call a local clinic and get a test
The state has extended the deadline after major corporations like Walmart, Costco, and Home Depot had still not applied for hazard pay for their workers.
Kathleen James I feel people need to be taught and then comprehend the definition of “single family household.”
This only works if people are honest.
What about the hotels receiving weekend guests? They are not isolating even for a day
I didn’t realize that people could quarantine in their home state before coming to visit...? Thought the quarantine begins once people arrive in VT.
Many people from out of state arrived in Bennington County this weekend to shop, load up on groceries before they start their quarantine? The grocery store was so crowded on Saturday that I walked out to stay away. How can this be managed to make it safe for our community? How are people getting lodgings and rentals under current EO? I don’t have an attitude about this I just don’t understand the apparent double standards.
The Preservation Trust of Vermont is pleased to announce the opening of the 2020 Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization grant round. This project is supported through a grant from the Historic Revitalizat...
Vermont Department of Public Safety Modernization Strategy Vermont Department of Public Safety Modernization Presentation DRAFT Police Modernization Community Feedback The Department of Public Safety ...
more unites than divides us. We all want access to health care, racial and social economic justice, employment, a vaccine and end to the pandemic, infrastructure, opportunities for our children, a clean environment, and peace. I see good people everywhere in our nation. I meet them every day. I cannot be so proud as to ignore that others have had experiences that brought them to different conclusions politically. Over the past year, I have been a target of religious bigotry because I am a Catholic. I have been told there is no place for me in the democratic party. I do not take this personally, but it does illustrate the deep and extraordinary division we found ourselves in. This is not about our egos. Real freedom is about getting over ourselves and serving the common good.
Reading this speech makes me emotional all over again. Godspeed, Joe Biden!
Incredibly healing already. Hope heals💜
I was so refreshing listening to him speak.
Made me so happy to hear such positivity!
Love this as Biden says let’s hope and unite everyone and move on and help each other not divide
Kathleen James VT State Representative
1 week ago
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ALERTS VERMONTERS TO ACTIVE PHISHING SCAM
Montpelier, Vt. – The Vermont Department of Labor has received multiple reports of fraudulent communications relating to unemployment insurance benefits being sent to Vermonters. The Department reminds Vermonters filing for UI to be diligent in preventing fraud and to report any potential fraud to the Department of Labor and Attorney General’s Office.
On Monday and early Tuesday morning, the Department received information detailing two different communications in which the senders fraudulently state that ‘eligible workers’ could ‘receive COVID-19 Benefits’ from ‘the Department of Labor’.
Text Message
Sent from ‘tiona.sykes@lcmchealth.org’
Details how the Department will pay eligible workers $3,750 in COVID benefits and compensation, starting on Tuesday November 24, 2020
Provides fraudulent link to ‘Register’ and ‘Apply’
Email
Sent from ‘Hao Ran Xia <978269@learn.vsb.bc.ca>’
Details how the Department will pay eligible workers $3,750 in COVID benefits and compensation, starting on Monday, November 23, 2020
Provides link to ‘COVID-19 Benefits’ page to register
The Department is currently working with the State IT security team, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, State Police, and multiple federal law enforcement agencies to respond to this issue.
Claimants are reminded to be vigilant of potential fraud and only use its official website (labor.vermont.gov), and sub-pages, to apply and file for unemployment insurance benefits.
To report suspected fraud activity to the Department of Labor, and for more information on prevention, go to labor.vermont.gov/ui-fraud. ... See MoreSee Less
Unemployment Insurance Fraud | Department of Labor
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
2 weeks ago
VERMONT CLIMATE COUNCIL: FIRST MEETING!
The new Vermont Climate Council — appointed as a result of the Global Warming Solutions Act — will be holding its first meeting tomorrow morning — Friday, November 20 from 8 to 11:45 am. The public is welcome to view and attend, and the meeting will also be recorded and posted for public viewing.
At the link below, you'll find all of the information you need: The agenda, bios of the members, a link to join the meeting, information about how to comment, and a PDF that shows the work the Council will be undertaking during the next year as it drafts a Climate Plan -- due on December 1, 2021. Its first progress report will be submitted to the legislature in two months (January 15, 2021). All of the Council's work will be posted and continually updated at its home page, which I've linked below.
I'll be following the Council closely, and I hope many Vermonters will, too. I've written this morning to the council chair, Agency of Administration Secretary Susanne Young, to learn more about the various subcommittees and how people can follow and participate in those. I'll post that information when I receive it.
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
2 weeks ago
Given the recent rise in COVID-19 cases, VT has announced new policies around social gatherings and travel. Click on the links below for updates from the Department of Health. ... See MoreSee Less
Vermont Department of Health
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
2 weeks ago
just came across this:
BUY LOCAL CAMPAIGN FOR VERMONT-MADE PRODUCTS: APPLICATION DUE TOMORROW (NOVEMBER 18) >>>
The Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, in collaboration with the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, will launch a holiday shopping promotional campaign to highlight Vermont producers and merchants.
Supported via CARES Act funding, this campaign includes both statewide and regional components across an array of media. Statewide, the campaign will encourage online and brick-and-mortar shopping at Vermont-based merchants. Regionally, the campaign will support online sales of Vermont-made products.
Businesses interested in being considered for inclusion in this promotional campaign must submit an application by Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 5:00pm Eastern.
https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19/… ... See MoreSee Less
Buy Local Holiday Marketing | Agency of Commerce and Community Development
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Cross State Travel Information: The State of Vermont has suspended its leisure travel map and implemented a mandatory quarantine for anyone returning or traveling to Vermont.Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on Linked InShare by Email
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
2 weeks ago
TRANSCRIPT: GOVERNOR PHIL SCOTT ADDRESSES RECORD COVID-19 CASE GROWTH
Montpelier, Vt. – At a press conference Tuesday, Governor Phil Scott and members of his Administration outlined the trends that informed new mitigation measures enacted last week.
A full transcript of the Governor’s remarks is embedded below. Click here to view the full press conference.
Transcript:
Governor Scott: As you’ve seen, our cases have continued to grow, and Commissioner Pieciak will present more on that in a few minutes. This growth has led to some big steps to slow the spread which we announced on Friday and are now in effect.
As I said last week, each of these steps are targeted to address the areas that our contact tracing data tells us are driving this spike. What was found is that it’s mostly adults from multiple households getting together with friends, inside and outside, and it usually involves alcohol and food with little, if any, mask wearing and distancing. After we urged against these activities and advised limiting them to one or two trusted families, these gatherings - like Halloween house parties and beers with friends after games - continued. And it’s led directly to our record growth.
So, as a result, in addition to requiring quarantine for all non-essential travel, we unfortunately had to ban multi-household gatherings. I know this is incredibly difficult and frustrating, especially with the holidays right around the corner, but it’s necessary and we need Vermonters’ help to get this back under control.
***
I’d like to take a minute to address some of what we’ve heard since we made this announcement, including questions and concerns from people who believe there is inconsistency in our approach, and from people who would prefer we shut down restaurants or schools, or close businesses like gyms and salons but not restrict private social gatherings.
So, let’s talk about consistency. The steps we took were based on data from the contact tracers because from the beginning, we have consistently used data and science to guide our decisions.
I understand it may seem counter-intuitive that restaurants remain open and yet you can’t have neighbors over for dinner. But the fact is, rom October 1 to the time of Friday’s announcement, 71% of outbreaks were linked to social events, parties and people hanging out at a home or at bars and clubs. We’re just not seeing these types of outbreaks linked back to people dining at restaurants or working out at gyms. This tells us the protocols at these businesses are, for the most part, working.
And while we have a number of cases that have shown up at schools, we have very few schools that have experienced transmission from one person to another, which means schools are not driving this either.
***
And this brings me to the next point: In the environment we’re in, we’ve got to prioritize “need” over “want.”
In my view, in-person education, protecting our healthcare system and keeping people working (as long as we can do it safely) are things we need. Parties and cookouts, hanging out with people just to socialize, may be fun, but these things are “wants” not “needs” and they put a lot of people at risk.
Put a different way, with pediatricians making it clear that in-person education is critical to the well-being of our children, I’m going to prioritize keeping kids in school. And, again, schools are not the root of the problem.
I know for many, getting together with family and friends over the last few months has been so important. But I’m hoping by laying out what’s at stake, it will motivate Vermonters to follow this guidance so we can get back together again soon, and safely.
***
I also want to speak to the skeptics again. Make no mistake, I understand that if you want to ignore the science or choose not to believe it for one reason or another, there’s not much we can do to stop you.
But I want to be clear: The number of people in hospitals is growing because some care more about what they want to do rather than what they need to do to help protect others, keep kids in school, keep people working and prevent the healthcare system from being overwhelmed to the point where care is being delivered in makeshift hospitals. It’s a fact that the consequences of an overwhelmed healthcare system will have a far greater impact on our economy and our well-being than all the prevention and mitigation measures in place across the country.
So, again, the skeptics are right. They can do what they want. But please don’t call it patriotic or pretend it’s about freedom. Because real patriots serve and sacrifice for all, whether they agree with them or not. Patriots also stand up and fight when our nation’s health and security is threatened, and right now, our country and way of life is being attacked by this virus, not the protections we put in place.
***
Look, I understand getting together with family, especially during the holidays, is important. And I understand how hard it is to be asked to keep making sacrifices. As I said last week, I haven’t seen my mom or my daughter in nearly a year. But right now, we’re in the middle of a pandemic and we’re seeing record growth.
And this growth is not because of tourists. It’s not because of restaurants. It’s not because of gyms. It’s not because of schools. It’s because adults continue to get together with other adults - multiple households, inside and outside - in situations, usually involving alcohol, where they stop taking precautions. And then they’re going to work, sending their kids to school, visiting another neighbor who works in a nursing home and spreading the virus at each stop. I don’t believe anyone is doing this on purpose, but it is what’s happening.
I hear the anger out there, the frustration, the anxiety and the sadness. And I get it. So, if you need to take it out on someone, send it my way - I can take it. But what I can’t take is seeing this continue to grow, because it’s putting our healthcare system, our economy and many lives at risk. So, you can question our methods but I’m asking you to please do your part to help.
And by Friday, we’ll be providing more clarity on social gatherings based on questions we’ve gotten to help folks understand what we need from them.
***
I also want Vermonters to know we’re stepping up at the state level as well because this is not all on your shoulders. As we announced last week, we’re continuing to expand our testing and tracing capacity which will help slow this further and hopefully without more restrictions.
Even though Vermont already does more testing per capita than any other state, our goal is to make testing more easily available. To start, we’re opening five testing centers this week in Burlington, Middlebury, Waterbury, Rutland and Brattleboro, which will operate seven days a week. By opening these centers, two-thirds of Vermonters will be within a 30-minute drive of a testing site, and we’ll continue to build on this.
Additionally, we’ve started offering testing for all teachers and school staff, with about 1,700 tested yesterday, and that will continue throughout the week. We’ve also brought on additional contact tracing staff, with 40 now working full time, and we’ll be adding approximately 20 Vermont National Guard members and 10 Department of Public Safety staff over the next two weeks.
***
Please remember, that even during these tough times, there is reason for optimism. We continue to see progress and good news about vaccines. As Dr. Fauci said recently, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
And we know we can change our trajectory when we all pull in the same direction because we’ve done it before, and we can do it again. Once we do, we’ll get back to where we were and safely roll back these latest restrictions while we await a vaccine.
NEW MITIGATION MEASURES:
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LIVE Stream Event: Governor Scott and Administration Officials COVID-19 Update 11/17/2020
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
An excellent resource during tough times:
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
Great news: SVHC submits offer to buy SVC! ... See MoreSee Less
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Great!
Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
AS COVID-19 CASES RISE, GOVERNOR PHIL SCOTT ANNOUNCES NEW MITIGATION MEASURES
Restrictions implemented to limit interactions between multiple households as gatherings continue to drive record increases in COVID-19 cases
71% of cases associated with an outbreak are associated with a private party or social gathering
Montpelier, Vt. - To slow the spread of COVID-19 as cases and hospitalizations rise in Vermont and throughout the nation, Governor Scott has implemented several temporary limitations on social gatherings and business operations.
This news follows daily case counts of 72 reported on Wednesday, 109 reported on Thursday and 84 on Friday, as well as an increase in hospitalizations in Vermont.
“We’ve had tremendous success thanks to the hard work of Vermonters, but we are at a pivotal moment,” said Governor Phil Scott. “We have an opportunity right now to get our arms around this record growth and return to the case stability we’ve grown accustomed to, but we all have to step up and recommit to following all current health guidance and to limit our contacts as much as possible. At the same time, the State is actively expanding testing and contact tracing protocols, so we are even better positioned to hunt this virus down and stop it in its tracks.”
To slow the spread, ensure hospitals are not overwhelmed, help schools continue to offer in-person instruction and keep as many Vermonters working as possible, the State has targeted new mitigation strategies to address the areas that appear to be driving the spread. Since October 1, 71% of the cases associated with an outbreak are associated with an outbreak from a private party or social gathering.
The following measures are effective Saturday, November 14 at 10 p.m., unless otherwise noted. The Agency of Commerce and Community Development will provide additional guidance as needed.
Public and Private Multi-Household Social Gatherings Prohibited
Attendance at all public and private social gatherings, indoor and outdoor, including social gatherings incidental to ceremonies, holiday gatherings, parties and celebrations, shall be limited to participation with only members of a single household. Individuals who live alone may gather with members of their immediate family residing in a different household.
Restaurant Hours and Seating Limits
Restaurants must close in-person dining at 10 p.m., but may provide curbside and delivery service after 10 p.m. For in-person dining, restaurants must seat only one household per table, in accordance with existing capacity limits and the new restriction on multi-household gatherings.
Closure of Bars and Social Clubs
Bars and social clubs will be closed for in-person service until further notice. Curbside and delivery service is allowed.
Pausing Recreational Sports
Youth and adult recreational sports activities, not related to Vermont Principals Association sanctioned school sports, are suspended until further notice.
Telework Requirements
All businesses, non-profits and government entities shall reinstitute telework policies for all employees to the maximum extent possible. In person meetings are strongly discouraged and should be held by telephone or video conference whenever possible.
Contact Tracing and Testing Requirements
All restaurants and other businesses hosting non-essential activities shall maintain a 30-day log of employee and guest names and contact information in case contact tracing is required by the Health Department. These individuals are consenting to be contacted by the Health Department Contact Tracing Team. Further, all Vermonters are directed to comply with requests made by the Contact Tracing Team. Finally, college students returning home in Vermont (from in-state and out-of-state schools) shall quarantine for 14 days or seven days with a negative COVID-19 test and testing is strongly encouraged.
“We rely on data to guide each and every decision we make, and that data has shown us a clear picture of a rising tide that could have serious consequences,” said Health Commissioner Mark Levine, MD. “Whether it’s friends or our own family members, we need to limit any social activities to our own households to protect all these people that we don’t even know we’ve put at risk - where we work, where we learn, where people live in situations that make them more vulnerable. And we need to make these sacrifices now.”
These steps add to actions taken over the last several days, including requiring quarantine for all non-essential out-of-state travel by Vermonters and for all travelers entering Vermont from another state; expanding testing opportunities for Vermonters; and increasing outreach to assess and encourage compliance with travel and gathering guidance. Governor Scott has also directed the state’s emergency response team to prepare to execute existing surge plans, including re-deploying field hospital sites as a precautionary measure.
Under Addendum 8 to the Amended and Restated Executive Order 01-20, Governor Scott has also extended the State of Emergency to December 15. Click here to view the full Addendum.
For more information on:
COVID-19 health information, guidance and case data, visit .
The Governor’s actions, visit .
The state’s modeling, visit . ... See MoreSee Less
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How about making testing easier to get??? Just saying took me 4 hours of phone calls and run around just to get one with symptoms! Should have been able to just call a local clinic and get a test
Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
Several constituents have reached out to me with questions about the expanded hazard pay program that the legislature approved for essential frontline workers who were working at retail businesses — like pharmacies and grocery stores — during the height of the COVID shutdown last spring. I've reached out directly to the Department of Financial Regulation — the agency that's overseeing the program — to confirm that here in Bennington-4, the various corporate headquarters at Walgreen's, Price Chopper and Shaw's will indeed be applying for this bonus pay on behalf of eligible current and former employees. (That's how the program was set up: Individual employees do not apply. Instead, employers submit an application on behalf of eligible employees who were working during the March 15 to May 15 time period and meet the other criteria). Feel free to reach out to me with questions. The article below provides more information, but my confirmation about these three companies, which employ many people here in our community, comes straight from DFR. I hope this puts some minds at ease. Many of you worked long hours under very stressful conditions. You deserve this money, and you should receive it.
https://vtdigger.org/2020/11/… ... See MoreSee Less
As deadline looms, lawmakers call on big companies to apply for hazard pay grants - VTDigger
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The state has extended the deadline after major corporations like Walmart, Costco, and Home Depot had still not applied for hazard pay for their workers.Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on Linked InShare by Email
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
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Kathleen James I feel people need to be taught and then comprehend the definition of “single family household.”
This only works if people are honest. What about the hotels receiving weekend guests? They are not isolating even for a day
I didn’t realize that people could quarantine in their home state before coming to visit...? Thought the quarantine begins once people arrive in VT.
Many people from out of state arrived in Bennington County this weekend to shop, load up on groceries before they start their quarantine? The grocery store was so crowded on Saturday that I walked out to stay away. How can this be managed to make it safe for our community? How are people getting lodgings and rentals under current EO? I don’t have an attitude about this I just don’t understand the apparent double standards.
Good job VT!
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant Applications Now Being Accepted
The Preservation Trust of Vermont is pleased to announce the opening of the 2020 Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization grant round. This project is supported through a grant from the Historic Revitalization Subgrant Program (Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants) as administered by the National Park Service Department of the Interior.
PTV has $625,000 available to preserve and restore buildings and community gathering spaces of economic and social significance in rural communities. Examples of work we support include roof repair or replacement, structural repairs, window and door restoration, and fire safety improvements. Grants will be made in increments of $50,000-$100,000. Applications will be evaluated by Preservation Trust of Vermont staff. Selection will be made based on regional distribution, variety of project type, community and economic development potential and the capacity of the active, local working group.
We are particularly interested in projects that aim to increase the economic vitality of a community through non-profit ownership of general stores or other businesses, adds housing to downtowns, or brings new economic and community activity to village centers. Only nonprofit organizations and municipalities in towns with populations less than 7,500 people will be eligible.
The deadline for submitting applications is December 14th, 2020.
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Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants – Preservation Trust of Vermont
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The Preservation Trust of Vermont is pleased to announce the opening of the 2020 Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization grant round. This project is supported through a grant from the Historic Revitalizat...Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on Linked InShare by Email
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Thank you for sharing!
Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
GOV. SCOTT AND DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY SEEK COMMUNITY INPUT ON LAW ENFORCEMENT MODERNIZATION PLAN
Montpelier, Vt. — The Vermont Department of Public Safety is seeking public and stakeholder feedback to shape and refine the state’s continuing work to modernize policing across Vermont.
This opportunity for comment and feedback is part of Governor Scott’s Public Safety Reform Initiative, created through Executive Order 03-20, which directed the commissioner of public safety to “actively engage with communities, particularly those communities that have been historically marginalized or harmed by policing, as we develop and deploy best policing practices.”
“Ensuring all voices are heard as part of this process, and giving those who have been most impacted by systemic inequity a seat at the table, is critical to the success of our work to strengthen the fairness and equity of systems of policing and justice,” said Governor Scott. “It is our hope we will receive significant public input as we move forward.”
Members of the public will be able to provide detailed comments online regarding several policies and strategies that flow from the Governor’s Executive Order and, in part, a 10-point plan presented earlier this year by law enforcement and public safety leaders from throughout Vermont.
In addition, pursuant to the Governor’s Executive Order and Act 165, An act relating to a statewide standard and policy for law enforcement use of force (S.119), the Department of Public Safety is seeking input for a statewide model policy for law enforcement use of force. The state is seeking proposals for model policies or guiding principles to be considered in the creation of this uniform statewide policy.
This is just the first step in creation of this policy. Members of the public will have multiple opportunities to review drafts of this policy and offer feedback as it goes through the development process, from guiding legislation to a final draft.
“In January we put forth a suite of modernization proposals. In June, together with a variety of partners from inside and outside government, we added a specific 10-point strategy to the discussion of modernizing policing and public safety in Vermont. As we move forward, we want to ensure that all Vermonters have a voice in this process,” Public Safety Commissioner Michael Schirling said. “This plan will be successful and result in meaningful change only with the feedback, buy-in and support from our communities — especially marginalized communities and Black, Indigenous and People of Color.”
Members of the public who would like to provide comments may do so by visiting . Alternatively, they may email comments to policing.feedback@vermont.gov.
With respect to the statewide model policy for law enforcement use of force, copies of model policies, guiding documents or other relevant materials can be sent to Jennifer Morrison, special assistant to the commissioner of Public Safety, at jennifer.morrison@vermont.gov.
Additional details on the earlier 2020 modernization strategy and original 10-point plan are also available at .
In addition to inviting public feedback online, the Department of Public Safety is taking numerous steps to ensure the opinions of Vermonters are reflected and incorporated into this ongoing modernization effort. Among these steps, the Department is collaborating with researchers at Norwich University to design a comprehensive public survey; engaging the State’s Racial Disparities Advisory Panel; working with the State’s director of racial equity; and connecting with the Vermont State Police Fair and Impartial Policing Committee. Additional engagement strategies will evolve as the statewide conversation continues.
“The transformation of policing must begin with the input of the communities with whom the police must work,” said Dr. Etan Nasreddin-Longo, VSP’s co-director of Fair and Impartial Policing. “This proposal for the reform of law enforcement is merely a starting point and can be completed only by the input of various communities in the state. That thoughtful input is essential to reform.” ... See MoreSee Less
Vermont Department of Public Safety Modernization | Department of Public Safety
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Vermont Department of Public Safety Modernization Strategy Vermont Department of Public Safety Modernization Presentation DRAFT Police Modernization Community Feedback The Department of Public Safety ...Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on Linked InShare by Email
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
The Vermont Arts Council is now accepting applications for its next round of Artist Development Grants. The deadline for this current round is January 11, 2021.
Artist Development Grants support artists at all stages of their careers. Grants can fund activities that enhance mastery of an artist’s craft or skills and activities that increase the viability of an artist's business. New this year: Grants can also support teaching artists in developing the skills necessary to provide instruction in K-12 schools remotely during the COVID-19 crisis.
Funding may also support aspects of the creation of new work when the activity allows the grantee to accept a rare and important opportunity.
Eligible expenses for such activities include, but are not limited to:
advanced study of technique or practice with a mentor
attending a professional conference to build business or artistic skills or knowledge
contracting professional services including photographic documentation of work, contract preparation or business incorporation, creation of accounting systems, developing e-commerce on a website, creation of marketing materials, etc.
marketing, planning, purchasing some materials, or renting space for new exhibitions or performances
adapting and responding to the current COVID-19 crisis
travel within the United States
Applications are evaluated in three areas: impact, planning, and budget. Priority is given to first time grantees and proposals for rare or unique opportunities.
Who May Apply. Artists who:
have been residents of Vermont for a minimum of one year prior to the application deadline and are residents at the time the award is granted
are eighteen years of age or older at the time of application
have submitted all required reports on any prior Council grants
meet all of the above requirements and are applying as a representative of an artist group
Who May Not Apply
Artists whose projects involve activities for which college credit is given
Artists who have received any other Arts Council grant in the same fiscal year to support the same project
Artists who have received an Artist Development Grant between September 2020 and June 2021
Grant amounts range from $250-$1000. The Artist Development program has supported 277 Vermont artists since the program began in 2009. For examples of previously funded projects, visit our list of recent grantees.
Application deadline: January 11, 2021
(Future round deadline will be May 10, 2021).
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Artist Development | Artists | Grants | Vermont Arts Council Website
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
3 weeks ago
Vermont Reports Highest Number of COVID-19 Cases Since Start of the Pandemic
Governor orders SEOC to begin surge plan implementation and urges Vermonters to recommit to precautionary measures and avoid gatherings to slow the spread
BURLINGTON, VT – The State of Vermont reported 72 new COVID-19 cases this morning, the highest number of cases reported since the start of the pandemic, and almost double the number of new cases reported yesterday.
State officials say this concerning development highlights a trend of increasing positive cases as clusters and outbreaks grow across the state. These clusters and outbreaks often trace back to Vermonters traveling out of state and to social gatherings like baby showers, Halloween parties, deer camps and other small gatherings where masking and physical distancing breakdown.
In response to this trend, and the even greater surge in cases in other states in the region, Governor Phil Scott has directed the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to prepare to execute existing surge plans, including re-deploying field hospital sites as a precautionary measure.
A northern alternate care facility at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction has an overall capacity of 400 beds, with most being warehoused by the Vermont National Guard since late-spring. That site has remained staged with 50 beds through the summer. 100 additional beds will be deployed in the days to come, with 250 additional beds and other components in reserve.
A 50-bed field hospital trailer is staged in southern Vermont near Rutland, so that southern facility remains ready to add another 50 beds for a potential surge.
Teams from the Vermont National Guard will carry out the mission to deploy these assets as the State preemptively prepares for impacts related to rising case levels.
“I understand that Vermonters feel fatigued from the pandemic, its impact on all of us and the sacrifices it has required,” said Governor Scott. “As I have said throughout this pandemic, we all have to do our part to keep each other safe and we must continue to follow the public health practices of wearing a mask, staying six feet apart, avoiding crowded places, and quarantining when you are sick. We also have to be smart about how many people we come in contact with and work together to limit that number, so we can slow the spread now, protect our neighbors, keep our kids in school and keep our economy open.”
Vermonters are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19 if they have recently attended any event or gathering with people from outside their small social circle, have traveled out of state, have had a visitor from out of state, or anyone that has been a near or close contact of a COVID positive individual.
Additionally, when contacted by the Health Department contact tracing team, Vermonters need to work with them – providing full and accurate information – to help trace any individuals they may have interacted with recently. If contact tracers are unable to trace the spread of the virus, then they will be unable to contain an outbreak and mitigate any further spread into our communities.
Vermonters must understand that by engaging in riskier activities, like attending parties and gatherings – even small ones - there will continue to be a surge in cases and we will see community spread like the rest of the country. Vermonters have worked hard to protect our communities, keep our businesses open and send children back to school. Now is not the time to give up on the hard work and sacrifices over the last seven months.
The best way to stay healthy and prevent the spread of virus is to follow the core prevention actions: Wear a mask, keep a 6-foot distance from others, avoid crowded spaces and social gatherings, wash your hands a lot, stay home when you’re sick.
Pop-up testing sites and other community testing opportunities are offered throughout Vermont. For locations, dates and to make an appointment, visit: healthvermont.gov/covid19-testing.
COVID-19 is highly contagious. People with COVID-19, even those who don't have any symptoms, can spread the virus to other people. There are things we can all do to protect ourselves and the people around us from getting or spreading COVID-19.
Wear a mask indoors when you are with people you don’t live with or outside when you cannot always keep 6 feet apart. Vermont requires masks be worn in public spaces.
Stay home if you are sick.
Wash your hands a lot.
Keep your social circle small. Avoid social gatherings and if you do participate in one, it is strongly advised to limit it to 10 or fewer people with a very limited number of groups.
Stay at least 6 feet apart from people you do not live with.
Follow Vermont's travel guidance: All non-essential travel now requires quarantine. ... See MoreSee Less
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
4 weeks ago
I watched President-Elect Biden's speech last night with such emotion — inspired and moved to tears more than once by his repeated pledge to unify, not divide. So much hard work lies ahead as we continue — together — our long journey to become "the nation that we know we can be."
"...But now, let’s give each other a chance.
It’s time to put away the harsh rhetoric. To lower the temperature. To see each other again. To listen to each other again.
To make progress, we must stop treating our opponents as our enemy. We are not enemies. We are Americans.
The Bible tells us that to everything there is a season — a time to build, a time to reap, a time to sow. And a time to heal. This is the time to heal in America.
Now that the campaign is over — what is the people’s will? What is our mandate?
I believe it is this: Americans have called on us to marshal the forces of decency and the forces of fairness. To marshal the forces of science and the forces of hope in the great battles of our time.
The battle to control the virus. The battle to build prosperity. The battle to secure your family’s health care. The battle to achieve racial justice and root out systemic racism in this country. The battle to save the climate.
The battle to restore decency, defend democracy, and give everybody in this country a fair shot.
Our work begins with getting Covid under control. We cannot repair the economy, restore our vitality, or relish life’s most precious moments — hugging a grandchild, birthdays, weddings, graduations, all the moments that matter most to us — until we get this virus under control...
I ran as a proud Democrat. I will now be an American president. I will work as hard for those who didn’t vote for me — as those who did. Let this grim era of demonization in America begin to end — here and now.
The refusal of Democrats and Republicans to cooperate with one another is not due to some mysterious force beyond our control. It’s a decision. It’s a choice we make.
And if we can decide not to cooperate, then we can decide to cooperate. And I believe that this is part of the mandate from the American people. They want us to cooperate.
That’s the choice I’ll make. And I call on the Congress — Democrats and Republicans alike — to make that choice with me.
The American story is about the slow, yet steady widening of opportunity. Make no mistake: Too many dreams have been deferred for too long.
We must make the promise of the country real for everybody — no matter their race, their ethnicity, their faith, their identity, or their disability.
America has always been shaped by inflection points — by moments in time where we’ve made hard decisions about who we are and what we want to be.
Lincoln in 1860 — coming to save the Union. F.D.R. in 1932 — promising a beleaguered country a New Deal. J.F.K. in 1960 — pledging a New Frontier. And 12 years ago — when Barack Obama made history — and told us, “Yes, we can.”
We stand again at an inflection point. We have the opportunity to defeat despair and to build a nation of prosperity and purpose.
We can do it. I know we can.
I’ve long talked about the battle for the soul of America. We must restore the soul of America. Our nation is shaped by the constant battle between our better angels and our darkest impulses. It is time for our better angels to prevail.
Tonight, the whole world is watching America. I believe at our best America is a beacon for the globe.
And we lead not by the example of our power, but by the power of our example.
I’ve always believed we can define America in one word: possibilities. That in America everyone should be given the opportunity to go as far as their dreams and God-given ability will take them.
You see, I believe in the possibility of this country. We’re always looking ahead. Ahead to an America that’s freer and more just. Ahead to an America that creates jobs with dignity and respect. Ahead to an America that cures disease — like cancer and Alzheimers. Ahead to an America that never leaves anyone behind. Ahead to an America that never gives up, never gives in.
This is a great nation. And we are a good people. This is the United States of America.
And there has never been anything we haven’t been able to do when we’ve done it together. ... See MoreSee Less
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more unites than divides us. We all want access to health care, racial and social economic justice, employment, a vaccine and end to the pandemic, infrastructure, opportunities for our children, a clean environment, and peace. I see good people everywhere in our nation. I meet them every day. I cannot be so proud as to ignore that others have had experiences that brought them to different conclusions politically. Over the past year, I have been a target of religious bigotry because I am a Catholic. I have been told there is no place for me in the democratic party. I do not take this personally, but it does illustrate the deep and extraordinary division we found ourselves in. This is not about our egos. Real freedom is about getting over ourselves and serving the common good.
Reading this speech makes me emotional all over again. Godspeed, Joe Biden!
Incredibly healing already. Hope heals💜
I was so refreshing listening to him speak.
Made me so happy to hear such positivity!
Love this as Biden says let’s hope and unite everyone and move on and help each other not divide
❤️
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
4 weeks ago
IT'S UN-YARD-SIGN TIME!
Seth is driving around the district this morning, retrieving our yard signs. If you have one up, please leave it up for now — we know where most are located. If your sign is still standing by this evening, please take it down and reach out to let us know. We'll retrieve them this week. Thank you! ... See MoreSee Less
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Brought mine in when the polls closed. Should I bring it to your house?
Well there's one thing I won't miss doing!
Kathleen James VT State Representative
4 weeks ago
We Won!
With the polls closed and votes counted in Arlington, Manchester, Sandgate and Sunderland, we are honored to have won the general election. Thanks to the many volunteers who wrote letters to the editor, waved signs, made phone calls, addressed postcards and wrote notes on our behalf.
We’re excited to serve Bennington-4 in the Vermont House of Representatives during the upcoming biennium. Some voted for us; some did not. That no longer matters. It’s our job to represent everyone who lives in all four towns, and we take that responsibility seriously.
We take equally seriously our promise to work effectively with each other, with our fellow legislators, with community leaders and residents across Bennington County, and with our constituents to help our region to not only recover from the pandemic but to thrive.
The next two years will be hard, and the legislature will need to make difficult choices. Our first priority will be to do everything we can to help the people and small businesses that are struggling. We will fight for funding and for assistance, and we will try to serve as a conduit and a catalyst for creative solutions here at home.
At the same time, we need to lay the groundwork for a vibrant economic future. To that end, over the next 12 to 18 months, we will host a series of public forums — on Zoom at first — to discuss the key economic pillars that are vital to our economic success, including broadband, childcare, housing, workforce development, education, and the climate economy. At each forum, we’ll invite local leaders, legislators and community members to discuss challenges and solutions, with time for a public Q&A. Look for information about this series in the local newspapers and on social media.
Rep. Cynthia Browning dedicated many years to the legislature as a hard-working, smart, outspoken and dedicated public servant. She deserves our gratitude.
We are committed to dialogue and communication and to staying in close touch with our constituents. We’ll be starting up our face-to-face coffee hours as soon as it’s safe. Meanwhile, we'll take a few days off to be with our families and be back soon! 🙂 — Kath & Seth
The unofficial election results from the Vermont Secretary of State are below.
Seth Bongartz for VT State Representative ... See MoreSee Less
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Congratulations!!! I know y'all worked hard.
Congratulations for a well run race. Thank you for leading with intelligence, vision, and compassion!
Wonderful news! Congrats!!
Some good news tonight! Congratulations!
You done did it!!! You rock💪💃
Congrats Kath!!!
Congrats!
Congratulations!
Congratulations!
(Why are there two of you?)
Congratulations
How did Brian Campion do?
Yay!!!!
Yay!
Congratulations Kath!!
Great job Kath and Seth!!! Congratulations 🎉
Well done and well deserved!!!
BEST NEWS EVER!!!!! Congrats. What a great campaign!
Big Congratulations Kath!
Hearty congratulations!
You're awesome. So happy for you and Seth!
Congratulations!
Great! Congratulations!
Congratulations!😊
Excellent news!!! Congratulations!!
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Kathleen James VT State Representative
4 weeks ago
Sunset over the Northshire on a memorable Election Day. ... See MoreSee Less
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So good to see you and I am so proud to cast my vote for you!
Good luck tonight, Kathleen!
Kathleen James VT State Representative
4 weeks ago
And more record-breaking turnout reports in Sunderland! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 ... See MoreSee Less
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Looking good! Congratulations on the results!
Let’s goooooo, Kathleen!
Good luck, Cynthia M. Browning!
Kathleen James VT State Representative
4 weeks ago
Poll workers reporting a record-breaking turnout in Sandgate! ... See MoreSee Less
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