Bernie Buzz

It is that time of year again. As work begins on the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bill in Washington, that means we are also kicking off the Congressionally Directed Funding application process here in Vermont.

One of my favorite kinds of music, and I know many of you agree, is one that runs deep in our state. From contra dances and barn parties, to neighbors’ porches and summer festivals, the sounds of the Vermont fiddle can be heard today and back through the generations. One of the excellent Vermont musicians who is helping to keep the fiddle tradition alive is Patrick Ross.

In the year 2023, it is no secret that we must move boldly toward transforming our energy system away from fossil fuels, if we are going to address the existential threat of climate change. What isn’t talked about as much, is that the transition to renewable energy can actually help families SAVE an enormous amount of money on their electricity bills.

I hope you will tune in TOMORROW, February 13, for a livestreamed town hall entitled “Respecting Our Teachers: A Town Hall on the Teacher Pay Crisis in America.” I will be joined LIVE in D.C. by Springfield’s Alison Sylvester. She has been a public school teacher for over 20 years and she was named the 2020 K-5 Teacher of the Year by the Vermont Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Today and this weekend are going to be extremely cold. The National Weather Service is warning wind chill could reach as low as 30-45 degrees below zero Fahrenheit. These temperatures could be dangerous, so please take a moment to read through the available resources and make preparations to stay safe and warm.

I am a firm believer that the future of our country rests in the hands of young people. Every time I hear from young Vermonters, I am impressed by their ideas, their insights, and their passion to make their communities a better place. That is why I am glad to be taking on, as Vermont’s senior Senator, the United States Senate Page Program for our state.