Bernie Buzz

Last week, I asked you to tell me about your favorite country store. I could not believe the overwhelming response we received. Many of these comments were very moving, and reaffirmed to me how much country stores mean to Vermonters and our sense of community. There were just too many responses to print them all, but I thought you would enjoy reading some of them.

It has been a difficult couple of years for all of us, but especially for young people like you. Given the challenges you and your fellow students have faced, I want to hear directly from you about how we begin to address those challenges and move forward together. Join me for a virtual student town meeting on Wednesday, February 16, to discuss the issues on your mind these days, the challenges you’re facing, and what the federal government can do to address the needs of young people.

Are you wondering why your mail is delayed or why you aren’t getting your mail at all? Well, you’re not alone. Over the last two years, I have heard from more and more Vermonters who are having problems with mail delivery. In fact, this January, my office received more calls asking for help with the Postal Service than any other federal issue. That’s the first time that has ever happened.

With the start of the 2022 Winter Olympics, I wanted to take a moment to congratulate all of the Vermonters competing in Beijing. Representing our state and country in the Olympics is no small accomplishment and is a testament to the hard work and discipline of each of these great athletes. They are an inspiration to the people of Vermont and I know that the whole state will be rooting for them.

Small town life has its advantages and disadvantages. To my mind, one of the great advantages of living in a small town is how well we know our neighbors. And one of the ways that we come together is through our country stores.

Over the last two years, my office has seen a drastic increase in calls from Vermonters who need help with the IRS. With tax season here again, I want to share some tips ahead of the April 18, 2022 filing deadline.