Bernie Buzz

Lucy Cooney first joined the Shelburne Community School in 1998 as a paraeducator, providing support for kids and teachers in the classroom. But when there was a bus driver shortage a year later, Lucy raised her hand and volunteered. She took the test and got her bus license.

All of us should be proud and grateful for the enormously important work done by first responders across the state of Vermont. In past Bernie Buzzes, we have examined the vital work done by firefighters and police officers. Today, we are going to look at what it means to be an Emergency Service Provider (EMS) in Vermont – focusing on the hard-working staff at the Bennington Rescue Squad.

For everyone who was impacted by the devastating floods this summer, I would like to take a moment to share a few updates. First and foremost, President Biden has approved Vermont’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for the July 9-11, 2024 flooding. This is good news. It means that FEMA assistance is now available for individuals and communities in many impacted counties. Read on below for guidance on how to apply, which counties are currently covered, and important deadlines to mark down in your calendar.

Every year, I look forward to our Summer Celebration & Discussion events for seniors and older Vermonters. A longtime tradition that we had to put on hold during the pandemic, these events are an opportunity for older Vermonters to come together, hear updates from Washington, and discuss the issues facing them and their communities.

For years, my office has held fun-filled events for older Vermonters throughout the state. They have been great opportunities for seniors to come together to enjoy delicious free food, listen to great music, and connect with friends and neighbors. We will be holding these gatherings again this year!

To my mind, it’s extremely important that we not forget the long-standing values that have shaped Vermont and made this state special to us: honesty, hard work, respect for the land, love of community, and providing a helping hand when needed.