FCC ownership rules
A Congressional effort to overturn a recent decision by the Federal Communications Commission is gaining momentum in both the House and the Senate. The FCC rules change allowed for a greater consolidation of media outlets by large corporations. Vermont’s congressional delegation is very involved in this issue. (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
Girls learn trade skills
During World War Two, Rosie the Riveter was a symbol of the thousands of women who worked in foundries, warehouses and lumber mills to support the war effort. Today, fewer than 4% of people working in the trades are women. But a Vermont summer camp is designed to give young girls confidence about using their hands and teach them that there’s no such thing as “man’s work.” (Listen to the story online or read the transcript.) (VPR)
Fletcher Allen expansion
An expansion project at Vermont’s largest hospital is expected to cost $6.5 million more than earlier estimates. Officials at Fletcher Allen Health Care say the higher price is largely due to state regulators’ demands. (AP)
Border crossing
Some critics are complaining about a recent checkpoint that resulted in seven foreigners being arrested. Officials say the two-day checkpoint on Interstate 89 was routine. But others wonder whether such checks are a violation of civil liberties. (AP)
Algae bloom
An early algae bloom in Missisquoi Bay is raising some concerns. Canadian health officials have released an advisory warning people to keep children and pets out of the Phillipsburg portion of the bay, which stretches into northwestern Vermont. (AP)
Wheels bankruptcy
State transportation officials say poor management is behind the demise of a former central Vermont bus company. But some say the state is at least partly responsible for the closure of Wheels Transportation Services last April. (AP)
Police procedures
Vermont State Police plan to review the use of tire deflation devices following a trooper death last month. The study starting this week is expected to take about two weeks and will look at all aspects of the spike strips. (AP)
Route 7 police barracks
Some Vermont legislators and preservation groups say they’re disappointed that a plan fell through to keep land open near a new police barracks in New Haven. Organizers say efforts fell through because of commercial zoning issues and competition to buy other nearby lots. (AP)
Burlington lighthouses
Construction starts today on two new lighthouses that will be added to the Burlington waterfront this fall. Experts say new lighthouses aren’t common since they’re more expensive to maintain than contemporary lighted beacons. (AP)
Bear attack
Vermont wildlife officials are reporting a bear attack in Richmond late last week that injured a pet. Authorities say 35-year-old Rich First was walking along a path in the woods near his home Friday when he saw the bear. First was not injured but his dog was hurt. (AP)
Dubie sugar house
Vermont Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie and his family are starting up a maple sugaring operation. Property in Fairfield and Swanton that is owned by the Dubies has become part of the American Tree Farm System. (AP)