Friday’s hot headlines from Vermont media.
Jummai Nache not part of mainstream media coverage of Covid-19

Vermont media have run news stories about Covid-19 skeptics in Oklahoma contracting the disease and now on respirators. But nary a word about Minneapolis missionary Jummai Nache suffered chest pains just three days after her second Pfizer vaccine shot in February. Since then she has suffered blood clots, cardiomyothapy, and amputation of both legs below the knee – with amputation of her hands to follow soon.
VW settlement pays for all-electric bucket truck

Thanks to money garnered by the State of Vermont from a multi-state settlement with Volkswagen over falsified emissions statements, the state’s largest utility has purchased an all-electric power line maintenance bucket truck.
Bob Beeman: fix-it man at the Olympic Games

Despite high heat and humidity and ever-present protocols, Bob Beeman of Morristown is enjoying his seventh Olympic games.
Tree wardens are the real life Lorax

Appointed by local selectboards, tree wardens make determinations about public shade trees. A new state law requires more reporting but also offers educational opportunities.
States weigh ban on ransomware payoffs

At least three states—New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania—are considering legislation that would ban state and local government agencies from paying ransom if they’re attacked by cybercriminals. A bill in the Vermont Legislature would study possible ransomware prevention and enforcement measures.
Jewish group plans protest at Ben & Jerry’s

A Jewish community group will rally Sunday at 11 am at the Ben & Jerry’s plant on Rte. 100 in Waterbury to protest the company’s July 19 boycotting of ice cream sales in disputed territories in Israel.
Water Cooler: 71% Burlington property owners see tax hike / vax ‘breakthrough gap’ narrows / Leahy wants $2.1 billion for more capitol security
Brattleboro’s new black, woman police chief promises a new perspective.
Roper: So-called ‘Smart Growth’ forces Vermonters into flood zones
The ‘Smart Growth’ concept of building homes in urban areas would force Vermonters to live in high-risk flood zones. Good idea? Maybe not.
News report: Act 250 delayed Waterbury gun shop, stopped sugarhouse at Mormon historic site

A sugarhouse near an historic site and a firearms shop expansion both faced unexpected, questionable opposition during the Act 250 review process, according to today’s Burlington Free Press.