by Guy Page
Today’s edition of the Journal Opinion offers a look at several stories with implications for Vermont readers, from a neighboring state’s murder prosecution involving out-of-staters to national recognition for Gov. Phil Scott’s support of local journalism.
Journal Opinion Editor Alex Nuti De Biasi will discuss these stories and changes in the Vermont community newspaper industry on today’s edition of Chronicle Conversations at 12:30 PM on WVMT AM 620, FM 101.3, and livestreaming/podcast at Wvmtradio.com. At 12:20, Mary Hahn Beerworth will discuss the non-protection of childen in the womb – even wanted children – under Vermont law.
Leading the news is the indictment of a Connecticut man accused in the fatal April shooting at a Woodsville apartment. A Grafton County grand jury has charged Jayden McClanahan, 21, of Hartford, Connecticut, with burglary, conspiracy and firearms offenses. Prosecutors allege McClanahan and at least one accomplice traveled to Woodsville on April 20, climbed an exterior fire escape to enter an apartment on Nelson Street, and took part in the shooting that killed Demetrius White of Springfield, Massachusetts. A second man was wounded. The case has drawn attention on both sides of the Connecticut River, because Woodsville is right across the Connecticut River from Upper Valley towns.
The paper also spotlights Gov. Phil Scott’s executive order directing Vermont agencies to prioritize local newspapers, broadcasters and digital media when purchasing advertising. The policy is attracting national attention, with Rebuild Local News reporting that Vermont has become the first state in the nation where a governor has formally instructed state government to favor local news organizations in its advertising spending. The Vermont Journalism Coalition, which includes the Journal Opinion among its members, advocated for the initiative.
Also featured is a report on New Hampshire’s first year of restricting student cell phone use during the school day. Gov. Kelly Ayotte says surveys show nearly four out of five teachers and almost nine out of 10 school administrators believe the policy has reduced classroom distractions, with educators reporting students are becoming less consumed by the urge to constantly check their phones.
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