🌱 UVM Physician Talks Omicron + 73 VT Highway Deaths In 2021

Burlington VT

28 December, 2021

2:03 PM

Description

Happy Wednesday, Burlington! Here's what's happening around town today. First, today's weather: Cloudy. High: 33 Low: 26. Here are the top 3 stories in Burlington today: At their most recent meeting, Burlington City Councilors decided to hire an executive search firm to help the city hire a new police chief. The move is not sitting well with the mayor, who says he will move forward with an appointment from the current pool of candidates. The city council recently passed a resolution that approves spending $75,000 to hire a search firm; however, it did not meet other conditions Democratic Mayor Miro Weinberger says are critical to a successful search. (WAMC)Dr. Tim Lahey, an Infectious Disease Physician at the University of Vermont Medical Center, discussed how the Omicron variant affects the unvaccinated, vaccinated and those who have boosters. One common misconception is that if you are vaccinated and get COVID-19, then your vaccine doesn't work. Dr. Lahey said vaccines offer protection even in cases of breakthrough infection, as they significantly reduce the risk of serious illness. (Local 22/44 News)Road safety is top of mind for Vermont citizens and leaders alike after discovering harrowing data. In 2021, there were 73 total highway deaths, the most the state has seen since 2012. Next year, state police plan to work more directly in communities with educational programs, increased exposure to state police, and targeted partnerships with communities or local law enforcement. (WCAX) Today's Burlington Daily is brought to you in part by our friends at GoodRx — the best way to save money on your prescriptions. GoodRx helps you locate the lowest prices for medications at local pharmacies, so you're not overpaying. Works for pet medications too! To see how much you can save, go to GoodRx.com. Today in Burlington: HED Talks: Powerpoint Comedy - Vermont Comedy Club (6:30 PM) From my notebook: As the Omicron variant sweeps the nation, Burlington's New Years' Eve celebration is still on, albeit with a few logistical changes. Some scheduled indoor events have been moved online or to outdoor stages, and the event will be live-streamed for those staying at home. (Facebook)There's just a few days left to enter the Vermont Mountain Bike Association's Sedona Trip Raffle. The trip for two includes airfare, lodging, bike rentals, and a guided tour. (Facebook)Looking for a role where you can make a difference? 350 Vermont, a local organization that supports climate justice, is hiring a Lead Fundraiser. (Facebook) More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news! Events: Ring In the New Year With 15 Percent Off Beautiful Blooms From FTD! (December 31) Add your event Loving the Burlington Daily? Here are all the ways you can get more involved: Send a friend or neighbor this link so they can subscribe Get your local business listed in front of readers Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Wednesday! See you tomorrow for your next update. — Danielle Fallon About me: Danielle Fallon is a writer who loves using her creativity to fuel her passion for communication. She is an employee of content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master's Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.