Dear Neighbors,

As February comes to a close, I am reminded of how resilient our communities have been in the face of ongoing challenges. I join people of conscience around the world, including those demonstrating in Russia at great personal cost, in standing in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and condemning Vladimir Putin for initiating unprovoked violence in violation of international law. Vermonters might not be able to stop aggression thousands of miles away, but I know we will stand ready with open arms to those needing a safe place to rebuild their lives.

Together, we will participate in our time-honored democratic tradition of Town Meeting Day on Tuesday, March 1. It's our chance to make our voices heard, reaffirming that we all have a role to play in shaping our local government. Getting out to vote, especially in our local elections, is a privilege and a responsibility for us all, regardless of political belief or alignment. If you have not already voted, make a plan and learn about your polling location and hours, in-person and early voting options, and more at mvp.vermont.gov.

Vermont, once again, leads the way in expanding voting rights. New Americans can now vote in local elections in Winooski and Montpelier, meaning an additional ten percent of the community can now vote in Winooski. If you are a Winooski resident, please visit the City's website to learn more about registering: https://www.winooskivt.gov/283/Voting-in-Winooski. There, you can also find materials and videos in other languages to help with registration and voting. Please share with a friend or neighbor who may be newly able to participate in local elections!

Following Town Meeting Day, on Wednesday, March 2 at 6 pm, join me and frontline nurses for a Town Hall discussion on the nurse staffing crisis. A recent study found that Vermont hospitals are experiencing some of the most acute staffing shortages in the nation at 69 percent of hospitals statewide. We will discuss wage gaps, housing challenges, extended shifts, a lack of nurse educators, a shortage of new nursing graduates, and what you can do to help.

Register here to join the discussion on the nurse staffing crisis on March 2 at 6 pm: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYpfuuorzooHtx4PFsJG0faS_iJgStojCys

As always, please feel free to write with your thoughts and feedback: kramhinsdale@leg.state.vt.us. I may see you outside of your polling place on Town Meeting Day, and I do hope to see you at our virtual Town Hall.

Happy voting!

Kesha

Come Help Us Help the Community Stay Warm

Dec 28, 2024, 9 AM to 12 PM

Clothing Drive for the North End Food Pantry Dec. 29

Dec 29, 2024, 10 AM to 12 PM

CVU Music Dept. Annual Christmas Tree Pickup

Jan 4, 2025, 9 AM to 5 PM