National

From VICII:

Join us for a compelling public affairs discussion that delves into the ongoing tensions between Venezuela and the United States. This public affairs discussion will explore the ongoing tensions between Venezuela and the United States, focusing on why Venezuela continues to frustrate US foreign policy. The conversation will examine the historical, political, and economic reasons behind these strained relations, highlighting Venezuela’s defiance of US influence and its global alliances.

Peter Lackowski, a peace activist and supporter of Latin America’s political autonomy, will provide his perspective on Hugo Chávez’s Chavismo movement and why it remains a challenge to US interests. Moderated by Sandy Baird, this event will delve into the reasons behind US hostility toward Venezuela, the consequences of sanctions, and what this means for Latin America’s future.

For more information about VICII please visit: www.VICII.org/events

From VICII:

This fall, the University of Vermont continues its suspension of the student group Students for Justice in Palestine, which began during the spring protests against the Israel/Gaza War. Attorney John Franco, Esq., has filed a lawsuit arguing that this suspension violates the US Constitutional guarantees of free speech and is calling for the university to reinstate the group and reaffirm its commitment to free expression.

Join the Vermont Institute of Community and International Involvement for a critical discussion of this case.

John Franco, Esq. will lead the discussion, joined by Constitutional lawyer and Vermont Law School Professor Jared Carter, as well as Community Lawyer Sandy Baird, Esq. Together, they will examine the legal and constitutional implications of the case and what it means for free speech on university campuses.

All are welcome. Don't miss this important conversation about constitutional rights and student activism!

For more information about VICII please visit: www.VICII.org/events

Bobby Lussier, CCTV, interviews a group of DNC Delegates from Vermont: Anne Lezak, Samantha Sheehan, Asher Edelson, and Arshad Hasan. They share about their experiences at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), which took place from August 19-22 in Chicago, Illinois. 

From Burlington School District:

Olympic Bronze Medalist, and Burlington High School (BHS) alum, Ilona Maher is returning home to Burlington this weekend! The community is invited to celebrate her success at 10 AM at Battery Park on Saturday. Maher will be recognized by Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak as well as by her former field hockey coach Allyson Archacki. Maher will also receive the "Keys to the BHS Athletic Fields" before speaking to the crowd.

Ilona Maher graduated from Burlington High School in 2014. During her time at BHS she played softball, basketball, field hockey, and, of course, rugby. At the 2024 Olympic Games, Ilona Maher was a major reason that the USA Women's Rugby Sevens took home the Bronze medal. The medal was the first for the US in women's rugby, and the first US medal in rugby in 100 years.

The event will kick off with the playing of the National Anthem by local trumpet legend Larry Solt and end with a ceremonial cake-cutting. All Vermonters are invited to welcome Ilona Maher home and celebrate her success! The event will be held rain or shine.