Dave Reville

Editor’s note: This commentary is by Beth Stern, of Marshfield, who is executive director of Central Vermont Council on Aging.

AARP Vermont is collaborating with Team Better Block to implement a Community Demonstration Project in one Vermont community in 2016. The $15,000 initiative is an approach to revitalization that begins with temporarily transforming a single block into a vibrant destination that illustrates the potential for new business, safer streets and improved livability. Typically, cities have used their Better Blocks to set up farmers’ markets, beer gardens, bookstores and fruit stands. They’ve built swings and climbing areas, set up trampolines and presented school plays, local dance troupes and open-mike musicians. They often lead to more permanent neighborhood improvements.

Bethel Better Block Final Report

Linda Bowden of Burlington has been has been appointed State President of AARP Vermont, a volunteer position working closely with both staff and volunteers throughout the state to help AARP achieve its mission in Vermont. Her responsibilities include serving as a volunteer spokesperson, chairing the AARP Vermont Advisory Council, building networks and community partnerships, and recruiting volunteers.

Rep. Sibilia led the effort in the statehouse to expand internet access across VT

Have you considered an ADU ("Mother in law apartment")?

At Greater Northshire Access Television’s (GNAT) annual Volunteer Appreciation event, the 2018 “GNATTY” Award for exceptional service was awarded to Elliott Greenblott. Elliott, the Vermont Fraud Watch Network state coordinator for AARP Vermont is a natural host for his regular series Mr. Scammer. GNAT-TV and Elliott have produced 15 shows and 17 special scam alerts, which provide specific information about the latest financial and identity scams. Viewers hear from experts on a variety of topics such as, identity theft, investment fraud and internet fraud.

Following is a list of community presentations scheduled for May and June around Vermont. These sessions are conducted by trained expert and are designed to give attendees the information and resources to protect themselves and their families from scams and fraud. They are free and open to the public.

The FCC on Friday warned consumers of a surge in robocalls known as the

Elliott Greenblott, state coordinator of AARP's Fraud Watch Network, conducted a TV interview with one of Vermont's top fraud investigators last week. Bill Carrigan is deputy commissioner of the State's Division of Financial Regulation. He shares his perspectives on a range of securities frauds, real estate scams, Ponzi schemes and other crimes that put Vermonters at risk. The "Mr. Scammer" program is produced at Greater Northshire Access Television (GNAT-TV) in Southern VT and airs on cable access stations across the state. It is hosted by Elliott Greenblott. View it here: https://youtu.be/MV-UeBf-cm0