🌱 Essex Junction Renovations + Motorcycle Safety Advisory

Hello again, Burlington! Important update: You all, as readers, have made the Burlington Daily so successful that it is my honor to announce the next stage of the newsletter. Patch is looking for a local writer and entrepreneur to take the helm of the Burlington Daily. Although I have loved getting to know this community, we want to pass the torch to someone truly local to write about Burlington long term. So if you're interested in earning extra income while making this newsletter a more valuable resource for your neighbors, learn more and apply here.

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First, today's weather:

Showers late in the afternoon. High: 61 Low: 48.

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Here are the top three stories in Burlington today:

1. Chittenden County's Essex Junction Amtrak station will renovate with $3 million in congressional funding. The money is meant to improve safety and comfort at the state's busiest rail station. The official plans for the funding have not been decided yet but a 2016 study is reportedly the foundation for the improvements. (vtdigger.org)
2. The state's Agency of Transportation is urging Burlington drivers to use caution around motorcycles. According to recent data, last year saw 16 fatalities across 182 motorcycle accidents. Riders are being advised to wear eye-catching clothing and drivers are being reminded to provide riders with plenty of room while removing personal distractions such as cell phone use. (WCAX)
3. University of Vermont students can find substance use disorder support with the Catamount Recovery Program. According to the program's director, around 30 students participate in the program each year. According to the Vermont Department of Health, college students are the most likely to abuse alcohol and prescription drugs. (WCAX)

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Today in Burlington:

• Animal Demo At The Echo Leahy Center for Lake Champlain (11:00 AM)

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From my notebook:

• The Burlington Farmers' Market is reminding the community that opening day is just one week away. Don't miss out on this year's new vendors as well as returning favorites!(Instagram)
• Special Olympics Vermont recognizes golfer Mathew Benn. He will be representing our state in this year's Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando. (Facebook)
• The Flynn is offering a full schedule of camps for the community's children this summer. Themed camps include New Cardboardia, Moana Jr., Integrated Arts, and The Lightning Thief. (Facebook)

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Alrighty, you're all good for today! I'll see you soon.

— Danielle Fallon

About me: Danielle Fallon is a senior writer with 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.