Semiconductor push in Vermont: UVM’s V-GaN Tech Hub opened an open house July 23 to show off its new Test and Characterization Facility in South Burlington, aiming to help companies move gallium-nitride chip tech from lab work into manufacturing. Health and aging support: Community Health rolled out a new geriatric program for patients 60+ with complex medical needs, memory or mobility concerns, medication safety issues, and caregiver stress—starting with a referral and a home safety visit. Caregivers’ financial strain: A new EBRI/Greenwald Retirement Confidence Survey analysis finds unpaid caregivers report lower assets, more debt problems, and weaker retirement confidence than non-caregivers. Local health outdoors: Blue Cross VT announced free Kayak Days Aug. 15 at Prouty Beach in Newport, with free rentals, safety gear, giveaways, and a virtual photo challenge that supports Camp Exclamation Point. Public health alert: Mosquitoes collected in Montpelier tested positive for West Nile virus; officials urge long sleeves, removing standing water, and tight window/door screens. School facilities debate: A proposed turf field at Champlain Valley Union High School is drawing pushback from some Hinesburg residents over PFAS and microplastics concerns, while district leaders say turf would reduce weather-related cancellations. Agriculture spotlight: UVM Extension named Rail View Dairy in New Haven the 2026 Vermont Dairy Farm of the Year.