House session: poet laureate reading, nonprofit recognitions, Polar Splash appeal and adjournment

The House opened with a devotional led by Vermont Poet Laureate Bianca Stone of Brandon, who read a poem and was introduced by the Member from Norwich. The Member from Norwich noted Bianca’s publications and honors and that she teaches at Dartmouth College and co‑founded the Ruth Stone House.

The Member from Essex Junction recognized 14 nonprofit organizations of the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence in the gallery and cited 2025 figures: advocates responded to more than 23,600 hotline and chat contacts and provided in‑person support to over 7,500 Vermonters seeking safety and services.

Members also heard a series of announcements: the Member from Guilford invited members to a Creative Arts Day reception after the meeting; the Member from Wolcott promoted a Special Olympics Polar Splash on March 14 and asked for contributions to a $2,600 fundraising goal; and the Member from Barrytown corrected an earlier room assignment for the Sportsman's Caucus. The Member from Waterbury recognized a former member in the gallery.

The Member from Norwich moved that the House adjourn until Friday, 02/13/2026 at 9:30 a.m.; the membership voted by voice and the presiding officer announced the ayes carried and the House stood adjourned.