Last year at this time, there was panic in the air over the cost of winter heating oil. But after a steep slide in oil prices, this year is looking different from last. We check in with Matt Cota, head of the Vermont Fuel Dealers Association about trends in oil prices and how customers are approaching this winter. Also, economist Robert Hansen, dean of the Tuck School of Business, defends the role of speculation in the oil market. Listen

Also, the mayor of Barre has big plans for the city that include transforming empty storefronts into vibrant businesses, and planning huge civic center for Barre's downtown. Jane Lindholm talks with mayor Thomas Lauzon about how he envisions the city's future. Listen

And, some schools are trying to get kids to grow some of the healthy vegetables that end up on their lunch trays. VPR's Charlotte Albright tagged along with a group of kids who call themselves "sprouts" in Glover. Listen