Midday Newscast May 1, 2008

The number of Vermonters signing up for food stamp benefits hit a 15-year high in March; the state Tax Department is already prepared for a possible sales tax holiday this summer;  Governor Jim Douglas and about half of the state’s mayors are gathering in Montpelier at this hour; some students and faculty at the School for International Training in Brattleboro are worried about a new strategic plan.