The following stories have been hand-selected by the Assignment Desk at News4:
New Day Labor Rules for Herndon:
The Herndon Town Council has implemented a federal worker verification program that will require employers to check the work status of any prospective day laborer before hiring them. In a November resolution, the council directed Town Manager Art Anselene to implement a campaign informing those who employ day workers that it is illegal to hire workers on private property and that federal law prohibits hiring workers without an employment check, typically conducted via completion of a federal I-9 form. (FairfaxTimes.com)
Montgomery County Teachers to Skip Pay Raise
Montgomery County teachers and other school employees have agreed to give up a 5 percent pay raise next year, a concession that saves the school system $89 million and allows Superintendent Jerry D. Weast to balance the budget. (Washington Post)
Christmas Decorations Stolen
Julie Zebroski has been setting up Christmas lights and decorations in front of the auto-repair business in Walkersville she owns with her husband for about six years. But recently she discovered about 12 illuminated candy canes and attached ropes -- worth about $200 to $300 -- stolen. "I can't believe this," she said. "Christmas just started." (FrederickNewsPost.com)
Happiness is Contagious
Happiness is contagious, spreading among friends, neighbors, siblings and spouses like the flu, according to a large study that for the first time shows how emotion can ripple through clusters of people who may not even know each other. The study of more than 4,700 people who were followed over 20 years found that people who are happy or become happy boost the chances that someone they know will be happy. (Washington Post)
