Building unity

The nation is mightily struggling to find a path forward through many difficulties, but unity remains a worthy goal for the country, and one we cannot abandon. 

Here in Vermont, we have a good starting point for that unity the country needs. In the past four months, I've appreciated — more than ever — the calm and measured overall approach of our Vermont leaders, locally, regionally and statewide. Although there are tense moments, that approach is innate to our community life. Here, oftentimes we can still talk to one another after a good debate, and people frequently say, "We're so lucky to be in Vermont.” I heartily agree. But for me, that goes beyond the relative calm the state offers. We have to use what we’ve got. That sense of steadiness and poise gives us a strong starting point for change, if we start from a place where we can all be heard. 

That starting point begins with listening. When I look at this state, neighbors have enough respect for one another that they can at least talk about differences of opinion. When people can at least talk, they can hear different points of view, and that’s a crucial ingredient for progress today. It’s how you start to break through the extremes, and get to the center. 

That last part is paramount to progress. I believe it’s important to find that center, starting with places of agreement on key issues, and moving forward from there. It is hard, and it requires humble thinking and tough conversations, but nothing can replace an honest discussion that opens the way to understanding each other better. It’s the only way to move the nation forward, and Vermont has a special opportunity to light that path. 

— Gareth Henderson

Goodness still strong, not defeated

The great weight of all that has happened in the U.S. since the pandemic first intensified in March is undeniable, and often overwhelming.

Also undeniable, is the kindness, love and compassion that have together been our rudder through these stormy waves. Indeed, our better attributes have been tough to recognize amid the divisions in the country that seem to deepen each time we turn on the news. This turns me back to a question many asked weeks ago about the acts of kindness that multiplied among neighbors: Will that love last? Will that sense of unity make a long-term difference, leading to more loving, more profound ways of relating to each other?

With so much struggle and political strife, the answer “no” might be plain for many. But I believe there is sufficient momentum for the good, and enough need for progress, that the best in each of us can hold sway over the future. There remains hope for the “yes” column, in spite of the stark difficulties we face as a people. That innate goodness still lives among us.

The fact is, we each have a decision with each step we take. We can choose the direction of progress, starting with learning and understanding more about how we got to this place, and what we can do in our own lives to better society. Every step forward, is a step closer to change, though the steps may feel small at first.

We all have an opportunity to be part of the solutions that move the nation forward. History has urged us to build something stronger together, to seek a new dawn. The lasting hope I feel tells me we will seize the opportunity to be better, though the road is long with obstacles. We’re strong enough, courageous enough to travel it.

— Gareth Henderson

Strength during the journey

As Vermont continues to reopen its economy amid the pandemic, we’ve each experienced the impact of that journey in different ways and viewed it through different lenses. But it’s been all too common to see the highs followed by the lows, or vice versa.
In the past week, many downtowns saw an uptick in traffic on July 4th, which was obviously a welcome sight. That was juxtaposed with recent news that over 1,000 workers with U.S Customs and Immigration Services in St. Albans and Essex are to be furloughed in August.
That was a grim reminder of the nature of economic recovery: Even the best of news may be followed by a more jarring development. Experts say it’s likely to be a long road back to sustained economic strength.
But remember something about that last word, strength. As a people, Vermonters have plenty of it. We already have many examples of the goodness of a neighbor carrying someone else through a difficult time in recent months. Put those experiences together, and you can see the fabric of our community remains strong, despite the highs and lows, and discouraging political tension. Within that, we can empower each other to overcome even the most severe difficulties. I’m convinced we’re equal to that task, the challenge of working to help each other, even as significant hurdles might try to obstruct that focus. The good news is, as we rise above the trouble and find paths to progress, we will be encouraged to find others walking them, too.

— Gareth Henderson

Independence

Independence is a powerful word, one that takes on greater meaning when July 4th comes around. But it needs careful thought in 2020, given the great weight of the issues facing us as a nation. 

To me, independence is not only having the strength to find one’s own path in life, but having the strength to summon one’s best attributes and help others, especially when it's a really tough road ahead. The result? A strong community that draws on its own strength, and can be a light to other people. 

As I write this, I'm proud of Vermont. We, the Vermont community, have been a light of leadership during the pandemic, at the state and community levels. We can continue that by remembering the wonderful moments of neighborly love and care that inspired us in recent months, and emulating them. 

I'm also proud because, through voices of all ages, Vermont has sent a strong message of standing up to injustice and inequality. So far, state, regional and local leaders have fostered an inclusive and poised approach that welcomes others to the discussion. That's the Vermont way, and it's a comforting example amid ongoing national tensions. 

Going forward, let's strive for inclusive problem-solving that rises above negative, reactive thinking. For progress to be made, we must continue to seek a better, meeker understanding of one another, as the state seeks a constructive path into our future. Vermont has laid the groundwork for such an approach, and it sparks rays of hope.

Fortunately, we each have opportunities to learn anew, and help build solutions that benefit all of us. Let's seize this moment to build progress together, while crafting an example for the nation.

— Gareth Henderson

Reemerging

A couple bikes down South Street in Woodstock as rays of sunshine burst through the sky Thursday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The headline summarizes what every downtown has been doing ever since different sectors have been able to reopen in Vermont and the wider region. For so long, we’ve been looking for some signs of normalcy. And to some extent, we've been finding them. 

We've all gone out to local shops, thrilled to see familiar faces. We've dropped by our favorite coffee spot, grabbed some takeout for a picnic, and maybe even gone for some outdoor (or indoor) dining. We've become used to seeing masks, distancing, and other signs things remain pretty different. 

Other signs we don't get to see, because they're behind walls and doors, in the hearts of the many who are struggling to hang on to their businesses. They were referred to by Gov. Phil Scott at yesterday's announcement about new business relief grants, coupled with the note that $70 million won't be enough. 

Indeed, the next several rounds of grants — because there will be more — won't scratch the surface of that great need, either. It will take more federal aid and a more collective relief effort over a much longer period of time. Much of that won't come clear until later this summer, with U.S. Senators leaving for a two-week recess. Congress is considering a new COVID-19 stimulus package, part of which has more relief money for businesses.

Heading into the Fourth of July weekend, there are a number of efforts afoot throughout the region to keep traditions alive, safely. It will be good to see the Sidewalk Sale Days in downtown Woodstock on Friday and Saturday. True, travel to Vermont has not fully reopened, and that has had its impacts. But we have to keep moving forward. All signs of progress help the greater good. They help us reemerge. 

— Gareth Henderson 

Reflecting on love

It's been three months since Omni Reporter launched. With that realization, my mind raced back to March when the pandemic was so new in Vermont, and I reflected on how we got from there to here. 

There was a rising level of urgent need, blended with a fear and confusion we had to confront. Yet, over the coming weeks, we made progress. The secret behind that progress was no secret, because it was everywhere, even amid the worst of the pandemic. It was love, expressed in kindness and compassion for others. It was a willingness to check on our neighbors and let them know we care. We all remember the various proofs of this unselfed love, seen in every community, day upon day. It was beautiful, and it inspired us to persevere. 

An important part of that approach was the ongoing willingness to follow certain guidelines in daily life, including social distancing and wearing masks, because it was better for the health of the community to do so. At his Monday press briefing, Gov. Phil Scott emphasized that commitment to one another. Though we’ve come a long way, he said, “it will be a while longer before we’re truly back to normal.” 

“But if we continue with the same spirit and commitment ... I know we’ll get through this and be stronger than we were before,” Scott said. 

That loving approach, underpinning our strong commitment to community, is the true foundation of who we are. It includes poise amid adversity and a strong resolve for what is right — qualities which define Vermont. We must keep this in mind as we confront two viruses, COVID-19 and racism. Disagreements may seem to separate us, but a poised sense of love always points toward the best of solutions and shows how connected we really are. The road ahead is long, but Vermont can lead the way on both issues. 

— Gareth Henderson 

The ongoing struggle

Every day brings sobering reminders that even amid Vermont’s progress, there are always challenges to confront during the pandemic. The favorably low numbers of new COVID-19 cases in the state don’t tell the whole story. 

For me, the big reminder this week was seeing Northfield-based sock-maker Darn Tough cut nearly 50 jobs, which is a lot for a small Vermont community. That turned my head, because, in my nearly 18 years as a Vermont journalist, Darn Tough had always been one of those companies that was innovating and surging upward. Their quarterly announcements always yielded impressive progress. As the company said in its Facebook announcement on Monday, “A few months ago we couldn’t grow fast enough.” (Employees were informed of the decision on June 19, Vermont Public Radio reported.) Darn Tough, while it has brought back about half of its workers, will not meet its financial projections for 2020, according to VPR.

This reinforced a stubborn fact that someone told me early on during Vermont’s response to the pandemic: No one is immune to its financial impact. Clearly, dealing with the economic fallout will be an ongoing factor for many months, perhaps years. Summer revenue — the lifeblood of so many businesses here — hangs very much in the balance. 

State lawmakers continue to advance relief packages for businesses using federal aid, and they hope more federal assistance is on the way. On Monday, U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, of Vermont, was in Burlington to unveil bipartisan legislation called the Restaurants Act, which creates a $120 billion grant program to help local restaurants weather the financial storm during and after the pandemic. During the first 14 days of the program, the funds would only be made available to restaurants with $1.5 million or less in profit, to ensure that small establishments can benefit. 

Hopefully this bill and others offering more COVID aid will make their way to final approval soon at the federal level. That would allow the state to keep working toward stabilizing the economy in the coming months. Now is the time for Vermont’s collaborative spirit to make an impact. We know it works, and it’s never been more important. 

— Gareth Henderson

Feeling the heat

Motorists cross the Route 4 bridge that usually sees steady tourist traffic coming into Woodstock Village this time of year. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

It’s perhaps no surprise that we’re hitting a heatwave in Vermont while the government has felt some heat in recent weeks to accelerate the pace of reopening. 

Much of that pressure has come from businesses in the tourism sector, which have withstood capacity limitations at their places of business for weeks, at a time when they would normally see their income go up. 

This sector has its eyes keenly on 4th of July weekend, typically a very reliable time for good business, which has a different look amid the pandemic. The state is allowing a drive-in format for July 4th celebrations, which are being planned in Killington and Fairfax, according to Lindsay Kurrle, the state’s commerce secretary. 

“Town-organized firework celebrations, if done as a drive-in event, with people in their cars and properly distanced, can happen,” Kurrle said at a Friday briefing. 

Many towns have cancelled their July 4th events amid prior restrictions on gatherings. That said, for those still holding them, there’s room for innovation and collaborations with other businesses that may help everyone make it through a difficult summer. Some cities and towns have created outdoor seating plans they hope will help struggling restaurants and local shops. In the coming days, we might see more announcements about ways to boost downtowns; there are likely many ideas being exchanged.

Still, this summer is a never-ending train of unique challenges for businesses amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has dealt them a crushing economic blow. But throughout this crisis, our communities have shown their resilience, determination and love for one another. This warm season is another opportunity to show our strength together, despite the circumstances. As one, we will see Vermont through the next set of hurdles.

— Gareth Henderson

For a better world

It is quite a time to be a journalist. There is no shortage of stories to develop, no shortage of angles, and plenty of important things happening simultaneously. It’s a fruitful garden of ideas, with words as their seeds.

As I look out over that landscape, I’m awed by what the world faces today. I’m coming to terms with how this earth experience has morphed over the past few weeks, and what it means for mankind. Two months ago, the main focus was the height of the pandemic and our collective reaction to it. We saw countless examples of how people were loving and caring for one another, even as the health crisis loomed. 

Then, after some weeks of progress on the COVID-19 situation, the national spotlight shined on a virus of a different kind, but too often unseen: racism. The death of George Floyd under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer shook the nation’s consciousness, and, every moment, the issue demands resolution. It sparked proposals in Congress and also governmental action in some states, including New York and Vermont. The solution will take strong resolve in the coming weeks and months, to press on amid controversy and make sure local and regional systems continue the march toward justice. 

Even while this major issue persists, the impact of the pandemic remains an important factor well beyond the continuing public health precautions and forecasts. After complete shutdowns of states swept the country in March, the nation entered reset mode. People everywhere reassessed their lives on an unprecedented scale; they made necessary changes wondering if some of those changes should stay. At the same time, because so many needed the help of their neighbors, there was a wave of compassionate, graceful moments of kindness that uplifted us all, when we either experienced them, did them or heard about them. 

For the second time this year, our hearts and minds have been necessarily shaken, and our brothers and sisters need us. We are once again compelled to wake up to what has been, and what could be. I am convinced that the universal goodness we trusted and employed to uplift our neighbors is still here within all of us, no matter what the politics say or what tired cycles of thought would dictate. Something so strong doesn’t wash away, it only gets clouded over. And now, we have the opportunity to call on that power of love to confront racism, purge this world of hate, and embrace a renewed sense of unity for mankind. The lessons of the past few months have paved the way for good, and the people are demanding rightful change. Let’s combine the two, empower each other and make this a better place.

— Gareth Henderson 

Following their lead

A few people gather on the Green ahead of the graduation parade in Woodstock, Vermont, on Friday. Young people have played a major role in protests for racial justice. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

“I follow his lead.” Those words were spoken by Rev. Leon Dunkley at the Black Lives Matter rally in Woodstock, Vermont, last Tuesday. And they are the words I remember most from that afternoon, because he was referring to Tripp Overbay, a third-grader who has rallied his community around stopping racism and taking action for justice.

It was an impactful recognition of the courage of the young people who have powered this new movement for justice, equality and unity after George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. We need their voices, and we need them every day, in order to stay focused on participating in this national push for change. As Tripp and others have said, part of that push will be in smaller steps which lead to the larger goal. 

One of those steps — and a hugely important one — is education, learning about what led us here. It is essential for white people like myself to understand the problem, to understand why life in the U.S. is different for our brothers and sisters of color. That is foundational to national progress on this issue, because one must understand a problem, in order to help resolve it and inspire others to do the same. 

This week, I took great inspiration from PBS NewsHour’s Friday coverage of the Black Lives Matter movement through the eyes of young Americans. One segment featured video statements by teenagers about the racial justice movement, and one important theme was conversations. Talking with family and friends about the tough issues, though sometimes difficult, will be key as the country tries to move forward. It is part of the path toward real understanding. 

I’m proud to say, I think many Vermonters are heading down that path, but of course, there is a vast amount of work to be done, here and throughout the country. It includes addressing injustices in housing, education, government and a host of other parts of society. But I’m greatly encouraged by the younger generations who are propelling us forward, and I hope more and more Americans will follow their lead, with love and compassion underpinning the work. Change is putting down roots. It’s time to help them grow.

— Gareth Henderson

A time to grow

When the signs of spring revved up in April and May, I wrote about the intersection of the COVID-19 era and the ultimate time of growth: spring. It was a case of the familiar next to the unfamiliar, the expected next to the unexpected. 

Reflecting back on the earlier days of lockdown, it was hard to imagine what else could alter life so greatly. Then came May 25, when George Floyd died under the knee of a police officer during an arrest in Minneapolis. And the national conversation shifted overnight to one of racism and the movement for justice. In an instant, all eyes were on our very democracy. How would it respond?

The people took the lead through protests, although a number of state government leaders spoke out against hate and division. The Black Lives Matter movement was re-ignited and over 700 cities and towns across America saw protests, rallies and vigils. More communities add to that number every day, with demonstrations including a wide range of races and ages.

The nation faces an immense challenge: to come together for change, at a time when it is greatly needed. Though it may seem like the country is greatly divided, there are generations young and old uniting around this new call for justice and racial equality. It has momentum, and, so far, I sense a humble willingness in many good people to speak up and take action. There will be much learning, much connecting, much growth involved in these efforts, if they are to be successful.

As that work continues, it is imperative to remember the innate goodness and love that unite us. We turn to those qualities naturally, like a plant turns toward the sun. As Rev. Leon Dunkley, of the North Universalist Chapel Society in Woodstock, Vermont, put it recently: "We are not separate from each other."

— Gareth Henderson 

Time of reflection

The deep, introspective thinking going on in the nation is palpable. Many have realized we are at a crucial moment in history, and with racial inequality rising to the forefront of the national discussion, we have an opportunity to look within ourselves and ask, "What can I do?"

It all starts with talking about the tough issues, asking the tough questions. I was encouraged this week at the many conversations which seemed to rise out of the national unrest after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Some of them took place when police showed solidarity with protesters, and they embraced that support from the officers. Moments like these are a starting point for dialogue, an important avenue for increasing people's understanding about the issues at hand. Only with true understanding and compassion for each other can a real difference be made.

In an unexpected way, the groundwork has been laid for that understanding. With many people at home for weeks due to the pandemic, there has been a firmer focus in many communities on neighbors and what they need. This shift to more unselfed thinking can help people rally around healing the wounds of racism and inequality.  To be sure, this is one in a veritable ocean of factors in this situation. But it could be helpful to spur change. 

As I reflect on these momentous couple of weeks — ones I will never forget — I'm in awe at what a profound opportunity awaits each community in this country. Literally every person has the ability to take steps in favor of love, compassion and inclusion. Those three qualities set us on the path to unite for meaningful change. It is a steep path, but one we have to take, and the time is now.

— Gareth Henderson 

A step toward change

When you think of press conferences, the Bible doesn’t usually come to mind. But this quote, recently mentioned at a press briefing in New York, particularly resonated with me amid today’s environment: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)

Let the good in us, overcome the bad in us. Let good take the upper hand and lead us forward. That message is very needed today, as the nation faces racial tensions in the wake of George Floyd’s death. In the aftermath of this tragedy, we all have a role to play for the betterment of society, which includes efforts around equality, inclusion, and constructive community-building. I believe those concepts are all part of creating true justice across the country, and some are beginning to envision what that would take. 

For starters, many are talking about communication. To be part of meaningful change, we have to communicate and connect with others to address racism and other forms of exclusion. Here in Vermont, we’re blessed with close-knit communities where it is easy to talk to one another and have real discussions. With that as a starting point, we can reach out to one another and include those who we may never have spoken with before, those who may be different from us, those we have disagreed with. 

This may seem like a small step to take, when one observes the news coverage of protests, commentators and rife politics. But as some have said in recent days, we all want to live good and peaceful lives. All people have that right. I believe that if we humbly and compassionately connect with each other to begin constructive dialogue, we lay the groundwork for understanding, and healing. We see each other. We build up. We let goodness lead. 

— Gareth Henderson

Opportunity for good

As I looked at the posters of the Class of 2020 surrounding the Village Green in Woodstock, Vermont, today, I was reminded of how much good there still is in the world, despite current crises.

The nationwide outrage after George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic are the greatest challenges we face today, and they both demand that extremely important work be done. But first, it is important not to lose sight of how much propensity for love and kindness our people have. They’ve shown it many times over the past two months, and couldn’t that spirit of compassion be deployed, still, to help this country start to address this racial tension? 

That is possible, and necessary, and furthermore, it is the only way forward. From neighbors bringing each other groceries, to donations for relief funds and checking on someone’s well being, it’s important to remember that is who we really are. The greatest news is, we have an innate desire to help one another, and we’re very good at it. The examples mentioned above are just a few of the various ways people have stepped up for their communities, and they still inspire. 

It is tempting to think of the recent unrest as overcoming good, as cancelling out all the heart-felt good deeds of the past two months. Indeed, the tension is deeply troubling, and this moment, effective solutions seem very far away. But the beating heart of Americans’ love and compassion is still there. Cast in point: Volunteers are busy supporting traumatized communities who were already struggling amid the pandemic. While those who spread good may not have made every newscast, they’re still out there. And today, this country needs them more than ever, as we push toward progress together.

— Gareth Henderson

Love is the always answer

Outrage, anger, frustration — those are the raw feelings pervading the U.S. today. As I view the scenes of protests on the news, I’m struck by how much love the nation needs right now. Then, I remind myself that we already have that love, in abundance. 

The past two months have brought countless acts of love and compassion throughout the U.S., as people stepped up to keep family, friends and neighbors safe through the ongoing pandemic. Now, that outpouring is needed more than ever as the country responds to the tragic impacts of racism. Many times in recent weeks, that love has shone through moments of increased understanding of others, with most people having a bit more time to learn and connect. Perhaps that will help lay the groundwork for larger solutions that are needed. 

In this life, sometimes problems come our way because we are ready to solve them. The U.S. could be facing such a moment now. We don’t know what the solution looks like or whether official institutions will change, but we know what won’t work. Today at his daily press briefing, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo quoted Maya Angelou’s words: “Hate has caused a lot of problems in the world, but it has not solved one yet.” 

That perfectly makes the case for using love to make progress. We all have more similarities than differences, and going forward, it will be so important to use the good that unites us to take steps forward, together. Loving our neighbor is the key to solving any divides, including racial. And we can start doing so right here, right now. 

— Gareth Henderson

Advancing into a new future

American flags wave in the breeze outside downtown shops in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont remains under a state of emergency, but, as anticipated, Gov. Phil Scott announced more reopening plans on Friday.

As of June 1, fitness facilities and spas will be among several close-contact businesses allowed to reopen, though it will be under the 25-percent capacity limit that Vermont retail and lodging sectors are following. Also, the social gathering limit was moved from 10 to 25, effective immediately — which, Scott noted, does not tie into the interior capacity limits required at businesses.

Amid the rapid onslaught of summer, the governor also announced overnight summer camps will be allowed to operate as of June 7, though at a 75-percent bed capacity limit and under strict quarantine requirements. Scott called that provision a “pilot project” that will greatly inform the approach to reopening the travel and tourism industry, the backbone of the summer economy. 

The lack of spring tourism is weighing on businesses, and Vermont faces increasing pressure to more firmly hit the restart button for that reason. Particularly at issue is the 14-day quarantine requirement for anyone crossing into Vermont. The desire to visit the Green Mountains is there, as evidenced by 10,000 more motorists coming into Vermont the Friday before Memorial Day than the same day the previous week, as Scott said. 

The ecosystem that serves tourism traffic — including lodging, restaurants and retail — has been crucial to Vermont’s reopening efforts in the past two weeks. That said, not every business has been able to act on the loosened restrictions yet, and therefore, the broad economic impact of those reopenings is tough to measure. The next big step would be easing or lifting the 14-day quarantine requirement, but Vermont’s cautious approach will continue, with Scott saying Friday the state of emergency may be extended past June 15. 

Every passing week without a full reopening poses more challenges for already-strained budgets at businesses in Vermont and neighboring states. Nevertheless, we can all play a role in being supportive of our communities and guiding each other compassionately down the path of progress. As we wrap up another week, we can take solace in knowing that’s the path we’re on. 

— Gareth Henderson

Seeking relief

The next phase of business relief legislation from Washington has been in process for weeks now, and on Wednesday the House approved a bill resulting from those efforts. 

The legislation makes key changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP),  a $700 billion loan program which was part of the federal CARES ACT and helps small businesses continue to pay workers during the pandemic. Employers have long been asking for more flexibility in the program's requirements, and some said restrictions discouraged them from applying. U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, of Vermont, was a co-sponsor of Wednesday's bill. 

“The Payroll Protection Program has provided much-needed funds for thousands of Vermont businesses devastated by the pandemic, but the strict SBA loan forgiveness requirements make the program unworkable for many businesses,” Welch said.

According to Welch, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 (H.R. 7010) does the following:

• Allows forgiveness for expenses beyond the current 8-week covered period to 24 weeks and extends the rehiring deadline.

• Increases the limit for non-payroll expenses from 25 percent to 40 percent to better match business expenditures.

• Extends loan terms from 2 years to 5 years for new loans.

• Ensures full access to payroll tax deferment for recipients of PPP loans.

This legislation was another step forward in the recovery process for the business community. Now, all eyes will be on the U.S. Senate, which is considering a similar bill. 

Recently, unity of purpose has been a challenge for Congress. As states continue to move through reopening, a good portion of the business community will continue to need help for some time. Part of the solution will be federal money, and state budgets are facing the same picture. 

Throughout the U.S. over the past two months, many Americans have been using compassionate collaboration to get each other through the most difficult moments of this pandemic. That loving, caring attitude doesn't have to be separate from political discussions — rather, proofs of that love surround those discussions, in our very communities. Those heartfelt efforts to help one another will have lasting influence on these important solutions, whatever form the future may take, because our collective desire to be of service will not be moved. 

— Gareth Henderson

Honoring their service

Memorial Day 2020 comes amid a uniquely challenging time in our nation’s history, but, as Vermont Gov. Phil Scott expressed today, it could be a particularly fitting time to reflect on the example of those who served the country and made the ultimate sacrifice. 

And so, though many traditional events were not possible today, we persist in recognizing the heroes who fought for our people and our values, and never returned home. We join together in our current struggle, because they stood guard over the nation during the world’s most difficult days. 

“These men and women are the best example of what it means to be an American. Those who stood to fight so the rest of us can live in the safety and security of a free world. Those who sacrificed and died so others may live,” Scott said in his Memorial Day statement.

He continued, “I believe that today, as we navigate through this once-in-a-century crisis, the word sacrifice means a lot more as we unite to fight a new kind of enemy — one that threatens all of us.

“Perhaps there is no better time than now to reflect on the example of those who faced far darker days, but rose to the occasion, so that we might be here now to face our own challenge, together.”

Over the last two months, numerous others have joined our country’s long tradition of sacrifice amid adversity, and thousands have been lost to the pandemic. Many more are continuing to help the nation through this time, in ways big and small. Today, we are reminded how important it is to remember those who came before us and defended the country, so we could be here and proudly serve causes greater than ourselves. Going forward, we can honor them by working for the unity of this nation, even that seems so difficult. Together, is always stronger. 

— Gareth Henderson

Out into the open

Two bicyclists make their way down River Road in Woodstock on Sunday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Stellar spring weather greeted Memorial Day Weekend, and the crowds responded quickly.

Getting outside has been the theme. In Woodstock, Vermont, numerous bicyclists rolled through town on Sunday afternoon, many in groups, cars were spotted with kayaks on top, some kids enjoyed the river, friends picnicked on the Village Green, and families strolled through the village to hit a few shops and get ice cream. They were there, all the signs of a typical holiday weekend in a rural town. 

But obviously, it’s not typical, coming amid a pandemic. There is still much work to be done to face up to fear, overcome it, and reach lasting solutions for society. We may not know what “typical” is anymore. That said, it is a relief to take in familiar, joyful scenes this weekend. I think we all had greatly missed them, and are glad to step out into the sun and enjoy it, even if just for a short time. 

As we move through this time, there is a lot which can distress us, but it’s also important to look around and be mindful of what we do have. We have each other, and an opportunity to remake an economy that, perhaps, wasn’t serving society all that well. As I look outside and ponder this blessing of brilliant light and warm air, maybe it’s an invitation to get out and connect with other people, and kindly share what this experience has taught us, whether it be through word or deed. The great reset is shifting into the restart phase, and the most profound events begin with small, meaningful moments of connection. There’s no better time to continue that progress, than now.

— Gareth Henderson

Progress with caution

Stepping out my front door this morning, the air greeted me with that precious summer warmth. It’s a welcome feeling, especially here in the northeast, where that stubborn chill in the air had persisted for a bit too long. 

As nature turns the page to a new season, we, too, embrace progress, but it comes with a note of caution.

Memorial Day Weekend marks the first major holiday weekend during the reopening phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. With that in mind, state officials are asking people to stay vigilant and keep using the precautions that have allowed northeastern states to make progress against the virus, as crowds begin to swell in the region. The common phrase: We’re not out of the woods yet. 

On Friday, Vermont took further steps toward reopening its economy, as announced by Gov. Phil Scott. Bars and restaurants can reopen for outdoor seating under restrictions, effective on Friday. As of Saturday, churches are allowed to reopen under a limit of 25-percent capacity. And on May 29, hair salons and barbershops can reopen under state-imposed limits and safety measures. 

It wasn’t all good news, though. Scott announced that all traditional fairs and festivals are cancelled for the season. Fairgrounds can still be used for events that meet state requirements, the governor added.

“Even with the steps we’ve taken, the reality is, we’re still far from being back to normal,” Scott said. 

Friday was also a big day for the health sector, as certain medical procedures and health services were allowed to resume immediately. Those included inpatient surgeries and procedures; outpatient services, including clinic visits, diagnostic imaging and limited outpatient surgeries and procedures; and elective dental services. Full dental services were expected to resume by June 1, according to Health Commissioner Mark Levine.

Though we expect the best weekend weather we’ve seen all year, the public is urged to continue to follow precautions such as wearing a mask in public, frequent hand-washing and six feet of social distancing. Governors from the bordering states of New Hampshire, New York and Massachusetts also emphasized those points in their Friday press briefings. 

In the past several weeks, multiple Vermont sectors have been glad to get back to business, though under state restrictions. The holiday weekend will indeed be a test of our progress thus far, but not only from a data standpoint. It will begin to answer the question, “Will all that good will and kindness experienced during the pandemic stick around?”

On Monday, the first day of reopening retail stores, the hearts of shoppers and shopkeepers were lifted up as they saw each other in person again, though under social distancing. It was clear: We all want to see each other do well. We’re all thirsting for joy in our lives. So, as people try to navigate this situation, it’s an ideal time to share kindness and compassion. The beautiful thing is, even after these recent weeks, there still seems to be plenty of it to go around. 

— Gareth Henderson