Fall colors, welcome back

Early fall foliage as seen from Cloudland Road in Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

On the heels of that first rush of cool autumn, here come the colors. In Vermont, the fall foliage is popping up everywhere — and it's one week early, experts say. 

It's a visual breath of fresh air, to see the mountains light up with reds, oranges and yellows. Though it marks the end of summer, many might be ready for fall after the brutally humid days many experienced in New England this year. Already I hear many conversations of baking for the upcoming season — we all know about those apple creations, and many others. That late-afternoon cup of tea will increasingly make its appearance, too, as those temps drop to autumn lows.

Not so fast, though. This weekend, everyone's getting outside to catch that last gasp of summer, with temperatures in the 70s throughout the region. It's a time to not only enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings and attractions, but to do what we can to support local businesses, many of which need every bit of income as the fall season revs up. For that reason, it was a good feeling to head through downtown Woodstock and see lots of traffic on Saturday. Hopefully that continues here and throughout other nearby states, with of course the need to follow the state and local restrictions in place to keep everybody healthy. 

As with every season in 2020, this one will look different in many respects. Numerous big events are cancelled, and other traditions are also off the table. But there are still ways to enjoy this time of year, connect with others, and sustain a sense of community, including showing kindness to one another, even amid challenges. If we’re determined to do that, nothing can take away that great feeling we have when adding to the world’s good, and sharing it with others so they can benefit, too. That approach to community is a powerful force — one that makes any season brighter.

— Gareth Henderson

Including kindness

(Gareth Henderson Photo)

The voices of young people have been heard throughout this pandemic, and sometimes in the simplest, and most beautiful ways. So many times, the simplest messages speak most strongly, right when we need them most. 

The art on Google's homepage logo is something many have grown used to over the years; we may not always stop and look closely at its message. Today I did, and I was so glad I took that moment. It showed a drawing by Sharon Sara, an elementary school student from Frisco, Texas, who won the 2020 Doodle for Google contest. The artwork shows girls of different races holding hands together, and it exudes a beautiful innocence around inclusion and friendship, things the world needs to be reminded of today.

For its annual contest, Google's prompt for 2020 was "I show kindness by ..." — and Sharon decided to focus on being inclusive in her drawing titled, "Together as one." Along with her winning entry, Sharon reflected on some struggles she’s had with friendship.

"People have not wanted to be my friend because of how I look, so I decided to draw what I do!" she wrote to Google. "No matter what people look like, you look on the inside and then decide if you want to be their friend."

She added, "Kindness means to not look at someone from the outside, but look at their personality, and being open to their friendship."

To wake up to that message this morning, with its simple truth that anyone can be a friend, was a wonderful gift from the heart. It was another inspiring example of our youth’s positive influence, specifically on matters of inclusion. How special it is, that millions of people have now seen and read Sharon’s heartfelt message. Another hopeful note: A number of the other contest submissions also focused on inclusivity.

In 2020, young people have formed an impactful collective voice, not only during protests against injustice, but also in defense of simple human decency everyone should follow. They remind our country and the world that everyone is deserving of kindness. This year, no message could be more important. 

— Gareth Henderson 

Going virtual

Clouds are illumined as daylight fades in West Woodstock. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Festivals and conferences large and small have made the switch to online platforms, often Zoom, due to the pandemic. While many people miss the in-person connections, there's an upside when it comes to audiences — the numbers go up. 

On the large scale, a national physics conference went virtual in April, with free registration available to anyone interested. That annual conference of the American Physical Society was a success, Nature.com reported, with registration topping 7,200 — more than four times the regular amount. LinkedIn also found a greater audience for its TransformHER conference when it moved online in June.  Usually with 350 to 400 in-person attendees, the livestream had 62,000 views, according to CNBC.

There's also a big marketing boost with many more people attending, which means many more groups will embrace online events, especially if lots of regions have to keep restricting crowds to limit the spread of COVID-19.  This is also a trend on the smaller scale of things. In Vermont, Woodstock's annual literary festival, Bookstock, went virtual for the first time Thursday night and continues in the coming months. Alison Hankey, the event's coordinator, said it'll be a learning experience that will inform future planning.

"We're using this fall program as a learning opportunity," Hankey said. "It's kind of an art form," she said of designing online events. 

With more groups diving into online events, that art form will develop in new and different ways, and innovation will gain momentum in that space. While not all attendees will have the same level of internet access, the current trend may end up broadening the price range of events, and therefore broadening their audiences. It will be interesting to watch this situation unfold, especially if the need for online events only increases from here, which is likely to some extent. Groups and organizations may find an increasing number of people participating in those platforms, especially as more people get used to being attendees in the virtual world. 

— Gareth Henderson

Working toward a common goal

The American flag at Woodstock Union High School & Middle School. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

It's undeniable that more unity is needed throughout the country, especially at a time when even one of the bedrocks of our democracy, the voting system, is feeling the strain of politics. Specifically, that refers to the discussions about mail-in voting, which has become an understandable trend amid the pandemic, and a point of contention for some. It is worth noting that Oregon, the first state to go to universal mail-in voting, has experienced a voter-fraud rate of .00001 percent since 2000, according to the PBS NewsHour. 

Unfortunately, the vote is just one of many areas of our democracy which has become increasingly tainted by politics in recent years. That is greatly troubling, given the importance of this November's presidential contest. It is also revealing, because it shows how doubt can be spread quickly online, about a method of voting which has largely been able to avoid fraud issues, as The Washington Post previously reported.

A major issue is that, in a politically charged environment, someone who feels their vote has never counted may still believe this, perhaps more so, if political strife and USPS logistical issues feed into a sense of hopelessness. Still, there are a number of groups working to encourage people to vote, and that should be done for the good of the country. The more people participating in the vote, the better. That has never been more true. 

Voting remains key to the functionality of the nation, and hopefully efforts to assist with that process in 2020 can continue unencumbered, whether it's organizing mail-in voting efforts, polling stations, or related aspects of the process. Many people are committed to making sure that process works, and now is the time to support them in their efforts. As one united people, we can accomplish great things. We still have the heart, and the resolve, to do exactly that.

— Gareth Henderson

Focusing on the vote

American flags are displayed in downtown Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo).

The right to vote forms the bedrock of democracy, and many Americans are worried about hurdles to exercising that right in November’s general election, according to the Pew Research Center.

In the Pew study, nearly half of Americans surveyed in July and August said they anticipate logistical difficulties casting a ballot in this pivotal election. To have that level of concern around the vote in 2020 is troubling; no doubt the worries over the USPS and delivery of mail-in ballots during the pandemic play into that. 

In the coming weeks, these concerns may prompt more people to vote early, in order to ensure their votes are counted and their voices heard. Another virtue of that option: There are typically smaller numbers of people at a time, and in many locations, it should be easy to socially distance. In Vermont, early voting begins on Monday, Sept. 21. 

Additionally, the NBA's plan to use arenas as voting centers has taken shape, and will have a profound impact on voter participation by providing safe venues for in-person voting. Most of the NBA's 30 arenas are now involved, and many are providing for early voting.

Though the Nov. 3 election is just under two months away, there's still time to address logistical hurdles causing concerns among voters. Some of these issues may be addressed on a more local level, and hopefully, even in the weeks remaining, some creative solutions can come to the forefront. 

— Gareth Henderson

Being the light

People enjoy the Village Green in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

When light shines through the darkness, it makes a difference, one beam at a time. 

That holds true even in the toughest of times, and it has certainly been true today as people have stepped up to help their neighbors through the pandemic throughout the country. 

Barney Corrigan did that in Westville, New Jersey, even after he lost his job as a catering chef, CNN reported Saturday. In April, Corrigan built a small cabinet outside near his home for people in need to come and pick up food. The new service grew in popularity, but so many people pitched in to give donations that he moved the operation to his garage. There, he established Barney's Place Food Pantry, CNN states, and recently received his nonprofit status. Given the great demand for the food he offers, Corrigan is thinking about starting a warehouse. New people continue to contact him every day to arrange donations.

"It's a good problem to have. People really want to help each other right now," Corrigan told CNN.  

In Vermont and throughout the country, stories about good deeds have formed a recurring theme in recent months: There is a lot of good in the world. As Corrigan states on his website, "You will be surprised how quickly love and compassion can change your life." For certain, many have experienced that feeling. It's the natural result of doing good for others, and most importantly, our love and compassion empower us to help and can inspire others to do so. It's always encouraging to read about people who are helping others. They show all of us there is still hope. 

— Gareth Henderson

Arenas prep to get out the vote

An American flag flies in the breeze on Fourth of July in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

At least 20 National Basketball Association teams have announced plans to turn their arenas into voting centers for the November election, The Washington Post reported Wednesday. 

This development is part of a social justice plan agreed to by the NBA and its players following a recent boycott of postseason play to protest the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Other sports leagues joined the walkout, which gained international attention. Along with the voting centers in arenas, the agreement between the NBA and players includes creating a social justice coalition and new advertising that promotes more civic engagement in elections.

The playoff push continued after the agreement was reached, but the move to comply with the accord was swift, especially considering teams are large organizations. On Wednesday, the Orlando Magic announced their arena, the Amway Center, will be an early voting site, according to The Washington Post. The same report said the Amway Center will host a voter registration event on Sept. 22, and will then be open for early voting for all of Orange County each day from Oct. 19 through Nov. 1 to take early ballots.

Having this service set up in Florida alone is a major impact for the Nov. 3 general election, given the Sunshine State's pivotal role in presidential contests. But the national impact is clear when listing the other NBA teams that made similar commitments with their arenas: Brooklyn, Dallas, Houston, Indiana, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers (in two different arenas), Milwaukee, New York, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, San Antonio, Utah and Phoenix. The Post reported these other teams planned voting or registration centers even before the boycott: Atlanta, Charlotte, Detroit, Cleveland, Washington and Sacramento.

An important focus of these plans is creating a safe environment for in-person voting during the pandemic. Fortunately, the NBA has learned a lot about wide-scale sanitation and safety, by creating the "bubble" in Walt Disney World in Orlando, where 22 out of 30 teams landed weeks ago to resume the season under strict health protocols. The NBA can easily share the knowledge it has gained from that experience with its teams as additional arena plans materialize.

This NBA initiative has been inspiring already, due to its broad impact, notably how it can reach a diversity of individuals and, just maybe, welcome people into the voting process who may not have ever trusted that their voice counts. It fits nicely with More Than a Vote, an organization co-founded by NBA superstar Lebron James, which is busy recruiting young poll workers in Black communities to boost access to voting. 

Certainly, these efforts are no easy matter. Making a whole arena safe for voting during a pandemic is challenging, and getting people to participate poses its own hurdles these days. However, with the NBA’s powerful marketing arm behind it, this initiative could increase access to the vote by tens of thousands of people. In a close election, those votes could be the difference.

— Gareth Henderson

A bold step for change

When National Basketball Association teams boycotted playoff games last week to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake, players expressed the desire to take concrete action for real change. With November right around the corner, it was encouraging to see players focus on protecting the right to vote in 2020.

The players and the league agreed to turn NBA arenas into polling places for the November election, as part of an accord to resume postseason play on Saturday. It’s also a move to fight voter suppression ahead of November’s vote, by improving access to safe, in-person voting. Also in the new agreement, NBA leadership said they would form a social justice coalition and create new advertising that promotes "greater civic engagement in national and local elections."

All this began after the Milwaukee Bucks refused to play their playoff game against the Orlando Magic last Wednesday, in protest of the Aug. 23 police shooting of Blake, an unarmed Black man, in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Multiple gunshots from an officer left him paralyzed, and a state investigation is ongoing.

On Wednesday, events moved quickly: The Magic and other NBA teams followed the Bucks’ lead, and all that day’s games were postponed. Then other leagues joined the walkout, including the Women’s National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer. The National Hockey League postponed playoff games later in the week, and some National Football League teams cancelled practices. With Thursday’s NBA games also postponed, the players met that day and agreed to continue the playoffs Saturday after the league agreed to the now-released plan.

The Bucks’ action led to an unprecedented moment in sports, when players took the reins completely, and forced the national spotlight to re-focus on racial justice and the importance of voting. If people want to make the biggest difference this year, it will be at the ballot box. The NBA’s strong, collective voice will have an important national impact, and the recent agreement with its players is a great step forward to ensure all people have access to the vote. This is the kind of decisive action the country needs in order to affect true change.

— Gareth Henderson

Momentous weeks on the horizon

The mountains are painted with light and shadow in this view from Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The next couple of weeks will be important ones for many states, especially with the reopening of schools. But many other factors are in the mix as well. 

In Vermont, we have the return of the Legislature on Tuesday, and then schools reopen on Sept. 8. All this comes amid a swirling national political environment, stoked by the concerns around the USPS and the run-up to the November general election. Even so, the local scene here in the Green Mountains keeps moving forward. 

On the good news front: Vermont continues to have the lowest COVID-19 positivity rate in the country, which is one of the reasons the state proceeded steadily this summer on school reopening guidance. Most school districts in Vermont are implementing hybrid plans that blend remote and in-person learning, but the details vary district to district. So far, COVID-19 data, coupled with the state's testing and contact tracing capabilities, still shows it's safe to return to some level of in-person learning, state officials say.

By now, the Legislature, the schools, towns and all organizations know that plans can change quickly these days. And so, one has to be nimble, monitor the situation on the ground closely and prepare to make quick changes if needed. Working together, our Vermont schools and communities can meet this challenging time and keep moving forward, so that fall 2020 will be remembered as a time of great accomplishment. We have the ability to find — and hold onto — that success as a statewide community working toward a common purpose. We’ve come this far, and even amid adversity, we’ve paved the way together for more progress.

— Gareth Henderson

All eyes on the USPS

Sunbeams shine down on South Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Votes on Saturdays are rare in the U.S. House of Representatives during the summer, but this weekend was an exception. 

The House passed a bill Saturday that would allocate $25 billion in emergency funds to the U.S. Postal Service and ban operational changes which recently sparked controversy. The bill comes amid growing concerns over delivery delays ahead of the November election. Many Americans hope to vote by mail to stay safe and avoid long waiting lines during the pandemic. The delivery of prescriptions through the mail is also a major concern for millions.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, of Vermont, voted in favor of the Delivering for America Act, saying it is meant to reverse recent delays. 

“This legislation will make sure that the Postal Service has the support and the funding it needs to quickly deliver medicines, unemployment checks and ballots all across America,” Welch said in a statement released Saturday after the vote. 

Though House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democratic leaders had anticipated more bipartisan support, the final tally was 257-150, mostly along party lines with Democrats supporting it, according to CNN. But that could be a short-lived success, as the bill is unlikely to get a vote in the Senate, the CCN report further states.   

Controversial USPS changes were recently put into motion by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who recently said he would halt them until after the election. DeJoy defended those moves as efforts to boost efficiency and save money, while Democrats accused the Trump administration of trying to obstruct mail-in voting. In his statement, Welch listed the changes DeJoy initiated: 

• Removing efficient mail sorting machines from sorting facilities across the country.

• Removing post office boxes from communities.

• Ending the longstanding practice of prioritizing the delivery of election mail.

• Curtailing overtime and directing employees to leave mail behind at distribution centers.

• Reassigning 23 senior career postal employees.

Though the House bill appears dead on arrival in the Senate, the USPS worries will stick around, given the widespread concerns around potential election impact. It’s an important time to make our voices heard on important issues like this, even if legislative solutions seem non-existent. The vote can no longer be taken for granted; it must be defended. 

— Gareth Henderson

Learning outside

A scene by the Kedron Brook in Woodstock Village. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Throughout the country, there’s a growing interest in using the outdoors for education, and here in Vermont we’re blessed with many opportunities to do just that. Amid the pandemic, experts say outdoors is also one of the safest places to be, while using distancing and other precautions of course. 

Naturally, taking the classroom outside requires some new approaches to learning, since so much of education traditionally happens indoors. In a recent interview, Paul Gambill, executive director of the Montpelier-based Community Engagement Lab (CEL), spoke about some solutions from a think tank with educators and teaching artists in June. A big theme was exploring safe ways to get kids outdoors for learning opportunities, especially amid the pandemic. 

“Across the state, there’s exciting energy around engaging in new ways of learning, around learning how to make the move towards personalized learning that Vermont’s been trying to put in place,” Gambill said. “We have to find those entry points that really activate the student’s intrinsic motivation to learn.”  

One idea led to the Watershed Project, part of CEL’s annual Project Design Lab for fall. The Project Design Lab helps school teams create an arts-integrated project working with master teaching artists and national leaders in project-based learning. 

In the watershed initiative, school teams have the opportunity to work with the artists and project partners to teach students about the importance of watersheds, while using art as a central part of the process. The specific goal of this project is “to deepen our understanding and sense of ownership in the health of the watershed, and how the health of the watershed is interwoven with the health of our communities.”  

Gambill said such outdoor education opportunities in Vermont can harness the expertise that exists in areas such as farming, forestry and conservation, which offer rich educational experiences. 

“Those are such a part of the Vermont culture already,” he said.

Artist Alissa Faber and photographer Renee Greenlee are the teaching artists on the Watershed Project, and its partners include the Vermont Energy Education Program, Friends of the Winooski River and Friends of the Mad River. A grant from the Lake Champlain Basin Program is funding the project’s implementation. The Watershed Project is limited to six schools; find more information at this link. 

Gambill said CEL will work with school teams in the Project Design Lab (via Zoom) in late September or early October, and then start implementing the various projects after that.

In the planning process, each school team identifies community partners for their project, as well. Gambill thought community organizations might be able to expand their role in educational initiatives in the months ahead. 

“I think there’s a real opportunity for communities to look at their role as a learning partner,” he said.  

It will be exciting to see the educational innovation taking place in the coming months and years, as outdoor learning will likely become a larger part of the overall picture. Naturally, this will look different at different schools, but it’s certainly an opportunity to re-imagine educational design and delivery, and perhaps pave the way for new, local programs that provide students with valuable experiences. The time for innovation is here. 

— Gareth Henderson

Building on progress

History has a way of establishing landmarks of progress, and reminding us to follow them and build on those accomplishments. In recent weeks, that cycle has certainly returned.

Last month, the nation honored the late civil rights leader U.S. Rep. John Lewis. Americans remembered what Lewis and others accomplished through their determination and perseverance — efforts that led to the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a crucial part of the civil rights movement. In honoring Lewis, many acknowledged the progress that’s still needed on race and equality following the killing of George Floyd, which sparked protests across the globe.

Then history was to make another appearance. On Tuesday, the country marked 100 years since women in the U.S. won the right to vote, with the ratification of the 19th amendment. Recent controversies around voting laws in certain states, coupled with this year’s turmoil around the Postal Service and the election, show the need to remain always vigilant and defend the right to vote. No progress won should be taken for granted; it requires advocacy and defense. In fact, as many have noted, the 19th amendment didn’t help everyone, as it never addressed racial barriers to voting. No such legislation would appear until the historic legislation of 1965.

Overall, the year 2020 presents a convergence of need around numerous issues, and new landmarks are being demanded on the issues of race relations and access to the vote. No one of us has the answer alone, but together it is important to keep making our voices heard at this important time in our nation’s history. To make progress, we need to rally our compassion, seek a better understanding of each other, and take united steps forward.

I can think of no better way to conclude, than to share again these inspired words by John Lewis, which reflect a key part of progress:

“When you see something that is not right, you must say something. You must do something.”

— Gareth Henderson

A bit of good news

It’s always a plus to start your week with some good news, and a story of someone pursuing their dream certainly fits the bill.

It was uplifting to hear about Clayton Ward, a bus driver so inspired by the kids he was driving that he is pursuing a teaching career. He’s looking to teach history — a passion of his — at the high school level and is heading back to school himself to chase that dream. He hopes to be teaching in a classroom sometime in the next five to six years, Ward tells Good Morning America. He encouraged people not to give up on their dream. 

“Whatever it is, just go and chase it,” he says.

This story was a welcome break from the regular news cycle and its barrage of heavy topics. One has to be in the know as a journalist, but there truly are a lot of good things happening out there. That is true in Vermont, in New England, and well beyond the region. 

One of the best things about being a journalist is having the opportunities to share uplifting news, and share it widely. We just have to keep our eyes peeled, and our ears to the ground. There’s plenty of goodness to go around, and it’s there to inspire each of us to be a force for good in the world. That’s the most natural thing we do.

— Gareth Henderson

Back to the land

This photo shows a plot shared by Deb Rice and Barbara Abraham at the Sustainable Woodstock community garden at Billings Farm. (Barbara Abraham Photo)

Growing your own food and bringing it into your kitchen is a tradition that goes back a long way in Vermont. 

In the past few months, there’s been a broadly renewed focus on those values, and community gardens have been a big part of it. I’ve been proud to see that first-hand, with my family and I having a garden plot in the Sustainable Woodstock community garden at King Farm. It’s one of two community gardens Sustainable Woodstock oversees, the other being at Billings Farm. I believe such sustainable local food sources are crucial, and they will be a key part of helping with food security on a regional level going forward. I’m grateful for all the tremendous attributes these gardens bring into the mix; they are, each one, a wonderful gift. 

We’ve found our community garden plot to be a tremendous educational experience. Not only is it instructive for me as a first-time gardener, but it’s also a wonderful asset to my 14-year-old daughter’s education. Science, history, math — these all tie into the gardening experience and offer unique ways to learn from it. I admit, I’m appreciating more than ever the different stages of gardening and how they link together to grow the lovely vegetables we’re now enjoying. From soil to seed to yield, it’s all so worth it. 

Another benefit is getting outside and getting some exercise amid nature’s splendor. As a journalist who has spent much of his working life typing in a chair (like I am as I write this), this is a good change for me. I’ve also enjoyed the family togetherness element of this effort, as we help tend the plot and keep track of its flourishing inhabitants. If one lesson stands out in my mind, it’s that squash and zucchini grow fast — really, really fast. 

My main takeaway is that I’m grateful for the overall experience, going back to the land using an important food source just a short distance from home. Wherever you live, chances are you have a local group nearby working on a sustainable food-source project of some kind, especially these days. Reach out to them, get involved, and you may find yourself growing local food, too. It’s a fulfilling journey, and an experience worth cultivating. 

— Gareth Henderson

Seeking understanding

Clouds catch the last glimmer of evening sunlight near Cabot Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

This country was built on finding common ground between differing points of view. Though that ability often seems elusive right now, it’s a focus we can regain, and it starts with working to understand each other better.

On that note, the breakdown of pandemic relief negotiations in Washington are fresh in people’s minds today. That result showed the great need for effective collaboration, especially in times of great need. Many observed the situation over the past week, hoping the talks were sufficiently driven by the urgency of the moment, that — just maybe — a deal would be hammered out. Instead, the negotiations stalled, and on Saturday President Donald Trump took executive action on several key items, including extending enhanced federal unemployment aid, though at the reduced rate of $400 per week. For now, the talks remain at a standstill. 

While the issues at the federal level loom large, given the great need for a new COVID-19 relief bill, Vermont’s unified approach to the recovery provides some reassurance. Gov. Phil Scott and his team continue to unveil grant programs and other initiatives backed by funding the Legislature approved this year. That money comes from the federal CARES Act, and other initiatives supported by that money are expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks, to further help with recovery. 

To be sure, the road ahead is one of limited options to address this economic crisis. As I ponder it, I’m reminded of the governor’s words in a prior press conference: “It just takes us, united, to make this a better country for everyone.” At the time, he spoke of the need to address issues of racial equity, and that statement can also apply to healing political rifts and other divisions in our nation. The solutions to all crucial issues start right in our own communities, with a willingness to step closer to somebody else’s truth and compassionately understand their perspective. From that point, we can move toward building unity, heart by heart, and eventually use that momentum to take on big problems. It’s a gradual process, with an end-goal that’s worth pursuing.

— Gareth Henderson

Update: On Sunday, Aug. 9, Reuters reported that U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin each expressed a willingness to resume COVID-19 relief talks.

Relief bill talks edge forward

Clouds dot the landscape in this view from the afternoon shade of North Bridgewater Road in Bridgewater, Vermont, on Friday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Talks on pandemic relief legislation in Congress have made some progress, but there’s much more work to be done. 

That was the first weekend update on these important negotiations, which many Americans hope will lead to more unemployment support, further aid for struggling businesses and financial help for states. Meanwhile, the enhanced federal unemployment benefit of $600 per week has expired, impacting 30 million Americans and adding urgency to the negotiations. That gap in emergency assistance and concerns over rental evictions are central issues to the talks. 

On Saturday, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows met for over three hours with Democratic leaders, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. 

“I think we would characterize the discussions as the most productive we’ve had to date,” said Mnuchin said, speaking to reporters. 

Schumer and Pelosi agreed with that assessment in their comments to the media after the meeting. 

“I’d call it: progress, but a ways to go,” Schumer said. 

Jarring economic news added urgency to these talks as well. Statistics have been troubling, but none more so than the recently announced plunge in gross domestic product of 32.9 percent, between April and June. That’s the nation’s largest decline in GDP since the 1940s — and a reflection of the toll the pandemic has taken on the economy. It’s also a stark reminder that efforts to address the pandemic, and their effectiveness, are tied to economic health.

On that note, Vermont continues to have the lowest COVID-19 caseload in the nation. After halting reopening efforts for weeks amid national surges in cases, the state increased the capacity limit on retail stores from 25 to 50 percent on Saturday. That was the same day Vermont’s statewide mask mandate went into effect. 

Gov. Phil Scott announced the capacity limit increase on Friday, noting the state’s COVID-19 data and the start of the mask requirement.

“While we still have much more work to do to reopen our economy, I still think the cautious approach we’re taking is the right one,” Scott said. 

The governor also announced that the state’s emergency response team will be distributing 200,000 free masks to towns, emergency responders and community partners throughout Vermont.

Clearly, much depends on the next federal relief package. Businesses, individuals and states require much more assistance to move forward in the current environment. Fortunately, though, on the health front, Vermont continues to hold firmly to its progress against the coronavirus. That is hopeful news as schools move ahead on their reopening plans to start the academic year on Sept. 8. 

As that process continues, the impact of continued visitor traffic into the Green Mountains will be on many minds. But so far, the state and so many communities have shown thoughtful, measured and steady leadership, and Vermonters have banded together to keep each other safe. Those efforts can still have a powerful impact and help meet the challenges of the coming weeks, for everyone’s good.

— Gareth Henderson

Lewis to young Americans: Let power of love guide you

It's the easiest thing in the world, to revert to old routines that feel comfortable and familiar. But now the world demands we do better. It demands unconditional love and courage, allowing us to truly see each other with the heart and take bold action for unity and justice. 

The importance of such action rang out vehemently, as numerous speakers honored the life of civil rights leader, U.S. Rep. John Lewis, in recent days. His story speaks so strongly, of the need to protect democracy and stand up for civil rights, with love and humility as the foundation of that work. 

On Thursday, former President Barack Obama — the nation's first African American president — delivered the eulogy at Lewis's funeral at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Obama spoke of Lewis' younger days, as the son of sharecroppers in Troy, Alabama, and how significant those roots are.

"What a revolutionary notion, this idea that any of us ordinary people, a young kid from Troy, can stand up to the powers and principalities and say, 'No, this isn't right, this isn't true, this isn't just — we can do better.'"

Obama noted Lewis's unceasing perseverance, even when surrounded by the violence and hate directed at him and other activists. At age 21, Lewis was one of the original Freedom Riders, and at age 25, he led 600 marchers across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, where they were beaten by police. That was one of three Selma-to-Montgomery marches, which highlighted racial injustice and led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act. 

"He as much as anyone in our history brought this country a little bit closer to our highest ideals," Obama said of Lewis.

During this entire week, no stronger was the importance of action expressed, than in Lewis's own words. He wrote an op-ed days before his July 17 passing, and it was published on Thursday in the New York Times. 

In his final writing, Lewis described how inspired he was to see millions, from all different walks of life, unite in protests following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. 

"You filled me with hope about the next chapter of the great American story when you used your power to make a difference in our society."  

He urged people to continue that movement, remembering the philosophy of nonviolence taught by civil rights champion Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

"When you see something that is not right, you must say something. You must do something," Lewis said. "Democracy is not a state. It is an act, and each generation must do its part to help build what we called the Beloved Community, a nation and world society at peace with itself."

It's incumbent upon all of us to remember that democracy is indeed an act, and it's calling upon us all, right now. We're asked to examine old routines of thought, ask whether they are just, and find ways to better understand each other. With that, we lay the foundation for greater justice and peace. We make "opponents" into friends.

As we move forward together, no one path toward change will look the same. Small steps lead to larger action, and greater change. 

In his op-ed, Rep. John Lewis spoke to the new generation of protesters that gave him and numerous others so much hope:

"When historians pick up their pens to write the story of the 21st century, let them say that it was your generation who laid down the heavy burdens of hate at last and that peace finally triumphed over violence, aggression and war. So I say to you, walk with the wind, brothers and sisters, and let the spirit of peace and the power of everlasting love be your guide." 

— Gareth Henderson

The home we all share

We've been blessed by the beauty of our natural surroundings, especially over the past four months. Indeed, the scenic quality of nature, even if viewed for a moment, has been a constant comfort during these times. It's dependable; spring and summer always arrive.

As we all remember, the first signs of spring were uniquely magical this year. That first robin on the tree by the window, that first flower sprouting, made one pause to see and hear nature saying, "This one thing is still the same." Those powerful moments helped us carry hope forward into one more day, and into the next.

Those signs assured us of something else: Summer was on its way. With nature welcoming us outside after these long weeks, it's no surprise to see so many people getting outside in Vermont and throughout the wider region. Sometimes, it seems like every other car passing by carries a few kayaks or bicycles. Local trails are popular now, and any body of water is a chance for folks to get relief from the strong summer heat. Of course, the local region's natural beauty is a draw in any warm season, and that's still true now, though tourism is down overall amid travel restrictions. That said, the visitors who are able to come up are very much out and about enjoying the mountains and valleys that make up this outdoor haven we call home. 

Having all these beautiful surroundings right in our backyard is truly special, and this year is reminding us how important nature is, wherever we are. It’s important because it connects us all —we live within it, not separate from it. And so, it’s up to us all to be good stewards of the environment, because it really is our home, that collective, beating heart of the world we all share. 

— Gareth Henderson

Onward, with grace

As daunting challenges grip the country, Vermont has aimed to protect its progress during the pandemic and maintain an emphasis on working together. 

On Friday, as he announced a statewide mask mandate effective Aug. 1, Gov. Phil Scott said he wanted to protect Vermont’s gains as cases surge elsewhere in the country. Those gains included having the lowest number of COVID-19 cases in the nation as of this week. That happened because most people in the Green Mountains followed the guidance from health experts, the governor noted. 

“Our numbers show Vermonters have stepped up to keep each other safe, which has become known as the Vermont way,” he said.

Though nearby New England states have mainly kept improving in the past month, recent increases in COVID-19 metrics in the wider Northeast region have concerned state officials and other experts. David Rubin, director of the PolicyLab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, told Vermont Public Radio on Saturday that case growth in recent weeks has occurred in Delaware and New Jersey. He noted the recent small outbreak in Cape Cod as well. This week, Massachusetts issued a new travel order, effective Aug. 1. One of its requirements is that incoming travelers must quarantine for 14 days, or produce a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered up to 72 hours prior to their arrival in Massachusetts. Failure to comply carries a possible fine of $500 per day. Vermont is one of the lower-risk states exempt from the order.

As more summer traffic heads north, Vermont has continued to watch incoming numbers. This week, officials said Vermont saw a total of 7.1 million visitors as of Friday morning — an increase of 200,000 over the prior week. The state’s color-coded map, with the color green indicating low-risk counties from which travelers can visit Vermont quarantine-free, has seen a reduction recently in the number of green counties. That’s “reflective of the case growth across the country,” according to Michael Pieciak, commissioner of financial regulation, who has headed up Vermont’s data modeling efforts. 

Naturally, Vermont officials have spent a great deal of time looking at data. That vigilance led to Friday’s announcement, which the governor said was meant to be proactive. But it’s worth noting the governor placed just as much emphasis on our treatment of each other as we continue onward as a state under the mask mandate. Scott urged “kindness” and “meeting people where they are.” 

"Let's do things the Vermont way by being role models and leading by example," he said.

That’s an important place to start, because we all want our state to stay healthy and succeed, with Vermonters being supportive of one another and those who visit us. The current adversity, of course, is unprecedented, constant and merits great caution every day. But as we continue on with our lives, we have the option to do so with a unified grace and compassion, while following all official guidance and regulation. We can do all those things, while maintaining the good, inclusive approach that makes Vermont special — and so very needed — in this country.

— Gareth Henderson

Helping the states

As state budgets face enormous shortfalls, one of the greatest needs in the country is federal aid for states. 

That’s one of the main sticking points of the new coronavirus relief package as Congress resumes work this week after a summer recess, according to National Public Radio. In Vermont, the projected shortfall for fiscal year 2021 is over $400 million — that’s what the Legislature must contend with when it reconvenes in August.  

In Congress on Monday, the clash of opposing sides was almost immediate, when it came to the new pandemic relief bill. A point of contention is whether to allow states to use relief funds for plugging revenue gaps, which are certainly on the increase. One of the biggest concerns is sustaining annual funding for important state-funded services, many of which impact the most vulnerable among us. In related news: Discussions are underway about how to sustain the $600-per-week federal direct payments to individuals on unemployment benefits, NPR reported. Those payments are set to expire on July 31. The U.S. House has passed a bill extending the benefits.

That work comes amid a backdrop of national challenges, making it more important than ever to maintain a united, collaborative approach to major issues here in Vermont. And we have a good basis for doing so. For the most part, Vermonters appear to be open to the safety precautions given by the state amid the pandemic. Part of the reason for that is the measured approach in delivering those guidelines to the public, with regular updates on the state’s progress. As of Monday, Vermont’s COVID-19 data continued to show good trends; the state had no coronavirus-related deaths in the last 30 days.

Despite the often troubling national rhetoric, we can have confidence in the progress Vermont has already made, and join together in taking more forward steps as a statewide community. These start with simple steps, even beyond safety measures. They include making sure we stay connected with our neighbors, make sure they have what they need, and, sometimes, talk through some challenges. What’s been true, remains true: We’re in this together.

— Gareth Henderson