Renewal: a force for progress

A mountain view from Cloudland Road in Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

After months of being a leader in its COVID-19 response, Vermont finds itself at a crossroads during a spike in cases, with the state urging adherence to public health guidance. But the solution goes deeper than science and data, although those are important. It’s about renewal of a quality Vermont has always had in spades: commitment to community. 

The good news is, the state still has that commitment, rooted in the wonderful, heartfelt love of this special place we share with our neighbors. We just need that to translate into all people following public health guidance, not just for ourselves, but for the good of everyone. Part of that is a humble realization that we are not out of the woods yet in this pandemic, and we all have to play a role guiding this state to better days. 

As many have mentioned in state press conferences, we’ve done this before. We’ve shown that commitment to each other many, many times, and Vermont is equal to defeating this virus and anything that would stand in the way of progress. 

Progress against COVID-19 is something Vermont is familiar with. That work got Vermont impressive accolades from an impressive source on Sept. 15. That’s when Dr. Anthony Fauci, of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, praised Vermont’s COVID-19 response in a press briefing with Gov. Phil Scott. That day, Vermont had a test positivity rate of 0.2%.

"It should be the model of how you get to such a low test positivity that you can actually start opening up the economy in a safe and prudent way," Fauci said of Vermont’s approach. That approach included a prevalent adherence to public health guidance, buffered by a statewide mask mandate and a robust contact-tracing program that had gotten several outbreaks under control. 

That day seems like light years ago. After the recent surge in cases, Vermont is getting used to life with a ban on multi-family gatherings — less than a week from Thanksgiving. State officials have said social gatherings were the main factor driving this new case growth. Among other restrictions, bars are now closed to in-person service, and all recreational sports league activity is suspended. 

Indeed, much has changed over the last six weeks, and concern is growing in the state. However, this fact is hopeful: Vermont and Hawaii are tied for the lowest test positivity rate in the country, at 2%, according to Becker’s Hospital Review. Also, the state has ramped up testing, adding five major sites this week, and officials are adding more contact-tracing staff as well. 

All that said, we the people remain the first line of defense against the pandemic in Vermont. The key to progress is remembering what makes us great as a state: our strong commitment to each other’s well being. Actions like following public health guidance flow naturally from that, because, along with being necessary, those actions also show consideration and love for our neighbors and community. Now is the time to strengthen those values, which have served us so well for so long. Today, let’s renew our commitment to community at this crucial juncture, and be loving to others in the process. With those qualities as our guiding light, we can make steady progress and overcome this challenge as one people, showing the world that working together is the only way forward. 

— Gareth Henderson  

Taking a step for progress

A stone wall is shown along Benedict Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

So many of us have been looking for solutions to big issues, and these days, the answers we need can seem hard to come by. What we're facing as a country has left us feeling stunned before. By now, we've all been there.

As we all seek that next step, it's easy to look for the quickest possible way to our destination. It can seem like the most obvious way through the fog. But no solution worth having appears that easily, especially in unusual times. As we keep our goal before our hearts and minds, the key is the approach to the journey and what guides it.

The highest goal today is unity, and in much of the nation, post-election fervor seems to be guiding how many people view one another. That of course includes political labels, but we know there's more to a person than their political affiliation. The key is getting people in a room together, beginning a dialogue and establishing trust.

Trust is something New York Times columnist David Brooks mentioned in a recent conversation with Katie Couric on The Pulse. Brooks said, "Two generations ago, if you asked people, 'Are your neighbors trustworthy?', 60% say yes. Now it's only 33%." He goes on to say, "And somehow restoring trust in each other is the elemental task."

This is a crucial point, because the key to building unity in the U.S. today is not about resolving political differences. It's about trusting each other enough to have an honest conversation about them, a conversation grounded on listening, decency and compassion. The biggest thing keeping those conversations from happening is fear, and that's something we have to overcome as a people, if progress is to be made.

The good news is, we can always make the decision to have those difficult conversations and gain a stronger understanding of one another. That would be a strong basis for working together on key issues, and it would all start at the community level. In this election year, much attention is rightly focused on the national scene, however that shouldn't make us ignore the difference we can make by encouraging such dialogue locally. It's an important step to take, and we can all urge that progress forward for our community, and our nation.

— Gareth Henderson

The small things, they still count

A view of the Ottauquechee River from the Elm Street bridge in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

In the early phases of Vermont's pandemic response, the impact of neighbors helping neighbors received a great deal of attention, and that continued in the following months. Today, even the smallest effort to help someone else is a big deal — perhaps more than ever.

The strong sense of community in Vermont forms the backbone of the state's culture, and that strength was a comfort for many people after the pandemic arrived and quickly impacted everyone’s life. That community fortitude sent — and still does send — a reassuring message that we're all pulling in the same direction during a time of need.

The need for that community strength only grew. When spring arrived, we saw many rise up in protest after the killing of George Floyd, and the calls for justice multiplied as younger generations became a prominent voice. The closer the election neared, the deeper the nation's partisan divide seemed to plunge. Economic issues intensified amid coronavirus restrictions. Now, the U.S. grapples with a fraught presidential transition following a Biden-Harris victory. It's the latest cause of tension in a long 2020, a year that (incredibly) concludes in less than two months.

Looking at all those challenges at once, they demand solutions, and they also form a huge mountain to climb. Reasons for doubt may seem obvious. However, that light which appears faint amid the darkness is our most critical resource in making a difference for the better. Acts of kindness can feel "small", but they also inspire others to do likewise, because they make us remember the good inside all of us. We can't help but give that gift once it's been given to us. It's natural, and it can help dissolve division.

That network of good is needed here, and it's needed all over the world. The best part of it, is that anyone can add to this continual cycle of love. Kindness in any form makes a difference and cultivates the hope we need. So, if there's an opportunity to help someone and we come to their aid, we'll not only help that individual, we help all of us by keeping hope alive. That single act proves good is still present, and it naturally propels us toward progress. Each day, we can decide to make that progress continue.

— Gareth Henderson

Keeping the community warm

Sunlight breaks through the trees along Fletcher Schoolhouse Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

No amount of good is too small to make a difference. That's been proven time and time again during the pandemic, when acts of kindness and support for neighbors have been very welcome news.

Such is the case in Cape Cod, where a knitting group is providing some uplift for a local nonprofit and the community. Through Nov. 28, the Cape Cod Cultural Center is the location for a pop-up store of hand-knit items made by the Bass River Knitters over the summer, including hats and gloves. Some items will also be sold through the holidays there.

Not only does this annual sale help keep the community warm and keep the knitting group connected, but all proceeds from sales go to the cultural center, as they do each year.

Lauren Wolk, the center’s executive director, told the Cape Cod Times the local group has raised $20,000 for the organization over the past decade.

“And the contribution that the Bass River Knitters make by donating the proceeds from their sales warms all of us here at the center, too," she said in the Times' report. "That contribution will be especially important in this extraordinarily challenging year.”

Though challenges have been the theme in 2020, so have community connections, and in many cases they've seemed stronger than ever. Throughout New England and beyond, people have pulled together to help their neighbors and local organizations, and it's been inspiring to watch. It shows that the most difficult times often make expressions of neighborly kindness multiply, providing hope where perhaps despair used to be. And furthermore, it shows we're made of goodness and compassion.

As we move through the upcoming weeks, let’s remember how strong we truly are when we work together for the greater good. Whether that leads to efforts large or small, we always outshine the darkness by helping others and cultivating hope together.

— Gareth Henderson

State bans multi-household gatherings

A view of the Ottauquechee River near the Mill Road bridge in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The state of Vermont has banned all multi-household gatherings, as part of a series of new efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Effective today, all social gatherings — whether public or private, indoor or outdoor — must be limited to a single household. That includes gatherings in private homes. Individuals who live alone, however, are allowed to gather with members of their immediate family residing in a different household.

A host of other new measures take effect Saturday at 10 p.m., including the closure of bars for in-person service and the suspension of all recreational sports leagues.

Despite the state's recent attempts to limit the spread of infections, daily case counts keep going up, including a record-breaking 109 reported on Thursday. Friday came in with 84 new cases, and hospitalizations are also rising. Since Oct. 1, Vermont officials said, 71% of the cases associated with an outbreak are associated with an outbreak from a private party or social gathering.

Gov. Phil Scott announced the new restrictions at a press conference on Friday, as he encouraged Vermonters to "double down" on public health protocols, like mask-wearing and social distancing. But he also expressed sympathy.

"I know this is incredibly discouraging, especially since many of you have worked so hard and we've had much success," Scott said. Vermont continues to have one of the nation's lowest test positivity rates. "But the fact is, people getting together, not being careful and letting their guard down, is why we're in this position today."

All that said, Health Commissioner Mark Levine noted Vermont’s public health infrastructure is well prepared to deal with the situation. He said the state has sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), and also "abundant" testing and contact tracing operations. The state is currently expanding its testing and tracing capabilities, Levine added.

Speaking at Friday's press briefing, the health commissioner also said college students returning home in Vermont (from in-state and out-of-state schools) must quarantine for 14 days or seven days with a negative COVID-19 test, and testing is strongly encouraged. In accordance with existing travel guidance, any traveler entering Vermont is subject to those same quarantine requirements.

The following restrictions take effect Saturday at 10 p.m. in Vermont:

• Restaurants must close in-person dining at 10 p.m., but may provide curbside and delivery service after 10 p.m. For in-person dining, restaurants must seat only one household per table, in accordance with existing capacity limits and the new restriction on multi-household gatherings.

• Bars and social clubs will be closed for in-person service until further notice. Curbside and delivery service is allowed.

• Youth and adult recreational sports activities, not related to Vermont Principals Association-sanctioned school sports, are suspended until further notice.

• All businesses, nonprofits and government entities shall reinstitute telework policies for all employees to the maximum extent possible. In person meetings are strongly discouraged and should be held by telephone or video conference whenever possible.

• All restaurants and other businesses hosting non-essential activities shall maintain a 30-day log of employee and guest names and contact information in case contact tracing is required by the Health Department. These individuals are consenting to be contacted by the Health Department Contact Tracing Team. Further, all Vermonters are directed to comply with requests made by the Contact Tracing Team.

— Gareth Henderson

Interstate competitions suspended for youth hockey

Clouds catch the last few glimmers of light at day’s end in West Woodstock. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

For the rest of the year, interstate competitions for youth hockey are off the table in New England and New Jersey.

Effective on Saturday through Dec. 31, the suspension of interstate hockey games applies to public and private schools and youth hockey leagues, and it was jointly announced by leaders in seven Northeast states. They include Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont, Maine Gov. Janet Mills, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu.

"As case numbers increase in many states across the country, it is critical that neighboring states coordinate a regional approach to limit further community spread of the virus," the governors said in a statement. The need to continue this restriction will be assessed later in the year. Collegiate and professional hockey activities are not impacted by this suspension, though they must follow existing state and local public health rules.

The Thursday announcement came after increased COVID-19 cases in the region caused Vermont to require a quarantine for all travelers into the state, and boost enforcement of public safety guidelines at certain businesses. Massachusetts has implemented a stricter face mask policy, a curfew on businesses and a state-at-home advisory.

Though Vermont continues to have the nation's lowest test positivity rate, it's struggling with other metrics now. On Thursday, the state recorded 109 new COVID-19 cases — its highest daily total so far, Vermont Public Radio reported. VPR noted that just in the last week, Vermont has seen 350 new infections, including some cases in each of its counties.

On Wednesday, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott ordered the state to redeploy field hospitals to prepare for a projected increase in cases, VPR reported. State officials continued to urge adherence to public health guidance, including mask-wearing, social distancing and avoiding large gatherings and unnecessary travel. The state recently issued an advisory to limit all private social gatherings to no more than 10 people.

Another thing that has been on many minds is the holidays. With this long line-up of restrictions, it will obviously be a different kind of holiday season, as state officials have acknowledged. On Tuesday, Vermont Health Commissioner Mark Levine thanked Vermonters for all the sacrifices made so far during the pandemic, and expressed confidence people could find safe ways to celebrate the holidays for the sake of their community's well being.

"I know we will find other ways to connect, to make the time together with our own households special, because how we choose to celebrate affects our family, our community and Vermont."

Also on Tuesday, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott expressed confidence the state’s communities could rise to this challenge, after months of success in suppressing the virus through the summer and early fall.

“Just like I’ve said since March, this is literally in our hands, and we’ve shown what we can do when we all pull in the same direction.”

— Gareth Henderson

Our veterans and their unwavering service

Members of the Ora E. Paul American Legion Post No. 24 march through Woodstock, Vermont, on Wednesday, on their way to take part in a Veterans Day Service in front of the courthouse. (Susan Ford Photo)

Today, many Americans are concerned about the future of the country, and at this important moment, Wednesday brought a time to remember our veterans — and a time of reflection.

In 2020, Veterans Day gave us a chance to step back and honor these heroes and the democracy they defended. Most importantly, we reflected on the innumerable sacrifices they made to protect our freedom. We have the deepest gratitude for all they've done. Their service is a tremendous source of inspiration and honor that underpins our national identity, and they exemplify dedication to a country and its people.

They fought "to secure, protect and advance the ideals on which our nation was founded," Vermont Gov. Phil Scott said in a statement on Wednesday. The work of our veterans reminds us that it takes action to defend those ideals.

“Today, it’s important for all of us to remember that those principles — life, liberty, equality, democracy and justice — have never been guaranteed, " Scott said. "Instead they’ve been hard won by those we’re honoring today, through the selfless acts of heroism and the day-to-day efforts of America’s veterans."

Those lessons from our veterans are particularly instructive today, as our union struggles under the weight of political strife.

“As we honor them today, let’s remember what patriotism truly looks like; let’s use their example to unite our nation in this time of deep division; and let’s do all we can to live up to their sacrifice, their service and their unwavering commitment to freedom," Scott said. 

The key part of that call for unity is the word "unwavering". No concept could better describe the dedication of our veterans. Today, it's more important than ever that we all embrace opportunities to build unity, with that same unwavering, courageous commitment. 

We each have a role to play in the process of overcoming the political divisions pushing at the core of our democracy. In local communities, we can take steps to start those conversations and keep them going in a compassionate, productive way which helps society. Let's strive to understand each other better and build bridges to meaningful solutions. Some days it may seem impossible, but our veterans have certainly accomplished goals that, at one time, appeared impossible. Today, our country needs us. 

— Gareth Henderson

State tightens quarantine rule amid case increases

The late-afternoon sun lingers in the hills, as seen from Route 12 in Woodstock on Saturday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont now requires a quarantine for all non-essential travel into the state, following news of increasing COVID-19 cases in the state, region and country.

Travelers into Vermont for non-essential reasons, including Vermonters returning home, must quarantine for 14 days or for seven days with a negative COVID-19 test. Essential trips are allowed, which include travel to attend preK-12 school and college if commuting daily, or for work, personal safety, medical care, care of others, parental shared custody, or for food, beverage or medicine.
Gov. Phil Scott announced the immediate change on Tuesday. The state will also increase compliance checks for public health guidance and move to expand testing.

"Though we’re not seeing the alarming growth many of our neighbors are seeing, we have to take action to ensure we don’t get to that point," Scott said in a statement. "I want to be very clear that much of our case growth is tied to two factors: Vermonters traveling out of state and Vermonters gathering in ways where distancing and masking break down. We need to act now to protect the vulnerable and to keep our schools and economy open."

As of Tuesday, the state's COVID-19 data modeling showed a 34% increase in cases in the Northeast since last week and cases are averaging 112,500 per day nationally. While Vermont continues to have the lowest positivity rate in the country, that doesn't tell the whole story. Vermont cases rose 46% this week, officials said, and hospitalizations are also rising in the Green Mountains. Over the weekend, Vermont reported its first COVID-19 death since July.

On Tuesday, Vermonters were also urged to comply with a recent advisory limiting all private social gatherings to 10 people. On the same day, Vermont saw 46 new cases of COVID-19 and was monitoring 20 separate outbreaks. Officials called for people to comply with public health guidance, including masking and social distancing.

"I cannot say this enough: To stop the spread, to protect each other, we need to act now," said Dr. Mark Levine, Vermont's health commissioner, in the announcement. "We are on the threshold — the decisions we make today will truly determine our future."

Also on Tuesday, the state temporarily suspended its cross-state travel map, as the number of counties eligible for quarantine-free travel has dropped to only two.

On or about Nov. 12, the state will implement random, plain-clothes compliance checks for public health protocols at lodging establishments and other locations where people congregate, with a focus on indoor settings, according to state officials. If substantial noncompliance is found and a location resists educational efforts, such a case may be referred to the Vermont Attorney General's office.

Starting next week, the Department of Public Safety will also distribute COVID-19 safety cards during traffic stops to help inform drivers of the travel policy and other safety protocols. The Department of Fish and Wildlife is conducting outreach to hunters to ensure they understand the updated travel policy and gathering advisory.

The governor also announced the state is expanding its testing program, entering a contract with CIC Health of Cambridge, Massachusetts, and developing a plan to offer testing every day of the week at locations throughout the state. It will also increase surveillance testing, which tests asymptomatic populations to find the virus in the community more quickly, officials said. To establish a baseline, during the week of November 16, the State will offer testing to K-12 teachers and staff. These tests will be voluntary. Following Thanksgiving break, there will be a regular rotating schedule, offering testing to teachers and staff in one-quarter of Vermont schools each week, so every teacher and staff member will be offered testing once per month.

The focus on schools will help identify cases — particularly cases that never develop symptoms — thereby helping to reduce the risk of clusters or outbreaks and supporting efforts to sustain and expand in-person learning for students, according to state officials. The process will use the more reliable PCR tests. School personnel who are waiting for surveillance testing results will not need to quarantine.

In his Tuesday statement, the governor sympathized with Vermonters.

“With the success we’ve had over the last few months, I know it is disappointing to hear about new restrictions,” Scott said. “But by acting early and doubling down on the work that made us so successful in the first place, I know we can get this under control, hold onto the gains we’ve made, and continue to be in a better position to get through this faster and stronger than any other state.”

— Gareth Henderson

Food shelf looks to brighten up Thanksgiving

The Ottauquechee River flows through Woodstock Village. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Food shelves across the country are gearing up to provide Thanksgiving turkeys for those in need, during a year of increased food insecurity during the pandemic.

In Vermont, these organizations have been crucial in 2020, since food insecurity now impacts 1 out of 4 families statewide — it was 1 in 10 before COVID-19 hit. That means there is even less to go around for the holiday season, and that's where local organizations are stepping in.

The Woodstock Community Food Shelf is providing its annual Thanksgiving baskets, in a year when donors have generously increased their support. It's estimated that about 130 families will sign up for baskets.

"We are so thankful to be a part of such a warm, embracing community, one which, although small in numbers, is enormous in spirit and generosity," according to a recent media statement from Sheila Murray, Sandra Audsley and Leigh Snell, who are coordinating the Thanksgiving Project.

This annual effort supplies a Thanksgiving turkey and all the fixings, which feeds four to six people. Fresh produce is purchased for the baskets closer to the distribution date of Nov. 21. It's a project many people in need have come to rely on, said Diana Brown, the food shelf's publicity manager. And it's all the more critical this year.

"There are always people who register as guests and they only come to get the turkey, the Thanksgiving basket, because otherwise they wouldn't have what they need," Brown said.

Late fall-early winter is a common time for donations to come in, Brown said, but people have certainly recognized the great need during this difficult year.

"There've been more people inquiring about sending money for the Thanksgiving baskets," she said.

Any individual or family living anywhere in Vermont is welcome to receive a Thanksgiving basket. There are no income barriers. The main difference this year: The baskets will be brought out to waiting vehicles, due to precautions during the pandemic.

Interested people must sign up in person at the Food Shelf by Saturday, Nov. 14. (New families can register and sign up at the same time). The Food Shelf is open Monday, 4-6 p.m.; Wednesday, 1-3 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. to noon. It is located at 217 Maxham Meadow Way in Woodstock, just off Route 4. The phone number is 802-457-1185, and the website is: www.woodstockfoodshelf.org.

Pick-up is on Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. The pick up location is at the mill building, just down the dirt road from the Food Shelf. Runners have volunteered to bring the Thanksgiving baskets out to vehicles.

There are also people who may not usually volunteer during the year, but Brown said they'll help with the Thanksgiving baskets, because it's inspiring to see the grateful smiles on people's faces as they receive them.

"I think there's great joy in it from all perspectives," she said.

Community efforts like this one are a warm embrace for those who need this support, and in 2020, that's so incredibly important. It's also such an inspiration to see people in Vermont, and in many places across the U.S., step up to meet the needs of their neighbors. It shows the resilience of our people, and the innate kindness and love which are always ready to rise to the occasion, however difficult the situation may be. That reflects who we truly are, and this holiday season, that loving spirit will shine through brightly, touching many hearts.

— Gareth Henderson

To donate to the Thanksgiving Project, checks should be made payable to the “Woodstock Community Food Shelf” with “Thanksgiving” written in the memo field. Checks may either be dropped off at 217 Maxham Meadow Way, or mailed to PO Box 570, Woodstock, Vt. 05091. If it is more convenient, donations may be made through the website: www.woodstockfoodshelf.org.

Editor’s note: The number of families expected to sign up for a Thanksgiving basket program this year has been corrected to “about 130.”

A time of relief and reflection

A mountain view from Howe Hill Road in Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

For many Americans, the prevailing feeling over the weekend was one of relief, after the 2020 presidential race was called for Joe Biden on Saturday and supporters celebrated throughout the country.

A record 75.5 million voters brought in the victory for Biden and Kamala Harris, who became the first woman and the first person of color to be elected vice president. The announcement struck an emotional chord for many, including CNN commentator Van Jones, a Black man and a father, who tearfully expressed relief at the Democratic victory on Saturday. During his moving remarks, he alluded to the increased racism minorities around the country have felt during their lives over the past four years. Media outlets have reported that Black voters were essential to Biden's success over Republican President Donald Trump in battlegrounds like Pennsylvania and Georgia.

"It's a vindication for a lot of people who have really suffered," Jones said on CNN, reacting to the result.

He also mentioned George Floyd, the Black man who died under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer earlier this year while saying he couldn't breathe. The killing sparked worldwide protests against racial injustice, and also shone a spotlight on the struggles of people of color in the U.S.

"You know 'I can't breathe' — that wasn't just George Floyd. That was a lot of people who felt they couldn't breathe," Jones said. "You're waking up every day and you're getting these tweets ... and you're going to the store, and people who have been afraid to show their racism are getting nastier and nastier to you."

While there are different views on the election result, Jones noted "for a whole lot of people, it's a good day."

"This is a big deal, for us to be able to get some peace, and have a chance for a reset," Jones said.

He also brought up character, saying the outcome showed the character of the nation still mattered. Indeed, preserving the values of decency, empathy and compassion were frequently brought up during the Biden campaign, as values that still represent the American people. Those qualities were often mentioned in the context of building unity, a theme often emphasized by the president-elect, who has pledged to work for supporters and non-supporters alike.

Clearly, the election victory was a major one, though sharp divides remain throughout the country. That makes unity-building hugely important, especially since 71 million people voted for Trump — and some of them continue to support the president's legal challenges in battleground states.

Thankfully, the election moved forward in a peaceful manner, when many were worried it may not. It's important to recognize the incredible dedication of election workers — who will likely face the task of recounts in Georgia and Pennsylvania. The voters showed up in historic numbers, and by doing so, they showed this all-important institution of voting is alive and well.

Beyond the vote, the next way to strengthen our country is to begin to heal it. On Saturday after the Biden-Harris victory was declared, Republican Vermont Gov. Phil Scott congratulated the winners and supported their efforts to heal divisions.

He urged everyone to "rise above the anger and divisiveness" and focus on our common humanity.

“We can start by treating those with whom we disagree on public policy or politics with dignity and respect, knowing vigorous debate can still be civil," he said. "We can listen to, and learn from, others — putting ourselves in another person’s shoes. And we can work to find common ground rather than creating conflict."

Scott described perfectly what must happen to heal division: local action. National unity can't be built without individual Americans deciding they're going to engage in the work as well. That includes learning, and specifically, learning from people of different backgrounds and listening to their views before forming a conclusion. Now is an important time to begin those efforts toward listening, gaining understanding and laying a foundation for progress. Together, we can calm and leaven the national conversation, and lift it to a higher place where people want to participate in solutions. That will go a long way toward addressing key issues, like systemic racism, and bringing Americans together for the greater good.

— Gareth Henderson

Biden: This is America’s ‘time to heal’

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

After clinching an historic election victory on Saturday, U.S. President-Elect Joe Biden called for unity and healing in his first public address since the result in Pennsylvania put him over the needed 270 electoral votes earlier in the day. 

It was a time of sheer jubilation for the 75 million voters who supported Biden and now-Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris, who became the first woman and the first person of color elected to the nation’s second-highest office. 

Addressing the crowd gathered in Wilmington, Delaware, on Saturday night, Harris thanked the voters, saying the result proved that the people can still change the direction of the country. 

“When our very democracy was on the ballot in this election, with the very soul of America at stake and the world watching, you ushered in a new day for America,” Harris said. 

She acknowledged the four years of struggle while many tried to make a difference. 

“For four years, you marched and organized for equality and justice, for our lives and for our planet, and then, you voted,” she said. “And you delivered a clear message. You chose hope and unity, decency, science, and yes, truth.”

Harris also mentioned her mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, who came to the U.S. from India at the age of 19. 

“She believed so deeply in America, where a moment like this is possible.” 

The vice president-elect then paid tribute to “all the women who have worked to secure and protect the right to vote for over a century.”

“Tonight I reflect on their struggle, their determination, and the strength of their vision to be unburdened by what has been,” Harris said. “I stand on their shoulders.”

She added, “Every little girl watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities.” 

The 75 million vote total was the most ever won by a presidential candidate in U.S. history, and Biden-Harris supporters filled the streets of major American cities to celebrate throughout the afternoon and evening. 

But it was a very different day for the nearly 71 million people who supported Biden’s Republican opponent, President Donald Trump, who is forging ahead with legal challenges to results in multiple states. The Democratic victor reached out to those voters in his speech from his hometown of Wilmington, saying he would work for them as president, too. 

“For all those of you who voted for President Trump, I understand the disappointment tonight — I’ve lost a couple times myself,” Biden said. “But now, let’s give each other a chance.”

He urged people to “lower the temperature” and listen to each other.

“To make progress, we have to stop treating our opponents as our enemies, they are not our enemies, they’re Americans.”  

The president-elect said Americans sent a clear mandate that their leaders need to work together. 

“The Bible tells us that to everything there is a season — a time to build, a time to reap, a time to sow. And a time to heal,” Biden said. “This is the time to heal in America.”

Biden thanked his campaign team for helping to build a broad, diverse coalition, and he pledged that his administration would reflect that diversity. He also spoke to the African American community, which turned out in record numbers in key urban areas like Philadelphia, to lift the campaign over the finish line. 

“You’ve always had my back, and I’ll have yours.” 

Harris and Biden each spoke of unity, which has been a theme throughout their campaign. 

“I pledge to be a president who seeks not to divide but unify — who doesn’t see red states and blue states, only sees the United States,” Biden said Saturday night. 

Laying out several priorities, Biden his first one was defeating the pandemic. He said he’d name a group of leading scientists and experts on Monday as transition advisors on a new plan to battle the crisis.

Biden also called for renewed efforts to combat climate change and root out systemic racism, while also speaking out against the bitter partisanship that has gripped the U.S. 

“Let this grim era of demonization in America begin to end here and now.” 

He also recited the lines to the well-known hymn, “On Eagles’ Wings,” which meant a lot to his late son, Beau, and which he hoped would bring comfort to those who have lost a loved one in the pandemic: 

And He will raise you up on eagles' wings

Bear you on the breath of dawn

Make you to shine like the sun

And hold you in the palm of His hand.

In closing, Biden said, “And now together, on eagles’ wings, we embark on the work that God and history have called upon us to do, with full hearts and steady hands, with faith in America and each other.”

— Gareth Henderson

State advises new limit on social gatherings

The Woodstock Village Green takes in the sunshine on a crisp Thursday morning. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

As the nation stayed transfixed on the election, Vermont released an advisory on private social gatherings amid its ongoing efforts to keep the pandemic in check.

The Friday announcement came after the U.S. recorded over 100,000 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday — the first time the nation passed that daily total. Thursday’s cases topped 120,000.

Vermont still has good news to be proud of, including one of the nation's lowest test positivity rates (0.5 percent as of Tuesday) and no COVID-19 deaths since July. But in response to case increases around the region and country, and with social gatherings as a major cause, state officials are now advising Vermonters to keep all private social gatherings to no more than 10 people, and with a very limited number of trusted households. Officials said Vermont has seen higher daily case totals in the fall as indoor gatherings increase, with Thursday bringing 24 new cases.

Speaking at a Friday press conference, Gov. Phil Scott strongly urged people to follow this new guidance. He emphasized the importance of keeping virus spread low, so schools can safely continue with in-person instruction — a critical need for students.

"By staying vigilant, and being smart, and limiting our gathering sizes and travel, even during the holidays, we can keep schools and our economy open, and we'll get through this pandemic faster and on better footing than just about any other state," Scott said.

The state continues to track 116 cases linked to a recent hockey arena outbreak in Montpelier, in which social gatherings were a factor. That primary outbreak is over, but the 116 cases come from smaller outbreaks due to that initial event; one of them includes 69 cases at St. Michael's College in Colchester, according to Dr. Mark Levine, the state's health commissioner.

Resolving those cases "will take some time, but the containment process is underway and very active, and we should remain optimistic regarding that," he told the media Friday.

Levine noted the newly announced guidance pertains to all social gatherings, including those at home, on campus or around town. Recent contact-tracing efforts in Vermont uncovered virus spread stemming from holiday parties, birthday parties, sleepovers and other private gatherings, he said. With the holidays coming up, Levine urged people to avoid large gatherings and adhere to the recommended gathering limit, while following rules like mask-wearing and social distancing.

"As you plan your holidays, have an open conversation about safety," he said. "Let your friends and family know what you need to feel comfortable."

Levine expressed sympathy with those who are eager to see loved ones during this very unique holiday season.

"For many it will be hard, for you, for me, everyone. We all have traditions we cherish and people we love to be with, but we all share responsibility to look out for one another," Levine said. "I ask you all to give this serious thought, and to please join me in taking some solace in knowing that, by making these sacrifices and finding ways to still make the holidays special and safe, we can all look forward to being together for a better year ahead."

— Gareth Henderson

Adding certainty to the equation

The setting sun brightens trees along Fletcher Schoolhouse Road in Woodstock. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Certainty has been in short supply this year, but one important thing in this country remains certain: our natural tendency toward unity.

Even amid all the political furor and the pandemic, that essential quality of unity can still gain momentum through the good expressed in this world. One proof of that was the many young people in the U.S. who volunteered to be election workers for the first time. Along with that, election workers in general have demonstrated great professionalism and poise as they've diligently forged ahead with their work, including in battleground states where they face immense political pressure. They're working steadfastly for the greater good, and that should inspire the rest of us to do the same, whether it's through civic engagement or a different avenue.

Indeed, that engagement is more important than ever, to ensure that every vote is counted and the integrity of the system protected. Election officials in key battleground states are saying the process is working. The process of receiving and counting mail-in ballots is the same one that's been used for absentee ballots for years, said Kathy Boockvar, Pennsylvania's secretary of state, in a news conference Thursday evening.

"The strength of the integrity of this vote is really unparalleled," she said.

As legal challenges in these battlegrounds persist and the presidential race tightens, we can confidently know that the integrity built into the system will be sustained as counting continues. That virtue endures and reflects the enduring spirit of our democracy, its foundational strength, wisdom and poise in the face of adversity. Moving forward with that basis, we can remain vigilant and demand to see progress continue. That collective purpose is an important way to drive the unity-building we greatly need as a people. Maintaining the bedrock of our democracy is a powerful goal, and working together, nothing can stand in our way. Of that, I'm certain.

— Gareth Henderson

Building strength through patience

Geese take a dip near High Pastures Road in Pomfret, Vermont, in October. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

As I drove along Route 4 in Woodstock late Wednesday afternoon, Mother Nature was a model of peace, calm, and settled radiance, as the setting sun's soft yellow light illuminated the trees alongside the road. Though so much has changed this year, some of the steady markers of life remind us how brilliant the world still is.

Obviously, scenes like that sunlight filling the woods are a great contrast to the tension and furor of a hotly contested election. We've seen many of those feelings throughout the year, and especially over the last several weeks.

Another trend in recent days has been the appeals for patience, as votes are counted in battleground states. These days, that particular virtue takes work, and we all know that feeling of grasping for patience and calm when they seem in short supply.

But the reality is, we each have those good qualities in abundance, just like the neighborly virtues we saw in action around the country earlier this year, when so many people united to confront challenges amid the pandemic. That pattern of kindness has continued throughout these months, and we can still harness those qualities to remain calm and vigilant this week. That's the only way to confront any fear or anxiety we may feel.

Even as a small group of battleground states continue to count votes, we can't forget the inspiration of seeing so many early voters determined to take part in this historic election. That showed our strong, collective dedication to that larger cause: the country as a whole. It was a clear sign that Americans can still work together for the greater good if they're compelled to do so.

As we continue what could be a long week, let's keep unity foremost in our minds, and continue to work toward building it among our neighbors and communities, step by step. We've been blessed with having a peaceful vote thus far, and we can still harness that momentum for the greater good, as we remain patient, loving and vigilant during this process. We can help each other embrace those qualities, be guided by them, and walk this path together in strength.

— Gareth Henderson

Presidential race tightens as counting continues

American flags are displayed on the Ora E. Paul memorial marker on the Woodstock Village Green. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The closer it got to midnight, the more the 2020 presidential race tightened up on Tuesday night. But a conclusion was nowhere in sight.

The influx of mail-in ballots was a major factor throughout the country, as many millions of them remained to be counted. Additionally, the rules governing the counting process vary from state to state this year. Resulting delays in some areas were expected to last into Wednesday morning, as a nation awaited the outcome of the race between Republican President Donald Trump and Democratic former Vice President Joe Biden.

Close to midnight, Trump held the lead in the battlegrounds of Michigan and Pennsylvania, with just over half the vote counted in both states. Biden pulled ahead in Virginia at the same time, with CNN calling the state for the former vice president. Within the hour, multiple networks called the pivotal states of Ohio and Florida for Trump. Minnesota was soon called for Biden, who also held a lead in Arizona as the hour neared 1 a.m.

In earlier local news, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott (R) won a third term as governor, with Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman (P/D) conceding the race around 9 p.m. Scott had a substantial lead of 66 to 27 percent, with 88 percent of districts reporting.

“Today, Vermonters have spoken and I am humbled to earn your support once again, your faith and trust in me is the greatest honor of my life and I will continue to work every single day to make the lives of Vermonters better," Scott said in a video statement.

Earlier in the day, Scott also made headlines by confirming he voted for Joe Biden for president — the first Republican governor in the country to admit such.

Also in Vermont, the closely-followed lieutenant governor race had Democrat Molly Gray ahead of Republican Scott Milne, 50 to 41 percent with 88 percent of districts reporting.

U.S. Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT) easily won reelection, taking 67 percent of the vote in that race, according to The Associated Press. Republican challenger Miriam Berry came in at 26 percent.

Nationwide, early voting hit 70 percent of the 2016 general election vote total on Monday. Similarly, Vermont's voting also surged before Nov. 3, surpassing two-thirds of the state's 2016 vote tally by the weekend.

That's not to say the polls were quiet on Tuesday in the Green Mountain State. Far from it, said Democratic State Rep. Charlie Kimbell, of Woodstock, who was greeting voters outside of town hall on Tuesday.

"We had people waiting in line at 7 a.m.," Kimbell said, adding he'd seen a steady stream of people throughout the day. There were also voters who insisted on casting their ballot in person on Election Day, he noted, to uphold that tradition amid the pandemic.

— Gareth Henderson

The election we control

A stone wall near the Woodstock-Pomfret town line on River Road. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Well before this momentous week got started, the choices for president in 2020 were very clear, and political leanings well established. But those aren't the only choices we get today.

In fact, we'll have choices every moment leading up to when the polls close, and long, long after Tuesday night. Each moment, we have an opportunity to elect how we will approach the times we're in, and reject what distracts us from those values. Whatever noise we may be hearing from the political realm, we can choose to walk the steady path of caring for our fellow humans, and encouraging others to do so.

Through social media, we've all seen hate compel people to display words, images or video footage meant to tear someone else down. That's become a tired habit, one we're all too familiar with. Starting right now, we can jointly make the choice to go against that popular grain, and build each other up. If we each embrace being an influence for good, that can provide an avenue for people to work together on important issues and cultivate the progress this country needs.

With that approach comes another very important benefit: an emphasis on progress, not on our differences. Many times this year, our differences have been used to divide us, and this stokes fear and distracts good people from working together. If we make the effort to find common ground, we can turn the tide and move forward in a more productive direction.

In the next 24 hours, we'll surely be tempted to give in to that all-too-familiar swell of emotions, in this challenging political atmosphere. But we have the power and fortitude to reject that negativity, embrace the good within us, and consider how we can be a part of positive change, whether that occurs locally or on a larger scale. Above all, the most important election is how we choose to travel those precious moments before us. Let's all decide today, that a loving approach is more important and more powerful than any other path. Staying on that path is not weakness, but the greatest strength — one we can readily share with everyone.

— Gareth Henderson

Choosing peace

A sign at Woodstock Town Hall encourages those who haven’t yet voted to come to the polls on Election Day. Nationwide, over 91 million people have voted early — surpassing two-thirds of all ballots cast in the 2016 presidential election. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

As we edge closer to Nov. 3, there is an understandable and palpable concern across the country about what will happen after Election Day. But we don’t have to let this creeping fear or division overtake us.

Even in this bitterly contentious election, there is still room for Americans to take the calmer path and embrace the way of peace as the week goes on. This involves expressing love for our fellow neighbors and standing up for the greater good when an important need requires it. This path means interacting compassionately with others, regardless of political viewpoint.

As we move further into the week, it's a good time to remember the words of the late civil rights leader and U.S. Rep. John Lewis. In his final op-ed published posthumously in the New York Times, he spoke to the new generation of protesters that gave him so much hope this year:

"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."

That path of peace is the one we must remain on as a people, and it starts with each one of us deciding that's the only way forward. Peaceful progress must be our goal, with an underpinning of love and compassion. It is time to chart that course, and be resolved to follow it together, though it will be difficult at times. If we peacefully move ahead and build key partnerships that promote unity, we will be doing our part to shape our collective future compassionately. We will reject division and make progress with our best virtues leading us forward.

— Gareth Henderson

The healing power of community

A couple of pumpkins displayed recently along a sidewalk on River Street in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The world can discourage us and knock us off the path of progress in an instant, but we can also reject that eventuality, and confidently know that the best in us, as a people, is still very present and powerful.

The spirit of many cherished traditions and events has lived on, and found new expression, despite numerous barriers presented by the pandemic. The latest example of this is Halloween, with trick-or-treating happening less but within lower-key, smaller events in neighborhoods — like it was probably done decades ago (with the exception of social distancing and other health precautions).

Examples like that are reassuring, because they show how we still embrace our communities, which are the key to healing the divisions that block efforts toward a more just society where we can more readily trust one another. Our communities can effectively be incubators for broader, national progress. To see that happen, we have to patiently work at it on the local level, cultivating productive relationships and building new ones to create a new patchwork of unity, one that values progress while respecting differences.

Meanwhile, Election Day is coming up, and as the nation counts down the hours until the polls close on Tuesday, we face important and daunting challenges as a country. Whatever may happen in the coming days, we can decide to lay a foundation for unity together, by acting on the side of peace, patience and compassion for others. In the end, the solution to society's issues follows a more loving path, which will gradually dispel hate and distrust as we work toward improving this nation we cherish.

— Gareth Henderson

Reasons for hope

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

Even with all the tension in the world today, the thing that gives U.S. Rep. Peter Welch the most hope is seeing Vermonters help Vermonters.

For example, there are 1,300 volunteers working with local agencies in Franklin County to get meals to people in need, Welch said Thursday, speaking during a “Future of Democracy” panel hosted by the Cornell Institute of Politics and Global Affairs. Responding to questions from listeners, panelists noted the importance of taking action at the local level to build the unity the country needs. 

“That community engagement, it's there, and it gives me great hope," Welch said. 

Vermont’s lone congressman joined U.S. House Intelligence Committee Chair Adam Schiff, of California; former U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp, of Tennessee; and the former U.S. Ambassador to India, Tim Roemer, of Indiana; for the discussion led by former U.S. Rep. Steve Israel, of New York, on behalf of Cornell University. 

Concern about the vote was a major theme, and Wamp and Roemer spoke about the organization they helped form, the National Council on Election Integrity. It’s “a bipartisan group of political, government, and civic leaders united around protecting the integrity of our elections,” according to its website, counteveryvote.org. Wamp, a Republican, and Roemer, a Democrat, put their longstanding working relationship to good use for this new organization, just as they did when they served in Congress together. 

“Zach and I have a lot of disagreements on policy ... but one thing we will go to the mat on, and fight for our lives on, is the right to vote and to count every vote," Roemer said.  

He said the National Council on Election Integrity encourages patience while the votes are counted, staying peaceful as a nation, and allowing Constitutional processes to take place. The group plans a robust advertising campaign in the days following Nov. 3 to encourage these principles. 

Part of this effort is encouraging people to get behind civility and societal norms that have been tossed aside in recent years. Wamp said the divisive impact of big money in politics, most notable now in negative campaign ads, must be dealt with after the election passes. 

“Our republic unravels if we do not have a set of norms and values that we all respect,” he said. 

Those norms and values have been further challenged through the realm of social media, where misinformation has spread out into the larger society, faster than ever before. This has led Welch to ask whether some federal regulatory oversight is needed for social media companies. He noted it’s tougher than ever to have an actual debate within the bounds of fact. The pandemic has been an example of that, he pointed out, with some people distrusting confirmed scientific information.

“We find ourselves in the public sphere really arguing about conspiracy theories,” Welch said, citing the growing “sewer of misinformation.” He added, “There really is a business model that amplifies that: more hits, more advertising revenue.”

He acknowledged a regulatory debate in that realm would be a difficult one.

“Once you get into a free speech question, it's very fraught, but what we have to ask is, how do we deal with the social media equivalent of yelling ‘fire’ in a crowded theater?” Welch said. “You can't do that in real life, but on social media you can.”

Schiff said many more people get their information from social media now, and “fear, anger and lies travel far faster than truth.” 

“It’s lit a fire of xenophobic nationalism around the world,” Schiff said. 

Welch also noted the importance of addressing the economic inequality issues that have become ingrained in our institutions. 

“Those are issues that affect you whether you're in a red state or a blue state," he said. 

Responding to an audience question about building unity in the U.S., Schiff said an important part of the solution is getting people together in local communities to build civility, support civic education, and bridge the partisan divide. He said “neighbor-to-neighbor” solutions are important, along with larger-scale approaches. 

“I think we’ll need a strong grassroots approach to healing as well,” Schiff said. 

He sees a lot of potential for that across the country, with Americans willing to withstand some very long lines to vote early in this pivotal election.

“They're determined to overcome any difficulty and make sure their voice is heard, and that gives me a lot of optimism,” Schiff said. 

Healing is the correct word for what the U.S. needs, and the panelists were clear on the importance of the community’s role in resolving partisan divides. Bridging those differences must be at the heart of solutions to all issues facing the country. That approach helps ensure long-term collaboration for the good of the nation, but it starts at the local level. For example, community-based initiatives can facilitate communication between people who may disagree with each other politically, but they each have a wonderful, shared desire to help their community thrive. Those opportunities give people a chance to find common ground, build relationships, and, in turn, help the country become a little more unified. That’s when real change takes root.

— Gareth Henderson

Facing our challenges together

Late-afternoon sunlight breaks through onto Fletcher Schoolhouse Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

When faced with difficult times, Vermonters rise to the challenge and support each other. That's certainly been a strong theme this year during the pandemic, here in New England and elsewhere.

Today, I wanted to highlight a wonderful example of this a bit farther away from home, in the small town of Berry Creek, California. There, a father and his young daughter provided temporary housing for volunteer firefighters who lost their homes to wildfires last month. Actually, Woody Faircloth and his daughter, Luna, have been fulfilling that need since 2018, when they founded a nonprofit that supplies donated RVs for emergency housing, in response to the devastating Camp Fire.

One of the most touching parts of this recent CNN story is no doubt captured in this line: "Even with their own homes gone, the (firefighters) pushed on, evacuating neighbors and battling back the blaze."

Nothing captures the American spirit of love, courage and helping your neighbor, like a story about these firefighters and the people who helped them at their time of need. Today, with the country going through so many challenges, this account is a much-needed reminder of our natural dedication to helping one another. It shows that love and compassion still win out, even in the toughest of times.

— Gareth Henderson