New bill aims to strengthen invasive species prevention

Trees in the late-afternoon sun along River Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The push to revitalize forests being destroyed by invasive species will have new funding, if a new bill wins approval in Congress. 

U.S. Rep. Peter Welch of Vermont, who reintroduced the legislation on Thursday, emphasized the link between the environment and the economy. The bill would also fund efforts to stem future infestations of invasive pests and pay for relevant federal studies.

“Invasive species are devastating to forests which are a central part of Vermont’s economy and our way of life,” Welch said. “This bill will fund efforts to revitalize damaged forests and highlight the need for making this a priority within the federal government.”

More than 200 tree species growing on nearly two-thirds of forestland in the continental U.S. will be threatened by non-native insects and pathogens over the next decade. The most prominent trees threatened with extinction include American chestnut, elm, and ash. Vermont’s ash trees in particular are threatened by the Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive beetle first discovered in Vermont in 2018 that is taking a heavy toll on local forests. The Vermont Woodlands Association is one of the sponsors of the bill. 

“After many years of working with our friends at the Center for Invasive Species Prevention, Vermont FPR (Forest, Parks and Recreation), private forestry, academia, and other invasives nonprofits, VWA is proud to support the Invasive Species Prevention and Forest Restoration Act as an important legislative initiative in the work to restore America’s trees under threat of ecological extinction from invasives,” said Al Robertson, Secretary of the Vermont Woodlands Association.

Welch’s bill does the following:

• Expands the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s access to emergency funding to combat invasive species when existing federal funds are insufficient and broadens the range of activities that these funds can support.

• Establishes a grant program to support institutions focused on researching methods to restore native tree species that have been severely damaged by invasive pests.

• Authorizes funding to implement promising research findings on how to protect native tree species.

• Mandates a study to identify actions needed to overcome the lack of centralization and prioritization of non-native insect and pathogen research and response within the federal government, and develop national strategies for saving tree species.

Though we have many urgent needs today relating to human survival, it’s critically important that we stay focused on the needs of our environment. Decisively addressing the impact of invasive species is crucial to protecting the vitality of our landscape. For Vermont and many states, that goes to the heart of creating a sustainable economy. Rural economies and their business ecosystems often depend on maintaining a healthy environment, since that’s a huge part of what attracts new residents, keeps visitors returning, and ensures money for businesses in the high season. 

Sometimes, it’s easy to make the assumption that the natural world will always be there, in the healthy state we’ve depended on for so long. But it takes work to sustain that, and efforts like this bill help that work successfully continue, so we can support a strong environment — a crucial part of Vermont’s economic future and its very identity.

— Gareth Henderson

Governor encouraged by efforts on Vt. relief bill

The Woodstock Village Green in early February. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont lawmakers are currently working on a $62 million COVID-19 relief bill, and on Tuesday, Gov. Phil Scott told reporters he was encouraged by the proposal’s progress. The House plans to complete its work on the package and send it to the Senate later this week, according to news reports. 

Highlights from the bill include $10 million in grants for businesses that didn’t qualify for federal COVID relief; $1.3 million for the Reach Up program to provide one-time payments for families in need; $1.4 million for the Vermont Foodbank; and $5 million for the state’s mental health system. The legislation also fast-tracks $10 million in funding for the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board and another $10 million for trail networks and outdoor recreation infrastructure — both elements of the governor's budget proposal. 

At Tuesday’s press briefing, Scott praised lawmakers for their work on the new bill. He noted the package had money for state park infrastructure projects, and he was pleased with the overall proposal.

“I don’t see any showstoppers at this point,” Scott said. “I think it’s great news for Vermont, because these are projects that can hit the ground running, that can put a shovel in the ground almost immediately.”

The $62 million package was approved Monday by the House Appropriations Committee, according to media reports. Funding for the bill comes from one-time state money and about $13 million left over from the federal COVID relief dollars Vermont received in 2020.

States are eager for help from the next federal relief package making its way through Congress. The U.S. House is expected to vote on the Biden administration’s $1.9 trillion relief bill later this week.

— Gareth Henderson

State adjusts gathering rule, gives update on tax form debacle

The Ottauquechee River Trail proceeds alongside its namesake in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

With continued progress on the vaccine front, Vermont announced another change in its statewide COVID-19 health guidance on Tuesday. 

Effective immediately, anyone who has been fully vaccinated may gather with another household, whether the other household is vaccinated or not. This only applies to one household at a time, Gov. Phil Scott said at a press briefing. This is the first change in this restriction, since Vermont enacted its statewide ban on multi-household gatherings shortly before the holiday season.

Last week, the state removed the quarantine rule for fully vaccinated travelers — effective two weeks after the second dose — for both residents and visitors. Amid Tuesday’s rule change, the state continues to study other potential opportunities to loosen guidance for vaccinated people. However, Scott emphasized this is a methodical process. 

“As a reminder, we’re doing this because CDC guidance changed earlier this month, because they concluded that not only do vaccines protect you from COVID-19, but they also protect you from spreading it, which is very encouraging news,” Scott said.  

If Vermont’s vaccination progress is any indication, further adjustments to statewide restrictions are likely in the coming weeks. Effective next Monday, the state will open vaccination appointments to all Vermonters age 65 and older. As of Tuesday, over 91,000 Vermonters had been vaccinated against the virus — that’s about 15% of the state’s population. That total includes 66% of Vermonters in the 75+ age group, and 18% of residents ages 70-74. 

In the next few weeks, the state plans to open appointment registration to people in high-risk health categories who are between the ages of 16 and 64, according to Human Services Secretary Mike Smith. He urged people in that group not to call their health providers about appointments, saying the state will have more information about that phase next week.

As he has for the past two weeks, Scott entered Tuesday’s briefing with more good news from a weekly U.S. governors’ call with White House officials. The governor reported that U.S. vaccine doses are increasing by 1 million, meaning that Vermont will receive 1,000 more weekly doses over the next three weeks. Federal officials also hope the new Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine will receive emergency use authorization this week. Additionally, the vaccine distribution delays caused in multiple states by the recording-breaking winter storm should be resolved by Friday, though this wasn’t an issue for Vermont’s supply.

On the call, White House and CDC leaders emphasized to governors that, despite progress on vaccines, precautions are still important. 

“It’s as important as ever to follow public health guidance, even as we’re able to make important steps forward,” Scott said. 

He again mentioned that other potential changes to statewide restrictions are being explored.

“We’ll have more to share in the week ahead, but we’re moving in the right direction,” Scott said.

New 1099-G tax forms hitting the mail soon 

With tax day fast approaching, Vermonters who filed for unemployment in 2020 should be receiving their 1099-G forms later next week. Many thousands of forms sent earlier this month were recalled after a colossal mailing error led to a breach of private information, including forms with other people’s social security numbers heading to the wrong addresses.

On Tuesday, Vermont Department of Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington again apologized to Vermonters for the breach. 

“I know this has been unsettling and it’s caused additional stress and worry during a time where there is already so much uncertainty,” Harrington said at a Tuesday press briefing. 

He acknowledged people are eager to receive their new documents, and they should expect them later next week. 

“Ensuring the new information is the best it can be has been our top priority for the last three weeks,” Harrington said. 

During the month, return envelopes had gone out to 1099-G claimants so they could easily return 1099-G forms that had been improperly mailed. He noted that if anyone had received a return envelope, but hadn’t received their tax document, that likely means their 1099-G form had been stopped before it could go out. 

As previously announced, Vermont is offering identity theft protection in this case.

“By now, all 2020 unemployment claimants have been mailed a letter with details and instructions on how to enroll in identity theft protection services being offered by the state, at no additional cost to the individual,” Harrington said.  

Most people should receive that notice by the end of this week. Claimants have until May 18 to enroll, and the protection is retroactive to Jan. 29. 

When the new forms go out, some Vermonters will receive more than one 1099-G, but that’s no mistake. Harrington explained that during the 2020 calendar year, his department administered nine different types of benefits through five different programs. Because of this, someone enrolled in multiple programs will receive more than one 1099-G form. 

The state is awaiting the results of an independent audit to determine what caused the breach, and there have been no reports of fraud or identity theft connected with it so far, according to news reports.

In the coming days, claimants can view updates on this situation on the Vermont Department of Labor website, or call 877-214-3332 and select option 1 for the latest 1099-G news.

With tax day coming on April 15, most claimants should have about a month to file their taxes, Harrington said. Anyone concerned about being able to file on time should go to tax.vermont.gov for more information.

— Gareth Henderson

Help at an hour of need

The rising sun tops the ridgeline in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Even during the severest of challenges, when hardship impacts so many, Americans step up for their neighbors. That was evident during a recent effort when two Texans facilitated free deliveries of food and other supplies for their neighbors, during the state’s severe emergency caused by the winter storm, outages and water shortages. 

Debra Crawford Davis and Megan Johnston started Facebook groups for Anderson County and Grayson County, respectively, to help with communication about who needs help, what was open and what the weather was doing, according to CNN. It was coordination when their community needed it most.

"We are a small town, but we're a close town," Crawford Davis said of Palestine in Anderson County, in a CNN interview. "We're able to see the good in one another and come together for the greater good."

That project has been one of many acts of kindness amid this crisis. There were also reports of people helping each other by sharing a generator, for example, or opening their homes to others looking for alternate shelter from the extreme temperatures. In Manor, a suburb near Austin, Starla Everett welcomed her neighbors, Adrian and Gina Escajeda, into her home to warm up. The couple’s house had dropped to minus-6 degrees inside, and without power and water service for most of last week. They remained at Everett’s place for a couple of nights. Adrian Escajeda was inspired by his neighbor at a time when supplies for everyone were low.

"It is so amazing to know that even in times of need — and knowing the grocery stores are closed — people would still open their homes and offer their food," he said.

In Texas, wider efforts are underway to help on a regional level. Water distribution sites have been set up around the state, the PBS NewsHour reported Sunday, and more than 2 million bottles of water had been distributed around the state as of Saturday. FEMA and other federal partners are leading the continued efforts on deliveries at this important time. Hunger is another key issue now, with many store shelves empty after disruptions to the food supply during the storm. At height, the storm left 4.5 million people in Texas without power.

By Monday, many Texans had seen power restored to their homes, and temperatures in major cities like Austin, Dallas and San Antonio reached above 65 degrees. The fallout from the storm’s impacts heated up as well, as the outcry grew over sky-high electric bills many people received. Some increased by thousands of dollars, mainly due to the state’s unregulated energy market, according to the PBS NewsHour’s Monday report. Speaking to the media, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick promised the state would find a solution to the issue. As of Monday evening, water-boil advisories remained in effect for 8.8 million Texans.

The recovery from this historic weather event will be a complex one. During the process, hopefully the heartfelt, community support will continue to spread and be of some comfort at this time of need and loss. It’s not a stretch to imagine this will be another time that will be recorded in Americans’ tradition of helping each other when it matters most, which has been a theme of the past year as well. That love and support remains, and it can uplift us even in our darkest, most impossible hours. For each other, we can — and will — be strong.

— Gareth Henderson

Signs of progress

Trees near Lake Pinneo in Quechee, Vermont, on Sunday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

While cross-country skiing near some trees this weekend, the late-afternoon sun sharpened and dark-blue tree shadows blanketed the snowy landscape. I saw the shadows shift ever so slightly, every time I moved forward on the path before me. Where shadow seemed to reign, there was also light. 

We have seen many looming shadows over the past year as the U.S. has dealt with the pandemic. Those challenges have begun to shift, and the light of progress has shone a little brighter, with each forward step. For example, Vermonters recently got the good news that, effective on Tuesday, individuals who have been fully vaccinated — meaning two weeks after their second dose — will no longer have to quarantine after traveling to Vermont. This includes visitors coming in from other states, as long as they can prove they've been fully vaccinated.

That change in Vermont was announced Friday in accordance with new CDC guidelines. The state’s public health guidance remains in effect, including the required masking and social distancing, Gov. Phil Scott noted at a press briefing. Though the vaccination process has been going well, Scott said, the state will be cautious about loosening its COVID-19 regulations.

“I want to be very clear: We’re going to do this carefully and methodically, like we have throughout the pandemic, and I’m asking for your patience as we work our way through this,” Scott said Friday. 

Vermonters’ strong adherence to public health guidance has helped greatly reduce COVID-related deaths and hospitalizations since January, the governor said, noting the state’s successful vaccination effort has also contributed to that progress. As of Friday, over 21,000 Vermonters age 70 and older had already signed up for their vaccine shots, after that age group had become eligible just three days earlier. That means Vermont will be able to open registration to the 65+ age group “very soon,” Scott said.

The hopeful COVID-19 data has also allowed progress on other pandemic regulations. Recently, the state allowed competitions for winter sports to proceed, and school music rehearsals and performances were given the green light as well. All these activities of course, must follow specific health guidelines, with no audiences or game crowds allowed. 

One of the state’s more stringent rules came just before the holidays: Vermont’s ban on multi-household gatherings. However, the governor on Friday said the state is taking a look at how the new CDC guidance may impact that rule, and he expects to make an announcement this week. 

All this comes amid a backdrop of steady improvement for COVID-19 data here and around the country. New cases in the U.S. have been on the decline since mid-January — same for Vermont and much of New England. The data suggests vaccines are a big part of that positive trend, and vaccination will speed up as more supply becomes available. 

Recent trends are indeed hopeful, and they help that light of progress shine brighter. For many individuals and business owners, those brighter days can’t come soon enough. Businesses need the larger crowds and greater traffic flow to survive, especially during the busier, warmer months. People deeply miss being able to gather with family and friends, and communities miss having the cherished annual events we all love. 

All those things remain possible. But first, we must renew our patience and our care for one another, and forge ahead through this winter of change. We can know that, although stages of progress may seem small with our hopes so great, they’re each a forward step and a reassurance that we’re heading the right direction. The hard work so many have done for their communities and the state is encouraging to remember as we face the shadows ahead. While we proceed, those challenges will shift as progress resolves them and guides us toward better days. The last several months have shown that the state, region and country can indeed make progress together. This is not only a chance to resolutely pursue that path, but to build a stronger future, using all we’ve learned during the pandemic. We’re equal to that task, and we have an opportunity to seize.

— Gareth Henderson

Online Town Meeting features projects, local candidates

Route 4 in Woodstock Village, shown here by The Green, is due to be re-paved this summer. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

For two hours on Saturday, the town of Woodstock conducted its annual Town Meeting discussion on Zoom for the first time, covering a number of projects on the horizon. Three Select Board candidates also spoke to voters, a little more than a week out from the March 2 election.

A giant paving project in the village, a new Emergency Services Building and planning for Town Hall renovations were among the meeting’s major topics, as about 50 people showed up at the online gathering. Starting off, Moderator Matt Maxham explained the rules, including that no amendments would be taken and all voting is by Australian ballot this year due to the pandemic. One more informational meeting is scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m., also on Zoom.

The polls are open on Tuesday, March 2, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., and registered voters can request an absentee ballot from the town clerk to vote early. This coming Friday is the last day absentee ballots can be returned to the clerk’s office, but they can also be turned in during the voting on March 2. 

Turning to the projects, Fire Chief David Green said the town hopes to break ground on the new Emergency Services Building on April 1, and DEW Construction of Williston has been selected as the contractor. A bond was previously approved by voters to pay for the new building. 

This year, the state is paving Route 4 in Woodstock Village during the summer. Part of Route 12 and also Route 106 from the village to the Woodstock Country Club will be paved as well. Two informational Zoom meetings will be held to discuss the Route 4 project. The first is for residents on Feb. 25 at 1 p.m., and a meeting for businesses is on March 3 at 7 p.m. 

Over the past year, Woodstock’s highway crew got as much work done as possible in the areas where the paving project will occur, according to Select Board member L.D. “Butch” Sutherland, Jr. This year, the town hopes to do some work near the East End and Maplefields before the paving starts. This past year, given the lack of funds, contractors and time, the town focused more on getting curbs re-set, Sutherland explained. 

“We’re looking at the worst areas and moving forward with those,” he said. 

Some other local roads are on the list for blacktopping this year, and work on the Pleasant Street sidewalk is also in the plans. In all, Sutherland said, the town is planning on $128,000 in paving this year. 

As for the Town Hall, Select Board member Jill Davies said the town is assessing the needed work, which is extensive.

“There is quite a lot of repair and renovation that needs to happen,” she said. 

Some work was done on the side of the building during the past year. Now, the town is working with architects to draw up some plans for the first and second floors, including interior and exterior work, town office renovation, upgrading the theater and sorting out ADA access, Davies said. They’re also examining options for the old addition on the back of the building; the addition was built in 1928. For the overall Town Hall project, the town is hoping to fund it with significant private donations and grants, using a smaller amount of taxpayer money. The project already has $2 million in private donations and pledges, Davies said.

Also at Saturday’s online meeting, Select Board candidates addressed the public. Davies faces a challenge from Joe Swanson for a three-year seat. Ray Bourgeois is running unopposed for a two-year term on the Select Board.

Davies has served on the board for four years and is seeking her third term. She has many years of experience as a management consultant and has served on the boards of several local nonprofits. Davies said we all want to see Woodstock succeed, but we have to take steps to make sure the town has a sustainable future. “We’re reaching a critical moment,” she said.

Speaking after Saturday’s meeting, Davies said that work includes taking on issues like local housing, keeping taxes at a reasonable level, and good capital planning. She’s been involved in addressing the town’s infrastructure needs, including energy audits on all town buildings, and would like to continue her work as a Select Board member at this important time in the town’s history.

Swanson is currently a sergeant with the Woodstock Police. He served in the Vermont National Guard and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010, where he rose to the rank of sergeant in the Guard. At Saturday’s Zoom meeting, Swanson emphasized the work he did during the recovery from Tropical Storm Irene, and his service as a town auditor. He wrote the grant for the EV charging station at the East End Park, to bring more electric-vehicle drivers into town. He is the son of the late Phil Swanson, Woodstock’s longtime municipal manager. Joe Swanson noted his own civic involvement in the community and the importance of communication.

“I want to foster a culture of cooperation and communication between Select Board members and members of the town administration, and community stakeholders,” Swanson said.    

Bourgeois, a retired Boston University grounds manager, was appointed to the Select Board and served for part of last year after Sonya Stover stepped down. He wrote budgets, managed equipment purchases and supervised staff during his 22 years at BU, and is looking to put his expertise to work for the town. For Bourgeois, the road infrastructure is a particular concern and he noted Woodstock will have to be ready for when the economy opens up.

“We’ll need to hit the ground running, with a capital plan in place,” he said in an interview Saturday afternoon. 

At the town’s online meeting, capital planning also came up. Woodstock Municipal Manager William Kerbin said the town has been working on updating its financial process. He said this doesn’t reflect any prior bad management. Rather, the town is bringing a renewed focus to transparency and managing future obligations, especially given the number of projects on the horizon. Kerbin said this will create a system that will be easier for the public to understand and easier for the town to work with. He said the current system “is not a sustainable system for municipal financial management.” 

Because of that, the town has been looking at possible changes in-depth for the past four months, Kerbin confirmed. The plan is to have a proposed Capital Budget for fiscal years 2023-2027 ready for Select Board review in November. 

Select Board Chair Mary Riley said the financial reporting process is being revamped so it reflects that the town is not a profit-and-loss organization. She emphasized that profit is not the focus. 

“We’re here to make our budget work for what we need and what we need to do,” Riley said.  

Speaking of that, there was a brief discussion on the town’s proposed $6,731,068 budget, which includes about $5 million to be raised by taxes. The budget reflects a 2.9% increase, which includes this year’s bond payment for Emergency Services Building project, Kerbin said.  

Near the close of the meeting, the Maxham, the town moderator, recognized two individuals who were recognized in the Town Report this year: Michael Brands, who retired as town planner and zoning administrator after over 30 years of service; and Paul Wildasin, who served as lister for 15 years and also retired in 2020.

“If we were all here in person, we would give them a big round of applause,” Maxham said. Sutherland, who is not running for reelection this year, was also recognized for his many years of service to Woodstock on Saturday, marking his last Town Meeting as a board member.

Through chat messages and vocally, a number of people praised the town for bringing Town Meeting online without a glitch. 

“I really applaud the Select Board for what’s been done here today,” said Jeff Kahn, who is also chair of the Village Trustees. 

One feature of Town Meeting that isn’t happening this year, is the annual update from state legislators. Rep. Charlie Kimbell said he and Sen. Alison Clarkson will hold a Zoom meeting for local residents next Saturday for that purpose. Stay tuned for details.

— Gareth Henderson

For more information about voting and Monday’s informational meeting, visit the town website at townofwoodstock.org or read Omni Reporter’s Guide to 2021 Woodstock Town Meeting.

Correction: The original version of this article had the incorrect date for the addition on the back of Woodstock Town Hall. The addition was built in 1928.

Guide to 2021 Woodstock Town Meeting

Woodstock Town Hall is shown above. This year, Woodstock is holding two informational meetings instead of the traditional, in-person Annual Town Meeting. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A lively debate and a community lunch are cherished parts of Woodstock's annual town meeting, but things have a different look for 2021. Instead, all discussion is on Zoom, voting is by Australian ballot and lunch is at home. It's the latest example of important local traditions adjusting to life in a pandemic.

This year, the town will hold two public informational meetings on Zoom. They are this Saturday, Feb. 20, at 10 a.m. and on Monday, Feb. 22, at 6 p.m. Connection information is online at townofwoodstock.org in the "Upcoming Meetings" section near the top of the home page.

On Friday morning, Select Board Chair Mary Riley said the town has been trying to get the word out about the 2021 Town Meeting arrangements as much as possible. The Town Warning has been posted on the website for over a week.

"It's different for all of us, so it's going to be a learning experience from the first word," Riley said.

No amendments on ballot items will be allowed at either meeting, and all items will be decided by Australian ballot. Polls are open on Tuesday, March 2, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Woodstock Town Hall. Like last November, early voting options are available. Registered voters can request an absentee ballot, and for that, Town Clerk Charlie Degener said "the sooner the better." Friday, Feb. 26, is the last day to return absentee ballots directly to the clerk's office, but they can also be turned in at the polls on March 2. Any mailed absentee ballots must be received by the time the polls close.

Degener said the biggest difference under these circumstances is the amount of absentee ballots coming in. But that isn't as new as it used to be.

"We had practice with that last year with the August primary and November election, so I think that should go smoothly," he said.

Degener said some voters have called in to ask about the details of the town meeting plan this year, but he noted that Woodstock always does some of its town meeting business at the voting booth.

"Unlike some towns who do everything from the floor, with our hybrid model, people are accustomed to voting on some issues by Australian ballot," Degener said.

When they head to the polls, Woodstock town voters will decide a pair of races this year. Select Board incumbent Jill Davies faces a challenge from Joe Swanson for a three-year seat. Vying for first constable are incumbent Kelly Linton and Devon Kurtz. Ray Bourgeois is running unopposed for a two-year term on the Select Board. Also on March 2, voters will decide on the proposed town budget of $6,731,068 — that includes about $5 million to be raised by taxes.

The 2020 Town Report can be viewed online, or request a physical copy by emailing Nikki Nourse at nnourse@townofwoodstock.org. The clerk's office is reachable at 802-457-3611 and will be closed on March 1 and March 2 for the election.

As for Woodstock Village, the Village Trustees will soon be getting the word out about their annual meeting, which will also be an informational meeting on Zoom. That will be held on March 9 at 7 p.m. The same rules apply — no amendments, and all voting is by Australian ballot. Village residents can vote absentee, including the mail-in option. The village polls will be open on March 16 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Printed copies of the 2020 Village Report will be available at town hall and other locations. Three Village trustees — Board Chair Jeff Kahn, Brenda Blakeman and William Corson — are running unopposed for reelection.

Speaking on Friday, Kahn said he hadn't heard from many village residents about the new arrangement, as much of the focus is currently on the town. He acknowledged the in-person element will be missed this year.

"We like looking at people and having questions answered and motions made from the floor, but that's not happening this year, and we'll carry on the best we can," Kahn said.

— Gareth Henderson

Important weeks ahead for next COVID relief bill

A sunset view of the Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Work continues on the Biden administration's COVID-19 relief plan, and U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is hoping for significant progress in the next two weeks.

The $1.9 trillion proposal could help the U.S. return to full employment in a year, Yellen told CNBC on Thursday. She said a plan of that size is needed to weather the economic storm of the pandemic. Some Republicans, who proposed a $618 billion package Democrats rejected, fear "overheating the economy" and causing inflation.

“Inflation has been very low for over a decade, and you know it’s a risk, but it’s a risk that the Federal Reserve and others have tools to address,” Yellen told CNBC. “The greater risk is of scarring the people, having this pandemic take a permanent lifelong toll on their lives and livelihoods.”

The administration's current proposal would provide $1,400 direct payments to most Americans and would begin gradually increasing the U.S. minimum wage to $15 per hour. The bill also has significant funding for vaccine distribution and COVID-19 testing, and it contains state and local funding that governors of both parties have been requesting for months.

The minimum wage increase, enhanced unemployment insurance and an expanded child tax credit in particular have drawn criticism from GOP lawmakers, Business Insider reports. COVID-related unemployment benefits start expiring on March 14.

Conversations continue between the Biden administration and some Senate Republicans about the relief bill, though the White House proposal has won no Republican support in Congress so far, according to ABC News.

Maryland’s Republican Gov. Larry Hogan, who met with President Joe Biden last week, warned the president against passing the relief bill with only Democratic support — which the majority could do. According to ABC, Hogan told Biden doing that may complicate future work on major issues like infrastructure or rebuilding the economy.

"I said to him, just because you can do something doesn't mean you should," Hogan told ABC News on Sunday. "And I said that I thought that it was good for his agenda over the next four years if he started out by getting some Republicans on board in a bipartisan way."

House leadership is hoping for a relief bill vote in that chamber by the end of next week.

According to a recent CBS News/YouGov poll, 83% of Americans approve of Congress passing a new economic relief package.

— Gareth Henderson

Wintry blast continues its widespread impact

The view behind the Woodstock History Center earlier this month. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The winter storm that pummeled the country this week may have left New England, but its impact persists elsewhere with severe power outages and major delays in vaccine distribution. At least two dozen people have died this week from weather-related incidents in the U.S., according to The Associated Press.

In Texas, power had been restored to over 600,000 people by Wednesday morning, but 2.7 million homes in the Lone Star State were still in the dark shortly before 2 p.m., NPR reported. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which runs about 75% of the state's power grid, acknowledged the hardship people are enduring in the extreme cold.

"We know millions of people are suffering," ERCOT's president and CEO, Bill Magness, said in a statement Wednesday. "We have no other priority than getting them electricity. No other priority."

ERCOT asked local utilities to shed 14,000 megawatts of load, which equates to around 2.8 million households. Some municipalities urged residents to reduce their electricity usage, and many had to issue boil-water notices.

The weather's impact also hampered the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts in Texas and elsewhere. In Vermont on Tuesday, Gov. Phil Scott said White House officials warned governors that day about postponements in vaccine deliveries to different states due to the storm.

"I'm not sure how that will affect us, but stay tuned," Scott said.

On Wednesday, the delays hit some parts of the Northeast. In New York, Mayor Bill de Blasio said the city had to hold off making 30,000 to 35,000 vaccination appointments due to delayed distribution from elsewhere in the country due to weather, The Associated Press reported.

The heavy Arctic blast continued to impact Americans from the south-central U.S. to the mid-East Coast throughout Wednesday. Though some areas will see more moderate temperatures in the coming days, many will experience temps 20 to 35 degrees below normal such as the Great Plains, Mississippi Valley and the lower Great Lakes region, according to the National Weather Service.

— Gareth Henderson

Data trends hopeful amid pandemic, officials say

A hillside scene by Stage Road in Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Positive data trends continued in Vermont and nationwide as vaccination efforts advanced into a new age group in the state this week.

On Tuesday, Vermonters age 70 and older became eligible for COVID-19 vaccination appointments. On the same day, Gov. Phil Scott learned that Vermont’s vaccine allotment would increase by about 2,500 doses per week starting next week — part of an additional 2.5 million doses being rolled out nationwide.

It also appeared the vaccination effort so far is helping the state's numbers continue to improve. The seven-day average for new COVID-19 cases among 75+ age group has decreased from an average of 10 cases per day one month ago, to an average of about 3 cases per day now. Hospitalizations and deaths from the virus are on the decline here and across the country, and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine may get FDA emergency approval by month's end. But Scott said following health guidance is still critical to moving forward, even amid this good news.

"I encourage Vermonters to not let up, meaning follow the health guidance: Wear a mask, keep your distance and avoid crowds," Scott said at Tuesday's state press briefing.

The governor also said the CDC has issued new quarantine guidance for those who have been fully vaccinated, including what's required if someone is a close contact of someone with COVID-19 or traveling. Given that, Scott said the state is working out some changes to its public health guidance.

"This will be very narrow at first, but we hope to announce changes at Friday's briefing that will allow more mobility for Vermonters," Scott said. "So, stay tuned for that."

As of Tuesday at 11 a.m., over 11,000 Vermonters age 70 and older had registered to receive the vaccine. That's about one-third of that whole age group. Human Services Secretary Mike Smith urged people to be patient during the influx of phone calls from newly eligible Vermonters, and he asked anyone who can to register online.

"Things have been going well, but please be patient as call volumes are higher than normal," Smith said.

During Tuesday, all the state's vaccination sites were open during the ongoing stormy weather, with the exception of the UVM Medical Center's site at the Champlain Valley Expo grounds. Smith said UVM opted to close the site, and any Tuesday appointments were to be rescheduled for times within a week. Another vaccination clinic for that area was added for Saturday, he noted.

As of Tuesday, 78,200 Vermonters have been vaccinated against COVID-19, according to state data. Vermonters age 75 and older became eligible for the vaccine late last month — 51% of people in that group have received their first dose, and many have appointments coming up.

Nearly 850 homebound Vermonters have also received their first dose of vaccine, Smith said. Now, the state is trying to reach out to homebound Vermonters who are not easily identified through home-health agencies, he explained. Smith said the state will continue outreach to hospitals and primary care offices to help locate those individuals.

"We want to extend our deepest appreciation to the many partners that have assisted us and continue to support a successful vaccination program across our state," Smith said.

— Gareth Henderson

Editor’s note: For clarification, within the state’s vaccination plan, Vermonters age 75 and older are in Phase 2 of the plan, and those in the 70+ age group are in Phase 3.

Winter Storm Uri closing in on New England

Woodstock Village after a storm earlier this month. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Widespread winter weather has broken snowfall records across the country, and Winter Storm Uri is now heading to New England, where snow and ice is expected to begin early Tuesday. 

Not all areas are due for tons of snow on Tuesday, but forecasters are warning about snow and ice mixing on the roads in many parts of the Northeast region. In Vermont, the higher snowfall is expected to be in the north, with much of the state, including the Woodstock area, getting 6 to 12 inches. Some southern areas may see less than 6. The farther south you go, the more ice on the roads will be the main issue, said Tyler Jankoski of MyNBC5. 

“The heavy snow and sleet is for all of us in the northern half of the region, with that icing south,” Jankoski said. 

A winter storm warning was in effect from 7 p.m. Monday through 7 p.m. for most of Vermont, with 1 to 2 inches of snow falling per hour between midnight and 7 a.m.

What’s coming is the culmination of what’s been an epic weather event elsewhere in the U.S. On Monday afternoon, communities from the Rio Grande to the Saint Lawrence River were under winter weather advisories, and about 3 million people were without power. Most of those were in Texas, where traffic in every major city ground to a halt because of snow. 

“I want to encourage people to stay home, to stay off the roads,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner at a press briefing.

Oklahoma City, which also had record snowfall, had endured five-straight days of 25-degree temperatures, and states across the Plains have recorded record-low temperatures as well. The weekend brought 11 inches of snow to Seattle, breaking that city’s snowfall record for February. 

As of 4 p.m. Monday, over half of the U.S. population remained under winter weather advisories. 

Vermont’s COVID-19 vaccination clinics will remain open on Tuesday, but people wishing to reschedule their appointment due to the weather are asked to call 855-722-7878.

In the Green Mountains, the storm is expected to largely subside by noon on Tuesday, and sunshine and 25 degrees is in the forecast for Wednesday.

— Gareth Henderson

A flurry of Valentine's Day cheer

The pavilion, like the entire East End Park in Woodstock, Vermont, is decorated for “We love Woodstock”. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Today’s forecast: a flurry of Valentine's Day cheer, and Woodstock, Vermont, is showin' the love at its newest public park.

As I write this, the East End Park is decorated with brilliant red hearts for this Valentine's weekend. Sponsored by the Woodstock Community Trust, the weekend-long decorations give people a chance to "share their love for Woodstock, their families and that special someone by taking pictures to post on social media," the online announcement reads. People are invited to Tag @woodstockcommunitytrust on Instagram or Facebook with #welovewoodstock.

Organizer Barbara Barry, part of the Sustainable Woodstock group which created the park, said “We Love Woodstock” is an ideal event for this public space. The goal was always to make it “a community asset”, Barry said, and this event meets the need for people to enjoy the outdoors, especially these days. She’s seen people throughout the weekend taking photos there.

“We really decorated for people to get out and have some fun," Barry said.

"We Love Woodstock" is shining the light of joy this weekend. Combined with the scenic views in the park, it offers a beautiful setting to share a walk, get some fresh air and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of nature.

But that's not all the good news. As the weekend drew closer, several Vermont businesses reported an uptick in business as people began picking up Valentine's gifts — especially via online orders. Some of those orders may have gone to loved ones whom family and friends haven't seen for months, and so, they're sending some gifts from afar for this holiday, too.

Whatever the trends turn out to be, any efforts to create and share joy fill our hearts now more than ever, and add some hopeful light to the day. Events like the one in the park show we're still supporting each other, even when at a distance, and they remind us happiness is most fulfilling when it's shared. It's wonderful to see the community sharing it, and to witness how our creativity spreads the light of joy and love for all to partake.

— Gareth Henderson

One of the many hearts at East End Park this weekend, with more in the distance. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

New COVID-19 relief bill taking shape

A view from Wild Apple Road in Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

While the impeachment trial consumed the past week in the Senate, lawmakers in the House have been crafting the next COVID-19 relief bill. 

U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, Vermont’s lone congressman, is a senior member on two of the House committees working with President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion relief proposal. Those would be Energy and Commerce, and Oversight and Reform, and they both voted to approve key components of the package.

“In my committees, we worked to make President Biden’s bold plan tangible and focused to help Vermonters and all Americans get through this unprecedented pandemic,” Welch said. “I am pleased that we produced legislation that will help Vermonters contain and crush this terrible virus, by including robust state and local funding, billions of dollars for vaccine production, distribution and COVID testing, and help for the most vulnerable among us to make it through the winter.”

The provisions passed by the committee include: 

• State and Local Coronavirus Relief Funds: Vermont will receive an estimated $961 million in state and local funds.

• $7.5 billion for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for national vaccine distribution and administration, including assistance to state and local health departments.

• $5.2 billion for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) to develop and purchase additional vaccines for the U.S.

• $4.5 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP is a vital lifeline to help Vermonters heat their homes during the cold winter months.

• $46 billion for COVID-19 testing, contact tracing and mitigation measures around the country.

• $7.6 billion for Community Health Centers throughout the U.S. to assist with COVID-19 response.

• $7.6 billion for the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) E-Rate Program to expand access to broadband in the U.S. and allow for the purchase of connected devices for students and library members.

The COVID relief package is expected to pass the House in the coming weeks before being taken up by the Senate.

— Gareth Henderson 

A fact sheet on the Committee on Energy and Commerce’s work is here. A fact sheet on the Committee on Oversight and Reform’s work is here.

Trump acquitted of incitement charge

The U.S. Senate acquitted former U.S. President Donald Trump of incitement of insurrection, as a week-long impeachment trial concluded on Saturday. 

A majority of senators voted 57-43 on the incitement charge, but that fell short of the supermajority needed to convict. Seven Republican senators joined the Democratic majority in voting to convict the former president. They were: Sens. Richard Burr of North Carolina, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Mitt Romney of Utah, Ben Sasse of Nebraska and Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania.

The trial centered around Trump’s role in the events of Jan. 6, when a mob of the president’s supporters invaded the U.S. Capitol, injuring multiple police officers. A total of five people died as a result of the siege, including a Capitol Police officer. Two other officers committed suicide in the weeks since. Lawmakers were evacuated from Congressional chambers as the rioters, enraged by the president’s oft-repeated false claim of a stolen election, delayed the counting of the electoral votes which would eventually confirm now-President Joe Biden’s election victory. Some of the rioters walked through the hallways intent on finding Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and then-Vice President Mike Pence — with some of the mob calling for his hanging. 

The House impeachment managers argued that a speech Trump gave on Jan. 6, combined with his conduct in the weeks prior, incited the rioters to march to the Capitol and attempt to violently overtake it. Managers also used video footage from that day, as well as tweets and statements from the former president, to build their case. Trump’s defense attorneys, however, countered that the speech did not amount to incitement and that the impeachment was a continued political “witch hunt” against Trump. Some Republicans voted to acquit because they assert the Constitution doesn’t provide for the impeachment of a former president — a stance the House Managers opposed, saying there is precedent for former officials to be impeached. 

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who voted to acquit, started his remarks after the vote by saying the president, a fellow Republican, undoubtedly fueled the fearsome events of Jan. 6.

“The people who stormed this building believed they were acting on the wishes and instructions of their president, and having that belief was a foreseeable consequence of the growing crescendo of false statements, conspiracy theories and reckless hyperbole which the defeated president kept shouting into the largest megaphone on planet Earth,” McConnell said. 

However, McConnell also asserted that impeachment does not apply to officials who have left office — one of his main reasons for supporting acquittal. 

But Sen. Collins, of Maine, saw it differently. In her statement after the vote, Collins said Trump encouraged the mob in the hope of preventing a peaceful transfer of power — as demonstrated by his hours-long delay in calling off the riot.

“This impeachment trial is not about any single word uttered by President Trump on Jan. 6, 2021,” Collins said. “It is instead about President Trump’s failure to obey the oath he swore on Jan. 20, 2017. His actions to interfere with the peaceful transfer of power — the hallmark of our Constitution and our American democracy — were an abuse of power and constitute grounds for conviction.” 

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer decried the widely-expected acquittal. He remarked, “Jan. 6 would not have happened, but for the actions of Donald Trump.” 

Saturday marked the culmination of an historic impeachment trial, which stemmed from the first time a president had been impeached twice. 

Also during this week, House committees have reportedly been marking up President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief proposal, in an effort to advance that bill. The House hopes to complete any changes and pass the bill before the end of the month, CNBC reported Friday. It would then move to the Senate.

— Gareth Henderson

Car racing adds some humor on heavy news day

A brilliant sunset illuminates the clouds in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

When the Daytona 500 kicks off on Sunday, we’ll already have some indication who the governor of Vermont will be cheering for. 

That’s because car racing briefly came up during Vermont Gov. Phil Scott’s press briefing on Friday. But perhaps it wasn’t too surprising. After all, Scott is a longtime stock-car racer and began racing at Thunder Road in his hometown of Barre, Vermont, in the early 1990s. 

The conversation turned to sports on Friday, after a reporter asked about a proposal in the Legislature that would extend sports betting to Vermont. It’s an effort Scott supported, given that it could bring much-needed revenue to the state.

“Where (the money) goes will be determined, but we have a lot of need, and in some respects, getting this on the table is good news,” Scott said. 

The next question for the governor was, “Who are you betting on for the Daytona 500?” Scott said he wasn’t betting as that’s not permitted in the state at this point. 

“But I have my favorites,” Scott said with a grin. When pressed, he humorously replied, “A lot of different drivers.” 

The real favorite might be one car in particular — like #42, a Chevrolet driven by Ross Chastain. 

“We have a lot of different connections, in terms of Vermonters being part of NASCAR teams,” Scott said. “In fact, my godson is a crew chief on the 42 car, so that will be on the top of the list for me.” 

That provided a light moment during a day that was heavy with news for the Green Mountain State, particularly for vaccination and schools. 

On the school side, Education Secretary Dan French unveiled new guidance that will soon allow for music rehearsals and performances in schools, albeit with restrictions. Full details will be published online next week.

As Vermont moves further into the recovery phase, restoring activities like music will “go a long way toward restoring a sense of normalcy” in students’ lives, French said. 

Some of the restrictions school music programs will have to follow include: 

• All performers will be required to have a 6-by-6-foot distance around them when performing (for trombones, the distance required is 6-by-9 feet). 

• Students playing woodwind and brass instruments will be required to wear masks with slits in them while performing.

• The air in rehearsal spaces will need to have three complete exchanges per hour. 

• Rehearsals are limited to 30 minutes each. 

• No audiences are allowed during performances. 

French said other areas in the education arts will be looked at as well. 

“Music is essential to the well-being and academic success of our students,” French said. “In the coming weeks, we’ll look at other areas of our guidance, such as the performing arts and theater, and do a similar evaluation.”

Progress was also announced on COVID-19 vaccination efforts. As of Tuesday, Vermonters age 70 and older will be able to register online for their vaccine appointments, as announced by Scott at the press briefing. That’s the next part of Phase 2 of the state’s vaccination process. For the past several weeks, vaccination sign-ups have been limited to the 75+ age group (or “age band”, as the state puts it). Eligible Vermonters can register at healthvermont.gov/myvaccine or call 855-722-7878.

On Friday, Scott said the progress has been faster than anticipated, with over 85% of the 75+ group having been scheduled for, or already received, their vaccinations.

“Opening to the next age band is an important step, especially with hope on the horizon for increased supply and approval of new vaccines,” Scott said.

— Gareth Henderson

Starting out with good

The sun breaks through along Route 4 in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

It’s easy to be swept up in the energy that seems to be prevalent today. From the pandemic, to economic woes and the sense of division in Congress and the country, there’s a troubling weight to current events. 

But, especially now, the most important daily consideration is what we allow to exist and grow in our thinking. Our thoughts are the real fuel by which we get through the day, and only we, ourselves, can consistently give them a foundation of good that guides our experience. Years of working in a newsroom environment taught me this quite well, because the news cycle often brings you topics which are difficult to hear. Creating a routine that brings positive momentum to your day is critical, because it sets it on a positive trajectory based in goodness. It also brings reassurance that good is always available and able to lead us forward — a good reminder to have when we grapple with the more difficult topics of life.

As we embrace a positive start to the day, it’s also important to have aspects of our day that inspire us. Throughout recent months, I’ve increasingly appreciated how important this is, because it lends a kind of freedom to thought that grows joy in our hearts. We can always use more joy. For me, in the summer and fall, I found that joy in playing tennis, and, later, regularly revisiting old matches I used to watch in earlier years. It was a rediscovery of how much I love that sport, and it’s something I plan to continue. 

This all comes down to remembering what’s foundational to our well-being, even amid the constant busy-ness of daily life. There are important moments in each day, and the most critical one is right after we awake. Starting our day on a positive track, and keeping our thinking inspired for the better, is a sure way to welcome good into our lives and share the resulting joy with others. It can be easy to forget what we need most, but if we remember to plant the seeds of good early in the day, there’s no better way to build the groundwork for daily inspiration, harmony and progress.

— Gareth Henderson

Moving the boat together

A wintry scene at Knox Meadow in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Even in the most difficult times when hope seems distant, we can often find at least one proof of human goodness that encourages us and renews that sense of hope.

In a recent example from Seattle, a high-school student is helping seniors in his community who aren’t tech-savvy sign up online for the COVID-19 vaccine. Arin Jaff, 17, got the idea when he watched his grandparents struggle to book appointments through the system in Washington State, according to local station KING5. Jaff compared the process to getting concert tickets online, something not every senior is familiar with. 

Jaff, a member of his local crew team, told the station his effort was also inspired by thinking about his teammates and how they work together.

"I've decided to call it the 'Vaccine Crew,' because we're really working on those ethics that the supportive Crew brings, all moving as a whole in the community and moving the boat forward, together, unified," Jaff said. 

He hoped his efforts would inspire other young people to help their families and neighbors.

"There's nothing really special about what I'm doing really," Jaff told KING5. "If every teenager just helped even one person in their community get vaccinated, some of the most at-risk people, we could really move the boat together."

That sense of everyone rowing in the same direction for the greater good is a much-needed inspiration. That story is proof that unselfish effort can truly make a difference, and hopefully it will have a ripple effect and move others to help in their communities. Our best qualities have that effect — they expand, and touch other lives. Like a ray of sun, good expands to bless everyone in its path. By nature, it operates from abundance, not limitation; from brilliance, not gloom; from progress; not failure. Like the above example, our goodness will continue to radiate outward and find a way to bless people, while also enriching our lives. We all exist in that pattern, underpinned by goodness and inspiration, which compels us to “move the boat together.” 

— Gareth Henderson 

The state of Vermont’s COVID-19 vaccine page offers a video about how to make an appointment online. At this time, Vermonters age 75 and older are eligible to register.

Walgreens to provide vaccine at some Vt. sites

The sun brightens the landscape along River Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The state wants more COVID-19 vaccination sites in southern Vermont, and a federal program will soon help toward that goal.

Over 20 Walgreens locations in Vermont will become vaccination sites as part of the federal pharmacy program, and four of those are in the southern part of the state, according to Vermont Human Services Secretary Mike Smith. The program is slated to start at the end of this week, and is expected to deliver between 1,000 and 2,000 doses per week, Smith said at a Tuesday press briefing. That's over and above the state's current vaccine allotment.

Like the state's vaccination program, the federal pharmacy program will start off by vaccinating Vermonters age 75 and older. The state will issue a news release, and include a link on its website, once more information is available about the federal program.

Also on Tuesday, Gov. Phil Scott announced that the federal government will be distributing an extra 500,000 vaccine doses nationwide over the next three weeks — part of the Biden administration's effort to ramp up vaccine distribution. That will mean about 500 more doses for Vermont. Scott learned the news at a phone call between U.S. governors and White House officials.

"Having the three-week supply is key for our planning, so I very much appreciate the way they're doing this," Scott said.

As of Tuesday, 65,100 eligible Vermonters had been vaccinated against COVID-19. Phase 2 of the state's vaccination effort continues, with Vermonters age 75 and older being currently eligible. The next part of Phase 2 includes the 70+ age group, which the governor said is likely to begin by the end of this month. So far, 32% of Vermonters in the 75+ age group have been vaccinated.

In other developments from Tuesday’s press conference, the Vermont Department of Labor continued its work to finalize a contract to provide identity theft protection to those impacted when tens of thousands of 1099-G tax forms were sent out to the wrong recipients. Those forms go to people who filed for unemployment benefits in 2020. Some of the incorrectly sent forms had matching names and social security numbers, but ended up at the wrong address. Officials announced this data breach early last week and cited a corrupted file as a factor in the improper mailings. An investigation is ongoing.

The identity theft protection, Scott said, is free and available to all 1099-G claimants, and will be retroactive to the date of the breach.

"My hope is that this will provide some reassurance, though I know it doesn't come close to making up for the harm and worry that this has caused Vermonters," Scott said. Instructions on how to sign up for the protection services will be sent to all claimants by mail.

The governor also addressed the cost of the breach — which is a lot less than it would have been if the state didn't have insurance. Scott said the state had previously purchased cyber insurance to protect Vermonters in exactly this type of situation.

"Instead of this costing many millions, it will be significantly less," Scott said. "We'll need to of course cover the $250,000 deductible, but the insurance will cover the rest, which is some good news."

— Gareth Henderson

Woodstock chief: So far, so good on new meters, parking app

One of Woodstock’s new parking kiosks sits at the eastern edge of the Village Green. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A new parking system was launched in downtown Woodstock, Vermont, a week ago, and the local police chief said it's been smooth sailing so far.

One of the things people like the most, Chief Robbie Blish said, is the ability to pay for parking on a mobile phone — instead of having to rush back to the meter in person to buy more time. The village's new parking system has 49 parking meters and also includes pay-to-park kiosks serving The Green and the Mechanic Street lot.

"From what I understand, the feedback has been mostly positive," Blish said, adding the ability to pay from a distance is helpful in a pandemic. "One of the biggest positive responses has been around the ParkMobile app, and it really fits into where we are today, being contactless. You can do it all from your phone."

Not everyone likes that, however. Blish noted that when signs about the app was being installed, several elderly residents saw them and remarked that they weren't keen on the idea. But the single-space meters still take coins and credit cards.

"We hope that everyone has the opportunity to pay the way they're comfortable with," Blish said.

The primary reason for the new parking system was that the previous meters, which were bought used and refurbished, were having issues and didn't last as long as the village was originally told, according to Jeff Kahn, chair of the Woodstock Village Trustees. However, the new system also greatly reduces the number of meters and adds the ability to pay via the app.

The new meters are similar to the ones used in Burlington, Vermont, and nearby Hanover, New Hampshire. Before the Village Trustees made the decision on the meters last year, Kahn went to Hanover to try it out first-hand and let his parking run out to test the app. He received a notice on his phone when the money ran out, and paying was easy.

"Based on that experience, it was one of the things I was recommending," Kahn said of the app.

The parking rate is still $1 per hour, parking tickets remain at $10, and parking enforcement is still 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. The app charges a 35-cent transaction fee.

One feature of the new system is that it provides the ability to adjust parking rates in different zones at particular times of year, Blish said, offering the following example.

"If you want to push turnover during foliage, you could increase rates on Elm and Central, and leave them lower around The Green, to encourage people from in town, (to) park around The Green," Blish said.

Kahn said turnover is still the main reason for having parking meters and remains an issue to this day. But how to use the capability the new system offers has yet to be decided.

"We have not made a decision yet about how we want to adjust rates for different locations, but with the new meters and kiosks, it's much easier to do," Kahn said. "We have yet to come up with a plan as to when and where we want to do rate adjustments."

Those using the parking app should take note of the zone number on the ParkMobile sign near where they park; that number will have to be entered when paying for parking. There are 11 zones in the village.

Overall, Blish hoped the new system would make paying for parking easier for people. He expected fewer situations in which someone tried to pay and couldn't.

"Really our goal is to create a better parking experience for the customer, so they feel better about parking in Woodstock than they did before," Blish said.

— Gareth Henderson

Pausing for progress

A snowy tree is bent along the Prosper Trail in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The more time you spend in nature, the more you notice the unusual. Cross-country skiing along the Prosper Trail in Woodstock, Vermont, on Saturday, I was impressed by a tree so sharply bent that it pointed straight to the side. It had a certain majestic quality, with fallen snow lining each branch and the whole trunk, and the outlines of the mountains and clouds lingering beyond the distant trees.

The image was one of inspiration, making me pause along the trail just to capture that one moment. It reminded me that "pausing along the trail" is a good habit to put into place in daily life, because moments of reflection enrich us. Within them, we have opportunities for inspiration we may not experience otherwise. Sometimes, our daily routines shut out chances for reflection without us even noticing, but that can change if we slow down, consider our actions and put genuine thought into what we do.

That "slower" approach to life frees our thinking, and opens it further toward the acceptance of useful ideas and possibly innovation. Those well-placed pauses till the soil of our thought, so we can cultivate progress and generate expressions of good in our lives. Being more receptive to that good is critical today, because it provides renewal — something the world greatly needs. Each chance we have to help with that renewal, is a chance to make a difference for ourselves and the world. That's the best way to grow as a person, and we should cherish each such opportunity.

— Gareth Henderson