Vermont lifts all statewide pandemic restrictions

A view from Fletcher Hill Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Effective immediately, Vermont has lifted all remaining statewide pandemic restrictions, as over 80% of eligible Vermonters are now vaccinated against COVID-19.

Gov. Phil Scott made the announcement Monday morning, noting Vermont is the first state in the nation to vaccinate over 80% of its 12-and-over population. He said lifting the statewide rules is now safe to do, because Vermonters have consistently worked hard to limit spread of the virus, including getting immunized.

“Again, not only do we lead the United States, but Vermont is now a global leader in vaccinations to defeat COVID-19,” Scott said. “Our state has shown the world what’s possible when you have a group of people with the right attitude following the data and trusting medical science.”

Due to this change at the state level, the Woodstock Village mask ordinance is now suspended.

Across the state, Vermont businesses that wish to do so can maintain rules such as mask-wearing within their stores. The governor also noted that some individuals may have “their own legitimate reasons to remain cautious.”

"As I’ve said, that’s natural, and it’s OK,” he said. “I hope all Vermonters show compassion and respect for one another, including businesses choosing to keep some requirements in place, while they wait for all their employees to do the right thing and get vaccinated.”

The state of emergency expires at midnight, but on Tuesday Scott plans to sign off on some changes to the executive order, to maintain several related programs that are still needed. More details will be released Tuesday.

Going forward, Vermont will continue to make the COVID-19 vaccine available at different sites around the state. At Monday’s press conference, Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine said there is still much work to be done to maintain the high level of protection Vermont has achieved against the virus.

“We will continue getting as many Vermonters vaccinated as possible, to keep this protection as strong as we can,” Levine said. “We will continue to keep watching our data closely and act accordingly.”

He added that the state and its partners will continue to work hard to help and provide guidance to those who can’t get vaccinated for health reasons.

Levine also pointed out that the state is preparing for the time a vaccine is approved for use in children under age 12, which may be as soon as this fall.

“I’m already collaborating with my pediatric colleagues, so that we will be ready to get parents and caregivers the information they need, and to deliver the vaccine in as many appropriate settings as possible,” he said.

Scott closed his remarks by noting the state’s response to COVID-19 continues a tradition of leading the nation in tough times.

“On the first day of the Battle in Gettysburg, General Sedgwick knew enough about our character and courage to send the order, ‘Put the Vermonters ahead,’” Scott said. “157 years later, we again showed that when the nation is in need of leadership and hope; when America needs to find its path forward to solve problems and help people; when in dark times, and our country needs a state to light the way; Vermonters will always step forward and lead the charge.” 

— Gareth Henderson

The engine behind Omni — You!

Nearing sunset along Dana Road in Woodstock, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

We're nearly halfway through 2021, and what a ride it's been already. Together, we've seen Vermont emerge from the doldrums of the pandemic and start looking toward the future. And speaking of the future, we saw it in action when our local high school seniors graduated, and used their inspired words to challenge us to be bold, and look to the upcoming months with hope. 

It's an honor and a joy to bring local news and insights to you, with that uplifting Omni perspective many readers have come to enjoy. After nearly 15 months of doing this work, I’ve been humbled by and deeply thankful for the contributions from many supporters, which have kept this operation going. With this support, I’ve been able to cover Omni’s basic expenses. Many hours are poured into covering breaking news, gathering local interviews, composing quality photos, crafting editorials, and creating an overall product we can all take pride in. As a result, Omni is like a tree planted in a strong foundation and growing, with each branch reaching up for new ideas. Omni has also gained strong worldwide readership, and it’s been so humbling to watch that grow. This has been a community-supported venture, and the community is far and wide, even beyond the Green Mountains. As such, the home of Omni Reporter is not just in one or two zip codes, but in the hearts of readers everywhere, who have embraced, welcomed and supported this approach to journalism.

While words can’t express how grateful I am for all the support thus far, contributions in 2021 are needed and appreciated, and will be important to keeping this venture going. I welcome you all to take part in this effort, so that Omni can continue into the rest of this year, and hopefully beyond. Within that, please know any amount is graciously welcome, and I appreciate each of you for your help. Together, let’s keep moving forward. 

With great gratitude, 

Gareth Henderson

Knitting along with the world

Rachel Kahn (at right), of the NWPL Knitters, chats with other knitting enthusiasts at a Woodstock, Vermont, gathering for World Wide Knit in Public Day on Saturday. (Harry Wollman Photo)

It was a joyful Saturday morning as dozens of local knitters gathered to celebrate World Wide Knit in Public Day on the Norman Williams Public Library's front lawn in Woodstock, Vermont.

People were sharing their latest creations, talking about patterns they tried, and enjoying some conversation on a sunny day in the village. They were also giving, trading and selling yarn of all colors and textures for their next projects, and encouraging new knitters who dropped by. This special day was started in 2005, as a way for knitters around the globe to spend some time together and enjoy each other's company.

Patricia Campbell, of the NWPL Knitters in Woodstock, said Saturday morning was great fun, and knitting enthusiasts of all ages were welcome.

“From young to seniors, all were included,” she said. “We even had a husband up to his elbows in detangling a swift problem. We already have thoughts of next year to spread the word and make it a great knitting day in public.”

Kathleen Kjerulff and Rachel Kahn, also from the NWPL Knitters group, enjoyed seeing so much interest in the craft they love doing, and love sharing.

“It was exciting being part of the world's largest knitting event — sharing and celebrating the pure joy of knitting with people worldwide,” Kjerulff said.

Kahn added, “It was wonderful to see so many dear knitters in person, in public with knitting galore!”

What better way to enjoy a spring morning, than to create some wonderful art among friends, and even meet new ones? That energy coalesced to provide a fun atmosphere for all, and a welcome invitation to take part in an international day of knitting — and community at its best.

— Gareth Henderson

Patricia Campbell, of the NWPL Knitters, at the Woodstock gathering for World Wide Knit in Public Day. (Harry Wollman Photo)

A community celebrates graduation in 2021

WUHS graduates toss their caps into the air at the end of Friday evening’s ceremony. Below the story, see our editorial and more photos. (Gareth Henderson Photos)

From re-starting annual events, to the easing of mask mandates, we are progressing to more familiar ground. That light is shining brightly. 

But that sense of momentum and progress takes on a special meaning when people experience it together, and that’s what graduation at Woodstock Union High School felt like on Friday evening. The graduates persevered through the challenges and limitations of 2020, and that night, their hard work met with great reward: that next step forward. 

But for the class of 2021, the path to get wasn’t all about them, but stayed true to a commitment to service. From a winter coat drive, to setting up the first-ever health screening for a community in Panama, this class distinguished itself by helping others, as senior class advisors Jody and Sarina Henderson noted in their remarks. These graduates were also open to questioning the norms, and trying new things. 

“They’ve been a class who’s grown as a result of the question, ‘What if?’” Jody said. The class gift, Sarina announced, was to establish a class legacy fund to help future students have some of the same opportunities they’ve had, starting with $2,000 the graduates raised themselves. 

As salutatorian Lea Sperber said, a key part of the graduates’ growth — especially over the past year — has been the ability to trust others during the darkest times. She said you don’t need a perfect past to move forward, “if you can trust in the present moment and have faith in the people around you.”

“I hope each of the graduates take that faith with them, and find it again wherever they go,” Sperber said. 

The pride of accomplishment — for the class and the community — was profound and tangible throughout the evening, after the year that was. But expressions of joy and gladness also blended with stark reality: Graduating speakers shone the spotlight on issues of racial and economic inequity, which were further exposed in the pandemic and still need to be addressed. Amid all the talk about getting back to normal, the WUHS Speakchorus performance offered the words of Ed Yong, from The Atlantic, who wrote we “must grapple with all the ways normal failed us”. 

Co-valedictorian Noah Anderson quoted the great T.S. Eliot, who wrote, “This is how the world ends. Not with a bang but a whimper.” 

“We’re whimpering right now … but we have the time to see what’s wrong and change it,” Anderson said. 

Isabelle Hiller, co-valedictorian and senior class president, recited a poem and highlighted some lessons from the vastness of nature. She read, in part, “the sun is not concerned if someone has to squint their eyes. It will shine, and it will not apologize for its light. And like the trees teach us, it’s OK to lose our leaves as seasons change, and then come back to life.”

Life is what the class of 2021 has ahead of them, in abundance. Like many of us, they’re looking forward to a different kind of year, as graduate Wilbur Abrams III said minutes after the class threw their caps into the air. Abrams is working in Boston this summer, as an intern for the Spartan Races, and then it’s off to the University of Vermont, where he plans to major in English. 

“I’m looking forward to going places and being where people are, without having all sorts of things in between, kind of a return to normal,” he said. 

WUHS graduate Molly Maxham is going to St. Lawrence University in New York, where she is majoring in anthropology. But she gets to start her college journey abroad, spending the fall semester in London. For Maxham, it’s about moving forward. 

“It’s been a great last few years, with a lot of great people,” she said. “But I think it’s going to be a great next few years, too.”

Paul Bremel, a math teacher who also coaches track for WUHS, was impressed at how the graduating class worked as a group to get through this past year, and do so with great success.

“The resilience of this group, the way they hung together, was just tremendous,” he said.

WUHS Principal Garon Smail remembered that some people had questioned the move to go to four days a week of in-person learning after spring break for the whole school — would it be worth it, so close to the end of the school year? A resounding “yes” was the answer, he said, capped by a special graduation evening.

“Any time together, it’s all so precious,” Smail said.

Editorial

Progress, shared

In a year like this, one can’t overstate the value of the shared experience that took place in Woodstock on Friday night, and how special it was. The graduates reached that uniquely special milestone in their lives, but the community, in a way, is doing the same. Everyone is emerging from that long year, in a their own way. The graduates’ triumph, was the community’s triumph.

As was the case since early 2020 — and perhaps, always — it was the little things that stood out. "Congrats, grad" balloons adorned several cars, families grinned and laughed at the more humorous parts of speeches, and older siblings of graduates proudly saw their brothers and sisters step onto the same stage they did, not too long ago. Teachers, families and peers joined the graduating class in this unforgettable moment, in the school’s natural amphitheater out back, where many classes have graduated before them. It was a joy to see.  

One of the major statements of the night stuck with me, that we “must grapple with all the ways normal failed us”. We’re eager to move on, but it’s important to remember, there’s much grappling left to do, and we’ve only just begun that work as a nation. We can’t leave what we’ve learned to history, we have to use it to make a better future.

But after witnessing Friday evening, we can be glad that the WUHS graduates of 2021 are going into the world with a keen awareness of the issues we face, and a willingness to take action. These graduates have volunteered, protested, and given back to the community, and brought an overall focus on service that inspired the teachers who led them. Celebrating this tremendous step forward is not only progress for these graduates, but it’s a clear benefit to the world that awaits them. We can’t wait to see the great things they do.

— Gareth Henderson

Isabelle Hiller, co-valedictorian and senior class president.

Noah Anderson, co-valedictorian.

Lea Sperber, salutatorian.

Wilbur Abrams III, wowing the crowd with a stirring recitation of “Alma Mater”.

Jody and Sarina Henderson, senior class advisors.

The graduating class marches forward to “Pomp and Circumstance”, as family members capture the moment with their iPhones.

Governor signs state budget; veto session scheduled

The Vermont countryside along Route 12 near the Barnard-Woodstock line. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A $7.3 billion state budget and a bill meant to expand broadband access in Vermont were among legislation signed into law by Gov. Phil Scott this week. A main feature of the $150 million broadband bill is new funding for Communications Union Districts, local municipally-approved entities which have facilitated more broadband connections in several regions.

The state budget puts a strong focus on the economy and the many aspects of recovering from the pandemic.

“This is a truly transformational budget that will allow us to recover from the pandemic and address some longstanding challenges, including our workforce shortage and economic inequity that exists from county to county,” Scott said in a statement. “With smart state investments and a very strategic approach for using federal funds, this budget puts us on a new path to a more prosperous and equitable future for all of Vermont.”

The budget funds small-business relief, community revitalization projects, technical education programs and centers, state colleges, worker relocation grants, among others. The spending plan also supports initiatives to provide permanent housing for the homeless, weatherize more homes, and increase access to emergency mental health interventions.

As previously announced, the budget is heavily supported by federal pandemic relief dollars. Those are funding $250 million for climate change mitigation, $225 for clean water initiatives, $250 million for a wide array of housing and $250 million for broadband and connectivity.

Looking forward, the Legislature's veto session is set for June 23 and 24, when lawmakers are expected to try to override the governor’s vetoes on multiple bills. Those include two that would allow noncitizen residents of Winooski and Montpelier to vote in local elections, and a bill that would bar police from publicly identifying individuals under age 19 arrested for certain crimes, according to media reports.

— Gareth Henderson

State: If you see a fawn, steer clear — they’re OK

Fawns are being born now and should be left alone; their mothers are almost always nearby, officials say. (VF&W Photo by John Hall)

People throughout the Green Mountains are enjoying nature this time of year, and it's also the season when deer fawns are arriving. 

With that in mind, wildlife officials are asking the public to leave fawns alone if they see them in the wild. Most deer fawns are born in late May and the first and second weeks of June, according to Vermont deer biologist Nick Fortin. He said people often assume a fawn that is alone is lost or needs rescuing, but the mother is almost always nearby. 

“It’s in the best interest of Vermonters and the wildlife that live here, for all of us to maintain a respectful distance and help keep wildlife wild,” Fortin said in a statement. He added that, for its own safety, taking a wild animal into captivity is illegal in Vermont. 

Fawns do not attempt to evade predators during their first few weeks, instead relying on camouflage and stillness to remain undetected, officials explained. During these times, fawns learn critical survival skills from their mothers.  Bringing a fawn into a human environment results in separation from its mother, and it usually results in a sad ending for the animal, officials added.

Fortin encourages people to resist the urge to assist wildlife in ways that may be harmful, and he offered these tips:

• Deer nurse their young at different times during the day and often leave their young alone for long periods of time. These animals are not lost. Their mother knows where they are and will return.

• Deer normally will not feed or care for their young when people are close by.

• Deer fawns will imprint on humans and lose their natural fear of people, which can be essential to their survival.

• Keep domestic pets under control at all times, as they may harm fawns and other baby animals.

Leaving a fawn alone in a secluded spot is primarily a way for deer to hide their young from predators while feeding, Fortin explained in an interview with WCAX. People may see a fawn alone in the wild multiple times without ever seeing the mother, and should still avoid disturbing it, he added.  

— Gareth Henderson

Route 4 night work to return; updates on state and school news

Traffic heads through Woodstock Village along Route 4. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The second round of paving in the ongoing Route 4 project in Woodstock Village will include some night work next week.

Work crews will begin the second layer of paving during the day on Thursday and Friday this week. Then, the night paving will commence on Sunday at 5 p.m. and continue through to morning, with that schedule in place until the morning of Thursday, June 17, as announced by Police Chief Robbie Blish at the Village Trustees meeting on Tuesday. 

The state project’s paving component is nearly two months ahead of schedule. Once the paving is done, crews will begin re-striping lines on Routes 4, 12 and 106 in the village limits, and re-creating the parking spaces downtown. 

Vermont edges closer to pivotal vaccine milestone

The state of Vermont is on the cusp of removing all its pandemic restrictions, with just over 3,100 people to go until it vaccinates 80% of its eligible population. 

When Vermont hits that 80% mark, the state will remove all remaining pandemic restrictions. As of Tuesday, 79.4% of eligible Vermonters have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Vermont still has dozens of free walk-in vaccination opportunities around the state every day, Gov. Phil Scott said at his Tuesday press briefing. He said those pop-up, walk-in clinics are now the leading method in Vermont’s vaccination strategy, as opposed to larger, mass vaccination sites that were the only option much earlier in the year.

“Over the weekend, I went to a few pop-up locations myself, including Thunder Road (in Barre) on Friday and the car show in St. Albans on Saturday,” he said. “So I want to, once again, thank our EMS teams, who have been doing an incredible job at all these locations, all these clinics. We wouldn’t be leading the nation in vaccinations, if not for them.” 

This week, Vermont saw its COVID cases fall to the lowest levels seen in eight months, and it still leads the nation in vaccine doses administered per 100,000 people (125,076).

Naming policy update: District board begins its review

A proposed facility naming policy got its first reading before the full board of the Windsor Central Unified Union School District on Monday night. 

Board members noted there are still opportunities for the public to weigh in on the policy before any final vote is taken. A Policy Committee meeting is coming up on June 21, and after that, the policy returns to the district board — likely in July — for a second reading and possible approval. 

Monday’s discussion on the policy was brief, and the meeting quiet, but this proposal sparked great concern among Woodstock Union High School & Middle School alumni over a month ago. The naming policy is one idea on the table connected to raising money for the proposed $73.3 million new WUHSMS building. But in early May, alumni circulated a petition online to preserve legacy names on fields and facilities, and ensure they aren’t re-named. 

In recent meetings, the Policy Committee has revised the proposed policy, and the current proposal contains an approval process for “re-naming of an existing dedication.” Among other elements, the process requires that the superintendent and the Fundraising Work Group submit a recommendation to the board; a public meeting be held with a 30-day warning; and 60% of the board members present must approve the proposal for it to pass. In the absence of a Fundraising Work Group, the superintendent will submit the recommendation. (The overall policy has a different section on honorary facility naming.)

At Monday’s meeting, which was held on Zoom, Louis Piconi, chair of the Policy Committee, said the policy sets “a pretty high bar” for renaming a facility.

“It’s going to be hard for somebody to do a renaming … but at the same time I think this offers significant protections that a lot of the alumni wanted, while being fair to all the different groups that might be at the table at some point,” Piconi said. 

Maura McLaughlin Tynes, a WUHS alum who has attended prior meetings, said she appreciated the board’s work on this issue, but still has concerns on how the proposal might play out. The high school football field carries the name of her father, James T. McLaughlin.

“The way the policy is written now, intertwining finances and contribution of your community members, essentially provides a roadmap and an explanation on how to re-name spaces now,” Tynes said. “And I think that’s something that people should be careful about.” 

Policy Committee member Sam DiNatale, also an alum of WUHS, reiterated that the renaming process in the proposal sets that high bar Piconi mentioned.

“This is on the same level as the process you’d have to go through to close a school,” she said.

In anticipation of the June 21 Policy Committee meeting, Piconi said any members of the public with questions are welcome to send them to him. Check out these links for committee and board contact information.

— Gareth Henderson

Virtual Covered Bridges Half Marathon gets underway Sunday

Team TuTu Much Fun walked the Covered Bridges Half Marathon race course on Friday, June 4, and is shown here at the Taftsville Covered Bridge at about mile 8. From left: CBHM Race Co-director Nancy Nutile-McMenemy, of Weathersfield; Gidget Lyman, of South Royalton; Trish Gallagher of Dorchester, Mass.; and CBHM Race Co-director Mike Silverman, of Hanover, NH. (Nancy Nutile-McMenemy Photo)

The first virtual race of the Covered Bridges Half Marathon is set to begin on Sunday, with over 1,300 participants running the 13.1 miles wherever they are in the world any time from June 6-13.

A number of people locally and outside of Vermont will be participating, according to Race Co-director Nancy Nutile-McMenemy, who said a total of 1,342 runners were signed up.

This nonprofit half marathon, one of the most-anticipated races of its kind, is usually held in the scenic Vermont area of Woodstock, Pomfret and Quechee, and includes several historic covered bridges along the way. After the race's first-ever cancellation in 2020 amid the pandemic, race organizers set up this virtual event to maintain everyone's health and safety, and also keep the race going for the long-term. Race co-directors Nutile-McMenemy and Mike Silverman noted the event’s major community impact over the years: It typically raises $50,000 to $60,000 for dozens of area school groups and nonprofits like libraries, community clubs and social service agencies.

“We want to make sure that we’re here and that we can support as many organizations as possible,” Silverman said in a prior interview.

Overall, the race usually has a $1.2 million economic impact in the region. On Sunday, of course, there will not be any official events or set-up at the usual start or finish locations. However, Nutile-McMenemy and Silverman will record a message for social media at 8 a.m. Sunday, when the race traditionally starts. Stay tuned for that via the CBHM Facebook page.

At the 2022 race, CBHM plans to celebrate its 30th anniversary — which is actually this year. Runners and organizers alike are looking forward to a return to the in-person experience they've all cherished for over three decades.

— Gareth Henderson

Business relief grants become available Monday

Echo Lake in Plymouth, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A new program offering a total of $30 million in grants to struggling Vermont businesses is set to launch on Monday. The money, approved by the Legislature, comes from Vermont’s share of relief funding in the American Rescue Plan Act.

The Economic Recovery Bridge Program is the latest local effort to help businesses recover from the financial impact of the pandemic. The assistance is meant for businesses who have not received state and federal relief due to eligibility constraints, and who can show a continued loss of revenues due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To the extent that funds remain available, the program can also help businesses that have suffered a net loss even after receiving state or federal aid.

Gov. Phil Scott said this funding is key to Vermont’s economic recovery, calling small businesses the “backbone of our economy.” 

“These grants will provide critical relief in the short term, allowing them to rebuild a stable foundation for their economic futures,” Scott said in a statement.  

PJ Skehan, executive director of the Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce, said Friday that a number of chamber members have already received some form of relief, but he thought this money could be a crucial resource for any businesses whose money is running out at this point.

“Vermont overall has done a great job getting these funds out to where they’re needed,” Skehan said.

Joan Goldstein, commissioner of the Department of Economic Development, emphasized the need to help businesses facing shortfalls as the state turns the corner.

“As we move past the pandemic, these funds are intended to bridge those final gaps, so that businesses can recover and thrive in the months and years ahead,” she said in the program’s announcement this week. 

Eligible businesses must have their primary place of business in Vermont and demonstrate that the business experienced a net tax loss in 2020, greater than any net loss reported in 2019 via submitted federal tax returns.

Grants will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis and priority will be given as follows:

• Priority for the first 30 days of the program will be given to businesses that have not received or do not have pending applications for any state or federal financial assistance in 2020 or 2021, including but not limited to:

  • Paycheck Protection Program Loans and Grants

  • Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Grants

  • Vermont Economic Recovery Grants

  • Sole Proprietor Stabilization Program Grants

  • Healthcare Provider Grants

  • Restaurant Revitalization Grants

  • Shuttered Venue Grants

  • Vermont Agricultural Grants

• After the initial 30-day window, second-tier priority will be given to businesses who suffered a 2020 net tax loss and can still demonstrate an adjusted net loss after adding back the amounts of non-taxable assistance received in 2020 and 2021.

Full program guidelines in several languages and frequently asked questions are online at the state’s COVID-19 Recovery Resource Center. The application portal is set to open on Monday, and there will be a support line available at 802-828-1200 once the portal opens.

A recording of Friday’s webinar about the program is available on the commerce agency's website.

— Gareth Henderson

Smoother sailing: Route 4 paving ahead of schedule

Traffic on Route 4 in Woodstock Village in late May. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

There’s more work to be done along Route 4 in Woodstock Village, but it’s smoother sailing than it used to be. In fact, the state’s paving project is going so well that the second layer of pavement might be done this month — about two months ahead of time — provided the weather cooperates, local officials say.

In a Thursday interview, Woodstock Village Trustees Chair Jeff Kahn couldn't confirm when the whole project would end, but he said this progress means the noisiest parts of the project would be done well ahead of schedule. The second layer of paving was originally scheduled for August, with the entire project to be completed in September. This month, some of the paving may be done at night, which was a helpful way to get the first round of paving done more quickly, Kahn noted.

"They'll be re-striping the roads after the paving is done," he said.

Speaking of re-striping, the Village Trustees and Municipal Manager William Kerbin have a request in to the state to reapply the yellow lines at the western end of the Rec Center bridge and at the hairpin turn by Maplefields. Earlier in the year, the village had expressed its concern about those two locations because oversized trucks often go over the curb while making those turns. That's more of a concern now, since the Route 4 oversized truck permit the state had allowed for years in Hartford, Woodstock and Bridgewater is going away as of July 2022, after opposition to it in the Senate was successful.

During the paving project, however, the Agency of Transportation opted to remove the yellow line at those two Woodstock Village locations, Kahn said. He worried that large trucks would go even farther into the opposing lane at those sharp turns without the yellow line there. There was no word Thursday on the village's request.

"Hopefully the AOT will comply, but we'll find out," Kahn said.

After the paving, crews will complete re-striping and also re-create the parking spaces throughout the village.

The project is currently ongoing from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., weather permitting. This week, some parts of Route 4 in the village have seen one-way traffic, as have the village portions of Routes 12 and 106, which are also part of the project.

— Gareth Henderson

A season begins: Sunny skies, happy crowds greet Market on the Green

The Woodstock Market on the Green on Wednesday afternoon in Woodstock, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Warm-weather energy was in the air when the weekly Woodstock Market on the Green returned Wednesday, with over 30 vendors and a bustling crowd. 

There were a number of families dropping by, as well as motorists and cyclists coming through to check out the fresh food, produce and artisan goods. 

Some of that traffic was lining up for the wood-fired pizza made by Sara Bachman, Otto Pierce and Emma Labadie from Fat Dragon Farm in Stockbridge. They’re glad for the business, but it’s something special to be back in Woodstock, Bachman said.

“Last year, this market definitely kept me going a lot,” she said. “There’s so much community here.” 

And the community was meeting a new member of the family as well: Pierce and Bachman arrived with their new baby daughter, Mairi, born in March, who rested comfortably in the shade.

“It’s going well so far,” Bachman said of the baby’s first market. 

Kathy Avellino, of the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce, which runs the Market on the Green, said she knew from the first glimmer of sunlight on Wednesday, that it would be a perfect day for the event. 

“A lot of vendors have come back,” she said. 

The crowd grows at the Woodstock Market on the Green on Wednesday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

One of them is also Jon Cohen, owner of Deep Meadow Farm in Ascutney, who sells his produce at farmers’ markets in Ludlow and Londonderry as well. He said the large number of people cooking at home last year definitely drove sales up. Hopefully, those numbers continue, Cohen added.

“Traffic is definitely a good thing for the market,” he said, noting the crowds in the village that afternoon. 

One of several new arrivals at the market this year is Nick Miller, of Lebanon, New Hampshire, who makes artisan woodcrafts for his business, MisfitStyls. Among his products were a number of wooden boards with intricate designs and inspiring messages on them. But they aren’t just for display — they can also be flipped over and used as cutting boards. Miller, who attends events throughout New England, enjoyed a steady run of sales Wednesday and lots of interest from shoppers.

“It’s been a good market,” he said. “I can’t complain one bit.” 

Colemann Colburn, of Fresh Roots Farm in Sharon, has been at the Market on the Green for 10 years. He said Wednesday was a good day, certainly helped by the fact that people were happy to be able to shop unmasked. 

“People were excited to be out,” Colburn said. “Hopefully it’ll be a good year.”

— Gareth Henderson

The Woodstock Market on the Green is every Wednesday during the summer from 3 to 6 p.m.

Traditions keep returning

People enjoy the Thompson Senior Center’s first in-person lunch in over a year on Tuesday. (Deanna Jones Photo)

A good meal and conversation is one of the favorite pastimes at the Thompson Senior Center in Woodstock, Vermont, and that tradition returned Tuesday after more than a year of no dining inside at the community hub. 

It was reopening day for the center, and the daily lunch in the dining room started up again, by reservation. Ten guests and four staff members enjoyed the meal together. 

"It was just nice to see people again," said Deanna Jones, the center's executive director. "They've been waiting. 'Finally, the day has come', is what I kept hearing." 

New tables and chairs graced the room, thanks to recent fundraising, and fresh paint and a new floor completed the dining room's new look. Through the month of June, lunch is Monday-Thursday 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Curbside lunch pick-up is still available this month.

Also through June, people will be asked to wear masks into the senior center, which they can then remove once they sit down to their meal or activity. There's a hand sanitizing station at the door, and health-screening questions will be asked via computer. 

Some people, especially if they live far away, may continue to take part in bingo or other events by phone — and that option will be there in a hybrid model.

"We'll still keep these things virtual so that people are engaged," Jones said. 

In Woodstock, this reopening was further proof of a state's progress toward normalcy. At nearly 78% of eligible Vermonters vaccinated against COVID-19, the state is that much closer to meeting its goal of 80%, at which time the state will lift all pandemic restrictions. Gov. Phil Scott said Vermont is “days away” from hitting that mark. 

Also at Tuesday’s press conference, Scott noted the many positive impacts of the vaccine, including the fact that Vermont is the only state with no COVID-related deaths reported in the past two weeks. Also, the state had three hospitalizations due to the virus as of Tuesday morning — a six-month low for Vermont. 

But the governor emphasized “we’re not resting on our laurels,” saying the state continues to make efforts to get the vaccine to as many people as possible. This week, there are over 100 walk-in vaccine clinics statewide, one of them taking place in Woodstock this Thursday, June 3. That clinic, which offers the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, is at the Woodstock Inn’s administrative building parking lot, located at 9 Cross Street from 1 to 3 p.m. 

On Tuesday, Courtney Lowe, vice president of marketing and business development at the Woodstock Inn & Resort, said the inn hosted a clinic on May 14 and asked for — and received — this chance to hold another one. Walk-in opportunities have been a key part of improving access to the vaccine, officials have said. 

“The convenience factor has proven effective in the state, so we are delighted to make it easier for our employees and community to be able to access the vaccine right here in the Village,” Lowe said. 

Check out this link for the latest on Vermont’s vaccination progress.

— Gareth Henderson

Honoring the ultimate sacrifice

Members of the Ora E. Paul American Legion Post No. 24 march through Woodstock, Vt., on Saturday in the annual Memorial Day Parade. (Susan Ford Photo)

As numerous Memorial Day traditions returned across the state and nation, this Memorial Day brought a unique spotlight on the perseverance and courage of the country.

This nation has confronted the grave challenges of war in the past, and each time, courageous men and women have given the ultimate sacrifice. And it's up to us to honor and remember how they bravely fought to ensure our freedom.

As we now emerge from the pandemic, it's a special time to remember what the U.S. can achieve when presenting a united front against a common challenge. Today, we honor when Americans have stepped forward in defense of liberty, with a willingness to sacrifice all for the common good. We remember how the bravery of so many has shaped our country, and what it teaches us today.

On Monday, Gov. Phil Scott honored the many times Vermonters have taken part in those sacrifices.

“Since the birth of our nation, thousands of Vermonters have answered the call. They don’t do it for the glory or fame, they do it for our country and all of us," Scott said in a statement. "Their dedication often puts them in harm’s way and has, unfortunately, cost too many their lives. This is why we can never let their sacrifices be in vain."

Moving forward from this life-changing time in our nation, it's incumbent upon each of us to honor this long-standing spirit of sacrifice, and play a role in improving the country they fought to protect. This includes so much more than individual freedom. This includes preserving freedom for all, and ensuring that liberty is equally shared in the experiences of all Americans. Our fallen soldiers, in their great courage, fought to uphold and sustain that very freedom. Now, the work must continue, and we forge ahead with that goal in our mind and hearts.

As Gov. Scott said, “We must always strive to uphold the values of the nation they fought to preserve and work to build a more perfect union in their honor."

— Gareth Henderson

Joyful reopening: Teago store begins new chapter

At far left, Bob Crean chats with Teago General Store employees Randi Harron and Sue Cole, far right, at the store’s reopening on Saturday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

On Saturday, a lot of people in Pomfret, Vermont, had the same plan: Head over to the Teago General Store, which just opened up again after a year of renovations.

“We’ve had this on our agenda ever since they posted the day they’re reopening,” said Kate Overbay, who was enjoying breakfast with her family. Her 9-year-old son, Tripp, chimed in, “I’m just glad Teago’s open again.” 

Among the early arrivals were Teago’s former owner Chuck Gundersen, and his wife, Alice, who live just up the road. Chuck owned the store for over 30 years before selling it to Kathleen Dolan in 2018, and he called the year-long revamp a “beautiful job,” adding that it’s still got that local charm.

“They managed to do it in a way that it still has some individual character,” he said. “Alice and I are going to be here a lot.”

At 7 a.m., the iconic Vermont store, which generations of local people and visitors have enjoyed, reopened to streams of eager customers who greeted the staff with beaming smiles and breakfast orders. Right in the door, a greatly expanded kitchen and plenty of additional square-footage are the first things noticed, along with the new deck offering outdoor seating by the brook. There’s now an ice cream window, and a new indoor seating area is near the back of the store. Breakfast, lunch and the Friday take-and-bake pizzas are still there — as are the Post Office and the newspapers.

Chuck Gundersen, left, catches up with Dick Beattie at Teago General Store on Saturday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

In a quick interview on a busy reopening day, store manager Christine Cole said the pent-up demand from customers was clear for a long time. When making preparations out front, they were putting new sod down and had sprinklers going.

“We had people walking through the sprinklers and asking, ‘Are you open?’” she recalled. Not surprisingly, some were waiting outside for the doors to open at 7 a.m. Saturday. 

“Someone knocked on the door at five-of, and we had to say, ‘Just a few more minutes,’” said Amy Stone, also part of the Teago team. Along with Cole, the rest of the staff are Randi Harron and Sue Cole, Christine’s sister-in-law. 

Christine Cole, who has worked at the store since the early 1990s, highlighted the added capabilities of the expanded kitchen and new systems throughout the store, right down to the new coolers. And she expected the deck would be a popular place for customers — several of whom took a seat there in between raindrops Saturday morning. 

Cole also said she appreciated Dolan’s leadership and vision on the project.

“It’s great to have somebody like Kathleen bringing her thoughts and ideas to help with this new chapter,” Cole said. 

The new deck at Teago General Store. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Dolan said seeing the store reopen was “enormously satisfying.” She thanked the store staff for their many hours of work in getting Teago ready. 

“I have been in awe of Christine and Amy and the other Teago’s store crew as they worked steadily this past year, and particularly these past few months, putting the interior back together and getting the operation of the store up and running,” Dolan said. She also thanked Steve Horton and the entire DEW Construction team for bringing the project to fruition, and was grateful to town officials for their support.

“A general store, as a place for practical resources and community relating, is so vitally important to the life and heartbeat of a small town,” Dolan said. “I have Chuck Gundersen to thank for keeping Teago alive and well and in a way a general store needs to be for over 30 years before this time — and for the opportunity he gave me to carry the torch of a business that helps keep a community thriving, gathering and accommodated.”

As the community gathered to share smiles and friendly chats over coffee, part of the Saturday-morning buzz was, of course, cherished routines starting up again. Local resident Lisa Parsons was looking forward to walking down to the store with her dogs each day to grab her morning paper, just like she used to do. 

“I can do my walk again now,” she said. 

While departing the new Teago after his visit, Bob Crean expressed what many felt: “There’s nothing like having your own small-town store.”

— Gareth Henderson

Teago General Store’s hours are Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The deli closes a half hour before the store. The phone number is 802-457-1626, and follow the Facebook page for daily specials.

Teago General Store on reopening day. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

An encouraging summer

(Gareth Henderson Photo)

With the sun shining beautifully, and the early-morning air just right, I recently went on my first run of the season. It was a brief jog, up a road near my home, and I could feel the air getting ready to warm up. Just like summer itself.

This warm season is surging ahead, like it always has, but this summer momentum is different: It's giving us something new to cheer for, after the struggles of 2020. And every day shows us more of what's to come. We know travel is picking up, and people are looking to spend much of their time outdoors. People are out running, zipping by on their bicycles, enjoying the tennis court, or maybe visiting lakes and ponds to fish. Parks are a big attraction as well.

In Woodstock, Vermont, numerous people have been visiting the trails of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in recent days, including a number of families.

"At the National Park we continue to see an increase above our seasonal norms in the number of community members and visitors taking advantage of the park’s 20 miles of carriage roads and trails," said Christina Marts, the park's acting superintendent. "This builds on the trend we were seeing at the height of last summer when a beautiful weekend day could inspire over 700 walkers and hikers to hit the trail."

We all remember that summer, when time spent in any outdoor expanse was a true gift, with a profound impact. With that in mind, perhaps the outdoors will feel even more like a place of refuge in summer 2021, where we can find even greater peace — this time amid new progress. Memorable views like seeing Woodstock from the top of Mount Tom, or hiking up to the Pogue, might carry some special meaning for all of us this year. These scenes are still here to brighten our days, to remain nestled in the constant beauty of nature, never departing, always inspiring.

With Memorial Day Weekend — the unofficial start of summer — right around the corner, more people will head to the Green Mountains to experience our natural surroundings, and how good they are for the soul. Those early sunrises and late sunsets complete the picture of progress we've waited for. Summer is always moving, always evolving. And in 2021, it invites us to cheer it on, renew our joy in it, and share that happiness with others. There's no better way to celebrate this new season.

— Gareth Henderson

Congress acts to counter anti-Asian hate crimes

(Gareth Henderson Photo)

Congress has taken action to counter the wave of anti-Asian hate and violence during the pandemic, and advocates say the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act is an important step toward that goal. 

The House approved the bill on Tuesday, 364-62, sending it to President Joe Biden for his expected signature. The Senate previously passed the legislation 94-1. 

This Congressional action comes after multiple incidents of violence against the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in the U.S., including the recent shooting in Atlanta in which six of the victims were women of Asian descent. Other incidents elsewhere have included elderly Asian Americans being beaten, and many Asian Americans are now afraid to leave their homes. 

The legislation condemns the hate and violence directed against Asian Americans, and takes multiple steps to improve tracking, reporting and investigation of reported hate crimes. Notably, it establishes a position in the U.S. Department of Justice to expedite the investigation of hate crimes and add more ways to report them. Furthermore, that position would have a role in helping interested states set up hotlines for reporting hate crimes. There are also grants available to help local law enforcement in these efforts, and the bill recognizes the role of community organizers in helping with data collection. 

Mieko Ozeki, co-founder of Vermont Womenpreneurs and a fourth-generation Chinese-Japanese American, spoke at a press conference in Burlington this week about the bill. She joined U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, of Vermont, and Paul Suk-Hyun Yoon, senior advisor for strategic diversity, assessment and research at the University of Vermont.

In a Tuesday interview, Ozeki said the legislation is essential for addressing anti-Asian hate crimes, because a number of them aren’t reported. 

“(The victims) feel like maybe it's a disgrace, or they're fearful for their lives,” she said. 

Ozeki said she and her family haven’t experienced violence, but she said a friend of her mother’s in New York City doesn’t feel safe going to the park in her neighborhood, because an individual last week hurled anti-Asian epithets toward her and spat at her when she was out on a walk. On social media, Ozeki has experienced reaction from people downplaying the situation. 

“We need to train ourselves to stop digesting information passively, and engage with people and ask about their culture with sincerity," she said.  

Ozeki feared for her Chinese American mother in New York and her 100-year-old Japanese American grandmother in Los Angeles, after the first COVID-19 case was reported out of Wuhan, China. 

“Though we were vigilant on keeping ourselves safe from the virus, the vitriol of the previous administration triggered fear of violence directed toward my family and I,” Ozeki said at the Monday press conference. “At present, with close to 4,000 reported hate crimes (and many unreported), the violence we see towards our elders, parents, workers of Asian descent are horrific and traumatizing.”

Welch noted that anti-Asian hate crimes reported to the police in the 16 largest U.S. cities rose 164% in the first quarter of 2021 — a pattern that must be stopped. 

“The attack on Asian Americans, who are absolutely blameless for COVID, has escalated into scenes that are horrifying for all of us to watch,” Welch said. He has worked closely with U.S. Rep. Grace Meng, of New York, who led the effort to pass the bill in the House. Welch added, “All of us owe each other respect and civility, and when disrespect is based on a person’s ethnicity and national origin, it’s all the more appalling, and it eats away at that fabric that’s so essential for democracy, which is respect and mutual effort.” 

Yoon, a second-generation Korean American with family in New York City, said the legislation won’t eradicate racism or stop the attacks on its own. 

“However, I believe it centers AAPI experiences and voices, and it will do more to address anti-Asian hate than any legislation we’ve seen to date,” he said at Monday’s event. “I, too, believe everyone in our country deserves to feel safe, and I hope this legislation brings us one step closer to that reality.” 

Yoon emphasized that he and Ozeki are members of the group VT APIDA (Asian Pacific Islander Desi American) for Black Lives, and he encouraged all Vermonters to be “active anti-racists and to fight systemic racism wherever it manifests.” 

Beyond the recent legislation, Ozeki said Tuesday it’s important to let Vermonters know that racism also happens here, and if unchecked, it can have more severe results like in Atlanta. She said the seeds of hate can begin with a comment some might think of as innocent — like asking “Where are you from? No really, where are you from?” — but it reinforces racial bias. She also said part of the solution is acknowledging history — her late father was born in one of the U.S. internment camps for Japanese-Americans during World War II.

While the anti-Asian hate crimes bill is a good step forward, she said, education and better understanding of each other is key to addressing racism. 

“Essentially, it comes down to having a real dialogue, and seeing the people who are in our communities and the diversity, and not making assumptions,” Ozeki said. 

— Gareth Henderson

Vt. to remove residency requirement for vaccination

The Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Later this week, non-residents visiting Vermont will be able to sign up to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in the state.

Vermont will remove its residency requirement for the vaccine on Thursday, which was announced at Tuesday's state press briefing. The state is taking appointments for those 12 and older, though the 12-15 age group can have only the Pfizer doses. Individuals ages 12-17 must have parental consent, officials emphasized Tuesday. If coming to a walk-in vaccination site, those individuals must arrive at their appointments with a parent or guardian, and with the necessary forms completed and signed. If a child at a school-based clinic forgets their consent forms, the school will often reach out to the parent or guardian by phone to obtain consent, officials noted.

As of Tuesday morning, more than 9,000 Vermonters ages 12-15 had signed up for vaccination, after that age group became eligible last Thursday. The state continues to add clinics, and this week, there are over 31 vaccination sites at local emergency services buildings around Vermont. That's in recognition of Emergency Medical Services Week, which Gov. Phil Scott declared to honor the emergency services personnel that serve communities in the Green Mountains.

At Tuesday's press conference, Human Services Secretary Mike Smith said emergency services personnel have been an "exceptional partner" throughout the pandemic, including helping homebound Vermonters get vaccinated, setting up mobile clinics, and helping with COVID-19 testing sites.

"They play a critical role in our communities every day, and their response in this pandemic has been remarkable," Smith said.

Gov. Phil Scott also thanked emergency services crews in the state, and said one of the best ways to show gratitude to them is to get vaccinated.

"Their commitment to our communities and their willingness to serve represents the best of Vermont," Scott said.

Also this week, school-based vaccination clinics began around Vermont, and over 100 of these are scheduled. These clinics are open to any eligible students, their family members and also the wider public.

— Gareth Henderson

Check out healthvermont.gov/myvaccine to make an appointment or learn more, or call 855-722-7878.

Woodstock Village mask ordinance amended to align with state

The Village Green in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

In the Village of Woodstock, people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no longer have to wear masks indoors or outdoors, or stay socially distanced from others. 

At a special meeting held on Zoom, the Woodstock Village Trustees unanimously voted Monday evening to make this change, in accordance with the state of Vermont’s amendment to its mask mandate last Friday. “Fully vaccinated” means that two weeks have passed since a person’s final vaccine dose. 

Those who are not fully vaccinated must still follow the village mask ordinance — which allows people to un-mask outdoors as long as they can maintain a social distance of six feet. This also matches the state’s policy. People who aren’t fully vaccinated must still wear masks at all indoor spaces serving the public. Businesses are allowed to have stricter rules if they so choose.  

Businesses and events operating outdoors must still adhere to mask requirements under the Vermont Forward reopening plan. See more details here. The state aims to remove its mask rule and all pandemic restrictions by July 4, and the Village Trustees expect to suspend their ordinance when that happens.

At Monday’s meeting, there was no discussion of the mask ordinance after a motion was made and seconded, and Trustees quickly got to the 5-0 vote. The Woodstock Town Select Board, which has a resolution in line with the village ordinance, had previously voted to support the trustees in their mask ordinance changes and keep the resolution aligned with state guidance. The Select Board’s next meeting is Tuesday at 6 p.m. on Zoom.

— Gareth Henderson

Village Butcher’s new owners energized by community

Alex and Cristy Beram, new owners of The Village Butcher in Woodstock, Vt., are reopening the shop later this month. They are pictured here, at center, with their children, Beau, 7, and Rosie, 9, and Cristy’s mother, Bebe Stoddard. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

More than once, Alex and Cristy Beram had thought about moving full-time to Vermont — maybe when their kids were grown. But the plan unfolded a bit quicker than that.

Now, the Berams are Vermont business owners, and they’re set to reopen The Village Butcher in Woodstock later this month. They purchased it earlier this year from George and Linda Racicot, who had owned the community’s sole butcher shop for close to 50 years. Josh Coyle, who has worked there for over 20 years, is staying on as head butcher. 

It didn’t take the Berams long to find out how much the community cherishes this place and its longtime owners. In fact, it’s given them great motivation as they work toward the reopening. 

“The support from the community has been a huge source of energy for us,” Alex said. “We feel a huge sense of purpose in what we’re doing.” 

Cristy remembered many warm welcomes inside and outside the shop, when they were learning about the business and first getting to know customers.

“It couldn’t have made us more excited to come,” she said. “Once we made the decision, so many things started falling into place that made us feel comfortable this was the right choice.” 

“Things really clicked,” Alex said, noting some great discussions with the building’s owners, Jireh and Frank Billings.

Moving forward, the core elements of the Racicots’ longtime business — butcher, deli and marketplace — will still be there.

“It felt more right to build upon the foundation that’s here,” Alex said. 

The Berams’ path to living full-time in Quechee began in spring 2020. At the time, both of their young children — now 9 and 7 — were attending school remotely, and springtime in Vermont was beckoning. So, they left Boston in May to finish out the school year at their second home in Quechee, and stay there for the summer as usual. They stayed past summer, as they weren’t comfortable returning to the city amid the pandemic. Then, in October, Alex was laid off from his job in international professional services, and the couple began looking around and weighing their options. 

Not long after that, an online advertisement for a “butcher-deli” in a great Vermont location caught Alex’s attention. For him, that would be a return to the food industry. He worked in various settings in the food service industry throughout his teens and 20s in Boston, where he grew up. 

“I love the interaction with the community, being around people, and the camaraderie with the team,” Alex said. 

He also spent a number of years in the music industry, touring and playing trombone full-time, as well as working in artist management. Cristy has an MBA and a background in financial services, and previously worked for Fidelity Investments.

Over the past two months, interior work has been ongoing at the Village Butcher. Upland Construction, of Woodstock, was the general contractor for the project, and the Middlebury firm IMHOTEP was also involved. 

The main additions include a full kitchen on the bottom floor. That helps facilitate two key parts of the plan: adding more prepared foods and baked goods to the shop’s offerings. The bakery operation will be run by Cristy’s mother, Bebe Stoddard.

Additionally, there’s been a reconfiguration upstairs, which moved the butcher-deli station.

“The butcher when you walk in is straight ahead,” Alex said. “We really wanted to feature that.” 

The shop will also offer a wider variety of local meats, and Alex and Josh have been visiting local farmers to make those arrangements. 

Along with those changes, the shop will have its own blend of coffee for the first time. One of the employees, Vicky Cook, will provide a special “Butcher’s Blend” through her business, Rooftop Roasters, for the shop to pour and sell.

The Village Butcher’s new owners can’t wait to get the doors open again, and carry forward what the Racicots have built over the years.

“We're really excited for people to see what we’ve done,” Cristy said.

— Gareth Henderson

Vermont eases mask rule again; speeds up reopening

A mountain view from Cox District Road in Bridgewater, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Vermont is no longer requiring fully vaccinated people to wear masks or adhere to social distancing, following a Thursday update to CDC guidance. This applies to indoor and outdoor spaces.

A second change also took effect Friday: Vermont moved up its statewide reopening schedule, as the state is hitting its COVID-19 vaccination targets over two weeks early. That means further relaxing capacity limits for gatherings and events, and there is now no COVID test required due to any travel.

For indoor gatherings and events, capacity limits were lowered to 1 unvaccinated person per 50 square feet or up to 300 people (whichever is lower), plus any number of vaccinated people. Outdoors, the limit is 900 people, plus any number of vaccinated individuals. For more details, check out the state's Vermont Forward web page.

Announcing the big news, Gov. Phil Scott thanked Vermonters for aiding this important progress.

"Because of you stepping up for the greater good, doing your part in getting vaccinated, we're able to do this," he said at Friday's press briefing.

Those who are not fully vaccinated must still follow the state's mask rule — which allows people to un-mask outdoors as long as they can maintain a social distance of six feet. Masks are still required in indoor public spaces. "Fully vaccinated" means that two weeks have passed since your final vaccine dose, the governor emphasized. Several settings will still require masking and social distancing, such as schools, public transportation, healthcare settings, long-term care facilities, and prisons.

Some Vermont municipalities still have their own mask policies. Earlier this week, prompted by the state’s May 1 update, Woodstock Village altered its mask ordinance and no longer requires face coverings to be worn outdoors in the village limits, as long as six feet of social distance can be maintained. The local ordinance still requires masking for indoor public spaces and businesses. There is no mention of vaccination status. On Friday, Woodstock Village Trustees Chair Jeff Kahn said the board will discuss the state's latest update. This will take place at a special meeting Monday, May 17, at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Connection information is on the town’s website.

At the state press conference, officials acknowledged that some vaccinated individuals might still choose to mask up, even after this latest change.

"Now, I understand there might be some who are still uncomfortable, a little hesitant, and that's OK. That's their choice, and I sincerely hope Vermonters can show understanding," Scott said. "But the fact is, if you're fully vaccinated, the health experts at the CDC have determined there is very little risk, and it's time to reward all the hard work you've done over the past 14 months to help make Vermont's pandemic response the best in the country."

State Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine said it may feel weird for some people to not wear a mask, even after being immunized.

"But know that when you do feel ready, vaccines work, and you are protected," he said.

Vermont still leads the nation in per-capita administration of the COVID vaccine, and over 61% of Vermonters have received at least one dose. On Thursday, for the first time since November, the University of Vermont Medical Center had no COVID in-patients.

The vaccination numbers continue to rise, as more than 7,300 Vermonters ages 12-15 had signed up for vaccine appointments as of Friday morning, after their age group became eligible on Thursday. Only the Pfizer vaccine is approved for 12-15-year-olds, who must have the consent of their parents or guardians to be immunized. To accelerate these vaccinations, Vermont will receive 5,000 additional Pfizer doses next week, as part of a federal program allowing states to request more than their usual weekly allotment.

In his remarks Friday, Human Services Secretary Mike Smith announced that the Vermont chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics is holding a series of online forums in the coming weeks about the COVID vaccine and adolescents. The list of forums is available at aapvt.org.

Smith encouraged parents to reach out to their pediatricians with any specific questions.

"Pediatricians are thrilled that more of their patients and family members are ready to be vaccinated, and they are willing to help in any way that they can," he said.

The state continues to add vaccination clinics, including walk-in opportunities. Visit healthvermont.gov/myvaccine for more information or call 855-722-7878.

— Gareth Henderson