Reemerging

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Gareth Henderson