FERRISBURGH — We are increasingly seeing the health and safety benefits of Vermont’s pandemic control response to COVID-19. Businesses are steadily starting to open and we are now able to gather in small groups. 
However, it remains important that we continue to wear face coverings, frequently wash our hands, and employ the physical distancing methods as advised by the Vermont Department of Health and Gov. Scott. Comprehensive updates on COVID-19 for the public and for businesses are available on several websites such as the Vermont Department of Health (healthvermont.gov,) Gov. Scott’s  (governor.vermont.gov/home) and the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (accd.vermont.gov). In addition, Sen. Ruth Hardy offers information and updates at ruthforvermont.com/2020/05/26/summer-restart-update-memorial-day.  
A reminder to Ferrisburgh residents to complete the 2020 Census: Only about half of all Vermonters have responded so far — one of the lowest response rates in the country. The census aims to get an accurate count of national and Vermont residents. This census count is used for many programs and research and is critical to help ensure that Vermont receives our fair share of federal funds allocated in part on population and demographics. The funding is used for many programs such as infrastructure, roads and transportation, community block grants, school lunches, hospital supports, and more. So be counted today — it really is quick and easy. Go to 2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020. Also, for a breakdown of the numbers for rural communities (such as in Vermont) and how the census assists in determining funding, visit 2020census.gov/en/what-is-2020-census/focus/rural.html?#.
Great news! Rokeby Museum was scheduled to open on Wednesday, July 1. Plan to visit our community’s local historic treasure, which is nationally significant as the generational home of the Roland Robinson family and also a documented site on the Underground Railroad. Also visit Rokeby’s extensive website for information on the exhibits and programs. Examples of upcoming programs that are highlighted on Rokeby’s website are “Mending Fences” by Carol McDonald and “Exposing the Challenges: A Closer Look at Women’s Suffrage.” In addition, Rokeby has included essays by their board members reflecting on the historic and present-day issues of racism, immigrant farm workers, and the ongoing pandemic.