Opinion: Why Vermont is different once again

As Vermonters, we are used to seeing ourselves compared to other states or regions of the country. Some positive, other negative, assessments. We are usually associated with California as one of the bluest states in the union when talking about politics. Recent surveys list Vermont as one of the healthiest states in the nation. By contrast, national rankings also list Vermont as one of the most expensive states to live in based on our state and local tax policies and cost of living. Nevertheless, Vermonters … (read more)

So, you’ve applied (or will soon apply) for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). What happens now? Be sure to retain a screenshot of the Application Confirmation number that appeared at the end of the application, or at least write it down in a sa … (read more)

I call it engineered chaos with an essential outcome and a timeline that had to be completed before it begins. The outcome is to “flatten the curve” and provide a space for healing and recovery for the homeless, those who have no home to go to safely and … (read more)

There is no more important factor for the health of a community than a strong and viable source of trustworthy information. Those of us living in Addison County have known for years that the Addison Independent has admirably served that function. Now more … (read more)

For nearly two months, teams across the UVM Health Network have been planning for our clinical and operational response to what is now designated as a pandemic by the World Health Organization and declared a State of Emergency in both Vermont and New York … (read more)

I look forward to hearing the sweet whistle of the White Throated Sparrow every spring, but am increasingly worried about losing their beautiful voices from Vermont. The White Throated Sparrow and many other forest birds like the Scarlet Tanager, Hermit T … (read more)

This week’s writer is Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos.  Trust in government is at an all-time low. As you can see playing out before our eyes in the news today, integrity is at a premium in times of crisis. Truth and transparency are necessary to ef … (read more)

Bill Cherry made an appointment to speak with Gillian Franks from CVOEO’s Financial Futures Program over a decade ago. He was out of work and brewing beer in his home. His meetings with Gillian were intensive at first and then intermittent over the years. … (read more)

Listening to Gov. Phil Scott on Vermont Public Radio recently as he mounted objection after objection to proposals to combat climate change, I kept thinking, “He’s missing something!” For every proposed climate solution suggested to him by callers and the … (read more)

If you look carefully and objectively at the world today, you may be able to perceive that we are approaching a crossroad: Do we want to continue our own fragile democracy as well as supporting other democratic movements abroad, or are we in the process o … (read more)

Recently VTDigger published a hit piece on the Autosaver Group, Abel Toll and his family.  We don’t suggest you read it because it’s the shoddiest excuse for “journalism” we’ve seen from Digger (an otherwise welcome, necessary, innovative and professional … (read more)

With the Legislature back in session and the governor putting the finishing touches on his budget proposal for the next fiscal year, it is a good time to remind ourselves why Vermonters deserve meaningful increases in funding for the Vermont State College … (read more)

This month, Vermonters from all corners of the state returned to the Statehouse for the 2020 legislative session. The Speaker kicked off the first day with her vision to create an economy that works for everyone, not just a select few. Vermont faces its s … (read more)

Funding from OneCare Vermont — the organization leading the state’s “all payer” experiment in health-care reform — is keeping an innovative and proven system of support for vulnerable Vermonters called SASH (Support and Services at Home) operating in all … (read more)

In late November, I was interviewed by a reporter who asked for my perspective regarding the topic of hospital “consolidations” and to discuss some national studies that indicate that hospitals coming together means higher prices for patients. The reporte … (read more)