Katherine Fiegenbaum

“Eventually, the idea is that we’re all connected — and not just by car,” said Michael Thomas, a founding member of the Cross Vermont Trail Association.

“I think it's really shocking and upsetting to people that such a small amount of money that does so much good and is such a part of our democracy is being attacked by now," said Mary Danko, president of the Vermont Library Association.

The Civic Standard, which resides in the oldest building on Main Street, has been focused lately on the fate of its building, which needs a number of costly and urgent repairs.

Last week, two towns approved ballot items in favor of either developing or expanding ordinances to allow ATVs on town roads. Two others voted against creating such an ordinance.

“He was super creative, coming up with great ideas and thoughts, and always with a laugh and a huge sense of joy in his demeanor and his personality,” said longtime friend Melinda Moulton.

A new community land trust is just one of several efforts afoot in southern Orleans County, where locals say year-round renters and homeowners are being priced out.

Weidmann Electrical Technology anticipates adding 67 new jobs to its St. Johnsbury plant, which currently employs about 300 workers.

“It was really heartbreaking for people, I think, after the flood, to not have the joy of the lake,” said Dylan Ford, Barnet’s selectboard chair.

“You lose something really important when you lose your community pharmacist,” said Mike Fisher, Vermont’s chief health care advocate.

Barnet student Ezra Goss won last year’s state competition, but no Vermont entry has won the national competition since its inception over two decades ago.