To the Editor: Although I have written many times in the pages of this newspaper about my experience living under a dictatorship in Fiji, it seems that many more people are now paying attention to me and to my time there, which, of course, is wonderful! Much has been written on this subject, but the bottom line is that we…

To the Editor: I spent a beautiful day this past weekend visiting with residents living on Harvey’s Lake, and see why few places in Vermont better embody the purpose of our public waters than Harvey’s. It is a place where generations have learned to swim, paddle, fish, waterski, watch loons raise their young, and introduce grandchildren to the quiet pleasures…

In a historic victory for Vermont’s lakes, ponds, and all who enjoy our public waters, the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (LCAR) voted to approve the Agency of Natural Resources’ amendments to the Use of Public Waters Rules last week, providing stronger protections for many of Vermont’s most vulnerable lakes and ecosystems. Under the revised rules, wakesports will now be…

Several weeks ago, I wrote about the importance of preserving trust between local government and the people it serves, especially during moments when fear and uncertainty can divide communities. Since then, a great deal of very thoughtful conversation has occurred that has resulted in a focused, clear and impactful resolution that will soon be presented to the St Johnsbury Selectboard…

Last year, at the close of sugaring season, I wrote a piece that I titled “The Last Boil.” It was written to capture a feeling more than make an argument. I wrote about steam rising from the sugarhouse, about the final run through the pan, and about how small the outside world seemed when set against the steady work of…