Vermont
‘They’re asking: Why me?’ Volunteers respond to mental health concerns after Vermont floods. – The Boston Globe
![‘They’re asking: Why me?’ Volunteers respond to mental health concerns after Vermont floods. – The Boston Globe ‘They’re asking: Why me?’ Volunteers respond to mental health concerns after Vermont floods. – The Boston Globe](https://bostonglobe-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/1ueMsMgcqIU_UQwEJhh7Rmrgnc0=/506x0/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/bostonglobe/KWLK55O7HAH7CMSYXVVWLO7QTI.jpg)
“Every time there is rain in the forecast, there is the fear of another flood,” said Terri Lavely, co-chair of Northeast Kingdom Human Services’ suicide prevention effort.
The nearly back-to-back flooding and severe storms hit Vermonters the second week of July and then again on July 30, with some communities flooded more than once.
First it was the remnants of Hurricane Beryl. Then flash flooding just three weeks later due to heavy rainstorms. And, little more than a week after those storms, Hurricane Debby arrived on Aug. 9, bringing rain, wind damage, and at least 21,000 power outages.
Disasters like these, researchers have found, can have significant emotional and psychological consequences on survivors. For example, an average of 28 percent of disaster survivors develop symptoms of depression, according to a 2022 study that reviewed disaster health research. In another 2022 study, about a fifth of disaster survivors (analyzed across multiple studies) had symptoms of acute stress disorder, which can include symptoms of intrusive thoughts, a sense of detachment, trouble sleeping, and irritability.
President Biden on Tuesday declared a major disaster related to the storms in early July, which unlocks federal funds for temporary housing, home repairs, and other Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster recovery programs. The declaration does not include assistance for damages caused by storms on July 30. Vermont Governor Phil Scott will make a separate request for a disaster declaration related to that storm, according to a statement by the governor’s office.
Patty Collins, a therapist who volunteered at a flood recovery center in Lyndon this month, said several survivors she has worked with are feeling “terribly compromised” and on edge.
“They’re asking: ‘Why me?’” Collins said.
Collins said she taught some residents about grounding techniques and stress reduction tactics. Grounding techniques can include practices such as closing your eyes, taking a deep breath, and counting to three and then exhaling. At the flood recovery center, she also provided them with phone numbers and websites where they can connect with a counselor.
Megan Mathers, 36, a volunteer relief coordinator for Kingdom United Resilience & Recovery Effort, a coalition of nonprofit organizations and grass-roots volunteers organizing disaster recovery efforts, said the sound of thunder is one of the most common triggers mentioned by survivors. Volunteers from the group have mucked out dozens of homes across the state’s northeast corner this summer.
“Not having that feeling of safety is really, really hard for people,” Mathers said.
Many, Mathers said, are also struggling with the loss of their personal belongings — particularly sentimental items such as family photos — and the uncertainty of whether they will qualify for federal relief.
Climate change heightens the sense in Vermont communities that a “new normal” is unpredictable and out of their control, Mathers said. “It’s the unknown: Is this going to happen again?”
At the same time, she’s also seeing the toll that witnessing the devastation is having on the emotional well-being of volunteers. Those who repeatedly sign up to help “get burned out really fast,” Mathers said. Others have volunteered once, seen very intense devastation, and not returned, she said.
“It can be really overwhelming for everyone [involved],” she said.
State agencies have upped mental health resources for Vermonters in the aftermath of the flood events. Last week, the Vermont Department of Mental Health announced it would extend its “Starting Over Strong Vermont” outreach program, an initiative that provides anonymous and free mental health referrals and education.
![James Bengston rakes the front of his home in the aftermath of his home after the flash flooding that occurred on July 30th in St. Johnsbury, Vermont.](https://bostonglobe-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/N6PYFFY4O5WXLYICR6Q3EOAJ3A.jpg?auth=fed357d96fb068eae4064aa982d991e1d63368c1b7534a3faed835080bf9b842&width=1440)
“We know that the impact [of flooding] extends beyond just physical damage,” said Emily Hawes, commissioner of the state Department of Mental Health, in a statement. “Folks are struggling with the fear, anxiety, and re-traumatization that comes from these recurring events and memories of last year’s flooding. We want our communities to know that we are here for them.”
Last summer, catastrophic flash flooding damaged thousands of Vermont homes and businesses, caused landslides, and compromised dams.
Betty Lai, an associate professor of counseling psychology at Boston College who has researched the impact of disasters, said the most common psychological responses are depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, which can include symptoms such as nightmares and flashbacks.
The floods in Vermont, Lai said, could have been a traumatic event for residents depending on what they experienced during and after the storm. Stressful events after the initial storm – such as arguing with insurance companies, financial problems, or being forced to relocate – can also be traumatic.
Lai said survivors should be aware that even if they may not be struggling today, some people experience a delay of perhaps three to six months between the disaster and a psychological response.
She recommended that adults who care for children ask them how they’re feeling. Sometimes, parents and caretakers assume that a child is experiencing the event the same way that adults are, she said, but emotional responses to disasters vary widely.
Lai said survivors should reach out to friends and family for help and pay attention to their substance use. Drinking is a common way that some survivors cope, but it tends to worsen symptoms.
“People can become isolated after these events or feel cut off,” Lai said. “Lean on your social support.”
Lavely, of the Northeast Kingdom Human Services’ suicide prevention effort, said she emphasizes to survivors that what they’re going through is a normal response to a traumatic experience.
And when the rain comes again?
“What I’m encouraging people to do is close your curtain, and distract yourself with a movie or a book,” Lavely said. “We can’t control the weather; we can only control the way we respond to it.”
In Vermont, to be connected with a local mental health agency or a referral, call 211. For immediate and confidential crisis support by text message in Vermont, text VT to 741741. For confidential suicide and crisis support anywhere in the United States, call or text 988.
Erin Douglas can be reached at erin.douglas@globe.com. Follow her @erinmdouglas23.
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Vermont
Reaction after Burlington shooting
![Reaction after Burlington shooting Reaction after Burlington shooting](https://gray-wcax-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/4SNRUQ5OGFCEHHZA67Q3BCPJNA.bmp?auth=91a4d9c364d793e2ca9abed6886d9e6920c1dbe5d8b21ffdedb82a3a9db00870&width=1200&height=600&smart=true)
BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Another shooting in downtown Burlington leaves one person dead.
“It was ironic because I was actually out and about on Thursday, canvassing, on Thursday night, and I was talking to Alex. I’m like, yeah you know, glad to see that things have gone down and we haven’t seen this issue in a while. Next night later I wake up to a text message from a friend, saying. Hey look, we had another gun fire incident,” Christopher Haessly of the Church Street Marketplace District Commission.
Christopher Haessly has lived in downtown Burlington for many years, in fact, he lives right off of Church St.
He’s on the Church Street Marketplace District Commission, and in all of his years living in Burlington, he’s never seen violence in the city like this before, and is calling on local leaders to do something.
“I think moving forward we need to have a conversation about weather or not we want to continue to allow firearms into bars and other downtown establishments,” Haessly said.
According to police, the shooting happened at approximately 12:28 a.m. on Saturday, outside of Red Square on Church St.
Police say they arrested 22-year-old Aaliyah Johnson, of South Burlington, and recovered a .45 Caliber pistol.
Burlington police say a Community Service Officer (C.S.O.) heard gunshots and responded to the area. When he arrived, he found 30 year old Teville Williams of Stowe shot.
Officers attempted to provide medical care to Williams, but were disrupted by a large crowd that surrounded the officers.
They say the crowd had to be pushed back in order to preserve the crime scene, which included shell casings, bullets, and blood evidence.
According to Burlington police, the shooting stems from an altercation between Williams and Johnson, where Williams is alleged to have assaulted Johnson inside red square.
Bar employees made them both leave, out of two separate doors.
Johnson exited one door and moved towards the other to confront Williams on Church Street.
She then allegedly shot him several times.
“There are concerns with the business community. Nobody wants their business to be associated with gun violence. It is not a good look. It discourages people from coming downtown,” Haessly said.
WCAX reached out to Red Square for comment, but did not get a response.
But the bar said in a social media post it would be closed for the day to let staff members heal from the incident.
Copyright 2024 WCAX. All rights reserved.
Vermont
Woman arrested after fatal shooting in Burlington, Vermont
![Woman arrested after fatal shooting in Burlington, Vermont Woman arrested after fatal shooting in Burlington, Vermont](https://media.necn.com/2022/02/sirens-generic-from-sdpd-cruiser.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&resize=1200%2C675)
A 22-year-old has been arrested after a fatal shooting in Burlington, Vermont early Saturday morning.
Aaliyah Johnson, of South Burlington, was arrested after a man was found shot outside a bar just after midnight on Church Street, according to WPTZ.
Investigators say a community service officer nearby heard gunshots and called police.
Authorities say that they found 30-year-old Teville Williams, of Stowe, suffering gunshot wounds after being hampered by a large crowd of people and administered CPR.
Teville was then taken to the University of Vermont Medical Center and pronounced dead.
Police say Teville had allegedly assaulted Johnson following an argument at Red Square. Johnson then confronted Teville and allegedly shot him multiple times.
Vermont
8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Vermont
![8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Vermont 8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Vermont](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w1200-q80/upload/c4/99/d7/shutterstock-2218384329.jpg)
Vermont, the 14th state to join the Union and the leading producer of maple syrup in the United States, isn’t just about vibrant foliage and ski resorts. Burlington and Montpelier are Vermont’s claim to fame, but beyond them lies a collection of tranquil small towns that embody New England charm’s essence without the crowds.
These towns offer a slower pace where time seems to linger a little longer. The historic streets of Woodstock and the rolling landscapes of Stowe offer you a chance to reconnect with nature, indulge in local cuisine, and unwind in a setting that feels untouched by time. Take a look at eight of Vermont’s most laid-back locales, where relaxation is not just an activity but a way of life.
Woodstock
Woodstock, Vermont, distinct from its New York namesake, is a small town chartered in 1761. It has grown around the principles of preservation and community, set within the scenic Green Mountains. This setting enhances its array of meticulously preserved architectural treasures from the 1800s, visible throughout its historic district. The town’s commitment to maintaining its heritage is palpable at the Billings Farm & Museum, established in 1890. Here, visitors can engage in hands-on activities and explore exhibits illustrating Vermont’s rural past. Similarly, history lovers adore the iconic Middle Covered Bridge that spans the Ottauquechee River, providing stunning photographic opportunities and a tangible connection to the town’s past.
For those seeking a blend of nature and history, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, the only part of the U.S. National Park system in Vermont besides the Appalachian Trail, offers expansive views and significant historical insights. The park and the Woodstock Town Forest provide ample space for leisurely walks and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding this quaint town. No matter what you do in Woodstock, there is always connectivity, thanks to the “Wireless Woodstock” project. The project offers free internet throughout the town and blends traditional charm with contemporary conveniences.
Stowe
![Downtown Stowe, Vermont](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/2f/1b/c6/istock-1878082841.jpg)
Stowe is perfectly situated at the base of Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, offering unmatched access to thrilling ski and snowboard experiences. Visitors can ascend via the Gondola SkyRide for panoramic views that stretch across the Green Mountains or enjoy a leisurely meal at the Cliff House Restaurant high above the slopes. For those eager to dive into the rich history of these winter sports, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum presents an impressive collection of artifacts that celebrate decades of alpine pursuits.
But Stowe isn’t just about winter, and summer invites adventurers to explore Smugglers’ Notch State Park, a haven of dense forests and tranquil campgrounds ideal for reconnecting with nature. Come autumn, the landscape bursts into vibrant colors, providing a picturesque backdrop for the Von Trapp Brewing Oktoberfest, a celebration of local brews and German culture. This charm extends to many events, such as the Music in the Meadow concert series and the quirky Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival, which showcases the community’s spirited culture and hospitality.
Shelburne
![The Ticonderoga steamboat in Shelburne, Vermont.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/df/79/9b/shutterstock-669298177.jpg)
Shelburne stands out along Lake Champlain’s picturesque shores as an exceptional relaxing stop. Before indulging in the outdoors, many enthusiasts opt for local history instead, palpable through plenty of iconic attractions. One of the top draws is the Shelburne Museum, an extraordinary campus of 39 diverse buildings that house over 150,000 artifacts showcasing American folk art, impressionist paintings, and much more. Notably, the museum includes a fully restored 220-foot steamboat, providing a tangible link to the lake’s steamboat era. Shelburne is also home to Shelburne Farms, a sprawling estate that serves as both a working farm and an educational center. This site features a Queen Anne-style mansion turned inn. It offers visitors a variety of engaging tours and activities, such as the House & Garden Tour and Forest Bathing (shinrin-yoku), which emphasizes a sensory, immersive experience in nature.
After exploring local heritage, take a relaxing walk or engage in more vigorous activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at Shelburne Bay Park, which offers breathtaking lake views and a chance to experience the area’s natural beauty in peace. One can also tee off with friends at the scenic Kwiniaska Golf Course on the eastern end of town.
Waitsfield
![Aerial view of Waitsfield in Vermont.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/0e/e6/33/shutterstock-145619956-1.jpg)
Waitsfield, a quaint town in the scenic Mad River Valley, embraces the tranquility of rural New England. Despite its modest population of around 1,800 residents, Waitsfield boasts a rich array of attractions that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. For winter sports enthusiasts, the town is home to the renowned Mad River Glen ski area and Sugarbush Resort, both situated within the majestic Green Mountains, providing some of the best skiing opportunities in the region. The former is a local favorite, with 60 trails of all levels taking advantage of its 2,000-foot vertical drop. Non-skiers will prefer a trip to the Scrag Mountain Town Forest, featuring ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and nature walks.
For those interested in local history and craftsmanship, Waitsfield does not disappoint. The Madsonian Museum of Industrial Design offers insights into the creative minds that have shaped everyday objects, while the town’s historic covered bridges provide a glimpse into Vermont’s storied past. Additionally, Waitsfield’s landmark venues like the Skinner Barn—a beautifully restored 19th-century dairy barn now serving as an event space—and the multifunctional Mad River Barn add a unique cultural and social flavor to the town.
Dorset
![The Dorset Union Store in Dorset, Vermont](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/19/7b/2b/shutterstock-1556819897.jpg)
Less than seven miles from Manchester, Dorset is a serene retreat with a backdrop of rolling brooks and lush landscapes. Places like Emerald Lake State Park and the towering Dorset Peak provide outdoor lovers with ample opportunities for hiking, swimming, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
The town’s history as a former marble quarry that contributed to the construction of the New York Public Library and other notable buildings adds a layer of industrial heritage to its rustic charm. It’s home to the historic Wilson House, where William Griffith Wilson co-founded Alcoholics Anonymous, adding a significant cultural and historical dimension to the town. For art enthusiasts, the Marble House Project at the Manley-Lefevre House offers a unique peek into the creative processes of artists who work within the town’s old marble quarries, such as the famed Freedley Quarry. Visitors can end their day by cozying up at local historic inns, such as The Dorset Inn or the Aerie Inn, which offer warm, inviting accommodations.
Grafton
![Main Street in Grafton, Vermont.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/a8/b0/7c/shutterstock-1860614977.jpg)
Grafton is an idyllic community located in southern Vermont and easily accessible from the I-91 highway. It offers a tranquil environment where the pace slows, and nature takes center stage. Visitors can start their journey at the Riverledge Farm, immersing themselves in the local agricultural lifestyle, or delve into the sweet delights of Plummer’s Sugar House, where maple syrup and candies showcase Vermont’s renowned maple harvesting. On the other hand, a network of natural trails surrounds Grafton and preserves such as the Grafton Town Forest, Beaver Deceivers International, and John Dorand State Forest, making it a haven for hiking, snowshoeing, and enjoying the serene outdoors.
For those interested in learning about the natural world, The Nature Museum exhibits Vermont’s rich biodiversity and hosts the enchanting Fairy House Festival. This annual event captivates both young and old with whimsical creations every September. Additionally, the town’s dedication to celebrating its heritage and natural beauty is evident in the Jud Hartman Gallery, where the “The Woodland Tribes of the Northeast” collection of bronze sculptures offers a profound cultural insight. Before leaving, be sure to visit the Grafton Village Cheese Company, which has artisanal cheeses that provide a taste of local craftsmanship.
Chester
![Aerial view of Chester in Vermont.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/15/39/ca/shutterstock-1690633069.jpg)
Chester has no shortage of fun activities like fishing, swimming, and leisurely riverside picnics during the warmer months. Chester serves as a gateway to the Green Mountains, providing abundant hiking, biking, and mountain climbing opportunities, making it a year-round destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts. The Chester Town Forest is a great place to start, with a tranquil environment ideal for people of all ages.
The town is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a treasure trove of history, boasting not one but two districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Stone Village Historic District features unique granite houses that hark back to earlier centuries, while Chester Village displays a splendid array of architectural styles, including Victorian, Federal, and Colonial Revival. This rich blend of historical architecture provides a visually stunning backdrop to the town’s vibrant community events, such as the annual Fall Festival in September and the Winter Carnival in February, drawing visitors and locals alike to celebrate the seasons in a truly historic setting.
Peacham
![Congregational Church and farm with red barn at sunny autumn day in Peacham, Vermont.](https://www.worldatlas.com/r/w768/upload/ea/01/72/shutterstock-1444911698.jpg)
Peacham is celebrated as one of New England’s most photographed towns—a testament to its undeniable charm and quintessential rural beauty. At the heart of this pastoral town, the Peacham Corner Historic District encapsulates its rich heritage with landmarks like the 1806 Congregational Church and 1797 Peacham Academy, adding a historical depth to the scenic vistas that draw visitors year-round. Other sites, such as the 1787 Elkins Tavern and the 1830 Josiah & Lydia Shedd Farmstead, offer a glimpse into the town’s past, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts.
Furthermore, Peacham doesn’t just rest on its laurels as a beautiful backdrop; it actively engages locals and tourists with vibrant community events showcasing its lively cultural fabric. From the Fourth of July celebrations to the Peacham Acoustic Music Festival and the colorful Fall Foliage celebration, the town offers a rich tapestry of experiences highlighting the community’s spirit and hospitality.
Opening up a different side of town, the expansive Groton State Forest offers nearly 30,000 acres of lush forests to explore, bike, or paddle. Each visit promises discoveries and serene encounters with nature. After some natural exploration, those looking to recharge their batteries can eat at Peacham Cafe, which offers delightful culinary experiences.
Wrapping Up
Vermont’s laid-back small towns offer a quintessential retreat into the heart of New England, where the landscape is as rich in history as it is in natural beauty. From Woodstock’s historic lanes to Stowe’s peaceful trails, each town presents an opportunity to slow down and savor life’s simpler pleasures. Whether you seek a quiet weekend away or a deeper connection with nature and history, Vermont’s towns promise a refreshing escape from the hustle of everyday life, where each moment is a step back into a slower, more thoughtful way of living.
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