Dummerston
What does Vermont mean to you?:
rural working landscapes, agriculture and forestry, small communities, honest politics, engaged citizens, woodsmoke, colored leaves, farmhouse kitchens
What common values do Vermonters share?:
love of the landscape and a sense of keeping some distance from the rest of mainstream America. I think people value the fact that life in Vermont is something that you can largely shape for yourself rather than having it composed of a thousand little conformities to the overwhelming world.
What challenges and opportunities do we see for our communities and state?:
We need to establish such a degree of independence that we can shape our own future in a sustainable way. This doesn't mean not having any relations with the nation or the world, only that we are not trapped by conditions beyond our control.
What should our priorities be as we work together to prepare Vermont for the future?:
Protecting the landscape.
Building a locally self-reliant state economy based on sustainable agriculture and sustainable energy production.
How do your thoughts about Vermont's values, future challenges and priority issues apply to YOUR community?:
I am interested and active in working with my community on land-use issues, and I hope to become more active with local groups dealing with local food and energy issues.
