"I have been able to exhale!! I have found ways to listen to the president without imploding. When I listen to VPR, I try to maintain an open mind and to hear what he is saying. If the topic becomes too frustrating, I shut the sound on the program.

"I have found clearness in how the resident functions, in that what he says is not necessarily what he will do. He is learning on the job, and thankfully there are some folks in his sphere that are more politically savvy than he is. Is it frustrating and anxiety provoking? Yes and yes! But I have found local ways to use my talent and time to to help Vermont state government and business function to our benefit whether or not activities are completely in line with the president and the federal government.

"Funding Planned Parenthood, protecting immigrants, becoming the best sanctuary city in Vermont, fighting climate change and encouraging stewardship of our state to name a few of my interests. I have come to the realization that we must become more vocal and political if we are to effect change."

Carol Pratt

Burlington, Vermont