“(‘After Irene’) resonated with all who lived through it,
and both informed and moved those who did not.”
– VTDigger Reader
Dear Reader,
Local news has often been called the first draft of history. Last month, a decade after Tropical Storm Irene devastated Vermont, we revisited the human impact and lessons learned from the storm in an eight-part series, “After Irene.” I remember reporting on the disaster like it was yesterday.
Looking back on transformative events like Irene, it’s clear how important local reporting is for our communities. If you value VTDigger’s journalism, please support us today.
Irene was never supposed to hit Vermont, but it did. I, along with every other editor, reporter and photographer who was able, set out by foot, phone, mountain bike and car (where roads were passable) to report on the damage and how people had been affected. We documented the ways that Vermonters across the state stepped up with determination and ingenuity to help clear roads and aid vulnerable neighbors suddenly cut off from the world.
In most cases, no one told them to do it or how. Irene caused great pain and suffering, and it also revealed Vermonters’ true colors. “After Irene” is a series that honors those who survived the storm and rebuilt their lives. As climate change intensifies around the world, we are committed to explaining the impact of flooding, wind events and warmer weather on the lives of Vermonters.
I wouldn’t dream of telling you what to do, but I am asking that, if you value the community connection and vital information that VTDigger brings you, especially during difficult times, please support us.
This September marks VTDigger’s 12th anniversary. Will you keep us going for 12 more?
Sincerely yours,
Tom Kearney
Senior Editor, VTDigger
P.S. If you missed the “After Irene” series, you can find it here. If you appreciate it, please make a member donation to support this kind of reporting.
About VTDigger
VTDigger is a project of the Vermont Journalism Trust, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mailing address is VTDigger.org | 26 State Street, Suite 8 | Montpelier, VT 05602. Our Tax ID number is 27-1553931
How to make a gift
Online: vtdigger.org/donate
Call: (802) 225-6224
Mail: Make checks payable to VTDigger, 26 State Street, Suite 8, Montpelier, VT 05602
