Gay Vermonter with 4 adopted kids, three of whom graduated from public high school here. All three have had higher education in Vermont and will continue to live here. Both state law and the culture of “live and let live” are highly protective of families who are different. I wish their education were a bit more rigorous but in terms of my sexuality there wasn’t a significant problem. And btw we all love Vermont winters!

This may not work for everyone, but I got a zero interest loan from the state and installed four heat pumps. I use my oil furnace only as back up and thus far have burned less than 100 gallons of oil. I do keep the house cold as you do but I stay comfortable by wearing layers. The heat pumps are sophisticated and also serve as air conditioning in the summer. My electric bill has risen of course but it is a great relief not to have to buy oil for the winter