Vermont Rail Action Network Works To Make A Difference Locally
December 20th, 2008 Posted in EndorsementI like to believe that The GAUX Dispatcher is entertaining and meaningful to others besides myself. It is this belief that motivates me to pay for, maintain and continually update the site.
Like myself, there are countless others out there in the world who also love railroading, for whatever reasons. Many of them also develop websites so they can share their passion. A select few aspire to actually make a difference, especially in their own local community or region.
Comments about one of my postings left by a reader lead me to one such website…
The Vermont Rail Action Network exists to inform members, elected officials and the public concerning railroad issues in Vermont, because “our voice is more powerful when it is well-timed and unified.”
The Vermont Rail Action Network is a team and a citizen’s movement, which encourages and relies upon public participation. “We are ambassadors for the cause of railroads and railroad service. If you believe that Vermont would be better with more trains (and less road vehicle pollution) then we need your voice, your hands and your gumption.”
The Vermont Rail Advocacy Center’s mission statement is “To improve the environment and to ensure the economic viability of Vermont business by providing cost effective transportation choices, VRAN supports and advocates for the modernization and revitalization of the Vermont rail network for passengers and freight.”
Christopher Parker, Executive Director
It is easy to understand the nature of Mr. Parker’s interest in railroads, and in his own local economy. I am respectful (and a little envious) of what he is trying to accomplish, and the selfless nature of his goals.
While not a Vermont resident, I understand that a healthy rail system in one area is directly related to the health of surrounding rail systems; and therefore a benefit to all of us, no matter where we live.
I applaud the VRAN, and offer this post in the hope that it will help spread the word in an attempt to help in my own small way… Good luck, and don’t give up.
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2 Responses to “Vermont Rail Action Network Works To Make A Difference Locally”
By Christopher Parker on Dec 20, 2008
Thanks!
By Christopher Parker on Dec 20, 2008
I must also mention that it’s not just me! I am blessed to have an active board. Board members include acting chair Lee Khan of Randolph, artist Charlie Hunter of Bellows Falls, retired railroader Charlie Moore of St. Albans, Representative Dick Pembroke of Bennington, David Allaire of Rutland, filmmaker Rick Moulton of Huntington, Mike Coates of Essex, Pete Snyder from the Northeast Kingdom. In addition there are active volunteers, among them long-time rail advocate Carl Fowler. We have a mailing list of about 2,000 – many of whom give their support in various ways. We work in affiliation with Trainriders Northeast and have also been cooperating with environmental groups (Conservation Law Foundation, Vermont Public Interest Research Group, Vermont Natural Resources Council and Vermonters for a Clean Environment) and local business groups as well as with the railroads of Vermont and their lobby group, the Vermont Railroad Association. I have also worked with the National Association of Railroad Passengers.