VERMONT-  Gov. Phil Scott has signed a proclamation declaring October to be Independent Country Store Month, recognizing how important the state’s country stores are in the lives of Vermonters.  In signing the proclamation, Gov. Scott acknowledged the integral role independent country stores have as an essential piece of Vermont communities and the tourism industry. He also acknowledged how they have played an integral role in supporting their communities during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. As the pandemic has continued, independent country stores have remained open.