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In Praise of Robert Frost and Great Events By GRAHAM NEWELL

The notable Vermonters of this century whom I have considered had their decade or two of public acclaim, esteem, or even of derision and scorn. But with subsequent generations their fame or notoriety diminishes and fades from the popular memory.

In my choice for the most notable Vermonter, my criterion also looks to the next century. Whose life work will still be recalled in the fourth grader's study of Vermont history? And which Vermonter will future Vermonters still be quoting?

Alexander the Great bemoaned the fact he had no Homer, as Achilles had, through whom his time and exploits might be remembered. But unlike Alexander, Vermont has its 20th century Homer, the knowledge of whose writings stand the best chance of continual repute through the next century.

I foresee decades and decades ahead of fourth graders and their elders quoting: "Good fences make good neighbors"

"...miles to go before I sleep."

"Two roads diverged in a yellow wood," Thus, I say, the most noteworthy Vermonter of the 20th century is Robert Frost, whose name and works will continue among 21st century Vermonters - and Americans.

In addressing a top news story of this century, I narrowed my choice to:

- the 1927 flood

- the defeat by referendum in 1936 of the Green Mountain Parkway and my final choice:

- the legislative reapportionment and redistricting in 1965.

I feel that this reapportionment is not only this century's most significant development, but also in Vermont's entire political history.

The subsequent results of the 1965 action have made an irrevocable change in the manner by which Vermont is governed since Chittenden County and its greater area are now able to dominate both legislative houses as well as the executive branch.

Graham Newell, an educator, is a former member of the Vermont House and Senate. He served in the House both before and after reapportionment.