This one? https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/nxddxj/best_vanity_plates_youve_seen/h1eq7ln/

We should measure the ice by its thickness and strength rather than by a body count or reddit sentiment.

It's pretty normal to have open water around the edges when there's good ice. It's very common for experienced ice recreation folk to bring a plank or ladder to access ice. There's a lot more nuance to each day, time of day, and body of ice for calculating risk, and that's very likely going on for a lot of folks that you might see on the ice. Check out the various local ice recreation groups social media, you'll probably feel a little better about humanity.

and stop driving, and..

Find a local builder/carpenter and tell them your budget is $1700 (or whatever you want to spend). You will get far better value for your money having a tradesperson knock out exactly what you need, and your money stays local (you might pay them in eggs). I work, own, and invest in the trades.

Yes, slowing down 5200 pounds of wet weight is the standard for VT roads.