That little tiny, but important, apostrophe has gone missing from Vermont’s Saxtons River and Malletts Bay on Lake Champlain. Nineteenth century state-wide maps and clocks included the apostrophe in names, but usage started to disappear in the early 20th century. Apparently it’s not just happening in Vermont, but nationwide, says the Times Argus. Even the U.S. Geological Survey’s Board on Geographic Names discourages apostrophes in place names. It’s even been their policy for more than 100 years. Vermont State Archivist Gregory Sanford has made it a one-man campaign to bring back the grammar puss. But, to be fair and balanced, Vermont Gov. Jim Douglas comments, “Think of how many key strokes we’ve saved over the past few years since the apostrophe was eliminated.” So, if you happen to find a stray apostrophe, give it a permanent home. It’s tired and lonely.