BRATTLEBORO — We want to thank everybody who made the two-day “Unity for Community” event a tremendous and heartwarming success.
In particular, we wish to express our gratitude to those who created and attended the “Heart & Soul: A Musical Benefit for the Brooks House Community” gathering on Saturday, May 7.
While it is impossible to know exactly how many came to the River Garden, we served food for well over 350, so it is likely that between 600 and 1,000 folks attended. And it was smiles all day long from the audience, the performers, and the volunteers. Our sincerest thanks to everyone who participated.
Far too many folks donated their time and talents for us to possibly know everyone who contributed. We apologize to those whose names we miss. Please know that your efforts are so very greatly appreciated.
The myriad stunningly talented musicians and artisans of the Brattleboro area were fundamental to the event's success. Thank you to all for donating your time and creations.
The performing artists were supported in an unprecedented manner by the local media community, including everyone at WTSA, WKVT, WYRY, the Reformer, The Commons, Cider Magazine, iBrattleboro, and the Keene Sentinel. Building a Better Brattleboro donated use of the River Garden, providing the perfect venue.
The huge contributions of Greg Worden of Vermont Artisan Designs and Cyndi Cain of the Fenibo band can hardly be comprehended, let alone summarized. Without these two and their intelligence, skill, and compassion, this event would not have been possible.
Our stellar technical crew of Luke Houk, Julian McBrowne, Johnny Sheehan, Mike McKinney, Jay Cook, Bob Everingham, and others pulled off a most difficult task with enthusiastic aplomb.
Zack Leroy, Phil Beninson, and everyone at The Inferno and the Elliot Street Café provided fabulous food and drink.
Heather Levengood masterfully coordinated our many volunteers. Robin Zegg and others created a joyous, fun occasion for kids of all ages, from a sock puppet building station to face painting. We had massage therapists and jugglers. Gay Maxwell, Dora Bouboulis, Robin Rieske, Sharon Garry, Michael Wind, and Deb Witkis must be mentioned by name.
That this event could be planned and presented in only 18 days is a testament to the ability, dedication, and determination of the entire community. That it could be done with virtually no expenses whatsoever so that all of the funds raised could go directly to the United Way of Windham County Brooks House Fund is almost incomprehensible, but true.
This was a deep and celebratory experience and affirmation of both “Unity for Community” and “Heart and Soul.” Even better than the event itself is our confidence that this is a beginning, not an end. We are certain that we will be able to mobilize our collective talents in the future to address other efforts and improve our wonderful community for the benefit of all.