Windham County Action Network (WeCAN)

"I want to be clear that Representative Yoho’s comments were not deeply hurtful or piercing to me, because I have worked a working class job. I have waited tables in restaurants. I have ridden the subway. I have walked the streets in New York City, and this kind of language is not new. I have encountered words uttered by Mr. Yoho and men uttering the same words as Mr. Yoho while I was being harassed in restaurants. I have tossed men out of bars that have used language like Mr. Yoho’s …This (language) is not new, and that is the problem.”
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY)
in response to being accosted by Representative Yoho (FL) on the steps of the Capitol Building this week

     It has been quite the week in Windham County, hasn't it WeCAN Fam? On Wednesday morning, racist graffiti was spray painted on public roads in Putney, Newfane, Jamaica, and Brattleboro. By Wednesday night, our beautiful community had come together in not one, but two vigils (one at 6pm in Newfane, one at 7pm in Putney). While investigations are still on-going and it has yet to be determined if the graffiti will fall under the "hate crime" (or any crime) category*, one thing is abundantly clear: we, the residents of Windham County, have collectively said that we will not tolerate hate. Over 200 (masked and socially distanced) people came out in the rain to show their solidarity, to share their outrage, and to commit to combatting racism wherever they find it. In addition, a weekly solidarity gathering has cropped up in Pliny Plaza in Brattleboro every Friday evening, joined this week by 350 Brattleboro's Critical Mass Bike Ride (details below). Many, many more Windham County residents support the Black Lives Matter movement and have shown solidarity from their homes through lawn signs and original artwork displayed on their properties. We appreciate all that you have done and encourage you to do as much as you can to support, amplify, and listen to Black voices. Thank you for showing up for your fellow Vermonters! 

   
first three images via the Brattleboro Reformer^
fourth image via Facebook+

* https://www.reformer.com/stories/anti-blm-graffiti-strikes-a-nerve,609840?fbclid=IwAR1Mxhl88oujjvZrm2-F_TF2uHdoQRTecLEgYPohUOL_YygLBVUDXIls12U
^ https://www.reformer.com/stories/communities-come-together-to-show-support-for-black-lives-matter,609800
+ Image found via Brad Heck & Willow O'Feral

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PLEASE NOTE: A STATEWIDE MASK MANDATE WILL GO INTO EFFECT ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 1ST, 2020. Masks or facial coverings will be required at all times in public places, both indoor and outdoor, in Vermont starting Aug.1, according to a July 24 announcement by Gov. Phil Scott. Businesses can refuse to serve people who do not wear masks. The requirement applies to everyone over the age of 2 with exceptions. Details will be available this week. 

 via VT Digger

HAPPENING TODAY, SUNDAY, JULY 26th, 2020

Share the Harvest Stand
brought to you by Edible Brattleboro
Sunday, July 5th, 2020, and every Sunday during the Summer, at the corner of Elm Street and Frost Street in Brattleboro, VT, 05301. 11am-1pm. For more information please email [email protected].
Pick up FREE fresh veggies and/or drop off surplus from your garden to share. Please supply your own bags.  

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Edible Brattleboro need YOU to help us help others. We are looking for volunteers, specifically individuals to help Saturdays from 1:50pm-2:15pm, to glean at the Farmers' Market in Brattleboro and someone to assist on Sundays starting at 10:30am until 1pm (or until all the produce is distributed) to set up and operate the Edible Brattleboro Share the Harvest stand. We have added a 1-hour shift from 10:30am-11:30am to help with the initial rush. COVID protocols are in place. Please bring a mask.
New volunteers will be paired with an experienced person. Detailed instructions will be provided.
You may sign up directly on our signup site or reply to this email with the date(s) you can help out, along with your phone number, and I will enter you into the schedule.
ABOUT SIGNUP.COM: 
We're using SignUp.com (the leading online SignUp and reminder tool) to organize our upcoming SignUps.
Here's how it works in 3 easy steps:
1) Click this link to access our SignUp: https://signup.com/go/JMwjGmE
2) Review the options listed and choose the spot(s) you like.
3) Sign up! It's Easy - you will NOT need to register an account or keep a password on SignUp.com.
Note: SignUp.com does not share your email address with anyone. If you have difficulty, please  contact Marilyn  directly to be signed up manually. Thank you! 

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HAPPENING THIS WEEK, MONDAY, JULY 27th, 2020-SUNDAY, AUGUST 2nd, 2020

WSESD School Board Meeting
hosted by the Brattleboro Town School Board
Monday, July 27th, 2020, Online. 6pm-9pm. To join the Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/98730340981?pwd=N2U5N3BCa2ZnYlJIKzhnWUZZNXk0UT09
Topics of discussion will include: 
Communications- letters from two parents suggesting options for school reopening.
Administrative Report- update on preparations for reopening.
Financial Report- update on the COVID funding reimbursements and potential uses; areas in the FY21 spending plan where we might conserve avoid spending as we work our way through the reopening process.
New Business- The board will consider a proposal to use 1% funds for stipends to support teachers choosing to participate in "Tools for Anti-Racist Teaching: A Virtual Professional Learning Series from PBS Teacher."
Full agenda available here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12aRYH-GH-ZKpC1Bc1AkavI4okw1kt3ik/view

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The First Amendment or How to Become a Political Animal
with Meg Mott, Professor of Politics Emerita at Marlboro College, 
part of Talk About Our Democracy and organized by We Celebrate Democracy/Civil Rights For All
Monday, July 27th, 2020, Online. 6:30pm. Go to https://www.megmott.com/events for the link to the website to participate in the meeting via Zoom.
Meg says: Aristotle loved democracy, because he saw how it gave citizens the habits of "political animals." The First Amendment to the Constitution describes the process of becoming an actualized citizen. It begins with the freedom to follow a higher moral standard (freedom of religion) and ends with political protest (freedom to petition the government for a redress of grievances). This Zoom talk will consider how the Framers understood these First Freedoms and how we might think about them today. Fortunately, the technology permits for democratic engagement. Participants will have a chance to reflect on their individual paths to becoming a political being.

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Construction of Whiteness Study Group
facilitated by Brattleboro Solidarity
Tuesday, July 28th, 2020
Tuesday, August 4th, 2020
On the Brattleboro Common (at the intersection of Routes 5 and 30: Park Place, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 6pm-8pm. This is an open and free study group. Snacks will be provided. Please sign-up by contacting [email protected] and wear a mask. 
The social construction of "race" as a way to divide people is as old as the founding of the United States. Today we are seeing an escalation of ICE raids, police killing, and white supremacist attacks on people of color that are directly related to the construction of whiteness. It is imperative we continue to expand our knowledge of the history of race in this country in order to fight the supremacy in our society. Brattleboro Solidarity will be hosting a study group to expand our understanding of the  historical divisions along race and class lines in the U.S as a tool for economic exploitation. 

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Teaching in Solidarity with Black Lives: Towards an Equitable Future
a Spark Teacher Education Institute learning opportunity
Wednesday July 29th, 2020
Wednesday, August 5th, 2020
All sessions will meet via Zoom. 4pm-6pm. Contact [email protected] for more information! Join us! Fill out this form to apply!  Cost is $300, but contact us for sliding scale costs. 
Spark Teacher Education Institute will facilitate online learning communities aimed at building curricula that centers Black lives and equity.  With the goal of democratizing  knowledge, the expertise will come from participants as they  commit to study and reflection. We will co-construct curriculum and interrogate our pedagogy to inform our teaching practices.
You will receive 15 hours of  professional development credits (that includes meetings and independent work), with the possibility of continuing into the year for graduate credits.
There will be 3 groups to choose from:
Science/Math, Humanities, and Early Childhood/Elementary.
Why Join this PD? 
Practitioners and scholars have been urging teachers to centralize equity and Black lives in pedagogy and curricula for over two decades. Gloria Ladson-Billings, a distinguished professor of education and critical race scholar, points to the historic education debt (not “achievement gap”) placed upon Black students which is reflected in their over-representation in punishment, expulsions, and special education. Teaching in support of Black lives and equity is more than just methods or adding a social justice lesson. Teachers need to investigate and challenge white supremacy in their pedagogy and curricula to move the center.  Teaching in support of Black Lives is an opportunity for educators to connect a long history of racialized inequities to school based practices, curriculum, and broader structures of schooling. These sessions are organized to offer a place for questioning and active collaboration to forge new paths of inquiry and initiatives in your schools and broader communities.
Spark Teacher Education Institute has been working with teachers for 18 years to centralize the experiences of working people, women, and people of color, in order to teach against exploitation and build an equitable world for all. Spark Teacher Education Institute was started by Janaki Natarajan and offers teacher certification in Social Justice Education.  Teachers learn the social justice pedagogy and  political economy.  Participants work side-by-side for an entire year with a skilled mentor teacher, learning to integrate social justice and equity content into the mainstream curriculum. The program strives to instill an understanding of self and others in conjunction with the development of skills, knowledge, critical thinking and compassion required for creating an equitable and engaging learning environment for all learners.

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#NotMeUs: Get Out the Vote 2020 Vermont Primary
hosted by Rights and Democracy VT
Thursday, July 30th, 2020, Online. 6:30pm-7:30pm.
To RSVP: https://secure.everyaction.com/SEh54s_y6EWDUw6f1QBB6w2?fbclid=IwAR0cDG0mgy7t-Cz5aWT8WIQZqXDfbR4RXdg6bFtDlKX_t3-qA5A1SVket8g
We are inviting our members, supporters, and coalition partners to meet some of Vermont’s movement candidates and learn what is at stake in the August 11th primary. 
We'll also fill you in on how to vote via absentee ballot and volunteer to support our movement's candidates. Between our exciting lineup of speakers, we will have action breaks (accompanied by music from our special guest DJs), where you will have the opportunity to get involved and invite your friends to do the same. 
To receive call info and join us, use the ticket link above to RSVP. 

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Solidarity Fridays: Our Struggles Are Connected
organized by Brattleboro Solidarity, The Root Justice Center, Tenants Union of Brattleboro and Lost River Racial Justice
Friday, July 31st, 2020 (and all Fridays) at Pliny Park (the corner of High Street and Main Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 5pm-7pm. Masks are required. 
Weekly protest at Pliny Park focusing on a variety of current local and national issues. Bring your signs, banners, chalk & noise makers to Pliny Park and rally for the world we want.
(This week we will make signs in yellow and black to promote consistency and solidarity among our coalition).
This week, we make connections between the struggles of the people on a global scale. From the annexation of land and occupation of Palestine, to brutal weaponized tactics of Federal agents against Portland protesters, to the systemic racism rampant across the world, and to local efforts toward examining police brutality and safety in Brattleboro, in the diversity of our struggles we are all united!
Show Up! Participate! Discuss!
For the safety of ourselves and others, masks are REQUIRED at Pliny Park! We will have extra masks to pass out to those without one. Hand sanitizer will also be available.
This week, consider bringing a donation for Groundworks Collaborative! See their wishlist below!
-Deodorant
-Disposable Razors
-Umbrellas
-Mens belts
-Notebooks and pens
-Playing cards and classic board games like chess
-Benadryl
-Sunblock
-Bugspray

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Critical Mass Bike Ride: Our Struggles Are Connected
hosted by 350 Brattleboro; Image credit: Hugh D'Andrade
Friday, July 31st, 2020 at Brattleboro Common (Park Place, at the intersection of VT Rt 30 and 5, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 5:30pm-6:30pm. *Masks required*. Questions? Email [email protected].
We're excited to merge our monthly Critical Mass Ride with the Solidarity Friday Protest (details above)! Bring your signs, banners, chalk, and noise makers to ride and rally for the world we want!
We will adhere to physical distancing recommendations and masks are required. Kids and families welcome. We need this, and we need YOU!
Agenda: 
5:30pm: We'll gather at the Brattleboro Common to get organized, sign in, decorate bikes, and go over our route.
6:00pm: Begin Critical Mass ride. We'll join with the Solidarity Friday protest at Pliny Park with an option to continue back to the Common.

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Drive In Rally with Brenda Siegel, Candidate for Lt. Governor 
hosted by Brenda for Vermont
Friday, July 31st, 2020, location within Windham County TBD. 5pm-7pm. *Masks are required and all attendees will have to remain in their immediate section*. $20 minimum suggested donation per car. Get your tickets here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/drivein
On Friday, July 31st at 5pm in Windham County, join us and enjoy a little summer, a little music, and a little politics!
It has been an intense year for all of us. Traditional summer events are out. Traditional campaigns are out. We have to be socially distant. We must wear masks. But, we still can collectively enjoy a summer evening safely!
For $20.00 minimum per car, come enjoy a slice of summer and politics. Choose any ticket level to help us bring our movement to Montpelier.

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Vermont’s Tomorrow: State-Wide Candidate Forum on Young Professional Issues
hosted by Southern VT Young Professionals
Saturday, August 1st, 2020. Online. 4:30pm-6:30pm. Click this link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYrdu2sqToqHtTKZl3Fsm5pGaPdE5mNGR9d.
Housing, childcare, diversity, climate—We know your primary concern isn’t the price of avocados, so as the Vermont Primary approaches, join the Southern Vermont Young Professionals for a virtual policy discussion. Meet the candidates hoping to represent you at the state-wide level and ask about the issues that matter to you.
We’re inviting qualified candidates running for the following offices to introduce themselves, give a brief overview of their policy positions, and participate in a moderated Q&A.

US Congress
Governor
Lieutenant Governor
Treasurer
Secretary of State
Auditor of Accounts
Attorney General

Do you already have burning questions? Can’t make it to the discussion? Submit your questions here, and we’ll get through as many as we can.https://forms.gle/dZyix4n2iwS6EMmE8
We’ll also be streaming the event on Facebook Live, where you can also join in on the discussion.
Looking to hear from your State Senators and Representatives? We’ve got a local candidate forum in the works for mid-October.
*Qualified candidates are those approved by the Secretary of State—the names you can expect to see on the ballot August 11th.

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Arts Unite Windham: A Benefit for The Root Social Justice Center and Brattleboro NAACP
hosted by The Root Social Justice Center, Arts Council of Windham County; Brattleboro Community Television is the media partner making it happen, with technical help from Julian McBrowne. The Arts Council of Windham County is a co-sponsor. Additional support is provided by Brattleboro School of Dance and Yellow Barn. 
Saturday, August 2nd, 2020, Online. 4pm-8pm. Link to watch the event: https://youtu.be/tQ7eJpKOidY
Seven area arts organizations have joined forces to present “Arts Unite Windham,” a unique multi-venue event which will be live streamed on Sunday, Aug. 2nd, from 4pm to 8pm and will raise awareness and money for The Root Social Justice Center and the Brattleboro NAACP.
Designed as a showcase of the quality and diversity of the area’s arts scene – and a demonstration of the creativity and determination of the organizations involved – “Arts Unite Windham,” produced by Next Stage Arts, will feature performances at New England Center for Circus Arts, Sandglass Theater, the Brattleboro Music Center, New England Youth Theatre, the Vermont Jazz Center, Next Stage Arts, and the Latchis Theatre.
Melding an old-school entertainment style with new technology, “Arts Unite Windham” is a variety show spread across seven venues in real-time. Audiences will click into a live YouTube link to enjoy performances of 10-15 minutes from each of the partners, with guest emcees keeping the whole thing glued together. 
Audiences will also have the opportunity to click a donate button, and net proceeds from the event will benefit The Root Social Justice Center and the local chapter of the NAACP.
“‘Arts Unite Windham’ involves a number of non-profit performing arts organizations in Windham County coming together in solidarity to celebrate the incredible variety and depth of what we have a really robust arts community,” said Keith Marks, executive director of Next Stage and the Pied Piper of the event. “We’re also using this as an opportunity to seize the moment and come together around civil rights and anti-racism.”
The participating organizations are also seizing a moment to step back into the spotlight since the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to cancel performances, suspend activities and pivot to new projects.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

How to Create a Treatment Court in Windham County: Share Your Voice
hosted by The Root Social Justice Center and Vanessa Santana
Wednesday, August 5th, 2020, Online. 5pm-7pm. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87154785021.
Share your voice on how to create a treatment court in Windham County that meets the needs of most impacted people.
Families United has joined with COSU to explore establishing a Treatment Family Court in Windham County. We need your voices and would like to invite Windham County people and other impacted people from around the state of Vermont to join Families United in having a conversation with COSU around establishing a Treatment Family Court in Windham County.
Why attend this meeting?
You have questions you'd like to ask. We need the voices of people most impacted by this issue. Come share your experience with us in a supportive space. What are some changes or ideas you have for improving how family court/DCF works to support families with a history of substance use disorder or mental health challenges? Have your voice contribute to the creation of a new system that supports children and families where they are at.
Things to consider.
Have you ever felt DCF has denied your resources to help improve the lives of your families?
Do you feel as though you have been discriminated against in court/DCF because of your substance use or mental health?
Do the current systems and structures support your family?
Family treatment courts represent a shift in traditional family treatment court structures, away from a punitive model and toward a collaborative model where access to treatment and family support are at the core. In fall 2019, a group of individuals began to meet to talk about the possibility of a family treatment court in Windham County. The committee identifies a need to engage in radical rethinking of the punitive model in family court, by engaging people most impacted and community providers to understand the need for and advance the construction of a Family Treatment Court model in Windham County. This project is very much in its beginning stages, and in order to honor COSU’s values we believe in the idea of “nothing about us, and that families and individuals impacted by family court hold the wisdom and experience to know what supports they need for their families to stay and grow together. We hope to learn from the wisdom and experiences of those with lived experience in family court (especially in Windham County), and for anyone who is interested, to work together to understand and affect change that will support families impacted by substance use and/or opiate use to stay and grow together.  We also acknowledge that many children, youth, and parents experience a great deal of harm through their interactions with the family court as it currently exists. We are interested in learning more about what needs arise out of this harm, and what accountability looks like to those most impacted.  
Rosie Nevins-Alderfer: Rosie has worked with families impacted by family court for many years and in several different states. Rosie managed the Restorative Justice Programs at Youth Services from 2015-2018 and is now the Project Director of the COSU. She is a parent of a toddler and lives in Windham County.
Russell Bradbury-Carlin: Russell has also worked with families impacted by family court for many years, and has been the Executive Director of Youth Services since 2015. Russell has been chairing the family treatment court committee since the fall of 2019.
Jr Layne works as a Certified Recovery Coach, Certified Emergency room(RC) Certified Forensic Peer Recovery Specialist, and Family Restorative Justice Coordinator. Currently, he works at Turning Point Recovery Center of Springfield and Greater Falls Community Justice Center.
More about COSU:
The Windham County Consortium on Substance Use (COSU) is comprised of representatives from 13 organizations, people in recovery, and those with lived experience. COSU works across the span of prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery in order to understand and address the impacts of opioid and other substance use in Windham County. We seek bold, integrated and equitable responses. We elevate collaboration, improve systems and save lives for residents across the county, including those in the most rural areas with limited access to services. We value racial and class equity, vulnerability, curiosity and focus on systems change rather than personal choices. At the core of COSU’s values is to uplift and center the voices of those most impacted by SUD/OUD. People most impacted in our communities are those who are most vulnerable to be at risk for fatal overdose and/or who are most impacted by substance and opioid deaths, and other forms of permanent loss of loved ones, family, and those closest in their social circles.  Forms of permanent loss include termination of parental rights, homelessness, disconnection from families of origin, deportation, incarceration, chronic health conditions, and more. To a great extent, those who are most impacted by these forms of loss tend to be people most marginalized in terms of race, class, and/or LGBTQ identity. While COSU has a specific focus on preventing and ending opiate deaths and permanent loss in our community, COSU’s interventions also look beyond opiate use disorder, or any one substance, and seek to address the root causes of all substance use disorders through a focus on equity and the social determinants of health.

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Marlboro Free Food Event
Thursday, August 6th, 2020 at the Malboro Community Center (524 South Road, Marlboro, VT, 05344). 3pm-5pm. 
All food is FREE. No registration necessary. All are welcome. Please wear a face mask. This event will follow social distancing protocols. 
In cooperation with Marlboro Cares and the Marlboro Alliance, we will be giving away grocery bags of non-perishable food such as pasta, flour, rice, bean and canned goods.
Deliveries will be made through Marlboro Cares for those needing assistance. Please call Marlboro Cares at 258-3030 in advance to arrange a delivery.

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What the US Constitution Offers Us: The 2nd Amendment
with Meg Mott, Ph.D, Professor of Politics Emerita, Marlboro College
Wednesday, August 12th, 2020 at Moore Free Library (23 West Street, Newfane, VT, 05345). 7pm-8:30pm.
An outdoor, salon-style discussion of the 1st, 2nd, 9th, and 10th amendments to the U.S. Constitution with Meg Mott, Ph.D, Professor of Politics Emerita, Marlboro College and "Constitution Wrangler." In case of severe weather, the event will be held the next day (Thursday) at the same time.
2nd Amendment: Why the need for an armed citizenry? In the 21st century, the Second Amendment took on a new life. In two recent Supreme Court rulings, the right to bear arms was transformed from a collective right of state militias to a personal right of self-defense. We will consider why the Framers wanted an armed citizenry, how the Second Amendment lost ground during the tragic failure of Reconstruction, and what the emphasis on individual self-defense tells us about the health of our democracy.

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Seeing and Disrupting Racism: A Focus on White Fragility
hosted by the Peace & Justice Center
Thursday, August 13th, 2020, Online. 1pm-2:30pm AND 5pm-6:30pm.
Register here: https://www.pjcvt.org/event/seeing-disrupting-racism-a-focus-on-white-fragility-5/. For more information please go to: www.pjcvt.org, email [email protected] or call 802-863-2345 x9. Space is limited, registration is required. Suggested donation $10, no one turned away for lack of funds.
This introductory-level workshop defines racism and white fragility, explores how white fragility perpetuates racism, and gives ways to disrupt that cycle. This workshop was developed for predominantly white audiences, but all are welcome.

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2040 Film: Virtual Community Screening
hosted by Stonewall Farm and New Hampshire Food Alliance
Tuesday, August 18th, 2020. Online, 6:30pm-8:30pm. This film is suitable for all audiences. To register and access the virtual screening and live Q&A: https://www.moniff.org/events/. Post-film live Q&A with local Monadnock region experts to be announced.
What's your 2040?
Motivated by concerns about the planet his 4-year-old daughter would inherit, Damon embarked on a global journey to meet innovators and change-makers in the areas of economics, technology, civil society, agriculture, education, and sustainability.
This screening is FREE OF CHARGE but you MUST register to access the virtual screening and live Q&A: https://www.moniff.org/events/. On the day of the screening, we’ll e-mail you the link to access the film and Q&A.
The film is ~92 minutes, and there will be a 30-minute post-film discussion live with local Monadnock region experts in the areas of regenerative agriculture, food and farming, energy, transportation and housing, equity and social justice, and cooperatives.

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2020 Rich Earth Institute Virtual Summit: Reclaiming Urine as a Resource
hosted by Rich Earth Institute
Tuesday, September 15th, 2020-Thursday, September 17th, 2020, Online. Begins at 2pm. Admission By Donation. To RSVP: https://forms.gle/vTmFqEvBG5oW3tj7A. Proceeds will support members of the Container Based Sanitation Alliance who provide access to dignified, safe, and affordable sanitation in dense urban areas otherwise lacking in options. Please direct all queries to [email protected].
Join us to discuss the future of urine diversion and its re-use as a fertilizer!
For the past five years, the Rich Earth Institute’s annual urine diversion summit has brought together researchers, practitioners, policy makers, industry leaders, and students, catalyzing new collaborations and partnerships as we continue to grow the body of knowledge about this innovative practice.
This year, we’re bringing our conference online for the first time! We hope this will enable a much wider, global audience to participate in the discussion as we exchange ideas for the future of urine diversion. Recordings of each panel will be made available after the event to accommodate time zone differences and other scheduling conflicts. RSVP now for updates about the conference, including registration information, panel themes, topic lunches, and more. Event registration is now open!
Call For Presenters!
Have research results, a project, or other experience you want to share? Submit an abstract for a 6-8 minute lightning talk through the RSVP form.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Nancy G. Love
Dr. Nancy G. Love is the Borchardt and Glysson Collegiate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University Michigan, and an adjunct Professor at the Institute of Biotechnology at Addis Ababa University. In collaboration with her students, Dr. Love works at the interface of water, infrastructure and public health in both domestic and global settings. As Principal Investigator of the National Science Foundation’s INFEWS project: Advancing Technologies and Improving Communication of Urine­-Derived Fertilizers for Food Production within a Risk­ Based Framework, she will discuss this collaborative project and her vision for the future of urine diversion and reuse.

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES

Everyone Eats! is a program which will distribute meals from Brattleboro restaurants to anyone in need who lives in Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford, Putney, or Vernon, free of charge, for four weeks beginning on August 3rd. There will be 600+ meals/day available Monday through Thursday to serve our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We need volunteers to help distribute the meals at two sites; the C.F. Church Building at 80 Flat St in Brattleboro and at Mama Sezz in West Brattleboro, Monday-Thursday between 4pm and 6pm. Please send out this volunteer sign-up form to anyone who may be interested! If you have any questions visit https://www.brattleboro.com/everyoneeats/ or contact Frances Huntley [email protected].

Loaves & Fishes & Groundworks needs help delivering meals during these times. The task involves stopping at Loaves & Fishes (193 Main St, Brattleboro, VT, 05301)) to pick up pre-packaged meals and dropping them off at a hotel and at Foodworks/Groundworks (Canal Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 
This volunteer gig is Tuesday and Friday for about 1 hour from about 11am-12pm. If you have questions please call Ruth Tilghman at 802-258-1765.  

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From WeCAN Founding Member and Administrator, Ann Braden:
On July 4th Dan (Ann’s partner) suffered an inter-cerebral hemorrhage, the origins of which are still unknown. Luckily the MRI showed no tumor and he is largely his same self. It will be another 3-6 months before the blood is reabsorbed and they can find out in more detail what happened and how to treat it. For now it's all about pain management and rest.
From a Braden family friend, Katie Traeger:
Take-out meals and groceries would be greatly appreciated for the family. I'm thinking postcards would also be awesome as well, seeing as Ann is the Love Brigade postcard queen! Shower them with love and healing! You are welcome to send them grocery or restaurant gift cards from the list compiled here. All the info can be found below:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1jI-7I1UiV9QtHUxh9ciuQHkOd4A9reoOiDPtkx9Oon8/edit?usp=sharing

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Out in the Open Rural QTBIPOC/LGBTQIA+ Mutual Aid Fund
The Mutual Aid Fund is offering requests up to $400 and support for: Groceries, supplies, housing support, medical support, and other thriving and survival needs.
Queer Joy= Mutual Aid
Mutual Aid= Voluntary, reciprocal, participatory support among equals and being with, not for, community members.
Pride= Resistance
We are here for our community, our community is here for each other.
Ask: request funds for support weareoutintheopen.org/mutualaid
Offer: to donate, weareoutintheopen.org/donate
The Mutual Aid Fund will distribute money to LGBTQ+ folks, prioritizing QTBIPOC folks requesting funds. Priority will also be given to folks in Southern Vermont, southwestern New Hampshire, and then elsewhere in Vermont and New England, where funds of this type are critically needed. Additional priority will be given to those who live at the intersections of systematically oppressed experiences & identities.
To request funds and for more information: weareoutintheopen.org/mutualaid!
To donate, visit: weareoutintheopen.org/donate
"We Need Each Other" image credit to @itsmonicatrinidad

LGTBQIA+ Resources via Out in the Open

Out in the Open is offering a lot of resources & virtual spaces for rural LGBTQ folks in this time, friends. The full list and calendar is on our website here. We have a Community Care Offers & Asks list, and a list of Rural New England Mutual Aid opportunities, with specific resource links for LGBTQ and QTPOC folks. Out in the Open also has a Slack channel for rural LGBTQ folks to share resources and connect outside of social media. Email [email protected] for more information.

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Are You Sewing Masks? We have patterns and more information here: https://www.wecantogether.net/masks

Masks Needed for Local Schools by August
needed In Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford, Putney, Vernon 
Can you sew masks for this need? 
Can you donate cotton fabric or ⅛-¼ in. elastic? 
Can you cut out masks if given material and a pattern? 
Can you donate bandanas? 
Cloth masks will be needed for students and teachers and school staff and bus drivers for the reopening of school (in late August).Hundreds of masks are needed in all sizes, from kindergarten through adult sized. 
If you are capable of sewing masks, here are some samples of mask patterns: 
Rectangular pleated mask, adult and child sizes https://www.deaconess.com/How-to-make-a-Face-Mask/Documents-Mask/Mask-Information 
Contour face mask, several sizes https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O3IvcoVqyYqSTekwzLlnLI0t0GxSm-zA/view 
Keep in mind, please: 
1) Child size masks should have elastic loops, no ties (choking hazard). 
2) All masks should be made of at least 2 layers of fabric. 
3) Masks can be dropped off in marked bins Mon-Fri at any of these locations, and will be distributed to students and staff in the school district: 
Brattleboro: Windham Southeast Supervisory Office, 53 Green Street or Oak Grove School, 15 Moreland Ave 
Dummerston School, 52 Schoolhouse Rd 
Guilford Central School, 374 School Rd 
Putney Central School, 182 Westminster Rd 
Vernon Elementary School, 381 Governor Hunt Rd 
Please email Nurse Julia Duke (Green Street School) with questions: [email protected] or contact Judy Siler if you'd like ready-made kits for sewing or if you need elastic: 802-275-2627, [email protected].
Please share this information widely! Thank you! 

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Online Religious Services

All Souls U.U. Sunday Services
Sunday Mornings at 10am. 
To get the current information on an upcoming service or vespers check the All Souls web page at www.ascvt.org.

COVID 19 RESOURCES: VERMONT

Statewide Mutual Aid
organized by Brenda for Vermont
Localized Mutual Aid has been organized in Brattleboro and Putney and hyper local neighborhoods in Marlboro.  If your community does not have mutual aid or you can't find it, please sign up to volunteer or if you are in need of help.  All of us will likely be on the side of being able to help and needing help at times.  Please don't hesitate to ask for help.
Sign up here if you would like to help your neighbors or are in need of help:https://www.brendaforvermont.com/cms/help-your-neighbor/
The links below will take you directly to the mutual aid forms. 
To Volunteer: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfkRnbDKtNX_SacVaHWPyIAnsSXDGLsDMZE8vys25nzTgUo5A/viewform
If You Need Help: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfw7gg12KNq6n4s7SDUxf1ghMx-0MD3S0RCWQtxqmPTJQI8QA/viewform

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A Message to Vermonters from Senator Bernie Sanders

As a member of the United States Senate, I want to make sure that the citizens of Vermont receive all of the federal benefits and help to which they are entitled. Although I cannot guarantee a particular outcome, I want you to know that my staff and I will do our best to respond to your concerns.
To contact Senator Sanders with a question, concern or comment please use this link: https://www.sanders.senate.gov/services/casework/.
If you want to contact me about your views and concerns regarding legislation and other issues important to you please use the COMMENTS FORM
If this is an emergency, please call: 802-862-0697 (Out-of-State 800-339-9834).
Note: We are currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries. As we do our utmost to assist vulnerable Vermonters, please only complete the form above if you are requesting assistance. Go to General Comments to leave comments and opinions.

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Social Justice Resources

ROOT SOCIAL JUSTICE CENTER MUTUAL AID & SUPPORTIVE NETWORK
The Root Social Justice Center is collecting a list of contacts and resources to help support and assist with the needs of their Root community members. Join if you are in need or are able to help.

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FREE HEALTHY AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD IN WINDHAM COUNTY

Brigid’s Kitchen, St. Michael’s Church, 47 Walnut Street, Brattleboro 802-254-6800 or 802-558-6072 
Grab-and-go lunches and fruit/nuts on Mon, Weds, Thus, and Sat, 11:30am-12:20pm.
Loaves and Fishes, Centre Congregational Church 193 Main Street, Brattleboro (802) 254-4730
Grab-and-go lunches on Tuesdays and Fridays at 12pm.
VT Foodbank and Veggie Van Go will be at Brattleboro Union High School (Fairground Ave, Brattleboro, VT, 05301), in the parking lot, on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, from 10am-2pm. Drive up, touchless pickup. Walkers welcome, too. Call VT 211 for more information. 
Foodworks, the food shelf program of the Groundworks Collaborative https://groundworksvt.org (802) 490-2412, [email protected] 
Households in need of food are asked to call or email to coordinate delivery. There is an urgent need for volunteers, and Foodworks has set up protocols to keep staff, volunteers, and clients as safe as possible. Please email us at [email protected] if you are able to help.
Guilford Food Pantry 
Every Thursday at the BBCC (3940 Guilford Center Road, Guilford, VT, 05301). 5pm-6pm.
We know that supplemental food can make such a big difference in one's budget. That is why we are stocking our shelves for our neighbors. All are welcome to come and take home fresh produce, staples, meat, dairy. Guilford Cares welcomes anyone in need of supplemental food for themselves or their families.

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NEW: “Everyone Eats!” Food Relief Program Information
If you have questions, contact Frances Huntley at [email protected]
What is this? Everyone Eats!, a food relief pilot program in Brattleboro, leverages federal relief funds to engage local restaurants in making to-go meals for anyone in Brattleboro, Guilford, Vernon, Dummerston, or Putney whose food security has been challenged by the COVID-19 crisis due to unemployment, underemployment, homelessness, and other financial challenges.with eight Brattleboro restaurants providing 150 meals per day, Monday through Thursday, from August 3rd-27th, 2020.
When? Monday – Thursday 4pm-6pm for 4 weeks beginning August 3rd.
Where?  Individuals/households will be able to pick up meals in the parking lot of the Church Building on Flat Street on a first-come-first-served basis. Organizations will be able to pick up pre-ordered meals at Mama Sezz in West Brattleboro.
Who is eligible? Anyone whose food security has been challenged by the COVID-19 crisis due to unemployment, underemployment, homelessness, and other challenges to well-being who would get relief from receiving meals may participate.

For Individuals
When and where can I receive meals? Meal distribution for individuals is first-come-first-served. Pickup is from 4-6pm on weekdays Monday through Thursday in downtown Brattleboro (location TBA).
When does the four-week period begin? The first pick-up day will be Monday, August 3rd.
Is it free? All who would benefit from a meal are welcome to participate.
Can I give something back to help the program? There is no obligation to pay it back or forward. If what you have to offer in return is your thanks, that’s enough. But if you can share veggies from your garden, there will be a drop-off location on site for bagged or boxed contributions; as much as possible will be used in future meals. And if you would like to make a monetary contribution to help make more meals possible for others, it will be gratefully received. The base cost of each meal is $10 but any amount will be appreciated. Touch-free options for donation include Venmo, Paypal, mailing a check, or providing a donation at the time of pickup.
What will I receive? You will receive one individually packaged cold ready-to-eat or heat & serve dinner for each person you request a meal for.
Do you have vegetarian or vegan/GF options? Yes, you will request your meal choice at the time of pickup.
Is there a limit to how many meals I can get? You can request one meal per person per day for each person in your household. Please note that there is a limit to how many meals will be produced each day. We hope to serve everyone who makes a request but we cannot guarantee it. Meals will be first-come-first-served.
Can I pick up meals for another household? Yes, you can pick up meals for up to three households including your own.
Will my meals be hot or cold? Meals will be distributed cold, so if you are driving a distance, delivering to other households, or distributing through your organization, consider bringing a cooler if you can.
Who can I contact with questions? Contact Frances Huntley at [email protected].

For Organizations
As a representative of an organization, can I request meals on behalf of my clients? Yes. We invite organizations to do bulk pickups for distribution to those they serve.
Is there a limit to how many meals I can pick up? No, but you will need to reserve meals in advance each week using this form.
What will I receive? You will receive individually packaged COLD ready-to-eat or heat & serve dinners for each person you are willing to distribute a meal to.
What options are available? You will choose how many of each type of meal (omnivore, vegetarian, vegan/GF) and which days you will pick up meals for distribution.
Who will be making the food? These meals are being made by independently-owned local restaurants.
Will I need to pick up our meals, or will you deliver to my location? You will need to pick up your requested meals and distribute them to your clients. We cannot deliver them to you.
When and where do I pick up my meals? Pickup for organizations is from 4pm-6pm on weekdays Monday through Thursday in West Brattleboro at Mama Sezz, 127 Marlboro Rd.
How do I request meals for bulk pickup? Organizations must submit their request forms two weeks before the first distribution week and one week before the second, third, and fourth distribution weeks. To get more information about participating and request a form for the first week, contact Frances Huntley at [email protected].
Will I receive a confirmation? After your meal request form is received, you will receive an automated email via Google Forms.
When do you need my form by? Meal request forms must be submitted by the Thursday prior to the week they are for (except for the first week, which must be submitted two weeks prior). You will need to submit a new form each week. If you have already received meals in a prior week, you will receive an email reminder for later weeks.

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Vermont WIC is Responding to Covid 19
We are moving to phone appointments to align with social distancing efforts. If you have opted in to email and text notifications, you will receive important program updates, including information about local office hours and changes in operations. Our website will be kept up-to-date as well. Contact your local office with any questions about breastfeeding, nutrition or shopping. Call 1-800-649-4357 or email [email protected] with any questions about WIC nutrition services and enrollment.

P-EBT (Pandemic EBT) is Available in VT
Many families in Vermont were notified that they would be receiving a food benefit called Pandemic EBT (or P-EBT). P-EBT is loaded on a card and can be used to purchase the groceries at many grocers and farmers markets. If you have school-aged kids, contact your school district to apply for free school meals. If approved, you'll automatically receive P-EBT. 
If you’ve already received P-EBT and also participate in WIC, use your WIC benefits first, as WIC benefits do not rollover month-to-month. dcf.vermont.gov/press-releases/P-EBT

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ADDITIONAL COVID 19 RESOURCES CAN BE FOUND AT THEIR PERMANENT HOME ON OUR WEBSITE, HERE: https://www.wecantogether.net/covid19_resources

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RESOURCE FOR WeCAN

Rapid Response Text Alert System

When WeCAN began, Song & Solidarity set up a Rapid Response Text Alert System for WeCAN Groups. Directions for signing up are on WeCAN's website, here: https://www.wecantogether.net/rapid_response. We are grateful to Song and Solidarity for providing this service.

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ONGOING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING 

Indigo Radio
Sundays at 12pm on Brattleboro Community Radio 107.7FM. To stream live, visit: www.wvew.org 
Indigo Radio, deepening understanding and making connections! IndigoRadio is a group of area educators seeking to learn through engaging with others in our community and throughout the world. We will be talking about educational and social issues both globally and locally and connecting them to our lives and Brattleboro community. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indigoradiowvew/. For archive recordings of past shows: https://soundcloud.com/user-654648353. 

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    We hope to see your smiling faces again soon, friends, but until then....wear a mask, keep 6 feet away from your neighbor, be aware of your surroundings, and don't forget to lead with kindness. 

Your Friendly WeCAN Admins, 

Joanna and Sam