Windham County Action Network (WeCAN)

“In this country, two things stand first in rank: your flag and your mail. You all know what honor you pay to your flag, but you should know, also, that your mail, — just that ordinary postal card—is also important. But a postal card, or any form of mail, is not important, in that way, until you drop it through a slot in this building, and with a stamp on it, or into a mail box outdoors. Up to that instant it is but a common card, which anybody can pick up and carry off without committing a criminal act. But as soon as it is in back of this partition, or in a mail box, a magical transformation occurs; and anybody who now should willfully purloin it, or obstruct its trip in any way, will find prison doors awaiting him.”
Ernest Vincent Wright, Gadsby
Gadsby is a 1939 novel by Ernest Vincent Wright which does not include any words that contain the letter E such as “the”, the most common word in English. A work that deliberately avoids certain letters is known as a lipogram.

     We hope you are enjoying your Sunday morning, WeCAN friends. This week's email has a few new items: a town wide anti-racist book club is starting up, a new series of blood drives is coming to Brattleboro, the 10th Amendment (sovereignty of the states) will be discussed in Newfane, and the call for disarming and defunding the police is louder than ever. Take a moment to grab your calendar and make a plan to get involved this week.
    As you may have heard, our postal system is under attack from our government and our Postal Workers need our support now more than ever. Please consider supporting the United States Postal Service by buying merchandise and stamps, contacting your representatives, and choosing USPS shipping whenever possible.
Here are 5 ways you can help save the USPS:
1. Buy Stamps
This is as close as you can get to donating money directly to the USPS. You don’t even need to utilize those stamps right now, you can save them for later so you’ll never again be caught unprepared when you go to mail your nephew’s birthday card, your rent check, or any thank you notes. 
2. Text USPS to 50409
This one-word text will automatically send a letter to your local representatives using Resistbot and urge them to take action.
3. Call Your Representatives
Pick up the phone to tell your representative in your own voice just how imperative it is that they step up to the plate. Not sure who your local representatives are or how to get in touch with them? Just enter your zip code here and you’ll find all the information you need.
4. Choose USPS Shipping when Shopping Online
If you can choose between using the U.S. Postal Service, FedEX or another shipping company, opt for the USPS and consider shopping from businesses that always use the Postal Service. You can even splurge on express, overnight or 2-day options to get your new goodies faster while giving some extra cash to an agency that really needs it. Sounds like a real win-win situation to us.
5. Buy USPS Merchandise and Gifts
Did you know the USPS has an entire shop full of USPS merchandise? Now you do....so go check it out! You can find the USPS gift store here: https://store.usps.com/store/home.  

HAPPENING TODAY, SUNDAY, AUGUST 16th, 2020

Share the Harvest Stand
brought to you by Edible Brattleboro
Sunday, August 16th, 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]. Please wear a mask. 
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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Public Hearings: Law Enforcement in Vermont
Sunday, August 16th, 2020 at 4pm
The meetings will be Live Streamed here: https://legislature.vermont.gov/committee/streaming/house-judiciary
The Social Equity Caucus is seeking community input on how police practices in the State should change, including policies on use of force, citizen oversight, use of body cameras, hiring and training of police officers, and other relevant issues.
The meetings will be held on August 6 at 1:00 p.m., August 12 at 6:00 p.m., and August 16 at 4:00 p.m. To register to give testimony at one of these hearings, please fill out the registration form here: https://legislature.vermont.gov/Links/Public-Hearing-LE
Folks can offer testimony and/or respond to a survey to share their ideas on police reforms for Vermont. Please find the links and details below.
On August 6, 12, and 16, the Vermont House Government Operations and House Judiciary Committees will be co-hosting virtual meetings to obtain input from community members on proposed changes to law enforcement in Vermont. We urge you to participate and to forward this message to anyone you think would be interested in attending.
Testimony should be limited to two minutes. Individuals will be able to access the meetings through their computers or phones.
If you are unable to attend or do not wish to speak at one of the meetings and still want to provide input, please fill out the Social Equity Caucus survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SECpolicereformsurvey.

Many thanks to Representative Sara Coffey for making this information readily available! 

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HAPPENING THIS WEEK, MONDAY, AUGUST 10th, 2020-SUNDAY, AUGUST 16th, 2020

Everyone Eats!
Monday August 17th, 2020-Thursday, August 20th, 2020 at the C.F Building (80 Flat Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 4pm-6pm. Masks required. You can pick up meals for up to three households including your own. If you have any questions visit https://www.brattleboro.com/everyoneeats/ or contact Frances Huntley [email protected]. Organizational ordering information is listed under our Free and Nutritious Food in Windham County section further along in this email. 
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.
Pick up for individuals will be at the C.F. Church Building at 80 Flat St in Brattleboro and group/institution orders can be picked up at Mama Sezz in West Brattleboro. All meals are available Monday-Thursday between 4pm and 6pm until supplies run out.
If you have extra produce from your garden, there will be a wheelbarrow you can drop it off in on your way out of the pickup site. Participating restaurants will use the donated produce in making more meals.
The meals are free, but 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.
Which restaurants are contributing food? A Vermont Table, Dosa Kitchen, Duo, Hazel, Indian Masala, MamaSezz, Porch Too, The Works, and Yalla. Each restaurant will contribute meals two or more days a week. You will receive one individually packaged cold ready-to-eat or heat & serve dinner for each person you request a meal for. 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.

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Climate Committee Preparation Meeting
hosted by Brattleboro Common Sense
Monday, August 17th, 2020, Online. 4pm.
To register, contact [email protected].
Last June, Brattleboro Common Sense (BCS) promoted a climate crisis resolution which formed the Climate Crisis Committee.The committee invited Kurt Daims of BCS to propose “radical” climate policy recommendations for discussion. The committee was receptive and, though a written proposal deadline was not met previously, there is another Board meeting coming up where Climate Crisis proposals may be heard again. To prepare for that meeting and expand the radical climate agenda, please attend a preparation meeting on Monday, August 17th with Brattleboro Common Sense. To register, please email [email protected]. 

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Putney Town Wide Anti-Racist Book Club
presented by The Town of Putney's Equity and Inclusion Committee and the Putney Central School Leadership Council
Monday, August 17th, 2020 via Zoom or call-in number. 7pm-9pm. Please register here in advance. 
Whether you have been actively doing racial equity and justice work for decades, wondering how to get more engaged in this important work since the murder of so many black and brown folks, or are really struggling with whether you think there is racism in Putney, Vermont, or around the country, all are welcome.  We will work to create a conversation that calls each other in.  Dr Martin Luther King said, "We must use time creatively, in the knowledge that the time is always ripe to do right." 
Our big launch is Monday night, 7pm, August 17th, via Zoom or call in phone number.  Please register here for any of the events in the coming months or call Jaime Contois at 603.504.2906 for more information.  Please see the attached flyer for all the details, books, and events now through November.  
The material covered will feature:
-September 17 - White Fragility, written by Robin DiAngelo
-October 19 -  So You Want to Talk About Race, written by Ijeoma Oluo
-November 17 -  My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Mending of Our Minds and Hearts, written by Resmaa Menakem
How to get the Books (please fill out the Google RSVP form first):
-We have 10 copies of each for lending/purchase - contact Jaime Contois at 603.504.2906 about purchasing books and for more info on the book group.
-The Putney Public Library has copies of each title, hardcover and audiobook.  Please contact Emily at [email protected] or 387-4407 to reserve a copy.
-Audio Books can be purchased through Libro FM: libro.fm

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Call to Disarm the Police at the Brattleboro Select Board Meeting
via Brattleboro Common Sense and the Brattleboro Common Sense SAFE Policing Plan (started 2017)
Tuesday, August 18th, 2020, Online. 6:15pm. 
You can access the meeting here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86067892659 . Use this Passcode: 12261753 
You also can call in using your telephone by dialing any of these toll-free numbers in the United States: 833-548-0282 ; 877-853-5247 ; 888-788-0099 ; 833-548-0276 
The “Meeting ID” for this meeting is: 860 6789 2659 
The meeting will be carried live on BCTV , Channel 1085 or Channel 10 
You can stream it online here: https://www.brattleborotv.org/channel-10-stream or you can stream it on Facebook Live here: https://www.facebook.com/brattleborotv/
(Brattleboro Common Sense can help if you cannot manage the computer meeting.)
On August 11th, 2020 BCS introduced its specific plan for police disarmament to the Brattleboro select board.  It provides a six-month part-time trial period while the public safety committee is being formed.  In this way the committee can take substantive action when it convenes.  The board wants to delay the disarmament proposal for at least a few months. Here is a bare outline.
• Conversations with BCS’ allied foreign officers for expertise in weaponless patrols,
• Six-month trial period of patrols without pistols during regular one-hour per shift foot patrols.  
• New de-escalation training without resort to fire-arms, designed by T4T, LLC
• Conversion to full-time weaponless policing for routine patrols, and fire-arms use limited to special operations and personnel 
To see the full proposal draft contact: Adam Marachesseault 802 274 3000 or email [email protected].
At issue here is the board's natural tendency to delay, but our society has denied and delayed the greater issue already too long. Decisiveness and quick action for disarmament will show respect for Black Lives. Be in touch and attend the select board meeting. 

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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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Votes for All Women- Celebrating the 19th Amendment with Dr. Meg Mott
hosted by Next Stage Arts Project
Tuesday, August 18th, 2020, Online. 7pm-8:30pm. Reserve your tickets and find more information here: https://nextstagearts.org/event/next-stage-presents-a-19th-amendment-event-with-dr-meg-mott/.
Join us for a theatrical lecture with Dr. Meg Mott, Professor of Politics Emeritus of Marlboro College, on Tuesday, August 18 at 7:00 p.m. EST. There will be an opportunity for audience Q&A immediately following. 
An online-only event, examining the ambitions and aspirations of women’s suffrage in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment to the US Constitution.
The 19th amendment, ratified on August 18, 1920, prohibited states and the federal government from denying citizens the right to vote on the basis of sex. Once the 19th Amendment became law, the franchise doubled. But what effect did women’s participation have on American politics? Frederick Douglass promoted women’s suffrage in 1848, claiming that it would increase the “moral power” of the nation. Did that prophecy come true?
Dr. Mott is well known for dynamic and insightful presentations about the US Constitution. Since the 2016 election, she has been traveling around the Northeast presenting on the Bill of Rights. “The point is not to lecture but to get the audience engaged in the constitutional questions of our nation,” she explains. “Just about every passage in our founding document is open to debate. The trick is to allow space for all sides in these on-going arguments.” 

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Marlboro Community Food Share
hosted by the Marlboro Community Center
Thursday, August 20th, 2020, and every Thursday, at the Marlboro Community Center (524 South Road, Marlboro, VT, 05344). 4:30pm-5:30pm.
Every Thursday from 4:30pm-5:30pm the Marlboro Community Center invites you to fill a grocery bag with non-perishables and fresh local produce. No registration or eligibility required. This weekly opportunity is available for anyone who could use an extra bag of groceries or knows someone who does.
Food will be set up in the entry-way to the Marlboro Community Center. For proper social distancing, please enter one person at a time. Bring a grocery bag or use ours. Masks are required. Deliveries will be made through Marlboro Cares for those needing assistance. Please call Marlboro Cares at 258-3030 in advance to arrange a delivery.
To donate food:
Leave non-perishable food in the donation box at the Marlboro Post Office. It will be collected on a weekly-basis. (Please note that this box previously supplied the Deerfield Valley Food Pantry, which is now distributing food exclusively from VT Food Pantry) 
Gardeners and farmers are welcome to donate produce. Wear masks and wash hands when harvesting and handling food. Fresh produce can be dropped off at the Community Center on Thursday between 1pm and 4pm. (Any leftover produce will be taken to FoodWorks the following morning)

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Guilford Cares Food Pantry
Thursday, August 20th, 2020 (and every Thursday) at Broad Brook Community Center (3490 Guilford Center Road, Guilford, VT, 05301). 5pm-6pm.  If you have questions, concerns or would like to donate groceries or monetary gifts please contact Pat Haine 802-257-0626. For additional questions or more information call 802 579 1350 or email [email protected].
The Guilford Cares Food Pantry will continue to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure food security for all our citizens and vulnerable populations. They are well stocked with the staples you need for your family and are following viral guidelines to limit risk.
They ask that shoppers to remain in their car. A volunteer will greet you and give you a "shopping list" for you to  mark with the items you would like. Another volunteer will fill your bag  and bring it to porch where you will be asked to pick it up. Please  bring a bag for the items and a pen to fill out the shopping list. If you have questions, concerns or would like to donate groceries or monetary gifts please contact Pat Haine 257-0626
If you cannot come to the Pantry due to illness or high risk, you can call also call Pat to arrange for food delivery by a volunteer.
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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Urine My Garden Workshop
hosted Rich Earth Institute
Friday, August 21st, 2020 at 12pm-1pm, Online, here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86731425303
Wednesday, August 26th, 2020 at 12pm-1pm, Online, here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84897504355
Please register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe4G7-Er17Xgg-skwfyqpFrXE4fxX9ZROO80F0ZhYhaKltFcw/viewform
Join this free, virtual webinar to learn how to fertilize your garden with urine! We will give a brief presentation and then have time for discussion for you to share your experiences and questions. Please register in advance. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Already an avid peecycler?
We want to hear about it! Please take a moment to fill out our wee online form: https://forms.gle/GXvERGRniTHFZmBK7
Take a peek at our 'Home Use FAQ' document here: http://richearthinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/home-use_manual.pdf

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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, August 21st, 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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Putney Community Blood Drive via the Red Cross
Saturday, August 22nd, 2020 at Next Stage Arts Project (15 Kimball Hill, Putney, VT, 05346), in the Community Room. 9:30am-2:30pm.
Give blood, save lives....in Putney. For more information please go to: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?order=DATE&range=10&zipSponsor=05346.

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Red Cross Blood Drive at the Winston Prouty Campus
Saturday, August 22nd, 2020 at 9:30am
Saturday, September 19th, 2020 at 10am
Saturday, October 24th, 2020 at 9am at the Winston Prouty Campus (9 Austine Drive, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). Masks are required. Sign up to DONATE blood here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=. To help make the event possible by volunteering, please contact Lisa Whitney, [email protected].
Blood levels are historically low and this is our chance to help.
Winston Prouty and the American Red Cross are hosting monthly blood drives for the next three months. We have much faith in the Red Cross and their protocols and ability to help us create a safe environment for this essential event. You can participate by donating blood or by volunteering to help support the event (set-up/clean-up, registration, parking, etc).

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Brattleboro Mother Up! Meet-Up
hosted by 350 Vermont
Sunday, August 23rd, 2020 at the Retreat Farm (45 Farmhouse Square, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 10am-12pm.
Join us for another in-person, outdoor, distanced meet-up at Retreat Farm!
Guidelines:
* We would like to keep our group size under 25. You can respond to this FB event, but please email [email protected] to confirm.
* Unless eating, masks required for all adults. Masks at parental discretion for kids under age 5.
* Maintain physical distance
* Snacks (apples, cheese sticks, granola bars, hard-boiled eggs) provided
* Childcare support provided by Mikaela.
We'll share gratitudes, spend time in the woods and trails, talk about group action steps, and end with a song. Can't wait to see some of you in person!
Mother Up!: Families Rise Up for Climate Action is a project of 350 Vermont bringing together families to talk about the tough realities of climate change and to participate in the transition to a healthier and safer world. What Joanna Macy calls the “Great Turning,” or the third revolution, is this unprecedented time where we are called to stop the destruction of our world, to build new life-sustaining practices and ways of being, and to shift our collective consciousness. We especially wish to engage young parents in this vital discussion of how we can make positive changes to protect our planet for our children's future.
Join us on Facebook ~ www.facebook.com/groups/1575656819412318

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UPCOMING EVENTS

What the US Constitution Offers Us: The 10th Amendment
hosted by Moore Free Library with Meg Mott, Professor of Politics Emerita, Marlboro College
Wednesday, August 26th, 2020 at the 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.
10th Amendment: The Promise and Problem of Federalism: The Tenth Amendment was added to the Bill of Rights to reinforce the sovereignty of the states. Congress may have the powers to legislate national issues, such as interstate highways and the postal service, but the states retain the authority to set up their police, their schools, their marriage laws, and anything else having to do with the health and wellness of the people.  We shall consider the disadvantages and possibilities of our complicated federal system. 

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Load the Latchis Food Drive
Thursday, August 27th, 2020 at the Latchis Theatre (50 Main St. Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 8am-4pm.
Help us load every seat of the historic Latchis Theatre of downtown Brattleboro with bags of food for Foodworks—the food shelf program of Groundworks Collaborative! 
You can donate IN PERSON at the Flat St entrance of the theatre on Thursday, Aug 27th between 8a-4p, or you can donate ONLINE NOW! Every $20 donation equals a bag of groceries to fill a seat! 
Click the ticket link to securely donate online or visit:  groundworks.rallybound.org/loadthelatchis2020/Donate/Tickets

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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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Overdose Prevention and Narcan Training
hosted by Tapestry and Opioid Task Force
Wednesday, September 23rd, 2020, Online. 10am-11am. To join the zoom call please email [email protected].
Please join Tapestry and the Opioid Task Force on Zoom for a free online overdose prevention and Narcan training.
Participants will learn how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose as well as how to administer Narcan. All are welcome, please join us!

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES

FOR BRATTLEBORO REGISTERED VOTERS ONLY: 

Dear Supporters of Democracy and Civil Rights,
This is a petition to the Brattleboro Select Board:
I am a registered voter of the Town of Brattleboro and hereby petition the Board of Select People of the Town of Brattleboro to fly the We Celebrate Democracy/Civil Rights For All main street banner over Main Street in Brattleboro whenever there is a space for a banner to be hung.
Under the current political, social and racist unrest, and with the Covid threat and the curtailment of public events, and Main Street banner risings we think it appropriate to ask Brattleboro voters to send this  petition to the Brattleboro Select Board through Town Manager, Peter Elwell.
First, please share this email to other registered voters in Brattleboro. Then copy the text below into an email  to [email protected] so that we can keep track. (On Peters' advice, to limit the work for the Town, we will send all the emails to Peter as one bundle.)
We know this is not legally binding, but we would like to convey the spirit of our effort to the Select Board in hopes that they will agree.
Thank you all.
Please use your legal name and address as a registered Brattleboro voter to sign your email. 
Please send only one email. 
Copy this into your email without changes:

      “Subject: Civil Rights For All banner petition

      I am a registered voter of the Town of Brattleboro and hereby petition the Board of Select People of the Town of Brattleboro to fly the We Celebrate Democracy/Civil Rights For All main street banner over Main Street in Brattleboro whenever there is a space for a banner to be hung.

      Sign with your legal name and address.”

Send to [email protected],
Thank you. 
Woody Bernhard
We Celebrate Democracy/Civil Rights For All- 
Positive nonviolent public action for democracy and civil rights for all people.
weceelebratedemocracycivilrightsforall.org
802 464 3154

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A Message from Inclusion Center in Brattleboro
As you know, people who have disabilities or health concerns are struggling more than most through this time of Covid.
People have little to do, few with whom to talk, and difficult feelings wearing them down.
We want you to know 
Inclusion Center is open on Zoom 
and moving full steam ahead. 
I.C. is about bringing laughter, stimulation and connection to everyone, our focus being those who have disabilities or health issues. We now do this on-line through Zoom.
Please let your clients and friends know about us, share our calendar often and everywhere, and visit with us yourself to see just what we're all about.
What is Inclusion Center up to these days of Covid? 
---I.C. is meeting three days a week on zoom. Through the sessions we play games, dance, do Improv and have serious conversation.
---Inclusion Center has a closed facebook group which everyone is welcome to join. The group is there for support, discussion, and sharing posts. The group is closed in order to be an entirely safe space.
--- People from I.C. are meeting at the Common every Thursday. People bring a seat, wear a mask, and have a wonderful time being together from a safe distance.
--- We are making a short video on how to sign on to our zoom sessions. This video takes us through all steps connected with joining IC zoom sessions. 
--- Through our website (inclusioncenter.webs.com) you will find a number of creative projects we are continually working on.
--- I.C. is happy to open more sessions with specific activities of interest. We can have sessions at night, weekends, every day of the week... Those who attend decide our hours and activities.
--- Contact us to sign up for our weekly calendar email with the Zoom link. 
Wishing you safety and peace through this difficult time,
Julie Tamler
ENJOY OUR LATEST NEWSLETTER
https://ic2020covidtimenewsletter.webs.com/
-AND-
CHECK OUT OUR CALENDAR REGULARLY
https://inclusioncenter.webs.com/apps/calendar/

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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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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.
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.
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.