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Freeman grateful for bipartisan approach

Working together to address sexual violence important

NORTHFIELD – In response to news of bipartisan efforts to meet and address the difficult issue of sexual violence in the wake of the Brooke Bennett tragedy, Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Nate Freeman weighed in today with appreciation of the new direction in this difficult discussion.

“Every Vermonter must respond to the tragedy in Randolph because the specter of sexual violence is epidemic. In addition to a review of what happened and how we approach the punishment of predators, we need to also work on the best ways to prevent sexual violence, or at the very least, intervene and rescue children immediately after they suffer this tragedy.

Freeman revealed this week his personal experience as one who suffered childhood rape.

“I am one of thousands of Vermonters who have suffered childhood sexual abuse, and yet I am extremely fortunate as I was rescued almost immediately after the event occurred. I am proud of my parents and my family for saving me from repeated sexual abuse. The sad fact is that my single-time experience and the protection my family provided is not the norm in this phenomenon. While I applaud lawmakers for assuming a role of responsibility in the protection of children, we also need to consider the responsibility of parents, grandparents, and extended family members in protecting and rescuing children from predators. Every family needs to overcome the shame of sexual violence perpetrated by another family member or a person of trust in the community.

Freeman stresses the importance of working both on preventative measures as well as punitive measures in response to sexual violence.

“In challenging Brian Dubie and Jim Douglas on the politicization of this issue earlier this week, my intent was to help move the conversation in a more productive direction. Vermont's legislature, judiciary, governor and political parties need to come together at this time to work hard and fast on the best possible measures to protect our children. We should not enter this process with immediate disagreement about what measures will be the best solutions, but we must work hard and fast to look at comprehensive models in other states to find the best possible protection for Vermont children.

Freeman is also clear about how he considers his own experience.

“I was rescued. I do not consider myself a survivor or a victim, but one who was rescued and later in life learned about how my single experience affected my approach to life.”

Nate Freeman is a candidate for Lieutenant Governor from the Democratic Party. He is the owner of Freeman's Upholstery Shop and Green Mountain Kitty Litter in Northfield.

—

For information on the Freeman campaign, see www.NateFreeman.com or call 802-485-4428.

# # #

David Gram's AP article, “Missing brackets blamed in Vermont nuke mishap,” puts the nail in the coffin for Vermont Yankee and Public Service Commissioner O'Brien's oversight of the old, worn out, falling down plant.  

Gram reports:

A top official with the federaNuclear Regulatory Commission, director of operations William Borchardt, traveled from Washington to meet Tuesday with Entergy Corp.-owned plant and state officials and participate in a conference call with Vermont's three congressional offices.

Borchardt told reporters after that meeting that a cooling tower leak discovered last Friday resulted from an inadequate fix to a much bigger leak that struck one of the towers' 22 sections, or cells, last August.

The bold, underlined phrase can't be empasized enough.  The inadequate fix?  Let's just call it the “two will do” repair special.

O'Brien and Williams said another weakening of supports and a leak in a pipe appeared to have been caused by the fix installed since last year. Two support brackets were attached to the beams where three should have been, they said.

At this point, even proponents of “cheap” nuclear energy must realize that Vermont Yankee is an old jalopy struggling to make it through the backstretch.  If a race car driver can decide it's time to pull into the pits and call it a day, then you might think the decision makers overseeing a nuclear power plant can do the same.  

The end of Vermont Yankee will only be the end of Vermont Yankee, and the questions about how badly the plant is being operated have been answered.

It's time begin start winding it down and begin the hard work of creating new energy sources.

Nate Freeman

Freeman thankful of bipartisan approach

Working together to address sexual violence important

NORTHFIELD – In response to news of bipartisan efforts to meet and address the difficult issue of sexual violence in the wake of the Brooke Bennett tragedy, Nate Freeman weighed in today with appreciation of the new direction in this difficult discussion.

“Every Vermonter must respond to the tragedy in Randolph because the specter of sexual violence is epidemic. In addition to a review of what happened and how we approach the punishment of predators, we need to also work on the best ways to prevent sexual violence, or at the very least, intervene and rescue children immediately after they suffer this tragedy.

Freeman revealed this week his personal experience as one who suffered childhood rape.

“I am one of thousands of Vermonters who have suffered a similar experience, and yet I am extremely fortunate as I was rescued almost immediately after the event occurred. I am proud of my parents and my family for saving me from repeated sexual abuse. The sad fact is that my single-time experience and the protection my family provided is not the norm in this phenomenon. While I applaud Brian Dubie for assuming a role of responsibility in the protection of children, every Vermonter should consider the responsibility of parents, grandparents, and extended family members in protecting and rescuing children from predators. Every family needs to overcome the shame of sexual violence happening perpetrated by another family member or a person of trust in the community.

Freeman stresses the importance of working both on preventative measures as well as punitive measures in response to sexual violence.

“In challenging Brian Dubie and Jim Douglas on the politicization of this issue earlier this week, my intent was to help move the conversation in a more productive direction. Vermont's legislature, judiciary, and governor and political parties need to come together at this time to work hard and fast on the best possible measures to protect our children. We should not enter this process with immediate disagreement about what measures will be the best solutions, but we must we must work hard and fast to look at comprehensive models in other states to find the best possible protection for Vermont children.

Freeman is also clear about how he considers his own experience.

“I was rescued. I do not consider myself a survivor or a victim, but one who was rescued and later in life learned about how my single experience affected my approach to life.”

Nate Freeman is a candidate for Lieutenant Governor from the Democratic Party. He is the owner of Freeman's Upholstery Shop and Green Mountain Kitty Litter in Northfield. He is also a male survivor of early childhood sexual abuse by a female perpetrator.

—

For information on the Freeman campaign, see www.NateFreeman.com or call 802-485-4428.

# # #

FYI: I sent out the press release below the fold a couple of hours ago after being asked by Dan Barlow if I had a response to Dubie today.  This is a subject I feel should have not become campaign fodder and I am deeply offended that Brian Dubie has gone so low by manipulating Vermonters' instinctive emotions.  Furthermore, I have come out with my personal information as one of tens of thousands of Vermonters who have suffered the experience of sexual violence and abuse because I feel strongly that what we need to be focusing on now is primary prevention, as Euan suggested in an earlier post. 

At this point, I am comfortable with sharing my own information publicly since I believe that someone needs to bring this issue to the table and speak from the perspective of one who has been there.  It is incredibly difficult for anyone who has suffered in this way to come forward under any circumstances whatsoever; my intent is to help them feel that it is not only ok to speak out, but to take confidence that people will listen.

I appreciate all that I have learned over the last 3 years at GMD and our relationship as colleagues.  I am sure I have missed several or many of the regulars at GMD, so this is why I am posting this email as well.

Thank you all.

Nate

My press release in response to an inquiry from the press is below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (July 14, 2008)

CONTACT: Nate Freeman, 802-485-4428

Freeman says Dubie proclomation “dubious”

All campaign talk, no sincere action

NORTHFIELD — Nate Freeman, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, responded to Brian Dubie's most recent press announcement as a “dubious” attempt to take advantage of a very sensitive and widespread issue here in Vermont.

“Brian Dubie and Governor Douglas are reaching new lows in how they are manipulating Vermonters' emotions on the subject of sexual molestation of children. The fact is, this phenomenon is far more widespread than we want to acknowledge, and that strong measures in primary prevention are the best way to educate families, community members, and Vermonters as a whole about the signs and signals of childhood sexual abuse. Not only do I find the current conversation dubious in it's real intent, I also find it personally offending as literally tens of thousands of Vermonters have suffered, are suffering, and will suffer from the tragedy of sexual abuse in their pre-pubescent and pubescent years.”

Freeman points to the Governor's press release dated April 17^th as an example of Jim Douglas talking about the work he is doing without any follow-up. From that press release Jim Douglas says the following:

“Vermont is leading the nation in developing innovative, proactive approaches to ending the epidemic of sexual and domestic violence in our state,” Governor Douglas said. “These crimes exact an enormous toll on the health and well-being of survivors, not to mention the impact on health care, corrections, education, social services, and so many of our state resources. The more attention we focus on preventing these crimes – on teaching our children about healthy, respectful relationships and nonviolent means to resolve conflict – the better.”

“It is interesting to note that the Douglas Administration is not focusing on the efforts of primary prevention of sexual abuse against children at this critical time. Instead, both Brian Dubie and Jim Douglas are preying on Vermonters' natural emotional impulse for vengeance. The tragedy in Randolph will never find restitution and the community will never find healing in Brian Dubie's angry , dubious, political posturing,” Freeman said.

Nate Freeman is a candidate for Lieutenant Governor from the Democratic Party. He is the owner of Freeman's Upholstery Shop and Green Mountain Kitty Litter in Northfield. He is also a male survivor of early childhood sexual abuse by a female perpetrator.

—

For information on the Freeman campaign, see www.NateFreeman.com or call 802-485-4428.

# # #

(So who’s a flip flopper NOW?! Lt. Governor candidate Nate Freeman has it right on this. – promoted by NanuqFC)

As we all know, the office of Lieutenant Governor is legally symbolic yet one that has a long tradition, before Brian Dubie of vigorous, full-term activity.  Of course, many of us have forgotten that the Lieutenant Governor actually serves with any purpose in the public sphere since 2002 when Mr. Dubie treated the job as a call to the next election instead of a call to service.

Over the last few weeks we have heard a lot of breathless proclamations coming out of the Lieutenant Governor's office, from late-coming cries about heating oil prices (where were you last winter, Mr. Dubie; the Cayman Islands?); and just this morning his “call to action” in the wake of the tragedy in Randolph.

From WCAX, here's the keeper:

In a press release, Dubie did not mention what actions he plans to call for.

Mr. Dubie's sincerity and even his credibility are beginning to come in question at this point.  Sincerety means taking the issue to heart, figuring out what can be done about it, and then coming forward with a plan and people behind you. 

Below the fold:  a Jim Douglas press release from April 17th on the subject of sexual and domestic violence. 

Once again, the press release is yet another great example of the Douglas Administration taking credit for the hard work of hundreds of Vermonters. 

Hopefully, our Lieutenant Governor will do something productive instead of stirring the emotional pot in his political campaign.  For example, he could call for even more aggressive measures in primary prevention.

Considering the fact that Vermont took an “unprecedented action to prevent sexual and domestic violence” in April, shouldn't we be talking about that now?

SUBJECT: VERMONT TAKES UNPRECEDENTED ACTION TO PREVENT SEXUAL AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Montpelier – At a press conference today, Governor Douglas and House and Senate leaders joined the Vermont Network to highlight Vermont’s innovative and unprecedented approach to preventing sexual and domestic violence.

Two years ago, the Network, the legislature and the Governor unveiled The Vermont Approach, a comprehensive plan for a coordinated effort to end sexual violence in Vermont. This year, the focus continues with the legislature working on a significant bill (S.357) to prevent domestic violence. Both of these projects are nationally innovative and will push Vermont ahead of the rest of the nation in our response to sexual and domestic violence.

“Vermont is leading the nation in developing innovative, proactive approaches to ending the epidemic of sexual and domestic violence in our state,” Governor Douglas said. “These crimes exact an enormous toll on the health and well-being of survivors, not to mention the impact on health care, corrections, education, social services, and so many of our state resources. The more attention we focus on preventing these crimes – on teaching our children about healthy, respectful relationships and nonviolent means to resolve conflict – the better.”

Representative Bill Lippert, chair of the House Judiciary Committee, commented, “Our committee and the legislature have prioritized the issue of sexual violence for the past several years. We recognize that this problem has reached epidemic proportions, with an estimated third of all Vermont women and girls and at least one in ten boys being victimized by perpetrators of sexual violence in their lifetimes. Vermont must continue to invest in preventing sexual violence, which is why we have established Vermont’s Sexual Violence Prevention Task Force and provided resources and support for The Vermont Approach.”

Senator Sears, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, also lauded the commitment of the legislature and the Governor to ending violence in our communities and our homes. “I firmly believe that domestic violence is Vermont’s hidden epidemic, and one of the major cost drivers in our state budget. Over the past year and a half the Senate Judiciary Committee has taken sobering testimony highlighting the devastating impact of domestic violence on individual victims and especially on children who are exposed to this violence in their homes. We believe that the legislation introduced by our committee and approved by the House Judiciary Committee represents a major step in improving Vermont’s response to domestic violence and in finally focusing significant resources on preventing this pervasive problem.”

The Vermont Network is a coalition of sixteen member programs around the state providing advocacy, emergency shelter, crisis hotline support, and other services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence and bringing prevention education to Vermont communities.

Karen Tronsgard-Scott, director of the Network, thanked the legislature and the Governor for their proactive commitment to ending domestic and sexual violence. “The level of commitment demonstrated by our Vermont leadership is refreshing, and virtually unprecedented nationwide. We look forward to continuing our work together to support survivors and to end violence in our communities. We know that in order to truly prevent sexual and domestic violence, every Vermonter has a role to play – prevention must happen at every level, in our homes, our schools, our communities and all across the state.”

###

This is just a short note today:  check out Philip Baruth's analysis on Vermont Daily Briefing. 

Baruth, reviewing an interview he held in March, cites what he calls Douglas' “two-note campaign strategy”

I'm not so sure I'd call it “two-note” since Douglas isn't exactly trying to play a tune.  Boxing terminology actually comes to mind since the governor has been known to throw quite a few low blows and rabbit punches over the last six or seven years.

Let's hope that the people who can benefit most from VDB today will actually read it.

Below the fold:  Appropriate boxing terminology, defined; and Baruth's explanation of the “two-note” two-step.

But really, just go to the source over at VDB. Special note:  Counterpunch, defined below, is what Douglas' opponents should be practicing.  

And Chief Second (see below):  At this point, I'd recommend Philip Baruth.

Jab : A quick, straight punch thrown with the lead hand. It can be used as a set-up for power punches, as a way to gauge distance, to keep an opponent wary, or as a defensive move to slow an advancing opponent. 

Hook : A short power punch in which the boxer swings from the shoulder with his elbow bent, bringing his fist from the side toward the centre. 

Counterpunch : A counterattack, begun immediately after an opponent throws a punch. A “counter-puncher” typically waits for his opponent to throw punches, then blocks or slips past them and exploits the opening in his opponent's position. 

Chief Second: The person designated by the fighter to provide advice and assistance during the bout, usually the trainer. 

VDB's “two-note campaign strategy” a la Douglas:

Let me just go to the second note of the two-note Jim Douglas re-election strategy. The first note is the series of ads accusing the opponent of being a wild-eyed tax-addict.

The second is to pick up on some hot-button local security issue. So in his first run, against Doug Racine, it was heroin, and what he called “a Megan’s Law for drug dealers.” What Douglas said in that race was simple: “We need a Megan’s law for drug dealers, because heroin is here, it’s scary, and our children need to be protected.”

Paul MacGowan has a long history in videography beginning in Burlington many, many years ago.   He recently participated as an offline editor for an HBO documentary airing tomorrow night, July 7th, at 9pm.

Full details below the fold.  Is the subject about art or emotional illness?  You tell me.

For Immediate Release HBO Docs
THE ART OF FAILURE: CHUCK CONNELLY NOT FOR SALE
TAKES AN UNFLINCHING LOOK AT THE RISE AND FALL OF A
TROUBLED ARTIST WHEN THE DOCUMENTARY
DEBUTS JULY 7, EXCLUSIVELY ON HBO
When neo-expressionist Chuck Connelly burst on the New York art scene in the ‘80s, he found himself compared to Van Gogh, and his work was discussed in the same breath as that of successful contemporaries Jean-Michel Basquiat and Julian Schnabel. During that time, Connelly sold more than a million dollars’ worth of art and was represented by one of New York’s most successful dealers.
Today, however, he is remembered primarily for alienating every collector and gallery owner with whom he worked. An unflinching portrait of the ascent and decline of an enigmatic artist, THE ART OF FAILURE: CHUCK CONNELLY NOT FOR SALE debuts MONDAY, JULY 7 (9:00-10:05 p.m. ET), exclusively on HBO.
Other HBO playdates: July 8 (11:45 p.m.), 10 (8:00 p.m.) and 16 (3:50 a.m.)
HBO2 playdates: July 7 (12:55 a.m.), 16 (11:35 p.m.) and 22 (3:25 a.m.)
THE ART OF FAILURE: CHUCK CONNELLY NOT FOR SALE is part of the HBO Documentary Films summer series, which features a provocative new film every Monday night at 9:00 p.m. (ET/PT) through Aug. 25.
Directed by Jeff Stimmel and shot over a six-year period, this intimate and often troubling character study explores the creative passion of a painter who is his own worst enemy. Along with cinema verité footage, the film features candid interviews with such individuals as artist Mark Kostabi, curator Atanasio diFelice and art dealers Annina Nosei, Eduard Doga and Mary Lou Swift.
The documentary chronicles Connelly’s early career and his entry into the center of the art scene. Emulating his idols in both alcoholism and a no-holds-barred style of creating art, Connelly started to lash out at what he considered the hypocrisy and financial dishonesty of that world. Before long, he alienated everyone around him, lost every opportunity that came his way and fell into obscurity.
In 1999 Connelly left New York, where he had painted for nearly 20 years, and moved to Philadelphia. Though his work is in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and his paintings sell in online auctions, he hasn’t had a major art show since the 1990s, and continues to struggle as an artist, angry at being almost entirely forgotten.
Reflecting his working-class Pittsburgh roots, Connelly holds “traditional” beliefs that art is about personal expression and craftsmanship, a less-than-fashionable notion in today’s elite art world, the inner workings of which are glimpsed in the film.
Segments of THE ART OF FAILURE: CHUCK CONNELLY NOT FOR SALE include:
In a home video, Connelly has a drunken tirade in which he becomes belligerent toward his wife Laurence. Dealer Mary Lou Swift thinks that he drinks because he is unhappy in his life, but also because he sees a correlation between creating art and being an alcoholic.
At a Pittsburgh cemetery, Connelly visits Andy Warhol’s grave, observing that dying was Warhol’s best career move, adding, “Now he’s a hero.”
Connelly’s violent personality has driven away everyone who has worked with him, including his latest patron, Matt Garfield. Laurence tells her husband, “You make people fall out of love with you.” Later, the artist reads aloud a letter from his wife about the terms of their separation agreement. It’s nothing new, Connelly concedes, saying, “Gallery. Patron. Wife. All gone down the drain.”
Driven by desperation, Connelly hires actor David Nelson to pose as a young, upcoming artist to sell his work to galleries and art dealers. Nelson poses as Connelly’s early art school alter ego Fred Scaboda, visiting galleries to attempt to sell his work, and embellishing stories of the inspiration behind each piece. Though the tales are entirely fabricated, one gallery owner responds, “I see that your work is very autobiographical.”
The film concludes with “The Chuck Show: A Retrospective,” which shows onscreen some of the 3,000 paintings in storage in Connelly’s attic. Assessing his prospects, Connelly says, “I’m at the point if you don’t toot your horn, who’s gonna toot it for you?” He adds with a laugh, “Call me an egomaniac…but call me.”
People who haven’t forgotten Connelly still debate his talent, with some continuing to call him a genius. THE ART OF FAILURE: CHUCK CONNELLY NOT FOR SALE asks whether someone this uncompromising can make a comeback in an art world based increasingly on commerce not just art.
THE ART OF FAILURE: CHUCK CONNELLY NOT FOR SALE was produced and directed by Jeff Stimmel; executive producer for Films Transit International, Diana Holtzberg; editor, Paula Heredia; associate producer, Joanna K. Stimmel: original songs by Paul A. Anderson. Produced in association with BBC Storyville, ZDF/Arte: For HBO: supervising producer, Sara Bernstein; executive producer, Sheila Nevins.

— Paul MacGowan
Video Expeditions
802.865.0123
paul@vexp.org
www.vexp.org

WATCH THE MOVIE!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YirkQ0yYPxs

A special heads-up to fellow GMDers on recent developments in the race for Lieutenant Governor:  a primary is upon us, and I have no intention of backing down.  See the press release below the fold, and don't forget to visit www.NateFreeman.com for the latest.

Best, 

Nate Freeman

Northfield, VT 

natefreeman@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (July 6, 2008)

CONTACT: Nate Freeman, 802-485-4428

FREEMAN WELCOMES PRIMARY

Describes race as Ordinary Vermonters vs. Montpelier politics-as-usual.

NORTHFIELD — Nate Freeman, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, said Saturday morning that he welcomes a primary against Rutland attorney Tom Costello.

“I look forward to a vigorous primary as our Vermont grassroots campaign challenges Montpelier politics-as-usual,” Freeman said.

Asked about attorney Costello, Freeman said, “Officials from the Vermont Democratic Party asked me last week to wait for Tom's final decision. My response was that an established politician could have little credibility coming to this campaign so late in the campaign season. Established politicians such as Mr. Costello should have been making their announcements last November instead of 'inching closer to a decision' on the 4^th of July. Vermont can't afford to wait for the last minute to address our critical issues, and we should be skeptical of established politicians who wait until the last minute to something as serious as a statewide campaign.”

Mr. Costello has strong support from Senate president pro tem, Peter Shumlin. This fact does not appear to deter Freeman.

“In my opinion, Peter Shumlin is once again throwing a colleague under the bus as he maneuvers and manipulates Vermonters toward his own political goals. Politics-as-usual in Montpelier needs to take a back seat to Vermonters' need for change. Vermont can't afford to wait another two years for real change in the executive branch.”

Nate Freeman is the owner of Freeman's Upholstery Shop in Northfield and Green Mountain Kitty Litter. He is a member of the Northfield School Board and a member of the transportation advisory committee for the Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission.

Mr. Freeman is also a published author who in 1999 received a Vermont Arts Council grant as an art producer/presenter.

—

For information on the Freeman campaign, see www.natefreeman.com or call 802-485-4428.

# # #

(I edited the body into “extended entry” for easier front-page promotion… – promoted by odum)

From:  Nate Freeman

To:  Hard Working Vermonters

As you are aware, the 2007-2008 electoral cycle has been both interesting and frustrating nationally and even more so here in Vermont.  With roughly 20 days to the petition deadline, the Lieutenant Governor's office remains unchallenged.  This is about to change.

On June 28th, I began to gather signatures in a bold challenge against Brian Dubie.   I am sharing this news with you today so that you will know in advance my intent and so that I can offer you an opportunity to call or email me with any questions you may have.  And of course, I am asking for your support.

Four years ago, when I sealed my commitment to become a member of the Democratic Party, I set a goal  to one day become the Governor of Vermont.  At that time, I assumed the traditional approach of rising through the ranks from the very bottom, climbing the appropriate rungs along the way.  In fact, I began my effort as a volunteer in Project Bluegrass under Jon Copans, helping with the tedious work of data entry in the Voter Checklist.  I began networking with nearby county parties and volunteered for the Scudder Parker campaign.  I ran against Anne Donahue in 2006, earning a respectable margin against her.  Months later, I was elected by a wide margin as a member of the district school board.  I now serve in two appointed positions, including a seat on the Transportation Advisory Committee for the Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission.  Most recently, I have produced a short video on the Taylor Street Bridge in Montpelier.  This effort was my first shot across the bow, catching the Douglas administration off guard and instilling the fear of vulnerability from an unanticipated attack.  With your help, and the help of the Vermont grassroots movement, this campaign can launch a series of similar attacks from a wide variety of angles. 

The decision to run for Lieutenant Governor came after several months of consideration and an assessment of the current election dynamic.  Finally, on June 11th, prior to the rumor about Harry Chen, I shared my intent in confidence with two colleagues from GreenMountainDaily.com.  Four years ago, I would have never considered such a bold political leap to the second highest position in Vermont.  But circumstances have changed and it's time for bold leadership, iron will and the mettle to withstand the most brutal campaign.  

I have made a decision to run for Lieutenant Governor because we cannot afford another two years without leadership in the executive branch.  While I am confident that Gaye Symington will be our next governor, Vermont cannot afford to maintain the office of Lieutenant Governor as an empty, ceremonial position such as we've seen for the last six years. 

Last September, Jane Lindholm interviewed Madeleine May Kunin about her experience as Lieutenant Governor under Dick Snelling.  The occasion for this interview followed on the news that Brian Dubie, for the second time, was applying for a position in the Bush administration.  As we all know, over the course of six years, fighter pilot Brian Dubie has accomplished nothing more than a one-time visit to Cuba; a Tour of Glory to Baghdad on the eve of the Democratic Primary; and his recent, johnny-come-lately scramble to emergency on the issue of home-heating fuel.  From the precedence of Lieutenant Governors Madeleine May Kunin and Howard Dean, Brian Dubie has diminished the role of second-in-command to symbolic gestures devoid of concrete results.

Last September, Madeleine May Kunin reminded us that the role of Lieutenant Governor is as expansive as the imagination of the person who holds that office.  As Lt. Governor, I will work hard to build a coalition among the three major parties so that Vermont can once again move forward productively and efficiently.  As Lieutenant Governor, I will seek to convene multiple task forces challenged to deliver the most creative, state-of-the-art solutions on the most pressing of issues.  I will ask private, public and non-profit leaders to bring their minds together to determine how Vermont will generate more energy while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels; how Vermont will create new jobs and higher wages; and how Vermont can prepare, in concert with the National Intelligence Council, on the impact of climate change as a national security issue.

Vermont needs a Lieutenant Governor who can bring courage, creativity, and commitment to Montpelier.  Vermont needs a Lieutenant Governor inspired by the early work, achievement and leadership of that office under Howard Dean and Madeleiene Kay Kunin.  Vermont needs a Lieutenant Governor who will build a coalition of forces together on his way to the Governor's office so that we can at last address three converging storms on the horizon:  the end of oil, climate change and the decline of economic strength.

I ask you for your support and your confidence in the classic American story of a common individual inspiring and accomplishing extraodinary change.  I ask for your support and confidence that together we can take back the executive branch of government and return Vermont to its leading role in the nation.  I ask for your support and confidence in the belief that the most credible candidate is one who has the will to succeed.

By trade I am an upholsterer; in character I am a fighter and a leader; and in my soul I am a poet who understands the ongoing plight of humanity and how we must work to succeed. 

One day, long ago, I called a leading poet, now deceased, to ask if I could use his words.  I offer his words as a testament that hard work and long term commitment will prevail over the hardships and distress of today.  These are words I have emblazoned in my heart, and this is the message I will bring to the office of Lieutenant Governor.

I look forward to meeting you, listening to your ideas and concerns.  I look forward to working with you so that the orchard of good living we enjoy here in Vermont will blossom and bear fruit once again.

—
Nate Freeman
Freeman's Upholstery Shop, Inc
109 VT RTE 12A
Northfield, VT 05663
(802) 485-4428

Well, you might not be a fan of nuclear power, what with hidden carbon impact and all.  But in the short term, it's likely to be a strong player in the mix of power sources.

Years ago I read a letter to the editor in the Times Argus in which the author was advocating for micro reactors to be planted around the state and tied to the grid.  The reactors, the author wrote, would be very similar to those that power the US Navy's fleet of submarines.

At the time, my reaction was something along the lines of, “Ok, here's a crazy person who seems to 'spreading the risk' of containment failure throughout the Green Mountains.  No dice.”  Wel, it turns out the letter writer wasn't crazy after all.  In fact, according to “The Encyclopedia of the Earth,” US Congress has alread funded nine separate designs which “could possibly be deployed by 2010.”  The date of the article is Feb 12, 2008.

Interesting, eh?  Good, bad, or ugly, it looks like small nuclear reactors might become part of our energy future.

Below the fold:  Some snippets from the EoE article, and a link to a detailed blog article with pictures. 

For the full text:  http://www.eoearth.org/article/Small_nuclear_power_reactors

Why small reactors?

Today, due partly to the high capital cost of large nuclear power reactors generating electricity via the steam cycle and partly to consideration of public perception, there is a move to develop smaller units. These may be built independently or as modules in a larger complex, with capacity added incrementally as required. Economies of scale are provided by the numbers produced. There are also moves to develop small units for remote sites. The IAEA defines “small” as under 300 MWe. 

 US Congress funding:

US Congress is now funding research on both small modular nuclear power plants (assembled on site from factory-produced modules) and advanced gas-cooled designs (which are modular in the sense that up to ten or more units are progressively built to comprise a major power station). A US DOE report in 2001 considered nine designs which could possibly be deployed by 2010. 

So this is all news to me.  Who knows what we're going to see 20 years from now.  In the meantime, the Ontario government is planning to build a new, “traditional” nuclear facility in Toronto.