Around Town
compiled by Edd Merritt

to author and actor Kathryn Blume, who addressed “Big Night” guests assembled in support of the HowardCenter on June 3. She praised the Center for investing in “people who need the most help.” The HowardCenter, she said provides them with the “tools and resources they need to make their lives functional and whole.” She thanked those attending “Big Night” for their contributions to that success.
to Casey O’Brien, a junior at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York. Casey was awarded a University Fellowship to conduct independent research with a faculty member this summer. He was one of 27 students selected as 2009 University Fellows.
to the following blood donors who recently received their gallon pins from the American Red Cross Blood Services, New England Region:
James Manchester, 28 gallons
Jacqueline Jones, 37 gallons
Bruce Hasse, 63 gallons.

to David Blittersdorf, founder of NRG Systems in Hinesburg, who has been in the news several times recently speaking in favor of incentives that are geared to increase installing renewable power sources in Vermont and the nation. He demonstrated the sun tracking solar panel at his Earth Turbines offices in Williston following a news conference with the Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG) and appeared at a hearing with the Vermont Senate Subcommittee on Green Jobs along with U.S. Senator, Bernie Sanders.
to Lawrence Meier, attorney with Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC, who was selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America. Meier specializes in intellectual property law.

is extended to family and friends of Wilfred Beaudoin of Burlington, who passed away August 18 at the age of 84. An accomplished musician, he played guitar and fiddle with a traditional French Canadian musical group, La Famille Beaudoin. They were invited to play at President Carter’s inauguration and at the Smithsonian Institution. They appeared on A Prairie Home Companion and at the Andy Williams Christmas Special from Shelburne Museum. Surviving family includes his daughter Diane Nichols and her husband David of Charlotte. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to the American Heart Association, Vermont Affiliate, 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495 or to St. Anthony Parish, 305 Flynn Avenue, Burlington, Vermont 05401.