The Friends of Vernon Center continue to focus on the redevelopment of the Governor Hunt House into a community center for Vernon. The pandemic has, of course, prevented us from opening the building for public events, and has hampered our ability to move forward, but nevertheless, we are making progress!

Importantly, we have a new website! You can find it here: https://www.governorhunt.org/. The site was designed by, and is managed by, Margaret Shipman of Vernon. More material is still being added to it.

In the spring, we plan to have the large meeting room and the side entrance hall spruced up with a fresh coat of paint, which will make a big difference in making the space a welcoming one for meetings and events of all kinds. 

The Community Center committee is finalizing rental rates and agreements so that we can offer a variety of the spaces in the complex for use by clubs, organizations, businesses, families and individuals. Start thinking about how your group might be able to use the Governor Hunt House! The property includes a large lawn area north of the house, so outdoor events (with or without a tent) are possible as well. And the Friends hope to organize some of our own events as well — possibly including workshops, lectures, exhibits and shows.

Our long-term needs include replacing the roof, making various exterior repairs to siding, trim, and window sash, and replacing or upgrading the heating/air-conditioning system. We’re applying for grants to cover parts of the cost, but we’ll need to do local fundraising as well, since grants typically don’t cover the full expense.

If you can help out in any way, please be in touch! Contact Martin Langeveld, board chair, at newsafternewspapers@gmail.com. And if you can help financially, please mail contributions to Friends of Vernon Center, Inc., c/o the Town Office, 567 Governor Hunt Road, Vernon VT 05354.