To The Editor:
Thank you to the Mad River Valley for your collective warm welcome and many kindnesses.
It was a joy and a privilege to be a member of your Valley community for these last 10 months, time enough to appreciate the seasons and all that is good and special about this corner of Vermont.
Years ago, my career began with an organization that placed a high priority on generous hospitality and serving one's community well. Jack and Jane Fitzpatrick (from Rutland and Cuttingsville respectively) gave generously to their Berkshire community and to their 1,000-plus team members.
It was the Fitzpatrick's role as community stewards and the responsibility they held to always share with others, that came back to them through strong local support of their many business endeavors.
To a much younger general manager, they taught me the lessons of doing the right thing for people and community even if there was an additional cost. They always paid it. Quietly.
As my wife and I arrived here we began to field a surprising level of vehement, vitriolic feedback that exists in an uneasy standoff here in Warren.
It is my hope that graciousness and generous hospitality in the stewardship of the community will one day return to a relationship that has so much potential.
Kind regards and grateful thanks,
Brooks Bradbury
