Arts, Dining & Entertainment, Featured

“Irene: Ruin to Renewal” premieres at Coolidge Site

Saturday, Aug. 27, at 7 p.m.—PLYMOUTH NOTCH— The documentary film “Irene: Ruin to Renewal,” which recounts Plymouth Vermont’s astounding recovery from the catastrophic storm, will premier at the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in the large reception room Saturday, Aug. 27, at 7 p.m., on the eve of the fifth anniversary of Tropical Storm Irene. A second screening has been added on Sunday, Aug. 28, at 3 p.m.

“Irene: Ruin to Renewal” was produced by the Plymouth Historical Society’s Irene video committee in partnership with Ludlow Public Community Television and features several interviews with many familiar faces and a collection of photographs and video footage gathered from community members. The project was supported through a grant from the Vermont Community Foundation, countless volunteer hours, and many in-kind contributions.

“Hopefully, every time the film is viewed, it will generate pride in the place we call home and encourage more engagement with the town and its people, just as we saw after Irene,” noted Betsy Tonkin of the historical society, who acted as project manager. “With this renewed awareness, perhaps Plymouth will be a healthier and more dynamic community.”

A commemorative DVD will be available for purchase from the historical society. After its initial screenings, the documentary will be shown on LPCTV (Comcast Cable Channel 8) and other local outlets.

Seating is limited and reservations are required. Call Midge Tucker at 802-672-3086 or email midgetucker@gmail.com. Both events are free and refreshments will be served.

Photo by: Jerry LeBlond
Residents of towns impacted by Tropical Storm Irene put their trade skills to use, helping to rebuild wherever they could. Bryant Harvey of Rochester ran an excavator just north of his town, clearing a section that destroyed two homes.

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