MONTPELIER — Governor Phil Scott delivered his annual adjournment address to awmakers at the close of the legislative session on Saturday, May 11, saying, “I want to thank each of you for serving here in this building, whether we agree on issues or not. You’ve stepped up and taken on this responsibility, which I know isn’t always easy.”
“I want to thank a few committee chairs in particular for working closely with my team over the last couple of years: Senator Sears, Campion, Ingalls, Starr, Ram Hinsdale, Mazza, and of course Senator Kitchel,” said Scott, making special note of Caledonia County Sen. Kitchel
“And I also want to highlight three senators, who I served with when I was in this chamber, who I’ve heard won’t be returning next year . . . I’ve worked with Representative Starr, and then Senator Starr, for over 20 years,” recognizing retiring Sen. Starr for his many years of service in the legislature.
Scott continued, “During that time, he’s been such a strong supporter for the Northeast Kingdom and agriculture throughout Vermont.
“Bobby has always been willing to do what he thinks is right and has been a voice for common sense and Vermont values.
“Back in 2005, we had a new senator joining our ranks, and to be honest, I wasn’t sure how I felt about that.
“First of all, he was coming from the House, and you may not realize it, but sometimes there’s a bit of tension between the two bodies.
“But I was especially concerned, because Bobby was one of the more ‘crafty’ House members.
“But he and I shared something unique: we both had CDLs, and both owned equipment and trucks.
“And Bobby completely won me over when he was running a load near Three Rivers Quebec right before our session started in January of 2006.
“He was in a fiery crash, not of his doing, and there was also a young woman involved, trapped in her car and on fire. Without hesitation, Bobby ran to her aid and saved her life.
“That told me everything I needed to know about Bobby and we’ve been good friends since.
“So I want to once again thank you, Senator, for everything you’ve done for Vermont, and a young woman from Quebec.
“As the three Senators I mentioned certainly know, the work done in this building impacts Vermonters in every corner of the state, whether they voted for us or not.
Scott wrapped up his remarks, saying, “And it gives us an opportunity to make a real difference, especially when we work together.
“And after this session, it’s clear we have a lot more work to do.
“But again, I want to sincerely thank you for your service, and I’m sure our paths will cross again before you know it, and if they don’t, I wish you a more peaceful summer than we had last year.
“And, to all you moms, Happy Mother’s Day,” added Scott in closing.
Paul Fixx is editor of The Hardwick Gazette and lives in Hardwick.
