Voices

A darker side of Eastes’ leadership in the arts

GUILFORD-Recently, I received a large glossy campaign flyer from Zon Eastes, who is running for state representative for Guilford and Vernon. The flyer and his website list one of his objectives as promoting the youth of our state and area.

After reading the very one-sided article ["An unusual candidate upends the Windham-1 primary," News, July 24], I felt compelled to write and add something that was overlooked.

As Mr. Eastes's tenure at Brattleboro Music Center as director and orchestra leader was touted as the perfect stepping stone to state rep, I find it disingenuous for him to say he has the backs of the area youth.

While he was director, evidence was brought to his attention that a Windham Orchestra member, Zeke Hecker, a teacher at Brattleboro Union High School, was an admitted child groomer and abuser. As the BMC engaged with area youth, it was advised to not have him as an orchestra member.

Apparently, it was more important for Mr. Eastes to shield his friend and fill a seat in his orchestra than to protect against potential abuse of young girls.

Is this the kind of leadership we need in Montpelier?


Dolores Clark

Guilford


This letter to the editor was submitted to The Commons.

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