BRATTLEBORO — I am writing to express my support for Tristan Toleno in the race for state representative from District 3.
I first came to know Tristan when he was the chef and managing partner of Riverview Café. Tristan and his partners lived out their stated values by working with local farmers and businesses and encouraging customers to do the same. Since that time, I have continued to witness his commitment to our town and the overall health of our community.
Tristan is a community advisor to the Culinary Arts Program and taught a culinary course for adults at the Windham Regional Career Center. Most recently, he chose to study the Brattleboro Union High School and Brattleboro Area Middle School school food program as his capstone project for his MBA degree from Marlboro College. The capstone sponsor for the program was the Windham Regional Career Center.
I was pleased to be able to attend his capstone presentation. Tristan's approach to the challenge of improving school food and wellness was to suggest a new business model for the production of school meals which would be integrated with the educational opportunities for vocational training.
The concept he wrote about reflects his belief in the possibility of mission-driven business to effect change and the need for community engagement to make it happen.
This project was not merely an academic exercise for Tristan; he also has two children in the school system, one of whom is already a BAMS student. The strategies he identified are now being used as part of a grassroots effort by local parents and community members.
This experience also showed me he has the ability and desire to look at issues and find innovative approaches to improving things for the entire community - a talent that will serve us well in the Legislature.
He has digested hundreds of pages of federal and state laws and policies, found the critical points, and then developed a creative business model that has the possibility of being a win-win for students' health and our community's financial obligations.
He demonstrated the vision to reimagine an alternative food system and a practical approach grounded in an understanding of the legal and financial constraints that impact schools.
Please join me in voting for Tristan Toleno in the District 3 Democratic primary on Aug. 28.