Election Letters

Here are the letters published in support of my re-election

Berkshire Eagle, April 12, 2023

To the editor: Many years ago, I was dropped off in the middle of Stockbridge from New York City via the Greyhound bus line, ironically in May to begin what I thought would be a short stint of housesitting and maybe a few shifts at the well-established Red Lion Inn.

Well, I did work at the Red Lion Inn, then later decided to stick around to grow some kids. I became part of the Berkshire community. In my days working in Stockbridge, I would walk by Once Upon a Table, the quaint bistro in town. It always seemed not busy or closed. Yet the aromas were always enticing. It was a cozy spot. I never thought anything more about it until a friend I made during my time at Red Lion Inn informed me that the owner Alan O'Brient was looking for help.

I stopped in and lo and behold eight years later it would be my part-time waitressing gig. In the ninth year, as the pandemic rescinded, new chapters began for the waitress transitioning to owner of Once Upon a Table.

Alan, the former owner, took it upon himself to introduce me to Patrick White via text. He said Patrick is a good resource. Patrick called — yes called me, I still have the voicemail — welcoming me and extended his hand to me as a new business owner in Stockbridge. Those were my "deer in headlights days," yet I was able to ask for key guidance about bylaws and town meetings. I was able to ask about what processes were necessary and who I should direct key questions to for inspections and licenses, as it was a transfer of entities. Some things remained in place; others needed to be reassessed.

Knowing your Select Board members is key. Having someone who understands and cares for Stockbridge matters. Patrick, to me, is an asset many small towns wish they had. Let us keep local consistent, caring, reliable, knowledgeable people like Patrick White, who has a vision to sustain our quaint town but also has the vision to keep us moving in the right direction in the future. The work has just begun. Let him continue as our Select Board member.

Averniele Maloney, Stockbridge

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Stockbridge Updates, April 15, 2023

To the Editor:

A Man for All Seasons

I am writing in support of Mr. Patrick White to be re-elected to the Stockbridge Select Board.

Mr White is a neighbour. Over the years I have witnessed first hand Patrick's practical approach to solving problems. He is willing to listen, to consider all points of view, and to find creative solutions to intractable problems.

We first met at the Laurel Hill Association--an organization "dedicated to further the quality of life and the environment of Stockbridge." I think this phrase could serve as Patrick's mantra.

Patrick is always ready to help in uneasy times and I have been repeatedly impressed by his love and dedication to Stockbridge affairs, especially in his tireless pro-active attempts to mend the difference in conflicting opinions.

Mediation, imagination and selflessness are attributes that are hard to find and qualities that the Town needs in this day and age. Based on his past achievements, I will trust Mr White to be again at the helm of the ship.

Lionel Delevingne

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Stockbridge Updates, April 15, 2023

Hi Carole,

Having been a selectman in Stockbridge for 24 years (1974 - 1998 ), I know what the job requires :

a willingness to work hard,time to listen and communicate with constituents,the ability to evaluate best options and most importantly,a vision for the town based upon its historic values . Patrick White possesses and demonstrates all of them and has for the past 3 years.

A check of the number of meetings that Patrick attends weekly shows the time that he spends for the Town . He is well known for his quick responses to questions or complaints. He listens. Patrick is smart, verbal, and imaginative — all of which allows him to be a quick study of problems (housing, rentals, the Bowl... ) and their possible solutions . Not everyone agrees with him all of the time and they shouldn't, but he does make decisions.

Finally, Stockbridge is known and highly valued for its not physically changing. Open space, no stop light, resistance to roundabouts, no turnpike entrance/exit... are just a few examples of maintaining a commitment to the past. Patrick knows this ... I strongly urge Stockbridge voters to return him to the selectboard ... The town needs him.

JA Beacco, Jr.

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The Berkshire Edge, April 19, 2023
Stockbridge Updates, May 1, 2023

I'd like to call to your attention to the leadership role of Patrick White, Chair of the Stockbridge Select Board, in championing the old growth in Ice Glen and securing recognition and getting treatment for the ancient hemlocks and mature white ash trees there.

My name is Robert T. Leverett. Below are some of my credits.

- Cofounder of the Native Tree Society - County coordinator for the Old-Growth Forest Network - Senior advisor to American Forests on the National Champion Tree Program - Coauthor of the Sierra Guide to Ancient Forests of the Northeast - Chair of Massachusetts DCR’s Forest Reserves Science Advisory Committee - Cofounder and President, Friends of Mohawk Trail State Forest

I’d like to call to your attention to the leadership role of Patrick White, Chair of the Stockbridge Select Board, in championing the old growth in Ice Glen and securing recognition and getting treatment for the ancient hemlocks and mature white ash trees there. As you all may know, the Glen is a priceless ecological relict of forests past with historical ties to the Mohican Nation and even literary figures like Herman Melville.

Over the years, we’ve carefully mapped out the areas of old growth and mature second growth, and I will attest that both are exceptional natural resources of which we can be proud. However, our remaining isolated forested gems like Ice Glen don’t protect themselves. They are always vulnerable to direct and indirect negative influences, often of human origin. Alien invasives like the hemlock wooley adelgid, elongate hemlock scale, and the emerald ash borer and native pests like hemlock looper represented terminal threats to the Glen’s trees that have lived between 200 and 400 years. Treating them was not an option, but we needed a leader, and Patrick White rose to the occasion.

Over the course of 30 years, I’ve taken many groups and individuals through the Glen on interpretive walks. Also while gathering data (e.g. measuring a tree), people have stopped and inquired to what I was seeing or doing. When I explained to them what a special forest Ice Glen possessed, I could see their faces light up and often one or more would state that they always knew the place was truly special. But then came the insect pests and the days were numbered for those ancient trees. Time to save them was limited. A leader was needed, and Patrick White proved to be that person. All of us who value these original forest remnants are grateful to Patrick and want to call everyone’s attention to his leadership in saving the ancient trees of the Glen.

Bob Leverett

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Berkshire Eagle, April 19, 2023

To the editor: As a Stockbridge second-home owner, I can’t vote in the upcoming town election, but if I could I’d vote enthusiastically for Patrick White for Select Board.

I first met Patrick several years ago when our dogs ran into one another on a quiet town road. Later, I had a chance to work with him on the board of the Laurel Hill Association. He’s a pleasure to work with — smart, hard-working and deeply concerned about the environment in Stockbridge.

I’ve been particularly impressed with Patrick’s leadership since he was elected to the Select Board. It’s easy to avoid criticism by not doing anything, but that’s not Patrick’s way. As Teddy Roosevelt told us, “credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena … who strives valiantly … so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”

Patrick is in the arena because he cares about Stockbridge, is concerned about changes that have made it harder for less affluent residents to stay here, and has the courage to step forward. His proposals for a residential tax exemption and an accessory dwelling unit bylaw have both generated controversy, but they’ve also put those issues on the town agenda. If we haven't found the right answer yet, I know Patrick will keep looking.

Patrick grew up in Stockbridge, went away to college and worked for a time in Boston before coming home to the town he loves. Stockbridge is fortunate to have a native son who brings so much love for the town and willingness to invest energy and effort into making it better,

Lee Bolman, Brookline

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Berkshire Eagle, April 20, 2023
The Berkshire Edge, April 27, 2023
Stockbridge Updates, May 1, 2023

To the editor: I strongly endorse Patrick White, who is running for reelection to the Stockbridge Select Board.

As the former race director of the Josh Billings triathlon, I found Patrick incredibly helpful and supportive of the race. While dealing with new logistics for the Josh over the past few years, I often turned to Patrick for advice on Stockbridge rules and regulations and was grateful for his advice in aligning me with the best contacts on the town boards and town departments.

I knew I could count on Patrick to help the Josh Billings navigate and resolve complex town issues. Patrick’s desire to help and his skills as an organizer make him very qualified to continue on the Stockbridge Select Board.

I support Patrick White for reelection, and I hope you will give him your vote May 16.

Patty Spector, Lenox

The writer is the former race director for the Josh Billings RunAground.

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Berkshire Eagle, April 21, 2023
The Berkshire Edge, April 21, 2023
Stockbridge Updates, May 1, 2023

To the editor: I’ve known Patrick White for more than five years — as a fellow Laurel Hill board trustee, treasurer of the Waldorf School where Patrick works part-time, and a fellow volunteer to manage the town’s municipal vulnerability program (climate change impacts in Stockbridge).

Patrick is caring, competent and hard-working. He values and cherishes the Stockbridge community — people, businesses, special cultural institutions, history and environment.

Patrick attends numerous neighborhood meetings to listen and discuss residents’ (mostly part-time) concerns. He is a strong proponent for ways to ensure that seniors can remain in their homes. He initiated the effort to save the old growth hemlocks in Ice Glen. He volunteered to operate the weed harvester on Stockbridge Bowl.

Patrick works conscientiously to bring people together to face problems and work on important issues. During his tenure as selectman, he successfully proposed an increase in the occupancy tax to decrease property taxes. This year, his budget review and recommendations to the Finance Committee will result in lower tax assessments. Even when things don’t go his way, Patrick is a gentleman.

I appreciate that Patrick values and practices transparency in government. He attends so many board and committee meetings to ensure he is aware of the issues and accomplishments of dedicated community volunteers. He acts ethically and respects the Open Meeting Law. He championed efforts to ensure that public meetings are available both in person and on Zoom so that all full- and part-time residents can participate. He is available every day, all day to respond to issues large and small. I have never seen Patrick more happy than when he has helped someone with a problem.

Be it a "Woof-a-thon" on Stockbridge Bowl, a picnic for the town sponsored by Laurel Hill Association and Stockbridge Bowl Association, or a Stockbridge tradition like the Memorial Day and Veterans Day parades, Patrick loves bringing people together.

May 16 is Election Day in Stockbridge. Please vote.

Laura Dubester, Stockbridge

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Berkshire Eagle, April 25, 2023
The Berkshire Edge, April 27, 2023
Stockbridge Updates, May 1, 2023

To the editor: I am writing to endorse Patrick White for the Stockbridge Select Board.

While I am no longer a resident, I lived in Stockbridge for 18 years and also served on the Zoning Board of Appeals. I am no stranger to the workings of the town and view the community with great fondness and esteem. My good friends there can attest to this.

The good folks of Stockbridge are very fortunate to have Patrick working for them. I can testify to his commitment to both preserving those qualities that make Stockbridge unique, as well as pursuing innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. His is an expansive view of the community, reaching out to locals, second-home owners, business owners, nonprofits and all the varied interests that make up Stockbridge today. He does his homework and due diligence. He walks into meetings prepared in all ways: to propose ideas, to listen, to find compromise, to find solutions. When facing adversity, his response is thoughtful, measured and even conciliatory when called for.

I am now a member of the Select Board in neighboring Lee. I have come to rely upon my friend, Patrick, for his counsel, experience, wisdom and innovative thinking when pondering issues where we share common cause. He is a reliable resource who has my deepest respect.

I encourage my Stockbridge neighbors and friends to support Patrick White in his quest to continue serving you. He has earned his place at that table.

Bob Jones, Lee

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Berkshire Eagle, April 27, 2023
Stockbridge Updates, May 1, 2023

To the editor: My experience working in local government for more than 30 years makes me realize that few if any proposals that come before committees are acceptable to everyone.

Nonetheless, we elect our representatives because we expect them to make an effort. We expect them to put forth ideas to improve our communities, invite and field the criticisms and pushback, and have the courage and perseverance to return with the original idea improved through the dialogue.

During these three most difficult pandemic years, Stockbridge Select Board Chairman Patrick White has shown himself to be one of those elected officials whom you can count on to do just that. He is indefatigable; he is smart; and he will listen to you. Vote for Patrick White.

Charles Kenny, Stockbridge

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The Berkshire Edge, April 24, 2023
Berkshire Eagle, April 27, 2023
Stockbridge Updates, May 1, 2023

To the editor: I am pleased to endorse Patrick White for a second term on the Stockbridge Select Board.

He's proven himself to be an effective advocate for Stockbridge and its residents. It does not matter whether you are a year-rounder or a second-home owner, own a grand house or rent a modest apartment, Patrick treats you with respect and listens to your suggestions for how to improve the town. Whether he agrees with you or not, he seeks everyone's opinion — and values it.

Patrick White is probably the most enthusiastic and energetic guy I know, devoted to sustaining and improving our town. He combines broad knowledge of local bylaws with innovative thinking to explore new opportunities for Stockbridge. He's open-minded, courageous and genuinely cares about other people without prejudice.

Patrick has worked selflessly for our town, proven his commitment to protect our environment and preserve open spaces, and deserves to be reelected to the Select Board on May 16.

Barney Edmonds, Stockbridge

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Berkshire Eagle, April 28, 2023
Stockbridge Updates, May 1, 2023

To the editor: Please consider voting Patrick White for reelection to the Stockbridge Select Board.

Patrick is a forward thinker and a spirited planner who is engaged with all the town's residents as well as all the town's boards and employees. He is in tune with the town's needs on a daily basis.

As a Select Board member, he is present, approachable, reactive, responsive and accountable in his daily duties on the Stockbridge Select Board.

I am confident that Stockbridge is in good hands and will continue move forward positively into the future with Patrick reelected for another three-year term.

Gary Pitney, Stockbridge

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Stockbridge Updates, May 1

To the Editor:

As a Berkshire native, I have known Patrick White (incumbent Select Board Member currently running for re-election) for nearly 50 years. Yesterday, Patrick posted a heartfelt video on Facebook and YouTube outlining why he is running again for the same position. I listened to the whole clip, and I'm compelled to share that I'm proud of who Patrick has become, what he stands for, what he's accomplished, but most importantly, I'm proud of his outlook and dreams for Stockbridge. Although I do not live in Stockbridge, I am a second homeowner in the Berkshires, I firmly believe he is exactly what Stockbridge needs right now in leadership. Patrick is deeply committed, hardworking and as honest as they come. Keep up the great work Pat!

Tori Gabriel

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Stockbridge Updates, May 1

To the Editor:

I'll be voting for Patrick White for Select Board. He has shown that he represents the voters of Stockbridge and has their best interests when decisions are required. When a subject comes before the board that requires him to recuse himself, he does so, unlike his opponent who didn't and only recused herself after the town counsel suggested it.

Michael Roisman

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Berkshire Eagle, May 10, 2023

To the editor: Patrick White has brought fresh and exciting energy to the town of Stockbridge.

I have been deeply impressed by his passion for creating and sustaining the infrastructure of a thriving full-time community while fully engaging in the discussion of the differing needs and perspectives of full-time and part-time residents. It's only out of this discussion that strong solutions will emerge for the town, and Patrick has engaged in the process with both clear goals for the community and the good spirit and creative thinking required to achieve viable compromise.

Patrick is approachable, responsive and creative and devotes tremendous, constructive energy to the livelihood of our town. I will vote for him enthusiastically on May 16.

Nina Ryan, Stockbridge

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Berkshire Eagle, May 11, 2023

To the editor: I am writing to express my support for Patrick White’s reelection to the Stockbridge Select Board. He is committed to addressing the complex issues of these changing times as they affect the well-being of us all. His diligence, inclusiveness, honesty and respect for differing points of view promote transparency and citizen engagement in town governance. He also brings with it a good and caring heart for his town, fellow residents, nature and animals.

If you live in Stockbridge, please vote Tuesday (or sooner).

Tom Stokes, Stockbridge

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Berkshire Eagle, May 11, 2023

To the editor: The Stockbridge Democratic caucus has enthusiastically endorsed Patrick White for Select Board, Dr. John Loiodice for Sewer and Water commissioner and Dr. Elias Lefferman for Board of Health.

We ask you to vote for these three outstanding candidates. Vote to reelect Patrick White to the Stockbridge Select Board. Three more years will enable Patrick to finish projects and pursue new ones. He has worked hard and brought new energy, involvement and ideas to the town. He has done a good job for us, but there is still more to do.

Patrick was raised in Stockbridge and is a graduate of the Plain School and Monument High.

He developed a deep love for the community, the natural beauty of the area, its history and its residents. He has a strong desire to give back to the town. Even before his election to the Select Board, Patrick served on Laurel Hill Association and town committees including the Conservation Commission and the Stock-bridge Bowl Stewardship Commission. He volunteered at the Talbot Center and the Botanical Gardens and even drove the harvester on Stockbridge Bowl. He continues to attend and participate in almost every committee meeting and town event. Townspeople know that they can reach out to Patrick and he will listen to their concerns.

Patrick supports citizen participation in and access to all town meetings. He was the only member of the previous Select Board to support last year’s citizen petition to require hybrid meetings and he secured the needed equipment for both town meeting rooms. He has worked closely with CTSB to ensure that all town meetings have remote access and can also be watched later.

As chairman, Patrick has proposed a number of actions to benefit town residents, the environment and Stockbridge life. He does not shy away from public comments but also knows when to table an issue.

Visit his website at patrickwhitestockbridge.com to learn more about why he’s running, his accomplishments and future goals. Be sure to explore his photo gallery.

Your vote matters. Please vote for the candidates who appear on the ballot as a Democratic Caucus Nominee. Democracy is not a spectator sport.

Anita Schwerner, Stockbridge