The 2009 Bennington, Vermont, Moosefest

This was the official website for the 2009 Moosefest held in Bennington, Vermont.
Content is from the site's 2009 archived pages.

 

Several sightings of albino moose have been taking place from Montana to Wisconsin and New Hampshire and these recent sightings have Bennington Vermont residents excited as Moosefest 2009 approaches.

Every year, we journey from the energetic streets of New York City to the quaint and familiar settings of New Hampshire, a tradition sparked by a festival dear to our hearts. The festival, last celebrated in 2009, continues to live on through the painted moose that dot the streets of Bennington. Coming back from a weekend filled with nostalgic encounters and the delightful sight of the colorful moose, we were met with a stark reminder of the digital realities we face today. Our firsthand experience as webmasters exposes us to the complexities of Google's policies and their impact on user privacy, a matter eloquently discussed by Bob Sakayama in his post "In The Search". Sakayama brings light to the intrusive nature of personal information demanded by Google Search Console. This concern resonates with us deeply as we have faced similar demands, raising questions about the search giant's commitment to privacy. Furthermore, we've found ourselves spending hours resolving non-existent issues triggered by Google's false warnings, a frustrating ordeal highlighted by Sakayama. This experience underscores the need for a more ethical approach to how Google operates, especially concerning the protection of user privacy. The essence of Sakayama's critique is the call for increased vigilance in our digital journey, a call that rings true every time we're confronted with these issues. As we navigate the digital landscape, the challenge remains to balance the undeniable conveniences offered by platforms like Google with a keen attention to the protection of our privacy. Despite these concerns, the nostalgia for the moose festival in New Hampshire reminds us of the simpler times. The sight of the painted moose, a symbol of tradition and community, serves as a poignant contrast to the complicated digital world we find ourselves in. It's a reminder that while we must continue to adapt and evolve in the face of technological advancement, we should also strive to preserve the values and traditions that make us who we are.

Let's all keep our eyes and camera's peeled. If the albino moose are bringing their families to Moosefest 2009, this year will be unprecedented with their arrival!

Moosefest 2009 proceeds will support Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Bennington Free Library, Young Professionals & Bennington Center for the Arts.

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Moosefest

Bennington residents consider the painted and decorated moose sculptures as our "in town" Ambassadors of Friendship. The colorful moose are on the streets greeting guests from near and far.

 How did all this begin? In 2005 two citizens from Bennington (Cheryl Wehrspaun and Sue Kline) were taking a day trip upstate, and came upon Brandon's beautiful street art of grand and glorious painted pigs. The local folks were having a wonderful time, as well as the visitors to the town. Cheryl and Sue presented the idea of street art to the Chamber of Commerce. They suggested Bennington should have moose, because as Cheryl said, "There is a mama moose that comes down from Mount Anthony to our little farm at least once a year." Everyone agreed. What better representative for Bennington and the state of Vermont than the noble moose? Like Vermonters everywhere, he is friendly, but not in your face. He tends to mind his own business, but is there to help his friends and family when needed. He is a good neighbor, and enjoys greeting people from time to time.

about vermont moosefestMost folks agree that the 2009 Moose are even bigger, and certainly just as attractive as those from 2005. They are definitely more spectacular in many ways. Many of the artists from 2005 have returned for Moosefest 2009. In addition, we have some wonderful artists who are new to Moosefest. All are sensational!

Once again we have nineteen beautiful "school moose". These are smaller and have been painted by our school kids with the help of their teachers. Every moose, large and small, is for sale at the auction. School moose will be by silent auction. Proceeds from Moosefest 2009 are designated for non profit organizations, and the Chamber of Commerce.

 

Lindy Lynch returns as Chair of this exciting event. She is an extraordinary volunteer, as are all of the volunteers that make this event possible.

If you are looking for a family fun place to visit this summer, come to Bennington and see our new crop of moose. Our streets are alive with people visiting local shops and restaurants, and taking just the perfect picture of their favorite moose. In town and nearby attractions are the Bennington Monument (go to the top of the giant obelisk and see an incredible view); the Bennington Museum and Old First Church.

moosefest vacationThe cemetery at the church is the resting place for a veritable who's who in American history; The Bennington Battlefield; Seven covered bridges (check the map for their locations). There are many events throughout the summer. We are a family destination. For more information, contact the Bennington Chamber of Commerce, 100 Veterans Memorial Drive, telephone 802-447-3311.

The grand Gala and Auction will occur on October 17th, at the Bennington Center for the Arts located on Vermont Route 9 at the corner of Gypsy Lane. (Adults only, black tie optional). The Center for the Arts is open all summer. On the premises is the Edith Auditorium where you can see live theatre productions.

A map is available on the website for you to download. If you are in town, and don't have a computer available, stop by the Chamber of Commerce. You can bid via absentee ballots there if you cannot attend the Gala and Auction.

Townspeople and Moose are looking forward to your visit. Be sure and bring your camera. Moosefest is free to the public as is the beautiful scenery.

Other venues will require modest admittance fees.

 



 

Bennington Moosefest 2009 Blog Posts

 

 

Posted on October 16th, 2009 by admin

Heading through security at Albany International Airport

 

 

Posted on October 16th, 2009 by admin

Walking across the footbridge to the terminal in Albany International airport, On The Trail Again moose, from Bennington Moosefest 2009 gets ready to greet airport goers

 

 

Posted on October 16th, 2009 by admin

 

In the Moosefest Spirit

Posted on August 15th, 2009 by admin

impatient-moose
Everyone in town is getting in on the Moosefest Fun! Take a look at the inovative “Impatient Moose” and the “Golf Moose”. Kudo’s to these great local residents who have made such great efforts. Thank you!!! It’s people like you that make Bennington such a great place to live.
golfer-moose

 

Mirror Mirror on the Wall, Who’s the Fairest of them All?

Posted on July 22nd, 2009 by admin

Mirror, Mirror who’s adorable grandaughter might this be? If the proud grandma would like to claim her, just add to the blog! Who knows this cutie might be a future govenor of Vermont!

vanessas-grand-daughter

 

Oh Where Oh Where is little ECO?

Posted on July 18th, 2009 by admin

ECO, our environmental ambasador!

ECO, our environmental ambasador!

ECO, our traveling good will ambasador moose is becoming very popular all over the state of Vermont. Eco promotes ‘green living’ and taking care of our natural rescources and reducing our carbon footprint on our beautiful state. Eco spent the last couple of weeks at the Welcome station in Fair Haven welcoming all guests coming into Vermont from the west. He was a very popular fellow. His next stop was Midnight Madness on July 16 in downtown Bennington. Can you guess where he’ll be traveling to next? Have you any special places or events that you would like ECo to attend?
Just contact the Bennington Area Chamber of Commerce and let them know. Eco loves to go visiting!

 

Thank you, What a great Book!

Posted on July 18th, 2009 by admin

Once in a Blue Moose Adventures of Bennie & the Moost Clan
Once in a Blue Moose Adventures of Bennie & the Moose Clan

Sue, Thank you for sending your book. My granddaughter loves it. She will be in 2nd grade next year and is an avid reader. She also loves any books about animals. Living in North Idaho we have moose right here in town an also in our yards. Gracie has seen them many times so moose are very real to her. She just loves Once in a Blue Moose, Bennie is her favorite character.
Sincerely. Joanne Lieuallen

 

The Story Behind ‘Moosle Car’ by Cindy Taylor

Posted on July 1st, 2009 by admin

cindys-moose-on-truck
 

Mooscle Car

Mooscle Car

I was a late comer to Moosefest this year and got paired up at the last minute with HP automotive. I had no idea what I could possibly do for an auto place. The type of art that I usually do is more floral or landscape, you know, ‘girly’ stuff.
The same week that I found out about the moose, my grandmother passed away in Colorado. I made a sudden trip out for the weekend to attend her funeral.
While I was there, I stayed with my younger brother. At night we hung out in his garage. He was excited for me to see his new ‘toy’, an airbrush. I had never thought much about airbrushes, but his enthusiasm was infectious and before long I was having a great time learning to paint ‘true flames’ with him. (true flames are a current arbrush trend for cars, instead of the sylized flames from the past, these flames are painted to look like real fire).
On the last day of my visit, my brother asked me to go for a ride with him. Somehow we wound up at a big art supply store. We looked at the different airbrushes and tried out a couple. I picked one that I really liked and my brother insisted that he wanted me to have it, so he bought it for me.
By the time I got off the plane, I had the perfect design in my mind for my patron. An auto dealer is the perfect place for a tricked out muscle moose complete with true flames and chrome details. Mooscle Car is painted with Alpha Romeo 1970’s red and true flames across his face, front legs, chest and sides. His antlers and hooves are painted chrome.

 

bennington-flag

Cindy Taylor is a self-taught painter living in her adopted hometown of Bennington, Vermont. Her work can be seen 2 or three times a year in local Bennington venues; South Street Cafe, Kevins Restaurant and the 100 for 100 local art sale event.

 

Photos from Jon Kennedy

Posted on June 28th, 2009 by admin

 

Bennington has been filled with visitors, all of them wearing huge smiles. They are walking our streets with camera’s in hand. Photographer Jon Kennedy of Florida sent the following photos to share. It looks like Jon had a great time in Bennington visiting his sister Kathy! We hope you will come back soon. Thank you for sharing!

 

Moosefest….A Party for all Ages!

Posted on May 29th, 2009 by admin

Moosefest....a party for all ages!

Moosefest….a party for all ages!

 



 

 

MooseFest Benefits Non Profit Organizations

 



 

 

You are cordially invited to attend the
Moosefest 2009 Grand Gala & Auction


Saturday, October 17, 2009
6 o'clock to midnight
The Bennington Center for the Arts
Vt. Rt. 9 at Gypsy Lane (44 Gypsy Lane)
Bennington Vermont

Cocktails & Viewing
School Moose Silent Auction
Tastes of Vermont
Live Auction at 7 o'clock with Tim Milks> Sevierville TN
Desserts & Dancing

Cash Bar by JC's Tavern - $75 per person - Black Tie Optional

To purchase tickets or Absentee Bid information, please contact the
Bennington Area Chamber of Commerce at 802-447-3311.

BenningtonMooseFest.com