Vermont Governor To Forego Inaugural Ball for Irene Fundraiser

Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin says he's not going to host a traditional inaugural ball next month after he's sworn in to his second term in office.

Instead he's going to host a free-to-the-public open house at the Montpelier Statehouse that will also serve as a fundraiser for ongoing efforts to help victims of last year's Tropical Storm Irene.

The Jan. 10 event in the House chamber will feature music and light refreshments.

The funds will be donated to the Vermont Disaster Relief Fund, the private group that has become a source of last-resort funds for people still struggling after Irene who have no other sources of help.

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Credit Vermont Governor's Office

Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin