VNRC

The first of Vermont's gubernatorial debates for the 2008 election cycle will be held in just three days, complete with a picnic and party to complement the political face-off.

The debate, which is cosponsored by the Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC), American Flatbread, and Vermont Localvores, begins at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday and will be held at the Lareau Farm in Waitsfield. All three major gubernatorial candidates, Gov. Jim Douglas (R-Middlebury), House Speaker Gaye Symington (D-Jericho), and Anthony Pollina (Progressive-Middlesex) are slated to participate, and environmental issues and food policy will dominate the forum.

But after the back and forth of the debate, the constituents and candidates will indulge in a dinner of local food and free Ben and Jerry's ice cream, while enjoying the jazz music of Anthony Santor trio.