Tag Archives: infrastructure

The Federal Council of Bricklyn Enacts Six Month Moratorium on Permitting of New Data Centers

A gathering of LEGO figures resembling Vikings sitting at a round table with drinks and plates, facing an audience of other LEGO figures in a wooden hall, with a fire burning in the background. — Federal Council members ready for arrival of Council President at the Bricklyn Longhouse on Tuesday. Note that for meetings at the Longhouse members of the Council wear special attire, including Viking-era head gear and (for the men) long costumed beards. On the table are mugs of ale and Bricklyn-style donuts with flat centers. Photo by Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, using assistance from GPT-4o AI.

A group of LEGO figures depicting a serious woman in a black suit with a red hairstyle and a Viking helmet, seated at a round table, flanked by two other LEGO figures wearing Viking helmets and green outfits. — Council President Hilma Plater-Zybrick arrives to call Tuesday’s meeting of the Federal Council to order. Photo by Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o AI.

A crowd estimated at about 200 people jammed into the Bricklyn Longhouse and into two large tents set up alongside the Longhouse and connected to it by video for the January 6th meeting of the Federal Council of the Realm of Bricklyn.

Various officials of the Realm of Bricklyn were also in attendance, including Federal Chancellor Malter Thurnbrick whose office would be charged with leading the data center study called for in the moratorium resolution.

Many of those supporting the proposed data center moratorium also decried the explosive growth in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) that has triggered the demand for large-scale dat centers. Data centers, in turn, were said to have significant adverse environmental and social impacts.

In contrast, those opposing the moratorium on new data centers feared that delay would severely damage the Realm’s economy, as businesses looked to move their operations to more “AI and data center friendly” locations. They also touted what they saw as many other benefits resulting from AI, especially in terms of health care and business efficiency, while downplaying the potentially negative environment impacts.

➤ Editor’s Note: so you can evaluate our own biases in reporting on AI and data centers, please see our statement “On the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence by The Bricklyn Eagle.”

Before taking up the data center moratorium resolution, the Federal Council addressed two other items: first, the Council heard a rare formal public apology; and second, Council President Plater-Zybrick read Chief Prognosticator’s response to the Council’s request for his comments on the moratorium resolution.

The Head of the Bricklyn Chamber of Commerce Offers Formal Public Apologies

Council President Hilma Plater-Zybrick gaveled the Council meeting to order, and called Chamber of Commerce head Tom Brickorti and Bricklyn Environmental Alliance leader Jenny Brickdeur to come to the front of the Longhouse and stand facing each other. so that Brickorti could make a public apology for the Chamber of Commerce’s unethical conduct towards the BEA.

Mr. Brickorti, draped in a long red scarf (symbolizing apologies), walked to the front of the Longhouse.

Two LEGO figurines stand near a small campfire, one wearing a red scarf and blue jacket, and the other in a green shirt, engaged in conversation. — Tom Brickorti apologizing to Jenny Brickdeur. Photo by Bricklyn Eagle staffer Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o AI.

As called for by Bricklyn custom, Brickorti donned the red ceremonial scarf worn by those making public apologies.

He then bowed first to the Council, then turned and bowed to the public, and finally made a half turn and bowed to Ms. Brickdeur who faced him across the Longhouse’s ceremonial flame.

Brickorti then offered his apology:

“On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce I stand here to apologize to the members of the Bricklyn Environmental Alliance, to the Federal Council, and to all Bricklynites for the actions one of our staff took in tricking the Alliance into printing and displaying throughout the Realm a poster they would not otherwise have used in their efforts to support the moratorium resolution. Our staffer has been fired, and on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, I apologize for this act of chicanery. We will also compensate the Alliance for any additional costs they have borne as a result of what we have done.”
➤ For details on this incident, see the Bricklyn Eagle’s December 29, 2025 news story.

Ms. Brickdeur replied by accepting the red scarf tendered her by Mr. Brickorti and said: “On behalf of the Bricklyn Environmental Alliance, we accept your apology.”

Apparently, this was the first public apology session conducted at a Federal Council meeting since 2014 when two Councilors apologized for making threatening gestures and shouting at each other during a Federal Council meeting.

📍 For two other examples of public apologies, see these stories from Indianapolis and Los Angeles.

Council President Hilma Plater-Zybrick Reports on Correspondence from the Chief Prognosticator

Following a five minute recess, Council President Plater-Zybrick reclaimed her gavel. She then read into the record a brief statement from the Chief Prognosticator in response to the Council’s request for their advice on the moratorium resolution.
➤ See The Bricklyn Eagle’s Dec. 20, 2025 article for more on the Council’s request.

Statement of Chief Prognosticator David Bricks:

“In light of concerns some have raised about potential bias the Office of the Chief Prognosticator might have in commenting on a resolution that relates to the use of artificial intelligence, we have concluded that the Chief Prognosticator will not comment on the data center resolution before the Council. …

“We cannot indicate whether our Office uses, or does not use, any form of artificial intelligence in our work. …

“As provided in Section 3.7 of the Constitution of the Realm of Bricklyn: ‘The Office of the Chief Prognosticator’s data analysis and methodologies shall not be divulged to any members of the public, including members of the Federal Council or to any other officials in the Realm of Bricklyn. Only the Chief Prognosticator and his or her Deputies confirmed by the Federal Council shall have access to that Office’s data analysis and methodologies.’ “

Public Comments Offered on the Data Center Moratorium Resolution

A scene depicting Lego figures, including a monster, two boys holding a sign reading 'STOP AI: FRANKENSTEIN TECHNOLOGY,' with Viking figures in the background. — Echoes of Joni Mitchell’s song, “Shine.” Photo by Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance of GPT-4o.

Some two dozen individuals and groups briefly spoke during the two hour set aside for public comment on the data center moratorium resolution.

Speaking on behalf of its over 300 members, Bricklyn Environmental Alliance Director Jenny Brickdeur told the Councilors that it was “essential that we take the time to learn about the consequences a massive data center might have on our environment and how we use our limited undeveloped lands.”

Brickdeur added, “we are not anti-business, in fact many of our members are small business owners. But we cannot put our environment at risk, and we cannot saddle Bricklyn ratepayers — including business ratepayers — with what are now the largely unknown energy costs that might result from the demands a large data center would place on the realm’s energy supplies and supporting infrastructure.”

➤ Further comments from Ms. Brickdeur and others supporting the resolution can be found in recent Letters to the Editor we have previously published.

A scene featuring two Lego figures in business attire, one holding a sign that reads 'AI WILL BUILD BRICKLYN'S FUTURE,' with Viking helmet decorations in the background. — Opposing the data center resolution. Photo by Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance of GPT-4o.

In contrast, those opposing the resolution, led by Bricklyn Chamber of Commerce Director Tom Brickorti and Dunk Them Donuts CEO David Plater Broffman, stressed the risks that passing a two-year moratorium would have for Bricklyn’s business community.

As Brickorti noted, “we will be placed at an extreme competitive disadvantage with other Inland realms, several of which are already proceeding with the development of data centers.”

Dunk Them’s CEO Broffman, looking back at the overflow crowd assembled in the Longhouse, stood at the microphone and said, “As I have already noted in public remarks, the future of Dunk Them Donuts’ expansion in the Realm of Bricklyn, and especially in our Bricklyn Junction home, will be put at risk if this two-year moratorium is put in place.

A Lego figure wearing sunglasses and a red 'DUNK THEM' shirt holds a pink donut while standing at a table surrounded by other Lego figures dressed in Viking attire. — Dunk Them Donuts CEO addressing audience at the Federal Council’s Tuesday night meeting. Photo by Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance of GPT-4o.

“As Mr. Brickorti just explained,” added Broffman, “we live in a highly competitive environment. I see many of our 800 employees here in the audience. They understand the stakes!

“I do not mean to be threatening, but simply want you on the Federal Council to understand the risks you are exposing our employees to by shutting off our company’s ability to expand our use of artificial intelligence and other technologies essential to business growth in the coming years.

➤ Further comments from those opposing the moratorium can be found in Letters to the Editor we have previously published.

Councilors Debate Resolution Calling for a Two-Year Moratorium on the Permitting of Large-Scale Data Centers

Following the conclusion of the public comment period, Council President Plater-Zybrick recognized Councilor Bob Senbrick to speak to the data center moratorium resolution he had introduced.

A Lego figure wearing a Viking helmet and glasses, dressed in a vest with a bow tie and flower, standing in front of a bookshelf. — Councilor Bob Senbrick before start of yesterday’s Federal Council meeting.. Photo by Eagle staffer Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o AI.

Nattily attired in his trademark bowtie, and vest with a pinned flower, Senbrick — the longest serving member of the Council — rose to speak.

“Why this resolution?” he began. “Because the simple truth is that Bricklyn is unprepared to deal with large-scale data center proposals that could have profound impacts on not just neighboring properties, but on the Realm as a whole.

“We need to ensure that our zoning and energy code regulations provide clear standards for data centers so that if they come, they will fit with our energy and land use policies, and be good neighbors.”

“I’m particularly concerned,” Senbrick continued, “with what we’ve heard today from the Bricklyn Environmental Alliance and others about the enormous demand data centers could place on the Realm’s energy infrastructure, and on our long-held policy of maximizing use of renewable energy sources including wind, solar, and hydro power.

“Whats more,” Senbrick concluded, “the energy demands being triggered by increasingly complex artificial intelligence programs and other technologies may well require construction of a nuclear reactor, something our Realm is quite unprepared to deal with. All the more reason we need the time that a moratorium will give us to plan more effectively.”

President Plater-Zybrick next recognized the youngest member of the Federal Council, South Burlington’s Jessica Tiler Jemison, who had seconded Senbrick’s resolution.

A smiling LEGO figure wearing a Viking helmet, sitting at a table with a mug and a plate, against a backdrop resembling a medieval tavern. — Councilor Jessica Tiler Jemison during yesterday’s Federal Council meeting. Photo by Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o AI.

Jemison noted that while she supported Senbrick’s resolution, she remained “troubled” by the rapid expansion in the use of artificial intelligence, which, she said, “is driving the call for massive data centers.”

“I have been assured by Councilor Senbrick,” added Jemison, “that the intent of his resolution is that the study to be undertaken will also examine the possible regulation of AI, as its use is obviously closely tied to the need for data centers.”

Is the Proposed Moratorium Legal?

Bricklyn Junction Councilor Mario B. Marconi next spoke against the resolution, noting the key role that Dunk Them Donuts plays in Bricklyn Junction, and its importance to the city’s economy. “This resolution, with its very lengthy moratorium, is reckless,” said Marconi. “While I respect Councilor Senbrick, I ask him to weigh the impacts his resolution could have on thousands of hard working Bricklynites, and consider withdrawing the resolution.”

Councilor Marconi also asked the Realm’s Chief Attorney, William Brickstone, to verify that the proposed moratorium would be upheld if challenged in court.

A Lego figure dressed in a suit holds a microphone and a document in a crowded assembly hall, with attendees seated in the background. — Bricklyn Chief Attorney William Brickstone addressing members of the Federal Council in the Bricklyn Longhouse last night. Photo by Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o AI.

Brickstone replied that though there is no direct Bricklyn law or judicial precedent involving land use moratoria, he was “confident the proposed moratorium would be upheld.”

Brickstone explained that “In the absence of Bricklyn law or relevant judicial rulings on a particular issue, Bricklyn’s Supreme Court has said it can take note of how the statutes and courts of the neighboring state of Vermont have addressed the same kind of issue.” See Henry Brickson v. Realm of Bricklyn, 27 Brick 322 (2013).

“For example,” said Brickstone, “while a two-year moratorium may be viewed by some as quite lengthy, or even reckless, it is clearly within the time frame Vermont law allows.” Citing [24 VT § 4415 ]. This form of “persuasive authority” would likely be cited by the Realm of Bricklyn Supreme Court.

Attorney Brickstone also cited a Vermont Supreme Court case [ In re Interim Bylaw, Waitsfield, VT, 170 Vt. 541 (1999) ] which upheld a moratorium that temporarily prohibited one and two-family dwellings in the Town of Waitsfield’s forest reserve zoning districts or on land above an elevation of 1,700 feet.

As Brickstone noted, “The Vermont Supreme Court found that the town’s moratorium reflected a legitimate municipal interest in resource protection, while also noting that the plaintiffs had not shown that the moratorium denied them all ‘economically beneficial’ use of their property, as other possible uses remained. The reasoning of this Vermont Supreme Court decision, “said Brickstone, “would very likely be given considerable weight by our own Court.”

Federal Council member Bill B. Butler — Federal Council Member from South Bricklyn and railroad engineer, Bill B. Butler, aka 3Bs. Photo from The Bricklyn Eagle archives.

Speaking next, South Bricklyn Councilor Bill B. Butler noted that “even though Councilor Senbrick’s proposed data center moratorium is likely legal, I nevertheless have “very mixed feelings about the moratorium proposal.”

As Butler explained, “I share many of the concerns expressed on both sides, and am looking to see if there’s some room for compromise.”

“Having said that,” Butler added, “I’d like to ask, Madame President, for a 15 minute recess.”

Council President Plater-Zybrick polled the Council, which unanimously agreed to Butler’s request.

A Compromise Takes Shape

Three LEGO figures stand in an indoor setting with wooden walls. One figure wears glasses, a green vest, and a horned helmet; another is dressed in a red outfit with a cowboy hat; and the third figure is in a brown outfit with a horned helmet. — Discussing Councilor Butler’s proposed amendment, from left to right Councilor Senbrick, Federal Chancellor Thurnbrick; and Councilor Jemison. Photo by Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o AI.:

During the break, the seven Councilors could be seen huddling in several small groups joined by Federal Chancellor Thurnbrick, Bricklyn Planning Director Tim Brickedy, Bricklyn Energy Department Director Joanna Brightbrick, along with the Environmental Alliance’s Jenny Brickdeur and the Chamber’s Tom Brickorti.

On returning to their seats after what had turned into an hour long recess, President Plater-Zybrick recognized Councilor Butler. The South Bricklyn Councilor turned to Bricklyn Councilor Senbrick and asked if Senbrick would agree to amend his resolution by shortening the duration of the moratorium from two years to six months, with a provision that by future vote of the Council this six month period could be extended by up to an additional three months.

Councilor Senbrick taking off his reading glasses, looked back at Butler and said that he would agree to this shortened time frame “out of a desire that the Federal Council speak with a unified voice on this important issue,” and “having received assurances from Chancellor Thurnbrick that his Office, with help from the Planning and Energy Departments, could complete the study called for in my resolution within the shortened six to nine month time frame.

After Councilor Jemison seconded the amended resolution, the Federal Council approved it by unanimous vote and adjourned the meeting.

Conversations Continue after Adjournment

In a sign of good will, Tom Brickorti and Jenny Brickdeur could be seen chatting amiably, while Council members and others milled in the Longhouse, though it was past eleven in the evening.

We were able to speak briefly with several of the Councilors. We spotted Councilors Senbrick and Butler standing arm in arm.

Two LEGO figures stand together in an indoor setting, one wearing sunglasses and a green vest while the other is dressed in a brown vest with a bow tie and a flower. — Councilors Butler and Senbrick after the meeting. Credit; Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o.

Councilor Senbrick told us he was “completely satisfied” with Butler’s proposal to shorten the moratorium. Senbrick also acknowledged that Chancellor Thurnbrick and his staff “will have a lot of work to do in putting together their report and recommendation in less than six months,” adding that “I’m keeping my fingers crossed no other major issues demand their attention in the months ahead.”

Councilor Butler nodded in agreement and said: “I was very glad that Bob was willing to agree to our shortening the moratorium’s duration. We were headed for a very divisive outcome, with not just a split vote on the Council, but with a deep split between two key constituencies, the business community and environmental advocates.

“I had been thinking,” Butler continued, “about offering an amendment to Bob’s resolution before the meeting, and briefly sounded out Bob and Hilma about it, but it was in hearing Tom Brickorti’s apology at the start of the meeting that drove home for me that we Bricklynites really need to keep each other’s best interests at heart, and I thought that shortening the length of the moratorium was one way of doing that, of course if Chancellor Thurnbrick also felt it could work.”

Two Lego minifigures engaged in conversation, one wearing a green outfit and cap, and the other dressed in a formal black suit. — Councilor Butler and Council President Plater-Zybrick speaking after the Council meeting concluded. Photo by Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, using GPT-4o.

Council President Plater-Zybrick looked at Councilor Butler and added: “We Bricklynites know that it’s up to all of us to really listen to what those we may disagree with have to say. Like Bill, I came into the meeting with some mixed feelings.

“As the one at-large member of the Council,” she continued, “I especially want to respect the voices of all Bricklynite, wherever they live. I could hear the concern from those who live or work in Bricklyn Junction, including the many Dunk Them Donuts employees who came to the Council meeting.

“I was glad that Bob and all the members of the Council could come around to supporting Bill’s amendment to the resolution. It was a very important signal to send to all segments of the Bricklyn community.” ✥

Previously posted in The Bricklyn Eagle:

➤ 12.27.25: Data Center Moratorium Supporters & Opponents Mobilize Amidst Evidence of Poster Chicanery
➤ 12.20.25: Does the Office of the Chief Prognosticator Use ChatGPT or Other AI Programs?
➤ 12.16.25: Data Center Moratorium Resolution Introduced. Hearing Scheduled
➤ 12.01.25: Does a Moratorium on Data Centers Make Sense for Bricklyn?
➤ 11.28.25: Federal Council Member Calls for Two-Year Moratorium on New Data Centers

We welcome Letters to the Editor. Please email to: bricklynvt@gmail.com

To the Editor: Why is it that none of those wise men and women who sit on the Federal Council asked how much this in-depth study will cost? You’d think that would be one of the most important things to know. But not a word mentioned by our Councilors. Of course, we know who will be picking up the tab: we the Bricklyn taxpayers! — Ruth B. Raucous, Bricklyn, VT.

To the Editor: As one of your Vermont readers, I was intrigued by your practice of having “public apologies” made, at least occasionally, at your Federal Council meetings. We would need dozens upon dozens of such apologies from our President and his Cabinet members to even scratch the surface of their lies, misconduct, corruption, and plain nastiness. — Zev S., South Burlington, VT.

To the Editor: Hey, Walt, Bricklyn is certainly a stellar example of how to run a realm. I’m impressed by the apology tradition and by the willingness of Bricklynites to talk things out and compromise. I hate to admit it, but I’m mostly taken by the Viking hats and think the ladies should have them as well. Come to think of it, maybe even the beards too. … Well done, Bricklynites. –– Pat D., Burlington, VT.

Reply from the Editor: Dear Pat D. We appreciate your interest in both our apology tradition and the Viking style helmets that Federal Council members (male and female) wear during Council meetings held in the Longhouse. Our October 7, 2025 article on the history and use of the Bricklyn Longhouse included an explanation of the style of helmets used. We hope you and other readers take a look at that article. Have to say, however, that there is no tradition of female Councilors donning the beards that many male Councilors put on during meetings!

To the Editor: While I appreciate The Bricklyn Eagle’s solid news reporting, I wish you’d take an Editorial stand against AI and the data centers they require. Instead of improving our lives, they will be wreaking havoc with not just our environment, but with our our social cohesion. I agree with the words of Joni Mitchell mentioned in your article, saying we need to shine a light on our “Frankenstein” technologies.

Let me just add that several years ago our Federal Council dealt with a somewhat similar situation when it took the bold step of banning the operation of Facebrick, the Facebook subsidiary serving Bricklyn, because of the company’s neglect of legitimate privacy concerns and its monopolistic practices. I’m hoping that consideration of the growing impact of AI programs, and the need for their regulation, will be part of the study the Federal Council just authorized. — Martin Plater Nelson, South Bricklyn, VT.

Nu-Clear Bricklyn Secret Agreement Revealed

December 29, 2024

by David Tiler Blue, Metro Desk Reporter

Just three days after we reported on the donut-filled celebration of the “Simpsons 5th Anniversary in Bricklyn,” The Bricklyn Eagle has learned of a “nuclear power plant agreement” between several of the Simpsons’ principals and the Realm of Bricklyn. The previously unpublicized agreement links the Simpsons’ December 2019 move to Bricklyn with the Realm’s approval of a nuclear power plant in Bricklyn.

This quid pro quo became public when an entity called “Nu-Clear Bricklyn” filed a legal complaint in Bricklyn Superior Court yesterday. The complaint requests the Court to “order the Realm of Bricklyn to issue no later than January 27, 2025 a license permitting construction of a nuclear power plant on the site of Bricklyn’s Riverside Park and Fairgrounds.” This would be Bricklyn’s first nuclear power plant.

Photo of Smithers (left) and Burns (right) in control room of Springfield Nuclear Power Plant. Photo obtained by The Bricklyn Eagle; and developed with assistance of Dall E-3 AI.

The Bricklyn Eagle has obtained a copy of the document underlying the complaint. It is titled “Agreement for Simpsons & Friends Relocation to Bricklyn,” and is dated January 5, 2019.

In the agreement, the principals for Nu-Clear Bricklyn are listed as: C. Montgomery Burns, CEO; Waylon J. Smithers, Jr., Secretary; and David Tiler Broffman, CFO.

The signatory for the Realm of Bricklyn is listed as (then) Yuppie- Mayor-King Spiro Brickburger.

Of particular interest are the following paragraphs of the January 2019 Agreement:

“In consideration for Mr. Burns’ and Mr. Smithers’ vital assistance in relocating the Simpson family and friends from Springfield to the Realm of Bricklyn, VT, an event to occur no later than December 31, 2019, the Realm of Bricklyn, VT, agrees to take all necessary steps no later than December 21, 2024 to approve the construction of a nuclear power plant owned and operated by Nu-Clear Bricklyn to be located along the Brickooski River at the sites of what are known as The Fairgrounds and adjoining Riverside Park.

Failure of the Realm of Bricklyn to grant such approval by December 21, 2024 shall be deemed a breach of this relocation agreement, and the Realm of Bricklyn shall be liable for the expense of returning the Simpson family and their related clan to Springfield, while also paying to Mr. Burns and Mr. Broffman a penalty of $2 million dollars (U.S.) each, and $1 million dollars (U.S.) to Mr. Smithers.”

Nu-Clear Bricklyn has requested the Court to either compel the Realm of Bricklyn to issue a permit to construct the power plant, or require the Realm to pay for the Simpson clan’s re-location to Springfield, as well as awarding damages totaling $5 million dollars (U.S.) to the three principals of Nu-Clear Bricklyn.

The Bricklyn Eagle sought comment from Nu-Clear Bricklyn, as well as from former YMK, Spiro Brickburger.

A spokesperson for Nu-Clear said that “Nu-Clear complied with all legal requirements, as we will clearly demonstrate in Superior Court. The fact that there was a quid-pro-quo for the Simpsons’ move from Springfield to Bricklyn is a normal part of business practices. What’s more, Bricklyn would greatly benefit from being able to rely on its own power source, not on the whims of Outlanders. Nuclear has a proven track record in other Inland Realms. These are facts, not fiction.”

In a brief statement to the press from his retirement home on Lake Bricklyn, former Yuppie-Mayor-King (YMK) Brickburger said, “I’ve always acted in the best interests of the Realm of Bricklyn. That will be shown here. People forget that the position of King comes with the inherent power to act in the in the peoples’ best interests, that’s part of the royal prerogative.”

The Bricklyn Eagle also received the following statement from Federal Council President Hilma Plater-Zybrick:

“I was shocked to learn this morning that there was a secret agreement apparently signed by former YMK, Spiro Brickburger that purportedly authorizes the construction of a nuclear power plant at the site of the Fairgrounds and Riverside Park.

“While this action may have technically been within the scope of YMK Brickburger’s authority as King — and I emphasize the word “may” — the Federal Council, of which I was then a member, was never informed that the 2019 relocation of the Simpsons to Bricklyn was to be conditioned on approval of the construction of a nuclear power plant.”

Montgomery Burns and David Tiler Broffman meeting at Nu-Clear Bricklyn offices. Photographer is unnamed, but received assistance from Dall E-3 AI.

As Council President Plater-Zybrick’s statement continues:

“I was dismayed to learn that Dunk Them Donuts CEO David Tiler Broffman is one of the principals of Nu-Clear Bricklyn, the company that will purportedly own and operate this facility.

“I am also concerned about the role Federal Chancellor Thurnbrick may have played in this affair, and have requested his presence at a special meeting of the Federal Council next week.

“I can promise the citizens of Bricklyn three things: first, that the Federal Council will fully investigate what has transpired, second, that Riverside Park and The Fairgrounds will remain publicly owned and accessible, and not be the site of any power plant; and third, that no nuclear plant will be constructed anywhere within the Realm of Bricklyn until after full public hearings and approval by the Federal Council.”

Apparently over the past several months there have been behind the scenes negotiations between Nu-Clear Bricklyn and the Federal Chancellor’s office. Why the Federal Council was apparently not included in, or informed of, these talks is not yet clear.

The Bricklyn Eagle will continue to monitor this breaking news story.

Update: March 7, 2025: The Federal Council announced an agreement with Nu-Clear Bricklyn that Nu-Clear will cease all efforts to construct a nuclear power plant in Bricklyn (at least until January 1, 2027), and will drop its current lawsuit against the Realm of Bricklyn, while the Realm of Bricklyn agrees not to initiate any lawsuit against Nu-Clear Bricklyn or its principals related to their efforts to construct a nuclear power plant at the Riverside Park / Fairgrounds location.

We welcome Letters to the Editor. Please email to: bricklynvt@gmail.com

To the Editor: Is our government a circus, or what? Left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing. Doesn’t Ms. Plater-Zybrick, our supposedly “on top of everything” Federal Council President communicate regularly with Federal Chancellor Thurnbrick? What has he been up to in all this? Was he in on this deal?? And talking about circuses, where is the Barnum & Bricklyn Circus going to set up their tents if the Fairgrounds is used for a nuclear power plant?? — Alan Brickstein, Bricklyn, VT

To the Editor: I’m the Outland homeowner who leases to the Realm of Bricklyn space in my basement (plus .2 acres of my back yard) to house the Tripartite Realm of Bricklyn, VT. I was as shocked as anyone to read in today’s Bricklyn Eagle about this nuclear power plant deal.

Believe me, I’ve already contacted attorneys — both in Vermont and in Bricklyn — about how this so-called agreement violates the terms of the lease I agreed to offer the Realm of Bricklyn. No way I’m having radioactive materials in my basement! All I can say right now to the folks at Nu-Clear Bricklyn is “See You In Court!” — Name withheld, South Burlington, VT.

Reply from the Editor: In keeping with Bricklyn law, we are not authorized to disclose the name of the above letter writer, who is the lessor of the space on which the Realm of Bricklyn is located.

Clean Day Bricklyn is Today!

From Bricklyn Eagle Editor Walt Brickman

Monday, December 2, 2024

Four times each year: on the first Monday of December, March, June, and September Bricklynites of all ages take the morning off to clean up Bricklyn — while having a lot of fun. It’s called Clean Day Bricklyn.

As most readers probably recognize, all of Bricklyn is made of a specially formulated LEGO brand of plastic. As a result, it is very important that the surfaces of all buildings, streets, sidewalks — as well as “natural” surfaces such as stones, grass, flowers, and even Bricklyn’s lakes and bay — are regularly given a good scrubbing.

Bricklyn Eagle photographer Ann Tiler Anderson went out in the field to capture some of today’s Clean Day action, and also had her recorder running so she didn’t have to write down notes. She started by the steps of Bricklyn City Hall.

Photo of Clean Day Bricklyn activities in front of Bricklyn City Hall. — *Photo by The Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.*

[Ann Tiler Anderson for The Bricklyn Eagle] Here we are at City Hall, and glad I have my camera ready because City Hall staff are out in force scrubbing the steps leading up to the entry door. There’s City Clerk Gil B. Gilbertson in the gray suit on the first step. Clerk. Gilbertson, good morning. How are things going?

[City Clerk Gilbertson] Hi Ann. Couldn’t be a better thing to do on a sunny December morning than give our City Hall a good scrubbing. But got to do something about these gritty tiles we’ve been encountering; may need to replace them unless our tougher scrubbing brushes work. We’re going to give them a try.

Photo of Bricklyn Eagle photographer Ann Tiler Anderson interviewing Bricklyn Treasurer Abigail Plater Jeffries. — Bricklyn Eagle photographer Ann Tiler Anderson (left) speaking with Bricklyn Treasurer of the Realm Abigail Plater Jeffries (right). Photo taken by City Clerk Gilbertson, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.

[Bricklyn Eagle]] I also see Abigail Plater Jeffries, the Treasurer of the Realm, standing near the top steps. How are you doing Madame Treasurer?

[Treasurer Jeffries] Doing great! Glad to see The Bricklyn Eagle covering this event; it’s so much fun! Oh my, I just got soaked. Wait a sec. Yes, we Bricklynites know that besides having fun — and getting some exercise — what we’re all doing today is saving the Realm about ten thousand CuDos ,funds that would otherwise be needed in the DPW budget if city employees were to do this work.

[Bricklyn Eagle]. Thanks Treasurer Jeffries … I’m now walking over to the East Side Gazebo Park. Should just take about ten minutes.

Photo of Clean Day spraying and scrubbing at Bricklyn East Side Gazebo Park. — *Photo by The Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.*

[Bricklyn Eagle] Here we are. What a happy crowd of Bricklynites! Let me speak with the red-capped gentleman holding the red hose. Hi, sir, yes, can I ask you a question? I’m Ann with The Bricklyn Eagle. What’s your name, and why are you taking the time to be here spraying this morning? [Bill] JHi. I’m Bill. Love these Clean Days. What a great way to meet neighbors and clean up our LEGO bricks, tiles, and plates. Just spoke with a couple of visitors to Bricklyn, said they’re from Brickover, New Hampshire. There’s one of them, the young lady with the pony tail on the Gazebo platform. Think she said her name is Laurie. [Bricklyn Eagle] Bill, anything surprise you today. [Bill] Just that every Clean Day we have seems more enjoyable than the one before.

Photo of Laurie B. — *Laurie B. …. photo by The Bricklyn Eagle’s Gloria Vanderbrick, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.*

[Bricklyn Eagle] I’m heading up to the steps of the gazebo to speak with the young lady with the pony tail. Hi ma’am. I’m Ann with The Bricklyn Eagle. Mind if I ask you a question? But first, what’s your name? [Laurie B.] My name is Laurie B. [Bricklyn Eagle] Laurie B., what brings you here today? [Laurie B.] I’m here with some friends. We came up from Brickover, New Hampshire to join in Bricklyn’s Clean Day. Took the Brickstar train. That sure was fun, and so is doing this clearing. Made some new friends here too. We need something like this in our Realm. We’re going to let our councilors know we want to start up a Clean Day in Brickover!

The Bricklyn Diner exterior. — *Photo by The Bricklyn Eagle’s Gloria Vanderbrick, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.*

[Bricklyn Eagle] There will also be some music here at the gazebo at Noon, as soon as Clean Day cleaning wraps up. Are you staying for that? [Laurie B.] Wouldn’t miss it. That’s why we’re taking the overnight train back to Brickover. So my friends and I will be here for the music, then walk around a bit before heading over to The Bricklyn Diner. We heard it’s a great place for some good home cooking … and it’s not far from the train station!

[Bricklyn Eagle] I’m heading over now to Bricklyn’s Red Brick Middle School. Should take about fifteen minutes. Will post some photos on the way over there as I’ll be passing through the Eastside neighborhood.

[Bricklyn Eagle] A lot going on in Eastside. Took a bunch of photos, but these two are typical of the Clean Day activities I was seeing.

***Photos of Eastside neighbors taken by The Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.***

Clean Day Bricklyn activities in Eastside neighborhood. — ***Photos of Eastside neighbors taken by The Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.***

[Bricklyn Eagle] OK. Just got to the Red Brick School. Sure looks like everyone is busy, and smiles on all the kids’ faces. Lots of them have their overhauls on. Smart idea. Let’s see who’d like to talk to me … Young man, yes, you holding the gold-colored bucket in front, I’m Ann with The Bricklyn Eagle, can I ask your name? [Peter] I’m Peter [Bricklyn Eagle] Peter, do you like Clean Day Bricklyn? [Peter] It’s fun to clean things up with all these suds around. Plus, no classes this morning, which is a good thing since I didn’t get all my homework done. Hey, are you recording this!? [Bricklyn Eagle] Don’t worry. Tell you a secret Peter, I never did homework on Clean Days when I also went to this very school. The teachers don’t expect it … and I even see two of your teachers there by the front door helping out with some spraying.

Photo of students at Bricklyn's Red Brick Middle School scrubbing and washing the school during Clean Day Bricklyn. — *Students in front of Red Brick Middle School on Clean Day Bricklyn. Photo by The Bricklyn Eagle’s Ann Tiler Anderson, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.*

[Bricklyn Eagle] I’m going up to the young lady on the lowest step with the spiky orange hair and holding a spray hose. Hi. I’m Ann with The Bricklyn Eagle. What’s your name? [Al] Hi. I’m Alene. But you can call me Al. [Bricklyn Eagle] Al, what do you like best about Clean Day Bricklyn? [Al] In class last week we talked about our community, and what makes it strong and a good place to live. I think our Clean Days are part of the spirit that brings us together. I like that. [Bricklyn Eagle ] Couldn’t have said it better. Thanks, Al, and enjoy the rest of Clean Day!

Bricklyn Eagle staff cleaning the exterior of the Eagle Building on Clean Day Bricklyn.

[Ann Tiler Anderson for The Bricklyn Eagle] That’s all from me, Walt. Dropping my photos and recording off at The Eagle offices. Hope you can use them, and thanks for the fun assignment. Hope the Eagle staff also took part in Clean Day Bricklyn! ✥

The Bricklyn Eagle staff cleaning exterior of The Eagle Building on Clean Day Bricklyn, Dec. 2, 2024. Photo by Walt Brickman, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.

For more about another way Bricklyn students engage wiith the community, learn about the teen-run organization, One Bricklyn.

We welcome Letters to the Editor. Please email to: bricklynvt@gmail.com

To the Editor: Just took a look at your very interesting article. I’m what I guess you call an Outlander, since I’m from New Jersey. I like reading your paper online, but I know there’s a lot I still don’t understand about Bricklyn. Wouldn’t your Clean Day Bricklyn also involve folks picking up trash along roadways or in parks? Your reporter didn’t mention this. That’s what we really could use having cleaned up here in our Garden State, not spraying and scrubbing everything in sight. — Cindy L, New Jersey

Reply from the Editor: Sorry some aspects of Clean Day Bricklyn weren’t adequately explained. The spraying and soapy scrubbing is needed to keep the LEGO bricks in good shape so they don’t get grimy or discolored as they age.

As to your other question, there’s almost no litter to pick up in Bricklyn’s parks, along roadways, or in any public space. One of the characteristics of Bricklynites is they love keeping public spaces neat and clean. They simply rarely litter, and when they do it’s pretty much by accident. Also, any time Bricklynites spot a piece of litter, they’ll just pick it up and bring it to the nearest trashor recycling bin. It’s no big deal, and just part of being “community minded.” However, being located in an enclave in the State of Vermont, we’re also impressed by our adopted home state’s annual Green Up Vermont day.