The Northfield News

A $1000 scholarship is being offered to Vermont singer/songwriters.

The Rachel Bissex White Light Fund is soliciting applications for this opportunity intended for artists who are striving to develop careers as performers and recording artists.

In February 2005, beloved Vermont singer/songwriter Rachel Bissex died of breast cancer. She is remembered for her many talents, not the least of which was her dedication to mentoring and supporting upand coming talent. The White Light Fund, a title inspired by her final recording, honors Rachel's work in this regard. The fund, created by Karl Bissex, Mary Trerice and Lynne Goodson, is supported through the efforts of Occasional Concerts -- a series of performances featuring national touring singer/songwriters. A recent guitar raffle, featuring an instrument signed by Joan Baez, and sponsored by Vermont Folk Instruments also contributed to the fund.

"Our hope is that this $1000 scholarship will make a difference in the career of a Vermont singer-songwriter," said Lynne Goodson. Mary Trerice added, "in the past, the funds have been designated for a specific use. In keeping with the times we are offering some grassrootsstimulus funds." "It is the task of the applicants to define for the judges the best and most creative plan for the use of the funds in an effort to forward his or her career as a singer-songwriter. Rachel believed in the importance of this kind of inspired business thought," Karl Bissex noted.

To receive a White Light Fund scholarship application, email lcg@sunboundtalent.com or call 802.244.5895. The deadline for submittal is November 18. Applicants must be Vermont residents and unsigned singer/songwriters with a vision for an artistic career.