Tom Pelham got a four-part issues breakfast series off to a great start with an introduction to Vermont spending trends and the budgeting process. Thanks to Union Institute & University for underwriting the series and to Kurrle Fuels, this morning’s sponsor. Next breakfast Fri. Nov. 18 on status of health care. Jeanne Keller and Steve Kimbell sponsored by DMS Machining & Fabrication.
Northern Benefits is sponsoring the annual Mini-Expo & Mixer being held at the Chamber from 5-7 pm Oct. 18. The gathering features tabletop displays and information for Chamber members to share with mixer attendees. Table space reservations available now.
See www.central-vt.com/chamber/news for info and reservation.
Several firms have contacted the Chamber to offer their help to peers suffering flood damage. Printers and computer firms dominate, but others range from business counseling to tractor time. If your firm was struck, check the list posted at: central-vt.com/chamber/floodhelp.pdf
VACE insurance moves to Blue Cross Blue Shield of VT in 2012. The announcement was applauded by Chamber President Steve Gilman. Very aggressive pricing by BCBS will save $250,000 locally and as much as $10 million statewide over two years. Hear more.
Past Chamber President Brian Aitchison held the winning dinner ticket Wednesday night. Represented by Linda Mercy, Aitchison captured the $4,000 grand prize at FairPoint’s Chamber dinner. McLean Electric won $500 for the second place consolation, and Bill West got $300 for third. Chamber Life Member Marion Milne sold more than 25 tickets to the dinner and was thanked for her exceptional commitment to the annual event. Mike Donovan was master of ceremonies.
An eloquent letter to the Times Argus by Rob Kasow of Rivendell Books appeared Monday denouncing the prospect of a local option tax in Montpelier. Rob highlights the many downsides of the tax in his concise plea to give local retail a chance. Technology and the economy have stacked the deck against independent retailers, and the last thing Main Street needs is higher taxes on its loyal customers. If a tax-free holiday spurs sales, what does a tax increase do? Hmm…
A $6 million runway-taxiway stimulus project at E.F. Knapp Airport has been completed ahead of schedule. The project evolved to include ball fields at Bond Auto and road repairs as well as on-site improvements - the betterment of all. Nicely done. Brief ceremony and tour Wednesday at 1:30 pm in the airport terminal. The public is welcome.
President Neal Meier led Chamber directors through an intensive planning session Thursday. Busy directors carved out four hours to participate in the work session that focused on strengthening the organization’s voice for business; attracting businesses, residents and visitors; and improving communications with members. By enhancing existing programs and exploring new ones, the organization is reaffirming it’s ongoing commitment to improving the region’s business climate. Directors have been gratified by the strength of the local economy relative to other areas of the country. They expressed deep appreciation for the trust and dedication of Chamber members.
New chairs for the Chamber conference rooms arrived today. The old chairs will be replaced over the course of the next week or so. The bulk of the well-used chairs will be made available to members sometime in the near future. Members with an interest can contact the Chamber.
Efficiency Vermont trained 15 Business Energy Ambassadors Wednesday. The group will help Central Vermont businesses save on energy costs. Sponsored by the Chamber and CVRPC, the local energy ambassadors program makes businesses aware of potential energy savings and enhanced rebates for equipment upgrades. Businesses can request a visit by calling the Chamber at 229-5711.