Current News

Vermont Business Magazine For organizations getting the word out about essential programs, creating compelling press materials and working with media organizations has become a critical part of the success of worthy nonprofit endeavors. As part of the Media Mentoring Project, a series of workshops produced by Vermont Independent Media, publisher of The Commons, two professionals who have experience in doing so successfully will be available to coach workshop participants in creating communications that are accurate, professional, compelling, and — most importantly — effective.

Vermont Business Magazine Norwich University is honored to welcome Col Adam T. Rice, 158th Fighter Wing Vice Commander and Norwich University alumnus, Class of 1991 in a private ceremony Oct. 16 to dedicate an F-16 display at Sabine Field. This miniature aircraft display will commemorate 75 years of partnerships between the Vermont Air National Guard (ANG), Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps (AFROTC) Detachment 867, and Norwich University.

Vermont Business Magazine This morning, Lieutenant Governor Gray released the following statement on Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2021: “Today, across Vermont, we recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day. Across this nation, and here in Vermont, we commemorate the rich history and culture of Indigenous Peoples’ and recommit ourselves to enacting policies and practices that promote and respect cultural equity."

Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food & Markets October is National Farm to School Month - an apt time to step back and appreciate all the farmers, supply chain workers, food service professionals, childcare providers, educators and administrators that have been carrying out the heroic work of keeping kids fed during this pandemic. From everyone at the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets, a huge thank you.

Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Department of Health on Sunday reported 218 COVID-19 cases (down 26 from Friday) and no additional deaths for 335 statewide. This is the fourth consecutive day with cases over 200. There were 34 people hospitalized (up four) with nine in the ICU (up one). Cases and fatalities remain high in the southern four counties. Cases today were also high again in Orleans and Washington counties.

​Vermont Business Magazine Vermont Electric Co-operative (VEC) is urging members to act immediately if they need financial assistance from the Vermont COVID Arrearage Assistance Program (VCAAP II) for past due utility bills. The program, known as VCAAP II, is administered by the state of Vermont and is designed to help Vermonters who have suffered economic hardship due to COVID-19. Hundreds of VEC members have already caught up on past due bills through this important program.

by Kelly Nottermann When Rebecca and Joe Pimentel moved to Vermont, they envisioned a life of organic farming and raising their family close to the land. The pair began growing organic produce and trucking the fruits and vegetables to Massachusetts. They thought one day they might set up a teepee village and offer yoga on the farm. Then Will Raap called.

Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Department of Health on Saturday reported 244 COVID-19 cases (up 39 from Friday) and three additional deaths for 335 statewide. This is the third consecutive day with cases over 20. There were 30 people hospitalized (down two) with eight in the ICU (unchanged). Cases and fatalities remain high in the southern four counties. Cases also have been elevated recently in Franklin, Orleans, Rutland and Washington counties.

by David Martins, Director of the Vermont Affordable Housing Coalition “Out of storm and manifold perils rose an enduring state, the home of freedom and unity.” These words are the epitaph printed on the gravestone of the first Governor of Vermont, Thomas Chittenden. The phrase serves as an acknowledgement of the determination and resolve that motivated the first Vermonters during the formative years of our state. Time and again this commitment to leave no Vermonter behind has been recognized and celebrated as a defining characteristic of our state. It is that same spirit that continues to drive Vermonters today, and inspires our commitment to legislation that addresses rental housing safety. Too many Vermonters are being left behind.

Vermont Business Magazine On October 10th , Vermonters will join others across the world to recognize World Mental Health Day, designed to enhance awareness, reduce stigma, highlight services, and promote advancements in mental health. The event is drawing special interest this year, as the pandemic has highlighted that mental health is fundamental to well-being and the need for services is great.

Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Army National Guard will begin public tours of Camp Ethan Allen Training Site on Oct. 22. Those interested in participating in the public tour can find more information, including registration details, at www.vtguard.com/CEATS. The tour will include an overview of the Vermont Army National Guard organization and capabilities, a visit to the construction site of a new Army Mountain Warfare School and a stop at the renowned biathlon course.

Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Agency of Transportation is inviting Vermont elementary schools to name the state’s big orange snowplows. The Agency received many inquiries from the public last winter about whether it would consider naming its snowplows. The new Name a Plow program offers an opportunity for children to put on their thinking caps and come up with creative names for AOT’s snowplows. The fleet has 250 full-size plows, and the Agency will aim to match every participating school with a truck.