Current News

Vermont Business Magazine New England’s power system is prepared to meet the peak demand for electricity this summer, according to ISO New England (ISO-NE), operator of the region’s electric grid. This summer, assuming typical weather conditions, ISO-NE predicts electricity demand will reach 24,553 megawatts (MW). However, above-average summer weather, such as an extended heat wave coupled with high humidity, could push demand up to 26,383 MW, tightening supply margins. ISO-NE is prepared to take steps to maintain the region’s power system reliability if needed. ISO-NE creates forecasts of demand and available capacity for each summer and winter season, taking into account-estimated contributions from all resources; unplanned resource outages; imports from neighboring regions; and resource additions and retirements. These estimates will help ISO-NE operators prepare and plan for the increase in electric demand over the summer months. Weather is the largest driver of energy use.

Vermont Business Magazine The Preservation Trust of Vermont, the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development, and the Vermont Arts Council are hosting two powerful conferences in one remarkable village. The 2024 Downtown and Historic Preservation Conference on Wednesday, June 5 and the 2024 Creative Sector Convening on Thursday, June 6 both take place in Bellows Falls. At the 2024 Downtown and Historic Preservation Conference participants will learn proven strategies for community revitalization. Sessions will be centered around resiliency, adaptation, inclusive spaces, and creativity. Public investment in our historic downtowns and village centers helps to attract small businesses and private investment, improving quality of life for Vermonters and experiences for tourists. Bellows Falls is a great example of that. The village’s vibrancy is the result of preserving its historic integrity while encouraging new and creative uses for it.

Vermont Business Magazine Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) announced the schedule for this year’s annual Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference, which includes interactive workshops on growing economic opportunity, cultivating new audiences, and improving skills. The one-day-only event will kick off with remarks from stand-up comedian Tina Friml, Representative Becca Balint and Senator Welch. The conference will be held in Randolph on June 8th.

Vermont Business Magazine VCIA announced today its special event keynote for the 39th Annual VCIA Conference, taking place August 12-14th, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Burlington, Vermont. Leading futurist, and global trends and innovations analyst Jim Carroll will deliver the address on Wednesday August 14th at 2:45pm. Mr. Carroll is to present “The Future of Insurance” as it specifically relates to the captive insurance sector. He comes with an acclaimed reputation, having given remarks at The World Bank, NASA, and The World Street Journal, among other prestigious organizations.  

Vermont Business Magazine Join the Vermont SBA to learn more about federal opportunities available for Vermont following the flood disaster. Meet key players from state, federal, and philanthropic organizations and learn about the tools you need to recover from this disaster and prepare for the next. Workshops will be held around the state on June 4 Stratton Mountain Resort, June 5 Vermont State University Johnson and June 6 Vermont State House.

VermontBiz Average gasoline prices in Burlington have risen 1.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.61/g today, according to GasBuddy's survey of 100 stations in Burlington. Prices in Burlington are 3.6 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 4.5 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has fallen 1.8 cents in the last week and stands at $3.82 per gallon.

VermontBiz The State of Vermont, the University of Vermont (UVM) and the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) are extending the Green Mountain Job and Retention Program (GMJRP) and are providing up to $5,000 in student loan repayment. This program incentivizes graduates from Vermont colleges and universities to stay, live and work in Vermont.

VermontBiz Filled with light, warmth and many cozy cups of tea, Loose Loona Gifts + Tea House embodies the Scandinavian concept of “hygge” (pronounced 'hyoo-guh), a calm and comfortable atmosphere to spend time with friends and family. Opened last September, the family-owned shop in downtown Rutland offers a vast and varied selection of hot- and cold-brewed teas from all over the world and an enticing menu of sweet and savory light fare.

Adding even more delight to the Loose Loona experience is a tastefully curated gift shop that carries locally crafted items as well as eye-catching artisan finds from around New England and beyond.

VermontBiz With family vacation season here, it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore the best places across the nation that are perfect for families to teach their kids how to ride a bike.

Thankfully, the experts at buycycle, Europe's leading marketplace for high-value, pre-owned bikes have analyzed various cycling factors including the elevation range, cycle route length and overall state safety score to uncover the best places across the nation that are perfect for families to teach their kids to ride the bike.

VermontBiz Governor Phil Scott today issued the following statement:

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Senator Dick Sears. Senator Sears was already in the Senate when I arrived as a freshman in 2001. We served together for many years and I have always had a great deal of respect for him. I appreciate his willingness to work across the aisle to get things done. Just this past session, he worked closely with my team to pass important public safety legislation.

“He was a true champion for Bennington county. And, as stubborn or gruff as he could be at times, he and I shared a love of golden retrievers — we both had them — which was something we could always bond over.

“This is an incredible loss for Vermont and the Senate and my heart goes out to Senator Sears’ family, friends and colleagues.”

Vermont Business Magazine The Community College of Vermont (CCV) held its graduation ceremony at Norwich University’s Shapiro Field House on June 1, 2024. More than 500 students received associate degrees. Students representing all 14 Vermont counties graduated, and students hail from 10 states and 11 countries. The youngest graduates are 17 and the oldest are 69. Also among the graduates are 68 veteran and military-connected graduates. More than 60% of the Class of 2024 are the first in their family to earn a college degree. The keynote address was delivered by Aly Richards, CEO of Let’s Grow Kids, Vermont’s campaign to ensure affordable access to high-quality care for all Vermont children. 

VermontBiz The State of Vermont is recognizing the dedicated EMS and first responder professionals, volunteers and agencies for the essential public health services they provide in their communities, as part of the 50th annual National Emergency Medical Services Week celebration.

Governor Phil Scott called out the commitment and vital work of Vermont’s career and volunteer emergency service providers, in his proclamation declaring May 19 − 25 as EMS Week. With the theme of “Honoring Our Past. Forging Our Future,” the week of activities included showcasing local EMS agencies, and culminated in the annual presentation of awards honoring several individuals and EMS agencies for their outstanding efforts.