The Rutland Region Chamber of Commerce held their 112th Annual
Meeting on November 1st. Dan DiBattista, Plant Manager, Rutland
GE-Aviation and his employees were named the 2010 Business Persons of
the Year. In his remarks Executive Vice President Tom Donahue noted “GE
Rutland recently added a 27,000 (square) foot expansion to Plant 2 and
have invested $60 million into this plant within the last four years,”
Donahue said, “and will be investing another $10 million in the next
year with a substantial portion of that total investment in machinery
and equipment.” Donahue also highlighted the benefits of having
GE-Aviation in Rutland, GE's commitment to the region, contributions to
the community and the superior leadership of Dan DiBattista.
The meeting featured Captain Richard Phillips, as the keynote speaker.
Captain Phillips’ riveting address told of his capture by Somali Pirates
and how the lessons he learned through his experience can be used by
anyone. Captain Phillips noted that either on a ship or in business to
remember, you are stronger than you think, the only time all is lost is
if you quit, and a dedicated team of professionals can overcome most
problems. He reminded those in attendance "Never trust a pirate" and to
always hope for the best and plan for the worst.
Other highlights of the meeting included an overview of the Chamber’s
accomplishments over the past year and goals looking forward, awards
were presented to Larry Jensen for his dedicated service to the Chamber
and the Board of Directors and to John Valente who just finished his
term as Chamber President.
The American Red Cross and CVPS announced their annual goal for the Gift
of Life Marathon. The goal (to beat Boston's new record) will be 1,178
pints. The Gift of Life Marathon will take place on December 21st,
9:30am-6:30pm at the Paramount Theater.