Chamber Chatter eNews
Where Business and Opportunity Meet

Vermont ATHENA Leadership Award® & ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award®

The ATHENA Leadership Award® is a very prestigious recognition presented to a person who provides significant mentoring and direction to women professionals. This award honors individuals who strive toward the highest levels of personal and professional accomplishment, who excel in their chosen field, devote time and energy to their community in a meaningful way, and forge paths of leadership for women to follow.


In order to receive the ATHENA Leadership Award®, the nominee must meet the following criteria:

  • Demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in their business or profession
  • Provides valuable service by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in their community
  • Actively assists others, particularly women, in realizing their full leadership potential

The ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award® recognizes women 40 years old and younger who meet the following criteria:

  • Demonstrates excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession
  • Provides valuable service by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community
  • Clearly serves as a role model for young women personally and professionally


THE PROCESS

Nominees must work in Vermont. Prior recipients are not eligible.

A panel of prominent business leaders from across Vermont will review all nomination forms and select three ATHENA Leadership Award® finalists for each category. All ATHENA nominees will be recognized at the ATHENA Award® Gala on Saturday, November 2nd, 5:30 p.m. in the Milano Ballroom at Norwich University, where the 2024 Vermont recipients will be announced. An evening of dinner and celebration will honor the recipients and the ATHENA Model. The recipient must be present to accept their award.


Completed nomination forms must be submitted to the Central Vermont Chamber of Commerce by 5pm on September 1.

ONLINE & pdf FORMS CAN BE FOUND AT

CENTRALVT.COM/ATHENLEADERSHIPAWARDS


This year's Keynote Speaker is

Heidi Tringe, co-founder of ElevateHer VT!

Thank You Sponsors!!!

See your business here as a supporter for the honoring of Vermont's amazing women leaders!

Nike Goddess Sponsorship ($2500)

• Prominent mention in all promotional announcements, advertising, notices, brochures, applications and all collateral materials related to the ATHENA Award®

• Display of banner at ATHENA Award® Gala

• Recognition from the podium at the ATHENA Award® Gala

• Opportunity to address the audience at the ATHENA Award® Gala

• Prominent placement in the ATHENA Award® Gala program

• Table of eight to attend the ATHENA Award® Gala


Bia Goddess Sponsorship: ($1750)

Prominent mention in all promotional announcements, advertising, notices, brochures,

applications and all collateral materials related to the ATHENA Award®

• Recognition from the podium at the ATHENA Award® Gala

• Prominent placement in the ATHENA Award® Gala program

• One half-table (4) to attend the ATHENA awards® Gala


Tyche Goddess Sponsorship ($1000)

Prominent mention in all promotional announcements, advertising, notices, brochures,

applications and all collateral materials related to the ATHENA Award®

• Recognition from the podium at the ATHENA Award® Gala

• Prominent placement in the ATHENA Award® Gala program

• Two tickets to attend the ATHENA Awards® Gala


Table Sponsorship ($250)

Logo on all dinner tables

• Recognition from the podium at the ATHENA Award® Gala

• Placement in the ATHENA Award® Gala program

• One ticket to attend the ATHENA Awards® Gala


If you have any questions or wish to help sponsor this prestigious event, contact us Athena@centralvt.com or (802)229-5711!

Promotional Opportunities Available!


Meal Sponsor- $1,000

Your company banner hung on buffet table, a raffle ticket that includes two to attend the drawing and a chance to win, recognition from the podium, and logo on all the table and in all media releases.


Table Sponsor- $500

A raffle tickets that includes two to attend the drawing and a chance to win, logo on all tables and mention in all media releases.


If interested, please reach out to tonya@centralvt.com or call 802-229-5711.

Click Here to Register to Attend!


If you would like to participate in the 50/50 raffle to benefit the Barre Area Senior Center, but can't attend the mixer,

Click Here for 50/50 Raffle Ticket Purchases only!

Need office space? Need office space that isn't going to flood? Need space with a private restroom or a closet? Need office space where you never have to worry about finding a parking space? Need office space that's affordable? WE GOT YOU! We have two offices that recently became available in Berlin! Minutes from downtown Barre or Montpelier, right off the interstate! Give Garrett's Properties a call, or reach out to us here at the Chamber to arrange a tour!

Do you expect to apply for the BEGAP grant?

BEGAP, the Business Emergency Gap Program, returns for a second year to bring $12 million in grants to flood impacted farms and businesses. Both those impacted in 2023 and/or 2024 may be eligible to apply.

We will be helping people get through the process. If you think you may need help, fill out this form so we know you’ll want to book some time with us when you apply.

Whether it’s because you need a scanner, keep filling your W-9 out wrong, or if the flood has completely overwhelmed you and the idea of filling out another form and you still haven’t filed your business taxes—don’t worry, you are completely welcome also!

Business owners advocated for this funding and we are so grateful to the legislature & the Administration for working to get this to you. We’re excited to be the last stop on the journey if you need us.

U.S. Department of Labor Health Benefits Education Campaign

IN COORDINATION WITH

Vermont Department of Financial Regulation

PRESENTS:

Health Benefits Laws Compliance Assistance Seminar

Burlington, VT – September 11 & 12, 2024

 

REGISTER HERE


Why should you attend this seminar?

If you are an employer who is trying to comply with federal and Vermont state laws regarding your health plan, this is your chance to talk to both federal and state regulators at the same time, in the same place. If you are a third-party administrator or a carrier who has questions about new laws and issues, this is your opportunity to ask the experts.

The U.S. Department of Labor is teaming up with the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation to bring you practical information, helpful tips, and clarification regarding state and federal health benefits laws. 

This seminar is FREE and open to the public. Registration will be on a first come first served basis, so please register as soon as possible and NO LATER THAN September 6, 2024.

 

Day 1: Wednesday, September 11, 2024

8:30 - 9:00 AM     Registration & Sign In

9:00 - 9:30 AM     Welcome and Purpose of the Seminar, Opening Remarks

U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) & Vermont Department of Financial Regulation

9:30 - 10:30 AM    What it Means to Be a Group Health Plan Fiduciary

U.S. Department of Labor, EBSA

10:30 - 10:45 AM  BREAK

10:45 - 11:30 AM  What it Means to Be a Group Health Plan Fiduciary (continued)

11:30 - 12:45 PM  LUNCH on your own

12:45 - 2:30 PM    Federal and State Health Benefits Laws: Health Coverage Updates

U.S. Department of Labor, EBSA & Vermont Department of Financial Regulation

2:30 - 2:45 PM      BREAK

2:45 - 4:30 PM     Federal and State Health Benefits Laws: Health Coverage Updates (continued)

 

Day 2: Thursday September 12, 2024

8:30 - 9:00 AM     Registration & Sign In

9:00 - 10:30 AM    COBRA Continuation Coverage 

U.S. Department of Labor, EBSA & Vermont Department of Financial Regulation

10:30 - 10:45 AM  BREAK

10:45 - 12:15 PM  Family and Medical Leave Act: Overview of the Law

U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division


REGISTER NOW

Seminar Location

Hampton Inn Burlington-Colchester

42 Lower Mountain View Drive

Colchester, Vermont 05446

View map | Venue Information

 

Free parking available onsite.

 

Contact for More Information

Ernest Batiste

(202) 693-3047

Batiste.Ernest.R@dol.gov

CONTACT:

Katie Trautz, Executive Director

Montpelier Alive

39 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602

director@montpelieralive.org | 802-279-2236


July 18th, 2024


Montpelier, Vermont - The Taste of Montpelier Food and Arts Festival Returns to the Capital City September 14th and invites both Food and Art Vendors to join! The Taste of Montpelier Food and Arts Festival, presented by Hunger Mountain Co-op, returns for its fourth year. Taste features local restaurants, favorite regional artisanal foods, local artists, chef demos, beer and cocktail gardens and amazing street performers - this year’s Taste of Montpelier has it all!


We are currently looking for more great local artists, crafters and artisan food vendors. You can apply to join us at: https://forms.gle/1cLBDtmVBpbHXo656


The main festivities run from 1-5 pm on Saturday, September 14th on Langdon Street and State Street from Main to Elm. It features dozens of artisan foods, local arts, and of course our amazing Montpelier Restaurants. The festival also features world-renowned circus street performers. It’s an event not to be missed!


“Montpelier is filled with amazing restaurants and artisan food producers. We’re also surrounded by a lively arts scene and we’re excited to welcome artisans and crafters to this event for the first time,” said Montpelier Alive Executive Director Katie Trautz.


Thank you to our event sponsors! Presenting Sponsor: Hunger Mountain Co-op; Platinum Sponsors: VSECU, Community National Bank, Union Mutual, Northfield Savings Bank and Vermont Mutual. Gold Sponsor: Barr Hill. Media Sponsor Seven Days


For more information, visit www.montpelieralive.com/taste

The Vermont Chamber’s Solutions Summit is Vermont’s premier workforce development conference dedicated to transforming how we approach and address the challenges of the modern job market. This dynamic event will be held on September 25, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Burlington. Secure your spot to engage with leaders, educators, and policymakers dedicated to transforming our workforce landscape.

Featured Presentation

The State Opportunity Index: Strengthening the Link Between Education and Opportunity in Vermont

Stephen Moret, President | Strada

The inaugural State Opportunity Index is a valuable resource designed to enhance the path from education to employment. It evaluates all 50 states on five key dimensions: Clear Outcomes, Quality Coaching, Affordability, Work-Based Learning, and Employer Alignment. This framework serves as a roadmap for policymakers, education leaders, and businesses to improve individual opportunities and workforce competitiveness. Strada President Stephen Moret will present new findings for Vermont and the nation, offer recommendations for Vermont's progress, and answer audience questions.

Date & Time

Wednesday, September 25, 2024, 8:00 AM - 3:15 PM

 

Location

DoubleTree by Hilton, Burlington

Why Attend?

The Solutions Summit is more than just a conference; it’s a solutions-driven gathering focused on harnessing innovative ideas and technology to tackle the most pressing issues facing Vermont businesses. This year’s sessions will explore critical topics around workforce development, including:

  • Strengthening the link between education and employment
  • Employee retention and recruitment
  • Leveraging technology to improve efficiency
  • Understanding Vermont policies and legislation impacting our businesses

The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage. Overall, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25% since July 1. Blood product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of blood donations coming in, which is rapidly drawing down the blood supply. The Red Cross is working with hospitals around the clock to meet the blood needs of patients – but can’t do it alone.

We need your help!


Three Ways to Help

  1. Donate blood. If eligible, schedule an appointment to donate today.
  2. Spread the word. Share information about the Emergency Blood Shortage with family and friends on your social media using the Partner Online Guides.
  3. Create a personalized SleevesUp virtual blood drive and inspire your friends and family to donate blood at a convenient place and time for them. It's easy!
  • Sign up at RedCrossBlood.org/SleevesUp
  • Customize an outreach campaign with your special flare
  • Share & engage through social media and watch your connections pledge the gift of life

Heat has impacted almost 100 blood drives in July in nearly every state where the Red Cross operates – compounding other historic seasonal obstacles to blood donation, such as travel and summer activities.

Together these factors have contributed to a shortfall of more than 19,000 blood donations in July at a time when distributions to hospitals have remained strong and the blood supply still has not recovered from significant donation shortfalls earlier this summer. Do your part to help ensure patients across the country receive lifesaving medical treatments.

Sincerely,


Montpelier Park and Ride

Upcoming Closure Reminder


The Park and Ride located on Dog River Road in Montpelier is scheduled to be closed August 19th from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for paving.

 

As this operation is subject to weather, an electronic message board located at the east end of the Montpelier Park and Ride will post adjustments to the date and times of the closure.


Construction Update

Berlin STP SURF(83)

Berlin-Barre STP SURF(75) &

Berlin-Barre Town STP SURF(84)

DATE: Thursday, August 15, 2024

 

TRAFFIC IMPACT:

 

Vermont Route 62 / Airport Road / Berlin State Highway:

Nighttime single-lane closures will be in place tonight through Saturday morning to finish paving milled surfaces on VT 62 and Berlin State Highway. One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction at all times.

 

Tuesday night through Friday morning, a uniformed traffic officer will be present at the intersection of VT 62, Airport Road, and Fisher Road to direct traffic and the signal may be turned off as needed. Between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. crews will be working on the approaches, slip ramps, and in the intersection. Motorists should be aware of grooved and uneven surfaces and temporary pavement markings.

 

Vermont Route 63:

Next Wednesday there is a single-lane closure planned for milling a small portion of VT 63 in the westbound lanes in the vicinity of the Miller Road intersection. At least one lane of traffic will maintained in either direction. Motorists should be aware of grooved and uneven surfaces with limited pavement markings.


CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES:

 

Vermont Route 62 / Airport Road / Berlin State Highway:

The contractor is adding an overnight shift this Friday night, August 16th, into Saturday morning to finish current paving operations on VT 62 and Berlin State Highway. No work is scheduled on the project for Sunday and Monday nights but regular night shifts will resume on Tuesday evening.

 

Beginning at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday night, a crew will begin milling the intersection of VT 62, Airport Road, and Fisher Road. Milling is scheduled for two nights and then crack filling as the weather permits. This work includes the approaches and slip ramps to Airport Road and Fisher Road from VT 62.

 

NOTE: During the week of August 18th, paving of the intersection at Airport Road and VT 62 is scheduled to begin.

 

Vermont Route 63:

Once milling is completed in the VT 62/Airport Road/Fisher Road intersection, the mill machine will relocate to VT 63 to mill a small portion of the road near the intersection with Miller Road.

To view and share this update as a webpage, please use the link below.

View as Webpage


LOCATION:

The Berlin STP SURF (83) resurfacing project begins on Berlin State Highway (Airport Road) near the intersection with Piper Road and progresses northerly for approximately 1.2 miles and stops at the intersection with Vermont Route 62. The project resumes on Berlin State Highway at the intersection with VT 62 (at the northbound and southbound ramps) and continues to the intersection of U.S. Route 302.

 

The Berlin-Barre STP SURF (75) resurfacing project begins under the Exit 7 overpass and extends along VT 62 for approximately 4.5 miles to the intersection of U.S. 302 (Main Street) in Barre City.

 

The Berlin-Barre STP SURF (84) resurfacing project begins under the Exit 6 overpass and extends along Vermont Route 63 for approximately 4 miles to the intersection of Vermont Route 14 (South Barre Road) and Middle Road in Barre Town.

 

Work includes milling and paving of a leveling and wearing course, pavement markings, signs, guardrail, drainage, installation of rumble stripes and other highway improvements. Portions of these projects are required to be completed between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. with an option for all of the work to be done at night.


Construction Update

Northfield-Berlin STP PS24(1) &

Montpelier NH PS24(12)

DATE: Thursday, August 15, 2024

 

TRAFFIC IMPACT:


Vermont Route 12:

Flaggers facilitating one-way alternating traffic patterns will be in place at multiple work zones throughout the length of the project. Flaggers will be present to assist motorists through the project as crews work on driveways and side roads. Expect delays.

 

Montpelier State Highway (Memorial Drive):

No traffic impacts are scheduled.

 

Montpelier Junction State Highway (Dog River Road):

Single-lane closures with one-way alternating traffic patterns staffed with flaggers will be present during the day from the intersection with Memorial Drive to the state highway limits.


CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES:

 

Vermont Route 12:

Driveway and side road preparation for final pavement have begun. The installation of guardrail continues in multiple locations. Shoulder work including ditching and berm removal are also continuing to work their way north. Work zones and traffic patterns will shift as work progresses.

 

Montpelier State Highway (Memorial Drive):

No work is scheduled.

 

Montpelier Junction State Highway (Dog River Road):

The Montpelier Park and Ride is scheduled to be paved between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Monday, August 19th. Additional crews will be working on driveway and side road preparations for final pavement.


View as Webpage

LOCATION:

The Northfield-Berlin STP PS24(1) resurfacing project begins just south of the Cumberland Farms gas station on N. Main Street in Northfield and extends northerly approximately 8 miles on VT Route 12 to the Berlin/Montpelier town line. A portion of this project is also located on Montpelier Junction State Highway (aka Dog River Road) and includes resurfacing the Montpelier park & ride at the Exit 8 interchange with I-89.

 

The Montpelier NH PS24(12) resurfacing project begins under the Exit 8 overpass and extends along Montpelier State Highway (Memorial Drive) for 3/4 of a mile and ends at the Class I Town Highway limits with the City of Montpelier.

 

Work includes milling and paving of a leveling and wearing course, pavement markings, signs, guardrail, drainage, and other highway improvements.

 

PROJECTED COMPLETION: Fall 2024.


Contact Information:

Name - Bethany Oprendek

Phone - 802-267-4044

Email - bethany@bbo-enterprises.com

To learn more about VTrans Construction Projects, visit our projects website.

Got job openings?
Members, please send us the link to employment opportunities at your business and we will post it to our growing online list!

This issue of Chamber Chatter is proudly sponsored by:

A Casino Event Company

For only $225 a year, see your business featured here four times a month in this weekly newsletter sent to over 1600 subscribers, as well as on the front page of the regional website, Centralvt.com. Use your company logo, or an image of a product or promotional offering, along with a live link to your website!

Central VT Chamber
 Conference Rooms
Open for Meetings & Events
The conference rooms at the Central VT Chamber offices, also known as Beaulieu Place, are available for meetings and events!
Two conference rooms separated by a fold away wall can host meetings and events from just a few people to over 40. Centrally located in a prime space just off exit 7 from I-89, with free parking, coffee/tea, LCD projector, speakerphone and more, what more could you ask for in a conference room space?!
For more information on these meeting rooms and rates, click here.

Don't hesitate as dates are filling up quickly and reserved on a first come, first served basis.
Reserve your next meeting or event by calling 229-5711 or email tonya@centralvt.com. We look forward to hosting you in our great space!
Help Us Work For You!
Are you looking for more ways to promote your products, services, sales and deals? Let your Chamber membership work for you!
Send the Chamber images and information on your goods and services so we can share on our social media campaign and among our networks.
Send to Tonya@centralvt.com so we can help you make the most of your Chamber membership!

Be sure to Like, Follow and Share our Facebook page!
Show Your Chamber Pride!

When you advertise your business in the local media, be sure to include that you are a proud member of the Central Vermont Chamber of Commerce!
Thank you,
Central Vermont Chamber
802-229-5711
Follow Us
Facebook  Linkedin  Twitter  Youtube  
X Share This Email
LinkedIn Share This Email