Vt. announces funding awards for downtown projects
Vermont recently announced over $860,000 in tax incentives for downtown revitalization projects around the state. More funding awards will be rolled out in April.
Gov. Phil Scott and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development recently announced over $860,000 in tax incentives for rehabilitation and revitalization projects throughout Vermont’s designated downtown and village centers.
These six project awards will help generate over $20 million in building improvements and around the state. In addition to these awards, a new round of funding for later this year will be announced in April, with tax credits available to projects in state-designated Downtowns, Village Centers, and Neighborhood Development Areas.
“These investments are impactful, supporting local businesses, creating new housing, and improving the economic vitality of our community centers,” Scott said. “This kind of targeted investment in our downtowns and village centers, along with the strategic use of federal relief dollars, shows what we can do to make Vermont an even better place to live and visit.”
“Thanks to the support of the Legislature, we are excited to be able to expand the reach of this program in the coming year,” said Josh Hanford, commissioner of the Department of Housing and Community Development. “Our next round of funding will allow applicants of state-designated Neighborhood Development Areas to also participate in the program, supporting investments in rental housing around our existing commercial centers.”
Projects funded include:
Bennington, 650 Main Street
$200,000 for redevelopment of the former Bennington High School into a multi-purpose community center and 37 apartments, including both affordable and market-rate units.
Brattleboro, 22-26 High Street
$79,000 for façade improvements and code upgrades to a 5-story downtown block, providing space for a restaurant, maker’s market, offices, and studios.
Enosburg, 366 Main Street
$327,500 for conversion of vacant commercial space for mixed retail and office use at the historic Perley Block.
Jeffersonville, 4968 VT Route 15
$61,575 for the rehabilitation and adaptive re-use of the Jeffersonville Granary for a food hub supporting four local food businesses.
Rutland, 56 Merchants Row
$125,000 to support significant code upgrades to the Gryphon building’s upper floors, creating 10 new 1-2-bedroom apartments.
White River Junction, 5 South Main Street
$62,600 for completion of code-mandated improvements to the Briggs Opera House, a local landmark and cultural center in White River Junction.
Here is additional information on the projects, including local contact information. Visit the Department of Housing and Community Development website for information about how the tax credits help boost the vitality of Vermont’s communities.
— Office of Vermont Gov. Phil Scott
New funding to aid Vt. downtowns, village centers
Forty-nine project awards will help generate over $95 million in building improvements and public infrastructure in Vermont’s downtowns, state officials say.
Fall foliage in Woodstock, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Gov. Phil Scott and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) recently announced over $4 million in funding supporting a record number of rehabilitation and revitalization projects throughout Vermont’s designated downtown and village centers. These 49 project awards will help generate over $95 million in building improvements and public infrastructure around the state.
“These investments are impactful, supporting local businesses, creating new housing, and improving the economic vitality of our community centers,” said Scott. “I believe this kind of targeted investment in our downtowns and village centers, along with the strategic use of federal relief dollars, shows what we can do to make Vermont an even better place to live, work and play.”
“Thanks to the support of the Legislature, the Downtown Board was thrilled to fund 49 projects in communities large and small,” said Department of Housing and Community Development Commissioner Josh Hanford. “This year we awarded a record number of rehabilitation and revitalization projects, and I am grateful to the dedicated Vermonters working to keep the heart and soul of their communities vibrant places for years to come.”
In 2022, $4.1 million in tax credits will offset the costs of major investments in projects including upgrades to Woodstock’s historic Phoenix Block on Central Street, and also at the Shire Hotel on Pleasant Street in Woodstock Village. Another project will repair the historic carriage shed in Quechee’s village center, making part of the building into new apartments. Farther north, the former U.S. Customs House and Post Office in St. Albans will be redeveloped into mixed commercial use and will provide eight new units of downtown housing.
For a complete list of projects visit the Department of Housing and Community Development website.
State highlights careers in construction
October has been declared “Careers in Construction” month in Vermont, in an effort to recognize career opportunities within the construction industry.
“As we make historic investments in housing, broadband, and traditional infrastructure, there are many opportunities for Vermonters to find lucrative careers in the trades,” Gov. Phil Scott said during a recent announcement.
According to Department of Labor data, construction accounts for 5.2% of statewide total employment, with more than 15,000 individuals working within the industry. The average annual wage for construction workers in Vermont is $57,635, exceeding the statewide average wage of $56,264. The most recent data also shows that construction accounts for about 10 percent of the total number of businesses in Vermont, with a total of more than 2,900.
“Anyone who has needed the services of a skilled contractor in the last few years, understands the importance of highlighting and supporting this important sector of our economy, as well as helping to educate folks on just how lucrative and rewarding these careers are for those who chose to pursue a job in the trades,” said Dustin Degree, Vermont’s deputy labor commissioner.
For more information on resources for jobseekers and employers, please visit Labor.Vermont.gov/Jobs.
Click here to view the full Careers in Construction Month proclamation.
Conservation design tool sees upgrade
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has announced a significant upgrade to its BioFinder planning and conservation mapping tool.
New data layers will allow users to display socio-economic variables including per capita poverty, health insurance coverage, and a social vulnerability index alongside the ecological datasets from Vermont Conservation Design that currently populate BioFinder.
BioFinder was first created in 2013. The current update is a collaboration between the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department (VFWD), the Vermont Department of Health (VDH), and the Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC).
“Biologists can point out the most ecologically important places on a landscape, but actually conserving those areas involves community action,” said Jens Hawkins-Hilke, VFWD conservation planning biologist. “When planners understand how ecological priorities line up with community values, they can better craft conservation opportunities that benefit both people and nature.”
Meeting the needs of both human and natural communities is an important part of the state of Vermont’s strategy for responding to climate change, state officials added. They also said this data will help the state plan housing in appropriate locations, while better protecting natural resources and wildlife habitats.
Learn more about the BioFinder Mapping Tool and new social data layers at: anr.vermont.gov/maps-and-mapping/biofinder
For more information on Vermont Conservation design, go to: https://vtfishandwildlife.com/conserve/vermont-conservation-design
The above information is from press releases and related data issued by the state of Vermont.
Woodstock Wheels going strong in second season
Riding a bike along a country road is a treasured pastime for many, but not an accessible one for everybody. In 2021, Luke Hanson saw a need to open up that experience to more people, and he’s made it into a business — by adding some electricity to the mix.
Luke Hanson, who owns Woodstock Wheels, shows an e-bike to Paula and Wes Stearns, of Quechee, at Taste of Woodstock in Woodstock, Vt., on Aug. 13. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Riding a bike along a country road is a treasured pastime for many, but not an accessible one for everybody. In 2021, Luke Hanson saw a need to open up that experience to more people, and he’s made it into a business — by adding some electricity to the mix.
Now in its second year, Woodstock Wheels offers e-bike rentals to those looking to tour the local countryside in the beautiful Woodstock, Vermont, area. It’s a region Hanson knows well. He grew up biking these scenic trails and roads, and he put that knowledge to use, turning something he loves into an experience his customers are enjoying. Providing an accessible experience for many different customers is the most rewarding part of the business, Hanson said.
“That’s one of the great things about this, especially for someone who’s a little limited physically, maybe more elderly, when they come back and you just see the smile on their face, saying ‘I felt like I was 25-30 years old on these bikes,’” he said. “The bikes help you out a little bit, but you’re able to go 40-50 miles on them and see the scenery on roads you wouldn’t be able to access in a car.
Hanson says year #2 has been a busy one, with a mix of local people and also visitors who have e-bikes at home but weren’t going to travel with them. Sometimes, having e-bikes helps them bring relatives who may not otherwise be able to participate. Additionally, Hanson said about 50% of his customers are people who ride regular bikes, but also love the opportunity to do a longer trip more easily.
Well before starting Woodstock Wheels, Hanson saw first-hand the demand for this kind of concept. During a trip to Peaks Island, just off Portland, Maine, in 2021, he saw people flocking to a bike rental shop on the island. Plus, he knew outdoor activities in general were surging post-2020.
“People were just itching to get outside, so I said, ‘This is the time,’” Hanson recalled.
Looking forward, he’s hoping to have a permanent location for his venture, perhaps at the East End Park. He’s also exploring the idea of “e-hubs”, essentially locations where the bikes could be stationed and available for customers.
“It would be kind of like city bikes, but off-road capable bikes where the trails connect to different towns,” he said.
Woodstock Wheels’ rates are based on a two-hour, four-hour, or an all-day tour. More details are available at WoodstockWheels.com.
— Gareth Henderson
For more information, check out Woodstock Wheels online or contact Luke Hanson here. The Woodstock Wheels tent is open just outside the Woodstock Rec Center, Monday and Thursday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and Friday-Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
New Vt. program aims to help startups, tech sector
The state of Vermont recently announced the launch of its first technology-based economic development program, with a focus on growth in Vermont’s high-tech business sector.
A view of the Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
The state of Vermont recently announced the launch of its first technology-based economic development program.
It is designed to catalyze growth in Vermont’s high-tech business sector through increased access to targeted technical and research assistance, Vermont officials said. Coined as Elevate Vermont, the goal of the multi-faceted program is to help accelerate early-stage technology companies and help established small businesses remain relevant in a global market.
"Supporting businesses in every region of the state to retain and create jobs remains a top priority of my administration,” said Gov. Phil Scott in a Wednesday statement. “This program will help our innovative employers grow and succeed in the global marketplace, while strengthening our communities here at home.”
H.439 (Act 74) appropriated $800,000 to the program in the 2021 legislative session. An extensive request for proposals (RFP) process has resulted in the selection of outside experts who can assist Vermont businesses in successfully applying for federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants, according to officials. Every year, the federal government grants out over $3 billion to small businesses through the SBIR/STTR programs and a highly competitive application process.
Elevate Vermont will support companies seeking this funding through one-on-one SBIR/STTR application assistance from professional advisors at North Carolina-based Eva Garland Consulting, LLC. The application for this Technical Assistance is now open and accepting submissions on a rolling basis until funding is depleted.
“Vermont has never before had such opportunity to support startups and early-stage tech companies,” said Department of Economic Development Commissioner Joan Goldstein, in the recent announcement. “These investments present an enormous opportunity for the state’s growing tech sector.”
In the coming months, two additional applications will become available under the Elevate Vermont moniker to provide even more support for companies engaged with SBIR/STTR. Eligible participants may qualify for matching grants to accelerate the commercialization of their technology, offsetting costs such as sales and marketing expenses that cannot be supported with SBIR/STTR funds, according to the state.
Elevate Vermont will also provide an Innovation Research Partnership Program to help small businesses strengthen connections with research institutions that can assist them in solving challenging product development issues.
To receive notification about the Elevate Vermont program as more information becomes available, subscribe to the Department of Economic Development newsletter.
The information in this article is from a press release from the Office of the Governor of Vermont.
The donuts are back: Farmer & The Bell thriving at new location
If you go to the Parker House building in Quechee, Vermont, on Saturday or Sunday morning, you’ll see a long line of people filling the wrap-around porch, and they have one thing in common: They’re all hungry for donuts made by Farmer & The Bell.
April Lawrence, of Farmer & The Bell, grabs a tray of donuts at her business’s new location at the Parker House in Quechee, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
If you go to the Parker House building in Quechee, Vermont, on Saturday or Sunday morning, you’ll see a long line of people filling the wrap-around porch, and they have one thing in common: They’re all hungry for donuts made by Farmer & The Bell.
The popular donut business, owned and operated by April Lawrence and her partner Ben Pauly, got its start as a pop-up in Woodstock for five weekends last December.
Now the business has a new home at the Parker House, where ownership has welcomed them with open arms and their donut operation keeps thriving. April 30 was their first day at the new location.
“We can’t be effusive enough about their kindness, and everybody there,” Lawrence said of the Parker House. “It’s such a great place.”
And donut fans near and far are loving it, too.
Matt Ashby recently moved to Quechee, and going to Farmer & The Bell is now part of his weekend. In one of his first times taking his dog to the nearby dog park, he remembers people dropping by carrying boxes of donuts.
“Everybody came over with donuts saying, ‘Oh my God, these are the best donuts in the world’, and they are,” he said, while waiting in line for another box last Saturday. “I don’t know what kind of magic they’re working back there, but it’s effective.”
On the same morning, Shelby Donahue, of Connecticut, was visiting the area for Mother’s Day weekend and showed up with her family, after a friend tagged her on Instagram, recommending Farmer & The Bell.
“It’s a great Mother’s Day gift,” she said.
David and Anna Pauly prepare some donuts for Farmer & The Bell on May 7. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
The idea for these donuts came about a couple years ago at the beginning of the pandemic. Lawrence and Pauly took a camping trip to Maine, and during those travels, they ended up tasting some French crullers nearby. That “life-changing donut experience” — as Lawrence called it — made the couple determined to make this art their own.
“We said, ‘This is going to be our thing, we’re going to master this …. We need this donut in our life,’” she recalled.
It was really a perfect match as far as ingredients: the crullers require about a half-egg per donut, and Lawrence has a farm with chickens.
And so, they spent six months perfecting the recipe, and trying out their budding creation and all its versions on family members and friends. Later on, Lawrence and Pauly’s young son asked for donuts for his birthday instead of a birthday cake. As if that wasn’t endorsement enough, multiple people at the party — who were wowed by the crullers — encouraged them to go into business.
That they did. Thanks to Chy Tuckerman of Angkor Wat Restaurant in Woodstock, Farmer & The Bell was able to use the restaurant’s kitchen space last December.
“For me, it was a perfect intersection between working with people, being creative, and working with food,” Lawrence said.
Donuts on display at Farmer & The Bell in Quechee. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
The pop-up experience helped them figure out their process, she added. Customers pre-ordered their donuts online, and they stuck with that system during their five pop-up days there. In 2022, real estate agent and customer Meredith Christiansen connected Lawrence with Simon Pearce CEO Jay Benson, which led to a lease to use the Parker House kitchen. Right now, the system is “first come, first served,” and to accommodate the long line usually waiting outside, the business always has lots of donuts ready to go. They’re open from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday and Sunday.
“We try to have 300 to 400 ready, and we’re still making them as we’re going,” Lawrence said.
That’s no easy feat, either. Everything is measured in grams, and the measurements and timing are absolutely exact, down to the second.
“If any part of it’s off, it’s all ruined,” Lawrence noted.
But she says they’ve been able to make the entire process more efficient, and it’s become a true family business as well. Pauly’s parents, David and Anna, help out every weekend as the business keeps cranking out multiple flavors of donuts. Among the staples: sugar and spice, chocolate and coconut, and several berries & cream flavors (like raspberry and strawberry, for example). For a touch of springtime, this weekend, Farmer & The Bell will debut their viola and lemon donut — with a lovely viola flower on top.
“We’re trying to do six (flavors) each week. Some of the popular ones we keep as standards, and we rotate others ones out,” Lawrence said.
A popular one is brown butter-WhistlePig, made with local whiskey from WhistlePig — a business also located in the Parker House building. That’s one example of a big part of Farmer & The Bell: using ingredients grown or made right here. For instance, they use King Arthur Flour, butter from Cabot, and local eggs and milk. .
“We truly try to put as much local into it as we can,” Lawrence said.
Running a business has its challenges, but for Farmer & The Bell, it’s about giving joy to others in the form of a delicious donut.
“It’s decadent, a donut is a treat,” Lawrence said. “You can’t have a bad day with a donut in your hand. … It’s a joyous experience, and I think that resonates with a lot of people.”
— Gareth Henderson
Farmer & The Bell is open from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday and Sunday at the Parker House at 1792 Main Street in Quechee, Vermont (use the side porch entrance). For updates, check out @farmerandthebell on Instagram. The business can be reached by email at: farmerandthebellvt@gmail.com.
The first customers of the day step into the porch entrance for Farmer & The Bell at the Parker House in Quechee on May 7. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Woodstock Village to vote on cannabis ballot item
On March 24, voters will decide whether to allow cannabis retailers to do business in Woodstock Village. Click below for more details.
On March 24, voters will decide whether to allow cannabis retailers to do business in Woodstock Village.
A total of nine items will be on the village ballot, and, unlike past years, all items on the village warning will be decided by Australian ballot. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 24 at Woodstock Town Hall.
A public informational meeting will be held this Tuesday, March 15, at 6:30 p.m. at Town Hall and on Zoom. Read the Village Report by clicking here.
By state law, cities and towns have to vote whether to allow cannabis sales in their communities. If communities approve it, businesses can start applying for a state license on April 1. A state board will review the license requests.
Woodstock's town and village are separate governing bodies, and, earlier this month at town meeting, town voters decided to "opt in" for allowing cannabis retail establishments. That means cannabis retailers who apply for a state license and meet the requirements, will be able to do business in the town.
However, the village — like any municipality — must hold its own vote to opt in or out, and that happens on March 24. Village Trustees Chair Jeff Kahn wanted village voters to understand that the town's vote does not impact the village, and village voters on March 24 still get to decide whether or not to authorize cannabis retail sales within the village limits.
"I think there's been quite a bit of confusion (on that point)," Kahn said.
In response to recent questions from voters, Kahn added that, if the village votes to opt in for cannabis retail sales, the village will not see any new tax money as a result. All additional tax money from those sales will go to the state, and the same is true for the town.
In other business for March 24 village voting: Two candidates are running unopposed for seats on the Village Trustees board. Incumbent Brenda Blakeman is seeking reelection for a three-year term, and Gabe DeLeon is running for a two-year term. Incumbent Daphne Lowe, who has served for two years as a trustee, is not seeking reelection.
— Gareth Henderson
Vt. names Canada liaison as U.S. border reopens for vaccinated travelers
Cross-border reunions of all kinds have commenced now that the U.S. border with Canada and Mexico is open to vaccinated travelers. The major change, announced last month, took effect this week.
The American and Vermont flags flying together in Bridgewater, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Cross-border reunions of all kinds have commenced now that the U.S. border with Canada and Mexico is open to vaccinated travelers. The major change, announced last month, took effect this week.
An important type of reunion now going on is that of trade and commerce. And on Monday, after the reopening took place, the state of Vermont announced its new representative for trade and investment in Canada. CIDEP, a Montreal-based economic development firm, was named to the representative and liaison role.
“Our connection with Canada runs deep, and as the land border reopens, communities and families are reconnecting, Canadian travelers are returning, and businesses can once again focus on expanding operations and increasing trade with Vermont,” said Gov. Phil Scott. “We hope this reconnection will remind Canadian companies what Vermont has to offer when thinking about expanding or doing business here, while also creating interest in Vermont products north of the border.”
CIDEP’s main priority will be to initiate contact with Canadian businesses looking to expand into the U.S. market and then generate quality leads that have high potential to turn into Vermont investment projects, according to the state announcement. CIDEP will also represent Vermont at key trade events in Canada touting Vermont as a business and tourist destination.
"The relationship between Québec and Vermont is more than business. For more than 100 years, we have shared the same values,” said Michel Belval, president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Québec. “We support environmental projects, family's businesses, and small and medium enterprises. The opening of the new Vermont Office in Québec is a sign that our relationship can only continue to grow and that our partnership is better than ever."
In 2020, Vermont exported over $918 million in goods to Canada and imported $1.7 billion in goods, 76% of which were used in the production of American-made products. There are also 66 Canadian-owned businesses employing over 2,900 workers in Vermont.
CIDEP was selected through a competitive bid process administered by the Vermont Department of Economic Development, state officials said. In addition to business recruitment, CIDEP will promote the state as an investment destination and encourage greater bi-lateral trade with its top market.
The funding for this two-year initiative was proposed in the governor’s budget address calling for investments in Vermont’s economy, workforce, and communities, Monday’s announcement noted. The funding was approved and included in Act 74 by the Vermont Legislature in June.
“I am firmly convinced that Vermont has everything it takes to attract more Canadian companies in the years to come, and we are dedicated to allocating all the necessary resources to promote the state of Vermont as a great location for Canadian corporations to do business,” said Frederick Bernard, CEO of CIDEP.
Marie-Claude Francoeur, the Québec Provincial Government’s delegate to New England, noted the importance of such partnerships to the region’s recovery from the pandemic.
“In these uncertain times, North America's economic recovery will depend on trade initiatives that support innovation, enhance our competitiveness, protect our integrated value chains, promote our common prosperity and benefit both our regions as well as our respective workers and their families,” Francoeur said in a statement. “This is a win-win.”
Click here for more coverage of the border reopening and Canada’s rules for travelers.
— Gareth Henderson
Abracadabra Coffee serving at East End, planning for winter
Abracadabra Coffee Co. has been operating their coffee trailer at Woodstock’s East End since August and it’ll be there until mid-November. There are some winter plans afoot, too.
This coffee trailer, owned by Abracadabra Coffee Co., is a recent addition to Woodstock’s East End. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
If you’re enjoying the East End Park in Woodstock, Vermont, you can also enjoy an oasis of coffee and ice cream in this same part of the village. Now, just near the park’s entrance across the road, people can grab some coffee, baked goods and creemees, along with the foliage views in the area.
At that spot, Abracadabra Coffee Co. has been operating their coffee trailer since August and it’ll be there until mid-November. Picnic tables and umbrellas are there for seating, the parking’s free, and people can enjoy locally brewed coffee and a fabulous view of the Ottauquechee River and the mountains beyond. Also available are liege waffles, canelé (a French pastry), vegan apple cider donuts, and of course, creemees.
The company purchased the shasta trailer earlier this year, and it’s been a big hit, said co-owner Sarah Yetter.
“It’s been really great, everyone just really loves seeing the shasta,” she said. “Everyone says it’s adorable.”
The hours of operation are Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. As for what happens after mid-November, there is a winter option on the horizon. Abracadabra is working on final plans and permitting for an indoor location where they can serve to-go orders out of the trailer.
The seating area by the Abracadabra Coffee trailer near Woodstock’s East End Park. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
For the time being, the coffee trailer remains at the East End, where it was quickly gaining more fans last week.
On Friday morning, Reda Kongjonaj and Sarah Waldron, both of Boston and staying in Killington, came down to Woodstock looking for a bit to eat. After not finding options for a quick lunch in the village, they hit Google Maps and, well, Abracadabra.
“It’s convenient, I think it’s cute,” Kongjonaj said, while enjoying a coffee and a creemee.
Waldron added, “It’s nice that it’s by this park, with the view, and you can just chill at the tables.”
Also enjoying the coffee were Hartland resident Poli Nightingale and Dave Matz of Woodstock. Nightingale has been there with his family numerous times.
“It’s usually our Saturday morning go-to after soccer and then after skiing in the wintertime,” Nightingale said of Abracadabra Coffee.
Matz loved the atmosphere of the park and the trailer.
“It’s great to see these new additions to the town of Woodstock,” he said.
Abracadabra Coffee was founded by Clint Hunt and his wife, Antoinette, who both knew Yetter when they were all living in Columbus, Ohio. Yetter ended up becoming a partner in the company after moving to Vermont in 2016. Abracadabra started renting the building at 54 Pleasant Street in Woodstock in 2017, and they now operate their roasting there.
“We’ve really been able to expand our wholesale,” Yetter said.
They sell their whole-bean coffee all over the U.S. and have a robust online retail business through their website. Abracadabra also sells a line of cold brew cans throughout New England, and the company now has 11 employees.
— Gareth Henderson
The mountain view near the Abracadabra Coffee trailer at the East End. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Holiday weekend sparks return of high foliage traffic
Fall foliage traffic has surged to levels the New England region hasn’t seen for two years. The holiday weekend of Oct. 9-11 was of course the catalyst for this, but in many places, the crowds have continued into much of this week.
Traffic going in and out of Woodstock Village on Route 12 near Billings Farm, Saturday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Fall foliage traffic has surged to levels the New England region hasn’t seen for two years. The holiday weekend of Oct. 9-11 was of course the catalyst for this, but in many places, the crowds continued into the week.
In Woodstock, Vermont, the downtown crowds quickly gathered, filling restaurants, stores and village sidewalks. Courtney Lowe, president of the Woodstock Inn & Resort, said the very busy weekend continued what’s been a strong leisure travel market since June. The resort is seeing more elderly couples now, since many switched their reservations from 2020.
“There’s a pretty large migration of reservations coming from last year to this year, so that did fill us up pretty quickly in this time period,” Lowe said.
Another theme: The bus tours are back, and are adding to the crowds in a big way. That’s a large part of the pent up demand bringing the huge surge in traffic throughout the week.
“People want to get out and about,” said Jeff Kahn, owner of the Unicorn. “The number of bus tours has doubled, tripled, from most recent years.”
Overall, Kahn said he’s seen repeat visitors, but also travelers who are coming to Woodstock for the first time — and lots of each.
“Forty-three years in, I never expected to still be working 7 days a week, but this week it was required,” he said.
Kim Smith, co-owner of 37 Central Clothiers and the Red Wagon Toy Co., said it was a super busy weekend, and a popular one for ice cream. Smith runs Woodstock Scoops, an ice-cream pop-up shop, just across the street from her stores.
“It was just a beautiful weekend, and we sold lots of maple creemees,” she said.
In a sign of business looking up, Lowe said the resort has seen an increasing number of people booking over the long term, into next summer and fall.
“It helps you build a base for the following year,” Lowe said. “I feel like every inn, every lodging business in Vermont, has been extremely busy this whole time period."
— Gareth Henderson
Labor shortage, housing are key concerns during Lt. Gov. Gray’s county tour
Housing, the labor shortage and broadband were among the main concerns raised by the public when Vermont Lt. Gov. Molly Gray visited Pomfret on a county-wide tour.
Only in Vermont could you hike your way into a community gathering with the lieutenant governor at a country store.
And that’s just what happened for Brice Jaggi, an Appalachian Trail through-hiker from Dallas, Texas. Last Thursday, Aug. 5, his lunch break on the back deck at Teago General Store became a front-row seat for Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray’s Windsor County tour, part of a series of visits to each of Vermont’s counties to hear local concerns about pandemic recovery. Gray's Pomfret visit came after stops in Hartford and Springfield on the same day, with Windsor County Senators Dick McCormack and Alice Nitka joining her.
For Jaggi, it was a welcome interruption, and something he saw as unique to the Green Mountains.
"We never see any of our politicians in Texas," he said, while picking up some ice cream at the Teago counter. "This was really interesting to watch."
Vermont Lt. Gov. Molly Gray listens at a recent community visit at the Teago General Store in Pomfret. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
As with many such events in Vermont, local people get the opportunity to discuss key issues with state-level leaders, face to face. That Thursday, one of them was Seton McIlroy, vice chair of the Woodstock Village Trustees. She pointed out that a shortage of local employees and the pressure of high rents have made it very hard on businesses; some restaurants have had to reduce days, making it harder to find a meal out during the week. Also, the village is dealing with several store fronts being vacant, though one now has an ice cream pop up shop this summer.
“We need employees,” McIlroy said.
Gray said this is a pattern she’s seen throughout the state, and the price of housing makes it very difficult for new workers to move here. She said Vermont must try to figure out how to keep restaurants open.
The Pomfret conversation with the community — which followed a tour of the recently renovated Teago store — covered a range of topics, from business, to telecommunications and climate change. The Delta variant of COVID-19 also came up: McIlroy, a mother of two, said she’s worried about the impact of school staff who choose not to get vaccinated.
In the foreground are Windsor County Sens. Dick McCormack and Alice Nitka, at the table with Jim Hurd and Lt. Gov. Molly Gray, during a discussion about climate change at Teago General Store last Thursday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Gray sympathized with the concern, but emphasized the progress Vermont has made — it still has the leading COVID-19 vaccination rate in the country. Also, she thought the best way to approach the issue is to get more people vaccinated. The state has brought vaccination clinics to many community and business settings, and is adding some school-based clinics this fall.
“The key is making (the vaccine) as accessible as possible,” Gray said.
In an interview that afternoon, Gray said certain essential needs were greatly exposed during the past 18 months, and Vermonters have been voicing them.
“I think the biggest thing the pandemic has exposed, that we're seeing in every corner of the state, is that we do have massive housing insecurity, to the point where we may have a housing crisis that deserves a particular designation and recognition as a crisis," Gray said.
Issues strongly intertwined with the economy came up often last Thursday.
“What we heard about from the community today is what we’ve been hearing about all along: housing costs, finding employees and (broadband) connectivity,” McCormack said at Teago.
Gray also said the shrinking workforce in mental health, substance abuse treatment and related services is a major problem.
"The impact of that is that more and more people aren't getting services," Gray said. "So, if we're going to make really strategic investments now, it means listening to Vermonters, listening to the need, and then investing in infrastructure."
She said that includes housing, mental health support services, broadband, and other key elements that have been long-term needs before the pandemic.
Gray also said the existing partnerships involving CCV and other state colleges could help with the staffing shortage seen across multiple industries.
“I do think we need to make sure that anyone who’s graduating from a Vermont college knows that they are fully set up to get into a job right here in the state,” she said.
— Gareth Henderson
Lt. Gov. Molly Gray visits with Piper McIlroy at Teago General Store. Piper was there with her mom, Seton McIlroy, and brother Seamus, shown in back at right. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Teago General Store Manager Christine Cole (far left) chats with Lt. Gov. Molly Gray at the store on Thursday, Aug. 5, with Marie Cross looking on. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Village looking to boost Sunday-Monday food options
After a recent decision by the Woodstock Village Trustees, permits are allowed for up to two food trucks to serve the public at the Village Green on Sunday and Monday, from now through October.
Jeremy Sigl, manager of The Lazy Cow, hands an ice cream to customer Steve Panouchek at the Woodstock Village Green on Monday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
After a recent decision by the Woodstock Village Trustees, permits are allowed for up to two food trucks to serve the public at the Village Green on Sunday and Monday, from now through October.
One such permit was approved for The Lazy Cow, a "mobile ice cream cafe", which began serving customers Sunday and Monday this week next to the eastern end of the Green.
This new permitting for the Green was prompted by staffing shortages in the restaurant sector, resulting in fewer eateries being open on Sunday and Monday. The Trustees are hoping this new effort can help fill in that gap during the summer and fall. However, Trustees Chair Jeff Kahn noted this wasn't a permanent decision.
"It is not perpetual, it's an experiment to see how things go this summer," Kahn said. "Maybe we'll renew this permitting, maybe we won't."
The Trustees are hoping a food truck serving lunch will apply for a permit, but none has been able to commit to the two days in Woodstock, because a number of them are having trouble finding help, Kahn added.
The specific hours for Sunday and Monday are up to the food trucks themselves. The Lazy Cow plans to be there from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays. (The schedule is different on Sunday, July 4, when they'll be at the Woodstock Fourth of July Celebration.)
The Lazy Cow is owned by Ashley Sigl, a 2015 graduate of Woodstock Union High School living in Hanover, NH, who said this past Sunday and Monday brought "perfect ice cream weather" and lots of customers.
"With the upcoming holiday weekend, and people wanting to go to the quintessential Vermont town, it all very much helps," she said. "We're happy to be back in the community again."
Her brother, Jeremy, manages the business on-site during the summer, and he's enjoying the two days in Woodstock early in the week.
"It's good to see some familiar faces," he said at the Green on Monday. Their full schedule is online, including hours in Reading and other locations in southern Vermont and New Hampshire.
— Gareth Henderson
Business relief grants become available Monday
A new program offering a total of $30 million in grants to struggling Vermont businesses is set to launch on Monday. Part of the goal is to help businesses who haven't qualified for pandemic-related relief yet.
Echo Lake in Plymouth, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
A new program offering a total of $30 million in grants to struggling Vermont businesses is set to launch on Monday. The money, approved by the Legislature, comes from Vermont’s share of relief funding in the American Rescue Plan Act.
The Economic Recovery Bridge Program is the latest local effort to help businesses recover from the financial impact of the pandemic. The assistance is meant for businesses who have not received state and federal relief due to eligibility constraints, and who can show a continued loss of revenues due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To the extent that funds remain available, the program can also help businesses that have suffered a net loss even after receiving state or federal aid.
Gov. Phil Scott said this funding is key to Vermont’s economic recovery, calling small businesses the “backbone of our economy.”
“These grants will provide critical relief in the short term, allowing them to rebuild a stable foundation for their economic futures,” Scott said in a statement.
PJ Skehan, executive director of the Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce, said Friday that a number of chamber members have already received some form of relief, but he thought this money could be a crucial resource for any businesses whose money is running out at this point.
“Vermont overall has done a great job getting these funds out to where they’re needed,” Skehan said.
Joan Goldstein, commissioner of the Department of Economic Development, emphasized the need to help businesses facing shortfalls as the state turns the corner.
“As we move past the pandemic, these funds are intended to bridge those final gaps, so that businesses can recover and thrive in the months and years ahead,” she said in the program’s announcement this week.
Eligible businesses must have their primary place of business in Vermont and demonstrate that the business experienced a net tax loss in 2020, greater than any net loss reported in 2019 via submitted federal tax returns.
Grants will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis and priority will be given as follows:
Priority for the first 30 days of the program will be given to businesses that have not received or do not have pending applications for any state or federal financial assistance in 2020 or 2021, including but not limited to:
Paycheck Protection Program Loans and Grants
Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Grants
Vermont Economic Recovery Grants
Sole Proprietor Stabilization Program Grants
Healthcare Provider Grants
Restaurant Revitalization Grants
Shuttered Venue Grants
Vermont Agricultural Grants
After the initial 30-day window, second-tier priority will be given to businesses who suffered a 2020 net tax loss and can still demonstrate an adjusted net loss after adding back the amounts of non-taxable assistance received in 2020 and 2021.
Full program guidelines in several languages and frequently asked questions are online at the state’s COVID-19 Recovery Resource Center. The application portal is set to open on Monday, and there will be a support line available at 802-828-1200 once the portal opens.
A recording of Friday’s webinar about the program is available on the commerce agency's website.
— Gareth Henderson
A season begins: Sunny skies, happy crowds greet Market on the Green
Warm-weather energy was in the air when the weekly Woodstock Market on the Green returned Wednesday, with over 30 vendors and a bustling crowd.
The Woodstock Market on the Green on Wednesday afternoon in Woodstock, Vt. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Warm-weather energy was in the air when the weekly Woodstock Market on the Green returned Wednesday, with over 30 vendors and a bustling crowd.
There were a number of families dropping by, as well as motorists and cyclists coming through to check out the fresh food, produce and artisan goods.
Some of that traffic was lining up for the wood-fired pizza made by Sara Bachman, Otto Pierce and Emma Labadie from Fat Dragon Farm in Stockbridge. They’re glad for the business, but it’s something special to be back in Woodstock, Bachman said.
“Last year, this market definitely kept me going a lot,” she said. “There’s so much community here.”
And the community was meeting a new member of the family as well: Pierce and Bachman arrived with their new baby daughter, Mairi, born in March, who rested comfortably in the shade.
“It’s going well so far,” Bachman said of the baby’s first market.
Kathy Avellino, of the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce, which runs the Market on the Green, said she knew from the first glimmer of sunlight on Wednesday, that it would be a perfect day for the event.
“A lot of vendors have come back,” she said.
The crowd grows at the Woodstock Market on the Green on Wednesday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
One of them is also Jon Cohen, owner of Deep Meadow Farm in Ascutney, who sells his produce at farmers’ markets in Ludlow and Londonderry as well. He said the large number of people cooking at home last year definitely drove sales up. Hopefully, those numbers continue, Cohen added.
“Traffic is definitely a good thing for the market,” he said, noting the crowds in the village that afternoon.
One of several new arrivals at the market this year is Nick Miller, of Lebanon, New Hampshire, who makes artisan woodcrafts for his business, MisfitStyls. Among his products were a number of wooden boards with intricate designs and inspiring messages on them. But they aren’t just for display — they can also be flipped over and used as cutting boards. Miller, who attends events throughout New England, enjoyed a steady run of sales Wednesday and lots of interest from shoppers.
“It’s been a good market,” he said. “I can’t complain one bit.”
Colemann Colburn, of Fresh Roots Farm in Sharon, has been at the Market on the Green for 10 years. He said Wednesday was a good day, certainly helped by the fact that people were happy to be able to shop unmasked.
“People were excited to be out,” Colburn said. “Hopefully it’ll be a good year.”
— Gareth Henderson
The Woodstock Market on the Green is every Wednesday during the summer from 3 to 6 p.m.
Joyful reopening: Teago store begins new chapter
On Saturday, a lot of people in Pomfret, Vermont, had the same plan: Head over to the Teago General Store, which just opened up again after a year of renovations.
At far left, Bob Crean chats with Teago General Store employees Randi Harron and Sue Cole, far right, at the store’s reopening on Saturday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
On Saturday, a lot of people in Pomfret, Vermont, had the same plan: Head over to the Teago General Store, which just opened up again after a year of renovations.
“We’ve had this on our agenda ever since they posted the day they’re reopening,” said Kate Overbay, who was enjoying breakfast with her family. Her 9-year-old son, Tripp, chimed in, “I’m just glad Teago’s open again.”
Among the early arrivals were Teago’s former owner Chuck Gundersen, and his wife, Alice, who live just up the road. Chuck owned the store for over 30 years before selling it to Kathleen Dolan in 2018, and he called the year-long revamp a “beautiful job,” adding that it’s still got that local charm.
“They managed to do it in a way that it still has some individual character,” he said. “Alice and I are going to be here a lot.”
At 7 a.m., the iconic Vermont store, which generations of local people and visitors have enjoyed, reopened to streams of eager customers who greeted the staff with beaming smiles and breakfast orders. Right in the door, a greatly expanded kitchen and plenty of additional square-footage are the first things noticed, along with the new deck offering outdoor seating by the brook. There’s now an ice cream window, and a new indoor seating area is near the back of the store. Breakfast, lunch and the Friday take-and-bake pizzas are still there — as are the Post Office and the newspapers.
Chuck Gundersen, left, catches up with Dick Beattie at Teago General Store on Saturday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
In a quick interview on a busy reopening day, store manager Christine Cole said the pent-up demand from customers was clear for a long time. When making preparations out front, they were putting new sod down and had sprinklers going.
“We had people walking through the sprinklers and asking, ‘Are you open?’” she recalled. Not surprisingly, some were waiting outside for the doors to open at 7 a.m. Saturday.
“Someone knocked on the door at five-of, and we had to say, ‘Just a few more minutes,’” said Amy Stone, also part of the Teago team. Along with Cole, the rest of the staff are Randi Harron and Sue Cole, Christine’s sister-in-law.
Christine Cole, who has worked at the store since the early 1990s, highlighted the added capabilities of the expanded kitchen and new systems throughout the store, right down to the new coolers. And she expected the deck would be a popular place for customers — several of whom took a seat there in between raindrops Saturday morning.
Cole also said she appreciated Dolan’s leadership and vision on the project.
“It’s great to have somebody like Kathleen bringing her thoughts and ideas to help with this new chapter,” Cole said.
The new deck at Teago General Store. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Dolan said seeing the store reopen was “enormously satisfying.” She thanked the store staff for their many hours of work in getting Teago ready.
“I have been in awe of Christine and Amy and the other Teago’s store crew as they worked steadily this past year, and particularly these past few months, putting the interior back together and getting the operation of the store up and running,” Dolan said. She also thanked Steve Horton and the entire DEW Construction team for bringing the project to fruition, and was grateful to town officials for their support.
“A general store, as a place for practical resources and community relating, is so vitally important to the life and heartbeat of a small town,” Dolan said. “I have Chuck Gundersen to thank for keeping Teago alive and well and in a way a general store needs to be for over 30 years before this time — and for the opportunity he gave me to carry the torch of a business that helps keep a community thriving, gathering and accommodated.”
As the community gathered to share smiles and friendly chats over coffee, part of the Saturday-morning buzz was, of course, cherished routines starting up again. Local resident Lisa Parsons was looking forward to walking down to the store with her dogs each day to grab her morning paper, just like she used to do.
“I can do my walk again now,” she said.
While departing the new Teago after his visit, Bob Crean expressed what many felt: “There’s nothing like having your own small-town store.”
— Gareth Henderson
Teago General Store’s hours are Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The deli closes a half hour before the store. The phone number is 802-457-1626, and follow the Facebook page for daily specials.
Teago General Store on reopening day. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Village Butcher’s new owners energized by community
Alex and Cristy Beram are reopening The Village Butcher in Woodstock, Vermont, later this month, with a fresh look inside the shop and some new offerings. As Alex says, “The support from the community has been a huge source of energy for us. We feel a huge sense of purpose in what we’re doing.”
Alex and Cristy Beram, new owners of The Village Butcher in Woodstock, Vt., are reopening the shop later this month. They are pictured here, at center, with their children, Beau, 7, and Rosie, 9, and Cristy’s mother, Bebe Stoddard. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
More than once, Alex and Cristy Beram had thought about moving full-time to Vermont — maybe when their kids were grown. But the plan unfolded a bit quicker than that.
Now, the Berams are Vermont business owners, and they’re set to reopen The Village Butcher in Woodstock later this month. They purchased it earlier this year from George and Linda Racicot, who had owned the community’s sole butcher shop for close to 50 years. Josh Coyle, who has worked there for over 20 years, is staying on as head butcher.
It didn’t take the Berams long to find out how much the community cherishes this place and its longtime owners. In fact, it’s given them great motivation as they work toward the reopening.
“The support from the community has been a huge source of energy for us,” Alex said. “We feel a huge sense of purpose in what we’re doing.”
Cristy remembered many warm welcomes inside and outside the shop, when they were learning about the business and first getting to know customers.
“It couldn’t have made us more excited to come,” she said. “Once we made the decision, so many things started falling into place that made us feel comfortable this was the right choice.”
“Things really clicked,” Alex said, noting some great discussions with the building’s owners, Jireh and Frank Billings.
Moving forward, the core elements of the Racicots’ longtime business — butcher, deli and marketplace — will still be there.
“It felt more right to build upon the foundation that’s here,” Alex said.
The Berams’ path to living full-time in Quechee began in spring 2020. At the time, both of their young children — now 9 and 7 — were attending school remotely, and springtime in Vermont was beckoning. So, they left Boston in May to finish out the school year at their second home in Quechee, and stay there for the summer as usual. They stayed past summer, as they weren’t comfortable returning to the city amid the pandemic. Then, in October, Alex was laid off from his job in international professional services, and the couple began looking around and weighing their options.
Not long after that, an online advertisement for a “butcher-deli” in a great Vermont location caught Alex’s attention. For him, that would be a return to the food industry. He worked in various settings in the food service industry throughout his teens and 20s in Boston, where he grew up.
“I love the interaction with the community, being around people, and the camaraderie with the team,” Alex said.
He also spent a number of years in the music industry, touring and playing trombone full-time, as well as working in artist management. Cristy has an MBA and a background in financial services, and previously worked for Fidelity Investments.
Over the past two months, interior work has been ongoing at the Village Butcher. Upland Construction, of Woodstock, was the general contractor for the project, and the Middlebury firm IMHOTEP was also involved.
The main additions include a full kitchen on the bottom floor. That helps facilitate two key parts of the plan: adding more prepared foods and baked goods to the shop’s offerings. The bakery operation will be run by Cristy’s mother, Bebe Stoddard.
Additionally, there’s been a reconfiguration upstairs, which moved the butcher-deli station.
“The butcher when you walk in is straight ahead,” Alex said. “We really wanted to feature that.”
The shop will also offer a wider variety of local meats, and Alex and Josh have been visiting local farmers to make those arrangements.
Along with those changes, the shop will have its own blend of coffee for the first time. One of the employees, Vicky Cook, will provide a special “Butcher’s Blend” through her business, Rooftop Roasters, for the shop to pour and sell.
The Village Butcher’s new owners can’t wait to get the doors open again, and carry forward what the Racicots have built over the years.
“We're really excited for people to see what we’ve done,” Cristy said.
— Gareth Henderson
Vt. reinstating work search requirement for jobless claims
Starting May 9, Vermonters on unemployment insurance will once again be required to look for work each week, as Vermont reinstates its work search requirement.
Clouds sweep the sky at sunset in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Starting May 9, Vermonters on unemployment insurance will once again be required to look for work each week, as the state reinstates its work search requirement.
Since early last year, Vermont’s work search requirement was suspended due to public health concerns during the pandemic. At a Tuesday press briefing, Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington noted the situation had changed, with vaccinations going well and state restrictions gradually loosening.
“This means more opportunities for Vermonters to return to work or seek new opportunities safely, and we know employers are actively seeking people to fill open jobs,” he said. In Vermont, COVID-19 cases continue to decline across all age groups, officials said Tuesday.
Under the standard work search rule, those receiving jobless benefits must make three formal job inquiries per week, consisting of submitting a job application or a request for an interview. They must submit proof of those inquiries the following week when they file for benefits through the labor department’s online portal. Because of COVID-19, business outreach can be done by email or phone, and applications or interviews can be done virtually or by phone, Harrington said.
“However, claimants must be able to provide proof of outreach upon request by the department,” he said.
That weekly job search is required, unless the claimant has a COVID-qualifying reason preventing them from looking for work. Proof of that reason must also be furnished when filing for benefits, and be available upon request.
Harrington also provided guidance for those in the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. He said anyone in the PUA program who isn’t self-employed, and isn’t an independent contractor or sole proprietor, must also perform a weekly work search. Others in the PUA program may face additional requirements down the road and should be ready, he added.
“Self-employed individuals, independent contractors or sole proprietors, should be prepared to report business engagement efforts or activities should the federal government require it at a future time,” Harrington said.
About 30,000 Vermonters are currently collecting unemployment, and a number of vacant positions have been reported in multiple sectors in the state.
“Research shows that the longer an individual is removed from the labor force, the harder it is for them to return, and the business community across Vermont continues to report labor shortages across all sectors and industries, so we are hopeful that claimants will be able to find safe and meaningful work relatively easily,” Harrington said.
He added that state health experts have worked with businesses to minimize risk and ensure people can return to the workplace safely. Those wishing to learn more about the work-search requirement can visit the labor department’s website. Upcoming virtual town halls and other department programs will be available to help claimants during this process.
— Gareth Henderson
Gov. Scott outlines relief plan; lawmakers await details
Vermont is getting over $1 billion in COVID-19 relief funding from the federal government, and Gov. Scott laid out his priorities for it this week.
Downtown Woodstock, Vermont, on Friday evening. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Vermont is getting over $1 billion in COVID-19 relief funding from the federal government, and Gov. Phil Scott laid out his priorities for it this week.
These include $250 million to expand broadband coverage in the state; $250 million for housing; $200 million to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate change resiliency; $170 million for major water, sewer and stormwater system upgrades; and $143 million for economic development including helping small businesses rebound from the pandemic.
The governor placed a strong emphasis on the state’s significant housing needs, noting that because of the pandemic, nearly 2,000 Vermonters experiencing homelessness have been living in hotels and motels over last year.
“My plan would significantly increase shelter capacity and construct permanent housing for those in need,” Scott said at his Friday press briefing. “It also builds more than 5,000 housing units to help middle-income families who’ve been priced out of the market.”
Scott said there are many priorities he and the Legislature agree on regarding this money, but he said lawmakers will also be offering their own ideas about how to spend it.
“I look forward to working with them in order to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make monumental and transformative investments to build a stronger future,” he said.
In a Saturday interview, Senate President Pro Tempore Becca Balint said there was a “fair amount” in Scott’s plan that lawmakers supported, including broadband, housing and climate change.
“But of course we want to know more about the details,” Balint said.
She said one concern from the Senate side was that the governor didn’t include workforce training, though it’s been a concern of his in the past. Balint specifically mentioned those workers who need access to certificate programs or skills training to advance their careers, but not a full degree.
“We have a worker shortage pretty acutely here in Vermont,” she said. “There are a lot of jobs that are going unfilled.”
Balint also said adding funding for mental health services and more targeted help for businesses should be part of the plan. She often hears from hospitality and tourism businesses who are worried about how much longer they can hang on, despite Scott’s phased reopening plan which aims to lift all pandemic restrictions by July 4. Balint said those businesses were expecting more from the new federal COVID relief dollars.
“For the most part, what I’ve been hearing is that people are comfortable with this (reopening) timeline,” Balint said. “They just want to make sure that when the spigot is fully open, they’re still going to have a business.”
One bill looking to help with that is a $100 million coronavirus relief spending package previously passed out of the Senate, which includes $10 million for business grants. The House hopes to get that bill to the governor’s desk on Friday, Balint said.
— Gareth Henderson
Vermont sugarmakers talk 2021 season
In 2021 so far, Vermont sugarmakers have seen a later start to the season, but there’s still plenty of time for the right weather patterns to set in.
The sugarhouse at the Richardson Farm in Hartland, Vt., in early March. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Waiting for the right weather is a familiar thing for anyone working in agriculture, where Mother Nature is often at the helm. Part of the job is expecting the unexpected, but always being ready when the right conditions hit.
That’s very much the case for maple sugaring operations, which depend on cold nights and warm days to make the sap run. In 2021 so far, Vermont sugarmakers have seen a later start to the season, but there’s still plenty of time for the right weather patterns to set in.
Mary McCuaig, owner of Top Acres Farm in South Woodstock, said they had their first boil March 1, and then it was too cold for a week, delaying the second boil to March 8. They’ve made about 20% of a crop, with some locals already having stopped in to buy some Golden and Amber syrup. She isn’t worried about the slow start.
“We could still have a good year, as some years we make more syrup in April than March,” McCuaig said.
The cancellation of Vermont’s traditional Maple Sugar Open House Weekend was a noticeable absence this year, but the impact varies. For McCuaig, the local business keeps pressing on.
“We are OK with no open house, as our local customers know they can still stop by to buy syrup or see the boiling with their masks on,” she said. Also, Top Acres Farm sells mostly wholesale to places like the Woodstock Inn, Billings Farm and FH Gillingham & Sons.
At the Richardson Farm, a five-generation farm in Hartland, Reid Richardson said the sugaring operation has done about 20% of their expected crop so far. He noted the variability of the season is nothing new. Some years they’ve started sugaring in mid-February, others at mid-March, and other seasons have seen a hard stop on March 19 when it’s gotten too warm.
“It’s basically impossible to predict," Richardson said.
The syrup retail sales at the farm are steady, he said, and some local customers like to stop in at the sugarhouse. Those that do must wear a mask, and there is a three-person occupancy limit.
The farm’s business has been steady on the whole, Richardson said.
“Our wholesale customers down in Woodstock and Quechee are definitely buying less. That's noticeable, but they haven't stopped buying syrup from us,” he said.
The farm has a large wholesale customer in New Hampshire who buys all the syrup that isn’t sold locally during the season, and that hasn’t changed. That’s the result of a 45-year relationship, Richardson said.
A couple towns away in Barnard, the Doton Farm, a four-generation business, doesn’t have a new crop of syrup just yet, as they just finished tapping last Monday and started putting sap in their storage tank Saturday. Paul Doton grew up on his family’s farm and said his father began sugaring on the property in the late 50s or early 60s. Starting in late March is normal, because of the 1,500-foot elevation and the sugarbush facing north.
“We made most of our syrup last year in late March, early April,” Doton said. “Of course, every year is different."
This year, many visitors who would usually come to buy syrup in person — but couldn’t travel because of the pandemic — have been ordering from the farm online. Doton said those sales have been “quite robust” in recent weeks, and they’ve been able to complete them using some of last year’s crop the farm kept.
“I’ve even discovered a thing called Venmo, because we don't use credit cards,” he said.
As for local sales, Doton said that part of the business is “about on par” with a couple of years ago.
Vermont remains the number-one U.S. producer of maple syrup, and regionally, of course, the timing of the season varies. Richardson likes to track other regions on Facebook. At this point, the Midwest is about wrapped up, and Pennsylvania and New York are at a similar stage as Vermont, though slightly ahead of the Green Mountains, Richardson noted.
“We're just patiently waiting for Mother Nature to let us have sweet stuff," he said.
— Gareth Henderson
More help available for Vt. sole proprietors
As COVID-19 relief efforts continue nationwide, a program in Vermont is supplying an additional $1.6 million in grants for sole proprietors.
The Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
As COVID-19 relief efforts continue nationwide, a program in Vermont is supplying an additional $1.6 million in grants for sole proprietors.
That’s the second round of funding for a statewide block grant program administered by the Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation (BDCC) and Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Regional Commission (TRORC). The first round of economic relief grants was awarded to 157 businesses totaling $1,385,000 between August 2020 and March 2021. The program is supported by federal dollars.
The new round of grants comes at a time of great need, when many businesses are looking to get to the other side of winter amid the pandemic.
“We know this money will help many more businesses but will come nowhere near the total need that is out there,” said Bobbi Kilburn, of BDCC, in Wednesday’s announcement.
Peter Gregory, of TRORC, noted the ongoing efforts of the Legislature to provide more aid. For example, lawmakers are working on a fast-track spending bill to provide much-needed relief to individuals, families and businesses.
“We are encouraged that state legislators are currently considering adding significant state dollars to these modest federal funds in order to support small- and medium-sized businesses across the state,” Gregory said in the official statement.
This second round of funding will offer grants between $1,500 and $10,000 to qualifying sole proprietors on a first come, first served basis. Applications will open on April 5 and run through May 26.
Applicants must demonstrate financial need through business expenditures which have not yet been reimbursed through other relief programs. Expenditures may represent expenses incurred between March 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021, or ongoing expenses in order to “pivot” business operations due to the pandemic. The program is funded by the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program. The federal funds are passed through the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development.
Eligibility criteria has been altered for this second round of grants to include both sole proprietors with no W2 employees and S-Corp owners with no W2 employees. Other key eligibility criteria include that the applicant must:
Be from a Low to Moderate Income household per federal guidelines, which is defined as having a household income of 80% or below the area median income for your county.
Be a for-profit entity, providing goods or services to clients.
Have a physical establishment in Vermont.
Have pre-pandemic or current gross annual revenues of over $24,450 for the business.
Have been legally established prior to March 15, 2020.
Webinar training to explain the online application process will be available on April 1. To sign up for the webinar and learn more about the program breakdown, full eligibility requirements, application materials and timelines, contacts for language translation services, and to view technical assistance recorded trainings, visit the program website: https://www.vermont-cdbg-cv.com/
TRORC will be administering funds for the counties of Windsor, Orange, Caledonia, Essex, Orleans, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Chittenden. BDCC will be administering funds for the counties of Windham, Bennington, Rutland, Addison, Washington, and Lamoille.
Woodstock Village budget approved
Voters approved the proposed $1,345,829 Woodstock Village budget proposal at the polls on Tuesday, in a 41-0 tally. The budget, which has a slight increase over last year, includes $578,655 to be raised by taxes.
Three Woodstock Village Trustees running unopposed for reelection were also on the 2021 ballot. Board Chair Jeff Kahn will be serving a new three-year term, William Corson a two-year term and Brenda Blakeman a one-year term. Blakeman and Corson were each appointed to the board last year; Kahn has served multiple terms as a village trustee.
— Gareth Henderson
Power pair: The impact of Bernie's mittens
The Vermont senator's famous mittens made from recycled sweaters rode the wave of meme stardom straight into the economy, and they're having an impact at a very tough time for nonprofits and businesses.
A view of River Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
Who would have thought a pair of mittens would raise money for charity, help businesses and put smiles on millions of faces?
Before the Jan. 20 presidential inauguration, it would have seemed a bit far-fetched, but Sen. Bernie Sanders' mittens have done all those things. The now-famous wool mittens made from recycled sweaters rode the wave of meme stardom straight into the economy, and they're having an impact at a very tough time for nonprofits and businesses.
Most recently, Jen Ellis, the teacher from Essex Junction, Vermont, who made the mittens Sanders wore Jan. 20, partnered with the Vermont Teddy Bear Company to create a new mitten line, according to NBC 10 Boston. Some of the proceeds are going to Make-A-Wish Vermont.
"I can't be more thrilled, because I personally can't make 18,000 pairs of mittens," Ellis told NBC 10, giving a rough estimate of how many inquiries she received.
Ellis has also partnered with Darn Tough Vermont to design wool socks that mimic the mittens — fittingly called JENerosity socks. They sold out in 24 hours, and 100% of those proceeds went to the Vermont Food Bank, as the Associated Press reported.
Shortly after the meme of the Vermont senator and his mittens went viral, he harnessed the image to raise over $1.8 million in merchandise for charity. In late January, Ellis put a couple of new pairs up for auction to help a couple of Vermont nonprofits. One pair benefited Passion 4 Paws, a foster-based dog rescue organization, and the other one helped Outright VT, a group promoting equity and providing support for LGBTQ+ youth.
The mitten craze has helped those making similar mittens as well. For example, the Woodstock, Vermont, store Encore Designer Consignment got a nice boost in their winter business when a flood of orders came in for their mittens, made of recycled wool and cashmere sweaters.
The impact of the Bernie mittens has warmed not only hands, but also hearts. Just think of how much those donations mean to local nonprofits trying to make it through the winter and help their communities. Unexpected fundraising efforts are always welcome, especially now.
We hope the mittens craze helps local groups and businesses as they try to find their way through these colder months. Meals on Wheels in Vermont was one of the recipients of the proceeds from the meme-themed T-shirts and sweatshirts sold from his website, as Sanders told CNN early last week. Though he, too, enjoyed the ocean of memes, the senator said, "It turns out to be actually a good thing, and not only a fun thing."
— Gareth Henderson