The Future of Federal Rural Policy

Keynote Speaker: Tony Pipa, Brookings Institution, Senior Fellow - Global Economy and Development, Center for Sustainable Development

Sponsored by People's United Bank and the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development 

With a new administration and growing focus on the needs of rural America, what’s possible? Hear from rural policy expert Tony Pipa about changes coming to rural programs and funding, and what this means for communities like ours.

New to Vermont Lunch Series: COVID Newcomers: Here to Stay?

Host: Keith Marks, Next Stage Arts Project

Panelists: ... coming soon!

Sponsored by Green Mountain Power and VELCO

The #1 objective of our regional economic plan is to increase population - this means retaining young people, regaining “returners” who left and attracting newcomers. But what does that really mean? In this lunch series, we’ll look at demographic growth from three angles and talk with real people, your new (or returning) neighbors.

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In today's session, the pandemic has brought the greatest influx of newcomers since 9/11. Lots of questions have been asked like who are they, will they stay, what is the opportunity and what is the impact? Thanks to efforts in Putney and the Deerfield Valley, we have a chance to connect with some of them directly and learn what attracted them to Vermont, and what’s next.

In Conversation with Governor Scott and Lt. Governor Molly Gray: Envisioning Southern Vermont's Future

& The Future Talks Back: Young Professional Town Hall

Special Guests: Governor Phil Scott and Lt. Governor Molly Gray

Interviewer: Mike Cutler, CAT TV

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​Town Hall Facilitator: Representative Emilie Kornheiser

Young Professional Panelists: ...coming soon!

As the 2021 Legislative Session winds down, hear from state leaders on what’s next for Vermont and what this means for our region. 

• Part One: pre-recorded interview hosted by Mike Cutler of Catamount TV. The Governor and Lt. Governor will address questions from young professionals about the future of our economy. 

• Part Two is a discussion about our regional economic future, among young professionals in a town hall format, facilitated by Representative Emilie Kornheiser.

• Everyone is welcome to attend this session.

Reframing Growth, Vetting our Values

Let’s be honest, it’s hard to talk about economic growth in Vermont without raising concerns about development sprawl, pollution, corporate greed, and capitalism run amok. What does a healthy economy look like, in keeping with Vermont Values? How do we attract and retain young people with a promise of values, but also a promise that their own household will be economically viable here? Join us for a look “under the hood” at small businesses and job creation featuring entrepreneurs and policymakers. 

New to Vermont Lunch Series: New American to New Vermonter

Host: Kate Paarlberg-Kvam, Community Asylum Seekers Project

Panelists: ... coming soon!

Sponsored by Green Mountain Power and VELCO

The #1 objective of our regional economic plan is to increase population - this means retaining young people, regaining “returners” who left and attracting newcomers. But what does that really mean? In this lunch series, we’ll look at demographic growth from three angles and talk with real people, your new (or returning) neighbors.

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Workforce demand is as high as ever. The national workforce, especially for jobs going unfilled in the region (medical, manufacturing, logistics, and construction) is more and more diverse. With a new administration re-starting immigration, how can Vermont’s gateway region take this new opportunity to provide a welcoming place for those New Americans to land?

Small Scale Changes to Strengthen Our Towns

Facilitator: Danny Litchenfield, Brattleboro Museum and Art

Panelists: David West, Town of Danby, NY

             Paul Stewart, Oswego Renaissance Association

             Patrick Fisher, Erie Arts and Culture

             Raude Rayche, Indonesian Community Connect

Four inspiring stories of initiatives that have engaged community members to overcome negative expectations to create new beauty, value, energy, and investment. Our guests will highlight planning, arts and culture, diversity, and social capital in their projects, hailing from Oswego, NY; Tompkins County, NY; Erie, PA; and Somersworth, NH. 

New to Vermont Lunch Series: How New People Generate New Opportunities for Our Communities

Host: Peter Case, Fishhook Communications 

Panelists: ... coming soon!

Sponsored by Green Mountain Power and VELCO

The #1 objective of our regional economic plan is to increase population - this means retaining young people, regaining “returners” who left, and attracting newcomers. But what does that really mean? In this lunch series we’ll look at demographic growth from three angles and talk with real people, your new (or returning) neighbors.

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In today's session, newcomers and returners are helping our communities thrive. From childcare and food systems, cultural organizations to startups, these folks are playing a vital role in every aspect of the region’s economy. Hear from local leaders whose organizations and businesses are being recharged by your new neighbors.

Community as Corporation: Talent-Retention in Low Status America

Keynote Speaker: Majora Carter, Social-Enterprise Pioneer, Majora Carter Group

Sponsored by MSK Engineering, Stevens & Associates, and M&S Development