Business-Education Partnerships
In 2013, the Farm to Plate Network published “Charting a Path: Food System Workforce Needs Assessment” (http://bit.ly/2tfvEBI). One of the top ten recommendations of this report was to “develop ongoing opportunities for food system employers and educators to build and maintain lasting relationships so that the education and training being offered meets the evolving needs of employers.”
The Network feels that the work of building these relationships, especially if they are to result in concrete action steps and partnerships, requires convenings and capacity building at the regional rather than statewide level.
In 2016, the Farm to Plate Network’s Business-Education Partnerships Task Force met with stakeholders in Washington County to build relationships between workforce support systems, educators, and food system businesses, as a pilot project for how other regions may build their own partnerships. These meetings revealed that each sector had common goals and similar barriers to success, yet competing resources and separate languages.
This focus on bringing together workforce support organizations, educators, and food system businesses (WEBs) at the regional level has proved fruitful and is now being replicated in additional regions of the state. While every WEB brings together these three sets of stakeholders, the exact form of the partnership varies according to each community’s needs.
People
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Network Groups
Food Access
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Farm to Institution
Research
Governor's Institute
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Labor
Education and Workforce DevelopmentKristyn Achilich
kachilichREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@smcvt.edu
802.654.2730
Academic Program Coordinator
St. Michael's College
smcvt.edu/on-campus/green-campus/sustainability-initiatives/organic-garden.aspx
1 Winooski Park
Box 5
Colchester Vermont, 05439
I have returned to my alma mater to a newly created position as Academic Program Coordinator for the Organic Garden and Permaculture Site. In this role, I offer critical support to students, faculty, and community members who utilize the Saint Michael’s Organic Garden and Permaculture Site for educational and research purposes. I serve as a resource for faculty as they plan their own lessons in the outdoor classroom, and model skills that students need to be proficient in ecological farming practices. I am responsible for the overall management and design of the permaculture and garden sites, to insure maximizing of their function for research, teaching and community-engaged learning. My past roles include participating in the Governor’s Institute of Vermont’s Food, Farms and Your Future Institute as a teaching assistant; Market Garden Assistant at Trillium Hill Farm; research student and teaching assistant in UVM’s Food Systems program; and more recently I was the curriculum coordinator for the Farm at the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps. I received a Bachelor of Science in biology from Saint Michael’s College, have a Master’s of Science from the University of Vermont in Food Systems, and am a Master’s of Education candidate at Saint Michael’s.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Meat Processing
Food Cycle Coalition
Education and Workforce Development
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Access
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Slow Money Vermont
HealthJustin Barrett
workREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@piecemealvt.com
(541) 510-5873
chef owner
Piecemeal Pies
piecemealpies.com
5 South Main Street
White River Junction Vermont, 05001
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Network Groups
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Farm to School
Business-Education Partnerships
Education and Workforce DevelopmentRichard Berkfield
richardREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@foodconnects.org
(802)579-1082
Executive Director
Food Connects
foodconnects.org
22 Browne Court
Unit 110
Brattleboro VT, 05301
General Manager
Windham Farm and Food
windhamfarmandfood.com
PO Box 431
Townshend Vermont, 05353
Richard is the co-founder and Executive Director of Food Connects. He has been leading food system development work in the Windham County area since 2008. Richard holds a M.A. from SIT Graduate Institute in Sustainable Development with a focus on Food Security for Vermont, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Marlboro College Graduate School. Berkfield was named one of Vermont’s Rising Stars by Vermont Business Magazine in 2014. He and his family enjoy growing and preparing as much of their own food as possible, though as work demands increase, he better understand the saying that "The cobbler’s children have no shoes."
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Consumer Education and Marketing
Eat Local Campaign
Research
Education and Workforce Development
Agritourism
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®Tom Bivins
infoREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vtcheese.com
(866) 261-8595
Vermont Cheese Council
vtcheese.com
West Parish Road
Westminster West VT, 05346
Since 1996, the Vermont Cheese Council has worked to support the Vermont cheese industry with both marketing and educational opportunities. The VCC provides the tools necessary to encourage Vermont cheesemakers to follow the best possible manufacturing practices, in order to assure our customers that Vermont cheese represents the highest level of quality in the marketplace.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Consumer Education and Marketing
Research
Business-Education Partnerships
Rooted in Vermont®C.Rose Bragg
braggfamilyfarmREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
603-991-5511
Owner
Bragg Family Farm
200 bobbin mill rd
Lunenburg VT, 05906
Husband, wife and baby trio in North Eastern VT. We're small, on ten acres and building our off-grid home. This will be our third year on completely blank land. Dave is a carpenter and Rose runs the homestead. As of now we have chickens, dogs, apples, flowers, produce and herbs. Rose makes and sells soap and wool products at two farmers markets on the weekend. We are ideally looking for someone who is passionate about sustainable living and lifestyle. We're looking for someone part time as we do not have a lot that we can afford. We are willing to barter for some of the compensation. This position has a lot of room to grow if the person is the right fit.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
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Health
Rooted in Vermont®Bill Brown
billREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@confluencevt.com
(802) 952-8907
Executive Director
Confluence Behavioral Health
confluencevt.com
1646 GOVE HILL RD
Thetford Center Vermont, 05075-9041
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Network Groups
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Education and Workforce Development
Farm to Institution
Food Access
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Rooted in Vermont®Alex Buskey
therangervtREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
802-281-2438
Outreach Coordinator
Alliance for Vermont Communities
alliancevermont.org
168 Monarch Hill Rd
Tunbridge Vermont, 05077
The mission of Alliance for Vermont Communities (AVC) is to protect working farms, forests and communities of central Vermont and to promote responsible development that will sustain the rural heritage and values for present and future generations.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Agritourism
Food Access
Financing
Soil and Water
Research
Energy
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Labor
Health
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Food Access PlanningErica Campbell
erica_campbellREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@sanders.senate.gov
Policy & Outreach Staff - Agriculture, food, rural dev. & transportation
Office of Senator Bernie Sanders
1 Church St, 3rd Floor
Burlington Vermont, 05401
Office on Senator Bernie Sanders--agriculture, nutrition, rural development & transportation policy
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Network Groups
Agricultural Land Use Planning
Education and Workforce Development
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Access
Business-Education PartnershipsMingla Charoenmuang
mcharoenmuangREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vtc.edu
818-416-1831
Institute for Applied Agriculture and Food Systems at Vermont Technical College
vtc.edu/agricultureinstitute
PO Box 500
Randolph Center Vermont, 05061
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Producer and Processor Association Support
Technical Assistance Coordination
Dairy Professional Development
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Agricultural Land Use Planning
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Financing
Soil and Water
Research
Energy
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Consumer Education and Marketing
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Business-Education Partnerships
Career Pathways & Image
Workforce Needs Assessment and Summit
Tech Task Force
Food Access
Eat Local Campaign
Agritourism
Farm to Institution
Food Retailers
Meat Processing
Slow Money Vermont
Independent Grocers
Labor
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Health
Steering Committee
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®Jake Claro
JakeREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vsjf.org
(802) 828-5669
Farm to Plate Program Director
Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
vsjf.org
3 Pitkin Court
Suite 301E
Montpelier VT, 05602
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Production and Processing
Meat Processing
Food Safety
Workforce Needs Assessment and Summit
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
LaborDorsey Coale
dorseycoaleREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
(802) 349-9772
Director
Patricia A. Hannaford Career Center
hannafordcareercenter.org
51 Charles Avenue
Middlebury VT, 05753
I am the Executive Director of Addison County Relocatization Network ACORN. ACORN is a non profit supporting farmers and the food system in Addison County Vermont.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Food Cycle Coalition
Aggregation and Distribution
Financing
Consumer Education and Marketing
Education and Workforce Development
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Energy
Food Access
Health
Research
Agritourism
Business-Education Partnerships
Career Pathways & Image
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Farm to Institution
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
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Food Access Planning
Food Justice
Independent Grocers
Rooted in Vermont®
Slow Money VermontOllie Cultrara
ollie.cultraraREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vermont.gov
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
vermontagriculture.com
116 State Street
Montpelier VT, 05620
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Network Groups
Aggregation and Distribution
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Production and Processing
Energy
Financing
Food Access
Health
Labor
Research
Soil and Water
Farm to Institution
Independent Grocers
Agritourism
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Slow Money Vermont
Food Access Planning
Steering Committee
Food JusticeSarah Danly
sarahREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vsjf.org
(802) 828-3745
Farm to Plate Network Manager
Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
vsjf.org
3 Pitkin Court
Suite 301E
Montpelier VT, 05602
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Network Groups
Valerie Desmarais
valREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@kingcon.com
802-489-FRSH
Owner / Operator
802 Fresh!
2517 Brook Road
West Burke Vermont, 05871
Fresh fast food truck with an emphasis on locally sourced, sustainably produced delicious food!
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
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Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Agritourism
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Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®Matthew DiLuzio
ngm01301REMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
(413) 768-9745
I'm a new gourmet mushroom farmer located in White River Junction. We are cultivating a variety of oyster mushrooms, lions mane, maitake, shitake, pioppino, brick cap, and many more on the horizon. My buddy Jesse and I make it our mission to bring in a new level of sustainability to mushroom production by eliminating the use of non-recyclable plastic and lowering our energy use by utilizing inovative sterilization techniques. We are in the design stages of integrating mushroom production into a permaculture-based perrenial gardern.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Independent Grocers
Agritourism
Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Health
Rooted in Vermont®Suzanne & Rick Enser
raggedorchidfarmREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
(802) 234-7230
Proprietor, Farmer, Conservation Biologist
Ragged Orchid Farm VT
9393 VT Route 12
Barnard Vermont, 05031
Ragged Orchid Farm propagates medicinal and culinary herbs, and native plants for pollinator gardens and other conservation projects to enhance biodiversity. We also have a small herd of dairy goats and heritage breed chickens. All plants are organically grown, and all livestock are fed organic feed and have access to graze throughout the day.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education PartnershipsWhitney Feininger
whitneyfeningerREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
404-217-5628
Connecting people to the resources they need for success and promoting continuous learning and professional development drives me. I am a current graduate student in Champlain's MS in Human Relations and Organizational Development program and within that program I am pursuing a certificate in positive organizational development. In my coursework I am focusing on lifelong and continuous learning and applying appreciative inquiry and a strength-based approach to career readiness, learning cultures, onboarding and training, assessments and evaluations, and professional and workforce development. My background is in publishing, printing, and marketing where I have held project/ account manager and coordinator roles. Within the Vermont food system I've worked in guest services where at Shelburne Farms where I had the opportunity to educate inn and restaurant guests to farm-to-table dining and sustainable education. I am also on the board of the Full Barrel Co-operative Brewery which aims to establish the first consumer co-op brewery and bar in Vermont. Within the project we are committed to partnering with local organizations and using local ingredients. I have also chaired Green Committees, been a site leader for the Vermont Community Garden Network Day in the Dirt! and am a long-time City Market Member Worker.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Education and Workforce Development
Farm to Institution
Research
Governor's Institute
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
LaborEmily Finnegan
emily.i.finneganREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
Shelburne Farms
shelburnefarms.org
1611 Harbor Road
Shelburne VT, 05482
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Workforce Needs Assessment and Summit
Business-Education PartnershipsBob Flint
bobfREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@springfielddevelopment.org
802-885-3061
Executive Director
Springfield Regional Development Corporation
springfielddevelopment.org
14 Clinton Street
Springfield Vermont, 05601
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Network Groups
Food Cycle Coalition
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Access
Business-Education PartnershipsMorrisville Food Co-op
morrisvillecoopREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
(802) 522-3989
Project Manager
Morrisville Food Co-op
morrisvillecoop.com
46 Pleasant Street
Morrisville Vermont, 05661
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Network Groups
Eloise GIrard
ecoeloREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@hotmail.com
(802) 586-2805
Farm stand manager
Pete's Greens
petesgreens.com
266 South Craftsbury Road
Craftsbury VT, 05826
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Jack Glade
jackgREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@tutorialcenter.org
(802) 447-0111
The Tutorial Center
tutoringvermont.org/our-services/yapinfo
208 Pleasant Street
Bennington VT, 05201
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Food Access Planning
Food Access
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food JusticeHannah Harrington
hannahfharrington9REMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
(802) 345-2664
Community Kitchen Academy
cvcac.org
20 Gable Place
Barre Vermont, 05641
Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf
feedingchittenden.org
228 North Winooski Avenue
Burlington Vermont, 05401
My name is Hannah Harrington and I am the Service Coordinator at the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf, working on program development for the Community Kitchen Academy job training program and helping people connect and apply for needed services and benefits. I am a Vermonter and alumna of University of Vermont, graduating with a B.S. in Community and International Development and a M.S. in Community Development and Applied Economics. During that time I focused on studying and researching food systems, specifically local food systems and the challenges and opportunities in store for Vermont’s local food system now and in the future. Food and cooking are some of my greatest passions, in addition to exploring the Vermont outdoors on mountain bike or skis and making pottery pieces for the kitchen. I am driven to work towards a more equitable food system that gets healthy food to everyone, as good, nutritious food can provide humankind with strength, medicine, economic opportunity, and happiness.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Independent Grocers
Food Access
Business-Education Partnerships
Labor
Slow Money VermontMike Heath
MikeREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@kingdomcrust.com
802-751-8500
Owner
Kingdom Crust Company
kingdomcrust.com
1216 Railroad St
St Johnsbury VT, 05819
Kingdom Crust Co. serves traditional hand tossed brick oven pizza. We strive to use only locally sourced, minimally processed ingredients. Our meats and toppings are cooked fresh on site. Our dough is made from locally produced unbleached and unbrominated King Arthur Flour. Our fried fare is cooked in heart healthy, GMO and soy free sunflower oil.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Food Cycle Coalition
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Access
Financing
Research
Business-Education Partnerships
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®
Food Access Planning
Slow Money VermontCorey Hennessey
corey.a.hennesseyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
Founder
Orchard Street Business Services
orchardstreetvt.com
East Montpelier Vermont, 05651
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Meat Processing
Producer and Processor Association Support
Food Safety
Dairy Professional Development
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Agricultural Land Use Planning
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Retailers
Agritourism
Food Access
Soil and Water
Research
Energy
Governor's Institute
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Labor
Steering Committee
Financing
Technical Assistance Coordination
Workforce Needs Assessment and Summit
Slow Money Vermont
Eat Local CampaignEllen Kahler
ellenREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vsjf.org
(802) 828-5320
Executive Director
Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
vsjf.org
3 Pitkin Court
Suite 301E
Montpelier VT, 05602
I assist in coordinating the Farm to Plate Network and our organization is responsible for implementing the Farm to Plate Initiative, at the request of the Vermont Legislature. I serve on the Boards of Red Tomato, the Working Lands Enterprise Fund, and the Sustainable Agriculture Council. I am also active in helping other New England states in developing their own food system plans and implementation efforts.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education PartnershipsJonathan Kaplan
jdk02220REMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@lsc.vsc.edu
(802) 751-9903
Adjunct Faculty
Lyndon State College
lyndonstate.edu
1001 College Road
Lyndon VT, 05851
I educate students on the ecology of food production, the role of food choices in personal health and sustainable food systems. I also have a unique background, having been an organic vegetable grower, executive chef, hot lunch program director and commodity trader recruiter. I have a Doctorate in Botany and Plant Pathology
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Food Access
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
LaborLiz Kenton
ekentonREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@uvm.edu
(802) 257-7967 x308
Youth Agriculture Project Coordinator
University of Vermont Extension (Brattleboro)
uvm.edu/extension
130 Austine Drive
Suite 300
Brattleboro VT, 05301
I coordinate on-site programs and professional development to help young people build life and job skills through hands-on learning about food, nutrition, and agriculture. Examples include youth tractor safety certification; a summer job-training program where at-risk youth grow and market fresh produce as a team; and workshops with students, and with educators, on topics including school gardening, experiential education, farm to school, and service learning through agriculture.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Farm to Institution
Food Access
Business-Education Partnerships
Food Access PlanningSadie Laing
sadieklaingREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
(507) 269-1039
Community Service Member
Maplehill School and Community Farm
maplehillschoolandfarm.org
1329 John Fowler Road
Plainfield Vermont, 05667
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education PartnershipsAmy Lewis
amy.lewisREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@ccv.edu
(802) 828-2955
Coordinator of Academic Services - Workforce Education
Community College of Vermont
ccv.edu
660 Elm Street
Montpelier VT, 05601
The Community College of Vermont is Vermont’s second largest college, serving over 7,000 students each semester. With twelve locations and extensive online learning options, our students don’t have to travel far from their communities to access our degree and certificate programs, workforce, secondary and continuing education opportunities, and academic and veterans support services.
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Marie Louka
madrugadafarmREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
802.772.0152
Madrugada Farm, LLC will certify organic with NOFA-VT summer 2016. We grow heirloom dry beans, popping corn, sorghum and other products for our Pantry Farm Share. We also offer an Herb Farm Share full of dried leaves, roots, and flowers for your salves, tinctures, tisanes, and bitters. We work with distillers to grow amazing flavorful herbs for their brews.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education PartnershipsCrystal Maderia
kismetkitchenREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@yahoo.com
(802) 223-8646
Kismet
kismetkitchens.com
52 State Street
Montpelier VT, 05602
Like the taste of spring maple to the patient vermonter, KISMET is the gift given to hard work and honest intention. KISMET, means fate, or Good Karma returned, & is the heart of our philosophy, the reason we remain dedicated to our local economy, and what we hope may encourage and inspire a whole community. KISMET is a farm to table community oriented restaurant, chef owned and operated since 2006. After many years traveling and studying around the world, I opened Kismet in 2006. Through the seasons, I meet with my team and plan the weekly menus from produce and products at their peak, the best of the season’s colors and aromas. The menus we plan are for our own children and community; truly inspired by our travels, our stories, our love for each other, and the celebration of good health.
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Network Groups
Consumer Education and Marketing
Agritourism
Education and Workforce Development
Business-Education Partnerships
Workforce Needs Assessment and SummitJohn Mandeville
johnREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@lamoilleeconomy.org
(802) 888-5640
Executive Director
Lamoille Economic Development Corporation
lamoilleeconomy.org
582 Laporte Road
Morrisville VT, 05661
Support and promotion for local agriculture, particularly value-added and sustainable ag and food production through the provision of technical services, financial support through loan and grant programs, assistance with regulatory and permit issues, marketing and promotion help, assistance in writing grant applications to third party providers, providing networking opportunities and running two, local on-line farmer's markets.
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DJ Masi
dj.masiREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vermont.gov
(802) 793-8309
VocRehab Vermont
vocrehab.vermont.gov
63 Professional Drive
Morristown VT, 05661
Creative Workforce Solutions
cwsvt.com
103 South Main Street, Weeks 1A
Waterbury Vermont, 05671-2303
CWS Business Account Manager Morrisville Region Interested in learning about the diversified agricultural sector of Vermont's economy and food system employment opportunities-skills and attributes needed to be successful. I enjoy getting out into the field to meet with business owners and managers to better understand their operations and expectations for employees. Feel free to contact me!
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Agricultural Land Use Planning
Farmland Access
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Access
Soil and Water
Business-Education Partnerships
Labor
Health
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Agritourism
Rooted in Vermont®Alissa Matthews
alissa.matthewsREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vermont.gov
802-505-1661
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
vermontagriculture.com
116 State Street
Montpelier VT, 05620
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Farm to Institution
Food Retailers
Agritourism
Financing
Business-Education Partnerships
LaborOrly Munzing
orlyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@strollingoftheheifers.com
802-258-9177
Founder
Strolling of the Heifers
strollingoftheheifers.com
157 Main St
Brattleboro Vermont, 05301
Orly is the founder and executive director of Strolling of the Heifers. Drawing on her 20-year background as an educational consultant, she gathered a group of volunteers in 2001 to help focus attention on the difficulties of small family farms in the Brattleboro region. In 2002, they organized the first annual Strolling of the Heifers, a parade and festival celebrating farmers and aiming to connect people with healthy local food. With the growth in the local foods movement since then, “the Stroll” has expanded to a full weekend which is annually rated one of Vermont’s Top Ten Summer Events (and in 2013 was rated one of America’s Top 10 Summer Festivals). Under Orly’s leadership, over the years Strolling of the Heifers launched educational programs, a microloan fund, and farm internship program for youth, which are now all carried on by other organizations. In 2011, the Slow Living Summit was added, immediately preceding Stroll Weekend. Strolling of the Heifers also currently organizes the Vermont Farm/Food Business Plan Competition in collaboration with Vermont Technical College.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Workforce Needs Assessment and Summit
Research
Business-Education PartnershipsMatt Myers
matthew.myersREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@uvm.edu
802-661-8473
Outreach Professional
University of Vermont Extension (Burlington)
uvm.edu/extension
146 University Place, Suite 103
Burlington VT, 05405
Matt Myers, a UVM Extension employee, is in the process of creating a new UVM internship program that will place students from across academic disciplines into different sectors of Vermont's food system, giving them valuable hands-on experience to prepare them for future work in Vermont. In 2009, Matt started UVM Extension's "Vermont Rebates for Roll Bars Program" to address farmers' leading cause of death, the tractor roll over. This program remains strong four years later with over 400 farmer calls to the informational hotline and 145 roll bars installed, providing 99% protection from death in the event of a roll over. This work received national recognition from NIOSH in 2012.
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Mary Niebling
mnieblingREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@capstonevt.org
802-477-5118
Director, Community Economic Development
Capstone Community Action
capstonevt.org
20 Gable Place
Barre Vermont, 05641
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Agritourism
Food Access
Financing
Research
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Health
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®
Food Access PlanningMariah Noth
mariahREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vhcb.org
(802) 735-7893
Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program
vhcb.org/viability
VT Housing & Conservation Board
58 East State Street
Montpelier VT, 05602
Vermont Farm and Forest Viability Program Outreach & Communications Coordinator
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Agritourism
Food Access
Financing
Research
Energy
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Health
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®
Food Access PlanningKelly Nottermann
kellyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vsjf.org
(802) 828-1121
Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
vsjf.org
3 Pitkin Court
Suite 301E
Montpelier VT, 05602
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Kevin O'Donnell
KGODonnell34REMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
(802) 380-1560
Principal
Llenroc Consulting
29 Deerfield drive
Montpelier Vermont, 05602
Kevin is a lifelong hospitality student having been a part of the industry for over 4 decades now. Having lived in Vermont for over 25 years and managed two of Vermont’s premier properties, The Inn at Shelburne Farms and the Old Tavern at Grafton, during which time he was recognized as the Borden E. Avery “Innkeeper of the Year “ for the state of Vermont. Kevin has chaired the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and was appointed to the Governor’s Travel and Recreation Council that he also chaired for a number of years. He is the sole principal of Llenroc consulting which specializes in ethical solutions for the hospitality industry, with a focus on boutique hotels, country clubs, and restaurants, and a diverse group of food and beverage operations. Kevin currently is the Vice President of the Vermont Fresh Network and is one of only a few non attorney members to sit on the Vermont Responsibility Board, which administers guidance and discipline for the Vermont bar Association. Kevin most recently was the Vice President of Food & Beverage Operations at the New England Institute where he was responsible for all of the food & beverage outlets that the college maintained as part of their education model including: National Life, LA Brioche Bakery, NECI on Main, NECI Catering, Vermont College and Husky in Milton, Vermont. Kevin earned a B.S. in Hotel Administration from Cornell University and a culinary degree from SUNY Cobleskill, where he has been most recently inducted into both the Business and Athletic Hall of Fame the only graduate to be in both.
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Amanda Pacilli
mandyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@thelittleacre.farm
(802) 777-4554
co-owner
the little acre farm
thelittleacre.farm
217 Ferry Rd
Ferrisburg Vermont, 05491
Microfarm located in West Ferrisburg, raising chickens, ducks, and quail. 48 raised garden beds with non-certified organic heirloom vegetables and fruits. Creating locally sourced meal kits for Vermonters.
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Network Groups
Nat Piper
nathan.piperREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vermont.gov
(802) 479-4441
Business Account Manager
Creative Workforce Solutions
cwsvt.com
103 South Main Street, Weeks 1A
Waterbury Vermont, 05671-2303
As a Business Account Manager, my primary role is business and community outreach on behalf of the Creative Workforce Solutions employment initiative. We assist Vermonter's connected with the State of Vermont's Agency of Human Services to find and maintain employment. We also assist businesses in our local labor markets with staffing, training and retention, utilizing available Progressive Employment tools to support career exploration & training. Please reach out with any questions!
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Meat Processing
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Agritourism
Food Access
Financing
Soil and Water
Research
Energy
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Labor
Tech Task Force
Slow Money Vermont
Health
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Rooted in Vermont®
Steering CommitteeLydia Pitkin
lydiaREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vsjf.org
802-828-5670
Office Manager & Program Coordinator
Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund
vsjf.org
3 Pitkin Court
Suite 301E
Montpelier VT, 05602
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Workforce Needs Assessment and Summit
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
LaborJay Ramsey
jay.ramseyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vermont.gov
802-479-1343
Vermont Agency of Education
education.vermont.gov
219 North Main Street, Ste. 402
Barre VT, 05641
I am the State Director for Career Technical Education at the Agency of Education. I serve on the Registered Apprenticeship Council at the VT Department of Labor. I live in Montpelier and work in Barre.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Financing
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Business-Education Partnerships
LaborKendra Rickerby
klrickerbyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@gmail.com
802-238-5760
Vermont Agency of Education
education.vermont.gov
219 North Main Street, Ste. 402
Barre VT, 05641
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Education and Workforce Development
Research
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Technical Assistance Coordination
Food Safety
AgritourismJeff Roberts
cowcreekREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@attglobal.net
(802) 656-8300
Principal Consultant
Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese
nutrition.uvm.edu/viac
109 Carrigan Drive
255 Carrigan Wing Building
Burlington VT, 05401
A resident of Montpelier Vermont, Jeff Roberts is president of Cow Creek Creative Ventures, dedicated to developing solutions in the areas of agriculture and food policy, conservation, the environment, and community economic development. He is co-founder of the Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese at the University of Vermont. His book, The Atlas of American Artisan Cheese (Chelsea Green, 2007), was the first comprehensive survey of small-scale producers. He is a member of Guilde Internationale des Fromagers. He teaches the history and culture of food at the New England Culinary Institute, is a visiting professor at the Slow Food University of Gastronomic Science, provides consulting services to a wide array of small-scale food producers, and is a frequent speaker in Europe and the United States on artisan food, sustainable agriculture, and the working landscape. During his career, Jeff was a meteorologist, museum curator and historian, and director of development at the Morris Arboretum in Philadelphia. From 1987 – 1994, he was associate dean for at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine. From 1995 – 1998, he was vice president for external affairs for the Vermont Land Trust. For more than a decade, Jeff was active in Slow Food International and USA, including service as a director and treasurer of the national board; locally he served as a director of the Central Vermont Community Land Trust; Vermont Arts Council; and Vermont Fresh Network.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Workforce Needs Assessment and Summit
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education PartnershipsLynn Rublee
lrubleeREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@umbrellanek.org
Associate Director
Umbrella
umbrellanek.org
1222 Main Street Ste. 301
St. Johnsbury Vermont, 05819
Program Manager for Cornucopia, a culinary training program for women in transition.
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Network Groups
Financing
Consumer Education and Marketing
Education and Workforce Development
Integrated Curriculum & Flexible Pathways
Agritourism
Health
Rooted in Vermont®
Business-Education Partnerships
Career Pathways & Image
Steering CommitteeLiz Ruffa
lizREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@merckforest.org
(802) 394-2579
Project Director
Northshire Grows
147 Green Peak Orchard North
East Dorset Vermont, 05253
Liz Ruffa is the Director of Institutional Advancement at Merck Forest & Farmland Center, a 3,200 acre conserved property in Rupert, VT. Merck Forest is on a mission to inspire curiosity, love and responsibility for working and natural lands. Liz lives in East Dorset where she continues to champion regional food systems through her work as a member of the Dorset Select Board.
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Network Groups
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Food Cycle Coalition
Farmland Access
Aggregation and Distribution
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Access
Financing
Research
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Communications and Marketing Community of Practice
Food Access PlanningLynn Ellen Schimoler
LynnEllen.SchimolerREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vermont.gov
802-622-4477
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
vermontagriculture.com
116 State Street
Montpelier VT, 05620
Lynn Ellen Schimoler is the Senior Agricultural Business Development Program Manager for the Working Lands Enterprise Initiative at the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets. Schimoler has worked in the Natural Foods Industry for over 20 years. Her experience includes working for independently owned markets in CA,NH and VT, collaborating with the National Cooperatives Grocers to develop retail Co-ops around the US, and working as Director of Purchasing and Merchandising for City Market/Onion River Co-op.Schimoler has expertise in project management, store operations, product development, and human resources. Schimoler has been featured in Natural Foods Merchandiser and Edible Green Mountains, and as a guest speaker at numerous conferences, including Penton Media group's EXPO East. Schimoler has a BA in Dance from Bennington College, and is a part-time Dance Lecturer at the University of Vermont.
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Network Groups
Aggregation and Distribution
Farm to Institution
Consumer Education and Marketing
Food Retailers
Agritourism
Food Access
Business-Education Partnerships
Tech Task Force
Slow Money VermontKayla Silver
kaylaREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@localvoretoday.com
(718) 594-0415
Localvore
localvore.co
60 Lake Street Suite 1f
Burlington Vermont, 05401
Hello, My name is Kayla and I represent Localvore Today, a digital marketing group focused on connecting consumers to local businesses, farms, and entrepreneurs. I hope to be in touch with my community in active and meaningful ways. Kayla
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Consumer Education and Marketing
Financing
Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Farm Viability Indicators Task ForceJaime Silverstein
jaimeREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@nofavt.org
NOFA Vermont
nofavt.org
14 Pleasant Street
Richmond VT, 05477
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Education and Workforce Development
Farm to Institution
Consumer Education and Marketing
Research
Business-Education Partnerships
Rooted in Vermont®Margaret Skinner
mskinnerREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@uvm.edu
(802) 656-5440
Research Professor
University of Vermont
uvm.edu/~saffron
University of Vermont
Burlington Vermont, 05405
Dr. Margaret Skinner is a Research Professor and Extension Entomologist at the Univ. of Vermont, Entomology Research Lab, where she has worked for 36 years, conducting research on management of a wide array of insect pests in forests, vegetables and greenhouse ornamentals. Her current primary target pests are aphids in high-tunnel vegetables and western flower thrips in greenhouse ornamentals. She works on developing strategies to maximize the potential of insect-killing fungi and plant-mediated systems. As the UVM Extension Entomologist she assists professional growers and homeowners with pest id and IPM. She co-founded the North American Center for Saffron Research & Development, which seeks to develop the potential of this high-value crop to increase revenue generation options for small family farms through greater diversification.
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Network Groups
Producer and Processor Association Support
Dairy Professional Development
Education and Workforce Development
Business-Education Partnerships
Production and ProcessingJulie Smith
julie.m.smithREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@uvm.edu
802-656-4496
Extension Associate Professor
UVM/ASCI
blog.uvm.edu/jmsmith
570 Main Street
Terrill Bldg
Burlington VT, 05405
Julie Smith is an Extension Dairy Specialist based in the Department of Animal Science of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at the University of Vermont. Her programs focus on biosecurity and preventive animal health management. She is currently working on an interdisciplinary project to better prepare farms and communities to implement biosecurity plans in the face of a highly contagious disease emergency. Julie graduated with a BS in Biological Sciences, a DVM, and a PhD in Animal Nutrition from Cornell University.
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Gary Strait
garyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@labelquest.net
802-643-2100
Label Quest LLC
labelquest.net
1207 Pond Road
Monkton Vermont, 05473
My wife Barbara and myself have been in the label business 16 years together as an added value resource for pressure sensitive labels, label printers, label software, label applicators, label accessories and anything related to making your label experience affordable and easier to work with at your place of business. Personally I have been in the labeling industry 30 years. We try to put in perspective what is best for your particular label needs. We have been advising small and medium sized companies with success about their labeling efforts. We have stock and custom solutions. We have adhesives or all environments and address the label material to adequately survive its life on your products usage. We have the ability to meet very small production runs as well as the larger label orders. "Labeling Tools for YOUR Trade" has been our motto. Thank you for your interest and considering Label Quest!
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Network Groups
Food Cycle Coalition
Education and Workforce Development
Consumer Education and Marketing
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
HealthJulia & Paul VanDerWielen
innkeeperREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@themarblewestinn.com
(802) 867-0400
Chefs & Innkeepers
The Marble West Inn
themarblewestinn.com
1847 Dorset West Road
Dorset Vermont, 05251
We are the Chefs & Innkeepers of The Marble West Inn. Our Inn highlights the abundance of the Taconic Mountain Valley. There are no set menus at The Marble West Inn. Instead, guests are offered a multi-course experience featuring the best offerings from our gardens, our partner farms, local markets and purveyors. We offer a true farm to table experience, and coordinate several events a year, highlighting Vermont agriculture.
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Network Groups
Production and Processing
Food Cycle Coalition
Education and Workforce Development
Aggregation and Distribution
Agritourism
Financing
Career Pathways & Image
Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Farm Viability Indicators Task Force
Communications and Marketing Community of PracticeJim Verzino
jimREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@strollingoftheheifers.com
(802) 242-1249
Entrepreneur in Residence
Windham Grows
windhamgrows.org
157 Main St.
Brattleboro Vermont, 05301
I help farm and food entrepreneurs start and scale their businesses as Entrepreneur in Residence at Windham Grows.
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Network Groups
Education and Workforce Development
Business-Education Partnerships
Career Pathways & ImageRoxanne Vought
roxannevREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vbsr.org
802.862.8347
Program Manager
Vermont Intern Program
internvt.org
Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility
255 South Champlain Street, Suite 11
Burlington Vermont, 05401
Roxanne Vought, Internship Program and Special Projects Manager, Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR). A graduate of UVM, Roxanne started her career through a series of internships with Burlington area non-profits, and continued with positions at Carbon Harvest Energy and UVM Continuing Education, where she spent 8 years helping students of all ages connect with opportunities for learning, enrichment and professional development. Having come of age in farm country, she shares a great passion for food systems and agriculture, and has both studied Food Systems at UVM and worked with the UVM Center for Sustainable Agriculture promoting Vermont Land Link – a land linking platform for farm seekers and property owners. A frequent performer and teacher, Roxanne lives in Burlington with her partner, Nate Plasha, and enjoys time outside, in the kitchen, on stage and in the classroom.
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Michelle Wallace
mwallaceREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vtfoodbank.org
(802) 477-4125
Program Manager
Vermont Foodbank
vtfoodbank.org
33 Parker Road
Barre VT, 05641
I am the Director of Community Health and Nutrition at the Vermont Foodbank. I'm responsible for directing community-based programs and initiatives that emphasize access to fresh produce, nutrition/ health education and community food security. I oversee several Vermont Foodbank programs including the Gleaning Program, Community Kitchen Academy, VT Fresh and Pick for Your Neighbor.
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Network Groups
Farmland Access and Stewardship
Aggregation and Distribution
Food Access
Financing
Business-Education Partnerships
Slow Money Vermont
Rooted in Vermont®
Food Access PlanningSara Jean Whelan
sjREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@threechimneyfarm.com
(631) 626-4927
Co-Founder
Three Chimney Farm
threechimneyfarm.com
95 Spear St
Charlotte VT, 05445
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Network Groups
Scott and Valarie Wilson
honeyREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vtbeekeeper.com
802-333-0084
Owner
Heavenly Honey Apiary
vtbeekeeper.com
118 Rotax Road
Monkton Vermont, 05469
Heavenly Honey Apiary is a side-line honey operation in the Green Mountains of Vermont. We produce: raw honey (unfiltered and not heat processed), 100% bees wax candles, bee pollen, and bee propolis. Our aim is to provide you with raw honey, as if you were eating it straight from the comb. Community is important to us; we give back through mentoring and training newer beekeepers. We strive to learn the best practices to keep healthy natural bees. Thanks for supporting us; we look forward to serving you! Check us out here: www.VtBeekeeper.com
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Network Groups
Independent Grocers
Consumer Education and Marketing
Business-Education Partnerships
Communications and Marketing Community of PracticeHeather Winther
heatherREMOVETHISBEFORESENDING@vtrga.org
(802) 839-1928
Director of Events & Marketing
Vermont Retail and Grocers Association
vtrga.org
963 Paine Turnpike North
Berlin Vermont, 05602