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Oct. 2013
(end) and
Nov. 2013
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Chamber &
Community News
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Have questions about health care in Vermont?
Vermont Health Connect offers a new way to choose a health plan that fits your needs and your budget. Both private and public plans are available through Vermont Health Connect. You're invited to a community forum with Vermont Health Connect staff members. This is a "drop-in" session where you can sit privately with a Navigator and ask questions about your particular situation. The session will take place in the:
Otter Valley Union High School Library
Thursday, November 14
from 6:30 - 8:30 pm.
Sponsored by the Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce. Contact 802-247-6401 with questions. VermontHealthConnect.gov
Vermont Health Connect Toll-Free Hotline: 1-855-899-9600
Toll-Free Small Business Hotline: 1-855-499-9800
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Carr was already pushing Mondlak out of the way at the Auction, back in July!
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CHAMBER MIXER:
Changing of the Guard: "Change is Good"
Please join the Chamber Board and outgoing Chamber Executive Director Janet Mondlak and incoming Chamber Executive Director Bernie Carr for a Membership Mixer
Wednesday, November 20 from 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Brandon Museum at the
Stephen A Douglas Birthplace
Tasty Appetizers and Bar "by donation"
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CHAMBER INTERN:  MICHELLE MASERONI
Brandon Vermont is now part of the number one used traveling sites, wikitravel! I am still working on some final touches but I would love for everyone to take a peak. It is very simple to use. Go to wikitravel.org and type in "Brandon (Vermont)" in the search box; [or click here].
I am now excited to design the flyer for Moonlight Madness and once that's done begin to work on our Wikipedia page. I have already learned so much and am eager to keep learning.
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PAYING THE BILLS
In the comming week, Chamber members will be receiving their 2014 dues invoice. Dues are being emailed direct from our billing software.
The email is from the Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce and the Subject says: "New invoice ###### from Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce, sent using FreshBooks"
For the third straight year, the Chamber Board of Directors has decided to hold dues steady. Board members are delighted to be able to continue to provide the same great benefits to members and the general community, without raising dues.
Please pay promptly so we can spend more time on programs, events and activities, rather than bookkeeping!
For more info, contact the Chamber at 802-247-6401 or info@brandon.org
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NEXT CHAMBER MEETING
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
The Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors will next meet on Monday, Nov. 18, 2013 at 6:30 pm in the Cliver Room at the Stephen A Douglas Birthplace.
Per Article III of the BACC Bylaws: 3. Voting: For Election of Board of Directors: Each business membership is entitled to one vote. In the case of membership being held in the name of a business, association, etc., one person shall be delegated to represent the business and to cast its vote.
Voting will take place at the November 18, 2013 meeting.
Chamber membership and the general public are invited to attend. |
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OPEN COMMUNITY INPUT MEETING:
Discussion about Downtown Brandon's Future!
Monday, Nov 4 at 5:00 PM at the Brandon Congregational Church Fellowship Hall
Meet with the Vermont Downtown Action Team: architects, planners, economic development, marketing and organizational professionals on a mission to assist Downtown Brandon move forward.
This is your town; they want to hear from you.
Your participation and input is essential to assist the team in understanding the issues. This understanding will enable them to develop appropriate and doable solutions for downtown.
The final presentation is scheduled on
Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 12:00 noon at the Brandon Congregational Church Fellowship Hall
These meetings are part of a Community Development Block Grant administered by the VT DOWNTOWN PROGRAM and facilitated by the DOWNTOWN BRANDON ALLIANCE.
For information contact: Steve Beck, Office of Economic Development,
downtownbrandonalliance@gmail.com or 247.5721
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FRIENDS OF OTTER VALLEY MUSIC
SPAGHETTI SUPPER
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013
at the BRANDON INN
Musical Performances by the West Side Story singers and the Middle School Jazz Band.
Two seatings - Space is limited
5:30 pm and 6:30 pm
Jazz Band will perform at 6:15 pm
Cost is $10 per adult and $5 for children 10 and under.
Tickets will be sold only at the door.
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NIFTY THRIFTY LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS. DO YOU HAVE ABOUT 4 HOURS A MONTH?
If you can spare four hours a month Nifty Thrifty wants you!
The Brandon Thrift Shop (dba Nifty Thrifty) needs more Volunteers. Each Volunteer is asked to work one shift per month; either a 10 to 2 shift on Monday through Saturday, or a 3ish to 6 shift on a Tuesday or Thursday afternoon. The work is easy and fun, the customers are interesting, and the merchandise is unique and always changing. To be part of this exclusive team of Volunteers who earn money to help our local kids pay for their post secondary education please call Barb Sprague at 770-2907. In advance; thank you so much for helping our town to fulfill the needs and interests of all of our citizens and visitors. |
WAKE THE DEAD", a RIP roaring comedy
The Brandon Town Players are pleased to present, our 6th annual murder mystery comedy dinner theater at the Brandon Inn on November 1st and 2nd. Festivities will begin at 5:30 with a cash bar, followed by dinner at 6:00 and the show at 7:30. For those who have followed the Players at their past dinner theater presentations, this one has a bit of a twist. We have performed at weddings, on a cruise ship, at a banquet for "O Mart" employees, as well as at a mystery writers convention, just to name a few. "Wake the Dead" sadly takes place at an Italian wake. As one can imagine (if you are at all familiar with Italian wakes) things get heated when Antionette takes over the proceedings.
The cast stars Sandy Gartner, Tom Brown, Martha Perkins, Charlie Gillam, Lois Jacubetz, Allon Wildgust, Will Mathis, Dennis Marden, Elizabeth Humphrey, Kathy Mathis, Carolyn Bride, Mike Frankiewicz and Bill Mathis. The audience will guess whodunnnit by solving a fill in the blank clue sheet with Italian references such as ...who is Jerry Lewis' sidekick...answer of course is Dean Martin during the dessert intermission. Winner will be presented with a gift basket full of Italian products.
The dinner will be buffet style, with Italian specialities to suit everyone's pallet. We will also have a silent auction with over 40 items from artists, weavers, coffee companies, craftsmen and gift certificates from local merchants and restaurants. There will be a 50/50 throughout the evening for those who like money.
Reservations are necessary and tickets will be $35 per person paid at the door for the dinner and show. If reserved by 10/27, tickets will be reduced to $30 per person. Reservations may be made by calling 345-3033. Don't miss this hysterical performance which promises to keep you laughing.
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SMALL TREASURES
Big Impressions
Brandon Artists Guild Member Show
The Brandon Artists Guild members will be presenting art and fine craft, finely designed and scaled to smaller dimensions. Each artist will interpret this theme with distinctive personal artistic style. These miniature pieces of art will be easy...for gift shopping, for transporting, for wrapping, for owning. The gallery will also be featuring a live tree decorated with handcrafted ornaments for sale made by the members.
The show opening will take place Friday, November 8, 5 - 7pm., and will hang through January 28.
 
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BRANDON'S MEMORY TREE
One of Brandon's long-standing traditions is the presence of a lit Memory Tree in Central Park to remind us of our loved ones, no longer with us. The Tree helps brighten our darkest days. Bulbs in memory of loved ones cost $1.00 each and help keep the tree lit all season. The lighting will take place on Sunday, December 1 at 4 pm. Look for a coupon for purchase of Memory Tree Light Bulbs at the end of this newsletter or in upcoming issues of The Reporter, or stop in at Carr's Florist & Gifts or The Inside Scoop. For more information, contact the Chamber at 802-247-6401
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COMPASS MUSIC AND ARTS CENTER PRESENTS
 Your Junk, My Art: The Transformation of Found Objects November 8th - December 15th
Opening Reception: Saturday, November 9th, 5-8pm Everyone has a creative spark. The visual artist takes life and license to explore visual representations often in unusual ways with great variety of material. We all know paint, sculpture, prints and photography. But one of the most playful ways is to explore with pre-constructed objects that for some reason peak our interest, challenge our way of seeing in unusual forms, or simply give the artist a way to develop a work somewhat as an improvisation in jazz with the object as a takeoff note or an added riff. With found objects anything goes from highly formal constructions to political ideas, installations to hilarious manifestations of the visual realm. We see the impetus in our neighbor's lawn metaphors and farmer's hay bale animals. Artists like Thornton Dial, Vic Muniz and Lonny Holly are noted for their masterful assemblages of found objects that are truly some of the finest "art" created in the 20th century. In Your Junk, My Art, artists from the region of Vermont and New York exhibit explorations of found objects as a material for use in creating a work of art. The artists represented are B Amore, Nancy Weis, Karen Koziol, Catherine Hall, Bob Hooker, Janet Van Fleet, Kristin Humbargar, Ronni Solbert, Dick Weis, Susan Farrow, Gene Childers, Tom Absher and Ruth Hamilton. The show will be presented at Compass Music and Arts Center from November 8 through December 15. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, November 9th from 5-8pm. Come see the art and take the opportunity to speak with the artists and ask some questions. You just might find yourself rummaging through the garage or yard sale boxes for inspiration. This exhibit is sponsored by the Compass Music and Arts Foundation. www.cmafvt.org For more information contact Maria Ammatuna at maria@cmacvt.org or call 802-247-3000. Compass Music and Arts Center is open daily from 11-4pm and is located at 333 Jones Dr. Brandon VT, 05733. Visit www.cmacvt.org. |
TAKE THE STREETS!
The SIXTH Annual Photography Contest and Exhibit is NOW OPEN!
through: November 16th Reception & Awards - Friday, November 1, 5-8pm NYC Empty Tracks, Robert Gold, 2010 Featuring photographer Robert Gold and over 100 community members The Chaffee Art Center is pleased to announce its 6th Annual Photography Contest. This year's theme is "Take the Streets," an attempt to get people out of their comfort zones and into their neighborhoods, making discoveries through the viewfinders of a camera. The chosen themes are always interpreted in a multitude of ways; this year is no exception, as entries range from portraits of market vendors to streetscapes of a quiet downtown to dancers in Nairobi. Ara LeFrancois, a yearly contestant and past winner, shared her enjoyment of the contest, "Everyone expresses their own view and each person's take on the theme is so different - you never know what will come from it." The contest is open to the public, and each year over one hundred community members submit photographs to be judged and exhibited. The featured photographer for this year's exhibit is Robert Gold, a former dentist and self-taught artist with a remarkable story. After spending two years bedridden due to complications from back surgery, he turned to art as a way to rehabilitate himself. Gold stretches the boundaries of photography with the integration of digital manipulation and acrylic painting, producing vibrant colors and textures while unveiling a new perspective of everyday surroundings. "My life has really been an on-going quest for new ways to see my world and new ways to use my surroundings", he says, which is exactly what we hope for our contest participants. We invite you to come visit the Chaffee Art Center at 16 South Main Street to vote for your favorite image, view the work of fellow friends and strangers, and join us in the celebration of our local - and global - streets. An opening reception and awards ceremony will take place on the evening of November 1st, from 5-8pm. There will be an opportunity to vote while you enjoy live music, food, drinks, and good company. The exhibition runs from October 25th to November 16th, 2013. People's Choice voting is open October 25th through November 1st. Gingerbread House Contest, November 15-December 21 -This annual exhibit is sure to be a delightful, sweet first taste of holiday spirit. We welcome individuals and groups of all ages to enter their one-of-a-kind gingerbread creations. For information about these shows and other Chaffee programs please visit our website at www.chaffeeartcenter.org or contact us at info@chaffeeartcenter.org or at (802) 775-0062. Please email us at info@chaffeeartcenter.org or call us at (802) 775-0356 to register for you class. For more information about our programs, events, and exhibits please visit our website at www.chaffeeartcenter.org or find us on facebook.
Deadline for sign up is five days prior to scheduled workshop. Payment is due upon registration. Refunds will be given to those who cancel up to 5 days prior to workshop.
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BRANDON MUSIC UPCOMING EVENTS
The Jazz of BMR Trio at Brandon Music
Jazz played with class, ambiance, and a touch of swing - that's the BMR Trio. BMR plays at Brandon Music on Saturday, November 2 at 7:30pm. A few of their recent appearances include The Burlington Discover Jazz Festival 2013, Nectars and Red Square in Burlington.
Steve Bredice, on saxophone and flute, Dave Mayette on upright bass and electric fretless, and Dan Romeo on piano and keyboard make up BMR Trio. Steve Bredice has played professionally for more than 25 years in a wide range of genres. A veteran of theatrical pit orchestras, jazz ensembles, working commercial bands and touring acts, he has spent the past several years in a 10-piece salsa band, Afinque. Dave Mayette has played professionally for more than 40 years. A protégé of Dr. Frank Prindl, he has played in bands, ensembles, and regional and national touring acts, and was a popular session player in Boston in the seventies and eighties. Dan Romeo studied Performance and Music Technology at Berklee College of Music and has performed and recorded for over 30 years in various genres with dozens of acts throughout New England and the U.S. and Canadian east coasts.
Tickets are $15. A pre-concert dinner is also available for $15. Reservations are recommended. Venue is BYOB. Call (802) 465-4071 or e-mail info@brandon-music.net for reservations or information. Brandon Music is located at 62 Country Club Rd. Brandon, VT 05733. www.brandon-music.net
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John Funkhouser Quartet
Pianist / composer John Funkhouser returns to Brandon Music on Saturday, November 16 at 7:30 with his quartet for a concert celebrating the release of his 4th CD, Still. Jon Garelick of the Boston Globe had high praise for Still: "The styles and moods of this accomplished, sometimes spellbinding collection range far and wide... distinctive in its extremes". A band of musicians without borders, Funkhouser's quartet incorporates all kinds of music into its modern jazz sound.
A native of the Boston area, Funkhouser majored in music theory at Cornell University and returned to Boston to earn a Master's degree from New England Conservatory in jazz piano, bass and composition in 1995. After four years in New York City, he again returned to Boston in 2000 to raise a family, perform, and teach at Berklee College of Music. Funkhouser is in demand as a jazz bassist and pianist, participating in an array of musical projects with the Northeast's most accomplished and creative musicians. In 2003 he joined the bass section of the New England Philharmonic, returning to his classical roots, and was one of three soloists in Gunther Schuller's 1991 Violin Concerto. Funkhouser has toured the United States several times, performing at the New Orlean's Jazz Festival, Oklahoma City's Jazz in June and many other music festivals. He appeared on ABC's "20/20" and twice on NBC's "Today Show". Joining him are three accomplished musicians: Phil Sargent on guitar, Greg Loughman playing the bass and Mike Connors on drums. It is indeed a boost for the local music scene and an honor to have musicians of such high caliber coming to Brandon.
This performance is graciously sponsored in part by the Brandon Inn. Tickets are $15. A pre-concert dinner is also available for $15. Reservations are recommended. Venue is BYOB. Call (802) 465-4071 or e-mail info@brandon-music.net for reservations or information. Brandon Music is located at 62 Country Club Rd. Brandon, VT 05733. www.brandon-music.net
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HORSE BOARDING AVAILABLE
Lazy Acres Equines, in Brandon, is excited to announce we will be accepting new boarders in December, following the completed construction of our new indoor and five new stalls next month. The arena's not up yet, but the picture above is the exact replica of our new indoor! After accepting clients currently on waiting list, we expect to have 2 available stalls as of December 1.
We pride ourselves on offering the highest standard of physical care for all horses on our property, and creating a supportive, safe community for our horse & human clients. We are especially passionate about assisting owners with keeping their horses healthy & sound into their "golden years."
Please contact us at info@lazyacresequines.com to schedule a tour, for information on new rates, or with any other questions - and be sure to check out our new website at www.lazyacresequines.com!
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 DECORATE A GINGERBREAD HOUSE at THE INSIDE SCOOP
Announcing the 2013 Decorate A Gingerbread House at The Inside Scoop: December 8 and 15.
We are trying something new this year -- you tell us the time you want to come on either of those days, we won't have "set times for sessions". Small houses = $12 and Large houses = $18. Private parties for groups of 8 or more. Start thinking of those creative ideas!
Call 802-247-6600 or email: janet@brandon.org to reserve your space(s)!
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 BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW!
Get a jump on the season and book your Holiday Party now at Neshobe Golf Club. Private, corporate and open event bookings should never be left to the last minute. Securing the dining facilities at the Nesh will assure you and your guests of a wonderful time with great food and drink served in a comfortable, casual atmosphere. Be the envy of the party circuit-call us now. Our service and kind attention to our guests is legendary. 802.247.3611 or inquire on the web by clicking here! See you soon! Rodney
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OTTER VALLEY WALKING STICK THEATER PRESENTS:
West Side Story
Nov 21, 22, 23 at 7:00 pm
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CHAMBER MEMBERS:
ARE YOU USING YOUR BIZ CARD YET? THERE ARE GREAT DISCOUNTS OUT THERE scroll down to the bottom of this email and check them out! NEW OPPORTUNITIES BEING ADDED ALL THE TIME
NEED A BIZ CARD? FOR YOU AND YOUR EMPLOYEES.
CONTACT THE CHAMBER AND TELL US HOW MANY YOU NEED!
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Have you ever considered traveling to Cuba?
You can. Legally. The Addison County Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Central Holidays West to offer a 9-day tour to Cuba. You'll start your trip in Miami and travel to Camaguey, Cienfuegos and Havana.
Departure date: Saturday, May 24, 2014. Want to learn more? There's an informational presentation on Monday, November 4, 2013 at Ilsley Library, Middlebury at 6 p.m.
 Cuba is forever linked with cigars and Castro, but programs to this island nation are more about revelation than a revolution. If you're looking for character and charm, Cuba has everything. Time warped by its revolution, Cuba feels like this is a sunny isle of contrasts. Walking around historic Camaguey, Trinidad or Havana is like a trip back in time. Music has, undoubtedly, most influenced the Cuban personality. It is said that in the Island, people sing while talking, dance while walking and humming the lyrics of a song. At night, the island pulsates with laughter, music, dance and rum filled cocktails. Join us and become part of a privileged few and legally travel to the island nation before the borders fully open. Attend the informational session on November 4th and/or visit our web page for more details. RSVPs are appreciated via email or by calling 802-388-7951 x2. Best regards,
Sue Hoxie
Marketing & Communication Director
Addison County Chamber of Commerce
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THINKING AHEAD
MEMORY TREE LIGHTING & FESTIVITIES:
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1
MOONLIGHT MADNESS in BRANDON:
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
and
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19
BRANDON LIBRARY HOLIDAY AUCTION
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
FESTIVAL SINGERS CONCERT
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15
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BRANDON BIZ CARD CORNER
BIZ CARD LISTINGS - WE KEEP ADDING
The list is growing as is the number of cards in members' (including employees) hands. Here's the list to date.
It is super easy to add your offering to the list. Just give a call (802-247-6401) or send an email (info@brandon.org).
Not a Chamber member but want to get in on the Biz Card action? We have many Individual Members -- what a great way to support a local non-profit and get your Biz Card! Just click here for an application ($50 annual membership)
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Do you enjoy receiving the e-newsletters from the Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce? Its easy to sign up your co-workers, friends, and family members who are not currently receiving it.
Just click here
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MEMORY TREE BULBS
Donations are now being accepted for Memory Tree bulbs in the memory of loved ones. The cost of the bulbs is $1.00 each. In Memory Of:
______________________________________
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Your Name & Phone Number:
Name: _______________________________
Phone: _______________________________
Send checks and forms to:
Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC)
PO Box 267, Brandon VT 05733.
Please do not send cash in the mail.
Names with cash or check may also be dropped off at Carr's Florist & Gifts or The Inside Scoop.
Deadline is Friday, Nov. 29, 2013. Tree lighting with singing will take place on Sun., Dec. 1, 2013 at 3:30 pm in Central Park, downtown Brandon.
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Brandon Area Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 267, Brandon, VT 05733
802-247-6401 ~ info@brandon.org ~ www.brandon.org
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