3/27 Update from the Golden Dome
!!((THIS POST IS NOT FORMATTED, NEED TO DISCUSS MOVING TO MAILCHIMP vs CONSTANT CONTACT))!!
Quick Links:
The Pitchfork Series Launch is a Success!
Update from the Statehouse
Head to the Farmhouse for Burgers with Benefits!
March Merchandise Promotion: Hats & Tees
Thanks to our 2018 Partner Members
March 27, 2018
Last week, a large and enthusiastic group gathered in Randolph to dive into the persistent challenges and creative solutions to land access in Vermont. The panel discussion and subsequent dialogue provided plenty of valuable info and inspiration for everyone in the room.
Thanks to everyone who made this event possible, including: our co-host BALE (Building a Local Economy); our panelists Corie Pierce of Bread & Butter Farm, Lila Bennett of Tangletown Farm, and Graham Unangst-Rufenacht of Robinson Hill Beef; Black Krim Tavern; the volunteers; and all of you who attended and shared some thoughtful conversation and an incredible meal with us.
Check out the Facebook album here. And stay tuned - the Pitchfork Series might be coming to you next!
- All of us at Rural Vermont
RURAL VERMONT ISSUES IN THE NEWS:
Friends of the Earth, 3/8: Poll: Farmers Overwhelmingly Oppose Bayer Monsanto Merger
* Rural Vermont was among the many organizations who administered this survey.
VPR, 3/12: She's From Jersey. She Tends Jersey. She Says Vermont Dairy Regulations Make a Hard Job Harder.
* featuring Rural VT member Lisa Kaiman!
The Hill, 3/26: McConnell Bill Would Legalize Hemp as an Agricultural Product.
* finally! the Feds might catch up with the states.
UPDATE FROM THE STATEHOUSE
Now that all the "Crossover" deadlines have come and gone, it is clear which bills have the potential to continue through the balance of the legislative process this year. Fortunately several of the bills Rural Vermont has been working on are still "alive."
As you are probably aware, much of the energy in the State House for the past few weeks has been focused on unprecedented gun control legislation. In addition, the political lines between the majority of the legislature and the Governor have become more clearly drawn as the struggle over the big annual "money" bills accelerates. The Governor is maintaining his "no new fees, no new taxes" position and the legislators are struggling to figure out how to pay for crucial services and programs.
None of the bills that Rural Vermont is working on involve appropriations or fees. We are hopeful that this, combined with the potential, albeit modest, of positive progress for farmers and the agricultural economy will increase their chances of being passed. You can read more details here.
Stay tuned for our Action Alerts when your voice will need to be heard!
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If you care about any of these issues and want to offer some ideas, share your perspective, stay informed, or serve as a Rural Vermont Advocacy Volunteer at the State House, please be in touch with Rural Vermont's field organizer Graham or call the office: (802) 223-7222.
THE FARMHOUSE TAP & GRILL:
Burgers with Benefits through this Sat, March 31st!
And while you're there, thank the Farmhouse for
their generous support of Rural Vermont!
MARCH MERCHANDISE PROMOTION:
Make a $100 donation and receive a special gift!
Bucket hat pictured. Standard baseball hat also available.
Now through the end of this month (that's Saturday, folks!), we've got a special "March Merchandise" promotion going on. Make a donation of $100+ or sign up to be a monthly giver at $10+ and we will thank you with your choice of a Rural Vermont tee or hat.
Of course, we always welcome your donation in ANY size. For 33 years, Rural Vermont has been fueled by members throughout the state and beyond who, just like you, have a strong desire to live in a landscape populated by thriving community-scale farms, and an economy that prioritizes reverence for the land and for tight-knit relationship. Come on, join us!
And thank you!
MANY THANKS TO OUR 2018 PARTNER MEMBERS
the Farmhouse Group, the Frankenburg Agency, Geobarns, Johnny's Selected Seeds, Northeast Organic Farming Association of VT, Red Hen Baking Co., the Skinny Pancake, Vermont Compost Company, Vermont Grass Farmers Association, and Vote Hemp
For more info on becoming a Partner Member, contact Shelby or call (802) 223-7222.