Greetings, all!
In our last newsletter, we spoke about our zone's still-developing agenda, which included a focus on the progress of ARPA funding and creative sector advocacy work. In this newsletter, we want to tell you about upcoming networking conversations called ARPA: Funding in Your Town and Advocacy in Vermont: The Creative Sector Ask. We are excited to share news with you about the coordinated statewide efforts in both arenas. We hope you will join us. We look forward to seeing everyone!
Each issue is important because, as we all continue the struggle in seemingly endless and challenging times, these gatherings offer a chance for us to talk together and to learn about real support opportunities coming toward the creative sector.
Plan to join the conversations.
And expect to hear from us again! We will be in touch as our virtual gatherings develop.
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I am full of gratitude for the wisdom and energy of my stalwart Southern Vermont Team colleagues. Hats off!
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Maria Basescu, Putney
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Sara Coffey, Guilford
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Anna Drozdowski, Wilmington
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Susanna Gellert, Weston
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Sarah Lang, Brattleboro
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Matthew Perry, Bennington
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Jon Potter, Brattleboro
Happy Holidays to all!
 Yours
Zon Eastes, Southern Zone coordinator
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ARPA: Funding in Your Town
Every town in Vermont has likely already received some funds via the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). By design, each town will determine how and when it will appropriate ARPA funds. Current wisdom says that towns must obligate all funds by December 2024 and expend all funds by December 2026. While these ARPA dollars come with certain constraints, there are also impressive opportunities for the creative sector.
Join us! To learn more. To speak about your town’s plans. We will welcome Katie Buckley, Director of the ARPA Assistance Program at the Vermont Leagues of Cities and Towns (VLCT), to give us an overview of the funding stream.
The Southern Zone Team is offering two meeting times, to accommodate various schedules. Register for this networking opportunity below (registration required to receive the Zoom link). Both sessions will be recorded and made available on the Southern Zone webpage.
Session One: Wed, Jan 5, 7 p.m., Register here
Session Two: Thu, Jan, 6, 1:30 p.m., Register here
In the meantime, read over this flyer, produced by the Vermont Creative Network in collaboration with VLCT.
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Advocacy: The Vermont Creative Sector Ask
I recently attended a VCN Steering Team meeting at which a major topic was the bold $17.5M Vermont Creative Network ask that will be introduced in the coming legislative session which opens in early January. The Arts Council has hired a lobbyist from Downs Rachlin and Martin to lead the way, and the progress and strategies are impressive indeed. There will plenty for all of us to do to assure that this legislation is successful.
The funding request language is currently being finalized. It speaks to six different areas of need, with the largest portion of the funds earmarked for direct grants to individuals and organizations.
Join us! Learn about the details of the ask. Discover how you can advocate for success passage of this promising bill.
The Southern Zone Team is offering two meeting times, to accommodate schedules. Register for this networking opportunity below (registration required to receive the Zoom link). Both sessions will be recorded and made available on the Southern Zone webpage.
Session One: Tue, Jan 11, 7 p.m., Register here
Session Two: Wed, Jan 12, 10 a.m., Register here
In the meantime, read through the Council’s advocacy webpages, starting here.
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Common Ground
Sign up for Common Ground, a powerful connection resource for New England
We encourage every Vermont creative to learn about Common Ground. You will want to get listed. Sign up here.
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