government

VICII: Why The US Feels Threatened by Venezuela 10/17/2024

From VICII:

Join us for a compelling public affairs discussion that delves into the ongoing tensions between Venezuela and the United States. This public affairs discussion will explore the ongoing tensions between Venezuela and the United States, focusing on why Venezuela continues to frustrate US foreign policy. The conversation will examine the historical, political, and economic reasons behind these strained relations, highlighting Venezuela’s defiance of US influence and its global alliances.

Peter Lackowski, a peace activist and supporter of Latin America’s political autonomy, will provide his perspective on Hugo Chávez’s Chavismo movement and why it remains a challenge to US interests. Moderated by Sandy Baird, this event will delve into the reasons behind US hostility toward Venezuela, the consequences of sanctions, and what this means for Latin America’s future.

For more information about VICII please visit: www.VICII.org/events

VICII: Public Forum: The Case of UVM vs Suspended Pro-Palestinian Students - Is Free Speech On Trial? 09/23/2024

From VICII:

This fall, the University of Vermont continues its suspension of the student group Students for Justice in Palestine, which began during the spring protests against the Israel/Gaza War. Attorney John Franco, Esq., has filed a lawsuit arguing that this suspension violates the US Constitutional guarantees of free speech and is calling for the university to reinstate the group and reaffirm its commitment to free expression.

Join the Vermont Institute of Community and International Involvement for a critical discussion of this case.

John Franco, Esq. will lead the discussion, joined by Constitutional lawyer and Vermont Law School Professor Jared Carter, as well as Community Lawyer Sandy Baird, Esq. Together, they will examine the legal and constitutional implications of the case and what it means for free speech on university campuses.

All are welcome. Don't miss this important conversation about constitutional rights and student activism!

For more information about VICII please visit: www.VICII.org/events

Moments with Melinda: Interview with Peter Welch 08/12/2024

From Melinda Moulton:

Senator Peter Francis Welch is an American Lawyer and Politician serving since 2023 as the Junior United States Senator from Vermont. Senator Welch was a U.S. Representative for Vermont in Congress from 2007 to 2023 and has been a major figure in Vermont politics for over forty years. Peter is only the 2nd Democrat to be elected a Senator from our State of Vermont.

Secretary of State Jim Condos - Transparency Tour 05/25/2022

From Secretary of State's Office:

Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos is pleased to announce the dates and locations for his fifth biennial Transparency Tour. Throughout late October and November Secretary Condos will travel to several locations across Vermont to provide training and facilitate discussion on Vermont’s transparency laws, Vermont’s Public Records Act, and Open Meeting Law.

“The public’s right to know is enshrined in our Vermont Constitution,” said Secretary Condos. “Vermonters deserve openness and transparency in government. By educating municipal and state employees, elected officials, and engaged residents on the requirements of government under Vermont’s Open Meeting Laws and the Public Records Act, I hope to help government officials of all stripes better serve Vermonters.”

Government officials at all levels, from local volunteer board and commission members, to elected officials and state employees, and interested members of the public, are invited and encouraged to attend.

For the first time, this year’s Transparency Tour will include an overview of Vermont’s election procedures, and the steps the Secretary of State’s office is taking to ensure the integrity and security of our elections, titled “Defending Our Democracy.” With the 2020 elections just around the corner, Vermonters increasingly want to know that their votes are safe, secure and will count on Election Day.

As a longtime proponent of transparency and openness in government, Secretary Condos looks forward to engaging attendees in an informative discussion on the requirements of government officials, and the rights of Vermont citizens.

“With trust in government at an all-time low, I believe that sunshine is the best disinfectant,” said Secretary Condos. “Let the sun shine in!”

Vermont Reforms Professional Licensing with Deputy Secretary of State Chris Winters 12/08/2021

Town Meeting TV talks with Vermont's Deputy Secretary of State Chris Winters about recent strides by Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) to reduce barriers to entry for licensed professionals in 50 professions and occupations, without sacrificing public protection.

Working with 12 other states, the Vermont SOS office has implemented: fast track licensing, credit for military experience, apprentice pathways, credential verification for new Americans, second-chance determinations for those with criminal convictions, the addition of compact licensing with 38 other states for nursing and digitization of the entire licensing process. The focus remains on public protection, understanding that licensing and enforcement of licensing standards benefits both the profession regulated and the consumers they serve.

For more information: sos.vermont.gov/opr

What's Going On?: Local, National and World Affairs 02/13/2020

Host Sandy Baird is joined by Kurt Mehta and Marc Estrin as they discuss the Democrats, Bernie Sanders, the 2020 presidential campaigns, healthcare, corporate interests, and more.

Secretary of State Jim Condos - Transparency Tour 10/29/2019

“With trust in government at an all-time low, I believe that sunshine is the best disinfectant,” said Secretary Condos. “Let the sun shine in!”

Common Good Vermont: Nonprofit Legislative Day 2018 - Nonprofit Leaders at Senate Finance Committee Testify on Charitable Tax Policy 03/22/2018

Vermont nonprofit leaders testify on recently passed tax policy (H.911) before the Vermont Senate Finance Committee.

Witnesses include: Lauren-Glenn Davitian, Common Good Vermont; John Killacky, Flynn Center for the Performing Arts; John Sayles, Vermont Food Bank; Jesse Bridges, United Way of Northwestern Vermont; Doreen Kraft, Burlington City Arts; Andy Robinson, Nonprofit Consultant; Rick Blount, Burlington YMCA; Kate McGowan, Center for New Leadership at Marlboro College.

Common Good Vermont: Nonprofit Legislative Day 2018 - Impact of Federal Policy and Budget on Vermont 03/22/2018

Presented by Common Good Vermont, Vermont Nonprofit Legislative Day is an opportunity for nonprofit organizations and community leaders to raise awareness about the crucial role the nonprofit sector plays in supporting communities, strengthening our economy, and making Vermont a better place to live.

Nonprofit Legislative Day begins with a welcome from Kate McGowan, Director of the Center for New Leadership, and Morgan Webster, Director of Common Good Vermont.

Speaker of the House Mitzi Johnson provides a brief update on legislative proceedings and policy discussions.

The second panel of the morning begins with a State Legislative Briefing by Senate President Pro Tem Tim Ashe (D-Chittenden), and a panel on the Impact of Federal Policy and Budget on Vermont where national and state level leaders shed light on the consequences of federal actions and discuss actions your staff and board can take to protect the programs you deliver and the people you serve.

Congressional View: Erica Campbell, Outreach and Policy Staff, Senator Bernie Sanders
Tax Policy: Paul Cillo, Executive Director, Public Assets Institute
Human Services: Jesse Bridges, Executive Director, United Way Northwestern
Vermont Water Quality and Environmental: Lori Fisher, Executive Director, Lake Champlain Committee
Governor’s View: Jason Gibbs, Chief of Staff, Governor Phil Scott
Moderator: Scott Johnson, Lamoille Family Center

Common Good Vermont: Nonprofit Legislative Day 2018 - Advocacy Matters - Vermont Legislative Update 03/22/2018

Presented by Common Good Vermont, Vermont Nonprofit Legislative Day is an opportunity for nonprofit organizations and community leaders to raise awareness about the crucial role the nonprofit sector plays in supporting communities, strengthening our economy, and making Vermont a better place to live. Nonprofit Legislative Day begins with a Welcome from Kate McGowan, Director of the Center for New Leadership and Morgan Webster, Director of Common Good Vermont. Speaker of the House Mitzi Johnson provides a brief update on legislative proceedings and policy discussions.

The first panel of the morning, Advocacy Matters: Vermont Legislative Update provides a look at how advocates are working within this year’s legislature to improve the quality of life for all Vermonters within tight financial limitations, the panel includes:

Moderator: Lauren-Glenn Davitian, Common Good Vermont
Equity Matters: Christine Longmore, Constitutional Council for Accountability with Law Enforcement Officials
Labor Issues: David Mickenberg, Senior Strategist, Necrason Group
Energy and the Environment: Robert Dostis, Vice President Stakeholder Relations, Green Mountain Power
Amy Shollenberger, Principal, Action Circles

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Applications Now Open for the Spring 2025 Cohort of the Neighborhood Community Media Internship Program

Town Meeting TV is excited to announce that applications are now open for the Spring 2025 cohort of the Neighborhood Community Media Internship program. Join up to 8 other youth to engage in interesting media making projects! This paid media internship opportunity is designed for youth aged 16-20 who are eager to gain professional experience in the audio-visual field and develop a deeper understanding of their local community. The group will meet under the leadership of Town Meeting TV's Travis Washington from the end of January 2025 to the beginning of June 2025, on a schedule agreed upon by the whole cohort. Click here to apply!