By Ethan Weinstein
At the State Fairgrounds drive-in, Chamber and Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) celebrated its first year with a video highlighting the organizations work since its founding last October.
CEDRR intern Luke McGee( left) and Executive Director Lyle Jepson (right) walk among signs at CEDRR’s annual meeting.
Lyle Jepsen, CEDRR’s executive director, was the night’s virtual emcee. “This movie is about the people we call neighbors, about your family — and mine.”
Brooke Rubright detailed her path, beginning as a CEDRR intern while at Castleton University, now serving as outreach coordinator. Working with local businesses, Rubright figures out how CEDRR can help support the local economy and connects businesses with interns.
Events Manager Penny Inglee noted the organization’s virtual events, like legislative breakfasts and a mayoral forum. While CEDRR has delayed its Parade of Heroes and subsequent Whoopee Pie Festival, Inglee said it plans to host those events in person in 2022. CEDRR did, however, donate the already-donated whoopee pies to the front line workers still to be celebrated at the Parade of Heroes.
The annual meeting offered a sneak peek of the Real Rutland marketing campaign, CEDRR’s marketing initiative striving to bring new people to Rutland County.
The video highlighted Rutland’s outdoor recreation opportunities and affordability.
As part of the campaign, over 30 volunteers have helped prospective residents learn more about the area through CEDRR’s concierge program. Likeminded professionals serve as an already-built personal and business network for those new to Rutland County.
Operations Director Tyler Richardson walked viewers through the economic impact CEDRR has had in its inaugural year.
The organization created a $250,000 rotating loan fund, and helped businesses secure another $50,000 in state grant funding, which supported growth in businesses like Awesome Graphics, Healthy Design, Ann Clark Cookie Cutters and Naga Bakehouse.
