'TASTE OF VERMONT' GOES TO NATION'S CAPITAL

May 7, 2009

The Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Convention Bureau and GBIC hosted the Fourth Annual Taste of Vermont Reception in Washington, D.C., with honored guest Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.). The event featured foods presented by members of the Vermont Specialty Food Association.

Senator Patrick Leahy with Whitney Lamy, owner Castleton Crackers
More than 50 Vermont businesses were represented, and many traveled to Washington for this special event.  Representatives of Vermont's premier hotels, resorts and attractions, and more than 40 Vermont food and beverage makers had the opportunity to meet with food buyers, writers, meeting planners and others — in an effort to bring more business to Vermont.
 
A Taste of Vermont Reception was held 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2009, in the Russell Senate Caucus Room on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.  This special event was by invitation only, and the guest list will include U.S. Senators and Representatives; Vermont government officials; Vermont Convention Bureau members; Washington-based specialty food buyers; travel and food writers; and meeting planners.
 
"Our little state produces a great variety of first-rate, top-quality products," said Leahy.  "We never miss an opportunity to share that story, and with this event, tasting is believing.  The Taste of Vermont is a great opportunity to showcase wonderful samples of Vermont's diverse and unique economy to the entire Washington area." 

 
The Taste of Vermont Reception showcased the diversity of Vermont food and beverage products. Everything from coffee, snacks, Vermont microbrew beers, handcrafted chocolate and artisan cheese and crackers, meats and, of course, pure Vermont maple syrup was represented at the event, truly giving attendees a "Taste of Vermont."
 
The Taste of Vermont Reception, as well as being an exciting event for the Vermont Convention Bureau, Senator Leahy and the event's vendors and attendees, is a great economic opportunity for Vermont — and a further demonstration of a commitment to work toward Vermont's economic vitality.