New Business

2007

December

Dinner at Six

NECI instructor Chef Bob Long has launched Dinner at Six, a private-party chef and personal cooking lesson service for parties of two to 50 people. He has more than 30 years’ experience as a chef. 233-4598.

Addison County Homebuyers 

Tony Bates (pictured, left) a native Vermonter and a teacher at Middlebury Union Middle School for 19 years, opened Addison County Homebuyers in Middlebury. Bates is not a Realtor and not affiliated with any real estate agency. He is a private investor who buys single-family homes in Addison County and Brandon. His market includes people who need to sell their homes quickly, perhaps because they are behind on mortgage payments. CTX Mortgage in Middlebury works with Bates to qualify buyers for the houses he buys. Bates is pictured with Ted Shambo of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce. 102 Court St. 388-6100; (866) 599-2021; www.AddisonCountyHomebuyers.com  

New England Satellite

New England Satellite of Enosburg Falls has expanded and opened a retail store at University Mall. The company is an authorized dealer of satellite television and high-speed Internet through Dish Network, DirecTV, WildBlue and HughesNET with offices at 382 Main St. in Enosburg Falls. It services all of central and northern Vermont. University Mall, D14, South Burlington. 652-0002;
www.nesatellite.net .

Miracle Method

Doug Painter opened Miracle Method, one of 120 franchises nationwide, in Burlington. Miracle Method specializes in the professional repair and restoration of bathtubs, chip repair, tile surrounds and kitchen countertops. Painter will provide the refinishing service to homeowners, property managers and hotels in northern Vermont and in Plattsburgh, N.Y. 985-5551; dpainter@miraclemethod.com .

Green Mountain Strategies

Robin Hibbert Tindall opened an environmental and business strategy consulting company, Green Mountain Strategies LLC. Tindall is a professional engineer, MBA and certified Six Sigma Blackbelt. Green Mountain Strategies offers services in implementing Lean and Six Sigma projects and helps businesses assess their environmental strategy and reduce their environmental impact and risks. 989-0377; robin@greenmountainstrategies.com .

Von Bargen’s Jewelry

John and Leslie Von Bargen announced the opening of Von Bargen’s Jewelry, a retail store and state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at the Springfield Shopping Center. This is the company’s fourth location; the others are in Burlington (headquarters) and Stratton, and Hanover, N.H.

105.9 FM WOMM The Radiator

105.9 FM WOMM The Radiator is an all-volunteer, low-power, FCC-licensed radio station broadcasting with 100 watts in Burlington. The station is a collaboration of Big Heavy World, directed by James Lockridge, and Lee Anderson, the proprietor of Radio Bean. Sean Larock joined the volunteer executive staff as director of engineering. Funding and labor were contributed by supporters, including Speaking Volumes, Recycle North, Farrington Construction, Magic Hat, Shively Labs of Maine and local broadcasters, including WRUV (University of Vermont) and Vermont Public Radio. The station’s broadcast, including local music programming, will be Web-cast via the Big Heavy World server hosted by Sovernet.

Follow-Through Project Management Service

Helen Hossley has launched Follow-Through Project Management Service in Burlington. The service business is aimed at companies or individual business owners who have more projects than they can handle or who need specialized help in areas that don’t merit creating a position for an employee. Hossley has more than 20 years’ experience in planning and implementing projects for the likes of the National Park Service and C.P. Smith Elementary School. 660-9639; Helen.hossley@gmail.com

Teresa Fama, M.D.

Teresa Fama, M.D., has opened a rheumatology practice in Berlin at Central Vermont Medical Center in the Mountainview Medical Building. Fama received her medical degree from the University of Vermont and completed a residency in internal medicine and a rheumatology fellowship at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington . 225-1750.

Natural Provisions Market

Mark Grenier, Sandra Grenier and Terry Powers announced the opening of Natural Provisions Market and Deli in Williston. The Greniers owned two restaurants in St. Johnsbury before taking over Natural Provisions there. The Williston store features organic foods, health, beauty and supplement products, bulk items and a large produce section. The deli offers organic meats and cheeses for eat-in or take-out customers. Powers, a Vermont native, recently retired as vice president for the American Automobile Association. Managing the Williston store are Peter and Allison Lafferty. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sundays 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 329 Harvest Lane, Suite 100. 876-1400.

Gallery 180

Artist Bruce R. MacDonald has converted part of his studio in Burlington’s South End into a gallery space and opened Gallery 180.  MacDonald’s work has included commissions such as a sculpture to celebrate the completion of the Human Genome Project, and a lifetime achievement award for the Manchester Film Festival. His art has been displayed in Chelsea in New York City, on the cover of The Museum of Science & Industry’s catalog in London and in Sen. Patrick Leahy’s office. Sherri LaPierre is the gallery manager. Hours are Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment. 863-9533; www.brmdesign.com . 

Phoenix Books

Michael DeSanto and Renée Reiner have opened Phoenix Books at Essex Shoppes & Cinema. Offerings at the full-service-front-list bookstore include new books for all ages; cards and gifts; and a café featuring coffee, pastries and wine by the glass. Customers are encouraged to drop in, buy a book and sip a glass of wine. DeSanto and Reiner were the owners of a publishing business and The Book Rack & Children’s Pages, which they sold in 2003. The Book Rack closed earlier this year. 21 Essex Way, Essex. 872-7111; www.phoenixbooks.biz .

Vermont Telecommunications Authority

Mary Evslin, chairwoman of the Vermont Telecommunications Authority, announced that the newly formed state board is ready for business. Although still in the process of leasing office space in Montpelier and hiring an executive director, the authority has launched a Web site at www.telecomVT.org . The VTA, appointed this summer by the leadership of the General Assembly and Gov. Douglas, is charged with ensuring that high-speed Internet and cell phone service is available in every corner of Vermont by the end of 2010. Other board members are Jo Bradley, Al Brisard, Jerry Johnson, Robin Lane, Peter Meyer, Tom Murray, Jeb Spaulding, Dawn Terrill, C.J. Vadnais and David Zahn.

October

Edible Green Mountains

Deborah Schapiro announced the launch of Edible Green Mountains, a magazine celebrating Vermont’s culinary heritage season by season. Schapiro is publisher of the quarterly, a member of the Edible Communities family of magazines with headquarters in Santa Fe, N.M. Edible magazines are published throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. The corporation has won several awards, including the 2004 and 2006 Award of Excellence for Consumer Education from the International Association of Culinary Professionals. 150 Dorset St., PMB 297, South Burlington. 651-1030. www.ediblegreenmountains.com .

Sweet Charity

Sweet Charity, a resale shop affiliated with Hospice Volunteer Services and Women of Wisdom, a philanthropic group, has opened in Vergennes. Helping with the opening were, from left, Darcy Tarte of the Chittenden Bank, chairwoman of the Addison County chamber of Commerce publicity and promotions committee; Liz Markowski; Deanna Shapiro; Lisbeth Ryan; Jean Sweeney; and Patty Paul. The shop accepts home goods and furniture of all kinds. Pickups can be arranged if necessary. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 141A Main St. 877-6200.

September

Espresso Bueno

Elizabeth Manriquez and Patrick Clark have opened Espresso Bueno at 136 N. Main St. in Barre. The shop features an array of coffee products, baked goods, smoothies and homemade Italian sodas. Hours are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. 479-0896.

BTVco LLC

Linckia, a venture development company in Williston behind NEOS Overshoes and Ulu Footwear, announced the creation of BTVco LLC, a provider of product solutions for families on the go. The company’s first product, the AirCrib, is in production. www.linckia.com .

Venue Czar

Four partners have launched Venue Czar, an online software that allows local musicians, club owners, venue operators and booking agents to complete a live music booking and promotion process in a matter of minutes. Jess Campisi, the president, was with Seven Days and has held media planning positions at AOL-MovieFone, CNN and Fox. Adam Woogmaster, director of business development, was a founding member of several Vermont bands and managed the Emerald City Nightclub in Montpelier. Michael Howe, chief operation officer, is the co-founder of two Web applications businesses, Bear Code LLC and GlobalNI. Rick Dryfoos, chief technology officer, has 18 years’ experience managing multimedia and Web-based projects. www.VenueCzar.com .

Lang McLaughry Spera Real Estate

Lang McLaughry Spera announced the opening of a new office at 2 South Main St. in Rutland. The location will allow the firm to expand its services to include all of Rutland County and the surrounding Vermont communities. Realtors in the office will be Elisabeth Perkins, Karen Heath, Katie Winterbottom, Mark Fitzgerald, Michelle Murphy, Nicole Semp, Pam Stanley, Pat Murphy, Patty Minichiello and Rosanna Pratt.

The Whole Shebang

Milissa O’Brien of Hinesburg has launched The Whole Shebang LLC, a marketing and even-planning business. Services include corporate events, weddings, media buying, strategic planning and girls’ night out parties. 373-2321; milphil@yahoo.com.

Lollygaggers

Rick and Heather Viens opened Lollygaggers, a shop of “fun stuff” in the Star Mill Building in downtown Middlebury. The range of merchandise runs from hats and t-shirts to stationery and cards, twirling spaghetti forks and professional thumb-wrestling mats. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays 1 to 4 p.m. 388-1222. Pictured, from left, are Andy Mayer, Darcy Tarter and Kris Merchant of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce; Brett Viens, Heather and Rick Viens, Paige Viens and Marguerite Senecal of the chamber of commerce.

Vector Marketing

Vector Marketing has opened a sales office in Burlington, run by Theo Shaugnessy, Vector district manager. The office will be used for the recruitment and training of sales representatives, and for team meetings. Sales representatives market Vector’s product, CUTCO cutlery, through in-home presentations. (877) 888-0314; www.vectormarketing.com www.vectormarketing.com.

Stroller Strides

Liz Choiniere (holding the scissors) opened a franchise of Stroller Strides in Bristol. Stroller Strides is a total body fitness program for new mothers and their babies, incorporating strength training for all fitness levels. Mothers are encouraged to bring their children. Helping Choiniere at the opening are, standing, from left, Beth Choiniere, Lisa Lutton, Ted Shambo of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce, Crystal Kelly, Madyson Debisschop and Lori Friedman. In the strollers are Tucker Choiniere, Courtney Debisschop and Caleb Friedman. www.strollerstrides.net/bristol.

Mica Naturals

University Mall announced the opening of Mica Naturals, a kiosk featuring Micabella cosmetics and professional makeup application. Micabella is a hypoallergenic mineral makeup. The co-owners are Rebecca Bessette and Jessica Cooke of Burlington. The cart is located near Center Court.

August

Esther J. Lotz, Broker

Esther J. Lotz, broker, announced that she has left Highpoint Realty and has opened her own office, sellling and leasing strictly commercial and industrial facilities. She can be reached at 343-0363. www.estherlotz.com

Majestic Car Rental Group

Robert J. Lake, president of Majestic Corp. of America, announced the formation of Majestic Car Rental Group Inc., an independent and locally owned, full-service car rental company. Majestic offers a selection of vehicles, including hybrid models and will do hourly rentals. The company has locations in Burlington and Rutland and makes deliveries on request. www.rentmajestic.com .

Von Bargen’s Jewelry

Jon and Leslie Von Bargen announced that Von Bargen’s Jewelry opened its retail store and manufacturing facility in the Springfield Shopping Plaza. The company outgrew its first Springfield shop on Summer Street, opened in 1978. The new place marks a substantial increase in retail space with 900 square feet of showroom in the 2,400-square-foot space.

July

Pit Stop Diner

The Pit Stop Diner has opened at 240 N. Main St. in Barre. Owned by Cheyenne Roberts and Eric DelToro, the racing-
themed restaurant is open daily from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. The menu features traditional diner fare. Members of the Barre Partnership held the ribbon-cutting.

Whim Boutique

Melissa Fairchild has launched Whim, a contemporary women’s clothing store specializing in designer jeans and T-shirts, which she runs with her sister, Caitlyn.  The ambience was planned to be that of a West Coast boutique in a casual shopping atmosphere. Lines carried include William Rast, Junkfood, JET, People’s Liberation, Rachel Pally and Hudson. 100 Main St., Burlington; 658-6496; www.whimboutique.com .

Vermont Behavioral Medicine

Vermont Behavioral Medicine has affiliated with the Augmentative Learning and Moving Center of Morrisville. VBM is a multi-specialty medical practice providing behavioral and psychiatric consultations. Specialists at Vermont Behavioral Medicine are Dan Larrow, a board certified developmental behavioral pediatrician, and Jeanne Greenblatt, a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. www.almc-vermont.com .

Costello’s Market

John Hamilton and Carolyn Costello officially opened their business, Costello’s Market, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Located in the Marbleworks Complex in Middlebury, the market sells Italian-style subs, freshly prepared salads, fried seafood, fresh raw seafood, imported and domestic wines and Italian specialties, and Vermont specialties. John Nelson and Christine Fraioli of Lang McLaughry Spera of Middlebury helped facilitate the property transfer. 388-3385.

June

Catamount Worksite Safety Services

Steven R. Myers of Shelburne has formed a safety consulting business called Catamount Worksite Safety Services. Myers has more than 15 years’ experience in safety and risk management, most recently as director of safety and training at S.D. Ireland. He also served for 10 years as an investigator for the Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Administration. 30 Kimball Ave., Suite 207, South Burlington. 658-3633. www.catamountsafetyservices.com . 

Sweet Clover Market

Ellen Fox and Heather Belcher opened Sweet Clover Market at the Essex Shoppes and Cinema, next to the Paper Factory. Among Sweet Clover’s offerings are organic and locally grown produce, naturally raised and organic meat, poultry and fish prepared by an on-site butcher, foods to satisfy dietary restrictions, all-natural deli meats and artisan cheeses, fresh baked goods from local bakeries and dozens of products in bulk, from flour and cereal to herbs and spices. 872-8288; www.sweetclovermarket.com .

Names Project

The Names Project Northern New England announced the formation of a chapter serving New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. The mission of the foundation is to preserve, care for and use the AIDS memorial quilt to foster healing, heighten awareness and inspire action in the struggle against HIV and AIDS. www.newenglandaidsquilt.org.

Orlio Organic Beer Co.

Allan Newman, the founder of Magic Hat Brewing Co., announced the launching of Orlio Organic Beer Co. and the debut of its initial craft-brewed offerings, Orlio Organic Common Ale, a year-round product, and the seasonal Orlio Organic I.P.A. Orlio is leasing space from Magic Hat at 5 Bartlett Bay Road, Suite 100, South Burlington.

May

Central Vermont General Surgery

Joseph Kiernan, M.D., opened Central Vermont General Surgery in Berlin on the Central Vermont Medical Center campus. Kiernan, who is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery, was employed as a surgeon at Gifford Medical Center in Randolph. 371-4820.

Gene Lauer Site Design & Project Management

Gene Lauer, the former owner of Siteworks Inc., has opened Gene Lauer Site Design & Project Management in North Ferrisburgh. Lauer has more than 30 years’ experience in architectural, landscape/site design, project supervision and construction for local architects, builders and homeowners. 886 Old Hollow Road, genelauer@gmavt.net.

Home Care Assistance

Home Care Assistance of Palo Alto, Calif., announced the opening of the company’s first office in Vermont. Peter Goldsmith is president. The company provides live-in specialists around the clock. 41 Main St., Burlington; 735-1290. Pgoldsmith@Homecareassistance.com .

Rachel B. Carter Public Relations & Marketing Consultant

Burlington public relations professional Rachel B. Carter opened an independent marketing and public relations consulting and freelance writing business. Carter teaches public relations courses at Champlain College and was the director of public relations at Paul Kaza Associates. 318-5527; raecarter@hotmail.com .

Green Works Solar Store

Brad Vietje of Newbury has opened the Green Works Solar Store in Groton. The store offers products, design and installation services to become energy independent. The store is part of the USA Solar Store network, which is built on a cooperative model. Vietje plans to offer energy and related workshops. The store features products and services that can be used in private homes, businesses and camps. On U.S. 302, seven miles west of the Wells River/Woodsville I-91 exit.

Eagle Country 97.5

Impact Radio Inc. announced that its new radio station, Eagle Country 97.5, is on the air. The station, WTNN, broadcasts live from the Lawrence Memorial Library in Bristol from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., according to John Fuller, chairman and chief operating officer of Impact Radio. The station features a mix of personalities, news, weather, contests, traffic reports and country music. Company offices are on Williston Road in South Burlington.

Saffire Mortgage

Colin Schmidt of Saffire Mortgage Inc. in South Burlington announced the company has opened an office in St. Albans. The branch is at 158 Lake St. in the building with Met Life Insurance and Lake Street Auto. 383-0633; colin@saffiremortgage.com .

JK Jewelry

Jennifer Keppel and Michael Wojcik announced the opening of JK Jewelry, a mid–price range jewelry, gift, fashion accessory and music boutique in the Shelburne Bay Plaza. Keppel has 12 years’ experience in the jewelry industry, most recently at VonBargen’s Jewelers. Wojcik is a musician and producer from Chicago who has worked at the Shelburne businesses Close to Home and Companion Hardware.

The Shoe Dept.

The Shoe Dept. opened its third Vermont store at University Mall. The shop offers brand-name family footwear, including dress, casual, athletic and work. It is adjacent to LensCrafters.

Mid-Brain Design

Nathan Dana announced the opening of Mid-Brain Design and the launch of the Web site www.mid-brain.com . Mid-Brain specializes in Web design, print design, photography and brand identity. Dana was creative director at Brandthropology and lead Web designer at Paul Kaza Associates. 846-7679.

CBM Fitness

Caroline Biddle McKenzie announced the re-launching of her personal training business, CBM Fitness, Connecting Body & Mind. McKenzie is certified through the American Council of Exercise and specializes in putting exercise into her clients’ lives through motivation, encouragement and fun. She works with clients of all ages and all stages, at their homes and in what she calls the “Vermont Playground,” local bike paths, trail systems and parks. 862-3782.

CJ Banks, a sister store of Christopher and Banks, opened its first Vermont store at University Mall in South Burlington. The store sells women’s casual apparel for sizes 14 and up. The shop, located near the Kohl’s end of the mall, has 3,300 square feet of space.

April

Donahue & Associates

Steve Donahue announced the formation of Donahue & Associates, a commercial real estate brokerage specializing in sales and leasing. Donahue has 15 years’ experience in development brokerage and asset management. 131 Church St., Burlington. 862-6880; sdonahue@vtsky.net; www.donahueassociatesvt.com .

Earth Turbines Inc.

David Blittersdorf, the founder and co-owner of NRG Systems, announced the start-up of Earth Turbines Inc. in Hinesburg. The company manufactures, sells and installs complete home wind systems for the North American residential market. Its first product, a 2.5 kilowatt turbine that can provide almost enough electricity to power the average Vermont home that is net-metered and grid-connected, will be available on 100- and 120-foot tilt-up tubular towers. www.earthturbines.com .

Beyond Expectations Coaching

Patricia Kent, a former Curves manager, has launched Beyond Expectations Coaching in Williston. Kent is certified by the American Council on Exercise as a personal trainer and lifestyle and weight management consultant. 310-2378;
amadadelsol@aol.com .

Unicel

Unicel opened its most recent store at Burlington Town Center in February. It is over four times as large as the previous Burlington store. The store, located on the mall’s second floor across from Macy’s, features an interactive area where shoppers can demo new equipment and services.

Livingston & Co.

Livingston & Co. Inc., a provider of weld-monitoring technology, has relocated its headquarters and manufacturing facility to South Royalton from West Lebanon, N.H. The new building offers a mix of office and manufacturing space that is well-suited for future expansion, according to William Martin, the company’s chief executive officer. www.livco.com .

March

EmeraldRose Gifts

Greg Newman and Jennifer Adams Newman have opened EmeraldRose Gifts in Bristol. The products in the shop are similar to those they have sold for years at festivals and events in the Northeast. They include an eclectic, sometimes whimsical, collection of treasures from around the world. Many of their items are artist-made and unavailable elsewhere. The Newmans also make their own line of jewelry featuring hand-pounded Thai Hill Tribe silver and precious gemstone beads. 18 Main St.
453-7202. www.Emeraldrosegifts.com .

Vitzthum & Carroll 

Mary Claire Carroll and Lynne M. Vitzthum announced the formation of Vitzthum & Carroll LLP. The firm offers legislative advocacy, strategic planning and assistance in accessing federal congressional resources for small nonprofits. Carroll has more than 10 years’ experience advocating for equity in the workplace for women and economic security for Vermont families; Vitzthum, a former state representative and director of the Vermont Assistive Technology Project at the Agency of Human Services, was a health and human services aide to Sen. Patrick Leahy. 881-1400 or 279-3556.

Momentum Physical Therapy

Sean Fitzgerald, MPT, CSCS, and Maura Mahoney Guyer, PT, PRC, have opened Momentum Physical Therapy, specializing in orthopedic rehabilitative and postural restoration therapies. Momentum offers corporate preventive and physical therapies, individual memberships and in-house and in-office options. Fitzgerald is director of preventive therapies; Guyer is director for rehabilitative therapies, one of 13 Certified Postural Restoration Therapists in the nation. Fitzgerald also heads Vermont Integrated Rehabilitative Products Inc. 78 Eastwood Drive, South Burlington.

Clute Wealth Management

Heidi Clute, the owner of Clute Wealth Management in Plattsburgh, N.Y., announced the opening of a South Burlington office. A Certified Financial Planner, Clute works with women in transition to build, protect and use money to achieve their goals. The office, located in Lakewood Commons Executive Office Center, features a reception area, private client meeting space and ample free parking. 1233 Shelburne Road. 864-5707.

Level One Management

Ross Almo and Amanda Curcio opened Level One Management LLC, an event planning and association management company. The majority owner, Almo has more than 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry as an owner and facility manager. He was the owner of the Econo Lodge in Killington. He was also executive director of the Rodeway Inn Owners Association. Curcio has 10 years’ experience as meetings director for Choice Hotels Owners Council, a southwest Florida marketing company. (800) 929-1785. LevelOneRoss@aol.com or LevelOneAmanda@aol.com.

February

Tilley’s Café

Suzanne Johnson and Newcomb Munt announced the opening of Tilley’s Café on lower Church Street in Burlington. The restaurant has a tropical menu that incorporates eclectic seafood and American cuisine prepared by NECI-trained chef Lisa Foster. Fresh fish is flown in daily from Hawaii. Valet parking is available Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. Serving lunch, dinner and late-night drinks daily. 161 Church St. 658-4553. www.TilleysCafe.com . 

Fourth Dimension Inspection Services

Carl Anderson has launched Fourth Dimension Inspection Services LLC, a residential home inspection company serving potential homebuyers and current homeowners in northern and central Vermont. Anderson has more than 25 years’ experience in building trades and equipment repair and is fully insured with professional and general  liability coverage. Burlington. 861-2292. anderso.carl@gmail.com.

printWHAT?

Francine Robertson announced the opening of printWHAT?, specializing in print production management and consultation. Services include finding a graphic designer, proofreading and copyediting, pricing print jobs, handling press checks and finding a mailing house. 1208 Richard Woolcutt Road, Wolcott. 888-2925. www.printwhatvermont.com; francine@printwhatvermont.com.

Roesler Whittlesey Skiff

Robert C. Roesler, Richard C. Whittlesey and William B. Skiff II announced the formation of a law firm, Roesler Whittlesey Skiff, in Burlington. Associate attorneys are Edward M. Kenney and Lauri A. Fisher. Edwin H. Amidon Jr. is of counsel. The firm is a full-service law practice. 84 Pine St., fourth floor. 864-7500.

St. Johnsbury Trucking

St. Johnsbury Trucking announced the opening of its second Vermont terminal and public warehouse, in Brattleboro. The announcement, made by the president, Nick Castel, at the company’s 2007 shareholding meeting in North Conway, N.H., came with a report of the procurement of a 63-store northern New England–wide distribution contract with Retail Distributors International.

Vermont Boat and Marine Association

Vermont boat dealers, marina operators and other boating businesses have formed Vermont Boat and Marine Association, a marine trade association, and named a slate of officers. The president is John Freeman of the Small Boat Exchange in Shelburne. James Blandino of North Hero Marina is treasurer; Bruce Deming of Champlain Marina in Colchester is secretary. The group will promote safe and environmentally responsible boating and serve as a clearinghouse for information on legislation and regulations that impact the boating industry in the state.

1-800-GOT-JUNK?

Aaron Fastman of Winooski has opened Vermont’s first franchise of 1-800-GOT-JUNK? The company will serve residents and businesses in Chittenden County. Fastman was a product service rep for Burton Snowboards and wanted to be able to spend more time with his family. Jonathan Diamond is the operations manager. The business will collect everything from old furniture to appliances and try to recycle them or donate them to agencies such as the Salvation Army and Recycle North before heading to the landfills. 236-9485 or (800) GOT-JUNK. www.1800gotjunk.com .

Viva Espresso

Heather Bauman and Megan Munson-Warnken have opened Viva Espresso in Burlington’s Old North End. They were led by their desire to “shorten the distance between farm and fork (or cup) by supporting local/family businesses and building communities of active, thoughtful consumers.” To that end, their lattes, cappuccinos, mochas and cups of coffee are made with 100 percent fair trade, organic coffee roasted by Paul Ralston at Vermont Coffee Co. in Bristol, and Strafford Organic Creamery milk. Amy Nolan of Got Local Kitchens supplies muffins made with Vermont-grown and milled wheat and cornmeal, carrots, zucchini, apples and berries. Bagels are from Myers in Burlington, and the organic cream cheese is made by Carlton Yoder at the Champlain Valley Creamery in Vergennes.
197 N. Winooski Ave. 660-8482.

McDaniel Chiropractic Center 

McDaniel Chiropractic Center opened its new location at 1330 Exchange St. in Middlebury with an open house and a ceremony conducted by the Addison County Chamber of Commerce. Doctors Jim and Julia McDaniel opened McDaniel Chiropractic Center in 1990 in a small building on Washington Street. The recent move is from space at the Vermont Sun Fitness Center. Pictured, from left, are Ted Shambo of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce, Sarah Sullivan, Jim McDaniel, Julia McDaniel, Zapata Courage, and Lisa Perkins.

January

Farmhouse Creativity Centre

Stowe artist Robin Fine has opened the Farmhouse Creativity Centre, offering visual arts education classes with local and nationally known artists, in Stowe’s Lower Village. Included is a retail gallery where young artists can exhibit and sell their works along with those of artists from across the country. Among the offerings of Farmhouse Centre are after-school programs for children and continuing education for seniors in kiln-formed glass, pate de verre, oil painting, watercolor, acrylics, creative writing, calligraphy, textiles, sculpting and photography. 804 Main St. 760-3004 or 839-0132; www.farmhousecc.com . 

Local First Vermont

In Montpelier, a group of business owners and community leaders launched Local First Vermont, a statewide business organization with a goal of changing consumer attitudes. The stated goal is to “strengthen Vermont’s local living economies and the independent business community.” The 501(c)3 nonprofit is executing a model that has been tried successfully in places such as Chicago, San Francisco and Philadelphia. Chris Morrow, the owner of Northshire Books in Manchester, is chairman of the steering committee. Memberships cost $50 and can be pursued through the Web site, localfirstvermont.org. 

Nextel

Bill and Judy Brim opened their Nextel store in Middlebury with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Helping with the opening were Ted Shambo, Marguerite Senecal and Beth Crosby from the Addison County Chamber of Commerce, and chamber board member Darcy Tarte. The store was deemed by the Brims as a logical next step from their home-based business in New Haven, which carried Nextel wireless communications as an additional product. 32 Merchants Row. 388-7951.

St. Johnsbury Trucking

The officers and directors of LTLX Inc. announced the re-founding and formal opening of St. Johnsbury Trucking, the oldest name in the freight business. Nick Castel is president. Vermont offices are at 1713 Industrial Parkway, Lyndon. The company opened its St. Johnsbury terminal on Dec. 11. (877) LTL-2DAY (585-2329); www.stjtrucking.com . 

Barnoire Furniture & Cabinetry

Raphael Groten and Scott Lamar have opened Barnoire Furniture & Cabinetry in Williston. The shop and showcase home at 245 Lincoln Road features the company’s reclaimed furniture and cabinetry made from centuries-old lumber. (888) 660-BARN; www.barnoire.com. 

Blue Cat Café and Wine Bar

V. Ozzy Giral and his wife, Mariasha, have opened Blue Cat Café and Wine Bar at One Lawson Lane in Burlington. Blue Cat offers an Italian- and French-themed menu in the Continental style, featuring imported meats and cheeses, simple presentation, moderate prices and an extensive wine list. John Rinehart, the chef, received his culinary training across the U.S., from Key West to Maui, and in several Burlington locations. April Thibault runs the dining area. The owners will offer free delivery in Burlington, South Burlington and Winooski from 4:30 p.m. to midnight, seven days a week, the same hours the restaurant is open. 363-3639.