By T.J. Hug
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
The Montpelier Chamber of Commerce’s December meeting was the last one to be attended by Terry Buntain, at least in the role of Executive Director.
Serving nine years at the position, Buntain had decided to retire months ago. Waiting until the end of the year to do so, she provided the Chamber adequate time to find a replacement. Her successor, Susan Gearhart, has been training under her tutelage for about a week.
Despite her insistence on no fanfare related to her exit, the Chamber couldn’t let Buntain retire without properly honoring her. After the conclusion of the meeting, cake was brought out and those in attendance had their choice between chocolate or vanilla flavored goodness.
Montpelier Superintendent Jamie Grime spoke at the meeting, updating the Chamber’s Board of Directors on the happenings of the school. Of note, he referenced a student from the district who scored a 35 on the ACTs. The highest possible score on the standardized test is 36.
“A lot of people think you have to go to a private school to get that kind of score.” Grime stated. “This shows that, if you’re willing to put in the work, you can be just as successful in a public school.”
When the time came to elect new officers for 2015, the board elected to keep their officers the same. They did add a position, however. Kellie Grey will serve as the Chamber’s Financial Officer, effective next year.
Several sponsors for next year’s Bean Days Festival were announced at the meeting as well. Among them, Northwestern Electric is sponsoring a Touchtone Balloon. Meanwhile, Baker’s Propane has committed to providing all of the propane necessitated by the event.
The meeting adjourned shortly after these proclamations, ending a long run of success by Buntain as Executive Director. Even in her absence, her work will surely continue to pave the way for the achievements of the Chamber for years to come.
T.J. Hug can be reached at
publisher@thevillagereporter.com