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Burlington Boatyard & UVM Wakeboarding Club Help Prevent Flooding at Allen Point Access Area
Burlington Boatyard & UVM Wakeboard Club Help Prevent Flooding at Allen Point Access Area November 16, 2008 By Guy Mitrano & Jordan Potvin FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Burlington Boatyard, Vermont's only exclusive online marine marketplace, recently pledged their support as the first major sponsor of the University of Vermont Wakeboard Club. This group of students caught the eye of the BBY crew as they shared in the common belief that, while utilizing Lake Champlain for its fun activities and beauty, their strength in numbers could surely further promote community involvement throughout the Champlain Valley. Initial discussions between the two groups had determined that each member of the club would donate five hours of lake related community service per semester, which Burlington Boatyard officers would plan and participate in as well. Burlington Boatyard enlisted the help of John Hall and Mike Wichrowski, both administrators at the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, to help identify a project that would accomplish the group's objective of giving back to the marine community. Last year, Vermont Fish & Wildlife had spent approximately $ 12,000 on flooding damages occurring at Allen Point Access area in South Hero because the ditches along the road were clogged and unable to drain properly. This flooding affected many groups, from the residents who go for regular walks along the road, anglers en route to throw in a line, to Local Motion, a Burlington based cycle group that has a bike ferry at the end of the point to bring riders back to Colchester from the islands. On Saturday November 15, the UVM Wakeboard Club and BBY teamed up to clear the ditches and culverts of leaves and debris so that rain water could flow easily to the lake. Armed with rakes and shovels, Burlington Boatyard's CEO Guy Mitrano and the wakeboarders took a step away from the UVM campus to use their Saturday for a common cause. The work was focused on raking leaves out from shallow ditches on either side of the access road to allow for drainage. After four hours of work in the dreary rainy weather, the end result was surprisingly satisfying, as the group stood over the end of a culvert and looked back on all the progress they made in seeing the leaf-free ditches. The team came out victorious and left in search of food and hot showers, rounding out a very productive day. "It took no convincing on my part to get this group to come out.", said Mitrano. "I admire the dedication and enthusiasm each student had throughout the day, and we all enjoyed this opportunity to have fun while at the same time being productive for the lake community." The Wakeboard Club is very appreciative of Lake Champlain and the privilege of using it, and as such believes that it is important to be involved in these types of service projects. With community service such as this, they hope to better the lake and keep it easily accessible for all to enjoy. ### Burlington Boatyard is Vermont's only exclusive online marine marketplace. Specializing in unbeatable classified advertising & many B2B services, "BBY" keeps the marine community connected both online and on the water. Their core values of loyalty, commitment, affordability, and enthusiasm represent the essence of small business in the Green Mountain state, while acting as a beneficial and contributing member to Vermont's marine and small business communities. The UVM Wakeboard club is a group of energetic and dedicated students at the University of Vermont, who are organizing a this club which will allow for the promotion of the sport, as well as Lake Champlain being a great resource right "down the hill". To contact Burlington Boatyard please email info@burlingtonboatyard.com or call 1-877-BOAT BBY To contact the UVM Wakeboard Club, please e-mail their President Nicole Ullian, at nullian@uvm.edu or visit the Burlington Boatyard Blog and Forum to keep up with their progress.
LCI Hooks Burlington Boatyard for Long-Term Principal Sponsorship To Aid Lake Community
LCI Hooks Burlington Boatyard for Long-Term Principal Sponsorship To Aid Lake Community October 25, 2008 By Burlington Boatyard, LLC & Lake Champlain International, Inc. Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI) and Burlington Boatyard, LLC (www.BurlingtonBoatyard.com) have solidified a principal sponsorship centered on continuing the revitalization of Lake Champlain to further support the community. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Burlington, VT -- For two local organizations, there is no such thing as an off season on Champlain. On September 3, 2008, Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI) and Burlington Boatyard, LLC (BBY) solidified a principal sponsorship centered on continuing the revitalization of Lake Champlain to further support the community. LCI, a federally recognized 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation, is a leading advocate for the restoration and conservation of Lake Champlain and its watershed. For nearly three decades, LCI has hosted countless fundraising events in support of Lake Champlain, most notably the LCI Father's Day Fishing Derby, which attracts anglers nationwide by the thousands each year. Over the past few months, the directors of LCI have applauded the efforts put forth by Burlington Boatyard, a newly emerged limited liability company and fellow supporter of a cleaner and healthier Lake Champlain. Founded by five young entrepreneurs--three of whom graduated from the University of Vermont-- Burlington Boatyard recently unveiled their redesigned website and business model (www.burlingtonboatyard.com) which offers affordable advertising to individuals and marinas selling new and used boats, parts, and accessories; while at the same time connecting local marine enthusiasts through new media and social networking technology. BBY's dedication to Vermont's marine and lake initiatives tugged at the line of James Ehlers, LCI's executive director, who oversaw each phase of the sponsorship. “LCI welcomes the support of this group of innovative and hard-working lake stewards” , remarked Ehlers. “We applaud their commitment to the community and the health of the lake and look forward to their support for years to come in our efforts to restore and revitalize Lake Champlain.” Burlington Boatyard's Chief Executive Officer, Guy Mitrano, said of the sponsorship, “We are honored to have this opportunity to work with such a valuable and essential organization to the Lake Champlain watershed. Burlington Boatyard holds in high esteem LCI’s values, dedication and contributions to the resources of today, ensuring conservation and availability for tomorrow. We will work closely with LCI to establish new growth opportunities from an online perspective, and serve as a devoted proponent of their mission overall.” With a dedication to positively impacting the community, Burlington Boatyard is using its various new media channels to highlight boating, open and hard-water fishing, and other marine related issues surrounding Lake Champlain and all Vermont watersheds. These media channels include a blog, forum, podcasts, an “ask the tech” feature, user photo community, custom video channel, and segmented newsletters. BBY also has plans to launch initiatives that focus on youth education, in regards to lake health, boating safety, conservation and its role in fishing, all of which will ultimately allow younger people to become involved in the community via online programs and on-the-water workshops. “We are striving to ensure that everyone can take part in the virtual world of boating, fishing and marine awareness and conservation,” said Chief Technology Officer of Burlington Boatyard, Nick Cifuentes. “As a business, we are constantly thinking of new, innovative ideas to build a social community on the web that is not only entertaining and informative, but all the while promoting lake and boating issues as the most crucial element of that paradigm.” Besides functioning as a place to advertise used and new boats, parts and accessories, Burlington Boatyard’s new media channels have allowed them to secure several resources in the Lake Champlain area. These include Lake Champlain’s very own famous angler, Mickey Maynard, who works exclusively with BBY on their blog, video segments, podcasts, and monthly promotions. “Capt.Mick” covers topics that range from safe boat towing and seasonal fishing reports, to the lead recycling program on Champlain and lamprey control. Also, by securing a principle sponsorship relationship with Lake Champlain International, Inc., Burlington Boatyard will be working directly with LCI to implement new online features on their long-time running website (www.lciderby.com) , such as custom RSS news feeds, educational videos, downloadable youth curricula, informational podcasts, interactive applications, and much more. Recently, BBY has started working with the University of Vermont Wakeboard Club to aid in their exposure and development as they look to local marinas and businesses for resources, equipment and water access points. As these donations will benefit the club's progress and growth immensely, Burlington Boatyard has agreed to guide the officers in promoting lake clean up and service projects, where a club policy would require each member to donate a set number of hours to community service per semester. BBY managers, who will also partake in these clean ups, will oversee and ensure all projects are focused exclusively on lake initiatives. “From Lake Champlain to Bomoseen, the Chazy River to the Otter, our goal is to ensure every boater, angler and lake-goer can stay connected and informed through our services.” said CEO Guy Mitrano. “While we provide the mediums and business model that facilitate the promotion of an 'online and on-the-water' community, our users contribute greatly, as we hear from them daily regarding the events and topics that deserve mention throughout the state and beyond.” Mitrano went on to note, “I am excited about our recent growth in opportunities to work closely with many individuals and organizations, like LCI, and our focus will remain on positively impacting both the fun and informational aspects of the lake community.” # # # Burlington Boatyard, LLC (www.BurlingtonBoatyard.com) is Vermont's only exclusive online marine marketplace. Specializing in unbeatable classified advertising & many B2B services, "BBY" keeps the marine community connected both online and on the water. Their core values of loyalty, commitment, affordability, and enthusiasm represent the essence of small business in the Green Mountain state, while acting as a beneficial and contributing member to Vermont’s marine and small business communities. Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation whose mission is the conservation, restoration and revitalization of Lake Champlain and the Lake Champlain watershed. Actively involved in fisheries and conservation issues, they also support mentoring and education programs, firmly believing people are not the problem, but the solution. Visit them at www.lciderby.com for more information.
UVM Students Set to Make Waves with Start of Wakeboard Club
UVM Students Set to Make Waves with Start of Wakeboard Club October 20, 2008 By James MacKay with contributions from Guy Mitrano The University of Vermont has an active community of outdoor enthusiasts with many students participating in various organizations around campus. This semester has brought about a demand for a new organization, a demand that was answered with the introduction of the UVM Wakeboarding Club. Students have taken on the process of forming this group of “riders” because they want a new educational experience outside of the classroom where they can learn and make friendships while taking part in the activities they enjoy. Those attending the University of Vermont have the privilege of admiring Lake Champlain everyday while walking to and from class, and now they can further enrich the campus and community with the newly formed club, as they provide the opportunities to experience first hand all the lake has to offer. With over 100 members, the UVMWC consists of both undergraduate and graduate men and women of various skill levels, so all are welcome to join. Over the past several weeks, members have attended weekly meetings at the Davis Center as well as numerous riding sessions out on Champlain. Each meeting, held in the Jost Foundation Room on Thursdays at 6:30pm, the club organizes possible riding opportunities for coming weeks, discuss possible sponsorship and fundraising opportunities, and review other business matters like creating the Club Constitution. The goal of the club is to be recognized by the Student Government Association by January in order receive budget funding from the school in the Fall of 2009. Currently, the UVM Wakeboard Club faces many challenges on and off of the water. Sufficient funding is an ongoing issue as the university is unable to assist clubs unrecognized by the SGA, so student support is greatly needed and appreciated. The UVMWC relies on donations and sponsorships in order to acquire new equipment like wakeboards, life jackets, ropes, wet suits, and most importantly, boats and boat rentals. The club ultimately plans on owning a fleet of boats, but for now they hope to work with boat rental businesses willing to offer their support. Some local club members also have their own boats ready for use, and are looking for slips and storage for the spring and upcoming semesters. In addition to going out riding, this group is dedicated to giving back to the Lake Champlain community through community service activities. Members are expected to complete five hours of community service to support local areas in need, which will be organized through their principal sponsor Burlington Boatyard, LLC (www.BurlingtonBoatyard.com). BBY's managers will advise the club's Community Relations Chair as to which projects and cleanups need to be addressed and they will be on site helping the students with all services preformed. The members are grateful to have a such a wonderful resource like Lake Champlain, and they will do all they can to give back to the community that has given them so much. The founding members of the UVM Wakeboarding Club are eager for the semesters ahead, and plan to ensure a strong and dedicated organization for future UVM generations. Anyone wishing to join or offer support to the UVM Wakeboading club, please contact Nicole Ullian at nullian@uvm.edu. ### You may follow the club’s news, progress and more by visiting the Burlington Boatyard Blog, or joining in at the Burlington Boatyard Forum.
Good News for Vermont Water Quality Initiatives: Clean and Clear Offers Ecosystem Restoration Grants
Good News for Vermont Water Quality Initiatives: Clean and Clear Offers Ecosystem Restoration Grants September 9, 2008 By Guy Mitrano Today, Govenor Douglas announced that the Center for Clean and Clear at the Agency of Natural Resources has just allocated $ 500,000 in grant money for its Ecosystem Restoration Program. It is uplifting to see such efforts and awareness put forth by both state and federal organizations, as this money will directly impact Vermont in a very positive way, where these funds will allow everyone the opportunity to contribute their ideas and proposals for the betterment of our watersheds statewide. Please read the below press release from Govenor Douglas' office, which was kindly passed along to Burlington Boatyard from James Ehlers, Executive Director of LCI. JAMES H. DOUGLAS GOVERNOR State of Vermont OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR For Immediate Release: Tuesday, September 09, 2008 Contact: Julie Moore 802-241-3687 Clean and Clear offers ecosystem restoration grants WATERBURY - Governor Jim Douglas announced today that the Center for Clean and Clear at the Agency of Natural Resources is making up to $ 500,000 in grants available for its Ecosystem Restoration Program. Governor Douglas said the newly expanded program broadens the range of eligible projects to more fully encompass the multitude of strategies and techniques available for improving water quality in the state, with special emphasis on reducing phosphorus and sediment pollution associated with wet weather runoff. “These grants will help our watershed partners do the work that improves water quality town by town across Vermont,” said Julie Moore, director of the Center for Clean and Clear. “The improvements we make on land have direct impacts on protecting our rivers, streams, ponds and lakes.” The Center for Clean and Clear is particularly interested in projects that can improve stream stability; protect against flood hazards; improve in-stream and riparian habitat; reduce the effects of pollution from sediment; nutrients and other pollutants; protect and restore riparian wetlands; re-establish lakeshore native vegetation; reduce shoreline erosion; enhance the economic and environmental sustainability of agricultural lands and incorporate the science of fluvial geomorphology in river corridor management decisions. Governor Jim Douglas made water quality one of his top environmental priorities when he created the Clean and Clear Action Plan five years ago. Since then, the state has invested more than million and leveraged an additional million in federal funds to implement water quality programs that have garnered national recognition and awards. “The Clean and Clear Action Plan has made a difference in protecting our waters,” Douglas said. “These grants go to the heart of the effort - Vermonters working together for our future environmental and economic prosperity.” The Center for Clean and Clear is accepting one-page project “pre-proposals” until October 10, 2008. Through a competitive process, Vermont municipalities, local or regional governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations and citizen groups can apply for the grants. The Center for Clean and Clear will then work with proponents to develop either more detailed proposals or project work plans for funding consideration. More information and grant guidelines can be found at: http://www.anr.state.vt.us/cleanandclear/index.htm. ### Please feel free to comment on this article in our forum.
Local Vermont Governor Appoints LCI's Ehlers to Represent State on New England - Wide Water Quality
Local Vermont Governor Appoints LCI's Ehlers to Represent State on New England - Wide Water Quality Commission August 23, 2008 By Guy Mitrano Burlington Boatyard was just informed this morning by Mr. Ehlers of his new appointment to the New England-Wide Water Quality Commission. The members of BBY congratulate Mr. Ehlers on his recent accomplishment, and are honored to work closely with him as we move forward. Below is the press release for further information on this recent appointment. For Immediate Release 23 August 2008 Vermont Governor Appoints LCI’s Ehlers to Represent State on New England-Wide Water Quality Commission Colchester, VT - Vermont Governor Jim Douglas named James Ehlers, executive director of Lake Champlain International, Inc., to represent the State of Vermont on the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission. The New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC) has been a leader in the fight for clean water since 1947. As a not-for-profit interstate agency, NEIWPCC serves and assists its member states - Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont - in many ways: by coordinating activities and forums that encourage cooperation among the states, educating the public about key water quality issues, supporting research projects, training environmental professionals, and providing overall leadership in water management and protection. NEIWPCC's initial emphasis was on surface water protection, but that role has grown over the years to include such matters as wetlands restoration, nonpoint source pollution, water allocation, and underground storage tanks. NEIWPCC is overseen by commissioners from each member state - who are appointed by their state governors or, in some cases, assume the post due to their position. The commissioners, of which Ehlers is now one, are a diverse group, representing state water pollution control agencies, environmental protection agencies, health departments, industry, municipalities, and the general public. The chairmanship of the Commission rotates between states every two years. NEIWPCC's staff develops and carries out programs endorsed by the commissioners. Further coordination of the work comes from the directors of its three main divisions: Water Quality, Wastewater and Onsite Systems, and Drinking Water. Its headquarters are in Lowell, MA. More information on NEIWPCC can be found on the internet at www.neiwpcc.org. On appointing Ehlers, Governor Douglas said, “James is a tireless advocate for Vermont’s natural resources and understands the link between a healthy environment and a strong and growing economy. I am confident he will be a voice for continued regional collaboration as the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission continues its work to ensure each of our states benefits from clean water and healthy, thriving ecosystems.” “I am flattered by the Governor’s confidence in my abilities to represent Vermont well on this important commission. I look forward to working on this assignment and definitely intend to be the strong advocate that Vermont needs to ensure that we not only maintain our environment but that we improve it. A healthy environment and healthy economy are inextricably linked. And the value of clean water to Vermont - to all of us - can never be taken for granted. It will always require work and our constant attention. I’m eager to do my part,” said Ehlers, who will be traveling to Connecticut next month to represent Vermont at the next NEIWPCC meeting. Ehlers, a successful entrepreneur, now leads the federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI), located in Colchester, VT. LCI’s mission is the conservation, restoration and revitalization of the Lake Champlain watershed and its communities. It hosts the nearly 30-year old LCI Father's Day Fishing Derby, which draws more than 5,500 people from more than 30 states to enjoy Lake Champlain for the weekend. Through that marquee fundraising event and other fishing-related fundraisers, LCI is able to finance their conservation and education programs. They include the Champlain Fisheries Recovery Initiative, the Fishing For Friends mentoring partnership, After-School Fishing Clubs, and the Fish and Flowers Rain Garden program. These programs encourage the current 21,000-plus LCI anglers to actively engage the next generation in carrying on the angling heritage and the conservation ethic it embodies. LCI is on the web at mychamplain.net. For more information on either NEIWPCC or LCI, call 802.879.3466 or email info@mychamplain.net.
That's A Wrap: Burlington Boatyard Wraps-up Coverage from the 2008 Lake Champlain Maritime Festival
That's A Wrap: Burlington Boatyard Wraps-up Coverage from the 2008 Lake Champlain Maritime Festival August 18, 2008 By Jimmy Farah Although the forecast called for grey skies, the excitement down on the waterfront seemed to have forced the sun out! In case you didn't get a chance to see our last news article before the weekend, Burlington Boatyard was invited to be a sponsor at this year's Lake Champlain Maritime Festival down at the Burlington Waterfront. Through the help of the Jerry Rafoul and Mike O'Brien, Burlington Boatyard was front and center, enjoying all the festivities and sharing information about our business and the Vermont community with fellow patrons and attendees of the event. Over the course of the weekend, Burlington Boatyard kept track of all that was happening by putting together live video updates in our blog. On Friday, we were fortunate enough to have our resident author and The Lake Champlain Angler Mickey Maynard stop by and discuss the lamprey initiative with Guy Mitrano, CEO. On Saturday, we sat down with Peter Thayer and Debbie from "Will Fish For Fun" and they shared some information with us about their upcoming fishing event for kids’ ages 8-12 coming up on September 6, 2008. By the end of the day, Vermont's own late night host Tim Kavanagh from "Late Night Saturday with Tim Kavanagh" made his way over to the Burlington Boatyard booth to find out what we were all about and to interview the BBY crew, and that should air sometime in the fall. On Sunday, we finally sat down with Mike O'Brien, one of the festival directors and originators, to get an explanation on the LCMF's history and success over the years. Juliette Dubroca also stopped by and chatted about the Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center and the future of their facility. Vermont Special Olympics' Robyn Comstock wrapped up the day by discussing their involvement in the festival and other initiatives within the area with Jimmy Farah, Chief Communications Officer of Burlington Boatyard. All the while, our Chief Technology Officer Nick Cifuentes offered his insight on the social media and community networking aspects of BurlingtonBoatyard.com, which intrigued many vendors, LCFM staff, and attendees of the event alike. He also worked diligently from his laptop to make sure the uploading of video, content, blog entries and other online work that needed to be carried out was done seamlessly and as efficiently as it could be "from the road". Once again, the weekend seemed to fly by down at the waterfront, but the chance to meet all of our current and potential users was the most meaningful part of our participation in the festival. Burlington Boatyard would like to thank all those who participated in the Lake Champlain Maritime Festival this year, from the vendors, security personal, construction crews, Burlington Police Department, artists and all those in charge in the logistics and success of the festival. Burlington Boatyard would like to especially thank Jerry Rafoul and Mike O'Brien, coordinators and directors of the Maritime Festival; Mickey Maynard, Peter, Debbie, Tim Kavanagh, Juliette Dubroca, Robyn Comstock, Linda Dyer from Dragonheart Vermont, and the many others…thank you for your time and support! For more information on the festival and to see Burlington Boatyard's exclusive interviews, check out our blog at www.burlingtonboatyard.com/blog
Local Angler Speaks On Lamprey Control Issue
Local Angler Speaks On Lamprey Control Issue August 16, 2008 By Guy Mitrano There is an active and committed voice in the angler community that discusses the issues which face the health of Vermont's lakes and rivers on a daily basis. Those who take these initiatives strive to increase the ways in which they can make a difference. From attending meetings, to writing petitions, to emailing key figures in state organizations, these are the people that care about our lakes, our home, and will not let future generations deal with having to hear about the lakes that were, but rather be able to get out on the water to boat and fish the lakes that ARE, because of what has been done by those who cared before. I prove to you this point by sharing an article written by Mike Shellito of South Burlington, VT - an avid fisherman and boater, as well as someone who has been trying to help in the awareness of the Lamprey problem plaguing Lake Champlain and other significant bodies of water in Vermont. "The VT Fish and Wildlife has applied for a permit to apply lampricide to both the Missisquoi and Winooski Rivers this fall. The sea lamprey is a parasitic fish that resembles an eel, however unlike eels these fish can grow to almost 3 feet long and prey on a variety of fish such as lake trout, salmon, walleye, and sturgeon, among others. Due to secretions in the lamprey's mouth, the blood does not clot on the target fish that the lamprey has attacked which could ultimately prove fatal to the fish. Experimental treatments in the 90s led to a decrease in lampreys throughout Lake Champlain. Currently VT is lagging behind New York in its lamprey control measures. The Federal Government is also attempting to curb the numbers of lamprey in Lake Champlain as well, using both lampricide and physical barriers; however more still needs to be done to ensure a successful fishery on Lake Champlain. It is primarily the fishermen/women that you hear pushing for a better lamprey control measure on our lake, but the potential effects of disregarding this problem could be staggering. The sturgeon for example, is an extremely slow growing fish; they are one of the oldest families of fish in existence. They don't reach sexual maturity for 20 years or more. Lamprey related population declines on this species could take decades to recover from, and it would be a shame to lose such a species as this on Lake Champlain. Here are some interesting economic facts about Lake Champlain (http://www.lciderby.com/news_economicfacts.shtml) - On average, tourists coming to Vermont for the primary purpose of fishing and/or hunting spent $ 2096 in Vermont on their trips. Skiers spent an average of $ 1558 on their ski trips. - Anglers fishing Lake Champlain spent $ 205 million in a year. - Lake Champlain anglers spent $ 100 million on nondurable goods such as tackle, bait and refreshments and $ 105 million on durable goods such as fishing rods and fishing boats in a year. - 42 percent of the above expenditures were associated with lake trout fishing. - There were 98 fishing and fishing-related businesses within ten miles of Lake Champlain and the owners of those businesses estimated that 78% ($ 5.6 million) of their $ 7.2 million in gross fishing-based income was derived from anglers fishing Lake Champlain or its tributaries. While you may or may not totally agree with these numbers, there is definitely compelling evidence the fishing industry brings a lot of money to the Champlain Valley. There are some areas where the primary economic driving force is Lake Champlain, whether it is from fishing, boating, water skiing, camping or a combination of any of them. You can't deny that Lake Champlain helps drive these local economies, and maintaining Lake Champlain and all it has to offer is imperative to keep our Champlain Basin economy flourishing. There are people that oppose the use of lampricide for controlling lamprey numbers in Lake Champlain due to adverse impacts on other species. However the lampricide is administered in controlled levels and at controlled times to have the most minimal impact on other species and the greatest impact on lampreys. During the treatment period, the rivers are closely monitored and precise measured amounts are administered and adjusted as necessary. The lampricide does not accumulate in the tissue of aquatic organisms and it breaks down in a matter of days. Tadpoles and salamanders, for example, have left the shore habitats before the treatment even begins. The lampricide poses no threat to aquatic or land birds, humans or other mammals. The environmental impact that humans have on Lake Champlain that adversely affects the lake, its tributaries and its inhabitants is far greater than lampricide. The amount of run-off from our cities, and the associated pollution that gets in to the lake, the effects of acid rain, the phosphorous levels from our farming, all have adverse affects on our lake. The increase in phosphorous in the lake depletes the oxygen levels in the lake and causes algae blooms which impact all animal species within the lake. The increase in the amount of fertilizers used by residents in the Champlain Valley all results in an increase in pollution that affects the lake. My thoughts for those of you that are opposed to the treatment of using lampricide on Lake Champlain is that you should concentrate on fighting to stop the above listed problems that pose a far greater threat to the lake's health. Lampricide applications pose minimal risk while producing excellent benefits. Please join the majority of lake users that support expanded applications of lampricide to fight the lamprey population. I believe the only other solution to the lamprey problem on Lake Champlain is possibly finding Champ and cloning him so we have more native predators that will naturally deplete the lampreys in the lake. But I guess that opens up another can of worms on the cloning issue… " Mr. Shellito has tactfully expressed his concern in both an opinionated but very factual and professional manner. This most certainly signifies his endeavor to bring the knowledge he has built over the years to the forefront for all to learn from, and take action in preserving the invaluable resources we have in our towns, counties, and our state of Vermont. We at Burlington Boatyard thank Mr. Shellito for allowing us the opportunity to share his sentiments with our users, and cannot agree more with the fact that actions need to be taken by all to communicate just how detrimental it would be to overlook a very pressing issue that does not effect anglers alone, but the health of Vermont and its generations to come.
Celebrating Lake Champlain: Burlington Boatyard To Be A Sponsor of the 2008 Lake Champlain Maritime
Celebrating Lake Champlain: Burlington Boatyard To Be A Sponsor of the 2008 Lake Champlain Maritime Festival August 13, 2008 By Guy Mitrano Sometimes things happen by chance, and other times things happen for a reason. And this week, there was a reason why Burlington Boatyard came upon the opportunity to be a sponsor of the 2008 Lake Champlain Maritime Festival going on August 15^th through the 17^th down at the Burlington Waterfront. Thinking spots for the event were all booked, Jimmy Farah, BBY’s Chief Communications Officer, reached out to Mr. Jerry Rafoul, one of the LCMFs organizers and director of sponsorship, to inquire about volunteering at the event. “We wanted to play a part in this year’s festival in some way, even if it meant setting up tables and being gophers for the weekend.”, Jimmy noted. “However, after spending some time discussing our mission and business model that directly impacts and reinvests in the lake community with Mr. Rafoul, he was kind enough to put together a sponsorship opportunity that would allow us to join in promoting our vision and services that the lake-goers can utilize and feel good about doing so.” Burlington Boatyard will be setting up shop this weekend down at the waterfront, ready to promote further connection amongst the boaters and anglers on Lake Champlain and across Vermont, through discussion and display of their services with all those that take part in the LCMF. “While being online enables us to be with our users 24-7, it is an opportunity such as sponsoring this festival that allows us to put faces with names, and inform people of the progress we are making in ensuring our business gives back to the community in which we operate.”, remarked Guy Mitrano, CEO. “From simple chit-chat to explaining our upcoming partnership with Lake Champlain International, a part of me wonders if three days is enough!” To read more about Burlington Boatyard’s upcoming weekend at the LCMF, visit the corresponding BBY Blog article and feel free to leave your comments.
LCI's James Ehlers to Serve on American Sportfishing Association Committees
LCI's James Ehlers to Serve on American Sportfishing Association Committees August 12, 2008 By Guy Mitrano James Ehlers, Executive Director of LCI, accomplished businessman and avid outdoorsman, has recently been appointed by the American Sportfishing Association to serve on their Government Affairs Committee, and its Freshwater Subcommittee, as well as its FishAmerica Foundation Committee. This is a big win for the anglers and boaters of Vermont, as Mr. Ehlers is a great advocate for sportsmen and women in our area. His voice will be Vermont's voice- and with his continued dedication and well deserved new role with these prestigious committees, it will be heard at greater levels, making the potential for change and new resolutions to the issues that face our marine communities very real. Congratulations to Mr. Ehlers on all of his hard work, and it is safe to say that the anglers and boaters of Vermont extend their well wishes for all that is to come with his new endeavor. Below is the press release from Sunday, August 9, 2008 ### For Immediate Release 09 August 2008 American Sportfishing Association Names LCI’s Ehlers to Government Affairs Committee and FishAmerica Foundation Committee Colchester, VT-The American Sportfishing Association selected James Ehlers, executive director of Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI), to serve on their Government Affairs Committee, and its Freshwater Subcommittee, as well as its FishAmerica Foundation Committee. Based in Alexandria, VA, the 75-year-old American Sportfishing Association (ASA) is the sportfishing industry's trade association. They unite more than 650 members of the sportfishing and boating industries with state fish and wildlife agencies, federal land and water management agencies, conservation organizations, angler advocacy groups and outdoor journalists. They safeguard and promote the enduring social, economic and conservation values of sportfishing. ASA also advocates on behalf of its members, keeping watch on existing and potential laws and polices that significantly affect their members’ business and sportfishing itself. In addition to monitoring emerging polices, ASA’s Government Affairs staff fosters strong relationships with Members of Congress, other conservation and recreation agencies and organizations and state and federal government leaders to ensure that sportfishing interests are represented when policy decisions are made. ASA’s FishAmerica Foundation unites the sportfishing industry with conservation groups, government natural resource agencies, corporations, and charitable foundations to invest in fish and habitat conservation and research across the country. They support fisheries conservation and research in the best way by providing matching grants that empower citizen conservationists in their own communities. The grants are an important part of broader efforts to conserve the outdoors and ensure millions of Americans will be able to enjoy fishing in the future. Over the last 20 years, the FishAmerica Foundation has provided over million for more than 750 grassroots conservation and research projects all across the country. ASA President Jeff Pontius stated, on selecting Ehlers, “Your committee membership is one of the most important contributions you can make on behalf of our industry. Only through the dedication of caring professionals like you can we help ensure the future of the sportfishing industry. I look forward to working with you.” More information on ASA can be found on the internet at www.asafishing.org The 39-year-old Ehlers, upon learning of his appointment, said, “I am pleased and proud to work with ASA. I am eager to make whatever small contribution I may to the positive policy work ASA effects in Washington, D.C., and the incredible conservation work it does in restoring our waters across the country. I am extremely proud to be associated with an organization having the record of accomplishment that ASA does.” Ehlers leads the Vermont-based Lake Champlain International, Inc. located in Colchester, VT. LCI is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Their mission is the conservation, restoration and revitalization of Lake Champlain and the Lake Champlain watershed. LCI hosts the nearly 30-year old LCI Father's Day Fishing Derby, drawing more than 5,500 people from over 30 states for the weekend, and other fishing-related fundraising events to help finance their goals. The progenitor of the Champlain Fisheries Recovery Initiative, LCI also financially supports mentoring and education programs through its Fishing For Friends program and its After-School Fishing Clubs and encourages the current 21,000-plus LCI anglers to actively engage the next generation to carry on the angling heritage and the conservation ethic it embodies. LCI is on the web at mychamplain.net. For more information on either ASA or LCI, call 802.879.3466 or email info@mychamplain.net
LCI Angler Night at Centennial Field
LCI Angler Night at Centennial Field July 11, 2008 By Jimmy Farah with contributions from Guy Mitrano The Lake Monsters game on Saturday July 5^th drew quite the crowd, for what turned out to be a great night of baseball and some fun activities for guest anglers and their families, as the LCI Angler Night at Centennial Field took place for its 5th consecutive year. While the Lake Monsters took the win on the field, beating the Batavia Muckdogs 6-5, there was even more success taking place just outside the stadium, where local organizations and businesses promoted their services as well as showed their support of LCI and its message within the community. Exhibits such as the on-site fish tank from the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department not only provided a fun attraction for the kids, but the information shared by the department's representatives is important in encouraging awareness of the hatchery program. Burlington Boatyard was part of the action that evening, conducting a free raffle for gift certificates to West Marine on Shelburne Road, and giving away BBY floating key chains and drink coozies. To all those who showed their interest and took some time to talk with us, we appreciate it and thank you. It was nice to see the many families enjoying the game, as well as having the chance to meet other LCI supporters sponsoring the event. The combination of baseball, boating, fishing and family really made for a great 4^th of July weekend. Please share with us your stories from LCI Angler Night by commenting on Guy's Blog Article "And The Winners Are…".
27th Annual LCI Fishing Derby: The Fish were Biting!
27^th Annual LCI Fishing Derby: The Fish were Biting! June 25, 2008 By Jimmy Farah There was yet another great turnout for the 27^th annual Lake Champlain International Fishing Derby and Burlington Boatyard was there to catch all the excitement and lend a hand. Although it wasn’t the sunniest of days on Lake Champlain, the conditions made for some great fishing and definitely drew some of the “big guys” to the surface. From Orwell to Rouses Point, the fish were definitely biting and making for a very fun and competitive derby. Burlington Boatyard’s managing members (Guy Mitrano, CEO; James Farah, CCO; and Jason Meyersburg; CSO) started early at the weigh-in stations helping with LCI merchandise sales, bringing fish in to be weighed, and helping to release them back into the Lake. The first stop was in North Hero at Hero’s Welcome, then over to St. Albans Bay at Kill Kare State Park, where some of the bigger pike and catfish were being caught. Finally, after finishing up early in Plattsburgh, we were able to grab the ferry back in time for the anticipated six o’clock raffle located where we started twelve hours before…Hero’s Welcome. It was great to see everyone turnout for what is one of the most beneficial events on Lake Champlain, as the derby combines the sense of family and fun with the love of competition and sport. And that is what fishing’s all about! We hope everyone had as much fun as we did, and we want to give a special thanks to LCI, who made it possible for us to be there, all those who helped volunteer, the participants and congratulations to all the winners. Can’t wait to see you all at next year’s derby! Burlington Boatyard wants to hear your stories and experiences from the derby this year. Please feel free to share your thoughts by commenting on Guy's write-up in the BBY Blog
We're Back!
We're Back! June 14, 2008 By James MacKay with contributions from Guy Mitrano As summer quickly approaches, Burlington Boatyard is proud to once again serve those boaters, anglers, and lake goers that make Vermont such a special place for all who appreciate the marine lifestyle. BBY's much anticipated return is marked by a new management staff, redesigned website, and enhanced and expanded services - but our dedication to Vermont's marine community remains the same. There are many who have become members of BBY's extended family in their dedication to us and their efforts to make our return a success. These influential members of both the local community and beyond are Jennifer Aines from the Vermont Secretary of State’s Office, Terry Edwards from the Vermont Tax Department, Ed Sherman CPA, a family friend and accountant, attorney Jay D'Avolio, and many more! To you we extend our gratitude for all of your time and support, you have truly played an integral part in Burlington Boatyard’s recent developments. As another boating season has finally begun, our efforts press on to remain Vermont’s only exclusive online marine market place, and we only succeed when you see results that save you time, money, and allow you to have a better experience on and off the water. We hope you join BBY today, not only to enjoy great advertising deals and business relationships, but to check back frequently for developments within our company, amongst the boating and fishing industries as a whole, and for the latest local marine news to keep you Anchored in Vermont.

Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI) and Burlington Boatyard, LLC (www.BurlingtonBoatyard.com) have solidified a principal sponsorship centered on continuing the revitalization of Lake Champlain to further support the community.