BURLINGTON, Vt. — The Association of Vermont Credit Unions, along with other co-ops, will be enjoying a high profile event at what is being called “an unprecedented gathering” of state and national political figures at a candidates' forum to be held at a Burlington hotel.

The AVCU is serving as co-sponsor for the “Vermont Cooperative Summit” to feature front-running candidates for Vermont's U.S. Congressional and Senate seats including the Senate post held by the retiring Jim Jeffords.

Joining AVCU as co-sponsor and organizer of the Oct. 10 event is Cabot of Vermont, the large dairy co-op, as well as the Co-Op Alliance of Vermont and USDA Rural Development.

The Summit, said AVCU, gives the public a chance to quiz the candidates on their views while also “showcasing how co-ops succeed and how their business model benefits consumers in Vermont and across the nation.”

Participating in the Summit will be U.S. Congressman Bernie Sanders (I) and Richard Tarrant (R), who are vying to replace Jeffords. Also on the program will be state senator Peter Welch and Martha Rainville, who are pursuing Sanders' vacant seat in the U.S. House.

The forum will be co-moderated by AVCU President Joe Bergeron and Agri-Mark/Cabot CEO/President Rich Stammer. An attendance fee of $15 is being charged with proceeds going to the Vermont Food Bank.

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