⚲  Open Saturdays 1–3 p.m. · 3216 Main Street, Cabot, Vermont Contact Us
Established for the People of Cabot

Cabot Historical Society

Preserving the history of Cabot, Vermont · Founded 1965

The Cabot Chronicle

April 2010 · Issue Record

← From the Cabot Chronicle

The community record for this issue of the Cabot Chronicle, extracted from the original pages. Reprinted with permission from the Cabot Chronicle.

Original issue: Download the April 2010 pages (PDF)

Automated extraction, spot-checked. Advertisements, the business directory, and puzzles are omitted; obituaries appear as individual entries.

In This Issue

Discussion Not Dissent

(Continued from Page 1) to expand the board, and 85 had voted against the change. Article 18 proposed to save the $2000 it costs to mail the Annual Town Report to every residence by sending a postcard and making them available by other means instead. This article was also defeated via a unanimous voice vote. A request from the fire department for $30,350 to defray expenses was unanimously approved. Another $15,000 was approved for the fire department to help cover the cost of a new pumper truck. The Cabot Library’s request for $49,816.33 was unanimously approved, as was the Cabot Cemetery request for $18,000. Article 23 inspired discussion about the need for volunteers on the Cabot Emergency Ambulance Service. Support for the volunteers was shown, as well as concern that they do not always have enough help to respond to local emergencies. People were encouraged to help out, and notified that training and certification at many levels is available. The article, which gave $10,000 to support the service, was unanimously adopted. Support for the Senior Citizens group in the amount of $500 was unanimously approved. A report was presented accompanying Article 25, explaining that some of the money given the Cabot Mentoring Program was used last year to help the Cabot Roamers (a bike-riding club). Since last year there have been 23 bike tour events, two safety meetings, 22 adults and 18 youth have participated and cumulatively rode 7,915 miles, including a ride to the Maine Coast. The article to support the Mentoring Program was adopted. Article 26 requested a $1000 expenditure to support the Cabot Recreation Committee. Discussion of the article included a proposal to increase the amount to $4,000 total, since the elimination of the elementary school sports program was approved at the School Budget meeting the night before and therefore there will be extra support for the program needed from the Recreation Committee. This article was adopted as amended, with the new total of $4,000. The next article, 27, included the requests from area agencies and support services. The list this year was similar to lists in the past, except this year short reports from each agency making a request for funds was a requirement, and included in the Town Report. There was very little discussion of the article, except for a few questions about the sources of funding for the Friends of the Winooski. The entire article was adopted as proposed. Article 28, which was written to request funds for town road maintenance, was amended by the Select Board to remedy an accounting error. It was then unanimously adopted as amended.

↑ contents

We want to hear from you!

Send us articles, letters to the editor, photos and press releases. Let’s keep our community communicating!

DEADLINE: 15th of the month prior

Publisher: Cabot Coalition Executive Editor: Jeannie Johnson Coordinator: Amy Hornblas Advertising: Julia Shipley Editor: Anne Nadel Pagination: Todd Jones Article 29, which approves the amount to be raised from taxes to cover the general expenses, was amended to include the increase in funding for the Recreation Committee (see article 26 above) and unanimously adopted as amended. The lunch break came at 12:10 p.m., with a meal prepared by the United Church of Cabot to raise funds for the church, and the eighth graders served bagels and other snacks as part of a fundraiser for their trip to Washington, D.C. A number of folks went for lunch at the Hardware Store diner, while still others went home. Attendance for the second half of the meeting was much smaller than the original tally. Australian ballot articles (numbers 3 through 11) were passed over without much discussion. Someone asked for clarification about article nine, and then a larger discussion about the merger of Cabot Town and Cabot Village ensued. Information was shared about the water and wastewater systems, which were the main cause for the separation of the Village from the Town early last century. The village needed clean water, and found it easier to work on this issue as a separate entity. Now that lower Cabot (which is in the Town) would like to have access to the potable well water supplied to the Village, it would be simpler to apply for grants if the two municipal entities merged. One person expressed concern that the loss of the Village would decrease the power of local government, and reminded attendees that Village residents could vote twice (as a Village and a Town resident). In the end, the decision was made through Australian ballot and the result was not known until the following day. (See Australian Ballot Voting Results, page 3) Finally, the voters of the Town of Cabot requested the Vermont legislature to close Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant and seek renewable sources of power. A proposal to add the words “non -nuclear” to the list of renewable sources suggested to the legislature was approved. The article was adopted with a vocal majority.

↑ contents

MAY DEADLINE

Attention readers: The deadline for the May issue of the Cabot Chronicle will fall one day earlier than the usual date. The deadline for May will be April 14. If you have something to submit, please have it to

date or we will not be able to use it.

↑ contents

Helps the Whole School

An interview with Sarah Robinson, Senior Nutrition Program & Policy Specialist of The Vermont Campaign to End Childhood Hunger. Cabot’s Farm to School Submitted by Program In February, approximately twenty people, including teachers, family members and a student, gathered in Cabot’s cafeteria after school for their first Healthy Eating through the Seasons class. This six-session class is funded by Cabot’s Farm to School grant. The guest speaker for the first class was Sarah Robinson of The Vermont Campaign to End Childhood Hunger. Participants were surprised to learn that the school free and reduced lunch program was so easy to apply for, and that many families qualify. For example, as families do their taxes this year, they may find that they qualify for Earned Income Credit. If they do, they can also benefit from the state’s 3SquaresVt program (formerly food stamps) as well as the free and reduced lunch credit. Robinson also explained that the more Cabot families who sign up for the program, the more benefits the entire school community can access. Cabot residents, like many people throughout the nation, are looking to make their money go further during a time of fiscal challenge. benefits of the breakfast Because the and lunch program are available for so many households, Robinson answered a series of questions about the program for this month’s Cabot Chronicle. Q. What is the Free and Reduced Lunch program? A. The National School Lunch and Breakfast programs provide nutritious meals each school day to thousands of children across Vermont. School meals programs provide free or reduced-price meals to children in families with low or moderate incomes. Families earning up to 130% of the Federal Poverty Level ($28,665 annually for a family of four) can receive free school meals. Families earning up to 185% of the Federal Poverty Level ($40,793 annually for a family of four) qualify for reduced-price school meals – meaning that children in those households receive a free breakfast, but must pay $.40 for lunch. Information on which students receive free or reduced price meals is confidential. The school breakfast and lunch programs provide both choice and good nutrition to growing kids. Each meal served must meet nutritional guidelines including prescribed amounts of fruits, and vegetables, and limits on fats and calories. Q. How does having more students in the free and reduced lunch program help the school? A. Enrolling in the free or reduced price school meals program provides not only benefits to households, but also major benefits to schools and communities.

day of the month and is provided

~ Copyright 2010 by The

without express written permission from Cabot of advertising is contingent upon editor’s and loss or expense on claims based upon contents beyond the cost of space occupied by individual

↑ contents

Lunch Program

Several lines of state and federal funding are connected to the rate of students enrolled in the program – schools in Vermont can receive additional educational, afterschool, and grant funding when their percentage of free and reduced price students goes up. Q. Is it true that eligibility is based on a family's lowest income in the year? A. On the school meals application, families list their current income and earnings. If a family is over income for free or reduced price school meals in the fall, but their income situation changes (hours are reduced, someone is laid off etc.), families can reapply anytime their income changes. Once a family applies and is determined eligible, they do not need to provide income information again until the following year. Q. Many families qualify for Earned

Income Credit relate to eligibility for free and reduced lunch? A. Households with Earned income and a dependent may be eligible for the

earn up to $48,000 annually may be eligible for the credit. If a family receives the credit, they are automatically eligible for 3SquaresVT (formerly the Food Stamp program). If families apply for 3SquaresVT and receive a case number, they are automatically eligible for free school meals. In many cases, a family could be over income for free or reduced price school meals, but by virtue of receiving the EITC and applying for 3SquaresVT, can receive free school meals. Q. How does the Three Squares program (formerly known as food stamps) relate to the free and reduced lunch program? A. The 3SquaresVT program provides monthly benefits on a debit-style EBT card that can be used to purchase food anywhere that EBT is accepted (most grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets). helps families by taking tight household budgets, local farmers and grocers 3SquaresVT pressure off of and also helps by boosting the purchasing power of low to moderateincome families. 1 in 8 Vermonters receives 3SquaresVT – and seniors can have the benefit deposited as cash into their bank account. Families who apply for and are found eligible for the 3SquaresVT program are categorically eligible for free school meals. Households earning up to 185% of the Federal Poverty Level ($40,793 annually for a family of four) are eligible for 3SquaresVT. So a family that is eligible for reduced-price school meals can apply for 3SquaresVT, receive a case number, provide that number on the school meals application and receive free school meals. (See Free and Reduced, Page 3)

Find current news, great links to your community, discussion forums and more about our paper on the web at

locally free of charge.

↑ contents

Free and Reduced

(Continued from Page 2) Q. How does a family apply for the Three Squares Program? A. For information on the 3SquaresVT program including an online eligibility and benefit calculator, visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com. Q. Is the application for the Free and Reduced Lunch program difficult? A. The application for Free or Reduced Price school meals is quite simple – it is one page long. For a copy of the application, you can visit: http:// w w w . v t n o h u n g e r . o r g / schoolmealapplication.pdf. For any questions on the program, or for help filling out the application please call Sarah Rob-

Q. How can the school help families with their applications? A. Vermont schools can make school applications available in multiple locations at all times throughout the school year. It is often important to remind families every few months through newspapers, newsletters and announcements that they can apply at anytime. Some schools also offer application assistance for families. It is also important to remind families that the information on the application is completely confidential, and make sure that families feel comfortable submitting the application to a trusted teachers, staff person or office at the school. Q. Can families apply at any time of year? A. Yes. Applications for the program can be gotten from Linda Savoca in the main office at Cabot School. Anyone needing help filling out the forms can ask their classroom teacher, the guidance counselor or Farm to School Coordinator. All information related to the applications is completely confidential.

↑ contents

Article 3: Selectperson (3 year

term): Caleb Pitkin 235 total, 16 blank, 19 write-ins Art. 4. Shall voters of the Town of Cabot grant to the Cabot School the sum of $400.00 toward the purchase of supplies and equipment for an afterschool art program from $59,018 of UDAG funds available for Town Meeting grants in 2010?

↑ contents

Article 4: 205 YES, 66 NO

Art. 5. Shall the voters of the Town of Cabot grant to the Cabot Fire Department the sum of $12,000 toward purchase of a Thermal Imaging Camera that would enable Cabot firefighters to detect fire, hot spots and the presence of bodies inside buildings and locate them before entering, from $59,018 of UDAG funds available for Town Meeting grants in 2010?

↑ contents

Article 5: 189 YES, 82 NO

Art. 6. Shall the voters of the Town of Cabot grant to the Cabot School the sum of $25,000 toward retirement of a debt of $72,219 still owed on the Cabot School Performing Arts Center, an eligible capital project, from $59,018 of UDAG funds available for Town Meeting grants in 2010?

↑ contents

By Cabot Chronicle Staff

Roman Kokodyniak recently completed his third two-year term on the Cabot School Board. He first came to the board after volunteering to fill an unexpired term, and ran for the same position once the term expired. With all of the changes that are afoot in our education system today, as well as Kokdyniak’s experience with creating community. The Chronicle asked him a few questions about his experiences and outlook on education in Cabot. Q. Have you ever served in public office before? If so, as what, where and when? A. This is my first elected position besides the Cabot UDAG Committee. I have held several appointed & volunteer “public” positions - commissions, boards, committees, etc. - in the past. Q. How did you like your experience on the School Board? A. The CSB was a very welcomed and full experience. I value communitybased public education and broad community perspective in CS governance. Q. Why was serving on the board meaningful to you? A. To assist in improving learning in our community…How can this effort not be meaningful? Q. What are your thoughts about the future of Cabot School? A. I’m encouraged. Our town and our school have experienced many significant changes over time and have remained vibrant. This is a community of active innovators, not bystanders. I have faith in that legacy. Q. Besides the obvious budget issues, what other challenges does Cabot School face? A. A key one…achieving diverse and stimulating learning opportunities, for all ages and residents, while maintaining affordability as we define it in our community. Q. In spite of the budget crisis, what opportunities does Cabot School have to survive and thrive? A. We do not need to create a budget crisis – we have greater control than we acknowledge. In my view, a fundamental factor is how our school programs will evolve as needs and resources change. This has been a concern historically and will/should continue. There is a culture of creativity in Cabot and that is our asset and our opportunity. Q. What educational philosophies or strategies do you wish Cabot would implement?

↑ contents

on School

A. Design and promote CS as a learning resource and service for all community residents. To view the CS as an asset and not as a liability. Q. You have traveled all over the world in other rural regions, what educational strategies could we borrow from other cultures to enrich the academic experience at Cabot School? A. Educational approaches include elements unique to the culture and resources. To value education/learning within a variety of settings and circumstances learning is not delimited by walls, by age or by social and economic status. And, the immeasurable benefits of interacting with community elders and learning by doing. (Also) the importance of understanding our history and our respective roles in that history. Q. Do you have any thoughts on how Vermont small schools can survive the pressures to consolidate and merge? A. Assure that Cabot School, residents and other small schools are active participants in this historical and ongoing debate, Q. What advice do you have for the newest member of the school board? A. (I would) Offer advice, if requested. Q. What were you most pleased to see accomplished during your tenure? A. Listening. Increased and varied public participation and CS community outreach. Q. What was the most difficult problem the board encountered while you were on the board? A. Responding thoughtfully and patiently to the issues faced by families in stress and their child’s capacity to learn. Q. What do you feel you accomplished by serving on the board? A. I was a beneficiary. This involvement has offered me more insights into how our community works and how it struggles . It’s collective effort at listening, effectively responding and reaching out. Q. What challenges do you see ahead? A. Sustaining innovative and sound educational leadership – within and outside the walls. Q. What will you do with all your free time? A. Oh, evenings with Lynn, some roaming with the Roamers and walks with family and neighbors.

↑ contents

Montpelier

It’s hard to gauge (the extent of the effects of the economy on this business) because people in Vermont are so frugal anyway. But we’ve been more careful about how many items we purchase for the store, and really try to get the best deal for the customer. It’s also important to have a place where people enjoy coming in, even if they don’t purchase anything. *NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

↑ contents

Montpelier

I think this economy forces you to review what’s working for you more closely, causes you to identify what sells and what doesn’t sell. We’re not buying as far out (into the next season) as we used to. And we’re listening to our customers, asking them questions like, “What colors are you looking for?” and thanking them for their loyalty —this is our 31st year. We know it’s not easy and people have to cut back, so we are expressing our appreciation with our sales when we can.

Making a Pinhole Camera with Omri Dates: May 5, 12, 19th Time: 3:00-5:00 pm Where: Cabot School Art Room drop of oil all winter, only wood. In general, we tighten up here, do what you can there, and make the best of what you got.

↑ contents

Cabot Garage

We’ve tried to work harder on the details of marketing, finances, and customer service. We’re mindful that people are in a budget crunch and we try to advise them the best way we can. We preach, ‘Maintenance.’

Parsons of Peacham Barn Studios

Ages: 10 & up Parents are encouraged to join Cost: $15.00 Contact: ruthkaldor@yahoo.com by April 30th Project Description: We will construct a cardboard camera to photograph and record our town of Cabot. The finished photographs will be yours to keep but we will save copies to put into a book format as a record of our project. Funded with appreciation by UDAG, TLC, VATA

↑ contents

Jeannie Johnson

Abigail Hall has been living and seeing the Common referred to as the "Green"! The Common (it was quite a bit bigger then) was given to the Town by John Damon about 200 years ago. The Town Treasurer was designated its working in Santiago, Chile’, and was there when the earthquake of February 27 hit. Her Vermont friends and family were able to check her Facebook page as soon as we heard the news, and saw just three words that allowed us a sigh of relief: “I’m all right”. Abby is the granddaughter of Carlton and Marvie Domey, daughter of Robyn Domey Hall, Cabot High School class of ’80, currently living in East Montpelier. Abby sent this letter in early March: Dear Friends and Family, One week has passed since the 8.8magnitude earthquake that hit my adopted country, Chile. I am fine, my apartment is fine, my neighborhood is fine. However, there are thousands of families who have literally lost everything, either in the earthquake or the tsunami that followed. I have been overwhelmed to tears multiple times this week as I witnessed how Chileans who haven't lost everything are helping out those who have. I went to the supermarket on Thursday, and anything that could be donated to the effort (pasta, rice, toilet paper, canned goods, soap, toothpaste, etc.) was almost completely gone. When the volunteers asked me to donate something, I really had a hard time finding something useful to buy and donate. I would like to ask you to consider donating to the earthquake effort. I know

Fresh Produce, Delicatessen Fresh Meats,

↑ contents

Choice Angus

that the economy is difficult in the US, guardian and the only restriction on its and many of you may have already do- use was that no structures that would nated to the relief efforts in Haiti, but impede the passage of wagons should be really, anything helps. built upon it. Please, Please call this Here are some ways you can donate important and irreplaceable part of from abroad. These are all respectable Cabot by its time honored name! (I see organizations that I trust. the good folks who put together our reTeleton Chile Ayuda a Chile (Telethon cent Town Report are guilty too.) Chile Helps Chile) https://www.bancochile Sincerely, Barbara Carpenter .cl/webchile1/Teleton/index_tarjetas_ex Dear Editor, Un Techo Para Chile (Similar to An obituary for the Village of Cabot Habitat for Humanity) http:// may be on the way. Our beloved village wwww.untechoparachile.cl/?page_id=999 got a crushing blow at 2010 Town MeetThe American Red Cross https:// ing. Just 184 Town of Cabot voters and american.redcross.org/site/Donation2? 33 Village of Cabot voters, 217 votes in idb=1165277286&df_id=4695&4695.dona all, put our tiny village on life support by tion=form1 voting to get rid of our village governThank you so much. ment. I send my love to all of you, and want to The Village of Cabot has a long histhank each and every one of you who tory. From Hemenway's Gazetteer: "In wrote to me or called my parents to make 1788, Lieut. Thomas Lyford, the third sure I was okay. The outpouring of love settler in town, and the first settler at and support that I felt was overwhelming. the village, bought a lot of land of Jesse Thank you so much. Levenworth and Lyman Hitchcock. On As we say here in Chile: this land the village of Cabot now Un abrazo grande (a giant hug), stands. The Winooski River runs through the grounds." The 19 book by -Abby the Cabot Oral History Committee P.S. If you know of anyone else whose is states, "By an act of the Legislature, interested in helping Chileans, please Nov. 19, 1866, the village was incorpodon't hesitate to forward them this email. I rated. The village center now houses a really appreciate it. church, a school, a post office, a public library, a fire department, an ambulance service, a recreation field, a common, a cemetery, a municipal building, a vacant Masonic hall under renovation for public use, a retirement home, stores, businesses and homes. There is no urgent reason to kill our village government. Some say "a couple" residents of Lower Cabot want village Always Fresh water. If so, an inter-municipal agreeAlways Friendly ment could meet their needs, without eliminating traditional village government. Yes, fewer elected voices can act faster, with less dissent. Similarly, the state legislature would be more efficient Homemade 2%

↑ contents

COME SE!

ALWAYS MAKING IMPROVEMENTS! whole town, will get less interest. Times change: big box stores can sell cheaper than small stores in rural villages. Food from abroad costs less than that raised in Vermont. Cane syrup is cheaper than maple. Do fewer voices and less debate add up to better government? Trivial gains in efficiency are not enough to erase 144 years of tradition. The State of Vermont designated ninety-six village centers worth preserving in recent years. Cabot decided not to bother with the state process to gain recognition. Now it thinks even keeping

↑ contents

SURPRISE

its ble. Cabot rated village There is villages one government is of just still left thirty-eight time in is Vermont. too to much reconsider. incorpo- trou- My

grandmother, my mother and I all grew up in this little village. My family moved into our house in 1901. It breaks my heart that only 217 votes can wipe

↑ contents

OMMENTARY

together in the local gym for a friendly game of basketball with their parents and other family members. And oh, what a game it was! The score continued to bounce back and forth until, at the final buzzer the score was tied. Overtime! After some fun, fierce ballplaying the parents’ team took the lead and won the game. A good time was had by all. Then it was time to hit the cafeteria for some much sought after pizza, hot out of the oven at the Cabot Village Store. When everyone had their fill of pizza and home-baked goodies for dessert, the coach had some very special words for each player. He highlighted each one’s individuality and importance to the team. They each received a 20092010 team picture, along with a firm, appreciative handshake from the coach for all their hard work. Coach David Hale put together an awesome DVD for the out-going sixthgraders. It includes memorable scenes from their past four years of basketball, starting from their first year of getting to know the game in third grade, up to this season; a precious keepsake for the boys and their families. David Hale, along with his assistant coach, Brian Hale (no relation), did a wonderful job with the boys through the season. All of the time and energy that they gave the boys was very much appreciated. A heartfelt thank-you card with a gift certificate to Claire's Restaurant in Hardwick was presented to them both by their sons, Eli and Jordan respectively, on behalf of their teammates and their families. Lynn Maxfield

↑ contents

Dear Editor:

The Green Mountain United Way (GMUW) is a local organization that serves the people of Washington, Orange, Caledonia, Essex and Orleans counties. It does so by collaborating with several other local initiatives that work for the economic advancement and the health and well being of our local people, and to provide effective early learning opportunities for our children. As a member of its Board of Directors, I feel very strongly about GMUW especially when I see the good work they are doing in our communities. Here are just a couple of examples. Working diligently with parents and caregivers to provide them and their toddlers the resources they need to be sure the children are ready for school, and, bringing financial literacy workshops to our high school students so they are better equipped to manage financially when they go on to college, the military or in the workforce are real positive outcomes that will make our area more vibrant and a better place for all to live and work. GMUW has been conducting its 2009 – 2010 annual fundraising campaign to raise $650,000 before March 31 st . The tally is now at $641,337. That means there is only $8,663 left to receive to reach that $650,000 goal. To those who have already given, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. To those who have not yet given, please consider sending your tax-deductible gift today to: GMUW, 963 Paine Turnpike N #2, Montpelier, VT 05602. Remember, GMUW is a local organization and your donation stays right here in Washington, Orange, Caledonia, Essex and Orleans counties to assist local needs. Thank you, John Gardner Gardner Insurance Services, Inc. East Barre, VT Vice President of GMUW Board of Directors

↑ contents

Greensboro

Ruth Adeline Burbank, 102, of Greensboro formerly of Morrisville and Hardwick, died Wednesday, February 24, 2010, at the Greensboro Nursing Home. Mrs. Burbank was born May 13, 1907, in Cabot, the daughter of the late Hubert and Bertha (Pike) Wheeler. She attended Cabot public schools. On June 30, 1925, she married Jack Burbank in Craftsbury. Ruth was home maker. She enjoyed crocheting and knitting blankets and hats for babies and sick children at Copley Hospital. She was affiliated with the United Methodist Church in Walden. She lived in Hardwick for nine years before moving to Copley Terrace in Morrisville and

↑ contents

By Representative Kitty Beattie Toll

The week following Town Meeting break is referred to as crossover. Bills introduced in the House must be voted out of committee to allow enough time to be considered by the Senate before the close of the 2010 legislative session. There has been a fury of activity to prepare bills concerning education, the 2011 budget, energy and judicial restructuring, to name a few. H. 782 – an act relating to a voluntary district merger incentive program, supervisory union duties and other education issues was passed out of the Education Committee on a unanimous vote. As of this writing, the bill has been committed to the Committee on Ways and Means and will see action soon on the House floor. There is only one mandate in this bill, with all other sections voluntary. The bill states that on or before November 1, 2010, the board of every school district shall discuss whether it wishes to explore merger within the supervisory union and that each school district shall vote whether to work with other boards to later to the Greensboro Nursing Home. Survivors include a foster daughter, G. Linda Premo of Wolcott; a foster son, George Twine of Jefferson, Tennessee; a sister, Frances Wheeler of Barre; 14 grandchildren; six foster grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; many greatgreat grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband, Jack, in 1967; a daughter, Hope Dean; two sons, Charles Burbank and Roy Burbank; six siblings, Helen Smith and Hazel Wilde, Arlene Lawrence, Grace Rollins and Cleora Benjamin and Maurice Wheeler. A Graveside Service will be held during the summer in the Walden Heights Cemetery in Walden. Arrangements are under the direction of Dian R. Holcomb of Northern Vermont Funeral Service, 60 Elm Street, Hardwick.

↑ contents

Montpelier

perform a more comprehensive analysis of a potential merger and shall report the results of its vote to the Commissioner of Education and the voters of the district shall be notified. After Town Meeting, the House unanimously passed S.288 – the Jobs bill. The goal of this bill is to create short-term and long-term jobs by investing $8.7 million of Federal stimulus funds. These projects include: • Broadband access for 12,000 Vermont homes and businesses • Additional worker training programs • Loans to farmers • Investments in Farm-to-Plate and Farm-to-School programs • Loans with lower interest rates for qualifying businesses • Assistance for Vermont businesses affected by Champlain Bridge shutdown • Investment in tourism Also passed out of the House was S.280 – an act prohibiting texting and the

↑ contents

Senator Cummings Shares

The Cabot Chronicle invited Senator Ann Cummings to give an update on legislative progress. She submitted the following article. Thank you for asking me to update the people of Cabot on my activity under the Gold Dome this year. For those of you who don’t know me, I have represented Washington County in the Vermont Senate for the past 14 years. I serve on the Judiciary Committee and Chair the Finance Committee. While the task of solving our $150 million budget deficit is our primary concern this year, other things have been happening. The issue in which I have been most deeply involved is the re-licensing of Vermont Yankee. So I think I will share some of my thoughts on that issue with you. The Finance Committee has been taking testimony on Vermont Yankee for four years. Our decision to vote out a bill was neither hasty nor poorly informed. In those four years, this is what we have discovered. When the Public Service Board approved the sale of Vermont Yankee to Entergy they gave two primary reasons. The first reason was Entergy had the resources necessary to maintain the aging plant and to decommission it when the time came. It is clear the Board believed that the resources of Entergy would be available to Entergy Vermont Yankee, a wholly owned limited liability corporation that operates Vermont Yankee. It has become clear that Entergy has been trying to isolate its corporate resources from Vermont Yankee. The profits from VY go to Entergy. When VY closes, the only asset it will have to use of any hand-held electronic devices while operating a vehicle. The bill also includes further restrictions to encourage teen driving safety. This bill is now in the hands of the Senate for further review and consideration on the House’s amendments to the original Senate bill. The House Agriculture committee voted out two bills which received approval on the House floor. H.528 – an act relating to the illegal cutting, removal or destruction of forest products and H.680 – an act relating to termination of occupancy of farm employee housing. H.528 states that the owner of the land on which timber is being harvested bears the responsibility for clearly and accurately marking the area to be harvested. If the authorizing landowner does not do so and timber is mistakenly or intentionally taken from abutting property without permission, then the authorizing landowner is responsible. However if the harvest area has been clearly and accurately marked by the authorizing landowner and the logger harvests on the abutting property, the logger is responsible. The fines for timber trespass are clearly delineated in the bill. H.680 states the rights and responsi-

↑ contents

a Few Thoughts

pay for decommissioning and clean up is the decommissioning fund. That fund is inadequate. The committee continues to be concerned that when the plant closes, the people of Vermont will be left to make up the difference in cost. That cost could reach hundreds of millions of dollars. The legislature has approved three bills asking for some assurance that the resources will be available to close Vermont Yankee in a timely fashion. The governor vetoed two of those bills and to date we have received no such assurance. The second reason the Public Service Board approved the sale of Vermont Yankee to Entergy was the favorable price of power offered to Vermont utilities. Vermont has been purchasing electricity from Vermont Yankee at well below the market rate. However, Vermont Yankee is not offering to renew that rate. Their publicly announced “best offer” is for 1/3 of the power we are currently purchasing at the present market rate. That rate would be increased annually. In short, we can buy all the power we need from the open market at the same rate VY is offering. Either way, our electric rates are going up. Entergy has been unwilling to guarantee that it will close VY in a timely fashion at their expense. It has also failed to offer Vermont utilities a favorable price for power. When the Vermont Senate weighed this against all the risks of continuing the operation of an aging nuclear plant, we voted 26 to 4 not to extend the license of Vermont Yankee for another twenty years. I hope this has been helpful. If anyone has questions, please give me a call.

bilities of farmers and farm employees where housing is provided as a benefit of employment. It ensures that there is clarity between the farmer and farm employees that the housing benefit ends when employment does and grants a farmer an expedited repossession of that housing. A law dealing with this topic sunsetted in 2003 and farmers and employee advocates realize the importance of returning this to statute. At the time of this writing, House Appropriations Committee has finished its work on the 2011 Budget to be considered by the House. The budget will be balanced, reflecting the closing of the $150 million shortfall. This difficult task was accomplished by identifying efficiencies to be addressed in State government, cuts to services and programs and a redesign of the teachers’ retirement program. I will provide an update of the budget in the May edition of the Cabot Chronicle. Please feel free to contact me with your questions and concerns. I can be

ville, VT 05828).

↑ contents

By Kathleen Hoyne and Anne Walker

We would like to thank all the library patrons for waiting patiently while the library was closed the first week of March. Our new shelves, done by carpenter Paul Council, have been completed and they look fantastic. We’re hoping you can stop by to admire the wonderful craftsmanship and to celebrate the completion of this long project. The original phase of the renovation and revitalization project was completed in August of 2001. The Library had the help of an UDAG grant and a Vermont Public Library Grant funded by the Freeman Foundation. In 2002 and 2003, new shelves were installed in the children’s area, greatly increasing its use and accessibility. Prior to these shelves, the children’s books were housed in laundry baskets on the floor. In 2006 and 2007, the Library received UDAG grants for the shelving in the main room of the library. A part of the project was done during late summer of 2007 and another part during the spring of 2008. March of 2010, the And finally, in last corner of the main room has new adjustable shelves. Stephenie Meyer’s popular book, Twilight , the first book of her Twilight Saga, is now in the library in audio CD format. The book is read by Ilyana Kadushin. We’ve housed it in the YA section. Come and check it out. Also, during our renovation, we found boxes of donated audiobooks. We will be going through

↑ contents

Friends of Cabot Library

By the time you read this, the Friends will have held their Second Annual Soup Fest. soups (including A terrific lineup of a few with secret recipes) was enjoyed by those who stopped by during the somewhat stormy day. Thank you to those who braved the winter storm to support us. We look forward to bringing even more enjoyable soups to Cabot next year. With our first big annual event behind us, we are now busy planning these upcoming events: June 19, Second Annual Garden Tour; July 4, Book Sale; October 16, Apple Pie Festival Booth. Mark your calendars now so you don’t miss out. As always, we are looking for donations of quality used books to sell at our book sales. Proceeds are used to supple-

↑ contents

To Know Facts

Kate Chatot, a native Vermonter and local author, has just released her first book. The book, called “Parcel 141,” chronicles a decade-long property rights law suit involving an old Cabot country road. This true story is steeped in local history, and involves three owners of abutting properties, each landowner possessing an agenda that conflicts with that of his or her neighbor. The story’s conflict begins when a newly widowed and increasingly frail woman is no longer able to manage her farm. Each of her children has chosen not to remain on the farm, so she sells all but one of the 14 parcels into which she has subdivided the hilltop farm’s once 1200-acres. The final parcel is the crux of the dispute that pertains to the maximum development potential of the properties of both the widow and her neighbors. The litigation in the story involves multiple legal motions concurrently presented in the Vermont Superior Court, Environ-

↑ contents

Library

these boxes, as time permits, and adding the titles to our collection. The titles are ones for our adult patrons, so if you have an audiobook that would be appropriate for our younger listeners and you no longer want it, we would love to have you donate it to the library. There are a wide variety of April programs scheduled for the library. On April 20 at 7:00 p.m., Ed Smith, author of The

↑ contents

Self-

Watering Containers , will present a slide show and talk entitled "One, Two, Three...Grow: How to Grow Your Own Food.” This program will be at the library. There will be time afterward for all sorts of questions about gardening. This talk coincides with the release of Ed’s fully updated tenth anniversary edition of The

↑ contents

Vegetable Gardener’s Bible .

April 24 at 9:00 a.m. Jon Vara will lead a program called Basic Bicycle Cleaning and Maintenance, at the brown barn by the Sewage Treatment Plant off Saw Mill Rd. A clean and properly lubricated bicycle is a thing of beauty. It works better, is safer, lasts longer and is more fun to ride than one that has not had proper maintenance. Learn how to enjoy these benefits with a simple system for keeping your bike in good working order. The Library’s email address is: cabotlibrary@yahoo.com. Apparently, at one time, the library had an older address with the word “public” in it. We no longer use this address. Please update your email address books. We apologize to anyone with the old account. See you at the Library.

↑ contents

News

ment library programs, projects, and equipment. Please do not drop books off at the library, as they do not have the storage room. Instead, please phone the library to arrange an appointment with us to have books reviewed and picked up. Also, we gladly accept donations of audio books, music CDs, and movie DVDs in good working order to offer at our book sales. Friends of Cabot Library book bags are now available in the Library. You may purchase bags separately or add on a Friends membership. Please stop in and get yours today. We would like to welcome Norma Bermingham, Ruth Moore, Vicky Tebbets, and Anne Walker – our newest members. We look forward to having you help us make 2010 our best year yet.

↑ contents

Landownders

mental Court and Supreme Court between 19 and 2009. Readers become familiar with prescriptive law, and the distinction between discontinued roads versus thrown up roads, unidentified corridors, historical and contemporaneous safe use, and unambiguous warranty deed language. Though they may move slowly, Chatot’s story proves that the wheels of justice do, indeed, turn. The author believes that the events her book depicts could serve to dissuade any potential landowner from purchasing land with any questionable access issues. The 220-page book is timely, nearly coinciding with an outline of the Vermont Ancient Road bill that was passed during the Vermont 2006 legislative session. It shows how future maximum development potential can be impacted when a Town discontinues a highway: what was at one time a buildable lot may no longer be one. “Parcel 141” is available now at local bookstores, or on-line via amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. Kate Chatot will be at the Stowe location of Bear Pond Books on April 3 for a book signing.

↑ contents

Their Children

New Campaign Helps Parents Start a Conversation The Vermont Department of Health and a network of 29 community coalitions are embarking on a coordinated statewide effort to combat underage drinking with the launch of the ParentUp campaign. The first phase of the campaign is designed for parents of Vermont middle school students ages 11 to 13, with a second phase for parents of older teens beginning in April. While the rate of youth alcohol use has declined significantly in the last decade, 36 percent of Vermont students still report they drank alcohol at least once in the last 30 days. Approximately one out of five middle school students try alcohol before they reach 13 years old. “The primary goal of this first phase of the campaign is to encourage parents of middle school students to talk to their children about drinking, and to provide parents with information about community resources available to support them,” said Barbara Cimaglio, deputy commissioner, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs. “ But it is every bit as important that we get parents talking to each other and help to create an environment that supports and perpetuates that dialogue.” Parents can play a significant role in changing the statistics on underage drinking. Studies show that parents have the most influence on whether or

↑ contents

Prevention Day At

Prevention Day is returning to the Vermont Statehouse on Wednesday, April 14, and the Cabot Coalition, your local community prevention coalition, will be there to spread the word on how all Vermonters benefit from prevention services. Prevention Day, which runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Statehouse lawn, is a showcase where coalitions like the Cabot Coalition can share success stories with their representatives in Montpelier. The day will also be an opportunity for these groups to shine a spotlight on the true champions of prevention: local youth. “This is an event that will let us celebrate our successes, but more importantly, it’s a chance to really spread the word about all the incredible work our middle and high school students are contributing to prevention efforts in Cabot and around the state,” said Lori Augustyniak, Coordinator of the Cabot Coalition. “We are so fortunate as a community to have young people who are concerned, interested and engaged

↑ contents

Warning Signs of

If you answer "yes" to any you may have a problem

Do you drink alone when you feel Does your drinking ever make Does your drinking worry your Do you ever drink after telling Do you ever forget what you did Do you get headaches or have

for more information and CONFIDENTIAL assistance

↑ contents

Alcohol Use for

not their child will drink. This campaign is designed for parents of middle school children because younger students are much more likely to talk to parents about problems they are having with alcohol. According to the 2009 Vermont Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 32 percent of eighth graders and 29 per cent of high school freshmen would talk to a parent, compared to 22 per cent of sophomores, juniors or seniors. The ParentUpVT.org website and other campaign materials illustrate simple, proven steps parents can take with their children to help reduce underage drinking. The second phase, launching in mid-April, will encourage parents of high school students to refuse to give alcohol to minors or host underage drinking parties, and is intended to increase awareness about community resources and support. “We want to be sure that parents feel ready and able to have these important conversations at the time when they are needed most,” said Cimaglio. Each community has its own unique makeup and circumstances. The campaign is designed to support community coalitions with appropriate tools to create the right localized approach with ParentUpVT.org acting as a clearinghouse for information and resources. This grassroots campaign is supported by radio, print and online advertising throughout March and April. For more information on about the ParentUp campaign, go to ParentUpVT.org or http://healthvermont.gov or dial 2-1-1.

↑ contents

Statehouse

in preventing alcohol, tobacco and other drug use by youth.” Prevention Day will include a variety of opportunities for area youth and other community members to participate in the day. Visitors can learn about the work that local coalitions do as well as meet with their local senators and representatives to discuss the importance of substance abuse prevention in the community. A group photo will also be taken of those who wish to participate and show their support for the 21 Minimum Legal Drinking Age. For more information on how you can participate in Prevention Day, contact your local prevention coalition, the

cabotcoalition@fairpoint.net. Prevention Day is made possible by Prevention Works!, a statewide coalition of community prevention coalitions. For more information about Prevention Works!, contact Christine Peterson at ( 8 0 2 ) 4 7 9 - 7 3 7 8 o r teenleadaa@myfairpoint.net.

↑ contents

Farm to School Coordinator

The Rutabaga Fries Taste Test results are in! During the school day taste test in February (prepared by the junior class), 48 students tried them, 40 students liked them and 40 students would eat them again. The Farm to School committee prepared another batch of Rutabaga Fries for the School Board Budget meeting on March 1. During the meeting 40 adults and children tried the fries, 32-and-a-half liked them, and 32 would eat them again. All together, participants gave the fries an 82 per cent approval rating. Taste tests are a great way to introduce people to new foods and increase their understanding of where their food comes from. In this case the rutabagas came from Blackwell Roots Farm in Cabot. Due to the success of the Rutabaga Fry taste tests, plans have been made to order a French fry attachment so the cafeteria can make them en masse for the school population. The Food Service Director at Cabot School has also made plans for future purchases of produce from Blackwell Roots Farm, namely potatoes, carrots, parsnips and squash. The Farm to School grant provides funds for Cabot School to purchase more local foods in order to improve the health of the food served at school. As the grant ends the committee will be doing fundraising in order to continue to supplement the school’s food budget so that local fresh foods can continue to be included as often as possible into the menu. Some people wonder why local foods cost more than foods purchased from out of state. There are a number of reasons for this. One factor that cannot be ignored is the huge subsidies that go to large-scale producers. Subsidies are given to the larger farms, and for the production of fertilizers and pesticides, construction and maintenance of roads, as well as to the processors and distributors along the way. These subsidies come from our tax dollars, so in the end we still end up paying the price. In addition, foods that are shipped further lose their vitality along the way, which can also increase the health care costs associated with eating them. Large scale producers who sell their produce to manufacturers and distributors have greater assurance that they will be able to sell their produce at a certain price. Small scale producers are at the whim of the small, local market, not to mention the growing conditions and

↑ contents

School Update

storage capabilities that they have on hand. Their food is not irradiated or sprayed with chemicals to keep it fresh longer. Local farmers also have to arrange their own distribution methods, and often package their produce themselves for direct sale to their consumers. Local producers here in Vermont are also working on a smaller scale than in other places, and so need to do more work by hand. If the produce is grown organically, that can mean more weeding and soil enhancement (such as cover crops and compost) which all takes extra labor and time. Many of us have gotten used to the low check-out price of subsidized food which has been processed for longer shelf life. People in this country don’t usually understand that our ability to purchase cheap food is not “normal” and that it comes at a larger price which is hidden elsewhere in our budgets. One of the hidden costs of the cheap food market is the loss of small, family farms. This means a loss of local employment, landscape and knowledge. While none of the farmers in Vermont are getting rich or living beyond their means, they do need to remain sustainable in order to survive in the long run. This is a situation the Farm to School program aims to address, through short and long range activities. If you would like to join us, our committee meetings are on the fourth Wednesday of the month in the Cabot School Library from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. We are also looking for volunteers to assist with salad bars, taste testing, farm visits and classroom cooking. If you are interested, please call the coordinator

↑ contents

Roasted Rutabaga Fries

(Yields about 4 servings.) 3 pounds Rutabaga 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. 2. Peel and cut rutabaga into french fry sized sticks. 3. Place rutabaga into a large bowl and toss in olive oil to coat. Sprinkle with sea salt. 4. Put on a cookie sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Toss and bake for another 10 minutes. Repeat until the fries are tender and browned. (About 20 minutes total.)

↑ contents

Education

With approved budget cuts and staffing changes, Cabot School faces a challenging 2010-2011 school year. However, it is not the first time the school and community has faced adversity. In 1968, Vermont Department of Education Commissioner Harvey Scribner was working to consolidate schools all over the state. Cabot refused to join Marshfield and Plainfield in a union school. The community rallied behind the small school, endeavoring to become a model for small schools. As a matter of fact, in 1994 the New York Times published a story about the school, holding it out as an icon for what a small school means to its community. In the article, writer Lynda Richardson pointed out that many educational experts believe the very effectiveness of a school like Cabot is dependent on the institution’s small size and its intrinsic sense of community. The article attributes the willingness of those involved with small schools to adopt a make-do-or-do-without attitude to the continuous endurance of the small school in a poor economy. In fact, the school did remain autonomous in times

↑ contents

By Armando Vilaseca

No one could argue with the fact that our state is facing significant financial hardship. My own department has cut staff by 20 percent over the last 18 months, and schools are being asked to significantly reduce spending. Something must be done to change the course of education spending in Vermont. I believe there is a way to save local taxpayers and the state millions of dollars a year in education spending for years to come, and to continue to give Vermont students the outstanding education our state is known for. We have one school board member for every 70 students. We have school buildings, with their operational budget, staffing and transportation costs, that house fewer students altogether than would be in a single classroom at our larger schools. We have 280 school districts, several with their own transportation, food service, and employee contracts. We have 87 school districts with fewer than 100 students. It is unrealistic to operate under a system that is over one hundred years old but is expected to produce 21 st century results. If we are to see any improvement in education costs, this system must change. I recommend as a state that we seriously consider redistricting to reduce the number of districts and supervisory unions. As an educator who has worked in many Vermont districts over the past 26 years, I have observed firsthand the inefficiencies and inequities of our current system. These inequities, and the duplication of so many services, raise the cost of education but do not improve the quality of the educational experience for our children. Many sincere individuals are concerned that a reduction in the number of school districts in the state would represent a loss of local control. To a certain extent this is a legitimate concern. However, state and federal testing and licensing rules, the increased requirements for special education and other special services, a statewide property tax to help pay for education and other legal parameters all minimize the control over the major issues related to operating a school district. Ultimately, our current system costs more and does not deliver the results I expect and I feel are possible.

↑ contents

hronicle

of economic crises before, and as of now, shows no sign of relaxing that stance. Years after he retired from the Department of Education, Scribner, who died recently, was asked what he thought about his efforts to consolidate smaller Vermont schools. “It was the biggest mistake I ever made,” he replied. The notion of school consolidation looms as a possible solution to today’s education financing crisis. Whether it is a viable answer or not, communities need to arrive at a consensus together. While community members have been invited to participate in several planning committees to help chart the future course of Cabot School, the Cabot Chronicle offers a forum to advance and deepen the conversation about the future of the school and the possibilities for positive change in challenging economic times. This is the start of the Concerning Education discourse. We at the Chronicle hope this will encourage community members to attend school board meetings, and offer feedback via the pages through letters to the editor. The entire New York Times article can be seen on the internet by visiting http:// www.nytimes.com/1994/10/26/us/littlecountry-school-copes-with-change.html.

↑ contents

Commissioner

Another concern I hear regarding redistricting is that schools and communities have different needs and wants for their students. But I have found that all communities want the same things from their local schools: safe and nurturing environments, high academic and social standards, positive leadership, a strong teaching staff and a responsible budget. Yet minor “differences” are used to justify keeping the system the same. Let me be clear: This is not a new idea, nor is it a popular one. The former education commissioner wrote a document outlining his plan in 2007, and held thirty public meetings across the state to hear directly from Vermonters. A 2008 Snelling Center Survey found that a majority of Vermonters polled believed that governance in Vermont is too complicated, and favored consolidation of school districts. Each time the subject is brought forth, lawmakers, school board members and educational leaders refused to consider any change to the system. The federal Stimulus package bought us some time. But that is a short-term fix to a long-term problem. I believe we need to reduce the number of schools based on size of student body and geography. That would bring savings in terms of staff and school building operations. I believe we need to reduce the number of supervisory unions. That would eliminate administrators, teachers and staff, and would force more effective and efficient operations of districts. Contracts would cover a larger number of people and systems (food, transportation, special education). My staff and I estimate this would save the state several million dollars a year. That may seem a drop in the bucket, but it would continue for years to come, and would improve the delivery of education and services to Vermont students. And isn’t that really what we all want? We want our students to have an excellent education. We want our students in classrooms headed by the best teachers in the state. We want our students prepared for colleges, careers and citizenship. A more streamlined delivery of education would continue to provide this, but with far greater impact per dollar. Striking a balance between what our pockets can pay for and what our children deserve is possible. Armando Vilaseca is Vermont’s commissioner of education.

↑ contents

Cabot Grades 5/6 Boys'

The Cabot 5/6 Boys Basketball team concluded second loss to Waterford in the semifinals ment. The team and fans were awarded boys division for their hard work and positive Sportsmanship Award are: Bottom Schumacher, Jeremy Maxfield, Jordan Hale, from left: Wyatt Ameden, Eli Hale, Will Nally, Herrick, Jamie Miner. Missing: Tiger Bastress.

↑ contents

Mud Season

On Saturday April 3, at 7:00 p.m., the newly built Cabot School Performing Arts Center will hold its second annual Mud Season Gala. This year's theme is "A Taste of West Africa." The event will take place at The Old Labor Hall on Granite Street in Barre. The evening will include a delectable West African style dinner by Chef David Hale and will feature the local musical Afrobeat sensation Movement of the People: The Fela Kuti Project . A cash bar will be provided by Montpelier’s Black Door Bar & Bistro. Movement of the People performs the music and songs of the late Nigerian musician, singer, composer and political activist Fela Kuti. As a pioneer of the popular Afrobeat sound, Fela Kuti is considered to be one of the most influential musicians of the twentieth century. Since its inception nearly 18 months ago Movement of the People has taken Vermont by storm. Selling out venues almost everywhere, the 13-piece ensemble has become known for their infectious grooves, positive, high energy and highly danceable shows. Highlights for this year's menu include both vegetarian and nonvegetarian options including Jollof Rice and Shrimp, Ground Nut Chicken

↑ contents

April Update from the Recreation

March was a very eventful month for the Recreation Department, with vigorous dialogue at both the school and town meetings. Many community members raised valid concerns and asked questions regarding the transition of elementary soccer and basketball from being schoolrun to functioning under the auspices of the Recreation Department. Department members are thankful for the community input and the opportunity to engage in dialogue about the program. The March 9 meeting had the biggest turnout in many years, and got the ball rolling on many facets of the transition. Discussions included expenses and funding, increasing community involvement, coaching criteria, refereeing criteria and ensuring all children are able to participate. Tentative committees started taking shape and another meeting was held

↑ contents

Gala

Stew, Lentil Kansiye, assorted flatbreads with dips and sauces. Tickets for the event are only $20 for adults and $7 for kids. Advance tickets or reservations are highly recommended as this event sold out last year. Tickets can be purchased online at www.cabotschool.org, or by calling

at the door based on availability. Cabot School music teacher Brian Boyes said, "Given the affordable ticket prices, the early hour, great food and music, it makes for a perfect night out on the town with the whole family and friends." He added, "Last year's Mud Season Latin Gala was an immense success. I don't think we could've fit any more people in The Old Labor Hall." The Cabot School Performing Arts Center was built through an extraordinary grass-roots effort in which Cabot School industrial-arts students worked side by side with local contractors and community members to build a state of the art black-box theater. CSPAC serves as both a performing arts laboratory and as a venue presenting a wide range of performing artists. was funded entirely via CSPAC donations, grants, and tax-payers’ dollars. In essence, it was a modern-day barn-raising.

↑ contents

Department

on March 23 to keep making progress. While the initial meeting and participation were a good start, more people will be needed to fill out the different committees. There are a few important dates for April. On the April 13, there will be a Recreation Department meeting at 6:00 p.m. at the Willey Building. On both April 10 and 17, at 9:00 a.m., there will be a field clean-up and preparation for the little league season at Larry’s Field.

↑ contents

Masons Seek Members,

Green Mountain Lodge No. 68, Free and Accepted Masons of Vermont, was established on January 12, 1865, and has met monthly since that date. The original site was the Farrington Block, Cabot Garage is located. The lodge later moved across the street to the site now occupied by the Cabot Village Store. On March 29, 1935, the building burned and all the records of the lodge were lost. The current building was built by the members. Construction was completed in June 1936. Green Mountain Lodge is under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Vermont, which was established in October of 1794. The lodge continuously donates to local families in need, and gives annual scholarships to two seniors graduating from Cabot high school. The Masons also send two children to Buck Lake Camp. The Green Mountain Lodge building has been used by any families for special events. One of the lodge’s charities, which is active in schools throughout Vermont is the CARE (Comprehensive Assessment Recovery Effort) program. This program has spent more than $30,000 per year teaching educators and other members of school communities to identify children with problems like drug and alcohol abuse, parental abuse, gang involvement, and suicidal tendencies. Lodge members are pleased to have the building used by the town. However, the Masons do retain the right to the upper floor and access on the right side of the entrance, forever. Shriners are Master Masons. The

↑ contents

Explain Mission

Shrine Hospitals and Burn Centers nationwide are funded by Masons. There are no billing offices at any of these hospitals. Families of patients are brought to the area to be near their loved ones, again at no cost. Estimated charitable donations by the Masons exceeds $2,000,000 per day. For many years, Green Mountain Chapter No. 35 of the Order of the Eastern Star was an active part of the Cabot Community. The Eastern Star was instituted May 16, 1893. Fifty ladies and gentlemen were original members. Membership grew to more than 140. Recently, due to low attendance, the Eastern Star affiliated with the chapter in Plainfield. The members of the Green Mountain Chapter would like to return to Cabot. Green Mountain Lodge has had in excess of 150 members at one time. At present, membership is 41, with new members joining at this time. Any man older than 18 is interested in becoming a Member of Green Mountain Lodge, or person interested in the Order of the Eastern Star, should contact Bob Ab-

jainc@gmavt.net. The postal address is

men who are not yet 18, the Order of DeMolay is very active in many parts of Vermont. Green Mountain Lodge will help any young man interested in DeMolay. Green Mountain Lodge currently meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m.

↑ contents

Strong, Exercising

Strength and flexibility are growing among the senior citizens participating in the Exercise Program at the Twin Valley Senior Center in Marshfield. Serving seniors from Cabot, Calais, East Montpelier, Marshfield, Plainfield, and Woodbury, the Senior Center provides an exercise program every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Exercises are designed for all participants and can be adapted for those in wheelchairs, those who use canes and walkers, those with vision or hearing problems, and others. The goal is to help every participant gain flexibility, gently strengthen muscles, and improve balance, all of which are critical to daily life and overall health. The program, run by trained qualified leaders, is free and is open to anyone in the six towns the Center serves. Anyone interested in participating is invited to join the group after class for a nutritious and delicious lunch for only $4. That includes socializing, great speakers, special events, and games, along with a lot of laughter. A doctor’s note is needed to participate in the exer-

↑ contents

Wanted-

ambitious, driven self-starter to sell advertising for the Cabot Chronicle. Retirees fine, particularly anyone with some experience in sales. Must have own car and be able to govern your time independently. This is a commissioned position. Please send brief resume and contact information

“ad sales” in the subject line.

↑ contents

Wanted-

experienced, talented writers to write articles for the Cabot Chronicle. Knowledge of Associated Press style a definite plus, functional literacy a must. May waive experience qualifications with high-quality writing sample submissions. Ability to express yourself clearly is the most important thing. This is a freelance job. Please send resume and queries to edi-

subject line.

↑ contents

EWS

cise program and most health care providers are thrilled to have their patients exercise. Free transportation is available to and from the Center. Anyone who might like to try the program

wants to make the area’s seniors the healthiest in the state. Twin Valley seniors were busy in March with a visit from Bill Carrigan of the Vermont Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities, and Health Care, who explained how seniors can avoid fraud. He taught attendees all of the seemingly innocuous ways they can be fooled. His message was, “If it’s too good to be true, well, it is.” The Center’s visitors also celebrated St. Patty’s Day with the Center’s famous corned beef and cabbage dinner and plenty of shenanigans. Coming up in April the exercise program, bingo, games, delicious meals, and laughter will be ongoing. Clinic will be held on April The Foot 26. Anyone who would like to participate is invited to contact Central Vermont Home

an appointment. There is a $15 charge for this clinic. The “Lucky Bonanza” fundraiser is progressing well. There are some tickets left and anyone who does not have one should call or stop by the Center. The

contact a board member or Rita. Tickets are $15.00, with a weekly drawing for $20.00 and $15.00. April 30 will feature grand prize drawings for $500.00, $100.00 and $50.00. There are a few tickets left. A weekly win of $15.00 will cover the cost of the ticket and the support will help continue to bring the much needed service to the homebound and elderly.

↑ contents

Wanted-

Volunteer Webmaster needed for The Cabot Chronicle. Webmaster will administer website, uploading articles monthly, ensure proper operation of hardware and software, generate and revise web pages and examine traffic through the site. Contact cabotcoalition@fairpoint.net if you want to be part of an exciting team of people who love local news.

↑ contents

By Sue Freeburn

There are changes afoot at the Cabot United Church. The board has chosen an interim minister, Laura Cadmus, as well as a consultant, Peg Slater, both affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Cadmus will officially be the interim “student” minister, as she is still in seminary school. She has been accepted as a Member of Discernment with the Vermont UCC Conference, and this past summer, served in her home church in Barre. She is also an apprentice electrician, and has a geology degree from the University of Vermont. Cadmus said she is looking forward to getting out into the community in Cabot, and hopes to meet community members at both Church and community functions. Slater’s role will be on a consulting basis, helping the church board in administrative duties, and stepping up to the pulpit at church services when needed. Slater has had a great deal of experience with different parishes helping with ministerial development, or-

↑ contents

The Cabot Chronicle is creating a special

issue to recognize graduates from Cabot If someone special to you is graduating you’d like to congratulate the entire class in writing. (Classifieds cannot be accepted fore May 15, 2010 . Classified ads for graduates must be paid first 20 words, and 10¢ per word after exceed 50 words. Yes, please send my regards to Cabot’s graduates: My name: Phone #: Greeting to read:

Number of words: Send your greeting to: Amount

↑ contents

Church of Cabot

ganizational restructuring, building budgets, church revitalization, and short and long range strategic planning. The church board looks forward to working with both women. During the cold winter months, services have been held in the church basement in order to save money on heating bills. Starting Easter Sunday, services will return to the sanctuary. Mass is held at 10:30 a.m. every Sunday, and all are welcome. A casual gathering featuring light refreshments is held after each service. The church is planning for its Easter services. As in past years, the church will be open for 24 hours from Thursday midnight through Good Friday midnight for prayer and reflection. There will be a sunrise service on Easter Sunday morning, followed by breakfast at the church, as well as the usual 10:30 a.m. service. The church board would welcome community input into the restructuring process. For this, or for information about church events or vestry usage, please contact Skip or Rose Bothfeld at

↑ contents

State Champs

The elementary level Destination Imagination team from Cabot showed their true colors on March 20th. They won first place in their challenge and will be attending the 2010 Global finals in Knoxville, TN. Destination Imagination is a nonprofit global organization that fosters creative problem solving and teamwork in children and young adults. (back l-r ) Isabel Maine-Torres, Lela Jones, Helen Sawyer, Natalie MudgettFox. (front l-r ) Desiree Chadderton, Billie O’Connor. Photo courtesy Lynn Jones.

↑ contents

Road Walk with Green Mountain

Club , East Montpelier / Adamant. Moderate 5 mile loop on Sodom Pond, bring water and snack. Call leaders for afternoon starting www.gmcmontpelier.org. Food Plot Workshop , R & L Archery, Barre, 1:00 through 3:00 p.m. Everything you need to know about starting successful and productive food plots. Pre -registration not required. Information:

↑ contents

Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet,"

Flynn Theater, Burlington, 8:00 through 10:00 p.m., $38/$30. Shakespeare’s romantic tragedy of innocent young lovers falling victim to family hatred and cruel destiny has never been so enjoyable or as dangerous as in this stirring new production by The Acting Company and Guthrie Theater. Infor-

↑ contents

Series: Tuckerman's Ravine , 6:00

a.m. through 8:30 p.m., $45 (includes lunch, snacks and travel- family discounts available). NorthWoods staff will guide this backcountry classic to Mount Washington's famed Tuckerman's Ravine. Beginning from Pinkham Notch, skiers can either hike up the Tuckerman Ravine Trail with gear on their backs or skin up the Sherburne trail to the base of the Headwall and to the picturesque picnic spot known as the Lunch Rocks. Stop for dinner before returning. Registration required: 7236551.

↑ contents

Morrison’s Feed Bag

Premium pet foods & supplies. Locally made organic bagged feeds by Morrison's Custom Feeds. Horse Tack. Livestock Supplies. Wild bird seed. Muck Boots & Clothing. Premium wood pellets and so much more! 1186 Memorial Dr., St. Johnsbury

www.morrisonsfeeds.com M-F 8:30 - 5:30 Sat 8:30-1 8/10 2:00 p.m., donation. Musical theater

↑ contents

The Vermont Maple Festival, St.

Albans. Featuring pancake breakfasts, New England craft exhibits, antique shows and markets, a specialty foods show, maple candy-making demonstrations, a variety of concessions, carnival rides, and a huge parade, all in honor of maple syrup. 2010 marks the 44th year of this event. Also the Sap Run, an 8.5 mile run on a unique trail that is great for competitive runners and new run-

↑ contents

Fast Quiz

The percentage of Cabot youth—grades 8 to 12—who report that they did NOT drink any alcohol in the last month was: A. 32 percent B. 68 percent C. 48 percent

Look for the correct answer at the bottom of this page.

The correct answer is B. 68 percent of Cabot youth reported on the 2009 VT Youth Risk Behavior Survey that they had not consumed alcohol in the past 30 days. (The average for all VT youth is 64%.)

↑ contents

← From the Cabot Chronicle