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The Cabot Chronicle

November 2015 · 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 November 2015 pages (PDF)

Text extracted from the original pages and checked for reading order. Advertisements, listings, the calendar and puzzles are omitted. Where part of a story could not be converted cleanly, it is marked and the full story is in the PDF.

In This Issue

Cabot Poet Receives Fellows Award

By Will Walters Ellen Bryant Voigt of Cabot became the second Vermont resident and second state poet laureate to receive a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation fellowship when the foundation recently announced 24 recipients of the award for 2015. The fellowships are often cited as “genius awards” and provide a $625,000 grant paid over five years. The MacArthur Fellows Program awards unrestricted $625,000 fellowships to talented individuals who have shown extraordinary originality and dedication in their creative pursuits and a marked capacity for self-direction. The recipients are able to use the money any way they want and do not have to report back how it is used to the foundation. Voigt joins Galway Kinnell, late of Sheffield, as the second Vermont resident to receive the award. Kinnell was the state’s poet laureate from 1989 to 1993 and Voigt was poet laureate from 1999 to 2003. Both served at separate times as chancellor of the American Academy of Poets, Voigt from 2003 to 2009. She is an elected member of the Fellowship of Southern Writers. Voigt has also received grant awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Guggenheim Foundation and the Vermont Arts Council. Voigt, 72, grew up in Virginia and now lives at the previously worked dairy Indian Foot Farm. She moved to Vermont in 1969.

In 1976 she created the first low-residency M.F.A. program for writers starting at Goddard College in Plainfield, which later moved to Warren Wilson College in Asheville, NC, in 1981. The low residency program was designed to allow students to attend college without having to move away from their homes to attend. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from Converse College in Spartanburg, SC, in 1964 and a master of fine arts from the University of Iowa in 1966. She has been on the faculty of the M.F.A. program for writers at Warren Wilson College since 1981. She taught previously at Iowa Wesleyan College, 1966– 1969, Goddard College 1970– 1978, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1979– 1982. The MacArthur Foundation of Chicago awards the money based on nominations by arts experts of “talented individuals who have shown extraordinary originality and dedication in their creative pursuits and a marked capacity for selfdirection,” according to the foundation’s website. There are three criteria for selection of Fellows: exceptional creativity, promise for important future advances based on a track record of significant accomplishment, and potential for the fellowship to facilitate subsequent creative work. There are no restrictions on becoming a Fellow, except that nominees must be either residents or citizens of the United States.

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$20,000 Donated for Church Repairs

By Beth Wade A donation of $20,000 to the United Church of Cabot arrived just in time to pay for completion of this year’s work on the restoration project. The donor hopes the gift will encourage additional donations for matching funds in applying for state and other grant funding over the next year or two. A similar $10,000 donation, $19,067 in state grant funds, two benefit concerts that donated over $7,000, church suppers and events, and a number of donations of money, time and materials for lighting, electrical work, improved drainage, stonework, and improved access to the attic, paid for initial work. Church members are overwhelmed by and grateful for community support of the project. Besides work mentioned above, substantial restoration and replacement of wood in the clock and bell towers, painting of the towers and front of the church, wood replacement and priming of areas on the main block of the church, repairs to and painting of the steel roof, replacement of the tower roofs and the addition of a drip edge on the tower roofs have been completed. The building serves community functions besides Sunday services, weddings and funerals. Weekly Alcoholics Anonymous, Twin Town Homemakers, and a local homeschooling association use the vestry for group activities. It serves as rehearsal space for Cabot Community Chorus/Northeast Kingdom Chorus, and as performance space for many musical events, most under auspices of Cabot Arts. This year, 175 dinners were served for Fall Foliage Festival. Cabot School uses the church for standardized testing and other needs. Remaining restoration includes painting of the other three sides of the building, which is not eligible for state grant funds. Sill damage in the northwestern corner, discovered when replacing rotten clapboards, indicates removal of other sheathing material is required to determine sill damage elsewhere.

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REPORT FROM THE LEGISLATURE

By Representative Catherine (Kitty) Toll

Reports released last month showed that Vermont’s three major tax funds - general fund, education fund and transportation fund – have shown some improvement, and the general fund is actually ahead of projected targets. Personal income taxes and increases in corporate taxes are responsible for growth in the general fund. The education fund, which benefits from its designated percentage of Motor Vehicles Sales & Use tax, experienced a slight downturn in revenue. Gasoline and Motor Vehicle fees exceeded targets, and Diesel and Purchase & Use taxes were slightly below targets. The overall increase is small but encouraging news in October - the end of the first quarter of the 2016 fiscal year. These gains, however, will not offset pressures on the 2017 state budget. Due to higher than anticipated caseload and utilization of Medicaid services, costs are projected to be higher than originally anticipated. At this time, an updated estimate of Medicaid costs to be reflected in the 2017 state budget is $60 to $70 million more than anticipated. Additionally, the Vermont State Employee Union is in the midst of contract negotiations. Until this process is complete, the impact on the budget remains unknown. As experienced in the past eight years, the next budgeting cycle will also prove to be challenging. Modifications will need to be made in crafting the ensuing budget to address a possible $100 million gap between anticipated revenues and expected expenses. Vermont has a long commitment to keeping budgets in balance, through a budget adjustment process, and does not deficit spend. As mentioned in past issues of this publication, Vermont is the only state in the nation where its state Constitution does not require the passage of a balanced budget; however, Vermont has a long history of always doing so. I am confident difficult decisions will again be made when the Legislature reconvenes in January to construct a balanced budget for fiscal year 2017 (July 1, 2016 – June 30, 2017). The House and Senate Appropriations Committees are committed to carefully examining all state expenditures, developing priorities, and scrutinizing program performance and outcomes to determine where to best invest precious state resources.

The 2016 budget designed a Government Restructuring and Operations Review Commission to identify opportunities for increasing government efficiencies and productivity in order to reduce spending. The three person commission, representing the private sector, non-profits and government entities, is exploring where partnerships can be made between public and private sectors to create long-term improvements in quality and costs of state services. Additionally, the commission will review the state government’s organizational structure for consistency, focusing on results and outcomes. Importantly, the commission will provide opportunities for the public to submit recommendations for consideration. The members are Jeff Wilson – former State Representative; Paul Costello - Rural Vermont; and John Sayles - Chair, Vermont Foodbank Programs. For more information about this commission, visit: http://aoa.vermont.gov/govt-restructuring. I appreciate hearing from you. I can be reached by email: [email protected] or by phone at 684-3671. To get more information on the Vermont Legislature and bills which have been proposed and passed, visit the legislative website: www.leg.state.vt.us.

Happy Thanksgiving

to all!

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COUNTRY COMMENTARY

Well, summer has been left far behind, as autumns leaves fall from the trees and the autumn rains have settled in, leaving the sky dark and gray. Much the way I feel, as I had to put down one of my cats. As I am sure most of you have experienced, putting down a beloved family member is quite heart wrenching. It isn’t something that someone wants to go through with, but I would rather go through that than to never have loved her at all. She was special in her own way, and I can’t thank the Universe enough for having had her in my life. Her name was Ghost Dancer, due to her bravery of coming into a home with adult cats when she was just a kitten and she was trying to protect herself and her sister. Loss is a tragic and traumatic event, and it should be acknowledged and respected. Those feelings are important and shouldn’t be dismissed. Grieving can be such a cathartic experience. This experience helps us to regain the room in our hearts for that new kitten. Not someone to take the place of the one who has passed, for that can never be, but allowing ourselves to love again is an important thing to have, to have the capacity to make room for even one more. But, back to autumn; hopefully, everyone has their homes all buttoned up and ready for the bite of winters’ cold. It’s coming whether we want it to or not it’s coming. I wonder what kind of winter we will have, if it will be mild or stormy and full of snow, hmmmm. I like a lot of snow and I don’t. I love to snow shoe and ride, but I don’t like to rake off the roof or shovel out my car. But these are just things that we deal with because it is Vermont, and you never know what the weather will be like, really. It is even difficult for the weather people to predict. Though they do try. I am ready for whatever comes our way. I am ready for winter this year. I feel good about it, like there is something good in the wind foretelling of a fantastic way ahead. I am going to hold onto that feeling, I am ready for something magical to come my way, and I certainly share that wish for all of you out there. That something magical and wonderful is coming your way. So, for now, enjoy those around you, for you never know when that time might come when either we or they are no longer here, and think of all the wonderful things that fill our days, count our blessings.

Laura Lee Saorsa Smith [email protected]

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Cabot Taxes Due November 19

Cabot Property Taxes are due Thursday, November 19, 2015, by 5:00 p.m. The Town Clerk/Treasurer’s office will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Postmarks are accepted as a timely payment.

Taxes unpaid after November 19 at 5:00 p.m. are delinquent.

Maximum interest as allowable by law will be charged in addition to an 8% penalty.

If you are a property owner and did not receive your tax bill or misplaced it, call 802-563-2279.

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Planning Notes - Fall Clean Up

By Karen Deasy, Zoning Administrator and Planner

Water System –

As the season shifts, it’s time to prepare for colder weather. Water system leaks are often overlooked, over time, even a small drip can add up to a large volume of water. A running toilet can greatly increase your water usage and will pay for itself in a short period of time if replaced with a more efficient model. This is especially important for users on the Town water system. The Town has found several small leaks on the system, thank you to everyone who has reported these leaks over the summer, and we are actively checking for others to help reduce our overall water loss. Winterize your home if you will not be around during the colder seasons. Setting the heat to 50 may freeze pipes in a colder basement.

Outside faucets should also be checked. Pipes in uninsulated basements or near exterior walls may freeze as the temperature drops. Insulating heat piping and clearing gutters are two additional things that can save you money over the course of the season.

Mailboxes –

Mailbox placement within the town right of way is allowed, a few simple rules should be followed to help prevent damage:

· Call the Highway Department to review placement (563-2040)

· Locate face of mailbox at least 12” from edge of road.

· Use a wooden post 4x4” to set mailbox into the ground.

· Shovel out your box so it can be seen after a storm.

We thank you in advance for taking these items into consideration.

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Cabot Selectboard

Foreground - garage floor slab. Back drop: "Mt. Churchill - new sand pile". Left to Right: Mike Lajeunesse President Lajeunesse Construction; Jeff Moran, Site work contractor, Karen Deasy, Project Architect, Road Commissioner et al,: Brad Alexander, Clerk of the Works, Bernie Shatney, Selectboard.

An update from your Selectboard on some of the projects and issues being addressed at this time.

TOWN GARAGE PROJECT: Lots of activity at the new town garage site. Progress to date includes:

1. Garage foundation and cement floor (with radiant heat) has been poured; 2. Salt shed has been constructed; 3. Sand pile has been created; 4. Well came in at 100 gallons per minute; 5. Pond has been dug (due to high flow of water from the well) and dry hydrant installed; 6. Most infrastructure work---to include roadways and parking---have been completed. The following actions are scheduled during the month of November.

1. Erect the steel building, now scheduled to arrive November 8; 2. Begin interior construction once building has been erected. The date for Substantial Completion is December 15, 2015. Of course, the major driver which will dictate meeting this goal will depend in large part on the date the steel structure is delivered onsite. However, we remain optimistic that the new town garage will be occupied at some point in December. We'll keep you posted.

SALE OF EXCESS/OLD EQUIP- MENT AND CAPITAL BUDGET:

Seven pieces of excess and/or old equipment was sold via sealed bid to the tune of $10,361. Not only does this represent equipment that will not have to be relocated to the new garage at time of occupancy, but it also provides funding to help purchase replacement equipment next year, like the tractors used to mow town property. Work on the 2016 Capital Budget will commence in November, which will be included in the next Town Report.

PROPOSED VTEL TOWN INSTAL- LATION PROJECT ON WHITTIER HILL:

We anticipate that the Public Service Board will now schedule a Hearing on VTEL's tower application in November or December.

WILLEY BUILDING STONE WALL

AND ADDITIONAL PARKING: Richard Ducharme constructed a spectacularly beautiful stone wall behind the Willey Building and along the back wall of the newly purchased land adjacent to the Willey Building. Thank you, Richard, for doing such a fantastic job; the new wall is beautiful and adds significantly to the beauty of the site. Ben Ackermann and Kyle Foster submitted the low bid to construct the new parking lot adjacent to the Town Hall, which also looks great. The gravel base will remain this year and the parking lot will be paved next summer.

ESTABLISHMENT OF CLASS 4

ROADS: The Selectboard will hold a Special Hearing (required by State Statute) in November to convert the access road leading from the South Walden Road to the Town Forrest into a Class 4 road. At the same time, the Selectboard will initiate the process to establish the roadway leading from the South Walden Road to the Town Garage as a Class 4 Road as part of that project.

SELECTBOARD MEETINGS: The Selectboard meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm on the second floor of the Willey Building. Everyone is welcome to attend Selectboard meetings. At the beginning of each meeting, following the approval of the Agenda and possibly one or two other administrative items, a PUBLIC COM- MENT period is scheduled to allow anyone to speak on any non-Warned Agenda item. Your Selectboard does hope that interested parties will let us know of your concerns, priorities, and possibly projects that you believe we should be made aware of.

Sincerely, Ted Domey, Fred Ducharme, Jeff Gabrielson, Bernie Shatney & Jack Daniels

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Cabot Listers, Out and About

Believe it or not, your Listers have already started reviewing properties for the 2016 Grand List before the 2015 tax bills are due. We have been busy. Our goal is to have Cabot's property cards as accurate as possible. A list of 125 +/- parcels has been compiled that need to be reviewed. The software we use allows the Listers to flag unfinished projects and creates a list of parcels that need to be revisited. Some projects are most likely completed, and the Listers just need to verify this. As mentioned last month, if you have taken something down, like a shed or barn, or suffered any misfortune that would reduce your assessment, please let us know. We can start this process now. The Listers will be calling property owners to set up a time that is convenient for us both to assess any changes that have taken place. You can reach the Listers by phone at 563-3139 or by email at [email protected]. Thank you for your understanding as we work toward assessing the Town of Cabot in a fair and equitable manner.

Cabot Board of Listers: Jeanne Johnson Kate Chatot Robyn Hall

This is a project in itself, estimated at about $1,000. If extensive work on the sills is necessary, the church will be eligible to apply for another grant with the VT Division of Historic Preservation in October 2016, and the sill work will be completed when matching funds are available, and as fundraising efforts are successful. The church has applied to the town’s UDAG committee for funds to start the future work, and the Cabot Community Association filed a UDAG grant request for $500 to have the tower clock, which was installed in the 1880’s, inspected to see what maintenance work is required to keep it running another 130 years.

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BIRTH ANNOUNCMENTS

Samantha Norell Burtt

Welcome baby Samantha Norell Burtt! Born October 4 at 4:30 p.m., 7 lbs 3 oz and 20 inches long. Her parents (Stef and Greg) and two sisters are grateful to have her join the family. Thank you. Everyone, for your best wishes!

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COMMUNITY COMMENTARY

Dear Friends:

It is my pleasure to be asked by Green Mountain United Way (GMUW) to serve as Campaign Chair for the coming year. We hope generous Vermonters and businesses, with people in Vermont, will work together with the United Way to get to our goal of $550,000. This money will be used to promote programs for the people of Caledonia, Essex, Orange, Orleans and Washington counties in Education, Income, Health and Basic Needs. Specifically, GMUW collaborates with early education groups, parents and caregivers to help children better prepare for school; provides financial literacy workshops to help people of all ages learn how to increase income, build savings and gain assets; works with local health-related organizations to educate Vermonters on how to live healthier lives; helps organize food drives and distribute goods to nonprofits; promotes volunteerism; supports Vermont 211; and serves our communities in times of crisis. Part of my respect for the United Way comes from my mom. Marion Milne worked hard and volunteered for many worthy organizations with determination throughout her life. She was a long time supporter of the United Way, and preceded me as Chair of the annual drive in 1985 and 1999. She was instrumental in helping GMUW reach their annual goals. She believed in the mission of the United Way. My wish is to continue my mom’s legacy of volunteerism by asking for your help. Your support of the United Way will make life better for people and our communities. This year’s campaign theme is, “Put Yourself in Their Shoes”. In this fastpaced world, where we all tend to overlook the needs of others, we need to stop and think about putting ourselves in their shoes. Many of our neighbors are in need of our help. Please join me in making a tax deductible contribution to Green Mountain United Way. You can send your check to GMUW, 1 Conti Circle, Unit 3, Barre, VT 05641, or donate online at www.gmunitedway.org . Every dollar makes a difference. Your help will be greatly appreciated. With thanks, Scott Milne President, Milne Travel 2015 – 2016 GMUW Campaign Chair

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Recycle in Cabot

By Ben Davis, Cabot Representative to NEKWMD

If you throw an aluminum can in the trash, it will be a can for hundreds of years. However, once an aluminum can is recycled, it can be part of a new can within a month. Aluminum can be recycled endlessly. Aluminum is just one of the many items recycled at the Cabot Recycling Depot. Steel cans, glass, newspaper, cardboard, and plastic bags #2 and 4, plastic containers labeled 1,2, 3 or 4 are also taken. A complete list is available at the Recycling Depot on Sawmill Road in Lower Cabot. Hours are every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until noon only. For information on recycling in the Northeast Kingdom visit http://www.nekwmd.org.

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New Help Me Grow Phone Line for Parents and Caregivers

A new statewide phone line supports families with young children. Parents and caregivers can now dial 2-1-1 to be connected with trained Help Me Grow child development specialists who can answer questions about children’s behavior and development and connect families to resources and services in their community. The project was funded by the Vermont Early Learning Challenge Grant – a federal grant that supports collaborative systems reform in early childhood across the Agency of Human Services, the Agency of Education, and Building Bright Futures.

“We know that we can do more to support families and help children lead healthy lives if we can detect developmental and behavioral issues early,” said Breena Holmes, MD, director of Maternal and Child Health for the Vermont Department of Health. “Vermont has many strong programs and services to support young children and families, but we know that not all families get connected to the services they need. This resource will help families understand young children’s behavior and development, identify if their child is at risk, and connect them to programs and supports right where they live.” Already in the first few weeks that the line has been operational, parents from across the state have called with a range of issues, including looking for parent education resources and setting up developmental screening for a child. Call-

online learning options, our students don’t have to travel far from their communities to access our degree and certificate programs, workforce, secondary and continuing education opportunities, and academic and veterans support services. Program funded, in part, through a grant from the U.S. Dept. of Labor. CCV is an equal opportunity employer. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

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Free CCV Courses

Courses will focus on training for highdemand industries, including manufacturing, technology, business applications, and health and human services

In October, the Community College of Vermont began offering several free workforce development courses and workshops at five of the College’s academic centers across the state. These new training programs are designed to equip students with technical skills and industry certifications in high-demand sectors, with a focus on manufacturing, technology, business applications, and health and human services. These courses will give students and current workers the core skills desired by many Vermont employers, and will allow them to advance their careers in growing fields. CCV has worked with business leaders around the state to assess the practical needs of employers and develop training and credential programs that prepare Vermonters to enter the 21st century workforce. “Technical skills and industry credentials are becoming more and more important in many sectors across Vermont’s economy,” said Penne Lynch, CCV’s Executive Director of Workforce Development. “There is a gap in today’s workforce between the highly specialized jobs at many Vermont businesses and the workers who don’t yet possess the right skills for those jobs. CCV’s new courses help solve both problems: businesses can hire the workers they need to continue expanding, and students will have an affordable path to gain the necessary training and certifications to succeed.” The new courses and workshops include Intro to Computer Science, Microcomputer Applications, Certified Production Technician (CPT) modules, Career Readiness Certificate Pro (CRCPRO) courses in technology, manufacturing, and health and human services, and a Quickbooks workshop. CCV also offers free programs in Microsoft IT Academy and the Microsoft Office Specialist Certification, which allow students to develop essential technology skills required by an increasing number of employers. These programs are funded by a Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Grant (TAACCCT) from the U.S. Department of Labor, and are free for new students. “The Certified Production Technician training offers a wonderfully packaged, and easy to understand training program for the needs of today’s workers,” said Rudy Chase, a manufacturing executive and CCV instructor. “The training allows all levels of employees to build, or maintain a competitive edge in meeting the demands of the current manufacturing marketplace. I particularly like the comprehensive emphasis on safety, continuous improvement, and other skills that are of vital importance to the needs of the production workers of today.”

To learn more about these courses, please visit http://ccv.edu or email [email protected].

Below is the full list of courses:

Computer Applications – Winooski Intro to Computer Science – Winooski CPT: Safety – Winooski (held at Center for Technology in Essex) CRCPRO: Tech – Winooski CRCPRO: Manufacturing – St. Johnsbury CRCPRO: Tech – Rutland Quickbooks Workshop – Rutland CRCPRO: Tech – Morrisville CRCPRO: Manufacturing – Morrisville Computer Applications – Montpelier CRCPRO: Health and Human Services – Montpelier CCV is Vermont’s second largest college, serving over 7,000 students each semester. With 12 locations and extensive ers have been connected to services at agencies including local Parent Child Centers and Children’s Integrated Services. “We’re off to a really great start,” said MaryEllen Mendl, director of Vermont 2- 1-1, “Everyone has questions when caring for a young child, and now parents have easy access to someone who can answer those questions or help them find what they need.” The child development specialists are available from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Callers can leave messages after hours, as Vermont 2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Help Me Grow Vermont 2-1-1 services are confidential. “We are so excited to partner with the Health Department to help families with questions about their child’s development and provide access to our robust resource directory,” said Martha Maksym, president of the United Ways of Vermont. “We believe that the best way to achieve our Vermont 2-1-1 mission is to support coordinated efforts with our partners.” The Help Me Grow initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen and align the systems that support young children and families in Vermont. Information collected by call center staff will help identify family needs, as well as gaps in and barriers to services across the state. This data can then be used to help ensure young Vermonters and their families get the support they need.

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Theater Improv Workshop

By Karen Mueller-Harder

This winter, Cabot Community Theater will host an exciting theater improvisation workshop, led by Maggie Palmiero. This series will run from November 1 through January, meeting weekly for two hours, with a few longer sessions, and culminate with a performance in early February. The Improv Workshop will focus on developing storytelling and spontaneity as tools for actors of all ages to use when performing. Through discussion and lots of fantastic theater games, the workshop will boost confidence and promote teamwork onstage. People of all ages and levels of experience are welcome to participate in the Workshop: we ask only that you bring a willingness to explore and try new things. Sessions will be held on Sundays, probably from 1-3:00 p.m., in the Cabot School Performing Arts Center. If you're interested in joining us, please get in touch by writing [email protected] or calling 793-5617, and we'll make sure you have up-to-date info to join us in November!

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ADVICE FROM THE TREE WARDEN

By Roland (Slim) Payne

Again this year, excellent foliage colors are everywhere you look. On October 13, we cruised the countryside looking at the colors; everywhere you looked was wall to wall color. We stopped at Burtt’s orchard; we went home with apples, cider and donuts. To top off a great day, I planted my garlic. I have planted 300 to harvest next year. I spent a couple of days in the town forest, cutting brush and blown-down trees. I also cleared a place to turn around. I still have more work to do. I hope to cut the lower trail this fall, which should not take too much time, as it will be a foot trail for snow shoeing or cross country skiing. I have not seen many signs of deer, and I have not flushed out a single partridge so far this year. I will be looking for an area to accommodate parking this winter. Last winter, we were granted permission to park in Pike’s driveway, as long as cars were parked far enough to the side that the drive was not blocked. Then, someone blocked the driveway, which upset the family when they returned home and were unable to get into their yard. I cannot believe that someone would be so disrespectful. What would have happened if there was an emergency and a fire truck or an ambulance needed to access the drive? The family was not happy; I do not blame them, I would not be happy, either. Be sure to spend some time in the woods, it will change your life. The woods are quiet and peaceful, you will find something new with each step you take. Enjoy the warm sunshine or a beautiful sunset. Please go to see it for yourself, you will enjoy your time and be happy you went.

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Cabot Recreation Committee

By Lynn Lehoe The soccer season has finished for Pre -K through 6th grade. The teams did very well and learned a lot of great skills! Thank you so much to the volunteers, both community members and students of Cabot. Parents, if you have not paid your soccer fees, please send them in ASAP. We have to make sure we are breaking even each season in order to continue the programs. We would like to wrap up the soccer budget soon. Please remember, scholarships are available, just ask! Basketball season will begin in the next couple of weeks. Please sign your child up on our online registration form. We plan to start 3/4 and 5/6 on November 2. We plan to have concession stands at the home games. We would like to have different parent volunteers for each game to help run and provide a snack or two. We hope to put out a sign up form once the schedule is finalized. PreK-K and 1/2 will begin on November 7. We are in need of a parent or two to oversee the PreK-K and 1/2 programs. We will have high school students helping with both. If we don't have parent volunteers to help, the program will not be able to run.

Please email us with any questions, if you would to volunteer or if you would like the link for the registration form, contact us at [email protected].

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Vermont's Big Game Reporting Stations for 2015

Hunters who take a bear, deer, turkey, or moose during the Vermont hunting seasons must bring the animal within 48 hours to the nearest game warden or to the nearest Vermont Fish & Wildlife reporting station. Cabot-area reporting stations include Harry’s Hardware in Cabot, Marshfield Village Store in Marshfield and Maplefield’s in Plainfield, and Sean Fowler of Plainfield is a Washington County Game Warden. To see a list of all reporting stations, click on http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_73079/File/Hunt/Big_game_ReportingStations.pdf.

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Hunters Urged to Wear Orange

Keep up Vermont’s new hunting tradition: wear hunter orange. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department points out that last year was the second time in three years there were no hunting-related shootings in the state. So far, 2015 is also accident-free, and smart hunters can help keep this flawless record going by choosing to wear fluorescent “hunter orange,” according to the department. “2014 was a fantastic year for Vermont’s 65,000 licensed hunters,” said Chris Saunders, Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s hunter education coordinator. “Credit goes to both the hunters and our 380 volunteer hunter education instructors. However, we can’t rest on our laurels. Every year should be accident-free, and wearing at least a hunter orange hat and vest can go a long way to ensuring that.” Hunters moving into the line of fire of other hunters and mistaking other hunters for game are two of the three most common causes of the state’s accidents. Both types involve visibility problems, and both underscore the need for hunters to be seen, especially during the firearms deer season. “Waterfowl, turkey and archery deer are exceptions,” said Saunders. “But we still recommend hunter orange when you are going to and from your blind, treestand or calling spot.”

Concerns that deer are scared by hunter orange are unfounded. A deer’s vision is based on movement, patterns, and color variations. Unlike humans, deer do not have multiple color receptors in their eyes. They can see color, but their spectrum is limited. This means deer must rely heavily on their ability to detect movement over the ability to interpret color variations and patterns. Regardless of how well deer see orange, ample anecdotal evidence suggests they aren’t bothered by it. Yearly deer harvests in many of the states that require hunter orange exceed the size of Vermont’s deer herd. Remember, hunting in Vermont is very safe, and you can help keep it that way by choosing hunter orange. Hunt smart. Hunt safe. Wear orange.

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Leashed Tracking Dogs for Recovery of Game

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department provides a list of certified leashed tracking dog owners who will help locate deer, bear or moose that have been shot during hunting season but not yet recovered. The leashed tracking dog owners must pass an extensive exam administered by Fish & Wildlife in order to be certified and licensed to provide their services.

Locally, Doug des Groseilliers is available from Hardwick and Marvin Ainsworth is available from St. Johnsbury. For a full list with contact information,, click on http://www.vtfishandwild life.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_73079/F i le/ H un t / LE ASHE D_ TR A CK ING_DOGS.pdf.

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FOOD SHARE AND FOOD DROP DATES

CABOT FOOD SHARE Wednesday, NOVEMBER 4 Noon-2:00 p.m. Wednesday, NOVEMBER 18 Noon-2:00 p.m. Cabot Masonic Hall 3339 Main Street FAITH IN ACTION NORTHERN COMMUNITIES PARTNERSHIP INC. A Nonsectarian 501C3 ~ Who Is My Neighbor?

Available for Cabot Residents

MARSHFIELD FOOD DROP Second Saturday of every month.

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6:00 p.m. – Tree Lighting 6:00 p.m. – Caroling Soup & Sandwiches in church following caroling.

For several years, the people of Cabot have purchased bulbs in memory or honor of loved ones. Bulbs are $3.00 for each name listed. Please provide the names you wish to be read at the lighting ceremony and return your request with payment by December 1 to Cabot United Church, P.O. Box 127, Cabot, VT 05647, or give to any church board member.

All are welcome to participate. Sponsored by Cabot United Church.

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Soap and Grassroots

By David Schilling, Cabot School Pricipal

BioSoap Returns!

Once again, the 10th grade biology class at Cabot School is getting started on the BioSoap project. In its third year, this project combines knowledge of biology with skills in graphic design, marketing, advertising and local economics. The class uses cold-process soapmaking to learn about biomolecules, their properties, and the biology of cells. Each group of 2-3 students creates their own unique recipe - hand-making, curing, and testing their soaps. Science teacher Michael Hendrix describes the project as much more than a simple craft. "There’s a great deal of science in the process of saponification (soap making)", Hendrix informs. In order to create effective, cleansing soap students have to calculate percentages of fats and oils, pH levels, and practice precision when it comes to adding source materials. Each student group is responsible for developing their own recipe, testing and refining the final product, and creating visual marketing materials to accompany the soap. The project also features high-stakes, real-world consequences. Students must be precise with their measurements and process to avoid hazardous lye bubbles. Additionally, a poorly marketed or formulated product won’t sell. In addition to product development and the lab work for creating the soap, students are also responsible for mastering the scientific content necessary to understand the soap making process. Care to know more about how anionic surfactants are effective cleaning agents? Ask a 10th grader! Soaps on the market this year will include Island Coconut, a pine-scented “Lumbersoap”, Pumpkin Spice, and the mysterious “Charcoal Lily”. The class has launched an indiegogo campaign to cover the costs of molds, curing equipment, packing and shipping needs, oils and ingredients, and all-natural scents. For more information or to purchase some great holiday gift soaps, check out http://igg.me/at/cabotbiosoap

Cabot well-represented at Vermont Rural Partnership Conference

For the past several years, Cabot has participated in the Vermont Rural Partnership, a grassroots coalition of small VT schools dedicated to promoting student voice and engagement through authentic place-based learning that celebrates the unique environment, culture and heritage of each partner school and its community. Through collaborative events and trainings, the VRP supports us in helping our students to contribute as engaged community members. A team of students and adults meets with teams from the other 16 district schools and crafts a grant proposal, potentially earning up to $2,000 to take on a community-based project. Past funded initiatives have included our new primarygrades playground and the pavilion on the CSPAC lawn. This year’s amazing team included Kurtis Greaves, Hunter Lubas and Astryd Whitehouse, working with teacher Lynn Talamini. Lynn reports that these three students were “so mature and comfortable in a mix of 130 kids and adults”. Curtis, Hunter and Astrid worked to assess our school’s needs, and develop project proposals that would enhance the learning environment at school. The students looked primarily toward our community’s strong agricultural heritage, and will meet with me next week to discuss proposals that will enhance classroom learning through strong connections to agriculture and nature. At press time, I haven’t gotten to meet with them yet, but I hear that, based on a successful program at Barnet School, chickens may be in the works for Cabot’s campus. I’ll keep you posted!

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Commission Position available immediately

Looking for a little extra cash? Have a couple of hours a month to spare? Consider selling advertising for The Cabot Chronicle. Commission work pays quickly and allows complete freedom in setting work hours and location.

Part of this story may be missing here. See the original pages, page 8 onward.

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Kingdom Animal Shelter

By Helen Morrison Freckles is one of the very sweet ones. He is a bit shy and tentative, but once you start petting him, he is a love bucket, with lots of head butts and purrs. Did you know that having a purring cat on your lap or chest reduces your blood pressure? So, if your blood pressure is high, Freckles is the boy for you. He has those very soft, loving eyes. If you would like to meet Freckles, come to Kingdom Animal Shelter on Memorial Drive in St. Johnsbury Center. We are open for adoptions and meeting of kitties on Monday through Thursday from 4-6:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from noon to 3:00 p.m.

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Heartfelt Thanks for Donations

Cabot Creamery Cabot Village Store Delicate Decadence Bakery Hannaford Supermarket Keurig Green Mountain King Arthur Flour Magic Spoon Bakery McKenzie Country Classics Price Chopper Supermarket Red Door Bakery Shaws Supermarket Slice of Earth Farm Stand Lenny Van Riper Bill Walters TOPS Family Market White Market

Thanks to Cabot School, especially principal Dave Schilling. He was amazing. As was our Apple Pie Festival committee: Julie Ackermann (silent auction), Mary Beth Churchill (pie shop), Peter Dannenberg (publicity), Jennifer Gochey (food tables), Jeannie Johnson (food donations), Joanne Luce (volunteers), Marcy Martin (craft show), and Tara Rogerson (baking contests). Thanks to our pie judges and all volunteers. We cannot list every volunteer, but without all the hard lifting, carrying, trucking, setting up, taking down and cleaning, we couldn’t have a successful festival.

Special Mention

Student volunteers: Caleb Blair and Brianna Wilde worked ALL day. Adults: Jane Brown, Tammy Christman, Melvin Churchill, Brigitte Codling, Jamie Dimick, Caleb Domey, Marvie Domey, Shirley Ducharme, Amy Hornblas, Cheryl Huntley, Lynn Jones, Angie Knost, Theresa Lay-Sleeper, Andy Luce, Inge Luce, Lynn Maxfield, Deb Maxwell, Marion Morrison, Karen Mueller- Harder, Scott St. John, Joanne Vecchiola, and Janet Whitlock.

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FROM THE CABOT PUBLIC LIBRARY

Programs Yoga with Alicia Feltus– Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Alicia’s training is Integral Hatha Yoga. She blends yoga, breath, relaxation, aromatherapy, affirmation and reflexology. All ages and levels welcome – contact Alicia for more info 802-563-3220 or [email protected].

Meditation Group – Tuesday, November 3, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Meeting on the first Tuesday of the month. Daria Babbitt has been teaching meditation for over 25 years and will introduce different meditation techniques designed to reduce stress. There will also be time for discussion about various healing techniques and inner spiritual growth. This workshop is open to all and donations are gratefully accepted.

Tai Chi for Wellness - Thursdays - September 3 - November 12, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. Beginner tai chi: Participants will be taught the Yang style-16 posture simplified form. Class will include stretching and loosening and exercises to improve balance and posture and a brief standing meditation. This is an ongoing class, and it is best if students can attend most of the 10 sessions. Supplementary materials will be provided, including internet links and teaching videos. You are welcome to come to watch, but drop-ins are discouraged. Free to the public. Optional donations ($0 to $10/per class) are welcome. It is requested that no outdoor shoes be worn on the wooden floors. Bare feet or clean indoor shoes are suitable. Wear loose fitting clothing. Classes are offered by Marsha Kameron. Please contact her at marshakameron@ gmail.com for further information and to register. Class size is limited to 15.

Community Game Night – Wednesday, November 11 – 6:30 p.m. All ages are welcome. Get practiced up for the holidays – we’ll have some of the old time favorites, such as Scrabble, Chess/Checkers, Battleship, Monopoly, Blokus, and Othello. Challenge your friends to a rousing game of Hearts! Popcorn, cookies and refreshments will be served.

Cabot Old Time Contra and Square

Dance – Saturday, November 14 – 7:30 p.m. This dance series consists of monthly dances on the second Saturdays of September through May. All are invited. Music will be provided by David Carpenter and the Hull’s Union Victory String Band. The dances are taught and are easily learned by young and old. The contra and square dances are traditional Wait—you don’t know your library card number? Call 563-2721 or e-mail [email protected] to get it, and any other help you might need. No computer? No internet connection? Stop in and use the library’s public access computers, or connect your laptop to its high-speed fiber connection (also subsidized by VT DOL). “The databases won’t give you everything. Some results are full text and some are only abstracts,” points out library trustee Beth Wade, “and you’ll see a lot of titles you don’t recognize, many English Vermont and New England social dances that have been danced for many generations in town halls, barns, and kitchens around Vermont. The music is provided by piano and an assortment of fiddles, mandolins, guitars, and the occasional surprise instrument. Musicians are always invited to sit in and join with the fun of playing traditional dance tunes. There is a small suggested donation to help cover the cost of the caller. For more info, please call David Carpenter at 802- 426-3225 or email [email protected].

Community Book Group – Wednesday, November 18 – 10:30 a.m. Cabot Community Book group generally meets the third Wednesday of the month. The theme this year is Pulitzer Prize winning books. November’s selection is Tinkers by Paul Harding. All are welcome to join in. Copies of the book will be available in the Cabot Public Library.

Lego Club – Tuesdays in November – 3:00-4:00 p.m. All are welcome. We’ll have Legos for you to build creations with.

Pathfinders – Fridays, 3:00 - 5:30 p.m.

The Pathfinder roleplaying game puts you in the role of a brave adventurer fighting to survive in a world beset by magic and evil. Join the group - all are welcome.

Pokemon Club – Saturdays, 10:00 a.m.-noon All are welcome – bring your own cards if you have them, but not necessary. Call Ethan Socks for more info at 563-2073.

Thank You!

Thanks so much to Shane Smith for a fascinating look at how to make sauerkraut. Thanks also to Blue Christensen, Lorelai Bastress and Michelle Leclerc for their help with library projects. Many thanks to Beth Wade and Laura Lee Smith for help with Story Hour and to Mary Lou DeLacey for helping get those books back on the shelves. Thanks!

Part of this story may be missing here. See the original pages, page 10 onward.

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TWIN VALLEY SENIOR CENTER

4583 U.S. Route 2 P.O. Box 152 East Montpelier, VT 05651 By Rita Copeland, Executive Director

The month of November brings busy times for the Senior Center and we hope that you will join in some of the activities we have scheduled.

November 1 TVSC will increase their request for meal donation at the Center and for Meals on Wheels from $4.00 to $5.00 age 60+, under age 60 the donation request will be $6.00. As the Center grows, so do the expenses, and this is the reason we have made this change. We want each of you to know that NO ONE WILL BE TURNED AWAY OR DELIV- ERY OF MEALS WILL NOT CEASE BECAUSE OF ABILITY TO DONATE. ALINFORMATIONIS CONFIDENTIAL.

Wednesday, November 4, is the next scheduled Foot Clinic by CVHHH. Call 223-3322 for an appointment.

Friday, November 6, is the monthly Death Café gathering, which is confidential. Time is 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with lunch available at our usual price or by donation, or you may bring your own..

Tuesday, November 10, is the third American Red Cross blood drive. Please consider giving the Gift of Life. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call 223-3322 for more information or go on line at www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood for answers to your questions.

Wednesday, November 11, is Veterans Day. We salute all Veterans and want to make a special time to say THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE. In saying that, we would like to invite ALL VETERANS TO BE OUR GUESTS on this day for a special luncheon with the Seniors. The time to gather will be from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. We always love to hear from the Veterans about their time of service and any collections of items they may have from that time. So, please mark your calendar, and if you can attend, a phone call to 223-3322 would be greatly appreciated, as well as spreading the word to friends, family and neighbors who may miss this invitation.

Monday, November 16, SASH will be at the Center to do blood pressure checks, meet one-on-one with anyone who needs some advice or assistance from Boo (RN) or Kenneth.

Saturday, November 14, I am sure all hunters will be up bright and early to go get their big buck. At TVSC, we will be up early cooking eggs, bacon, hash browns, etc. At 5:00 a.m. we will be ready to feed the hunters. Later in the morning, there will be plenty for the public to come by and have a bountiful breakfast. So please stop by and support our wonderful organization that depends so much on everyone supporting our fundraising functions.

Time: 5:00 -11:00 a.m. Place: 4583 US Route 2 East Montpelier Cost $8.00, age 10 and under $5.00

Wednesday, November 25, will be the second Foot Clinic in November, and we ask that, if you do not already have an appointment, please call 223-3322 to schedule.

Friday, November 27, TVSC will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Meals on Wheels for Friday the 27th will be delivered on Wednesday the 25th. Everyone at the Center wants to wish you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving. We want you to know we are truly grateful for your support. The Center means so much to many of the elderly residents that attend and the homebound residents who receive meals in the six towns we serve. The Center would not be here for these wonderful people if not for you. You do make a difference.

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Cabot Library Reminders

• Tuesday 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. **Story Hour at 10:30 am **

• Wednesday 2:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

• Thursday 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

• Saturday 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

• Closed Sunday, Monday & Friday

• ECHO Pass – Allows up to 2 adults and 3 youths, $4 each admis-

Aquarium and Science Center in Burlington.

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Save Money - Hop Over the “Paywall” With Cabot Library Databases

Do you need to repair the automatic braking system of a 2008 Mercury Mariner? Research the optimum age at first calving for a dairy heifer? Comparison shop for washing machines? Search the medical literature on jellybeans as a cure for baldness? Or, how about learning a language, or JavaScript? Or getting tips on dog training, with a real human coach? And, how about that term paper on the ethics of the pharmaceutical industry your teen has due? What if sources for opposing viewpoints were presented clearly and conveniently? Sure, for most of these subjects you can, and should, Google. However, much of the web’s information is not searchable by traditional search engines, or you’ll encounter a “paywall” that asks for money. For instance, the washing machine search—you won’t get that article from Consumer Reports, a trusted source, for free. Your public library can help you jump over the paywall. Heavily subsidized by the VT Department of Libraries (DOL)

Part of this story may be missing here. See the original pages, page 10 onward.

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Cabot Senior Housing Planning Ahead

Cabot Senior Housing on Glinka Road has now been open and occupied for nearly ten years. Some people may not realize what the housing has to offer.

· Eight apartments, seven affordable, one market rate - (six one bedroom, two two-bedroom).

· Each apartment is accessible, has a full kitchen with a full sized fridge, stove, and lots of cupboard space.

· Full bathroom.

· Dining area, bedroom (or 2), living room, deck (6), porch (2). Each apartment has access to the outdoors from the front and from the back.

· There is a large common area including laundry, bathroom, full kitchen, function area with comfy chairs, tables for puzzles and eating, plants, exercise program. The common area can be reserved for family or special events. The common area also has a large deck.

· There is a solarium on the east side with lots of windows and sunshine, plants and comfortable chairs.

· Mail is delivered on site.

· Each unit is assigned a section in a storage building.

· Trash and recycling is picked up.

· There is a raised bed garden plot for each apartment.

· The front, east side, provides parking and a covered walkway along to front to provide weather protection for access to the common areas and other apartments.

· There are many support services in Central Vermont to help residents maintain an independent living status.

· Cabot Commons is locally owned by Cabot Commons, Inc. It is managed by the Central Vermont Community Land Trust in Barre. Applications are available from www.cvclt.org or 802-476-4493. Cabot Senior Housing is fully occupied but maintains a wait list. If you or a family member are thinking that supported living might be in your future, you can apply now and get the paper work out of the way. Approved applicants are not committed to moving in when an apartment is available. Applicants maintain their wait list position through three offers of open apartments. Cabot Senior Housing provides a spacious, local, pleasant source of supported senior housing. Feel free to contact local board members, Judy Pransky—563-2730 or Susan Carpenter—426-3331 for more information.

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