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 2016 pages (PDF)
Automated extraction, spot-checked. Advertisements, the business directory, and puzzles are omitted; obituaries appear as individual entries.
In This Issue
- By Representative Catherine — 352w
- EPORT — 271w
- The Cabot Chronicle is distributed — 54w
- OUNTRY — 283w
- The Cabot Chronicle Submission — 89w
- Statement ~ — 54w
- OMMENTARY — 221w
- Guidelines — 100w
- QUESTIONS — 126w
- Sure — 77w
- May 7 at Danville — 243w
- Dear Editor, — 184w
- Dear Friends- — 278w
- OMMENTARY — 319w
- What is Hazard Mitigation Plan- — 68w
- Why do we do it? — 98w
- Local Hazard Mitigation — 94w
- To the editor; — 80w
- What do we get from it? — 97w
- What do we need from you? — 57w
- We would like your input as to — 110w
- BARNETT — 100w
- Virginia M. Martin — 141w
- EMORIALS — 288w
- Here’s Nick — 85w
- Melissa Laurita Kohl — 193w
- of Spring — 193w
- Gilbert and Sullivan's “The Pirates — 105w
- Turkey Hunting Seminar. 9:00 a.m. to — 193w
- Wednesday 4/6 — 184w
- Thursday 4/7 — 51w
- Gallery — 187w
- Auditions for the 8 th annual “Next — 58w
- Children's Vacation Art Camp “Birds — 91w
- Saturday, 4/23 — 67w
- in — 83w
- Willey Building, Cabot [Free Parking] — 134w
- & SquareDances — 126w
- Summer Recreation Camps — 57w
- July 25 - 29, Basketball camp from — 185w
- Maple Fest, the annual fundraiser — 86w
- “The Importance of Being Earnest” — 93w
- Animal Visions — 227w
- By Cary Brown, Executive Director of — 234w
- a Rescue Dog? — 124w
- Wages in Vermont — 120w
- Program - Seeking — 90w
- By Roland (Slim) Payne — 82w
- River Arts in — 184w
- Coordinator — 93w
- T REE W ARDEN — 85w
- Morrisville — 181w
- T WIN V ALLEY S ENIOR C ENTER — 80w
- By Rita Copeland, Executive Director — 382w
- Place: Twin Valley Senior Center, — 129w
- Donates Children’s Clothing — 134w
- F ROM T HE C ABOT — 67w
- Meditation Group – First and Third — 66w
- Vara – Saturday, April 9, 10:00 – — 65w
- Cabot Old Time Contra and Square — 139w
- Community Book Group – Wednes- — 46w
- Tai Chi – International Tai Chi Day — 81w
- Thank You! — 87w
- Reminders: — 59w
- Annual Tree and Trout Sale — 351w
By Representative Catherine
Several large bills will be debated by legislators in late March and early April, including the 2017 budget bill, the revenue bill to support state appropriations and a fee bill which aligns fees to the actual cost of the services provided. Below are some highlights, but a full report on the outcome of these bills will be included in the May edition of The Cabot Chronicle . On March 21, the House Appropriations Committee passed out the fiscal year 2017 budget. This year’s budget addressed a $23 million gap between state expenses and revenues. Revenue growth continues to be out paced by expenditures. This trend is expected to continue into future years. A priority of the House Appropriations Committee is to create structural sustainability of the state’s finances. The 2017 budget bill uses no “one-time” money for on-going expenses. The committee continues to scrutinize all new expenses to determine the impact of costs into future years. Additionally, ongoing state expenditures have been fully reviewed by House Appropriations and also by House policy committees. Moreover, all legislators have been asked to carefully study and prioritize state spending. Medicaid, salaries and benefits, education costs and reduced federal dollars continue to create significant pressure on the state budget. In February, to ensure a transparent budgeting process, five public hearings were held across the state, as well as three hearings at the State House to hear concerns and requests from Vermonters. Furthermore, all legislators had the opportunity to testify in House Appropriations to outline budget concerns and requests, provide solutions to pressures and to present viable budget alternatives. Highlights of the 2017 budget bill as passed includes increased funding to the judicial system and funding for additional DCF caseworkers to support child wellbeing and safety initiatives; increased rates to designated agencies providing critical services to Vermonters statewide; funding for anticipated contractual obligations for state employees; increased base funding to the Vermont State Colleges to provide scholarships to Vermont students; continued funding for the Veteran’s Home; and additional funding for child care caseload increases. Importantly, the Appropriations Committee
DEADLINE: 15th of the month prior
Coordinator: Jeannie Johnson
EPORT
(Kitty) Toll
proposed to return over $1.2 million to the Ways and Means committee to reduce the committee’s tax proposal. Highlights of the House Ways and Means Committee proposal to fund the state budget include aligning the registration fee for Mutual Fund providers with neighboring states; making an adjustment to the employer assessment for businesses with over 20 employees that offer no health insurance; subjecting room rental entities, like Air BnB, to existing rooms and meals taxes to be consistent with the tax placed on similar Vermont businesses; and adjusting the gross receipts tax to support the weatherization program. H.458, an act relating to automatic voter registration through motor vehicle driver's license applications, passed the House in March on a vote of 137 – 0. The purpose of this bill is to make voter registration an easier process for eligible Vermonters. California and Oregon have passed similar bills and have experienced significant increases to the number of registered voters. Additionally, this year the Secretary of State rolled out online voter registration. To change your address or register to vote, visit https:// olvr.sec.state.vt.us. Vermonters who are seventeen years old and turning eighteen before a General Election are eligible to vote in primary elections. Vermont’s Primary Election date is August 9 and the date of the General Election is November 8. For additional information on any bill or actions in the House or Senate or standing committees, please visit www.leg.state.vt.us. These are live pages and are updated regularly. Please contact me directly with your questions and concerns. As always, it is an honor to represent our communities at the State House.
kittytoll@live.com ktoll@leg.state.vt.us
The Cabot Chronicle is distributed
~ Mission The mission of The Cabot for the residents of the Cabot that will help readers become
Printed in Vermont ~ Copyright
No part of this paper may be reproduced Publisher is not responsible for typographical errors. Acceptance of advertising indemnify publisher from loss or expense for errors in any advertising beyond the
OUNTRY
Anyone who has ever weeded a large garden for vegetables in the hot sweltering sun, humidity high and rising, knows that weeding isn’t really up there on the fun things to do list. The midges bite, everything seems to bite, horse flies, deer flies, mosquitoes. It is a delicacy for the insects to have human blood. Sweating so much as to soak your shirt as it sticks to you isn’t very pleasant, either. Ordering the seeds and then starting them indoors becomes a full time chore, as one has to water them almost every day. It is quite exciting to have baby plants poke their wee green heads through the soil. At least we think it is. We don’t have much electricity, but we get by. We use the Internet at the library, which is more reliable than trying at the house, which we did but I would get dropped right in the middle of research. NOT GOOD! So, we make do with what we have and enjoy the life we have chosen. It doesn’t make me any better at not being a clutter bug, but we maintain a healthy attitude about it, and I strive to improve myself and it sometimes works. The dog really enjoyed the mild winter. She guarded the house well from her bed outside. She is fourteen, after all. The last of our kitties, her name is Pig, she too has been out more due to our milder winter this year. This year I feel like it will be filled with lots of magic and miracles. I don’t plan on getting sick again this summer. No, I feel like my healthy self and look forward to toiling in
The Cabot Chronicle Submission
The Chronicle welcomes letters written maximum length is recommended to may be edited for clarity and length or tions for re-submittal. All letters and Chronicle represent the opinions of the ions of staff. The Cabot Chronicle reserves the right unsuitable material for our readers. Letters cation unless signed and accompanied consider articles and photographs for publication. The Cabot Chronicle is not responsible Nor does The Cabot Chronicle assume nection with products or services advertised If you have editorial questions or would
the first day of the month and is
Statement ~
Chronicle is to regularly publish local news Area. Our purpose is to share information better involved in their Community.
05647 2015 by The Cabot Chronicle 1942-0943 without express written permission from Cabot is contingent upon publisher’s approval on claims based upon contents of advertising. Publisher cost of space occupied by individual item in which
OMMENTARY
the soil. I like moving rocks, and ’though it is the joke of Vermont that we grow rocks up here, we certainly do have a lot of them. More stonewalls this year, I think. I think I shall try to be less of a clutter bug this year, too. A new experience and one I am dedicated to maintaining. Yes, things feel fresh and new and rather like a clean slate. I am taking more control over my life and making it ever closer to the dream life I choose. I am taking more responsibility and am running with the dreams I have for the future I want and am ever grateful for the present and letting go of the past. I have enough baggage, I don’t need to carry more, metaphorically speaking, of course. Well, all you marvelous people out there, I hope that you anticipate this coming spring and summer and may they both be pleasurable for you, too. Remember to be looking for the magic in the everyday, whether it is a sunrise or a beautiful rock you have found, the magic is out there and you can find it, too. Write to me and tell me the magic of your lives, I would so love to hear from you. In Peace and Love Laura Lee Smith fizgigdragon@aol.com
Guidelines
with an economy of words. The be no longer than 400 words. Letters returned to the author with suggescommentary published in The Cabot authors and not necessarily the opin-
to reject letters that may contain will not be considered for publiby a phone number. We will gladly
for errors in submitted material. responsibility for claims arising in conon these pages. like advertising information, call www.CabotVermont.org or email us and other inquiries can also be sent to: VT 05647.
provided locally free of charge.
Chronicle.
and agreement by advertiser to does not assume liability the error appeared. above for more information
QUESTIONS
SHOULD CITIES AND TOWNS HAVE A VOICE INDUSTRIAL ENERGY PROJECTS IN THEIR IS IT IMPORTANT FOR VERMONT TO ENCOURAGE JOBS TO MOVE TO VERMONT IN LIGHT OF POPULATION DO YOU BELIEVE WATER QUALITY IS A VERMONT? SHOULD VERMONT LEGALIZE MARIJUANA? ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE INCREASED OPIATES IN VERMONT? SHOULD VERMONT REQUIRE PAID SICK ARE YOU SATISFIED WITH VERMONTS IS STATEWIDE CELL SERVICE AND BROADBAND IMPORTANT ISSUE TO VERMONTS ECONOMY? DOES VERMONT HAVE TOO MANY SCHOOL RELATIVE TO OUR DECLINING STUDENT DO YOU BELIEVE THAT VERMONTS POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS ARE TOO COSTLY? SHOULD VERMONT HAVE A 4 YEAR TERM GOVERNOR? DOES VERMONT RELY TOO HEAVILY ON TAXES FOR FUNDING EDUCATION? SHOULD WE REDUCE VERMONTS PRISON USING ALTERNATIVES FOR NON-VIOLENT IS VERMONT A BUSINESS FRIENDLY STATE? 10,708 Returns
Sure
IN SITING 1 90 COMMUNITIES? PEOPLE AND LOSS? MAJOR ISSUE IN
USE OF LEAVE? HEALTH CARE? AN DISTRICTS POPULATION? FOR PROPERTY POPULATION BY OFFENDERS? 2 80 10 3 64 22 4 42 44 5 92 5 6 60 25 7 31 48 8 83 9 9 53 25 10 57 15 11 60 27 12 77 9 13 75 13 14 22 50 13 14
13 19
20 27 13 13 11 26 145 Towns and Cities
May 7 at Danville
Cabot residents joined citizens from 48 other northeastern Vermont Towns in voting to approve the budget of the Northeast Kingdom Waste Management District on Town Meeting Day. The NEKWMD, as it is known, is a chartered municipality that oversees recycling and waste disposal in member towns. The District is funded through the sale of recyclables, a surcharge on trash, and grants for specific projects. Recycling is the largest and most visible service provided by the District. Recyclables are collected at 30 recycling centers scattered across the District, including Cabot. In 2015, District residents and businesses sorted and collected over 12,000 tons of recyclable materials. Cabot and Marshfield, with a combined population of over 3,000 people, added 1,043 tons to this total. The estimated recycling rate in both towns is 62%, among the highest in the District. Keep up the great work! Over the past few years, the District has been sponsoring Bulky Waste events. Bulky wastes are large household items such as furniture, painted or treated wood, and carpeting. During 2015, ten towns offered tions for bulky wastes, towns collected this material at their transfer stations. tions will be happening ing on May 7 at the Danville Station. Household Hazardous (HHW) will also be collected event. For other times and the District website www.nekwmd.org. Information on recycling at the Cabot recycling metal is also collected there, may be disposed of for tion on other waste disposal ments and options is available district website.
Dear Editor,
Cabot’s Town Meeting was longer than usual this year. That’s because there were serious problems to address. Concerns included: Budget errors equaling $300,000 which landed the town in debt, leading to the request to take out a $180,000 loan. The explanation for the errors did not make sense to most, and exposed a startling lack of precision in our town budget. The wording of several articles was questioned. The “Tax Reduction loan” in Article 13 was, in fact, to cover the deficit. Overspending on projects was another concern. First, the land purchase the town approved last year had a clause which requires us to spend another $30,000 to pave the neighbor’s driveway, despite our deficit. Secondly, the parking lot behind and around the Willey building was worked on last fall, which led to the Willey building budget deficit of $50,000. Thirdly, the garage’s storage shed would have cost $90,000 this year if voters approved it. Attendees were frustrated with the way the board has been over spending and, at the same time, being evasive about their plans. While most town offi-
Dear Friends-
The phone calls come at any time, day or night, from the Department of Children and Family Services, telling us another child is being placed in emergency foster care and a Tatum’s Totes bag is needed. These are calls the Green Mountain United Way staff has come to expect since starting the Barre District Tatum’s Totes program. But what continues to surprise us is the support this program receives when people learn how it began and the purpose it meets. Tatum’s Totes was created by Alex and Elizabeth Grimes after they lost their 5 month old son, Tatum James Grimes, to SIDS. Searching for a way to ease the pain of such an unimaginable loss and to honor their son, they became foster parents, hoping to provide a sense of home to those most vulnerable. After seeing children come through their door with little or nothing of their own, they started a program that ensured every child entering foster care would have a personal bag filled with special items to call their own. Alex and Elizabeth’s unique understanding of how essential the smallest amount of comfort can be in the most challenging of times became the foundation of a program now growing statewide. GMUW is honored to be leading Barre District DCF Tatum’s Totes program, providing each child entering foster care with a backpack, diaper bag or duffle bag filled with special items specific to gender and age. We know this program is not the solution to the many factors creating this situation. But we do know it is a key component to the larger GMUW initiatives that work to find solutions to the issues of poverty, addiction
OMMENTARY
cers are accountable, there were many instances at the meeting when representatives either gave evasive answers or chose not to speak up at all. Some were missing from the meeting altogether. The only reason I knew about many of the issues was because I have attended a few Select Board meetings over the past few years. Attending meetings is informative, but who has time for that? And, if you learn anything important at a meeting, what can you do with the information? I propose we start a Transparency Team. This open group would have no agenda. Its mission would be to gather and disseminate information. Without secrecy, in the open, we could go over the budgets, attend meetings, gather the minutes, and inform the community of what’s going on. By bringing things out in the open, we can save time and money. Town meetings might be shorter, if voters know about the issues ahead of time. More importantly, our committees, including the Select Board themselves, could stop wasting money working towards goals the community disagrees with. If we have to provide our own answers, then we will. We can work together to clear things up, if we put our heads together. Sincerely, Amy Hornblas
and the cycle of abuse. And this simple program, which started from heartbreak, is now offering light to the human element sometimes lost in the larger issues. We appreciate and depend on your continued support of programs like Tatum’s Totes and others offered through the Green Mountain United Way. Through your generosity, we are reminded of how valued our work is and that the ability to bring effective change to areas in need is reliant on our ability as a community to give, work and live united. For more information, please visit www.gmunitedway.org/blog/greenmountain-united-way-leads-tatums-totes -effort/. Thank you and warmest regards, Tawnya Kristen, Executive Director Green Mountain United Way One Conti Circle, Unit 3 Barre, VT 05641
What is Hazard Mitigation Plan-
ning? Hazard mitigation planning is the process of identifying hazards and working through a variety of strategies and goals to remove or reduce those hazards. These items are written into a plan which identifies the hazards and sets goals to correct, minimize or repair these items. This document is adopted every five years and reviewed by the state Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) and FEMA.
Why do we do it?
This document is used to secure grant funding and to increase the funding received by the town when planning projects. This allows us to fix known problems with assistance from the state and federal government. It also allows us to plan and prepare for hazards, for example, having identified shelter locations so, when temperatures are freezing and there is a power outage, we are prepared to assist when needed, or to study a dam to repair it prior to it failing. It also includes infrastructure projects like; undersized culverts, critical facilities, and improvements necessary for the town to
Local Hazard Mitigation
Hazard Mitigation Planning identifies actions that a community can take to reduce or eliminate long term risk to people and property from natural and manmade hazards. The Town of Cabot will be working to develop long-term strategies to protect people and property from future hazard events. The Town, in conjunction with the Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission, is undertaking the update of the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan for 2017. The Town will be holding public meetings for anyone interested. Please contact Karen Deasy at zacabot@fair point.net or Ashley Andrews at andrews@cvregion.com for more information.
To the editor;
The Cabot Select Board should explain why, once again, they gave tax money to Front Porch Forum. FPF is a private, for-profit business. FPF is NOT based in Cabot (not owned by a Cabot resident). There are so many issues with Front Porch Forum there isn't enough room in a letter to the editor to address them. The Select Board should not give taxpayer money to FPF. At the same time, there are several very small businesses owned by people
What do we get from it?
Our hazard mitigation plan is now an element in the town plan; the goals expressed in these documents allow us to seek funding to repair and correct problems, making it less expensive to recover in a disaster. Funds we have received in recent years include: - $700,000 CDBG-DR funding for Cabot Town Garage - Awarded funds for two HMGP projects, one on Danville Hill Road ($137,000), one on Porter Road ($295,772) - Completed HMGP projects on Mack Mountain Road and on Main Street - Received Better Back Roads grants for culvert replacement and river bank stabilization ($20,000)
What do we need from you?
We are looking for information on what concerns you. If you are aware of a hazard that we are currently not addressing, or that you would like to discuss, please let us know. You can contact me via email at zacabot@fair point.net. We will also have comment sheets available at the town office and at Town Meeting.
We would like your input as to
what you think is the biggest natural or manmade hazard in your town. (Please put comments below):
who do live in Cabot. A recent article in the Chronicle stated these businesses will be charged "a small fee", to advertise their products on the CCA website. What is wrong with this picture? If the Select Board and the CCA are there to help people who live IN Cabot, the above two examples should be reversed. No money should be given to FPF and people with very small businesses who live IN Cabot. should not be charged for CCA web space to advertise items they make to sell. Bonnie S. Dannenberg Cabot
BARNETT
- Phyllis "Jeannie" Barnett, 70, of Cabot, Vermont, died at her home on Wednesday, March 16. She was born on July 21, 1945, in Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of the late Elizabeth Davis and Leon Laurendeau. On Oct. 21, 1961, she married Norbert Barnett Jr. (Buzz). Throughout her life, she enjoyed spending time with her family, holidays, boating, cooking and gardening. Survivors include Diana and Loucias Quintin, of Marshfield; Rosemary Barnett, of Cabot; Norbert Barnett and Penny Barnett, of Marshfield; Robin Barnett, of Buxton, Maine; Jeffery and Rhoda Barnett, of Stannard, eight grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren; beloved boyfriend and
Virginia M. Martin
BERLIN - Virginia M. Martin, 88, of Cedar Drive, Berlin, passed away Thursday, March 10, 2016, at the Vermont Respite House in Williston. Born on May 23, 1927, in Barre, she was the daughter of Lyman Arthur and Georgia Mae (Edwards) Shepard. She attended elementary school in Williamstown and graduated from Williamstown High School. Following her marriage to Gordon E. Martin, they made their home in the Marshfield and Plainfield area before moving to Roxbury. In 2004, after Gordon's death, she moved to Berlin. Virginia worked for the former Rock of Ages Capacitor Plant and for the former Sprague Electric Co. for over 40 years. After her retirement, she accompanied her husband, Gordon, on the road throughout the United States, reading surface plates for Rock of Ages. She was a former member of the Kingsbury Chapter 77, OES in North Montpelier.
EMORIALS
best friend, Tom Perry, of Walden; and siblings Leo and Emily Laurendeau, Betty Hayward, Joseph Laurendeau, Irene and Ernest (Sonny) Larrabee, Warren (Butch) Laurendeau, Phillip and Jayne Nold-Laurendeau, and Claire Marie Laurendeau. She was predeceased by her husband, Norbert Barnett Jr., son John Porter Barnett, brother Edward Laurendeau, brother-in-law Roger Hayward, sister-inlaw Linda Laurendeau and Carol Laurendeau. There will be no memorial service or funeral. A graveside service will be held in the first part of May at the South Cabot Cemetery on Houghton Road in Cabot. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Walden Fast Squad in care of Walden Town Clerk, 12 Vermont Route 215, West Danville, VT 05873. Arrangements are in the care of des Groseilliers Funeral Home, Church Street, Hardwick.
Her interests were reading, plants and cross-stitch. prefer Survivors include her sons, Wayne and Martin and his wife, Marcy, of Cabot, him and Robert Martin and his wife, Beverchange, ley, of Lebanon, Virginia; her daughters, toys Joyce Mattson, of Berlin, and Sandra is Pollander, of Northfield; 12 grandchilpersonal dren, 24 great-grandchildren and one volunteers. great-great-grandchild; two sisters, Eva ested Brown, of Williamstown, and Gloria visit Jean Shepard, of Montpelier. Besides her ter, parents and her husband, a son, David Johnsbury Martin, a brother, James Shepard, and a Mondays, sister, Marilyn Bolado, predeceased her. days A graveside service will be held in the 5:30 spring in the Vermont Veterans Memoand rial Cemetery in Randolph Center, with the date and time to be announced. There were no calling hours. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Vermont Respite House, 99 Allen Brook Lane, Williston, VT 05495. The Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home in Barre, is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Here’s Nick
Nick is such a goof. He would a home without other cats with a patient person to help adjust. He's not a fan of but he is a fan of chasing and loves to be doted on. Nick about three years old and the favorite of several of our If you would be interin meeting Nick, come and him at Kingdom Animal Shel1664 Memorial Drive in St. Center. We are open Tuesdays, and Wednes4-6:00 p.m., Thursdays 3:30p.m., and Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, noon to 3:00 p.m.
Melissa Laurita Kohl
In April, dandelions pop up in a profu-
of lion toothed leaves, begging to be
But many people douse them in
instead. I am here to give you a
reasons why you should dig up 8. dandelions and eat them..
Long before your fresh greens from the
garden are ready, you have dandeli9. ons. 10. Dandelions are free.
Dandelions require no maintenance. It 11. is quite easy to grow a good crop,
whether you will it or not.
Dandelions are more nutrient dense
than most of the greens you can grow
in the garden.
The roots are particularly good for 12. your liver. They have the perfect
amount of bitterness (like broccoli
raab), stimulating a cascade of diges-
tive juices that improve your digestion
and the functioning of your liver. salads The leaves are wonderful diuretics. flowers, Some studies show them to be as effec(which tive as pharmaceutical diuretics. Howinto ever, dandelion leaves are so rich in of potassium that your body does not get
depleted of potassium when you use of them (as your body could on pharmathe ceutical diuretics). medicinal Dandelion may have an anti-cancer ful, effect. A Canadian oncologist noticed
of Spring
that patients who drank dandelion tea seemed to improve. This lead to $217,000 of grant funding and positive results showing dandelion root extract to cause cell death in melanoma cells (but having no negative impact on healthy cells). Bitter herbs like dandelion have a positive effect on blood sugar and weight loss. You can make wine out of them. You can dip the flowers in pancake batter and fry them for a tasty treat. Dandelion is a prebiotic. It contains inulin, which feeds your gut flora or microbiome. Modern science has begun to realize that most health (digestive, immune, and mental) relies on a vibrant and thriving microbiome. Eating dandelions regularly will fill you with vitality and energy. If you don't believe me, try it! What do you have to lose? You can add raw dandelion leaves to or cook them root, crown, leaves, and all. Sprinkle the flower petals are really tiny flowers called rays) your salad and on soups for a splash color and bioflavonoids. Like most herbalists, I am overly fond this pervasive weed. This spring, join herbal fun and enjoy the culinary and delights of this wonderful, colorlittle plant.
Gilbert and Sullivan's “The Pirates
of Penzance.” Students of the Initiative Waldorf High School tour the state with their performance. The final performance will take place at the Haybarn Theatre on Goddard College grounds in Plainfield. $45.00 per person. 4:00 p.m. cocktail hour and bidding, 5:30 p.m. dinner, 7:00 p.m. show. Cash bar. Sitter recommended. Tickets and information are available online at InitiativeWaldorf.org/ gala [l]. Kamikaze Comedy. 7:30 p.m. at Chandler Music Hall, Randolph. Come “laugh your darn face off” with this Burlingtonbased improv troupe creating outrageous characters, over the top stories, games that involve the crowd for an evening of hilarity. Tickets available by calling 802-
go to www.chandler-arts.org.
Turkey Hunting Seminar. 9:00 a.m. to
1:00 p.m. at the Barre Fish and Game Club on Gun Club Road in Barre. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department is hosting a free turkey hunting seminar. Both experienced and first-time hunters stand to benefit from this program. Those interested sign up by going to VT Hunter Education Seminars at: http:// tinyurl.com/gr9csxh Bring your own lunch. Last chance! to Dance, Sing and Jump Around. 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Plainfield Town Hall Opera House, Plainfield Village Route 2. Suggested donation $5.00/$10.00 per family. NO ONE turned away. The event will start again in November. 2016 VT Scholastic Chess Championships. 8:30a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Berlin Elementary School. Ages 5-14+. More information contact vtchess.info/ events/2016_VT_State_Championships. htm or mike@vtchess.info or 802-2231948. Open to all. All About LOVE. 7:30 p.m. Hooking Up with The Second City Comedy Troupe, at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Ctr., 122 Hourglass Drive., Stowe. This troupe makes mirth out of missed connections, girls' night out adventures and all crazy things we do for LOVE. Funny revue, modern mix of romance, rancor and everything in-between. Tickets starts at $20, $32 and $38 regular prices. For more information, call Joe Ruffner 312-6644032 or www.sprucepeakarts.org
Wednesday 4/6
Open House at CCV. 3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Montpelier. CCV Staff and students are having an Open House on CCV programs. Tours, meet advisors, sit in on classes, meet President Joyce Judy. Free and open to the public. Available to students of all ages and adult learners. 660 Elm Street, Montpelier. Please contact
Job Fair 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Barre. Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation and Voc Rehab are holding the 7 th Annual Central Vermont Job Fair at the Barre Auditorium. Children's Art Class 3:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. T. W. Wood Gallery, 46 Barre St., Montpelier. Led by Barbara Saxe for 6 weeks (no class week of April 18, last class May 18) Cost: $95.00 (includes all materials) Children will gain a broad understanding of art and design processes, while having fun exploring animals, plants, flowers, and world cultures. For more information, contact T.W.
gallery@gmail.com or www.twwoodgal lery.org Classic Film Night 7:00 p.m. at the Jaquith Public Library in Marshfield. Free. (1951) A meek bank clerk who oversees the shipment of bullion smuggles them in mini Eiffel towers. Stars: Alec Guinness, Stanley Holloway, and Sidney James.
Thursday 4/7
The Wedding Singer musical, 7:30 p.m. Barre. Presented by Spaulding High School Drama Club. Based on the Adam Sandler movie, a rockin' romantic comedy that pays tribute to 1980's. More performances follow Friday, 4/8 7:30 p.m. and Saturday 4/9 2:00 p.m. matinee and 7:30 p.m. For tickets contact Spaulding High School.
Gallery
announces Spring Art Classes 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at the Center for Arts and Learning, 46 Barre Street., Montpelier. Introduction to Pastels: A day long workshop led by Marcia Hill and Cynthia Griffith. Cost $75.00 plus $30.00 for materials. Pastel is a great medium for beginners, very forgiving and with rich colors. Discussion of materials, how to use pastels, and basics about what makes a good painting, you will leave with a finished or almostfinished painting. More information con-
PossumHaw. 7:30 p.m. Craftsbury. A special combo of bluegrass and original lyrics of folk delivered by one of the finest female vocalists Colby Crehan and PossumHaw. Takes place at The Music Box, 147 Creek Road, Craftsbury. General Admission $10.00, Kids under 16 Free. To listen to some of their tunes go to http://possumhaw.net. Contact 802-5867533 more information. Save Our Steeple! 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Hyde Park. Carol Ann Jones Quartet will perform to help save the Second Congregational Church steeple in Hyde Park. Show will be performed at the Hyde Park Opera House, 85 Main Street. Hyde Park. Tickets $12.00 adult, $5.00 children under 12. There will be concessions available.
Auditions for the 8 th annual “Next
Generation” performance. Randolph. Chandler Center of the Arts announces auditions are open to area high school age students ages 13 and up, who are seriously studying classical music of all genres instrumental, ensemble or vocal as soloist or in a group. Please contact Janet Watton, Chandler Board President for more information to schedule an audition, any other questions.
Children's Vacation Art Camp “Birds
of a Feather” 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. T. W. Wood Gallery, Montpelier. Led by Janice Walfaren and Leslie Breakstone. Open to ages 7-12. Monday-Wednesday April 18, 19, 20. Drop off at 8:30 a.m., pick up at 3:00 p.m. Cost: $175.00. (Late pick up option until 4:00 p.m., add $15.00) Join us for three fun-filled days of art, storytelling, games, songs, and papier mache puppet making. We will research and learn about our feather friends that live and migrate in Vermont Pre-registration is required space is limited, for more in-
Ginny at twwoodgallery@gmail.com.
Saturday, 4/23
Animal Masks 9:30 a.m.-noon, Marshfield. Instructor Janice Walfaren and young people will be using traceable patterns to construct wearable 3D animal masks with poster board and decorate with acrylic paints. Space for workshop limited to 15 participants. Sign up by April 20. There is a $4 materials fee. Children under 6 need to be accompanied by an adult. Call Jaquith public library for more information and pre-registering.
in
program. The desired candidate will have a bachelor’s degree and/or experience in youth services, volunteer coordination, and basic digital literacy. A high priority will be placed on strong organizational and interpersonal skills and a collaborative working style. A flexible schedule will include some fund raising, and occasional weekend and evening hours. The position is part time with a minimum of 15 hours a week at $20 an hour. Send a letter of application and resume by 4/30/2016 to: Cabot Connects Mentoring
Or cabotconnects@hotmail.com
Willey Building, Cabot [Free Parking]
Benefits the Cabot Partners in Education organization. ♫ Winner chosen by the public. Tasters Rule! Admission free. ♫ $10 entry fee. 50% to winner and 50% to CPIE to support student activities. Special $50 prize to student activity fund for group school entry. All schools eligible. ♫ Chilies judged on taste, creativity and texture. ♫ Ingredients may be listed but this is optional. Rating of heat is a courtesy to the tasters. Name Your Chili!! ♫ Cups, spoons and bread will be available. Feel free to bring crackers or bread if you have a preference to go with your creation. ♫ To register or get more information contact: Cabot.Chili@Yahoo.com Become Famous! Join some of our previous winners: Lonesome Stove, Chili Chili Bang Bang, Tex-Mex Mix Up, Run, Baby, Run;The Tamale Twins and Dangerous Desires.
& SquareDances
This dance series consists of monthly dances on the second Saturday of the month 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 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
man@sover.net.
Summer Recreation Camps
June 20 - 24, Soccer from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 non for grades K through 4 and grades 5 through 8 on the school playground and Common. June 27 – July 1, Dance from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday, July 9, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, grades 2 through 6 at the Willey Building.
July 25 - 29, Basketball camp from
8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon for grades K through 4 and from 12:00 noon to 3:30 p.m. for grades 5 through 8 in the Gym. The price for each camp above is $60. There is a discount of $5 off each additional camp your child attends. There is also a sibling discount of $5 per sibling. Cabot recreation is asking for a $20 refundable deposit to hold your child's spot at camp. The remainder balance is due on the first day of camp. Sign up flyers will be going home with students at school soon. You may also email the recreation committee for the online sign up form. For more information or questions, please email cabotrecreation@gmail.com or call
We are also looking at setting up an all-day outdoor camp for middle school and high school students and possibly an ultimate Frisbee camp; more information to come. If you are a high school student in need of community service hours, please contact a recreation committee member. The recreation committee is always in need of volunteer help. If you are able to assist, please let us know.
Maple Fest, the annual fundraiser
for The Cabot Chronicle : Barry Hayes, Musician
Cabot Community Theater Cabot Cooperative Creamery Cabot Recreation Committee Cabot School Campus and Employees Cabot Selectboard, especially Fred Ducharme Cabot Village Store Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Shaws Supermarket White Family Market 45 individual crafters and vendors And the incredible group of Cabot community members who volunteered during the day, doing amazing work in support of their community and this fundraiser Plus our wonderful local sugarmakers: Ackermann’s Maple Syrup Ameden’s Under Orion Farm Bothfeld’s Dunstable Farm
Talberts Maple Syrup
“The Importance of Being Earnest”
The Cabot Community Theater presented Oscar Wilde’s production of “The Importance of Being Earnest” (a trivial comedy for serious people) the weekend of Cabot’s Maplefest. (l to r) Todd Jones, Marion Palmiero, Abigail Walker, Lila Stratton and Maggie Palmiero navigated the nuances of Victorian life, luxuries and “Bumburying”. All proceeds went to local not profits and charities. Others involved in the show were Cameron and Karen Mueller-Harder, Dick Payne, Ethan Socks, David Moody, Ellen Cairns, Lori Stratton, Susie Socks, Daria Babbitt, Cynthia Challener, Erik MuellerHarder, and the Burke family. Direction by Megan Walker.
Animal Visions
I have been involved with animal rescue most of my life, and there are many things to seriously consider about adopting a rescue dog. Whether you are getting a new dog or “adding’ a dog to your existing canine family, take some time and do some research to better understand some challenges you and the possible new dog may face. Locally, adopting from a local shelter allows you the opportunity to spend time with the dog, get to know its personality, and if it's a good choice for you and your family. Many of shelter dogs came from the south originally, but proved to not be a good fit for the family that ordered them. Ordering a dog from a picture on a webpage is risky and does not give you the opportunity to know if that dog’s temperament and personality will be a good fit for you. If you are interested in a certain breed of dog, there are specific rescues for specific breeds. You can do a search for them online. Inasmuch as an abundance of dogs are relocated up here from southern states every month; unfortunately, along with these dogs come new diseases and parasites that were not common to this area. Dogs are usually on the hauler for three days with no food or opportunity to eliminate except in the crate they are
By Cary Brown, Executive Director of
the Vermont Commission on Women Change The Story VT (CTS), a multiyear initiative fueled by the Vermont Women’s Fund, the Vermont Commission on Women, and Vermont Works for Women, has released the first of a series of briefs called “Women, Work and Wages in Vermont”. Much of this data is not regularly collected or published. All of it is specific to Vermont, and all is critical - not just in what it reflects about women, but in its implications for Vermont’s economic future. “The objective of Change the Story is to move the needle of women’s economic security - faster. This initial compilation of information focuses on demographic data and represents months of diving deep into state and national data, reports, and other ancillary resources to create an accurate snapshot of the state of women in Vermont when it comes to work and wages,” shared Tiffany Bluemle, Director of CTS. Cary Brown, Executive Director of the Vermont Commission on Women, and Bluemle presented the brief’s findings to members of the Vermont State Legislature. Among the brief’s highlights: - Women are significantly more likely than men to live in poverty or economic insecurity – in large part because of the disproportionate rates at which they have primary responsibility for the care of minor children. - 43% of VT women who work fulltime do not make enough to cover basic living expenses as defined by VT’s
a Rescue Dog?
hauled in. Most of these dogs are in shock and it usually take an average of two weeks for them to get familiar with their new home and environment. When they start to acclimate to their new surroundings, then you get to experience the dog’s real personality and temperament. It’s not that I disagree with people rescuing a dog from the south. However, I do advocate that people need to understand the issues and responsibilities that come with these dogs. If you are considering adding a new dog to your home, please remember that our state of Vermont has plenty of dogs that need rescuing. Please visit local shelters and rescues and spend time with your potentially new family member. April Frost
Animal Visions
Wages in Vermont
Joint Fiscal Office. “This brief and the overall CTS initiative is a prime example of how organizations can come together to leverage their impact in the state, as well as build a data-driven case for this important work,” shared Brown. Additional findings include: - The poverty rate for families headed by single women is 37.5% - nine times the poverty rate of married couples. - Women who work full-time are disproportionately employed in low-wage jobs - across every age group, at every level of education. - VT women are especially vulnerable in their senior years, when their median annual income from Social Security ($10,000) is half that of men ($20,000). A copy of the report is available at www.changethestoryvt.org .
Program - Seeking
Since Kathleen Hoyne left the coordinator position more than a year ago we have undertaken the operation of the program all volunteer. It has been a wonderful experience working w/ a team of 5-6 people who are all passionate about mentoring kids in Cabot. We've saved money and fundraising work by maintaining a much slimmer budget. The Co-coordinator team has included Mark Christensen, Kathleen Hoyne, Stef Burtt, Lynn Rockwell, Ed Lewis and previously Michelle Delaney. The Board has now decided that we are no longer able to fulfill the require-
By Roland (Slim) Payne
Spring in a few days, and still crazy weather. This February was the warmest February ever recorded; it didn’t hurt my feelings, but it probably wasn’t good for most things. Watch for ticks. I found one on my dog yesterday. Fish and Game says take down bird feeders, the bears are already out of their dens and looking for food. Also, they have warned the ice on ponds and lakes is not safe, stay off it. Back to bugs again. Spruce bud
River Arts in
River Arts of Morrisville is pleased to welcome area native Jeannine Valcour as their new Executive Director. Valcour will advance River Art’s mission to enrich the community through the arts and will lead the organization’s efforts to provide opportunities for artistic expression and to serve as a cultural center for the greater Lamoille County region. Barbara Murphy, President of River Board of Directors says, “ We are thrilled to be able to build on the strong leadership and direction of River Arts by hiring Jeannine Valcour as new Executive Director. She brings us a solid commitment to the community and two decades of experience in the arts, community development, and cross -cultural ship. leaderShe will build on a firm foundation and a true community treasure. ” Valcour’s broad range of experience in program development, fundraising, community engagement, management, and education, is complemented by a keen and continuous passion for the arts. On accepting her new position: "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join River Arts and look forward to building on the strong base in place, discovering new opportunities, forging new partner-
Coordinator
ments of the job as volunteers and are advertising for a part-time coordinator. During the transition to a new coordinator Kathleen, Stef, Lynn and Mark are committed to keeping the program running as smoothly as possible. The kids are our number one priority. We are looking for people to volunteer for the program whether as mentors, for fundraising, or to serve on the Board. So contact us if you would like to help. There seems to be a ready supply of children who would like to have a mentor. To contact us: herkimer@fairpoint.net
T REE W ARDEN
worms have defoliated 15.5 million acres in Quebec, and they are marching south. They have already moved onto the Gaspe’ Peninsula and moving towards Maine. The State of Maine has increased their pheromone traps and are seeing a steady rise in their numbers, they say the trend is alarming. It sounds like they are a long way from Vermont. But they ride the wind currents to travel, and the area they are in only needs a northeaster, and guess what—we have them here in Vermont.
Morrisville
ships, and deepening the role of ‘arts for all’ in the community. " A native Vermonter and resident of Cabot, Valcour has a longstanding connection to the community and a history of participating in local arts. As a youth in Morrisville, Valcour developed an interest in the arts through local theatre, dance, and music, and continued to explore and participate in the arts in various communities where she has lived. Arts is "River a real community gem, and I am excited about returning to my hometown as part of this creatively rich organization. believe the arts can be a powerful tool, bringing people together, educating, ing, and delighted healI am to join the committed team working to realize River Arts' full potential." Valcour came to River Arts from the Institute for Sustainable Communities in Montpelier, where she served as Knowledge Manager. Valcour holds an MBA from University of Arizona, and a B.S. in Community Development and Applied Economics from the University of Vermont. Valcour succeeds Tracy Goldfine, who resigned in September 2015 to pursue an opportunity with the Children’s Literacy Foundation.
T WIN V ALLEY S ENIOR C ENTER
• Tax Preparation is still taking place at the TVSC. The last day AARP will be there for taxes is April 11. So, call for your appointment before then if you have not had them prepared. • April 22 TVSC will be hosting a free hearing clinic for all ages. The time is yet to be set as this goes to press, but please watch for flyers and the Front Porch Forum. 4583 U.S. Route 2
East Montpelier, VT 05651
By Rita Copeland, Executive Director
Twin Valley Seniors want to thank the taxpayers in the towns of Cabot, Calais, Marshfield, Plainfield, East Montpelier and Woodbury for their support to the TVSC at Town Meeting. We asked each town for $2,000 to help support your local Center. The $2,000 request was accepted by some towns. Some towns that had previously approved a smaller donation upped their donation to $2,000 at their Town Meetings. TVSC is grateful for this. We are a non-profit. We have no endowments. We receive $3.50 toward each meal served from a contract we have with Central Vermont Council on Aging. This is a big help to the Center but does in no way cover the cost of meals at the Center and delivery to the home bound. The cost of meals averages between $8.00 and $9.00 per meal. These meals are by very confidential donations and NO ONE IS REFUSED because of inability to donate. We operate the Center on a budget of $132,000. Unlike other centers that have paid staff, the cook and Executive Director are the only paid staff at TVSC. All activities such as Meals on Wheels, fundraising, working at the Center and at our clinics is done by dedicated volunteers. TVSC activities of health related exercise programs, clinics, educational programs, medical equipment and other assistance from the Center helps our Senior population right down to their pets who receive veterinary visits, grooming and above all proper food and treats free of charge. We encourage each and every one, young and old, to come see what we are about. I think you will say as so many that have visited say: "WOW! I never knew all this took place at the center." Again, many thanks to each of you for all your support. Let's coordinate and work together to help our wonderful Senior Citizens and give them the social, nutritional and health related programs they need. • The Center will also be hosting an eatin or take-out dinner in April. The tentative date is April 24, with the menu yet to be determined. Once again, watch the flyers, FPF and other sources of notification. Always feel free
twinvalleyseniors@myfairpoint.net to check on any of the activities, visit twinvalleyseniors.org and visit our Facebook page. You can access our monthly newsletter at either site.
Place: Twin Valley Senior Center,
4583 US Route 2, East Montpelier
TVSC invites all beginners and advanced students (or those who are interested in learning) who practice Tai Chi to come and experience demonstrations by our class participants and instructors at TVSC. Tai Chi is fun and easy to learn and practice. It eases the sprit while harmonizing the energy of body and mind. Tai Chi is appropriate for all ages. Tai Chi is being widely practiced to help sufferers of stress, sleep disorders, arthritis, hypertension, back pain and by older people to improve balance and assist with fall prevention. Tai Chi is a low impact, muscle toning, moving meditation and enjoyable group activity. Twin Valley Senior Center offers Tai Chi classes Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays, free of charge. Refreshments will be served.
Donates Children’s Clothing
In December, GMUW was again privileged to receive nearly $4,000 worth of new baby and toddler clothing from Zutano, Inc., for distribution to our partners that work with young families. Zutano is a local manufacturer and distributor of high quality children’s clothing based in Cabot. To date, we have given some of these items to Good Beginnings of Central VT for their Welcome Baby Bags, to the CVMC Barre Health Center Pediatrics Department, and to the Family Center of Washington County, as well as to some agencies in the Northeast Kingdom and Orange County. Many thanks go out to our friends at Zutano. The families in our region are thrilled with the items they have received and very much appreciate their help in making ends meet through this clothing donation. Green Mountain United Way
F ROM T HE C ABOT
The Library Trustees and Kathleen wish to thank the Cabot community for approving our budget for 2016 – we look forward to serving you in the coming year. Many thanks to Amber Bothfeld for five years of outstanding service as Library Trustee and welcome to Erica Burke. Many thanks also to Stef Burtt, Linda Gabrielson, Jeannie McCallum and Beth Wade for their exceptional help as Library Trustees.
Meditation Group – First and Third
Tuesdays, April 5 and 19 – 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Meeting on the first and third Tuesdays 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.
Vara – Saturday, April 9, 10:00 –
11:00 a.m. – Meet in the back parking lot of Willey Building, rain or shine Jon Vara, UBI certified bicycle mechanic and owner of Little House Bicycle Repair, will give a workshop on how to perform some basic bicycle, such as how to change a tire, replace brake pads and how to clean your chain and bike properly. For more info, please contact Jon at
Cabot Old Time Contra and Square
Dance – Saturday, April 9 – 7:30 p.m. This dance series consists of monthly dances on the second Saturday of the month 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 Vermont and New England social dances that have been danced for many generations in the 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
samlyman@sover.net.
Community Book Group – Wednes-
day, April 20 – 10:30 a.m. Cabot Community Book group generally meets the third Wednesday of the month. This month’s selection is Gilead: A Novel by Marilynne Robinson. All are welcome to join in! Copies of the book will be available in the Cabot Public Library.
Tai Chi – International Tai Chi Day
– Saturday, April 30 – 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Be a healing part of history! Be a part of World Tai Chi & Qigong Day! In 100s of cities, spanning 80 nations, people come together, to breathe together, providing a healing vision for our world. Join us at the Willey Building in Cabot. Led by Marsha Kameron, who will be offering an introduction to Yang style tai chi and Qigong. All welcome. No experience necessary. Free. For further information, contact marshakameron@gmail.com.
Thank You!
Thanks so much to Gary Gulka and Sarah Adelman for all their help with organizing the film and discussion based on the book The Endurance by Caroline Alexander. Many thanks to Susie, Michael, Ethan and Jonah Socks for organizing once again, a wonderful Lego Exhibition. Thanks to Jim Goodrich for helping to clean out the library’s computers and to the many volunteers who help in a variety of ways : tress, Blue Christensen, Linda Gabrielson, Rose Lorelai BasSusan Dineen, Houston, Gyuryeong Kim, Mekiah Smith, and Beth Wade.
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 • Saturday 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. • Closed Sunday, Monday & Friday • ECHO Pass – Allows up to 2 adults and 3 youths, $4 each admission price, into the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center in Burlington.
Annual Tree and Trout Sale
Place orders right away for the Winooski NRCD's 33 rd Annual Tree Sale. Visit the District’s website for an order form and pick up the plants on Saturday, April 23, in Berlin or Essex Junction. A wide variety of bareroot trees and shrubs are available at very low cost, including Northern White Cedar, Sugar Maple, Witchhazel, Nannyberry, a variety of fruit trees and berry species including Apple, Pear, Apricot, Strawberries, Blueberries and more. Potted perennials include Cardinal Flower, Beebalm, and Black-eyed Susan. In addition to a great selection of native plants, fruit trees, and berries, this year native trees and shrubs and organic perennials locally sourced from wild populations are offered. Wild populations have greater genetic diversity than cultivated stock and have evolved to withstand local diseases and competing species. Orders must be postmarked by Friday, April 1, but depending on remaining quantities, late orders may be accepted. All material must be picked up in Berlin or Essex Junction sites on Saturday, April 23, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Limited quantities of certain species are available and orders will be processed on a first come, first served basis. See website for sold out species. WNRCD is also happy to announce a Spring Trout Sale. This is a great opportunity to stock your pond with small and medium sized brook and rainbow trout purchased directly from the District. This year’s sale is on Wednesday, April 27, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Rusty Parker Memorial Park in Waterbury. Orders will be accepted until Friday, April 11. Proceeds from both sales allow WNRCD to provide high-quality conservation programs to the District. For more information and to access the order form, please visit www.winooskinrcd.org. The Winooski Natural Resources Conservation District is one of 14 conservation districts throughout Vermont. It encompasses all of Chittenden and Washington County as well as parts of Orange County (Orange, Williamstown and Washington). The district relies on grants and individual donations to complete its conservation work. The WNRCD focuses its resources on completing conservation projects within the areas of agricultural assistance, forestland enhancement, urban conservation and watershed stewardship.