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The Cabot Chronicle

April 2016 · Issue Record

← From the Cabot Chronicle

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

Original issue: Download the April 2016 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

May 1 Deadline Cabot Community Educational Fund Application

The Cabot Community Investment Fund (UDAG) Committee encourages Cabot residents to apply for the 2016 round of Community Educational Fund (CEF) grants. The CEF provides scholarships and grants for eligible youth and adults pursuing postsecondary education, continuing education and training, and professional development. Funding may support, in whole or in part, the payment of tuition and fees for degree programs, courses, seminars and workshops as well as the purchase of books and/or equipment required for educational activities. Eligible recipients must be Cabot residents for a minimum of twelve months prior to the May 1 application deadline and who will be Cabot residents on the award date at Cabot High School graduation in June. The CEF application guidelines and form are available at the Town of Cabot website (http://www.cabotvt.us/udag.php); and the offices of Cabot Town Clerk and the Cabot Community Association (located in the Willey Bldg.) Completed applications must be postmarked on or before May 1 and mailed to the Community Educational Fund Committee, POB 125, Cabot, VT. 05647. Questions: please contact Jackie Folsom (426-3579) or Roman Kokodyniak (563-2999).

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Spring Is In The Air

Spring is on the way, but not everyone wants to wait. Color for this month’s Cabot photo is brought to you courtesy of a Cabot resident. Thank you! Photo by Jeanne Johnson.

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Public Meeting: Molly’s Falls Pond State Park in Cabot April 21 - 5:30 p.m.

If you frequent Molly’s Falls Pond or Marshfield Reservoir, you are likely familiar with the recreational uses of the reservoir. The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation (FPR) recently acquired the land around the reservoir, which is now Molly’s Falls Pond State Park. The Department is interested in hearing from the public on ways to manage the uses to enhance the experience for everyone and to better protect the shoreline resource. The Fish and Wildlife (F&W) Access has been incorporated into the park and you will not notice many changes for the next few years. A public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 21, 2016, 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. in the Auditorium on the third floor of the Town Offices in Cabot. The open house portion of the meeting, from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m., will be an opportunity to talk with FPR and F&W staff and to provide comment at individual stations. Attendees will also be asked to complete a survey about their use and knowledge of the reservoir. Then, at 7:00 p.m., there will be a short presentation. Public comment and questions will also be encouraged during this portion of the meeting.

Whether you are a frequent user that fishes, paddles, and/or camps or simply someone who cares about the reservoir, we would like to hear from you. Contact: Susan Bulmer, NE Parks Regional Manager, [email protected].

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New Cabot Selectboard

New Cabot Selectboard meets after Town Meeting: Mike Hogan (newly elected), Bernie Shatney, Zoning Administrator and Planner Karen Deasy, Ted Domey, Fred Ducharme, Town Clerk Betty Ritter (behind Jack Daniels), and re-elected chair Jack Daniels). Photo by Will Walters. For other Town Meeting vote results, see page 3.

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LEGISLATIVE REPORT

By Representative Catherine (Kitty) Toll

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 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.

[email protected] [email protected] PO Box 192 Danville, VT 05828 802.828.2228 (Statehouse) 802.684.3671 (Home)

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COUNTRY COMMENTARY

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 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 [email protected]

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NEKWMD Budget Approved Bulky & Hazardous Waste Collection 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 special collections for bulky wastes, and twelve towns collected this material year round at their transfer stations. Many collections will be happening in 2016, including on May 7 at the Danville Transfer Station. Household Hazardous Wastes (HHW) will also be collected at this event. For other times and locations, see theDistrictwebsiteat www.nekwmd.org. Information on recycling is available at the Cabot recycling center. Scrap metal is also collected there, and trash may be disposed of for a fee. Information on other waste disposal requirements and options is available on the district website. Ben Davis 802-563-2341

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INDUSTRIAL ENERGY PROJECTS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES? 1 90 IS IT IMPORTANT FOR VERMONT TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE AND 2 80 10 9

JOBS TO MOVE TO VERMONT IN LIGHT OF POPULATION LOSS?

DO YOU BELIEVE WATER QUALITY IS A MAJOR ISSUE IN VERMONT?

SHOULD VERMONT LEGALIZE MARIJUANA?

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE INCREASED USE OF OPIATES IN VERMONT?

SHOULD VERMONT REQUIRE PAID SICK LEAVE?

ARE YOU SATISFIED WITH VERMONTS HEALTH CARE?

IS STATEWIDE CELL SERVICE AND BROADBAND AN IMPORTANT ISSUE TO VERMONTS ECONOMY?

DOES VERMONT HAVE TOO MANY SCHOOL DISTRICTS RELATIVE TO OUR DECLINING STUDENT POPULATION?

DO YOU BELIEVE THAT VERMONTS POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS ARE TOO COSTLY?

SHOULD VERMONT HAVE A 4 YEAR TERM FOR GOVERNOR?

DOES VERMONT RELY TOO HEAVILY ON PROPERTY TAXES FOR FUNDING EDUCATION?

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SHOULD WE REDUCE VERMONTS PRISON POPULATION BY 13 75 13 11

USING ALTERNATIVES FOR NON-VIOLENT OFFENDERS?

IS VERMONT A BUSINESS FRIENDLY STATE?

10,708 Returns ~ 145 Towns and Cities YES NO . Write In Spoiled Blank Total Jacklyn Folsom

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Town of Cabot Unofficial 2015 Town Meeting Results

NEKSWM . Write In Spoiled Blank Total 0 18 1 139 551 Blank Total 56 551 Total 551 449 67 0 35 551 Selectboard - 2 Year Term Art. 16 - $1,900 UDAG to CCA Art. 13 - $180,000 Bond/Loan YES NO . Write In Spoiled Blank Total 335 168 0 1 47 551 YES NO . Write In Spoiled Blank Total 317 203 0 1 30 551 School Board Director - 3 Year Term Chris Tormey Write In Spoiled Blank Total 397 23 0 131 551 Michael J. Hogan 261 Martin Donald Mitchell 188 Write In Spoiled Blank Total Art. 17 - $10,000 UDAG to CCA/Church YES NO . Write In Spoiled Blank Total Art. 14 - 10 1 91 551 Selectboard - 3 Year Term $90,000 Garage Storage Art. 11 - 378 142 0 31 551 Zoning Regulations Adopted

Yes No . Write In Spoiled Blank Total 212 302 0 37 551 YES NO . Write In Spoiled Blank Total 170 350 0 31 551 John C. “Jack” Daniels 272 David Pike Write In Spoiled Blank Total 215 5 0 59 551 Art. 18 - $10,000 UDAG to CCA/CSPAC YES NO . Write In Spoiled Blank Total Art. 12 - Art. 15 - $13,000 CCA 304 218 0 29 551 Subdivision Regulations Adopted

YES NO . Write In Spoiled 206 289 0 YES NO . Write In Spoiled Blank 311 212 0 28 School Board Director - 2 Year Term 393

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COMMUNITY COMMENTARY

Transparency Team Proposed

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- Tatum’s Totes Bags 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 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 By Karen Deasy, Cabot Zoning Administrator and Town Planner

What is Hazard Mitigation Planning? 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 Keep Cabot in Cabot

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 operate. Our current plan is on line at the town’s web page and available for review at the town office.

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.

Part of this story may be missing here. See the original pages, page 4 onward.

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Local Hazard Mitigation Plan

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 [email protected] for more information.

We would like your input as to what you think is the biggest natural or manmade hazard in your town. (Please put comments below):

_________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

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OBITUARIES & MEMORIALS

Phyllis Barnett 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.

Part of this story may be missing here. See the original pages, page 5 onward.

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Kingdom Animal Shelter

By Helen Morrison

Here’s Nick is such a goof. He would prefer a home without other cats and with a patient person to help him adjust. He's not a fan of change, but he is a fan of chasing toys and loves to be doted on. Nick is about three years old and the personal favorite of several of our volunteers. If you would be interested in meeting Nick, come and visit him at Kingdom Animal Shelter, 1664 Memorial Drive in St. Johnsbury Center. We are open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays 4-6:00 p.m., Thursdays 3:30- 5:30 p.m., and Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, noon to 3:00 p.m.

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The Radiance of Spring

By Melissa Laurita Kohl fungiflorafolkschool.com In April, dandelions pop up in a profusion of lion toothed leaves, begging to be eaten. But many people douse them in RoundUp instead. I am here to give you a dozen reasons why you should dig up those dandelions and eat them.. 1. Long before your fresh greens from the garden are ready, you have dandelions. 2. Dandelions are free. 3. Dandelions require no maintenance. It is quite easy to grow a good crop, whether you will it or not. 4. Dandelions are more nutrient dense than most of the greens you can grow in the garden. 5. The roots are particularly good for your liver. They have the perfect amount of bitterness (like broccoli raab), stimulating a cascade of digestive juices that improve your digestion and the functioning of your liver. 6. The leaves are wonderful diuretics. Some studies show them to be as effective as pharmaceutical diuretics. However, dandelion leaves are so rich in potassium that your body does not get depleted of potassium when you use them (as your body could on pharmaceutical diuretics). 7. Dandelion may have an anti-cancer effect. A Canadian oncologist noticed 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). 8. Bitter herbs like dandelion have a positive effect on blood sugar and weight loss. 9. You can make wine out of them. 10. You can dip the flowers in pancake batter and fry them for a tasty treat. 11. 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. 12. 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 salads or cook them root, crown, leaves, flowers, and all. Sprinkle the flower petals (which are really tiny flowers called rays) into your salad and on soups for a splash of color and bioflavonoids. Like most herbalists, I am overly fond of this pervasive weed. This spring, join the herbal fun and enjoy the culinary and medicinal delights of this wonderful, colorful, little plant.

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Free Lasagna Cabot Community

Dinner, 5:30 p.m., Music 6:00 p.m. at Faith in Action – 563-3322.

Wednesday,

Song Circle Sing-a-long 6:45 p.m. Marshfield. Led by Rich and Laura Atkinson at the Jaquith Public library. Open to young and old, songbooks provided.

WNRCD Spring Trout Sale order

pick up day from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Rusty Parker Memorial Park in Waterbury for orders placed at www.winooskinrcd.org.

Sunday

Lillian Broderick in Recital at United Church of Cabot, 7:00 p.m., admission by donation at the door. Presented by Cabot Arts.

Friday, 4/29 and Saturday, 4/30 St. Johnsbury's World Maple Festival, Downtown St. Johnsbury. On Friday, a parade will begin at 6:00 p.m. ends at the Welcome Center with ice cream social to follow. On Saturday, brings a morning 5K run and pancake breakfast at Welcome Center. Street Festival 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. with live entertainment with 100 craft and food vendors filling the streets. More information contact 802-274-0201.

Saturday,

International Tai Chi Day, 10:00 a.m. at Cabot Willey Building. Join people in hundreds of cities to breathe together, providing a healing vision for our world. An introduction to Yang style tai chi and Qigong led by Marsha Kameron. No experience necessary. Info: [email protected].

Most Likely to Succeed movie examines the history, purpose and possibility of public school in order to reimagine the future of the system. 5-7:30 p.m. Dinner, Dessert and Discussion at Cabot School Performing Arts Center. Go to cabotschool.eventbrite.com to reserve your tickets.

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 ~ MAY~ Friday, May 1 Deadline for scholarship application to Cabot Community Investment Fund (UDAG) for Community Educational Fund grant. Send applications to PO Box 125, Cabot, VT 05647. Applications available at www.cabotvt.us/udag.php. Info 426-3579 or 563-2999.

This dance series consists of monthly dances on the second

Part of this story may be missing here. See the original pages, page 7 onward.

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April 16, 2016, 10 a.m. To 2 p.m. 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: [email protected] Become Famous! Join some of our previous winners: Lonesome Stove, Chili Bang

Bang, Tex-Mex Mix Up, Run, Baby, Run;The Tamale Twins and Dangerous Desires.

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FOOD SHARE AND FOOD DROP DATES

CABOT FOOD SHARE Wednesday,

APRIL 13 Noon-2:00 p.m. Wednesday,

APRIL 27 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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MapleFest Thanks You

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 Carpenter’s Maple Farm Goodrich Maple Farm Talberts Maple Syrup We couldn’t do it without you!

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Recreation Committee Sponsors 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 11 - 15, Theater camp from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon with a performance on July 15th at 5:00 p.m., grades 3 and up at CSPAC.

July 11 - 15, Art camp and set design from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m., grades 3 and up in the Art Room.

July 18 - 22, Lacrosse camp from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. grades 2 and up on the Common.

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 [email protected] or call 498-4704. 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.

Thank you for supporting Cabot Maple Fest, the annual fundraiser for The Cabot Chronicle:

Barry Hayes, Musician Cabot Community Association 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

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Cabot Community Theater “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 Mueller- Harder, and the Burke family. Direction by Megan Walker.

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Changes at Cabot Connects Mentoring Program - Seeking Coordinator

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 requirements 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: [email protected] or 563-3338.

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Looking to Adopt a Rescue Dog?

By April Frost 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 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

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ADVICE FROM THE TREE WARDEN

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 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.

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Cabot’s Valcour Leading River Arts in Morrisville

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 Arts’ 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 leadership. She 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 partnerships, 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. "River Arts is a real community gem, and I am excited about returning to my hometown as part of this creatively rich organization. I believe the arts can be a powerful tool, bringing people together, educating, healing, and I am delighted 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.

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Women, Work, and Wages in Vermont

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 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.

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FROM THE CABOT PUBLIC LIBRARY

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.

Programs Playgroup – Tuesdays 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. For children up to five years old, meet on the third floor of the Willey Building. Bring your own ride-on toy and snack if you wish. Stay for Library Story Hour at 10:30 a.m. For more info, contact Cas eyClifordatsew [email protected].

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 & reflexology! All ages and levels welcome – contact Alicia for more info 802-563-3220 or [email protected].

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.

Basic Bicycle Maintenance – Jon 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 802-917-1157 or [email protected].

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 Carpenter at 802-426-3225 or email [email protected].

Community Book Group – Wednesday, 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 [email protected]. 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, 9:00 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 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: Lorelai Bastress, Blue Christensen, Susan Dineen, Linda Gabrielson, Rose Houston, Gyuryeong Kim, Mekiah Smith, and Beth Wade.

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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

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.

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 • 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.

• 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 to call 223-3322 or to email [email protected] to check on any of the activities, visit twinvalleyseniors.org and visit our Facebook page. You can access our monthly newsletter at either site.

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COME CELEBRATE WORLD TAI CHI DAY

All Welcome Saturday April 30, 2016 Time: 10:00am to 12:00pm Place: Twin Valley Senior Center, 4583 US Route 2, East Montpelier Phone: 802-223-3322

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.

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Donates Children’s Clothing

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 sion price, into the ECHO Lake

See you at the Library!

Kathleen Hoyne

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Tree, Shrub and Plant Sale

The 2016 WNRCD Annual Tree, Shrub and Plant Sale is now

OPEN! New for 2016: the inclusion of more plant species to attract butterflies, birds and wildlife, more locally sourced species and a larger variety of fruit and trees species. Download the informational brochure and order form on the WNRCD website: http://winooskinrcd.org/We would like to thank our

sponsor organizations for 2016: Champlain Valley Compost co, TD Bank, Cold Stream Farm, Engineering Ventures PC, Fecteau Homes and The Intervale Center.

Tree Sale Volunteers Needed!

On Saturday April 23rd to assist with distribution and on Wed April 20th to help sort and pack. For more information please email: info@winooski nrcd.org.

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Annual Tree and Trout Sale

Place orders right away for the Winooski NRCD's 33rd 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.

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