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The Cabot Chronicle

October 2021 · 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 October 2021 pages (PDF)

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

In This Issue

November 18

by Betty Ritter, Town Clerk The Cabot Tax Bill final payment is due Thursday, November 18, 2021, at 5:00 p.m., or postmarked November 18, 2021. You may pay it in person, by mail, at our secure drop box in the rear of the Willey Building, or by credit card. You are now able to pay through the Town website by credit card. When paying your bill this way, please list the Parcel ID Number and/or your name on the Account Number. You will be charged a convenience fee of 3% for paying with a credit card. You may also call the Town

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Filing Deadlines

You must file a Homestead Declaration annually by the April filing deadline. If you file after April 15, the town will assess one of the following penalties: Up to a 3% penalty if the nonhomestead (formerly "nonresidential") rate is higher than the homestead education property rate, Up to 8% if the nonhomestead rate is lower than the homestead education property tax rate. If you fail to file your declaration by the October 15 filing deadline, your property will be classified as nonhomestead. You then must pay the higher of the two rates, a penalty, and any additional property tax and interest due. By Vermont law, property owners whose homes meet the definition of a Vermont homestead must file a Homestead Declaration annually by the April filing deadline. If eligible, it is important that you file so that you are correctly assessed the homestead tax rate on your property. Here is the information you as the property owner need to know about the Vermont Homestead Declaration. In Vermont, all property is subject to education property tax to pay for the state’s schools. For this purpose, property is categorized as either nonhomestead or homestead. A homestead is the principal dwelling and parcel of land surrounding the dwelling, owned and occupied by the resident as the person’s domicile. All property is considered nonhomestead (formerly "nonresidential"), unless it is declared as a homestead . The education property tax rate levied on nonhomestead property differs from the rate

DEADLINE: 15th of the month prior to production

Coordinator: Jeannie Johnson

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Payments Due

Clerk’s office and we will take your credit card information via phone. Our

mailing address is P. O. Box 37, Cabot, VT 05647 If you did not pay your September 16 payment you will not be billed for penalties or interest. You can still make this payment any time between now and November 18. However, if you do not pay your full property tax bill by 5:00 p.m. on November 18, 2021, that is when you will begin to receive penalties and interest.

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Deadline

levied on homestead property. It is your responsibility as the property owner to claim the property as a homestead if you meet, or expect to meet, the following requirements: You are a Vermont resident You own and occupy a homestead as your domicile as of April 1, 2021

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Nonhomestead Property

Property is considered nonhomestead if one of the following applies: Your property is leased for more than 182 days out of the calendar year. The property is used exclusively for commercial, including rental, purpose. The property is used for a second home, camp, vacation, or summer cottage.

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American Rescue Plan (ARPA) with

those monies distributed to towns and municipalities by population. Cabot will be receiving $428,361 (Town $150,017.55 and County Allocation $278,343.46) to be used for needs related to the COVID emergency. One half of these funds has already been received by the town and sits in a separate account to be used for only ARPA disbursements. The remainder will be disbursed to the town of Cabot in the spring of 2022. I have been attending meetings with the Vermont League of Cities and Towns, who is coordinating the information and distributing guidance to towns. The Selectboard will continue to update town residents on Front Porch Forum and the Town website as new information is made available. The Selectboard recently had a meeting on a plan to utilize these funds. This is the first of many meetings to be scheduled in the months ahead. We would like to hear from folks on what ways we can spend these monies that will help Cabot. Towns are looking at using some monies to help their water and wastewater systems and broadband, to name a few. I am sure there are many others, so please reach out to all the Selectboard members. For more information on ARPA: https:// www.vlct.org/resources/americanrescue-plan-information.

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Professional collision repair, associated

we’ll handle your claim from start

nine times a year and is provided locally 05647 ~ Published by the Cabot Community express written permission from The Cabot Chronicle is contingent upon publisher’s approval and agreement based upon contents of advertising. Publisher does occupied by individual item in which the error appeared.

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When will my town receive the fund-

ing? Most Vermont municipalities will receive their funding from the State of Vermont. The funding will most likely come in two payments – one payment totaling half of the allocation in June of 2021 and a second payment next Spring with the other half of the allocation. Per ARPA, the State has 30 days from when they receive the funding to distribute the funding to municipalities. The state may ask for an extension. The City of Burlington and the City of South Burlington were designated as metro cities by the U.S. Department of Treasury, and therefore must request their funding directly from the Treasury Department.

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How can my town spend the fund-

ing? ARPA includes four broad criteria outlining eligible uses:  To respond to the public health emergency or its negative economic impacts, including assistance to households, small businesses, and nonprofits, or aid to impacted industries such as tourism, travel, and hospitality;  To respond to workers performing essential work during the COVID-19 public health emergency by providing premium pay to eligible workers; (see ’ARPA Funds’, page 3)

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Town of Cabot Emergency Management

While the COVID-19 pandemic surges on throughout the United States, Vermont has remained one of the leading states for low case counts, low hospitalization rates, low death rates, and a high vaccination rate. Vermont is in a significantly better place than most states, but it is still important that we remain vigilant going into the fall with the onset of cooler weather and more out of state traffic coming in the fall foliage season. The vaccination rate in Washington county has remained consistent with the State of Vermont’s percentage rating. In recent weeks there was a significant spike in case counts in the region mainly related to two specific outbreaks. People in the town of Cabot have remained cautious overall with only 23 confirmed cases since the beginning of the pandemic in the spring of 2020. “COVID fatigue” and the mental health of our society is something that is impacting the healthcare system overall. Predictions by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services predict that it will be at least three years before we see the

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Cabot Tree Warden

In the last Cabot Chronicle article, I wrote about Giant Hogweed, a hazardous invasive plant present on Elm Street. One does not have to look too far from the Giant Hogweed plants to find other invasives like the Goutweed on the roadside just after the pump station on the left going out Elm Street. Another invasive of concern, which is widely spread throughout Cabot, is Japanese

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Town of Cabot Planning Commission Update

Knotweed. This invasive is present on both banks of the river just below the The planning commission meets the remove the term ZBA (zoning board of Elm Street bridge. Japanese knotweed first Thursday of each month at 5:00 adjustment) and replace with the term is a plant with bamboo like stems that p.m. in a hybrid format allowing people DRB (development review board) to can reach over ten feet tall. It has green to attend either in person or via zoom. align with the terminology currently be- leaves and white flowers. The white Over the past several months the ing used by the State of Vermont. flowers are present in August and Sepplanning commission has focused on All changes made to zoning must be tember, making it quite easy to identify clearly defining many of the terms in the approved by the voters, so it is our expec- Japanese Knotweed. There are large current zoning regulations. In addition, tation that public informational meet- dense stands of Japanese Knotweed scatwe have made significant progress on a ings will be scheduled and held over the tered all along the Winooski River from draft of the shoreline zoning regulations. next several months in a hybrid format Lake Champlain to Cabot. The plants We recently began working in collabora- to allow the community to ask questions are typically present along the rivertion with the DRB (developmental re- and bring forward concerns related to banks where they spread quickly and view board) and SB (Selectboard) to ad- any potential changes in zoning. easily. Japanese Knotweed can spread dress the parking concerns in the village through erosion and flooding events with center district that could present chal- Respectfully, the plant’s rhizomes being washed downlenges to future business development in Jennifer Miner stream. The root system developed is the area. Chair, Planning Commission We also plan to update the terminol- Town of Cabot ogy in the current zoning regulations to TOWN

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Open Thursday to Sunday 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. November

Serving a variety of baked goods, coffee, sandwiches, soup of the day 11 th - 15 th , Sunday Take Home Meals ~ Classic and Creative Grilled Cheese Sandwiches “Bringing Grilled Cheese to the next level” 2021 Check us out on facebook for specials and to preorder Sunday Take Home Meals country’s mental health return to a “preCOVID” state, and this is dependent upon when the situation really has been “controlled.” As we move our gatherings indoors, masking is strongly encouraged for all regardless of your vaccination status. This protects not only you, but others around you as well. While breakthrough cases are occurring, it is important for everyone to remember being vaccinated does not prevent you from getting the virus, but it does help to lessen the severity of the virus and reduces your risk or hospitalization and death. If you have questions or concerns about COVID-19, vaccinations, or testing: please visit: htps://www.heathver mont.gov. Locally you can reach me at: 802-4988245 or email: WillowReignsNana 13@gmail.com. Respectfully, Jennifer Miner Emergency Management Director Town of Cabot

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THE T REE W ARDEN

extensive and able to spread if the rhizomes are transported to a new location, be it by natural means or in soil being transported. Both Japanese Knotweed and its relative Giant Knotweed were introduced into North America as ornamental plants and for erosion control in the 1800’s. Unfortunately, Knotweeds are prone to erosion damage and not a good choice for erosion control. Japanese Knotweed is adapted to spread very efficiently throughout a river drainage, growing into dense stands that can quickly and easily crowd out all native streamside vegetation. Once established, Japanese Knotweed is extremely hard to eradicate due to the extensive root system, which comprises two thirds of the plant. Cutting or mowing the dense stands of Japanese Knotweed with power equipment will usually cause the stalks to grow back with greater density. Cutting by hand with a scythe is a better option with care taken not to spread fragments of the shoots cut, as the shoots can resprout. Eradication of a Japanese Knotweed stand will require at least five years with the plants being cut annually. Replanting of an area with native plants can’t be done until the Japanese knotweed is under control and regrowth has almost stopped (the plants have lost their vigor). Japanese knotweed is a good example of the problems most invasive plants create. Invasive plants typically spread quickly and easily, but eradication of the invasive plants usually becomes a difficult multiyear process at best. Please plant only native plants and shrubs for your landscaping projects!

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ARPA Funds

(continued from page 2)  For the provision of government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue due to the COVID–19 public health emergency relative to revenues collected in the most recent full fiscal year prior to the emergency; and  To make necessary investments in water, sewer, or broadband infrastructure.

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Christine L. Brown

Christine L. Brown was born April 23, 1964. She had Down Syndrome and early on lived in various places. In 1980, Chris came to the Sisters of St. Brigid’s Convent in Cabot. Under the supervision of Sister Mary Francis, she found a home there. Chris often

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Thomas M. Carter

Thomas Merle Carter, 61, of Patty’s Crossing, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 11, at his home. January. 6, 1960, Born in Connecticut, he was the son of Gary and Shirley (McDonald) Carter. He graduated from Twinfield Union School and went on to work at the family business, Carter Machine Inc., with his father, Gary, and brother, Brian. On April 3, 1993, he married his soulmate, Melanie Ward, and they started their family. Tom enjoyed the life he established around his family on Patty’s Crossing. He loved anything with a motor and anything that was fast, whether it was riding his motorcycles or snow machines. His need for speed led him from a young age to racing, from drag

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Norman C. Dix

Norman C. Dix, 87, of Hollister Hill Road passed away on Thursday, August 5, 2021. Born on September 16, 1933, at home in Plainfield, he was the son of Leon and Madeline (Cassavoy) Dix. Norman attended school in Plainfield and graduated from Plainfield High School in 1952. On June 19, 1953, he married Sallie M. Gibson in Cabot. Following their marriage, they made their home in Plainfield. Sallie passed away in 2011. On November 13, 2012, he married Judith Cerutti in Cape Gerardo, MO. Norman was employed by Buttura and Sons Granite Company for 20 years, before starting his own businesses, Dix Rubbish Removal and Wood by Dix. He retired from the rubbish business after 28 years and continued to operate his firewood business until his passing. His memberships included the Mt. Sinai Temple #3 of Montpelier – where he was the custodian of property for over 30 years, Mt. Sinai #3 Arab Patrol, and driver of Caliope Parade truck for over 30 years, Barre Lodge of Elks #1535, Mutuo Inc., and the Canadian Club of Barre. He also was a past member of the Plainfield Fire Department, past president of the Plainfield Fireman’s Club, past master and treasurer of Wyoming Lodge #80, past patron and treasurer of Kingsbury Chapter #77 O.E.S., former member of the York Rite Bodies of Montpelier, past president of Ianis Shrine Club, and 32 nd degree member of Scottish Rite Bodies of Montpelier and Burlington.

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EMORIALS

acknowledged it was her home. In the Convent, Chris lived a very happy, contented Christian life. She was part of the Convent’s events and choices. Chris also brought much life to the Convent. She loved singing, seeing people, games, and her own daily chores. In this last year, Chris remained happy and joyful even as her heath declined. She went home to our Lord on July 11, 2021.

racing motorcycles then moving on to dwarf cars and street stocks. Despite the progression of his ill-health over the last few years, Tom’s greatest joy was spending time with his grandson, Levi. Survivors include his son, Joshua Carter, of Boston, MA; his daughter, Amanda Carter-Brickey and her husband, Bradley, and his grandson, Levi Thomas Brickey, his father, Gary Carter, and his brother, Brian Carter and his wife, Trish, all of Marshfield; his niece, Christine Chouinard and her husband, Tory, and his nephew, Nathan Carter, all of Brookfield. In addition to his mother, Shirley Carter, he was predeceased by his wife, Melanie Carter, and his mother-in-law, Vivie Ward. Arrangements are by Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home in Barre. For a memorial guestbook, please visit www.hookerwhitcomb.com.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed cutting firewood, traveling, and collecting varied and eclectic objects that brought him great joy, including mechanical toys, pinball machines and coins. Survivors include his wife Judith C. Dix of Plainfield; his children Conrad Dix and his wife, Petra of Florida; Cheryl LeTourneau and her husband, Ed of Marshfield; Donna Ferrario and her husband, John of Barre; and Matthew Dix and his wife, Rebecca of Chilmark, MA; ten grandchildren; ten greatgrandchildren; his siblings Dennis Dix of Plainfield; Nancy Perry also of Plainfield; and Dianne Myrick of Kansas, OK, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Sallie Dix. The service to honor and celebrate his life was held on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at the Canadian Club of Barre. Arrangements by Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home of Barre. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wyoming Masonic Lodge #80, c/o John Domey, 299 Hollister Hill Road, Plainfield, VT 05667.

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Linda Sue Duke

Linda Sue (Cunningham) Duke of Marshfield passed away peacefully on September 14, 2021. Linda was born on October 11, 1949, to Howard and Winifred Cunningham of Scotia, NY. Linda was an only child. After graduating from high school, she became a nurse and joined the Army in 1966. She served at both Fort Leavenworth, KS, and Fort Leonard Wood, MO. She married Dwight C. Duke on September 26, 1968, and became a housewife. birth to their oldest son, which she went back into bany Medical Center. They moved numerous Linda gave Howard; after nursing at Al-

times because of her husband's work and re-entry into the Army, and ended up in Germany, where they lived for two years. After her husband was badly injured, Linda and

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Homer R. Fitts

A private graveside service to honor and celebrate the life of Homer R. Fitts, 94, formerly of Barre and Joe’s Pond, was held on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, in the Wilson Cemetery in Websterville, Vermont. He passed away on Aug. 30, 2021, at the Central Vermont Medical Center hospital. Carolynn Peake led the service and read the 23rd Psalm. Pre-recorded hymns were “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace.” Casket bearers were

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Anna Judith (Pike) Greaves

Anna Greaves, 97, of Cabot, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2021, at The Manor in Morrisville, surrounded by her loving children. Anna was born on November 3, 1923, to Emma Dorothea Holmgren and P. Rudolph Pike in Cabot. Anna graduated from Cabot High School and Fanny Allen Memorial School of Nursing. She enjoyed a long and fulfilling career in nursing, retiring from Greensboro Nursing Home well into her 70’s. Anna is survived by her five children, Marvin C. Greaves, Jr., and his wife Hazel, Rebecca J. Pinette and her husband Frank, Cherry L. Gochey and her husband Larry, J. Timothy Greaves and his wife Gail, and Connie G. Gould and her

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Philip D. Lee

Philip D. Lee, 73, passed away on Monday, July 5, 2021, at the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin. Born on March 11, 1948, in Randolph, he was the son of Daniel and Hilda (Boyce) Lee. In 1966, he graduated from the St. Johnsbury Trade School, then he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served until he was honorably discharged in the early 1970’s. In the late 1970’s he graduated from Nursing School in Brattleboro. Philip lived in Plainfield most of his life and was employed as a Licensed their son moved to Maryland while her husband recovered at Walter Reed. Linda's husband retired from the Army in 1979 and they moved to Marshfield. Linda worked as a nurse at what is now CVMC and Head Start. In 1986 they became foster parents to a child and five years later they adopted their second son, Richard. They owned a farm for several years where they raised many animals and had "Cowboy Shoots". Due to health issues they moved to a one -story home. Linda spent the last three years of her life at Berlin Health and Rehab. Linda is survived by her husband, Dwight of 53 years, as well as her two sons Howard and Richard. A Graveside Service was held on Saturday, September 25 at Durant Cemetery in Lower Cabot. The des Groseilliers Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

Michael Fitts, David Cooper and Jeffrey Cooper, grandsons; Dennis Madigan, grandson-in-law; Cliff Cooper, son-inlaw; and Edward Corrigan, nephew. Military honors were accorded to the deceased by the U.S. Navy Funeral Honors Team of White River Junction, Vermont. Taps were sounded. The folded American flag was presented to Douglas Fitts, son of the deceased. Following the service, the family gathered at the home of Edward and Mary Corrigan in Northfield Falls, Vermont. Arrangements were in the care of the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St., Barre, Vermont, family owned and operated.

partner Peter Lanoue. Anna was a loving grandmother to her ten grandchildren; four granddaughters, Heather Pinette Bellavance, Sarah Gould, Carrie Gould-Kabler and Meredith Gould, and six grandsons, Matthew and Paul Greaves, Gregory Pinette, Timothy Gochey and Seth and Brett Greaves. Anna also leaves behind sixteen great grandchildren and six great-great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews. Anna was predeceased by her parents, Emma and Rudolph Pike, her sister and best friend Dorothy Lawson and her husband Malcolm, her brother Philip Pike and his wife Jean, her children's father Marvin C. Greaves Sr. and her son-in-law Edwin R Gould. A private burial will take place in the fall. Online memories and condolences may be conveyed at dgfunerals.com

Practical Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at the Central Vermont Medical Center for 37 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed camping on Lake Groton, woodworking, snowmobiling, sugaring season, deer hunting, fishing, and puttering around. Survivors include his children David Lee of Plainfield, VT; Douglas Lee and his wife, Sharon of Winterville, NC; and Elizabeth Bailey and her husband, Josh of Waldorf, MD; four grandchildren; his brother Gifford Lee of Plainfield, VT; and his sister Pamela Guptil and her husband, Steve, of Waterbury, VT; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. The service to honor and celebrate his life will be held at the convenience of his family.

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Dora E. Lovely

Dora E. Lovely, 90, of Lovely Road passed away on Monday, September 13, 2021, at her home.

Born February 18, 1931, in Barre, she was the daughter of Robert and Mary Ann (LaForest) Dodge. Dora attended Barre City schools. On August 13, 1947, she married Robert Lovely in Plainfield. Following their marriage, they made their home in East Montpelier for 23 years and for over 45 years in Cabot. Robert Lovely passed away in November of 2014. Dora was employed as a cook at Montpelier High School. Survivors include her daughter Deena Lovely and her companion, Walter Plant; six grandchildren Renee Rehbach and her husband, JR; Tanya MacAuley and

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Sandra L. ‘Sandy’ Rivers

Sandra Lynn “Sandy” Rivers, 51, of Walden, Vt., passed away in the comfort of her home with family at her side. She was born February 17, 1970, in Berlin; the eldest of three daughters born to Richard A. and Elizabeth C. (Rowell) Paton. She attended Woodbury public schools and graduated from Hazen Union School in the class of 1988. Sandy continued her education at Lyndon State College in Lyndonville. In 1995, Sandy married Douglas Roy Rivers at the United Church of Hardwick. She was first employed at Tap & Die in Lyndonville. Later, she worked as a Para educator at both Twinfield Union School in Plainfield and Walden Elementary School. She was a member of the Family Readiness Program for the Vermont Army National Guard in Lyndonville. Sandy enjoyed baking, crafts, dancing,

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EMORIALS

her fiancé, Morgan; Shane Brickey and his wife, Sally; Robert Brickey and his wife, Annie; Aimee LaFreniere and her husband, Arthur; and Tasha Dufresne; 14 great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by an infant daughter Donna Lovely and daughter Joanna Brickey, her sisters Caroline Lacourse, Geraldine Duchaine, and Judy Cecchinelli and her brothers Robert and Charles Dodge as well as her son-in-law Dennis Brickey. The graveside service to honor and celebrate her life was held on Friday, September 17, 2021, in the Plain-Mont Cemetery in Plainfield. Arrangements by Hooker & Whitcomb Funeral and Cremation Services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641.

vacations, concerts, but most of all, she enjoyed time with her family. She will be remembered by all who knew her as a very kind, loving lady who dedicated her life to caring for her family, children, and foster children. Survivors include: her father, Richard Paton of Woodbury, her husband, Douglas Rivers of Walden; two children: Kevin Rivers, Kayla Rivers and granddaughter Aaliyah Rivers, all of Walden; two sisters and their spouses, Gloria & Shawn Mercier and their three children of Greensboro and Pam & Greg Allen and their two children of Hardwick; many more aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Sandy was predeceased by her mother, Elizabeth Paton. A Celebration to Honor Sandra’s Life was held on Saturday, September 11, at the Walden Recreation Field in Walden. Dian R. Holcomb of Northern Vermont Funeral Service in Hardwick is assisting family with arrangements. Online condolences are welcomed at: northernvermontfuneralservice.com.

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Chair Development Review Board

There have been some questions from folks in town regarding parking in the village and what is allowable. This came up at a recent Development Review Board (DRB) meeting involving Cabot Village Ventures and the Den/Harry’s Hardware. An important point for people to understand is that Cabot Ventures is currently under a site plan review and any changes must be approved by the DRB. That is why this question came up regarding parking. Listed below are some points of information regarding Cabot’s Zoning Regulations and Vermont State Statutes. The zoning regulations speak to this under Section 3.6 (i) “The Development Review Board will establish minimum parking requirements and can adjust parking if the landowner can demonstrate there is adequate space for the intended use. This could include the use of off-site parking or written agreements for shared parking. ” In addition, according to 24 V.S.A. 4414 § (D ) (4) Parking and loading facilities: A municipality may adopt provisions setting forth standards for permitted and required facilities for off -street parking and loading which

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Turns 100

by Amanda Legare

Charlie Vieth is a private, soft-spoken man who was a bit overwhelmed when folks gathered recently to honor him for both his 100th birthday and for being a WI vet. He has lived quietly in Cabot for the past 43 years with his wife, Rose Marie, who passed in 2014. Life began for Charlie in Hamburg, Germany, but he came to the US (Brooklyn) when he was three years old. As a young man he played the mandolin in an orchestra. He was working as a tool maker for a machine shop when WI started. “We made radio tubes, which were essential at the time for radar,” he said. After several deferments he became aware there were no young men on the street and then he was drafted by the army. He went to Ohio where he trained as a boiler maker/inspector for the steam engines of railroads. He became a sergeant in the 764th Railroad Shop Battalion. All the trains were powered by steam, and they were necessary for transporting food and ammunition. He inspected the fire box in the engines, making sure there were no leaks, or the fire would have been put out. There were no electrical systems and no diesel at the time. He spent time in Paris, which was the hub for all train stations in France. “We were all friends in our battalion,” he remembered. “We were a solid unit with one purpose… there were no slackers.” At the end of the war, he was sent to Germany where his knowledge of the German language proved beneficial. He met his wife there and romance blosmay vary by district and by uses within each district. These bylaws may also include provisions covering the location, size, design, access, landscaping, and screening of those facilities. In determining the number and size of parking spaces required under these regulations, the appropriate municipal panel may take into account the existence or availability of employer "transit pass" and rideshare programs, public transit routes, and public parking spaces in the vicinity of the development. I think there is also some confusion as to who can park at the Willey Building Parking lot. It is a municipal parking lot and is available for anyone to park there. This is our largest off- site parking we have in the village with probably the exception being the school and Masonic Hall. We will be recommending to the Willey Building Committee and the Selectboard to change the current signage to reflect its use as a municipal parking lot. If you come to Cabot for any event the lot is usually full. The only exceptions are that parking is prohibited overnight with some limitations in the winter for snow removal. Any questions regarding parking please speak to the Zoning Administrator or members of the Development Review Board. Thank you.

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Charlie Veith

somed, but as a US citizen, the government did not allow him to marry a German woman. They reluctantly parted, he to return to America. He left her a radio and as much food as he could, since it was strictly rationed. By 1948 the marriage was allowed, but he had to sponsor her trip to Ellis Island with a bond that would not be refundable if she returned to Germany. They set up housekeeping in the New York City area. In the 1970s the company he worked for had a plant in Laconia, NH, and he decided to explore the area for a possible move. The weather was unpleasant, and they had no luck looking at houses. “The next day was beautiful and we decided to go over to Vermont.” He picked up a local paper and was soon the owner of a house in Cabot. He has lived in Cabot ever since, enjoying the company of a few close friends. He and his wife maintained a huge garden. “She’s always in my thoughts,” he said. “She was a seamstress and a cook par excellence. She was the love of my life.”

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Willey Building Use Insurance

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer The Selectboard and Town Clerk had been briefly discussing the requirement for liability insurance for anyone that uses Town facilities, including the Willey Building, at several past meetings. The requirement was brought to the public’s attention through social media, and the Selectboard had a more in-depth discussion regarding the requirement at the August 3 meeting. Betty Ritter led the discussion by reviewing that the Town has insurance on the Willey Building, the Recreation Field, and the pavilion. She noted that anyone who rents the building should have insurance for the event. She added that the library also does things in the Willey Building, and noted that if you have donations, if there is a reception, the renter does need to have some type of insurance. She expressed that it’s a hard thing and she doesn’t want people to take this as though she is the “bad guy.” She noted that this has been coming up for many years. The Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) have been telling Betty that the Town has insurance on the building, but the people need to have insurance for the event. She said, “These are hard things we are having to deal with," and she is working with the VLCT to bring back every recommendation. She continued, "I'm not doing this as a bad guy," but "I want to protect the Town, the building, the people in the building." Betty suggested that renters can get insurance through their homeowner’s insurance, but she didn't know how much that would be. She also noted that the VLCT also has a program but that is a little more expensive. She added that someone already has an event scheduled for October and they provided proof of insurance. Matt Nally mentioned he had contacted his insurance company. He found that some homeowner insurance already covers things like showing pictures from a trip. And if it is a wedding reception, most homeowner insurance have a 48hour allowance, but some do not. Some insurance companies offer riders for an event but don't have a price tag. Matt expressed the need to keep community events happening, but we need to be responsible and make sure the Town insurance doesn't go up due to some event. He was hoping for a good discussion, and it really comes down to what the people of Cabot want, not the five people on the board deciding. The public chimed into the discussion, first with Davis Barnett who asked if different types of events could be classified. He noted that events with alcohol could be a differentiator. He also asked if the town’s coverage was increased would that make it unnecessary for the event insurance requirement. He felt it's great to have a facility like the Willey Building, promotes their mission to enhance is to empower Cabot residents to participate to cover select board and other meetings, able to attend. Most meetings during meetings virtually through Zoom are

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Requirement

and it would be unfortunate to make it unavailable for private events. Dana Robinson also asked the board if the insurance requirement is a mandate from the insurance company, and what happens if the town decides not to require insurance. Johanna Thibault commented that it's all about liability, from a legal perspective, and that is why people sign waivers. She recommended the town go to its attorney and develop a waiver and run it by the insurance company. Matt said he didn’t disagree, but he doesn’t want taxpayers paying more because of one accident. He felt that it is the right thing at one level, but the board needs to get everything on the table and decide. Beth Wade spoke as a Library Trustee and noted there are three different types of events. If people are renting out the building for a wedding party, they are paying a fee, but the library hires performers a couple times a year and are businesses. However, most of the library programs are local people who agree to share expertise about something. If they require everyone to show proof of insurance, all the “programming will go down the tubes.” She wanted to know where this third category of community presented under the library auspices falls under an insurance requirement. Fred Ducharme responded to all the public comments by saying that is what the board is trying to figure out. He said he wants “this building to be used, we want it to serve the community.” Ian added that the board should talk to VLCT about a waiver. Karen Larsen agreed that a waiver is a good idea. She added that the board needs to consider not every person is a homeowner, and members of our community come from different socioeconomic levels. Karen also noted the library as a public institution is located in this building, and the Town should make their operation as easy as possible so they can continue to provide the existing services. Karen offered a suggestion that outdoor public spaces like the pavilion could be handled with a sign reading “use at your own risk.” Matt concluded the conversation by expressing the need to continue the conversation in future meetings and hopefully it would culminate in something good for everyone in town and we can use this building as it was intended. the quality of community life for those in the governance and management for the purpose of keeping community this time of Coronavirus are available posted regularly on Front Porch Forum,

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VLTC Explains Town Insurance

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

The Selectboard invited the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) to attend the August 17th meeting to explain the town's insurance and why liability insurance should be required for rental and uses of town facilities. VLCT deputy director Fred Zanik and senior underwriter Kelly Knotek attended to explain VLCT’s position. Fred Zanik started his explanation by referring to comments he had read on Facebook and Front Porch Forum and his desire to educate folks on what the VLCT is and what it does. He stated that VLCT is an advocacy group for towns, and under VCLT there are two separate trusts, one of which is the insurance program for Vermont municipalities. That insurance program is wholly owned by all its members. The program is known as the Property and Casualty Intermunicipal Fund (PACIF) and all its assets are owned by all the members. There is no profit motive. He continued to explain that VLCT is operated by a board of directors and is owned and operated by municipalities for municipalities. He described how PACIF encourages good risk management in each of its members. If everyone does a good job managing risks, then costs are minimized. If there is a claim, then it could affect the costs for every municipality. Fred Zanik said PACIF provides every member the same advice. When a town has rentals, the town should have an agreement and a deposit. Also, if there is an event that isn't low risk, then the renter should provide liability insurance. He explained if something happens and the renter does not have sufficient financial assets, the assets of the town are gone after. This is a standard and best practice. VLCT just makes the recommendation, and every municipality makes their own decisions. Mike asked Fred Zanik why the town can’t just have a waiver. Fred responded that he wouldn’t frame it as a waiver, but rather the board could delegate authority to waive the insurance requirement if the town deems the event low risk.

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and select Cabot Community

residing, doing business, and visiting of our town. members informed about issues via Zoom for those who would like to or you can call the Town Clerk's office

Ian Ackerman wanted to know how much liability insurance could cost for different events, and the off-the-cuff estimate was $150 for a meeting and as high as $500 for an event that involves alcohol. R.D Eno spoke from the public and noted that there has never been a claim by the town. He expressed that he wasn’t sure he understood the requirement for user insurance. If the town is mismanaging its property, the town isn’t insulated from poor risk management. He said he understands there is an issue of risk transfer, but it seems the risk is to PACIF. R.D. continued by noting if a renter has a deep pocket, it only isolates the risk for PACIF, but doesn’t really insulate the town. He also noted that the town rental agreement does require the user to indemnify the town. That means the town is held harmless for any claim arising from the renters' use. Fred Zanik explained the indemnification issue is only as good as the assets the individual has. Often those are not legally enforceable. There have been claims where someone had no assets and paid little. It's not always a valid agreement. Fred Zanik agreed that it is a risk transfer issue. If there is a claim, the town’s cost for insurance will go up. He wondered if it is a reasonable tradeoff for taxpayers to be underwriting someone's activity. School Board member Chris Tormey said he did some investigating on how the school handles this situation because several groups use school facilities. He feels the school is town folk funded and there is a need to be careful about the risk but allow people to use the facilities. The school administration requires any group complete a request form, release the school from liability, and pay for damages. Currently there is no requirement for proof of insurance. Dana Robinson expressed that if insurance is required, it would in fact limit public use of the building. He noted that Cabot Arts puts on concerts and there is no profit margin. Cabot Arts occasionally loses money, and if there is a requirement to pay $400 for insurance it would make it literally impossible for Cabot Arts to use the Willey Building.

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Class 4 Roads

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

On the agenda for the September 7 Selectboard meeting was Class 4 Roads. Mike Hogan began the discussion by noting a few weeks ago the board talked about Class 4 roads. Mike reached out to Irv Robbins, who lives on Last Road, and Irv wrote up a description of what he has done to maintain that road. Mike noted they are a unique situation, and the board has to deal with Class 4 roads that have had some attention over the years, but not as much as they should have. Irv described what he has done to maintain one mile of Last Road for the last 26 years. He stated that from 1994 until 2020 properties on Class 4 roads received a reduced assessment, which resulted in reduced taxes. He stated the value saved on taxes equated to the costs of gravel and grading. However, the initial amount of gravel required in 1994 was significantly less than what’s needed today. However, last year the town wide reassessment resulted in the removal of the reduction granted to residences on Class 4 roads. Now the properties are assessed and taxed at the same rate as properties on class 3 roads, but do not receive the same amount of road maintenance. Irv expressed that the removal of the assessment reduction put this all in a new ballgame. It's really a problem that has been thrust into the board’s lap. Mike stated that it's a benefit to the residents and the town to do something so emergency vehicles can travel on Class 4 roads. He continued that this has been an

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Possible New Ordinances

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

The Selectboard had two new ordinances on the agenda for discussion at the July 20 meeting, a litter ordinance and a livestock or poultry ordinance. First up for discussion was a litter ordinance, which Mike Hogan introduced He noted the town has had to deal with properties in the past regarding excess trash and it costs the town money. It should be noted over the past several months the Selectboard had been dealing with a trash problem on properties in Lower Cabot that was causing a vermin problem for neighbors, and the town has paid for the clean-up. Mike presented the board with a liter ordinance that the Town of Milton has and read from section 3, “Within the geographical boundaries of the Town … a person shall not throw, dump, or deposit or cause to be thrown, dumped or deposited,” trash “on the lands of others or within three hundred (300) feet of the lands of others, public or private, or into the waters of this state, or on the shores or banks thereof or on or within view of a public body of water or public highway.” Mike continued recalling the unsuccessful junk yard ordinance the town had tried years ago and pointed out that trash can be a dangerous public health issue. John Cookson mentioned a recent issue with trash on someone's property isn’t really resolved because they may just do it again. Mike verbalized there isn’t anything that says the Selectboard has to do something about a trash issue, but the board has a responsibility to the town. He expressed they do not have to do anything like Milton, and he presented this only for discussion. Matt Nally noted the creation issue, and he is wondering about what the town can do. From his perspective some Class 4 roads are a mess. Fred Ducharme added that the board had had Jeannie (Cabot Lister) come in and she explained that the assessment reduction had been removed because people are paying the same prices for properties on Class 4 as they are for properties on class 3 roads. Michelle Leclerc, Assistant Town Clerk, also added that the town does not get state aid for Class 4 roads. Matt Nally queried how long would it take to do an assessment of Class 4 roads since there are only seven miles. He also asked if there were minimum standards for what would make those roads passable for emergencies. He expressed that once there is an assessment, the board could ensure the minimum standard. Mike, Fred, and Michelle discussed that an assessment was done a few years ago, but some of the residents didn’t want anything done on Class 4 roads. Matt responded that it shouldn't be up to the Class 4 residents, it is a town road and a town decision. Mike closed the discussion by making a point to include Class 4 roads in the future budget discussion. The town website lists a Class 4 Road Policy adopted in 2014, which states that “Class 4 roads receive culvert repair/ replacement, ditching, gravel, grading and/ or raking, and mowing at the Selectboard’s direction to facilitate summer use by a pleasure vehicle.” The policy also includes the standards for Class 4 roads to follow the “Vermont Department of Highway Standard A-76 modified to include at least eight inches of gravel and twelve inches over ledge.”

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Discussed

and passing of an ordinance would be the easy part; however, down the road it could get into civil court and cost the town money. Mike agreed enforcement is the hardest part of an ordinance and perhaps they should keep this “on the back burner” for now. Later, Betty Ritter presented a letter from Jennifer Curschmann, the Town’s Animal Control Officer. Jennifer wrote to seek guidance from the board on how to “handle issues concerning domestic pets not included in the current town ordinance.” Jennifer has been dealing with some unusual calls, and Betty explained it has involved poultry and livestock coming on the highway and running around. From Jennifer’s letter, Betty went on to explain that Vermont law doesn’t explicitly give the town authority to regulate domestic pets, but many towns use the town’s authority to regulate public nuisances to create dog ordinances. Betty presented the board with a draft of an ordinance from Marshfield titled “Ordinance to Regulate Livestock Running at Large.” Mike chimed in and noted that again they would have a situation with an ordinance enforcement requirement. He noted there are a lot of people with livestock in the community. John interjected they do sometimes get out, to which Mike agreed. Generally, others help corral the livestock when this happens. Betty asked the board what can “we tell Jennifer to tell these people.” She pointed out that Jennifer wrote there are Vermont laws regarding the humane and proper treatment of animals that Animal Control Officers can enforce, but the fines are so small it would not be much of a deterrent. Mike responded that the board will have to get “back to this” at a future meeting.

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Public Parking and Businesses

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

The Chronicle recently reported on one of the Development Review Board (DRB) hearings concerning a site plan review for the Den’s Beer Garden, which mostly focused on parking. The DRB had three meetings before reaching a non-unanimous decision to approve the Beer Garden. During the process, Johanna Thibault brought the issue to the Selectboard’s attention during public comment at the August 3 board meeting. Johanna started the discussion by noting she had participated with the CCA’s Economic Development Group for several years, and today the town is experiencing a great revitalization. But she then mentioned the issue with the current zoning regulation that every commercial development requires parking spaces. Given the current village configuration, further development could be halted due to these regulations. The regulations allow for offsite parking with written agreements and there is a large parking lot around the Willey Building. She proposed that some policy or agreement be put in place so that commercial activity “within the village center is allowed to satisfy their parking needs for the commercial development with the public parking available in town, including the Willey Building.” The members of the Selectboard stated they didn’t know about the parking issue and Johanna explained the issue seems to stem from the requirements placed upon the previous owner of 3075 Main Street, also known as the yellow building. Matt Nally wanted to know how many spaces are consumed, and Karen Larsen answered that there are six parking spaces designated in the site plan at the rear of the building. She also indicated the current businesses don’t need parking spaces in the evening, and the tenant has a separate parking space. She also noted that if all the parking spaces at the rear of the building were removed, the Willey Building parking lot can accommodate. Matt agreed there is no parking space issue, and Karen stated that this should not be a limitation on economic development. “It would be a real shame if we were planning around parking spaces.” Fred Ducharme chimed in, stating that he thinks “we are all in favor.” Matt wanted to know how many spaces at the Willey Building are public, and there was a discussion regarding the signage in the parking lot. Ian Ackerman said, “I wouldn’t say we have an issue until this is all packed.” Johanna noted that the DRB has the authority to count public parking. This is an issue of how parking is counted, regarding day time and night time use. At the September 2 meeting of the Planning Commission (PC), chair Jenn Miner started a discussion about public parking by noting the Selectboard asked the PC to discuss the current regulations. She noted the current regulations don’t allow for use of available public parking not located on the businesses’ property. The issue came to light when the Development Review Board (DRB) reviewed the site plan change for the Beer Garden. Mike Hogan asked for the PC to start having conversations about how public parking can be accommodated if the businesses in the village continue to grow. PC member Dawn Andrews mentioned that with the last update to the zoning regulations done in 2019, there was hope that the Willey Building parking could be used, but it’s not specifically stated in the regulations. Jenn noted that the members of the DRB were reverting to the old way of interpreting that businesses and private residents need a specific amount of parking on site. The regulations do allow for offsite parking, but there was a lot of discussion about whether the Willey Building parking area can be used for the businesses. It probably needs to be more well defined that the publicly owned spaces can be used by the businesses. Jeanne Johnson, who also is currently serving on the DRB, noted that it took three meetings, and there really wasn’t an agreement in the DRB. She continued to explain that there is enough room for interpretation, and it isn’t business user friendly. Dawn expressed that the PC didn’t think they had authority to regulate town owned parking and it should be Selectboard policy. Jenn responded that she didn’t see any reason the parking lot couldn’t be used for business parking when the lot doesn’t interfere with the town’s use. Dawn added that if the Selectboard would set a policy on how parking spots can be used, it needs to consider that use by one business would take it away from another business. Jeanne said “it occurs to me it would be a good idea to get the Willey Building Committee involved in this discussion. I think if we are going to encourage businesses and grow our tax base, our policy needs to acknowledge use of the public parking for businesses.” Jenn added that off hours people are already using the town parking and setting their own policy. The public in attendance was invited to speak and Paul Wade stated he thinks we need a clear policy so if anyone is considering a business, they don’t have to spend time at multiple DRB meetings just to find out if they can open the business. But Dawn answered that she thinks this is just a particular issue with the yellow building. There was agreement that a policy is needed, but not who should be the author. Jenn expressed the PC could create the policy for the Selectboard to consider, but Dawn felt the Willey Building Committee should be the author. Glenn Goodrich moved to establish a policy of allowing use of the Willey Building parking for businesses. If we could help a business get started, that's part of our job, not to restrict businesses. It would be another issue if parking could be established behind businesses, but that isn’t practical in the village. However, there wasn’t a quorum, and the motion couldn’t be acted upon. Dawn closed the discussion by stating the zoning requires the parking space be provided, not regulating who parks in them.

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For Fall Foliage Planning Team

As most celebrations for the past 18 months, the Cabot Fall Foliage Festival looks very different for 2021. In response to COVID-19, the traditional NEK Fall Foliage Festival is not happening this year, as several towns decided to cancel their usual events and no advanced marketing, which usually begins in February, has been done. But in every challenge, there can be a blessing in disguise, which is that Cabot’s Fall Foliage Festival for 2021 will be a two-day event and hosted on the week-

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September 25 - October 3

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The Cabot Art Barn (across the street from Faith in Action in the Masonic Hall) stands at the rear of the Wiswell House, one of the most striking examples of Victorian architecture in Vermont. Built by Dr. S.L. Wiswell and his wife Seraphine in 1868, remodeled in 1898 and preserved with great attention end! (The traditional day for Cabot has for nearly 60 years been on Tuesday.) The CCA and its partners felt that, despite the evolving COVID-19 situation, that if we hosted outdoor activities, rented a 30x40 tent and portable bathrooms for the town Common, that we could create an inviting and safe opportunity for our community to gather to celebrate beautiful Cabot in the autumn and visit with our great neighbors before another long winter arrives. Activities are still being added, so please visit CabotVermont.org, CabotArtBarn.com and CabotArts.org for the most up to date event information.

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Art

to period authenticity, this historic home remains a family residence and the property of Dr. Wiswell’s great-greatgranddaughters. The barn that once housed Dr. Wiswell’s carriage and horses will be open to the public for these two weeks with a curated exhibition showcasing the work of Cabot’s visual arts community. See examples of what’s available at CabotArtBarn.com.

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Friday, October 1 – 6 p.m.:

Cabot Community Theater will be reviving its summer camp performance of “The Fairy Godmother’s Assistant” as part of the Variety Show on October 1. This one-act comedy is fun for all ages, and features local actors Dawson Beattie, Ursa Goldenrose, Lily Herring, Emmett Muller, Satori Rossi, Lucas Smith, and Aemilia Terrone.

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Saturday, October 2 – 11 a.m.-Noon:

Many of the skills needed when performing are best learned while playing games, being silly, and having fun! Whether you’re a kid or adult, join Cabot Community Theater by the tent on the common to try out some of our favorite (sociallydistanced) theater activities. Newbies and experienced performers are all welcome; younger children should bring an adult (or responsible older kid) with them!

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Vermont Rug Hooking Studio

Sandy’s latest hooked rug was recently featured in the Annual “Celebration of Hand-Hooked Rugs 31” (A premier juried collection of the year’s best hand-hooked rugs). This is an international competition with only 67 top rugs selected as the “best”. Sandy saw a photo of this beautiful bird on the internet and soon was researching where it lives and its normal habitat. She used textured wools for the bird’s feathers and hand-painted the wool for the background to suggest trees and water reflections. The branch and lichen were hooked with many shades of hand-dyed wool to create the asymmetry of lichen. The section where the bird meets his reflection in the water was the most challenging. She was able to create water movement and keep the reflection going throughout the bottom of the rug. Sandy has been hooking rugs since 2003 when she was invited to join a local rug hooking group. She soon began designing her own patterns and learned to hand-dye all the wool, creating her own blend of wonderful colors. She enjoys sharing her passion for fiber arts by offering rug hooking workshops. Eurasian Blue Tit “Reflections” Designed and hooked by Sandy Ducharme

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In The Judges’ Eyes:

Masterpiece of hooking and dyeing. Creating reflective water with wool fiber is no easy task. Exquisite workmanship and masterful presentation!

You can visit Sandy at her newly opened studio, Vermont Rug Hooking Studio, in Cabot Village at 3053 Main Street. The studio is open every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm.

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Fall Rug Hooking Workshops:

Finishing your rug: Christmas Stockings: Fine Shading: Open Hooking Workshop: September 25 th 10-4 October 9 & 16 th 10-4 October 30 th 1- 4 November 13 th 10-4 To register, please visit www.vermontrughookingstudio.com She also continues to enjoy painting custom canvas floorcloths for clients.

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Local Artisan - Sandy Ducharme

Sandy Ducharme combines her exceptional talents in visual and fiber arts to offer her own award-winning patterns, hand dyed wool, rug hooking materials, classes and workshops throughout Vermont and at her studio in the Village of Cabot. About Sandy: I have been a fiber artist for decades I began working with fiber arts as a child, and have enjoyed knitting, crocheting, sewing and quilting as a young woman. I combined my love of painting (acrylics and watercolor) with fiber arts to create Vermont Floor Cloths. Most of my floorcloths are commissioned pieces and I invite you to visit that website: www.sandyducharmede signs.com. Approximately 20 years ago I was introduced to the art of rug hooking. Needless to say, “I was hooked.” I am proud to combine my years of operating artisan’s galleries with my rug hooking passion, to offer you Vermont Rug Hooking Studio. After completing my very first rug hooking project, I felt the need to be more creative. For my next hooking project I designed the pattern and learned how to dye all the wool necessary. That rug was featured in “Celebrations of HandHooked Rugs” in 2005. Since then, I have had five rugs featured in “Celebrations”. I have received several awards throughout Vermont for my hooked rugs, including “People’s Choice” Awards at past Hooked in the Mountains shows. In 2010 I began teaching fine-shading rug hooking, and now teach throughout New England. Vermont Rug Hooking Studio will now be home to all my local classes and workshops. Please visit that website at: www.vermontrughooking studio.com. Nature is my inspiration. I enjoy sharing my passion for nature, colors, textures, and new discoveries with my students. I have learned to “paint” with rug hooking and pass freedom of expression on to anyone wanting to learn. I feel very blessed to live in rural Vermont, where I take daily walks and enjoy all the changing seasons and amazing landscapes.

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Cabot Historical Society

In the Civil War, two Cabot brothers were killed within weeks of each other. First Lieutenant Abel Morrill, Acting Adjutant, Third Vermont Infantry, Company K, was killed in the Battle of the Wilderness, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, on May 6,1864, at age 24. Abel's body was never found; an inscription on the family monument in Durant Cemetery memorializes him. He left a widow, Nancy. Captain Edwin J. Morrill, 11th Regiment (Vermont Heavy Artillery), Company A, was captured at the Battle of Weldon Railroad in Virginia. He was shot and mortally wounded trying to escape. He died June 30, 1864, at age 30. Edwin J. Morrill was born in Durham, Canada East. He was the older son of Abel Morrill, who moved from Canada to Danville, when Edwin was one year old. At 16, Edwin went to work at Fairbanks Scales in St. Johnsbury. In 1862, he assisted George E. Chainberlin, (later Lt. Colonel of the 11th Regiment), in recruiting Company A of the 11th Regiment. He was commissioned 1st Lieutenant of Company A, August 12, 1862. He mustered into United States service Sept. 1, 1862, and was promoted to Captain the next day. Edwin Morrill was captured with 435 members of the 11th on June 23, 1864. They were taken to Libby prison in Richmond, Virginia. On June 27, the Union prisoners arrived at the Richmond depot. On the 29th of June, the prisoners started by railroad for Georgia prison camps. Captains Morrill and James Eldridge, of Company H, were in the same railroad car. Eldridge later wrote: “When we got two miles out of Appomattox Station, and about 25 miles east of Lynchburg, Captain Morrill of Company A, 11th Regiment, and myself tried to make our escape by jumping out of the car window when they were running about twelve miles an hour. The guards which were at the top at each end of the car saw us and fired, and I think gave Capt. Morrill a mortal wound. I got him back to the station and stayed with him there until daylight, and then left him in the care of the station master and some Negroes. I think he could not have lived but a short time.” Captain Eldridge, who escaped, was brevetted for bravery. Before Captain Morrill died on June 30, he wrote his will in his Bible’s rear flyleaf. The pocket-sized King James’ Bible was sent to his family in Cabot. It was donated

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Cabot

to the Cabot Historical Society years later. The inscription is faded, but still legible. Captain Morrill wrote: “I wish that my body to be buried so that my family can get it after the war. I have $75 greenbacks and $30 Confederate to purchase a coffin. One of my watches sent to my mother as a relic. The other to my friend Mrs. Robertson for her kindness to me. My Memorandum Book to be sent to my father and my ring to my sister. E. J. Morrill, was Morrill

and Abel. 1st Vt. Art.66” In early August 1864, a service was held for Edwin A news account said: "Resolutions of condolence and sympathy were adopted. The exercises were largely attended by sympathizing friends from Cabot and adjoining towns." After hostilities ended, Abel Morrill, Sr. and Margaret (Mclean) Morrill engaged Chaplain J. L. Roberts, 4th Regiment, to find their son’s body. Roberts wrote from Washington, D.C., on March 20, 1866, to Abel Morrill, Sr. Cabot Historical Society has the letter and enclosed receipts.

“Dear Sir: I have received of Mes. Col. Kimball the sum of ninety-seven dollars ($97.00) in full for expenses in money paid out in obtaining the remains of your son Capt. E. J. Morrill and forwarding the same to Vermont. My disbursements are as follows:

 Fare for self from Petersburgh to Appomattox  Disinterment of body $6.00 $10.00  Supper, lodging and breakfast at Appomattox $5.00  Man and team to take body to depot $10.00  Rough case for enclosing coffin $5.00  Supper, lodging and breakfast in Petersburgh $5.00  Fare from Appomattox to Petersburgh $6.00  Express remains to Montpelier, VT $50.00 TOTAL $97.00

The foregoing bill is near the Southern standard, since the war, it would be quite moderate during the rebellion. I was happy to learn that the remains were safely received. –I will here state what may be of interest, and I trust consolation to friends to know. I was informed that your son received all the attention which could under the nature of surrounding circumstances be afforded him. I was informed by a Mrs. E. H. Lee who was present from the time he was wounded until he died, that he was kindly treated–that his sufferings were intense, but endured with great patience–that he asked her to send word to his mother that he had died happy, that he served God and his Country, that he believed the fatal shot was accidental, that he requested one John Robinson to take charge of his burial and made him a present of a watch, that the body was neatly attired, etc. There is an incident in the history of his sad fate interesting indeed–it is this: he (see ’Morrill’ page 13)

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KNIGHTLINES publication

Dr. Israel Helfand ’80 and his wife Cathie, ’81 not only met at the University of Bridgeport, the power couple also found business partners in each other after taking an introduction to counseling course at UB’s seaside campus. The Helfands are the driving force behind Marriage Quest , a 25-year-old practice that hosts retreats focused on marriage therapy, marriage repair, intimacy, and sexuality. The dynamic duo sat down with us and shared their story, the work they do, and insight into what the future holds for them both. Israel and Cathie met during the fall of 1979. At the time, Israel’s job working in construction kept him quite busy, so he didn’t know many folks at UB. “I knew very few people at the university because I was so busy during the day,” said Israel. “With a full work schedule, my earliest classes started around five o’clock, and I rarely had time to go home and change before class. It was kind of challenging going to school at night in full uniform after a long day of work, but I think she (Cathie) liked the look!” At the time, Cathie was working as a counselor of youth services in Danbury, Connecticut, and decided to attend UB to obtain her master’s degree after receiving her undergraduate degree in Human Development and Family Studies at Ohio Wesleyan University. “After our first day of class together, Israel and I started chatting and learned that we lived five to ten minutes apart, both an hour away from campus.” At the time, both Israel and Cathie were married to other people, but they stayed in touch. After learning that they both separated from their partners years later, they then began working together as a couple, helping other couples. “Cathie was living in Danbury, and I was living in a little log cabin in New Fairfield, Connecticut, and we decided to turn her apartment into an office,” said Israel. “I was renting space from a chiropractor's office, and I was doing all kinds of counseling from hypnosis to marriage counseling to sex therapy. I was also running programs for IBM, Boehringer Ingelheim, and other big companies where I was spearheading Employee Assistance Programs. Cathie eventually took over and our business took off.” Over time, the Helfands continued to grow their successful practice in Danbury and started a family. As the dynamics of their neighborhood began to change, they considered other locations in which to grow. “We were starting to do more programs with our marriage counseling and wanted them to have more length,” said Cathie. “We started the journey of looking where to move to, and it took some time. Every time we went to a conference, we would think ‘Is this our home?’ and we eventually ended up in Vermont and built a home here.” The Helfands purchased a forty-acre farm in Cabot, Vermont, that boasts wooded spaces for their outdoor retreats, a counseling center, farm buildings, and personal gardens. The property gave them the opportunity to expand upon the successful foundation they had already created. “We moved into a 150-year-old farmhouse and decided to heavily focus on marriage counseling by marketing marathon weekends

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Cathie ‘81 Helfand

around 2003,” Cathie said. “The website we put together took off immediately, we had people from all over the world coming to attend our retreats. We were so busy, we could have appointments back-to-back to back. In 2008, we hosted about 60 programs.” Marriage Quest organizes private threeday intensive retreats that identify common challenges within relationships and address issues that pertain to couples, all while developing new skills for couples to implement moving forward. Their unique approach came to fruition after Israel, a New York native, had an idea for speedy, intensive treatment sessions that directly address the problems couples face. “When I was going through my divorce, I talked my therapist into doing marathon weekend sessions. I like warp speed marriage therapy, so I designed a treatment plan that he was willing to try. It ended up being our blueprint.” The successful business has accomplished so much since launching the retreat formats, but like many businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic has left its mark: all their programs were halted due to safety concerns last year. Yet, their traditional approach hasn’t stopped them from helping others, as they enlisted the help of their son, Dr. David Helfand, to provide virtual retreats for couples willing to meet remotely. David has followed in his parents’ footsteps, boasting an impressive resume that specializes in clinical psychology, bio & neurofeedback, NeuroMeditation, Kripalu Yoga, hypnosis, and sex therapy. Together, the Helfands have observed how the pandemic has impacted clients from far and wide: “Covid has just exacerbated what we’ve always seen,” shared Israel. “It’s made it bigger and more present. If a couple is having a hard time being together, then now they have a harder time being together. If a couple really enjoys their time together, then they are finding their time together enriching.” When asked what their "recipe for success" was for a happy marriage, both Israel and Cathie shared their top takeaways: “When speaking with your partner, share what you want, not what you don’t want,” said Israel. “Also, don’t rely on questions as a form of communication, instead make statements. Questions become punitive and can make the other person feel defensive.” Cathie also shared: “Spend time together. We call it ‘happy hour’: we get outside, we talk about projects and make time to walk on our paths and sit by our ponds and brooks. It amazes me how little time couples spend together. Many couples live in this divide-and-conquer world, and when they do get back together, they spend time with friends, with family, and with other couples. That is not time spent with each other, alone. Having that date night where you are truly having fun is so important.” As businesses continue to re-open and the Helfands are now making in-person appointments once again, Cathie has a book coming out on Amazon.com titled “ The Yummy Marriage .” The resource serves as the Cliffs Notes to the work that they do. “It really is our life’s work. We have so much information that we teach, and we don’t want the knowledge to end with us.” For more information about the Helfands and Marriage Quest, visit www.marriagequest.org .

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Cabot Ambulance Update

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the dedicated crew of Cabot Emergency Ambulance Service has continued to provide emergency medical services for our community. We are excited to announce that the Vermont Department of Health has provided EMS with another license level that we are confident will help us to grow our list of active volunteers. This license level is being called the Vermont First Responder and requires only a small number of training hours to become licensed, and even fewer hours to maintain the license level. While this is intended to be an entry level position, we are optimistic that it will allow more members to join, without

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Cabot Trails Committee

by Gary Gulka

The Trails Committee has had a busy summer laying out trails in town, as well as marking and mapping. We are putting the finishing touches on the Talbert sugar woods trail network, which consists of five miles of trails we are still in the process of naming and mapping, but preliminary maps are available at the trailheads. It is a wonderful network that can be used year-round for hiking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing, and running. It can be accessed from the Talbert sugarhouse on Bothfeld Hill Road or from Elm Street Cemetery. The Cabot Winter Trail is nearing completion and runs from the end of Dubray Road to Danville Hill Road, with spur trails to Menard and Taylor Roads. This trail is only open for winter use only, from December 1 – April 15, and its uses include skiing and snowshoeing. The Melissa Jenkins Trail on the McQueeney property is being marked and mapped, and this also is a wonderful trail network for year-round nonmotorized uses. It can be accessed from the end of McQueeney Road. The Trails Committee is also working on a village trail that will run from the VAST snowmobile bridge behind the hardware store to South Walden Road. We know that several residents have Program, was held September 12 articled in the November Cabot Chronicle

the fear of extensive educational commitments. The initial certification will require 16-20 hours of training and the relicensing will require less than 10 hours every two years to maintain. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering, please come to our monthly business meeting on the fourth Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Cabot Fire Station. If you have questions or concerns regarding Cabot Emergency Ambulance you can reach us at cabotambulancevt@gmail.com. Respectfully, Jennifer Miner President, CEAS

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Update

Cabot Trails Committee members at new information kiosk at Elm Street Cemetery, near the Talbert Sugarwoods trail network. From left to right: Dana Glazier, Kris Schmitt, Paul Wade, Gwen Hallsmith, Michael Socks, and Gary Gulka.

expressed an interest in helping with the trail network, and we haven’t forgotten you. We will need trail stewards to monitor and help maintain existing trails, keep signs intact and keep trails clear of fallen woody debris. We will be in touch. Other trails are in the planning stage. We hope that residents and visitors can take advantage of these local recreational opportunities. Follow us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ CabotTrailsNetwork. e m a i l l i s t Sign up for our s e r v e a t : CabotTrails+subscribe@googlegroups.co m.

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Cabot Conservation Committee

The Cabot Conservation Committee sponsored an invasive plant workshop and village walk on September 18, led by Washington County Forester, Robert Nelson. A total of ten participants listened to an excellent one-hour presentation on common plant invasives, what they are, how to identify them, and some methods of prevention and control. Invasive plants are not native to our environment, they reduce native wildlife habitat, and reduce forest health and productivity. They can even cause tick populations to increase. Unfortunately, many plant invasives like Japanese knotweed, honeysuckle, Japanese barberry are here to stay, but their control can be effected by stopping their spread in an early phase. Some plant invasives like honey-

Washington County Forester, Robert Nelson, left center, stops at the Elm Street bridge to talk about the extensive patch of Japanese knotweed, along the banks of the Winooski River, during the September 18 plant invasives workshop. Roland Payne, Jr. and Cedric Alexander checking an emerald ash borer (EAB) trap on Danville Hill Road. Insects are examined on the sticky trap, and ash borer suspects are sent to the State entomology lab. EAB has been confirmed in the southern part of Cabot, and we are awaiting confirmation of further spread north. A second trap was located in the Town Forest.

suckle can shade out trees leading to a monoculture of degraded forest habitat. Many invasives were introduced as ornamentals and admired for their flowers and/or berries but the native plants they displaced has led to a less nutritious food source. Invasive plant seeds are easily spread by birds. The abundance of Japanese knotweed along riverbanks is easily spread by pieces of root that are washed downstream and find a bare streambank on which to take hold. Japanese knotweed along roadsides may have had its origin in a gravel pit when pieces of the root system were inadvertently transported in gravel loads by road crews. On a short village walk, we were able to identify the following invasives: Japanese knotweed, Japanese barberry, giant hogweed, honeysuckle, goutweed (Bishop’s weed), wall lettuce, and coltsfoot. The Conservation Committee will provide more public information on plant invasives in our monthly Conservation Corner, and we hope to sponsor a plant invasive walk in the spring. In addition, we hope to start a citizen-based plant invasive mapping effort in town. In the meantime, a good resource to learn more about invasives is www.vtinvasives.org.

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Cabot School Principal

We were excited to bring all our students back to school on August 26 after nearly a year and a half of shortened days, hybrid learning, and remote instruction. Our students returned happy to begin to build community together across our school and we are excited to be able to invite the wider community onto campus. This year is all about rebuilding our community and relationships with families, students, and our larger community. All students have experienced a disruption in learning over the past year and a half and many have expressed feelings of isolation and an increased need for connection. We began the school year with several new structures to help to support students as they return to school. I want to highlight two of those here. Crew: The phrase “we are crew, not passengers” has become common in our school community as we begin to implement the structure and mindset of “Crew” school wide. All students from kindergarten to 12th grade meet for 30 minutes each day with the express purpose of learning to enact our core values (respect, responsibility, kindness, and engagement) together. In these smaller groups (of about 10-12), students learn to reflect on their actions, share responsibility for their successes, and build a commitment to each other for the suc-

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is All About Crew

cess of our team. In that way, they are acting as a crew, or team, working together to reconnect at a time when that is needed most. As I write this, I am watching our first and second graders harvest fall raspberries; they are helping each other find them among the leaves. For our youngest learners, sharing, collaboration, problem solving, asking questions, observing, communicating respectfully, are all part of the skills of early math, literacy, and life-long learning that are important to ensuring students are successful both in and out of school. Buddy Crews: In the first days of school, students also had opportunities to share in activities with their buddy crews. Buddy Crews are groups of older and younger students who meet regularly to share experiences together. Because all students know what Crew is, these buddy crews provide an opportunity for older students to be leaders in our community. We began the school year with a tie-dying event in which all students made t-shirts together. They then joined each other on a hike in Groton State Forest. Research is plentiful on the importance of near-peer relationships to enhanced success in terms of social, emotional, and academic success. We look forward to continued opportunities for our Buddy Crews to engage in learning and leadership work together.

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Chair

We are pleased to report a great start to the 2021-2022 school year! The school welcomed back seasoned faculty and staff and welcomed many new faces. Likewise, we are pleased to welcome many new students and families to the community. The best news, of course, is the return of students from remote or hybrid learning models to full on-campus instruction. The Board has been working hard this summer to consider the future of the school, and opportunities to expand the quality and breadth of educational opportunities to our students. Likewise, we have been active in supporting the State's study of a more equitable education finance structure to ensure Cabot taxpayers are no longer disadvantaged under the education finance system. First, at our August meeting, the School Board culminated three months of discussion and consideration of how to enhance and expand opportunities for students. To that end, we voted unanimously to direct the Superintendent and administration to do the following: (1) to explore the feasibility of a CCSU-wide sports program (Cabot-Twinfield + Danville); (2) identifying opportunities for CCSU-wide integration of school communities in terms of social, emotional, and cultural opportunities (e.g. prom, field trips, etc.); (3) exploration of crosscampus enrollment for language, AP courses, and other low enrollment courses; (4) to consider changes to the next collective bargaining agreement to allow for teachers to rotate or to take up residency at any of the three high school campuses (e.g. expose students to a broader array of talent, and bring opportunities to the students); (5) explore changes in our transportation plans/

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Update

options; and (6) consider the feasibility of intra-CCSU school choice in light of the current language in Act 129. The goal here is to follow through on what all three schools promised to do following the Act 46 process – that is work together for the benefit of students. For Cabot, that means embracing the move to being part of a greater educational and social sphere. These proposals were intended to be low on cost, but high on benefit, while maintaining the independence of the districts. Second, on September 8, 2021, Board Members Rory Thibault, Michael Taub, and Chris Tormey appeared before the State Task Force on Implementation of Pupil Weighting Factors. This group of legislators has been tasked with recommending how to implement changes to the State's education finance system. Each of us called upon the legislature to give proper weight to the impacts of poverty and special education in the funding formula. The hearing was recorded and is available here (speakers #1, 2, and 40): https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=qsR89X5CvU8. Cabot's struggle with the "excess spending threshold" is a function of the existing State formula ignoring the fact we have a student population with above average needs – more than 50% eligible for free or reduced lunch, and 23% receiving some form of special services (8% above the State average). The legislative proposal would correct the long-standing defect in the system that ignores our demographics and needs, while benefiting other districts that do not bear the same extent of mandated costs. In sum, the Board has had a busy summer working and advocating diligently on behalf of our students and taxpayers. We hope to see community members at our meetings, and as always, look forward to discussing these important issues.

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with the

events please email by Mary Ann Tormey

The Cabot Community would like to thank Susie Socks for her over three years of dedicated work as the Cabot Mentoring Coordinator. During this time she revitalized the program, was a friendly presence within the school, and met the challenge of keeping the program running through the COVID-19 pandemic. We wish her well as she focuses more of her energy on her family farm and her Garden Goddess and gardening services. Stepping into Susie’s shoes, we welcomed Donna Smith as our new coordinator in May of this year. Donna moved to Vermont from Massachusetts in 2017 to be closer to her grandchildren. She brings with her a wealth of valuable experience to this position. worked for fifteen plus years She has as a mental health counselor, specializing in facilitating peer support groups for children and families who have experienced the loss

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Taking the Next Steps

We are ready to begin the pole inventory, which is necessary preconstruction step as soon as we receive the (already approved) state grant funding. The initial inventory will take place in Area A, which includes five towns with the least internet service: Calais, East Montpellier, Middlesex, Moretown and Worcester. Meanwhile, we are seeking contractors to conduct the inventory in other communities. And we’re looking ahead to next steps. We are issuing a Request for Proposals for the Make Ready part of the work. This will involve preparing each pole for connection to our network. We are also seeking bids for the design of our network. Finally, we’ve issued an RFP for an auditor, which is legally required for any entity receiving more than $750,000 in state grant funding.

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An Overview of the CVFiber Plan

On July 28, CVFiber founder and chair Jeremy Hansen gave a slideshow presentation outlining our broadband plan. Roughly forty people attended via livestream, and the reaction was enthusiastic. It’s worth watching if you want more information about CVFiber’s commitment to bringing fast internet to our service district. The presentation is archived on the CVFiber website at https:// cvfiber.net/2021/08/webinar-recordingcvfiber-presents-broadband-plans-july28-2021/

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New Coordinator

of a close family member. She worked both as a program and executive director as well as a private practice provider. Her original career was in accounting and small business management. Here in Cabot, Donna is enjoying her time as a budding artist and homesteader. Chickens and some surprise roosters have been keeping her busy, along with her wild and crazy rescue, Ginger. She brings a strong belief in the power of personal connections to support individuals and the community. She feels very welcomed here and is looking forward to getting to know more of the Cabot community and the youth, adults and school staff who are involved in and interested in mentoring relationships. Please contact Donna if you are interested in becoming a mentor, or if you have a child who is looking for a mentor. Currently, there is a need for more mentors in Cabot. Being a mentor entails a minimum time commitment of four-tosix hours per month, and there are protocols in place to ensure the safety of mentors and mentees. Donna can be reached at: cabotmentoring@gmail.com.

who is now a member of the Board, is Linda Gravell; the alternate is Christopher Shenk. The buildout plan for the initial twenty communities will remain the same. Grant funding already approved cannot be used for work in Waterbury, because it was meant for the original district. Since the village already has relatively good internet service, it will be added to the later phases of the buildout.

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Clears the U.S. Senate

On August 9, the U.S. Senate approved the $1 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act on a bipartisan 69-30 vote. The bill awaits action in the House. If it becomes law, Vermont would receive roughly $100 million for broadband. This would be another huge boost to CVFiber and Vermont’s eight other communications union districts. At the state level, the newlyconstituted Vermont Broadband Board is gearing up. It has held two organizational meetings this month and is creating a grant approval process as quickly as possible. The Board was created by H. 360, approved by the Legislature, and signed into law by Gov. Phil Scott. The Board is trying to work as quickly and responsibly as possible, to expedite grant funding to the CUDs.

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Farm-Safe

You may have read that a dairy farm in Tunbridge has lost much of its herd due to cows ingesting small pieces of wire. After cows began to sicken and die, Amber and Scott Hoyt found coils of lashing wire (a thin, steel wire used in telecommunications projects) on their property. They believe that coils of wire were broken up in the hay harvest; the tainted hay was then fed to their cows.

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Morrill

(continued from page 10)

was the first who fell at Appomattox on either side, he was shot below the station, that is south and brought back to the station where he died; he was then taken for burial within three rods of the place where he fell, and buried in a mound made of the excavations of railroad on which he was being transported south; the mound is a high point overlooking the place where he died, which place was subsequently the closing battlefield of the rebellion, also the only point in the vicinity from which Lee and his army could be been at the time of his surrender to Gen. Grant–he was the first to fall in this vicinity yet the spot where he rested is now surrounded with the graves of the fallen on both sides, but none were buried on mound, he seemed to rest there not only the first martyr in the neighborhood, but enthroned above them all. I am informed that his coffin cost $50.00, his Robe and burial $80.00. I therefore judge that his effects were principally used in his internment.” In spring 1866, Captain Edwin J. Morrill was laid to rest in Durant Cemetery. Edwin, Abel, and 35 other names, are on the Cabot Commons Civil War Monument.

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APPLE PIE FESTIVAL

To Friends of Cabot Historical Society: Thank you for your past support of Cabot Historical Society. We hope you are healthy in this difficult time. We are canceling the annual Cabot Apple Pie Festival. We hoped to hold the festival in October 2021, but cannot risk the health of volunteers and visitors. We hope to chat face-to-face with you next year. Donations to help us get through this crisis are welcome. Our

VT 05647. During this pandemic, we also canceled our 4 th of July open house at the Main Street museum. We hope to resume normal activities in 2022. Please remember our society. If you have old letters, diaries, and odd items from the past, please consider donating them. Cabot Historical Society P. O. Box 275 Cabot Vermont 05647 We still have building maintenance, utilities, and insurance costs for the Main Street museum building and the West Hill one-room schoolhouse. If you are able to help, we would be grateful.

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Sunday, October 17 at 2:00-4:00 p.m.

They discovered the wire coils after a contractor for ECFiber had installed lines through the Hoyt’s fields. CVFiber takes this very seriously and will not accept a repeat in central Vermont. Our governing board discussed the incident at its August 10 meeting; the unanimous sentiment was “Not on our watch.” Our contracts have specific language concerning post-construction cleanup, which invokes the campground rule: Leave it better than you found it. CVFiber will also contact the Vermont Farm Bureau to reach out to farmers in the district.

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Vermont Children’s Trust Founda-

tion, we were able to hire Amanda Otto for a part time position of Children’s Librarian from Sept ’21- Sept ’22. Amanda will be focused on after-school programming for upper elementary, middle, and high school students, including homeschooled students. Stay tuned for more info about these programs. The Trustees and Director have also presented a proposal to the Select Board to consider allocating a small portion (approximately 15%) of the anticipated Federal ARPA funds to support the creation of a part-time Children’s librarian position in Cabot for the next three years. Please feel free to voice your support for this idea!

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Tuesdays - 10am-11:00 am – At Story-

time, children and their caregivers are invited to enjoy stories and songs, and then re-imagine them through crafts and play together. Stay after for snacks and more active play on the swing sets, sand box and fields for hiking and birdwatching. Meet at the Cabot Rec Field shelter where there are six well-spaced picnic tables available. Dress for the weather! StoryWalk - StoryWalk® is an innovative and delightful way for children — and adults! — to enjoy reading and the outdoors at the same time. Laminated pages from a children's book are attached to wooden stakes, which are installed along an outdoor path. As you stroll down the trail, you're directed to the next page in the story. Come see Cabot’s StoryWalk starting at the Rec Field shelter featuring “Beyond the Pond” by Joseph Kuefler. There are so many great books to choose from – here’s a few to consider:

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MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES

Twin Valley Senior Center (located in Director. This position is 30 hours per week experience. Responsibilities include program stration, community outreach, fundraising, recruitment of volunteers and overall daily to pass a background check. We are a team of staff and volunteers services possible to our senior community. cant difference in the quality of life of our This is an opportunity to serve and give our team. Someday we may find ourselves Benefits include: happy smiles, warm heartfelt thank you. ~~~Position is open

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N EWS

When Stars are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed - If you’re curious to try out a graphic novel, I’d recommend this one. Based on a true story of two boys who, unfortunately, spend years in a refugee camp in Kenya, “it is an intimate, important, unforgettable look at the day-to-day life of a refugee….” Great for middle school to adults. Mending Matters – Katrina Rodabaugh – One of the things COVID-19 has brought to light is the value of relying on our own resources. This book shows some fun, creative ways of mending clothes yourself. Focuses a lot on denim, but there’s other stuff too. Miss Benson’s Beetle - Rachel Joyce – Two women leave their lives behind on a cross ocean adventure in search of a beetle that may or may not exist. Just sounds like a really fun book. The Camping Trip – Jennifer Mann – This has been a favorite picture book this summer – about a family that goes camping – great pictures, – making s’mores, seeing the stars, being in the woods, sleeping in a tent, going swim-

The Way Back – Gavriel Savit – A YA book – but fun for adults too. “…two children of Tupik, whirling off on a perilous journey through the Far Country, where they will make pacts with ancient demons….and maybe find the way back…. the direction matters less than you think….” Isn’t that great? Visit our website at www.cabotlib rary.com for the latest info on upcoming programs. Email cabotli-

Ask about downloading audio and ebooks for free through Listen Up! Vermont and remember we have Wi-Fi in the entire parking area. Much gratitude to the Library Trustees for their many volunteer hours dedicated to the library: Linda Gabrielson, Jeannie McCallum, Angela Ogle, Kurt Steinert and Beth Wade. Many thanks to Mekiah Smith, our student representative, for her thoughtful service on the board – best of luck at college! See you at the library! Kathleen Hoyne – Library Director

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OF OUR SENIOR COMMUNITY

East Montpelier) is seeking an Executive and salary is negotiable depending on planning, Meals on Wheels, adminisupervision of paid and volunteer staff, operations of the Center. Must be able

who work together to provide the best The services provided make a signifisenior population. back to your community. Be a part of in need of these services. hugs (pre-COVID-19), gratitude and

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Sasha McGarvey.

She has two children and comes with a wealth of experience and ideas. She is motivated to provide Covid safe and engaging programming for kids of all ages in our community! Get ready for some fun with Sasha during story and activity time. This science, art, and nature based programs will encourage creativity, exploration and time for parents and caregivers to share child rearing practices and challenges. We will start with outside programming, eventually moving inside when it is safe to do so. Please bring masks to wear while covid numbers are still high in our community.

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Pre-registration Required

Since everything old is new again; referring to bell-bottoms, hippie shirts, and platform shoes, how about the great wall tapestries? Perhaps your very own batik t-shirt or something from your own closet! Each student will have a finished product of their own choosing upon leaving class. Spend a few weeks creating beautiful batik art work, utilizing hot wax resist and dyes. Guaranteed fun and messy, so dress down for the occasion and get

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Library

ready to experiment! This class will be taught in an open art studio style and will accommodate each student's individual style and interest. Classes will run with a minimum of 6 students and a maximum of 10. Materials will be supplied; all you need to bring is your creativity. Instructor: Loraleh Harris

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Second Saturdays of the month at 2

p.m. October 9: American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson by Joseph Ellis; November 13: The Hardest Job in the World by John Dickerson; December 11: These Truths; A Story of the United States by Jill Lepore. The public is encouraged to participate in this free continuing series. Books are available for loan from the library. For

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New Story: How to be a Lion

Laminated pages from a children's book are attached to wooden stakes, which are installed along the Marshfield recreation trail. As people walk down the trail they are directed to the next page of the story. We will change the story every week to pique people’s interest in the project and get everyone walking and reading all summer. We are now open to patrons Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Mondays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Susan Green, Director Jaquith Public Library

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← From the Cabot Chronicle