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Preserving the history of Cabot, Vermont · Founded 1965

The Cabot Chronicle

April 2023 · Issue Record

← From the Cabot Chronicle

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

Original issue: Download the April 2023 pages (PDF)

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

In This Issue

Chitty Bang

by Karen Mueller-Harder

Join us for the Cabot Community Theater production of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” May 4-7, at the Cabot School Performing Arts Center. This show, featuring a huge multi-generational cast of community members, promises to be a delight for all! If you haven’t experienced a CCT show yet, prepare to be won over by the group’s engagement and joy in performing, as well as a wonderful array of familiar and new faces and amazing and talented voices. We’ve been waiting since 2020 to perform this show for you, and the time is finally here! This musical is a glorious romp, based on Ian Fleming’s book of the same name, in which a most unusual car transforms the lives of the quirky inventor Caractacus Potts (Jesse Clayton) and his unconventional children Jeremy (the role shared by Lucas Vitale, Dylan Meacham, Charlie Lander, and Mack Hofmann) and Jemima (played by Sycada Barnes, Cora McIntyre, Althaea Irwin, and Sage King), and yarn-spinning Grandpa (Russ Brown), along with the delightful Truly Scrumptious (Jessica Della Pepa). A perfectly ordinary picnic at the beach turns into an event of international intrigue, as Baron and Baroness Bomburst of Vulgaria (Thomas and Luna Dunbar) endeavor to steal the miraculous car with the aid of their bumbling spies (Victoria Mansuri and Becky Browning)! You will appreciate the kind Mr. Coggins (Darren Usinowicz) and castigate the nasty Junkman (Spencer Vitale), be delighted by Sid and Violet (David Irwin

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Flies to Cabot!

and Elizabeth Vitale) and the Turkey Farmer (Poppy Gletsos), and root for the Potts family as they try to win over the unyielding Lady Scrumptious (Erin Barry), and her stern assistant Miss Phillips (Mavis Hall). In Vulgaria, our heroes are pursued by an evil Childcatcher (Lynn-Maris Ducas) but befriended by the kind Toymaker (Melanie Crawford), and a team of imprisoned inventors (Iris Jacobs, Melissa Jacobs, Ben Vitale, and Clare Waterman)... but you’ll have to come see the show to find out what happens! Playing many ensemble roles are Alexander Clayton, Ariabella Clayton, Marlow Dunbar, Silas Irwin, Crosby Lynd, Kate McIntyre, Ellie Melen, Evan Thompson, Moirah Usinowicz, and Orion Vitale. The production is directed by Karen Mueller-Harder, with music direction and piano accompaniment by Mark Violette, and choreography by Daria Babbitt. The fantastic production team includes Barbara and Richard Halada, David Irwin, Ewa Jankowska, RJ Johnson, Jonah Meacham, Ama Peyman, Barclay Tucker, Elizabeth Vitale, and Paul Wade. Cabot Community Theater will be performing this show for one weekend only, so be sure to mark it in your calendar now! There will be 7:00 p.m. shows on Thursday through Saturday May 4-6, and 2:00 p.m. matinees on May 6 and 7. Performances will be at the Cabot School Performing Arts Center, and tickets are only $10 general admission, and $5 for students and seniors. For reservations

We hope to see you at the show!

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Vermont Public Award

Umanzor selected for from VerMade Here

for a Years in VerJune on how seasons imin Vermont of an “I came to the US from Nicaragua as a young adult. Since moving here I have worked as a stone mason. I got interested in making videos for fun and created a YouTube channel. I've done some videography projects for friends as well as the Vermont River Conservancy. I'm also a sculpture artist and enjoy working with stone, copper wire and plants.”

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To Landowners

Many thanks to R.D. Eno for updating the community on the progress CVFiber is making in getting high speed, affordable broadband service to our area. HOWEVER, landowners that have power lines on their properties – where these cables will be attached – should understand their rights! No one is allowed to access the rights-of-way under and along the power lines except from public roads where the right of way crosses the road, unless they have been given permission by the landowner. Companies hired to string cables cannot drive through private property to get to the poles. There will be some subcontracting of work on these projects, and not all the companies will be from Vermont and understand the laws. Just last year, we had workers from Tennessee drive four-wheelers off Route 2 and onto our first cut hay to get to the power lines. These folks were hired to check the poles – not even to string the cable. They made repeated drives through the hay, causing significant damage to our crop. They even drove through an electric fence and did not replace it. Luckily, we called the owner of the poles – Green Mountain Power – and they were immediate in their response and apologies. Landowners should also be aware of any work done by these companies in the rights of way, especially if you have animals grazing or take crops of hay near the poles. company was Twenty years ago, a stringing cable on the poles behind our barn and dropped a discarded roll of wire at the bottom of the pole. The worst case scenario was what happened to an organic dairy farm that rented land in Tunbridge, where

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Help Us Buy

(continued from page 1) Senior programs for the elderly to engage in our community Cabot’s online farmer’s market: the Cabot Harvest Hub Programs for all ages to teach selfsufficiency and food resiliency Community partner collaborations that focus on well-being, such as yoga classes and foot clinics To meet our fundraising goal, we have several fun community activities planned for this spring and summer,

monthly and is provided locally free

05647 ~ Published by the Cabot Community

express written permission from The Cabot Chronicle is contingent upon publisher’s approval and agreement claims based upon contents of advertising. Publisher does occupied by individual item in which the error appeared.

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OMMENTARY

in the Community Commentary (LTE), those of this newspaper or its affiliates. stringers simply dropped a single strand of wire in the field instead of removing it; this was picked up and chopped into silage (undetected by the equipment because it is not magnetic) and unfortunately fed to their cows. They lost several cows and several years of feed and are still trying to get back on track. If you see anyone working in the rights of way on your property, please inspect your land immediately and make sure all discarded wire and other trash has been removed by the company doing the work. If it hasn’t been, you need to call the electric company that owns the poles and file a complaint. Vermont Farm Bureau tried to work with the Legislature last year to enact a law that would require insurance companies of the original contractor to take responsibility for damage to private property. Unfortunately, we were outlobbied by those same insurance companies. The most we got was a poster that was to go to all CUDs, reminding them of their responsibility of property owner rights. If you have any concerns about work on your land as this important infrastructure is developed, please contact the utility company owning the poles. They are all aware of the situation and can be of great help to you. Thanks – Jackie Folsom

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2023

including Thursday Night Bingo in May, an outdoor cookout with live music in June, and a silent auction with some pretty awesome prizes to begin in July. However, we would love to accept donations at any time! If you think you can assist us, please go to our website at www.Neighborsin ActionVT.org and click on the ‘Donate’ button at the top of the page. You are also welcome to mail us a check to

Cabot, Vermont 05647. Any amount is greatly appreciated and will make it possible for us to continue to support our Cabot community!

of charge.

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Raymon Bothfeld

(continued from page 1) once. I was thinking about my two kids (Chandler and Lexi Bothfeld) and that I was too young to die.” There was a bad snow storm that evening and it took the ambulance one hour to get from the farm to Central Vermont Hospital. Raymon found out later that the ambulance had been followed by Cabot firefighters with chainsaws, in case the road needed clearing. He spent a few hours in Berlin and then was transported to Burlington. His shoulder was dislocated and his spleen was ruptured. “I had broken ribs and a crushed bladder. My pelvic bone broke in four places and I had a gash in my ankle that needed ten stitches. From my armpit down to my knee on the right side, the skin tore away from the muscle. Right now the skin is still trying to heal itself.” Because of the impact, his lungs were collapsing and they put air tubes in both of his lungs. Two screws were eventually put in his pelvis. “After Christmas I heard that people were stepping up and helping one way or another. It was the Cabot community and folks from surrounding towns. Neighbors came down with an excavator and skidder and pulled the tractor and mixer out of the manure pit. They thawed out the mixer wagon and got it working again. The farm couldn’t have continued without that piece of equipment,” he said. “A ‘GoFundMe’ account was set up and the money is being used to cover medical expenses not covered by insurance. Neighbors quickly signed up for a “meal train”, bringing large meals to the Bothfelds every evening. People supplied firewood for the farm and Raymon’s house. A ramp for a wheelchair was built at the house and people helped out with the many chores,” he continued. “It meant so much to me and my family.” For years, both of his parents, Rose and Skip Bothfeld, have been leading volunteers in many of the town’s activities. “I’m uncomfortable naming names of the many people who have helped us, and continue to help, because someone will be left out,” he added. “But I am particularly grateful to Ty Perkins, a former employee, and our neighbors Christy Aucoin and Shane Smith. They show up every day to help with chores and my parents couldn’t do it without them.” “That’s why we moved here to Vermont,” Christy said in a phone interview. “We love the culture of neighbors helping each other.” “It was expensive to put the robot in and we had to stop having employees,” Raymon continued. “I have managed the robot for the last six years and nobody else knew how to do it. My mother has been amazing doing that work now.” The doctors tell Raymon that most people with his injuries would still be in the hospital or at best, in a rehab location. He came home in less than a month. He is diabetic and for several years has been careful not to eat sweets or drink alcohol. The farm work has kept him in good shape. Raymon wants to keep farming. “There’s no boss over us telling us what we have to do day in and day out. I like that freedom,” he explained. “Each season brings a new job, maple sugaring, cropping, cutting firewood and logging. Of course, the cows are year-round and you are always managing that.” “What I don’t like is the price we are paid for our product, he added. “We get paid what they want to pay us. It’s like a roller coaster up and down. It’s really hard to budget and right now milk prices have dropped.” Recovery from all the injuries is slow. “I’m getting stronger but am not out of the woods yet. It’s going to get harder as the weather keeps changing,” he said. “I can see Chuck boiling and I can see Ian boiling and the hardest part is I can’t be outside doing the same thing. I definitely love being outdoors. He can get around the house slowly with a walker, but he still needs pain medication. “When my body heals enough, I still have four more operations to go through; two surgeries on the shoulder and two on the bladder,” he said. “But I can ’ t do those surgeries until I am walking normally without the help of any devices.” One of the bladder surgeries will take eight hours. “This time off recuperating has given me the time to look at options other than just milking cows. Much as I would hate to see the cows go, the direction this industry is going, it ’ s going to be harder and harder for small farmers to survive. Personally, I ’ d like to preserve every last bit of this land and keep it in agriculture.” “I am so grateful to all the people who have supported me and my family and am grateful for the people who have stopped and visited with me. It takes my mind off the pain and what happened to me.”

To find Ramon’s GoFundMe page, visit the GoFundMe site and put “Raymon Bothfeld” in the search line. Or https://www.gofundme.com/f/helpraymon-bothfeld-and-family

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Legislators Are Off the Mark

by Jeanne Johnson, Cabot Lister You’ve probably heard about the “reappraisal crisis.” In 2020 and 2021, people moved here to feel “safer” and purchased homes for prices far exceeding town Grand List values, sometimes more than asking price, often sightunseen. Reappraisals conducted before and during the pandemic did not reflect COVID-19 sales, and towns’ grand list values became out of date in 2020 and beyond. One result was an extreme increase in the number of reappraisal orders from the State - from fewer than 20 per year to 42 in 2021 and 165 in 2022. Yes, this is a problem. We don’t have enough reappraisal firms to handle that workload in a timely fashion. But the Vermont House Ways & Means Committee has responded in what I believe is an undesirable and inappropriate way. H.480 removes the $8.50 per parcel annual payment to towns that pays for reappraisals, as well as the *CLA trigger for a reappraisal, and orders the Tax Department to plan for taking over all reappraisals, creating a new State reappraisal office. Selectboards and listers would be removed from the appraisal and grievance process. There are numerous other ugly details in H.480 which add little value, but listers and assessors statewide do not believe this will solve the problems the legislature perceives. 1. If this bill had been enacted prior to the pandemic, it would NOT have prevented this “reappraisal crisis.” The change in fair market value created by the demand for Vermont homes after March 2020 would have skewed ANYBODY’S listed values from 2019 or before. 2. If the State is charged with all reappraisals instead of towns, the small Division of Property Valuation and Review will have to be enlarged exponentially. We will then have another growing State agency to support, as the Agency of Education grew with education tax administration. We will have a whole new State entity to support with tax dollars, and property owners will have to deal with a State agency rather than Town officials if they want to appeal their values. Lister’s support a few elements of the bill:- a regular reappraisal schedule to keep Grand List data fresh, and removing the CLA as a reappraisal trigger and relying on **CoD and more frequent reappraisals. Personally, I don’t care whether the State contracts for the reappraisal or the Town does, but I do care about moving relationships from the property-owner and town level to a State function and taking funds (see ’One Lister’s Opinion’, page 8)

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NAME

Jeanne Johnson Betty Ritter Michelle Leclerc

Betty Ritter Betty Ritter

Michael Hogan, Chair Fred Ducharme, Vice Chair R.D. Eno, Clerk Walter (Skip) Bothfeld, Jr. Karen Larsen Brittany Butler Jeanne Johnson Jacqueline Lumbra Susan Carpenter Dave Pike Deb Bothfeld Ruth Goodrich Angela Ward Melvin Churchill, Chair Cedric Alexandar Chris Tormey, Vice Chair Rory Thibault, Chair Frank Kampf Ellen Cairns Jason Monaco Kurt Steinert, Chair Angela Olge Grace Hoffman Niall McCallum Erin Ruddell Marie Saggerson Cameron North, Vice Chair Jessica North, Coordinator Stefanie Burtt, Chair Brock Miller, Secretary Shannon Smith

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TERM EXPIRES

2024 2026 Non-Term

2026 2026

2024 2026 2025 2024 2025 2026 2025 2026 2024 2024 2025 2026 2025 2024 2025 2025 2025 2025 2026 2024 2024 2026 2025 2025 2026 Non-Term Non-Term Non-Term Non-Term Non-Term Non-Term CCIF Committee Gregg Burtt, Chair (Appointed by Selecboard) Chris Tormey, Vice Chair (Appointed by School Board) Melvin Churchill 2025 Jack Daniels Jason Monaco Alex Underwood Willey Building Committee Fred Ducharme Brad Alexander Paul Wade Dana Robinson Dan Dunham (Appointed by Selecboard) 2026 2024 2024 2026 2025 (Appointed by Selecboard) (Appointed by Library)

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Appointed By the Selectboard

Water/Wastewater Administrator Pound Keeper Animal/Dog Control Officer Fence Viewers Inspector of Coal, Wood, Lumber, Shingles Tree Warden Fire Warden Health Officer Town Energy Coordinator Zoning Administrator Cabot Town Clerk/ Treasurer Cheryl McQueeney Ruth Goodrich Cheryl McQueeney Glenn Goodrich David Pike

Anson Tebbetts Roland Payne, Jr. Andrew Luce 5-year. Term - 2027 Jennifer Miner 3-year. Term - 2024 Michael Socks Brittany Butler 3-year. Term - 2025 Planning Commission

Development Review Board

Conservation Committee

Master of Colors Road Commissioner Jennifer Miner, Chair Dawn Andrews Kate Shatot Peg Elmer Hough Amy Hornblas, Chair Brad Alexander Larry Gochey Jeanne Johnson Gary Gulka Dawn Andrews Roland Payne, Jr. Bill Wheeler Vacant 7 members, 3-year terms Brittany Butler Glenn Goodrich Betty Ritter 7 members, 3-year terms Susan Carpenter Stephen Hogan Jennifer Miner Cedric Alexander Chris Duff

Town Attorney District Representative Regional Planning Committee Representative Emergency Management Coordinator Newspaper NEKWMC Representative NEKWMD Rep. Alternate Tarrant, Gillies & Shems, LLP Henry Pearl

Brittany Butler Jennifer Miner Barre Times Argus & Caledonian Record Cabot Chronicle Betty Ritter R. D. Eno

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Town Meeting

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer This year’s Town Meeting was held in the Willey Building, since attendance at Town Meeting has declined since the adoption of Australian Ballots for budget articles. Instead of a sparsely populated gym at Cabot School, the third floor auditorium in the Willey building was full with approximately 60 participants. The Selectboard and Town Clerk sat behind tables up on the stage, and the audience was arrayed in the wooden seats on the auditorium floor, with a microphone stand positioned between the audience and the stage. The microphone was positioned to face the audience. The moderator's position was to the front right of the audience, also on the auditorium level. This year’s Town Meeting did not see any controversy, and barely a hint of any negative comments. All the articles were discussed, with the majority of the discussion revolving around the youth librarian, school playground, and zoning articles. The biggest surprise of the meeting was the new moderator. In recent years, R.D. Eno had been the moderator, but since he was on the Selectboard, and with Ed Smith’s retirement from the position, a new moderator was elected, Jeanne Johnson. Jeanne did a tremendous job for being a first time moderator, and many were pleased with her performance. Since the results of Town Meeting far outweigh the scant debate that occurred on the floor, this correspondent felt an interview with the new moderator would be more informative for the readership.

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What motivated you to be mod-

erator? I was asked if I would do it. My first gut reaction was, "What, are you crazy? No!" But, as I get older, I am allowing myself to experience uncomfortable situations, thinking that stressing my brain and learning new things may help keep it from deteriorating. Standing up in front of Town Meeting is definitely uncomfortable.

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CCA promotes their mission to enhance

is to empower Cabot residents to participate writer to cover selectboard and other meetings, be able to attend. Most meetings are available are posted regularly on Front Porch available on the Town website, CabotVT.US

Town of Westford since 1988. I also read All Those in Favor - Rediscovering the Secrets of Town Meeting and Community by Susan Clark & Frank Bryan.

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What was the easiest part of being

the moderator? In my reading, it became clear that the work and decisions of Town Meeting belong to "the body;" in other words, the registered voters of the town. I learned that voters can override Robert's Rules, as well as the moderator. The only thing they can't overrule is state law. That means it is not my job to limit anyone's right to speak or opine, as long as it is done in orderly and respectful fashion.

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What was the hardest part of be-

ing the moderator? I found it difficult to remember which Australian Ballot items can be discussed on the floor, even though no action can be taken, and I slipped up a few times, between the school and the town meetings. But I received some gentle coaching from more experienced town meeting denizens, and we got through it, although I realize after-the-fact I could have and should have allowed more discussion.

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Were you worried about unruly

or impolite participants? Yes, I was worried. I called Ed Smith, 26-year Cabot Moderator, for reassurance (Town & School Meeting attendees have already heard this - please forgive me for the repetition, but I can't resist!). Ed told me about some difficulties in past meetings. When I told him I considered purchasing a leather vest to wear in his honor (I remember him always in a leather vest at the podium), he informed me: "What you don't know is that the vest is bullet-proof!" But I was fortunate, and everyone was respectful and wellbehaved at Town Meeting 2023. I think they were just so glad to come together in person again. Did you enjoy it, and will you do it again next year? Well, I lost some sleep the two nights before, but felt pretty good when it was over. I wish I hadn't made any slip-ups, but I was grateful for the coaching I received, and I got a few very supportive emails later that day, which I really enjoyed. It's not up to me whether I get elected again next year, but unless I'm on a warm, sunny beach next March, I would certainly consider doing it again. the quality of community life for those in the governance and management for the purpose of keeping community via Zoom for those who would like Forum, or you can call the Town Clerk's by clicking on "Selectboard Meetings.

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Trails Grant

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer At the February 22nd Selectboard meeting, Gary Gulka attended as the chair for the Trails Committee. Gary first talked about the expected grant from the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. He said they were still getting questions from the department, and the grant still needed legal and other review before the paperwork would come to the town for review. Gary said they were hoping to get the money by spring. Gary then talked about volunteers maintaining trails, such as clearing brush, etc. agreement He spoke about a model from the Vermont League of Cities and towns (VLCT) which explains liability issues. He relayed how the committee met with VLCT last fall and went over the model agreement. Gary said the committee made some modifications to the model agreement, which would be signed by committee members and community volunteers. Gary read parts of the agreement which included phrases like, “I assume full responsibility.” Ian Ackermann questioned some of the items in the agreement, and expressed concern about a volunteer possibly using a chainsaw when they were not trained to use a chainsaw. He wanted to make sure, if the volunteer was injured, that nothing would come back onto the town.

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ARPA Funds Oversight

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer Gary Gulka came to the select board as chair of the Conservation Committee to express concern about ARPA funds allocated to the committee for completion of the natural communities study. Gary said the committee didn’t know the status of allocated funds, since they did not appear in the Chronicle’s February article about allocated ARPA funds. Mike Hogan recalled the Selectboard had, indeed, allocated $20,000 of ARPA funds to the Conservation Committee, and noted it was an oversight. Mike said he looked at the past meeting minutes

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at the church

residing, doing business, and visiting of our town. members informed about issues to listen in person. Instructions for

Ian proposed changing the language to “hold harmless.” He felt the town should not be insuring a volunteer. Gary responded by saying an untrained volunteer would not be going out and using a chainsaw. The discussion ensued with speculation about someone being injured and suing the town. R.D. Eno spoke up and said the discussion was somewhat pointless because if someone gets hurt they can still file a claim, even with the agreement in place. Mike Hogan queried Gary about what part of the agreement was from VLCT and what part was from the Conservation Committee, and Gary said only bullet 4 was from the committee. Mike asked if the board wanted to remove the fourth bullet. R.D. responded that he preferred to leave it up to Gary. Gary proposed having the town attorney review the agreement. Mike and Skip Bothfeld agreed with Gary, with Mike saying the attorney may propose some new language. The next item discussed was the proposed job description for a part time administrative assistant for managing the grant. Mike said it was well written and suggested to Gary that the committee not hold off on getting someone lined up for the job. The board unanimously approved the job description and for it to be advertised.

and saw where the money was allocated. The Chronicle found the board allocation of $20,000 to the “natural community study” in the May 3, 2022, minutes posted on the town website. Mike then pointed out that all ARPA funds had already been allocated and apologized for the oversight. He said somehow they missed this one, and suggested the new Selectboard could try to find some money after Town Meeting. R.D. Eno asked if it was ever included in the spreadsheets and Betty Ritter, the Town Clerk, replied that, “we all missed

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Homestead Declarations and Prop-

erty Tax Credit claims, and fiduci-

The Vermont Department of Taxes offers the following tips to make filing and getting your refund easier and faster:  File electronically through a commercial software vendor. Filing electronically reduces the risk of errors and significantly speeds up refund processing time. Last year, taxpayers who efiled their returns saw their refunds on average in less than three weeks, while the average refund time for paper filers was over eight weeks.  Many Vermonters are eligible for free online tax preparation software through the Free File Alliance but don’t know it. Visit the list of provider links on the Department’s website at tax.vermont.gov/free-file to see if you qualify.  After you have filed, you can check online at myvtax.vermont.gov for the status of your tax refund, Homestead Declaration, Property Tax Credit, and Renter Credit. This year there are new and expanded tax credits available to a wide variety of Vermont filers including:  A new Vermont Child Tax Credit offers filers with children aged five or younger a $1,000 per child refundable tax credit. $125,000 of Filers with less than income are eligible for the full credit, and filers with income up to $175,000 are eligible for a partial credit.  The Vermont Child and Dependent Care Credit has increased to 72 percent of the federal credit and is fully refundable for all qualifying Vermont filers.  The Vermont percentage of the

creased to 38 percent of the federal credit. Even Vermonters who are not required to file a tax return because their income is below the filing requirement may want to consider filing if they qualify for these credits. There are also new and expanded deductions and exemptions available for those paying student loan interest and for a variety of retirees. Visit tax.vermont.gov to learn more about the details and eligibility requirements of these credits and deductions.

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Homestead Declaration

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 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, prop-

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Declaration

erty 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, unless it is declared as a homestead . The education property tax rate levied on nonhomestead property differs from the rate 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, 2023.

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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 a commercial, including rental, purpose.  The property is used for a second home, camp, vacation, or summer cottage.

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Paper Returns

If you cannot file and pay through myVTax, you may still use the paper forms. The Homestead Declaration is filed using Form HS-122, the Homestead Declaration and Property Tax Credit Claim. Use our filing checklist that follows to help you get started. Many people file their Homestead Declarations at the same time they file

ever, if you apply to extend the time to

1645.

Reach up to 1900 households by the first of each month in Cabot, Marshfield and West Danville. Plus households in Hardwick, Plainfield, Danville and beyond! Full year for one low price! E-mail for more information:

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Cabot Tree Warden

Spring is here along with warming temperatures, melting snow, and sugaring season. If you haven’t had time yet, there are still a few weeks to do chores like pruning apple trees and blueberry bushes. Another chore that should be done soon, if not taken care of already, is cleaning bluebird boxes. Bird feeders are best taken down by the end of March, as the bears come out of hibernation, and they will be looking for food. Another yard improvement to consider, and probably not on your spring chores “to do” list, is creating some pollinator habitat in the yard. Pollinator habitat is beneficial for the environment, reduces mowing area, and adds beautiful native wildflowers to your yard. Pollinator populations are in decline due to many factors, and the pollinators need our help. Creating a pollinator habitat is a multi-year endeavor that requires some forethought and planning, but you will be rewarded with the beautiful results of your efforts for many years. Many resources are available online to assist with planning and native plant selection. mixes can Pollinators habitat seed be found through many sources (both locally and online); please buy only seed mixes with plant seeds native to the Northeast region. Pollinators need native plants, some of which

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Everyone invited to attend and listen

at first Family Vets Town Hall All are invited to attend the first Family Vets Town Hall, on Sunday, April 2 at 1:00 pm at the McCarthy Arts Center on Saint Michael's College campus in Colchester. Immediate family members of veterans are invited to stand before their community and speak for up to ten minutes about their experiences. Everyone is encouraged to attend and listen. The event is free and non-political, and all perspectives are valued. Snacks will be provided. The event is organized by Vets Town Hall, a Vermont-based national nonprofit that facilitates annual events where veterans are invited to speak about what their service means to them. This is the first event where family members are invited to speak. "Military families have a different relationship with service, and I have often felt they absorb a majority of the burden from our being away, deployments, recoveries,

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T REE W ARDEN

may not be present in your yard but are important for supplying nectar to the pollinators. Some research will be required to find out what plants the pollinators require to attract them. A good source for researching plants is https:// www.nwf.org/nativeplantfinder/. To learn more about creating a pollinator habitat in your yard, visit the pollinator partnership website at https:// pollinator.org/. Other websites with great pollinator resources to get started include the Bee Conservancy, Wild Pollinator Partners, and the Vermont Wildflower Farm. When downloading resources from these websites, such as plant selection guides, make sure to select the Northeast region for plant information most relevant to our geographical region. Start by downloading a pollinator planting and information guide today; every journey starts with a first step. Another suggested online resource for pollinator habitat research is the Doug Tallamy videos on YouTube. Doug Tallamy is a professor at the University of Delaware in the Department of Entomology And Wildlife Ecology and has posted many excellent videos on the subject. A pollinator habitat can be created over many years to spread out the workload, as well as spread out the cost of the pollinator habitat supplies over several summers. Start your pollinator habitat this summer.

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with Them

and transitions," says Jon Turner, who will emcee the event. "If we serve, they serve; that should not be neglected. Families have their own thoughts and perspectives which are invaluable. Their stories should be shared and listened to." Those who would like to speak can indicate that when registering. Time permitting, family members of veterans are also welcome to sign up to speak during the event itself. RSVPs are optional but encouraged at vtvetstownhall.org. Questions may be directed to Kristen Eaton at vermont@vetstownhall.org. What: Family Vets Town Hall: a community forum aiming to increase communication and understanding between family members of veterans and the community at large When: Sunday, April 2nd at 1pm Where: McCarthy Arts Center, Saint Michael's College campus, Colchester Learn more & RSVP (optional but encouraged): vtvetstownhall.org Questions: vermont@vetstownhall.org

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Claire Marie Benoit

Claire Marie Benoit of Williamstown, Vermont passed away on January 26, 2023, surrounded by her family. Claire was born December 26, 1943, to Nora and Edward O’Connor in Waterbury, CT. necticut with her She lived in Conparents and sisters, Loretta and Joanne. The sisters were the best of friends! Paul Paul G. Gordon Andrews Andrews

Paul Gordon Andrews, age 71, of Kingsland, GA, died on March 1, 2023. He was born to the late Alfred and Leona Andrews on November 3, 1951, in Rutland. He graduated from Hardwick Academy in 1969 and earned his Aviation Mechanic’s license in Clearwater, FL, in 1973. He served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1972, serving two tours in Vietnam. He was a member of the Hardwick American Legion Post #7 in Hardwick, as well as the VFW in Hyde Park, and was also a member of the Freemasons, Caspian Lake Lodge # 87. In addition, Paul was a member of the Williamstown Lutheran Church in Vermont and a member of the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Kingsland, GA. Paul worked at Carol Concrete for 24 years as a truck driver and office manager before retiring due to ill health. He married the love of his life, Gail Compo, on April 27, 2007, and they made their home in both Cabot and Kingsland, GA. Paul loved ice fishing, hunting, being in the woods, walking, and any gathering of friends and family. Paul was a

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Notes from Cabot

by Dana Glazier At each kiosk along Cabot Trails are user log sheets. Simple questions are requested of trail users, such as date, number in the party, their home location, and to solicit other comments. These log sheets provide valuable feedback to the Trails Committee of the trail system here in Cabot. It is always enjoyable and rewarding to collect and read the feedback from users of Cabot Trails. We have found hikers, snowshoers, skiers, and mountain bikers in parties of all sizes have used the trails - from a single user to a party of five. And, many dogs (well managed by their owners) have also enjoyed the trails. We have had trail users from as far away as New Jersey and South Carolina, but the vast majority are from right here in Cabot. Comments from trail users have been quite rewarding and supportive of the Trails Committee’s efforts. Talbert Farm Trails one From the user wrote, “lovely trail”. Other users from those same trails have drawn small hearts of appreciation. Numerous times, “thank you” is written. From up off Cabot Plains, users of McQueeney’s Trail have also expressed their gratitude and thanks. One

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EMORIALS

In 1964 she met and fell madly in love with Bernard Victor Benoit of Cabot, Vermont. They married on September 4, 1965. They began their married life in Waterbury, eventually moving to Orange, Vermont. They had four children: Bernard (BJ)Jr, Edward, Lisa, and Leonel (Lee). More information may be found at: https://www.timesargus.com/obituaries/ claire-m-benoit/article_3f4847c5-3e2b53eb-b05a-a68c172b0bf5.html.

devoted family man, truly happiest surrounded by the people he loved, and was fondly referred to by many as ‘Uncle Paul.’ A lot of good times were had, and memories made at their home in Cabot. Paul is survived by his wife Gail, one son, Adam Foster and his wife Leigh Ann of Knoxville, TN, as well as his granddaughters, Marleigh and Zoie, who he cherished deeply. He leaves his brother, Frank Pinette and his wife Rebecca from Kingsland, GA, his sisters Dianna Green from Prospect, TN, and Audrey Bellavance and her husband David from Zellwood, FL. Paul is also survived by his many beloved nieces and nephews and also his dear friend, Jim Sanders, with whom he remained inseparable buddies until the end. He was predeceased by his parents and special nephew, Shane Pudvah. A memorial service was held at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Kingsland, GA, on March 17. A graveside burial service with military honors will be held in Durant Cemetery, Lower Cabot, VT, at a date to be announced. The des Groseilliers Funeral Home in Hardwick is in honored care of local arrangements for Uncle Paul. Online condolences to the family and memories of Paul may be conveyed at dgfunerals.com.

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Trails User Logs

Trails Committee Kiosk. user wrote, “We enjoyed the well mowed and maintained trail.” Another hiker of McQueeney's Trail noted, “a nice easy walk in the woods. Thanks.” An important aspect of the Cabot Trails Committee’s efforts is partnering with local businesses to generate visitors to utilize both recreational trails and local businesses within Cabot. With that in mind, a hiker from the Talbert Farm Trails wrote, “Thanks for your hard work, Harry’s for beer, and the Cabot Village Store for newspapers and ice cream.” This is my favorite. I think the Cabot Trails Committee is on the right path.

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Harvest Hub Manager

First of all: Thank you to everyone who donated money to our March Harvest Hub fundraiser – your contribution makes a positive impact in our program and community! I know it’s hard to believe that spring is right around the corner when we still see snow fall in April, but it’s true: Warmer days are coming soon and with that the gardening and farming season begins again! Personally, I feel the first notion of spring inside myself when I plant our onion, leek, and tomato seeds in trays of soil on a warm afternoon in April. A lot of Harvest Hub producers are busy planting their crops as well this month: greens and carrots, potatoes and flowers, and herbs for teas and wellness products. Spring also makes outdoor events possible again! And what events could be more connected to the planting and harvesting season than an outdoor farmer’s market?! I am excited to tell you that the Harvest Hub is going to host a series of in-person markets again this year! Starting in April, our markets are going to take place every last Saturday of each month, all the way through October. We invite you to stroll the market and shop locally crafted products from our local vendors: From fresh

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One Lister’s Opinion

(continued from page 3) from the Town to support a growing State entity. But most of all, I find the plan to move all reappraisal responsibilities from the Town to the State misguided and misinformed because it won’t solve the problem they perceive, and it will cost taxpayers much more to have the State appraise every town than having the municipalities do it. I think the legislature

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of Spring

Carol Broadfork.

bread to produce to specialty items such as seaberry nectar and lavender lemonade! Wellness products such as shampoo bars and body butter and handmade gifts, like cards and hand sewn items, make the market complete. While you shop you get to listen to live music played by local bands and solo artists and your kids can do a food- and naturebased craft at our kid’s activity table. So, I hope we will see you at our first Harvest Hub Market on April 29, between 10 am and 12 pm. You can find us at the Neighbors in Action building at 39 Main Street. Harvest Hub Markets will take place rain or shine – depending on the weather, they might be relocated indoors. Happy spring!

is trying to use a sledgehammer to insert a thumb tack, when a needle and thread is really what we need. That’s just my opinion.

*CLA = Common Level of Appraisal – relationship between selling price and Grand List value **Coefficient of Dispersion = Equity of CLA across different types of properties or neighborhoods

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Montpelier Alive

Montpelier Alive announced Katie Trautz as new executive director. Born and raised in Cabot, she is a musician, mother, teacher, and arts advocate, and the co-founder of the nonprofit folk music school Summit School of Traditional Music and Culture based in Montpelier. Following her eight-year directorship at the Summit School, she became the executive director of the Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph. Over time, Trautz has cultivated a deep interest in helping her community thrive and has developed the skills and passion that brought her to Montpelier Alive. She joined the organization first as the event and communications coordinator, and then as the interim executive director, and as of February 6, became Montpelier Alive’s next official executive director. Trautz lives in Montpelier with her family and has two busy young children. She loves to ski, hike, mountain bike, and play music. “We are honored to have Katie as our new executive director,” said Scott A. Van Beck, chair of the Montpelier Alive board of directors. “From the moment she filled the interim position, we knew we had a special leader in our midst. Katie brings unique qualities and skills to the position. She is very aware of the special nature of Montpelier’s diverse community. She relates well with the Montpelier business community, and she is very familiar with Montpelier Alive as an organization.” Trautz says she is “excited to deepen her roots in Montpelier, and work with the organization to help the city continue to be a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.” She has enjoyed her time with Montpelier Alive, and “can’t wait to dig into their many community oriented projects.”

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$15 at the door

Doors open at 6:30pm Music Starts at 7:00 pm For advance tickets, visit: http://www.cabotarts.org

Sara Grace's Website: https://www.facebook.com/saragraceVT

From Montpelier, Sara Grace brings her soulful, original songs to the Willey Building stage. Sara plays guitar in a unique, percussive style and sings songs about people and about love. Her characters are quirky and the romance in her songs is often painful

Honest, emotive and blessed with a sly, biting wit, Sara Grace is among central Vermont's best-kept secrets. Her charismatic stage presence and soulful vocal delivery make Sara a force to be reckoned with.

For more information specifically about the Cabot Folk Club, visit: https://www.cabotarts.org/folk-club and the Substack essay, "The Cabot Folk Club."

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The Flying Farmer

Reprinted from his blog: https:// catamountaviation.wordpress.com In the mid 1980’s, before earning my flying license, I (with an LVRS (Londonderry Volunteer Resque Squad) friend Chris) owned an Eipper Quicksilver ultralight, affectionately known as The Flying Lawn Chair, or ‘FLC’. Chris and I taught ourselves how to take off and land the FLC in southern Vermont, and lived to tell about it. This ultralight had no cabin and was open to the elements. Flying it was similar to riding my ’69 Triumph motorbike, loud, windblown, cold, and exhilarating. We wore parkas, gloves, Carhartt overalls in an effort to keep warm, and a helmet of some kind. Motorbike helmets were the most common for us, although I did wear a hockey helmet on one flight and ended up half deaf with cold ears.

My ’69 Tryumph Tiger.

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A Sing

g u i B t a r i r n s g , o u y r k o j u u u l r s e t l e y s o , u r b a n j o s v s ... i o n i c g e - a , a l o n n d g !

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Admission

Everyone is welcome to participate in the will be an informal gathering where folks Participants sit in a circle and share a commonly-known in the folk/country/Americana great reference for song material. Doors open at 6:30pm - Music Starts at 7:00

For more information about the Cabot Folk https://www.cabotarts.org/folk-club

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Helmet

Andy Hopping, a friend (and fellow Rescue Squad member) was our mentor. A former Naval Aviator and current ultralight flyer, his excitement and passion for flying was infectious. We trained at the now closed Red Fox, and Tater Hill airstrips, practicing flying until we had built up enough courage to land on the home farm hayfields. These farm fields seemed a lot smaller, landing on them, then they did while haying them.

Departure from Red Fox Airstrip in Bondville, VT (1982?)

Another LVRS friend, John Nolan, asked me to come meet his father, Tom, who had been a Marine aviator in the the second world war and the Korean conflict. I enjoyed visiting with him and hearing his stories. He assured me that on his next trip north he would like to meet up with me and see the FLC. He did a few months later. After a Quicksilver inspection, he shared a story with me. These are his words as I remember them. (see ‘Flying Farmer’, page 14)

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Consulting and Gardening

If you have fruit trees or bushes, pruning is an important yearly maintenance task. This month’s article will cover the basics of why, when, and how to prune fruit trees and bushes. There is a lot to know, much more than I can reasonably include here, so be sure to check out other books and online sources before you get started. If you decide to hire a professional, it’s still good to understand the basics. Why? Fruit trees and bushes will produce more if pruned regularly. Trees make blossom buds where they receive good sun. If a tree or bush gets very dense, blossoms tend to only form on the outside of the plant, rather than throughout the plant. Pruning supports tree health by removing diseased, damaged, and dead wood. Removal helps limit the spread of disease and reduces entry points for harmful insects and fungi to invade. Dead and damaged branches can also pose a hazard due to their inflexibility. The next ice storm or heavy wind event can break the dead wood and pull down good healthy wood with it. For trees with a tendency to grow tall, pruning helps keep the fruiting branches within easy reach for harvest. When? Fruit trees and bushes are best pruned in late winter, when dormant, and just before sap begins to flow. Pruning in spring can be difficult, with cutting tools getting bound up with sticky sap. Summer and fall pruning can weaken trees, as well as making them vulnerable to fungal infections in the pruning wounds. Pruning in midwinter can result in loss of hardiness, and injuries from cold temperatures. How? ALWAYS take safety precautions, and use good pruning techniques. Collect tools:  a good sharp pruning saw (I like Silky brand)  bypass pruners  sled or tarp for branches  I recommend against ladders; it’s safest to make cuts while standing on solid ground. If you can’t reach, consider if a cut lower down will accomplish the same goal. If you are bound and determined to reach that high spot, use a pole saw. Observe the space:  Check for overhead utility wires.  Look for tripping hazards (very easy to trip when walking while looking up into a tree!).  Select a spot to collect branches (see tripping hazard, previous bullet point).  Think about where large branches will drop, and position yourself out of harm’s way.  Keep children and pets out of the immediate pruning area. Even smaller branches can really hurt when they drop. Prune:  Never take out more than 25% of the crown in a season.  Use as few cuts as possible to achieve your pruning goals: much Clean

by dess. on tools, gardening www.SocksFamilyFarm.weebly.com or

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for

about ¼ of the cut from the underside first. VPSU has its response to the Newton of Fruitlands Make cuts through the collar of the branch (the swelling where it connects to trunk or larger branch). Never leave stubs of branches sticking out. developed the simple idea all over Vermont out of a solidarity with the people hundreds of people, businesses, media . This year Bring down large branches in manageable sections, rather than the whole thing at once. Avoid “topping” trees (shearing off all the highest points). Trees need a leader branch to be the high point, and if you cut them all, the tree will respond with a zillion little suckers. Leave one or two branches to be the new leader. Remove wood in order. First, prune dead, damaged, and diseased wood. For bushes, remove old overgrown branches right at the ground. Second, remove branches that are crossed, or repetitive (two branches vying for the same space). Third, think about the future growth and shape of the tree or bush, and remove branches with this desired future shape in mind. up: Wash blades with soapy water before moving on to the next plant. Take branches to where you’ll burn, chip, or compost them (all diseased wood should be burned). Avoid the temptation to just leave branches under the tree; it’s easy to leave it “for tomorrow,” but the pruned wood can be an attractant for unwanted fungi and insects. Plus, you’ll be cursing those piles when you need to mow or harvest. Clean tools at the end of the whole project and let them dry before storing. Wishing you a fruitful season! This garden article is brought to you Susan Socks, aka the Garden GodStay tuned for upcoming articles green lawn care, pruning, garden edible landscapes, and more. For help, visit

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Mission Statement:

Vermont Plants Sunflowers for Ukraine group. Our mission is to inspire countless Ukraine by sharing thousands of free seed hundreds of thousands of sunflowers in every mer and fall, our message of multi-colored Vermont sky will give us all hope and inspiration planted will be a statement of solidarity.

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Our Action Plan:

In our second year, 2023, we ask every appropriate branches of Vermont government, businesses and individual Vermonters to sunflowers. As our sunflowers grow and needs in Ukraine will grow. Our sunflowers support organizations working to meet the ian people during this humanitarian crisis. VPSU asks Vermonters to share our Autumn plan now for where you will plant sunflowers to plant other varieties, plan now for how sunflowers will have the greatest and longest your acts of solidarity. Advice for sourcing, flowers can be found on the VPSU website. join us: friends and neighbors, local officials, businesses. Let VPSU know if there are locations ing to distribute our free weed packets.

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Green Up Day is

The Sun and Warmer Weather - That is what gets the sap running, the Spring skiers out, mud forming into ruts, and everyone excited about Green Up Day! January and February are very busy months in the Green Up office as we assess how to make Green Up Day more effective, reach more people, gain more momentum, clean up more roads AND how we combat the litter in the first place. Here are some "litter" statistics:  Litter clean-up costs the US more than 11.5 billion each year.  55% of Realtors believe litter reduces property values by 9%.

with Farmer Ama of Cabot VT

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Ukraine

roots here in Cabot. In early March of 2022 in Russian invasion of Ukraine, Dale and Janet B&B and Berry Farm on Thistle Hill of sharing hundreds of thousands of seeds in deep desire to take positive action and stand in of Ukraine. This action has gained support of schools, libraries, state agencies and the goal is to share a million sunflower seeds.

is a Vermont-based community action acts of solidarity with the people of packets and inspiring the planting of corner of Vermont. Come late sumsunflowers splashed against our blue for positive action. Every seed

town and city in Vermont as well as the churches, schools, organizations, join in this act of solidarity by planting blossom, our collective attention to the will inspire Vermonters and others to health and safety needs of the Ukrain-

Beauty sunflower seeds. Begin to this spring and summer. If you wish you will acquire seeds, what types of impact, and who will help you in selecting, planting and caring for sunInvite others in your community to schools, churches, organizations and in your community that are will-

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May 6

Plastics in the litter stream have increased by more than 165% over the past 40 years. Tobacco products comprise about 38% of all roadway litter followed by paper (22%) and plastic (19%). 85% of littering is the result of individual attitudes. A strong contributor to littering is the prevalence of existing litter. Communities that have ongoing clean-up efforts have lower rates of littering behavior. Changing a few simple habits can reduce our waste and our carbon footprint. For all of you who participate in Green Up Day and who live the Green Up way every day, the impact you are making for Vermont and our planet is great. Your influence on changing the mindsets of others is so important to our next generation. If you have never joined in on Green Up Day, please grab a green bag and participate - it's easy and extremely fulfilling. We need you. Kate Alberghini, Executive Director

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Community Investment Fund

by Chris Tormey, CCIF Committee

The CCIF Education Fund was established in the 1990’s to promote lifelong learning for all Cabot residents. There are two types of grants available: Post- Secondary Degree Program grants which are awarded annually to individuals pursuing a degree, and Professional Development grants which are awarded quarterly to individuals for continuing education. Cabot youth and adults who have been Cabot residents for at least a year are eligible grant recipients. Learning opportunities eligible for grants include post-secondary technical and college education; educational institutes, courses and workshops; trade apprenticeships and skills training, and continuing education in a chosen career. Grant funds may be used to buy books and equipment, tuition and/or fees for degree programs, courses, seminars and workshops. More specifics on the application process may be found in the Cabot Community Investment Fund Plan located on the Town of Cabot website (https:// cabotvt.us) or by contacting the Cabot

amounts can range up to $500 depending on the funds available in a given year. The deadline for the annual PostSecondary Degree Program grants is May 1, while the deadlines for the Professional Development grants (awarded quarterly) are January 1, April 1, July 1, and September 1.

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Life on Tebbetts Road

by Alexander Anlyan

The late summer days are the color of honey. The touch of their light always stops me in time. Like sepia pictures of the heart of forever, The amber touched memories of my moments in time.

Walking this dirt road that’s hardened by travel where wagons with horses and tractors have run, the few cars I see have no patience to linger, and leave me in silence with the late summer hum.

Here in my home entwined within silence, A melody to which I sleep and I wake Where all of my moments are as short as a lifetime, And light full of Amber until winter breaks.

The days that move by me so quickly grow weeks I was born to ride wild, untamed, winds caress cools me to wash It all feels so simple and so free the choice to live safely or stay

An open heart blends in the collage that glows in my memory from the sunflower fields and the mums these familiar companions are

Someone in passing will stop for their wind burnished faces reflect lifetime companions I'll forever who stopped in for the sharing

as I stroll through the silence picking bouquets of weeds the blossoms of wildflowers that bloom only in silence, away from the barren black ribbons of streets.

At night I read stories finding worlds I can wander too long reluctant to put them away I rise for espresso that I make in the machine I bought for five dollars on a rummage sale day.

It may sound kind of quiet to those that don't know me Never seeing me walk by with the light in my eye A soldier, a pirate, a prophet, a peasant, riding tall waves of feeling in golden fall light.

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What have you learned about your-

self by becoming a mentor? I guess I’ve realized again how much I enjoy interacting with young people. What do you think is the most common misperception about mentoring? Not sure- maybe that only kids with bigtime issues benefit from mentors? Growing up in Cabot, our own three children gained so much from the broad range of adult friends, teachers and coaches that they spent time with outside of our immediate family.

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Puding Cake

Agriculture and Food Markets 2023 Edition with permission from Anson Tebbetts

baking powder salt

nuts (your choice, walnuts, pecans or

syrup

butter

to 350. Mix flour, sugar, backing powmilk. Stir in nuts (or not) and pout into square pan. Combine the water, syrup in a saucepan. Heat until the butter the warm sauce over the cake batSTIR! for 45 minutes. Cake should be dark in color (think crust of bread). with whipped or ice cream.

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Wednesdays:

kids

Discover the magic of the Spring season outside learning with the land. Join us exploring the fields and forests, and along the Winooski River. Play games, share gratitude, nature stories & songs. Make crafts, listen to the birds, discover wild edible and medicinal plants. Build a shelter, learn to make and cook over a fire and follow tracks. Make new friends and amazing discoveries and have lots of fun! Let’s celebrate and learn together what the land can teach us. This Afterschool Program is funded through the Vermont Afterschool & Summer Expanding Access grant. Seeking Teen

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NatureCamp Afterschool Program .

The Jaquith Public Library seeks responsible, caring and fun-loving teens (15-19 years old); who are willing to learn, grow as a mentor, and share their skills and passions with kids during our NatureCamp Afterschool Program. Experience is helpful but not required, though teens should definitely enjoy nature and being with children. Volunteer and stipend positions available: Weekly Tues, Wed, or Thurs 3-5:30pm, April 4-7 training; April 11-June 8 with kids ages 7-12. If this opportunity interests you, write a brief paragraph why you want to be an MIT for NatureCamp Afterschool, and include weekly afternoon(s) you are available. Email Susan Green at jaquithpubliclibrary@gmail.com. positions open until filled.

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Cabot Board of Listers

We’ve seen properties in town sell for prices way outside our Grand List values due to the COVID-19 phenomenon. True for most communities, it is still not a reason not to reappraise, according to Property Valuation and Review (PVR) Division of the Department of Taxes. Cabot has not yet received a reappraisal order, but we know our data qualifies for one, and we expect a notice later in the year. We (Listers) will be working with PVR to craft our next step; we expect to do a “statistical reappraisal” (test a sample of physical data for accuracy, and if viable, simply adjust the background tables for today’s values) to avoid the cost

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April 13 VEGETABLES & HERBS

How to grow common and uncommon vegetables and herbs, from starting seeds, preparing garden beds, transplanting and caring for plants all the way to a great harvest. With Donna Hisson of Crabapple Hill Homestead May 11 FLOWERS Everything about growing flowers & flower & herb seeds with avid perennial flower gardener Lani Seifert, and flower and herb seed grower Sarah Graves of the Magic Bean Farm.

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Second Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

April 12 An amiable comedy about how a previously unimportant out-of-the-way satellite dish in Australia is suddenly crucial to the first humanmission to the moon. if we don’t take action, the State “shall” (statutory language) withhold Education, Highway and other funding from the Town.  An “out of whack” CLA (relationship between selling prices and town Grand List value) impacts Town income, the school tax rate, and individual transactions with the State. Here are a few examples: 1. The Town receives taxes from utilities with equipment in Cabot. The tax rate is set at the state level, reported to the Town by the utility, and the Town CLA is applied. In 2021, taxable fair market value for utilities was $5,179,800; once the CLA of 97.25% was applied, the taxable value was reduced to $5,027,700. In 2022, the fair market value for utilities dropped somewhat to $4,939,856; once the CLA of 87.95% was applied, it dropped further to our CLA resulted in taxable value loss of $683,066 from the prior year. 2. A property owner withdrew two acres from Current Use. Withdrawal triggers a ten percent penalty based on the value of the withdrawn land. Using our standard calculations, the value was $12,000. Once the State applied our CLA, it rose to $15,854.000, resulting in an increase in penalty from $1,200 to $1,585. 3. If you’ve read the School Board’s articles in The Cabot Chronicle , you will have heard their frustration with keeping the school budget as low as possible, only to have the State jack up the tax rate to reflect what would be generated if we had a 100% CLA, to equalize our contribution to the statewide education budget with other towns. $4,344,634. The fair market value May 10 A scarier film about eerie things dropped $239,944 in one year, but in the sky in the southern California desert.

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Story Time and Playgroup: Fridays

at 10:30 a.m. for Kids Birth to Age 5 Get ready for some fun with Sasha during story and activity time. This science, art, and nature- based program will encourage creativity, exploration and time for parents and caregivers to share child rearing practices and challenges. We will be outside if the weather permits, moving inside when there is inclement weather.

of a full reappraisal. If we must do a full reappraisal, it will take several years because so many towns are in the same boat and there are insufficient reappraisers to handle all the work promptly. Lister or State actions did not create this situation. It is unprecedented, statewide, and seems to have the greatest impact on communities not typically high-end real estate markets. Of the 165 municipalities expecting to reappraise, only four are large towns or cities; the rest are small towns like Cabot. It is a learning curve and we will address it in concert with the State as quickly, effectively and economically as we can.

WHY SHOULD WE CARE ABOUT THE CLA?  Once we receive the reappraisal order, We have our work cut out for us.

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S ENIORS N EWS U

It’s April in Vermont - The days are getting both longer and warmer, and in our rural areas, a bit muddier! Come gather with us and brighten up not just your day but the day of a local senior. We love having visitors! We are a group of individuals dedicated to providing nutritious meals and activities that are entertaining and accommodating to all ages and abilities. Call ahead to register for Lunch served at Noon every Mon/Wed/Fri. We’d love to have more hungry folks come and join us! Need a ride to and from the Center? We can arrange for transportation, even in mud season, from your house to the center and back again. Give us a call at

We also offer Meals to Go and Meals on Wheels for those needing either. These services are vital to keeping seniors in their own homes and only happen because of the team of volunteers we have and the donations we receive. Thank you for your contributions to our community! Upcoming classes and Events at Twin Valley:  Friday Sing Along; in person with Pat Mayhew held the 1 st Friday of each month at 1 p.m.  Bone Builders with Cort Richardson; via Zoom on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30-8:30 a.m.

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Flying Farmer

(continued from page 13) “I was flying F4U Corsairs in the Pacific during the last months of World War 2. What turned out to be the last day of fighting (Japan actually surrendered during our flight), we were on a routine patrol, seeking targets opportunity that included low level strafing. At some point I received a shell round into F4U’s engine. There was oil seeping out through the cowl flaps at the base of the engine. With the oil pressure falling and the oil temperature rising, I climbed to gain altitude and headed back toward our base airfield. It became clear that I was not going to make it. I had radioed ahead and knew that there was a rescue ship headed toward me, but I was going to have to bail out, something I had not done. I went over the checklists, and tried to recall what I had learned in flight training. I had two choices; turn the plane inverted and kick straight out and down from the cockpit, or trim for level flight, climb out on the wing and jump, trying not to hit the horizontal stabilizer. I chose the latter. I knew I had to open the canopy, jump clear, count to 10 before pulling the ripcord”. “When the time came, I cranked open the canopy. I was not prepared for how loud the airstream was! I

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PDATE

 Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program with Sue Carey; via Zoom on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:0010:00 a.m.  Chair Yoga with Karen Kennedy; in person on Mondays at 1 p.m.  Tai Chi with Pat Boyle; in person on Tuesdays from 10:00-11:00 a.m.  SASH sponsored Bingo with prizes; in person on the 1 st and 3 rd Monday of each month at 1 p.m.  Blood Pressure Clinics are on the 2 nd Wednesday of the month from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.  Mystery Book Club is held in person on the first Thursday of each month  The Center provides Foot Clinics on a monthly basis, call ahead to schedule  In-person Art Classes are advertised periodically, as well Mud season is here... Homebound? Call us. The process to start Meals on Wheels only takes a few minutes to complete. We look forward to hearing from you and hope to see you soon! Gene Troia Twin Valley Senior Center

East Montpelier, VT 05651 director@twinvalleyseniors.org

trimmed the plane for level flight, unbuckled my safety harness, tightened my parachute straps and jumped. I have never counted to ten so fast in my life. I pulled the ripcord. Things got very quiet. What a beautiful day it was…sunny… you could see forever! When I hit the water, I got my Mae-west inflated. Then the life-raft. I put together the oars, and started rowing toward a small island I had observed on my descent. I noticed little flashes coming from shore and realized whoever was on the island was shooting at me! The war was over! I paddled the opposite direction as fast as I could. I was far out of range”. “When I was shot down, and recovered, the Navy issued me all new equipment, even a footlocker! I sent my parachute silk home, and my ‘wife-to-be’ made a wedding dress out of it. And…(a pause as he reaches inside a bag) they issued me a new helmet. Here is my old one, and you should wear it when you fly your FLC.” Thomas J Nolan was called up to serve again in Korea. He told me that the first thee F4Us that he flew had some major maintenance issue. He got fed up flying them and transitioned to helicopters. I never met John’s dad again. John took his own life a few years later. I wore that helmet for as long as I flew the ultralight. It now sits in my office, and reminds me of great stories, and old friends.

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Librarian at the Cabot Public Li-

brary and programming for youth can continue! Breaking News : We are thrilled to announce Beth Wade has been chosen by the Vermont Library Association to be this year’s recipient of the Trustee of the Year Award! In the words of Pamela Cartier of the VLA: “There is no doubt that she deserves to be recognized for her contributions to your library and community.” award at the Beth will receive this VLA conference in South Burlington on Monday, April 3. Congratulations, Beth – a well-deserved award! The Cabot Public Library is open! Come visit in person Monday 3 - 6 pm, Tuesday noon – 6 pm, Wednesday 2 - 6 pm, Thursday 9 am - 6 pm, and Saturday 9 am- noon. Book delivery available upon request for those unable to get to the library. Ask us how to access thousands of free online e/audiobooks through

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H.S. Students - 1st and 3rd Wednes-

day of the month - through Wednesday, May 17 - 3:30 - 5:00 p.m . Are you interested in volunteering at the library to earn community service hours? Do you want to help plan youth programs and events for the summer? Come work with your peers to help youth librarian Amanda Otto get ready for our Summer Reading Program. Snacks are provided!

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Program (ages 7-11), Thursdays -

through May 18, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Join Amanda Otto for fun outdoor adventures. We'll bring a good book and hit the Cabot trails. Participants will make crafts and structures using natural materials and learn how to identify local flora and fauna. Snacks are provided! Please email amandaotto.cabotlib rary@gmail.com with questions or to express interest.

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Cabot Book/Discussion – Thursday,

April 27 - 2pm . Based on a Real Life. Please join in for this new Book Discussion series co-sponsored by the Vermont Humanities Council and facilitated by VHC scholar Mary Hays. The first book in this four-part series is March by Geraldine Brooks. Books can be picked up in advance at the Cabot Library. All are welcome to join in lively conversation with your neighbors!

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L IBRARY N EWS

ciu was a director at a one-room rural Vermont library when a stranger began breaking in after hours. The man was rumored to be an opioid user. After his tragic death, Stanciu began asking questions about addiction. Who struggles with addiction? Why? And what’s the path forward for individuals and communities? Stanciu tells this story in Unstitched: My Journey to Understand Opioid Addiction and How People and Communities Can Heal (Steerforth Press, 2021). The book explores addiction in Vermont through the community’s eyes — health care professionals, a local police chief, the former US attorney Christina Nolan, families, and people in recovery — and Stanciu’s own struggle with addiction. “ Unstitched is both a page-turner and a primer in understanding the complex dimensions of the opioid crisis in a rural state. It is through reading Stanciu’s skillful, compassionate, and thoughtful rendering of personal stories that we can all gain valuable insight, diminish harmful stigma, and foster true healing.” ~ Dr. Mark A. Levine, MD, MACP, Commissioner, Vermont Department of Health Tuesday, April 18 – 7 pm: The third in an eight-part series – Sean Prentiss will read from Crosscut: Poems about his work as a trailbuilder in the Pacific Northwest. Prentiss is the awardwinning author of Finding Abbey: the Search for Edward Abbey and His Hidden Desert Grave, which won the National Outdoor Book Award, Utah Book Award, and the New Mexico-Arizona Book Award, and the author of Crosscut: Poems about his work as a trail builder in the Pacific Northwest. He has also written two creative writing textbooks, Environmental and Nature Writing and Advanced Creative Nonfiction, and two creative nonfiction anthologies, The Far Edges of the Fourth Genre: Explorations in Creative Nonfiction and The Science of Story: The Brain Behind Creative Nonfiction. He and his family live just on the other side of the mountain from Cabot, and he is an associate professor at Norwich University.

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Yoga for Everybody - Sunday morn-

ings - 10:30-11:45 am: Join Christyn King at the Willey Building for an accessible, playful, skillful invitation to land in your body, just as you are right now. Stressed out? Not flexible? Too old, too young? Skeptical of new adventures? These are great reasons to come try it anyway. As a community we will expand our sense of aliveness, strengthen, stretch, breathe, and have fun doing it! Yoga for Everybody is open to all, suggested donation $10/ person. Some mats and props will be available, but bring your own mat, cushion, and blanket if you are able. Thanks so much to the Library Trustees for their hard work and support to the library: Grace Hoffman, Niall McCallum, Angela Ogle, Kurt Steinert and Erin Ruddell and our student representative, Ila Steinert. See you at the library! Kathleen Hoyne – Library Director Amanda Otto – Youth Librarian

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← From the Cabot Chronicle