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The Cabot Chronicle

June 2025 · 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 June 2025 pages (PDF)

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

In This Issue

Energy Improvements Coming to Town Hall Cabot Awarded Large Grant

The Town of Cabot has received an Energy Resiliency Grant for the buildings owned by the Town of Cabot. I have had a couple of meetings with Sam Lash from Central Vermont Regional Planning (CVRP), who is assisting us with this grant. On Monday, May 12, we had a kick-off meeting regarding the Wastewater Plant, the Willey Building, and the Town Garage. To give a little background: About three years ago, information about this grant came across my desk with a note that it could benefit Cabot and urging me to apply for this grant. I did, and heard nothing for some time. I forgot how slowly the wheels of the government move. Then one day I received a note telling me that Cabot has been granted a $500,000 grant with zero match from the Town! I sat there quite stunned that this was really happening. The next step was to hire engineers to evaluate each building to see how this grant could help with energy savings. (Just to let you know this was at no charge for the Town.) This was a huge undertaking and CVRP had to secure engineers for this. Finally they came, approximately two years ago, to see what could be done. They poked and prodded our buildings to see where savings could be accomplished and identifying the greatest needs. We then waited even longer until we received the reports back from the engineers. In the middle of all this, we had the flood of 2023 that nearly devastated the village, and so much time, effort, and money went into this that the grant was basically put on the back burner; but others made this grant possible. As soon as we got our feet back on dry ground, the paperwork began. Of course, there were quite a few blanket forms we needed to fill out to secure the grant. With the help of Sam Lash, forms were filled out, questions answered, and on and on. Sam visited me on Monday, May 5, to update me on the progress. To say the least, I was overwhelmed with what needed to be done! One of the items that came out of this meeting with Sam was that our lift will be one of the first items to be on the list of not just repairs but replacing all the components of the lift. Our lift is getting a lift! I have also secured a grant for helping purchase a defibrillator for town hall and purchased first-aid kits for each floor in the Willey Building.

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FEMA Denies Reimbursement for Some Projects

Cabot Appeals FEMA As Chair of the Cabot Selectboard and Flood Relief Coordinator, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of two consecutive floods that almost destroyed our downtown area. Amazingly, both flood events happened on the same day in July of 2023 and 2024. When you step back from both events, you realize how close you were to massive devastation of a small rural community.

To date, the town has borrowed close to five million dollars to pay for repairs of roads, bridges, and culverts, and a temporary building for our volunteer fire department. One of the first actions of the Selectboard was to establish a Flood Resiliency Task Force to address long-term solutions to minimize damage should another event hit our town. We isolated two large tributaries that were bringing water and woody debris through a double culvert built after Irene and a bridge north of town that was not sufficient to manage the amount and size of woody debris that was spilling over into the village and flooding homes. We contacted a contractor, SLR, who did an analysis of our tributaries and streams with specific directions to find a solution to the two areas mentioned above. We have had public meetings and the Selectboard has approved their findings and are taking steps to mitigate these problems. The town received HMPG monies to remove a garage that sits on top of the double culvert and replace it with a bridge or one larger culvert. We are also looking for money to relocate the business as it is especially important to our town. The bridge will be replaced with a larger structure with some stream alteration work. This is an ongoing process which the Task Force has spent multiple hours working on. All their meetings are public, with Zoom information available on the Town Web Site or Cabot Connects via Facebook. As you all know, the old fire station had to be razed as the flood waters eroded the banks behind the building to such a degree that it would have fallen into the Winooski River. The State Fire Marshall condemned the building and FEMA collaborated with us to build a temporary building which currently houses all our fire apparatus. The current problem we face is that FEMA promised the Town that it would help us build a new facility on land we own that was designated for a new Public Safety Building. They have since stepped away from that and are reconsidering their offer. The Town is appealing against that decision. In lieu of that, we received I will keep all of you updated as we take this journey to make our municipal buildings as energy efficient as possible. Betty Ritter, Town Clerk a $5 million grant from USDA to apply towards the new facility, with the Town needing to find the remaining funds. The Town continues to work with FEMA on reimbursement of flood damage for both events. This has been very drawn out as we are almost two years post flood of July 2023. Our new Town Treasurer Amy Monahan has been very instrumental in submitting all our projects and following up on all reimbursements. Road and culvert projects for both 2023 and 2024 floods have been entered into FEMA’s portal for approval and obligation of funds. FEMA’s constant changing of personnel who worked with the Town made it more challenging to submit information to a large federal agency with multiple levels of bureaucracy. An exceptionally substantial portion of road and culvert damage reimbursements have been paid back to the Town, consequently reducing the amount of money borrowed at the onset of the flood. Remember, the 2023 flood was a 90/10% reimbursement due to the large statewide cumulative damage estimates. 2024, the smaller of the floods was a 75/25% reimbursement. There are additional state monies available when all the projects are finished and obligated, which will help further reduce the 10% and 25% obligation of the Town. We are in the midst of working with the (SEOC) State Emergency Operation Center who has taken over many of FEMA’s responsibilities of both floods. The appeal process of FEMA is long and arduous and could take many more months. It is just starting and will take many meetings and document sharing. The Selectboard will continue to update the town on its progress.

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LEGISLATIVE REPORT

As we near the end of the legislative session, a number of important bills are coming out of the House to be sent over to the Governor's desk. This past week, the committee I sit on, Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry, voted on three bills: S.45 is a bill modernizing nuisance laws

regarding agricultural activities. The committee voted in favor of the bill and is now in the Judiciary committee. S.60 was passed out of our committee,

creating a fund for farmers who experience crop loss due to extreme weather events. S.124 passed out of our committee, making modifications to regulations surrounding environmental regulation of farms with livestock or poultry. And finally, H.401 made it back to our committee from the Senate. This bill raises the threshold of income that can be made out of a home kitchen before a license and inspection would be required. I am particularly fond of this bill as it expands opportunities for small cottage industry businesses in our state. The House is waiting for Senate Finance to pass out the education bill so that we can take a final vote. I do not know whether I will vote in favor of the bill or not, as so much of the bill is still seeing modification and discussion.

With all that legislative lingo said, we had a good crop of syrup on our farm this mud season and now a picturesque bloom laden over the orchard.

Happy spring! Greg Burtt Owner Burtt's Apple Orchard LLC 283A Cabot Plains Road Cabot VT 05647 802-917-2614

On Monday, May 12, I had a meeting with Rodger Sheldon and Allan Carpenter from H20 Innovations (they are the people we contract with to oversee the operations of our wastewater plant and water system), Fred Ducharme, Shirley Ducharme, Dan Dunham, and Sam Lash. We started working on a plan for the wastewater plant to make it as energy efficient as possible. There is a possibility of having solar panels on the recycling building to help heat the wastewater plant, along with technology to heat the building with all the waste that comes into the plant from our homes and businesses in the village. Imagine that! Among other things, we will be getting new lighting for the Willey Building meeting room and the third floor (which has been needed for a very long time) and some type of shading for the windows on the third floor. Heat pumps will be installed as needed to help with heating and air conditioning, which will be a blessing for the top floor. The Town Garage will be getting a new ventilating system, which has also been needed for quite a while. All of this is very exciting and certainly an adventure; to think that we can do all the upgrades to our building without needing to use taxpayers’ hardearned money. I will be using local people as much as possible for the upgrades and other work that is needed.

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Contra Dance June 13 and Through the Summer

by Karen Mueller-Harder

On Friday, June 13, come celebrate the start of summer at the Cabot Community Contra Dance, featuring the friendly calling of Cabot’s own Karen Mueller-Harder! The dance takes place in the Willey Building (Cabot Town Hall, 3084 Main Street), from 7-9:30pm. Live music is provided by a great group of local musicians who are a delight to listen to! Bring a friend, or come alone, to enjoy a great sense of community and joy in moving to music! All ages and abilities are welcome, and we all dance with each other. We use genderless terminology and all dances are taught, and easy to learn, but if you’ve never been to a contra, you are encouraged to arrive right at 7:00, as we will start with the simplest dances, and then we’ll build upon what you learn throughout the evening. By popular demand: we are continuing the dance series through the summer, with dances on July 11 and August 8, so mark those in your calendar now! Admission for all dances is on a sliding scale, $5-10 suggested, but nobody is turned away for lack of funds! Water is provided, or bring your own water bottle.

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OBITUARIES

Dale A. Allison Mr. Dale R. Allison, age 80, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, April 28, 2025, with his devoted family by his side. Born in Bury, Quebec, Canada on May 20, 1944, Dale was the son of the late Preston and Hazel (Coates) Allison. He was raised in Cabot, VT, and was a graduate of Cabot High School/Class of 1962. Immediately following graduation, he proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1965. Dale went on to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Services Administration from SUNY Utica/Rome, graduating in 1978. A deeply patriotic man, he later joined the U.S.Army Reserves from 1986 to 1995. His military service was marked by distinction; he received numerous medals and awards before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Walter Bothfeld, Sr.

A memorial service for Walter Bothfeld, Sr., who passed away on December 20, 2024, will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11:00 am at the Walter J. Celley On May 8, 2025, at the age of 85 and in his home of 53 years, Walter John Celley passed away doing what he spent his life perfecting; carving something special for a loved one. He was a lifelong artist, spending decades as a master granite sculptor, and then using his retired years to create everything from birch bark moose calls, to wooden trunks, to wedding ring holders for his family. He was proud to have carved the granite eagles on the WWII memorial in Washington D.C., after having served as an army military police officer with men who also served in WWII. Walter was a lover of the deep woods. One of his favorite pastimes was using his hand-made birch bark moose calls to get moose close enough to be photographed. On his long treks through the woods he would collect the heavy antlers that were naturally shed every year, hauling them out of the thicket on his back. He was also a collector and restorer of antique engines and snowmobiles, and some of his best memories were attending engine shows with his sons and grandson. Last summer he and his family created an antique snowmobile float, and walked in the 4th of July parade with his grandchildren and greatgrandsons.

Dale wed the former Beatrice "Bea" Pastorella on October 3, 1970, at St. Agnes Church. After serving in the military, Dale held employment with the government as a Human Resources Manager. He also worked in the Lead Prevention Program of Onieda County. Dale is survived by his beloved wife, Bea; children, Renee Nolan, and Christopher Allison of the Adirondacks; and granddaughter, Rylee Nolan and her partner Edis Nadarevic. He was predeceased by his grandson, Noah Thomas Nolan, who was born an angel on November 5, 1998; and his sister, Eunice Bashaw, who took Dale in as a child and assisted in raising him. Dale's Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life was held on May 6, 2025, at St. Leo's and St. Ann Catholic Church in Holland Patent, with Military Honors conferred by the U.S. Army. Interment will take place in Holland Patent Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc.

Cabot United Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Cabot United Church of Christ, PO Box 127, Cabot, VT 05647. Walter's full obituary may be viewed at dgfunerals.com or the JanuaryCabotChronicle ( ).

He may now be physically gone, but his love and respect for the wilderness, and his way of creating beauty out of nothing will continue on in his family for decades to come. Walter is survived by his wife of 62 years, Cyrena (Hatch) Celley; five sons and their spouses; Timothy (Margaret Santa Maria) Celley, Michel (Lisa Whipple) Celley, Paul (Susan Dessureau) Celley, Thane Celley, Aaron (Miranda Hunt) Celley; seven grandchildren and their spouses; Caitlin (Ian) Ackermann, Camden (Acadia) Celley, Darren (Rachel) Celley, Kyle (Alexis) Celley, Alisha (Jordan) Hale, Cadence Celley, and Nora Celley, and three great -grandsons; Blake, Bryce, and Corbin. He also leaves behind his sister Mary Lou Cole, and brother Glenn (Tommy) Dailey. He is predeceased by his mother, Katherine Symonds, sister Rose Schmidt, and two brothers, Lloyd Dailey and Charles (Sonny) Lamphere. His ashes will be scattered in the places he loved, and his memorial stone will be in the Durant Cemetery in Cabot. There will be an informal gathering in his memory at his home on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 2 o’clock for those who wish to come. In lieu of flowers, the family asks to please send donations to the Cabot Ambulance.

Bradley H. LaPan Bradley H. LaPan, 63, of Cabot, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

Marjorie Greaves Obituary Marjorie Pike Greaves, age 98, of Lakeland, Florida passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025. She was born on May 19, 1926 in Waltham, Massachusetts. She grew up in Cabot, Vt. where she met and married Clarence Greaves in 1947. They settled in Danville in 1952 and together they had four children. She worked for Caledonia Central Supervisory Union for 13 years, then became the Danville Town Clerk and Treasurer for 12 years. She always enjoyed being active in the community.

Jan R. Westervelt died April 16, 2025, at his home. Jan was born in South Orange, NJ, to John Robert and Doris Fischer Westervelt. After a childhood which enabled him to travel the world, including a journey from Hong Kong to Geneva, he enjoyed the chance to study at Le Rosey in Rolle, Switzerland. He moved to New England to attend Dartmouth College (Class of 1966), after which he moved to Montpelier, Vermont, where he met his future wife, Janet Amidon. Marrying in the Old Round Church in Richmond, Vermont, on August 30, 1969, the couple then moved to North Carolina, where Mr. Westervelt earned a master’s in public health from the University of North Carolina, where he worked with famed civil rights leader Floyd McKissick. Returning to Vermont from Chapel Hill in 1971, Mr. Westervelt served as one of the leaders of the Davis administration in its efforts to provide health care for the people of the state of Vermont. After his time in the Davis administration, he went on to earn his CPA and eventually open his own accounting firm. In the early 1980s, he was a pioneer in exploring the emerging uses of software in the health care industry. Mr. Westervelt would later apply his expertise to both private industry and to the public sector, moving from the granite industry to the Caledonia Central Supervisory Union and on to the Goverin Lebanon, NH. A complete obituary will be published in a future edition. Arrangements are in the care of the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer Street in Barre.

After retiring, Marjorie volunteered with RCT for 12 years, assisting those in need. Marjorie was a key asset in organizing the Cabot Alumni in 1986 and remained president for 26 years. She was a proud member of the Eastern Star since 1957, serving as past matron of the Diamond Chapter and organist for 30 years. Marjorie moved to Lakeland, Florida in 2020 to live with her daughter, Pam, and lived out the rest of her days in Florida. Marjorie is survived by her two children, Mark Greaves and Pam Cheney, her nine grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Clarence, her sister Jean Bing, and two children, Gary Greaves and Margie Stevens.

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

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COMMUNITY COMMENTARY

The views, opinions and information expressed in the Community Commentary, A Salute to Jan, Larry & Ted

I always read the obituary section of the Cabot Chronicle. Maybe it’s habit, maybe it’s a quiet way of keeping track of those who’ve shared this town with me. Sooner or later, our own names will show up there. But for now, while I’m still here, I like to stay connected to those who’ve gone before us. Every now and then, a name catches me off guard—makes my heart skip a beat and pulls me into a moment of reflection. That’s exactly what happened when I saw Jan Westervelt had passed (see ’A Salute’, page 7)

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Joe’s Pond Milfoil Herbicide Request

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

Barry Cahoon introduced himself to the Selectboard at the April 22nd meeting. He is a member of the Joe’s Pond Association Board of Directors, and also the designated coordinator for the association's response to the invasive Milfoil plant. Barry told the board that once they discovered Milfoil had been located in Joe’s Pond, they initiated a hand harvesting operation. They also formed a committee to patrol and monitor the pond. Barry started participating in meetings of the Federation of Vermont Lakes and Ponds made up of various associations. He said many of the associations have been battling Milfoil for 20-30 years. He told the Selectboard that the other lakes and ponds have been unable to stop the spread of Milfoil through nonherbicide means, and have turned to using Florpyrauxefin. Barry said that he researched the situation, and after talking to the other federation members, he learned the state was regulating the use of the herbicide in such a way it was causing excessive use of the herbicide. Barry relayed that the state was only allowing the use of the herbicide after two or three years of non-herbicide methods. He added that only one lake, Shadow Lake, was able to remove Milfoil without the use of herbicides. He said every other lake didn’t treat with the herbicide until it was all over the lake, and now they can’t get rid of it no matter what they do. The Joe’s Pond Association put a proposal to ANR asking for permission to use the herbicide as soon as possible. Barry said they have gotten very positive feedback. They have engaged a consultant to submit an application. He added that the important part of the application is to demonstrate community support for the use of the herbicide. Barry has been to the other towns around Joe’ Pond and received letters of support and asked the Selectboard to approve a letter of support. Mike Hogan asked about the timeline for application of the herbicide. Barry said they are hoping later this summer. He added that the application of the herbicide would require public notice, and notice to all of the owners around the lake. Barry said it is a very onerous permit with a lot of regulations. Mike asked how it is applied. Barry said it is in a tank and directly injected. He said that this herbicide is applied at a concentration 1000 times less than a typical herbicide. He said that if they can use it now, they will use a lot less than if they wait until it is out of control. Barry said that the herbicide is of such low toxicity that Vermont does not require any restrictions for anyone to draw water out of the lake for domestic water or irrigation uses. He said that currently Milfoil is only in a very small area of the pond, but they will do another survey this year to determine the extent of Milfoil infestation. Gary Gulka said that Barry presented the application to the conservation committee, and they were supportive. He added that it seems a logical way to proceed, and better than the expensive method of hand harvesting, which also doesn’t seem to work. The committee drafted a letter of support for the board, and presented it to the board. The board approved signing the letter.

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USDA Bear Problem Assistance

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer Nigel Waring from USDA Wildlife Services, which is partnering with Vermont Fish and Wildlife, was present at the board meeting on April 22. He told the board he was reaching out to all the towns in their district to make everyone aware of their availability. He told the board that they were seeing more complaints in the area around Cabot. Mike Hogan asked if there was guidance available for the public to deal with bear issues. Nigel said that the easiest way was to go to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife website for information, and to report any issues. The online report automatically sends an email to him, his coworkers, and Vermont Fish and Wildlife personnel. Nigel went on to say that the vast majority of the problem centers around garbage, which is nationwide. He added that in Vermont, it's garbage, beehives, compost, and the chicken food for backyard poultry. Skip Bothfeld asked if they remove bears. Nigel said the way his department was funded, they can’t do any control action. He added that they can’t even haze bears. Nigel talked about how they can help protect property, but if a bear needs to be trapped or hazed, the state needs to be involved to deal with the bear.

Street parking lot. Fred Ducharme said he thought the remote parking with a shuttle had worked great last year. Lori said they need more help with traffic control for the event, and stated that it would be good to train the volunteers. She added that the sheriffs need more instructions, too. Lori then noted that they will not allow parade participants to throw candy anymore. They will have to hand it out, for safety reasons. Jenn Miner said that Cabot Ambulance always goes last, in case they get an emergency call. She said that people start walking on the street after the parade, and that could create a problem should an emergency call come in at that time. Fred said they need more signage on Elm Street to direct people to the remote parking lot. Lori added that the Fire Department thought there should be a VT alert issued, noting that Main Street would be closed that day. Betty also suggested a sign be placed at the intersection of Route 215 and Route 2 stating the street is closed. Lori showed a map of the parking plan from last 4th of July. There was no parking from the creamery to the temporary fire station. Additionally, there was no parking on the bottom part of Danville and Whittier Hill Roads. She added that she thought more could be done with the lot in front of the church for people that are mobility challenged. Mike asked Lori if she was making a recommendation for permanent parking signage in town? She responded that the recommendation was for the no parking zones, but wasn’t sure how they should be marked. The board discussed signage and parking issues with Main Street. They also discussed what constitutes a large event, and then Lori suggested that perhaps the policy should be for any event at the Willey building, not just large events. Mike suggested that they merge the proposed ideas into the existing parking policy. They agreed that a specific parking meeting would be a good idea. There was also discussion of marking parking spaces in the lots to make parking more efficient.

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Parking Policy and 4th of July

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

Lori Augustiniak, CCA Executive Director, was at the May 6 Selectboard meeting to present a draft for a town parking policy. Lori handed a rough draft to the board and reviewed the history of how and why the town is looking at a parking policy. She said that Mike Hogan had asked her to draft the policy. She stated that there are two areas of concern; the first being an event, and the other is when the businesses are popular and people don’t know where to park. Lori then speculated that maybe there should be parking along Main Street, outside of the marked parking. She said there should definitely not be parking on the lower sections of Danville and Whitter Hill Roads. Lori told the board that they need to determine where the perpetual no parking places should be. Lori also relayed that she and Town Clerk Betty Ritter discussed a designated parking place for Greg Moore’s (Cabot Garage) tow truck, so that it doesn’t get blocked in. She added that the spaces for the post office and the store should be marked as 15-minute parking only. Peggy Miller talked about the parking on Main Street, past the post office and all the way down to the Mason’s Hall. She said that when people park along that part of Main Street during events, it can make driving down the street hazardous. Peggy also talked about how people were used to parking on the common for the 4th of July, and Lori said that people are learning not to do that anymore, and are adjusting to the remote parking. Mike noted to Lori that her draft was a good start, and stated that they should have a dedicated meeting for the policy, and have the business owners attend. Jenn Miner said that the Planning Commision had tried to create a policy in the past, but got a lot of pushback. She said that people would have a different point of view if their house was on fire and the fire truck couldn’t get down the street. The discussion focused on the 4th of July, and Lori said they will have two shuttles running this year from the Elm what he has to work with to get it done. Amy responded that she is meeting with Chris Tormey the next day, who is writing a grant for the field and will know then what needs to be allocated. Mike then spoke about a conversation he had with Peggy Miller. Peg said that there is still debris down at the Larry and Son’s field. She said it's going to take equipment to lift up the panels, and that she wasn’t sure of everything that was still down there. She emphasized that they need to come up with a plan that is backed by bodies and equipment. She mentioned that Tim Gochey, owner of the field, had asked again, months ago, to have the field cleaned up. Peg mentioned that they need an excavator, and Mike said he didn’t want to use the town’s excavator. He said that if someone would volunteer their excavator, then the town could compensate them. Peg mentioned contacting Morgan Churchill, and Camerson said he was the one that helped last summer to get stuff off the field.

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Rec Lighting and Debris

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

Cameron North spoke to the Selectboard at the May 6 meeting regarding lighting at the new basketball courts. He pointed out that he had requested some money in the budget for adding concrete pillars to install the lights (Note: the Selectboard cut the extra money from the budget during budget discussions). He told the board that he discovered the pillars had increased in price when he went to place an order, mentioning that they had almost doubled in price. Cameron then asked if there was any money available. Mike Hogan asked Treasurer Amy Monahan if there was any money left in the FY25 Recreation Committee’s budget. Amy responded that there was about $2500. She then relayed to the board that part of the FEMA submission for damages at the recreation field was for equipment for which the town received $14,000. She said that they have not replaced all of the equipment, and had only used $2000. Mike then asked Amy to reconcile the numbers and let Cameron know exactly

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

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School Flag Pole

by Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

Superintendent Matt Foster informed the school board that only the US flag and the state flag can be flown together on the flag pole, at the April 28 School Board meeting. Matt said that additional non-governmental flags need to be flown on other flag poles. Matt also pointed out the issue of having too many flags on a pole posed a problem when the US flag is flown at half mast. Chris Tormey responded by saying it looks like we need another flag pole. The addition of another flag pole has been discussed in past board meetings for a couple of years. Chris said a new flag pole might cost $800. Matt added that it would be a 16 foot tall aluminum pole. Chris mentioned that Matt’s idea was to wait until the new budget takes effect on July 1, when there would be money to buy a pole. Principal Jennifer Blake relayed a question from an email she received from a parent asking if the decision was a board decision, a community decision, or a school decision. There wasn’t much of a response to the question, and Matt noted that there was only the need for one more flag pole. Jason Monaco reminded the board that the topic of another flagpole was discussed a long time ago. Ellen Cairns noted that Frank Kampf had brought it up when he was on the board. Jason then asked if the board needed to vote on it. Matt said that since it was under $10,000, it would fall under maintenance, and didn’t necessarily need a vote. Jason reminded the board that he has been opposed to the extra flags on the pole. Chris asked the board if they wanted to officially ask the administration to purchase an additional flag pole, and Jason made the motion. But he stated that he didn’t think they should add another pole, and he was in favor of revising the policy to only have the US and Vermont state flags on the existing pole. He added that he felt the other flags were divisive and political. Alicia Heber asked about the policy or procedure for adding any flag. She said that it is more about the process being transparent. Alicia also questioned if either of the other flags are necessary when we make sure the school policies represent the purpose of the flag. Chris asked the board if they should postpone the discussion on purchasing a second pole so they could have a discussion about the need for a second pole. He said that they could discuss it at the May meeting. Ellen wondered if they could go back and look at the notes since the subject had been discussed before, adding that she thought they had made a decision before. Chris proposed the history of flag policy and process be reviewed at the next meeting. Malissa Pratt moved to table the motion until the next meeting, which was approved by the board. Jennifer asked if the additional flags could remain for now, and Chris told her “Yes.”

In 1847, George Rogers donated land near the four-corners intersection of roads in East Cabot for a cemetery, and around 1886, a small, one-room school was built nearby. Walter Abbott, then only 17 years old, became a school director. Years later his daughter Inez, who later married Wendell Goodrich, and his grandchildren, Ilene and Walter Goodrich, attended the little one-room school. Arecca Gamblin taught at East Cabot around 1928 or 29. She had 38 students her first year and her salary was $76 a month. She paid Frank and Carrie O’Conner $30 each month for board and room. The O’Conner farm was directly across the road from the school where Carla Payne’s house is now. The East Cabot school was designated a “Superior School” by the State of Vermont when Arecca taught there.

Stooks at Molly Brook Farm, looking west at the school (white building, center) and the O’Conner farm on the road left of the trees. Molly Brook follows the tree line beyond the hayfield.

Iris Wooster taught at East Cabot in 1933-34. She had 28 students, four of them from across the town line in Peacham – three Bean children and Gilbert Houghton. Other students that year were the Archambault, Beaton, and Blouin youngsters, two Fish children, four or five Sargent children, four Shatney’s, Hazel and Warren Stevens, Inez Goodrich, and Ernest White. By 1938 enrollment was down to 15. The downward trend continued, and when WWII broke out, families moved away and fewer young people were available to farm and raise families. Young women went to work in factories where they could make more money than teaching school, and teachers became scarce. To fill the vacancies, married women were recruited and the state issued temporary certificates that allowed them to teach even if their teaching credentials were outdated or incomplete. After the war, some young men and women didn’t return to family farms and rural school enrollments dwindled even more. Wendell Goodrich served on the Cabot School Board in the 1940s when the town struggled to meet the demands of supporting the four remaining oneroom schools. It was decided that the Plains School, Lower Cabot, and East Cabot could be closed. South Cabot would remain open – it was a relatively new building and could accommodate the East Cabot students. Lower Cabot and the Plains students would go to school in the village. There was strong opposition to abandoning Cabot’s one-room schools, but in l948 the three one-room schools were closed, leaving only South Cabot school. Mrs. Maida Brown from Danville was teaching at East Cabot that final year. The East Cabot school building was sold at auction to Frank O’Conner for $1,025 and was later remodeled as a private residence. It is still standing at the corner of Mack Mountain Road and U. S. Route 2.

E. Cabot School group, c.1938, Back row: Onis Shatney Gates, Fernande Blouin, Rob Bean, Janet Deenan, Iona Shatney, Louella Bean, Walt Goodrich, Warren Stevens. Front row: Nelson White, Kenneth Bean, Ina Day, Pauline Blouin, Ruby Shatney, Roger Blouin, Mrs. Houghton (teacher).

Over time, several of East Cabot’s small farms were abandoned. People moved away or died, farmsteads burned or fell down, and the landscape changed from crops and cows to fields and forests. There are two farms still operating along Molly Brook: Knight Abbott’s Molly Brook Farm on Cow Hill Road is now operated by his great, great grandson Myles Goodrich, with a fine herd of Jersey cows; and the place formerly owned by Nelson White on the far side of Mollys Pond, is a certified organic farm now owned by Matt Lindstrom. Today hundreds of vehicles pass through East Cabot to and from St. Johnsbury, Montpelier, and other destinations. Tourists often stop to take photos of picturesque Molly’s Pond, and they might be surprised to know what a thriving community East Cabot once was. The two working farms there are a visual reminder of Cabot’s strong agricultural past that is gradually slipping away.

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District 7, East Cabot School

John Heath was the first individual to settle in what is now known as East Cabot. He was the son of Lt. Jonathan Heath, who was the second recorded settler in Cabot on Cabot Plain. According to Abby Maria Hemenway’s Vermont Historical Magazine, published between 1867 and 1891, young Heath selected a location near Molly’s Pond in 1783. He arrived with one stag, which he used for transportation and hauling logs when clearing his land. William Morse, Leonard Orcutt, and others followed Heath, building where roads and trails from Peacham, Danville, and Cabot converged. Soon there was a sawmill, a store, a blacksmith shop, and several small farms in the valley near Molly’s Brook. East Cabot had little traffic in the early years. When business moved from the Plain to the Center in the 1790s, commerce followed, and for a time the steep Bayley-Hazen military road remained the main route from Danville and Peacham to Cabot. Market Road was established in 1820 to bypass the climb; however, it went directly to Walden Heights, which impacted businesses on the Plain and at the Center. In 1829, a new route past Molly’s Pond and through East Cabot created another route to the Center and Village and became part of the County Road to Montpelier. It, too, was steep, but it brought more commerce through East Cabot. John Clark then opened "The Pond House" tavern in East Cabot for travelers.

Abbott Family at Molly Brook Farm, 1898

In 1830, some East Cabot men proposed a new road from Molly’s Pond to Marshfield that would follow Molly Brook to avoid going over Danville Hill. Cabot business owners vigorously opposed it, but after repeated petitions and court contests, approval was granted in 1865 and Molly Brook Road became the main route to Montpelier. It later became part of the Theodore Roosevelt International Highway, one of Vermont’s earliest paved highways. The last section was paved in 1927. We now know it as U.S. Route 2.

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ADVICE FROM THE TREE WARDEN

Spring is in full swing, and gardening and landscaping are projects on every todo list this month. As you plan your spring plantings, please consider the following: Planting Native: A Wise Decision for Our Environment When it comes to gardening and landscaping, choosing the right plants can significantly enhance your garden and benefit the local ecosystem. It is important to be aware of the problems caused by invasive plants and prioritize native plants when making your selections. Native plants are those that have evolved naturally in a region, creating a harmonious relationship with the local soil, climate, and wildlife. They offer numerous benefits, making them an essential part of any responsible gardening effort.

Benefits of Native Plants Adaptation to Local Conditions:

Native plants are naturally adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, meaning they require less maintenance, water, and fertilizers. Their deep-root systems help stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, and improve water quality.

Supporting Local Wildlife: Native

plants provide food and habitat for local wildlife, including birds, insects, and other animals. By planting native species, you are helping to preserve the biodiversity of your area. Native plants also have superior pest and disease resistance because native plants have co-evolved with local pests; they are more resistant to diseases and pests compared to non-native species, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and insecticides and promoting a healthier, more organic environment. Native plants are well-suited to the local rainfall patterns and require less supplemental watering. This is particularly important during periods of drought.

Choosing the Right Plants

When selecting plants for your garden or landscape, it is crucial to research and choose species that are well-suited to your local environment. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices:

Local Resources: Use local gardening

guides, online native plant guides, and extension services to identify the best native plants for our area. Understand Your Site: Assess the conditions of your planting site, including soil type, sunlight, and moisture levels, to choose plants that will thrive in those conditions. Start Small: If you are new to native

gardening, start with a small area and gradually expand as you become more familiar with the plants and their needs. Diversity is Key: Plant a variety of native species to create a resilient and diverse ecosystem in your garden. By choosing to plant native species, you are making a positive impact on the environment and contributing to the health and sustainability of your local ecosystem. While non-native plants may offer temporary aesthetic appeal, their longterm impacts on the environment can be detrimental. My advice as the Tree Warden is clear: embrace native plants, support local biodiversity, and create a beautiful, sustainable garden that will thrive for generations to come. Remember, the choices you make in your garden can have far-reaching effects. Plant thoughtfully and follow nature's guidance.

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Steven Bronstein

On May 5, WCAX’s weekly exploration of Vermont-made products, “Made in Vermont,” featured Steven Bronstein, blacksmith and owner of Blackthorne Forge on US Route 2 in Marshfield. Elissa Borden interviewed him about discovering blacksmithing, choosing his pieces, and how he feels about the work. “If I’m at a loss with what to do, I’ll heat up a piece of metal and just start banging,” he says. To read the story or watch the WCAX video, go to: https://www.wcax.com/2025/05/05/madevermont-blackthorne-forge/ or go to

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

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Funds Available for Community Organizations

The CCA Community Grant Fund allows the CCA to support community-based projects and events that further the mission of the CCA. This is funded by the generous support of the Cabot Creamery and other donors. Funds are awarded to non-governmental organizations.

Arts-sponsored community performances, Cabot Night at Mountaineers games and Little League uniforms. Guidelines and application form is available at:

http://www.cabotvermont.org/community grant-fund/ grant fund/

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Susan Alexander Re-Elected to WEC Board

Thank you to all the members who voted and who attended WEC's 86th Annual Membership Meeting. There will be complete coverage in the June/July

Co-op Currents. Thank you to all candidates and congratulations to Susan Alexander, Betsy Allen and Bill Powell for volunteering to serve on the WEC Board of Directors for the next three years.

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Cabot Ecological Inventory Study Completed

Matt Peters (center) leading a natural communities field walk at Talbert Farm Trails and visiting a Rich Fen natural community.

by Gary Gulka The Conservation Committee has completed a town-wide ecological or natural resources inventory that was started in 2020. Local consulting ecologist, Matt Peters, was retained to conduct the study and field work. The goals of the study were to gain knowledge of the most ecologically significant places in Cabot, to provide information supporting local land use planning, and to help residents learn about, enjoy and steward those ecologically significant places on their land. Cabot now joins the surrounding towns Plainfield, Calais, Marshfield, and Hardwick in completing an ecological inventory. The study focused on natural community types found in Cabot. A total of 54 properties where visited where landowner access permission was granted. Vermont recognizes about 120 community types, about 37 of which are found in Cabot. Natural community highlights from this study include an unusual abundance of enriched communities, often associated with the calcareous Waits River Formation bedrock. These include rare Rich and Intermediate Fens, Calcareous Red Maple-Tamarack Swamps, and uncommon Northern White Cedar Swamps, Seepage Forests and Swee Gale Shoreline Swamps, as well as Rich Northern Hardwood Forests. Matt Peters presented the report at a public meeting on April 29 in the Willey Building. The full Ecologial Inventory Report can be accessed on the home page of the Cabot town website (cabotvt.us). We encourage you to take a look at the report, which has a wealth of maps and photos of inventory findings, including pictures of significant natural communities and maps of where they are found. Matt conducted a field walk on May 3 to visit several significant natural communities on the Talbert Farm Trails. A second field walk is planned in June. The Cabot Conservation Committee now has the background and a wealth of information about Cabot’s natural resources to share and build upon.

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Did You Build Something or Knock it Down? Revised Property Values as of April 1

Don’t Wait If You Have Questions

Property owners with changes to their property since April 2, 2024, but by April 1, 2025, can expect a Change of Appraisal Notice from the Cabot Listers, mailed the first week in June. If there are no changes, you won’t receive a notice and your 2025 property tax bill will be based on the same value as last year. Change of appraisal notices will be mailed to the last known address of the owner as of April 1 (according to statute). If your mailing address has changed in the past year, please notify the Cabot town office. An undeliverable address can result in you not receiving a notice; you may miss the opportunity to contest the value, and you will still be responsible for the resulting tax bill. We don’t want that to happen, and neither do you. If you believe there are data errors in your valuation, a grievance must be received by June 24 in writing (32 VSA § 4111) to be valid. Meetings in person for hearing grievances and making corrections will be held at Town Hall by scheduled appointment June 24, 2025, unless other arrangements are agreed upon. Grievances may alternatively be mailed, emailed, or placed in the drop box at the rear of the Willey Building by the deadline, June 24. After this grievance period, changes for the 2025 tax year cannot be considered by Listers, and adjustments to the Grand List may only be made by approval of the Selectboard until the end of the calendar year, at which time the Grand List is permanently locked. Any property owner may grieve their appraised value, whether or not there has been a value change. Call, email or write (802-563-3139 / [email protected] / PO Box 36, Cabot 05647) early in June with questions, to update your contact information or to have a Lister card emailed for your review.

Cabot Board of Listers: Jeanne Johnson

- Jacqueline Lumbra - Brittany Butler

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We Want Your Input on Zoning and Subdivision

The Cabot planning commission is requesting your input for a survey regarding updates to the town’s zoning regulations, including a new section for subdivision. In 2023, the State of Vermont passed the Housing Opportunities Made for Everyone (HOME) Act. The Act amends the Planning and Development statute, Act 250, and other laws to enable new opportunities for housing development within state, regional, and local planning and development regulations. Within the act are provisions that require municipalities to have subdivision review within their bylaws. Subdivision regulations are meant to ensure that the division of land into smaller units results in lots or parcels that are useable and safe and reflect the physical characteristics of the site.

Currently, the town of Cabot does not have formal subdivision regulations. Subdivision is allowed within existing districts and can move forward as long as the end use of the property conforms to zoning requirements for that district. Subdivision is not allowed under current regulations if it would create a nonconforming use. The goal of updating the zoning code to allow subdivision is to bring the town into compliance with current state law. Bringing Cabot’s zoning regulations would do the following:  Create a definition and regulation for “Major Subdivisions”. A major subdivision would go through formal review by the Cabot Development Review Board (DRB) and successful review will result in the issuance of a subdivision permit.  Create a definition and regulation for “Minor Subdivisions”. A minor subdivision would go through a review process by the Zoning Administrator, but will not trigger review and approval by the DRB. This process would also result in the issuance of a subdivision permit for a successful review.  Create a definition and requirement for “Exemptions”.  Define procedures and requirements for design, submission, and processing of plats  Establish standards for the design and

layout of all public facilities  Establish standards for the design and

configuration of parcels or lots; and  Establish standards for the protection

of natural and cultural resources and open space.

The Survey will be available Starting June 1, 2025, and will include four open ended questions to collect your input on zoning requirements for the town. You will find the survey on the town website, via social media, and available in person at the clerk’s office. The survey will be available until the closing date of July 31, 2025. You can bring any questions on the survey to the Planning Commission during public comment every third Thursday of the month.

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Resources for the Ecological Gardener

Are you interested in beautiful plants that need minimal care? Would you like more insects, birds, and other creatures in your yard? Do you think varied assortments of plants in public spaces are kind of cool? You might just be an ecological gardener! Recently I had the opportunity to host a gardening Q & A at the Cabot Library. I was very happy to find that the attendees, like me, were interested in plants both for their beauty, AND their ecological value. I know there are many more like-minded folks out there, so this month I’m going to highlight some of my favorite resources for ecological gardening.

The Native Plant Trust, and the Garden Plant finder tool

The Native Plant Trust, based in Massachusetts, is the nation’s first plant conservation organization, and the only one solely focused on New England’s native plants. They are the stewards of Garden in the Woods, a native plant botanical garden in Massachusetts, as well as six native plant sanctuaries in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, all open to the public. NPT operates a native plant nursery at Nasami Farm, where they grow plants for sale, and for restoration projects. They offer programs and classes incorporating botany, conservation, botanically inspired art and writing, and ecological gardening. And on the NPT website, you can access the excellent Garden Plant finder tool. Choose just the right plant for your garden or landscape by applying filters such as mature size, bloom color and time, amount of sunlight, even whether deer and rabbits are likely to leave it alone.

Homegrown National Park

Homegrown National Park is both a concept, and an organization. To paraphrase from their website: Our National Parks, no matter how grand, are too small and separated from one another to preserve species to the levels needed.

Homegrown National Park is a call-toaction to restore habitat where we live and work, because all humans need healthy, productive ecosystems to survive. The HNP website has a wealth of information about ecological gardening and landscaping, and tools to help you connect your little corner of the world to others across the country. If your ability to contribute is a single native potted plant on your doorstep, you can be on the Homegrown National Park biodiversity map!

The Ecological Landscape Alliance

The Ecological Landscape Alliance is an organization of garden and landscape enthusiasts, including landscape architects, conservation professionals, landscape designers, installation & maintenance professionals, botany and ecology scientists, and home gardeners. ELA is dedicated to increasing the resilience and biodiversity of landscapes and gardens, by using native plants and thoughtful landscape design. The ELA publishes articles on ecology and botany, and hosts excellent webinars and inperson events. There are great book lists published by all three of these organizations, but I’d like to highlight two of my favorites. Both include lots of lovely plant pictures, descriptions of their growth habits, and their potential uses in a garden.

Native Plants for New England Gardens Mark Richardson and Dan Jaffe (New England Wild Flower Society and Globe Pequot Press, 2018)

The Northeast Native Plant Primer: 235 Plants for an Earth-Friendly Garden Uli Lorimer (Native Plant Trust and Timber Press, 2022)

Happy June, and happy gardening!

This garden article is brought to you by Susan Socks, aka the Garden Goddess. Stay tuned for upcoming articles on green lawn care, pruning, garden tools, edible landscapes, native plants, and more. For gardening and landscape help, visit the Garden Goddess page at www.SocksFamilyFarm.weebly.com,

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

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Biggest Payout Ever!

Spring made its grand entrance at Joe’s Pond on April 17 at 8:41

PM, marking the official Ice Out for 2025. After a classic Vermont winter—complete with ice fishing, parasailing, and even our brave biker—the ice has finally given way to open water. This year’s Ice Out Contest was one for the books, with a record-breaking 16,000+ tickets sold! That’s up from last year’s impressive 15,000, and nearly half of the tickets were purchased online—another new high! Congratulations to our 2025 Ice Out Winner: John Vincent of Wadsworth, Ohio. John guessed April 17 at 8:38 PM, just three minutes off the official time. Even more impressive? He’s never actually been to Joe’s Pond. John follows the contest from afar through our website, while his brother keeps the family tradition alive by picking up tickets each year at Hastings Store and handing them out as holiday gifts. John was thrilled to win and hopes to attend the May meeting to collect his winnings of over $7,700 in person (another record). Check out Jane Brown’s blog and the Joe’s Pond website to see more fun stats or get answers to your Ice Out questions. Thanks to everyone who participated and made this year’s contest such a success.

Michelle Walker, Diane Rossi, Mary- Anne Cassani, Theresa Dimick, Larry Rossi

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Agri-Mark/Cabot Creamery Cooperative Welcomes Elizabeth “Liz” Suchey as Vice President, Marketing

Agri-Mark / Cabot Creamery Cooperative is pleased to announce that Elizabeth “Liz” Suchy has joined their leadership team as vice president, marketing. Suchy has over two decades of experience leading strategic brand development, corporate growth, and innovation for some of the nation’s most recognized food and consumer brands. “Liz brings energy, insight, and a genuine connection and love for the Cabot brand,” said David Lynn, President and CEO. “She has a strong track record of building brands and leading teams, and her experience in the consumer-packaged goods space, especially with a farmer-owned cooperative, makes her a natural fit for Agri-Mark.” Suchy has led strategic brand development for some of the most trusted names in the grocery aisle, including Goldfish®, Milano®, Ocean Spray®, and PAAS® Easter Egg Decorating Kits. She most recently led marketing for Signature Brands, LLC — the parent company of PAAS®, Pumpkin Masters®, and Betty Crocker® Dessert Decorating products. Previously, Suchy worked at Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., where she led the farmer cooperative’s beverage business and drove incremental growth through consumer targeting, product positioning and optimizing investment strategies. In her new role with Agri-Mark, Suchy will lead the company’s marketing efforts with a primary focus on the iconic farmer-owned Cabot brand. She will oversee and lead brand strategy, marketing planning and execution, retail growth, plus business and consumer insights.

“It’s an honor to join Cabot — a brand I’ve admired and enjoyed for as long as I can remember. As a lifelong fan, I know the pride and passion that goes into every product, and I’m excited to help bring that story to more consumers in more meaningful ways,” said Suchy.

About Agri-Mark, Inc.

Agri-Mark is a dairy cooperative and certified B-Corp owned by hundreds of farm families throughout New England and Upstate New York. Their farmers produce high quality milk, which is crafted into award-winning products like Cabot Creamery’s cheddar, butter, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, sour cream and New York’s finest cheese brand, McCadam. In addition, Agri- Mark produces whey and milk protein products that are distributed globally. Tolearnmore , visit www.agrimark.coop.

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CVCOA Sponsors Veterinary Clinic Morristown, June 17

Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA) is sponsoring a free veterinary clinic through The Mitzvah Fund at Meals on Wheels of Lamoille County on Tuesday, June 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Income-eligible individuals who are 60 or older can sign up to have their cat or dog seen and treated free of charge. Contact Kimberly Lipinski, CVCOA Director of Nutrition and Wellness, at 802- 476-2739 to reserve an appointment. Please get in touch before June 3. This service is open to adults age 60+ who meet the income qualifications or express special financial need. Available services include exams, vaccinations, nail trimming, flea/tick products, heartworm products, blood and lab tests, dental care, small surgeries, and medications. Services will be determined during the phone consultation and review of the pet's medical records. The veterinarian will prioritize appointments and will add technician appointments for additional pets that only need nail trims, ear cleanings, or gland expressions.

On the day of the clinic, each animal who sees the veterinarian will receive an exam and any appropriate vaccines. They may also receive a blood test if they need a Heartworm/Lyme test or if they need a future anesthetic event. One participant who accessed free veterinary care through this partnership with The Mitzvah Fund said, "They performed $2,200 worth of services on my 13-year-old cat. She's 13 years old, and without the Mitzvah Fund, I don't know what would have happened." Meals on Wheels of Lamoille County is located at 21 Munson Ave, Morristown. For additional information, please visit https://cvcoa.org/calendar.

Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA) supports older Central Vermonters to age with dignity and choice in 54 towns. Visit the CVCOA website at www.cvcoa.org or call the CVCOA Helpline at 1-802-477-1364 for more information or assistance. CVCOA is located at 59 North Main Street, Suite 200 in Barre with regional offices located in Morrisville and Randolph.

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Jaquith Public Library Update

Upcoming Events in June at the Jaquith Public Library

All events are free and held at the Jaquith Library unless noted otherwise. For more info: 802-426-3581 or email: [email protected] or visit our website: www.jaquithpubliclibrary.org

Fascism Workshop Tuesday, June 17 at 6 pm

Is there such a thing as personal responsibility under fascism? The German -Jewish philosopher Hannah Arendt discovered after the war that what many Germans later described as fearful compliance with Hitler’s regime was not obedience but rather consent. What is the difference between being forced to live under tyranny and consenting to it, and is powerlessness a valid excuse? Come out on June 17 at 6 pm to join a discussion led by Vermont philosopher Eric Levi Jacobson, and Otto Muller, former faculty at Goddard College.

Migrant Justice Rapid Response Training Thursday, June 19 at 6:30 pm

Migrant Justice is doing a series of Rapid Response Trainings around the state. The training will include some historical context and why rapid response readiness is necessary at this time and in our community. We'll learn how allies can work in solidarity to prevent immigration arrests, intervene when possible and mobilize support after arrests happen. This training is for anyone who wants to be prepared to show up to support our immigrant neighbors in the event of immigration arrest emergencies.

Morning Programs with Nicky Auerbach for Kids Birth to Age Seven Six weeks of Fridays from June 20 to August 1 Story time and snack at 10:30 am followed by activities until 12 pm Join Nicky for fun activities based on the theme, “Color Our World”. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and messy! Nicky has a Master's Degree in education and loves to create fun learning opportunities for children.

Join us for Summer Fun Nights For people of all ages on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm Starting on June 25 through July 30 We have great presenters to amaze and amuse us all! Our first one is:

A Fun Evening with our local 4H Club, The Marshfield Monarchs! Wednesday, June 25 ,at 6:30 pm

4-H kids will share what 4H is all about and present some projects we're working on this year. Visit with live farm animals like goats, sheep, chickens and rabbits. Maybe you'll be inspired to start your own 4H group!

The Marshfield Resilience Hub Farmers Market starts on June 21! Join us each Saturday from 10

am to 1 pm at the Old Schoolhouse Common for local vendors, live music, and free community-led Skill Shares. Vending space is free, so if you are interested in applying as a vendor, leading a class (we provide a small stipend), or playing on the gazebo stage, please find the application on the Front Porch Forum Business Directory listing for Marshfield Farmers Market or email [email protected] .

Sign-up for the Summer Reading Challenge and win prizes and a book Here’s how: 1. Come to the library and sign up to read! We will give you a reading log and stickers so you can keep track of your own progress. For every 15 minutes you read, or you are read to, put a sticker on your reading log. Jot down the title of your book. Earn 50 stickers—win a prize and book of your choice.

Spring Story Time and Playgroup Fridays from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm

Join us for story, song, snack, craft and free play! Outside unless the weather is frightful! For children birth to age six and their grown-ups. We follow the Twinfield Union School calendar and do not hold the program on the days Twinfield is closed.

All Hands Together Community Crafting Group on Tuesdays 4:30 to 6 pm and the fourth Saturday of every month 11:30 am to 1 pm Bring whatever craft you are working on or start a new project. All ages are welcome if they are old enough to be sitting and working on a craft. Knitting and spinning maven, Donna Hisson from Marshfield, is the host of the group.

Baby & Caregivers Meet-up with Good Beginnings Every Wednesday from 10:30 to 11:30 am Join us for our weekly gatherings where caregivers can relax and connect while their babies play and explore in a calm, supportive setting. Geared toward babies ages birth to 18 months and their caregivers. Siblings can come along as well.

The Marshfield Community Garden Needs You!!

The Marshfield Community Garden is seeking committed volunteers to help weed and harvest the garden. If you are interested, please contact the Jaquith Public Library at 802-426-3581 and we will add you to our garden email list.

Did you know you can visit a museum, go for a swim or hike at the Vermont State Parks, and visit a historical site all for free? The Jaquith has free Vermont State Park and museum passes for one- and three-day loans. You can use the Vermont State Park Day Pass in any of the state parks. The museums you can visit include: ECHO ($7 charge per person up to 4 people), Vermont Historical Museum, Shelburne Farms Museum, Fairbanks Museum, Birds of Vermont Museum, and the Vermont State Historic Sites. We also have passes for Ben & Jerry’s and $1 discount coupons for the Montshire Museum. The Montshire Museum has a “Warm Welcome” program with $3 admission for VT and NH residents with an EBT card, adult Medicaid card, or a free/reduced price school meals letter, with a limit of six visitors. You can call ahead to reserve any of our museum and state park passes.

Support the Jaquith Library by ordering through Just Food Hub The Jaquith Library is raising money by collaborating with Just Food Hub, a profit-free, volunteer-run coop in Marshfield that helps raise funds for organizations and groups. The library will receive 25% of all sales. Just Food Hub is a company that provides authentically fairtraded food sourced from worker coops in the Global South and small organic farms in Palestine and the US. This is an ongoing fundraiser; order any time!

Coffee, tea, chocolate, nuts, Palestinian olive oil, Palestinian dates, local honey, local maple syrup, gift baskets, and more! Delivery is free to 18 towns including Marshfield. Order online: justfoodhub.us/jaquith-library/.

For instant gratification come to the Jaquith Library where you can buy chocolate, teas, cashews and mangos.

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CABOT PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS

LIBRARY HOURS: Monday noon

- 6 pm, Tuesday 10 am - 6 pm, Wednesday 2 - 6 pm, Thursday noon - 6 pm, and Saturday 9 amnoon. Curbside library service is still available during regular library hours.

Vermont State Parks and other centers are open for your summer enjoyment! Call or email to borrow these passes: State Park Pass – Free entry up to 8 people in one vehicle to a Vermont State Park - day area; Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium – Free Family Admission; Historic Sites pass – Free entry up to 8 people in one vehicle for Vermont State Historic Sites; The Old Stone House Museum and Historic Village in Brownington, Vermont – Free entry with pass; ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain –

Aquarium and Science Center - $7 admission for up to 4 people; Vermont History Museum/ Vermont Heritage

Galleries – Free entry with Family Pass.

Summer Programming starts June 17 and this year’s theme is Color Our World! - We’re excited to embark on a journey of art and creativity, celebrating the myriad ways in which art enriches our lives. For updates, check cabotlibrary.com & Front Porch Forum. All programs are free and all are welcome!

Summer Reading Program (ages birth - 18) - June 17 - August 13 - Come to the library, pick up your reading chart and stickers to earn prizes. It's easy! Read or be read to for 15 minutes a day for 15 days. Younger participants earn a T-shirt, book and an additional prize of their choice. 1000 Page Club - Older participants that complete the 1000 page challenge earn a book and an ice cream. Get ready to read!

Mah Jongg - Tuesdays, starting

June 3rd - 10am - Noon - Learn the ancient tile game, meet new friends and neighbors and maybe competitors. Kathleen Chatot will be offering introductory lessons for all levels with regular games taking place each Tuesday. Game sets will be available for use, no equipment is needed. Both fun and challenging, the game of Man Jongg is said to improve memory, decision-making skills and patience. For more information about Mah Jongg visit - nationalmahjonggleague.org

Cabot Book Group – Thursday, June 19 - 2- 3 pm - James by Percival Everett - When Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a man in New Orleans, separated from his wife and daughter forever, he runs away until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck has faked his own death to escape his violent father. As all readers of American literature know, thus begins the dangerous and transcendent journey by raft down the Mississippi River toward the elusive and unreliable promise of the Free States and beyond.All are welcome!

– Copies of this book will be available in the library for you to borrow. Email [email protected] for more info and to be added to the book group email list.

Dungeons and Dragons (ages 9 - 13) - Ongoing - Tuesdays through June 10

- 3:30 - 5:00 pm - Join Losada Stoddard as DM for our D&D campaign. Learn how to build a Dungeons and Dragons character, and then set out on your Adventures. No experience necessary! Come for the mysteries and magic, tails and talons, puzzles and prophecies! Snacks provided.

Story and Activity Time - Summer

Session (ages birth - 5+) - Wednesdays, starting June 18 - 10:30 - Noon Cabot Rec Field Pavilion - Join youth librarian Amanda Otto and special guests for stories, songs, snacks, crafts and open play! All are welcome!

The Art of Ultimate Frisbee (all ages)

- Thursday, June 26 - 6 - 7:30 pm - Cabot Common - Learn the art of ultimate with Bill, John and Chris Delgaudio. Learn the basics of how to throw, catch and play the game of frisbee. Ice cream for all participants!

Thanks so much to our Saturday volunteers: Vicky Palmer, Christina Sacalis, Elizabeth Vitale, Marianne Robotham and Beth Wade and to Losada Stoddard for running our D&D program on Tuesday afternoons. Additional thanks to the following youth for participating in our Community Service Program: Freya Van Deusen, Ella and Luca Lacelle, Tito Arenal-Belanger, Spencer, Lucas and Orion Vitale and to Anna Helfand and Alia Clary for their help organizing clothes for our Spring/Summer Clothing Swap. We are so grateful to our Library Trustees who provide support and direction: Angela Ogle, Taeryn Robbins, Kurt Steinert, Erin Ruddell, and Leah Sare.

Kathleen Hoyne – Library Director Amanda Otto – Youth Librarian

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TWIN VALLEY SENIOR UPDATE

Donations Appreciated Support TVSC by making a donation to support the services we offer to your friends, relatives and neighbors. Online at https://www.twinvalleyseniors.org/donate or via mail to PO Box 152, E. Montpelier, VT 05651.

Estate Planning June 4

Estate Planning Workshop at Twin Valley Senior Center - Attorney Claudia Pringles and Financial Advisor Nick Hart will return to the Twin Valley Senior Center at 12:30 p.m. on June 4 for an informal discussion on Estate Planning. With plenty of opportunity for Q&A, they will be happy to answer questions on estate planning-related topics such as Advance Directives, long-term care (nursing home), Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Trusts. Lunch is at noon - $6 over 60 and $7 under 60. The event is free following lunch.

P.O. Box 152 East Montpelier, VT 05651 802-223-3322 [email protected] Hot Dog Fridays HOT DOG - IT’S FRIDAY! At Twin Valley Senior Center and EVERY FRI- DAY FROM 11:30 TO 12:30 $2.00 GRAB & GO HOT DOG & DRINK WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

Foot Clinics June 20 & 27

Healthy Feet are Happy Feet. Foot clinic appointments available on June 20 & 27. Call 802-223-3322.

Twin Valley Senior Center is located at 4583 US Route 2, East Montpelier.

Part of this story may be missing here. See the original pages, page 13 onward.

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Prepare for the Next Emergency: REGISTER NOW!

Emergencies can take many forms. Ice storms, floods, fires, major traffic accidents and similar events can cause power outages, isolate individuals or

disabilities, such events, if prolonged, can become life-threatening if no one is available to help.

The Citizens Assistance Registry for Emergencies program was created to help. CARE helps emergency responders identify Vermonters who might need special assistance in case of a wide-scale event.

NOTE: Registration in CARE does not guarantee a person’s safety. It is the registrant’s responsibility to call 911 if they have an emergency and need medical, police or fire responders. CARE is a tool designed to assist

wide-scale emergency.

For information on how to register online, visit e911.vermont.gov/care or call the town clerk’s office (802-563-2279) for a form to fill out.

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School Forum Draws a Crowd

by Chris Tormey Several dozen interested community members gathered on April 30 at the Willey Building to get an update on school reform legislation being considered this spring in Montpelier and to air their concerns. The “Public Education Town Hall” was organized by the Cabot School Sustainability Committee, Vermont School Workers United, and engaged community members. After introductions and time for the 80+ attendees to get a light dinner at long tables, two presenters brought the group up to speed on the factors driving up both school costs and local tax rates. Nikhil Goyal (a sociologist from UVM who joined from India via Zoom) emphasized the impact that uncontrolled health care costs continue to have on school budgets, and that nothing in the current reform legislation addresses that. Stephanie Yu, the Executive Director of the Public Assets Institute in Montpelier, explained the factors largely beyond local school boards’ control that were behind the one-third of school budgets that were rejected in 2024. Rather than instituting an entirely new “foundation grant” plan to fund schools, she laid out how updates to the existing Act 68 funding law could both reduce taxes on low- and middle- income Vermonters and increase the share paid by wealthier Vermonters. Next Margaret Maclean, spokesperson for the statewide Rural School Community Alliance of 80+ small school districts, gave an update of the school reform bill (H454) currently being crafted by lawmakers at the Statehouse. Although the Senate version of the bill removed the required minimum class and school sizes that would likely lead to dozens of small schools being closed statewide, Margaret emphasized that much could still change in the bill before a final vote in May or early June. Attendees next discussed both their hopes/dreams for public education here and their concerns with the current bill, and the responses from tables were diverse and passionate. Following up on the comments from three Cabot School Student Council members who led off the meeting describing the value of their small school, several tables asked why the State was intent on blowing up the current system of governance and funding if the impact on school costs was so uncertain. Others asked that legislators get a better idea of what actually goes on in small rural schools before adopting new laws that would close them. Other speakers cited the huge impact that school closures would likely have on the small communities that have supported them: “What young family will consider moving to a small town that has no school of its own but rather a daily 90minute bus ride each way for their young kids to attend a larger school?” Four legislators attended the meeting: Senator Anne Watson of Washington County, along with Representatives Kate McCann, Leann Harple and Greg Burtt. They shared their perspectives following the table discussions, and each was appreciative of the chance to hear from constituents. When one community member asked pointedly near the meeting’s end, “What can we do from Cabot to head this bill off?” several of the legislators emphasized the power that hearing from many constituents can have on lawmakers’ votes on a given issue, and encouraged attendees to keep up the pressure as the bill moves in some form in the coming weeks towards a final vote.

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