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The Cabot Chronicle

August 2026 · 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 August 2026 pages (PDF)

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

In This Issue

Caledonia-Washington District

With the closing of four dairy processing facilities across the state this year, it’s time that our legislature and the relevant state agencies take action to support our farms, our businesses, and rural Vermont. Last month, when Dairy Farmers of America announced the idling of the Saint Albans plant, a meeting was arranged to hear from members of the board. Myself and about ten other legislators were there. Lieutenant Governor Rodgers, Secretary Tebbetts of the Agency of Agriculture, the Deputy Secretary of the Agency of Natural Resources, and roughly 100 farmers were in attendance. Two of the farmers spoke as members of the DFA board and explained the reasoning for halting operations at the plant. The scoop in a nutshell is that the plant is struggling to be profitable. Two hours were spent telling a similar storyVermont farms and businesses are walking a knife edge to stay viable. Many businesses are moving out of state and while farms close their doors here, farms further west are expanding. Vermont can and must do better. Along with several others, I spoke about a path forward: The legislature, the Governor’s office, and state agencies, can leverage every angle possible to move the needle for our farms and businesses. We need to take a good look at what regulations are causing undue burden and amend or remove them.

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Cabot Chronicle Mission Statement:

Our agencies, including ANR, need to shift focus toward a customer facing policy. Even with the current rules and statute in place, ANR can make sure it helps businesses and farms see their projects through successfully. I’ve heard too many cases of permitting costing millions of dollars with timelines running into years of waiting for small businesses. This is not sustainable. Sustainable solutions need to encompass environmental stewardship while also addressing financial stewardship. Families count on these businesses for jobs. In the meantime, agencies such as the ANR require a tremendous amount of taxes. Over regulation then has a double impact on the working class. We can shift to a system that enables innovation and entrepreneurialism, works to support the working lands, small businesses, and the people who work them, and minimizes the tax burden on our state. We are at a crucial point and we need to act quickly. I’m glad to see Governor Scott’s Executive Order this week. It tasks the Executive agencies with finding all reasonable avenues to reduce health care costs. Decreased healthcare costs are a necessity for everyone - for employees and employers, for retirees and folks entering the workforce, and (more generally) for taxpayers. We need good financial stewardship in every portion of state government in order to move in the direction that folks have been waiting too long for. So, even though the legislative session has wrapped up, my job hasn’t. I’m going to keep working as your state rep so long as you’ll have me.

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The Worst Fairy Tale Ever

by Karen Mueller-Harder Hope to see you at the show!

On Friday, August 14, at 4:00 p.m., the actors in Cabot Community Theater's summer theater camp will perform a hilarious family-friendly short play in the Cabot School Performing Arts Center (25 Common Road in Cabot, behind the main school building). “The Worst Fairy Tale Ever” is a rollicking tale of a theater group attempting to stage a world premiere of a new play called “The Greatest Fairy Tale Ever,” but things...just don’t go well! Admission is free, and the building is cool and wheelchair accessible. The play is about 20 minutes long, and will be enjoyed by audience members of all ages, so bring your family and friends!

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Cabot Ambulance Report

by Ruth Goodrich, President ask for Ruth OR mail a letter of interest to: Cabot Emergency Ambulance Ser-

are 75. They are a mix of medical, trauma & motor vehicle accidents. Our crew has performed wonderfully well under some challenging circumstances. We are always looking for individuals who are willing to go above and beyond in the service to our community. Many of our members over the years have gone on to make a full-time career in EMS. Training is available and with a two-year commitment, Cabot Ambulance will pay for that training. If you

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August 16, 2026 , 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

The Cabot Chronicle is published monthly and is provided locally free of charge.

No part of this paper may be reproduced without express written permission from The Cabot Chronicle . Publisher is not responsible for typographical errors. Acceptance of advertising is contingent upon publisher’s approval and agreement by advertiser to indemnify publisher from loss or expense on claims based upon contents of advertising. Publisher does not assume liability for errors in any advertising beyond the cost of space occupied by individual item in which the error appeared.

The Cabot Chronicle is a home-delivered newspaper devoted to telling the story of the Cabot community.

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Love is Born

Love is born in one heart It is neither validated by reciprocation nor invalidated by its absence; love that requires reciprocation plants the seeds of its own disappointment and dissolution. Love is born from itself To encounter it, even as a witness, is to be changed forever. We hold it within, fearful that it will tear us asunder; We refuse it, uncertain that once given it will be returned to us As if it arrived because of the presence of another, and will depart without their approval, leaving us forever shattered. If only we understood that love is not something that arises between people but only something can be shared between those who have already dared it. We mistake desire for love which it is not, but rather the yearning for it which indicates its absence. Love cannot be found simply in the joining of two lives or two bodies, it is not directed by will but rather by willingness it arises, in the unrelenting determination to deny our fears, to examine ourselves and remove the lies from our hearts allowing us to embrace the beauty, power, and endless tenderness of our own spirits Leaving us living our lives in its endless deepening and touched by gratitude at the revelation of our own beauty. Blessings, by Mark Christensen, Alexander Anlyan

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Cabot Mentoring Coordinator

Mentors and mentees walked in the Cabot 4th of July parade to promote the Cabot Mentoring program and the Cabot Ride the Ridges event which raises money to fund the youth mentoring program. The 13th annual Ride the Ridges fundraiser event will be held September 13, 2026. Each year cyclists flock to Cabot from around the country (and from Canada) to participate in this exciting bicycle gravel ride. Funds raised are also used for post high school educational scholarships for Cabot youth, a bicycle

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Professional collision repair, associated

we’ll handle your claim from start loan program and holiday food boxes donated to families of Cabot youth. If you would like to be involved with this effort to support local youth, Cabot Mentoring and Cabot Ride the Ridges welcomes volunteers. The RTR needs help with their fundraiser event and the mentoring program seeks adults to work with youth. So there are multiple ways to help out! Please contact us if you would like to learn more: Cabot Mentoring:

Mark Christensen, Cabot Mentoring Coordinator Email: cabotmentoring@gmail.com Website: cabotmentoring.org Cabot Ride the Ridges: https://www.ridetheridges.com/ https://www.bikereg.com/cabot-ride-theridges

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BITUARIES

Pauline Pauline Bolduc M. Bolduc Obituary

Pauline M. Bolduc, 98, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2026, at St. Francis Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Laconia. Pauline was born November 11, 1927, in Cabot. The daughter of Edmond James Dunn and Eva Elizabeth (Racine) Dunn. She moved to Canaan in 1938 and to Laconia in 1942. She was married 58 years to the love of her life, Omer Bolduc, who passed away in February 2012. She is survived by her son Glen Richard Bolduc and his wife, Marie, of Laconia; seven grandchil-

Arnold Arnold L. L. Martin Martin

Arnold Lee Martin, 90, passed away at Central Vermont Medical Center on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Born during a snowstorm in Cabot on February 19, 1936, to Glenn Martin and Alice Goodell, Arnold was the youngest of six children, and the last surviving sibling. He spent his childhood living on family farms across Washington County. Arnold graduated from Northfield High School in 1953. After high school, he went into the Air Force, from 1954 to 1958. When he returned home, he enrolled in Champlain College. As a student, he met his future wife of 47 years – Mary Jane Martin (Bussiere) – while working as a “soda jerk” at Mary Fletcher Hospital. They married in 1961 and had two children, Chris and Robin. Arnold started working at Rock of Ages as a draftsman laying out monu-

Scott Scott Mears R. Mears

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Scott R. Mears, 66, who passed away on July 17, 2026, surrounded by his five children and loved ones. Scott was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, partner, uncle, and friend whose larger-than-life personality, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering love for his family left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him. Born and raised in Vermont, Scott was the son of Richard and Barbara (Dudley) Mears. He attended Barre Town School and graduated from Spaulding High School with the Class of 1978. He was fortunate to have many lifelong friendships that meant the world to him, including Nelson Lyford, Tommy Stacy, Damian Renzillo, and Harold Putney. His loyalty to his friends was matched only by theirs to him. Scott was predeceased by his parents Richard and Barbara Mears, his brother Gary Mears, his grandparents, several beloved aunts and uncles, his longtime friend Albert St. Cyr, and other loved ones who welcomed him home. He is survived by his loving children, Ashley, Brittany, Dillon, Connor, and Carmen, his cherished grandchildren, Calvin, Sebastian. Gus, Valon, Simona, Roman, Royce, Onyx, Juniper and bedren, Rebecca Grant (Gregg), Benjamin Altmiller, Nathaniel Altmiller, Kara Martinez (Carlos), Brian Bolduc (Marti), Lindsey Holman (David) and Alyssa Connell (Nick); 12 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Nancy Bolduc; and nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and her parents; she is also predeceased by her son Allan John Bolduc and her nine siblings, Lorenzo, Francis, Margurite, Arnold, Clarence, Rudolph, Madeline, Calvin and Roland. Calling hours will not be held. Graveside Service will be Monday, August 17, 2026 at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Cemetery. For those who wish, the family suggests memorial contributions in Pauline's name be made to the Activities Fund at St. Francis Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 406 Court Street, Laconia, NH 03246.

ments. An avid artist, he later started his own business in the late 1970s – ALM Designs – where he designed monuments. He is predeceased by his parents Glenn Martin and Alice Goodell, his wife Mary Jane (Bussiere) Martin, siblings Eri Martin, Everett Martin, Gordon Martin, Clarence Martin and Olive Martin Patrick and his great grand son Kolbi Masi-Musgrave. He is survived by his daughter Robin Parry (Jason Parry), his son Chris Martin (Donna Moran), his grandchildren Autumn Parry (Griffin Moores), Christian Parry (Gabi Eberle) and Rhiannen Masi and great grandchild Bailey Masi-Wood. Arrangements are by Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home. For a complete obituary and memorial guestbook please visit www.hookerwhitcomb.com.

loved great granddaughter Mataya; his longtime companion of four years, Kris; his sisters, Susan and Shelly; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his generosity, humor, guidance, and unforgettable presence. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. A service to honor and celebrate Scott’s life was held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, followed by a celebration of life. A more detailed obituary is available at https://www.whitcombfuneral home.com/.

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:

(see, ‘Cabot Historical Society’, page 5)

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Resilience Award

by Cabot Chronicle Staff Writer

(CCA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Cabot Resilience Initiative - a network of local organizations and individuals working together to prepare for and respond to emergencies. This initiative will be funded by a $45,640 Community Resilience Award from the Land Access and Opportunity Board and its designee, Vermont Housing and Conservation Board. The funding is slated for part-time staffing and activities associated with building resilience - a community’s ability to survive, respond, and recover from disasters and become stronger afterward. “We saw how our community responded and rallied during flooding in 2011, 2023 & 2024, and during the pandemic. Volunteers reached out to assist neighbors in so many important ways, but there was no manual for deployment. Next time we have a disruptive event in Cabot, we want to be prepared and not just hope those miraculous things that happened before happen again. This new initiative will help us learn from the past disruptive events and prepare for future events,” said CCA Executive Director, Lori Augustyniak. “Cabot’s Resilience Initiative invests in connecting what already exists. It strengthens food security, emergency preparedness, physical infrastructure, access to information, and community connections and care before, during, and after disruptions.” Proposed activities in the grant application include:  Review prior flooding events, pandemic response and lessons learned;  Identify priorities and required resources to support and rebuild Cabot’s physical infrastructure;  Create a town plan of action for when

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munity www.resiliencetoolkit.org. disruptive events occur; Expand resilience network and recruit volunteers; Create a database of community skills, knowledge & resources; Host regular gatherings - community meals, skill-shares, & storytelling/art events to foster community connections; Launch Neighbor ‑ to ‑ Neighbor (N2N) networks, organized by road or housing cluster, to use existing social ties to share information and care needs; Identify and outfit locations for information ‑ sharing, emergency sheltering, and skill ‑ building; Strengthen food security through pantry rotation, community meals, gardening, and food related skill ‑ shares; and Create directories, phone trees, and simple everyday practices to make it easier to give help, ask for help, and know where to go for help. “In remembering the pandemic, we it through, but a lot of folks wereprepared. Imagine if we had been a bit more connected and organized, with just our neighbors, how we have shared resources like toilet or cleaning supplies, or trips to grocery store or pharmacy, that have made those early days easier less frightening,” Augustyniak said. In the coming weeks, planning meetwill be scheduled and recruitment new part-time staff will begin. The CCA will share next steps and progress in future issues of The Chronicle and online at CabotVerFor more information or to involved with the Cabot Resilience contact Lori@CabotVer

For more information about the ComResilience, please visit https://

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Cabot Tree Warden

In July, I surveyed roadside ash trees around town to identify the next group for removal. Several ash trees in the roadside right-of-way—especially near Molly’s Pond and Molly’s Falls Pond south of Route 2—are dead and may have been killed by Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). I have also seen declining ash trees in other areas, with woodpecker flecking high in the crowns, which is often a strong sign of EAB. Unfortunately, these signs suggest EAB has spread throughout town, and infestation levels are likely to increase as the insect population grows. I am preparing this year’s ash tree removal list, but more trees need to be removed than the fiscal year 2027 budget can cover. I will therefore prioritize the largest ash trees, trees along the busiest roads, and trees that are already dead or dying. As these trees weaken, summer storms with high winds and heavy rain are likely to bring many of them down. If you own land with an EAB-affected tree on the roadside right-of-way, you will not be contacted before removal. When possible, infested trees will be fully chipped to help slow the spread. EAB typically spreads one to two miles per year on its own, but strong storms

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ARDEN

farther. One early sign of infestation is woodpecker flecking high in the tree, which may require binoculars to see. This fall, I will ask some landowners for permission to inspect their properties for EAB, especially where many dead ash trees are visible from the road. I will also try to speak with landowners about firewood. If I cannot reach a landowner, the firewood will be left on the property because it belongs to them; unwanted firewood can be removed later. In a few cases, healthy-looking ash trees may contain valuable saw logs in the main stem. If landowners can safely remove these trees before EAB infestation, I encourage them to do so. Tree service contractors hired by the town for this work will focus on public safety and efficient removal. As before, I will mark ash trees selected for removal with an orange dot. During my survey, I also noticed several ash trees with blue markings, which appear to be utility crew marks on trees missed by earlier utility removal crews. These trees are in the utility right-of-way, so the utility may need to be contacted for tree removal. Stay rooted, Roland Payne Cabot Tree Warden

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Public Safety Projects

by Jeanne Johnson, in the temporary absence of Frank Kampf, Staff Writer

The Cabot Selectboard approved a series of infrastructure, public safety and administrative actions during its July 7 meeting, while also setting the stage for decisions made at a special meeting on July 14 regarding tax rates and fire department radio financing. Highway Foreman Sid Griggs reported that work on Lovely Road is due to start the week of August 3, while traffic counters were installed on Main Street, Danville Hill Road and West Hill Pond Road to collect traffic data. Board members also discussed traffic-calming measures, including reducing the village speed limit to 25 mph throughout the village and exploring electronic speed signs similar to those used in neighboring communities. The board unanimously agreed to participate in a Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission program that could fund replacement of streamcrossing culverts to reduce phosphorus entering the Winooski River watershed. The grant program requires no local cost share, and town officials will identify eligible culverts for future projects. Following a review of this year's Fourth of July celebration, board members described the event as a success while acknowledging opportunities for improvement. Organizers will review final financial results and consider recommendations for future celebrations, including greater Selectboard participation in planning meetings. Volunteers Doug Cooke and Shane Smith were recognized for assisting with traffic control. The board accepted a bid from Perreault Building Company for $113,189 to complete Municipal Energy Resilience Program improvements at the Willey Building and wastewater treatment plant after receiving favorable references for the company. Members also formally adopted the town's written grant policy after previously approving it in concept. Discussion continued on plans for a new fire station. Selectboard Chair Jenn Miner reported that the project remains in the federal historic preservation review process, delaying final approvals. Residents questioned the project's status and whether additional voter approval would be required. Officials said no additional town vote would be necessary unless local bonding or other upfront town funding becomes necessary. Volunteer Fire Department Chief Dean Deasy also updated the board on changes under Act 162, which transferred forest fire warden responsibilities to the fire chief. The chief is developing a new burn permit system, and the Selectboard CCA promotes their mission to enhance the quality of community life for those residing, doing business, and visiting is to empower Cabot residents to participate in the governance and management of our town. writer to cover selectboard and other meetings, for the purpose of keeping community members informed about issues be able to attend. Most meetings are available via Zoom for those who would like to listen in person. Instructions for

available on the Town website, CabotVT.US by clicking on "Selectboard Meetings.

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Utility and

discussed whether permit fees should be established to offset administrative costs while ensuring paper applications remain available for residents without internet access. The board approved spending $2,800 for annual storm drain cleaning and adopted a new five-year contract with H2O Innovation for wastewater operations. During that discussion, officials reviewed significant future infrastructure needs, including eventual replacement of the wastewater plant's ultraviolet disinfection and aeration systems. Fire department radio replacement generated lengthy discussion. Members learned that a previously approved March bond vote could not move forward because required legal steps had not been completed. Rather than take immediate action, the board discussed several financing options, including bonding, loans and equipment leasing, and scheduled further consideration, including leasing rather than purchasing. The board did award a low bid for a dry hydrant project, contingent upon an itemized breakdown from the winning bidder. Following executive session, the board approved a new three-year employment contract for Town Treasurer Amy Monahan, increased the assistant town clerk's hourly wage to $23 effective July 1, and recommended adjusting Town Clerk office hours to 32 hours per week. At a special meeting on July 14, the Selectboard changed course on financing fire department radios. Rather than pursuing a bond, members voted to seek bank financing for Kenwood radios, directing the treasurer to obtain interest rate proposals from three banks. Board members concluded that the purchase could be completed without voter approval under the proposed financing structure. The board also adopted the 2026 municipal tax rate at $.6211 per $100 of assessed value. The state education rate is $1.2327 for homestead taxpayers and $1.3016 for nonhomestead , for a total tax rate of $1.8538 for the Cabot homestead rate and $1.9227 for the nonhomestead rate. Members acknowledged receipt of the town's reappraisal letter from the state, authorized a legal review of the property housing the temporary fire station, and revisited staffing matters in executive session before adjourning. The board approved another three-year term for the Zoning Administrator. At a special meeting July 23, the board approved the cost for unbudgeted additional repairs required for Sid’s truck refurbishment, up to $15,000, initially discussed at the July 21 meeting, but not on the agenda for action.

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Central Vermont Land Use Map

Plan or the Town’s own Future Land by Lorraine Banbury, Use Map. It does not create new state CVRPC Planner permitting requirements. The Rural Conservation category on The Selectboard received a briefing on the Map is different from Tier 3 or the July 21 from Lorraine Banbury, Planner Road Rule parts of Act 181. Both of at Central Vermont Regional Planning these have been repealed. Rural conserCommission. She has summarized her vation applies to properties with an expresentation here: isting conservation easement; stateThe Central Vermont Regional Plan- owned lands; wetlands; some bodies of ning Commission is updating the Re- water; special flood hazard areas; or gional Plan and Regional Land Use river corridors. Map. Together, the Map and Plan help Paper copies of both documents are set priorities and guide across the 23- available at the Town Clerk’s Office and town Central Vermont region. CVRPC is the Cabot Library. To see and comment looking for public input. on an interactive version of the Draft The Regional Plan Use Map uses Regional Land Use Map, go to https:// standardized, statewide categories with bit.ly/CVRPCFLUMAP. To learn more consistent criteria for each property. The and see a draft of the Regional Plan, go Regional Land Use Map does not over- to https://bit.ly/CVRPC2026PLAN. ride local planning priorities in the Town

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or Who to Believe?

AT THE POYNTER INSTITUTE l WINNER OF THE PULITZER PRIZE

by Jeanne Johnson, PolitiFact.com is a nonprofit project Cabot Chronicle Editor operated by the Poynter Institute (a well -respected professional media developIt’s hard to know what to believe ment organization), with offices in when politicians on the national stage Washington, D.C. and St. Petersburg, speak. I have found a website that in- Florida, funded by the Tampa Bay vestigates claims made by officials: Times, ad sales and donations. The site Politifact.com. Politifact was awarded a monitors truth of political statements Pullitzer Prize in 2009 for reporting on and progress on campaign promises. It’s the 2008 presidential campaign. Ameri- usually interesting reading. can Press Institute found PolitiFact was Access is free, although the first thing statistically more likely to be critical of you will see on the website is a Donate Republicans, while Carnegie Mellon and button. But it’s easy to ignore, and you University of Washington were not able can sign up for free emails delivering the to detect any systematic differences in latest statement analyses daily or the treatment of Democrats and Repub- weekly at: https://politifact.com/signup/. licans in articles published by PolitiFact. I recommend it.

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Secretary of State

Are you planning to vote by mail in the primary? Ballots are available now! Unlike the General Election in November, you won't be mailed a ballot automatically. You need to request one from your clerk! You can do this in a couple clicks on the Vermont Voter Portal: https:// vote.vermont.gov. (*Or call the Cabot Town

Due to postal service constraints, we recommend requesting a mailed absentee ballot as soon as possible, and ideally before July 31 to be safe. You can always pick one up in person at the town clerk's office! (*The office in Cabot at the Willey Building is open Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) *The statements within parentheses are added local information by the Cabot Chronicle editor.

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Consulting and Gardening

In August, it can start to feel like the gardens are winding down. Pots of annual plants that had so much color in June may be looking drab and tired. Perennial flowers that bloomed in spring might have yellowed or dried-out foliage. The tomatoes and cucumbers are going strong, but other areas are bare, or overgrown with weedy plants. But never fear, you can rejuvenate the gardens, and have beautiful, productive plants right through to the end of summer!

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Annuals

Annual plants such as petunia, zinnia, marigold, impatiens, and begonia are grown for their continuous blooming of showy flowers. When you buy annuals at a nursery, they have been given fertilizer, and a steady level of watering. Depending on the type of annual, they may also have been deadheaded (the removal of old spent flowers, to encourage new blooms). Once you take them home, all this care falls to you. If your plants are looking poorly in August, they are missing out on something. Check for soil moisture with the high tech device known as fingers; stick one in the soil an inch or so, and make sure the watering you are doing is actually soaking into the root zone of the plants. Make sure to either use potting soil enriched with slowrelease fertilizer, or apply soluble fertilizer weekly. If your annuals have large blossoms (think marigold, petunia, zinnia), pinch off spent flowers. Some plants

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Perennials

By August, perennials that bloomed in the spring may have yellowed or brown foliage. For iris, allium, daffodil, bleeding heart, oriental poppy, and many others, this is a normal part of their life cycle. However, it may not look good in your garden space. Once these plants start to let their foliage go, it’s fine to cut it to the ground.

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Vegetables

While some veggies need a full season to develop (tomatoes, sweet corn, winter squash), others have a much shorter maturity time. Lettuce, spinach, mustard greens, radish, and snow and snap peas can be planted multiple times in a single season. When plants are two-tofour weeks old, start the next batch, and you’ll have a continuous supply of these veggies all season. If you have weedy areas that you aren’t using, consider covering them in cardboard or plastic to prevent weedy plants from flowering and dropping seeds in the garden. Keeping up with late summer weeding will reduce the weed seed load for next season, and also improves airflow around your veggie plants. 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, and more. For gardening help, email gardengoddess802@gmail.com, or visit www.SocksFamilyFarm.weebly.com

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Information Collected

by Jeanne Johnson

The buildings and 270.5 acres of land of Covenant Hills Christian Camp in Cabot and Peacham were officially deeded to Abenaki Helping Abenaki (AHA) on Friday, June 26. Those who gathered on Saturday, June 27, came to celebrate the restitution of the camp property to the descendants of the original inhabitants of the land, the Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk Abenaki Nation. It was the culmination of a process that began in the spring of 2023 when the New England Conference formally put the consideration of land restitution into the process whenever the dispersal of UMC property is considered. This is the first land restitution the conference has undertaken. In his remarks, Bishop Bickerton talked about the importance of land: “May this transfer stand as a sign of the church’s ongoing work of reconciliation and as a testament to our belief that faithful discipleship should always lead us down the road of justice, humility and peace.” “While we celebrate with the Abenaki in joy of their experience of returning home, our work here as a ministry is now done,” Schuyler said. “While I sincerely rejoice in the fact of transferring the land back, I also clearly recognize the grief that comes to those who now leave this place.” Those he described as “having carried their love for this land as a blessing from God.” “We give thanks for all who have loved this place. We give thanks for the individuals, families, local congregations, neighbors, community groups and mission teams that have given so much volunteer service and support to make this place what it is.” “I hope you can rejoice in this day and wipe away any sadness you may feel, because this is not an ending, it’s a transition,” said Chief Don Stevens, who leads the Nulhegan Band of Abenaki and serves as executive director of AHA. Covenant Hills will continue to be a place

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Abenaki

chapel, June 27.

of transformation and love, he said. “In our culture we honor everything that shares the space – the animals, the trees, the people – this has been a beautiful place of spirituality, and it will continue to be that way. It will be a healing place where people can come and feel welcome and reconnect with the land and all of those things that we hold dear,” the chief said.

Chief Don Stevens and Bishop Thomas J. Bickerton

Specifically, AHA plans to host cultural education programs for children and adults to learn the Abenaki language and traditions such as drum making. They also hope to move their food distribution operation to the site. AHA currently feeds about 700 people a month, Chief Stevens said, and someday they want to see it return to being a camp for children. “Your hearts and generosity have opened the door to future generations of Abenaki children to occupy this special place,” Chief Stevens said. “A place for our children to laugh and play while learning their culture. A place to carry on the traditions of those who came before us. A place of teaching and sanctuary from their troubles — at least for a little while.” Chief Stevens presented the bishop with a tribal nation flag and a Nulheganmade tobacco pouch decorated with porcupine quills – a form of decoration that preceded beading. The flower design represents, in part, spring, rebirth and renewal. The partnership with The United Methodist Church is one of longstanding, the chief said, and one he hopes will continue. He read from a May 17, 2006, letter written by First UMC in Burlington that affirmed and celebrated the state of Vermont’s recognition of the Abenaki community as a Native American tribe earlier that month. The Nulhegan Band is extending its hand in partnership, the chief said, and we hope you will take it.

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Some History

In 1987, the former Troy Conference of The UMC purchased 139 acres in Cabot to develop Covenant Hills Christian Camp. The camp opened with a dedication in August 1989. The camp was as a joint ministry of The UMC and the UCC. In 2015, the Covenant Hills camping ministry was discontinued. The property was used for private rentals, retreats, and special events. During this time, the property was managed by the New England Conference Board of Trustees and a volunteer Board of Managers. In the aftermath of widespread flooding in 2023 and 2024, the camp provided housing for mission teams of volunteers and NOMADS (Nomads On a Mission Active in Divine Service) helping with recovery efforts – particularly in the Northeast Kingdom. Covenant Hills became the central hub for the NEK

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A 230-Year-Old Covenant

The return of Covenant Hills carries Nulhegan Coosuk Abenaki, directly echoing immediate landscape. On June 30, 1796, deed to Thomas Eames, John Bradley, Though the deed sparked decades of political claims, the human bonds it forged endured By the early 1800s, Jonathan's nephew, Peacham to secure his family's stake in was fellow early town settler Abial Blanchard, having served during the Revolutionary commander Chief Philip fought beside. grandson, Chief Peter Phillips, came to Peacham. Though Chief Peter's Family Band held traditional territory, the town founders and an intimate knowledge of the original presence. Rather than enforcing strict colonial and the community allowed Peter's Family residence on the land. For roughly fifty living embodiment of mutual recognition. lips lived out their days and were laid to Today, that lineage remains unbroken: dant of Chief Philip through Chief Peter full circle two centuries later.

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Prepare for the Next Emergency:

Emergencies can take many forms. Ice storms, floods, can cause power outages, isolate individuals or prompt certain disabilities, such events, if prolonged, can become The Citizens Assistance Registry for Emergencies program responders identify Vermonters who might need NOTE: Registration in CARE does not guarantee call 911 if they have an emergency and need medical, to assist responders to potentially provide special assistance

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An act of repentance, restitution, and

love In 2023, a Visioning Team made up of clergy and laity and including representation from the UCC and the Covenant Hills Board of Managers undertook a year-long visioning process to discern the property’s future. In its report, the Visioning Team wrote that members “felt God strongly calling all of the New England Annual Conference to a vision of ‘restored and reimagined healthy relationships between spirit, earth, and people.’” “We believe in the spiritual and moral imperative to engage in repentance, reconciliation, and returning sacred land that never belonged to us,” the report said. The resolution to return the Covenant Hills land to the Nulhegan Band of the Abenaki people was approved by the 2024 Annual Conference. After it was approved, the New England Conference Trustees partnered with the Conference Committee on Native American Ministries to facilitate the return of land to the Tribe. The Trustees exercised the authority necessary to complete the transaction, while CONAM helped guide the process through ongoing engagement with tribal leadership, advocacy, and coordination throughout the transfer.

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Fulfilled

a profound historical resonance for the a 230-year-old promise rooted in the Coosuk Chief Philip signed a historic Jonathan Eastman, and Nathan Holt. fury alongside competing colonial right on the land. Thomas Eastman, was sent to the hotly contested land. Alongside him whose military ties ran deep — War under Col. Timothy Bedel, the very During that same era, Chief Philip's reside in Dewey's Gore — a section of

no legal deed and was living in their — bound by memory, wartime alliances, transaction — consciously welcomed his boundaries, Eastman, Blanchard, Band to take up quiet, unchallenged years, these families lived as neighbors, a Both Thomas Eastman and Peter Philrest in the soil of Peacham. Chief Don Stevens is a direct descenPhillips, bringing their ancestral vision

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Register Now

fires, major traffic accidents and similar events the need for evacuation. For elders or people with life-threatening if no one is available to help. was created to help. CARE helps emergency special assistance in case of a wide-scale event. a person’s safety. It is the registrant’s responsibility to police or fire responders. CARE is a tool designed in the event of a wide-scale emergency. online, visit e911.vermont.gov/care for a form to fill out.

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All programs are free and all are

welcome! For added programs and updates, check cabotlibrary.com & FPF. If you have a program suggestion, question or would like to volunteer, please email amandaotto.cabotlibrary @gmail.com

Thanks so much to everyone who came out to the annual July 4 Library Book Sale put on by the Friends of the Cabot Library - together $1,661 was raised! Thanks especially to Sandy Atkins, Maria Acchione-Goodrich, Janet Westervelt, Amanda Legare, Jess Maple, Christy Aucoin, Shane Smith, Dana Glazier, Leah Sare, John Grosvenor, and Kurt and Emmett Steinert.

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Craftsbury Chamber Players - Free

tickets for Summer Concert Series.

There’s still time to sign up for the Summer Reading Program! Summer Reading Program (ages birth - 18) - June 18 August 13 - Visit the library to choose a reading challenge for a chance to earn prizes - it's easy!

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Unearth a Story Reading Challenge

- Pick up your reading chart and stickers. Read or be read to for 15 minutes a day for 15 days. Earn a T-shirt, book and an additional prize.

10 Page Club - Pick up your reading chart. Read 10 pages to earn a book and an ice-cream voucher for the Cabot Village Store.

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Wednesday, August 5 - 10:30 am -

noon - Cabot Rec Field Pavilion - Join us to watch the Circus Smirkus' Road Show performers bring the joy of youth circus out into the community through a series of free performances for audiences of all ages. This high-energy, interactive, and family-friendly performance is written by teens in the troupe, who work as an ensemble to highlight the incredible acrobatics, clowning, juggling, and contortion skills of their peers. It's a fun, silly, and spectacular hour of seeing what "kids these days" are truly capable of!

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Reduces Internet Cost

- 10:30 am - 1 pm - Willey Building 3rd FL - Join Yeshua Boyer for a fun, beginCommunications, CVFiber, Central Vermont ner-friendly introduction to Gracie JiuJitsu for young kids. Classes will focus on Do you know someone who can't afthe "Gracie Games" and are inspired by ford or is struggling to pay current the Gracie Bullyproof program for kids. monthly internet charges? CV Fiber’s Jiu-jitsu is the "gentle art", and Gracie Jiu -Jitsu focuses on empowering smaller Equity Connect Program offers a $30 individuals to use leverage to restrain per month discount to our qualified cuslarger, faster, stronger opponents. We will tomers. provide a safe, supportive environment HOW TO APPLY for students to practice specific drills and Northeast Kingdom Community Acgames focused on body safety, listening to tion (NEKCA) is our partner. Their staff instructions, staying calm, and showing works with applicants, guiding them respect for each other. You are welcome to step-by-step to confirm whether they join any one of the classes, or all of them. qualify for the discount. No special gear or clothing is required, Whether you have already registered though we recommend comfortable, ath- with CVFiber, will be signing up as a letic or fitness wear. A $5-10/class donanew customer or are already one, start tion is not required, but is appreciated to the application process for Equity Conhelp us cover the costs of insurance and nect by going to http://cvfiber.net/equityconnect/ or contact Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA) at 802-323 -8999. Find out if our service is available to you at http://get.cvfiber.net If you haven't registered on that website yet, now is the time! Registration is not a commitment to take service. CVFiber (dba NEKCV) is committed to investing any profits into affordability, improving technology as advances develop, and reaching every unserved or underserved household with electric utility service in our six-county Communications Union District.

the mats. All are welcome! Classes will be taught by Yeshua Boyer, who has studied and taught kids and adults Gracie JiuJitsu over the last 13 years. Parents and caregivers are welcome to join and learn how to play these games with their kids. See https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=NCvZpU4JvvM for more info about the Gracie kids' program.

Bike Clinic - Tuesday, August 25 - 10 am - In preparation for Ride the Ridges on Sunday, September 13, stop by the library to get hands-on assistance checking your tire-pressure, testing and adjusting your brakes, and properly cleaning or lubricating your chain. If you have a bike pump or chain lubricant you can bring them to the workshop. No sign-up is necessary.

Cabot Book Group - August 27 - 2 - 3 pm - For August’s gathering, please bring a book that you have enjoyed recently (any genre/published from any year) that you want to share with the group. We will continue with our regular format in September. Email cabotlibrary@yahoo.com for more info and to be added to the book group email list.

StoryWalk (all ages) - July - August Bring the kids and head to the Cabot Rec Field Pavilion to enjoy a stroll and a story. Begin at the woods edge near the sandbox and follow around the perimeter of the field. Please pack it in, pack it out.

Thanks so much to our library subs Marianne Robotham, Grace Hoffman. Vicki Palmer, and Billie O’Connor and to our program volunteers and collaborators Losada Stoddard, Kerri & Ben Moll, Cabot Community Theater, VINS, HardPressed Community Print Shop, Cabot Trails Committee, Emma Podolin, Four Winds Nature Institute, Center for an Agricultural Economy, and to our teen employees Tom Brink, Freya Van Duesen and Amyra Simmons. We are so grateful to our Library Trustees who provide support and direction: Angela Ogle, Leah Sare, Kurt Steinert, Erin Ruddell, and Taeryn Robbins.

See you at the library! Kathleen Hoyne - Library Co-Director Amanda Otto - Library Co-Director Christina Sacalis - Assistant Librarian

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Know Before You Go Out

Information Collected by become a problem in Vermont and New Jeanne Johnson, Hampshire. You can monitor air quality Cabot Chronicle Editor in Cabot at AirNow.gov and seek guid-

ance for steps to protect your health at With wildfires raging in Canada and https://www.healthvermont.gov/ the US northwest, dangerous air quality environment/climate-health/air-qualityhas reached New York state and could alerts-wildfires-your-health.

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Cabot Appointments by the Governor

Governor Phil Scott’s office in July site at https://governor.vermont.gov/ announced a range of appointments boards-commissions to apply. made in the second quarter of 2026. Appointments of Cabot residents anBoards and commissions serve an nounced in the second quarter of 2026 important role in state government, giv- are: ing Vermonters numerous opportunities Fire Service Training Council to serve their state and communities. Walter Bothfeld, Jr. (Skip), representing The Governor’s office is currently solicitVermont Chiefs Association ing applications to fill vacancies and upcoming term expirations. All those Vermont Commission on Native Ameriinterested in serving on a board or com- can Affairs mission should visit the Governor’s web- Linda Savoca

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CABOT COMMUNITY FUND

Funds Available for Comunity Organizations

The Cabot Community Fund (CCF) allows the CCA to support community-based projects and events that further the mission of the CCA. The CCF is funded by the generous support of the Cabot Creamery and other donors. Funds are awarded to non-governmental organizations. Examples of previous awards include expenses of Cabot Arts-sponsored community performances, Cabot Night at Mountaineers games and Little League uniforms. Guidelines and application form is available at: htps:cabotvermont.org/comunity-grant-fund/

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Starting on June 15

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. 2. For every 15 minutes you read, or are read to, put a sticker on your reading log. Earn 50 stickers—win a voucher for a free creemee, a prize, a hat or t-shirt and a book of your choice.

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Summer Concert Series on Thurs-

days from 6:30 to 8:30 PM Come on down and hear some music, visit with neighbors, dance, try your luck at a 50/50 raffle, buy some baked goods and books and join the fun. If you don’t have time to pack a picnic, you can buy your dinner from a local vendor.

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August 6 - Michael Arnowitt Jazz

Band: Pianist Michael Arnowitt’s ImproVisions Jazz Quartet brings together outstanding creative musicians to perform acoustic jazz full of improvisational interplay and musical conversation. August 13 - A2VT: Representing Somalia, Congo, Tanzania and Burundi and currently living in Burlington, Vermont, A2VT synthesizes their native African musical and dance roots with Western pop and Hip-Hop sensibilities.

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PM

Bring your knitting, crocheting or whatever craft you are working on or start a new project. All ages are welcome if they are old enough to sit and work on a craft. Knitting and spinning maven Donna Hison from Marshfield, is the host of the group.

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Saturdays from 10 AM to 1 PM

Join us every Saturday at the Old Schoolhouse Common for local food and craft vendors, live music, and free community led Skill Shares. Vending space is free, so let us know if you are interested in applying as a vendor, leading a class (we provide a small stipend), or playing music on the gazebo stage. To reach out send us an email: marshfieldrh@gmail.com or call the library at:

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We have a Tool Lending Library!

The Marshfield Resilience Hub, Cooperation Vermont and the Jaquith Public Library have established a Tool Lending Library. We are accepting donations of good condition tools, kitchen equipment and gardening tools. In addition to tools, we loan computers, DVD players, makerspace kits, games, puzzles, wood moisture meter, air tester, all are available for checkout!

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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

will add you to our garden email list. Did you know you can visit a museum, go for a swim or hike at the

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Vermont State Parks, and visit a his-

torical 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, Vermont Granite Museum, and the Vermont State Historic Sites. We also have $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.

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Just Food Hub Fundraiser

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. To order items such as coffees, teas, chocolate, hot sauces, Palestinian olive oil, nuts and dates etc. go to: justfoodhub.us/jaquith-library. You can ask Just Food Hub to put together a gift basket for you or you can make your own. You can find the Just Food Hub folks selling their goods at the Farmers Markets and Summer Concert Series.

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Health, State of Vermont

My Healthy Vermont offers free, statewide programs to people across Vermont looking to build skills to manage their health and feel better day-today. Programs are available for people managing ongoing health conditions like diabetes, chronic pain, or high blood pressure, and those looking to be more active, reduce stress, eat well, prevent diabetes and heart disease, or quit using tobacco. Workshops are held in-person Diabetes Self-Management or online using zoom and led by trained Starting 9/24/2026 coaches. They are designed to be friendly, supportive, and judgment-free. Diabetes Prevention You'll learn practical strategies, connect Starting 8/19/2026 with others, and get encouragement Quit Smoking every step of the way. Let's focus on Starting 8/1/2026, 8/11/2026 and health together! If you know someone 9/18/2026 who might benefit, please share. To learn more or register: Upcoming workshops: Visit: https://www.myhealthyvt.org/ High Blood Pressure Management workshop_dates/

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← From the Cabot Chronicle