The 7/23/09 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish related news
2. Support for the Cavendish Update
3. Cavendish Community Fund Annual Dinner
4. Sheep Herding Clinic
5. Concert on the Green: Yankee Chank
6. Dance and Yoga Exploration
7. Classifieds: Rental
8. August Calendar: Submissions needed by July 30
1. Cavendish Related News
• Cemetery Right of Way and Helipad Top the Agenda for Cavendish
• Efficiency Vermont pays for old refrigerators
2. Support for the Cavendish Update
With the Eagle Times and The Message no longer operational, the Cavendish Update is receiving more calls and e-mails. For now we are sticking to the once a week, Friday format, with the calendar of events posted the first of each month. Important news items will be forwarded regardless of day of the week and we do post items on the Cavendish Update Blog (www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com) that arrive after the weekly posting.
Is there a need to make the Update available in print? If so, would having copies located in strategic places, like the library be useful?
Currently, there are two sponsors of the Update and more are needed, particularly if there is need to make print copies. If you are interested in helping to support the Update and/or have suggestions about how to share it with those who do not use a computer, please e-mail margoc@tds.net
3. Cavendish Community Fund Annual Dinner
The Cavendish Community Fund will hold its annual fundraising dinner at 7 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Cavendish Inn. "The dinner has become a regular summer event in Cavendish and is a terrific opportunity to support a truly grassroots effort to promote local programs of community benefit," said Barbara Dickey, chairwoman of the Cavendish Community Fund. The fund has underwritten a number of community endeavors, including part of the summer concert series on the Proctorsville Green and last summer's "Cavendish Chronicles," a locally produced play about the history of the town. Tickets are $125 per couple or $65 per individual. For tickets or more information, call Robin Timko at 226-7736.
4. Sheep Herding Clinic
Multiple trailing champion Maurice MacGregor will be holding a sheep herding clinic in Cavendish. Since 1962, "MacGregor's Border Collies" has been producing some of the finest working sheep and cattle dogs in the northeast. Having emigrated from northern Ireland in 1951, MacGregor spent ten years in Britain working Border Collies on dairy cattle and a flock of Border Lester sheep. One of the founders of the Northeast Border Collie Association, he is devoted to promotion of the breed. MacGregor has vast experience in working and training dogs on livestock and has numerous national wins under his belt.
The clinic is open to beginners through experienced handlers. Participants can bring any breed of dog. Instruction is one- on- one
The dates of the clinic are Aug 21 & 22, from 9-4. Please bring a lunch. The cost is $95 per day or $180/ both days. Registration is limited, so early registration is recommended. To learn about MacGregor, go to http://macsbordercollies.tripod.com/ To register for the clinic, or for more information, call 802 952-8123
5. Concert on the Green: Yankee Chank
Wednesday, July 29’s Concert on the Proctorsville Green hosts Yankee Chank, a Cajun dance band, featuring Cavendish resident Bob Naess. Bob started his love affair with the fiddle in the 4th grade, when he took lessons using his grandfather’s violin. “I didn’t have any tunes in my head,” is his reason for stopping until he went to college. While at UC Berkley in the 60’s, he was exposed to a lot of different music in the Bay area. Being around members of the Grateful Dead inspired him to pick the fiddle up again and learn to play Old Time music. Note: Jerry Garcia was a banjo player. It wasn’t long before he was playing in a “stilt band,” all the members played on stilts, at Fishermen’s Warf in San Francisco and various art openings. Over the years, Bob has won numerous fiddle contests and played in a variety of bands, including the Seattle based Gypsy Gyppos.
Along the way, Bob heard Cajun and zydeco, the music from the bayous of Louisiana. Having been part of a number of different Cajun bands, Bob is happy to have a group of Vermont based musicians he can play with and not have to travel to far. Along with the other members of Yankee Chank Cannon LaBrie (accordion), Jim Burns (guitar) and Mark Sustic (bass), Bob will be playing next Wednesday starting at 6:30 pm. Be prepared to dance in the streets or sit on your lawn chair and tap your toes. Les bon temps roule! (Let the good times roll.)
6. Dance and Yoga Exploration
Ashley Hensel-Browning, formerly of Cavendish, will be teaching a dance/yoga camp in Chester for students 6-12. This program will continue at Cavendish Elementary School in the 2009/2010 school year.
The four day camp explores yoga and dance choreography. Classes will provide students with a foundation of yoga and dance exercises that allow students to learn about their bodies while discovering their own creative resources. From this foundation the students will move into building a sense of community and self reflection while making up their very own dance! Parents and siblings are invited to join the last class.
Camp dates are August 4 & 5 and 7 & 8 with the location being the Chester Andover Elementary School library. Scholarship money for Chester Town Recreation Camps can be applied to the cost of the camp. For more information, or to register, call Rebecca at 802.236.9147 or rebecca.salem@gmail.com.
Check out the following Blogs to learn more about Ashley
and Rebecca
7. Classifieds: Rental
• Large 2 bedroom w/ lots of closets - 16 Bridge St, Ludlow ,clean and walk to town.$1050/month includes utilities Call: 226 -7494.
8. August Calendar: Submissions needed by July 30
If you have an event you would like posted in the Calendar edition of the Cavendish Update (August 1), please e-mail it to margoc@tds.net no later than July 30. Be sure to include date, day of the week, time, location and contact person
Part of Cavendish Connects, the Cavendish, VT Blog archives the weekly e-mails, "Cavendish Update" and provides on-going information about current activities.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
Cavendish Update 7/17/09 SB Mtg/Events/Water
This issue of the Cavendish Update is made possible by the Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA), a non-profit membership organization that is dedicated to the conservation of land and natural resources and to the preservation of historic sites within the context of sustainable economic growth. FMI: PO Box 605, Cavendish VT 05142 or 802-226-7736
The 7/17/09 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Select Board Meeting
2. Sustainable Cavendish: Energy Assessor Training
3. Sustainable Cavendish: Understanding the Power You Use
4. Army Worm Alert
5. Closed N.H. paper sees the possibility of new ownership
6. Upcoming Events
1. Select Board Meeting July 13, 2009
The following items were among those discussed by the Select Board at their July meeting:
Proctor Cemetery: Prior to the meeting, the Select Board conducted a site visit of the Proctor Cemetery to assess both access and the condition of the Cemetery. Following the site visit, the Select Board noted that recent work had been done to make the cemetery accessible. The issues raised included:
• The path needs to be accessible from April 1 – November 1. Dwayne Warren, whose property abuts the path to the cemetery, said that he posts his private number on the sign, so that if someone is having a problem accessing the path, they can call him.
• Need to settle on the right of way and put it on the town’s tax map.
Selectmen Ed Garrow and Rich Svec, town manager, will work with Warren to come to an agreement. The condition of the grave markers was also raised.
Helipad: In the fall of 2008, the SB voted 3 to 2 against a helipad being built on the property of Cavendish property owner David Coutu The SB made their decision based on a report from the Planning Commission, as well as a public hearing. The town’s approval was being sought as part of the Vermont Agency of Transportation’s approval process.
With a number of residents in attendance, Mark Hall, the attorney for David Coutu, said the SB’s position was blocking his client’s ability to obtain a permit to establish a helipad. It was his belief that the SB was not in a position to make such a decision as there is no zoning in Cavendish, the Planning Commission had no power and the “Town Plan” was not legally relevant to this situation. April Hensel, representing both the Planning Commission, and at times, her position as Act 250 Coordinator, explained that based on her conversations with the attorney for the VT Agency of Transportation, the SB does have the right and the responsibility to make such decisions, regardless of zoning. Further, the SB can seek advice and counsel as needed and that the Planning Commission is well aware of their advisory role.
Among the issues Hensil raised about the project was Cavendish’s lack of infrastructure, as fire and rescue is all volunteer and there is no paid police force. She compared this to Hartness Airport in Springfield, where helipads and hangers are readily available and there is an appropriate infrastructure to handle emergencies if they arise. .
This was not a public hearing, even though various members of the audience expressed their viewpoints. Some residents, and the realtor for Coutu, spoke in favor of the helipad. While the Proctorsville Fire Department indicated that it would be helpful to have access to a helipad for rescue, the main area of concern came down to the landowner’s rights to do with their property as they choose.
Both SB members and a number of people in attendance were concerned about precedent. “If you say yes, what kid of floodgates are you opening.” If Cavendish, a community noted for its landscapes, quiet and rural way of life, were to become a town where there are a number of private helipads, it will change the nature of the town. It was noted that there is already another landowner who is landing a helicopter on to his property without a helipad.
The issue was also raised about the legislative process. Why should three peoples vote make such a decision? It was suggested that it be put out to town vote.
Attorney Hall was adamant that his client was prepared to fight this in court, thereby potentially costing the town quite a bit of money. Three of the SB members explained why they voted no, indicating both the “Town Plan” and precedent.
The Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA) stated that they supported both the Planning Commission report and the SB’s original vote.
The SB voted to consult with their attorney on this matter.
Chubb Hill: A new route is being planned for the intersection of Chubb Hill and Route 131. The current access point is “blind.” The new route will be through Donnie Davis’s pasture area. The state has already conducted a site visit and an application will need to be filed by the town. Svec and the Davis will work on this in the coming weeks.
Water: While 99% of the Cavendish Municipal water filtration project is finished, the manganese (Mn) level has yet to fall to acceptable levels. The reduction was projected to take 7-8 weeks. To date there has been a 35% reduction down to 1.4 to 1.6 mg/L. This is still well above the FDA standard of 0.05mg/L. The Health Advisory issued by the Vermont Department of Health remains in effect until levels are brought down to standard. The Health Advisory issued October 2006 states the following: “The Cavendish Public Water System has concentrations of manganese which exceed the Environmental Protection Agency and Vermont Department of Health lifetime Health Advisories of 0.3 mg/L. In 2005 and 2006, the levels of manganese in the Cavendish system were 2.5 mg/L and 2.1 mg/L, respectively.
Manganese is an essential element. However, most of the manganese needed on a daily basis comes from the food we eat. Long-term consumption of high concentrations of manganese in drinking water may cause adverse neurological health effects. Children and people with liver disease are more susceptible to the health effects of manganese. If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.”
Svec stated that the Mn levels have plateaued but this is to be expected. In the next four weeks there should be a significant decline in Mn. The iron levels have reduced to less than 1mg/L and have contributed significantly to water quality appearance.
There is significant air in the line. This results in milky water, which will clarify after sitting. Additional air has been needed to grow the media used for the filtration process. This will not be needed once the filtration system is in full production.
The major flushing has been postponed in order to make sure the system is working well. The aggressive flush will result in ugly looking water so a notice will be sent prior to the flushing.
2. Sustainable Cavendish: Energy Assessor Training
The White House Council of Economic Advisors has recently released “Jobs of the Future,” http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/Jobs_of_the_Future.pdf a look at the labor market through 2016. Clean energy will be among the biggest drivers of job creation, while many traditional manufacturing will continue to shrink.
To assist area residents, particularly those already in the building trades, who are interested in starting on a career path in the “green” industry, Sustainable Cavendish, a program of Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA) will be sponsoring a two day training for energy assessors. Planned for August, if you are interested in participating in the training, please contact Karen Wilson at Karenw381@cs.com or 802- 226-7494. Some funding is available for this training.
3. Sustainable Cavendish: Understanding the Power You Use
One of the best ways to conserve energy, and reduce your utility bill, is by understanding how you are using energy. The following resources can help you understand your energy consumption.
• Cost calculator
• How to Read Your Meter
• Energy Savings Tips
• Glossary of Terms
• How to Read your electric bill
4. Army Worm Alert
An armyworm outbreak has been reported in the Rutland area. The armyworm was most likely blown north by the series of storms over the last month. Check corn and grass fields for armyworms. When full grown, the caterpillars can be almost 1.5 inches long. The caterpillars are usually greenish or brownish, but can be almost black. The sides and back of the caterpillar have light colored stripes running along the body. The caterpillars normally feed at night and much damage can occur before they mature. The preferred foods are grasses including corn, grains, and timothy. They feed on other plants if grasses aren’t available. Cornfields that are minimum or no-tilled into grass sod or fields infested with grass weeds are most susceptible. For more information on scouting and control options please contact Dr. Heather Darby at the University of Vermont Extension at (802) 524-6501.
5. Closed N.H. paper sees the possibility of new ownership
Rutland Herald July 17, 2009 By Susan Smallheer
The former general manager of Eagle Publications said Thursday that there was a possibility the Eagle-Times of Claremont, N.H., might reopen under new ownership.
Randy Yanick of Springfield, who lost his job last Thursday along with about 100 employees of the daily newspaper and its three other weekly publications, said he had been told by the owner of the bankrupt media company that there was interest in the newspaper group.
Yanick said Harvey Hill of Charlestown, the owner of Eagle Publications, had been told there was interest in the newspaper, but Yanick said Hill was under court restrictions from talking about the inquiries or interest. "It's up in the air whether Eagle Publications would be purchased," said Yanick. "I do know there are some people who are looking at buying the company," he said, adding that the source of his information was Hill.
Hill filed for bankruptcy last Friday, saying that his family had been covering the paper's financial losses for a while and couldn't continue. He estimated his family's contribution as "into the seven figures." Hill didn't respond to an e-mail inquiry. He closed the 175-year-old newspaper last Thursday, along with his weekly publications The Connecticut Valley Spectator of Lebanon, and The Message for the Week of Chester, as well as The Weekly Flea of Claremont, N.H., a classified advertising paper.
According to documents on file in U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the newspaper group has somewhere between 200 to 999 creditors, and owes between $1 million and $10 million to its credits and has assets in the same vague financial category. Eagle Publications filed for bankruptcy last Friday in U.S. District Court in Concord, N.H., and filed a Chapter 7 petition, which usually means liquidation, as opposed to reorganization. The list of creditors, which stretches over 25 pages, includes dozens of names and local businesses, including dozens of employees, and Hill himself.
Yanick, who had been general manager for Eagle Publications since 2001, said the closing of the papers was a shock and surprise to him last Thursday as well. Yanick said he was already working with a working "core group of managers" who hope to start a weekly newspaper in Claremont. Getting the financing, he said, will be the key. "It's something we'd all like to chase," he said, while saying that restoring a daily newspaper to Claremont would probably be impossible. "It's a tough market," he said, and much smaller than nearby cities such as Rutland and Lebanon, N.H., home to the Rutland Herald and Valley News, respectively.
Robert F. Smith of Westminster, the co-editor of The Message, a free weekly newspaper, said he was also working with people who were interested in starting a replacement publication similar to The Message and he was keeping in close contact with his eight fellow employees. "A lot of people have been in touch with me. Definitely, some people with a serious background are interested in continuing a publication like The Message," he said. "It never had hard news, it ran tons of features," he said. The group is looking at "starting from scratch," he said, rather than buying The Message out of bankruptcy.
Meanwhile, a Virginia woman, who is a native of Claremont, and worked at the Eagle while she was a high school student, has launched a community news Web site, www.yourclaremontpress.com, and said Thursday that the Web site was welcoming community news, press releases and information.
Nancy Brown of Fredericksburg, Va., who runs several Web sites including www.yourmilitary.com, said she got the site up on Wednesday with several news stories, press releases from Claremont police and four obituaries. "We started this on Sunday," Brown said, noting she had more than a dozen years running successful Web sites. But Brown said the success of the new Web site would depend on local businesses and people supporting it. If there are no advertisements, it won't succeed, she said. Brown said she hoped to hire one of the former Eagle reporters and several advertising reps. She said she already had more than 90 friends on her Claremontpress.com Facebook page.
Smith, who worked at The Message for seven years editing, writing, laying out the paper and taking the publication's signature photographs, said losing his job was a shock. While he and others received their last paycheck this week, there are still questions about the employees' access to their 401k accounts, a view echoed by Yanick.
And employees, such as traveling ad salespeople, haven't been paid their expenses, Smith said. "I signed up for unemployment," Smith said. "And we'll see what happens."
6. Upcoming Events
July 20 (Monday): Water Board Meeting, 5 pm Town Office
July 21 (Tuesday): Tie dye day at the Cavendish Library, from 9-6. Bring one item to tie dye.
July 22 (Wednesday): Chris Kleeman in concert, 6:30 pm at the Proctorsville Green. This is a free concert.
July 23 (Thursday): Take a prize day for kids checking books out of the Cavendish Library 9-6:30
July 28 (Thursday): Take a prize day for kids checking books out of the Cavendish Library 9-6:30
July 29 (Wednesday): Yankee Chank Cajun Band, featuring Cavendish fiddler Bob Naess, 6:30 pm at the Proctorsville Green
The 7/17/09 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Select Board Meeting
2. Sustainable Cavendish: Energy Assessor Training
3. Sustainable Cavendish: Understanding the Power You Use
4. Army Worm Alert
5. Closed N.H. paper sees the possibility of new ownership
6. Upcoming Events
1. Select Board Meeting July 13, 2009
The following items were among those discussed by the Select Board at their July meeting:
Proctor Cemetery: Prior to the meeting, the Select Board conducted a site visit of the Proctor Cemetery to assess both access and the condition of the Cemetery. Following the site visit, the Select Board noted that recent work had been done to make the cemetery accessible. The issues raised included:
• The path needs to be accessible from April 1 – November 1. Dwayne Warren, whose property abuts the path to the cemetery, said that he posts his private number on the sign, so that if someone is having a problem accessing the path, they can call him.
• Need to settle on the right of way and put it on the town’s tax map.
Selectmen Ed Garrow and Rich Svec, town manager, will work with Warren to come to an agreement. The condition of the grave markers was also raised.
Helipad: In the fall of 2008, the SB voted 3 to 2 against a helipad being built on the property of Cavendish property owner David Coutu The SB made their decision based on a report from the Planning Commission, as well as a public hearing. The town’s approval was being sought as part of the Vermont Agency of Transportation’s approval process.
With a number of residents in attendance, Mark Hall, the attorney for David Coutu, said the SB’s position was blocking his client’s ability to obtain a permit to establish a helipad. It was his belief that the SB was not in a position to make such a decision as there is no zoning in Cavendish, the Planning Commission had no power and the “Town Plan” was not legally relevant to this situation. April Hensel, representing both the Planning Commission, and at times, her position as Act 250 Coordinator, explained that based on her conversations with the attorney for the VT Agency of Transportation, the SB does have the right and the responsibility to make such decisions, regardless of zoning. Further, the SB can seek advice and counsel as needed and that the Planning Commission is well aware of their advisory role.
Among the issues Hensil raised about the project was Cavendish’s lack of infrastructure, as fire and rescue is all volunteer and there is no paid police force. She compared this to Hartness Airport in Springfield, where helipads and hangers are readily available and there is an appropriate infrastructure to handle emergencies if they arise. .
This was not a public hearing, even though various members of the audience expressed their viewpoints. Some residents, and the realtor for Coutu, spoke in favor of the helipad. While the Proctorsville Fire Department indicated that it would be helpful to have access to a helipad for rescue, the main area of concern came down to the landowner’s rights to do with their property as they choose.
Both SB members and a number of people in attendance were concerned about precedent. “If you say yes, what kid of floodgates are you opening.” If Cavendish, a community noted for its landscapes, quiet and rural way of life, were to become a town where there are a number of private helipads, it will change the nature of the town. It was noted that there is already another landowner who is landing a helicopter on to his property without a helipad.
The issue was also raised about the legislative process. Why should three peoples vote make such a decision? It was suggested that it be put out to town vote.
Attorney Hall was adamant that his client was prepared to fight this in court, thereby potentially costing the town quite a bit of money. Three of the SB members explained why they voted no, indicating both the “Town Plan” and precedent.
The Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA) stated that they supported both the Planning Commission report and the SB’s original vote.
The SB voted to consult with their attorney on this matter.
Chubb Hill: A new route is being planned for the intersection of Chubb Hill and Route 131. The current access point is “blind.” The new route will be through Donnie Davis’s pasture area. The state has already conducted a site visit and an application will need to be filed by the town. Svec and the Davis will work on this in the coming weeks.
Water: While 99% of the Cavendish Municipal water filtration project is finished, the manganese (Mn) level has yet to fall to acceptable levels. The reduction was projected to take 7-8 weeks. To date there has been a 35% reduction down to 1.4 to 1.6 mg/L. This is still well above the FDA standard of 0.05mg/L. The Health Advisory issued by the Vermont Department of Health remains in effect until levels are brought down to standard. The Health Advisory issued October 2006 states the following: “The Cavendish Public Water System has concentrations of manganese which exceed the Environmental Protection Agency and Vermont Department of Health lifetime Health Advisories of 0.3 mg/L. In 2005 and 2006, the levels of manganese in the Cavendish system were 2.5 mg/L and 2.1 mg/L, respectively.
Manganese is an essential element. However, most of the manganese needed on a daily basis comes from the food we eat. Long-term consumption of high concentrations of manganese in drinking water may cause adverse neurological health effects. Children and people with liver disease are more susceptible to the health effects of manganese. If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.”
Svec stated that the Mn levels have plateaued but this is to be expected. In the next four weeks there should be a significant decline in Mn. The iron levels have reduced to less than 1mg/L and have contributed significantly to water quality appearance.
There is significant air in the line. This results in milky water, which will clarify after sitting. Additional air has been needed to grow the media used for the filtration process. This will not be needed once the filtration system is in full production.
The major flushing has been postponed in order to make sure the system is working well. The aggressive flush will result in ugly looking water so a notice will be sent prior to the flushing.
2. Sustainable Cavendish: Energy Assessor Training
The White House Council of Economic Advisors has recently released “Jobs of the Future,” http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/Jobs_of_the_Future.pdf a look at the labor market through 2016. Clean energy will be among the biggest drivers of job creation, while many traditional manufacturing will continue to shrink.
To assist area residents, particularly those already in the building trades, who are interested in starting on a career path in the “green” industry, Sustainable Cavendish, a program of Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA) will be sponsoring a two day training for energy assessors. Planned for August, if you are interested in participating in the training, please contact Karen Wilson at Karenw381@cs.com or 802- 226-7494. Some funding is available for this training.
3. Sustainable Cavendish: Understanding the Power You Use
One of the best ways to conserve energy, and reduce your utility bill, is by understanding how you are using energy. The following resources can help you understand your energy consumption.
• Cost calculator
• How to Read Your Meter
• Energy Savings Tips
• Glossary of Terms
• How to Read your electric bill
4. Army Worm Alert
An armyworm outbreak has been reported in the Rutland area. The armyworm was most likely blown north by the series of storms over the last month. Check corn and grass fields for armyworms. When full grown, the caterpillars can be almost 1.5 inches long. The caterpillars are usually greenish or brownish, but can be almost black. The sides and back of the caterpillar have light colored stripes running along the body. The caterpillars normally feed at night and much damage can occur before they mature. The preferred foods are grasses including corn, grains, and timothy. They feed on other plants if grasses aren’t available. Cornfields that are minimum or no-tilled into grass sod or fields infested with grass weeds are most susceptible. For more information on scouting and control options please contact Dr. Heather Darby at the University of Vermont Extension at (802) 524-6501.
5. Closed N.H. paper sees the possibility of new ownership
Rutland Herald July 17, 2009 By Susan Smallheer
The former general manager of Eagle Publications said Thursday that there was a possibility the Eagle-Times of Claremont, N.H., might reopen under new ownership.
Randy Yanick of Springfield, who lost his job last Thursday along with about 100 employees of the daily newspaper and its three other weekly publications, said he had been told by the owner of the bankrupt media company that there was interest in the newspaper group.
Yanick said Harvey Hill of Charlestown, the owner of Eagle Publications, had been told there was interest in the newspaper, but Yanick said Hill was under court restrictions from talking about the inquiries or interest. "It's up in the air whether Eagle Publications would be purchased," said Yanick. "I do know there are some people who are looking at buying the company," he said, adding that the source of his information was Hill.
Hill filed for bankruptcy last Friday, saying that his family had been covering the paper's financial losses for a while and couldn't continue. He estimated his family's contribution as "into the seven figures." Hill didn't respond to an e-mail inquiry. He closed the 175-year-old newspaper last Thursday, along with his weekly publications The Connecticut Valley Spectator of Lebanon, and The Message for the Week of Chester, as well as The Weekly Flea of Claremont, N.H., a classified advertising paper.
According to documents on file in U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the newspaper group has somewhere between 200 to 999 creditors, and owes between $1 million and $10 million to its credits and has assets in the same vague financial category. Eagle Publications filed for bankruptcy last Friday in U.S. District Court in Concord, N.H., and filed a Chapter 7 petition, which usually means liquidation, as opposed to reorganization. The list of creditors, which stretches over 25 pages, includes dozens of names and local businesses, including dozens of employees, and Hill himself.
Yanick, who had been general manager for Eagle Publications since 2001, said the closing of the papers was a shock and surprise to him last Thursday as well. Yanick said he was already working with a working "core group of managers" who hope to start a weekly newspaper in Claremont. Getting the financing, he said, will be the key. "It's something we'd all like to chase," he said, while saying that restoring a daily newspaper to Claremont would probably be impossible. "It's a tough market," he said, and much smaller than nearby cities such as Rutland and Lebanon, N.H., home to the Rutland Herald and Valley News, respectively.
Robert F. Smith of Westminster, the co-editor of The Message, a free weekly newspaper, said he was also working with people who were interested in starting a replacement publication similar to The Message and he was keeping in close contact with his eight fellow employees. "A lot of people have been in touch with me. Definitely, some people with a serious background are interested in continuing a publication like The Message," he said. "It never had hard news, it ran tons of features," he said. The group is looking at "starting from scratch," he said, rather than buying The Message out of bankruptcy.
Meanwhile, a Virginia woman, who is a native of Claremont, and worked at the Eagle while she was a high school student, has launched a community news Web site, www.yourclaremontpress.com, and said Thursday that the Web site was welcoming community news, press releases and information.
Nancy Brown of Fredericksburg, Va., who runs several Web sites including www.yourmilitary.com, said she got the site up on Wednesday with several news stories, press releases from Claremont police and four obituaries. "We started this on Sunday," Brown said, noting she had more than a dozen years running successful Web sites. But Brown said the success of the new Web site would depend on local businesses and people supporting it. If there are no advertisements, it won't succeed, she said. Brown said she hoped to hire one of the former Eagle reporters and several advertising reps. She said she already had more than 90 friends on her Claremontpress.com Facebook page.
Smith, who worked at The Message for seven years editing, writing, laying out the paper and taking the publication's signature photographs, said losing his job was a shock. While he and others received their last paycheck this week, there are still questions about the employees' access to their 401k accounts, a view echoed by Yanick.
And employees, such as traveling ad salespeople, haven't been paid their expenses, Smith said. "I signed up for unemployment," Smith said. "And we'll see what happens."
6. Upcoming Events
July 20 (Monday): Water Board Meeting, 5 pm Town Office
July 21 (Tuesday): Tie dye day at the Cavendish Library, from 9-6. Bring one item to tie dye.
July 22 (Wednesday): Chris Kleeman in concert, 6:30 pm at the Proctorsville Green. This is a free concert.
July 23 (Thursday): Take a prize day for kids checking books out of the Cavendish Library 9-6:30
July 28 (Thursday): Take a prize day for kids checking books out of the Cavendish Library 9-6:30
July 29 (Wednesday): Yankee Chank Cajun Band, featuring Cavendish fiddler Bob Naess, 6:30 pm at the Proctorsville Green
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Select Board Agenda 7/13/09
Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, July 13 , 2009.
This meeting will begin with a site visit by the Selectmen to the Proctor Cemetery in Proctorsville at 6:00
PM. Immediately following the site visit, the Select Board will recess to travel to the Town Office for the regular monthly Selectmen’s Meeting. The Board Meeting will reconvene in the Meeting Room at approximately 6:30 PM.
................................................................ AGENDA ................................................................
1. Call the meeting to order and conduct site visit at the Proctor Cemetery in Proctorsville
2. Recess to travel to the Cavendish Town Office meeting room.
3. Reconvene at the Town Office
4. Act upon minutes of the meetings of June 8, June 22 , July 1 and July 6, 2009.
th nd st th
5. Sign Orders
6. Review Correspondence
7. Adjust agenda
8. Hear Citizens
9. Discuss the Proctor Cemetery visit and public access to that cemetery
10. Update on water filtration project
11. David Coutu and Attorney Mark Hall will be present for their requested meeting with the Select Board wherein they wish to discuss Mr. Coutu’s proposed helipad project.
12. Progress report on developments and activities pertaining to the Proctorsville Curb and Sidewalk Project
13. Town Manager update on proposed replacement of TH Bridge #21 on Greenbush Road
14. Continue discussion of identity theft prevention policy (draft distributed to members at April meeting)
15. Continue discussion on parking ordinance including prohibition of parking on sidewalks with suggestions submitted by the Selectmen last month
16. Review of materials relevant to the suggestion of a derelict building ordinance
17. Review draft of FY 2009-2010 municipal wastewater system fee and rate schedule
18. Town Manager to discuss road gravel procurement with the Board
19. Town Manager to provide update on several town activities and recent events
20. Other business
21. Adjourn
This meeting will begin with a site visit by the Selectmen to the Proctor Cemetery in Proctorsville at 6:00
PM. Immediately following the site visit, the Select Board will recess to travel to the Town Office for the regular monthly Selectmen’s Meeting. The Board Meeting will reconvene in the Meeting Room at approximately 6:30 PM.
................................................................ AGENDA ................................................................
1. Call the meeting to order and conduct site visit at the Proctor Cemetery in Proctorsville
2. Recess to travel to the Cavendish Town Office meeting room.
3. Reconvene at the Town Office
4. Act upon minutes of the meetings of June 8, June 22 , July 1 and July 6, 2009.
th nd st th
5. Sign Orders
6. Review Correspondence
7. Adjust agenda
8. Hear Citizens
9. Discuss the Proctor Cemetery visit and public access to that cemetery
10. Update on water filtration project
11. David Coutu and Attorney Mark Hall will be present for their requested meeting with the Select Board wherein they wish to discuss Mr. Coutu’s proposed helipad project.
12. Progress report on developments and activities pertaining to the Proctorsville Curb and Sidewalk Project
13. Town Manager update on proposed replacement of TH Bridge #21 on Greenbush Road
14. Continue discussion of identity theft prevention policy (draft distributed to members at April meeting)
15. Continue discussion on parking ordinance including prohibition of parking on sidewalks with suggestions submitted by the Selectmen last month
16. Review of materials relevant to the suggestion of a derelict building ordinance
17. Review draft of FY 2009-2010 municipal wastewater system fee and rate schedule
18. Town Manager to discuss road gravel procurement with the Board
19. Town Manager to provide update on several town activities and recent events
20. Other business
21. Adjourn
Friday, July 10, 2009
Cavendish Update 7/10/09 Message/Eagle Times Close
This issue of the Cavendish Update is made possible by the Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA), a non-profit membership organization that is dedicated to the conservation of land and natural resources and to the preservation of historic sites within the context of sustainable economic growth. FMI: PO Box 605, Cavendish VT 05142 or 802-226-7736
The 7/10/09Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Eagle Times and Message Close 7/10/09
2. Pat Rankin Memorial
3. The 1930’s Return to Cavendish
4. Cavendish Related News
5. Cavendish Fletcher Community Library Artist of the month for July 2009
6. Cavendish Community Fund Schedules Annual Dinner
7. Events
8. CCCA Newsletter
1. Eagle Times and The Message Closes Friday 7/10/09
Article published Jul 10, 2009 Rutland Herald by Susan Smallheer
CLAREMONT, N.H. — As one staffer put it, the Eagle ran out of Time Thursday.
The Eagle-Times, a daily newspaper that served the city of Claremont and communities on both sides of the Connecticut River, published its last edition today.
Harvey Hill, publisher and owner of the paper, told employees Thursday afternoon that he would file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy today. Employees were told to turn in their keys at the end of their shift Thursday.
"We did our best to continue the operations, but the economy and the changes in the newspaper industry have made it impossible to continue this business. Thank you for your support over the years and the dedication you showed to his newspaper," he wrote in a staffwide e-mail.
"It's the paradigm shift," said one staffer, referring to the changes affecting the newspaper industry in New England and beyond, from the troubles at the Boston Globe to small-town Claremont.
"I'm saddened; it's awful close to home," said John Mitchell, president and publisher of the Rutland Herald, which competed head-to-head with the Eagle in many Vermont towns. "I thought smaller papers were doing OK for the most part."
Eric Francis of White River Junction, who wrote for The Spectator and the Eagle-Times as a freelancer for several years, said the staff worked to get the final edition completed Thursday afternoon.
He said that the closing shocked everyone. "Harvey said it was just economics," Francis said, noting the past year or so had been "rocky," with the papers experiencing a high turnover rate in editors.
Staffers said the closing affects not just the Eagle-Times, but Hill's other publications including The Message, a shopper based in Chester, Vt., and the Connecticut Valley Spectator of Lebanon, N.H., both weekly publications. Hill bought the popular Message a few years ago, and started the Spectator in 2002.
The news shocked not just the employees, but people who got their daily dose of hometown news and sports from the 7,800-circulation paper. On Thursday, the front page included news about the rebuilding of Aumand's, a furniture store in Walpole, N.H., which burned a year ago, and a story about how Josh the camel from Lempster, N.H., had made the record books being the first camel to make it up Mount Washington in the White Mountains.
"Holy smokes," said former state Sen. Edgar May of Springfield, who was the subject of a Sunday magazine feature earlier in the week.
"I have a special affection for American journalism for obvious reasons for having worked in it for many years," said May, who won a Pulitzer Prize for journalism in the 1960s. "It's a very sad time when any newspaper dies because a newspaper has been the centerpiece of changing public policy and improving the lives of so many people," he said.
"The closing of a newspaper means a little piece of democracy has died," he said. "There are some very important issues that have required skilled, intensive reporting that only newspapers can do."
May's comments were typical of people contacted late Thursday, as news of the papers' closure became public.
Hill, in an e-mail to employees, said he and his wife Christina could no longer afford subsidizing the paper. Hill bought the Eagle-Times about 15 years ago after a successful career in the paper manufacturing business.
Hill said he and his wife had paid for the employees' health insurance through the end of July, and that employees would get their final paycheck, plus vacation pay, next week.
He attributed the papers' closing to the economic crisis, as well as the widespread problems in the newspaper industry.
"It's very sad," said Bob Flint, executive director of the Springfield Regional Development Corp., who had worked with Hill on a variety of projects over the years.
"On a lot of levels, I appreciate what Harvey and Christina have done. But I know it's been a struggle. The closing will leave a huge void in this region," Flint said.
The Eagle-Times was created in the 1960s with the merger of two newspapers: the Claremont Eagle and the Times-Reporter, which was based in Springfield. For years, the paper operated out of an office in downtown Claremont on Sullivan Street, but eventually it built a new plant on the outskirts of the city on River Street – with a wonderful view of Vermont.
Matt DeRienzo, now the publisher of the Torrington (Conn.) Register, started at the Eagle in 1999 as a reporter and left in 2003 as managing editor.
"I think that Harvey and Christina have sunk so much of their personal money and time into the papers, they are not in it for the money. They cared about the community," DeRienzo said.
DeRienzo said Hill, a native son of Charlestown, N.H., grew up on a farm just down the road from the paper's location on River Road. He returned to the area after a career in paper manufacturing, got bored with retirement and bought his hometown paper.
But in a perfect indication of how news spreads in the 21st century, DeRienzo said he didn't hear about the closing of the Eagle from the Associated Press news wire, or a telephone call from Hill or fellow staffers, or even an e-mail, but from the social networking site Facebook.
A friend, a former staffer of the Spectator, now a freelancer in New Hampshire, posted news of the paper's closing on her Facebook page, he said.
2. Pat Rankin Memorial
Pat Rankin, a long-standing member of the Cavendish Community, died in April. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday July 11 from 3:00 pm -5:00 pm at the Cavendish Inn (Glimmerstone), 1589 Main St., Cavendish, Vermont. There will be an opportunity to share thoughts and memories about Pat. A light buffet supper will be served. Potluck is optional but welcome.
3. The 1930’s Return to Cavendish
“Even though the October 1929 stock market crash did not cause businesses to close in Cavendish, the ensuing Depression certainly did make life harder for a great many local people. Gay Brothers Woolen Mill found 1932 the worst year it had had in twenty years. It continued to operate, but sometimes on a part time basis, laying off some workers for a few weeks or months or cutting down to a four-day workweek. This was not too difficult for single young people…but four-day workweeks or lay-offs were devastating to those with families to support and especially those who had to pay rent and buy milk and groceries. Many who had always worked hard and supported their families found that now they had to ask for help and go “on the Town.” In the book “Chubb Hill Farm and Cavendish, Vermont” by Barbara Kingsbury, also records how the number of people in town rose from twenty to twenty-five a year in the 1920’s to 85 by 1934.
There are many similarities between the economy of the 1930s and today. For that reason, the Cavendish Historical Society has chosen the 1930’s as their theme for the year. As more is learned more about how Cavendish weathered the “great depression,” some of this history translates into very practical solutions for the current economically difficult times. On Sunday, July 12, starting at 2 pm, there will be a car show of 1930’s cars, as well as a workshop that offers 1930’s practical solutions for dealing with 21st century household chores. Interestingly, not only was house keeping cheaper than today’s counterparts, but it was also free of many of the harsh chemicals now being used. Both events will take place at the Cavendish Historical Society Museum on Route 131 in Cavendish. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margoc@tds.net
4. Cavendish Related News
No vote to Drive Thru Window in Ludlow
5. Cavendish Fletcher Community Library Artist of the month for July 2009
A native of Vermont, Ellen and her husband Jim Parrish moved to Proctorsville, Vermont in 1990 and opened a bed and breakfast which they ran for 18 years. Ellen's interest in photography began early in her life when she was given a small "Brownie" camera at age six.
A few years ago a latent interest in painting led to watercolor classes at the Fletcher Farm School with local artist Robert O'Brien. Later she took painting classes under Patty Dean and Robert Sydorowich. Ellen finds the Vermont landscapes and her love of gardening an inspiration for her watercolors and photography.
A selection of photographs and watercolors are on display at the Redfield Proctor Room through the month of July and may be viewed during the library’s open hours.
6. Cavendish Community Fund Schedules Annual Dinner
The Cavendish Community Fund has announced that it will hold a benefit, fundraising dinner at the Cavendish Inn on August 1st at 7:00 p.m. The Cavendish Inn is located on Route 131 between Cavendish and Proctorsville villages.
Barbara Dickey, chairperson of the CCF said, “The dinner has become a regular summer event in Cavendish and is a terrific opportunity to support a truly grassroots effort to promote local programs of community benefit. By bringing together several community minded residents for an enjoyable evening, we can sponsor programs all year long.”
The Fund has supported numerous artistic, cultural and educational projects, programs and events. This summer for example the Fund is underwriting part of the summer concert series on the Proctorsville green. Last summer CCF enabled presentation of the Cavendish Chronicles – a locally written and produced play about Cavendish history.
The Fund’s mission is to maintain the sense of community that typifies Vermont small towns and that gets lost in the fast paced life that modern society demands. By sponsoring local events for local people, CCF hopes to add significant educational and cultural value to the quality of life in Cavendish.
Tim Jefferson, host at the Cavendish Inn promises a terrific menu of mid-summer fare with dessert pastries from Crow’s bakery, and with an evening of special entertainment. To purchase dinner tickets or for more information, please call Robin Timko at (802) 226-7736.
7. Events
July 11 (Saturday): Pat Rankin Celebration of Life 3-5 pm (see article 2)
• West Coast Swing Dance Class from 7 to 8 p.m at the Opera House above Crows Bakery on Depot St. Proctorsville. No partner necessary! $10 a person for instructor ($5 if you are 18 or under) and $1 contribution for space at the door!
July 12 (Sunday): The 1930’s exhibit, car show and workshop at the Cavendish Historical Society Museum. (see article 3).
July 13 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Town Office Building
July 16 (Thursday): The Cavendish Community Luncheon will be at the St. James Methodist Church in Proctorsville. Serving begins at 11:30 A.M. The menu will be oven-baked chicken drumsticks and thighs, pasta salad, corn, tossed salad, warm rolls, your choice of blackberry or cherry cobbler with whipped cream for dessert, and lemonade, coffee or tea to drink. The cost is $3 for seniors and $4.50 for those under the age of 60.
8. CCCA Newsletter
The Summer 2009 edition of the Cavendish Community and Conservation Association is now available on-line at www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com
The 7/10/09Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Eagle Times and Message Close 7/10/09
2. Pat Rankin Memorial
3. The 1930’s Return to Cavendish
4. Cavendish Related News
5. Cavendish Fletcher Community Library Artist of the month for July 2009
6. Cavendish Community Fund Schedules Annual Dinner
7. Events
8. CCCA Newsletter
1. Eagle Times and The Message Closes Friday 7/10/09
Article published Jul 10, 2009 Rutland Herald by Susan Smallheer
CLAREMONT, N.H. — As one staffer put it, the Eagle ran out of Time Thursday.
The Eagle-Times, a daily newspaper that served the city of Claremont and communities on both sides of the Connecticut River, published its last edition today.
Harvey Hill, publisher and owner of the paper, told employees Thursday afternoon that he would file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy today. Employees were told to turn in their keys at the end of their shift Thursday.
"We did our best to continue the operations, but the economy and the changes in the newspaper industry have made it impossible to continue this business. Thank you for your support over the years and the dedication you showed to his newspaper," he wrote in a staffwide e-mail.
"It's the paradigm shift," said one staffer, referring to the changes affecting the newspaper industry in New England and beyond, from the troubles at the Boston Globe to small-town Claremont.
"I'm saddened; it's awful close to home," said John Mitchell, president and publisher of the Rutland Herald, which competed head-to-head with the Eagle in many Vermont towns. "I thought smaller papers were doing OK for the most part."
Eric Francis of White River Junction, who wrote for The Spectator and the Eagle-Times as a freelancer for several years, said the staff worked to get the final edition completed Thursday afternoon.
He said that the closing shocked everyone. "Harvey said it was just economics," Francis said, noting the past year or so had been "rocky," with the papers experiencing a high turnover rate in editors.
Staffers said the closing affects not just the Eagle-Times, but Hill's other publications including The Message, a shopper based in Chester, Vt., and the Connecticut Valley Spectator of Lebanon, N.H., both weekly publications. Hill bought the popular Message a few years ago, and started the Spectator in 2002.
The news shocked not just the employees, but people who got their daily dose of hometown news and sports from the 7,800-circulation paper. On Thursday, the front page included news about the rebuilding of Aumand's, a furniture store in Walpole, N.H., which burned a year ago, and a story about how Josh the camel from Lempster, N.H., had made the record books being the first camel to make it up Mount Washington in the White Mountains.
"Holy smokes," said former state Sen. Edgar May of Springfield, who was the subject of a Sunday magazine feature earlier in the week.
"I have a special affection for American journalism for obvious reasons for having worked in it for many years," said May, who won a Pulitzer Prize for journalism in the 1960s. "It's a very sad time when any newspaper dies because a newspaper has been the centerpiece of changing public policy and improving the lives of so many people," he said.
"The closing of a newspaper means a little piece of democracy has died," he said. "There are some very important issues that have required skilled, intensive reporting that only newspapers can do."
May's comments were typical of people contacted late Thursday, as news of the papers' closure became public.
Hill, in an e-mail to employees, said he and his wife Christina could no longer afford subsidizing the paper. Hill bought the Eagle-Times about 15 years ago after a successful career in the paper manufacturing business.
Hill said he and his wife had paid for the employees' health insurance through the end of July, and that employees would get their final paycheck, plus vacation pay, next week.
He attributed the papers' closing to the economic crisis, as well as the widespread problems in the newspaper industry.
"It's very sad," said Bob Flint, executive director of the Springfield Regional Development Corp., who had worked with Hill on a variety of projects over the years.
"On a lot of levels, I appreciate what Harvey and Christina have done. But I know it's been a struggle. The closing will leave a huge void in this region," Flint said.
The Eagle-Times was created in the 1960s with the merger of two newspapers: the Claremont Eagle and the Times-Reporter, which was based in Springfield. For years, the paper operated out of an office in downtown Claremont on Sullivan Street, but eventually it built a new plant on the outskirts of the city on River Street – with a wonderful view of Vermont.
Matt DeRienzo, now the publisher of the Torrington (Conn.) Register, started at the Eagle in 1999 as a reporter and left in 2003 as managing editor.
"I think that Harvey and Christina have sunk so much of their personal money and time into the papers, they are not in it for the money. They cared about the community," DeRienzo said.
DeRienzo said Hill, a native son of Charlestown, N.H., grew up on a farm just down the road from the paper's location on River Road. He returned to the area after a career in paper manufacturing, got bored with retirement and bought his hometown paper.
But in a perfect indication of how news spreads in the 21st century, DeRienzo said he didn't hear about the closing of the Eagle from the Associated Press news wire, or a telephone call from Hill or fellow staffers, or even an e-mail, but from the social networking site Facebook.
A friend, a former staffer of the Spectator, now a freelancer in New Hampshire, posted news of the paper's closing on her Facebook page, he said.
2. Pat Rankin Memorial
Pat Rankin, a long-standing member of the Cavendish Community, died in April. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday July 11 from 3:00 pm -5:00 pm at the Cavendish Inn (Glimmerstone), 1589 Main St., Cavendish, Vermont. There will be an opportunity to share thoughts and memories about Pat. A light buffet supper will be served. Potluck is optional but welcome.
3. The 1930’s Return to Cavendish
“Even though the October 1929 stock market crash did not cause businesses to close in Cavendish, the ensuing Depression certainly did make life harder for a great many local people. Gay Brothers Woolen Mill found 1932 the worst year it had had in twenty years. It continued to operate, but sometimes on a part time basis, laying off some workers for a few weeks or months or cutting down to a four-day workweek. This was not too difficult for single young people…but four-day workweeks or lay-offs were devastating to those with families to support and especially those who had to pay rent and buy milk and groceries. Many who had always worked hard and supported their families found that now they had to ask for help and go “on the Town.” In the book “Chubb Hill Farm and Cavendish, Vermont” by Barbara Kingsbury, also records how the number of people in town rose from twenty to twenty-five a year in the 1920’s to 85 by 1934.
There are many similarities between the economy of the 1930s and today. For that reason, the Cavendish Historical Society has chosen the 1930’s as their theme for the year. As more is learned more about how Cavendish weathered the “great depression,” some of this history translates into very practical solutions for the current economically difficult times. On Sunday, July 12, starting at 2 pm, there will be a car show of 1930’s cars, as well as a workshop that offers 1930’s practical solutions for dealing with 21st century household chores. Interestingly, not only was house keeping cheaper than today’s counterparts, but it was also free of many of the harsh chemicals now being used. Both events will take place at the Cavendish Historical Society Museum on Route 131 in Cavendish. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margoc@tds.net
4. Cavendish Related News
No vote to Drive Thru Window in Ludlow
5. Cavendish Fletcher Community Library Artist of the month for July 2009
A native of Vermont, Ellen and her husband Jim Parrish moved to Proctorsville, Vermont in 1990 and opened a bed and breakfast which they ran for 18 years. Ellen's interest in photography began early in her life when she was given a small "Brownie" camera at age six.
A few years ago a latent interest in painting led to watercolor classes at the Fletcher Farm School with local artist Robert O'Brien. Later she took painting classes under Patty Dean and Robert Sydorowich. Ellen finds the Vermont landscapes and her love of gardening an inspiration for her watercolors and photography.
A selection of photographs and watercolors are on display at the Redfield Proctor Room through the month of July and may be viewed during the library’s open hours.
6. Cavendish Community Fund Schedules Annual Dinner
The Cavendish Community Fund has announced that it will hold a benefit, fundraising dinner at the Cavendish Inn on August 1st at 7:00 p.m. The Cavendish Inn is located on Route 131 between Cavendish and Proctorsville villages.
Barbara Dickey, chairperson of the CCF said, “The dinner has become a regular summer event in Cavendish and is a terrific opportunity to support a truly grassroots effort to promote local programs of community benefit. By bringing together several community minded residents for an enjoyable evening, we can sponsor programs all year long.”
The Fund has supported numerous artistic, cultural and educational projects, programs and events. This summer for example the Fund is underwriting part of the summer concert series on the Proctorsville green. Last summer CCF enabled presentation of the Cavendish Chronicles – a locally written and produced play about Cavendish history.
The Fund’s mission is to maintain the sense of community that typifies Vermont small towns and that gets lost in the fast paced life that modern society demands. By sponsoring local events for local people, CCF hopes to add significant educational and cultural value to the quality of life in Cavendish.
Tim Jefferson, host at the Cavendish Inn promises a terrific menu of mid-summer fare with dessert pastries from Crow’s bakery, and with an evening of special entertainment. To purchase dinner tickets or for more information, please call Robin Timko at (802) 226-7736.
7. Events
July 11 (Saturday): Pat Rankin Celebration of Life 3-5 pm (see article 2)
• West Coast Swing Dance Class from 7 to 8 p.m at the Opera House above Crows Bakery on Depot St. Proctorsville. No partner necessary! $10 a person for instructor ($5 if you are 18 or under) and $1 contribution for space at the door!
July 12 (Sunday): The 1930’s exhibit, car show and workshop at the Cavendish Historical Society Museum. (see article 3).
July 13 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Town Office Building
July 16 (Thursday): The Cavendish Community Luncheon will be at the St. James Methodist Church in Proctorsville. Serving begins at 11:30 A.M. The menu will be oven-baked chicken drumsticks and thighs, pasta salad, corn, tossed salad, warm rolls, your choice of blackberry or cherry cobbler with whipped cream for dessert, and lemonade, coffee or tea to drink. The cost is $3 for seniors and $4.50 for those under the age of 60.
8. CCCA Newsletter
The Summer 2009 edition of the Cavendish Community and Conservation Association is now available on-line at www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
CCCA Newsletter Summer 2009
Our Vision: CCCA is committed to a vibrant Cavendish/Proctorsville community that supports its human and natural
resources, building a legacy of health, integrity and vitality for future generations.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Summer ‘09 Newsletter Volume No. 6, Issue No. 2
A Message from Robin
Summer is here, gardens are pushing up and we are glad for the sunshine! This spring’s annual Photo contest was a
wonderful success with so many fine photos entered for the 2010 Calendar Contest it was difficult to choose among
them. Winners of the judged contest will hang all year at the Cavendish Town Office and of course, the Cavendish
Community Calendar will be available as soon as it is printed! For more on the winners, please see the article below.
For our annual directors’ meeting and retreat this year, CCCA board members visited the Cobb Hill Farm at the
Sustainability Institute in Hartland, Vermont. Members of their staff gave us a short presentation regarding the
philosophy of Donella Meadows, their founder, and an overview of the Institute's work. They bring community
organizers from all over the world together to share their stories, visions and processes working for a healthy and
sustainable way of life. They focus on understanding the root causes of unsustainable behavior in complex
systems to help restructure systems and shift mindsets that will help move human society toward sustainability.
After the presentation we toured their remarkable Cobb Hill Cohousing community and attached farming
operations. It was impressive to see the efforts individuals are making to bring into balance a way of life with an
awareness of our place in the environment. We also enjoyed a communal meal in their dining hall that
was mostly prepared from food grown on their land. For more on the Institute, please visit their website at
www.sustainer.org.
The CCCA is currently expanding its conservation and sustainability efforts with new board member, Karen Wilson
who co-chairs the committee. Karen is bringing enthusiasm and a wealth of ideas to help move Cavendish in a "Green" direction. One of her goals is to get grant money to pay for the training of our local carpenters, electricians, and
plumbers to become solar installers and energy raters. Another goal is to put solar to use at the Cavendish Town
Elementary School and other town buildings. She has also started a committee that will gather names of
Cavendish residents who are interested in using solar at their homes with the objective of getting together to buy in bulk to save money. For more on what we are doing see the article below on Going Solar.
Robin Timko, Chair of CCCA
Welcome to Cavendish All New Homeowners
On a fun-filled, cold winter evening several new residents of Cavendish enjoyed the warm hospitality of the
Cavendish Inn at the invitation of CCCA and the Cavendish Historical Society. So many people come into the
community, often as second home- owners and never get to know what is going on in town, and never get to know
who their neighbors are. To help remedy that inhospitable situation, the two groups joined in holding a pot luck
dinner at which the new residents got to mingle with each other and with long- time and newer neighbors. CCCA hopes
to continue these pot luck dinners as a tradition.
CCCA and CHS Partner to Bring Earth Week to Cavendish
Earth Day 2009 lasted for an entire week in Cavendish. While most communities celebrated the day with events and
information presented on Wednesday, the CCCA and The Cavendish Historical Society presented seven days of events,
lectures, presentations, a movie, and a house tour. There was no shortage of talent to educate and inform Cavendish
citizens and residents on a variety of “green” issues and projects. Monday’s program gave us “Sustainable
Household Tips from the 1930’s (Green Clean for Cheap)”. Margo Caulfield and Dan Churchill spoke about the old days in Cavendish, Vermont and the country before we had modern conveniences and products that use too much energy and
add too much pollution to our environment. Anyone wanting more information can e-mail a request to Margo at Margoc@TDS.net. Professor Patrick Parenteau of the Vermont Law School’s Environmental
Law Center spoke on Tuesday evening about what is happening in Montpelier and in Washington that concerns our
environment here in Cavendish. His talk concerned the impact of climate change on Vermont and focused on the direction
of legislative proposals. Wednesday was dubbed “Windy Wednesday” and saw a kite flying demonstration at Fletcher Fields along with a hands-on opportunity to examine the workings of a real wind generator. The generator was brought down to earth and set up by Dallas Cox of the Solar Store. He explained the way such systems could benefit individuals and the Town.
There were a variety of discussions at CTES on Wednesday evening as Dallas Cox chaired a panel of experts who talked about solar hot water, solar electric generation, and solar tube lighting, as well as the creation of geothermal and wind energy. The
discussion included conservation as well, talking about weatherization and energy reduction techniques. For more
information, contact Dallas Cox at the Cavendish Solar Store on Route 131 in Cavendish.
Thursday saw a change of pace as talk shifted to gardening, composting, recycling and local foods. Sandra Russo
discussed the Cavendish Community Garden (for more information, contact sandra.russo@yahoo.com) Sarah Stowell discussed the CTES Farm to School Program, which uses volunteers to help maintain a summer garden at the school, harvest the produce, and help the school cafeteria prepare food for the children. (Contact Sarah Stowell at
sarastowell@tds.net for more information). Other topics discussed included the new Cavendish Transfer Station textile station for recycling ripped and stained clothes, sheets, shoes etc. SVECA collects the textiles, sells them to a distributor and uses the money to run a number of programs in Cavendish and nearby communities. “The 11th Hour”, a film about the dire condition of our planet was shown on Friday at the CTES and is available for
viewing at the Cavendish Library. Saturday saw a number of workshops focused on sustainable building, landscaping, net metering and tax incentives. Finally, and to complete the week’s events, the Cavendish Solar Store provided a Sustainable Living house tour on Sunday. This proved to be the most popular program of the week and many residents got to see sustainable energy projects in action.
The CCCA Sustainability Committee will start planning next year’s events soon and is looking for individuals who
are interested in helping. We are looking for interesting and informative topics and ideas. If you want to take part, please contact Karen Wilson at karenw381@cs.com.
Are You Interested in Going Solar?
The CCCA Sustainability Committee wants to know how interested you are in our latest solar energy project. Specifically, the committee is investigating “Grid Tie” or “On-Grid” solar systems. Grid Tie solar is one way to reduce your cost of electricity. We’ve all seen the solar panels that sit on roofs to convert the sun’s energy into electricity. By running that power through the meter that is connected or “tied” to the power grid, a homeowner can essentially make his meter run “backwards” and thereby
reduce the cost of power purchased from the electric company. These systems are also sometimes referred to as “net
metering.” The power that is generated and fed back to the power company will lower future electric bills. It is possible,
with enough solar panels installed, to reduce power costs to zero. This system has several advantages over a system that just feeds power into the house wiring. 1) There are no batteries, which are the parts that need maintenance and replacement most
often. 2) The system qualifies for state and federal tax credits, so the homeowner ends up paying much less for purchase and installation. 3) The owner can always add on to the system later. 3) The system will last for as long as 25 years. 4) The environment improves – less need to burn coal or oil to generate power. And 5) the most important advantage of all to most of us – The installation of solar power will increase the value of any home. It is estimated that for every $1,000 saved in energy costs, the home’s value increases by $20,000.
Even with tax incentives, purchasing and installing solar power panels can be expensive. But one way to reduce costs
is to buy in bulk. If enough Cavendish homeowners join together, we can make buying grid tie solar systems as
affordable as possible. There are a variety of other projects that can also reduce equipment and installation costs and the CCCA is exploring a number of options. The first step that we are pursuing is to learn how many homeowners are interested in joining this project. We are not asking for a commitment right now, just a statement of interest. If you are interested in being
part of this new initiative, please contact Karen Wilson at Karenw381@cs.com or
802- 226-7494.
CCCA 2nd Annual Calendar
Contest Winners Are Selected.
Winner of the Best in Show Prize: The Ham by Sal Campofranco
In a highly competitive selection process, the residents of Cavendish selected the twelve monthly illustrations for the CCCA’s 2010 Cavendish calendar, and our panel of professional judges selected prize winners in several age categories. This year's Cavendish Photo contest was spectacular! There were over 30 entries and all showed great talent. The winners of the judged contest are as follows:
-- Ages 5 to 12: Alyssa Ripley's BOOK LEAVES; with Mathew Palmer's GOOD VIEW as the runner-up.
-- Ages 13-18: Chris Palmer's HISTORICAL SOCIETY; with Sonja Skalecki's DARKNESS FALLS as the runner up.
-- Adults: Sandra Russo's THE STANDOFF.
Congratulations to all the winners! Please come to Crows Bakery on Depot St. to collect your prizes. Thank you to
the judges for their keen eyes and expertise!
In the community voting the following photos were chosen as 2010 Calendar selections, although many voters
commented on the difficulty of the task, given the wonderful selection of photographs to choose from.
January - ICE CAVE, Quarry Rd. Proctorsville, by Wendy Regier
February -MOUNTAIN MAMA AND HER FOAL, Stevens Rd. looking towards Little Ascutney, by Ginger Wilk
March - FROM THE FARMHOUSE, Riford farm off 20 Mile Stream Rd., by Jackie Hubbard
April - BLACK RIVER, Gulf Rd., by Jon Owens
May - MEMORIAL DAY, Depot St. Proctorsville, by Martha Mott
June - GREEN GODDESS, Goldfish pond on 20 Mile Stream Rd., by Ellen Parrish
July - THE STANDOFF, Ting's farm in Cavendish, by Sandra Russo
August - GOOD VIEW, Chubb Hill Rd. in Cavendish, by Mathew Palmer
September - TRACKS OF TRANQUILITY, Densmore Rd., by Gail Verheyen
October - TWENTY MILE STREAM IN AUTUMN, Twenty Mile Stream at Davis Rd., by Richard Svec
November - BIRCHES ON TIERNEY RD., Tierney Rd, Cavendish, by Svetlana Phillips
December - OH WHAT FUN, South Reading Rd. Cavendish, by Hans Schrag
The cover photo this year was taken by Winston Churchill, and entitled OWL IN OWENS YARD.
Last but not least, THE HAM, a photo taken at the Johnson Farm on Hoey Road, by Salvatore Campofranco was
voted BEST IN SHOW.
Thanks to all who contributed to the contest. For those photographers whose pictures will not be displayed in the Town Offices, you may pick up your photo at Crows Bakery anytime during July.
There was some confusion expressed this year about whether the photos were supposed to be just landscape or whether
they could include people and animals. We have expressed our desire to see photos that show our surrounding landscape in it's great variety, but the photo may include in that landscape animals, historic buildings and persons. The less landscape a photo shows, the less likely it will be for it to represent any given month in the calendar. The calendar is made possible by our local business sponsors and by the CCCA. Sponsors include Castle Hill Resort and Spa; Commercial Radio; Timothy Mott, Builder; Beacon Pest Control and Chimney Care; RDB Marketing; The Village Clipper; Cavendish Game Birds; Cavendish Canine Camp; Six Loose Ladies; The Cavendish Solar Store; Chittenden Bank; Raymond James Financial; Singleton's Store; Mack Molding; Mary Ormrod's Feldenkrais; and Crows Bakery and Café.
Calendars will be available for purchase in the fall. For more information call Robin Timko at 226-7736
Cavendish and Proctorsville Water Finally Set to Improve
For those who live in the villages, and who depend on the Cavendish water system, drinking water has for many years come from a bottle. Well, the wait is nearly over. The new water filtration plant has finally come on line. After enduring brown or yellow water due to dissolved impurities that ruined pipes, heating and hot water systems and untold loads of laundry, residents now see fairly clear water that is expected to improve over the coming months. A recent taste test, however proved that the system is working, at least somewhat. Iron and manganese are the culprits and the iron content has dropped drastically in a very short period of time. It was expected that the manganese levels would decrease much more slowly. The levels are down, but it will take several weeks more to reduce to a reasonable level. Pipes in both villages need to be
flushed and this has yet to be scheduled. Once town wide flushing is complete, residents should flush home pipes. The
filtration system is still new to communities in Vermont and therefore the state took an extended time to approve its use.
Cavendish Community Fund News
The Cavendish Community Fund awarded three grants for education, music and dance in Cavendish this summer. The first grant, to Fiber Arts in Vermont, Inc. will sponsor a class at the Six Loose Ladies fiber arts store on Depot Street in Proctorsville. The class will be taught by Alice Vogel of Alstead, NH and will challenge participants to redesign, repurpose and generally to
wake up their imagination to create something new from something old. Students bring in gently used clothing and embellishments, contribute the articles to a pool of items, and in turn each student is allowed to select items from the pool to create a completely new and uniquely original garment. The class will be offered this summer free of charge at a time to be announced by Six Loose Ladies. The second grant, to the Cavendish Fletcher Community Library, will help fund the annual summer concert series on the Proctorsville Green. This is the fourth year of the concerts, but the first year in which they are sponsored by the Library. The concerts will be held on consecutive Wednesday evenings beginning July 15th. Exact times and
performing artists will be publicized in the local press. The third grant will enable Ashley Hensel-Browning and Rebecca Salem to explore choreography and yoga in a summer session with Cavendish Children at no cost to their families. Classes will focus on encouraging children to educate themselves exploring dance and choreography as art forms and participating in active art making. A Friday family day will allow students to incorporate their families into their learning. Hensel-Browning and Salem have both worked as teachers in their fields for several years, with studios in Springfield and Chester respectively. Hensel-Browning recently completed teaching a series of workshops on dance and choreography at the Cavendish Town Elementary School.
For more information about CCF or the application process, please call Peter LaBelle at 226-7250, or Barbara Dickey at 226-7187.
Reserve the Date
The Cavendish Inn On Saturday, August 1st the Cavendish Community Fund will hold its annual fund raising dinner for 2009 at the Cavendish Inn on Route 131 between the villages of Cavendish and Proctorsville. Innkeepers Tim and Peter Jefferson
promise that the dinner will meet your every expectation. And of course there will be wonderful entertainment and fine weather. Well, maybe we are promising too much with that last one, but previous events have been hugely enjoyable,
come rain or come shine! The purpose of the dinner is to raise funds that will go right back to the community in the form of artistic, cultural or educational projects, programs or events. The CCF has distributed almost $10,000 to fund some dozen Cavendish events since early 2007. We can’t do it without your help. But with your help we can continue the tradition that we have begun. The cost is $65 per person or $125 per couple. For tickets and information contact Robin Timko at Crow’s Bakery or at 802-226- 7736. Please join us for another memorable event.
Cavendish Historical Society
Upcoming Events
The Cavendish Historical Society Museum is located on Main Street in Cavendish Village, and is open Sundays
from 2-4 p.m. until mid-October.
• Lessons from the 1930s for Life in the 21st Century. Includes exhibits and presentations on sustainable living and
household tips from the 1930s. July 12th, Sunday, 2 p.m. at the CHS Museum in Cavendish Village.
• Duttonsville School Reunion at the former Duttonsville schoolhouse in Cavendish. Includes tours of the old schoolhouse. August 23rd , Sunday, 1-4 p.m.
• Bus trip to Old Sturbridge Village on September 19th. Cost is $43 per person and includes OSV admission. Tickets
on sale at the museum, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. Payment is due prior to August 1st. For more information contact Sandra
Russo at 226-7398 or at Sandra.russo@yahoo.com.
• Cemetery Tour – Sunday, October 11th. Contact Margoc@tds.net for details.
• Pot Luck Supper / annual meeting – Sunday, October 18th. Contact Margoc@tds.net for details.
Cavendish Community and Conservation Association Board of Directors
Robin Timko
Deborah Harrison O’Brien
Will Hunter
Tim Jefferson
Barbara Dickey
Peter LaBelle
Jennifer Stowell
Sandra Russo
The CCCA Mission Statement
The CCCA is a non-profit membership organization that is dedicated to the conservation of land and natural resources and to the preservation of historic sites within the context of sustainable economic growth. Its commitment is to promote understanding and learning that engages and benefits all members of the Cavendish/ Proctorsville community, now and in the
future.
CCCA Historic Barn Preservation Committee News
The committee has been busy. Well, committee chair Barbara Dickey has been busy at least. With the assistance
of her brother she succeeded in completing the barn census for all historic agricultural barns in Cavendish and taking up-to-date pictures of every barn. This was the project that the committee had set as a goal in early 2006 when it began to scope out worthy barn projects in Cavendish for submission to the State Division of Historical Preservation for State Barn Grants. The first goal that the committee set was to complete a thorough census of Cavendish barns. Two things happened that slowed
progress of that census. First, there was considerable interest from several barn owners in securing grants from the state. The committee members went to work with those barn owners to prepare and submit applications for preservation grants. As we reported in our last newsletter, one proposal, for the Regier barn on Quarry Road, was funded in 2009 by the state of Vermont. The other occurrence that slowed completion of the census was the announcement by the Division of Historic Preservation in June 2008 that it would coordinate a state- wide census of historic barns with the data to be stored at the University of Vermont. This is exactly what we were trying to accomplish, but now we had to collect and coordinate a different set of data! So the CCCA Barn Committee actually preceded the Vermont state- wide project by about two years, but only now have we finally reached the goal of completing the census. Meanwhile, we have begun another project involving the old barns in town. The CCCA is embarking on a project to create a Cavendish Barn Poster that we will soon make available for purchase, hopefully in time for the holidays. You’ve all seen posters with examples of architecture in certain cities, well why not a poster of unique architecture in Cavendish? After all, we have plenty of pictures to choose from now that the census is complete.
Plans now call for two sizes and prices and we will announce availability as soon as they come off the press.
Calling All Members!
Happy Summer!
The CCCA Board recently enjoyed our annual retreat, a time that we use to reflect upon our journey, and explore objectives for the following year. We spent some time exploring our own personal goals, sharing what brought us into CCCA and how that has changed or not over the past six years. It was very interesting to me as to what brings us all together. For some of us it was a crisis, a response to a concern or an issue that was affecting us within the town. For others it was a skill, a passion, an interest that we would like to see preserved or strengthened in our town. And then for others it was simply an opportunity to be part of our community; to be working together with others to come to a common goal.
I would love to pose this question to our members. What was it that caused you to join CCCA? Was it a passion for barns; an interest in the Community Garden; a concern about the economic development of our community; or an interest in meeting others who live and relax in your same neck of the woods?
An unstated goal that CCCA has accomplished is bringing a wide variety of people: old timer, new timer, full timer, part timer, old, young, and young at heart together to work, to play, and to recreate. Isn’t that what community is all about? Isn’t that what summer is all about?
Interested in joining CCCA?
Contact Deb at 226-8086 for more information. If you have interest in volunteering for any of our committees or activities please call. Dues are a nominal $35 per year for full membership. In order to join CCCA, please fill out the information below and send with a check payable to Cavendish Community and Conservation Association to:
Deborah Harrison O’Brien
c/o: P.O. Box 605
Cavendish, VT 05142
Name_________________________
Address_______________________
______________________________
Telephone______________________
E-mail_________________________
resources, building a legacy of health, integrity and vitality for future generations.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Summer ‘09 Newsletter Volume No. 6, Issue No. 2
A Message from Robin
Summer is here, gardens are pushing up and we are glad for the sunshine! This spring’s annual Photo contest was a
wonderful success with so many fine photos entered for the 2010 Calendar Contest it was difficult to choose among
them. Winners of the judged contest will hang all year at the Cavendish Town Office and of course, the Cavendish
Community Calendar will be available as soon as it is printed! For more on the winners, please see the article below.
For our annual directors’ meeting and retreat this year, CCCA board members visited the Cobb Hill Farm at the
Sustainability Institute in Hartland, Vermont. Members of their staff gave us a short presentation regarding the
philosophy of Donella Meadows, their founder, and an overview of the Institute's work. They bring community
organizers from all over the world together to share their stories, visions and processes working for a healthy and
sustainable way of life. They focus on understanding the root causes of unsustainable behavior in complex
systems to help restructure systems and shift mindsets that will help move human society toward sustainability.
After the presentation we toured their remarkable Cobb Hill Cohousing community and attached farming
operations. It was impressive to see the efforts individuals are making to bring into balance a way of life with an
awareness of our place in the environment. We also enjoyed a communal meal in their dining hall that
was mostly prepared from food grown on their land. For more on the Institute, please visit their website at
www.sustainer.org.
The CCCA is currently expanding its conservation and sustainability efforts with new board member, Karen Wilson
who co-chairs the committee. Karen is bringing enthusiasm and a wealth of ideas to help move Cavendish in a "Green" direction. One of her goals is to get grant money to pay for the training of our local carpenters, electricians, and
plumbers to become solar installers and energy raters. Another goal is to put solar to use at the Cavendish Town
Elementary School and other town buildings. She has also started a committee that will gather names of
Cavendish residents who are interested in using solar at their homes with the objective of getting together to buy in bulk to save money. For more on what we are doing see the article below on Going Solar.
Robin Timko, Chair of CCCA
Welcome to Cavendish All New Homeowners
On a fun-filled, cold winter evening several new residents of Cavendish enjoyed the warm hospitality of the
Cavendish Inn at the invitation of CCCA and the Cavendish Historical Society. So many people come into the
community, often as second home- owners and never get to know what is going on in town, and never get to know
who their neighbors are. To help remedy that inhospitable situation, the two groups joined in holding a pot luck
dinner at which the new residents got to mingle with each other and with long- time and newer neighbors. CCCA hopes
to continue these pot luck dinners as a tradition.
CCCA and CHS Partner to Bring Earth Week to Cavendish
Earth Day 2009 lasted for an entire week in Cavendish. While most communities celebrated the day with events and
information presented on Wednesday, the CCCA and The Cavendish Historical Society presented seven days of events,
lectures, presentations, a movie, and a house tour. There was no shortage of talent to educate and inform Cavendish
citizens and residents on a variety of “green” issues and projects. Monday’s program gave us “Sustainable
Household Tips from the 1930’s (Green Clean for Cheap)”. Margo Caulfield and Dan Churchill spoke about the old days in Cavendish, Vermont and the country before we had modern conveniences and products that use too much energy and
add too much pollution to our environment. Anyone wanting more information can e-mail a request to Margo at Margoc@TDS.net. Professor Patrick Parenteau of the Vermont Law School’s Environmental
Law Center spoke on Tuesday evening about what is happening in Montpelier and in Washington that concerns our
environment here in Cavendish. His talk concerned the impact of climate change on Vermont and focused on the direction
of legislative proposals. Wednesday was dubbed “Windy Wednesday” and saw a kite flying demonstration at Fletcher Fields along with a hands-on opportunity to examine the workings of a real wind generator. The generator was brought down to earth and set up by Dallas Cox of the Solar Store. He explained the way such systems could benefit individuals and the Town.
There were a variety of discussions at CTES on Wednesday evening as Dallas Cox chaired a panel of experts who talked about solar hot water, solar electric generation, and solar tube lighting, as well as the creation of geothermal and wind energy. The
discussion included conservation as well, talking about weatherization and energy reduction techniques. For more
information, contact Dallas Cox at the Cavendish Solar Store on Route 131 in Cavendish.
Thursday saw a change of pace as talk shifted to gardening, composting, recycling and local foods. Sandra Russo
discussed the Cavendish Community Garden (for more information, contact sandra.russo@yahoo.com) Sarah Stowell discussed the CTES Farm to School Program, which uses volunteers to help maintain a summer garden at the school, harvest the produce, and help the school cafeteria prepare food for the children. (Contact Sarah Stowell at
sarastowell@tds.net for more information). Other topics discussed included the new Cavendish Transfer Station textile station for recycling ripped and stained clothes, sheets, shoes etc. SVECA collects the textiles, sells them to a distributor and uses the money to run a number of programs in Cavendish and nearby communities. “The 11th Hour”, a film about the dire condition of our planet was shown on Friday at the CTES and is available for
viewing at the Cavendish Library. Saturday saw a number of workshops focused on sustainable building, landscaping, net metering and tax incentives. Finally, and to complete the week’s events, the Cavendish Solar Store provided a Sustainable Living house tour on Sunday. This proved to be the most popular program of the week and many residents got to see sustainable energy projects in action.
The CCCA Sustainability Committee will start planning next year’s events soon and is looking for individuals who
are interested in helping. We are looking for interesting and informative topics and ideas. If you want to take part, please contact Karen Wilson at karenw381@cs.com.
Are You Interested in Going Solar?
The CCCA Sustainability Committee wants to know how interested you are in our latest solar energy project. Specifically, the committee is investigating “Grid Tie” or “On-Grid” solar systems. Grid Tie solar is one way to reduce your cost of electricity. We’ve all seen the solar panels that sit on roofs to convert the sun’s energy into electricity. By running that power through the meter that is connected or “tied” to the power grid, a homeowner can essentially make his meter run “backwards” and thereby
reduce the cost of power purchased from the electric company. These systems are also sometimes referred to as “net
metering.” The power that is generated and fed back to the power company will lower future electric bills. It is possible,
with enough solar panels installed, to reduce power costs to zero. This system has several advantages over a system that just feeds power into the house wiring. 1) There are no batteries, which are the parts that need maintenance and replacement most
often. 2) The system qualifies for state and federal tax credits, so the homeowner ends up paying much less for purchase and installation. 3) The owner can always add on to the system later. 3) The system will last for as long as 25 years. 4) The environment improves – less need to burn coal or oil to generate power. And 5) the most important advantage of all to most of us – The installation of solar power will increase the value of any home. It is estimated that for every $1,000 saved in energy costs, the home’s value increases by $20,000.
Even with tax incentives, purchasing and installing solar power panels can be expensive. But one way to reduce costs
is to buy in bulk. If enough Cavendish homeowners join together, we can make buying grid tie solar systems as
affordable as possible. There are a variety of other projects that can also reduce equipment and installation costs and the CCCA is exploring a number of options. The first step that we are pursuing is to learn how many homeowners are interested in joining this project. We are not asking for a commitment right now, just a statement of interest. If you are interested in being
part of this new initiative, please contact Karen Wilson at Karenw381@cs.com or
802- 226-7494.
CCCA 2nd Annual Calendar
Contest Winners Are Selected.
Winner of the Best in Show Prize: The Ham by Sal Campofranco
In a highly competitive selection process, the residents of Cavendish selected the twelve monthly illustrations for the CCCA’s 2010 Cavendish calendar, and our panel of professional judges selected prize winners in several age categories. This year's Cavendish Photo contest was spectacular! There were over 30 entries and all showed great talent. The winners of the judged contest are as follows:
-- Ages 5 to 12: Alyssa Ripley's BOOK LEAVES; with Mathew Palmer's GOOD VIEW as the runner-up.
-- Ages 13-18: Chris Palmer's HISTORICAL SOCIETY; with Sonja Skalecki's DARKNESS FALLS as the runner up.
-- Adults: Sandra Russo's THE STANDOFF.
Congratulations to all the winners! Please come to Crows Bakery on Depot St. to collect your prizes. Thank you to
the judges for their keen eyes and expertise!
In the community voting the following photos were chosen as 2010 Calendar selections, although many voters
commented on the difficulty of the task, given the wonderful selection of photographs to choose from.
January - ICE CAVE, Quarry Rd. Proctorsville, by Wendy Regier
February -MOUNTAIN MAMA AND HER FOAL, Stevens Rd. looking towards Little Ascutney, by Ginger Wilk
March - FROM THE FARMHOUSE, Riford farm off 20 Mile Stream Rd., by Jackie Hubbard
April - BLACK RIVER, Gulf Rd., by Jon Owens
May - MEMORIAL DAY, Depot St. Proctorsville, by Martha Mott
June - GREEN GODDESS, Goldfish pond on 20 Mile Stream Rd., by Ellen Parrish
July - THE STANDOFF, Ting's farm in Cavendish, by Sandra Russo
August - GOOD VIEW, Chubb Hill Rd. in Cavendish, by Mathew Palmer
September - TRACKS OF TRANQUILITY, Densmore Rd., by Gail Verheyen
October - TWENTY MILE STREAM IN AUTUMN, Twenty Mile Stream at Davis Rd., by Richard Svec
November - BIRCHES ON TIERNEY RD., Tierney Rd, Cavendish, by Svetlana Phillips
December - OH WHAT FUN, South Reading Rd. Cavendish, by Hans Schrag
The cover photo this year was taken by Winston Churchill, and entitled OWL IN OWENS YARD.
Last but not least, THE HAM, a photo taken at the Johnson Farm on Hoey Road, by Salvatore Campofranco was
voted BEST IN SHOW.
Thanks to all who contributed to the contest. For those photographers whose pictures will not be displayed in the Town Offices, you may pick up your photo at Crows Bakery anytime during July.
There was some confusion expressed this year about whether the photos were supposed to be just landscape or whether
they could include people and animals. We have expressed our desire to see photos that show our surrounding landscape in it's great variety, but the photo may include in that landscape animals, historic buildings and persons. The less landscape a photo shows, the less likely it will be for it to represent any given month in the calendar. The calendar is made possible by our local business sponsors and by the CCCA. Sponsors include Castle Hill Resort and Spa; Commercial Radio; Timothy Mott, Builder; Beacon Pest Control and Chimney Care; RDB Marketing; The Village Clipper; Cavendish Game Birds; Cavendish Canine Camp; Six Loose Ladies; The Cavendish Solar Store; Chittenden Bank; Raymond James Financial; Singleton's Store; Mack Molding; Mary Ormrod's Feldenkrais; and Crows Bakery and Café.
Calendars will be available for purchase in the fall. For more information call Robin Timko at 226-7736
Cavendish and Proctorsville Water Finally Set to Improve
For those who live in the villages, and who depend on the Cavendish water system, drinking water has for many years come from a bottle. Well, the wait is nearly over. The new water filtration plant has finally come on line. After enduring brown or yellow water due to dissolved impurities that ruined pipes, heating and hot water systems and untold loads of laundry, residents now see fairly clear water that is expected to improve over the coming months. A recent taste test, however proved that the system is working, at least somewhat. Iron and manganese are the culprits and the iron content has dropped drastically in a very short period of time. It was expected that the manganese levels would decrease much more slowly. The levels are down, but it will take several weeks more to reduce to a reasonable level. Pipes in both villages need to be
flushed and this has yet to be scheduled. Once town wide flushing is complete, residents should flush home pipes. The
filtration system is still new to communities in Vermont and therefore the state took an extended time to approve its use.
Cavendish Community Fund News
The Cavendish Community Fund awarded three grants for education, music and dance in Cavendish this summer. The first grant, to Fiber Arts in Vermont, Inc. will sponsor a class at the Six Loose Ladies fiber arts store on Depot Street in Proctorsville. The class will be taught by Alice Vogel of Alstead, NH and will challenge participants to redesign, repurpose and generally to
wake up their imagination to create something new from something old. Students bring in gently used clothing and embellishments, contribute the articles to a pool of items, and in turn each student is allowed to select items from the pool to create a completely new and uniquely original garment. The class will be offered this summer free of charge at a time to be announced by Six Loose Ladies. The second grant, to the Cavendish Fletcher Community Library, will help fund the annual summer concert series on the Proctorsville Green. This is the fourth year of the concerts, but the first year in which they are sponsored by the Library. The concerts will be held on consecutive Wednesday evenings beginning July 15th. Exact times and
performing artists will be publicized in the local press. The third grant will enable Ashley Hensel-Browning and Rebecca Salem to explore choreography and yoga in a summer session with Cavendish Children at no cost to their families. Classes will focus on encouraging children to educate themselves exploring dance and choreography as art forms and participating in active art making. A Friday family day will allow students to incorporate their families into their learning. Hensel-Browning and Salem have both worked as teachers in their fields for several years, with studios in Springfield and Chester respectively. Hensel-Browning recently completed teaching a series of workshops on dance and choreography at the Cavendish Town Elementary School.
For more information about CCF or the application process, please call Peter LaBelle at 226-7250, or Barbara Dickey at 226-7187.
Reserve the Date
The Cavendish Inn On Saturday, August 1st the Cavendish Community Fund will hold its annual fund raising dinner for 2009 at the Cavendish Inn on Route 131 between the villages of Cavendish and Proctorsville. Innkeepers Tim and Peter Jefferson
promise that the dinner will meet your every expectation. And of course there will be wonderful entertainment and fine weather. Well, maybe we are promising too much with that last one, but previous events have been hugely enjoyable,
come rain or come shine! The purpose of the dinner is to raise funds that will go right back to the community in the form of artistic, cultural or educational projects, programs or events. The CCF has distributed almost $10,000 to fund some dozen Cavendish events since early 2007. We can’t do it without your help. But with your help we can continue the tradition that we have begun. The cost is $65 per person or $125 per couple. For tickets and information contact Robin Timko at Crow’s Bakery or at 802-226- 7736. Please join us for another memorable event.
Cavendish Historical Society
Upcoming Events
The Cavendish Historical Society Museum is located on Main Street in Cavendish Village, and is open Sundays
from 2-4 p.m. until mid-October.
• Lessons from the 1930s for Life in the 21st Century. Includes exhibits and presentations on sustainable living and
household tips from the 1930s. July 12th, Sunday, 2 p.m. at the CHS Museum in Cavendish Village.
• Duttonsville School Reunion at the former Duttonsville schoolhouse in Cavendish. Includes tours of the old schoolhouse. August 23rd , Sunday, 1-4 p.m.
• Bus trip to Old Sturbridge Village on September 19th. Cost is $43 per person and includes OSV admission. Tickets
on sale at the museum, Sundays, 2-4 p.m. Payment is due prior to August 1st. For more information contact Sandra
Russo at 226-7398 or at Sandra.russo@yahoo.com.
• Cemetery Tour – Sunday, October 11th. Contact Margoc@tds.net for details.
• Pot Luck Supper / annual meeting – Sunday, October 18th. Contact Margoc@tds.net for details.
Cavendish Community and Conservation Association Board of Directors
Robin Timko
Deborah Harrison O’Brien
Will Hunter
Tim Jefferson
Barbara Dickey
Peter LaBelle
Jennifer Stowell
Sandra Russo
The CCCA Mission Statement
The CCCA is a non-profit membership organization that is dedicated to the conservation of land and natural resources and to the preservation of historic sites within the context of sustainable economic growth. Its commitment is to promote understanding and learning that engages and benefits all members of the Cavendish/ Proctorsville community, now and in the
future.
CCCA Historic Barn Preservation Committee News
The committee has been busy. Well, committee chair Barbara Dickey has been busy at least. With the assistance
of her brother she succeeded in completing the barn census for all historic agricultural barns in Cavendish and taking up-to-date pictures of every barn. This was the project that the committee had set as a goal in early 2006 when it began to scope out worthy barn projects in Cavendish for submission to the State Division of Historical Preservation for State Barn Grants. The first goal that the committee set was to complete a thorough census of Cavendish barns. Two things happened that slowed
progress of that census. First, there was considerable interest from several barn owners in securing grants from the state. The committee members went to work with those barn owners to prepare and submit applications for preservation grants. As we reported in our last newsletter, one proposal, for the Regier barn on Quarry Road, was funded in 2009 by the state of Vermont. The other occurrence that slowed completion of the census was the announcement by the Division of Historic Preservation in June 2008 that it would coordinate a state- wide census of historic barns with the data to be stored at the University of Vermont. This is exactly what we were trying to accomplish, but now we had to collect and coordinate a different set of data! So the CCCA Barn Committee actually preceded the Vermont state- wide project by about two years, but only now have we finally reached the goal of completing the census. Meanwhile, we have begun another project involving the old barns in town. The CCCA is embarking on a project to create a Cavendish Barn Poster that we will soon make available for purchase, hopefully in time for the holidays. You’ve all seen posters with examples of architecture in certain cities, well why not a poster of unique architecture in Cavendish? After all, we have plenty of pictures to choose from now that the census is complete.
Plans now call for two sizes and prices and we will announce availability as soon as they come off the press.
Calling All Members!
Happy Summer!
The CCCA Board recently enjoyed our annual retreat, a time that we use to reflect upon our journey, and explore objectives for the following year. We spent some time exploring our own personal goals, sharing what brought us into CCCA and how that has changed or not over the past six years. It was very interesting to me as to what brings us all together. For some of us it was a crisis, a response to a concern or an issue that was affecting us within the town. For others it was a skill, a passion, an interest that we would like to see preserved or strengthened in our town. And then for others it was simply an opportunity to be part of our community; to be working together with others to come to a common goal.
I would love to pose this question to our members. What was it that caused you to join CCCA? Was it a passion for barns; an interest in the Community Garden; a concern about the economic development of our community; or an interest in meeting others who live and relax in your same neck of the woods?
An unstated goal that CCCA has accomplished is bringing a wide variety of people: old timer, new timer, full timer, part timer, old, young, and young at heart together to work, to play, and to recreate. Isn’t that what community is all about? Isn’t that what summer is all about?
Interested in joining CCCA?
Contact Deb at 226-8086 for more information. If you have interest in volunteering for any of our committees or activities please call. Dues are a nominal $35 per year for full membership. In order to join CCCA, please fill out the information below and send with a check payable to Cavendish Community and Conservation Association to:
Deborah Harrison O’Brien
c/o: P.O. Box 605
Cavendish, VT 05142
Name_________________________
Address_______________________
______________________________
Telephone______________________
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Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Cavendish Update 7/1/09 Calendar/Old Home Day
This issue of the Cavendish Update is made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society www.cavendishhistory.org or www.cavendishhistoricalsocietynews.blogspot.com
The 7/1/09 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Schedule of Events for Old Home Day –July 4
2. July Cavendish Calendar
3. New Morning Yoga Classes in Cavendish
1. Old Home Events Schedule
Old Home Day will be spread out among three locations in Cavendish, with events occurring as follows on July 4 (Saturday):
8:30 Annual Plant and Museum tours Cavendish Historical Society Museum Green
9:30 Dedication of the Craig and Pat Rankin Bench in front of the Museum
10:00: Cavendish Green opens after the Bench dedication. This area includes a variety of booths, food sales, Chicken BBQ and more
11:00 Games for children and families on the Cavendish Green
Noon-4 pm: Winston Churchill Retrospective opens at the Stone Church
FMI: margoc@tds.net or 226-7807
2. July Cavendish Calendar
July 1 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office.
July 2 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 4 (Saturday): Old Home Day (see item 1 for schedule of events)
July 5 (Sunday): Winston Churchill Retrospective, Stone Church on Main Street Proctorsville. Noon-4pm
July 7 (Tuesday): Stuffed Animal Slumber Party- Drop off your animals by 6:00 PM at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
July 9 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 13 (Monday): Cavendish Historical Society Board Meeting, 3 pm. FMI: margoc@tds.net
• Site visit by the Cavendish Select Board to the Proctor Cemetery in Proctorsville, 6 pm.
• Select Board Meeting at the Cavendish Town Office, following the site visit.
July 16 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 18 (Saturday): Family Program 8:30 PM “Drive in Theatre” “Yellow Submarine” at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
July 21 (Tuesday): Tie Dye Day at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
July 23 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 30 (Thursday): Hair Streaks and Tattoo Day at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
• Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
3. New Morning Yoga Classes in Cavendish
Deepen your morning stretch with YOGA! Cavendish Fire House,
Tues, - Friday 7:15-8:30am. Danielle Dulaney, certified Kripalu yoga teacher. 802-226-8055/Danielledul@earthlink.net
The 7/1/09 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Schedule of Events for Old Home Day –July 4
2. July Cavendish Calendar
3. New Morning Yoga Classes in Cavendish
1. Old Home Events Schedule
Old Home Day will be spread out among three locations in Cavendish, with events occurring as follows on July 4 (Saturday):
8:30 Annual Plant and Museum tours Cavendish Historical Society Museum Green
9:30 Dedication of the Craig and Pat Rankin Bench in front of the Museum
10:00: Cavendish Green opens after the Bench dedication. This area includes a variety of booths, food sales, Chicken BBQ and more
11:00 Games for children and families on the Cavendish Green
Noon-4 pm: Winston Churchill Retrospective opens at the Stone Church
FMI: margoc@tds.net or 226-7807
2. July Cavendish Calendar
July 1 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office.
July 2 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 4 (Saturday): Old Home Day (see item 1 for schedule of events)
July 5 (Sunday): Winston Churchill Retrospective, Stone Church on Main Street Proctorsville. Noon-4pm
July 7 (Tuesday): Stuffed Animal Slumber Party- Drop off your animals by 6:00 PM at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
July 9 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 13 (Monday): Cavendish Historical Society Board Meeting, 3 pm. FMI: margoc@tds.net
• Site visit by the Cavendish Select Board to the Proctor Cemetery in Proctorsville, 6 pm.
• Select Board Meeting at the Cavendish Town Office, following the site visit.
July 16 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 18 (Saturday): Family Program 8:30 PM “Drive in Theatre” “Yellow Submarine” at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
July 21 (Tuesday): Tie Dye Day at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
July 23 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
July 30 (Thursday): Hair Streaks and Tattoo Day at the Cavendish Library. FMI: 226-7503
• Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373
• Feldenkrais workshop, 6:00 pm in Ludlow. Discounts for Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. FMI: 226-7783
3. New Morning Yoga Classes in Cavendish
Deepen your morning stretch with YOGA! Cavendish Fire House,
Tues, - Friday 7:15-8:30am. Danielle Dulaney, certified Kripalu yoga teacher. 802-226-8055/Danielledul@earthlink.net
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