The 5/28/10 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Cavendish Historical Society Honoring the 1940s and WWII
3. Notice of Tax Sale
4. Cavendish Bakery Launches Website
5. Do-it-Yourself Home Weatherization Program
6. Classifieds
7. Cavendish Events 5/28-5/31
1. Cavendish Related News
Open Studio Weekend May 29-30 http://www.denpubs.com/Articles-c-2010-05-25-73286.114134-sub8594.113116_Open_Studio_Weekend_May_2930.html
2. Cavendish Historical Society Honoring the 1940s and WWII
The Cavendish Historical Society (CHS) Museum opens on Sunday, May 30. As part of its 1940’s exhibit, CHS is inviting the community to share items from this era. All materials will be returned at the end of the season.
The new exhibit includes items from various people who served during WWII. There is a list of Cavendish residents who served in the war. This list is more extensive than the one that appears on the War Memorial outside of the Museum, as it reflects members of the community who moved here after the war. We are trying to compile as much information as possible about these individuals. If you are visiting the Museum, please don’t hesitate to fill in information you might have. This summer’s exhibit will be expanding with each week, so visit often and share your knowledge. Future generations will benefit.
If you have relevant items you would like to display at the Museum, please e-mail margoc@tds.net or call 802-226-7807.
3. Notice of Tax Sale
Two “Tax Sale of Real Estate” notices appeared in the May 26 edition of the Vermont Journal. “The resident and nonresident owners, lien holders and mortgages of lands in the Town of Cavendish in the county of Windsor are hereby notified that the taxes assessed by such town for the year 2008-2009 remain, either in whole or in part, unpaid on the following described lands in such town, to wit, a parcel of land”
-parcel # 2R11-041, conveyed to Kathleen A. Leitch
-parcel #2R06-100, conveyed to Dale F. and Tracy L. Johnson.
Reference may be had to said deed for a more particular description of said lands and premises, as the same appears in the Land Records of the Town of Cavendish. And so much of the lands will be sold at public auction at the office of the Town Tax Collector, located at the Cavendish Town Office building, 37 High Street, Cavendish Vermont on June 23, 2010 at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon, as shall be requisite to discharge said taxes together with costs and other fees allowed by law, unless the same be previously paid.
Dated at Cavendish, Vermont this 6th day of May, 2010.
Richard F. Svec, Delinquent Tax Collector , Town of Cavendish.
4. Cavendish Bakery Launches Website
Morning Star Bakery has recently launched a website at http://morningstarbakeryvt.com/ Owner and baker Tom Early is from Drogheda, Ireland. He went to culinary school at 15 and trained at the Albert Cumin’s International Pastry Arts Center in New York. For the past 19 years, Early has been operating Morning Star Bakery in the Academy Building in Cavendish. You can ask for Morning Star products at Baba Java, The Castle, Brattleboro Co-op, Three Tomatoes in Lebanon, NH and the Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm, Quechee. In addition to his exceptional line of cakes- including Midnight Espresso, Coconut Dream, Black Cherry Cheesecake-and pastries, Early offers a unique product line in gluten free items. FMI: 226-7827 or morningstarbakery@gmail.com
5. Do-it-Yourself Home Weatherization Program
The Central Vermont Community Action Council (CVCAC), in partnership with Efficiency Vermont is offering a day long Weatherization Workshop in various locations in the state This workshop will teach you the core fundamentals and hands-on techniques needed to improve building efficiency in the attic, basement, and living space of your home; and, provide practical hands-on experience on air sealing and insulation. As a participant in the DIY Home Weatherization Program you will:
• Receive a professional energy audit and get a thorough energy audit report on priority weatherization areas in your home,
• Work under the direction of a certified energy auditor to perform the work, and,
• Be eligible to receive up to $2,500 in incentives from Efficiency Vermont upon successfully completion (with $1,000 in incentives guaranteed for achieving minimum performance levels). These incentives are in addition to up to $1,500 in federal tax credits.
The cost of the workshop is only $150, which includes $100 in weatherization tools, supplies, and resources – and lunch.
Skillshops are being planned throughout the state. Those closest to Cavendish are:
• June 26 at the River Valley Technical Center in Springfield;
• July 10 at the Stafford Technical Center in Rutland;
• September 11 at the Windham Regional Career Center in Brattleboro
To sign up, or to learn more about the program, go to www.weatherizationskillshop.com or call Laurie Fielder at 802 476 2093 x116.
6. Classifieds
The Cavendish Historical Society would like to borrow a “button maker.” If someone has one, please call 802-226-7807 or e-mail margoc@tds.net
7. Cavendish Events 5/28-5/31
May 28 (Friday): Farmer’s Market opens at the Okemo Mountain School lawn, Main Street Ludlow Vermont 4-7 pm.
May 29 (Saturday): Cemetery Marker Cleaning, sponsored by the Cavendish Historical Society. Hillcrest Cemetery in Proctorsville from 9-12. Everyone welcome. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
• Open Studio Weekend. Artisan studios and galleries are open for the weekend. Area artists include Six Loose Ladies in Proctorsville and Fletcher Farm School for the Arts and Crafts.
May 30 (Sunday): Cavendish Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. The parade will go from the school to the Hillcrest (Proctorsville) Cemetery after the program at the Cavendish Elementary School. Events start at 10:30 am at the school.
• Cavendish Historical Society Museum opens for the season, 2-4 pm. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
• Open Studio Weekend. Artisan studios and galleries are open for the weekend. Area artists include Six Loose Ladies in Proctorsville and Fletcher Farm School for the Arts and Crafts.
May 31 (Monday): Memorial Day. Schools, Library and Town Office closed
• Memorial Day Parade-Ludlow 9 am.
Part of Cavendish Connects, the Cavendish, VT Blog archives the weekly e-mails, "Cavendish Update" and provides on-going information about current activities.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Cavendish Update 5/21/10 News/Events/Classifieds
The 5/21/10 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Cavendish Grave Marker Cleaning Day
3. Classifieds
4. Calendar of Cavendish Events 5/21-5/31
1. Cavendish Related News
Police Issue Warning About Telephone Scam
Crash on Route 103, Proctorsville Gulf, One Dead, One Seriously Injured
You can also read more information about the accident at the Proctorsville Fire Department’s Facebook page
Curious Case of Phineas Gage
Neighbors Helping Neighbors: BRGN Prepares for Rummage Sale http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20100520/NEWS02/5200379/1003/NEWS02
The Vermont Health Department Warns of Tick Danger
2. Cavendish Grave Marker Cleaning Day
In keeping with Memorial Day, many people will be going to local cemeteries to lay flowers on graves. There are many gravestones that have no one to remember them and are left to weather the best they can. Many of our oldest markers show signs of aging and disrepair. In an effort to preserve our history, and to honor those who have gone before us, the Cavendish Historical Society (CHS) will be holding its first annual Cemetery Grave Marker Cleaning Day on May 29 (Saturday) from 9-noon at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Proctorsville.
While CHS will have volunteers on hand to teach the proper way to clean the gravestones, the following simple tips can be followed by anyone interested in cleaning a gravestone.
- Do no harm. Don’t do anything that will remove or damage the original surface of the stone.
- Start from the bottom up and work up, as this avoids streaking.
- Keep the stone very wet.
- Use a soft brush (nylon or natural)-do not use wire brushes. Brush in a random circular motion. Clean with fresh water as you go. Test a small patch at the bottom of the stone to make sure you wont damage the stone.
- For lichen-soak with water and scrape with a wooden or plastic scraper (no metal)
- Lots and lots of water. Hoses are fine, but no power washing.
- NO BLEACH Stones are composed of minerals and salts. Adding bleach or other corrosive solvents may make the stone look white, but will shorten the life of the marker considerably. You can get a lot done with just water. If you want to use a cleaner, use a non-ionic one.
- If you are cleaning a modern stone, check with the company for cleaning instructions.
CHS’s “Monument Cleaning” handout is available at the Cavendish Library, the Cavendish Historical Society Museum in Cavendish, and at the Cavendish Town Office. Copies will be distributed on May 29. While CHS will have sprayers and brushes on site, it’s recommended that you bring a clean brush. For more information, please call 802-226-7807 or e-mail margoc@tds.net
3. Classifieds
Sale: Large chest freezer in very good working condition. Too large for current needs. Make an offer. Contact Wendy 226-7331.
4. Calendar of Cavendish Events 5/21-5/31
May 21 (Friday): Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
• GMUHS Middle School Semi-formal
May 22 (Saturday): Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
• In honor of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) week, the Ludlow Ambulance service, of which Cavendish is a member, will be holding an Open House at the Ludlow Health Center from 10-2. Free hot dogs and hamburgers.
• GMUHS Junior Prom
May 23 (Sunday): Phineas Gage Walk and Discussion, by the Cavendish Historical Society. The tour begins at 2pm in front of the Museum on Main Street, Cavendish. The tour will include the location of the accident, home and surgery of Dr. Harlow, Boarding House where Gage was taken after the accident. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
• Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
May 24 (Monday): Water Board Meeting, 5 pm at the Town Office.
May 25 (Tuesday): Cavendish Fletcher Library adult education classes on basic computer skills. Class begins at 2 pm. FMI: Kata at 226-7503
May 29 (Saturday): Cemetery Marker Cleaning, sponsored by the Cavendish Historical Society. Hillcrest Cemetery in Proctorsville from 9-12. Everyone welcome. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
May 30 (Sunday): Cavendish Historical Society Museum opens for the season, 2-4 pm. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
May 31 (Monday): Memorial Day. Schools, Library and Town Office closed
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Cavendish Grave Marker Cleaning Day
3. Classifieds
4. Calendar of Cavendish Events 5/21-5/31
1. Cavendish Related News
Police Issue Warning About Telephone Scam
Crash on Route 103, Proctorsville Gulf, One Dead, One Seriously Injured
You can also read more information about the accident at the Proctorsville Fire Department’s Facebook page
Curious Case of Phineas Gage
Neighbors Helping Neighbors: BRGN Prepares for Rummage Sale http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20100520/NEWS02/5200379/1003/NEWS02
The Vermont Health Department Warns of Tick Danger
2. Cavendish Grave Marker Cleaning Day
In keeping with Memorial Day, many people will be going to local cemeteries to lay flowers on graves. There are many gravestones that have no one to remember them and are left to weather the best they can. Many of our oldest markers show signs of aging and disrepair. In an effort to preserve our history, and to honor those who have gone before us, the Cavendish Historical Society (CHS) will be holding its first annual Cemetery Grave Marker Cleaning Day on May 29 (Saturday) from 9-noon at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Proctorsville.
While CHS will have volunteers on hand to teach the proper way to clean the gravestones, the following simple tips can be followed by anyone interested in cleaning a gravestone.
- Do no harm. Don’t do anything that will remove or damage the original surface of the stone.
- Start from the bottom up and work up, as this avoids streaking.
- Keep the stone very wet.
- Use a soft brush (nylon or natural)-do not use wire brushes. Brush in a random circular motion. Clean with fresh water as you go. Test a small patch at the bottom of the stone to make sure you wont damage the stone.
- For lichen-soak with water and scrape with a wooden or plastic scraper (no metal)
- Lots and lots of water. Hoses are fine, but no power washing.
- NO BLEACH Stones are composed of minerals and salts. Adding bleach or other corrosive solvents may make the stone look white, but will shorten the life of the marker considerably. You can get a lot done with just water. If you want to use a cleaner, use a non-ionic one.
- If you are cleaning a modern stone, check with the company for cleaning instructions.
CHS’s “Monument Cleaning” handout is available at the Cavendish Library, the Cavendish Historical Society Museum in Cavendish, and at the Cavendish Town Office. Copies will be distributed on May 29. While CHS will have sprayers and brushes on site, it’s recommended that you bring a clean brush. For more information, please call 802-226-7807 or e-mail margoc@tds.net
3. Classifieds
Sale: Large chest freezer in very good working condition. Too large for current needs. Make an offer. Contact Wendy 226-7331.
4. Calendar of Cavendish Events 5/21-5/31
May 21 (Friday): Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
• GMUHS Middle School Semi-formal
May 22 (Saturday): Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
• In honor of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) week, the Ludlow Ambulance service, of which Cavendish is a member, will be holding an Open House at the Ludlow Health Center from 10-2. Free hot dogs and hamburgers.
• GMUHS Junior Prom
May 23 (Sunday): Phineas Gage Walk and Discussion, by the Cavendish Historical Society. The tour begins at 2pm in front of the Museum on Main Street, Cavendish. The tour will include the location of the accident, home and surgery of Dr. Harlow, Boarding House where Gage was taken after the accident. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
• Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
May 24 (Monday): Water Board Meeting, 5 pm at the Town Office.
May 25 (Tuesday): Cavendish Fletcher Library adult education classes on basic computer skills. Class begins at 2 pm. FMI: Kata at 226-7503
May 29 (Saturday): Cemetery Marker Cleaning, sponsored by the Cavendish Historical Society. Hillcrest Cemetery in Proctorsville from 9-12. Everyone welcome. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
May 30 (Sunday): Cavendish Historical Society Museum opens for the season, 2-4 pm. FMI: margoc@tds.net or 802-226-7807
May 31 (Monday): Memorial Day. Schools, Library and Town Office closed
Friday, May 14, 2010
Cavendish Update 5/14/10 News/SB/Phineas Gage
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 5/14/10 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Select Board Meeting
2. Cavendish Related News
3. 150th Anniversary of Phineas Gage’s Death
4. Cavendish Events 5/15-5/21
1. Select Board Meeting 5/10/10
The following was discussed at the May 10 Select Board meeting:
A. State Police Update: LT. Rick Hopkins and Sgt Anthony French presented information on Cavendish in the past year. The State Police dealt with 317 cases from Cavendish, including 32 crashes, 6 assaults, 29 burglaries/larceny, 25 arrests (39 charges), and 8 DUIs (driving under the influence). Cavendish is one of the larger towns served by the Rockingham Barricks. At the moment, there is the late spring/early summer lull. In response to questions from the Select Board, Hopkins indicated that they do not offer 24 hour staffing. Between 2-6 am troopers are on-call and will respond from their homes. There were a number of questions about towns paying for additional coverage by State Police. Currently, Cavendish pays for 12 hours a week for a sheriff. Hopkins explained that off duty State Police serve in this capacity, so they would not be removed to another area to respond to a call. One of the differences between the State Police and the sheriff is that the State Police does not charge for going to court. The only time the town would pay is when the officer is in town. Pricing appears to be comparable to what the town is paying the sheriff. If the town decides to go with the State Police, it would take about two weeks to put the program in place. The Police would operate at random times and would implement their program to best meet the needs of the town.
B. Town Constable Scope of Duties: The Select Board continues to discuss the role of the town constable with Seth Perry, who is newly elected to this position. The Board agreed to the following duties for the immediate future: serve civil and criminal process; remove disorderly people from town meetings; destroy animals when required; kill injured deer when required; assist the health and animal control officers; traffic control; respond to general complaints as directed by the town manager; and assist local and state officers, as well as fire departments as requested and appropriate. With training, the constable could also do VIN (out of state car purchase) checks, domestic retrieval of property and expand the ability to back up local and state officers and fire departments. Perry has already done the testing to qualify for the law enforcement training. Before further consideration of the expenditure for training, the Board would like to see a cost benefit analysis. There is also concern that the Constable is elected for one year terms. The town could pay for training only to have the Constable not run again or be voted out of office. Perry noted that this is the way he can serve his community and he plans to do this for quite a few years. He also noted that the term of office can be expanded beyond a year under the Vermont law. Further discussion is scheduled for the June Meeting
C. Endurance Race: The Vermont 100 Endurance Race has requested permission to run part of their course through Cavendish. Sponsored by Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, the race is in its 22nd year and will take place July 17-18. The participants are expected to come through Cavendish from 4 am-10 am. The course would enter Cavendish near Bellingham’s and make a U shape along Brook Rd and exiting via the South Reading Road. An aid station will be set up at the junction of Atkinson and Brook Roads. The Board gave permission for the race. Volunteers will be needed to staff the Cavendish Aid Station. If interested, e-mail vt100volunteers@gmail.com
D. Energy Grant: The town will begin to implement the newly awarded federal energy grant in late June/early July. All of the work should be finished before winter. The two buildings, which will receive energy efficiency upgrades are the Town Office and the Town Garage.
E. Delinquent Tax Collection: A Tax Sale has been set for June 23. There are three properties that are in question for this sale. Rich Svec, town manager, has heard from all three property owners and it’s possible that agreements can be reached prior to the June date. Additional letters will be going out this summer to property owners that are delinquent in their taxes.
F. Green Mountain Railroad: Rich Svec and several members of the Select Board met with the Green Mountain Railroad regarding the junk and materials stored in the Proctorsville village area. The Railroad is willing to do a better job of cleaning up after themselves but noted that they are currently doing work on the track in the vicinity of the pile of railroad ties. It was pointed out that a number of items had been there for many years and that “it was an accident waiting to happen.”
2. Cavendish Related News
(Glimmerstone) Mansion Goes On Auction Block (Note: Auction has been changed to June 4)
I-89 Ramp to I-91 North to Close for Upgrades
State Drops Gill Home Director Charges, Revoking Nursing Home Director’s License still Possible
Windsor County Agriculture on Hiatus This Year
Veto Threatens Current Use Legislations Passed by Senate and House
Summer Programs for Regional Students
3. 150th Anniversary of Phineas Gage’s Death
On September 13, 1848 Phineas Gage, a foreman, was working with his crew excavating rocks in preparing the bed for the Rutland and Burlington Railroad in Cavendish. An accidental explosion of a charge he had set blew his tamping iron through his head. It entered under the left cheek bone and exited through the top of the head. The rod, covered with brains and blood, was found approximately 30 yards from the site of the accident.
Sitting on the back of an ox cart, Gage was brought to the boarding house where he was staying on Main Street in Cavendish. Dr. John Harlow treated his wounds, along with Dr. Edward H. Williams. The large wound at the top of his head was closed with adhesive straps and a wet compress covered the opening. No surgery was involved.
Within days of the accident, an infection developed and Gage lapsed into a semi comatose state. Fearing that he was about to die, a local carpenter prepared a coffin for him. Two weeks after the accident, Harlow released 8 fluid ounces of pus from an abscess under Gage’s scalp. By January 1, 1849 (approximately 4 months) Gage was functional.
It is remarkable that Gage survived this accident, let alone lived for almost 12 more years. Fortunately Dr. Harlow and Dr. Henry J. Bigelow, a professor of surgery at Harvard University, tracked Gage as much possible, thereby documenting one of the first cases of traumatic brain injury in medical science. It was also the first understanding that different parts of the brain have different functions. With this knowledge, the first brain tumor removal operation became possible in 1885.
According to Gage’s family and friends, his behavior was significantly altered by the accident. In 1868, Harlow wrote in the “Bulletin of the Massachusetts Medical Society” His contractors, who regarded him as the most efficient and capable foreman in their employ previous to his injury, considered the change in his mind so marked that they could not give him his place again. He is fitful, irreverent, indulging at times in the grossest profanity (which was not previously his custom), manifesting but little deference for his fellows, impatient of restraint of advice when it conflicts with his desires, at times pertinaciously obstinent, yet capricious and vacillating, devising many plans of future operation, which are no sooner arranged than they are abandoned in turn for others appearing more feasible. In this regard, his mind was radically changed, so decidedly that his friends and acquaintances said he was “no longer Gage.”
Not able to work as a foreman, Gage held a variety of jobs. He worked in the livery stable at what is now known as the Hanover Inn in New Hampshire. He drove coaches and cared for horses in Valparaiso, Chile. Around 1859, after his health began to fail he went to San Francisco to live with his mother. While there, he worked on a farm in Santa Clara County. In February 1860, he began to have epileptic seizures and ultimately died May 21, 1860.
Rumors circulated that Gage appeared at Barnum’s American Museum in New York. It would take another Cavendish doctor, Dr. Gene Bont, almost 160 years later to find proof that Gage did in fact promote himself as a curiosity. Bont found a poster advertising Gage’s appearance at Rumford Hall.
One of the least talked about people connected with the Gage accident is Dr. Williams. He was an engineer, who went to medical school when ill health kept him from working outside. Since he did not have a busy medical practice, Williams spent considerable time in various forms of engineering. In fact, he knew Gage prior to his accident. He was the first doctor on the scene but would have differed to Dr. Harlow as he was a surgeon. Not long after the incident, Williams returned to engineering full time and started the oldest engineering society in the United States, Tau Beta Pi.
In honor of the 150th anniversary of Gage’s death, The Cavendish Historical Society (CHS) has developed a Phineas Gage Walking Tour, which highlights the approximate area Gage was injured, the homes of Drs. Harlow and Williams, and the locations of the boarding house and the carpenter who had prepared the coffin.
Copies of the tour guide are available at the CHS Museum, the Cavendish Town Office and the Cavendish Library in Proctorsville. In addition, on May 23 (Sunday), CHS will conduct a walking tour. The tour will begin at the Museum, Main Street Cavendish, at 2 pm. For more information, please call 802-226-7807 or e-mail margoc@tds.net
4. Cavendish Events 5/15-5/21
May 15 (Saturday): Gethsemane Church Historic Preservation 2010 Rummage Sale, 9-2 on the Parish grounds, Depot Street, Proctorsville. FMI: Ann Dortch 226-7836
• Paws About Town. Springfield Humane Society, which services Cavendish, is holding a dog walk fundraiser in Ludlow at 9:30 at Black River High School. You do not need a dog to walk. To obtain a pledge sheet, call 885-3997.
May 16 (Sunday): Proctorsville Fire Department monthly business and Blood Borne Pathogens Training, 1 pm at the Firehouse.
May 18 (Tuesday): Cavendish Fletcher Library adult education classes on basic computer skills. Class begins at 2 pm. FMI: Kata at 226-7503
May 19 (Wednesday): The Cavendish Homeworkers II Club will be having a meeting at the Proctorsville Fire Hall beginning at 10:30. People may call Paula Parker at 226-7653 for more info. There will be a potluck luncheon and all are welcome.
May 20 (Thursday): Community Luncheon at St. James Methodist Church on Main Street in Proctorsville. This month’s menu is stuffed cabbage rolls with mashed potatoes, green salad, hot rolls, jello whip, coffee or lemonade. Everyone is welcome. A suggested donation of $3 for seniors or $4.50 for those under 50 helps to defray the cost of the meal.
• Casting call for Cavendish Community Theatre’s summer play, 6pm at the Cavendish School in Proctorsville. All types of parts available. FMI: Sandra Russo 226-7398 or sandra.russo@yahoo.com
May 21 (Friday): Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
• GMUHS Middle School Semi-formal
The 5/14/10 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Select Board Meeting
2. Cavendish Related News
3. 150th Anniversary of Phineas Gage’s Death
4. Cavendish Events 5/15-5/21
1. Select Board Meeting 5/10/10
The following was discussed at the May 10 Select Board meeting:
A. State Police Update: LT. Rick Hopkins and Sgt Anthony French presented information on Cavendish in the past year. The State Police dealt with 317 cases from Cavendish, including 32 crashes, 6 assaults, 29 burglaries/larceny, 25 arrests (39 charges), and 8 DUIs (driving under the influence). Cavendish is one of the larger towns served by the Rockingham Barricks. At the moment, there is the late spring/early summer lull. In response to questions from the Select Board, Hopkins indicated that they do not offer 24 hour staffing. Between 2-6 am troopers are on-call and will respond from their homes. There were a number of questions about towns paying for additional coverage by State Police. Currently, Cavendish pays for 12 hours a week for a sheriff. Hopkins explained that off duty State Police serve in this capacity, so they would not be removed to another area to respond to a call. One of the differences between the State Police and the sheriff is that the State Police does not charge for going to court. The only time the town would pay is when the officer is in town. Pricing appears to be comparable to what the town is paying the sheriff. If the town decides to go with the State Police, it would take about two weeks to put the program in place. The Police would operate at random times and would implement their program to best meet the needs of the town.
B. Town Constable Scope of Duties: The Select Board continues to discuss the role of the town constable with Seth Perry, who is newly elected to this position. The Board agreed to the following duties for the immediate future: serve civil and criminal process; remove disorderly people from town meetings; destroy animals when required; kill injured deer when required; assist the health and animal control officers; traffic control; respond to general complaints as directed by the town manager; and assist local and state officers, as well as fire departments as requested and appropriate. With training, the constable could also do VIN (out of state car purchase) checks, domestic retrieval of property and expand the ability to back up local and state officers and fire departments. Perry has already done the testing to qualify for the law enforcement training. Before further consideration of the expenditure for training, the Board would like to see a cost benefit analysis. There is also concern that the Constable is elected for one year terms. The town could pay for training only to have the Constable not run again or be voted out of office. Perry noted that this is the way he can serve his community and he plans to do this for quite a few years. He also noted that the term of office can be expanded beyond a year under the Vermont law. Further discussion is scheduled for the June Meeting
C. Endurance Race: The Vermont 100 Endurance Race has requested permission to run part of their course through Cavendish. Sponsored by Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, the race is in its 22nd year and will take place July 17-18. The participants are expected to come through Cavendish from 4 am-10 am. The course would enter Cavendish near Bellingham’s and make a U shape along Brook Rd and exiting via the South Reading Road. An aid station will be set up at the junction of Atkinson and Brook Roads. The Board gave permission for the race. Volunteers will be needed to staff the Cavendish Aid Station. If interested, e-mail vt100volunteers@gmail.com
D. Energy Grant: The town will begin to implement the newly awarded federal energy grant in late June/early July. All of the work should be finished before winter. The two buildings, which will receive energy efficiency upgrades are the Town Office and the Town Garage.
E. Delinquent Tax Collection: A Tax Sale has been set for June 23. There are three properties that are in question for this sale. Rich Svec, town manager, has heard from all three property owners and it’s possible that agreements can be reached prior to the June date. Additional letters will be going out this summer to property owners that are delinquent in their taxes.
F. Green Mountain Railroad: Rich Svec and several members of the Select Board met with the Green Mountain Railroad regarding the junk and materials stored in the Proctorsville village area. The Railroad is willing to do a better job of cleaning up after themselves but noted that they are currently doing work on the track in the vicinity of the pile of railroad ties. It was pointed out that a number of items had been there for many years and that “it was an accident waiting to happen.”
2. Cavendish Related News
(Glimmerstone) Mansion Goes On Auction Block (Note: Auction has been changed to June 4)
I-89 Ramp to I-91 North to Close for Upgrades
State Drops Gill Home Director Charges, Revoking Nursing Home Director’s License still Possible
Windsor County Agriculture on Hiatus This Year
Veto Threatens Current Use Legislations Passed by Senate and House
Summer Programs for Regional Students
3. 150th Anniversary of Phineas Gage’s Death
On September 13, 1848 Phineas Gage, a foreman, was working with his crew excavating rocks in preparing the bed for the Rutland and Burlington Railroad in Cavendish. An accidental explosion of a charge he had set blew his tamping iron through his head. It entered under the left cheek bone and exited through the top of the head. The rod, covered with brains and blood, was found approximately 30 yards from the site of the accident.
Sitting on the back of an ox cart, Gage was brought to the boarding house where he was staying on Main Street in Cavendish. Dr. John Harlow treated his wounds, along with Dr. Edward H. Williams. The large wound at the top of his head was closed with adhesive straps and a wet compress covered the opening. No surgery was involved.
Within days of the accident, an infection developed and Gage lapsed into a semi comatose state. Fearing that he was about to die, a local carpenter prepared a coffin for him. Two weeks after the accident, Harlow released 8 fluid ounces of pus from an abscess under Gage’s scalp. By January 1, 1849 (approximately 4 months) Gage was functional.
It is remarkable that Gage survived this accident, let alone lived for almost 12 more years. Fortunately Dr. Harlow and Dr. Henry J. Bigelow, a professor of surgery at Harvard University, tracked Gage as much possible, thereby documenting one of the first cases of traumatic brain injury in medical science. It was also the first understanding that different parts of the brain have different functions. With this knowledge, the first brain tumor removal operation became possible in 1885.
According to Gage’s family and friends, his behavior was significantly altered by the accident. In 1868, Harlow wrote in the “Bulletin of the Massachusetts Medical Society” His contractors, who regarded him as the most efficient and capable foreman in their employ previous to his injury, considered the change in his mind so marked that they could not give him his place again. He is fitful, irreverent, indulging at times in the grossest profanity (which was not previously his custom), manifesting but little deference for his fellows, impatient of restraint of advice when it conflicts with his desires, at times pertinaciously obstinent, yet capricious and vacillating, devising many plans of future operation, which are no sooner arranged than they are abandoned in turn for others appearing more feasible. In this regard, his mind was radically changed, so decidedly that his friends and acquaintances said he was “no longer Gage.”
Not able to work as a foreman, Gage held a variety of jobs. He worked in the livery stable at what is now known as the Hanover Inn in New Hampshire. He drove coaches and cared for horses in Valparaiso, Chile. Around 1859, after his health began to fail he went to San Francisco to live with his mother. While there, he worked on a farm in Santa Clara County. In February 1860, he began to have epileptic seizures and ultimately died May 21, 1860.
Rumors circulated that Gage appeared at Barnum’s American Museum in New York. It would take another Cavendish doctor, Dr. Gene Bont, almost 160 years later to find proof that Gage did in fact promote himself as a curiosity. Bont found a poster advertising Gage’s appearance at Rumford Hall.
One of the least talked about people connected with the Gage accident is Dr. Williams. He was an engineer, who went to medical school when ill health kept him from working outside. Since he did not have a busy medical practice, Williams spent considerable time in various forms of engineering. In fact, he knew Gage prior to his accident. He was the first doctor on the scene but would have differed to Dr. Harlow as he was a surgeon. Not long after the incident, Williams returned to engineering full time and started the oldest engineering society in the United States, Tau Beta Pi.
In honor of the 150th anniversary of Gage’s death, The Cavendish Historical Society (CHS) has developed a Phineas Gage Walking Tour, which highlights the approximate area Gage was injured, the homes of Drs. Harlow and Williams, and the locations of the boarding house and the carpenter who had prepared the coffin.
Copies of the tour guide are available at the CHS Museum, the Cavendish Town Office and the Cavendish Library in Proctorsville. In addition, on May 23 (Sunday), CHS will conduct a walking tour. The tour will begin at the Museum, Main Street Cavendish, at 2 pm. For more information, please call 802-226-7807 or e-mail margoc@tds.net
4. Cavendish Events 5/15-5/21
May 15 (Saturday): Gethsemane Church Historic Preservation 2010 Rummage Sale, 9-2 on the Parish grounds, Depot Street, Proctorsville. FMI: Ann Dortch 226-7836
• Paws About Town. Springfield Humane Society, which services Cavendish, is holding a dog walk fundraiser in Ludlow at 9:30 at Black River High School. You do not need a dog to walk. To obtain a pledge sheet, call 885-3997.
May 16 (Sunday): Proctorsville Fire Department monthly business and Blood Borne Pathogens Training, 1 pm at the Firehouse.
May 18 (Tuesday): Cavendish Fletcher Library adult education classes on basic computer skills. Class begins at 2 pm. FMI: Kata at 226-7503
May 19 (Wednesday): The Cavendish Homeworkers II Club will be having a meeting at the Proctorsville Fire Hall beginning at 10:30. People may call Paula Parker at 226-7653 for more info. There will be a potluck luncheon and all are welcome.
May 20 (Thursday): Community Luncheon at St. James Methodist Church on Main Street in Proctorsville. This month’s menu is stuffed cabbage rolls with mashed potatoes, green salad, hot rolls, jello whip, coffee or lemonade. Everyone is welcome. A suggested donation of $3 for seniors or $4.50 for those under 50 helps to defray the cost of the meal.
• Casting call for Cavendish Community Theatre’s summer play, 6pm at the Cavendish School in Proctorsville. All types of parts available. FMI: Sandra Russo 226-7398 or sandra.russo@yahoo.com
May 21 (Friday): Black River Good Neighbor Rummage Sale from 10-4 at Fletcher Farm. FMI: 228-3663
• GMUHS Middle School Semi-formal
Friday, May 7, 2010
Cavendish Update 5/7/10 News/Classifieds
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 5/7/10 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Cavendish Historical Society Newsletter
3. Annual “Paws About Town” Dog Walk
4. Cocoa Mulch Warning
5. Classifieds
6. Erosion Assessment of the Black River
7. Cavendish Events 5/8-5/11
1. Cavendish Related News
Springfield Region (including Cavendish) Gets New Trash Deal
2. Cavendish Historical Society Newsletter
The Cavendish Historical Society’s Spring 2010 newsletter is on-line at http://cavendishhistoricalsocietynews.blogspot.com/2010/05/newsletter-spring-2010.html
Copies can also be obtained from the Cavendish Library.
3. Annual “Paws About Town” Dog Walk
Join other animal lovers on Saturday May 15 in the Springfield Humane Society's annual Paws About Town dog walk fundraiser in Ludlow. The humane society services Cavendish, Ludlow, Chester, Weathersfield and Springfield, but gets no funding from tax dollars---they rely on donations, grants and fundraisers. Currently operating in the red, the society needs your help to continue the work of saving, healing and re-homing strays and surrendered pets. The Paws About Town walk starts at 9:30 at Black River High School---you do not need a dog to walk! To get a pledge sheet call 885-3997 or pick up one at the following locations: Springfield Humane Society or in Ludlow at the Riverside Pet Care or McEnaney & Co.
4. Cocoa Mulch Warning
Coca Mulch contains a chemical (theobromine) that can be harmful to pets. Because there have been e-mails circulating the internet since 2003, Snopes has developed information about the product. In keeping with our planting season, care should be given to what type of mulch you use. For more Information on this topic go to http://www.uvm.edu/pss/ppp/articles/propmulch.html and download the University of Vermont’s Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science for their handout “Proper Mulching.
5. Classifieds
For Sale: HP Photosmart Plus All-in-One printer. Wireless (also with UBS cord), prints photos/paper, copies, scans. Purchased in March, works perfectly, I just didn't realize it is primarily for photos. Needs ink cartridge. $40. 226-7187
For Sale: Medium size dog crate (26-40lb dog). 24" high, 30" long, with separate removable pan, collapsible and has extra wire panel for adjusting the length of the living space. Like new - my dog grew too big too fast. $40. 226-7187
6. Erosion Assessment of the Black River
At Wednesday night’s Planning Commission meeting, information was presented by the Southern Windsor County Regional Planning Commission on findings from the “Geomorphic Assessment Black River and Tributaries 2007-2008.” The report found that many factors (floods of 1927, 36, 38 and 73, straightening of 103, undersized bridges and in-stream culverts, storm run off) contribute to the Black River’s continual adjustment. In Cavendish, there are two areas of concern-the area near Winery Road in Proctorsville and sections of Twenty Mile Stream Road. After hearing the report, the Planning Committee agreed to have additional discussions about the findings with the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR). Based on these discussions, the Planning Commission will determine if regulations might be needed in order to reduce further erosion and/or potential flooding.
7. Cavendish Events 5/8-5/11
May 8 (Saturday): The Southern Windsor/Windham Counties Solid Waste Management District, of which Cavendish is a member, will hold free household hazardous waste collections at the Springfield Transfer Station and Recycling Center from 9-12 and at the Rockingham Transfer Station 2-5 pm. Bring aerosols, antifreeze, automotive products, gasoline, hobby chemicals, household cleaners, kerosene, paint cleaners, pesticides, oil based paints, pool chemicals, mercury thermometers and mercury thermostats. Do not bring latex paint (thicken and trash it), waste oil (service stations may take it, fluorescent bulbs (transfer station), ammunition, asbestos, auto batteries (transfer station), alkaline batteries, fireworks, medical waste, computers (transfer station) or radioactive material.
May 10 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Town Office. These meetings are televised on LPCTV. To check for airing times, or to watch the meetings on-line, go to www.lpctv.org.
May 11 (Tuesday): Cavendish Fletcher Library adult education classes on basic computer skills. Class begins at 2 pm. FMI: Kata at 226-7503
The 5/7/10 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Cavendish Historical Society Newsletter
3. Annual “Paws About Town” Dog Walk
4. Cocoa Mulch Warning
5. Classifieds
6. Erosion Assessment of the Black River
7. Cavendish Events 5/8-5/11
1. Cavendish Related News
Springfield Region (including Cavendish) Gets New Trash Deal
2. Cavendish Historical Society Newsletter
The Cavendish Historical Society’s Spring 2010 newsletter is on-line at http://cavendishhistoricalsocietynews.blogspot.com/2010/05/newsletter-spring-2010.html
Copies can also be obtained from the Cavendish Library.
3. Annual “Paws About Town” Dog Walk
Join other animal lovers on Saturday May 15 in the Springfield Humane Society's annual Paws About Town dog walk fundraiser in Ludlow. The humane society services Cavendish, Ludlow, Chester, Weathersfield and Springfield, but gets no funding from tax dollars---they rely on donations, grants and fundraisers. Currently operating in the red, the society needs your help to continue the work of saving, healing and re-homing strays and surrendered pets. The Paws About Town walk starts at 9:30 at Black River High School---you do not need a dog to walk! To get a pledge sheet call 885-3997 or pick up one at the following locations: Springfield Humane Society or in Ludlow at the Riverside Pet Care or McEnaney & Co.
4. Cocoa Mulch Warning
Coca Mulch contains a chemical (theobromine) that can be harmful to pets. Because there have been e-mails circulating the internet since 2003, Snopes has developed information about the product. In keeping with our planting season, care should be given to what type of mulch you use. For more Information on this topic go to http://www.uvm.edu/pss/ppp/articles/propmulch.html and download the University of Vermont’s Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science for their handout “Proper Mulching.
5. Classifieds
For Sale: HP Photosmart Plus All-in-One printer. Wireless (also with UBS cord), prints photos/paper, copies, scans. Purchased in March, works perfectly, I just didn't realize it is primarily for photos. Needs ink cartridge. $40. 226-7187
For Sale: Medium size dog crate (26-40lb dog). 24" high, 30" long, with separate removable pan, collapsible and has extra wire panel for adjusting the length of the living space. Like new - my dog grew too big too fast. $40. 226-7187
6. Erosion Assessment of the Black River
At Wednesday night’s Planning Commission meeting, information was presented by the Southern Windsor County Regional Planning Commission on findings from the “Geomorphic Assessment Black River and Tributaries 2007-2008.” The report found that many factors (floods of 1927, 36, 38 and 73, straightening of 103, undersized bridges and in-stream culverts, storm run off) contribute to the Black River’s continual adjustment. In Cavendish, there are two areas of concern-the area near Winery Road in Proctorsville and sections of Twenty Mile Stream Road. After hearing the report, the Planning Committee agreed to have additional discussions about the findings with the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR). Based on these discussions, the Planning Commission will determine if regulations might be needed in order to reduce further erosion and/or potential flooding.
7. Cavendish Events 5/8-5/11
May 8 (Saturday): The Southern Windsor/Windham Counties Solid Waste Management District, of which Cavendish is a member, will hold free household hazardous waste collections at the Springfield Transfer Station and Recycling Center from 9-12 and at the Rockingham Transfer Station 2-5 pm. Bring aerosols, antifreeze, automotive products, gasoline, hobby chemicals, household cleaners, kerosene, paint cleaners, pesticides, oil based paints, pool chemicals, mercury thermometers and mercury thermostats. Do not bring latex paint (thicken and trash it), waste oil (service stations may take it, fluorescent bulbs (transfer station), ammunition, asbestos, auto batteries (transfer station), alkaline batteries, fireworks, medical waste, computers (transfer station) or radioactive material.
May 10 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Town Office. These meetings are televised on LPCTV. To check for airing times, or to watch the meetings on-line, go to www.lpctv.org.
May 11 (Tuesday): Cavendish Fletcher Library adult education classes on basic computer skills. Class begins at 2 pm. FMI: Kata at 226-7503
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)