Saturday, January 29, 2011

Cavendish Update 2/1/11 Calendar/News/Events

This issue of the Cavendish Update is made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society blog

The 2/1/11 Cavendish Update contains the following:
1. Town Elections
2. Cavendish Related News
3. Support for CTES Principal G. Thomson in His Penguin Plunge
4. CCCA Mardi Gras Benefit with Yankee Chank
5. CCCA to Hold Wildlife Corridor Presentation
6. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: What is it/18th Century Map
7. E-Books and Audio Book Service Available at Fletcher Library
8. Birdman of Alcatraz at Cavendish Film Series
9. Grass Fed Beef Available in Cavendish
10. February Cavendish Calendar

1. Town Elections
The petitioning for elected town and school governance positions has closed. All positions are running unopposed with the exception of the one-year term for Select Board. Four people are running for two positions: Dan Churchill, Ed Garrow, Peter Gregg and Scott Ranney.

2. Cavendish Related News
The flu is spreading in Vermont. State health officials are reporting widespread illness across the Vermont. That means at least half the state's five regions have laboratory-confirmed cases. That's a big jump from just a few weeks ago when Vermont was experiencing sporadic activity only. Health officials are encouraging people who have not yet been vaccinated to get their flu shots. They say it's not too late. Everyone six months and older is eligible. FMI: Dial 2-1-1 or go the Vt. Health Department website

Faith in Vermont State Government Declines: “Pulse of Vermont: Quality of Life Study 2010,” a 48-page document issued by the Vermont Business Roundtable, lays out the results of a telephone survey of 407 Vermonters conducted in 2010. Vermonters have relatively little faith in their state government, and significantly less than five years earlier, the survey finds. The institution that got the lowest marks was “government in Montpelier.” Only 15 percent of survey respondents possessed a great deal of confidence in state government, 4 percentage points lower than in a 2005 survey. Burlington Free Press

$4.8B Shumlin Budget Slashes Human Services Spending Gov. Peter Shumlin delivered a $4.8 billion budget plan to lawmakers Tuesday that was both harsh in the reductions he outlined for an array of human services and optimistic in the investments he proposed to create new opportunities for the future. To close the $176 million gap, Shumlin’s spending plan requires significant belt-tightening including $12 million in labor concessions, a $4.6 million reduction in mental health funding, $4.5 million in shrunken support for the elderly and disabled by $4.5 million and increased assessments on health care providers to raise $28 million. It also puts schools on notice that non-property tax support for education will decrease by $23 million — offset this year only by $19 million in federal funding. Still, Shumlin’s first budget also squeezes out money to launch initiatives the Democrat outlined in his campaign: He proposes $13 million over two years for broadband infrastructure to achieve his goal of a “statewide canopy” of telecommunications by 2013. He would end Catamount Health, a private insurance program subsidized by the state, and cover the 12,500 Vermonters now on the program under an expanded Vermont Health Access Program — a step toward the single-payer health care system he advocates. He calls for shuffling male and female inmates to different prisons to make more efficient use of the state’s facilities, reduce the number of inmates sent out of state and create savings that would be invested in services to reduce recidivism. Burlington Free Press

State’s Year-End Unemployment 5.8%: The seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate for 2010 trended down overall by 0.9 percentage point to 5.8 percent, the Vermont Department of Labor said Tuesday. The year-end rate in December was up 0.1 percent from November, however, representing the only increase in the rate for the year. The slight increase was preceded by five months of no change and six declines in the statewide unemployment rate. Burlington Free Press

3. Support for CTES Principal G. Thomson in His Penguin Plunge:
I am sitting inside on a cold winter day designing my outfit for the Penguin Plunge (benefit Vermont Special Olympics), which I am participating in on Sat. Feb 5 in Burlington. I am having fun thinking abut plunging into the frigid waters of Lake Champlain as the temps outside start moving towards sub zero numbers!. I am considering taking a scantily clothed body outside and rolling in the snow to condition my body! NOTICE: I said "considering." I'm not about to cut a whole in the ice on my lake! I have not yet reached my fund raising goal, so I though I would send out an appeal to all in case you thought you might help but hadn't had a chance to contribute yet. If you are interested and able you may write a check made out to Vermont Special Olympics and get it to me or go online to my web page http://www.firstgiving.com/georgethomson and contribute there. If you are not interested or able, warm thoughts sent my way on the 5th would be appreciated!! For sure, I will have photos of this adventure for my "Bucket List" book, which I shall share. Thanks, George O. Thomson

4. CCCA Mardi Gras Benefit with Yankee Chank
This year's Mardi Gras fundraiser will be Saturday March 5th. The CCCA will be selling the limited tickets during the month of February. Tickets are $40 a person and include the Cajun Buffet finger foods and Dancing with Bob Naess and his band Yankee Chank. There will be a prize for the Best Mask and masks for decorating will be handed out with the purchase of a ticket. The event will take place at Crows Bakery and Opera House Cafe with all activities on the ground floor. The winning tickets for the Mardi Gras raffle will be chosen at the dance. !st prize is a getaway vacation with a cash card good for dinner out. 2nd prize is a fabulous Pie Of The Month from Crows Bakery and the third prize is a Wine and Cheese basket with a selection of four quality wines, local cheeses and crackers. Tickets for the raffle and the Fundraiser are available at Crows Bakery or by calling Robin at 226-7736

5. CCCA to Hold Wildlife Corridor Presentation
The Cavendish Community and Conservation Association will host a presentation on Cavendish Wildlife Corridors by Forrest Hammond of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department on Thursday, February 3rd from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the Cavendish Town Offices, 126 High Street, Cavendish.

Mr. Hammond is Project Leader at the Fish and Wildlife Department for wild turkey and black bears and he will target his presentation to specific wildlife corridors in our area.

Corridor habitat is land that links larger areas of habitat within a landscape allowing for the movement, migration and dispersion of animals. Corridors are especially important for wide ranging animals such as bobcats, otters, bears and owls, but are also important for small creatures such as the spotted salamander. Creation and protection of corridor habitat reduces the negative impact of habitat fragmentation and population isolation.

Whether you are a hunter, a developer, a wildlife enthusiast or just plain interested in the animals that live in our woods, fields and waterways, this is sure to be an educational evening that will help you understand the principles of maintaining a healthy and diverse environment. All persons are invited and refreshments and homemade cookies will be served. For more information please call Robin Timko at 802-226-7736.

6. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: What is it/18th Century Map
Wonder what they call a 250th anniversary? It’s Semiquincentennial.

The Vermont Historical Society has acquired an important map from the conflict between New York and New Hampshire in the early 1770s over land that would later become Vermont. The map was drawn in 1771 by surveyor Benjamin Stevens to delineate plots of land in the town of Newbrook that had been parceled out to members of the gentry by Lt. Gov. Cadwallader Colden of New York. It's an example of New York's attempts to lay claim to land that was already granted by New Hampshire's governor, actions that eventually led to armed conflict in the disputed territory. FMI: WCAX

7. E-Books and Audio Book Service Available at Fletcher Library
Cavendish residents have free use of the Fletcher Library in Ludlow. E-books are now available at the Fletcher Library. The ebook collection will be accessed in the same place as our downloadable audio www.listenupvermont.org The opening collection will likely consist of a somewhere around 500 titles. The majority of the titles will be in the e-PUB or PDF format. The titles will be one copy, one user, just like your physical library. You may set your due date either 7 or 14 days. Your e-Books will not be accessible after that date. e-books are not downloadable using a library PC due to Digital Rights Management - you are able to download using your PC and our Wi-Fi.

A list of supported e-readers, help and tutorials are available at the Library’s website.

As a member of the Green Mountain Library Consortium (GMLC), Fletcher Memorial Library is pleased to offer Overdrive our downloadable audio book service through our website. This site provides thousands of titles with more added monthly! You will need your Fletcher Memorial Library Patron Number to download audiobooks. *Library staff will gladly furnish this. Please peruse the site as Overdrive requires you to download a small program. A list of supported players, help and tutorials are available on the site.

You can now connect with the Fletcher Memorial Library via Facebook.

8. Birdman of Alcatraz at Cavendish Film Series
Corrections is in the news almost daily. While being imprisoned is tough on inmates and their families, today’s conditions are radically different than those portrayed in the 1963 film classic Birdman of Alcatraz, part of the Black & White Nights film series in Cavendish. Burt Lancaster was nominated for his portrayal of the real-life Robert Stroud, a remorseless killer sentenced to a life of solitary confinement. He finds solace in raising birds, ultimately becoming a renowned expert on their behavior and diseases. Karl Malden plays the tough prison warden whose harsh theories on punishment inspire Stroud to make something of his life, and Thelma Ritter was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Stroud’s gritty but supportive mother. Lancaster shows us a tough and emotionally closed Stroud who finally achieves a level of humanity through his work that began by saving a wounded bird. Nominated for four Academy Awards, Birdman of Alcatraz is a powerful film about redemption.

It will be shown at 7:00 on Friday February 4th at Cavendish Elementary School on Rte. 131 in Proctorsville. Donations are welcome but not required, and there will be refreshments available. For more information call 226-7187.

9. Grass Fed Beef Available in Cavendish
Moonlite Meadows Farm, located in Cavendish, has grass fed beef for sale. All cuts. To purchase call 802-226-8077.

10. February Cavendish Calendar
February 1 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870

February 2 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Town Office

February 3 (Thursday): Cavendish Wildlife Corridors with Forrest Hammond of Vermont Fish and Wildlife, Cavendish Town Office, 6 -7:30 pm. See Item 5.
• Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870
• 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

February 4 (Friday): Black and White Film Series, Birdman of Alcatraz, 7 pm at the Cavendish Elementary School in Proctorsville. There are refreshments on hand and the evening is free, though donations are always welcome. FMI: 226-7497 or 226-7187.

February 7 (Monday): Cavendish 250th Anniversary Celebration Planning Meeting, 4 pm at the Cavendish Town Office.
• Annual Meeting of the Cavendish Fire District # 2 will be held at the Cavendish Town Office at 7:30 pm.
February 8 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870

February 9 (Wednesday): The February Okemo Valley Chamber of Commerce Mixer will take place at The Message for the Week offices, 34 School Street, Chester, 5:30-7:30. FMI: 228-5830

February 10 (Thursday): Ludlow Winter Carnival. Events include: Ice Bocce, Ski & Snowboard Fashion Show, scavenger hunt, Snowmobile Poker Run, cross country ski & snowshoe fun race, Fireworks, Parade and post Fireworks bonfire, just to name a few. Nightly "early bird" rates available at participating restaurants and nightly Apres Ski parties. FMI: 228-7530 or http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/lovin-ludlow-winter-carnival.html

• Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870
• 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

February 11 (Friday): Ludlow Winter Carnival. Events include: Ice Bocce, Ski & Snowboard Fashion Show, scavenger hunt, Snowmobile Poker Run, cross country ski & snowshoe fun race, Fireworks, Parade and post Fireworks bonfire, just to name a few. Nightly "early bird" rates available at participating restaurants and nightly Apres Ski parties. FMI: 228-7530 or http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/lovin-ludlow-winter-carnival.html

February 12 (Saturday): Ludlow Winter Carnival. Events include: Ice Bocce, Ski & Snowboard Fashion Show, scavenger hunt, Snowmobile Poker Run, cross country ski & snowshoe fun race, Fireworks, Parade and post Fireworks bonfire, just to name a few. Nightly "early bird" rates available at participating restaurants and nightly Apres Ski parties. FMI: 228-7530 or http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/lovin-ludlow-winter-carnival.html
• Black and White Film Series, Anatomy of a Murder, 7 pm at the Cavendish Elementary School in Proctorsville. There are refreshments on hand and the evening is free, though donations are always welcome. FMI: 226-7497 or 226-7187.

February 13 (Sunday): Ludlow Winter Carnival. Events include: Ice Bocce, Ski & Snowboard Fashion Show, scavenger hunt, Snowmobile Poker Run, cross country ski & snowshoe fun race, Fireworks, Parade and post Fireworks bonfire, just to name a few. Nightly "early bird" rates available at participating restaurants and nightly Apres Ski parties. FMI: 228-7530 or http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/lovin-ludlow-winter-carnival.html

February 14 (Monday): Happy Valentine’s Day. Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm. This event is taped by LPC-TV and can be watched on Comcast cable channels or at the website.

February 15 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870

February 17 (Thursday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870

February 18 (Friday): Black and White Film Series, You Can’t Take it With You, 7 pm at the Cavendish Elementary School in Proctorsville. There are refreshments on hand and the evening is free, though donations are always welcome. FMI: 226-7497 or 226-7187.

February 21 (Monday): School Closed for Winter Recess

February 22 (Tuesday): School Closed for Winter Recess
• Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870

February 23 (Wednesday): School Closed for Winter Recess

February 24 (Thursday): School Closed for Winter Recess
• Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870
• 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

February 25 (Friday): School Closed for Winter Recess
• Black and White Film Series, All About Eve, 7 pm at the Cavendish Elementary School in Proctorsville. There are refreshments on hand and the evening is free, though donations are always welcome. FMI: 226-7497 or 226-7187.

Friday, January 21, 2011

Cavendish Update 1/21/11 News/Events/Shakespeare/Civil War

The 1/21/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Cavendish and Related News
2. Shakespeare Weekend in Proctorsville
3. Gary Grant Kicks Off Black & White Film Series
4. Civil War Sesquicentennial: Cavendish Civil War Nurse
5. Cavendish Events 1/22-1/29/11

1. Cavendish and Related News
Glimmer of Hope in State’s Financial Future: Gov. Shumlin’s and the Legislature’s economists report weak, but visible evidence that Vermont and the nation are beginning to emerge from the Great Recession. Burlington Free Press

VT Drops Fight over Religious License Plate: The state of Vermont has ended a years-long legal dispute with a man who has been fighting for the right to display a reference to one of the Bible's most famous passages on a vanity plate. The state won't ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review a federal appeals court decision that said Shawn Byrne of West Rutland must be given the license plate "JN36TN," a reference to John 3:16. Burlington Free Press

VT State Police to Enforce Scrap Metal Laws: Due to an increase in the thefts of catalytic converters and copper, Vermont State Police say they intend to enforce the laws on scrap metal processors and salvage yards accepting the parts and material. Burlington Free Press

VT Fish and Wild Life Seeking Bat Information: VT’s Department of Fish and Wildlife is asking people to report any unusual bat activity this winter. It's part of an effort to study the spread of white-nose syndrome, which has decimated bat populations in the northeastern United States. Citizens are asked to report their observations on-line by visiting the department’s website (www.vtfishandwildlife.com) and click on Report Sick-acting Bats. Those without internet access, can call 802-786-0055. Press Release

Gill Home administrator suspended and fined
The state has issued a five-year suspension and $5, 000 fine to Gill Home Nursing home administrator Leslie Whittington for unprofessional conduct. In a 28-page decision, http://www.vtprofessionals.org/opr1/oprdocs/all/2008-119.pdf dated Monday and posted to the Secretary of State’s website Friday, the Office of Professional Regulation found that Whittington of the Gill Odd Fellows Home operated outside the scope of her practice, created a hostile work environment, interfered with good nursing care and committed general breach of her duties. Rutland Herald

2. Shakespeare Weekend in Proctorsville: Jamie Ward, New York actor, teacher and lover of Shakespeare is returning to Proctorsville in March to lead a "Playing With Shakespeare" weekend . Last April he led a group of twenty enthusiastic community members through a lively, educational, humorous and fun-filled weekend that culminated in an evening performance of skits, monologues and music. His freewheeling style of teaching has made him popular with school and community groups that learn to appreciate the richness of Shakespeare's language through theater games, music and improvisation.

The weekend is made possible by a generous grant from the Cavendish Community Fund.

The workshop will take place at Gethsemane Episcopal Church on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, March 19-20, with an evening program on the 20th. In order to participate you'll need a sense of humor, willingness to play with language, and desire to learn about Shakespeare's work. No one need be a master of Shakespeare, little or no memorization is required. Anyone age twelve and up may join, but space is limited to twenty participants.

For more information or to sign up call Mary McCallum at 226-7497 or email marmac@tds.net.

3. Gary Grant Kicks Off Black & White Film Series
Arsenic and Old Lace, a fast-paced comedy directed by Frank Capra and starring Cary Grant, will be the first in the line-up of films of the winter Black & White Nights Film Series in Cavendish. In this 1941 classic, Grant plays Mortimer Brewster, a writer and theater critic who discovers that his two maiden aunts have a secret line of charitable work that they run out of his boyhood home in Brooklyn: they invite lonely old gents over for homemade elderberry wine. What they don't tell him is that they lace it with arsenic as a way of ending the unsuspecting men's loneliness and then bury the bodies in the cellar.

Adapted from a successful Broadway play, Arsenic and Old Lace brings to the screen two other Hollywood greats, Peter Lorre and Raymond Massey. Frank Capra's film was released in 1944 at a time when the American public welcomed comic relief after three years involvement in World War II. Considered a dark comedy in that era, the film is nonviolent by today's standards and gives us a glimpse of a grand old Hollywood filmmaking style that is long gone.

Arsenic and Old Lace will be shown on Friday January 28 at 7:00 at Cavendish Elementary School on Route 131 in Proctorsville. Films are free and refreshments will be available.

4. Civil War Sesquicentennial: Cavendish Civil War Nurse
Born Eliza Atherton in Auburn, NY, Lizzie Aiken moved to Cavendish in 1826 at the age of nine. She came to live at her paternal grandfather’s, Jonathan Atherton, farm.. When Lizzie was 16, her mother became ill and she spent the next four years caring for her family. When her mother’s health improved, she attended the New England Academy in Cavendish for one term.

At the age of 20, she married Cyrus Aiken and they relocated to Illinois. Tragedy struck when she lost all of her sons to cholera, which was followed by the death of her sister from the same disease. Not long after, her home was destroyed by lighting. When her husband became ill, and her father died, she became a domestic nurse to help defray expenses and to support her mother, who was still in Cavendish.

With the onset of the Civil War, Lizzie nursed soldiers in the sick tents near Peoria, Il. In Nov. 1861, Aiken accompanied the 6th Illinois Cavalry to Shwaneetown on the Ohio River. Her comfort and care resulted in the nickname “Aunt Lizzie.” At first she worked for no pay but eventually received $12 per month from the army.

In 1862, she wrote a friend, “Twenty four nights in succession I have sat up until three in the morning dealing out medicine. I cannot think of leaving these poor fellows if there is any chance of their living. Dr. Niglas tells me I have saved the lives of over 400 men. I am afraid I hardly deserve that compliment. I cannot tell you how well this work suits this restless heart of mine.”

In 1864, the ladies of the Peoria Loyal League raised the money so she could visit her mother in Cavendish for three weeks. With the end of the war, Aunt Lizzie was sick and returned to Peoria where she was nursed back to health. In 1867, she joined the Second Baptist Church and worked as missionary until her death in January 1906. She was 88 years old.

5. Cavendish Events 1/22-1/29/11
January 22 (Saturday): Drawing in Perspective class with Donald Hofer at the Fletcher Farm School. Classes are half price to Cavendish residents. FMI: 228-8770 or fletcherfarm.org/schedule.asp
• Knit a pair of mittens at Six Loose Ladies, 11;30-2:30 pm. Learn the basics of knitting a pair of mittens including shaping a thumb gusset with right and left leaning increases. Finish the top of your mitten by learning right and left decreases. Instructor: Perry Hudkins. FAVT members $30, non members $35. FMI: 802-226-7373 or SixLooseLadies.com.

January 23 (Sunday): Drawing in Perspective class with Donald Hofer at the Fletcher Farm School. Classes are half price to Cavendish residents. FMI: 228-8770 or fletcherfarm.org/schedule.asp

January 24 (Monday): Last day to file petitions for elected Town office positions. All petitions must be submitted to the Town Clerk by 5 pm.
• Schools Closed for District Inservice

January 25 (Tuesday): Fletcher Library in Ludlow will be screening the documentary Vermont Resettlement Program. 7 Pm in the Community Room
• Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 27 (Thursday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• 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

January 28 (Friday): The Black & White Film Series returns with Arsenic and Old Lace. The film will be shown at 7 pm at the Cavendish Elementary School on Route 131 in Proctorsville. Films are free. Refreshments will be available.

January 29 (Saturday): Rigid Heddle Weaving Class at Six Loose Ladies, 9-4. Weave a scarf while learning the fundamentals of rigid heddle weaving. A rigid heddle loom is a simple loom with alternating slots and holes through which a warp is threaded so it can be woven into cloth. The looms are foldable, affordable and easy to use. It is easily portable even with weaving in place. Looms are available at Six Loose Ladies. Instructor: Phyllis Bont. Materials needed: 600 yards of either Cascade 220 or Brown Sheep Nature Spun. FAVT members $50, non members $55 (no cost if purchasing g a loom from SLL). FMI: 802-226-7373 or visit SixLooseLadies.com.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Selectmen’s Meeting Agenda for 1/19/11

The Selectmen will meet at the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 6:00 PM this evening. The Agenda will be as follows:

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Adjust agenda
5. Executive session with regard to matters of litigation and real estate
6. Continue work on finalizing the FY 2011-2012 Selectmen’s Budget
7. Consider draft of the Annual Town Meeting Warning
8. Adjourn by 8:00 pm sharp

Friday, January 14, 2011

Cavendish Update 1/14/11 SB Mtg/News/Events/Anniversary

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 1/14/11 Cavendish Update Contains the Following:
1. Select Board Meeting
2. Cavendish Related News
3. Cavendish 250th Anniversary: Crown Point Road
4. 250th Cavendish Anniversary Celebration Planning Committee Meeting
5. Cavendish Events 1/14-1/21

1. Select Board Meeting 1/10/11
At Monday night’s Select Board meeting the following items were discussed:

A. Cavendish 250th Anniversary: On Oct. 12, 1761, King George signed the charter, which founded Cavendish. This charter is stored in the town office vault. Recent examination finds that it is in need of restoration. As part of the town’s 250th anniversary, there is interest in displaying the charter. The Select Board voted that surplus funds from this year’s budget could be used toward the restoration and long-term preservation of the document.

The SB agreed that a town wide committee be formed to discuss how the town should celebrate this historic event. A fund will be set up at the town office, which people can donate to, to help offset any costs associated with the event. Persons interested in being on the Anniversary Committee can e-mail margoc@tds.net (See item 4 below for first meeting date and time.)

B. Update on Recent Water System Activities: As noted in the January 11 special water post, a merging of a number of different events caused the water shortage. The one silver lining to this situation is that the state is allowing the town to hook up the second well for a 90-day period.

During the time that the filtration project was being planned, a test well was dug in close proximity to the existing one. Tapping into a different water source, this well tested extremely clean-iron and manganese are very low. Unfortunately, it didn’t yield the same volume of water of the existing well. It was agreed that when funding was available, this well should be brought on-line so it could serve, at the very least, as a backup source of water when the main well had to be shut down for routine cleaning and maintenance, and to supplement the primary well. The well can pump over 50 gallons a minute if needed. As a result of New Year’s weekend water issues, not only is the well being brought on-line to help with the immediate situation, but the process for full permitting is well underway.

The town water users are asked to conserve water, and the fire departments have been told, in the event of a structural fire, to use water tankers first, draw from the river, call for backup from other towns, and not use the hydrants.

C. Energy Grant: The town received an Energy Grant in the spring of 2010. In August, when paper work by the state had still not been signed, the SB voted not to move forward until the State Commissioner and the town signed the cooperative agreement. While the initial plan was to have all work completed by the winter, the necessary paper work was not sent to the town until December. Work can begin on indoor projects, such as changing lighting in the town office.

D. Town Appraisal Update: At a special town meeting in September, the voters agreed in favor of an appraisal update for the town. This was being suggested since the value of properties had dropped so significantly since the 2006 appraisal. An update, versus being mandated for a town wide update, would provide considerable savings to the town. For more information, please see the information handout provided by the town office.

At the Sept. 13 meeting, Richard Svec, town manager, said that the appraisal update would be put out for bid, as is the town’s contracting policy. However, as things have unfolded, the current appraisers have preliminary agreed to a $45 per parcel fee. This would be a considerable savings, not only because this is a very low fee, but the appraisers know the town, have a good relationship with the state, and work well with the listers. The appraisal update is needed for the spring grand list. Not only valuable time would be lost in the request for bid process, but if a new vendor was selected, it would take even more time to orient the contractor to the town, listers etc. As the town allows for sole source contracting in special circumstances, the SB voted to have Svec write a letter of agreement with the current contractor to conduct the appraisal update at the $45 per parcel fee and with other stipulations.

E. Black River Health Center (BHRC) Articles for March Town Meeting: BRHC has requested a tax exemption for the next three years. A discussion followed about whether the BRHC board had discussed turning the building over to the town. As it is, the town must pay $4,000 in taxes to the state for the building. This money would be saved if the town owned the building. BRHC has not looked at this possibility, indicating that it would take considerable discussion. The building has three occupants and several people have recently looked at the location. The SB voted 3 to 2 not to approve this article for submission.

BRHC can resubmit the article once they have issued a petition, which is signed by 18 registered voters.

The Select Board meeting was videotaped by LPC-TV and will appear on Comcast Cable TV and at the LPC website on January 21.

2. Cavendish Related News
CVPS and Green Mtn Power Make Power Deal: Vermont’s two largest utilities say they’re going to buy power from Hydro-Quebec at prices below those in a new contract. Vermont utilities currently pay Hydro Quebec six-point-six cents per kilowatt hour. The new contract will start at 5-point-8 cents. The VT Public Service Board is reviewing the plan for VT utilities to purchase 225 megawatts of energy, mostly hydroelectricity from Hydro-Quebec’s US subsidiary, between 2012 and 2038. Associated Press

Major Changes Proposed in VT’s Tax Policy: After 18 months of research, hearings and deliberations, the Legislature’s Blue Ribbon Tax Structure Commission recommended Thursday simplifying several taxes, broadening the state’s tax base and reducing rates to increase the state’s economic competitiveness. Burlington Free Press

3. Cavendish 250th Anniversary: Crown Point Road
Construction began on the Crown Point Road in 1759. Built by the British, it linked Fort Number 4 in Charlestown, NH to Fort Crown Point on Lake Champlain. Major John Hawks and 250 rangers cleared a roughhewn road through the forest. A path was cut across the elevation in southeastern Cavendish, now called Hawks Mountain. Soldiers traveling along this section of the road soon complained of its roughness. Another route bypassing Hawks Mountain was laid out during the next spring. An encampment from twenty miles from Charlestown on the road gave the tributary of the Black River its present name: Twenty Mile Stream. The first settlers in Cavendish, John Coffeen and family, settled close to the Crown Point Road in 1769, eight years after the Charter was signed by King George III.

4. 250th Cavendish Anniversary Celebration Planning Committee Meeting
There will be a meeting to start planning for the town's 250th anniversary (Oct. 12, 1761) celebration on Jan. 24 (Monday), 4 pm at the Town Office. All are welcome. FMI: 226-7807 or 226-7292

5. Cavendish Events 1/14-1/21
January 15 (Saturday): Live Authentically course begins at the Cavendish Library from 9-12. Ending March 19, Live Authentically is designed to help you discover your inner potential and to gain insight into the big questions in life such as “Who am I? What am I here to do? What’s stopping me?” and “How can I create the life I want?” The course is taught by Cavendish resident Martha Mott. The fee is $300. To register, please contact Martha at 226-7848 or at Martha@liveauthentically.org

January 17 (Monday): Martin Luther King Day, Legal Holiday. Schools and town office closed.

January 18 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 20 (Thursday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• Community Luncheon at St. James United Methodist Church in Proctorsville. The menu will include spaghetti with meatballs and a tossed salad, warm garlic bread, and ice cream sundaes for dessert. Coffee, hot tea or a fruit drink will be available as well. A suggested donation of $3.00 for seniors or $4.50 for those under 60 years will help defray the cost of our luncheons.
• 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

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Special Water Post 1/11/11: Water Conservation Measures Still in Effect

Recently the Cavendish Municipal Water System experienced a situation where demand for water outstretched our capability. There was an array of circumstances which, when they occurred simultaneously, caused the water level in the storage tanks to be lowered to a point where, system wide, pressure was significantly reduced and places at the highest elevations may have experienced a period of no water flow.

Some of the contributing circumstances included:
• Extremely high consumer demand (holidays, tourism, and below freezing temperatures)
• Two system leaks which developed maintenance repairs on the filtration equipment, a telemetry fault
• The need to take the system off-line to back wash the filters.

Significant measures have been implemented to remedy the situation and to ensure that the situation does not reoccur. The two found leaks have been repaired, several other remedial activities are underway and the storage tank levels are being restored to their normal levels. However, they are not back to full capacity and we are heading into a holiday weekend.

Although the immediate crisis is passed, users are asked to use water conservatively so that the refilling of the water tanks takes place as quickly as possible. The tank refilling is a very gradual process, so a water conservation request remains in effect wherein users are requested to use water wisely and conservatively. Normal household activities, which use water for washing and cleaning, are not restricted, but common-sense measures are requested to avoid wasting water are urged.

Some consumers run water to avoid frozen pipes during periods of very cold weather. This is a waste of water. There are a variety of other methods, which can be used to avoid freezing of pipes, including:
• Insulate water pipes, especially pipes that are likely to freeze. Foam tubes, readily available at area hardware stores, can be fitted around each pipe.
• In areas that are especially prone to freezing pipes, wrap the pipes with electric heating tape, also available at local home and hardware stores.
• Extra insulation should be placed around the section of piping at the point where the water supply enters the home, as these pipes tend to freeze at a much faster rate.
• The opening of closed and cold plumbing areas to warm air (e.g. keeping the cabinet doors open under the kitchen sink)
• Add insulation to poorly insulated areas.

The addition of pipe and general insulation has long-term paybacks, which can save on energy costs as well as avoidance of pipe freezing. Running water, besides being contrary to reasonable conservation of an important resource, is a very expensive way to deal with problem pipes.

Some other ways to conserve water include:
• Check faucets, pipes and toilets for leaks
• Don’t use the toilet as an ashtray or wastebasket. E.g. Flushing a used tissue only can use 5-7 gallons
• Take shorter showers.
• Turn off the water after you wet your toothbrush and use a glass of water for rinsing.
• If you use a traditional razor, fill the sink with a few inches of warm water and rinse as needed.
• Use dishwasher and clothes washer for only full loads
• Avoid the permanent press cycle on washing machines as this uses an added 5 gallons of water for the extra rinse.
• For partial loads in the washing machine, adjust water levels to match the size of the load.
• Minimize use of kitchen sink garbage disposal units.
• If washing dishes by hand, don’t leave the water running for rinsing.
• Don’t run the faucet while cleaning vegetables. Instead clean in a pan of water.
• Keep water in the frig to keep it cool instead of running water until it reaches the desired temperature.

For more information, please contact Richard Svec, Town Manager at 226-7291 or Dave Duquette, Chief Water System Operator at 226-7743 at the Town of Cavendish Municipal Water System, 37 High Street, P.O. Box 126, Cavendish, Vermont 05142-0126.

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Select Board Agenda for 1/10/11

Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, January 10 , 2011 in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 6:30 PM.

................................................................ AGENDA ................................................................
1. Call the meeting to order
2. Act upon minutes of the meeting of December 13, 2010, January 3, 2011 and January 5, 2011.
3. Sign Orders
4. Review Correspondence
5. Adjust agenda
6. Hear Citizens
7. Discussion regarding development of activities relating to the Cavendish 250th Anniversary Event tentatively planned for October 12, 2011, the date to commemorate the issuance of Cavendish’s charter in 1761.
8. Update on recent water system activities (follow-up to discussion of January 3, 2011)
9. Update on various town activities
10. Continue discussion of potential articles for inclusion in warning for Annual Town Meeting and discuss subjects to be covered in the Town Manager and Selectmen’s Report
11. Continue work on FY 2011-2012 budget including discussion on town - school related budget items.

Friday, January 7, 2011

Cavendish Update 1/7/11 Town Openings/Anniversary Update/Events

The 1/7/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. 2011 Town of Cavendish Open Offices
2. The Black & White Nights Film Series Returns
3. Cavendish Library Offers Services to Second Home Owners
4. Okemo Valley Chamber Newsletter
5. Cavendish’s 250th Anniversary: Amos Kimball Father of the Cavendish Proprietors
6. Black River Good Neighbor Elects New Officers
7. Vermont Humanities Council Civil War Book of Days E-Newsletter
8. Cavendish Events 1/7-1/14/11

1. 2011 Town of Cavendish Open Offices
The following positions are open for election in March:
• Town Moderator 1 year
• Town School Moderator 1 year
• Town Clerk 3 years
• Town Treasurer 3 years
• Select Board- 3 year term and two 1-year terms
• Town Agent 1 year
• Lister 3 year
• Auditor a 3-year term and a 2-year term
• Library Trustee 5 years
• Trustees of Public Funds-1 year, 2 year and 3 year terms
• Town General Juror 1 year
• 1st Constable 1 year
• Cemetery Commissioners- a 5-year term and a 3-year term
• CTES School Board-3 year term and two 1-year terms
• GMUHS 3 year

Persons interested in petitioning for these elected positions, need to fill out the petition form and file it with the Town Clerk by 5 pm on Monday, January 24. The petition must contain 1% of the legal voters of Cavendish (18 people). A voter can sign only one petition for each office that is open for nomination. In which case the voter can sign as many petitions as there are offices open.

If you are interested in signing petitions for a candidate, please go to the town office during normal working hours. FMI:226-7292

2. The Black & White Nights Film Series Returns
The series will be starting on January 28 and will run for five consecutive Fridays through February. Now in its fifth year, the series has drawn a small but committed audience of locals who love classic films. This year's line-up is:
January 28 Arsenic & Old Lace
February 4 Birdman of Alcatraz
February 11 Anatomy of a Murder
February 18 You Can’t Take It With You
February 25 All About Eve

The Black & White Nights series is held at the Cavendish Elementary School and films begin at 7:00. There are refreshments on hand and the evening is free, though donations are always welcome. FMI: 226-7497 or 226-7187.

3. Cavendish Library Offers Services to Second Home Owners
The Cavendish Fletcher Community Library continues to offer services to second homeowners and other part time residents of the Cavendish area. These services include free Internet access and Wi-Fi as well as loans of book and movie items. These services are provided free of charge. FMI: 226-7503 or www.cavendishlibrary.org

4. Okemo Valley Chamber Newsletter
The January edition of the Okemo Valley Chamber Newsletter is now available online

5. Cavendish’s 250th Anniversary: Amos Kimball Father of the Cavendish Proprietors
The following information is from Linda Welch, the Cavendish Historical Society (CHS) genealogist, and is being printed as part of the 250th Anniversary of Cavendish yearlong celebration.

Amos Kimball was born at Bradford, Mass. 13 Oct. 1717. He had lands in Winchendon, and a vast tract of land in Cavendish Vt., He was one of the original proprietors of Cavendish and should be considered the “Father of the Cavendish Proprietors” for it was Amos Kimball who sought and obtained the charter for the Town of Cavendish from Benning Wentworth, the governor of New Hampshire. Although Amos never settled in the town, he was a formidable promoter of its early settlement. He conducted most of his business concerning Cavendish from his home in Lunenburg.

Amos and his wife Dorothy removed from Bradford to Lunenburg, Mass. in 1746/7 and settled in that part which became Fitchburg. He served on the school committee and served as selectman in 1751-52, 1756, 1758-9. He and his cousin Ephraim built the first dam across the Nashua River near the present stone mill in Fitchburg. They had a saw and gristmill there as well. He was very active in procuring the incorporation of the town of Fitchburg from Lunenburg, and was very active and prominent in the affairs of Fitchburg until his death. There is no doubt he had every intention of locating in Cavendish, but the land controversy with the New Hampshire Grants persuaded him to give up the intention and leave it to pioneers younger than he.

Amos Kimball's faithful stewardship to protect the New Hampshire Cavendish charter was part of his life's work. He was very active in his land dealings and land speculation in Cavendish up to his death. The following deed tells us how he bought out Ephraim Whitney's Right of over 300 acres of land in the town for a mere thirteen shillings, via:

"To all people to whom these presents shall come, Greetings: Know ye that I, Ephraim Whitney of Fitchburg, in the County of Worcester, and Province of the Massachusetts Bay, Gent, in consideration of the sum of thirty shillings lawful money to me paid by Amos Kimball of Fitchburg, aforesaid, Gent, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge; have and do hereby grant, sell and convey to him, said Amos Kimball, his heirs and assigns, one Right or Full Share of Land in the Township of Cavendish, in the County of Albany, and Province of New York, being the same Right or Share which I hold by virtue of my being a Grantee in the Original Grant of said Township, made by the Governor and Council of the Province of New Hampshire.

To have and hold the said Right or Share with the appurtenances to him the said Amos Kimball, his heirs and assigns forever, without ever being molested or disturbed by me or any from by or under me, in Witness whereof, I have hereunto let my hand and seal, this 11 March, 1766. Ephraim Whitney. Witnessed by: David Goodridge, John Grout and Richard Taylor - -
• Received for recording at Cavendish, 27 May 1793 (brought to town by Amos Kimball Jr.) and recorded by Samuel White, Register.


Amos Kimball land dealings in Cavendish continued. The following document tells us how he bought out Daniel Hoar's Right of over 300 acres of land in the town for the cost of paying John Chruch for going to New York State to procure a confirming deed and charter.
"To: John Church Esq., at Charlestown in the Province of New Hampshire, by this may certify that Deacon Amos Kimball has bought of me the subscriber, all Right & Title that I have or ought to have to all the Land or Rights and after draughts in the town of Cavendish, said Amos Kimball, paying all charges, fees, and charter cost that hath or may arise on said lands, and I hereby desire you to give the title of all the Lands and Rights that I have to said lands to Deacon Amos Kimball of Fitchburg and your complying will oblige me, I hereby promise to indemnify you from any trouble or damage that I ever will bring against you or your heirs or executors, as witness my hand and seal this 29 day of January and in the thirteenth year of his Majesties Reign, AD 1773. Signed, sealed in presence of Thomas Cowdrin and George Kimball, -- Daniel Hoar. —Received for recording at Cavendish, 27 May, 1793 {brought to town by Amos Kimball Jr.) and recorded by Samuel White, Register.

Amos died in Lunenburg, 6 Oct. 1774 (age 57), Dorothy must have come to Cavendish with one of her sons after her husband's death. She died 1 Jan. 1795 (age 77), and is buried in the Cavendish Village, Mt. Union Cemetery.

For a PDF copy of the Kimball Family genealogy, please e-mail margoc@tds.net or call 802-226-7807.

6. Black River Good Neighbor Elects New Officers
Black River Good Neighbor Services held its first meeting of the year on Monday January 3 and a new slate of officers was introduced:

Peter LaBelle – President
Robert Evens – Vice President and Treasurer
Carol Baranowski – Recording Secretary
Lynn Reilly – Corresponding Secretary

The next Board of Directors Meeting will be held on Monday February 7th at 3PM, at United Church in Ludlow. All of the board meetings are open to the public

Black River Good Neighbors Services serves the towns of Ludlow, Proctorsville, Cavendish, Mount Holly and Plymouth and the Thrift Shop and Food Shelf will be moving to new location at Ludlow’s Armory Community Center Complex, 37B Main Street, on January 10th.

7. Vermont Humanities Council Civil War Book of Days E-Newsletter
The Vermont Humanities Council is pleased to present the Civil War Book of Days-150 Years Ago This Week in the Civil War. To register for this free service visit vermonthumanities.org.

8. Cavendish Events 1/7-1/14/11
January 8 (Saturday): Live Authentically course begins at the Cavendish Library from 9-12. Ending March 19, Live Authentically is designed to help you discover your inner potential and to gain insight into the big questions in life such as “Who am I? What am I here to do? What’s stopping me?” and “How can I create the life I want?” The course is taught by Cavendish resident Martha Mott. The fee is $300. To register, please contact Martha at 226-7848 or at Martha@liveauthentically.org
• Black River Good Neighbor will be closed in preparation for its move. Volunteers are needed to help.

January 10 (Monday): Black River Good Neighbor opens at its new location-the Ludlow Armory Community Complex building 37B on Main Street in Ludlow.
• Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm. This event is taped by LPC-TV and can be watched on Comcast cable channels or at the website. The agenda will be posted at the Cavendish Update blog www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com when it is received.

January 11 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870.
• Book Talk at the Fletcher Library in Ludlow. “Day of the Pelican” by Katerine Patterson, The Vermont Reads 2010 Selection. 7 Pm in the Community Room

January 12 (Wednesday): Okemo Valley Chamber January Mixer 4:30-7:30 PM. The Good Bus will pick up participants at the Chamber office and proceed to Mountain View Ranch in Danby, VT. A sleigh ride, fire and hot cocoa will then take place. This mixer is limited to the first 20 RSVPs. Seating is limited. Please remember this mixer is for business members. FMI: 228-5830.

January 13 (Thursday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• 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

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Cavendish Update 1/6/11 Special Post: Municipal Water Update

The following information has been provided by town manager, Rich Svec.

Recently the Cavendish Municipal Water System experienced a situation wherein demand for water outstretched our ability to keep up with that demand. There was an array of circumstances which, when they occurred simultaneously, caused the water level in the storage tanks be lowered to a point where, system wide, pressure was significantly reduced and places at the highest elevations may even have experienced a period of no water flow. Some of those contributing circumstances included: extremely high consumer demand (holidays, skiing and tourism), two system leaks which developed, maintenance repairs on the filtration equipment, a telemetry fault, and the need to take the system off-line to back wash the filters. We have already taken significant measures to remedy the situation and to ensure that the situation does not reoccur. The two found leaks have been repaired, several other remedial activities are underway and the storage tank levels are being restored to their normal levels. Although the immediate crisis is passed, users are asked to use water conservatively until the tanks are fully replenished so that the refilling process takes place as quickly as possible.

For more information, please contact Richard Svec, Town Manager at 226-7291 or Dave Duquette, Chief Water System Operator at 226-7743 at the Town of Cavendish Municipal Water System, 37 High Street, P.O. Box 126, Cavendish, Vermont 05142-0126.

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Okemo Valley Chamber Jan. Newsletter

The Chamber wishes everyone a Healthy and Prosperous New Year. We look forward to continuing to promote and market your business and events in the coming year.

We would like to thank Sandy Gregg for her years of service to the Chamber and wish her the best in her early-retirement. Sandy & Peter have sold The Golden Stage Inn to Julie-Lynn & Michael Wood. Welcome Julie-Lynn & Michael to our Chamber community.

The Chamber would like to welcome Denise Cote of Chester to the team as the membership assistant. Denise will be working Wednesday and Fridays 9a-5pm to serve your membership needs.

Thank you to Bret & Nancy Rugg of the Fullerton Inn for hosting our Annual Meeting. The Inn was decorated beautifully for the season. Governor-elect Peter Shumlin was our speaker, along with Commissioner Bruce Hyde and Deputy Commissioner Steve Cook from the Department of Tourism and Marketing. Megan Smith was just appointed as the new Commissioner of Tourism and Marketing. She formerly owned The Vermont Inn in Mendon. I look forward to working with Megan.

A big Thank You to Donald Dill. Donald has been taking all the ribbon cutting pictures for the Chamber at a moments notice.


We're excited to bring you more value for your chamber membership. Our guidebook is now online at OkemoValleyGuide. It is also on our homepage (under Special Packages).

We're also the first region in the State to offer a FREE mobile app! Our guests can use their mobile devices to navigate around the Okemo Valley. This is a free download in the app store and our keyword is okemococ. We will be marketing this app on your 2011 window clings, posters around Towns, and 4 x 6 cards that will be given out in New York and Boston travel shows in February. The app mirrors our website and is another way for guests to find your business. If you are one of the first 100 businesses to participate (introductory rate of $100.00), you will have 3 pages for your business, (one being a special offer), you will receive your own username and password, and you will be able to push LIVE your event and/or special! Your business will be highlighted by a location pin on the GPS enabled map. Users will be able to see where they are at the moment in relation to pinned locations around them. Each Town will have their own page and we will link to Towns' websites.

Our Okemo Valley App will have 5 sections or tabs that run across the bottom of the App and are always accessible from any location within the App:
1. Home - Our Towns, Local Info, Local Events, Local History and Things To Do; by Land, Water, Snow.
2. Map-has a pop-up navigation tab which when single tapped, pops up and when double tapped, takes the user to that businesses App page.
3. Explore - Accommodations, Dining, Entertainment, Real Estate, Transportation, Religion/Non-Profit Organizations, Services, Shopping and Things To Do
4. Special Offers-listed by 8 categories above
5. More-About this App, Search, Photos, Share, Favorites/Bookmarks

Hurry and call the Chamber to be a part of this. We will launch by January 15th (if not sooner).


Be sure to watch footage from our Annual Meeting and the interview with Debra Boudreau, Area Business Advisor for the Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) on lpctv.org this month.
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As part of Ludlow's e-vermont grant, there will be another training program on January 26 about Social Media. It will be held at the Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow from 5:30-7pm. Please rsvp the Chamber if you would like to attend.
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It's not too late to sign up for our Ireland trip May 1-10, 2011. You do not have to be a Chamber member to travel with us.
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Route 100 Scenic and Recreational Byway project is in its final stage. We look forward to presenting our Corridor Management Plan to the Towns and Select Boards for final approval before presenting it in February to the Vermont Scenery Preservation Council for designation.
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2011 Board of Directors

(back row l-r)
Brian Halligan, Okemo Mountain Resort/ Jessica Alberty, Hawk Inn & Mountain Resort/ Laura Williams, Calm Moments Spa Services/ Liz Crowley, CZ Construction Management/ Dan Cote, Inn Victoria/ Donald Dill, Images by Donald Dill/ Mark Verespy, The Killarney/ William Dakin, Dakin & Benelli PC

(front row l-r) Barbara LeMire, Peoples United Bank/ Tesha Buss, Good Commons and The Good Bus/ Michael Alon, DaVallia Art & Accents

Not shown in picture:
Sheldon Ghetler, Stone Hearth Inn & Tavern/ Laurie Marechaux, Fletcher Farm School for the Arts & Crafts/ Lynne Reed, Misty Valey Books/ Jim Szabo, The Vermont Country Store/and Jim Kubec, The Governor's Inn.

Chamber Office Staff

Marji Graf,
Executive Director

Danielle Lilliard,
Marketing Assistant

Denise Cote,
Membership Assistant
Chamber Mixers

Join us for our monthly Chamber Mixers on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Bring a door prize if you can.

All Mixers are from 5:30-7:30pm

2011 MIXER LINE UP

January 12- The Good Bus will be taking us to Mountain View Ranch in Danby. Bus leaves Chamber office promptly at 4:30pm. Only available for first 20 people who rsvp. Business people only.

February 9- The Message For The Week-Chester

March 9- Endless Creations Pottery Studio - Chester

April 13- Bonnie's Bundles Dolls - Chester

May 11- Outback Pizza - Ludlow

June 8- Canvasworks Floor Cloths - Weathersfield

July 13 - Fletcher Farm School for the Arts & Crafts - Ludlow

August 10- 3rd Annual Okemo Valley Open House at Green Mountain Banquet and Conference Center - Chester

September 14- The Village Green Gallery - Weston

October 12- Berkshire Bank - Ludlow

November 9- Jackson Gore Inn - Ludlow

December 14- Annual Meeting at Stone Hearth Inn & Tavern - Chester
Membership Committee News

The membership committee will meet again January 21st at 8:30am at Java Babas. Please attend if you would like to be on this committee.
Welcome New Members

American Home, LLC - Ludlow

Vermont Apple Pie Bake Shoppe - Proctorsville

Route 103 Auto Repair - Chester

White Glove Cleaning Service - Ludlow

Tuckernuck Shoals - Ludlow


Marketing Committee News

The marketing committee will meet again on January 11th at 3pm at the Cool Moose Cafe in Ludlow. Please attend if you would like to join this committee.

Now Available: We are rolling out an Okemo Valley app for mobile devices. We have negotiated an introductory first year rate of $100 for the first 100 participants. All participants after 100, will be billed at the regular yearly rate of $295. Each participant will have 3 screens with one being a coupon or special offer. Sign up quickly!!! Call Marji for details. This will be a free app for guests to locate services and businesses within our seven Okemo Valley towns.
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Special Packages. Please submit your packages on the States website www.vermontvacation.com and then send us a link. We will add them to our Special package page. E-mail them to Danielle.
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Upcoming Travel Shows: Still looking for packages on rack cards that we can market at these shows.

We are attending the 2011 Boston Globe Travel Show on February 11-13. We are sharing our booth with Stowe. If you would like to participate its $250 day plus lodging. You would be able to hand out your own brochures. Can't make it? Marji can take your brochures for $50.

We are also attending the 2011 New York Times Travel Show on February 25-27. We are sharing our booth with Stowe again. We have room for one more business. $250/day plus lodging.

We will be attending the 2011 AAA Annual Travel Expo in South Jersey on Saturday, April 2 & Sunday, April 3 from 10am-4pm at the Weaton Arts Center and Flyers Skate Zone in Millville and Voorhees, NJ. It's $250/day.
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Web Stats:
June 2010 our first full month with new website:
5500 unique visitors.

Since July 2010 we've averaged over 10,000 unique visitors each month and 40,000 page visits per month.

June 184 visits per day
July 243 visits per day
Since August 300 visits per day and so far this month 68.65% new visitors!!!!

(comparison: another well established Chamber averages 345/day).
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Legislative

Our Chamber Legislative Day is February 17th at 8:30a. Breakfast in the Statehouse, sitting in on meetings and lunch with our legislators at the Capitol Plaza Hotel. SAVE THE DATE.

News from our Members:

Ron Theissen, CPA, CFP announces the expansion of his tax and financial planning services business in Chester, VT. Theissen opened his Chester office in 2004, specializing in financial consulting and comprehensive personal financial planning, working with individuals, closely held small businesses, partnerships, corporations, S-Corporations, LLC's and trusts and estates. "With the rapid and complex changes in both federal and Vermont tax laws - and to keep pace with expanded business - larger office space and increased staff is essential to help meet my clients' growing needs." We're delighted our new offices are now located on the main floor of the Henry Office Building in Chester, VT where I will continue to specialize in full service tax consulting, planning, tax return preparation, IRS representation and multi-state representation," says Theissen. 802-875-8100.
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Winter Carnival Adopts Lovin' Ludlow Theme
Scheduled for February 10-13, 2011, the Lovin' Ludlow Winter Carnival will play off the Valentines Day theme.
"Our goal is to continue to expand the event and increase awareness via marketing such that we make Ludlow Winter Carnival a week-long event and Ludlow becomes a destination, thereby bringing additional visitors to our town," says event chair Liz Crowley. "Our goal is to develop a sustainable brand and carnival that becomes the defining event of Ludlow for the week of Valentines Day." Multiple events are planned for each day, as well as some continuous events such as the town-wide ice sculpture competition, a traffic-building village scavenger hunt and early-bird dinner specials. "Once again, we will be having a parade on Saturday night," Crowley adds, "so we encourage everybody to participate and join us at Dorsey Park for the bonfire and spectacular fireworks!" The carnival committee has identified several sponsorship opportunities, ranging from overall carnival sponsorship to individual event sponsorships. Sponsorships can be paid in cash or through in-kind services. There are two sponsorship levels. Red entitles your business logo on the t-shirt, business name in print promotions and if possible on the event banner. The Pink level entitles your business name on the t-shirt and in print.
Contact Liz Crowley at 228-2126 for details to host/sponsor an event, or for carnival sponsorship opportunities.
"The January 3 deadline is approaching," Crowley adds, "so please help support this event by contributing as a sponsor. Let's all work together to make this the best winter carnival ever!"
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Business owners throughout the Okemo region should be receiving letters from LPCTV regarding its 2011 underwriting opportunities for local businesses. Gain exposure for your business on local TV & on the web while supporting your community television station. It's a low-cost alternative to spending your advertising dollars and you can feel good while doing it, as your tax-deductible contribution will go to support a valuable non profit community organization. In addition to broadcasting local programming on 2 local cable TV channels and on www.lpctv.org, LPCTV offers equipment, training, and support to individuals and organizations on a first-come, firs-serve non descriminatory basis. The organization, founded in 2001, offers many free and low-cost opportunities for educational, recreational, and entertainment purposes. 2011 will mark a big year for LPCTV, as it prepares for its major building project and move into its new home, in the former Ludlow Armory "tank barn". Business underwriting has been identified as an important revenue stream for LPCTV to develop, as the funds will help offset the increased expenses that will come along with the new facility. For 2011, the LPCTV Board of Directors has reduced the rates for underwriting, as a means to encourage more businesses to join. More partners means stronger relationships between the business community and LPCTV. Go to www.lpctv.org for more information or to enroll, or call Patrick at 228-8808.
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Congratulations Stone Hearth Inn & Tavern for becoming a "certified green restaurant" as well as Inn.
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Congratulations to Blue Sky Trading on their 15th Anniversary.
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Congratulations to Outback Pizza on their one year anniversary.
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Upcoming Events:

Please submit your events to us 2 weeks in advance.

Both Chester and Ludlow Winter Carnivals are listed in January/February 2011 issue of Yankee Magazine!

www.YourPlaceInVermont.com

About Our Organization

Our Chamber provides the following member benefits:
*Health Insurance provided by Cigna,
*Dental Insurance provided by Delta Dental,
*Free listing on our website with web link,
*Free listing in our regional guidebook,
*Free placement of your business brochures in our welcome centers in Ludlow and Chester,
*Free monthly chamber mixers,
*Free educational programs,
*Member to member discounts,
*Referrals,
*Co-op advertising,
*Marketing and Promotion
*Events publicized,
*And much, much more!!!

Our Vision Statement:
The Okemo Valley region, consisting of the Towns of Andover, Cavendish, Chester, Ludlow, Mount Holly, Plymouth and Weston, is recognized as a four-season sustainable Vermont destination to be enjoyed by all.

The Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce is recognized as an organization providing leadership, support and services vital to the health and future growth of the member businesses in the communities that we serve.

Chamber members are ambassadors for the Okemo Valley region, promoting the area as a vibrant place to live and to visit.

Our Mission Statement:
The Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit, member-driven organization. It is the voice of its members and the business communities in the Towns of Andover, Cavendish, Chester, Ludlow, Mount Holly, Plymouth and Weston, Vermont. It provides advocacy, support and unified regional marketing to promote and enhance our regional businesses and four-season economy

Monday, January 3, 2011

TOWN WATER EMERGENCY 1/3/11 NOON

There is a problem with the town water system, which is being worked on. Please conserve water. More information to follow.

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Cavendish Update 1/1/11: Cavendish Anniversary/Aging in Place/News/Events

This issue of the Cavendish Update is made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society blog

The 1/1/11 Cavendish Update Contains
1. 2011-An Important Year in Cavendish History
2. Aging in Place
3. January Cavendish Calendar
4. Cavendish Related News
5. Vermont E-Waste Recycling Program Takes Effect Jan. 1
6. LPC TV’s 2010 Summary
7. Principal Thomson to do Penguin Plunge
8. Locals Only Coupon for Four Seasons Felting
9. Black River Good Neighbor Moving/Volunteers Needed

1. 2011-An Important Year in Cavendish History
Cavendish will mark two important anniversaries this year-the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the town. Each week, during this historic year, the Cavendish Historical Society will provide information about the early years of the town as well as the Civil War era.

Cavendish was chartered on October 12, 1761 under New Hampshire’s Benning Wentworth, who was appointed first Royal Governor of New Hampshire (1741-1766). Starting with Bennington in 1749, Wentworth granted (sold) large tracts of land in what would become Vermont, even though this territory was claimed by the Province of New York. Wentworth kept the fees paid by the towns, as well reserving two shares (500 acres) of each town for himself. Though he became very wealthy through these activities, he desperately wanted a title. Consequently, he named the towns to honor people that he thought could further his interests.

Cavendish was most likely named for William Cavendish, the fourth Duke of Devonshire. The Duke was married to Charlotte, who was a daughter and heiress of Richard Boyle, the third Earl of Burlington, and a granddaughter of the Marquis of Halifax. At different times William Cavendish was lord lieutenant of Ireland and of Derbyshire and first lord of the treasury. In 1756-57 he was prime minister of England, and from 1757 to 1762 he was lord high chamberlain.

In 1764, after considerable dispute between New York and New Hampshire, the King awarded Wentworth’s grants to New York. Neither the settlers nor the proprietors of this town were eager to pay for a New York charter, which cost more than ten times the amount charged by New Hampshire. Eight years later, proprietors re-purchased Cavendish from New York, having raised funds by selling the town’s Wentworth’s tract. Yet the land dispute continued, and Vermont fought New York as well as Great Britain for its independence. Finally, in 1791, when no colony or state could any longer make claim upon its territory, Vermont joined the United States and the land question was settled.

A committee is being formed to plan events for the 250th anniversary. If you are interested in participating, please e-mail margoc@tds.net or call 226-7807.

2. Aging in Place
As the first of the baby boomers turn 65 today, the Healing Whole blog, a project of the Cavendish based non-profit Chronic Conditions Information Network, has posted Aging in Place. This guide has been designed to help seniors, spouses, adult children of elders, as well as friends make decisions and choices so that people can remain in their community.

3. January Cavendish Calendar
January 1 (Saturday): Happy New Year! Post office, libraries closed

January 3 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office, to continue to work on the FY 2011-2012 budget. The agenda will include:
• Consider FY 2011-2012 Cemetery appropriation request. Cemetery Commission Chair Kathy Rose will be in attendance to present the budget request and answer questions. [Approximately 6:05]

• Sheriff Mike Chamberlain will be present to discuss Sheriff’s office services to the Town of Cavendish and the proposed rate schedule. [Approximately 6:20]

• Library Trustee Bob Evens and Librarian Kata Welch present to discuss the FY 2011-2012 library Town appropriation request and the library budget. [Approximately 7:00 pm]

January 4 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870

January 5 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Town Office

January 6 (Thursday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office, to continue to work on the FY 2011-2012 budget. The agenda will include:
- Continue work on the FY 2011-2012 Selectmen’s Budget

- Consider FY 2011-2012 external appropriation requests (Organizations which have not yet made a presentation this budget season). [Approximately 6:15 - 6:40]

- Preliminary discussion on Town Meeting Warning

• Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802)228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802)226-7870

• 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

January 8 (Saturday): Live Authentically course begins at the Cavendish Library from 9-12. Ending March 19, Live Authentically is designed to help you discover your inner potential and to gain insight into the big questions in life such as “Who am I? What am I here to do? What’s stopping me?” and “How can I create the life I want?” The course is taught by Cavendish resident Martha Mott. The fee is $300. To register, please contact Martha at 226-7848 or at Martha@liveauthentically.org
• Black River Good Neighbor will be closed in preparation for its move. Volunteers are needed to help. See related article below.

January 10 (Monday): Black River Good Neighbor opens at its new location-the Ludlow Armory Community Complex building 37B on Main Street in Ludlow.
• Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm. This event is taped by LPC-TV www.lpctv.org and can be watched on Comcast cable channels or at the website.

January 11 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870.
• Book Talk at the Fletcher Library in Ludlow. “Day of the Pelican” by Katerine Patterson, The Vermont Reads 2010 Selection. 7 Pm in the Community Room

January 12 (Wednesday): Okemo Valley Chamber January Mixer 4:30-7:30 PM. The Good Bus will pick up participants at the Chamber office and proceed to Mountain View Ranch in Danby, VT. A sleigh ride, fire and hot cocoa will then take place. This mixer is limited to the first 20 RSVPs. Seating is limited. Please remember this mixer is for business members. FMI: 228-5830.

January 13 (Thursday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• 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

January 17 (Monday): Martin Luther King Day, Legal Holiday. Schools and town office closed.

January 18 (Tuesday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 20 (Thursday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• 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

January 22 (Saturday): Drawing in Perspective class with Donald Hofer at the Fletcher Farm School. Classes are half price to Cavendish residents. FMI: 228-8770 or fletcherfarm.org/schedule.asp

January 23 (Sunday): Drawing in Perspective class with Donald Hofer at the Fletcher Farm School. Classes are half price to Cavendish residents. FMI: 228-8770 or fletcherfarm.org/schedule.asp

January 24 (Monday): Schools Closed for District Inservice

January 25 (Tuesday): Fletcher Library in Ludlow will be screening the documentary Vermont Resettlement Program. 7 Pm in the Community Room
• Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 27 (Thursday): Bone Builders Class at the Cavendish Baptist-- Class from 10:15-11:45. FMI: Linda at Green Mountain RSVP & Volunteer Center of Windsor County at (802) 885-2083, or Anne Oakes or Andrew Ohotnicky at (802) 228-5236, or Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• 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

4. Cavendish Related News
VT Minimum Wage Increases Jan 1: A minimum wage law passed by lawmakers in 2005 tied the wage to inflation, and this year, the wage goes up by 9 cents, from $8.06 per hour to $8.15. Nine cents is on the low end of the range among the seven states that will see increases in their minimum wage rates on New Year's Day. An estimated 10,305 Vermonters make minimum wage. WCAX

VT Moose, Deer Hunt Rules to Get Hearings: The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board has set three public hearings for next week to review proposed changes to regulations governing moose and deer hunting in the state. Officials with the state Department of Fish and Wildlife are urging members of the public to go to the department's website and review the proposed changes and provide any suggestions. The three hearings, all set for 6:30 p.m., are to be at:
Monday Jan. 3 at the Keyhoe Conservation Camp Education Center in Castleton.
Tuesday Jan. 4 at the Pavilion Auditorium in Montpelier.
Wednesday Jan. 5 at the Dibden Auditorium at Johnson State College in Johnson.

CVPS Seeking donations to Shareheat Program: Shareheat is a non-profit arm of Central Vermont Public Service. Helping over 1,000 VT families, the fund needs additional donations to offset the average year costs of between $250,000 and $300,000 to help heat homes. Currently there is a $100,000 unmet need. FMI Shareheat

Using Cash to Shop in VT Can Save Money: A new law passed by the Legislature this past session allows stores to set minimum purchase requirements for people paying with plastic. Credit card companies currently charge stores fees every time credit cards are used, which can be a huge drain for smaller businesses. Starting Jan. 1, Green Mountain State merchants will be able to offer up to 3 percent in discounts to shoppers who use cash. Vermont is the first state to pass a law like this, though it passed without a signature from Gov. Jim Douglas. Douglas said he felt the legislation belonged on the national stage, not the local one. Critics are concerned the law will limit options for Vermont consumers and even hurt tourism. WCAX

Nutrition information Required on Some VT Restaurant Menus: On Jan. 1, Vermont restaurants that are part of a chain with 20 or more locations nationwide are required by state law to include calorie counts for standard offerings on menus and menu boards. Burlington Free Press

5. Vermont E-Waste Recycling Program Takes Effect Jan. 1: Vermont’s new electronic waste law, which goes into effect today, bans the disposal of electronic waste. Starting July 1, 2011, the state will provide convenient collection of certain electronic waste. For a copy of the E-Devices whose manufacturers are subject to the VT E-Waste Law, as well as VT Landfill Banned E-Devices, For more Information

6. LPC TV’s 2010 Summary: This summary is now available on-line. Note that the December Select board meeting is now available at the LPC TV website and will also be aired on the public access channels this coming week.

7. Principal Thomson to do Penguin Plunge: George Thomson, the principal of Cavendish Town Elementary School will be participating in the Penguin Plunge in Burlington on Sat. Feb. 5. Supporting the Special Olympics of Vermont, Thomson says, “I am looking to hand over a sizable chunk of money when I plunge into the icy waters of Lake Champlain. I would be most grateful if you would consider a pledge to support me in helping the Special Olympians of Vermont.”

You can support Thomson’s freezing cold endeavor by making a donation at his FirstGiving page. All donations are secure and sent directly to Special Olympics Vermont by FirstGiving, who will email you a printable record of your donation.

8. Locals Only Coupon: Jen Leak a fiber artist and owner of Four Season Felting, is offering a 20% off to locals for the month of January. To take advantage of this offer, you will need to order from her website and then pick up your item from her. The 20% off coupon code is local20. Leak’s art can also be found at Six Loose Ladies in Proctorsville. FMI: moxieb@sover.net

9. Black River Good Neighbor Moving/Volunteers Needed
BRGNS will be closed all day on Saturday, January 8th in order to move to its new location at the Ludlow Armory Community Complex building 37B on Main Street in Ludlow. The new Thrift Shop and Food Shelf will open on Monday, January 10th .

Volunteers are needed to help with every aspect of the move, boxing, carrying, sorting, driving and unpacking. If you are available, for a few hours or all day and interested in helping please contact Audrey Bridge at 802-228-3663 between the hours of 10am and 4pm Monday through Friday.

Lunch will be served for all of the volunteers and we are counting on volunteers to respond from all of the communities that Black River Good Neighbor Services serves, Cavendish, Ludlow, Mt. Holly, Proctorsville and Plymouth. Please come and be part of this community effort.