Cavendish Blog

Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, January 30th, 2012 Agenda

2012-01-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

The Cavendish Select Board will meet on Monday Jan. 30 at 6:00 PM. The Agenda will be as follows:

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Act upon minutes of the meetings of October 4th, 2011 and November 7th, 2011
5. Finalize and consider approval of the Annual Town Meeting Warning.
6. Finalize the FY 2012-2013 Selectmen’s Budget.
7. Adjourn by 8:00 pm.

MEETING OF THE CAVENDISH BOARD OF WATER COMMISSIONERS 1/30/12

2012-01-28T09:29:00.000-08:00

The Cavendish Board of Water Commissioners will meet onMonday, January 30th, 2012 at 5:00 PM
in the meeting room of the Cavendish Town Office. The Agenda will be as follows:

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Hear citizens
3. Board to discuss request of Adele Kennedy, owner of Unit 8, North Country Condominiums, for the Board to waive charges for water services during the time period of the Hurricane Irene storm event.
4. Board to consider request for inactive status on Account #2V21-044, Candith Amsden.
5. Update of Water System activities, especially those relating to Hurricane Irene
6. Adjourn by 5:45 p.m.

Cavendish Update 1/27/12 News/Events

2012-01-27T05:10:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 1/27/12 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Help Needed
3. Warning Annual Meeting of the Cavendish Town Elementary School District
4. Letter from CCCA
5. Les Bon Temps Roulette! (Let the Good Times Roll)-Mardi Gras
6. GMUHS Library Renovation Survey On-line
7. Filing Date for Cavendish Elected Positions Jan 30
8. Cavendish Calendar 1/27-2/3

1. Cavendish Related News
Shaws Reopens Today! The newly renovated and expanded Shaw’s has its grand opening today. Ribbon cutting is at 9 am.

IBM and VELCO to Build Next Generation Communications Network for VT: At the 2012 DistribuTECH conference, IBM (NYSE: IBM) and the Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) announced an agreement to build an intelligent fiber optic and Carrier Ethernet communications and control network across the State of Vermont. Spanning more than 1000 miles, this advanced fiber communications network will connect transmission substations to Vermont’s distribution utilities, delivering reliable electric service and the capabilities required for the state’s future Smart Grid. Press Release

VT Educational Study: The southern Vermont towns of Dover and Wilmington have contracted with Northern Economic Consulting (NEC) to ask why some schools continue to fall behind in programming equity despite successful efforts to achieve educational financing equity. The NEC report looked at several economic and equity measures. The most significant findings are: The same school tax rate does not buy an equal educational opportunity for all Vermont students. Since 1997/98, national per pupil spending has risen 30 percent. During that same period of time, Vermont per pupil spending has risen 60 percent. Student performance has not improved against national standards when comparing similar demographics. Leaders of the towns want the Vermont General Assembly to discuss how to refocus on providing and funding equal educational opportunities statewide. Press Release

VT & Smart Meters: The Vermont Legislature has recently held a hearing on whether CVPS and Green Mountain Power can install “smart meters.” Smart meters communicate with a utility, allowing it to track and bill for electrical usage without sending meter readers out once a month. They enable utilities to pinpoint the locations of power outages much more easily than was the case with previous technology. Eventually, they're expected to allow customers to track their own electrical usage with an eye toward saving money and energy. Some critics charge that the smart meters emit radio frequency radiation in pulses with uncertain and possibly health hazards. Dr. Harry Chen, the state health commissioner, told the Senate Finance Committee on Thursday that an international health panel last year found that radio frequency radiation emitted by cell phones is a possible source of brain cancer in heavy cell phone users. Chen said smart meters emit well less than 1 percent of the radiation emitted by cell phones, and they're not often held right next to the head. Burlington Free Press

2. Help Needed
Two of our families impacted by the flood are finally moving back into their homes!!!! We need some help, including people with trucks. We have one move scheduled for Feb. 4 (Saturday) morning at 10 am. Also, would be great to have some food for our work crew. If you can help, please e-mail margoc@tds.net

3. Warning Annual Meeting of the Cavendish Town Elementary School District,
The legal voters of the Cavendish Town Elementary School District are hereby warned to meet in the multi-purpose room at the Cavendish Town Elementary School on Route 131, on Monday, March 5, 2012 at 7:00 p.m., to act on the following articles.

ARTICLE 1: To hear and act on the reports of the Cavendish Town Elementary School District Officers for the school year ending June 30, 2011.

ARTICLE 2: To see if the voters of said Cavendish Town School District will authorize the Cavendish Town School District School Board of Directors to borrow money by issuance of bonds or notes not in excess of anticipated revenue for the school year, as provided by in 16 V.S.A. § 562 (9).

ARTICLE 3: To transact any other business deemed proper when met, not involving the expenditure of school district funds or any other business acted upon in the preceding articles.

ARTICLE 4: To adjourn.

Ballot Items

To vote on the following items by Australian ballot. Polls open on Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 10:00 AM and close at 7:00 PM. Voting to take place at the Cavendish Town Elementary School Arts Center.

ARTICLE 5: To elect a Moderator.

ARTICLE 6: To elect three (3) Cavendish School Directors for the Cavendish Town Elementary School Board, one for a three year term and two for one year terms.

4. Letter from CCCA
The Cavendish Community and Conservation Association, as all groups in service to their communities, could not prosper without the support of people in the community itself. Joyce Ringhel was just such a person. Joyce passed three months ago. She was a joyous and kind woman who also baked phenomenal cookies. Joyce and her husband Charles had been tremendous supporters of our work and we are saddened for her passing. Patricia Nye is another dear friend and supporter who passed not long ago and who, in her fiery nature and humorous way never stopped encouraging us to continue our efforts on behalf of conservation and community building. This has been a series of difficult months for all of us in Vermont and so for the people of Cavendish, and it is with regret that we come so late to this expression of condolence to both Charles Ringhel and Richard, Will and Amber Nye. We know, that for all of us who knew Joyce and Pat and their bright giving spirits, they will live on in our memories and continue to bring us courage to dream and do what needs to be done. Robin Timko, President CCCA

5. Les Bon Temps Roulette! (Let the Good Times Roll)-Mardi Gras
Tickets are going fast, so get yours now for CCCA’s benefit Mardi Gras dinner and dance party featuring local fiddler Bob Naess with his Cajun/zydeco dance band Yankee Chank. The event gets underway at 6 pm on Friday Feb. 10 at Crows Bakery in Proctorsville. Tickets are $35 and available at Crows Bakery. FMI: 226-7736

6. GMUHS Library Renovation Survey On-line
Staff, students and community of GMUHS have been asked to complete a survey regarding the renovation of the school’s library. Parents and community are encouraged to complete this survey, which is available on-line, by Feb. 10.

7. Filing Date for Cavendish Elected Positions Jan 30
If you are interested in running for one of the elected positions in Cavendish (Select Board, School Board etc.) you have until 5 pm on January 30 (Monday) to file your petition with required signatures.

8. Cavendish Calendar 1/27-2/3
January 27 (Friday): The Cavendish Black and White Film Series returns with the Marx Brothers “A Night at the Opera.” 7:00 at the Cavendish Elementary School. The films are free, donations always welcome, and refreshments available. FMI: 226-7497.
• Shaw’s reopens in Ludlow.
• Risk Behavior Dialogue Night at GMUHS, 6:30-8:00 in the school’s auditorium

January 28 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Attention to the Heart Meditation, 4-5 pm FMI: Robin 226-7736
• Oil Still Life Painting Workshop with Hunter Eddy at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Woodcarving Workshop with Al Wilkenson at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Beginning Spinning with Patty Blomgren. Create beautiful, unique yarn using a spinning wheel. Plenty of time will be given to establish the essential coordination skills and basic techniques every spinner must master to gain competence in spinning. There will be four class sessions: Saturday, January 28, February 4, 11 & 25; 1-5 pm. The cost for all four sessions is $155 for FAVT members and $165 for non-members. FMI: Six Loose Ladies 802-226-7373, www.sixlooseladies.com
• Flannel with Flair: Okemo Valley residents and Okemo Mountain fans will fancy up their finest flannel shirts, denim and work boots for the premier social event of the season. Flannel with Flair, an Okemo Community Challenge benefit, will take place in the Roundhouse at Jackson Gore, from 7 p.m. until the cows come home. Following cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, attendees will enjoy dinner prepared by Okemo Executive Chef Scot Emerson and his Coleman Brook Tavern staff. Music by The Master Cylinders will keep those work boots stompin’ on the dance floor all night long. his year, Flannel with Flair will continue the Ski Ball tradition, generating funds for OCC to offer challenge grants to worthy nonprofit organizations in the community. FMI: Joyce Washburn at 802-228-1965

January 29 (Sunday): Oil Still Life Painting Workshop with Hunter Eddy at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Woodcarving Workshop with Al Wilkenson at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 31 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• Spaghetti Dinner: Sponsored by the GMUHS Junior class. Cost is $5 for everyone, kids under 5 are free. Silent auction.

February 1 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office
• CTES PTO meeting, 6-7 pm

February 2 (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, 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 3 (Friday): Cavendish Black & White Film Series features How Green was My Valley, 7 pm at the Cavendish Town Elementary School. The films are free, donations always welcome, and refreshments available. FMI: 226-7497.

Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday 1/23/12 Agenda

2012-01-20T14:21:00.000-08:00

The Cavendish Selectmen will meet on 1/23/12 (Monday) in the Cavendish Town
Office Meeting Room at 6:00 PM. PLEASE NOTE TIME CHANGE! The Agenda will be as follows:

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Cavendish Planning Commission Chair, Etienne Ting, present to discuss with the Select Board plans to re-adopt the existing Cavendish Town Plan.
5. Discussion of potential articles for inclusion in warning for Annual Town Meeting.
6. Continue work on FY 2012-2013 budget.
7. Adjourn by 8:00 pm.

Cavendish Update 1/20/12 News/Events

2012-01-20T04:31:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 1/20/12 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Cavendish Related News
2. CHS Museum Tree Comes Down
3. CHS Newsletter Available on-line
4. Meet Laura Ingalls Wilder at the Cavendish Fletcher Community Library
5. Freaky Fridays Come to BRGNS Thrift Shop
6. Cavendish Events 1/20-1/27

1. Cavendish Related News
Free snowmobiling Weekend in Northeast: Legally registered snowmobiles can roam trails in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine at no cost from January 27-29. WCAX

Health Dept Offers Free Radon Test Kits for Homeowners: Radon cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled but more Vermonters than ever before can find out if it exists in their homes. The Vermont Department of Health distributed 1,700 free radon test kits to homeowners last year and has more than 3,000 free kits to give away this year. “Radon causes lung cancer over a long period of time, and we know that about one in every eight Vermont homes has elevated levels of radon,” said Lori Cragin, a Health Department epidemiologist. The likelihood of a radon problem cannot be predicted by the style, age, or location of a home. All homes are at risk. You cannot know the radon level in a house without testing for it. Testing is easy. Open the kit immediately and leave it in place throughout a heating season, and then mail it back to the Health Department to get your results. Get a free kit by e-mailing radon@state.vt.us, or call 1-800-439-8550. Exposure to radon is preventable and fixable through proper venting techniques. If test results show high levels of radon in the air, a mitigation system can be installed at a cost of approximately $800-$2,000.

VT to receive $8.7 Million in Irene Recovery Assistance: Vermont will receive $6,300,000 for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) and $2,325,000 for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP). Both programs are administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). EWP assists property owners, whose homes are threatened by flooded rivers, helping to stabilize stream banks and protect foundations and houses from further flood damage. EWP also provides resources for clearing log jams that threaten property and public infrastructure. ECP provides emergency funding and technical assistance for farmers to rehabilitate farmland damaged by natural disasters. Press Release

Ladies First Expands Eligibility for VT Women: Any Vermont woman age 21 or older earning 250 percent of the poverty level or less can now receive free screening services through Ladies First. For example, a woman in a two-person household earning less than $36,775 a year can qualify. Uninsured women with a breast or cervical cancer or pre-cancerous condition can be referred by Ladies First to a special Medicaid program, Vermont ’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program, to receive full health insurance that covers the cost of their treatment. To apply or for more information call 1-800-508-2222 or go to www.LadiesFirstVt.org. For Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, please use Vermont Relay Service 711 and give our number: 1-800-508-2222. Press Release

VT Tops List for Risk for Embezzlement Loss: Vermont is at the top of the list when it comes to states that are at highest risk for loss due to embezzlement. “We have done this report for four years now and Vermont has been on the list of highest risk three out of the last four years. This year, topping the list,” Christopher T. Marquet, chief executive officer of Marquet International told the Burlington Free Press.

Drop in VT Revenues: The latest state economic numbers are in and they are lower than expected. Gov. Peter Shumlin met with the state emergency board Wednesday to go over new revenue forecasts for the state. In his budget address last week, Gov. Peter Shumlin proposed closing a $51 million general fund budget gap. Now the state needs to make up $9.3 million more, as revenue numbers are lower than expected. WCAX http://www.wcax.com/story/16549290/surprise-drop-in-vt-revenues
Judge Rules in Favor of VT Yankee: The battle over whether the state or the federal government has the authority to grant or deny licenses for nuclear plants landed in court last fall. And Thursday, Judge Garvin Murtha ruled in favor of Yankee's parent company, Entergy, saying the state is pre-empted by federal law from taking any action to close Yankee when its original license expires in March. WCAX

Okemo Skier Visits Down Over MLK Holiday: At Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow, skier visits over the MLK holiday were down 24 percent from last year, Okemo spokeswoman Bonnie MacPherson said in an email. Season-to-date, skier visits at the Ludlow resort are down 30 percent, she said. On the positive side, MacPherson said, lodging occupancy at the resort for last weekend was near 90 percent. Rutland Herald

2. Tree By the Museum Comes Down
After numerous discussions by the Cavendish Historical Society Board, it was agreed that the tree next to the Museum had to come down. Large limbs were falling off after every storm and because the center of the tree had rotted away, it was just a matter of time before a limb fell on utility wires or onto the roof of the Museum. Instead of biting our nails during storms worrying whether "this would be the one" that damaged the Museum or surrounding property, the board voted to have it removed. The tree was removed Wednesday January 18. We will miss it. However, board member Marc Miele has started exploring some landscaping ideas-quince, forsythia, lilac. If you have some suggestions, please let us know by e-mailing margoc@tds.net

3. CHS Newsletter Available on-line
The Cavendish Historical Society’s newsletter for Winter 2012 is now available on-line. It is also available in PDF format and in print. FMI: 226-7807 or margoc@tds.net

4. Meet Laura Ingalls Wilder at the Cavendish Fletcher Community Library
The Cavendish Fletcher Community Library is pleased to announce a visit from Laura Ingalls Wilder (portrayed by Melanie Stringer) for the students of the Cavendish Town Elementary School on Monday, January 23, 2012. The students who have been studying Laura Ingalls Wilder and the pioneer experience will meet with Ms. Stringer, ask questions and be able to handle period artifacts. This presentation was funded by a Green Mountain Festival Series Arts in Education Grant. FMI: Kata at 226-7503.

5. Freaky Fridays Come to BRGNS Thrift Shop
Black River Good Neighbors Thrift Shop is going to have freakishly low prices on items each 1st Friday of the month according to Audrey Bridge, Executive Director. Freaky Friday is Bridge’s brainchild and she said “we wanted to do something different from the past and this is a theme we can all have some fun with. Audrey said, “On the first Friday of each month many selected items in our store will be priced $1.00 each. Many of our patrons live on a fixed income and we would like to give them a chance at some freakishly good bargains! The deals at our thrift store are always great, we just want to make it even better for our loyal customers. And it’s important to remember all monies raised go to support the services we provide to the community. If you haven't visited our new location, don't delay, we have been there a year and it gets better every day.”

The Thrift Shop is located at 37B Main Street in Ludlow. BRGNS serves the communities of Ludlow, Belmont, Cavendish, Plymouth, Proctorsville and Mt. Holly. For more information please call Audrey at 802-228-3663.

6. Cavendish Events 1/20-1/27
January 21 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Kirigami Workshop with Cynthia Emedye at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Watercolor Landscape Workshop with Robert O’Brien at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Facilitated Meditation - 4 to 5pm free to all - Centering in the body, gentle and deep release of habitual tension in the body and mind and cultivation of presence. For more information call Robin at 226-7736.

January 22 (Sunday): Kirigami Workshop with Cynthia Emedye at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Watercolor Landscape Workshop with Robert O’Brien at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 23 (Monday): “Xin Nian Kuai Le” Happy Chinese New Year. It is the Year of the Water Dragon, which occurs once every 60 years.
• Laura Ingalls Wilder (portrayed by Melanie Stringer) will be at CTES.

January 24 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• Book Discussion-“Julie & Julia” by Julie Powell at the Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow. Noon. Bring a sandwich. Beverages and desserts provided. FMI: 228-8921.

January 26 (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, 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
• Book Discussion-“West with the Night” by Beryl Markham, Fletcher Memorial Library, 7 pm. FMI: 228-8921

January 27 (Friday): The Cavendish Black and White Film Series returns with the Marx Brothers “A Night at the Opera.” 7:00 at the Cavendish Elementary School. The films are free, donations always welcome, and refreshments available. FMI: 226-7497.
• Shaw’s reopens in Ludlow.

Select Board Meeting Agenda 1/18/12

2012-01-17T14:48:00.000-08:00

Selectmen’s Meeting, Wednesday, January 18th, 2012 in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 5:00 PM.

AGENDA

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Discussion of potential articles for inclusion in warning for Annual Town Meeting.
5. Continue work on FY 2012-2013 budget.
6. Adjourn by 7:00 pm.

Cavendish Update 1/13/12 SB Mtg/News/Events

2012-01-13T03:06:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page.

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 1/13/12 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish Select board Meeting 1/9/12
2. Cavendish Related News
3. Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Minutes
4. Third Annual Mardi Gras to Benefit CCCA
5. Cavendish Historical Society Annual Meeting Feb. 12
6. Marx Brothers Kick off Cavendish Film Series
7. Cavendish Calendar 1/13-1/20

1. Cavendish Select board Meeting 1/9/12
At Monday night’s Select Board meeting, the following items were discussed:

A. Cavendish Irene Relief Funds: Donations that have given to the town, to help those impacted by Irene, will be available for distribution at the end of January. If you are interested in applying for these funds, send a letter to the town office. FMI: 226-7292

B. Black River Health Center: At the town meeting in March 2011, the voters adopted a motion requiring BRHC to explore options, which address the issue of tax-exempt status. As it currently stands, while BRHC doesn’t pay taxes on the building, the tax payers are required to pay the educational tax for the property, which has been about $4,5000. It will be closer to $3,000 this year, as the building has been assessed at a lower value. If the town owned the building, the town would be exempt from paying the school tax.

When the BRHC was established, the deed stated that the building, if it were not being used as a medical center, would revert to the town if it were to be used for educational purposes. The building currently has three tenants, which are providing various types of mental health counseling and a fourth tenant, a massage therapist, is planning to move in shortly. The income from rent barely covers yearly expenses, which are about $10,000. One option is the building becomes the property of the town, which then has a lease with BRHC to continue occupancy. However, there is a legal question as to whether the town could take ownership of the building because of the educational use requirement.

The board voted that BHRC’s lawyer and the town’s lawyer meet to discuss what might be feasible. This is to be done in time for discussion at the March town meeting.

C. Derelict or Dangerous Building Ordinance: The Select Board adopted and signed the Ordinance, which becomes effective in 60 days. During this time, citizens can review the document and request that changes be made. A copy of the Ordinance can be obtained from the Town Office by calling 226-7292.

D. FEMA Assistance for Town/Recovery: Cavendish has yet to file a claim to FEMA. There is now a new FEMA officer to replace the one who went on leave December 23. The new representative has been helpful and it is expected that the largest of the town’s applications will be filed next week. All roads are passable and plow able. Some concrete barriers are in a few places. Since ground water levels are high, this may make for a more difficult mud season. The work on Mill Street is about to get underway with the awarding of a contract on Wed Jan 11.

2. Cavendish Related News
SEVCA to Close Warehouse with Irene Donations: The Southeastern Vermont Community Action has been collecting donations of clothing, furniture, appliances and linens to distribute to residents whose belongings were lost or ruined in the flood/ These items have been housed at Chroma Technologies in Rockingham who donated the use of a warehouse. Steve Geller, executive director of SEVCA, says the space will no longer be available after mid-March. SEVCA is putting the word out that there are still a lot of donated items available for those impacted by the flood. VPR

VT Strong Plates Comes With Strings: Even though Gov. Shumlin is encouraging people to purchase the “I am Vermont Strong” license plates, the plate can only be pre-ordered because they are not legal yet. In Vermont you must have an identifying plate on the front and back of your vehicle, otherwise you'll get a ticket. The DMV now needs legislative approval to release the special fundraising plates. The license plate is a new way to raise money for Irene clean up. WCAX

VT Dept of Taxes Inadvertently Displayed Social Security Numbers: The Vermont Department of Taxes (VDT) inadvertently displayed personal data from a weekly batch of Property Transfer Tax Returns for less than two hours on a vendor portion of its website on January 9th. The social security numbers of 1,332 individuals and the Federal Employee Identification Number of 245 businesses were involved. The property transfer report is posted weekly on a data page ordinarily accessed only by real estate professionals; immediate investigation identified two of the three parties who accessed the page during the time in question, and they have destroyed the information. VDT is working to identify the final party, who will be advised that they inadvertently received confidential taxpayer information that must be destroyed. All affected taxpayers will receive a letter alerting them that their personal information was inadvertently disclosed. Letters will be sent no later than Saturday, January 14th. Press Release

GMP. CVPS Sue VT Yankee Over Tower Collapse: The utilities are suing Vermont Yankee owner Entergy Corp., seeking to recover the $6.6 million extra they say they spent on power in 2007 and 2008 when VT Yankee curtailed production because of cooling tower problems. Burlington Free Press

Dept of Agriculture Expects Farmers to Recover: "The agriculture community in the state of Vermont has come though it incredibly well...but make no mistake, there were significant and damaging impacts on the farming community in the state of Vermont. It is easy to calculate a $20 million hit. "That's really good news that there was so much water volume that it just seemed to wash everything away and there weren't as many contaminants that ended up being deposited any place in fact I'm unaware of any particular location that has any significant levels of contamination whatsoever."VPR

State Police Warn of Mystery Shopper Scam: A scam that dupes people into become “mystery shoppers,” but ends up draining their bank accounts is circulating in Vermont, State Police said. n the scam, people approach shoppers and ask them to evaluate customer service during sales transactions. For payment, the shoppers are told to deposit a check into their own bank account, then withdraw some of the money and send it via Western Union to a destination, usually outside the United States, police said. The remainder of the deposit check is “payment” for being a mystery shopper, the scammers tell their targets, according to police. But the amount of the check is then withdrawn from the account, the check bounces, and the amount of the check is deducted from the account, police said. Police warn people to be very wary and skeptical if anyone approaches them with the mystery shopper offer. Burlington Free Press

Habitat for Humanity Home Available: The Greater Springfield Vermont Area Habitat for Humanity is currently accepting applications for a 3-bedroom home that is currently available in the Springfield area. The applicant must be a family that has lived or worked for at least the past year in the GSVAHH, which includes the towns of Andover, Baltimore, Springfield, Chester, Cavendish, Grafton, Ludlow, Weston, Weathersfield and Rockingham, and be willing to work in partnership with Habitat in a variety of ways. Completed applications must be received by January 28, 2012. FMI: Call 802-885- 5318 or 802-885-6440 or www.vermonthabitat.org

What’s Behind Rising Fuel Prices in VT: On average, Windsor has the cheapest fuel in the state right now at $3.31 and Burlington has the highest prices at $3.59. Both are above the national average of $3.28 a gallon, and that price is up 20 cents from this same time last year. Matt Cota with the Vermont Fuel Dealers Association says the rising cost of oil is the main culprit. "Crude oil is $102 today. It was $91 a year ago. Cota says another reason prices are up is that ethanol subsidies-- amounting to a 4.5 cent break-- expired at the end of the year. But he also says speculation in the markets is to blame for volatile swings in prices. WCAX

Shumlin’s Proposed State Budget: Governor Peter Shumlin has proposed a budget for next year that maintains most state programs without relying on any new revenue: "Today I present a budget that closes a $51 million shortfall without raising broad based taxes.” The governor's plan also calls for a major reorganization of state employees, and several initiatives to encourage job growth. To help stimulate the state economy, the governor proposed expanding the lending capacity of the Vermont Economic Development Authority by $30 million and he also wants to give $4 million to both UVM and the Vermont State College system to develop innovative programs linking higher education and job growth. The budget includes funding to help towns cover Irene expense. VPR Burlington Free Press

Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Could Start this Summer: The state last year passed a law that authorizes up to four privately run dispensaries to provide marijuana for patients with chronic illness or intractable pain. Vermont has over 400 patients and 68 caregivers on the medical marijuana registry, which allows them permission to grow enough for their own use. The dispensaries would give patients who can't grow them another means of getting it. The Burlington Free Press reports that Francis Aumand, director of the Division of Criminal Justice Services, told a state Senate committee on Wednesday that rules to run the dispensaries should be ready in the next couple of weeks. Burlington Free Press

3. Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Minutes
The Minutes from the December CTES School Board Meeting have been posted to the Cavendish VT Blog.

4. Third Annual Mardi Gras to Benefit CCCA
Once again the Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA) will hold their Mardi Gras celebration to chase away the late winter blues. This year the festivities will commence at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 10th and will be held at Crow’s Bakery and Opera House Café on Depot Street in Proctorsville.

There will be a New Orleans Cajun style buffet and a wine bar, and dancing to the great tunes of Yankee Chank with Cavendish’s very own Bob Naess. Of course it wouldn’t be Mardi Gras without masks, so there will be a prize for the best and most creative mask.

A raffle will feature three prizes: a Weekend Getaway to the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe as grand prize, a basket of fine Vermont wines and assorted, delicious Vermont goodies as second prize, and a Valentine Cake – chocolate, chocolate, chocolate – as third prize. Raffle tickets are on sale now at the bakery and from any CCCA board member. The drawing will be held at the celebration.

Dinner tickets cost $35 each and are limited, so please get yours early. Call (802) 226-7736 to reserve your tickets.

5. Cavendish Historical Society Annual Meeting Feb. 12
The Annual Meeting for the Cavendish Historical Society has been changed from October to February. This year’s meeting will take place on Feb. 12 (Sunday), 5 pm at the Cavendish Town Elementary School. This will include a potluck supper plus a screening of “Life in Windsor County,” featuring CHS’s board member Bruce McEnaney. The video includes the 250 year history of the region, along with photographs and stories. FMI: 226-7807 or margoc@tds.net

6. Marx Brothers Kick off Cavendish Film Series
The sixth annual Black & White Nights Film Series in Cavendish starts with a bang with the Marx Brothers romp, A Night at the Opera. This 1935 madcap comedy is considered one of their best because it was plot-driven and contained some of the brothers' funniest gags. In A Night At the Opera, the Marx brothers help two young lovers to succeed in love as well as in the world of opera. The lovers are played by Kitty Carlisle and Allan Jones, who do their own singing in all the classical opera scenes, an unusual move at the time. In a zany subplot, widowed socialite hopeful Mrs. Claypool, played by the impressive and ever haughty Margaret Dumont, hires Groucho to help her break into high society; he instead alternately woos and insults her. Filled with fast paced lunacy, A Night at the Opera is classic slapstick that made moviegoers forget their troubles during the Depression.

The film will be shown at 7:00 p.m. on Friday January 27 at Cavendish Elementary School in Proctorsville. Films in the series are free but donations are welcome. For more information call 226-7187.

7. Cavendish Calendar 1/13-1/20
January 14 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Woodcarving Workshop with Dave Tuttle at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Pen & Ink Workshop with Don Hofer at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 15 (Sunday): Woodcarving Workshop with Dave Tuttle at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Pen & Ink Workshop with Don Hofer at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 16 (Monday): Martin Luther King Day. Holiday School and Town Office Closed
• Shaw’s “tent” in Ludlow closes at 7 pm today and will remain closed until Jan. 27.

January 17 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 19 (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, 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
• Community Luncheon, St. James Methodist Church in Proctorsville, 11:30. The menu will include roast pork with mashed potato, peas, coleslaw, fresh hot rolls and applesauce. Dessert will be a variety of cakes, and we'll have coffee, hot tea or apple cider as beverages. A suggested donation of $4.00 for seniors or $5.50 for those under 60 years of age will help defray the cost of our meals.

CTES Board Meeting Minutes 12/16/11

2012-01-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Meeting Minutes
Friday, December 16, 2011, 9:00 a.m.

Present:
Board: Dr. Bont-Chair, Sharon Huntley-Vice Chair, John MacLean, and Peter Gregg

Administration: George Thomson-Principal, David Adams-Superintendent, Meredith Austin-Business Manager

Public: Virginia M. Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Connie Kendall, and Tracy Churchill

Call to order
Dr. Bont called the meeting to order at 9:09 a.m.

Comments from the Community
None

Approval of Minutes of November 15, 2011
Peter made a motion to approve the minutes of November 15, 2011 as presented. Motion approved.

Personnel
Tuition Waiver Requests
Peter made a motion to approve the tuition waiver requests as presented. Peter mentioned he thinks this policy should be looked at for the future. This policy is being looked at. Motion approved.

Finance
FY’ 13 Budget
George gave the board a second draft of the budget and an explanation memo (Attached). David explained the Act 153 requirements that move special education costs to the SU. The law takes effect July 1 2014. WSWSU is shifting only special education personnel costs for FY’13. George went over where the special education costs came from in the CTES budget to the SU special education assessment. Peter asked for the administration to make the cost shift explanation simpler. The board agreed to meet on Tuesday January 10th if that is not available then Wednesday January 11th at 5:30 p.m.

Joint Supervisory Union Merger/Consolidation Update
Dr. Bont reported the merger was approved by each SU board with stipulations for funding from the state, the approval of the mountain towns forming a RED and the make up of the new SU’s governing authority. Discussion ensued. Dr. Bont feels all of the state representatives should be contacted.

Principal’s Report
George gave the board a budget summary. There are no unexpected expenses. George asked the board to call him with any questions. The preliminary audit report came in and the fund balance for FY’11 is $42,469.00.

The phone systems’ voice mail no longer works as it should. It is very unreliable. George was told it would cost $4,000.00 to get the system fixed. A system upgrade would cost $6,850.00.George is recommending using federal education job funds dollars for salaries and to use the salary dollars for a system upgrade. Peter asked about leasing a system. Discussion ensued. David recommends a motion to approve an upgrade to the phone system at a cost not to exceed $7,000.00. Sharon made a motion to approve an amount not to exceed $7,000 for an upgrade to the phone system. Motion approved.

George said the manufacturer of the roof shingles are looking at the warranty. The shingles have a lifetime warranty.

Transportation: George explained how the bus route currently works and the arrangement with Green Mountain to pick up and drop of some CTES students. George would like to look at CTES’s transportation and maybe work with Green Mountain to provide transportation. David agrees with George. He thinks a conversation should happen between boards. Discussion ensued regarding transportation in other districts.

Wednesday was the annual Holiday concert and George received positive feedback.

George would like to reinstate the head of maintenance position to a full time position. George said the new head of maintenance is a very capable man and he is very knowledgeable about computers. George said he will save CTES money. Currently he doesn’t have time to meet with the evening employees. George is recommending increasing the head of maintenance to a full time position. Peter made a motion to approve up to $2,500 to increase the head of maintenance position to full time. Motion approved.

George asked the board to authorize $500.00 for the Green Mountain Festival Series. Peter made a motion to authorize the principal to donate $500.00 to the Green Mountain Festival Series. Motion approved.

Superintendent Report
David shared an article with the board on the Effects of Music on the Brain. He said we need to keep in mind the importance of music in the school.

Other Business
None

Executive Session
Peter made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel. The board invited the superintendent the principal and the business manager to attend. Motion approved. The board came out of executive session at 11:29 a.m. Peter made a motion to send a letter to all teachers with 25 years of service with CTES a one time $15,000.00 retirement incentive. Motion approved.

Adjournment
Sharon made a motion to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary

Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Meeting Agenda 1/10/12

2012-01-09T08:14:00.000-08:00

Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Meeting
Tuesday, January 10, 2012, 5:30 p.m at the School

* Revised

AGENDA

1. Call to order

2. Approval of Minutes of December 16, 2011 – (Action Requested)

3. Finance
a.) FY’ 13 Budget Adoption
b.) Federal Education Jobs Fund – (FYI)

4. Principal Report

5. Superintendent Report

6. Other Business

7. Executive Session – (Personnel)

Adjournment

Select Board Meeting Agendas 1/9 and 1/11

2012-01-07T12:24:00.000-08:00

Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, November 9, 2012 in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 6:30 pm

Agenda
1. Call the Meeting to Order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Adjust agenda
5. Hear Citizens
6. Per the SB discussion last month, representatives from the Black River Health Center will be present to meet with the Select Board to review progress and activities at the center and to review the voters’ directives which resulted from the discussion on the floor at the last annual town meeting.
7. Discuss and consider Derelict or Dangerous Building Ordinance for adoption.
8. Updates on Hurricane Irene clean-up and restoration activities including progress update on FEMA assistance.
9. Representative from SEVCA to make a brief presentation regarding SEVCA services and SEVCA activities in Cavendish as well as present a request for external organization appropriation for FY13. [Approx. 7:00 pm]
10. Representative from LPCTV to make a brief presentation regarding LPCTV services and activities in Cavendish as well as present a request for external organization appropriation for FY13. [Approx. 7:10 pm]
11. Sheriff Mike Chamberlain present to discuss Windsor County Sheriff’s Office services to the Town of Cavendish and discuss the proposed rate schedule for the contract period July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013. [Approx. 7:20 pm]
12. Representative from HCRS to make a brief presentation regarding their services and SEVCA activities in Cavendish as well as present a request for external organization appropriation for FY13. [Approx. 7:30 pm]
13. Update on various other town activities
14. Other business
15. Continue work on the FY 2012-2013 Selectmen’s Budget
16. Adjourn

Selectmen’s Meeting Wednesday January 11, 2012 in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 5 pm.

Agenda
• Select Board to review bids received for the Mill Street Water Crossing-Storm Damage Repair Project

• Initiate discussion of potential articles for inclusion in warning for Annual Town Meeting and discuss subjects to be covered in the Annual Town Manager and Selectmen’s Report

• Continue work on FY 2012-2013 Budget.

Adjourn by 7 PM

National Guard Coming to Cavendish on 1/8/12

2012-01-06T09:57:00.001-08:00

The town has just received word that the 131st Division of the National Guard, the group that rebuilt our roads, is coming to Cavendish on Sunday Jan 8, noon, at the town office, to thank those people who helped them in carrying out their mission. Community is invited. FMI: 226-7292

Cavendish Update 1/6/12 News/Events

2012-01-06T07:38:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

This post has been made possible by a contribution from Carmine Guica.

The 1/6/12 Cavendish Update Contains the Following
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Hazard Mitigation Plans
3. Letter from BRGN
4. A New You for the New Year-Live Authentically
5. Black River Visual Assessment
6. Cavendish Calendar 1/6-1/13/12

1. Cavendish Related News
Shaw’s Reopening: "Shaw's Supermarket in Ludlow will be closing its temporary (tent) location at 7 p.m. on Monday January 16th and will celebrate its Grand Reopening at 7 a.m. on Friday January 27th. During this 10 day closure the temporary store will be removed from the parking lot, making way for a totally renovated and expanded store.

VT Public Service Board Approves CVPS Rate Increase of 4.8%: As requested by Central Vermont Public Service in November, the Vermont Public Service Board has authorized a 4.8 percent rate increase under the company’s alternative regulation plan. The change will take effect with bills rendered on Jan. 2. Press Release

FEMA SBA Provide $72M to Vermont: Federal authorities have provided more than $72 million in financial assistance to Vermonters who were impacted by this spring’s floods and Tropical Storm Irene in August. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, that figure includes $23.1 million in FEMA aid to individuals and families, $31.2 million in U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans, and another $18 million in FEMA aid to the state, towns, and other entities for infrastructure repair. Press Release

Gap Between Rich and Poor Vermonters Widens: Three years after the start of the Great Recession, the gap between Vermont’s wealthiest and everyone else had widened, and thousands of Vermonters had sunk into poverty, according to a new report- State of Working Vermont 2011- released by Public Assets Institute. The governor’s goal of rebuilding the middle class is an important start, but Montpelier must begin to create a state that works for everybody, the report says. The report shows that Vermont’s 6.2 percent unemployment rate for 2010 was the sixth lowest in the country and the second lowest in New England. The wage gap between male and female workers is the sixth smallest in the nation—but only because women’s wages have fallen less than men’s. Press Release

VT Minimum Wage Set to Rise to $8.46: Starting January first, the state's minimum wage increased 31 cents, from $8.15 an hour to $8.46. VPR

Vermont Legislature Opens: On Tuesday, Jan. 3, the Vermont general assembly opened for 2012. To follow the session, research bills and committees, go to http://www.leg.state.vt.us/

School Financing Law Gets Good Grades: It's been 15 years since the Vermont Supreme Court ruled that the state's system of funding education was unconstitutional because it didn't provide equal educational opportunity for all students. Last spring, lawmakers commissioned a report to see if recent financing plans, known as Act 60 and Act 68, have met the goals of the Court decision. Lawrence Picus, a professor at the University of Southern California is the chief author of the report. Picus found that Vermont has one the lowest student teacher ratios in the country and one of the highest per pupil spending rates largely because the state has so many small schools. He also says the state has achieved school financing equity. According to the report, Vermont student performance ranks among the highest in the country, although when compared to the other New England states, these test scores are about average. Picus also found little relationship between schools that had the largest performance gains and their per student spending rates. One of his concerns is that despite high per pupil spending, Vermont students are not the highest academic achievers. VPR and the Burlington Free Press

$8 Million Raised for Irene Recovery, Little Distributed: In his State of the State address Thursday, Governor Peter Shumlin proposed a special "Vermont Strong" license plate to help raise money for Tropical Storm Irene recovery. Each plate will sell for $25. As VPR's Steve Zind reports, the money raised will add to the more than $8 million already donated to Irene relief. But much of that has not yet been distributed. (Zind) The estimated $8 million to $10 million in Irene recovery donations received so far includes funds raised by the Vermont Community Foundation, dollars donated to the Governor's Vermont Long Term Disaster Recovery Group, and the donations given to numerous local relief funds. VPR

Improved Mobile Broadband in Ski Areas: Improved mobile broadband coverage and voice performance is expected in Ludlow. AT&T announced that it has completed a key initiative in its ongoing efforts to enhance the wireless capacity and performance of its mobile broadband network throughout the popular ski season towns of Killington, Stowe, Bolton, Ludlow and Wilmington. Market Watch

2. Hazard Mitigation Plans
The Southern Windsor County Regional Planning Commission (SWCRPC) posted the following information to the Cavendish Facebook page.
The SWCRPC is currently in the process of helping our member towns update their Hazard Mitigation Plans. The purpose of these plans is to identify hazards that are likely to occur within the town and the areas or structures that would be the most vulnerable to these hazard events. Hazard mitigation activities reduce or eliminate the effects of natural and human caused disasters to people and property. Hurricane Irene has given us a clear reminder of the importance of these plans in reducing the cost of disaster events in our region. The RPC assists member towns in identifying potential mitigation strategies to reduce the threats or risks posed by these hazards. Town officials, emergency responders, businesses, local and regional agencies, and all other members of the community are encouraged to participate in this process. Each towns’ draft Hazard Mitigation Plan can be found here. [Cavendish’s can be found at http://swcrpc.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Cavendish.pdf] If you would like to comment or learn how to become more involved in the development of these plans please contact your town or our planning commission at info@swcrpc.org.

3. Letter from BRGN
The Board of Directors, the staff and the clients at Black River Good Neighbor Services would like to extend our thanks to all of our supporters for standing by us during the past year and for helping us make this year a success in meeting our mission. The year 2011 will mark several milestones in our history. We were challenged this year in our efforts to continue uninterrupted operations while moving our entire store, office and food shelf into new quarters. We did it with wide spread community support, and we did it well. Now we are in a fabulous recycled building next to the new community center and we never missed a day of service to our clients.

We also faced a daunting challenge of coping with a catastrophic flood and helping hundreds of people with the aftermath. We received more donations to that cause than we could ever have expected. Money came from as far away as Australia. We rolled up our sleeves, cleaned the mud out of the store, and set about distributing cleaning supplies, food, water, clothing and financial aid to whoever needed it. We set up a whole new bookkeeping system and bank account for flood relief and we are still helping people pay for the cleanup. This one isn’t over and won’t be for quite a while.

Meanwhile the holidays descended upon us and we are determined to make sure that everyone who needs us during this season and throughout 2012 will get our help. So from all of us at Black River Good Neighbor Services, thank you for your support, have a great holiday, and have a safe and Happy New Year!

Sincerely,
Peter J. LaBelle, President

4. A New You for the New Year-Live Authentically
Make real and lasting changes to live your life, your way in the unique and powerful Live Authentically course. A new course will be available in the New Year on Saturday mornings from 9:00-12:00 in Cavendish beginning January 21st . To register, contact Martha Mott at 226-7848 or Martha@liveauthentically.org . For more information, go to www.liveauthentically.org or follow Live Authentically on Facebook.

5. Black River Visual Assessment
Calling all volunteers! Some of you may remember (hopefully fondly) the first-ever Visual Assessment that we did back in 2005. Folks walked or paddled sections of the main stem of the Black River, taking notes and making observations and capturing on film things like culverts and eroded banks, as well as scenic areas and wildlife.

It’s time to do it again! Tropical Storm Irene dumped loads of rain on August 28, 2011, the floodwaters raged and carved new courses for many area streams.

The prep-work will be underway next week: seeking donations and grants to fund the project, gathering tax maps and landowner addresses, reaching out to potential volunteers via town meetings and posting flyers, researching the names of some of the lesser-known tributaries.

The paddling, walking and data-gathering will occur during the summer, weather and safety conditions permitting.

Then comes the work of collecting, collating and assembling the materials for printing, scheduling workshops to introduce the final Visual Assessment booklet to the public, and more.

There are many reasons for conducting a Visual Assessment of a river. For one thing, we can pin-point locations of trash and debris that may have been left behind by the floodwaters. This can be slated for removal by the BRAT during our annual RiverSweep cleanup or by other agencies better equipped to retrieve and dispose of potentially hazardous waste, such as propane tanks.

Another great reason to do a Visual Assessment: we’ll use the information gathered to select important sites for future water quality monitoring. Swimming holes, popular fishing spots, above and below waste-water treatment facilities, and anywhere that the river smells or looks odd.

Far-reaching goals for the data include learning where culverts may have failed during Irene or choke-points where road crossings seem to be too narrow to accommodate future heavy flows. We can look for areas where sediment is entering the river system from degraded tributary streams or from dirt roads.

A Visual Assessment is also a perfect opportunity to get out the river and be part of its cycle, to experience the connection between upstream and downstream, to really understand the dynamic and powerful way in which rivers do the work of moving water and sediment.

There are many ways to help, from stuffing and labeling envelopes to paddling or walking a stretch of stream yourself; from assembling the final booklet that we produce to collating materials turned in by volunteers. Any time or elbow-grease you may have to offer would be most appreciated!

Donations may be mailed directly to me at the address below; if you would like your gift to be tax-deductible, please make it out to "CRWC" (write "BRAT" in the memo) and mail it to the CT River Watershed Council, 15 Bank Row, Greenfield MA 01301. FMI: 101 Perley Gordon Road, Springfield, VT 05156 (802) 885-1533

6. Cavendish Calendar 1/6-1/13/12
January 6 (Friday): Okemo Valley Chamber’s Legislative Breakfast, 8:30-10 am, Newsbank Conference Center, 397 Main St. Chester. FMI 228-5830.

January 7 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com

January 9 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda posted to blog as soon as it is received. LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV.

January 10 (Tuesday): CTES PTO Meeting 6:30-7:30 at the school
• 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 11 (Wednesday): January Okemo Valley Chamber Mixer, 5:30-7:30 pm at Outback Pizza in Ludlow. FMI 228-5830.

January 12 (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, 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

Cavendish Update 1/1/12 News/Events/Calendar/Civil War

2011-12-30T06:32:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

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

The 1/1/12 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Cavendish Related News
2. Cavendish Film Series Line Up
3. Flood Caregivers Retreat
4. Cavendish Historical Society: New in 2012/Civil War History
5. January 2012 Cavendish Calendar

1. Cavendish Related News
Developers Propose 25 Megawatt Wood Chipping Power Plant in North Springfield: North Springfield Sustainable Energy Project Files for CPG (Springfield, VT) Lead developer Adam Winstanley of Winstanley Enterprises announced today that the company has entered into a joint venture agreement with Weston Solutions, Inc. (WESTON®) of Concord, N.H. and West Chester, PA for the development of a 25-35 megawatt woodchip-burning electric generating plant in the North Springfield Industrial Park. The companies filed a petition earlier today for a Certificate of Public Good from the Vermont Public Service Board for the project, which is known as the North Springfield Sustainable Energy Project (NSSEP). The project has been in the planning stages for several years. Press Release

Sears to Close 100 to 120 Kmart, Sears Stores: After a disastrous holiday shopping season, the parent company of Sears and Kmart will close at least 100 stores to raise cash — a move that sparked speculation about whether the 125-year-old retailer can avoid a death spiral fed by declining sales and deteriorating stores. Sears in Keene and Nashua, NH are slated to close, but no stores in Vermont have been listed to date.

VT Confirms Tax Records to be Private: The Vermont Supreme Court last week ruled that the names of thousands of Vermont homeowners who pay reduced property taxes based on their income should be kept confidential, reversing a lower-court ruling that said such information included on property tax bills was a matter of public record. Valley News

State will Add $6.1 M to LIHEAP: Gov. Peter Shumlin and legislative leaders announced today that the state would add $6.1 million to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP, to help ensure Vermonters can afford to heat their homes and stay warm this winter. Press Release

Cavendish Awarded Planning Grant: The state has awarded $409,532 in Municipal Planning Grants to 42 communities across the state to help them plan for a variety of forward thinking objectives including economic development, village revitalization and future housing needs. These grants of up to $15,000 cover a variety of planning initiatives and projects. Cavendish has received a grant for public works and capital planning. Press Release

Proposed Rule would Allow Police to Plant Tracking Device: A Vermont Supreme Court committee is proposing a rule that would authorize law enforcement officials to break into private residences, businesses and other premises to place tracking devices. Committee members also are planning to look broadly at how warrants are handled across the state. The rule, which is being circulated to Vermont lawyers for comments, says a search warrant may be issued to “enter any premises to install a tracking device or use a tracking device to track the movement of a person or property to obtain evidence of the commission of a crime.” Burlington Free Press

2. Cavendish Film Series Line Up
The Cavendish Black & White Nights film series is back for another season of classic movies that drew audiences to the magic of the silver screen during the thirties, forties and fifties. Starting on Friday January 27, the five-week series kicks off with the madcap comedy Night at the Opera, starring the Marx Brothers. On February 3, the 1941 classic How Green Was my Valley, starring Maureen O'Hara, will be shown, followed by the powerful drama, The Sweet Smell of Success, with Tony Curtis and Burt Lancaster on February 10.

The Depression-era comedy, My Man Godfrey, will showcase the talents of actress Carol Lombard on February 17. The series will be capped by Sunset Boulevard, a film noir starring Gloria Swanson as a faded film goddess of the silent screen. All films will be shown on Friday nights at 7:00 at the Cavendish Elementary School. The films are free, donations always welcome, and refreshments available. For more information call 226-7497.

3. Flood Caregivers Retreat
A three hour retreat for anyone who provided care for those who suffered in the Irene disaster will be provided through a grant from Episcopal Relief and Development on the following dates and locations:
Friday, January 13
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm - St. Luke’s Church, Chester
Saturday, January 14
10:00 am - 1:00 pm - Christ Church, Montpelier
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Burlington
Sunday, January 15
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm - St .Michael’s Church, Brattleboro
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm - St. Paul’s Church, White River Junction

This retreat is not only for church members but for all those in our communities of any church or no church who offered care to those affected by Irene. The spiritually-based and socially oriented retreat will be led by the Rev. Canon Charles LaFond from the Diocese of New Hampshire. Charles’ work during the Katrina Disaster places him in the position to provide this program of healing in which attendees will be fed spiritually, emotionally and physically. Each retreat will be spiritually based and presented in such a way that those from any faith, or no faith tradition, will be encouraged, supported, and provided opportunities to be thanked and soothed. The retreat will include listening and discussions which will allow us to connect, grieve, and to tell our stories. We will also share good food and a small gift. Please forward this information.

Reservations: To register, please call our diocesan office ( 802-863-3431) or email adminasst@dioceseofvermont.org If you have any questions about the event, please contact Ann Cooper at aecooper@sover.net (802-388-6802) or Sissi Loftin at sissiloftin@hotmail.com (802-254-9509)

4. Cavendish Historical Society: New in 2012/Civil War History
As 2012 marks the second year of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, the Cavendish Historical Society will post stories about Cavendish’s participation in this event. If you have information about your family’s participation, and would like to share them, please e-mail margoc@tds.net or call 802-226-7807.

This month features Benjamin F. Giddings. The Brattleboro Historical Society has recently sent materials of Giddings to CHS. Benjamin Franklin Giddings was born in Cavendish, VT July 5, 1843, the son of Hiram and Rebecca (French) Giddings. He enlisted in the Civil War the first time at age 15. After the War, Giddings settled in California.

These materials were donated by: Don Butkovich, Antique Dealer, Traverse City, Michigan in Honor of his friend Gilbert H. Whelden, Jr., the nephew of B.F. Giddings, who purchased these papers directly from the Living Estate of Mr. Whelden in Michigan.

Among the items included a bound book entitled "Personal Military and Civil History." The notes written by Benjamin F. Giddings about his actions during the Civil War can be read at the CHS blog.

Due to the 250th Anniversary activities, CHS has changed its annual meeting and potluck dinner to Sunday Feb. 5, at 5 pm at the Cavendish Elementary School. The snow date is Sunday Feb. 12. FMI: 226-7807.

5. January 2012 Cavendish Calendar
January 1 (Sunday): HAPPY NEW YEAR

January 2 (Monday): Holiday, Town Office and Schools closed

January 3 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 4 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office

January 5 (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, 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 6 (Friday): Okemo Valley Chamber’s Legislative Breakfast, 8:30-10 am, Newsbank Conference Center, 397 Main St. Chester. FMI 228-5830.

January 7 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com

January 9 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda posted to blog www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com as soon as it is received. LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV.

January 10 (Tuesday): CTES PTO Meeting 6:30-7:30 at the school
• 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 11 (Wednesday): January Okemo Valley Chamber Mixer, 5:30-7:30 pm at Outback Pizza in Ludlow. FMI 228-5830.

January 12 (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, 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 14 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Woodcarving Workshop with Dave Tuttle at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Pen & Ink Workshop with Don Hofer at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 15 (Sunday): Woodcarving Workshop with Dave Tuttle at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Pen & Ink Workshop with Don Hofer at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 16 (Monday): Martin Luther King Day. Holiday School and Town Office Closed

January 17 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

January 19 (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, 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 21 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Kirigami Workshop with Cynthia Emedye at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Watercolor Landscape Workshop with Robert O’Brien at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 22 (Sunday): Kirigami Workshop with Cynthia Emedye at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Watercolor Landscape Workshop with Robert O’Brien at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 24 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• Book Discussion-“Julie & Julia” by Julie Powell at the Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow. Noon. Bring a sandwich. Beverages and desserts provided. FMI: 228-8921.

January 26 (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, 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
• Book Discussion-“West with the Night” by Beryl Markham, Fletcher Memorial Library, 7 pm. FMI: 228-8921

January 27 (Friday): The Cavendish Black and White Film Series returns with the Marx Brothers “A Night at the Opera.” 7:00 at the Cavendish Elementary School. The films are free, donations always welcome, and refreshments available. FMI: 226-7497.

January 28 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Oil Still Life Painting Workshop with Hunter Eddy at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Woodcarving Workshop with Al Wilkenson at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 29 (Sunday): Oil Still Life Painting Workshop with Hunter Eddy at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org
• Woodcarving Workshop with Al Wilkenson at Fletcher Farm School. FMI: 228-8770 or info@fletcherfarm.org

January 31 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

Vandalism in Cavendish on Christmas Eve

2011-12-25T06:38:00.000-08:00

Glimmestone was vandalized last night (Christmas Eve) around 11:30 pm Flood lights that lit up the house were taken and all the Christmas lights that were outside on the trees were destroyed. Does anyone know of anything else taking place in town along this same line?

Cavendish Update 12/23/11 News/Events

2011-12-23T02:48:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 12/23/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Cavendish Related News
2. LPCTV Moved and Back in Business
3. Christmas Services
4. Cavendish Activities 12/23-12/30

1. Cavendish Related News
Hannaford’s Recalling Ground Beef: The supermarket chain, is recalling ground beef with a sell-by date of December 17 or earlier because it may be contaminated with salmonella, the company said on Friday. Fourteen people have fallen ill, and ten of them reported purchasing ground beef at Hannaford stores in Maine, New York, New Hampshire and Vermont between October 12 and November 20, according to the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service in a statement. For more information on the types of packaged meat tainted go to http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/20111216/NEWS02/111216002/Vermont-Health-Department-Hannaford-ground-beef-subject-recall-?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE Burlington Free Press.

Two Injured When Tractor Trailer Jackknifes on 103: A tractor trailer veered off an icy patch of Vermont 103 in Cavendish at about 1:12 a.m. Dec. 20, struck several trees and jackknifed, trapping the driver inside and launching her passenger through the windshield, Vermont State Trooper Tim Gould said. Fire fighters extricated the driver Robin Doiron, 53, of Windsor Locks, Conn., from the vehicle and transported her to Springfield Hospital, where she was treated and released. Her passenger, Daniel Yorke, 57, also of Windsor Locks, Conn., was transported to Springfield Hospital and later transferred to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H. The hospital did not release information on Yorke’s condition this morning. Neither Doiron or Yorke were wearing seatbelts, Trooper Gould said. He asked anyone with information to call Vermont State Police at 875-2112. The crash remains under investigation, he said. Burlington Free Press

VT Police Warn of Phony “for Rent” Listings: Vermont State police are warning about an internet scam involving phony rental property. Police say the scammers take information about homes listed for sale on real estate websites and create their own phony listings, offering the properties for rent. Potential renters are asked to send first month rent and security payment via Western Union and are told the keys will be mailed to them. WCAX
VT Flu Season Officially Started: The Vermont Department of Health Laboratory has confirmed the first case of influenza this season in a person from Windsor County. Press Release

Vtrans All Bridges Damaged by Irene are Now Open: Vermont transportation officials say all bridges damaged by Tropical Storm Irene have now been repaired or replaced. Route 12A is open to all traffic, now that the work on two bridges in Roxbury has been completed. Those were the two remaining bridges in Vermont that were still closed after the August storm, and that the state is very close to reaching its goal of opening all damaged roads by the end of the year. Route 107 in Stockbridge is the last of the closed roads, and it could open at the end of next week. VPR

2. LPCTV Moved and Back in Business
Well, it's official. On December 9th we moved out of the Ludlow Elementary School, which was our home for 10 years. Our friends at Wright Construction have helped us out by supplying us with this temporary office, pictured above. Last week the furnace was serviced by Cota & Cota, fuel was delivered, and we were connected to power by Ken Cook Electric. A team of volunteers cleaned the trailer, helped move some items into storage, and put in some stairs so that the trailer could meet code. As of late last week we were back up & operating, business-as-not-so-usual, but nonetheless we are back in business!

We are broadcasting from here and we can still lend out equipment. We also have editing suites for those who wish to come in & edit. While we are open, we are operating under a slightly reduced schedule. Please call ahead to borrow equipment or reserve editing equipment. 228-8808

Holiday Programming on LPCTV: Between now & January 2nd, we will be broadcasting a few local holiday-themed programs on Channel 8 (Ch20 in Mt. Holly). Thanks to video coverage provided by volunteers Fred Marin & Sharon Bixby, you can catch the Feminine Tone Women's Chorus recent holiday concert in Ludlow, as well as the recent FOLA-sponsored Christmas celebration in Ludlow Town Hall.

3. Christmas Services
Baptist: Candlelight Christmas Eve Service, 7 pm at the church. This special service retells the story of Jesus' birth through Bible readings and Christmas songs. Glow bracelets are available for children too young to hold candles. Christmas Day Service at 10 am. FMI: 226-7131

Catholic: Holy Name of Mary in Proctorsville Saturday (Christmas Eve) - 6:30PM Christmas concert. 7:00PM mass. No Sunday mass

Annunciation in Ludlow: 4:30PM Christmas concert. 5:00PM mass. 8:30PM Christmas concert. 9:00PM mass. Sunday (Christmas) - 8:30 AM Christmas concert. 9:00AM mass.

Episcopal/Methodist: A Lesson in Carols is being held 5 pm at St. James Church in Proctorsville. This is a combined service of Gethsamane Episcopal Church and St. James Methodist Church . All are welcome.

4. Cavendish Activities 12/23-12/30
December 23 (Friday): Holiday recess begins for GMUHS and CTES
• HAPPY FESTIVUS: For Seinfeld fans, today is Festivus, a secular holiday to celebrate the holiday season. It includes such things as a “Festivus Pole,” an unadorned aluminum pole; the “Airing of Grievances;” “Feats of Strength,” and the occasional Festivus Miracle. Festivus was the name of a seasonal Ben & Jerry’s flavor.

December 24 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Cavendish Baptist Church-Candlelight Christmas Eve Service, 7 pm at the church. This special service retells the story of Jesus' birth through Bible readings and Christmas songs. Glow bracelets are available for children too young to hold candles. FMI: 226-7131
• A Lesson in Carols is being held 5 pm at St. James Church in Proctorsville. This is a combined service of Gethsamane Episcopal Church and St. James Methodist Church . All are welcome.

December 25 (Sunday): MERRY CHRISTMAS
• Cavendish Baptist Church-Service at 10 am. FMI: 226-7131

December 26 (Monday): Town office closed
• HAPPY KWANZAA: An African American and Pan-African holiday that celebrates family, community and culture, goes until January 1. To learn more about this holiday, go to http://www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org

December 27 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870

December 28 (Wednesday): Last night of Hanukkah

December 29 (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, 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

Select Board Meeting 12/22/11 Agenda

2011-12-22T11:14:00.000-08:00

The Cavendish Select Board will meet today at 4:30 pm at the town office for a limited agenda:

• Selectmen to: review bank documents for Mascoma Bank line-of-credit note related to storm clean-up and repair activities; make resolution, and sign loan documents.

• Brief update on Hurricane Irene storm clean-up related activities including progress report on FEMA assistance.

Hannaford's Recalling Ground Beef

2011-12-17T04:19:00.000-08:00

The supermarket chain, is recalling ground beef with a sell-by date of December 17 or earlier because it may be contaminated with salmonella, the company said on Friday. Fourteen people have fallen ill, and ten of them reported purchasing ground beef at Hannaford stores in Maine, New York, New Hampshire and Vermont between October 12 and November 20, according to the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service in a statement. For more information.

Cavendish Update 12/16/11 SB/News/Events

2011-12-16T06:23:00.000-08:00

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

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 12/16/11 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Select Board Meeting 12/12/11
2. Cavendish Related News
3. Cavendish Town Elementary School: Minutes 11/15/11 & Agenda 12/16/11
4. Robin Timko Exhibits at the Cavendish Community Library
5. Cavendish Events 12/16/11-12/24/11

1. Select Board Meeting 12/12/11
The Select Board (SB) meeting was taped by LPC-TV and appears on Comcast Television and on-line. The following items were discussed:

A. 53 Depot Street: The board was slated to continue discussion of the October and November meetings regarding the derelict, fire-damaged wood framed building located at the end of Pie Alley off Depot Street in Proctorsville. The building is owned by Dean Kauppinen, who has been invited to several meetings, hearings and site visits, including this month’s SB meeting . At the November SB meeting, town manager Rich Svec read a letter from Kauppinen refuting the findings of the Public Health Notice issued in October. In the letter from the town’s Board of Health, Kauppinen’s building was sited as follows: “The subject building has previously been the subject of numerous prior citizen complaints to the Board of Selectmen and the Town Health officer for issues such as:
1. Fire Hazard;
2. Holes and openings to the structure, which afforded points of entry for vermin, rodents, pigeons and other birds;
3. Attractive nuisance to neighborhood children especially when potential openings for entry are in evidence;
4. Potential collapse hazard, and
5. Blight upon the neighborhood

As Kauppinen was not in attendance, the board took up the matter of a Cavendish Dangerous and/or Derelict Building Ordinance

B. Dangerous and/or Derelict Building Ordinance: Svec provided a draft ordinance, which the board went through line by line. He based this draft from existing ordinances in other VT towns, combining vacant building and dangerous building ordinances.

In the draft, a dangerous building is defined as “Any building or structure or part thereof that, for the lack of proper maintenance repair, or sanitation is hazardous to the health or safety of the public or likely to endanger other buildings or property or pose other public nuisance.” A derelict building is defined as “Any building or structure that is unoccupied by a person or is occupied by unauthorized persons and, due to lack of proper maintenance, repair or sanitation is hazardous to the health and/or safety of the public or pose other public nuisance. Unoccupied buildings, which are part of a property, which is in a pending estate or sale may not necessarily be considered derelict by vacancy alone, however, such status specifically does not preclude the building from action per this ordinance….”

The Ordinance calls for the appointment of a Building Safety Officer by the SB, who with a second person, such as law enforcement, fire, engineers and other qualified experts, will inspect the building. Written notice of intent to conduct an inspection will be given to the owner of the building or structure at least 72 hours prior to the inspection. If the structure is found to be unsafe a Building Safety Order will be issued. In the event that the owner does not comply with the Order, the violation becomes a civil matter with associated fines for each violation.

The SB made some minor changes and has requested that Svec have the revised document reviewed by the town’s attorney. They are prepared to vote on final approval at the January 9 SB meeting. Once they have signed the Ordinance, it becomes effective 60 days later. During the first 30 days of the 60 days, citizens can petition for changes to the Ordinance. For more information, or copies of the draft Ordinance, please call the town office 226-7292.

External Presentations Regarding Budget: The following organizations were present to request level funding in the upcoming town budget and to explain their programs, their contribution to the town and answer any questions the SB might have: Green MT RSVP; The Current-CT River Transit; Black River Senior Center; Windsor County Youth Service; Black River Good Neighbors; Council on Aging; Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice; American Red Cross and New Beginnings.

Irene Clean Up and FEMA: No funds have received to date. The current borrowing notes, $1,000,000 will need to be extended in the next few weeks. The paper work required for FEMA is extensive and they have just requested an estimate of what it’s going to cost to complete the rebuild. Svec, working with Rolf Van Schiak and others, hope to provide a reasonable estimate in the time frame required. Work continues on various parts of town. Winery Rd Bridge was just completed with the addition of the guardrails. Other areas continue to be problematic, but work continues.

2. Cavendish Related News
New Springfield Court Office to Open: A new court office has opened in Springfield for Windsor County. Replacing the North Springfield Probate Courthouse, which closed on Dec. 6. The office is not just for probate business. Residents may file petitions and other documents in family, civil or probate matters being heard in the Windsor unit, or to pay certain fines. Burlington Free Press

3. Cavendish Town Elementary School: Minutes 11/15/11 & Agenda 12/16/11
The Nov. 15 School Board Meeting Minutes are now posted at the Cavendish Update Blog.

The agenda for the School’s Dec. 16 meeting, 9 am at the school, includes:
• Personnel
a.) Tuition Waiver Requests – (Action Requested) The following teachers are requesting that their children be allowed to attend CTES for the 2012-2013 school year: Ann Thompson, Ellen Cameron and Jennifer Harper. The latter two teachers are also requesting that their children, who will in 2012 be allowed to go to Green Mountain.
• Finance
a.) FY’ 13 Budget – (Hand Carried)
• Joint Supervisory Union Merger/Consolidation Update
• Principal’s Report
• Superintendent Report

4. Robin Timko Exhibits at the Cavendish Community Library
I have chosen a few of my recent works, portraits of Jade Lily (Leven) and Irma, a pastel painting from inside Crows Bakery, the gray house on Main St. and a view of 20 Mile Stream to share with the community. It is wonderful to have a space like our library where community members can exhibit their work and I am grateful to Kata Welch for making this possible.

5. Cavendish Events 12/16/11-12/24/11
December 17 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com

December 18 (Sunday): Cavendish Baptist Church-Christmas Play and Potluck Celebration, 10 am at the church. Come be entertained as children from the community present an original play that explores how to share the Spirit of Christmas all year long. Bring a dish to share at the potluck lunch following the performance. FMI: 226-7131

December 20 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870
• HAPPY HANUKKAH: the first night begins today. To learn more about this celebration, go to http://www.chabad.org/holidays/chanukah/default_cdo/jewish/Hanukkah.htm

December 22 (Thursday): Winter solstice-The day when the earth’s northern hemisphere is titled the farthest from the sun giving the shortest amount of daylight.
• 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, 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

December 23 (Friday): Holiday recess begins for GMUHS and CTES
• HAPPY FESTIVUS: For Seinfeld fans, today is Festivus, a secular holiday to celebrate the holiday season. It includes such things as a “Festivus Pole,” an unadorned aluminum pole; the “Airing of Grievances;” “Feats of Strength,” and the occasional Festivus Miracle. Festivus was the name of a seasonal Ben & Jerry’s flavor.

December 24 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Cavendish Baptist Church-Candlelight Christmas Eve Service, 7 pm at the church. This special service retells the story of Jesus' birth through Bible readings and Christmas songs. Glow bracelets are available for children too young to hold candles. FMI: 226-7131
• A Lesson in Carols is being held 5 pm at St. James Church in Proctorsville. This is a combined service of Gethsemane Episcopal Church and St. James Methodist Church . All are welcome.

CTES Nov. 15 School Board Minutes

2011-12-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

Cavendish Town Elementary School: November 15, 2011 5:30 p.m. Board Minutes

Present
Board: Dr. Bont-Chair, Jim Ballantine, John Mclean Peter Gregg and Sharon Huntley

Administration: David Adams-Superintendent and Meredith Austin-Business Manager

Public/Staff: LPCTV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary, Peggy Svec, Mike Ripley-GMUHS Assoc. Principal and Connie Kendall

Call to order
Dr. Bont called the meeting to order at 5:36 p.m.

Comments from the Community
None

Approval of Minutes of October 18, 2011
Jim made a motion to approve the minutes of October 18, 2011 as presented. Peter seconded. Motion approved.

Personnel
Non Certified Staff Hiring; David informed the board he hired Tim Considine as the CTES Director of Building and Grounds from George’s recommendation.

Finance
Budget Development Update: Dr. Bont said the finance committee is working on the budget for FY’12. David explained the changes with Act 153 that speaks to the new responsibilities of the Supervisory Union. There will be a personnel cost shift from local budgets to the supervisory union budget. Full implementation of the changes will be final FY’14.

George said it is too early to give details on the budget.

Discussion ensued regarding the cost shift from the CTES budget to the S.U. budget.

Joint Supervisory Union Merger/Consolidation Update
Dr. Bont gave background on the WSWSU and RWSU consolidation study. David reported there is another joint study group meeting at CTES at 6:30 p.m. The consultant’s financial study will be presented at that meeting. On December 6th there will be another group study meeting at GMUHS. On December 15th the WSWSU and the RWSU board will vote separately on whether or not to present the study to the Department of Education. This study is not related to school operations; it is at the administrative level. David encourages the public to attend the meetings. Dr. Bont said there are highly skilled individuals involved in this study.

Policies
Enrollment of Children of Non Resident Teachers F:14
David reported there was a joint policy committee meeting with CAES, CTES and GMUHS to discuss this policy. David said there is a legal review that he recommends the CTES policy committee review.

Principal’s Report
George handed out the budget summary. He said there is nothing outstanding. He said he will answer any questions.
The annual site visit for the audit was completed and he thinks it went well.

Sports: The students played with Ludlow students because there were not enough students for their own team. Basketball is starting soon. The winter sports program begins January 3rd. The annual Thanksgiving dinner will be this Thursday.

Roof update: The builder said the company knew there was a problem with the shingles and they feel it will be covered.

The bus that is not used anymore cannot be inspected without $6,000.00 of work. George asked the board for authorization to dispose of the bus. John suggests the administration check to see if the transmission in the old bus would fit the operating bus. The board discussed selling the bus on ebay. John made a motion to authorize the administration to dispose of the bus in whole or in part for its best economic value. Peter seconded. Motion approved.

The holiday concert is December 14th at 7:00 p.m.

They are still looking for a Para professional.

George is scheduled for bilateral knee surgery on December 19th. He plans to be back to school on January 9th.

Superintendent Report
David reported there was a successful in-service last Friday with staff from RWSU. There was an ergonomics training for office staff as well last Friday.

Other Business
Meredith went over the Federal Education Jobs Fund dollars received by CTES. (Attached) CTES received $25,057.00. The administration will come back and make recommendations on how to spend the money

Executive Session
Peter made a motion to go into executive session at 6:41 p.m. to discuss negotiations. Motion approved. The superintendent was invited to attend. The board came out of executive session at 7:51 p.m. No action taken.

Adjournment
Sharon made a motion to adjourn. John seconded. Meeting adjourned at 7:51 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary

Select Board Meeting Agenda 12/12/11

2011-12-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, December 12th, 2011. This meeting will take place at the Cavendish Town Elementary School at 6:30 PM in the Arts Center.

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review/Approve minutes of the meetings of Sept 13th, Sept 20th and September 22nd, 2011
4. Review Correspondence
5. Adjust agenda
6. Hear Citizens
7. Continue discussions of the October and November meetings regarding the derelict, fire damaged wood framed building located at 53 Depot Street (end of Pie Alley) in Proctorsville which is owned by Dean Kauppinen. Mr. Kauppinen’s response to the notice of October XX, 2011 will be reviewed.
8. Discuss status of various Hurricane Irene clean-up and restoration activities and FEMA Public Assistance work.
9. At 7:10 pm the Selectmen will begin FY2012-2013 budget work by reviewing requests for appropriations from external organizations which serve the Cavendish Community. The schedule of external organization presentations for the evening is shown below:
a. 7:15 Green Mt RSVP
b. 7:20 The Current - Connecticut River Transit
c. 7:30 Black River Senior Center
d. 7:40 Windsor County Youth Service
e. 7:45 Black River Good Neighbors
f. 7:55 Council On Aging
g. 8:05 Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice
h. 8:15 American Red Cross
i. 8:25 New Beginnings
10. Discuss FY2012-2013 Budget meeting schedule
11. Review a draft of a Derelict or Dangerous Building Ordinance
12. Update on various town activities including progress on the EECBG funded Energy Efficiency Upgrade Project
13. Other Business
14. Executive session

Cavendish Update 12/9/11 News/Events/Thanks

2011-12-09T07:38:00.001-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 12/9/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Thank you Carhartt and Gethsemane Church
2. Cavendish Related News
3. Cavendish 250th Banners Coming Down/For Sale
4. Buying Local for the Holidays
5. Cavendish Calendar 12/9-12/16/11

1. Thank you Carhartt and Gethsemane Church
According to Mary Springer of Gethsemane Church, and one of the organizers of the Carhartt distribution on Dec. 3, Whereas our numbers are subject to human error, we do know we served 15 towns, and donated at least 2,871 items, and approximately 458 folks went through the gym. This exceeded my wildest dreams! I had a volunteer sign up sheet, and 20 bells I gave each volunteer to wear. I ran out of bells when more volunteers joined us. We will be collecting letters to forward to Carhartt as a group. Those that want to may send them to Gethsemane, POB 217, Proctorsville. It was a wonderful gift Gethsemane gave the community, and it was truly what real holiday spirit is all about.

2. Cavendish Related News
Call BISCHA for Flood Related Insurance Questions: Gov. Peter Shumlin is reminding Vermonters impacted by Tropical Storm Irene of the state’s toll-free hotline offering advice and answers to questions involving insurance claims resulting from storm damage. The Vermont Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities & Health Administration (BISHCA) has staff on hand to assist individuals with problems encountered getting assistance. BISHCA has received about 160 requests for information since the storm hit in late September. Persons seeking assistance should contact: Brenda Clark, Consumer Services Administrator, Vermont Insurance Department, 802 828-4886, 802 828-1446 (fax), 800 964-1784 (toll free within the state of Vermont) or brenda.clark@state.vt.us Press Release

VT Named #1 Healthiest State in 2011: Vermont was again named the healthiest state in the nation as the United Health Foundation today released its 2011 edition of America’s Health Rankings™. Press Release

VT Health Dept Says Whooping Cough Spreading: The Vermont Health Department says the number of cases of whooping cough is continuing to go up in the state. In the last six weeks there have been 26 confirmed cases of whooping cough, known formally as pertussis, and 47 cases this year. Press Release

3. Cavendish 250th Banners Coming Down/For Sale
The Cavendish 250th banners that have graced our town during a very interesting 250th anniversary will be coming down on or about Dec. 19. While a number of these have been purchased, there are some still for sale. These will be sold on a first come first serve basis.

Note that the banners can be taken apart, making the perfect gift for two people this coming holiday season, or keep one for yourself and give one to a friend. The banners are being sold for $150.

To purchase your banner, send a check for $150 to the 250th Anniversary Fund and mail to Cavendish 250th Anniversary Committee, PO Box 126, Cavendish, VT 05142-0126. You can also drop off a check at the town office.

If you have already purchased a banner, you can pick them up from the town office, or call 226-7292 to make other arrangements.

4. Buying Local for the Holidays
Ideas you may not have though of:
• Grass Fed Beef from Moonlite Meadows Farm in Cavendish. Call 802-226-8077

• Gift Certificate to the Fletcher Farm School for the Arts and Crafts. You can purchase gift certificates on-line or stop by their store. Upcoming classes for January include: Woodcarving, Pen & In (Jan. 14 & 15); Kirigami and Watercolor Landscape (Jan. 21 & 22) and Oil Still Life Paining and Woodcarving (Jan 28 & 29). FMI: 802-228,8770, info@fletcherfarm.org or http://www.fletcherfarm.org

5. Cavendish Calendar 12/9-12/16/11
December 9 (Friday): Silent Auction at the Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow ends.

December 10 (Saturday): Both Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Departments are selling Christmas trees, starting at $30. Proctorsville also offer wreaths starting at $15. Cavendish will be open from 9-5, while Proctorsville will be operational. 9am to 4pm.
Santa Clause will be stopping by the Proctorsville Fire Dept at 10am by fire truck. Bring the whole family to see Santa and enjoy a cup of coffee and a homemade doughnut.
• Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodman’s American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• The Cavendish Baptist Church will be caroling at the Gill Home. Meet at the Gill Home at 3 pm. FMI: 226-7131

December 11 (Sunday): Both Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Departments are selling Christmas trees, starting at $30. Proctorsville also offer wreaths starting at $15. Cavendish will be open from 9-5, while Proctorsville will be operational. 9am to 4pm.

December 12 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda posted to blog www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com as soon as it is received. LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV.

December 13 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

December 14 (Wednesday): After School Library Program-Booksploration Grades K-1 The Year Without a Santa Claus
• CTES Holiday Program at the school, 7-8 pm
• Okemo Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting at the Stone Hearth Inn FMI: http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/annual-meeting-2011.html

December 15 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• December Community Luncheon, 11:30 at St. James Church Proctorsville. The Christmas holiday luncheon will consist of honey-baked spiral ham with sweet potato casserole, broccoli, fresh hot rolls, Paula's delicious coleslaw, and a dish of ice cream for dessert. Coffee, hot tea or apple cider will round out the meal. Donation of $4.00 for seniors or $5.50 for those under 60 yrs of age is requested.
• After school library program, Itchy Fingers Grades 4-6 Holiday cards and ornaments.
• 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

Cavendish Update 12/2/11 Flood/News/Events

2011-12-02T08:02:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

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

The 12/2/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Flood Recovery-Carhart/VFW
2. Cavendish Related News
3. Year-Round Drug Drop Box
4. Thank You From Black River Good Neighbor
5. BRGNS Holiday Basket Program Extended
6. December Cavendish Calendar

1. Flood Recovery
Carhart: Carhartt Corp has donated winter coats, hats, gloves, shirts, pants, Red Wing shoes and Red Wing boots to distribute to all victims, including displaced workers, who were impacted by Tropical Storm Irene. Gethsemane is hosting a distribution center at the school, this Saturday, Dec. 3, from 1-4:00 p.m. This is free to adult men and women (teens who can fit into adult sizes). You don’t have to have lost clothing...just that you are spending your money elsewhere and buying new clothing is not on the top of your to do list. This is for anyone within 30 miles radius of Cavendish. Killarney's Pub is bringing trays of cookies.

VFW Has Funds to Help VT Vets Hit by Irene: The VFW has raised $40,000 in its effort to help families rebound. The goal is to distribute the money in grants to veterans across the state to pay for their damage and some of the things they lost during the storm. FMI: Veterans of Foreign Wars-Vermont Department, VFW Irene Relief Fund, 802-223-5368, 1stvtcav@gmail.com

2. Cavendish Related News
Healthcare Hearings Begin in VT: The state needs your help finding ways to pay for a single-payer system in Vermont. Four public hearings will be held over the next month. The first will take place this Tuesday from seven to nine at the Marlboro College Tech Center in Brattleboro. Two more will be held. One is on December 13th in Rutland. The other is on December 14 in Williston. Burlington Free Press

Most VT Snowmobile Trails Ready for Winter: Most of Vermont's 5,000 miles of snowmobile trails will be ready when the snow flies after extensive work following the floods brought on by Tropical Irene. WCAX

$5 Christmas Trees Available on the Green Mt. National Forest: Christmas trees may be cut on the Green Mountain National Forest, subject to the following conditions: A “Christmas Tree Removal” permit must be purchased ($5.00) at one of the Forest Service district offices located in Rutland, Middlebury, Manchester Center, or Rochester, Vermont. The permit must be attached to the tree before transporting it from the site where it was cut. The permit holder is responsible for knowing that the tree comes from Forest Service land. Maps are available when you purchase your permit. For more information about the Green Mountain National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/greenmountain

US Sends VT Money for Road Repair: Vermont is going to receive more than $15.3 million to help repair damage from spring flooding and Tropical Storm Irene in August. It's a portion of the money Vermont will need to pay for work to its roads and bridges. Some estimates say the repairs could cost a total of $250 million. Burlington Free Press

VT Statewide School Tax to Remain the Same: Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin says Vermont's statewide school property tax rates should remain at 87 cents per $100 of value for primary homes and $1.37 per $100 for commercial and other non-homestead properties. WCAX

Okemo Valley Women Bare All For a Good Cause: The Okemo Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Calendar, benefiting both the Chamber and the Susan G. Koman Race for the Cure, is now of sale at the Chamber office in Ludlow and at 12 area businesses. They cost $20 and so far have raised more than $8,000. WCAX

3. Year-Round Drug Drop Box: The Windsor Police Dept. has set up a permanent drug drop box (for prescription drugs) in their lobby at the Town Office on Union Street. The heavy, steel, double locked box is available to the public from 8-4 Monday through Friday. For alternative times and more information: 802-674-9042. To learn more about proper disposal of unneeded medications go to What to do with Medications You Are No Longer Using.

4. Thank You From Black River Good Neighbor
The directors, staff and clients of Black River Good Neighbor Services would like to thank the generous individual or family who made a substantial contribution to our programs last month through the Oppenheimer Funds Legacy Program. We would make this a personal thank you, but the donation came without an identifying name and we therefore assume you choose to remain anonymous. We want you to know that your donation is being put to good use and that we have allocated the funds to help us in several ways. We are still paying for our move into the new building and we still have to purchase food and help people pay for winter heat. All of these efforts will greatly benefit from your donation. So our wish to you is to have a happy holiday season and a joyous new year. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Sincerely, Peter J. LaBelle, President of the Board

5. BRGNS Holiday Basket Program Extended
Black River Good Neighbor Services has extended its application deadline for the annual holiday basket program. “We want to be sure to reach everyone in our community that may need assistance this holiday season. With all of the confusion caused by the recent floods, we’ve decided to extend the time to apply to December 8th.” . Applications for Holiday Basket meals and gifts for children are available at BRGNS, 37B Main Street, Ludlow. Applications must be completed by December 8th. Black River Good Neighbor Services helps those in need in Belmont, Cavendish, Ludlow, Mt. Holly, Plymouth, and Proctorsville. FMI: 802-228-3663.

6. December Cavendish Calendar
December 1 (Thursday): After school library program, Itchy Fingers Grades 4-6 Holiday cards and ornaments.
• 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

December 3 (Saturday): Both Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Departments are selling Christmas trees, starting at $30. Proctorsville also offer wreaths starting at $15. Cavendish will be open from 9-5, while Proctorsville will be operational. 9am to 4pm.
• Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• “Stuff a Bus” for Black River Good Neighbors, 9-3 at the Shaw’s Shopping Center Parking Lot. The following items are most needed: canned fruit, cranberry sauce, pickles, olives, Mac & Cheese, Hot chocolate, cookies, tea, cereal (oatmeal), candy, carrots/peas, gravy, stuffing, margarine, corn, green beans, Yams, coffee, frozen turkeys. Donations of money are always needed and appreciated. FMI: 228-3663.

December 4 (Sunday): Both Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Departments are selling Christmas trees, starting at $30. Proctorsville also offer wreaths starting at $15. Cavendish will be open from 9-5, while Proctorsville will be operational. 9am to 4pm.

December 5 (Monday): GMUHS school board meeting of 11/10 will be televised on LPC-TV Channel 10 at 7 pm and again at midnight. This will also be available at the LPCTV website.

December 6 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

December 7 (Wednesday): After School Library Program-Booksploration Grades K-1 The Pigeon Wants a Puppy
• Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office

December 8 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• 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
• Applications for BRGN Holiday Baskets are due.

December 9 (Friday): Silent Auction at the Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow ends.

December 10 (Saturday): Both Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Departments are selling Christmas trees, starting at $30. Proctorsville also offer wreaths starting at $15. Cavendish will be open from 9-5, while Proctorsville will be operational. 9am to 4pm. Santa Clause will be stopping by the Proctorsville Fire Dept at 10am by fire truck. Bring the whole family to see Santa and enjoy a cup of coffee and a homemade doughnut.
• Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• The Cavendish Baptist Church will be caroling at the Gill Home. Meet at the Gill Home at 3 pm. FMI: 226-7131

December 11 (Sunday): Both Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Departments are selling Christmas trees, starting at $30. Proctorsville also offer wreaths starting at $15. Cavendish will be open from 9-5, while Proctorsville will be operational. 9am to 4pm.

December 12 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda posted to blog as soon as it is received. LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV.

December 13 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

December 14 (Wednesday): After School Library Program-Booksploration Grades K-1 The Year Without a Santa Claus
• CTES Holiday Program at the school, 7-8 pm
• Okemo Valley Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting at the Stone Hearth Inn FMI: http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/annual-meeting-2011.html

December 15 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• December Community Luncheon, 11:30 at St. James Church Proctorsville. The Christmas holiday luncheon will consist of honey-baked spiral ham with sweet potato casserole, broccoli, fresh hot rolls, Paula's delicious coleslaw, and a dish of ice cream for dessert. Coffee, hot tea or apple cider will round out the meal. Donation of $4.00 for seniors or $5.50 for those under 60 yrs of age is requested.
• After school library program, Itchy Fingers Grades 4-6 Holiday cards and ornaments.
• 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

December 17 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com

December 18 (Sunday): Cavendish Baptist Church-Christmas Play and Potluck Celebration, 10 am at the church. Come be entertained as children from the community present an original play that explores how to share the Spirit of Christmas all year long. Bring a dish to share at the potluck lunch following the performance. FMI: 226-7131

December 20 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

December 22 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• 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

December 23 (Friday): Holiday recess begins for GMUHS and CTES

December 24 (Saturday): Winter Farmers Market at the Ludlow Teen Center (Goodmans American Pie), Main Street Ludlow. FMI: www.ludlowfarmersmarket.com
• Cavendish Baptist Church-Candlelight Christmas Eve Service, 7 pm at the church. This special service retells the story of Jesus' birth through Bible readings and Christmas songs. Glow bracelets are available for children too young to hold candles. FMI: 226-7131

December 25 (Sunday): MERRY CHRISTMAS
• Cavendish Baptist Church-Service at 10 am. FMI: 226-7131

December 26 (Monday): Town office closed

December 27 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

December 29 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• 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

SPECIAL NOTICE: POWER OUTAGE

2011-12-01T16:14:00.000-08:00

There will be a town wide power outage tonight from Midnight until 4 am for CVPS customers (primarily Cavendish village). Apparently there was a power line damaged somewhere in Weathersfield today and CVPS is planning to replace it tonight.

Carhartt Corp Donation 12/3/11

2011-12-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

Carhartt Corp has donated winter coats, hats, gloves, shirts, pants, Red Wing shoes and Red Wing boots to distribute to all victims, including displaced workers, who were impacted by Tropical Storm Irene. Gethsemane is hosting a distribution center at the school, this Saturday, Dec. 3, from 1-4:00 p.m. This is free to adult men and women (teens who can fit into adult sizes).
doesn't mean you have to have lost clothing...just that you are spending your money elsewhere and buying new clothing is not on the top of your to do list..

This is for anyone within 30 miles radius of Cavendish. Please, help us spread the word.

Killarney's Pub heard about it and are bringing down trays of cookies for folks. If you can think of anyone to add music to the celebration, it would be wonderful.

Cavendish Update 11/25/11 News/Bus.Dir/Shop/Events

2011-11-25T02:57:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 11/25/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Remember the Cavendish Update this Holiday Season
2. Cavendish Related News
3. Cavendish Business Directory 250th Anniversary Edition/Shop Local This year
4. Thank You From the Huntley Family
5. Free Small Business Workshop
6. Use Facebook for Up to Date Information
7. Cavendish Activities 11/25-11/30

1. Remember the Cavendish Update this Holiday Season
Today officially begins the mad dash to find the right present for family, friends and neighbors. For those that appreciate the value the Cavendish Update, Cavendish VT Facebook and blog provides throughout the year, consider making a donation in one of the following ways:

• Make a tax-deductible contribution to the Cavendish Community & Conservation Association (CCCA, PO Box 605, Cavendish, VT 05142) or the Cavendish Historical Society (CHS, PO Box 472, Cavendish, VT 05142). Be sure to note that the donation is for the Cavendish Update.

• As generous as the CCCA and CHS sponsorships are, it does not cover the costs of maintaining all of these activities Sponsor a day, week or month to celebrate someone. To learn more about this, e-mail margoc@tds.net or call 802-226-7807

2. Cavendish Related News
VT 106 Reopens: The Vermont Agency of Transportation has reopened Vermont 106 through Weathersfield, following repairs made of damage caused three months ago by Tropical Storm Irene. The state road was damaged near the intersection with Vermont 131; about 450 feet of the road was "obliterated," a news release stated. A 90-foot-deep crater had to be rebuilt from the bank of the Black River to the edge of Vermont 106, the news release said. Repair work coordinated by Gurney Brothers Construction of North Springfield involved use of dozens of heavy-equipment vehicles and of 100,000 cubic yards of rock and fill. Burlington Free Press

Health Dept Reports Increase in Pertussis Cases: Twenty-seven cases of pertussis have been confirmed in Vermont this year, including six cases in the past month. Recent confirmed cases have been reported in Chittenden, (4), Washington (1), and Bennington (1) counties, with additional probable or suspected cases in Chittenden, Addison and Windham counties. The age range of confirmed cases is from 5 months to 67 years old. The infection usually begins with mild upper respiratory symptoms and an irritating cough that gradually worsens to include possible whooping, short periods without breathing, or vomiting. FMI healthvermont.gov

VT to Receive $15M in Emergency Aid: The U.S. Department of Transportation will release $15 million in emergency funds to help Vermont rebuild and repair roads and bridges destroyed or damaged by floods. The Federal Highway Administration emergency grant includes $14 million for repairing damage caused last August by Tropical Storm Irene. Another $1 million will help cover repair costs for highways and bridges washed out during heavy spring flooding. Press Release

New Measures to Assist Municipalities with Storm-Related Cash Flow Issues: State Treasurer Beth Pearce, legislative leadership, and the Shumlin administration announced a package of measures that will accelerate highway aid and education payments and allow disaster-impacted towns to defer education payments due to the State on December 1. Press Release

VT’s “Split the Ticket” on fuel oil : Thanks to the generosity of Vermont fuel dealers, along with local businesses and organizations, the Split the Ticket program will provide more than 6,000 gallons of free heating fuel this winter. eating fuel retailers agree to donate a delivery of oil, kerosene, or propane to a neighbor in need. Those pledged gallons will be matched with donations from the community. Please consider helping Split the Ticket with a Vermonter in need this winter. All funds will be used to match fuel donations by Vermont’s oil and propane dealers—none are used to administer the program. FMI:

VPIRG’s Trouble in Toyland: For 26 years, the Vermont Public Interest Research Group’s (VPIRG) Trouble in Toyland report has offered safety guidelines for purchasing toys for small children and provided examples of toys currently on store shelves that pose potential safety hazards. The group also provides an interactive website with tips for safe toy shopping that consumers can access on their smart phones at www.toysafety.mobi. To download the list in PDF format go to www.vpirg.org

VT Agency of Natural Resources Repeals Rule Permitting ATVs on State Lands: The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) has filed a Final Proposed Rule with the Vermont Secretary of State and the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (LCAR) that repeals a 2009 rule that addressed the use of ATV’s on state land. Following a public hearing held last spring, and the review of thousands of comments, ANR has decided to proceed with the repeal of what is known as the ATV rule. Press Release

3. Cavendish Business Directory 250th Anniversary Edition/Shop Local This year
With today being “Black Friday, “ there are lots of ways you can do your holiday shopping right here in Cavendish. Know what’s available locally and on-line by browsing the Cavendish Business Directory, which is maintained by Cavendish Historical Society and available on-line. Below are some suggestions on shopping around town and supporting your community:

• There are a number of local business-such as Old Cavendish Fruitcakes, Soap Baubles, Summit Soapworks and Cavendish Game Birds-that are on-line and ready to fill your orders.

• Consider gift certificates to different types of businesses. Besides a hair cut at the Village Clipper or a massage at the Castle Hill Spa, consider things like two hours of handy man services, house cleaning or a night at one of the Inns.

• Both Fletcher Farm and Six Loose Ladies offer a wide array of classes, from learning to knit to working with metals. Remember that Fletcher Farm is half price for Cavendish residents.

• Lots of our local stores carry items made by our friends and neighbors. Don’t forget that Fletcher Farms’ Store is open for holiday shopping.

• Saturday’s Holiday Fair features crafts and food made by members of the various churches and community groups.

• The Cavendish Historical Society offers a variety of books and photographs pertaining to Cavendish. FMI: margoc@tds.net, 802-226-7807

• CCCA’s calendar and Cavendish Historic Barn posters are available at Crows Bakery. The bakery is also offering Festive Yule Iogs, Pumpkin roIIs and gIuten free Chocolate Decadence Cakes made to order for the Holidays. Butter cookie trays and specially decorated cookies are also offered along with Mini Iinzer tarts. Artwork by Robin and beaded bracelets by CheryI are aIso for saIe.

• Purchase Christmas trees and wreaths from one of the local fire departments. Proctorsville Fire Department will have wreaths for sale this Saturday at the Holiday Fair starting at $15. Their annual Christmas Wreath and Tree Sale will be held on Dec 3rd, 4th , 10th and 11th from 9am to 4pm. Tress start at $30. On Saturday the 10th at 10am Santa will be arriving by fire truck, bring the whole family to see Santa and enjoy a coffee and homemade doughnut.

If your business or organization is doing something special this holiday season, e-mail margoc@tds.net call 802-226-7807 or post directly to the Cavendish Facebook page.

4. Thank You From the Huntley Family
Dear Friends & Neighbors:

Since the passing of our son Spencer we have been overwhelmed by the support, love, messages, prayers, food, wine, flowers, notes, visits, calls, cards, invitations out, etc. that we have received from everyone in and around this wonderful community. To all of you who have reached out to our family, thank you. To all of you who have kept us in your thoughts and prayers, thank you. To know that we are not alone helps to bolster our courage during this time of transition and healing.

To those who have contributed so generously to Spencer's Memorial Fund, we thank you. We will strive to make a difference in the lives of young musicians and keep Spencer's loving spirit alive through our on-going sponsorships, scholarships and donations.

To those of you who have shared stories of Spencer and his impact in your lives, special thanks to you. Knowing that he mattered to many people beyond our own family gives us comfort that his life will resonate in other lives perhaps in ways we never imagined.

I don't think I ever realized how important a community was until seeing you all in action, first during the destruction and rebuilding of Irene, and now with our recent tragedy. My mother, brothers and sisters and visiting friends were all amazed at the outpouring of your concern and care for us and could see the incredible support derived from living in this amazing community.

A special thank you must be sent to Pastor Abraham Gross and the Cavendish Baptist Church. Abe sought us out on the night of the accident, offered his church and services to us if we needed them and allowed us the freedom and grace to put together a rather unconventional and some might say, heretical service. And all the while he stood by my family to offer whatever support and encouragement we might need. He is truly a man here doing God's work steadily, quietly and humbly and we thank him.

Part of the initial shock and confusion of the first week of the accident has resulted in us not keeping proper track of who brought what to the house. Consequently, we have many plates, pans, dishes and containers that should be returned to their owners with proper thanks and speed but which we are at a loss to assign to the proper person. Please feel free to stop by our home and claim your dish, pan or plate or call us and tell us which is yours and we can arrange to get your things back to you - all with our sincere appreciation. The food has been delicious.

As you gather around your Holiday tables this season, love each other completely, forgive each other absolutely and laugh with each other heartily. Appreciate the small things and know that you are blessed. We do.
Thanks to you all_-

Sharon, Mark & Madi Huntley

5. Free Small Business Workshop: Google is coming to the Howard Dean Education Center on Friday, December 9th with a morning session from 9am-12n and afternoon session from 1p-4p. This is a free seminar for small businesses to learn:
a. How to get a free website
b. How to run your business online
c. How to get your business found online for free
d. Best practices on marketing your business online

To register for the seminar, go to http://www.vermontgetonline.com/events

6. Use Facebook for Up to Date Information
The Cavendish VT Facebook page is checked throughout the day. In the event of an emergent situation, such as Irene, many people post information about conditions in their area, including if help is needed. The Proctorsville Fire Department Facebook page is also frequently monitored in emergent situations. You do not have to be a Facebook member to look at these sites, but you must register if you want to post something.

7. Cavendish Activities 11/25-11/30
November 25 (Friday): School and town office closed.
• Last day to file for a Black River Good Neighbor 2011 Christmas Basket program. Baskets will be delivered on Thursday, December 22nd.
• Black Friday-The biggest day of the year for retailers marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Shop local!

November 26 (Saturday): Holiday Fair at the Cavendish Elementary School
• Small Business Saturday a day to support the local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country. FMI: http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/small-business-saturday.html

November 27 (Sunday): Last day to drop of coats to for the Black River Good Neighbors Coat drive at Vermont Properties and Development, 29 Locust Hill Road, Ludlow. FMI: 802-228-8877 or email vtprop.com

November 29 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

November 30 (Wednesday): Library Program-Booksploration Grades K-1 Splat the cat: Goodnight Spat. FMI: 226-7503

106 is now Open

2011-11-24T03:59:00.000-08:00

Route 106 has been reopened in Weathersfield.

Cavendish Business Directory 250th Anniversary

2011-11-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

The following businesses are located and/or owned by Cavendish/Proctorsville residents. Inclusion in this directory should not be viewed as a recommendation. If you would like your business included in the directory, e-mail margoc@tds.net or call 802-226-7807. Be sure to include the full name of your business and how you can be reached, including e-mail and web address.

The Directory is a project of the Cavendish Historical Society,

Agriculture
Don Davis 226-7324 Goats & Cattle, 20 Chubb Hill Rd, Cavendish

Happy Acres Farm 484-7806 Proctorsville

Little Village Farm 226-7231, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)

Moonlit Meadows 226-8077 Fax 226-7145 Sheep, grass fed lamb & beef and eggs for sale

Town Farm Vineyards 226-7800 Community Supported Agriculture

Animal Services
Cavendish Canine Camp 226-7297, Day Care and Boarding
46 Winery Rd, Proctorsville

Appraisers
Dave Montesi 226-7357, Certified residential appraiser, Proctorsville

Slack Webster 226-7468, Proctorsville

Architects
Calabrese Architects 226-7754, Sustainable architects and landscape architects, 437 Main Street, Proctorsville

Teruko Design 226-7889 802-522-5964, Landscape architect, broad range of services including resort planning and detail site design. Cavendish

Artists and Musicians
Bont, Phyllis 226-7757, Weaver, Cavendish

Choiniere, Lucien 226-8199, Tenor Soloist May thru Oct only

Churchill, Winston 226-7772, Engraver, photographer, sculpture, Proctorsville

Fiber Arts in Vermont 226-7373 Quilters, weavers, spinners etc.

Field Hill Studio 226-7250 or 802-779-5267 Peter LaBelle Stained Glass, Cavendish

Fisher, Kathy 226-7815 Chair Caning, Cavendish

Fletcher Farm School for the Arts & Crafts, 228-8776 611 Route 103, Ludlow (Cavendish residents can take one course at half price)

Four Season Felting 484-5616, moxieb@sover.net Jen Leak

From the Heart 226-7905, Jewelry, Kathy Failing, Proctorsville gkfail@tds.net

Jennifer Hoar Designs 226-7152 Textile Designer and owner of Soap Baubles Proctorsville

Lichensteiger, Wendy, Wood Carver

Montesi, Candace 226-7357, Piano & organ, lessons & performance for events, Proctorsville

Sabo, Tom 226-7825, Singer, Storyteller, Cavendish tail@tds.net

Six Loose Ladies 226-7373 Fiber Arts Store on the Proctorsville Green

Snyder, Charlotte 226-7343, Soprano soloist for all occasions 802-345-7687 (cell) nsnyder@tds.net

Summit Soapworks 228-4900

Cheryl Liener 226-7820, Folk Arts Cavendish

Queen Bee Quilting 226-7850, Diane McNamara

Under and Over Weavers 226-7331, Wendy Regier, Proctorsville

Wattke, Christopher 226-7477, Potter, Cavendish

Yankee Chank 226-7204, Authentic Cajun Band, Cavendish

Auto Repair & Restoration
G & G Restorations 226-7844, Antiques & Classics Proctorsville

Kens Auto Repair 226-7875, 115 Prior Rd Cavendish

Ludlow Auto Body 228-3374, 96 Route 103 Cavendish

Bakery: See Food Services

Beauty Salon and Spas
The Castle Hill Spa & Resort 226-7419, Aveda Spa and Fitness Center. On the corner of 103 and 131 in Proctorsville

Village Clipper 226-7233, Proctorsville Green 463 Main St.

Building Trades
Barr’s Builders 226-7561, 914 Main St. Proctorsville

Cavendish Roofing & Carpentry 226-7824
Cavendish

Clifford Johnson & Son 226-7766, Offering backhoe, ponds, driveways, bulldozing, parking lots, septic systems, foundations. Cavendish

Devereux Builders 226-8107, Cavendish

Fuller, Roger 226-8142, House builder, finish carpentry, 1521 Brook Rd., Cavendish

Gilcris Enterprises, Inc 226-7764, 260 Peaceful Valley Rd, Proctorsville

Glidden, Al 226-8071, Cavendish

Integrity Systems 226-7815, Beam Central Vacs Cavendish

Lindberg Builders 226-7759, Carpentry, Remodeling, Dry-Wall, Roofing, Painting, Custom Timber Frame Buildings
Parker Hill Cavendish

Mott, Tim Builder 226-7092 Cell 291-5385, New Construction, renovations, decks, and painting. martimot@excite.com Proctorsville

Peter Jordan Construction 226-8125, Framing, Carpentry, Tile, Flooring, Cell 802-558-5267

Singleton Builders 226-7330, 2702 Brook Rd Cavendish

Stearns, Jeff 226-8151 cell 802-738-2024, Heavy Equipment Operator, Proctorsville

Tyrrell’s Angels Construction 226-7231, Construction carajer@tds.net, Cell 802-775-2175

Tyrrell’s Enterprises 226-7573 or 800/654-7573 Residential, commercial and industrial, Roofing, sell steel buildings, Proctorsville

Wilson Woodworking North LLC 7494 Proctorsville, VT Karenw381@cs.com

Vermont Frame To Finish 226-7815, Residential and commercial building, 3fishs@tds.net Cavendish

Business Services
Black River Tax &Business Ser 226-7034, 463 Main St. Proctorsville

Caulfield & Associates 226-7807 , Social marketing, group facilitator, strategic planning margoc@tds.net Cavendish

Hunter Press 226-7852 High Speed Copying, office in Weathersfield

Huntley Financial Services 228-5774, Office 1116 Main St. Ludlow, Cavendish Resident

ParaGraFix 226-8077 Fax 226-7145 Web Development Cavendish

PMA 226-7013 or 226-7900 Sales promotion and counseling 463 Main St., Proctorsville

Promo Marketing Services 866-964-9229 bob@promofocus.com
Proctorsville Resident

RDB Marketing 226-8092 Fax 226-7117, Marketing & Event Services
Academy Building, Cavendish, info@rdbevents.com

Stowell Alemán Translations 226-7439 Fundraising, operational and strategic planning for non-profits. sarastowell@tds.net Proctorsville

Wallco Consultants 226-7344 199 Howard Hill Rd. Cavendish

Camp Grounds
Caton Place 226-7767, 2419 East Rd Cavendish

Meadow Brook Farm 226-7755, 253 Meadow Brook Farm Rd, Proc

Caterers: See Food Services

Cavendish Town
Fire, Ambulance, Police 911
Non-Emergency 226-2112
Cavendish Fire 226-7281
Proctorsville Fire 226-7790

Cavendish Library 226-7503

Post Offices: Cavendish 226-7238
Proctorsville 226-7268
Schools
• Elementary: 226-7758 or 226-7312

• High School (GMUHS): 875-2146

Town Garage 226-7294

Town Office 226-7292 or 226-7291

Treatment Plant 226-7743

Fletcher Memorial Library 228-8921 Ludlow Free to Cavendish/Proc residents

Child Care/PreSchool
Bonnie Wright 226-7648, Cavendish

Smiling Faces Day Care 226-7824, Main St. Cavendish

Stepping Stones Preschool 226-7760, 3628 RT 103, Proctorsville
sspreschool@tds.net

Churches
Calvary Assembly of God 226-7607, Rt 103 Proctorsville

Cavendish Baptist Church 226-7131, 2258 Main St. Cavendish

Gethsemane Episcopal 226-7967, Depot St. Proctorsville

Holy Name of Mary Catholic 228-3451, Main St. Proctorsville

St. James United Methodist 226-7819, 570 Main St Proctorsville

Coin & Stamp Dealers
Larry’s Coins 226-7185, PO Box 123, Cavendish, Steady412002@yahoo.com

Meadowbrook Coins & Stamps 226-7897, 345 Meadowbrook Farm Road, Proctorsville, jrice@tds.net

Community Organizations
Bullet Proof Whitney’s Friends

Cavendish Historical Society 226-7807, blog

Cavendish Home Workers Club II 226-7653

Cavendish Community and Conservation Association (CCCA) 226-7736

Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)-Cavendish Chapter 875-2918

Little League: Call CTES 226-7758

Myrtle Rebakkah Lodge 226-7579

Scouting: Call CTES 226-7758

Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support 226-7231 or crisis line 802-738-3411

Okemo Valley Chamber of Commerce

Convenience Stores
Mini Beez 226-7751, 1990 Main St., Cavendish

Singleton’s Store 226-7666, Sale of food, state liquor store, clothes and more
356 Main St. Proctorsville

William’s Country Store, Main St. Cavendish

Dredging
William’s Lake/Pond Dredging 226-7459, Cavendish

Environmental Services
USA Solar Store 226-7194, Proctorsville Route 103

Electronics
Armstrong Electric 484-7360, Cavendish, VT, Armstrongelectric@gmail.com

CA Services and Supply Co. 226-7582 Fax 226-7738 Parts for AM, FM and TV transmitting
Equipment , Consulting Engineer 66 Duttonsville School Dr. Cavendish

Commercial Radio Co 226-7582 Fax 226-7738 Consulting Engineer 66 Duttonsville School Dr. Cavendish

Mill Brook Electric 226-7559, Cavendish

Engineers
Squire Jeffrey 226-7557, Civil Engineer 180 Hardscrabble Rd Cavendish

Excavating: See Builders section

Fire
Green Mt Fire Inc: 226-7444, Sells Fire protection Equipment and supplies, Cavendish

Firewood/Logging/ Lumber
Palmer 226-7461

Star Hill Lumber 226-7045, Clearing, logging, firewood, custom sawing, 625 Parker Hill Rd., Cavendish

Stowell, Deryl 226-7403, Proctorsville Firewood

Florist
Giggs Antiques and Flowers 226-7492, 2092 Cavendish Gulf Rd Cavendish

Marion’s Flower Shoppe 228-7851, Ludlow, Proctorsville Owner

Moments n’Time 226-8199, Silk and Dried Arrangements May thru Oct only

Food Services
Mini Beez 226-7751, 1990 Main St., Cavendish

Cavendish Game Birds 885-5339, Cavendish residents, office in Springfield

Crows Bakery & Opera House Cafe 226-7007 Depot St., Proctorsville

Goodman’s American Pie 228-4271 Wood fired pizza Residents of Proctorsville, 106 Main St, Ludlow

Old Cavendish Products 226-7783, Makers of fruitcake, Monkey Chews and other fine foods

Singleton’s Store 226-7666, Sale of food, state liquor store, clothes and more
356 Main St. Proctorsville

Tyrrell’s Maple Syrup 226-7409, Proctorsville

Vermont Apple Pies Breakfast Restaurant 802-554-0040 265 Depot St., Proctorsville.

Vermont Fresh Pasta 226-7580, Proctorsville, RT 103

Vermont Wholesome Foods, LLC Cavendish

Gift Shop
Red Barn Gallery Main Street, Proctorsville

Sheehan Treasures 226-7896 Main Street, Proctorsville

The Odd Indian 226-7542, 21 Route 103

Guns and Gunsmiths
Black River Militeria 226-7204 Specializing in military firearms;
Federally licensed firearms manufacturing Cavendish

Health Care
Chronic Conditions Information Network 226-7807 margoc@tds.net Sponsor of Healing Whole

Live Authentically 226-7848, Proctorsville

Move 2 Learn (Feldenkrais): 226-7783, move2learn@tds.net Mary Ormrod Cavendish

Four Season’s Chiropractic: 226-7977, Dr. Natale 58 Parker Avenue Proctorsville

Julie Gignoux 484-5435, Reiki Master Teacher & Healing Practitioner, juliagignoux@gmail.com

Deborah Harrison LICSW 226-7900, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Mental Health Counseling Services for individuals, families and couples

Mercury Ripley 226-7888, Mental Health Counseling 2091 Main Street Cavendish mercury@tds.net

Heating and Plumbing
Cool Connection. 226-7962 Refrigeration & air conditioning Commercial & residential Proctorsville.

JC’s On Call 228-4422 Proctorsville resident

Martel Mechanical Plumbing and Heating 226-7799 Proctorsville

Moore’s Heating Services 226-7060 Specializes Oil Heating, Cavendish

Heavy Equipment & Excavating Cliff Johnson & Son 226-7766 Cavendish

Glidden, Al 226-8071 Cavendish

J & S Diversified 226-7681 Cavendish

Stearns, Jeff 226-8151 cell 802-738-2024 Proctorsville

Home Improvement
Beacon Pest Control 226-7374 Cavendish

Cavendish Roofing and Carpentry 226-7824 Cavendish

Chimney Care 226-7374 Chimney sweeping and snow removal 2055 Main St., Cavendish

Edgin Lawns 226-7823 Lawn Care (mowing, raking, landscaping) Ed Garrow, Jr. Cavendish

Glidden Painting 226-8071 71 Teirney Rd. Cavendish

Ken’s Paint and Paper 226-8003 Painting, Wall covering, faux & decorative Finishes, plaster and wallboard repair
112 Chapman Rd, Proctorsville

Claude Mortillaro 226-7108 Carpentry, kitchen & baths, tiling & flooring

Mott, Tim Builder 226-7092 Cell 291-5385 Carpentry, dry wall Proctorsville

New Life Floors 226-7791 Sanding and Refinishing Cavendish

O’Brien, Terry 226-8086 Painting Cavendish

Sandy's General Housekeeping Service 226-7475 Proctorsville

Sargents Painting and Contractors 226-8004 393 Main St., Cavendish

Snow White Cleaning Service 226-7546 Geri Frrar

Thurston, Mark 802-779-3906 Painting, dry wall, finish work and repairs Cavendish

TL Billings Painting 226-7522 Cavendish

Tyrell’s Enterprise 226-7573 394 Depot St., Proctorsville

Village Painters 226-7035 Dave Hryckiewicz Interior & exterior

Wallscapes (papering and painting) 226-7417 Roxie Davis Proctorsville

Landscaping
Good Earth Landscape Company 226-7754 Landscape Architects Proctorsville

Freedom Landscape & Design 226-7154 Cell Phone: 802-558-7438 Proctorsville

Legal
Vermont Law Week 226-7852 Cavendish

Lodging
Castle, The 226-7361, 17 Main St., Proctorsville

Cavendish Pointe Hotel (Clarion) 226-7688, 2940 Route 103, Proctorsville

Glimmerstone Mansion 802-554-0045 Opening Fall 2011

Golden Stage Inn 226-7744, 399 Depot St., Proctorsville

Lumber See Fire wood/Logging

Manufacturing
Mack Molding 226-7201, Plastics, molders, injection Cavendish

Plumbing See Heating and Plumbing

Real Estate/ Rental Services
Diamond Realty 228-1234 Proctorsville resident owner

Fitzgerald’s Property Services 226-7176 Cavendish

MacLean Rental Properties 226-7286 160 Mill St., Cavendish

Singleton’s Property Management 226-7330
2702 Brook Rd, Proctorsville

Recreation
Vermont Alpine Racing Ass. 226-8188, 2167 Main St., Cavendish

Snow Mobiles
Cavendish Snow Fleas

Johnson Clifford & Son 226-7766

Snow Country Snow Mobile 226-7529, 96 Winery Rd, Proctorsville

Snow Plowing
Glidden, Al 226-8071 Cavendish

Roby, Lance 226-7824 Cavendish

Stearns, Jeff 226-8151 cell 802-738-2024 Proctorsville

Taxidermy
Wilderness Taxidermy 226-7542, 21 Route 103, Proctorsville

Telecommunications
Nationwide CATV Services 226-7919 160 Mill, Cavendish

Translator
Stowell Alemán Translations (Spanish) 226-7439 sarastowell@tds.net Proctorsville

Welding & Fabrication
Palmer’s 226-7839

CAVENDISH UPDATE
Want to know what’s going on in Cavendish? Subscribe to the free e-mail digest, Cavendish Update. Provides calendar of events, local recycling, and town information. To subscribe, send an e-mail to margoc@tds.net with “subscribe CU” in the subject heading. You can also read the Update on line at www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com

JOIN THE CAVENDISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Help to preserve our history, as well as support projects like the Cavendish Business Directory, by joining the Cavendish Historical Society. Complete the form below and send a check, payable to CHS, to CHS, PO Box 472, Cavendish, VT 05142. All contributions are tax deductible.

Name: _______________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

Phone Number: _____________________ E-Mail: _____________________________

Membership Level
__ Individual Member $10 ___ Senior Member 65+ $5 ___ Sustaining Member $500
__ Household Member $15 ___ Contributing Member $250

Thank You from the Huntleys

2011-11-18T15:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends & Neighbors:

Since the passing of our son Spence, we have been overwhelmed by the support, love, messages, prayers, food, wine, flowers, notes, visits, calls, cards, invitations out, etc. that we have received from everyone in and around this wonderful community. To all of you who have reached out to our family, thank you. To all of you who have kept us in your thoughts and prayers, thank you. To know that we are not alone helps to bolster our courage during this time of transition and healing.

To those who have contributed so generously to Spencer's Memorial Fund, we thank you. We will strive to make a difference in the lives of young musicians and keep Spencer's loving spirit alive through our on-going sponsorships, scholarships and donations.

To those of you who have shared stories of Spencer and his impact in your lives, special thanks to you. Knowing that he mattered to many people beyond our own family gives us comfort that his life will resonate in other lives perhaps in ways we never imagined.

I don't think I ever realized how important a community was until seeing you all in action, first during the destruction and rebuilding of Irene, and now with our recent tragedy. My mother, brothers and sisters and visiting friends were all amazed at the outpouring of your concern and care for us and could see the incredible support derived from living in this amazing community.

A special thank you must be sent to Pastor Abraham Gross and the Cavendish Baptist Church. Abe sought us out on the night of the accident, offered his church and services to us if we needed them and allowed us the freedom and grace to put together a rather unconventional and some might say, heretical service. And all the while he stood by my family to offer whatever support and encouragement we might need. He is truly a man here doing God's work steadily, quietly and humbly and we thank him.

Part of the initial shock and confusion of the first week of the accident has resulted in us not keeping proper track of who brought what to the house. Consequently, we have many plates, pans, dishes and containers that should be returned to their owners with proper thanks and speed but which we are at a loss to assign to the proper person. Please feel free to stop by our home and claim your dish, pan or plate or call us and tell us which is yours and we can arrange to get your things back to you - all with our sincere appreciation. The food has been delicious.

As you gather around your Holiday tables this season, love each other completely, forgive each other absolutely and laugh with each other heartily. Appreciate the small things and know that you are blessed. We do.
Thanks to you all -

Sharon, Mark & Madi Huntley

Cavendish Update 11/18/11 SB Mtg/Thank Yous/Events

2011-11-18T07:14:00.000-08:00

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

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 11/18/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Select Board Meeting 11/14/11
2. Thank You Neighbors, Friends and Surrounding Communities
3. Card of Thanks
4. Golden Stage Inn Launches New Website
5. Cavendish Activities 11/18/11-11/26/11

1. Select Board Meeting 11/14/11
The Cavendish Select Board met on Monday evening, after an executive session “on a matter of litigation.” Items discussed included:

A. Windham & Windsor Housing Trust (WWHT): Representatives from WWHT http://www.w-wht.org/ spoke to the Select Board about their mission and purpose. To hold land and housing in trust in order to provide permanent access to decent and affordable housing for residents of the two-county region. The Rockingham Area Land Trust, which was responsible for the affordable housing projects around the Proctorsville Green, has merged with WWHT. They spoke about the housing units that were damaged in Irene and explained that there is a bid process for repairs to the building underway. The goal is have owners back in their homes after the first of the year. The WWHT representatives wanted the citizens of Cavendish, particularly those who were impacted by the flood, to know about their programs, which are outlined at their website, http://www.w-wht.org/

B. Snowmobile Trails for the 2011-2012 season: Leon Woods requested approval for road traverses for the upcoming season. The Select Board granted permission.

C. Kaupinen’s response to Public Health Notice: Kaupinen responded to the letter sent to him by the town’s Board of Health, regarding his derelict building at 53 Depot Street. In the October letter Kaupinen was cited as follows “The subject building has previously been the subject of numerous prior citizen complaints to the Board of Selectmen and the Town Health officer for issues such as:
1. Fire Hazard;
2. Holes and openings to the structure, which afforded points of entry for vermin, rodents, pigeons and other birds;
3. Attractive nuisance to neighborhood children especially when potential openings for entry are in evidence;
4. Potential collapse hazard, and
5. Blight upon the neighborhood

Unable to attend the site visit and hearing, rescheduled by the Select Board from 10/17 to 10/24 so he would have time to prepare, Kaupinen said he had a funeral to attend that day. In his letter, he refuted some of the charges-such as his denial that children were entering the building- and requested that complaints be dismissed. The board voted to hold a second hearing on Dec. 12 so he could present his case to the board. Those who were in attendance at the Oct. 24 meeting will also be invited back for this hearing. The 10/28 Cavendish Update contains information about this site visit and hearing held on Oct. 24. A copy of Kaupinen’s letter will be sent to the Condo owners.

D. Draft of a Derelict or Dangerous Building Ordinance: Rich Svec, town manager, said he didn’t have time to draft something prior to the board meeting, but hopes to have a draft written well in advance of the December Select Board Meeting.

E. Energy Grant: Awarded in the spring of 2010, the original plan was to implement the grant in late June/early July of that year, with all of the work finished before winter. The grant covers energy upgrades at the Town Office and Town Garage. With the money needing to be spent by Dec. 31, 2011, the town held a pre bid meeting on 11/14 with bids due by 11/17. The town will act as the general contractor to reduce costs. A short extension period is being requested based on recovery work needed after Irene. Svec said that the meeting room will be used for storing items from the attic while insulating is being done. This means that meetings, such as the December Select Board and Planning Commission Meetings, will need to be temporarily held at the school.

2. Thank You Neighbors, Friends and Surrounding Communities
At this time of year, we pause to give thanks. For those of us in Cavendish, we have much to be thankful for this year.

On August 28, our town was abruptly changed. While the road damage and flooding made us an “island town,” so many of you came to our aid to not only reassure us that we were not alone, but to help us as we began the recovery process.

For ten days, the Cavendish Town Elementary School was our shelter. Over 85 individuals and families and 36 organizations and businesses, including Vermont Red Cross, Homeland Security and the National Guard brought food and water to sustain us, the tools to clean up our homes and businesses, as well as the equipment and talent to restore our roads. Approximately 120 people helped to keep the shelter going, and another 25 formed work crews to assist in restoring damaged property.

For several months now, as we’ve continued the work at cleaning and rebuilding, we have tried to compile a list of all those who have helped. In truth, we can’t remember everyone’s names, but we will never forget the special joy of sleeping late because a group of women from Chester came to cook breakfast and helped with lunches and dinner. From so many different places, people poured in with donations of food, cleaning supplies and basic household items that kept “the Cavendish Cupboard” stocked. We may not remember your names, but we will never forget your acts of kindness.

We would like to extend a special note of thanks to the following organizations and businesses, some of whom were dealing with their own flooding issues, for making a difference in our lives: 56 Main Street; American Legion, Chester; American Legion, Ludlow American Pie; Baba Louis (Chester); Black River Good Neighbor; Black River Produce; Cavendish Game Birds; Chester Andover Elementary School; Central VT Humane Society; Chester/Andover; Chester Family Center; Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort, Inc.; Crows Bakery; Cota & Cota; Court St. Anne #1069 CDA; Flood Brook Union School; Hair One, Ludlow; Jiffy Mart; LaValley’s; Lisais Market; Old Cavendish Products; Pleasant Valley Foods; Precision Valley Baptist Church; North Fork Bagel Co.; Singleton’s; Springfield Catholic Daughters; Springfield Donation Drive; Springfield Irene Flood Drive; Stepping Stones Preschool; SYSCO; Velco; The Weston Priory; The Wethersfield Inn Dinner; and Windham and Windsor Housing Trust.

As each day unfolded, the volunteers of the Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Departments were on duty around the clock to keep us safe, while the Town Office worked to secure relief from governmental agencies and other sources. At the same time an incredible effort was mounted by our local guys (Johnsons, Goulds, Turcos, Palmers, Donnie Davis, Keith Varga, Jeff Stearns, Chad Devereaux, Emerys, Wyatt McAllister, Derek Gurney, Tim Mott, Daryl Stowell and Mark, whose last name we don’t know) who started putting our back roads together so people could get out.

Since the shelter was the first place many came after they were able to leave their property, we heard incredible stories of how neighbors helped one another. These stories continue to mount as help has come in many forms, from many different places, as the rebuilding continues.

As we celebrate our Thanksgiving dinners on Nov. 24, we are grateful and thankful to each and every one of you who helped to keep Cavendish a town where people can continue to live, raise their families and work.

Sincerely, Margo Caulfield and Dawn Tyrrell

3. Card of Thanks
The Helping Hand Class of the Cavendish Baptist Church wishes to thank all the people that made our October 22nd Benefit Supper for Cavendish Flood Victims of "Irene" a huge success.

Many thanks to "our own church ladies" and other community members who set up, cooked, served, cleaned up or helped in any other way. You are very much appreciated.

Our deepest thanks go to the following businesses for their generous donations of food for this event -- Singleton's Store, Crow's Bakery, Shaw's in Springfield, Baba Louis' Bakery and especially Black River Produce.

Thanks to everyone that came to the supper from near and far, God Bless You all!

4. Golden Stage Inn Launches New Website
The Golden Stage Inn has just released a new website. Be sure to check out their blog, which includes their memories of Hurricane Irene. Many people were given the incredible gift of hospitality by Julie and Mike, the owners, during that week.

5. Cavendish Activities 11/18/11-11/26/11
November 18 (Friday): Half Day of School at Cavendish Elementary
• Okemo Mountain Ski Swap at Okemo Mountain Base Lodge 4-7 pm. FMI: 228-1583

November 19 (Saturday): Okemo Mountain Ski Swap at Okemo Mountain Base Lodge, 9-5. FMI: 228-1583

November 20 (Sunday): Okemo Mountain Ski Swap at Okemo Mountain Base Lodge, 9-1. FMI: 228-1583

November 22 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

November 23 (Wednesday): Schools closed for Thanksgiving
• Stepping Stones Pre School Pie sale, 9 am until sold out (usually noon) in front of Shaws in Ludlow. This year’s sale will benefit their playground fund.

November 24 (Thursday): HAPPY THANKGIVING!

November 25 (Friday): School and town office closed.
• Last day to file for a Black River Good Neighbor 2011 Christmas Basket program. Baskets will be delivered on Thursday, December 22nd.
• Black Friday-The biggest day of the year for retailers marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Shop local!

November 26 (Saturday): Holiday Fair at the Cavendish Elementary School
• Small Business Saturday a day to support the local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country. FMI: http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/small-business-saturday.html

TDS Users Be Aware of Spam E-Mail

2011-11-14T06:56:00.000-08:00

If you receive an e-mail that appears to be from TDS and says, This is an automated message from our server as we are in the process of upgrading our servers; If you are receiving this message it means that your email address has been queued for deactivation, this is as a result of a continuous error received from this email address (code:505). DO NOT CLICK ON ACTIVATE MY ACCOUNT. TDS is aware of the situation and is warning users to send these e-mails directly to spam.

CTES Minutes 10/18/11 and Agenda 11/15/11

2011-11-13T05:32:00.000-08:00

Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Meeting
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 5:30 p.m.

Present:
Board: Dr. Bont, Jim Ballantine, Sharon Huntley and Peter Gregg
Administration: George Thomson-Principal and David Adams-Superintendent
Public: LPCTV, Virginia Walsh Mack-Recording Secretary and Connie Kendall

Call to orderDr. Bont called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.

Comments from the Community: None

Approval of Minutes of September 20, 2011
Peter made a motion to approve the minutes of September 20, 2011 as presented. Sharon seconded. Motion approved. Jim abstained.

Personnel
Director of Building, Grounds & Plant Maintenance Resignation: George informed the board he received a letter from Tim Lee announcing his resignation; he is retiring. The board approved the resignation. George said the position has been advertised and interviews have taken place. Jim said he would like to be involved. George said he will give Jim an update.

Non Certified Staff Hiring:
David informed the board of Act 153 and the superintendent’s authority to hire non licensed personnel. David has hired Lorraine Reef as a Para professional on George’s recommendation.

Curriculum Update
David said Linda will update the board on the curriculum work that is taking place in the S.U. and to talk about the test scores at the next meeting. Linda and the teachers have worked to develop a Scope and Sequence of what is expected and taught at a particular grade level. Discussion ensued regarding curriculum, the transition from 6th to 7th grade, college readiness and success.

Joint Supervisory Update
David reported on the joint S.U. meeting held last week. The idea of combining the two S.U.s and what methodology should be used for assessment was discussed. It was agreed to by both boards to use the equalized pupil count for regular education expenditures and child count for special education expenditures. Tomorrow night at 6:00 p.m. at CTES there is another planning meeting to look at what the makeup of the central office would look like in the new S.U. There will be a meeting in December to decide if the study will be presented to the state board of education.

Policies
David said currently the policies for GMUHS and CAES do not allow children of CTES employees to attend either of those schools. Discussion: GMUHS already allows employee’s of GMUHS and CAES to attend GMUHS. The policy is not reciprocal; CAES does not allow GMUHS employee’s students to attend CAES. The school would not be responsible for transportation for the students. David will express the interest to CAES and GMUHS. Sharon made a motion to have David peruse the topic of allowing employee’s students to attend any of the schools. Peter seconded. Motion approved 3:1.

Principal’s Report
George gave the board a copy of the budget summary. He said he will answer any questions from the board. There is nothing out of line.

The annual audit is scheduled for Monday, October 24th; the art club, reading club, band, chorus and the banking club have started; the NECAP assessments are taking place this month; David Leiban is working with teachers on reading and literacy; he is a Language Arts professional.

George shared the bus route with the board. The route takes about 1hour 5 minutes. The longest a student is on the bus is 55 minutes. The route has been sent to parents.

Sharon mentioned there is no Halloween Party scheduled at the Proctorsville Fire Station and the decorations will have to be relocated due to a renovation. Sharon asked for volunteers to come and help organize relocating the party or having something at the school.

Superintendent Report
David said when bussing was restored he sent a letter home to parents. He wanted to thank everyone for the work that they have done. He asked for understanding from parents as some changes may continue to take place.
T
he state board of education had a meeting at GMUHS. Ann Thomson was recognized by the board for receiving the Presidential Award in Science.

CTES is hosting an administrative meeting tomorrow and the principals will discuss the possibility of a joint S.U. David will be attending the Superintendent’s Association meeting at Lake Morey on Thursday and Friday.

Other Business
George said he can’t reach the person regarding the roof; he is not returning phone calls. HP Cummings said they will get involved. David said they can write a letter. David will report back at the next meeting. Peter said there is no vent in the kitchen bathroom. David said he will look into it and report back.

Some of the equipment from the school is still being located. If someone discovers they have something from the school it would be greatly appreciated if it is returned.

Executive Session
Jim made a motion to go into executive session at 6:46 p.m. to discuss negotiations. Sharon seconded. Motion approved. David and George were invited.

The board came out of executive session at 7:37 p.m. No action taken.

Adjournment Peter made a motion to adjourn. Jim seconded. Meeting adjourned at 7:37 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Virginia M. Walsh Mack
Recording Secretary

Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Meeting
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 5:30 p.m.

AGENDA

1. Call to order

2. Comments from the Community

3. Approval of Minutes of October 18, 2011

4. Personnel
a.) Non Certified Staff Hiring – (Informational)

5. Finance
a.) Budget Development Update

6. Joint Supervisory Union Merger/Consolidation Update

7. Policies
a.) Enrollment of Children of Non Resident Teachers F:14 – (Discussion)

8. Principal’s Report

9. Superintendent Report

10. Other Business

11. Executive Session – (Negotiations)

12. Adjournment

Cavendish Update 11/11/11 News/Events/SB Agenda

2011-11-11T05:12:00.000-08:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 11/11/11 Cavendish Update Contains the Following
1. Nov. 15 Last Day to File for FEMA
2. Route 131 in Cavendish Now Open
3. Thank You Cavendish from Krissy Stocker
4. Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, November 14 Agenda
5. Helping Hands Class
6. Stuff a Bus for BRGN
7. Classifieds
8. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Quilting/Anniversary Quilt
9. Cavendish Activities 11/11-11/18

1. Nov. 15 Last Day to File for FEMA
If you haven't filed for FEMA, you have until Tuesday Nov. 15. The Irene Recovery Resources have been updated and are posted on the upper right hand side of the this blog.

2. Route 131 in Cavendish Now Open
The Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) today (Nov. 4) opened Route 131 through Cavendish, which had been closed since Tropical Storm Irene struck more than two months ago.

Irene severely damaged several miles of Route 131 between Weathersfield and Cavendish, and completely obliterated about 250 feet of the roadway just east of Cavendish Village. Dubbed the “Cavendish Canyon” because floodwaters created a crater 54 feet high and almost a football field long, the roadway had to be completely rebuilt from the edge of the river up.

“Rebuilding Route 131 through Cavendish clearly was one of our most significant challenges,” said VTrans Secretary Brian Searles. “Raging floodwater did not just damage the road, it basically eliminated it. But with significant help from the National Guard, a couple of our neighboring state transportation departments and others, we rebuilt the road in just two short months, which is quite remarkable. “

At its apex, the work crew along Route 131 in Cavendish numbered nearly 150 men and women along with more than 50 pieces of heavy equipment including dump trucks, bulldozers, backhoes, road graders and other earth-moving vehicles. Dozens of National Guard troops from both Vermont and Ohio were involved, as well as highway crews from VTrans, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, the Main Department of Transportation and private contractor DeLoury Construction.

Some 70,000 cubic yards of stone and fill were trucked in and put into place to restore the roadway just at the canyon, while thousands more cubic yards were needed to repair various other washouts along the rest of the road.

“It literally took an army of people and machines working sunup to sundown for more than two months to rebuild Route 131 as well as the rest Vermont’s damaged road network,” Searles said. “This is a tremendous achievement. Our Vtrans team has, once again, accomplished what no one thought was possible. By opening the Cavendish Canyon today, we have advanced from over 500 miles of road and 200 bridges damaged by Irene in August, to just 2 closed bridges under construction in Roxbury, and three remaining road projects,” he said.

The final roads to be completed include route 106 in Weathersfield, Route 107 in Stockbridge and Route 73.”

3. Thank You Cavendish from Krissy Stocker
As part of Cavendish’s 250 Anniversary celebrations, donations were collected for the family of Master Sgt. Shawn Stocker, a member of the Vermont National Guard, who died from an apparent heart attack, while working on Cavendish flood recovery. Many people signed the card, which was forwarded along with a money order for the amount collected.
A thank you was recently received from Krissy Stocker, Sgt. Stocker’s widow. The note reads as follows:

Dear Margo and all the wonderful people of Cavendish:

I would like to take a moment to thank you all for the wonderful prayers thoughts and monetary gifts you have all sent to our family in our time of loss. As you were aware, Shawn was an incredible man, father, husband and son. He talked fondly and often of his encounters with all the town folks during his service there. When he was pulled off duty down there, for a very brief time, he fought extremely hard to get back on orders and return to your town to continue helping. He always had great things to say about how supportive and welcoming everyone was.

We miss Shawn more than you could even imagine, but we take comfort in the fact that he was doing what he loved for people who appreciated his efforts.

Blessings and thanks again for your help and support.

Krissy Stocker

4. Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, November 14 Agenda
The Meeting will be held in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 6:30 pm. Note: Executive session of Select Board from 6:00 to 6:30 pm, immediately prior to regular monthly meeting. The agenda will be as follows:
1. Call the meeting to order for executive session on a matter of litigation beginning at 6:00
2. Close executive session and recess until 6:30 pm
3. Open public session - Regular monthly Select Board Meeting beginning at 6:30 pm
4. Sign Orders
5. Review Correspondence
6. Adjust agenda
7. Hear Citizens
8. Leon Woods local trail master to review snowmobile trails in Cavendish for the 2011-12 season and to request proposed road traverses for Select Board approval.
9. Representatives of the Windham & Windsor Housing Trust present to give the Board and the Cavendish public a presentation on the services provided by the Trust to Cavendish and other communities in it’s service area
10. Updates on Hurricane Irene clean-up and restoration activities including progress update on FEMA assistance especially with regard to data collection, documentation, paperwork preparation and survey work and Natural Resource Conservation Program participation
11. Select Board to review and sign “Corporate Resolution” for Trustees of Public Funds. This resolution is needed for the Trustees’ business with People’s United Bank.
12. Review property owner Dean Kaupinen’s response to the recent Public Health Notice.
13. Board to review a draft of a Derelict or Dangerous Building Ordinance.
14. Update on various other town activities
15. Other

5. Helping Hands Class
Barbara Snyder provided the following information about The Helping Hands Class.

The Helping Hand Class is the ladies group at the Cavendish Baptist Church. You don't have to be a member of the church to come to our meetings -- a few years ago we even had a couple of men as members!

We meet (usually) on the third Monday of each month (except Nov. & Dec. when we meet on the second Monday) at 6:30 p.m. in the church dining room. We take turns hosting the meetings, which means we bring the refreshments, do Devotions and have a monthly fund-raising project -- these include auctions (liquid, dozen, pound), quizzes and specialty projects -- these are never expensive, unless you bid on all the items. We receive an offering and we bring in our Love Gift boxes.

We are the "Mission" group and as such we participate in the American Baptist Women's ministry for White Cross. White Cross supports missionaries here in the US and overseas. We help out by making roller bandages, surgical caps and masks, hospital gowns and infant gowns for overseas and we receive a list of items for an Overland Mission group in the US that we fill each year. This list includes many of the following items: yarn, embroidery floss, paper cups, paper plates, plastic cutlery, games, toys and clothing items for men, women and children.

We do fundraising -- suppers, sales & RADA Cutlery -- to raise money to cover postage costs for White Cross, but we also have given donations to families after fires or floods; we've donated towards hats for a local little league team; we've given baby showers and bridal showers. Each year we bring in canned goods and donate to the Church Christmas Boxes and Remembrances; we bring in toys, games and books for children that are donated to the Black River Good Neighbors to go with their Christmas Boxes; we bring in baby items for the Pregnancy Center in Claremont.

The Helping Hand Class serves refreshments after funerals. The food is solicited from members of the congregation. We do not charge for this, but donations are always welcome.

6. Stuff a Bus for BRGN
Before we know it the holiday season will be upon us. It is a time of year that marks significant need in our communities. This is a very busy time for Black River Good Neighbor Services, as this non-profit local organization prepares to deliver gifts and a full holiday dinner complete with turkeys and all the fixings to those in need. It is estimated that over 160 families from the immediate and surrounding towns will be helped this holiday season

To help make this possible there is a planned “Stuff A Bus” on Saturday December 3rd. This important food drive will take place at the Shaw’s shopping center parking lot in Ludlow from 9am until 3pm.

The following items are the foods most needed:
Canned Fruit Canned Cranberry Sauce Pickles – Olives
Mac & Cheese Hot Chocolate Cookies
Tea Cereal (Oatmeal) Candy
Carrots/Peas Gravy Stuffing
Margarine Corn Green Beans
Yams Coffee Frozen Turkeys

If you are not a shopper, donations of money are always needed and greatly appreciated.
.
There are many ways to get involved with this year’s efforts. Volunteers are needed to sort food as it comes in and countless other tasks are required to make sure that everyone who needs help this winter gets it. Please call Audrey at the Thrift Store, 228-3663 or visit 37B Main Street to ask how you can get involved.

The staff at Black River Good Neighbors thanks you for your continued generous support. Every contribution makes a difference.

7. Classifieds
A “Moving In” give away will take place on Saturday morning 11/12 at 831 Knapp Pond Rd in Cavendish. The new residents do not need the furnishings left by the previous owner. There are a number of big items like couches, end tables and small stuff like silverware and board games. Please let those who lost furniture and other household items in Irene have first pick.

8. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Quilting/Anniversary Quilt
These posts are made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society and are archived at the CHS Blog.

Quilting was very prominent among the early settlers, not only because of the need for warmth, but fabric was expensive to buy and “homespun” was labor intensive. Every scrap had to be saved and “re purposed.”

The Cavendish Historical Society has quite a collection of quilts in the Museum, most of which were most likely made by a group of women to commemorate an event, such as a marriage. The oldest quilt in the collection is from the Civil War era and a recent acquisition.

Teresa Campbell of Lancaster, California was given eight squares by a friend of her husband. A quilter, as well as a genealogist, Campbell traced the squares to Cavendish and donated them in early June.

While we were discussing the Civil War era squares, a number of women and men (a first) in Cavendish, were preparing the 250th Anniversary quilt. When Campbell supplied the names of the quilters- Evey Kendall, Leizzie Kendall, Mrs. Maria Spaulding, Julia A. Davis, Mary Hemminway, Celia A. Davis, and Ella A. Spaulding-it was immediately noted that one of the quilters for Cavendish’s Anniversary quilt, Pang Ting, now lives in the house where the Kendall sisters once resided.

The Cavendish 250th Anniversary Quilt was on display at Old Home Day as well as serving as a backdrop for the play Cavendish Chronicles II: The Early Years. Because the school’s multi purpose room was both the site of the shelter during Irene recovery, and the play, the set was keep up for most of the shelter duration, so many people saw the quilt. Of particular interest was the square made by fiber artist Paulette Martell, which depicted the 1927 flood.

A combination of 14 different people made the 30 squares in the quilt. A variety of techniques were used to create a very unique design. While many of the squares were collaborative efforts, they depicted the town’s history as well as aspects that people thought should be remembered.

In addition to Martell, the quilters included:
• Jackie Blanchard: Raised in Cavendish, she is an award winning quilter. Not only did she transfer a number of photographs of Cavendish onto fabric, she included embroidered squares of the town name and dates, as well as an appliqué flower square.

• Margo Caulfield: From Baltimore, MD, is the coordinator of CHS. She, worked on several squares and choose to remember Phineas Gage, as she has spent many years working in the field of traumatic brain injury.

• Barbara Dickey: A retired researcher, Barbara worked with Wendy Regier and Tess Ellwood to capture the Cavendish countryside through six wildflower squares.

• Tess Ellwood: New to Proctorsville, Tess comes to our community from North Carolina. She is a quilter as well as a weaver. She not only contributed the log cabin square, but was the one who carefully sewed, repieced squares and masterminded the completion of the quilt.

• Gloria Leven: Born in West Virginia, Gloria has been a lover and maker of quilts for many years. She made several squares, including the pieced maple leaf.

• Paulette Martell: Originally from Maine, she is a well known fiber artist and quilter. Who knew her square depicting the 1927 flood would take on such significance?

• Jennifer McBride: A well known textile designer and owner of Jennifer Hoar designs and Soap Baubles, Jen moved to Cavendish from Brooklyn, New York just a few years ago. The bear, moose, tractor, and deer were her designs.

• Mary Ormrod: From Toronto Canada, where she lived in the bush country of Canada at one point, it is not surprising that Mary would choose the Crown Point Road as her quilt square theme

• Becky Plunkard: Growing up in a military family, Becky has lived in many different places. Making the square of the Universalist Church, known locally as “The Stone Church,” she only had to look out her window for inspiration.

• Craig Rankin: A landscape architect from New York, Craig retired to Cavendish in 1979. He was well known for his pen and ink drawings of Cavendish. His rendering of the CHS Museum was transferred to fabric by Jackie Blanchard.

• Lonnie Rankin: The daughter-in-law of Craig Rankin, she spent many happy days on the Rankin Farm and choose that as her theme. .

• Wendy Regier: From New York City, Wendy ahs been a professional weaver for the last 35 years. She made three squares: Marino sheep and loom; the Cavendish Green Marble Quarry (which is near her home) and Alexandra Solzhenitsyn

• Rich Svec: From New Jersey and Town Manager, Svec’s photograph of the town office, as well as the town logo were converted into squares by Jackie Blanchard.

• Pang Ting: From Hong Kong, while Pang may be a fiber artist with a love of paper, she created a one of a kind portrait of Cavendish today by using small pieces of fabric.

The quilt is being preserved and will be available for future generations as one of our town’s remembrances of our anniversary.

9. Cavendish Activities 11/11-11/18
November 11 (Friday): Veteran’s Day No School for Cavendish Elementary

November 14 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda above LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV. This should be available by Nov. 16. Check the website for more information.

November 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343.
• CTES School Board Meeting: LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV. This should be available by Nov. 18. Check the website for more information.

November 16 (Wednesday): Library Program-Booksploration Grades K-1 One is a Feast for a Mouse. FMI: 226-7503

November 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

• Monthly Community Luncheon at St. James United Methodist Church in Proctorsville at 11:30 am. We'll celebrate Thanksgiving a week early - serving roast turkey breast with dressing and gravy, mashed potatoes and peas, a tossed salad, hot rolls, and home-baked pumpkin pies for dessert. Coffee, hot tea or a fruit drink will round out the meal. A suggested donation of $4.00 for seniors or $5.50 for those under 60 years of age helps us defray the cost of the meal.

• 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

• Half Day of School at Cavendish Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences

November 18 (Friday): Half Day of School at Cavendish Elementary
• Okemo Mountain Ski Swap at Okemo Mountain Base Lodge. FMI: 228-1583

Thank you Cavendish from Krissy Stocker

2011-11-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

As part of Cavendish’s 250 Anniversary celebrations, donations were collected for the family of Master Sgt. Shawn Stocker, a member of the Vermont National Guard, who died from an apparent heart attack, while working on Cavendish flood recovery. Many people signed the card, which was forwarded along with a money order for the amount collected.

A thank you was recently received from Krissy Stocker, Sgt. Stocker’s widow. The note reads as follows:

Dear Margo and all the wonderful people of Cavendish:

I would like to take a moment to thank you all for the wonderful prayers thoughts and monetary gifts you have all sent to our family in our time of loss. As you were aware, Shawn was an incredible man, father, husband and son. He talked fondly and often of his encounters with all the town folks during his service there. When he was pulled off duty down there, for a very brief time, he fought extremely hard to get back on orders and return to your town to continue helping. He always had great things to say about how supportive and welcoming everyone was.

We miss Shawn more than you could even imagine, but we take comfort in the fact that he was doing what he loved for people who appreciated his efforts.

Blessings and thanks again for your help and support.

Krissy Stocker

Cavendish Ties to The Will:Family Secrets Revealed

2011-11-08T17:09:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, Nov. 9, at 9pm, the Discovery Channel's "The Will: Family Secrets Revealed," will feature the story of Art Hadley's will. Hadley was an inventor and jewelry magnate (he invented the clasp bracelet) and had strong ties to Cavendish’s Glimmerstone and Gay family. He actually ran liquor during prohibition at Glimmerstone. When his will is revealed, it leads to a family battle that no one expected.

During the 250th celebration activities, the authors of "The Inventor's Fortune Up for Grabs" did a "meet the author" session at Crows Bakery. If you didn't have a chance to meet them, or want to hear them again, now's your chance. You can watch the trailer for the program at http://investigation.discovery.com/videos/the-will-estate-of-art-hadley-wed-9pm.html

Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test 11/9/11

2011-11-07T17:14:00.000-08:00

This Wednesday, November 9 at 2:00 p.m. the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other federal partners will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). FEMA says the test will last thirty seconds. During this period, regularly scheduled television, radio, cable, and satellite shows will be interrupted as the system is being tested. For more on the test visit http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm

Sign Up for Snow Sports at CTES

2011-11-07T10:51:00.001-08:00

CTES Snow Sports sign up for students and volunteers on Wednesday 11/9/11 between the hours of 3:00-7:00pm at CTES. Please make every effort to sign up at this time. Questions, contact Lisa Ewald 484-5323 email thecoswalds@aol.com, or Karen McNamara 226-8024 email kbedmc@tds.net

Route 131 is open

2011-11-04T14:17:00.000-07:00

Route 131 was opened this afternoon around 4:30 pm. Please drive carefully and drive the speed limit.

Cavendish Update 11/4/11 Huntley/News/Calendar

2011-11-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

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

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page.

The 11/4/11 Cavendish Update Contains the Following:
1. Ribbon Cutting Cancelled
2. Spencer Huntley 1993-2011
3. Cavendish Related News
4. Cavendish Historical Society News
5. November 2011 Cavendish Calendar

1. Ribbon Cutting Cancelled
The ribbon cutting for the opening of route 131, that was slated for Nov. 5 (Saturday) has been cancelled and will be rescheduled for a later date.

2. Spencer Huntley 1993-2011
On Monday, Cavendish resident Spencer Huntley was killed in a car accident on route 103 near Depot Street. Spencer, who was 18 and a recent graduate of GMUHS, was on his way to class in Springfield when he collided with a milk truck.

Many have been writing comments on Remember Spencer Huntley Facebook page and are remembering him as an “incredible musician,” good friend, and as one person noted, “I expected to see you on TV, MTV, that is not the 6 o’clock news.” His former classmate, friend, and Proctorsville resident Kylie Mott wrote a note that seemed to reflect the sentiments of many, “There is no such thing as wasted life, because to simply live is taking advantage of what we are given. Whether we meet again is something no one can control, but know that you name will always invoke happiness.”

Spencer’s memorial will take place on Saturday at 1 pm at the Cavendish Baptist Church. If you would like to speak about Spencer at the service, please contact Pastor Abe Gross in advance by calling 226-7131. A reception will follow at DJ’s in Ludlow, were Spencer had worked.

His obituary is posted on-line.

3. Cavendish Related News
New Estimates Lowers VT’s Irene Recovery Costs: Vermont state officials have dramatically lowered their estimates of the costs of repairs to roads, bridges and culverts following Tropical Storm Irene. State officials as recently as mid-October had thought the costs of those repairs could reach $620 million. But now they say the emergency nature of the repairs — including reduced permitting and planning — has cut those cost estimates by half to two-thirds. Burlington Free Press

CVPS Seeks 4% Rate Increase: Central Vermont Public Service has asked the Vermont Public Service Board to authorize a 4.8 percent rate increase under the company’s alternative regulation plan. If approved, the increase would take effect on Jan. 1, 2012. Press Release

Immediate Release of over $11 M in LIHEA to VT: On the heels of the first winter storm of the season, Vermont’s congressional delegation – Sens. Patrick Leahy, Bernie Sanders and Rep. Peter Welch – have announced the immediate release over $11 million in heating assistance to eligible Vermonters. The funds will provide assistance through the Low Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP). With continued uncertainty over the final FY2012 funding levels for LIHEAP, Leahy, Sanders and Welch have pushed in recent weeks for the funds to be released immediately so states have the opportunity to help those with greatest needs now. Press Release

W. Lebanon Stores Opening: GameStop and CVS are now open with, Olympia Sports opening on Nov. 9, and Kohl's on Nov. 20, according to store officials. Two major retailers, however, will not be open in time for the holidays, said a city official: JCPenney and Kmart. Valley News

Grant for Legal Services to Help Those Affected by Irene: Low-income Vermonters struggling to rebuild and recover in the wake of Tropical Storm Irene will receive support for civil legal assistance through a grant from the Legal Services Corporation (LSC). Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) was informed Tuesday that Legal Services Law Line of Vermont has been awarded more than $65,000 under the grant program. Press Release

Medicare Enrollment Deadline Moved Up: Instead of an annual open enrollment period that runs to the end of the year, those on Medicare have until Dec. 7 to make changes to their medical or prescription coverage. Those satisfied with their coverage don't need to re-enroll. Burlington Free Press

4. Cavendish Historical Society News: The Fall 2011 Scribbler II, CHS’s newsletter, is available on-line

CHS newest program is “Hands on History.” Since we learn best by doing, CHS is now offering the Cavendish Town Elementary School (CTES) and local community groups a variety of workshops and activities. For more information on the program, go to the CHS Blog or e-mail margoc@tds.net

5. November 2011 Cavendish Calendar
November 4 (Friday): Scholastic Bookfair at the Cavendish library. FMI: 226-7503

November 7 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 5 pm at the Cavendish Town Office.

November 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

November 9 (Wednesday): Library program for grades K-1 Booksploration Peanut Butter and Homework Sandwiches. FMI: 226-7503
• Okemo Valley Chamber Mixer: 5:30 pm-7:30 pm at the Jackson Gore inn at Okemo Mountain. FMI and to RSVP: 802-228-5830.

November 10 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• 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
• Library program Club 23 Straw Hat Turkeys. FMI: 226-7503

November 11 (Friday): No School for Cavendish Elementary

November 14 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda posted to this blog as soon as it is received. LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV. Check the website for more information.

November 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

November 16 (Wednesday): Library Program-Booksploration Grades K-1 One is a Feast for a Mouse. FMI: 226-7503

November 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• Monthly Community Luncheon at St. James United Methodist Church in Proctorsville at 11:30 am. We'll celebrate Thanksgiving a week early - serving roast turkey breast with dressing and gravy, mashed potatoes and peas, a tossed salad, hot rolls, and home-baked pumpkin pies for dessert. Coffee, hot tea or a fruit drink will round out the meal. A suggested donation of $4.00 for seniors or $5.50 for those under 60 years of age helps us defray the cost of the meal.
• 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
• Half Day of School at Cavendish Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences

November 18 (Friday): Half Day of School at Cavendish Elementary
• Okemo Mountain Ski Swap at Okemo Mountain Base Lodge. FMI: 228-1583

November 19 (Saturday): Okemo Mountain Ski Swap at Okemo Mountain Base Lodge. FMI: 228-1583

November 20 (Sunday): Okemo Mountain Ski Swap at Okemo Mountain Base Lodge. FMI: 228-1583

November 22 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

November 23 (Wednesday): Schools closed for Thanksgiving

November 24 (Thursday): HAPPY THANKGIVING!

November 25 (Friday): School and town office closed.
• Last day to file for a Black River Good Neighbor 2011 Christmas Basket program. Baskets will be delivered on Thursday, December 22nd.
• Black Friday-The biggest day of the year for retailers marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Shop local!

November 26 (Saturday): Holiday Fair at the Cavendish Elementary School
• Small Business Saturday a day to support the local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country. FMI: http://www.yourplaceinvermont.com/small-business-saturday.html

November 27 (Sunday): Last day to drop of coats to for the Black River Good Neighbors Coat drive at Vermont Properties and Development, 29 Locust Hill Road, Ludlow. FMI: 802-228-8877 or email vtprop.com

November 29 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

November 30 (Wednesday): Library Program-Booksploration Grades K-1 Splat the cat: Goodnight Spat. FMI: 226-7503

Police Seeking Witnesses of 10/31/11 Accident

2011-11-01T03:21:00.000-07:00

The following is from the Burlington Free Press 11/1/11

Spencer Huntley, 18, of Cavendish died of injuries Monday morning when the car he was driving collided with a tractor-trailer on Vermont 103 in Cavendish, police report.

Huntley was pronounced dead on the scene by emergency workers, according to a statement released by Vermont State Police.
The driver of the tractor-trailer, Kenneth Pope, 56, of Shoreham was uninjured in the crash, which closed the road for most of the afternoon, the report stated.

Police asked anyone who witnessed the incident to call 875-2112.

Car Accident On 103 Near Depot Street

2011-10-31T18:00:00.000-07:00

It is with sadness that we report Spencer Huntley's death in a car accident on Oct. 31 on route 103 near Depot Street. Spencer, who was 18, was on his way to class in Springfield when he collided with a milk truck. Our sympathies are with his parents Mark and Sharon and his sister Madie.

SB Meeting Schedule

2011-10-29T13:19:00.000-07:00

There will be no Select Board meeting the week of 10/31/11. They will meet next on Monday, November 7th at 5:00 pm. and then on November 14th, when they will resume their regular monthly meeting

Help Needed for Rt 131 Ribbon Cutting on Nov. 5

2011-10-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

The celebration for the opening of route 131, by the “Cavendish Canyon” has been scheduled for Saturday Nov. 5. Note that given the snowy forecast, this date could change, so be sure to check the blog and Facebook.

Currently scheduled is a visit from the governor for the ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 pm. Following this will be a car parade to the Cavendish Elementary School in Proctorsville for light food (chili, soup, veggie, cookies and drinks).

If you, or your organization, can help in any way with the food piece, that would be incredibly helpful. Someone is needed to coordinate the kitchen as well as clean up. Below are a list of items needed and timeframes. If you can help in any way, please call (226-7807) or e-mail margoc@tds.net

Set up in the multi purpose room. If there is nothing scheduled for Friday at the school, Margo will oversee this activity.
Needed
• Table decorations and clothes
• People to set up chairs and tables.

Food
• Paper products (cups, bowls, cutlery, napkins, plates)
• Soups
• Chili
• Veggie platter(s)
• Cheese Platter
• Cookies & Pies. If someone wanted to do a special sheet cake, similar to what we had for the 250th, that could take the place of the cookies & pies.
• Cider, Coffee and water (there is most likely bottled water at the town that could be used)

Serving
• Need someone to oversee the food.
• People to help in the kitchen with serving and cleanup (Probably 2 with the in charge person would be sufficient)

Clean Up
• Need someone to be in charge. This includes making sure tables and chairs are properly cleaned and stored under the stage. Floor is swept and garbage taken care of.

Missing Cat

2011-10-28T05:51:00.001-07:00

Please help! I lost my wonderful black cat Corvus in mid August, and have assumed that she met the fate of so many cats who are out at night: fisher cats. However recently a black cat has been seen roaming around the lower end of 20 Mile Stream Road - and although I can't imagine it's Corvus, it's driving me crazy! If you know anything about this cat - or if you own it, please contact me so I can solve this mystery. Thank you.

Wendy Regier
226-7331
awregier@tds.net

Cavendish Update 10/28/11 SB/Snarski/Events/News

2011-10-28T03:18:00.000-07:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 10/27/11 Cavendish Update Contains:
1. Select Board Meeting 10/24/11
2. Sophie Snarski 1916-2011
3. Cavendish Related News
4. Cavendish Calendars Now On Sale
5. Scholastic Bookfair comes to Cavendish
6. Update on Gethsemane Episcopal Church
7. Vermont Properties and Development Coat Drive
8. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Cavendish Halloween
9. Application for BRGNS Holiday Program Available
10. Cavendish Events 10/28-11/4

1. Select Board Meeting 10/24/11
Monday night’s Select Board meeting began with a site visit to 53 Depot Street. On Oct. 21, a “Notice of Hearing on a Health Order Relating to a Derelict Building” was issued to the owner Dean Kauppinen, by the Town of Cavendish Board of Health. In the notice, it was noted that “The subject building has previously been the subject of numerous prior citizen complaints to the Board of Selectmen and the Town Health officer for issues such as:
1. Fire Hazard;
2. Holes and openings to the structure, which afforded points of entry for vermin, rodents, pigeons and other birds;
3. Attractive nuisance to neighborhood children especially when potential openings for entry are in evidence;
4. Potential collapse hazard, and
5. Blight upon the neighborhood

Eight years ago, owners of the North Country Condominiums at 51 and 55 Depot Street, began the process of trying to get the town to address the derelict building that sits between the two condominiums. Owners have complained about their inability to obtain insurance because of the building and now how the recent flood has made it worst. The owner, Kauppinen, has taken no satisfactory measures to eliminate the problem. Consequently, The complainants have petitioned the Cavendish Board of Health to take summary action to eliminate the health and safety problems by condemning the building and requiring its immediate removal.

During the hearing that followed the site visit, a number of the condo owners were present and pressed the select board to take some action to eliminate the continuing problem. Rich Svec, town manager and Cavendish health officer, indicated that there was no zoning ordinance to help condemn the building. However, he has been in contact with the state Fire Marshall, who will be conducting a site visit and does have authorization to take action.

Many of the condo owners present had significant damage from the flood, and as they began repairs, encountered any number of building code violations from the original construction by Kauppinen. One of their major concerns is why rebuild if the problems continue with 53 Depot Street. “If the town doesn’t want to invest in us, why should I continue to invest,” noted one owner. Others described a “perfect storm” of reasons for “walking away:” major damage from flooding, significant code violations, a derelict building adjacent to their property, and increased taxes. It was noted that given these circumstance, the town could end up with three derelict buildings and not just one.

Svec said that a health order, calling for the building to be boarded up and tapped off could be done as a stop gap measure, since children are entering the building. When asked, three of the four select board members present indicated that the building should be condemned and torn down. The fourth, chairmen James Ballentine, said it was bad, but didn’t know if it was bad enough to be condemned. Other members were quite clear that until the site visit they had no idea how bad it actually was. When asked if the Cavendish Board of Health has the ability to condemn, Svec said he needed to talk to the town’s lawyer and the head of the VT Dept. of Health. The question is “where is the burden of proof about safety?”

The Select Board agreed to look at passing a derelict building ordinance before the end of the year, which becomes enforceable 60 days from its passing. This will continue to be an agenda item until it is resolved.

The Board was also appraised of recent Irene recovery activities. These included:
• A site visit from FEMA. Cavendish is one of the 10 worst towns hit by the storm and they wanted to do what they could to see that money gets to the town as quickly as possible. The indication is that money should arrive before the holidays.

• The Board voted to approve a line of credit with Mascoma Savings for 1% interest. This is lower than the current line of credit. While FEMA will reimburse expenses, it does not pay interest fees.

• Cavendish was issued a violation by the Agency of Natural Resources, when workers were found on Brook repairing a river bed. Svec explained that he had made met with the state’s Stream Alteration Engineer four weeks prior, who had given verbal approval to the Brook Rd project and other such activities throughout the town. However, because he hadn’t provided this in writing, so that the workers would have it in hand, the town was cited. Svec was finally able to reach the state’s engineer, who like everyone else is heavily burdened. However, he did come by with a written order and has spoken with the Agency of Natural Resources. It is expected that the violation will be dropped. As noted in last week’s Cavendish Update, http://www.wcax.com/story/15698940/why-is-the-state-stopping-irene-recovery-work, . "In order to do work in the river not only do you need permission from the river engineer, but you need it in writing. So we got folks out there who are talking to people who are working in the river to make sure they're doing it with permission," said Deb Markowitz, the secretary of the Agency of Natural Resources

2. Sophie Snarski 1916-2011
Known for her love of Cavendish, Sophie was actually born in Racine, WI, to parents who had immigrated to the United States from Poland. Moving to Cavendish when she was three, Sophie held a number of positions-fiddler, town auditor, “drawing in girl” for Gay Brothers Mill, member of the Holy Name of Mary Altar Society and the Cavendish Historical Society, and most notably postmaster of the Cavendish post office from 1975 to the early 1990’s. It was in this position that many came to know her as match maker, source of all things local and much more. Her funeral will be held on Friday Oct. 28 at 10 am at Holy Name of Mary Church in Proctorsville. Her obituary is on-line.

3. Cavendish Related News
Federal Aid to VT Tops $34M: Individuals and families have received more than $18.5 million in grants for housing repairs, rent for temporary housing and other assistance. More than $16.1 million in low-interest disaster recovery loans has been approved for homeowners and businesses by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Press Release

New FEMA Floodmaps Could Cost Homeowners: FEMA wants Vermont homeowners to know that spring flooding and summer storms did not spark changes to flood plain maps across the state. "The flood mapping program and the modernization upgrading of the maps started long before Hurricane Irene and spring flooding," said David Mendelsohn with FEMA. FEMA says homeowners can challenge changes to the maps, but redrawing lines will take more than proof of a dry basement. "If they have scientific or technical information to show that they are outside the special flood hazard area or above the base flood elevation, then FEMA will work with them to remove their structure from the federal flood hazard area," Mendelsohn said. WXAX

VT Tied for the Fifth Lowest Unemployment rate in country is deceiving: The stats means roughly one in 20 Vermont workers are unemployed, but when you add in the underemployed or part-time workers who are seeking full-time employment, and discouraged workers -- people who have given up looking -- that ratio is closer to one in 10 Vermonters who are struggling economically. WCAX

VT Road Repairs Continuing, but Perils Remain: Initial repairs to Vermont's road network damaged by flooding from Tropical Storm Irene are nearly finished as the state prepares for its snowy season, yet many of the fixes were done quickly and engineers don't know how they'll hold up through the winter and spring, an official said Tuesday. Burlington Free Press

FEMA Says VT Doesn’t Need Temporary Housing Units: Temporary housing units brought to Vermont in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene by the Federal Emergency Management Agency were not needed and have been sent elsewhere, an official said Thursday. WCAX

Will Irene Repairs Stand Up to Winter: State and local highway crews have repaired hundreds of washouts since the storm's flood waters devastated the state at the end of August. Much of the work is considered temporary -- aimed at getting roads passable to reconnect communities. And as the state prepares for winter snow and spring, engineers don't know how the repairs will hold up. Transportation officials are warning travelers to be cautious of changing conditions in areas that have been under construction. WCAX

Q & A Jessica and Craig Goodman American Pie Restaurant in Ludlow (VT Business Magazine): The Goodman’s live in Proctorsville Insurancenewsnet

4. Cavendish Calendars Now On Sale
The Cavendish Community and Conservation Association has announced that the new 2012 calendars are now on sale just in time for holiday giving. The calendars can be purchased at Crow’s Bakery in Proctorsville or at the Cavendish Town Offices on High Street. All calendar sales proceeds go to support the work of the Association. Again this year the calendars feature beautiful and colorful pictures of Cavendish scenes. All pictures were taken by Cavendish photographers, highlighting the beauty of our various landscapes, historic heritage, animals and people. These are the contest winning photos that the public picked last spring. Anyone living in the Cavendish area would find one of these calendars a useful and artistic addition to a kitchen or office. They also make great holiday gifts, especially to those who just wish they lived in Vermont! Calendars cost $10. For more information call Robin Timko at 226-7736.

5. Scholastic Bookfair comes to Cavendish
The Cavendish Fletcher Community Library will be hosting its annual fall bookfair October 31 through November 4 in the library during normal open hours. The bookfair will feature a selection of books for all age ranges and for the first time will include an online component. The online bookfair will allow shoppers a greater selection of books, including those for adults and can be accessed through the library website. FMI: Kata at 226-7503.

6. Update on Gethsemane Episcopal Church
After meetings with a structural engineer, the town, insurance company, the diocese, the Vermont Preservation Trust, the construction company, and members of the church, all are agreed that reconstruction of the church should proceed as quickly as possible. Work will begin by jacking up the church so that the existing foundation can be removed and a new, more flood-resistant foundation will be poured. While these issues were being resolved, the church also met with an architect who has drawn up plans for a new parish hall to be located attached to the rear of the church, and a landscape architect who is drawing up plans which will include a handicap ramp as well as new front steps. The members of the church wish to thank everyone who has volunteered their time and talents to make all this possible. This Saturday, a large group of young people will arrive from San Lucas church in Chelsea MA to clean and level the grounds behind the church so it will be ready to seed.

7. Vermont Properties and Development Coat Drive
Vermont Properties and Development of Ludlow is holding a winter coat drive to benefit Black River Good Neighbor Services. Anyone who can, bring an outer garment that is clean and in good condition to: Vermont Properties and Development, 29 Locust Hill Road, Ludlow. Garments will be accepted from now until November 27th from 9am to 5pm. On Saturday, December 3rd, as recognition of the wonderful community support shown by Vermont Properties in organizing this coat drive BRGNS will have a rack of winter coats that will go to those in need in our community without charge. FMI: 802-228-8877

8. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Cavendish Halloween These posts are made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society and are archived at the CHS Blog.

Since Oct. 31 is just a few days away, we’ve included excerpts from Sandra Stearns book, “Cavendish Hillside Farm 1939 to 1957,” about her memories of Halloween at the Center Road School House.

Each year, the Center School had a Halloween party. Our greatest joy was to be invited to Cliff and Marion Johnson’s home to explore their attic looking for our attire. High button shoes, red flannelled long johns and dresses and hats from years ago were abundant there. Marion was always good for a unique costume herself. An unknown student always appeared and only by the process of elimination and observance of a missing person were we able to identify her.

Corks were burned and rubbed on our hands and faces to darken them. Lipstick was used liberally and we wore it for days before it washed off completely. Pillows were stuffed everywhere in our costumes making humped backs, roly-poly bellies, extreme fannies and bouncing cleavages. We wore our dads’ boots and shoes, the bigger the better. Our teacher, Mrs. Pickard, often dressed up as a gypsy and would tell our fortunes by the lines in our palms. Costumes were judged and prizes were awarded.

Apples were floated in a large tub of water and we bobbed for them. Faces were dunked under the water, trying to push the apple to the bottom, where we would be able to get it between our teeth and rise triumphant with our prize. The best way to snare the apple was that way, but much time was spent turning it into just the position you wanted. Usually it promptly rolled back whatever way it wanted as soon as your hands were eliminated from helping. Apples or donuts were suspended from the ceiling by strings. Our hands were tied behind our backs and we attempted to consume the dangling food as it swung back and forth. It was a neighborhood party and everyone, young and old, was involved. To read more “Ghosts and Goblins” go to the CHS Blog.

Copies of "Cavendish Hillside Farm 1939 to 1957" are available from the Cavendish Historical Society for $15 a copy plus $5 for shipping and handling. Checks should be made payable to CHS and mailed to CHS, PO Box 472, Cavendish, VT 05142.

9. Application for BRGNS Holiday Program Available Now
The staff of the Black River Good Neighbor Services wants everyone to know that they are accepting applications for the 2011 Christmas Basket program. Anyone living in Ludlow, Proctorsville, Cavendish, Mount Holly, Belmont or Plymouth who feels they qualify need only to stop by the shop at 37B Main Street, Ludlow, to pick up an application. Anyone unable to get to the store please call Audrey Bridge at 228-3663 for assistance. Completed applications must be submitted by November 25th, 2011. Baskets will be delivered on Thursday, December 22nd. Families that received a basket last year will receive a phone call from a BRGNS volunteer and do not need to make a new application this year. However anyone who has had a change of address and/or phone number should contact the office.

10. Cavendish Events 10/28-11/4
October 29 (Saturday): Dylan Tenney Magic Illusion & Hypnosis Show at Cavendish Town Elementary School for shows at 2pm & 7pm. Tickets are $5 at the door. 50/50 raffle, concessions, and T-shirt sale. The proceeds benefit the Proctorsville Vol Fire Dept.
• Take Back Prescriptions Day: The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s third National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day will officially open collection sites throughout Vermont from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The closest sites for Cavendish are as follows: Ludlow Police Dept; Weathersfield Transfer Station; Springfield Police Dept; and the Windsor Police Dept. To learn more about the proper disposal of drugs go to Healing Whole.

October 31 (Monday): HAPPY HALLOWEEN The Golden Stage Inn’s new owners are keeping the Halloween haunted house tradition alive. This year’s theme is “The Guests that Never Left.” Things get underway by 6:00 and will be concluding by 8:30. It’s a school night.

November 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• Scholastic Bookfair at the Cavendish library. FMI: 226-7503
• Paying for College Presentation by the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC), 6:30 pm at the GMUHS library.

November 2 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office
• Scholastic Bookfair at the Cavendish library. FMI: 226-7503

November 3 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• 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
• Scholastic Bookfair at the Cavendish library. FMI: 226-7503

November 4 (Friday): Last day of the Scholastic Bookfair at the Cavendish library. FMI: 226-7503

Cavendish Canine Camp is open for business

2011-10-27T17:04:00.000-07:00

The bridge is not open but access is from the back side through the sand pit. Directions : Turn onto Grevin Road Extension , bear right onto dirt road, go approximately 1/4 mile, turn right into the gravel pit ( you will see the no tresspassing signs- ignore them ) go past the pile of stones , keep to the right , follow dirt road through the woods ( it is only wide enough for one car ) ,bear right ,stop at railroad tracks BEFORE you cross and make sure the train is not there,then go straight to our driveway and turn left at the corner.Please be mindful of the other vehicles and the train.

RAMUNTO'S BRICK OVEN PIZZA - CLAREMONT, NH FUNDRAISER

2011-10-26T16:02:00.001-07:00

Today mark's 1 week remaining for our collections to be given to the 3 families from Cavendish. With this money we will be helping them put funds towards putting their lives back together in rebuilding their homes. Today our total for donations is $547.00! Ramunto's will match this!! Please continue to donate to the Flood Fund. Wed. Nov. 2nd is the final night for donations and Friday we will have the honor of meeting these 3 families and presenting them each with a gift card from a local building supply company. Thank you so much everyone for your continuing donations.

Cavendish Update 10/21/11 News/Events/CTES/SB

2011-10-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page.

The 10/21/11 Cavendish Update Contains the Following:
1. Select Board Meeting 10/24/11
2. Cavendish Related News
3. CTES School Board Minutes for September
4. Take Back Prescription Drug Day on Oct. 29
5. Illusionist at CTES to Benefit Proctorsville Fire Dept.
6. Cavendish Community Fund to Hold Lasagna Dinner
7. Cavendish Activities 10/21/11-10/28/11

1. Select Board Meeting 10/24/11
The Cavendish Select board will meet at 6 pm with a site visit to the North Country Condominium complex in Proctorsville in order to inspect a derelict building owned by Dean Kauppinen located at 53 Depot Street. After the site visit, the meeting will to the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room. This site visit and subsequent Cavendish Board of Health regarding health and safety complaints pertaining to the building was originally scheduled for 10/17 but was rescheduled to allow the property owner sufficient time to prepare for the visit and hearing.

2. Cavendish Related News
Deadlines Extended for FEMA Assistance: Gov. Peter Shumlin has announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency approved an extension to the deadline for individuals and municipalities to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance is now November 15, 2011. To register for Individual Assistance disaster assistance, call 800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with a speech disability or hearing loss who use a TTY can call 800-462-7585 directly, or 800-621-3362, if using 711 or Video Relay Service. Registration can also be done online anytime at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or through web-enabled mobile phone devices or smartphones at m.fema.gov. Press Release

Why the State is Stopping Irene Recovery Work: After Tropical Storm Irene, the work began to restore and rebuild Vermont's waterways. Some people started immediately on the work, fixing and rebuilding riverbeds. And the state didn't stop that effort-- that is until now. The Agency of Natural Resources began issuing stop work orders this week for those fixing the waterways. "In order to do work in the river not only do you need permission from the river engineer, but you need it in writing. So we got folks out there who are talking to people who are working in the river to make sure they're doing it with permission," said Deb Markowitz, the secretary of the Agency of Natural Resources WCAX

Tax Abatement Bill: Joined by legislative leaders and the Vermont League of Cities and Towns, Gov. Peter Shumlin today announced a plan of action to enable towns to abate education taxes for property owners hard-hit by Tropical Storm Irene and spring flooding. The plan will authorize the Tax Department to set up procedures to reimburse towns for such extraordinary abatements. The plan will require legislative approval when lawmakers return to Montpelier in January. Recognizing that taxpayers who have lost use of their property may petition their local boards of abatement for tax relief even before then, however, Gov. Shumlin and legislators have agreed on a plan that will guide localities as they consider these requests. … Mary Peterson, Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Taxes, immediately announced the procedures that the Department will adopt in order to provide clarity and consistency for taxpayers and localities. Reimbursement of abated education taxes will be approved when the local Boards of Abatements make four findings: The property damage was due to a 2011 federal declared disaster; Municipal and educations taxes are proportionately reduced; The primary structure on the property suffered at least a 50 percent value loss; and The property owner lost use of the primary structure for at least 90 days. Press Release

Lowe’s in Claremont Closing: The Claremont Lowe’s is closing, after only 18 months of operation, along with two other stores in the state. No stores in VT will close. Lowe’s said it is making the cuts to focus on more profitable locations. Burlington Free Press

VT to Cancel Firewood Lottery: The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation has decided to cancel the annual firewood lottery for 2012, due to post-Irene safety concerns. The program allows residents each January to cut up to three cords of designated trees on state land for personal use firewood. The trees are marked as groups of hardwoods close to state forest highways to make cutting and hauling easier. The department will continue to supply firewood through its "Wood Warms" program, which gives logs from timber sales to nonprofit groups. WCAX

Shaw’s and American Red Cross: From now until October 27, customers can purchase $1 and $5 dollar "pinups" at participating stores in Vermont and in the Lebanon, New Hampshire area to show their support for their neighbors affected by Tropical Storm Irene as well the over one hundred fires, floods and other disasters that the American Red Cross responds to each year in our region. All of the proceeds raised from the campaign will go directly to the American Red Cross in support of their disaster relief efforts in Vermont and the Upper Valley of New Hampshire. In addition, Shaw's will also match the donations up to $35,000. Shaw's Ludlow Store Work continues on the Shaw's location in Ludlow, Vt., which suffered massive flooding and necessitating a complete rebuild of the inside. The company anticipates having the store completely redone and open by the middle of December. Shaw's has been operating a temporary store under a tent in the parking lot of Ludlow location since a week after the storm. Market Watch

New VT Local Food App: Vermont Eats, a new app on Sutro World, from the author of the award-winning Green Earth Guides, highlights the bounty of Vermont’s local, organic and artisan foods. Launched for October 24th National Food Day, Vermont Eats provides information on over 400 local food enterprises from farms to restaurants all over the state—perfect for travelers and residents alike who want to eat healthily and support sustainable farms and businesses on Food Day and all year long. Press Release

3. CTES School Board Minutes for September
The meetings from the Cavendish Elementary School Board meeting for 9/20/11 have been posted to the Cavendish Update Blog.

4. Take Back Prescription Drug Day on Oct. 29
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s third National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day will officially open collection sites throughout Vermont on Saturday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The closest sites for Cavendish are as follows: Ludlow Police Dept; Weathersfield Transfer Station; Springfield Police Dept; and the Windsor Police Dept. To learn more about the proper disposal of drugs go to http://healingwhole.blogspot.com/2010/03/what-to-do-with-medications-you-are-no.html

5. Illusionist at CTES to Benefit Proctorsville Fire Dept.
Dylan Tenney Magic Illusion & Hypnosis Show at Cavendish Town Elementary School on October 29th at 2pm & 7pm. $5 tickets at the door. 50/50 raffle, concessions, and T-shirt sale. The proceeds benefit the Proctorsville Vol Fire Dept. Anyone interested in donating baked goods should contact Chief Glidden at 226-7302.

6. Cavendish Community Fund to Hold Lasagna Dinner
The Cavendish Community Fund has announced that it is sponsoring a fundraising dinner at the Golden Stage Inn in Proctorsville on Sunday evening November 6th. Social hour starts at 4:00 p.m. and dinner is at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 for an individual and $65 for a couple. The dinner comes with a dual purpose. It will serve as a welcome to the new owners of the Golden Stage Inn, Mike and Julie Lynn Wood, who assumed ownership of the Inn last summer. The Community Fund will introduce Mike and Julie to the rest of the community with an informal lasagna dinner that will also raise needed funds.

The Community Fund distributes money for local programs, projects and events that are educational, cultural or artistic in nature. To qualify for a grant, a program must benefit Cavendish citizens at no cost to them. Since its inception in 2007 the Fund has distributed more than $18,000 to twenty five local projects. The Fund is administered by a committee of local citizens and is financed solely by donations and fund raising events in the community.

Reservations are required since space is limited. For more information and to reserve space at the dinner, please contact Barbara Dickey at 226-7187 or the Golden Stage Inn at 226-7744.

7. Cavendish Activities 10/21/11-10/28/11
October 22 (Saturday): The Helping Hand Class of the Cavendish Baptist Church is planning a Benefit Supper for the Cavendish Flood Victims. It will be held at the Church on Saturday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. The menu will be Turkey and all the Trimmings, followed by Apple or Pumpkin Pie. Admission will be by donation. To assist, please call Barbara (802) 226-7724.
• Black River Good Neighbor Services second annual Stick Season Social at Bella Luna at 6:00 p.m. The evening will include a cash bar and a terrific silent auction. There will be lots of raffle items too. Bella Luna will serve a lavish buffet followed by a Viennese Table loaded with luscious desserts. Tickets are $50 per person, including dinner, gratuities and tax. Tickets can be purchased at BRGNS Thrift Shop at 37B Main St, Peoples United Bank, the Book Nook, Berkshire Bank and The Wine & Cheese Depot, all located in Ludlow. You may call 802-228-3663. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are limited to the first 150 people, so please buy now.
• Vermont Clean Up Day from Irene.

October 25 (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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343

October 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, Dot Ramsdell at (802) 226-7870 or Charlotte Snyder (802) 226-7343
• 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

Monday's site visit and SB Meeting Cancelled

2011-10-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Select Board meeting scheduled for 10/17/11, which would have included a site visit of 53 Depot Street and subsequent Cavendish Board of Health hearing, has been rescheduled to Monday, Oct. 24 at 6 pm. This was done to allow sufficient time for the property owner to prepare for the visit. The hearing and site visit were scheduled in response to health and safety complaints regarding a derelict building at this address.

Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Minutes 9/20/11

2011-10-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

Board Present: Gene Bont, Peter Gregg, Sharon Huntley, John MacLean

Administration Present: George Thomson – Principal

Public: K.P. Whaley – LPC-TV, Connie Kendall, Peggy Svec, Janet Currier – Recording Secretary

Call to Order: Gene Bont called meeting to order at 5:05 p.m.

Comments from the Community – Peggy Svec commented that it was good to be back at school

Approval of Minutes of July 19, 2011: Gene moved acceptance of minutes. Peter seconded. Minutes were approved.

Personnel: a) Hiring School Based Clinician – Michelle Golden – has her Masters, meets criteria, etc. She has been a school based clinician before. Salary – not to exceed $16,000.00 for the year. Peter made motion to hire Michelle Golden, John seconded. The board was told she does more beyond Counselor, she is a school psychologist, does testing, teaching guidance – “Mental Health”. Board approved unanimously.

Finance: a) Health Reimbursement Arrangement – This Health care reimbursement plan has been in effect for many years and can be used for certain kinds of medical expenses. Officially, the board needs to approve this plan. It is not changing anything but does need board approval. In negotiations for support staff it was approved that they can participate as well. The money comes out of employees pay, it does not come out of funds that the school board controls. Motion to approve made by Peter, seconded by Sharon. The board unanimously approved.

Principal’s Report: George passed the Budget summary around for review. This is the document they will use to do our audit which was scheduled for an earlier time but had to be rescheduled because of Tropical Storm Irene. George said they have supplied many details by mail, email and fax. The official audit will be done soon. George said we should be in the black and we will be close. The Budget summary for this year was passed out and nothing shows a red flag so far.

George told the board that school opened 2 weeks late because of school being used as an emergency center and having the National Guard housed here. The building was well used. No generator was on site but future discussions may revisit that situation. Teachers were ever present and put in lots of time during that time. The staff absolutely held up their end to try to be supportive of the community. Some from Green Mountain Union High School, some from Chester-Andover, Flood Brook, etc. It was an impressive response, a huge outpouring. The building took its toll and every corner got cleaned, etc. for the first day of school. George said there was a loss of pots and pans and food was all over Town. Rich Svec feels these things can be replaced. George said they have a list of what was lost in the freezers. The Public Health people also came and helped them sort through the freezers as to what needed to be thrown out. George said people did a wonderful job with what they had to work with. He wants to come up with a better emergency plan for the future.

George said they opened school with 103 students and no potable water or transportation. The Town was great in making sure the school had plenty of bottled water. They had sanitizer and everyone had to sanitize their hands after washing them as the water was still unsafe. a) Transportation Report: There are still no busing services. The plan was to reduce to one bus this year. The Town has done a great job in getting the roads passable. George and Mr. Van Scheik rode the roads and decided they are not ready for school buses yet. George wants to get the bus on the road as soon as possible but still needs to come up with a different bus route than the one originally planned for.

The storm Irene damaged Greven Field and the Fletcher fields. He said they are doing a soccer program with the Ludlow Recreation Program. On Thursday, September 29th there will be a pot luck supper at 6:00 p.m. and an Open House at 7:00 p.m. He said they are still getting veggies out the CTES garden as it was not touched by the flood waters.

On September 28th the NECAP Science test results will be released. MAPS testing in Math, Language Arts and Reading are now going on. George got an extension for the month of October for the NECAP testing to be done.

George then talked about make up days, a total of eight (8). He is proposing the following for make up days: 9/28/11 (It was to be an in-service day) 10/10/11 (Columbus Day) 11/11/11 is a planned in-service and it will be kept as one, 3/26/12 (was supposed to be an in-service day), the rest of the days will be made up at the end of the year along with snow days. Even with the snow days, school should be out by the middle of June as the original last day is scheduled for June 6th.
George informed the board that David Adams is very sick and that is why he is not at the meeting this evening. He said that David plans on coming to the meeting tomorrow evening to be held with Rutland-Windsor S.U.

Superintendent Report –George said that last year there was a committee for Supervision and Evaluation. The Charlotte Danielson model is what the committee came up with. George reviewed this new plan. He said there will be a professional trainer that will come and make sure everyone is on the same page. The goal is to have everyone evaluated once a year. (Professional Staff).

Policies – a) F-14 – Enrollment of Children of Non-Resident Teachers – Sharon said their question regarding this policy is does Green Mountain have a policy so our students under this CTES policy can continue on with their class at Green Mountain. Also can teachers send their children to Chester-Andover or Cavendish under this policy. Sharon would like to discuss this with Green Mountain and Chester-Andover to see whether they have this policy in place or not. George said he does not know what the policies are at Green Mountain and Chester-Andover but he will find out. Sharon said busing should not be expected to travel to pick up these students but they could ride from Cavendish School to Green Mountain and back again.

Other Business – George said our State is requesting a waiver from the Federal Government regarding No Child Left Behind. The request has been made by Governor Peter Shumlin. The Federal Government needs more information as to what we are going to do for an accountability system, but they are considering the request. George is not positive but he thinks Vermont is the first State to request a Waiver for No Child Left Behind.

Executive Session – None.

Adjournment – Sharon moved adjournment and John seconded. Board adjourned at 5:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Janet Currier
Recording Secretary

CTES Board Meeting Agenda for 10/18/11

2011-10-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

Cavendish Town Elementary School Board Meeting will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 5:30 pm at the school. The Agenda will be as follows:

AGENDA

1. Call to order

2. Comments from the Community

3. Approval of Minutes of September 20, 2011

4. Personnel
a.) Director of Building, Grounds & Plant Maintenance Resignation - (Informational)
b.) Non Certified Staff Hiring – (Informational)

5. Curriculum Update

6. Joint Supervisory Update

7. Policies

8. Principal’s Report

9. Superintendent Report

10. Other Business

11. Executive Session – (Negotiations)

12. Adjournment

Select Board Meeting Agenda 10/17/11

2011-10-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

Selectmen’s Meeting, Monday, October 17, 2011. The meeting will begin with a site visit at 5:00 PM sharp at the North Country Condominium complex in Proctorsville in order to inspect a derelict building owned by Dean Kauppinen located at 53
Depot Street. After the site visit, the meeting will recess in order to move to the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room where the meeting will resume.

AGENDA
1. Call the meeting to order
2. Conduct site visit at 53 Depot Street, Proctorsville, VT
3. Sign Orders
4. Review Correspondence
5. Adjust agenda
6. Hear Citizens
7. Conduct Cavendish Board of Health Meeting regarding health and safety complaints pertaining to a derelict building at 53 Depot Street, Proctorsville.
8. Updates on Hurricane Irene clean-up and restoration activities
9. Adjourn

Cavendish Update 10/14/11 Irene/News/Etta Dean

2011-10-14T07:41:00.000-07:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

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 10/14/11 Cavendish Update Contains the Following:
1. Remembering Etta Dean
2. Irene Recovery Information/News/Resources
3. Thank You From the Proctorsville Fire Department
4. Thank you from Paula Parker
5. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Cavendish, VT Poem
6. BRGNS Stick Season Social October 22nd at Bella Luna Ristorante
7. Upcoming Cavendish Activities 10/14-/10/22

1 Remembering Etta Dean
Many knew her by her car vanity plates “ETTA,” and others because she was one of Cavendish’s oldest residents. Etta E. (Harris) Dean, having just turned 96, died Oct. 10 at the Gill Odd Fellows Home in Ludlow. A funeral will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15 at 1 pm at the Cavendish Baptist Church, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Proctorsville Fire Station in Proctorsville. All are welcome. Her obituary is on-line.

2. Irene Recovery Information/News/Resources
Congratulations to Craig and Jessie Goodman on re opening American Pie in Ludlow. Keep in mind that they do offer pizza for your freezer.

• FEMA Office in Ludlow Closed but SBA Open until 10/31/11: The FEMA office at the Disaster Recovery Center in Ludlow is now closed. However, the SBA office is still open until Halloween. You will need a FEMA number to file for an SBA low interest loan. You can obtain the number by using the phones at the Recovery Center or call

• Cavendish Baptist Church Supper on 10/22/11 to Benefit Flood Relief: The Helping Hand Class of the Cavendish Baptist Church is planning a Benefit Supper for the Cavendish Flood Victims. It will be held at the Church on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. The menu will be Turkey and all the Trimmings, followed by Apple or Pumpkin Pie. Admission will be by donation. To assist, please call Barbara (802) 226-7724.

• Extension for Disaster Unemployment: The US Department of Labor has approved Vermont’s request to extend the filing deadline for Individual Disaster Unemployment Assistance to November 21, 2011. The covered disaster assistance period continues to begin on August 27, 2011 and end on March 3, 2012. The first payable week remains week ending September 3, 2011. An individual must be continuously unemployed as a direct result of the disaster in order to continue to receive Disaster Unemployment Assistance. If eligible, he or she can collect benefits for the weeks during which they meet the necessary criteria. Individuals who experience temporary job loss as a result of the disaster and who do not qualify for State Unemployment Insurance Benefits, such as self-employed individuals, may also be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. FMI: www.labor.vermont.gov or call 1-877-214-3330

• Ludlow will Need $2 M for Repairs: According to Frank Heald, town manager, “The preliminary estimates for emergency and finished repairs is $1.8 million. We’re pushing half a million dollars out at this point,” Rutland Herald 10/8/11

• BRGN Offers Flood Relief: “BRGNS has adopted new procedures to deal with the extraordinary needs created as a result of Irene’s devastation”, BRGNS President Peter LaBelle said. “Even those whose property was not directly impacted by the flood but who may have lost employment due to it should contact BR GNS to see if they qualify for assistance.” FMI: 228-3663 Rutland Herald 10/7/11

• VT Crews Race the Clock to Rebuild: Planning that normally would develop over 10 years was condensed to six weeks. Construction work would normally take a year. A flurry of activity — involving some 3,600 workers from the state Agency of Transportation, Maine and New Hampshire state highway crews, National Guard units from Vermont to South Carolina and private contractors — reduced the number of state roads closed from 146 to six in the six weeks since the storm. In the first days following the storm, the race was on to reach stranded Vermonters. Now, the race is to restore roads before winter. The price tag: Somewhere between $500 million and $700 million, Transportation Secretary Brian Searles estimated. For perspective, it will exceed this year’s entire state transportation budget of $553 million. Burlington Free Press

• Tax Abatements for flood damaged homes helps owners but could hurt towns: Abatement is a longstanding legal process in Vermont that allows a local board to waive payment of all or part of an owner’s property taxes — both municipal and school taxes. The law allows abatement when a taxpayer faces “extraordinary circumstances that make it difficult for the taxpayer to meet his or her tax obligations,” according pamphlet on abatement published by the Office of the Secretary of State. The law says loss or destruction of property — from fires or floods, for example — could justify waiving tax payments. Burlington Free Press

• Shumlin Declares Oct. 22 VT’s Post-Irene Clean Up Day: The state will hold a Clean Up Day on Oct. 22. The Governor indicated it would become an annual event, the autumn version of Vermont’s springtime Green Up Day. Shumlin called on Vermonters to give assistance, send money or donate items to prepare the state and those affected by the flood for winter. “If we all lend a hand and do a little, it will mean a lot to those in need,” Shumlin said The state has created a website — www.vtcleanup.org — through which people can learn where help is needed. The state is encouraging Vermonters to provide assistance in three ways: by volunteering with flood cleanup efforts; by donating to flood relief funds; and by offering items such as clothing, furniture and appliances for donation to flood victims. Burlington Free Press

• Federal River Repair Fund for VT Faces Drought: Vermont officials are trying to repair stream banks left raw and vulnerable to further erosion following Tropical Storm Irene, but it’s unclear whether the state will get all the federal money it needs to do the work. The National Resources Conservation Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is low on money and officials who work for the NRCS in Vermont already have been told that certain projects won’t get funded. Rutland Herald 10/13/11

• State Waiting on Congress for Irene Aid: Forty-five days after flooding damaged hundreds of roads and brought down scores of bridges, officials say they still don’t know how much it will cost to fix the state’s transportation system, or who’s going to pay for it. Transportation Secretary Brian Searles has pegged preliminary damage estimates on the state system at $500 million, and municipal officials say the cost to repair Irene-related damage to town roads will be several hundred million dollars more. The final bill to Vermont taxpayers depends largely on an ongoing budget battle in Washington, D.C., where negotiations over transportation and disaster spending will determine the scope of federal aid available to states. Rutland Herald 10/13/11

3. Thank You From the Proctorsville Fire Department
The Proctorsville Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to thank a great many people who left their mark on our small town in the wake of the Hurricane Irene flooding.

As our First Captain Robert Glidden jr. put it, “You join the volunteer fire service expecting to help people, never looking for anything in return. But after a disaster like Irene, where you have so many people coming out to offer help in the way of cooking hot meals for the firefighters who spent so long away from their families, and our Nation’s Guardsmen coming in to deliver supplies and repair roads… it’s pretty powerful when those people step up to help you.”

In no particular order, we would like to thank:
• The people of Proctorsville, for your patience, care for one another, and for not letting the worst natural disaster in a century dampen your vigilant spirit;
• All the folks who cooked for the firefighters and for those in need, who volunteered at the CTES shelter, and who checked on their neighbors’ well-being;
• The contractors who are helping to repair all of the damage;
• And last but certainly not least, the National Guardsmen who have left their homes and families to come and work tirelessly on restoring roads and peace of mind to our community.

While the events during and after Irene have brought devastation to the entire Eastern United States, the impact on our community has been profound. It is because of all of the work and caring of the people mentioned in this letter that our town continues to exist, and we thank you.

Chief Robert Glidden And the Firefighters of the Proctorsville Vol Fire Dept.

4. Thank you from Paula Parker
This is a letter to thank many special people who worked so hard the first week after the tropical storm Irene left it's mark on our town and state. Just in our small section of Cavendish, there was major damage to our roads, especially Parker Hill Road, Old County Road, East Road, Brook Road, and Chubb Hill. We owe a huge thanks to the following people. Ken and Phyllis Emery, Wyatt McAllister, Chad Devereaux, Derek Gurney, Matt Palmer, Keith Varga and Cliff Johnson. With their machines, muscle and know-how, these people managed to create at least one lane of road down off this hill.

The firemen and others were checking on our welfare, delivering water and meals, directing traffic, etc. Jane, Ginny and Diane worked many extra hours at the town office answering the phones and keeping people informed. We saw Jeff Davis and Cliff Johnson still working when they were well past the point of exhaustion.

The Cavendish Homeworkers II Club happened to have a meeting at the Proctorsville Fire Department the day that Sgt. Stocker went home to God. We invited his fellow guardsmen to join us for lunch and hopefully eased their sorrow at least a small amount.

The people of Cavendish jumped in with both feet and went to work. Some we read about but most we didn't. I encourage everyone to write down their story and give it to the Historical Society. This is all part of the history of the town of Cavendish. I am proud of the people of the whole town of Cavendish. You did a good job. Thank you.

Paula Parker, Cavendish, VT

5. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Cavendish, VT Poem
These posts are made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society and are archived at the CHS Blog.

At the Cavendish 250th Anniversary Celebration on Oct. 8, Grand Marshall, historian and author Sandy Stearns read the following poem, which she wrote in 1990. It’s a very good summary of almost 250 years of Cavendish history.

Cavendish, Vermont! How I love that name!
Of my birth or death, perhaps both the same.
You felt the first step I did make.
May it be here, my last I take.
Your history spans so many years.
You’ve sheltered hopes, dreams and tears.
The Black River flowed thru the Gorge.
Thru channels and drops it did forge,
Now as it did in ages old.
Such memories it does enfold.
Quiet were your hills many years ago.
While wild animals roamed, to and fro.
Brave Indians traveled over your lands,
Fished your rivers, walked your sands.
Came in 1754 with prisoners from Fort # 4.
And “Captive” Johnson was born in a shelter poor.
Five years later your woods were filled,
With British soldiers cutting thru your hills.
The Crown Point Road connected fort with fort,
To move troops, baggage and supplies of all sort.
Chartered by Benning Wentworth in 1761,
But no permanent settlement was then begun.
John Coffeen and his family came to this barren land,
In 1769, alone, alone no neighbors at hand.
While sparse was the company on that road.
Settling his land, Leonard Proctor in 1780 came.
In the village that still bears hi name.
Next year Salmon Dutton arrived in town,
Built his house in the village he found.
Gradually, gradually, more settlers came,
Established homes, farmed and hunted game.
Established government, schools and a meeting place.
Utilized, organized, filled and divided the space.
Worked together to build a town,
Using whatever talents were found.
Grist mills, saw mills, carpenters too,
Farmers, blacksmiths, inns so new.
Place to congregate and for neighbors to meet,
Bridges, cemeteries, churches and streets.
All that was needed to make a town so fine.
Over the years they worked, now it’s yours and mine.
The railroad was a fabulous thing.
Its engine puffed and its wheels would sing,
Connecting Cavendish to the world so fine.
You could go almost anywhere by 1849.
The 1927 flood, what a tragic time.
A chasm grew down lower Main Street line.
Seven houses were crushed and swept away.
But everyone lived to see a better day.
Remember the lives that stood on these hills!
Remember the voices ringing in the valley shrill !
Remember the trials and cares to make it great!

Cavendish, Vermont! My Town!! My State!!

6. BRGNS Stick Season Social October 22nd at Bella Luna Ristorante
Black River Good Neighbor Services is having its second annual Stick Season Social at Bella Luna on Saturday October 22nd at 6:00 p.m.. When asked what stick season is, Peter LaBelle, President of BRGNS’ Board said, “It’s the season with no leaves, no snow, no free concerts and not much to do – until now”. This is a fun fund raising dinner that will help BRGNS (a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization) with operating costs so it can continue to help local people in need of food, rent, utilities & heat assistance.

The evening will include a cash bar and a terrific silent auction. There will be lots of raffle items too. Bella Luna will serve a lavish buffet followed by a Viennese Table loaded with luscious desserts. Tickets are $50 per person, including dinner, gratuities and tax. Tickets can be purchased at BRGNS Thrift Shop at 37B Main St, Peoples United Bank, the Book Nook, Berkshire Bank and The Wine & Cheese Depot, all located in Ludlow. You may call 802-228-3663. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are limited to the first 150 people, so please buy now.

7. Upcoming Cavendish Activities 10/14-/10/21
October 20 (Thursday): Community Luncheon in Proctorsville, 11:30 pm at St. James United Methodist Church, Main Street. This month’s menu will be spaghetti and meatballs with a tossed green salad and garlic bread, and the RESPECT Club helpers from the school will be surprising us with a dessert from their own kitchen. Drinks include coffee, hot tea or a cold beverage. A suggested donation of $4.00 for seniors or $5.50 for those under 60 years of age helps to cover the cost of this meal.
• 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

Ludlow FEMA Closing 10/13/11

2011-10-11T11:50:00.000-07:00

FEMA will be closing its doors in the Okemo Marketplace in Ludlow this Thursday, October 13th at 5pm. The SBA Office will remain open until October 31st. Please file your claim with FEMA as soon as possible. Remind neighbors and friends as well. Other Irene Resource Recovery Information is available at the link in the upper right hand section of the blog.

Cavendish Vermont Poem by Sandra Stearns

2011-10-09T07:52:00.001-07:00

Below is the poem that Sandra Stearns, the grand marshall for the 250th Anniversary Parade, wrote and read at yesterday's celebration.

May 1990 Cavendish, Vermont

Cavendish, Vermont! How I love that name!
Of my birth or death, perhaps both the same.
You felt the first step I did make.
May it be here, my last I take.
Your history spans so many years.
You’ve sheltered hopes, dreams and tears.
The Black River flowed thru the Gorge.
Thru channels and drops it did forge,
Now as it did in ages old.
Such memories it does enfold.
Quiet were your hills many years ago.
While wild animals roamed, to and fro.
Brave Indians traveled over your lands,
Fished your rivers, walked your sands.
Came in 1754 with prisoners from Fort # 4.
And “Captive” Johnson was born in a shelter poor.
Five years later your woods were filled,
With British soldiers cutting thru your hills.
The Crown Point Road connected fort with fort,
To move troops, baggage and supplies of all sort.
Chartered by Benning Wentworth in 1761,
But no permanent settlement was then begun.
John Coffeen and his family came to this barren land,
In 1769, alone, alone no neighbors at hand.
While sparse was the company on that road.
Settling his land, Leonard Proctor in 1780 came.
In the village that still bears hi name.
Nex year Salmon Dutton arrived in town,
Built his house in the village he found.
Gradually, gradually, more settlers came,
Established homes, farmed and hunted game.
Established government, schools and a meeting place.
Utilized, organized, filled and divided the space.
Worked together to build a town,
Using whatever talents were found.
Grist mills, saw mills, carpenters too,
Farmers, blacksmiths, inns so new.
Place to congregate and for neighbors to meet,
Bridges, cemeteries, churches and streets.
All that was needed to make a town so fine.
Over the years they worked, now it’s yours and mine.
The railroad was a fabulous thing.
Its engine puffed and its wheels would sing,
Connecting Cavendish to the world so fine.
You could go almost anywhere by 1849.
The 1927 flood, what a tragic time.
A chasm grew down lower Main Street line.
Seven houses were crushed and swept away.
But everyone lived to see a better day.
Remember the lives that stood on these hills!
Remember the voices ringing in the valley shrill !
Remember the trials and cares to make it great!

Cavendish, Vermont! My Town!! My State!!

Sandra F. Stearns

SB Meeting Agenda for 10/11/11

2011-10-09T01:52:00.000-07:00

The Selectmen’s Meeting is Tuesday, October 11, 2011 in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 6:30 PM. The agenda will be as follows:

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Adjust agenda
5. Hear Citizens
6. Review/discuss letter from Adele Kennedy regarding a derelict building on Pie Alley in Proctorsville. Patrick Moore and Penny Trick, also property owners in the North Country Condominium complex, will also be present on the same topic.
7. Updates on Hurricane Irene clean-up and restoration activities
8. Town Manager to give progress update on FEMA assistance especially with regard to data collection, documentation, paperwork preparation and survey work
9. Review/discussion of Act 250 application of Gary Gnazzo for three duplex (6 units total) residential buildings off Winery Road
10. Review of Cavendish 250th Anniversary activities
11. Update on various other town activities
12. Other business
13. Adjourn

Cavendish Update 10/7/11 250th/News/Irene/Events

2011-10-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 10/7/11 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Cavendish 250th Anniversary Weekend
2. Irene Recovery
3. Cavendish Related News
4. LPCTV Hosts Lasagna Supper October 13th
5. American Chestnut Tree Seeds Available
6. Bottle Drive to Benefit GMUHS
7. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: The Gays and Art Hadley
8 Cavendish Events 10/7-10/14

1. Cavendish 250th Anniversary Weekend
On Oct. 12, 1761 King George III signed the charter that created Cavendish. For our 250th anniversary of this signing, a four-day celebration is taking place. While some activities have had to be changed or modified because of the flood, there are a lot of free events to come and enjoy. The forecast is amazing – sunny and 71 degrees!

Below is more information and some new additions from last week, so please be sure and read the list. Since not everyone is on-line, please print and make copies for friends, family and neighbors who might not be.

Oct 7 (Friday): Dance to Yankee Chank, Mark Sustic caller, starting at 7 am at the Cavendish Elementary School. Note that donations are being collected for Sgt. Stocker’s family, the Air Guard member working in flood recovery who died suddenly from an apparent heart attack.

Oct. 8 (Saturday): The parade will be on Depot Street in Proctorsville, starting at 10 am. The Grand Marshall is the author and historian Sandra Stearns. Ending at the Proctorsville Green, there will be a variety of activities including games/toys of the settler’s era; face painting with Jessica; cotton candy; popcorn; music and a few speeches.

11:30-1pm: BBQ at the Cavendish School. Please bring a side dish (salad, coleslaw, beans etc.) if you can. Our grill master will be Etienne Ting.

1-3 pm: The Cavendish charter and other historical documents will be on display at the Cavendish Library.

Oct. 9 (Sunday): The churches will hold open houses and receptions from noon to 2 pm.
2-4 pm: The authors of “The Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs” will be at Crows Corner (yes, they are once again open) on Depot Street. The authors, Suzanne Gay Beyer, and John S. Pfarr, will talk about the Cavendish connections to the expansion bracelet. Note that this story will be featured on Nov. 9 on the Discovery channel’s “The Will.”

Oct. 10 (Monday): There will be a potluck supper at the school at 5 pm. This will be followed by a discussion of the history of the Cavendish churches.

2. Irene Recovery
This week has seen a number of re openings.
• Crows Corner is once again open for business. Stop by for a cup of coffee and a chance to see friends.

• Rite Aid, in the Shaws plaza, has reopened its entire store with some new features.

• The Ludlow Health Center is once again at their regular location, 1 Elm Street in Ludlow.

If you have been impacted by the flood, register with FEMA now. The closing deadline is Oct. 31. There is an excellent field services rep for SBA (Small Business Administration) at the Ludlow Resource Recovery Center (next to Cool Moose Café) that can explain how SBA works for homeowners. Remember that filling out paper work does not commit you to a loan.

For the most current Irene Recovery handout, go to www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com The most up to date printed Recovery Handout has a maple leaf for its icon.

3. Cavendish Related News
VT Long Term Disaster Recovery Group: The Governor has announced that the nonproft group will be responsible for distributing the funds and deploying volunteer assistance to Vermonters who continue to need help rebuilding their lives after Tropical Storm Irene. Money will be made available to individuals and families through the Vermont Disaster Relief Fund, once they have exhausted private insurance, federal, state and local funding resources. The Federal Emergency Management Agency covers up to $30,400 in damages to homeowners whose property has been totaled. About 112 residents have received the maximum allocation so far. Press Release

Okemo Valley to Get Communications Upgrade: The Public Service Board has approved a certificate of public good to upgrade Okemo Valley telecommunications facilities. The facilities will be located throughout the state for utility installations, infrastructure repairs and maintenance and emergency response activities. The facility will be located in Mount Holly on Okemo Mountain. VELCO and several Okemo Valley town services, including Cavendish and Proctorsville Fire Depts., filed for the joint certificate on Aug. 1.Rutland Herald 10/3/11

Nurses Sue Gill Home for Job Abuses: Nine nurses are suing Gill Home for retaliatory discharge and failure to pay earned wages. According to their individual lawsuits, their medical supervisor Leslie Whittington engaged in acts of intimidation and retaliatory discharge after they reported about her ongoing unprofessional conduct. The Rutland Herald 10/3/11

Forum on Health in Ludlow: A panel of six statewide leaders in the healthcare field debate to discuss the meaning and impact of Act 48 on Thursday, Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Ludlow Town Hall Auditorium. The panel will consist of Steve Kappel, Dr. Deb Richter, Wendy Wilton, State Sen. John Campbell, Bob Gaydos and Darcie Johnston. The forum will include a brief PowerPoint presentation outlining the major elements of the Act 48 legislation and questions from both the moderator and audience. For additional information, call 802-228-7239

Friendly’s Filing Chapter 11: The Friendly's restaurant chain is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and has already closed 63 of its restaurants, including one in Vermont (Barre/Montpelier). Friendly's operates several restaurants in Vermont, among nearly 500 nationwide. WCAX

4. LPCTV Hosts Lasagna Supper October 13th
LPCTV, community television for the Black River Valley, is hosting a lasagna supper at the Ludlow Community Center on Thursday, October 13th from 5:30 - 7:30. The event is being held to commemorate LPCTV's 10th Anniversary. There will be a special screening of the visual documentation of the recent flood, which include videos and images that LPCTV has produced & collected from community members. This is part of the ongoing work LPCTV is doing, in collaboration with the Black River Academy Museum and local historical societies, as part of the newly created Black River Historical Media Project.

The supper on October 13th will include salad, garlic bread, a variety of different lasagnas, beverages, and dessert. There is a suggested donation of $8 per person. All proceeds will go towards LPCTV's continual fundraising efforts for the new community media facility.

5. American Chestnut Tree Seeds Available
This year our American Chestnut Trees (planted 18 years ago from seeds from the American Chestnut Foundation) have been very productive. If you would like some chestnuts for planting please call us at 226-7331or underandover@tds.net.
Note that the trees are not hybrids and therefore are NOT blight free.

6. Bottle Drive to Benefit GMUHS
A bottle drive will be held at Chester Hardware on Main Street in Chester, Andover Town Hall in Andover, and Cavendish Town Elementary School on Route 131 in Proctorsville from 9 am – Noon on Saturday, October 15.

If you need to clean out your garage so that you can find your snowblower and winter tires, please bring your returnable cans and bottles to us! All donations are greatly appreciated.

Students at Green Mountain Union High School are raising funds for their trip to Utah, Nevada, and Arizona during spring break. They will study the archeology, biology, and geology of Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks.

7. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: The Gays and Art Hadley
These posts are made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society and are archived at their blog.

While the name Gay will be forever cemented in Cavendish history with Gay Brother’s Mill, there is now a new link, this time with the inventor of the expansion bracelet, Art Hadley. A lover of beautiful women, drink and cars (he drove an Auburn Boattail Speedster during the depression), Hadley’s sister Una married Leon S. Gay and lived at Glimmerstone in Cavendish for four decades.

In 2003, Suzanne Gay Beyer, Una and Leon Gay’s granddaughter, as well as other cousins, received a letter stating that “It’s been determined that you are the heirs-at-law of Arthur Hadley.” Thus began a very interesting true story, which resulted in the book “The Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs.”

Told from two perspectives - that of the attorney, who negotiated a $1.8 million settlement, and Suzanne Beyer an heir being represented - this true story tells how a group of cousins, some of whom had never met, could unite and journey on a six-year odyssey of setbacks, divisive stubbornness and stunning victories.

Learn more about how this story unfolds, see pictures of Glimmerstone and hear what life was like for the Gay family and grandchildren by attending Sunday, Oct 9’s “meet the authors” program at Crows Corner Bakery. Part of the 250th anniversary celebration, the program will begin at 2 pm with both Suzanne Beyer and John Pfarr.

8 Cavendish Events 10/7-10/14
October 7 (Friday): We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary starts with a community dance, 7 pm at the Cavendish School. Contra and Square dances will be called by Mark Sustic. Yankee Chank will provide music and will include Cajun/Zydeco tunes. FMI: 226-7807

October 8 (Saturday): We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary. Parade 10 am on Depot Street ending at the Proctorsville Green where post parade activities will take place. Alternate location is the school following the Parade.

October 9 (Sunday): We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary Open house at Cavendish/Proctorsville Churches noon-2pm. Meet the authors of “Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs,” 2-4 pm at Crows Bakery on Depot Street. Alternative location is the school.

October 10 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda posted to blog www.cavendishvt.blogspot.com as soon as it is received. LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line www.lpctv.org and Comcast Cable TV. Check the website for more information.
• We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary Pot luck summer and discussion of the history of religion in Cavendish, 5 pm at the school. Sponsored by the Cavendish/Proctorsville Churches.

October 13 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373

SB Agenda 10/4/11 and Charter Day Activities

2011-10-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

Selectmen’s Meeting, Tuesday, October 4, 2011 in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 5:00 PM.

AGENDA
1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Adjust agenda
5. Updates on Hurricane Irene storm clean-up related activities including FEMA visitations.
6. Adjourn

OCT 8 (SATURDAY): CHARTER DAY EVENTS
9:30: Parade assembles at the Golden Stage Inn
10:00: Parade down Depot Street and around Proctorsville Green, this is followed by speeches and various activities on the Green (face painting; Settler era games and toys)
11:30-1pm: BBQ at the Cavendish Town Elementary School
1-3 pm: Display of Cavendish Charter signed Oct. 12, 1761 by King George III and other historic materials at the Redfield Proctor Room of the Cavendish Community Library

Benefit for Stocker Family

2011-10-01T03:48:00.000-07:00

Master Sgt. Shawn Stocker died suddenly, Sept. 21 while part of the recovery effort in Cavendish. He had close ties to the area. Part of the Air Guard, many of us had come to know Sgt. Stocker.

On Friday, Oct. 7, the first event that marks the 250th Celebration weekend, is a community dance at the Cavendish School starting at 7 pm. This will be a benefit for the Stocker family. If you can not attend the dance, but wish to make a donation, you can drop it off at the Cavendish Historical Society Museum on Sunday, Oct. 2 from 2-4pm, send it with someone who is attending the dance or contact Margo 226-7807 or margoc@tds.net

While we will have cards for people to sign at the dance, you can also include your own card. If you prefer, gas cards and gift cards from Hannafords or Price Chopper would also be appreciated.

The Stocker Family would also like copies of any photographs taken while he was working here.

Sgt. Stocker was there for us. It's our turn to be there for his family.

Cavendish Update 9/30/11 Irene/News/250th/Events

2011-09-30T07:09:00.000-07:00

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

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 9/30/11 Cavendish Update Contains the Following:
1. Irene Recovery Information
2. Cavendish Related News
3. We’re Still Here: Cavendish Celebrates its’ 250th Anniversary
4. Order your locally grown Thanksgiving Turkey
5. Gethsemane Episcopal Church
6. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: The 150th Anniversary
7. October Cavendish Calendar

1. Irene Recovery Information
An updated Recovery Information handout will be posted to this blog on Wednesday. The current one, available on-line (upper right hand corner link) , is available in print form at the town office. Note that the Ludlow Disaster Recovery Center (next to Cool Moose Café) will be closed on Sundays. The Center will now be open Monday through Saturday 8 am to 6 pm. You have until Oct. 31 to file for disaster assistance

2. Cavendish Related News
Cavendish Canyon Is on the Rise: Repairs to Route 131 are proceeding apace, thanks to help from Ohio National Guard soldiers who head home Sept. 26. The “Canyon” could be repaired by Thanksgiving, state Transportation officials say. Transportation workers from Vermont, Maine and New Hampshire, National guard troops from VT and Ohio and private contractors have filled in about 40,000 cubic yards of stone and soil and have around 30,000 left to haul in from quarries and gravel pits in Cavendish and surrounding towns. Valley News 9/24/11

Cavendish Canyon to be Repaired by Thanksgiving: The river is what led to all of the damage in Cavendish. More than 120 National Guardsmen are there to help fill in the pit, but it is going to take more than 7,000 trucks of fill before it is passable once again. WCAX

VT Tied for Biggest Drop in Household Income: At the peak of the recession in 2009 Vermont saw an unemployment rate of over 7 percent-- the highest in almost 20 years. Nationally there was a 2.2 percent drop in average household income to $50,000. In Vermont there was a 6.1 percent drop to $49,000 per household, meaning fewer people can afford their homes. WCAX

Gov Extends State Credit to Towns Affected by Irene: Possible Gas Tax hike: Vermont banks, the Vermont Municipal Bond Bank and the state Treasurer’s Office announced a financial assistance package to help ease the financial stress on municipalities as they rebuild over the coming year. The state will advance $24 million in payments that are already slated for town highway aid ($6.2 million), current use ($12.3 million) and payment in lieu of taxes ($5.8 million). The governor emphasized that he is loathe to increase taxes, and he acknowledged that local property taxpayers may be hit hard. He didn’t rule out a gas levy, saying it would be “irresponsible” to take anything off the table. Press Release

FEMA Housing Units Headed to VT: Displaced flood victims unable to find permanent shelters before winter could end up in mobile housing units provided by FEMA, state officials said Tuesday. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has already delivered 10 “park unit mobile homes” to a staging area in Springfield. Secretary of Commerce Lawrence Miller says additional units are at the ready if newly homeless residents cannot secure suitable shelter in advance of the cold season. Rutland Herald

Tree Disease May Dull Foliage: A tree disease called anthracnose that thrives in wet conditions may be adding a brown tinge to the start of Vermont’s beloved — and lucrative — foliage season. Rutland Herald

Public Hearings on Improving VT’s Environmental and Land Use Permitting Process: The purpose of the hearings is to hear from Vermonters about what works and what needs improvement in the ANR, Act 250 and municipal permitting and appeals processes. FMI, including locations, http://vtdigger.org/2011/09/29/public-hearings-on-permit-process/

Amtrack’s Vermonter Back Up and Running: Amtrak train "the Vermonter" will be back up and running this weekend. The train has been out of service as crews made upgrades to the route thanks to a $50 million federal grant. Damage from Tropical Storm Irene delayed work the project. But officials say the re-opening of the route was only pushed back 2 weeks. The Vermonter runs from Saint Albans to Washington, D.C. WCAX

CVPS Shareholders Vote for Merger: Shareholders of Central Vermont Public Service voted overwhelmingly to approve the sale of CVPS to Gaz-Metro, the Canadian company that already owns Green Mountain Power. WCAX

3. We’re Still Here: Cavendish Celebrates its’ 250th Anniversary
Please share this information with neighbors and friends who may not be on-line:

Like many parts of Vermont, on August 28, our town was abruptly changed. While the road damage and flooding made us an “island town,” so many came to our aid to not only reassure us that we were not alone, but to help us as we began the recovery process.

For ten days, the Cavendish Town Elementary School was our shelter. Over 85 individuals and families and 36 organizations and businesses, including Vermont Red Cross, Homeland Security and the National Guard brought food and water to sustain us and the tools to clean up our homes and businesses, as well as the equipment and talent to restore our roads. Approximately 120 people helped to keep the shelter going, and another 25 formed work crews to assist in restoring damaged property.

While we have a ways to go, we are definitely on the mend and are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the charter by King George III on Oct. 12, 1761. We’ve had to make some adjustments, but we’re here and we want to invite everyone, particularly all of you who helped us through those first 10 days. The events, listed below are free and open to everyone.

Oct 7 (Friday): Community Dance, 7 pm at the Cavendish Town Elementary School in Proctorsville. Yankee Chank will be playing a variety of music-contras and squares with Mark Sustic as caller (the dancing of our first settlers); and hot Cajun/Zydeco dance tunes. Given our recent situation, could it be any more fitting to have a Louisiana inspired dance band? Les Bon Temps Roulet! (Let the Good Times Roll)

Oct. 8 (Saturday): Parade on Depot Street in Proctorsville starts at 10 am. We may have an abbreviated parade, but it will be inspired. The grand marshal is Sandra Stearns historian and author of “Cavendish Hillside Farm 1939 to 1957.” A variety of activities will take place as the parade ends at the Proctorsville Green (alternative location is the school). Look for games from the 1700’s that people of all ages can enjoy, food, face painting and much more.

Oct. 9 (Sunday): The Proctorsville/Cavendish churches will be holding an open house/reception at their respective churches from noon until 2 pm. At 2 pm, the authors of “The Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs,” Suzanne Gay Beyer, granddaughter of Olin Gay and John S. Pfarr, will be talking about their book at Crows Bakery on Depot Street in Proctorsville. There is a very interesting connection between Cavendish and the popular wristwatch expansion bracelet. This is the iconic American story of the underdog coming from behind to prevail. Please note that the location may need to change if Crows Bakery is not fully operational by that Sunday. The school will be the alternative location.

Oct 10 (Monday): The churches will be sponsoring a pot luck supper at 5 pm at the Cavendish School in Proctorsville, followed by a discussion on the history of religion in Cavendish.

4. Order your locally grown Thanksgiving Turkey
Moonlite Meadows Farm (Tings) on East Road in Cavendish is now taking orders for turkeys being raised on their farm. To reserve yours, call 226-8077 or e-mail reddog168@gmail.com

5. Gethsemane Episcopal Church
As most know, Gethsemane Episcopal Church was heavily damaged by the flood. The following note from Rev. Bower relates information about what they are doing and their new website: Dear Members and Friends of Gethsemane Episcopal Church, Proctorsville VT: We continue to meet on Sundays to celebrate Holy Eucharist, at 9:45am, at St James Methodist Church, Main Street, Proctorsville. I hope to see you there next Sunday.

On this past Sunday afternoon we were invited to a Celebration of Holy Eucharist and Blessing of the Vineyard and harvest of Antonio Antinori in Proctorsville, at 2pm at Tony's vineyard on Twenty Mile Stream Road. Needless to say, the weather was perfect & the word 'Blessed' was uttered often. Thank you Tony for hosting us!

Also on Saturday, October 1, in honor of St Francis of Assisi, St James Methodist Church and Gethsemane Episcopal Church is offering “The Blessing of The Animals” on the Proctorsville Green. All are invited.

We now have a website to keep our congregation and the public updated on our reconstruction efforts and ongoing activities. Please visit us at www.gethsemaneproctorsville.com

Blessings and peace to you all
Richard +-- _The Very Rev. Richard A. Bower

6. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: The 150th Anniversary
These posts are made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society and are archived at their blog.

The 150th Anniversary of Cavendish celebration had to be rescheduled to August 1912, due to a smallpox epidemic. Angie Kingsbury wrote to her sister, Marietta, on August 16, 1912 about the parade and events:

I am sending a list of the floats etc. which was printed in the last Tribune. No. 1 was drawn by an ox team the man representing John Coffeen driving the oxen. One person was barefoot and they all looked rather dilapidated. The next to come along was two men riding oxen. They didn’t have any yokes or anything on. ..No. 4 was a man dressed as they did in colonial times-powdered hair, cocked hat & all the fixings-riding on horseback. He looked exactly like George Washington. …No. 5 was an old, old green wagon. No. 7 were men on horseback painted red. A float with evergreens on the bottom covered with cotton to represent snow & two Indians sitting beside an old iron kettle and a bower of evergreen….The Rebekah float, which took first prize, was all white. …The horsback riders were few & the bicycles weren’t so very wonderful. There were quite a few autos. Gay’s took first prize. That was all covered with green & flowers & some little girls around with one perched on the back of the seat holding pink lines that were hitched to the shield in front. Murdock’s was second prize & was draped with golden rod. Fletchters was third & was decorated with sunflowers. The horribles [people dressed in costume] were plentiful. ….Sandford Emery got first prize for being horrible. He drove a scrawny horse hitched to a dilapidated wagon the wheels didn’t go together very well and were patched up boards and he was rigged as an old fat woman, wore a mash(ed) and new fashioned hat and an old cotton dress & brown umbrella with the ribs all sticking out as a sunshade. He had a bundle in his arms for a baby & was labeled “votes for women.” …There were two lineal descendents of Capt. Coffeen there. A man & a woman. The woman made a fine speech. It didn’t take her more than two minutes. The man spoke quite a while… Rev. Hough read an original poem. There were more speakers…

Allen M. Fletcher was to give the closing address at this celebration, but since it was late and beginning to rain, he wisely made just a few short remarks. “Chubb Hill Farm and Cavendish, Vermont: A Family and Town History” by Barbara B. Kingsbury

Note that this Sunday is the last day the Cavendish Historical Society Museum will be open for the season. Come and see the 250th Historic Timeline.

7. October Cavendish Calendar
October 1 (Saturday): In honor of St Francis of Assisi, St James Methodist Church and Gethsemane Episcopal Church will offer the blessing of animals on the Proctorsville Green at 2pm. All are invited.
• Vermont Open Studio Weekend

October 2 (Sunday): Vermont Open Studio Weekend
• Last Sunday the Cavendish Historical Society Museum will be open 2-4 pm.

October 3 (Monday): Red Cross Blood Drive at the Ludlow Community Center 12:30-5:30 pm. Everyone donating blood in Oct. will have a chance to win a 7 Day cruise for 2 departing Boston to Bermuda on the Norwegian Dawn.

October 5 (Wednesday): Planning Commission Meeting 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office

October 6 (Thursday): Okemo Valley Chamber Golf Tournament Scramble format golf tournament, 18 holes with a cart, golfer goody bags, range balls, BBQ & cash bar. Closest to the pin and Longest Drive contests. Hole-in-one contest (WIN a New 2011 Chevrolet), and putting contest (win $5,000)! $85 per player, or $65 per player for OVGC members. Tee Box Sponsorships available. FMI: 228-7870
• 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

October 7 (Friday): We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary starts with a community dance, 7 pm at the Cavendish School. Contra and Square dances will be called by Mark Sustic. Yankee Chank will provide music and will include Cajun/Zydeco tunes. FMI: 226-7807

October 8 (Saturday): We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary. Parade 10 am on Depot Street ending at the Proctorsville Green where post parade activities will take place. Alternate location is the school following the Parade.

October 9 (Sunday): We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary Open house at Cavendish/Proctorsville Churches noon-2pm. Meet the authors of “Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs,” 2-4 pm at Crows Bakery on Depot Street. Alternative location is the school.

October 10 (Monday): Select Board Meeting, 6:30 pm at the Cavendish Town Office. Agenda posted to blog as soon as it is received. LPC-TV tapes meetings and makes them available on-line and Comcast Cable TV. Check the website for more information.
• We’re Still Here! Cavendish 250th Anniversary Pot luck summer and discussion of the history of religion in Cavendish, 5 pm at the school. Sponsored by the Cavendish/Proctorsville Churches.

October 13 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373

October 20 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373

October 22 (Saturday): The Helping Hand Class of the Cavendish Baptist Church is planning a Benefit Supper for the Cavendish Flood Victims. It will be held at the Church on Saturday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. The menu will be Turkey and all the Trimmings, followed by Apple or Pumpkin Pie. Admission will be by donation. To assist, please call Barbara (802) 226-7724.

October 27 (Thursday): Sit & Knit" at the Six Loose Ladies yarn shop, Pollard Building, Proctorsville Green, 2:00 -9:00 PM. Open to knitters, spinners, crocheters, hookers. Free. FMI: 226-7373

October 31 (Monday): HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Select Board Meeting Agenda 9/27/11

2011-09-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

The Cavendish Select Board will meet today at 5pm at the Cavendish Town Office. The agenda will be as follows:

1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Review Correspondence
4. Update on Hurricane Irene storm clean-up related activities.
5. Adjourn

Sgt. Stocker Obituary

2011-09-24T06:34:00.000-07:00

The obituary for Sgt. Stocker, the Air Guard member who died from a heart attack on Wednesday, while providing relief work in Cavendish, can be found online. You can leave messages at this site.

Cavendish Update 9/23/11 Guard/News/SB/Events

2011-09-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

The 9/23/11 Cavendish Update Contains
1. Air Guard Member Dies Working in Cavendish
2. Select Board Meeting 9/20/11
3. Cavendish Related News
4. 250th Anniversary Planning Continues
5. Meet the Authors of “The Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs”
6. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Floods of 1936 and 1938
7. Blessing of the Animals
8. Classifieds

1. Air Guard Member Dies Working in Cavendish
While there are a number of articles about “a 46-year-old Vermont Air Guard member on state active duty assisting with cleanup in Cavendish who died unexpectedly Wednesday morning,” many of us who worked in the shelter knew Master Sgt. Shawn Stocker. Since the Air Guard arrived a few days after the Army Guard, were fewer in number and worked a different shift, we saw more of them.

We quickly learned that Stocker had been in Norway before coming here, his wife and kids were in West Rutland, but he had relatives in Cavendish and grew up not far from here. In fact, he related how his father had purchased plots for the family in the Cavendish Cemetery. We told him that alone made him one of us.

Stocker was passionate about what he did. Standing in the familiar A frame military pose, with arms crossed, in the middle of a very crowded dinning area, he spoke of why he did this type of work. “It’s just part of who you are. You can’t teach people this,” he said. “I’ve always known this is what I was meant to do.” Looking very fit and trim, he was a man living his beliefs, and we felt pretty lucky to have him as part of the “Cavendish Canyon” crew.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Stocker’s family, friends, and those he served with. Thank you for sharing him with us. May the grief of his passing be eased by knowing the positive difference he made in our town.

FMI: Burlington Free Press WCAX

2. Select Board Meeting 9/20/11
The primary purpose of Tuesday’s Select Board meeting was to approve contracts for road construction. Many residents, who live on the back roads, were in attendance, expressing concern about the stopping of local workers. However, Rich Svec, town manager and Rolf Van Schiak, hired to deal with contractors, spoke about the importance of having a bid process.

FEMA will pay 75% of the cost of road repairs, and the state will split the remaining 25% of costs with the town. This not only requires documentation, but also a bid process. To that end, work was halted so the bid process, albeit a short one, could take place. Notices were posted in The Rutland Herald and Eagle Times, on Thursday Sept. 15, with bids due by Sept. 20.

Svec noted that without this process, the town would have to pick up the total cost, which is what happened after the 1973 flood, where the town had to float a 30-year bond to pay off expenses. Svec asked people to submit photos of damaged roads before repairs to the Town Office by one of the following means: e-mail rsvec@comcast.net, drop off CDs, thumb drives and photographs, or snail mail them to PO Box 126, Cavendish, VT 05142

While certain sections of the road projects did have proposed contractors for the Select Board to vote approval on, other areas only had one bid, no bid or was work that could be done by the Cavendish Highway Department, using local contractors on an hourly basis and under the supervision of the Cavendish Highway Dept. Projects that were bid out were as follows:

Jarvis and Sons (Mt. Ascutney): Old Country/Parker Rd Area $114, 485
Jarvis and Sons (Mt. Ascutney): East Rd, Brook Rd Area $31,150
Charlestown Cornerstone (Charlestown, NH) Felchville Gulf, Tarbell Rd area $88,780
J & S Diversified (Cavendish –Turcos): Whitesville/Densmore Rd area $31,500

Areas where bids have yet to be assigned include:
• Twenty Mile Stream/Chapman/Newton Rd;
• Davis Road: Looking for a temporary bridge. Requires three bids, which could be hard to find.
• Town Farm Rd area, including Atkinson and Prior Roads
• Norrie Davis Rd
• Knapp Pond Rd
• Winery Bridge (Alternative ways to access businesses and home(s) were discussed)

Non-residential areas, such as Bailey Rd, are not priority for repair by the time “snow flies.”

Svec noted that every effort will be made to have roads put back to the way they were prior to the flood by the time winter sets in. However, guardrails are another matter. It is anticipated that stopgap measures will be used, but it will be spring before they can be addressed.

The National Guard will be stopping work on Sept. 27 at the “Cavendish Canyon” on route 131. The state has a replacement for the Guard and the road, plus the town’s infrastructure for water and sewage, damaged when the area was carved out, will be back in place for the winter season.

3. Cavendish Related News
Cavendish Recovery Process: While roads and bridges are reopening slowly, Route 131 in Cavendish has a long way to go. It will take a month and a half before traffic can resume, according to Susan Clark, Vermont Department of Transportation District No. 2 information officer. According to Richard Svec, town manager, the chasm is 70 feet deep and several hundred feet wide and the damage was so massive it wiped out critical town services. Rutland Herald, 9/17/11 Note: That the boil water notice, mentioned in the article, is no longer in effect.

Price Tag to Rebuild Route 12 A Strip in W. Lebanon Nears $8 Million: The estimated price tag to repair damage to stores on the Route 12A commercial strip (Kohl’s, Sears, CVS) is approaching $8 million. Valley News

VT 2012 Hospital Budges Show Dramatic Drop in Costs: Budgets totaling $2.059 billion for Vermont’s 14 hospitals were approved by Steve Kimbell, commissioner of the Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities and Health Care Administration (BISHCA). That figure amounted to a 4.6 percent increase over the 2011 budgets, but the increase dropped to 3.8 percent if you didn’t count the roughly $16 million in provider taxes assessed against the hospitals. Press Release

FEMA Disaster Assistance is Available for Renters: Renters who were displaced from their homes by the storm may be eligible for a FEMA grant to help them pay rent for temporary housing. These rental grants are for a limited period until renters’ previous homes are again habitable or they find another home. FEMA also provides grants to renters for a variety of serious disaster-related losses. FMI: 800-621-3362 Press Release

Congress Still Hasn’t Approved Disaster Relief Funds: Vermont is banking on help from the federal government -- to help bounce back from Irene. But Congress still has not approved funding national disaster relief -- which right now is slated to run out of money at the end of the month. WCAX

Flooded Families Disappointed in FEMA Aid: While the maximum grant FEMA can give out is $30,200, the average grant hovers closer to $6,000. In all, 5,271 people have applied for assistance in Vermont. The highest number of applications came from Windsor County with 1,444, then Windham with 1,116, followed by Washington at 930 and then Rutland with 824. WCAX

State Roadway Progress: State officials now estimate the damage to roads, bridges and other infrastructure in Vermont will exceed $1 billion. Much of that damage is in towns where 1,950 roads, 200 bridges and 900 culverts need repairs. The state is rushing emergency funds to towns to pay for the work, while they await federal disaster aid. Meanwhile, transportation officials report more progress on repairing state infrastructure. There were 180 separate closures of state roads and bridges following Irene, today that is down to 13. But there still is a long way to go to get the system fully repaired. WCAX

4. 250th Anniversary Planning Continues
Events are continuing to be planned to mark the 250th Anniversary of the Founding of Cavendish. The actual charter signing date, by King George III, was Oct. 12, 1761. A group of people have been working on a series of events for Columbus weekend. Given recent events, we’ve had to scale things back, but we still want to celebrate our “birthday,” and acknowledge that we are quite a town. If you can help in any way, please note the contact person next to each event and get in touch. We can use all the help we can get.

Sept. 25 (Sunday): Settler’s Tour. Meet at 2 pm at the Cavendish Historical Society Museum. Tour will include the homes and final resting places of Coffeen, Proctor and Dutton. Please wear comfortable shoes and be advised that the path to the Proctor Cemetery is steep. Contact margoc@tds.net or 226-7807

Oct. 7 (Friday): Community Dance at the Cavendish Town Elementary School (CTES) featuring the music of Yankee Chank starting at 7 am. Contact margoc@tds.net or 226-7807

Oct. 8 (Saturday): Parade starting in Cavendish and proceeding to Proctorsville 10 am. Floats and participants will gather at the Mack Molding Parking Lot starting at 9:30. Contact: Leon (Woodie) Woods 226-7476 (floats and participants are needed for this event).

Reception will follow the parade at the Proctorsville Green weather permitting. Contact Sharon Huntley sharon@vermontfarmstead.com

Oct. 9 (Sunday): From Noon to 2pm open house and light refreshments at the area churches. Contact: Lucien (Lu) Choiniere luchoiniere@hotmail.com or 226-8199

Meet the authors of “The Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs,” and learn about this book’s connection to Cavendish (see article 4 below). 2pm. We hope to be able to hold this event at Crows Corner Bakery & Cafe, in celebration of their return to business after the flood. The school’s art room will be the backup if the bakery is not available that day. Contact margoc@tds.net or 226-7807

Oct. 10 (Monday): Pot Luck Dinner, 5 pm at the Cavendish Town Elementary School, which will be followed by a discussion about the history of the various town churches. Contact: Lucien (Lu) Choiniere luchoiniere@hotmail.com or 226-8199

5. Meet the Authors of “The Inventor’s Fortune Up for Grabs”
Suzanne Gay Beyer, granddaughter to Leon S. Gay and Una Hadley Gay, will help Cavendish celebrate its 250th anniversary on Sunday, October 9th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Cavendish Elementary School.

As a young child, Suzanne saw her Vermont Senator grandfather, as bigger than life. “My grandfather owned Cavendish,” she always thought.

That, of course, is not exactly true, but Leon S. Gay served as Vice President, then as Treasurer of Cavendish’s Gay Brothers Woolen mill from 1922 to 1952, along with his brother, Olin D. Gay who was President of the family’s mill…a well liked and respected duo! Leon and Una Gay lived in the sparkling granite mansion, “Glimmerstone,” from 1918 to 1953.

Join Suzanne as she strides down memory lane reminiscing about her grandparents,
“Glimmerstone”, and the handprint the Gays left on their beloved Cavendish.

Suzanne’s grandmother, Una Hadley Gay, was the sister of Art Hadley, the inventor in 1913 of the expansion bracelet. Yes, the well-known and popular wristwatch expansion bracelet has a Cavendish connection.

John S. Pfarr, Connecticut and Rhode Island estate planning attorney, will be here to make that connection. He represented nine of Una’s grandchildren in a 6-year Rhode Island lawsuit to recover a substantial portion of the fortune left by Art Hadley. This is the iconic American story of the underdog coming from behind to prevail. Even John, at the outset, thought he did not have a snowball’s chance in hell of prevailing. Hear what happened to change that assessment.

John’s presentation style includes involving his audience in this case, debating among themselves and voting on the issues. Surprising and shocking details evolve during his presentation that make the case a memorable rollercoaster ride.

Both Suzanne and John co-authored the book, “The Inventor’s Fortune Up For Grabs,” the legacy of the expansion bracelet. They’ll be happy to sign copies and answer questions following the presentation. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Cavendish Historical Society.

Tune in! On November 2nd, Investigation Discovery T.V. “The Will” will feature the Art Hadley inheritance story, inspired by Suzanne and John’s book, “The Inventor’s Fortune Up For Grabs.” www.theinventorsfortune.com

6. Cavendish Semiquincentennial: Floods of 1936 and 1938
These posts are made possible by the Cavendish Historical Society and are archived at the CHS Blog.

While the Flood of 1927 has been considered the standard by which all other floods are judged in Cavendish, few realize the damages done in 1936 and again in 1938.

In March, 1936, there was an unusual amount of snow on the ground in early March when rain and warm weather (40’s and 50’s) came March 11-12. More heavy rain came March 16-22. Cavendish received a total of 7.89 inches of rain, not counting the enormous quantity of water from the snow melt. Schools were closed, mail and milk deliveries were not possible trains stopped running, bridges were out and the roads were covered with ice and water. Local fire men and the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) were responsible for saving both lives and property. Isabelle Briggs recalled looking out of her childhood home and seeing a “lake” covering the road and the lower part of Whitesville where Twenty Mile Stream flows into the Black River.

The New England Hurricane of 1938 stuck on September 21. Strong winds blew down thousands of trees while heavy rain caused flooding again in the river valleys. In some areas, the flooding was as bad as in the Floods of 1927 and 1936. It was second to the Flood of 1927 in its total devastating impact throughout the state. For Cavendish, the wind damage caused the most destruction. Fallen trees blocked nearly every road the next day.

The disasters of the Flood of 1936 and the Hurricane of 38 at least gave work for road crews and Works Progress Administration (WPA) men in clean-up and road repair. The federal and state governments paid for most of this rather than the town. Logging the trees felled by the hurricane provided jobs as well. From “Chubb Hill Farm and Cavendish Vermont,” By Barbara B. Kingsbury.

7. Blessing of the Animals: In honor of St Francis of Assisi, St James Methodist Church and Gethsemane Episcopal Church will offer the blessing of animals on the Proctorsville Green at 2pm on Saturday Oct. 1. All are invited.

8. Classifieds
For Free: Gas Dryer and Pine Hutch. Contact: Terry Ranney Terry.Ranney@state.vt.us

Select Board Meeting Agenda 9/20/11

2011-09-20T08:00:00.001-07:00

Selectmen’s Meeting, Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 in the Cavendish Town Office Meeting Room at 5:00 pm
................................................................ AGENDA ................................................................
1. Call the meeting to order
2. Sign Orders
3. Town Manager and Special Project Manager to review and discuss disaster response activities in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene with the Board.
4. Adjourn

Disaster Recovery Center in Ludlow/Resource Update

2011-09-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

Information can also be posted on the Cavendish VT Facebook Page

FEMA and SBA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center in the Okemo Marketplace, between the Cool Moose Café and Darkside. Designed for both individuals and businesses, it is open from 8-6, seven days a week. Some of the services provided include: Guidance regarding disaster recovery; Clarification of any written correspondence received; Housing Assistance and Rental Resource information; Answers to questions, resolution to problems and referrals to agencies that may provide further assistance; Status of applications being processed by FEMA; and SBA program information. Local resource information will also be available at the Center.

FEMA applications need to be filed by Oct. 31. Whether you are a business, homeowner or renter, and have sustained damage from Hurricane Irene, it is important that you file for FEMA, as so many opportunities stem from there. You are in no way obligated to take a low interest loan if it is offered. Many programs will list having filed with FEMA as one of their requirements.

An update Irene Recovery Information for Cavendish VT has been posted to http://cavendishvt.blogspot.com/2011/09/irene-recovery-information-for.html Also available in handout form from the town office, this week’s icon is a life preserver and is dated 9/18/11. You can also obtain a PDF version by e-mailing margoc@tds.net

Boil Water Notice Lifted

2011-09-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

Please be informed that the Cavendish Muncipal Water "Boil Water Order" has been lifted effective immediately as per State of Vermont Water Supply Division.