Cavendish Update 5/21/21: Construction/Haz Waste/Covid/Events

VIEW THE CAVENDISH VT FACEBOOK PAGE DAILY FOR THE LATEST NEWS You don’t have to be a Facebook subscriber to see this page.  

Cavendish Volunteer Fire Department free walk-in vaccination clinic on Saturday May 22 from 9:30-11:30. Johnson & Johnson vaccine- imited to those 18+-one shot and done. Anyone, resident or not, is now eligible to be vaccinated. To sweeten the deal, a free creemee coupon will be given to participants and Fire chief Becky is making cookies.

5/21/21

1. Route 131 Road/Bridge Construction/: Week of May 24

2. Cavendish Info

3. Household Hazardous Waste Collection/Recycling plastics

4. Covid update

5. Events

1.ROUTE 131 ROAD CONSTRUCTION/91 BRIDGE: Week of May 24

RT 131: The contractor will continue grading the roadway and placing gravel on the pulverized subbase in order to shape the road to the new profile. The crew transitioned to Downers Corners on the east end of the project this week and is working west. Roadway grading adjustments are anticipated to take approximately one more week. This process will involve graders and rollers.

 The traveling public should expect longer delays where the gravel spreading is taking place and it is recommended that extra time be added to travel plans.  The roadway will not have lines on the gravel surface to delineate travel lanes. Rough road should be expected and the contractor will be grading the rougher areas as needed.

In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, crews will be off of the roadway by noon on Friday, 5/28/21 and will not be working Saturday, 5/26 through Monday, 5/31. Work will resume on Tuesday, 6/1/21 at 7:00 a.m.

Bridge (I-91 over Rt 131 by exit 8): The removal process on the upper portions of Abutment 1 began this week and is scheduled for completion by the end of next week. All structural steel installation has been completed. The remaining lower portion of Abutment 2 is being repaired as needed. The lower portion of the Abutment 2 work below the approach slab seat will be poured on Friday, 5/21. The upper portion will be poured at a later date. This work will be ongoing for several weeks. Next week crews will continue the partial removal of Abutment 1. Once removed, forming for the future placement of the Abutment 1 curtain wall will begin. Forming for the deck is anticipated to begin next week.

2. CAVENDISH INFO

• Catalytic Converter Thefts: Three reports of catalytic converts stolen in our area -two fishermen’s vehicles along 131 and the third in Ludlow. One person noted on Facebook, My kiddo and I went fishing down there the other day... He's 5... he knew about the first incident and was super nervous.. He kept checking on the truck every couple of minutes (he's 5 yrs old)... Sad that this is happening in our town.

• No Burn Permits: Due to dry conditions, fire risk is high. Burn permits are not being issued at this time. Please observe the fire safety rules.

• Volunteers Needed to Help Streetscapes: The Cavendish Streetscape crew is cleaning up the gardens in Svec Park (Proctorsville Green) starting at 9 am tomorrow, Saturday, May 22. If you can volunteer,  bring a rake. Don’t have a rake, no worries, there are lots of chores to be done. Thank you Streetscapes for caring about our town.

• CHS Newsletter Now On-line: The Spring 2021 Cavendish Historical Society newsletter is now available at the CHS Blog. This issue includes upcoming activities, including the Annual Plant Sale on Fri-Sat May 28 and 29th.

• RC Racing bringing together community with a track at Greven Field

• Amtrak Vermont service to resume July 19: After 15 months, the Vermonter and Ethan Allen Express trains will start running. Facial coverings will be required. Same schedules and routes that were in place March 26, 2020.

3. HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE/RECYCLING PLASTICS: Tuesday, May 25 is  Cavendish’s Household Hazardous Waste Day from 2-6 pm at the Springfield Transfer Station, 135 Fairground Road/100 Recycle Way. Wear a mask and stay in your vehicle. Other towns participating in the hazardous waste day include Ludlow, Plymouth, Reading, Rockingham, Springfield, Weathersfield, W. Weathersfied. Be prepared to wait in line - bring something to read - no cell service.

Please note the following for paint: Aubuchon Hardware and LaValley Building Supply in Ludlow; Bibbens Home Center and Sherwin-Williams in Springfield; and Aubuchon Hardware in Windsor accept paint year round. These retailers only accept paint in labeled, non-rusty cans. Bring all other paint cans to a household hazardous waste collection. For a list of what else to bring or not to bring, visit www.vtsolidwastedistrict.org. FMI:  674-9235 or  mobrien@swcrpc.org.

For decades the emphasis has been on recycling plastics. However, only about 10% actually end up serving that purpose. This is largely due to the lack of demand for plastics # 3-7. This results in things like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is now six times the size of the UK, harming of wildlife and humans ingesting quite a bit of plastics.

Single use plastics account for half of the plastics we use each year. With an average useful life of 12-15 minutes, it can take up to 500 years to disappear.

In addition to using the Zero Sort at the Cavendish Transfer Station, consider the following ways to reduce your use of plastics

• Avoid single use plastics such as drinking straws, plates and cutlery

• Use glass or stainless steel containers instead of Tupperware and other plastics

• Recycle plastic bags at Shaw’s, Market Basket or other stores. Learn more about recycling plastics in VT/

• For Coffee drinkers- Carry a reusable coffee cup or flask. Purchase a reusable K cup and fill it with your favorite grounds.

• For tea lovers-Use loose leaf tea with a tea strainer. Teabags are sealed with plastic

• Gum chewers- Did you know that gum is made from plastic? Switch to an all- natural variety

• Carry your own water bottle

• Ditch the cling wrap. Foil is recyclable

• Glitter, made of such a small size it’s especially lethal in oceans and rivers. Use biodegradable glitter instead.

4. COVID UPDATE: Cavendish had no new cases of Covid this past week, Cases continue to drop with the age groups with the greatest decreases being those with the highest rate of vaccinations. The latest modeling shows that cases are down 75% since April 1 and 24% in the last week. Hospitalizations have decreased 34.47% in the last 14 days. As of 5/20, Vermont has 24,026 cases with 255 deaths. Ten people are in the hospital with three in the ICU.

Vermont has adopted the CDC guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals, which no longer requires masking indoors or out. Those who are not vaccinated must continue to mask and social distance. Schools continue to adhere to the masking and social distancing mandates. Many stores also require masks. While Walmart has dropped their masking requirement for those vaccinated, their staff and nearly all customers continue to do so.

VACCINATIONS: Anyone 12+ who is in Vermont, regardless of residency status, can be vaccinated. If you want a vaccine, you can find one pretty quickly. Note, those 12-17 can only receive a Pfizer vaccine and will require a parent/guardian permission. Make an appointment for your free vaccine on-line or by calling  855-722-7878. Also check the VDH Facebook page  for notifications of pop up and walk in clinics.

5.  UPCOMING EVENTS:

MAY 22 (SATURDAY): Free vaccinations at the Cavendish Fire Department, 9-11.

-       Volunteers needed for cleaning Svec Park (Proctorsville Green) and CTES gardens. Bring a rake and meet at the park at 9 am.

-       Fabric and Craft Supply Sale, 1-2 in the Fletcher Farm Gift Shop. Lots of fabric, yarn, art supplies, books, frames, raw wood products and more.

MAY 25 (TUESDAY): Household Hazardous Waste Day 2-6 pm at the Springfield Transfer Station.

MAY 28 (FRIDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale early bird special, 5:30-7 pm on the Museum grounds. Masking and social distancing required if not vaccinated. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 29 (SATURDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale 9-2 on the Museum grounds. Masking and social distancing required if not vaccinated. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 31 (MONDAY): MEMORIAL DAY. Legal holiday. Town office closed.

JUNE 7 (MONDAY): Annual meeting of Cavendish Fire District #2, 7 pm Cavendish Town Office.

JUNE 14 (MONDAY): Gift and Craft Shop opens at Fletcher Far for the season. The shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10-4. Crafters and artists who are also members of the society may enter their work into the shop for sale.

JUNE 17 (THURSDAY): Last day of school

JUNE 18 (FRIDAY): GMUHS Graduation-will be held outside

JUNE 19-20 (SATURDAY-SUNDAY): Vermont Art Council’s Open Studio Weekend. Fletcher Farm School will be one of the spots.

JUNE 26 (SATURDAY): Birds in Bloom, market gathering of local art, decorated bird houses, and plants sponsored by Cavendish Streetscapes from Noon to 5 on the Proctorsville Green.

JULY 3 (SATURDAY): Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

JULY 4 (SUNDAY): HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

JULY 31 (SATURDAY): 11th Annual Cavendish Town Wide Tag Sale

AUGUST 21 (SATURDAY: Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

SEPT. 11 (SATURDAY): VT Golden Honey Festival 10-4 at the Golden Stage Inn, Proctorsville Depot St. Free

CA❤︎ENDSH VACCINATES TO PROTECT SELF & OTHERS

    IF YOU READ THIS PLEASE HELP SUPPORT CAVENDISH CONNECTS

Cavendish Update 5/14/21: SB Mtg/Construction/Tag Sale/Covid

VIEW THE CAVENDISH VT FACEBOOK PAGE DAILY FOR THE LATEST NEWS You don’t have to be a Facebook subscriber to see this page.

The Cavendish Volunteer Fire Department will hold a walk in Covid-19 vaccination clinic on Saturday May 22 from 9-11.

5/14/21

1. Route 131 Road/Bridge Construction/: Week of May 17

2. Cavendish Select Board Meeting 5/10

2. Cavendish Info

3. Covid update

4. Events

1.ROUTE 131 ROAD CONSTRUCTION/91 BRIDGE: Week of May 17-

RT 131: The current phase of berm removal and ditching is scheduled for completion this week. These operations will resume later in the summer after the cement reclaim has been completed.

The pulverization pass for reclaim has been completed. This process involved pulverizing the top 8 inches of the roadway subbase in order to allow the process of rebuilding the subbase to proceed.

The contractor is now grading the roadway and placing gravel on the pulverized subbase in order to shape the road to the new profile. This process will be ongoing for several weeks and will involve graders and rollers. The crew is currently in Cavendish Village and working eastward. The traveling public should expect longer delays where the gravel spreading is taking place and it is recommended that extra time be added to travel plans.

The roadway will not have lines on the gravel surface to delineate travel lanes. Rough road should be expected and the contractor will be grading the rougher areas as needed.

Bridge: On the Southbound bridge (Bridge 30S), the deck and upper portions of Abutment 2 that support the span of the bridge have been removed. The removal process on Abutment 1 may possibly begin next week. The new span for Girder 2 has been bolted in place. Diaphragms are being installed this week and it is anticipated that all steel work will be completed by the end of next week. Localized paint work has been completed. Painting crews will return after the new deck is completed to repaint the entire steel super structure. The remaining lower portion of Abutment 2 is being repaired as needed.

Crews began installing form work and rebar for the Abutment 2 back wall. This work will be ongoing for several weeks. Next week crews will be working on concrete repairs to Abutment 2 (north end) and installing the new steel. Once all the steel has been bolted on, crews will begin forming the deck.

Expect minor delays and enforcement of 55 mile per hour speed reduction.

2. CAVENDISH SELECT BOARD MEETING MAY 10: Videos of the Cavendish Select Board (SB) meetings are available at the Okemo Valley TV website, with minutes available at the town’s website . Both the Chester Telegraph and VT Journal have reports on Monday night’s meeting.

Below is additional information on some of the topics discussed and/or voted on by the SB at the May 10 and their special meeting held May 3:

• Road construction on 131 has been delayed in Proctorsville until the end of the school year. The last day of school is June 17.

• Sewer Line repair: A sagging sewer line, that runs between Singleton’s and Depot Street, will be replaced. Similar to water main breaks, which happens periodically throughout the year, the repair itself is a short term project but will coincide with the road repair, saving money and making it more convenient. This will result in one way traffic but not a detour. For those concerned about a “big hole” or odor, not to worry, the hole is filled at the end of each day and there shouldn’t be any unusual smells. Note: The Town Wide Tag Sale (see article 3 below) and concerts will take place. Just be aware that parking on 131 isn’t going to be feasible in various locations.

• 131 is going to be a dirt road this summer: Vtrans has estimated that the 131 project will be ongoing until Oct. 11. Please observe the flaggers and when possible, seek alternate routes and/or allow more time for travel. Flaggers can hold a “stop” for no more than 10 minutes. As many people know, when there are a variety of “stops” it can take a long time to travel the 9 miles between 106 and 103 on 131.  On Thursday we post the construction report from Vtrans on the Cavendish Facebook page and it’s included in Friday’s Cavendish Update.

• ARPA Funds/Broadband: Cavendish will receive about $412,000 in ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds to be used on water, wastewater and broadband.

As far as Cavendish’s broadband, Cavendish Connects conducted a short survey in March.  While TDS service has significantly improved and Comcast now covers the northwestern part of town, there are spots where TDS is not providing anywhere near close to the federal standard of 25/3 Mbgs. These areas include Hard Scrabble, Newton, parts of Heald and Davis, and Morigiloni roads. The Consolidated Communications area (formerly Fair Point), which is now predominately covered by Comcast, has two areas of poor or no service-Stevens Rd and Birmingham Rd.

There is considerable discussion in Montpelier about how much and how to distribute ARPA funding for Broadband-the Governor requested $250 Million, while the House budget bill offers $150 M and the Senate bill $100M. Until there is agreement, we’re in a holding pattern as far as available funding and how it can be accessed. The Cavendish Telecommunications Committee is working on this issue.

• Actions Taken

-       At the May 3 special SB meeting, Abe Gross was appointed to one of the two vacancies on the GMUSD board. At the May 10 meeting, Julia Gignoux was appointed to fill the second vacancy.

-       Approved a lien on the property of 228 Cavendish Gulf Rd so that the town can fix the driveway, remove the trash from the property, and deal with rodent infestation. The property is in violation of the Health Order

-       Approved the Town Highway Annual Financial Plan

-       Approved the purchase of a loader-May 3 meeting. The new loader has been delivered.

• Tax Sale: Seven Cavendish properties were slated for the town’s May 5 tax sale. Prior to the sale, four resolved their issues with the town. Two of the properties were sold, with the third withdrawn as the exact location of the parcel is unknown.  The town collected $50,000 in delinquent taxes.

• Cavendish Transfer Station: The town is looking at better ways to control flow at the transfer station to ensure that items are: properly disposed of; tipping fees are paid; and the facility is being used by permit holders only.  The town manager is going to be working with a transfer site expert who will provide recommendations. To help in supporting the transfer station for maximum efficiency and useability:

-       Review guidelines for what is recyclable in Zero Sort, belongs in the E-waste building, compostable etc.

-       Purchase a transfer station sticker. Recycling and trash disposal at the transfer station is by permit only. Permits are available to Cavendish residents and property owners and may be obtained in person at the Town Office, at the Transfer Station, or via mail. They are $5 a piece for each vehicle that will be using the transfer station. FMI: Call the town office 802-226-7292

• Other Town Projects: Bill Bigwood has retired from the highway depart and Derek Bruce has been hired. Paving on Greven and Wheeler roads is complete. Parking spaces at the EV charging station will be painted soon.

3. CAVENDISH INFO

• TRSU Board Meeting: 2 schools to participate in state Covid testing program-Proms and Graduation to occur: Mt Holly Elementary School and Green Mountain Union High School will be participating in a Covid-19 testing program through the remainder of the school year and during the summer. If all goes well it could be put in place for all schools. Proms will be held during the first week in June, following Covid guidelines that are in place at that time. Outdoor graduation will be on June 18 (Friday). Chester Telegraph

• Families Urged to file taxes soon to claim expanded child benefit

3. TOWN WIDE TAG SALE: In spite of the 131 road construction and the  Proctorsville sewer repair, the Cavendish Annual Town Wide Tag sale will take place on July 31 (Saturday) from 9-2. If you live on 131 and are planning to set up that day, if you don’t have an easily accessible place for parking, please consider locating to one of the town greens this year. For more information, check out the Tag Sale Website.

4. COVID UPDATE: Cavendish’s had three new cases of Covid this past week, bringing the town’s total to 29 cases. As of 5/13, there have been 23,724 cases of Covid in VT with 252 deaths. Approximately 70% Vermonters, aged 16+, have received at least one dose of the vaccine, with 51% being fully vaccinated. VT now leads the country in vaccinations.

CDC Issues New Guidelines for Fully Vaccinated Individuals: The following recommendations apply to non-healthcare settings. Fully vaccinated people can:

• Resume activities without wearing masks or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance

• Resume domestic travel and refrain from testing before or after travel or self-quarantine after travel

• Refrain from testing before leaving the United States for international travel (unless required by the destination) and refrain from self-quarantine after arriving back in the United States

• Refrain from testing following a known exposure, if asymptomatic, with some exceptions for specific settings

• Refrain from quarantine following a known exposure if asymptomatic

• Refrain from routine screening testing if feasible

VACCINATIONS: The newest changes in vaccines for eligibility includes anyone who lives out of state but works in Vermont and youth 12-15, which were just approved by the FDA and CDC for Pfizer vaccination. Vaccination for this latter group began yesterday and will continue with special clinics at schools. Note, those 12-17 can only receive a Pfizer vaccine and will require a parents permission.

Make an appointment for your free vaccine on-line or by calling  855-722-7878. Also check the VDH Facebook page  for notifications of pop up and walk in clinics.

Less than 1% of COVID cases since January 2021 have been among fully-vaccinated Vermonters. Almost 250,000 people have been fully vaccinated in VT. Of this group, only about 0.06% have experienced a “breakthrough.” As good as the vaccines are at preventing infection, disease and death, it’s not 100%. Since January, there have been 161 vaccine breakthrough among Vermonters. Of those cases, six required hospitalizations and less than 2% of vaccine breakthrough cases have died. To date, vaccine breakthrough cases are more likely to be health workers or residents in a long term care facility. This is expected. These populations are at increased risk of exposure than the general population and are more apt to be tested. While the Covid vaccines are effective, VDH recognizes that a small percentage of vaccinated people will test positive, as vaccinated who become infected are less likely to show symptoms.

5.  UPCOMING EVENTS:

MAY 14 (FRIDAY): Estate sale, 8-2, 43 Carlton Rd, Intersection of Carlton Rd and 131). A huge selection of small furniture items, bed frames, furnishings, decor, artwork, Christmas decor, glassware, kitchenware, pool table, hand crafted wood/iron bar, barstools, lawn/garden tools, tent/campsite package, TV, CDs, books, dozens of old National Geographic magazines, and more! Cash/Venmo/Paypal only; no personal checks.

MAY 15 (SATURDAY): Estate sale continues at 43 Carlton Rd from 8-noon

 MAY 22 (SATURDAY): Fabric and Craft Supply Sale, 1-2 in the Fletcher Farm Gift Shop. Lots of fabric, yarn, art supplies, books, frames, raw wood products and more.

MAY 25 (TUESDAY): Household Hazardous Waste Day 2-6 pm at the Springfield Transfer Station. FMI.

MAY 28 (FRIDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale early bird special, 5:30-7 pm on the Museum grounds. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 29 (SATURDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale 9-2 on the Museum grounds. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 31 (MONDAY): MEMORIAL DAY. Legal holiday. Town office closed.

JUNE 14 (MONDAY): Gift and Craft Shop opens at Fletcher Far for the season. The shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10-4. Crafters and artists who are also members of the society may enter their work into the shop for sale.

JUNE 17 (THURSDAY): Last day of school

JUNE 18 (FRIDAY): GMUHS Graduation-will be held outside

JUNE 19-20 (SATURDAY-SUNDAY): Vermont Art Council’s Open Studio Weekend. Fletcher Farm School will be one of the spots.

JUNE 26 (SATURDAY): Birds in Bloom, market gathering of local art, decorated bird houses, and plants sponsored by Cavendish Streetscapes from Noon to 5 on the Proctorsville Green.

JULY 3 (SATURDAY): Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

JULY 4 (SUNDAY): HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

JULY 31 (SATURDAY): 11th Annual Cavendish Town Wide Tag Sale

AUGUST 21 (SATURDAY: Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

SEPT. 11 (SATURDAY): VT Golden Honey Festival 10-4 at the Golden Stage Inn, Proctorsville Depot St. Free

CA❤︎ENDSH VACCINATES TO PROTECT SELF & OTHERS

    IF YOU READ THIS PLEASE HELP SUPPORT CAVENDISH CONNECTS

Cavendish Update 5/7/21: Pot Holes/131/News/Events

VIEW THE CAVENDISH VT FACEBOOK PAGE DAILY FOR THE LATEST NEWS You don’t have to be a Facebook subscriber to see this page.

5/7/21

1. Route 131 Road Construction: Week of May 10

2. Cavendish Info

3. Covid update

4. Events

1. ROUTE 131 ROAD CONSTRUCTION: Week of May 10-To the complaints about the potholes in Cavendish Village, VTrans has provided the following information to explain last weekend’s situation. The Pike supervisor was onsite on Saturday and had hoped to grade the road then, but the worst parts of the road were still oversaturated and the potholes full of water. This pothole issue cannot be fixed in the rain or wet conditions. It is more of a hazard to make three inches of slime everywhere than it is to have potholes in several locations. They were out there at 5:15 this morning to get the road graded and in better shape prior to the AM commute. Please know it is a difficult situation, they are aware, and they are doing the best they can giving the surface conditions. Pike Industries is out early trying to make the roads as passable as possible for the morning commute. The weather isn’t cooperating. Bottom line-avoid traveling 131 if you can.

Construction this coming week: Berm removal and ditching operations will continue next week at various locations and will be proceeding easterly throughout the project.

The pulverization pass for reclaim will continue next week. This is scheduled to be completed by 5/19. The traveling public should expect longer delays where the reclaim operation is taking place, and may want to add extra time to travel plans as the road surface will be gravel. The roadway will not have lines on the gravel surface to delineate travel lanes. Rough road should be expected and the contractor will be grading the rougher areas as needed.

The contractor is scheduled to spread gravel on top of the reclaimed area next week to correct roadway geometry. This is currently scheduled for completion on 5/31.

The traveling public should expect delays where the gravel spreading is taking place and it is recommended that extra time be added to travel plans.

2. CAVENDISH INFO

• CHS Briefs: The Cavendish Historical Society’s May Briefs is now available at their blog. This includes information on the upcoming annual plant sale and how to order specific plants.

• Raffle Tickets Available at the Transfer Station: The Proctorsville RC Club is holding a raffle to raise money for various projects. Tickets are available at the Cavendish Transfer Station.  First prize is a Traxxas Slash 2 WD with 2 S lipo battery charger. 2nd prize is a Traxxas hat, t-shirt and sweatshirt. Tickets are $10 with the drawing June 5th. You do not need to be present to win.

• Big Changes Coming to Fox Run Golf Club in Ludlow: VT Journal

• VT Labor Department has paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent claims: The Vermont Department of Labor has paid out hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent unemployment claims during the pandemic, according to the state’s labor commissioner. The online portal has been closed for filing claims as 90% of entries were fraudulent. VT Digger

3. COVID UPDATE: Cavendish’s total Covid cases stands at 26, with no new cases this past week. Modeling continues to show declining cases in Vermont, New England and the US. Cases in VT are down 61% since April 1. Hospitalizations have also dropped. While cases in the 40+ group decreased by 22% this past week, it increased by 23% in those 0-39 years of age. This directly relates to 78% of Vermonters 40+ having had at least one vaccination dose, while only 41% of those 0-39 having done so. In fact, the VT Dept of Health (VDH) is specifically targeting the 18-39 year old group with their campaign to “get vaccinated” as your Mother’s Day gift this year.  See the Vaccination section below to learn more about special drive in clinics, requiring no appointments today and tomorrow.

As of 5/6, Vermont has a case count of, 22,824  with 246 deaths, and 19 people in hospital, with six in the ICU. Over 65% of Vermonters, aged 16+, have received at least one dose of the vaccine, with over 46% being fully vaccinated. VT now leads the country in vaccinations.

In the midst of such promise, it is important to note the situation in India, which is being decimated by a variant B.1.617 that was first detected in October. The current research indicates that this variant is similar to the South African and Brazilian ones. We live in a global world, so it’s not surprising that the Indian variant has already appeared in the US. The one piece of good news is that the existing vaccinations appear to be effective against these new variants, Nature

To help relief efforts in India, click here. We’ve seen how quickly the UK variant has spread throughout the US, including Vermont. Protect yourself, family and community with vaccination. It’s our best strategy against the mutating Covid virus.

Vermont’s Masking Guidelines: Announced last Friday, the new guidelines only require outside masking, regardless of vaccination status, if it’s not possible to social distance. With the science showing outdoor transmission is rare and poses little risk, the Governor noted “If you’re walking down the street, you don’t need to wear a mask, If you’re at the dog park and you’re not in a crowd, you don’t need a mask. If you’re with people outdoors in accordance with the gathering policy, you don’t need a mask.” Health Commissioner Mark Levine also noted, “if any of your activities turn into a crowded situation, have your mask with you in case you need it.”

ARTICLES OF INTEREST

-       Giving 2 Doses Of Different COVID-19 Vaccines Could Boost Immune Response

-       New Study Estimates More Than 900,000 People Have Died Of COVID-19 In U.S.

VACCINATIONS: Vermont is offering special COVID-19 Johnson & Johnson (one dose)“Drive-In vaccination opportunities this weekend.

-       Friday May 7: Tunbridge Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can register through the Health Department website, or just “drive in,” no appointment necessary.

-       Saturday, May 8, Bear Ridge Speedway no appointment needed 4-7 pm 1058 Kidder Road in Bradford. There will be 150 doses.

-       Saturday May 8 Devils Bowl Speedways: No appointment needed, 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 2743 VT-22A in West Haven .There will be 180 slots available.

Make an appointment for your free vaccine on-line or by calling  855-722-7878.

Local Resources: Cavendish Resource Guide; CHS Cares Closet: Masks (cloth and disposable), books, toys, craft supplies. Open 24/7. All free. Located next to the steps of the Cavendish Historical Society Museum.

4.  UPCOMING EVENTS:

MAY 8 (SATURDAY): CCCA Annual Spring Bird Walk: Two hour bird watching amble along 20 Mile Stream Rd. and into the surrounding fields. Meet at Crows Café at 7 am - wear good walking shoes, mask up, and bring your binoculars!  RSVP to Robin at 226-7736. Limit is 10 people. FMI: CCCA website

MAY 9 (SUNDAY): HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

MAY 10 (MONDAY): Cavendish Select Board Meeting, held by Zoom at 6:30 pm. Agenda and call in information will be posted to the Cavendish VT Facebook page as soon as it is received.

MAY 14 (FRIDAY): Estate sale, 8-2, 43 Carlton Rd, Intersection of Carlton Rd and 131). A huge selection of small furniture items, bed frames, furnishings, decor, artwork, Christmas decor, glassware, kitchenware, pool table, hand crafted wood/iron bar, barstools, lawn/garden tools, tent/campsite package, TV, CDs, books, dozens of old National Geographic magazines, and more! Cash/Venmo/Paypal only; no personal checks.

MAY 15 (SATURDAY): Estate sale continues at 43 Carlton Rd from 8-noon

 MAY 22 (SATURDAY): Fabric and Craft Supply Sale, 1-2 in the Fletcher Farm Gift Shop. Lots of fabric, yarn, art supplies, books, frames, raw wood products and more.

MAY 25 (TUESDAY): Household Hazardous Waste Day 2-6 pm at the Springfield Transfer Station. FMI

MAY 28 (FRIDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale early bird special, 5:30-7 pm on the Museum grounds. Masking and social distancing required. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 29 (SATURDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale 9-2 on the Museum grounds. Masking and social distancing required. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 31 (MONDAY): MEMORIAL DAY. Legal holiday. Town office closed.

JUNE 14 (MONDAY): Gift and Craft Shop opens at Fletcher Far for the season. The shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10-4. Crafters and artists who are also members of the society may enter their work into the shop for sale.

JUNE 19-20 (SATURDAY-SUNDAY): Vermont Art Council’s Open Studio Weekend. Fletcher Farm School will be one of the spots.

JUNE 26 (SATURDAY): Birds in Bloom, market gathering of local art, decorated bird houses, and plants sponsored by Cavendish Streetscapes from Noon to 5 on the Proctorsville Green.

JULY 3 (SATURDAY): Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

JULY 4 (SUNDAY): HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

JULY 31 (SATURDAY): 11th Annual Cavendish Town Wide Tag Sale

AUGUST 21 (SATURDAY: Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

SEPT. 11 (SATURDAY): VT Golden Honey Festival 10-4 at the Golden Stage Inn, Proctorsville Depot St. Free

CA❤︎ENDSH-A SAFER SIX COMMUNITY

1. Vaccinate

2. Mask

3. Social distance

4. Wash hands frequently

5. Avoid unnecessary travel

6. Test if you have symptoms, have traveled out of state, or been in contact with someone who has tested positive.

    IF YOU READ THIS PLEASE HELP SUPPORT CAVENDISH CONNECTS

Cavendish Update 4/30/21: Construction/Events/Covid/News

VIEW THE CAVENDISH VT FACEBOOK PAGE DAILY FOR THE LATEST NEWS You don’t have to be a Facebook subscriber to see this page.

Please note that we have expanded the Events Section. We are adding events as we receive them so people will have ample time to plan ahead.

4/30//21

1. Route 131 Road Construction: Week of May 2

2. Cavendish Info

3. Covid update

4. Events

1. ROUTE 131 ROAD CONSTRUCTION: Week of May 3

 Completed: Guardrail operations for this phase of the project and the roadway box cut in Cavendish Village; Milling (grinding of the top portion of the roadway surface) is scheduled for completion Thursday April 29. 

Coming Week Activities: Berm removal and ditching operations at various locations, proceeding easterly throughout the project.

The pulverization pass for reclaim started 4/26 and will continue next week. This is scheduled to be completed by 5/19. The traveling public should expect longer delays where the reclaim operation is taking place, and may want to add extra time to travel plans as the road surface will be gravel. The roadway will not have lines on the gravel surface to delineate travel lanes. Rough road should be expected and the contractor will be grading the rougher areas as needed.

The contractor is scheduled to begin spreading gravel on top of the reclaimed area next week to correct roadway geometry. This is currently scheduled for completion on 5/31.  

2. CAVENDISH INFO

• Cavendish Green Up Day: Saturday, May 1, is Green Up Day. Pick up bags at 9:00 in front of the town office. There will be no BBQ this year due to Covid.

• CHS Young Historians Newsletter: The Cavendish Historical Society’s (CHS) monthly update for students, teachers and families is now available at their blog. This includes upcoming opportunities, special May historical events, as well as workshops and hands on history kits.

• Fletcher Farm School announcements and events: Among the announcements is an Art camp scholarships for local kids at Fletcher Farm.

• Fraud Alert: One person in town has already been impacted by this scam. A letter from the Vermont Department of Labor (VDOL) may be your first notification that a fraudulent unemployment insurance claim has been filed in your name. VDOL reminds all Vermonters that if you receive a letter from the Department in your mailbox, be sure to open it, to ensure there was not a fraudulent claim filed using your information. FMI: VT Dept. of Labor

• Raffle for Proctorsville RC Club: The newly formed Proctorsville RC Club is holding a raffle to raise money for various projects. First prize is a Traxxas Slash 2 WD with 2 S lipo battery charger. 2nd prize is a Traxxas hat, t-shirt and sweatshirt. Tickets are $10 with the drawing June 5th. You do not need to be present to win. FMI: Proctorsville RC Club Facebook page.

• Koffee Kup Bakery Shuts Down, Lays off more than 200 workers

• 2020 U.S. Census shows Vermont grew almost 2.8% since 2010: The 2020 U.S. Census figures show the Vermont population grew almost 2.8% in the last decade to a resident population of just over 643,000. Vermont continues to be the second least populated state in the country. Only Wyoming has fewer residents. Nationally, the population of the United States grew by 7.4% in the last decade.

• Vermont AG aims to make dent in robocall scourge 

• Vermont reinstates work search requirement for unemployment claims May 9 : As of May 9, the state is requiring that people who receive unemployment benefits prove that they are looking for work. The provision was suspended in the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic to limit potential exposure for job-seekers and employers. Learn more at the State of VT Department of Labor UI Claimant Work Search

• VT Emergency Rental Assistance Program for Utility Services: The Department of Public Service and Vermont State Housing Authority have $12.7 million available to assist renters through the Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Program for Utility Services (VERAP-U). Water and sewer bills for eligible renters or landlords are included in this new program. Rental assistance is currently open. Utility assistance is anticipated to be opened by May 1. This program is separate from the Vermont COVID Arrearage Assistance Program (VCAAP) which assisted any utility customer with overdue bills and ended December 15, 2020. FMI: Contact the Consumer Affairs & Public Information (CAPI) Division at psd.consumer@vermont.gov or call 800-622-4496 or 802-828-2332.

3. COVID UPDATE: As of 4/20/21, Cavendish had another case of Covid for a total of 26 cases. Ludlow (total 69) and Chester (79 total) each had two new cases while Springfield had 10 (227).

The impact of vaccines is definitely reflected in this week’s modeling. The seven day test positivity rate is down to 1% compared to last week’s 1.3%. Daily numbers of new cases have dropped into the double digits and hospitalizations are on the decline.

As of 4/29, Vermont has a case count of, 22,824  with 246 deaths, and 19 people in hospital, with six in the ICU. Over 60% of Vermonters, aged 16+, have received at least one dose of the vaccine, with 42% being fully vaccinated.

Vermont Forward Plan for May 1: On April 6, the Governor announced a reopening plan based on level of vaccinations. Having met the requirement that 60-70% of Vermonters aged 16+ had at least one dose of the vaccine, Step 2 of the reopening plan begins tomorrow. This allows 1 un vaccinated person per 100 sq ft up to 150, plus any number of vaccinated people, for Indoor gatherings and events. For outdoor functions, it allows 300, plus any number of vaccinated people. Masks and physical distancing are still required when in the presence of those outside your household. As can be seen below, expect to see a change shortly in masking for those fully vaccinated when outside.

CDC New Masking Guidelines for Vaccinated Individuals: This week, the CDC updated their guidelines for those who have been fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated is 2 weeks after the second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or 2 weeks after the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. According to the revised guidelines,  You can gather or conduct activities outdoors without wearing a mask except in certain crowded settings and venues. It is expected that Vermont will be announcing guidelines, along the lines of the CDC, for vaccinated individuals at either today’s or next Tuesday’s press conference.

COVID-19 Vaccines Protect Against New York Variant: More studies are showing that the vaccines currently in use protect against variants. This is the latest study that indicates the mRNAs (Pfizer and Moderna) are effective against the New York variant. Vaccine-induced antibodies appear to cover a broader range of the various parts on the virus, rather than a particular mutation. That could mean vaccines offer better protection against variants with different mutations, as opposed to immunity from natural infection linked with one particular coronavirus strain. “The take-home message is that the vaccines are going to work against the New York variant and the South African variant and the UK variant,” Nathan Landau, virologist

Guidance for end of Year Events including field trips, proms and graduation: In person proms, graduations and field trips, along withprograms for the summer ahead can now be planned in VT. Protocols for end of year activities are now at the state’s website. The Gatherings and Events provisions of the VT Forward plan draws a distinction between participation of vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals. Schools should utilize some means of determining the vaccination status of individuals attending end of school events.

 VACCINATIONS: All Vermonters 16+, including part time residents and nonresident college students, can now register for a vaccine. Make an appointment for your free vaccine on-line or by calling  855-722-7878. If you want the earliest appointment possible, continually check the pharmacy websites for available appointments.  Johnson and Johnson is once again being given. You can chose whether you want one of the mRNA vaccines (Moderna or Pfizer) two shots or J&J, one shot.

Local Resources: Cavendish Resource Guide; CHS Cares Closet: Masks (cloth and disposable), books, toys, craft supplies. Open 24/7. All free. Located next to the steps of the Cavendish Historical Society Museum.

4.  UPCOMING EVENTS:

MAY 1 (SATURDAY): Green up Day. Pick up bags at 9:00 in front of the town office. There will be no BBQ this year due to Covid.

MAY 8 (SATURDAY): CCCA Annual Spring Bird Walk: Two hour bird watching amble along 20 Mile Stream Rd. and into the surrounding fields. Meet at Crows Café at 7 am - wear good walking shoes, mask up, and bring your binoculars!  RSVP to Robin at 226-7736. Limit is 10 people. FMI: CCCA website

MAY 14 (FRIDAY): Estate sale, 8-2, 43 Carlton Rd, Intersection of Carlton Rd and 131). A huge selection of small furniture items, bed frames, furnishings, decor, artwork, Christmas decor, glassware, kitchenware, pool table, hand crafted wood/iron bar, barstools, lawn/garden tools, tent/campsite package, TV, CDs, books, dozens of old National Geographic magazines, and more! Cash/Venmo/Paypal only; no personal checks.

MAY 15 (SATURDAY): Estate sale continues at 43 Carlton Rd from 8-noon

 MAY 22 (SATURDAY): Fabric and Craft Supply Sale, 1-2 in the Fletcher Farm Gift Shop. Lots of fabric, yarn, art supplies, books, frames, raw wood products and more.

MAY 25 (TUESDAY): Household Hazardous Waste Day 2-6 pm at the Springfield Transfer Station. FMI. https://www.vtsolidwastedistrict.org/hazardous-waste.html

MAY 28 (FRIDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale early bird special, 5:30-7 pm on the Museum grounds. Masking and social distancing required. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 29 (SATURDAY): Cavendish Historical Society’s Annual Plant Sale 9-2 on the Museum grounds. Masking and social distancing required. FMI: 802-226-7807 or margocaulfield@icloud.com

MAY 31 (MONDAY): Memorial Day. Legal holiday. The Town Office is closed.

JUNE 14 (MONDAY): Gift and Craft Shop opens at Fletcher Far for the season. The shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10-4. Crafters and artists who are also members of the society may enter their work into the shop for sale.

JUNE 19-20 (SATURDAY-SUNDAY): Vermont Art Council’s Open Studio Weekend. Fletcher Farm School will be one of the spots.

JUNE 26 (SATURDAY): Birds in Bloom, market gathering of local art, decorated bird houses, and plants sponsored by Cavendish Streetscapes from Noon to 5 on the Proctorsville Green.

JULY 3 (SATURDAY): Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

JULY 4 (SUNDAY): HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

JULY 31 (SATURDAY): 11th Annual Cavendish Town Wide Tag Sale

AUGUST 21 (SATURDAY: Fletcher Farm Craft Sale. Vendors and volunteers needed. FMI: Festival Director Sue Carey at SueSmyserCarey@hotmail.com.

SEPT. 11 (SATURDAY): VT Golden Honey Festival 10-4 at the Golden Stage Inn, Proctorsville Depot St. Free

CA❤︎ENDSH-A SAFER SIX COMMUNITY

1. Vaccinate when it’s your turn

2.  Mask-Cover nose and mouth; Double mask if possible

3. Social distance-6 feet at least

4. Wash hands frequently with soap & water, or hand sanitizer

5. Avoid unnecessary travel

6. Test if you have symptoms, have traveled out of state, or been in contact with someone who has tested positive.

    IF YOU READ THIS PLEASE HELP SUPPORT CAVENDISH CONNECTS