Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 1

January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 1

WestminsterGazette Vol. 14, No. 1 January 2018 po box 147 westminster vt 05158 Our Community Newspaper @ www. westminstervt.org Westminster’s Historic Treasure There is a little white building just south of Westminster Town Hall. Some think it is a shed belonging to the William Czar Bradley house on the cor - ner of Highway 5 and School St. Others do not even realize it is there. It did once belong with the Bradley property as Esquire Bradley’s law office, built probably around 1800. Two hundred years later it belongs to the Westminster Historical Society. Recently, in October of 2017, there was a lot of activity at the little build - ing. Momaney Painters of Brattleboro were busy scraping the old lead paint off the building and putting new paint on it. People are noticing the change. The society is proud of the new image and the fine work done by this compa - ny. This work did not come cheaply. However, through the donations of gen - erous historical society members, a grant from the Windham Foundation and a donation from the Dascomb CharitableTrust, Westminster Historical Society was able to afford the needed work. The balance of structural repairs will be completed in the spring of 2018. noons next summer. A docent will be available to answer questions and tell you The interior of the building contains the furniture and accoutrements of about Mr. Bradley’s life and accomplishments, of which Westminster residents Bradley’s office. The two rooms offer a rare glimpse into the business and polit - should be very proud. Watch for announcements of the dates. ical life of this attorney between 1806 and 1858. The Society will reopen the building for public viewing during Sunday after - Photo courtesy of Virginia "Obe" Lisai. Town Meeting and Open Offices Notice Thank You - Westminster Cares Receives Donations!

Cheryl Rounds of the Women's Fellowship Group of the First Congregational Church of Westminster readies holiday baskets for distribution. Westminster Cares would like to express sincere appreciation for the contri - butions of so many members of the community—individuals, neighbors, fami - lies and businesses—towards our 2017-2018 Annual Appeal. Donna Dawson, director, noted, “Every single donation is important to us! These funds will help to provide much needed programs and services for our seniors and adults with disabilities who need assistance. Each week we get closer to reaching our fundraising goal. Thank you!” Several local organizations have made holiday donations: the Women’s Fellowship group of the First Congregational Church of Westminster created and donated holiday baskets for Meals-on-Wheels recipients; the Congregational Church of Westminster West donated gift cards from local grocery stores and pharmacies so that those in need would not have to go without; and Patriot Property Taxes & Dog Licenses Due Freightliner-Western Star made a holiday donation of $250 that Westminster SECOND INSTALLMENT OF PROPERTY TAXES Cares will put to good use. We are so fortunate to live in a community that cares ARE DUE ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2018. about seniors and those who may be vulnerable and in crisis. It’s not too late to make a contribution! The Annual Appeal will continue 2018 DOG LICENSES ARE NOW AVAILABLE. throughout the winter. Donations are appreciated at any time of year. Donations PLEASE REMEMBER THAT ALL DOGS MUST BE that are made to honor or memorialize individuals will continue to be listed LICENSED BEFORE APRIL 1, 2018. monthly in the Westminster Gazette. January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 2

page 2 Westminster Gazette January 2018 Get up to $4000 in Discounts to Upgrade Wood/Gas Heating to Pellets Green Mountain Home Repair, a program of the Windham & Windsor Housing Trust, is pleased to announce a pellet stove replacement program for Windham County residents. Eligible homeowners will get a price reduction of $2,000 to $4,000 on the cost of purchasing and installing an approved pellet stove to replace an old wood stove, or kerosene or propane heater. Funding for this two-year program comes from the State of Vermont’s Clean Energy Development Fund. Each new pellet stove replacement will decrease pollution, increase energy efficiency, and reduce homeowner’s fuel usage. Loans are available to pay the remainder of the installation cost and all homeowners will get a complimentary home check up to review maintenance, health and safety concerns. Green Mountain Home Repair is partnering with Friends of the Sun, the Stove Depot, Shanahan Building Supplies, and Sandri Energy on this program. For more information and to check eligibility, call the Windham & Windsor Housing Trust at (802) 254-4604.

Mystery Photo - Not Identified! Last month’s Mystery Photo of the GH Walker General Store and town Post Office didn’t receive any respons - es - correct or not! We have very little Want to Help Your Community Paper? information about the photo. It did have the following inscription along The Westminster Gazette operates on a the bottom, evidently identifying the shoestring budget. Just a handful more of folks in the photo, from the left: community underwriters, donations or “Barraby, Carl Underwoood, Holt, advertisers would make a big difference. G.H. Walker (seated in the automo - bile), Mrs. C.B. Torrey and H.S. Any individuals or businesses interested in Cady.” helping us out in any of these ways should If any of those names sound famil - contact the Westminster Gazette at: iar, please send us more information. [email protected] Thanks! Thank You!

ADVERTISE IN THE GAZETTE! Annual Rates: Pages 2-3 approx. 2.5”x3” $275 a year $30 for one month K. BEEBE, INC Pages 4-7 CABLE TOOL WELL DRILLING approx. 3.5”x4” PUMP SERVICE $525 a year Plumbing and Heating $80 for one month Established 1946 FULLY INSURED * ESTIMATES GIVEN Page 8 CALL 463-3725 approx. 1.5”x2.5” 51 SAXTONS RIVER ROAD* BELLOWS FALLS $175 a year No one time ads

Underwriting Support is a donation of at least $300 annually and does not include advertising. Underwriters are listed in the box on page 6 each month.

On-line at: www. westminstervt.org January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 3

January 2018 Westminster Gazette page 3 Vermont Priest Recognized for Dedication to Kurn Hattin Homes The Charles Albert Dickinson Award, established in 2013, is given annually in recognition of an organization or individual whose philanthropic commitment embodies the mission of New England Kurn Hattin Homes for Children. Named for its founder, Reverend Charles Albert Dickinson, this award recognizes those who make a significant contribution to the field of child welfare and assistance in an effort to transform the lives of children and families forever. A beautiful cast crystal relief sculpture honoring the award recipient features an image of Reverend Dickinson. The sculpture was designed and created by Vermont artist, Robert DuGrenier. This year’s recipient, Father Lance W. Harlow of St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Burlington, became involved with Kurn Hattin in 2005. He was asked to participate in Kurn Hattin’s music program which led to his playing in the bands and choir on and off campus. In 2011, he was transferred to Williston, which no longer allowed him to have as much on-site contact with Kurn Hattin, but it opened up new doors for spreading the news of the great work taking place here. He committed his parishes to financial and material support of the Homes through collections of clothing, toys, and school supplies. Around 2015, he cre- ver jubilee of priestly ordination to conduct a Christmas raffle in honor of 25 ated The St. Nicholas Project, which is a collaboration between the Catholic years of ordination. The raffle raised over $20,000! community in Vermont and Kurn Hattin Homes to provide material and finan- The 2017 Charles Albert Dickinson Award has been given to Father Lance cial support to assist KH in its mission to children and families. W. Harlow for his unwavering dedication to Kurn Hattin, his untiring support of In 2017, The St. Nicholas Project initiated the very successful back-to- our children, his spirit of graciousness in all matters, and his spreading the good school shoes fundraiser to obtain donations for the purchase of shoes for the news of Kurn Hattin Homes throughout the state of Vermont and well beyond. children. Previous Charles Albert Dickinson Award recipients are 2016 George W. The St. Nicholas Project is named after St. Nicholas, the patron saint of chil- Nostrand, 2015 John and Carol Hubbard, 2014 The Rite Aid Foundation, and dren, who was renown during his lifetime for his charity towards children and 2013 The National Society of New England Women. families in need. This past year, Father Harlow has used the occasion of his sil In photo, the 2017 Charles Albert Dickinson Award was given to Father Lance W. Harlow. What’s Up At Town Hall? - Renovations & Town Openings TOWN HALL RENOVATION: The bids are in for the second form of because of the lack of time and money. This project was to cut the overgrown egress to the Town Hall. All Seasons Construction from Springfield, Vermont brush along the wrought-iron fence in the front, north side and back of the prop- was the lowest bidder and will be starting this project in January/February 2018. erty. They accepted this challenge and a couple days later they called and said it As was reported previously, this work will not disrupt the Town Hall’s work day was done. Our beautiful historic metal fence is back in clear view of our visitors nor its hours of operation. and residents to appreciate. OPENINGS ON TOWN BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS: The Town of A large thank you goes out to the staff and students that made this project Westminster has immediate openings on many boards and commissions and happen. My only regret for this whole experience was that it took me this long they are as follows: to thank them publicly for the wonderful job that they did. The Planning Commission (PC) has one opening on its Commission. The PC TOWN FOREST: The cutting and forest management has been completed meets once a month and their main duty is to maintain the Town Plan, Zoning off of East Putney Brook Road in the Town’s Forest with the guidance and care Bylaws, Village Designations, Act 250 reviews, and Public Service Board of the State of Vermont’s forester, Tim Morton. The forest had not been proper- reviews. This Commission is vital in the future planning of our Town and its ly thinned or managed for many years. What has been done will help not only compliance to the constant changes to the environment that we live in. the health of the remaining trees, but will also stimulate new growth and wildlife The Activities Commission has immediate openings for energetic individu- habitat. Thanks Tim for all of your work. als that want to create and administer to activities within our community. This HAPPY NEW YEAR: As we get older the time seams to fly by. I know, I is a great way to meet people and get involved in our Town. know, speak for myself. The Selectboard and the Town Hall employees wish The Conservation Committee has immediate openings for people interested you a healthy and successful New Year. in the Town’s Trail System, Town Forests, and even Energy Conservation After Hour Appointments: Please feel free, if you have the need to make enhancements. an appointment for either the Town Manager, Zoning Administer, or the Town TOWN CEMETERY: Approximately three months ago, I received a call Clerk after or before normal business hours. Both Alison Bigwood and Russell from the Compass School asking if the Town had any projects that their students Hodgkins are willing to make these arrangements with you if needed. Please could help with. They were looking for community service and would love to feel free to call us and we will set up your meeting. help the Town of Westminster. As always, please feel free to call the Town Manager’s Office regarding con- A project in the Historic Village at the cemetery had been pushed back cerns, issues or comments.

News from Westminster Cares - Year End Memorial Donations Westminster Cares welcomes donations throughout the year from anyone In memory of Joan Smidutz from Bill Smidutz wishing to remember or honor a loved one or friend. In memory of Sam Streeter from Jim and Arlene Scully Memorial and Honor Donations through December 15th: In memory of Connie Harlow from Susan J. Harlow In honor of Shirley Aiken for her loving care of Artie Aiken from Wendy In memory of Myrtle Kane Pellerin from Don and Donna Dawson In Cross memory of Jamie C. Latham from Alison Latham In honor of Bettina Berg and Chris Harlow from Amelia Berg In memory of Eugene Fontaine from Marlene and Bill O’Connor In honor of Iris Cassidy Friedman from Susannah Cassidy Friedman In memory of Paul Chaffee from Lillian Chaffee In honor of the Volunteers, Board and Director from Miriam and Larry In memory of Avis and Leslie Dodge from Verna and Donald Newcomb Lanata In memory of Percy and Eunice Muzzey from Charlotte Kurkul In honor of Karen Walter from Cynthia Moore In memory of John Barnett from Toby Young In honor of all the volunteers and staff from Audrey and Clarence Gochey In memory of Richard Morse from Ruth Morse; Diane and John O’Brien In memory of Connie Harlow, Artie Aiken and Albie Lober from Cilla and In memory of Bernice Cook from Lester Cook Walt Allbee In memory of Connie Sanderson from Carrie Gelfan and Michael Beh In memory of Connie Harlow and Artie Aiken; and in honor of Donna In memory of Robert Bennett from an anonymous donor Dawson from Bettina Berg and Chris Harlow In memory of Walt, Sam, Artie and Delores from Pete and Judy Harrison In memory of Melanie DeLonge from Jennifer Anderson In memory of Charles “Artie” Aiken from: Lois Woodard, Kirk In memory of Barbara and Carlton Greenwood from Allison and David Hemelberg, John Leppman, Paul Millman, Susan Auslander, Irene and Jeff Deen Michaud, and Linda and Mike Fawcett In memory of Dorothea Green from Doreen Branford January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 4

page 4 Westminster Gazette January 2018 News from Westminster Volunteer Fire and Rescue The Westminster Fire and Rescue Department holds their monthly meetings Driveways and Right of Ways: Please be sure that private roads leading to at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month and a combined drill on the third your home are plowed wide enough so a large fire truck can pass through eas- Tuesday of every month. Rescue training is the second Tuesday of the month. i l y . A l s o , b e s u r e b r u s h a n d a n y o t h e r o b s t a c l e s a r e n o t h i n d e r i n g a n e m e r g e n c y The Prudential Committee normally meets twice a month. A warning will be vehicle from getting to a scene where they may be needed. posted 48 hours prior to each meeting. The Westminster Fire & Rescue Association welcomes donations through- Number of calls in November : 27 out the year from anyone wishing to remember a loved one or a friend. Number of calls through December30th : 50 [may be a record] Donation in December: Number of calls calendar year to Date: 414 Heather Kampfer Number of calls fiscal year to date: 193 Peter F. Lefcort Association Meeting: The Westminster Fire and Rescue Association met M. Ellen Jones for their regular meeting December 5th with Vice President Mike Fawcett pre- We are always looking for new members: Anyone interested in volunteering siding. There were 22 members present and 8 members excused. Currently their time to help the community in a time of need, please contact Chief Cole there are 38 members of the volunteer fire department. The members welcomed Streeter at 722-3178 or stop by the Firehouse any Sunday morning and pick up J.T. Tabolt as a new member under the 6 months probation guidelines. an application. Ice Skating Rink: The ice skating rink on the East Side of the Westminster We would like to have additional volunteers from the Westminster West Central School is ready for use. Some of the volunteers of the Westminster Fire area. There is a Fire House, an engine and a rescue vehicle located in Department have been busy flooding the area. The rink is open to the public. Westminster West and more help is always welcome to utilize that equipment CO detectors: Because houses are closed up more tightly in the winter, CO during calls. detectors need to be checked more frequently. As always, we would like to thank the members of the community for its Smoke Alarms: It’s always a good idea to put new batteries in the smoke continued support of the fire department. alarms January 1st and double check to be sure they are operating properly. Check us out on our Web site www.westminsterfireandrescue.org. Vents: Check vents for heating appliances regularly to be sure they are free The Westminster Fire and Rescue Association, Inc. operates independently from ice and snow. A plugged vent can cause a fire. from Westminster Fire District #3. January Book & Film Events at the Rockingham Library On Wednesday, January 10 at 6:30 p.m., the Women's Freedom Center pre - create a community in which violence is not tolerated. The Center's 24/7 Hotline sents the documentary film "My Stolen Revolution" at the Rockingham Library. number is 1-802-885-2050. As a student activist in Iran’s 1979 revolution that overthrew the dictatorial Join the book discussion of "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood at Shah, Nahid Persson Sarvestani fled to Sweden with her baby after Islamists the Rockingham Library on Monday, January 22 at 4 p.m .Copies of this title are seized power and began persecuting leftists who had been their revolutionary now available to borrow at the Library's front desk. allies. Three decades later, events in Iran inspire Nahid to revisit that part of her Respected Canadian poet and novelist Atwood presents here a fable of the life. Shifting skillfully between past and present, this deeply personal documen - near future. In the Republic of Gilead, formerly the United States, far-right tary is an essential resource for understanding Iran today. Schlafly/Falwell-type ideals have been carried to extremes in the monotheocrat - "My Stolen Revolution" is the fifth in a series of six films by and about ic government. The resulting society is a feminist's nightmare: women are strict - women, sponsored by the Women's Freedom Center running the second ly controlled, unable to have jobs or money and assigned to various classes: the Wednesday of each month, September 2017 through February 2018 at chaste, childless Wives; the housekeeping Marthas; and the reproductive Rockingham Library. If you were not able to make it to the Women's Film Handmaids, who turn their offspring over to the "morally fit" Wives. The tale is Festival in Brattleboro, the Women’s Freedom Center is bringing the festival told by Offred (read: "of Fred"), a Handmaid who recalls the past and tells how films to you. the chilling society came to be. The Women's Freedom Center is the local non-profit organization working to Carly Fox, a teacher from Vermont Academy who has a background in end domestic and sexual violence in Windham and Southern Windsor Counties. Women’s History, will facilitate this discussion. They are a feminist organization committed to offering support and advocacy to For more information, go to rockinghamlibrary.org, call 463-4270, e-mail all survivors of violence, as well as prevention and educational activities to help [email protected] or stop by the Library.

Putney Mountain Hawk Watch and Christmas Bird Count by Alma Beals, Vermont Master Gardener and Naturalist Before I start writing about the Audubon Christmas Bird Count and our Putney Mountain Hawk Watch, I want to answer a question many of us had. Ruth asked me, “what are those white caterpillars that were all over our area”? I did some research and then talked to JoAnne who is into moths. They are hickory tussock moth caterpillars (Lophocampa caryae). JoAnne said that some people have a skin reaction to them. They are not poisonous, are native to our region and this was a banner year for them. A female hickory tussock moth will lay hundreds of eggs at one time on trees where they hatch and begin feeding. After eating and growing for sev - eral weeks, the caterpillars will drop off their host plant and begin wander - ing – A LOT. This is when we saw them. They were looking for places to spin fuzzy gray cocoons in the leaf litter to spend the winter. When the cater - pillars hatch, they are nondescript small brown moths. Now onto the Audubon Christmas Bird Count which was started in 1900 and draws thousands of counters. It is held from mid-December through early January. In our area, we hold the counts on the Saturday and Sunday before Christmas. We do the Saxtons River count on Saturday and the Springfield count on Sunday. The maps are divided into territories with designated counters. I used to cover the Bellows Falls area on the Saxtons River count but since I’ve worked Saturdays for the last few years, I count in-town Springfield on Sunday. We are not allowed to “poach” on other counters’ territory but if I should see an unusual bird on my way in or out of Springfield, I can tell that A Cooper’s hawk enjoying lunch during a recent snowstorm. designated counter and the bird can be counted. I don’t know the results yet Photo by Robert Smith but I suspect that Juncos will be “the birds of the day” because right now they are everywhere. You have probably seen that the birds are back to the tor number, we need a high Broad-winged hawk count which we had. We feeders now that snow has arrived. guess that the reason for that high count was the wind. The hurricanes off My most exciting news is the amazing number of hawks we counted the east coast in September likely pushed the flight paths to the west, send - migrating over Putney Mountain. Three of us started the Putney Mountain ing the migrants over Putney Mountain. I need to note that the numbers of Hawk Watch in the early 1970s. This has grown to about 15 of us counting Broad-winged hawks at the hawk watch stations directly to our east were migrating hawks during the fall since the 1990s with better organization and much lower than normal during peak migration of around September 10th to coverage than when first started. The Putney Mountain Hawk Watch is the 23rd. Therefore, I don’t want you to think that something is going on Vermont’s only hawk watch that is operated every day during the fall migra - with the hawks, only that there was a change in the flying pattern over the tion with reports sent daily to Hawk Migration Association of North mountain. America (HMANA). We broke two records, our highest Broad-winged hawk count and our This fall was unbelievable with a count of 11,728 Broad-winged hawks highest raptor count of 9,866 set in 2012. Will we ever have another fall like and a grand total for the season of 14,823 raptors. To record a high total rap - this one? Probably not. This will go down in history as “the unbelievable count of 2017”. January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 5

January 2018 Westminster Gazette page 5 WESTMINSTER MYSTERY PHOTO

Get Happy in 2018 There’s no time like the present to find more happiness in your life. That can sound like an old cliché of sorts but the truth of the matter is, bringing more joy and happiness into your life can help you live longer. Science has shown that when you find more joy and purpose in your life, you tend to live a healthier life. When you’re feeling happier, you tend to make healthier diet choices, as well as spend more time being active in general. That’s not to say that happiness is some magic pill. However, those that lived a more happy life improved their odds against disease and illness. Here are a few ideas on how you might bring more happiness into your world: 1. Adopt a Pet: This is a major commitment and one that might involve talk- ing to family members as well as others, to make sure that you’re prepared to take on a new life in your home. Although this is a big responsibility, it can be truly What is happening here, and life changing. Can’t adopt a pet? Maybe you could volunteer at the local animal where was this pond located? shelter or offer to help with a neighbor’s pet. Please, continue to feel free to send any information you 2. Listen to more music: Music can affect you in ways that you aren’t com- may have regarding any of these photos. Thank you! pletely aware. Songs can trigger memories that you haven’t thought of for years. You can relax to music, get motivated by music – it changes your body chemistry Photos courtesy the Westminster Historical Society. as well as your moods. Please contact the Gazette if you have photos that we 3. Laugh more: This one is simple. Find more reasons to laugh. might use for this regular feature. 4. Help others: Nothing can make you feel more involved in your communi- E-mail [email protected]. ty than helping someone. It can be as simple as sitting down and playing cards with a neighbor. Companionship is one of the easiest things you can do to help someone. Looking for places to volunteer? Call one of the many organizations Check Out Our in your area (United Way, Senior Centers, Westminster Cares, Youth Services or visit createthegood.org for more info) and inquire about volunteering. You’ll get New Advertisers far more than you’ll ever give. We have a few new advertisers we’d like to draw your attention to in this 5. Take an exercise class: Get out of your house and get involved in some type issue, starting with a great new program under the Windham and Windsor of movement activity. Westminster Cares offers all sorts of local classes from Housing Trust providing up to $4000 in discounts for households to convert Healthy Living workshops, Chair Yoga and Tai Chi. For more information on wood or gas heat to pellets. You can check out their ad and a release about these classes, you can visit www.westminstercares.org the program on page 2. 6. Finally, get outside. It might be a bit chilly at the moment but as the year Area builder Tim Lillis has a new business card ad for his comprehen - progresses, find ways to spend time outdoors. Walking, sitting, strolling – what- sive carpentry services, and Bellows Falls’ Shona Grill, one of the area’s top ever it takes to get you outside, in the fresh air, enjoying the brilliant sunlight. eateries with a delicious menu and great staff, is also a new advertiser, both Here’s wishing everyone a very healthy and “HAPPY” New Year. on page 8. Welcome! Wellness Program at RFPL Beginning January 9, Souper Wednesday Returns Certified Wellness Coach Carol The First Congregational Church of Westminster will host Souper Wednesday Jean Jones will lead a series of again this year. From 12 to 2 p.m., there will be at least 2 choices of soup includ - interactive presentations about ing a vegetarian choice and warm bread. Take-outs will be available. Donations Wellness at the Rockingham are appreciated but not required. This is a time for everyone and anyone to come Library. The series will run for 4 and visit and have a warm meal. consecutive Tuesdays of January (January 9, 16, 23, & 30) from 5 3SquaresVT Helps Healthier Eating to 6 p.m. It’s the time of year to think about New Year’s resolutions—and for many Wellness can mean different people, getting healthier is high on the list. We all know that eating right is crit - things to different people. Carol ical to good health, but with the high cost of food, fuel, housing, and health care, will share healthy mind, body a lot of people can’t afford to buy enough nutritious food for themselves and their and spiritual practices that have families. 3SquaresVT can help to put more healthy food on the table, giving them helped others set obtainable the energy and strength they need to achieve their goals in 2018! goals and continue to maintain 3SquaresVT is Vermont's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, them. Carol Jean Jones, right, is a designed to help households without sufficient resources meet their need for graduate of the Wellness Coach healthy, nutritious food. Training Program of the Mayo A family of four earning up to $3,793 per month may be eligible, and house - Clinic. holds can have a savings account or an asset like a car or home and still qualify. For more information, call Whether they are experiencing a short-term financial crisis or longer-term chal - 463-4270, visit rockinghamli - lenges, 3SquaresVT helps seniors, families, and individuals with lower incomes brary.org, or stop by the Library make ends meet. at 65 Westminster St. in Bellows In fact, 1 in 8 Vermonters already receive 3SquaresVT benefits. Monthly ben - Falls. efits come on a debit card accepted at most grocery stores and many farmers' markets, making it easy for households to use them. Area Theater Group Seeks Actors Households that qualify for 3SquaresVT benefits can access many other pro - Love – and murder!- will be in the air this February at the Town Hall in grams to make life more manageable, such as free school meals for children, the Charlestown, NH. River Theater Company and the Charlestown Rotary are Earned Income Tax Credit, and even phone assistance. teaming up to present “Poetry to Die For,” a Valentine’s Day themed murder Households may also use 3SquaresVT at many farmers’ market locations, mystery dinner. Open auditions will be held Saturday, January 6, 3 to 5 p.m., and including many Winter Farmers Markets, and double their money with “crop Saturday, January 13, 3 to 5, at the Town Hall Theater, behind Ralph’s Market on cash”-- households can use their EBT card at the market and get $1 worth of Main Street in Charlestown. Performances of “Poetry to Die For” are Saturday “crop cash” for every $1 they spend in 3SquaresVT benefits, up to $10 in free and Sunday, February 23rd and 24th. crop cash per market/per customer. The murder mystery will feature a minimum of seven women and five men Households may also receive crop cash if they receive cash assistance. in brief comedic scripted scenes with lots of improv. Adults of all ages and types Shoppers should visit the Manager’s Table at the market prior to making their are welcome to audition, and no preparation is necessary. Casting is flexible and purchases. the number of actors can be expanded. SEVCA's Family Services staff are available by appointment to assist house - Sam Maskell, the director, has previously directed several murder mystery holds to apply for 3SquaresVT. For more information, call SEVCA at 1-800-464- dinners including “Murder at Hartness House” that she wrote, as well as a vari - 9951. ety of other local area productions including “Love Letters,” The Vagina Households can also apply online at www.vermontfoodhelp.com. Eligibility Monologues,” and most recently “Elegies for Angles, Punks, and Raging and the amount of assistance provided are based primarily on household income, Queens,” an AIDS benefit at the Latchis Theater in Fall 2016. expenses, and household size. For more information, please e-mail info @rivertheater.org, or visit our River There are special rules that make it easier for households that include a senior Theater Company Charlestown Facebook page. or a person with a disability to receive benefits. January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 6

page 6 Westminster Gazette January 2018 Westminster Happenings Activities Faith Community Scottish Country Dance Classes Chair Yoga The First Congregational Church of Walpole Bible Church Every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. in the Every Friday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Westminster The Grace Bible Fellowship holds its Westminster Center School Gym. All skill First Congregational Church in Rev. Sami Jones McRae, Pastor. 3470 Sunday Worship Service at 9:15 a.m. at 38 levels welcome. Contact Michael Daley for Westminster. Call Westminster Cares at Route 5, Westminster, 722-4148. Elm Street in Walpole, NH. more information at 387-2601. No charge. 722-3607 for more information. The church has a ramp and lift for wheel - Find out more about the church at its chair access as well as a handicapped bath - Web site, www.walpolebiblechurch.org . Putney Contra Dance Living Strong Classes room. Sunday School is available; call the Last Saturday of every month at Pierce Hall Mondays and Thursdays: at the First church to register your children. We are an Walpole Unitarian Church on East Putney Falls Road, off Rt. 5 in East Congregational Church in Westminster from Open and Affirming church; all are wel - Services are at 10 a.m. Children's Putney. A beginner’s workshop is taught at 8 9-10 a.m.; at the Westminster West Church come. Religious Education begins at 10 a.m. with Wednesday, January 3, Noon to 2 pm. p.m., and the regular dance goes from 8:30 from 6-7 p.m.; or at Greater Rock Fitness in the adults and moves to Hastings House at SOUPER WEDNESDAY IS BACK. to 11. A donation at the door will benefit the Bellows Falls from 11-12. Call Westminster 10:15. Refreshments and conversation are Sunday, January 7, 10 am - Worship. Pierce’s Hall Building Fund. For more Cares for more information at 722-3607. held after the service with the children information call 387-5985. Celebration of Epiphany Sunday. included. www.walpoleunitarian.org . Knitting Together Wednesday, January 10, Noon to 2 pm. Senior Potluck Lunch Join us every Wednesday, from 1 to 3 p.m. Souper Wednesday. Sunday, January 14, 10 am - Worship. Every 2nd Thursday of the month at noon. All at the Village Square Booksellers, down - Meetings Westminster seniors are invited to attend a town Bellows Falls. Bring your knitting Wednesday, January 17, Noon to 2 pm, Souper Wednesday. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays potluck lunch at the First Congregational needles, we have the yarn and casual Selectboard Sunday, January 21, 10 am, Worship. Church on Route 5 . instruction if needed to knit hats, mittens at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Hall. Wednesday, January 24, Noon to 2 pm, and sweaters for area kids. Souper Wednesday. All our yarn is from community donation Planning Commission 2nd Monday at Bellows Falls Gallery Walk Sunday, January 28, 10 am, Worship, 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. Downtown at 5:30 p.m. every 3rd Friday of and we distribute our completed work to all potluck lunch and Annual Meeting. the month. area schools and Parks Place. More knitters Wednesday, January 31, Noon to 2 pm, at all skill levels are wanted and we can Souper Wednesday. Westminster Activities Commission Secrets of Healthy Aging promise you an enjoyable experience. For 2nd Monday of the Month at 6 p.m. at the A facilitated discussion group and pot-luck. details or to donate yarn contact Caroline at The Congregational Church of Westminster Institute. The 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month at 463-4653. Westminster West the Westminster Fire Station from 11:30 The Congregational Church of Westminster School Board a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Call Westminster Cares at Westminster West Public Library Westminster West worships every Sunday at 1st and 3rd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the 722-3607 for more information. Trustees 10 a.m. The pick-up choir meets most Westminster Center School Library. The Westminster West Public Library Sundays at 9 to rehearse for that morning's Contra Dance Trustees meet on the first Wednesday of the anthem; newcomers are always welcome! Windmill Hill Pinnacle Association Every 3rd Saturday of the month at 7:30 month at 7 p.m. at the library. They wel - Holy Communion is celebrated on the 3rd Thursday at 7 p.m. at the p.m. at the Town Hall in Walpole, N.H. come visits from the public\. Contact Lisa first Sunday of every month, and on the Westminster West Congregational Cavanaugh at 387-4682. Second Sunday the church collects a special Church. Gentle Yoga offering that goes to Our Place in Bellows Every Monday at 10 a.m. at the Westminster Falls to help fund their food shelf. Westminster West Public Library Institute. Call Westminster Cares at The church building is fully wheelchair Board 1st Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the 722-3607 for more information. accessible, and the congregation is Open Westminster West Public Library. and Affirming. Rev. Susie Webster-Toleno Senior Walking Group is the pastor. Development Review Board 1st Tuesdays at 9 a.m. Meet at the Park & Ride Rev. Webster-Toleno currently holds Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the on Westminster Heights Rd. Call the office hours on Monday and Thursday after - Town Hall. Westminster Cares office for more informa - noons, and people are welcome to drop by. tion; 722-3607. It's a good idea to make an appointment.. Community Improvement Program She can be reached at the church at 387- Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of 2334, via cell phone at 579-8356 or e-mail each month at 6 p.m. THE GAZETTE [email protected]. GRATEFULLY Westminster Cares Board - No Summer Meetings 1st Wednesday of ACKNOWLEDGES every month, at the Westminster Institute THE SUPPORT at 4:30 p.m. OF ITS UNDERWRITERS: For more information about Rotary, 911 Committee as needed. Kurn Hattin Homes contact Alma Beals at Westminster School District [email protected] or 722-3355 The Westminster Fire and Rescue Town of Westminster Dept. holds their monthly meetings on Westminster Activities Commission the 1st Tuesday of every month, at 7 p.m. and a combined drill on the 3rd Sojourns Community Health Clinic Tuesday of every month at the Westminster Cares Westminster Fire Station. Westminster Fire and Rescue Association Westminster Historical Society 2nd Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Westminster Burtco Inc. Institute. The Dascomb Trust K Beebe Inc. Westminster Gazette Meeting Monday, January 29 at 4:30 p.m. at the Westminster Institute

Westminster Institute Board will meet on Tuesday, at 7 p.m. in the Institute.

WESTMINSTER GAZETTE

Editor: Robert Smith The Deadline for the February Issue of the Board of Directors: Westminster Gazette is Charmion Handy - Wednesday, Jan. 31 Chairwoman Donna Dawson Publication Date is Alma Beals Tuesday, February 6 Joyce Sullivan To Contact the Printed by Turley Publications Westminster Gazette of Palmer, MA E-mail: Pictures and Articles westminsternews Provided by the Community @gmail.com [email protected] January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 7

January 2018 Westminster Gazette page 7 Antioch Students Consulting with Great River Co-Op We are excited to announce that two Antioch University New England students will be consulting with the Great River Co-op Board of Directors as we design our member out - reach and development campaigns for spring 2018. This partnership developed through the Antioch Collaborative Service Initiative (CSI) that is a fac - ulty supervised capstone opportunity for graduate students to work together on projects for local organi - zations. We would like to wel - come Kira Yeomans (left photo) and James Holcomb in support of our board through the spring of 2018. Kira is pursuing a MS degree in Environmental Studies at Antioch University New England. Her concentration is in advocacy for sustainability and social jus - tice. She currently works on the sustainability and social justice committee and is a fellow of the provosts office. Open: December 15 - April 14 Kira recently helped organize a free food space at her school and is passion - ate about healthy food for everyone. She has a lot of experience organizing for social justice issues and outreach and is excited to work with the Great River Coop. Originally from Connecticut, James Holcomb graduated from Franklin Pierce University with a degree in Environmental Studies and Anthropology. James is currently in his last semester working towards a Master’s degree in Environmental Science at Antioch University with a concentration in Advocacy for Social Justice and Sustainability. He is also a member of the Sustainability and Social Justice Committee at Antioch University New England. We are looking forward to collaborating with Kira and James to propel the Great River Co-op project forward in the new year. As always, if you are interested in contributing to this project by becoming a member, volunteering your time or in another way, we would absolutely love to hear from you. Please visit www.greatriverfoodcoop.com, find us on Facebook, or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Small Steps to Save the Planet & Petition to Ban Glyphosate Moms Across America initiated a petition drive to raise awareness of the harm that is being done to us and especially to our kids by glyphosate, an ingre - dient in the weedkiller Roundup. Among the claims made against glyphosate is that it is an herbicide and an antibiotic that kills good bacteria in your gut; it is a neurotoxin linked with autism, Alzheimers and Parkinsons; it is carcinogenic; it causes birth defects and leaky gut syndrome which opens the door to all kinds of disease in the body. Monsanto, the manufactuer of Roundup, says it’s safe. If you read the petition you will learn why we have to stop using glyphosate, especially its major use, which is as a blanket crop treatment on non-organic crops such as corn, soy and wheat, where it is mainlined into our guts via the food crops that are saturated with it. We are raising awareness and starting to demand an end to this practice! The spirit of Rachel Carson is with us in this fight for our own health and the health of every living thing! There is a safe alternative to glyphosate: OSM Horticulture Vinegar multi-use product. It is a safe non-toxic weed killer and multiuse product- which is highly effec - tive at killing all plants. It functions topically, not systemically, so more than one application may be necessary in clay-like soil, but not in sandy soil. It is being used all across the country. It has been on the market since 2007. Camp Pendleton uses it - a military base on the beach in Southern California - and the use there is heavily monitored by the EPA because of the proximity to water. So one can presume it is widely accepted as safe by the military and EPA already. It has vinegar (acetic acid), yucca extract (surfactant) and water in it. All food grade. The vinegar could be from grapes, corn, or apples. It has been tested for glyphosate and glyphosate was not detectable at all. It does cost slightly more than Roundup but it is not toxic to soil, marine life, pets or people. Very safe. The product does not change ph balance of soil unless you dump a 55 gallon drum in one spot. Caitlyn Adair, of the Living Earth Action Group has a petition she would like to bring to Vermont Governor Phil Scott. You can read and sign this petition at www.change.org/p/governor-phil-scott-ban-glyphosate-in-vermont. For more information about Moms Across America, visit www.MomsAcrossAmerica.com. The Living Earth Action Group meets every Friday at 5 p.m. at the Congregational Church of Westminster West. You can get on Catilyn’s newslet - ter list by contacting her at [email protected]. January 2018 WG_Westminster Gazette 1/1/2018 4:46 PM Page 8

page 8 Westminster Gazette January 2018 Send Submissions to [email protected] January Business of the Month: Allen Bros. Oil Co.

802-376-7313

Streeter L.L.C. Licensed Electrician PO Box 206, Westminster, VT 05158 (Building, Remodeling and Repairs) Cole Streeter Box 103 (802)722-3178 Westminster, VT 05158

Allen Brothers Oil Company, started out in 2001 primarily to supply the Allen Brother’s greenhouses and a few area farms. As word spread, Allen Brothers store customers began asking if they could get oil, and so began the business. In 2004, Tim turned the business into a full service heating company offering pre-buy & budget plans, and partnered with the State to offer fuel assistance/crisis fuel deliveries, as well as 24 hour emergency service calls. We now have three delivery trucks, three service vehicles, and a client base of over 3500 customers, serving Cheshire, Windham and Windsor counties. Tim and Stacey’s oldest son Matthew, above, is doing an excellent job of running our service department and is committed to making sure every customer has a safe and efficient heating system. We are very excited about the future of the company, and have a wonderful staff in place to insure that all of our customers are kept warm, and receive the best possible service we can provide. We continue to offer low pricing, as well as small minimum deliveries, and we strive to support those in need in any way we can. Thank you to all our customers for your business, trust and success of our company. We hope you have a blessed 2018! For more information visit us @allenbrosoil.com or call us directly at 802-722-3331.

S.B. and Company Auctioneers, Antique s

Vernon and Doreen Kelton PO Box 94, Westminster Station,VT 05159 (802) 722-4722 Check us out on our website: Buying entire estates or single items. www.westminsterauto.com Probate appraisals 46 Canal St. Bellows Falls Vt 802-460-1190

Tim E. Lillis - Builder Your Ad Comprehensive Carpentry Services for both small and large jobs New Construction - Renovations - Tile - Could Be Restorations - Structural Repair - Kitchens - Baths - Outbuildings - Decks Here! Bellows Falls, VT 05101 (802) 376-5709 [email protected]

Our Monthly Community Newspaper January 2018 Vol. 14, No. 1

Pre-Sorted Standard U.S. Postage Westminster Gazette PAID Town of Westminster Westminster, VT PO Box 147 PERMIT NO. 3 Westminster, VT 05158 DELIVER TO ADDRESSEE OR CURRENT RESIDENT