Island Pond VT.

Island Pond Resident Marsden Faces Sentencing On Federal Firearms Charges

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 04:03:56 +0000

When state police Sgt. Sean Selby visited the home of Darlene Marsden in Island Pond, he was there to question her son, Mark Marsden, 50, about some burglaries that occurred in Lyndonville and Danville on Feb. 10, 2010.

After speaking with Mark for awhile about the burglaries, Sgt. Selby obtained Darlene Marsden's consent to search her home. Selby also obtained Mark Marsden's consent to search his bedroom. Mark lived with his mother.

The state police observed guns in plain view through the open door of his bedroom. At the time, Marsden had a criminal record with convictions which made it illegal for him to possess firearms. Because Mark Marsden admitted the firearms were his, he was eventually charged by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont with being a convicted felon in possession of firearms.

The offense carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine.

The federal prosecutor, Tristam Coffin, cites Marsden's convictions on three counts of third degree burglary in the State of Connecticut as grounds for charging Marsden with the federal firearms charges.

On February 10, 2010, Marsden and James Sherman, 34, Island Pond, allegedly broke into the Lyndonville Agway and the Bagel Depot, both on Broad St. in Lyndonville. They then drove to Danville, where state police say the pair burglarized Marty's First Stop. The thieves stole a large quantity of cigarettes and other tobacco products from Marty's, a cash register from the Bagel Depot and a cash register and road salt from the Agway store in Lyndonville.

During the investigation of those crimes, state police recognized a truck, captured on surveillance video, as belonging to Marsden. Within hours state police caught up with Marsden and Sherman, both of whom eventually admitted burglarizing the businesses.

When Sgt. Selby traveled to the Marsden home in Island Pond to question Mark Marsden, the firearms were discovered. Marsden entered guilty pleas to burglary charges in connection with the breakins and was sentenced in state court to three-to-eight years in prison, all suspended except for 18 months.

Found in Mark Marsden's bedroom were a 12-gauge shotgun and a .38 caliber Revolver. On March 28, 2012, U.S. District Judge J. Garvan Murtha issued a final order of forfeiture. The forfeited firearms will be disposed of by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Marsden pleaded guilty to the federal firearms charge on December 28, 2011 and will be sentenced in U.S. District Court in Burlington on April 30, 2012. According to assistant federal prosecutor Wendy Fuller, she will recommend Marsden be given a sentence of time served. Marsden has been in federal custody on the firearm charges since February, 2011. A time served sentence will mean Marsden spent more than a year in federal custody on the gun possession charge, according to Fuller.

13 Indicted In IP Meth Case

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:22:38 +0000

BURLINGTON, VT - Thirteen Northeast Kingdom defendants have been indicted by federal grand jury with methamphetamine-related drug crimes following a raid on an Island Pond house in November of 2011.
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Burlington will be prosecuting Carl Dewayne Coker, Charles Thomas Amerine III, Mandy Darlene Johnson, Frank Santaw, and Kevin Dodge with conspiring to manufacture five grams or more of methamphetamine from Spring 2011 to November 2011.
Frank Santaw and Kevin Dodge are also charged with conspiring to manufacture five grams or more of methamphetamine from September 2011 to December 2011.
Alicia Ovitt, Joshua Ovitt, and James Castrogiovanni are charged with conspiring together and with Coker, Amerine, Johnson, Santaw, and Dodge to possess and distribute pseudoephedrine, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine, from Spring 2011 to November 2011.
James Castrogiovanni, Honey Lee Lacourse, Roger Chaffee, Cheryl Hackett, Richard Lavoie, and Jaime Cross were charged with with conspiring together and with Santaw and Dodge to possess and distribute pseudoephedrine, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe that it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine, from September 2011 to in or about December 2011.
Coker, Amerine, and Johnson, all formerly of Island Pond, were arrested on November 18, 2011. Coker is detained pending trial. Santaw and Dodge, both of Island Pond, were arrested on December 16, 2011. Santaw is detained pending trial. The other eight defendants were arrested on April 17, 2012. Cross, Chaffee, and Lavoie are detained temporarily pending hearings scheduled for April 19, 2012.
United States Attorney Tristram J. Coffin emphasizes that the charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, defendants charged in Count 1 or 2 face imprisonment for a term between 5 and 40 years and defendants charged in Count 3 or 4 face imprisonment for a term up to 20 years. Actual sentences in the event of conviction would be determined pursuant to the advisory federal sentencing guidelines and the federal statutory sentencing factors.
The investigation of these crimes was led by the Vermont Drug Task Force with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Vermont State Police Field Force Division, the United States Marshals Service, and the Brighton Police Department assisted in the arrests of defendants. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Nolan.

Towers will be trucked from Brighton

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 17:30:16 +0000

ISLAND POND — Wind turbines destined for the Lowell Mountain project will start arriving in Brighton by rail in June, selectmen heard at their Tuesday night meeting.

Parts up to 203 feet long will travel by truck along town roads on their way to the construction site, according to representatives of Green Mountain Power (GMP) who traveled to Island Pond Tuesday to explain their plans.

According to Charlie Pough, one of GMP’s representatives, the turbine towers are assembled from three sections, and each is topped by three blades. Each part must move on its own truck, he said.

Plans call for the turbine parts to be shipped by Union Pacific Distribution via the St. Lawrence and Atlantic Railroad to Island Pond.

They will arrive in two shipments — one in June, the other in August, Mr. Pough said. The Pelletier lumber yard will be used as a staging area.

Mr. Pough said trucks will start rolling on July 16 and continue through September 11, assuming weather doesn’t interfere. Under the terms of GMP’s permit from the state Agency of Transportation two trucks will run on one day, each carrying a section of the tower.

On the following day, four trucks will roll, three carrying the turbine blades and one with the last section of the tower.

Trucks are limited to running on weekdays in fair weather. According to Mr. Pough, each truck must wait to start for at least a half hour after the previous one sets out.

State regulations also require that each truck be preceded and followed by pairs of escort cars to warn traffic.

Mr. Pough said the trucks will travel toward Derby on Route 105. In Derby they will turn onto Interstate 91, getting off at Orleans and heading to Lowell on Route 58. He said there will be 105 truck trips in all.

Originally, Mr. Pough said, plans called for the parts to be shipped to Bellows Falls, but going by rail to Island Pond will save a total of 20,000 miles of trucking. He said GMP plans to file an amended transportation plan with the Public Service Board (PSB).

The loaded trucks, he said, weigh about 180,000 pounds, about twice as much as a normal tractor trailer, but because the weight is distributed across 13 axles, it causes less damage to roads.

The GMP representatives said they would survey town roads and repair any damage found to have occurred. The planners were surprised to hear from Town Administrator Joel Cope that Route 105, within Island Pond, is a town road, not a state road. They were also somewhat taken aback by the information, also provided by Mr. Cope, that plans to reconfigure the Pelletier property may require an amendment to the site’s conditional use zoning permit.

Mr. Cope said he believes much of that property is a wetland, although he was unsure of its category.

Doug Jones, who is supervising the necessary upgrades to the lumberyard, said wet conditions at the yard will necessitate raising the road leading out to Route 105 by at least six inches.

Mr. Cope said he thought any changes in the wetland area might require Act 250 approval, but Mr. Pough said such issues can be covered under Section 248 of Title 30, the statute under which the
PSB acts.

Mr. Pough said that GMP’s wetland experts will survey the area and write a report for state approval.

Giselle Chevallay, a Newark resident who attended the meeting, said she thought there might be a conflict of interest in that way of proceeding, but Mr. Pough assured her that it was how things are normally done.

After the GMP delegation left, the selectmen turned their attention to a potential wind project that would be closer at hand. Seneca Mountain Wind LLC, a joint development project of Eolian Renewable Energy, LLC and Nordex USA, has applied to the PSB for a permit allowing the company to place meteorological towers in Island Pond to see if the area is suitable for wind development.

The selectmen and Mr. Cope discussed what steps the town ought to take. Chairman of the Selectmen, Melinda Gervais, said she thinks it’s important for the town to participate in the process regardless of whether residents decide they want wind towers or not.

Selectmen and townspeople are to meet with representatives of Seneca Mountain Wind on Wednesday, April 18, at the Brighton Town Hall. The meeting is scheduled to start at 6 p.m.

NORTHEAST KINGDOM: Wind Test Towers Get Mixed Reviews

Sun, 08 Apr 2012 13:09:41 +0000

NORTHEAST KINGDOM: Wind Test Towers Get Mixed Reviews

A proposal to erect four temporary meteorological towers to help monitor wind in remote sections of Essex and Caledonia counties has triggered mixed reactions among some of the residents in the area.

Seneca Mountain Wind LLC, based in Portsmouth, N.H., sent advance notice dated March 6 describing a proposal for four test towers in the towns of Brighton, Ferdinand and Newark. The four towers are described as temporary meteorological towers ("METS").

After the 30 day advance notice period has passed, Seneca Mountain Wind LLC will apply for a Certificate of Public Good ("CPG") to install and operate the MET towers for a five-year period. The notice was signed by Jack Kenworthy, on behalf of Seneca Mountain Wind, LLC.,

The Brighton Select Board met Wednesday night and, according to Municipal Assistant Joel Cope, had a "broad ranging discussion" on the topic of the MET towers and wind power in general. While the selectmen took no formal action, according to Cope, the selectmen have directed Cope to forward a letter drafted by the Brighton Planning Board. The letter expresses concern over the planned MET towers.

The letter states "wind towers as proposed by Seneca Wind LLC may not be appropriate for this area," adding, "This area of the state contains some of the most sensitive and fragile natural areas in the state, as classified in a 1990 report done for the state Fish and Wildlife Dept." The letter continues, "The Planning Commission sees little of value or need in regard to this project." It was sent April 3 to Kenworthy as well as Newark, the Unified Towns and Gores of Essex County, the Vermont Public Service Board, the Dept. of Public Service, the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Northeastern Vermont Development Agency and Northern Vermont Resource Conservation and Development Association.

According to Cope, the selectmen may decide to send a separate letter to Seneca Mountain Wind on behalf of the board as well. The selectmen's letter, according to Cope, will also express concern over the proposed temporary towers.

A selectmen's meeting on Tuesday in Newark also included a discussion of the proposed MET towers, according to an unapproved version of the minutes. Jack Kenworthy and Travis Bullard, representing Seneca Mountain Wind, attended the meeting at the invitation of Mike Channon, chairman of the Newark board.

Channon said a representative from Seneca Wind had called and offered to come to the meeting "to introduce himself." The matter was not on the warning and not everyone thought Kenworthy and Bullard's presence was appropriate.

According to the draft minutes, planning commission member Mark Whitworth said he thought "it was highly inappropriate that they were at the meeting." According to the minutes, "The Planning Commission had arranged for them to come to one of their meetings next week and everyone was working hard to get informed and educated so they could ask good questions and he felt that their showing up at this meeting hijacked the meeting for next week."

Eolian Wind, the parent company of Seneca Wind, is scheduled to meet with the Newark Planning Commission at 6:30 p.m. on April 11 at the Newark School.

At the Newark meeting, Kenworthy said MET towers will generally give results in around six months to one year, but they won't go forward without one year's worth of data.

Each of the proposed towers would be 190 feet tall. One tower, designated the "Brighton Tower," would be erected at the same site where a MET tower was previously installed. A second tower would be erected on a site north of Bull Mountain in Brighton. A third tower, designated "Seneca Mountain Tower," would be located in Ferdinand at the same location as a previous MET tower. The fourth tower is designated "Hawk Rock" tower and would be installed in Newark. All four towers will be either tubular steel or lattice type.

On March 23, the Newark Planning Commission sent a letter to Kenworthy taking him to task, stating "The fact that you do not see how your project could impact these natural resources is a great concern to us."

There is support for the proposed MET towers or plans for a wind farm. Stephen Osborne, who lives on Lake Street in Island Pond, said Brighton Municipal Assistant Joel Cope and the Planning Commission "don't speak for everyone in Island Pond." He said the only people who are counted are "certain people who hang around downtown" and that the residents such as himself who tend to stay at home and not speak out support the wind farm. He explained that he retired as an employee of the Canadian National Railroad and that he has seen lost economic opportunities and lost jobs in Island Pond. He said, "Most of the people support the proposal," adding, "I have nothing against it. There'll be some jobs there."

Another landowner, David Jacobs, from East Haven, is more cautious. "I think they should wait and see what Lowell and Sheffield wind farms actually produce and how much electricity they turn out." He said he thinks the effects of a wind farm "on the ecology and the animals," should be measured and the question posed should be, "Are they worth it?" His advice is, "Don't be in such a hurry."

Jack Kenworthy said "we think the site is suitable." He added data from the two previous wind measurement towers tell him, "the site looks strong." He said the proposed area appears to have, "good winds and good roads." He said that the wind farms will sign long term power contracts with utilities that will be competitive" and, "in our view will be a key component of a diversified supply" of local, renewable power.

Burglaries Reported In Bloomfield

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:16:54 +0000

Vt. State police are investigating a number of break-ins in Bloomfield. It is not known if they are related at this time. Thomas Roy, Sr., of Bloomfield, Vt., reported to Vt. State Police that sometime between 10 p.m. and 12 midnight on March 20 someone entered his residence, while he and Eileen Purrington, 73, were asleep inside, and stole an undisclosed amount of cash. Anyone with any information, to include vehicles or people in the area during this timeframe are asked to contact Senior Trooper Amy Borsari at VSP-Derby at(802) 334-8881

Police report that Troy Champagne, 36, of Winnabow, N.C., called to report that sometime between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. on March 21, 2012, someone entered his motor vehicle, which was parked in the driveway at 642 Vt. Rte. 105 in Bloomfield, Vt. The offender(s) then drove the vehicle into a ditch at the bottom of the driveway, getting it stuck and causing damage to the vehicle. Prior to leaving, the offender(s) stole several electronic items out of the vehicle, including an Apple Ipad 2, a cell phone, a DVD player and a camera. Anyone with any information regarding this theft, unlawful mischief and attempted theft of a motor vehicle is asked to contact VSP S/T Amy Borsari at VSP-Derby at (802) 334-8881.

Sometime between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on March 14, someone entered the Christiane Stinson residence at 2890 Vt. Rte. 102 in Bloomfield, Vt., and
allegedly stole jewelry, a bag full of old coins and a camera. Forced entry was made into the residence through the back door. Anyone with any information, to include vehicles and/or people that may have been involved with this burglary, is asked to contact Senior Trooper Amy Borsari at VSP-Derby (802) 334-8881.

Newark Man Denies Cocaine Dealing

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:01:23 +0000

A Newark man denied three felony charges of cocaine sale or delivery during arraignment in Caledonia Superior Court-Criminal Division.
Brandon Hedding, a.k.a. Brandon Robinson, 24, of Newark, was released after the court appearance.
The felony charges include two counts of selling 2.5 grams of cocaine or more and one count of selling less than 2.5 grams of cocaine. The case was investigated by Detective Jason Luneau, a member of the Morristown Police Department assigned to the Vermont Drug Task Force.
Luneau's affidavit states the investigation used a cooperating individual (CI) that is assisting the Drug Task Force "in exchange for consideration on pending criminal charges."
Luneau met with the CI on March 17 and monitored a telephone conversation between the CI and Hedding. The CI set up a purchase of one gram of cocaine. According to the affidavit, the CI met Hedding in the Price Chopper parking lot on Route 5 in St. Johnsbury March 17. The CI purchased a gram of cocaine for $80 and gave Hedding an extra $25 as repayment of money the CI owed him.
The second drug transaction also took place in the Price Chopper parking lot at 4:57 p.m. April 11, when the CI paid $235 for one eighth of an ounce of cocaine. The third cocaine sale also took place on April 11 and occurred in the White Market parking lot on Portland Street in St. Johnsbury. The sale to the CI was for $235 and also involved one eighth of an ounce of cocaine.
Hedding was arrested on Aug. 9 in Burke. According to Luneau's affidavit, Hedding admitted using suboxone and cocaine. He also admitted selling marijuana. Hedding told the officers he and three other people use of 3.5 grams of cocaine together a week.

Brighton man arrested for assault on officer

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 02:28:23 +0000

A Brighton man will face multiple charges in court today after being accused of breaking and entering and choking a Vermont State Police trooper during a violent encounter early Thursday morning.

Adam Verge, 30, was arrested for aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, disorderly conduct, burglary and unlawful mischief.

Lt. Kirk Cooper of the VSP barracks in Derby said Trooper Debra Munson pursued and ultimately subdued Verge at gunpoint following a prolonged struggle as Verge fled arrest after he allegedly broke into his ex-wife's house and began smashing things.

"He did not want to go to jail," said Cooper.

State police said the incident began at approximately 3:17 a.m. Thursday when Munson, 27, received a report of an active breaking and entering incident at a private home in Brighton. Police said Munson responded to the residence of Michelle Irwin, 28, after Irwin called the Derby state police barracks to report that her "ex-husband," Verge, was trying to force his way into her home and was breaking things.

Police said that when Munson arrived on the scene Verge had already forced his way into Irwin's residence by kicking in a door and that he had caused damage to Irwin's property inside the residence. Police said Munson was talking with Verge who was outside Irwin's home but then the situation escalated after Munson informed Verge that he was under arrest for burglary and unlawful mischief.

State police said Munson was attempting to place handcuffs on Verge when he resisted, pushed Munson away and fled the scene on foot with Munson in hot pursuit. Munson kept chasing Verge and tried several times to subdue him, police reported, but Verge kept escaping and continuing to resist and fight with Munson. According to police, Verge briefly got the upper hand during the battle when he put Munson in a head-lock and choked her.

Police said Verge choked Munson so hard she could not breathe. But Munson was able to break Verge's hold and the pursuit continued until Munson was able catch up to Verge and take him into custody, this time drawing her service weapon and ordering him to the ground.
"She ended up having to draw down on him," said Cooper.
Police said Munson sustained minor injuries in the pursuit, but did not require medical attention.
Verge is scheduled to be arraigned today at 1 p.m. in Orleans Superior Court in Newport. Verge was lodged at the Northern State Correctional Facility in Newport, with bail set at $5,000.

Lucky lottery ticket sold in Norton

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:50:34 +0000

NORTON, Vt. -
A Vermont store sold a Mega Millions ticket worth a quarter million dollars. But the winner is still a mystery.
The Norton Country store in Norton sold a ticket for Tuesday night's drawing that matched five numbers, but not the mega ball.
The winning numbers were 01-04-06-11-14 and the Mega Ball was 30.
And because no one matched all of the numbers, Friday's jackpot is now up to $290 million.

Mike Worth receives Ethan Allen award

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:17:33 +0000

Mike Worth of Island Pond is a recipient of Ethan Allen’s highest recognition, the Golden Kite Award. Established in 1997 and presented annually, the Golden Kite Award program recognizes those who embody the highest standards of excellence from Ethan Allen’s network of more than 7,000 associates.

Mr. Worth, who is currently the regional operations manager in northeast Vermont, started with Ethan Allen in 1991 and was recognized for his continued commitment to Ethan Allen’s successful manufacturing. He was joined, via video, by his wife, daughter, and son in receiving his award last month.

Historically, the Golden Kite has been awarded to one individual per year, but this year the award was given to three outstanding individuals as well as a family who have been Ethan Allen retailers for more than 40 years.

The recipients were surprised with the awards during the company’s international conference in Danbury, Connecticut, on October 19. — from
Ethan Allen.

NEWARK — A tower to measure wind speeds

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:14:55 +0000

NEWARK — A tower to measure wind speeds is coming to Hawk Rock — a landmark feature here on Packer Mountain.

If, that is, plans proceed as scheduled by a joint wind project between a New Hampshire wind developing company known as Eolian Renewable Energy and a turbine manufacturer, Nordic USA, whose headquarters are in Kansas City, Missouri.

Calling its project Seneca Mountain Wind, the developers plan to erect four test towers, roughly 190 feet high, to measure wind conditions in three Northeast Kingdom towns: Brighton, Newark
and the Unified Towns and Gores (UTGs).

According to Kim Fried, chairman of Newark’s planning commission, two towers are planned for Brighton and one each for the UTGs and Newark.

No application has been made yet to the Public Service Board (PSB), the regulatory agency that must approve any new electrical generating project.

But in a document that developers are calling their 30-day pre-application notice, the towns have been put on notice of a commercial wind project that developers say on their website could
be “capable of producing 100 MW of power” — which is more than twice the 40 megawatts of power the 16 turbines at Sheffield are said to be capable of producing.

According to the Seneca Mountain Wind’s website, the project expects to use 2.5 MW turbines, or the same size turbines employed at Sheffield.

Notice of the project is “a little overwhelming” for a small town like Newark, said Mr. Fried Tuesday, speaking over the telephone. “It’s a very compressed time frame,” he said in light of the 30 days the town has to react to the planned filing by developers to erect the four towers.

The measuring (MET) towers have to be approved by the Public Service Board, but approval has been pretty much a formality for other commercial wind projects in the state.

Mr. Fried said the Newark Planning Commission is going to respond with a letter to developers, expressing concern about the impact the project will have, and perhaps expressing dismay that a tower might be placed on Hawk Rock.

“It’s a sobering experience,” he said, recalling his reaction to the news that big wind may be coming to Newark.

But he vowed the town would be a participant in the pending proceedings.

“We’re going to be involved as a planning commission,” he said.

Alert - Alert - Alert - ALL BRIGHTON TRAILS ARE OFFICIALLY CLOSED AND GATED FOR THE SEASON.

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 02:38:56 +0000

ALL TRAILS ARE OFFICIALLY CLOSED AND GATED FOR THE SEASON.

With that being said, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all the landowners for allowing us the PRIVLEDGE of using their property. Without them, there would be no trail system. In addition to that, a special thank you to all of our volunteers and club officers for the countless hours that they have given to the club to make it what it is today, as well as the groomer operators that are known for giving you the best riding the Northeast has to offer.

For those of you that only know us for the snowmobiling, our town is also very vibrant in the summer as well. We are located directly on a beautiful lake and the town has many activities going on throughout the summer such as our "Friday Night Live" band concerts that start in June and end on Labor Day. So, come up and enjoy what we have to offer then as well. We can assure you that you will have a great time.

Truck falls through Ice on Lake Island Pond

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:17:54 +0000

An F-150 truck breaks through the ice at Island Pond on Saturday morning shortly after leaving the shoreline and starting onto the lake. Inside the vehicle were two adults and two children. No injuries were reported

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Five snowmobilers involved in separate NH crashes, two hurt

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 11:27:21 +0000

BARTLETT — Two people were flown to hospitals in Maine after their rented snowmobile veered off a trail and crashed into a tree Saturday, New Hampshire Fish and Game officials said.

Charles Robillard, Jr., 40, of North Attleboro, Mass., was driving with passenger Susan Rouvelas on back when he failed to negotiate a turn on the Upper Haystack Trail and the snowmobile went down a 20-foot embankment around 11 a.m., stopping when it hit a tree, Fish and Game Sgt. Brian Abrams said.

Abrams and another Fish and Game officer were patrolling nearby and called for helicopters after they arrived and saw the injuries. Both were wearing helmets, which were still strapped on after the crash, Abrams said.

“The helmets made a huge difference,” Abrams said.

Rouvelas had an orbital fracture around her left eye and a broken left arm, and Robillard broke some ribs, Abrams said.

PITTSBURG — Three Manchester residents were involved in a three-snowmobile crash in Pittsburg Saturday afternoon, according to a New Hampshire Fish and Game officer who said no one was injured.

Rick Lovern, 46, lost control of his snowmobile while driving south into a corner on Corridor 143 at about 1:45 p.m., according to officer Adam Cheney, who said Lovern collided with a machine driven north by Denise Lawrence, 46, causing minor damage to her machine.

Lovern's sled then hit one being driven by Lawrence's son, Camden Lawrence, 16, heavily damaging Lovern's and Camden Lawrence's snowmobile. Cheney said Lovern was issued a summons for driving at unreasonable speed.

Mass. woman seriously injured in Maine snowmobile accident

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 20:37:15 +0000

JACKMAN, Maine — A Massachusetts woman suffered serious injuries Thursday when her snowmobile left a trail and crashed into the woods, according to the Maine Warden Service.
Bonnie Sancomb, 46, of Hopkinton, Mass., was among a group of six snowmobilers heading east from Jackman on Route 66 when she failed to negotiate a right-hand turn just after 10 a.m., according to warden service spokesman John MacDonald.
“Members of her party did not see her go off the trail and continued on,” MacDonald said. “They soon stopped after realizing she was missing from the group.”
The group located her about a half-hour later.
“The snowmobile had landed on top of Sancomb and it was also on its side with the studded snowmobile track continuing to spin while on top of her,” MacDonald said. “This caused serious injuries to her torso. Luckily there was cellphone reception in the area and their 911 call was received at 10:35 a.m.”
Jackman fire, rescue and ambulance, LifeFlight and the Maine Warden Service responded to the scene, MacDonald said. A LifeFlight helicopter transported Sancomb to Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor.

Alice Gillis

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:32:52 +0000

Alice Gillis, 83, of Island Pond died on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, in Newport, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Alice Ruth Carr at the home of George and Clara (Langmaid) Carr on July 23, 1928, in Newark. She was the fourth and last remaining of eight children.
She married Archie Joseph Gillis on February 2, 1952.
She was a loving mother of six children.
Mrs. Gillis enjoyed reading, knitting, quilting and spending time traveling to various parts of the country visiting family with Mr. Gillis. She also traveled to many exciting places with her friends from the Sunrise Manor. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Community Circle and volunteered for various organizations over the years. She enjoyed working at and retired from the senior meals site in Island Pond. She was adored by all who knew her and will be greatly missed.
She is survived by three sons: David Gillis and his wife, Linda, of Yuma, Arizona, Brian Gillis of Island Pond, and Steve Gillis and his wife, Laura, of Sterling, Arkansas; by two daughters: Betty
Biggs of Barre, and Donna Chesney and her husband, Roger, of Island Pond; by 14 grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Archie Gillis, and their son, Scott Allen Gillis; by four brothers: Alton, Earl, Merton and Robert Carr; and by three sisters: Thelma Cutting, Florence Meyette and Elaine Carr.
Funeral services were held on March 5, in Island Pond. Burial to be announced.
Donations may be made in her name to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Division Inc., 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495. Online condolences may be sent to the family through the
funeral home website at www.curtis-britch-converserushford.com.

VAST announces new Executive Director and Trails Administrator

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 20:09:18 +0000

Berlin VT – The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) is pleased to announce Alexis Nelson has accepted the position of Executive Director. The VAST Board of Directors voted to offer her the position at their monthly Board meeting February 27th. Alexis joined VAST in 2001 as the Trails Administrator of the Statewide Snowmobile Trail Program where she has successfully managed and assisted the 130+ VAST Clubs in maintaining the extensive network of snowmobile trails throughout Vermont. Matt Tetreault has been named the new Trails Administrator. Matt joined VAST in 2002 as the Trails Assistant and has been an integral part of the Trails Program with his GPS trail mapping, trail signing and construction expertise.
The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers is a 501 © (3) not-for-profit corporation and is charged with the development, maintenance and management of the 6,000+-mile Vermont Statewide Snowmobile Trail System. This is accomplished through a cooperative agreement between VAST and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Vermont’s 130 VAST affiliated snowmobile clubs facilitate snowmobile trail development and maintenance, more than 80% of all snowmobile trails are located on private land. Without the cooperation of Vermont’s private landowners there would be no SSTS. Vermont snowmobilers contribute more than $350 million to Vermont’s economy during the average snowmobile season.

Brighton Home Destroyed by Fire

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 19:35:25 +0000

Fire destroyed a home at 540 Lake Shore Drive in Brighton yesterday.
Firefighters were called to the home around 9:15 a.m. Upon arrival, the structure was fully engulfed and the garage had collapsed, said Fire Chief Rick Hannux. He said several witnesses said they heard explosions, which were believed to be the cause, possibly gas tanks inside the garage.
The blaze is believed to have started in the attached garage and spread to the house. Hannux said the home is a total loss. The cause is unknown, but is not considered suspicious. State fire investigators also responded to the scene.
Later in the evening, around 6 p.m., the fire department was called out again after a report of "flare ups" at the structure.
The structure had cathedral ceilings and pinewood interior, which made the blaze difficult to fight. Hannux said fire got between the roof and the insulation.
David Burns, the home owner, is staying with friends. There were no injuries and the home did have insurance.
The Charleston Fire Department provided mutual-aid.

Cahill McNamara

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:20:41 +0000

Harold James Cahill passed away last year. According to his obit he traveled to Ireland for genealogy research. I am looking for living any relatives.

Dan @ dmcnamara . net

Gary Alexander Hand

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 23:24:37 +0000

Gary Alexander Hand, 61, of West Charleston passed away suddenly on Feb. 25, 2012 in Newport, Vt. He was born Oct. 21, 1950 in Norwich, Conn., a son of Arnold and Esther (Hemel) Beaudoin. On Nov. 15, 1984 he married Shirley Baker who survives him. He enlisted in the U. S. Army and was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. While in Korea he was a personal driver for the Post Commander. He also was in the color guard and was a pallbearer for President Lyndon B. Johnson's funeral service.

Mr. Hand was a maintenance man for Ethan Allen MFG in Orleans, Vt., and by Pine Knoll Nursing Home in Lyndonville, Vt. He was also a mechanic for small engine repairs. His hobbies included camping, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. He loved his Kubota Tractor and working on small engines.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Hand of West Charleston, by his children: Tammy Hand and Arnold Hand both of Montreal, Quebec, by his step children: Allen Marsh and his companion Hope of Island Pond, Vt., Mark Marsh Sr. and his wife Linda of West Charleston, Vt., Todd Marsh and his companion Patty Sargent of North Troy, Vt., Christopher Marsh and his wife Ashley of Island Pond, Vt., and by his daughter-in-laws Sherry Marsh of Newport, Vt. and Kristi Powers of Orleans, Vt. He is survived by 19 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He had a special nickname for all his grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Cynthia Ashcroft and her husband Ralph of Johnstown, N.Y., Leroy Hand of Cincinnati, Ohio, Claire Hand of Columbia, CT, Nancy Paradis of Willimantic, CT, Paula McMannus and her husband Tom of Columbia, Conn., and Kevin Hand of Lebanon, Conn. and by several nieces and nephews and special friends Denis and Cathy LaCourse of Wheelock, Vt., Tammy and Jim Wilkins and family of Waterford, Vt., David, Jr, and Rebecca Massey and family of Brandford, Conn., Bob and Sheryl Devaney of West Charleston, Vt., Raymond and Connie Lindall of Westmore, Vt. and other friends too numerous to mention.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012 at St. James Catholic Church in Island Pond, Vt. Friends may call on Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 1199 Railroad St., Island Pond. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Heart Association, Vermont Affiliate, Inc, 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT 05495. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch-converse-rushford.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, locally family owned and operated.

Lost 2 Up seat

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 13:11:58 +0000

Hello,

If anyone finds a two up seat along the trails 58, 114S, 51 or 122, please contact David Aho (information below). This would be a loop going through Brownington, Charleston, Burke, Sutton, Sheffield, and Glover.

Irene

Irene Farrar

Membership Chair

North Country Mountaineers

Orleans County

www.northcountrymountaineers.com

802-754-2370

northcountrymountaineers@gmail.com

Snowmobile goes through ice on Lake Champlain

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 22:46:31 +0000

ST. ALBANS TOWN, Vt. -
There was an ice rescue on Lake Champlain Tuesday.
A snowmobiler was riding about 700 feet off Sampson Point in St. Albans Town when his machine fell through the ice.
"The gentleman who fell through the ice was able to call 911 through his cellphone. They were in contact with him the whole time he was three-quarters submerged in the water," said Randy Swann, the assistant fire chief in St. Albans Town.
The St. Albans Town water rescue squad was able to pull Gary Girard, 53, from the water. He was transported to the hospital in St. Albans for treatment of hypothermia. His snowmobile is still in the water.

Woman Injured In Pittsburg NH Snowmobile Accident

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:09:16 +0000

PITTSBURG, N.H. -- Fish and Game officials said a woman was flown to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center after crashing her snowmobile in Pittsburg.
The accident happened Sunday afternoon. Officials said Jennifer Chaisson, 51, of Hudson, Mass., was riding a snowmobile on Hall Stream Trail when she failed to negotiate a corner at the end of a downhill stretch of the trail and crashed her sled into some trees.
Authorities said it appeared that Chaisson broke her right leg in the crash. She was taken by helicopter to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. There is no word on her condition.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, but officials said alcohol was not factor.

Read more: http://www.wmur.com/news/30498031/detail.html#ixzz1mxjkXUxQ

1 Killed In Snowmobile NH Crash

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:06:46 +0000

STEWARTSTOWN, N.H. -- A man was killed in a snowmobile crash in the Piper Hill area of Stewartstown on Saturday morning.
Jason Montambeault, 36, of Sunapee,NH. was last seen at about 1:30 a.m. crossing a field on a snowmobile, friends told police.
Montambeault's cousin found Montambeault's body and his snowmobile off of Trail 21A, about two miles from his camp, at about 9 a.m. Saturday.
The crash was still under investigation. Speed and alcohol both appeared to be contributing factors in the crash, according to a police news release.

Read more: http://www.wmur.com/...l#ixzz1mxj6E45s

Call to Action

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:50:31 +0000

Local and Regional Chambers of Commerce:

Please forward this email along to your members and to your boards!
**
We Need Your Support! On Wednesday, February 22 at 9 am, the House Commerce Committee is holding a public hearing at the State House in Room 11 on H. 640.
This bill would create a permanent funding for the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM), directing additional funds to the promotional budget of VDTM and delivering more marketing dollars to Vermont when the rooms and meals tax revenues increase year over year.

We need you to come to the public hearing on Wednesday to show your support! If you would like to testify, please contact Vicky Tebbetts (vtebbetts@vtchamber.com, 229-2259). We have scheduled a webinar to review H. 640 on Tuesday, February 21 from 11 am – Noon. To register for the webinar, please click here:.
If you are not able to make the hearing, we’d still like to hear from you. We’ve set up a simple online form where you can register your support.

The formula includes a ceiling and a floor, and would not tap into state revenue for additional funds in years where the rooms and meals tax did not increase year over year. Representative Ann Manwaring from Wilmington is the lead sponsor of the bill, and more than 20 legislators have signed on to evidence their support. The goal of the bill is to further enhance Vermont’s position as a visitor destination, and increase traffic in our tourism businesses.
We will present your name to legislators at the hearing on Wednesday.

Thank you for your support!
~J

Jessica Gingras

Legislative Assistant

Vermont Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 37

Montpelier, VT 05601-0037

Office: 802-223-3443

Direct: 802-262-2130

Cell: 802-343-3164

Click here to JOIN OUR ACTION NETWORK TODAY!

UPCOMING EVENTS

(Click event name to register)

Taste of Vermont Legislative Reception

March 13, 2012 – 5:00 to 7:00pm

Capitol Plaza, Montpelier VT

Become a Vermont Chamber Member!

What's Wrong in this Picture?

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:10:19 +0000

What's wrong in this picture

I.P. Man Convicted Of Fatal DUI To Serve 30 Days For Drinking At Bar

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:54:18 +0000

I.P. Man Convicted Of Fatal DUI To Serve 30 Days For Drinking At Bar

NEWPORT CITY -- An Island Pond man, convicted of causing the death of his friend in a drunken driving crash more than 10 years ago, was back in court after getting nabbed drinking at a bar.
This is the first alcohol-related probation violation for Robert Allen, 59, formerly of Brownington, according to probation officer Lisa Levesque.
In Orleans Superior Court-Criminal Division Tuesday, Allen was sentenced to serve an additional 30 days of his original sentence, four to 15 years with all but 36 months suspended.
Tammy Jewett, daughter of Allen's victim, Charles Bapp Sr., said at the close of the hearing, "I just hope he learns his lesson."
On June 24, 2001, trooper Lori Lumbra responded to a report of a truck that had crashed into a tree on Route 16 in Barton. There she found Allen unconscious and Bapp dead in the truck, which held more than 20 empty beer cans.
In October 2011, Orleans County Sheriff's deputy Tom Hanlon learned that Allen had been seen drinking at Island Pond bars.
Probation officer Andre Laliberte found Allen at the Pond's Edge Pub with a beer and an empty shot glass in front of him. Allen's blood alcohol level was .189 percent, and Laliberte arrested him.

In court Feb. 7, Orleans County State's Attorney Alan Franklin asked Judge Robert Bent to revoke Allen's probation and reimpose the original sentence.

"This is a serious matter. This is a case in which a man died," Franklin said.

Public defender Jill Jourdan wrote in her sentencing memorandum that there was no evidence Allen drove to the establishment, which she described as a restaurant, not a bar.

She called Marvin Menzel, who has spent seven years driving Allen wherever he needs to go, despite his wife's displeasure with the arrangement. Menzel said he's never seen Allen driving and sees him walking quite often.

Franklin described Allen's behavior as a "flagrant flouting of the rules."

Bent asked if the state would be seeking the same penalty if Allen had merely been drinking at home.

The probation condition prohibiting Allen from drinking at bars was put in place for a reason, Franklin said. Court documents state that Allen and Bapp were returning from the Crystal Saloon when the crash occurred.

Plus, Franklin said, the blood alcohol level was very high.

Allen said he'd been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings twice a week and has completed about 700 hours of his court-ordered 1,000 hours of community service.

He said he works six days at week at a logging operation, a job he'd likely lose if he had to go to jail.

"Were you slipping?" Bent asked.

Allen said he was. It was a very bad time in his life when he was without a sponsor.

"What set this off?" Bent asked.

Allen said he was having "problems with a lady friend" at the time.

Bent said if the original offense had not involved the loss of a man's life, he would have considered just continuing probation, but in light of the fatality, more jail time was warranted.

The community is aware of what Allen did, and to see him out at a bar drinking creates a bad community concept, Bent said.

"I'm fully cognizant that slippage happens," he said, but in light of the fatality, a penalty had to be imposed.

Allen will report to jail 5 p.m. Feb. 27.

Rescuers Save Snowmobilers Who Fell Through Ice

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 15:17:04 +0000

Rescuers Save Snowmobilers Who Fell Through Ice

ALTON, N.H. -- Authorities rescued two snowmobilers on Lake Winnipesaukee in the area of the Broads on Saturday.

Gilford firefighters said they received a call from one of the two snowmobilers who said that he was riding with a friend, but when he turned to look back, he could no longer see him. Firefighters said the snowmobiler told them that when he turned around to look for his friend, he went through the ice himself. He was able to get himself out and call for help.

GPS coordinates from his phone indicated he was in an area approximately 1 mile east of Welch Island and 1 mile south of Sandy Island, rescuers said. An initial staging area was established at Ames Farm Inn and then moved to Lakeshore Park.

Rescuers said a DHART helicopter was able to locate one snowmobiler in the area identified on the initial call, and a Tuftonboro’s air boat was sent to the scene.

Crews were able to rescue a man and transported him to Lakeshore Park in Gilford. He was then transported to Lakes Region General Hospital by ambulance for evaluation for hypothermia.

Rescuers said the second victim had made his way to shore in Tuftonboro and was transported to Huggins Hospital by ambulance. The second man was transferred to Gilford's ambulance at Lakeshore Park.

"We have been hearing that ice conditions are very poor and this drives that point home. There are numerous ice ridges that have created open water -- even in the middle of the lake. These guys were extremely lucky that they weren’t more seriously injured, and that they had a phone that they could use and that could help them be located," said Gilford Fire Chief Stephen Carrier.

Alton Fire Department, Tuftonboro Fire Department, DHART, Gilford Fire-Rescue, Gilford Police Department, and NH Fish & Game assisted at the scene.

Read more: http://www.wmur.com/news/30437829/detail.html#ixzz1mBHRdKT9

Three NY Men Injured In NY Snowmobile Crash

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:59:25 +0000

Three NY Men Injured In NY Snowmobile Crash
Police Suspect Alohocol Was A Factor

Police in Chazy, NY. suspect alcohol as a factor in an early morning snowmobile crash on Friday that left three men injured.

Douglas M. Tetreault, 22, was operating a 2004 Polaris along the bank of the Great Chazy River on Rapids Road in Champlain, NY. said police. Robert Worrell, 20, of Plattsburgh, NY, and Johnny Vega Jr., 26, were riding as passengers.

Around 1:30 a.m. police received a 911 call advising of the accident in which the snowmobile had struck a pile of brush ejecting all three riders. One man was able to walk to get help, said police.

All three men were taken to CVPH Medical Center. Tetreault and Vega Jr. were later transferred to Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington, VT.

Charges are pending as the investigation continues, said police.

Both, Tetreault and Vega Jr. live on Rapids Road in Champlain, NY.

Read more: http://www.wptz.com/news/30430092/detail.html#ixzz1m6KSJHAM

VT. Warden Runs Snow Machine Into Unsuspecting Derby Woman

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:20:15 +0000

February 6, 2012

ByLaura Carpenter - The Newport Daily Express

SEYMOUR LAKE - A game warden drove his snowmobile into a woman on her sled because he thought she was trying to get away from him.
Game Warden Jason Dukette was patrolling Seymour Lake Sunday afternoon when he saw Marsha Archer, of Derby, on her way out to an ice fishing shack. According to Albert Stringer, an investigating Auxiliary Trooper for the State Police, Dukette said he thought Archer was trying to avoid him so he headed her way quickly. He did not turn his lights on, Acher said. Stringer confirmed that no lights were turned on.
Stringer said Dukette was headed right for Archer and turned his sled as he approached her snowmobile, but his machine ended up sliding into hers with both sleds ending up side by side.
Archer said she was not trying to avoid the game warden; in fact, she had not seen him until he was about to plow into her.
Archer was thrown from her sled, as was Dukette.
Dukette reportedly is not injured but Archer is. She went to the hospital and is now in a sling, bruised, and unable to work, she said Monday morning.
Neither Dukette nor his supervisor could be reached Monday as both were away at training for the day, according to the state police dispatcher in Derby.
Stringer is working on the investigation but said he did not intend to issue a press release on the accident.
Among their other duties, game wardens are charged with patrolling the lakes and monitoring ice fishing. The warden can check to make sure snowmobilers and any vehicles on the lake are registered, Stringer explained. Police can stop snowmobilers and check registration at any time.
Archer's snowmobile is registered and she was not cited for any reason.
Stringer is a retired Vermont State Police Trooper and serves as an auxiliary trooper on the weekends.

NH SNOWMOBILE ACCIDENT

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:26:01 +0000

NH SNOWMOBILE ACCIDENT

At approximately 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 5, a snow machine accident occurred on corridor five in Pittsburg, just north of Lake Francis. N.H. Fish and Game Conservations Officers, Pittsburg Fire and Rescue, Pittsburg Police Dept., and 45th Parallel EMS responded to the accident.
Jean Misulia, 76, of Old Bethpage, N.Y., lost control of her 2006 Arctic Cat and was launched off of it, landing in a stream. Jean’s son, Gary, was able to get her out of the water and transported her on his snow machine approximately seven miles out to where the ambulance was waiting.
Misulia had a possible right wrist fracture and was in the beginning stages of hypothermia. She was transported by 45th Parallel EMS ambulance to the Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital in Colebrook for treatment.

Attached Thumbnails

Mass. man killed in northern NH snowmobile mishap

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:21:40 +0000

MILAN, N.H.—A Massachusetts man is dead after a snowmobile accident at the northern fringe of the White Mountain National Forest.

February 9, 2012

Fifty-one-year-old Kenneth Smiley of North Billerica, Mass. was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident on trail number 109 in Milan.

The accident occurred at 10 p.m. Wednesday, when Smiley lost control on a turn and hit several trees. He was the last rider in a group of four sleds and the third rider noticed Smiley's headlights going at odd angles in his rear-view mirror.

New Hampshire Fish and Game officials say his friends tried to resuscitate Smiley but his injuries were too severe and he died at the scene.

The accident is still under investigation but Fish and Game officials say they see no obvious contributing factors.

Island Pond Winter Carnival 2012 Feb 11, 17th, 18th, 19th

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:12:09 +0000

Island Pond Winter Carnival 2012 Feb 11, 17th, 18th, 19th

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:11:04 +0000

Book signing - S.P.I.R.T. Feb 18th 11 AM to 2 PM (Island Pond, Winter Carnival)

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:38:54 +0000

Book Signing by Dawn Gray, Island Pond Native - S.P.I.R.I.T:Firestorm
Saturday February 18th from 11-2 at the Island Pond Public Library.

Book Description:
Samantha and Zander never expected to find each other in the strange little town as fire tore through a church, but the more they were together, the more they found a common link in their past.Ghostly noises have always followed Sam, even in her small Vermont home town. When she wakes up to find that she is standing in an alternate reality, and a familiar soul shares her unique abilities, things become even more paranormal. Can Zander and his special team save Sam before it's too late, or with this alternate reality become her only reality.

About the Author:
Dawn Gray (Myers) grew up in Island Pond listening to ghost tales from friends and family. These tales have stuck, and the places they are associated with will always be in her mind. The Dale House is the haunted backdrop for this interesting haunted tale.

6-year-old girl hurt in Orono Maine snowmobile crash

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:16:47 +0000

ORONO, Maine — Authorities say a 6-year-old girl lost consciousness and required hospitalization after crashing a snowmobile.
Game wardens say the girl was a passenger on a snowmobile being driven by her 16-year-old cousin in Orono on Sunday when the vehicle hit a snowbank and threw the older youth off.
The young girl was left on the machine alone with her hand on the throttle. The snowmobile traveled about 70 yards before hitting a snowbank and a tree, throwing her to the ground.
Wardens told the Kennebec Journal that both youths were wearing helmets.
The girl’s injuries are not considered life threatening.
No laws were broken.

Tri-State (VT, NH, ME) Snowmobile Riding This Weekend

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:29:01 +0000

Tri-State Riding This Weekend

Snowmobilers from New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine will have a chance to ride on each other's trails during a Tri-State Reciprocal Snowmobile Weekend, January 27-29.

This is an expanded version of last year's inaugural New Hampshire--Vermont reciprocal weekend, which promoted riding and commerce between the two states. A new law passed in 2010 created the reciprocal weekend, which will take place annually on the fourth weekend in January from Friday through Sunday.

The following are the ground rules for the weekend:

" All snowmobiles legally registered in Maine and Vermont may operate on New Hampshire trails during the three-day open weekend. All other New Hampshire laws and rules regarding the operation of snowmobiles must be followed, such as speed limits and youth operation standards.

" All snowmobiles legally registered in New Hampshire may operate in Maine and Vermont during the reciprocal weekend.

All other Maine and Vermont snowmobile laws and rules must be complied with, including Vermont's mandatory liability insurance and youth requirements.

Information on snowmobiling rules in Vermont can be found at www.vtvast.org . New Hampshire's riding laws are on the Fish & Game Department's Web site, www.ride.nh.gov ; information is also available from the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association (www.nhsa.com ) and the N.H. Bureau of Trails ( www.nhstateparks.org ). Maine s snowmobiling rules are on-line at www.mesnow.com .

Man, 82, killed in snowmobile crash in Weathersfield VT.

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:25:21 +0000

WEATHERSFIELD VT. — An 82-year-old man has died in a snowmobiling crash in Weathersfield, the Vermont State Police said Monday afternoon.
Richard Jarvis of Weathersfield was killed when his mid-1980s model Yamaha Excel III crashed into a tree Sunday, police said. It appeared Jarvis lost control of the snow machine, the authorities said.

“It is possible that a mechanical failure may have caused the crash,” police said in a statement.

Authorities first were called to at about 6:30 p.m. Sunday to private property near Vermont 131 and the Thrasher Road intersection following reports of an overdue snowmobilier. Troopers helped the Ascutney Fire Department in the search, and emergency responders found Jarvis dead at the scene.

In the statement, police noted that January is snowmobile safety awareness month and provided a list of tips for safe riding:

• Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during snowmobiling.

• Become familiar with the snowmobile you ride.

• Operate at safe and reasonable speeds.

• Stay on trails and areas where snowmobiling is permitted.

• Avoid travel on unfamiliar frozen bodies of water.

• Using extra caution at night.

• Keep your snowmobile properly maintained.

• Become familiar with the terrain you will travel on.

• Listen to the weather forecast before you leave.

• Always wear a helmet and proper clothing.

• Never ride alone, and let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.

• Carry emergency supplies, and learn survival skills

Laconia NH. man dies in Belmont NH. snowmobile crash

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:57:14 +0000

CONCORD, N.H. -- A 25-year-old Laconia man, Robert Horn, died when his snowmobile crashed in Belmont around 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 22, 2012. Horn had been riding the snow machine at a friend's house, testing it out after making some repairs, when he suddenly angled across a field and a road and crashed into some trees. Witnesses said it looked to them like the machine's throttle may have become stuck. Horn was not wearing a helmet and appeared to have been killed instantly.

Horn's friends called 911 for emergency assistance. Belmont Fire and Police personnel responded, along with New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers Ronald Arsenault and Brad Morse.

The incident remains under investigation by the N.H. Fish and Game Department. Officials will be inspecting the snowmobile to determine if mechanical problems caused the crash.

"We are saddened by this tragic loss of a young life," said Arsenault. He stressed the importance of wearing proper safety gear, including helmets, when riding snowmobiles.

No further information is available at this time.

3 snowmobilers killed, 4 injured since Friday in Maine

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:49:49 +0000

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 06:30:19 +0000

Body recovered in search for missing Hancock County Maine snowmobiler

By Tom Walsh, BDN Staff
Posted Jan. 21, 2012, at 4:05 p.m.

WALTHAM, Maine — The search for a missing snowmobiler that began Friday afternoon ended Saturday afternoon when Maine Warden Service divers discovered the body of Matthew Divello, 49, of Mariaville Maine, in icy waters off the shoreline of Eagle Island in Hancock County’s Graham Lake.
Divello was reported overdue late Friday afternoon by his wife, who notified the Mariaville Maine Volunteer Fire Department. She said her husband was driving a black 2003 Arctic Cat snowmobile and was last seen wearing a black helmet, a black winter jacket and black snowmobile pants.
The search that involved about 50 people began about 5 p.m. on Friday and ended mid-afternoon on Saturday, when Divello’s body was brought to shore at a staging area in Waltham, Maine within the Oxbow Point Subdivision on Peaceful Point Road.
Four Maine Warden Patrol divers were ferried by two airboats to Eagle Island after a low-level air search of the shallow reservoir on Saturday morning came across an area of broken ice.
Icy winds and light snow hampered the search, with blowing snow filling any tracks that Divello’s snowmobile may have created. Wardens and volunteers searched near snowmobile access points to the lake but were being cautious Friday night about going onto the lake itself.
Maine Warden Service Sgt. Ralph Hosford said Friday evening that man-made Graham Lake is not considered a prime lake for sowmobiling due to brook and stream influences and surface snags. The search that resumed Saturday morning involved two airboats, a hovercraft and snowmobiles.
Maine Warden Service Lt. Kevin Adams said Divello’s body was recovered in a matter of minutes from where it was found submerged in 10 feet of water. The snowmobile remains at the bottom of Graham Lake, its location marked with a buoy for later recovery, Adams said.
Adams said he notified Divello’s spouse of the discovery. The couple has four children.
The spot where Divello’s snowmobile went through the ice is approximately three miles from his Mariaville home. Eagle Island is approximately five miles north of the Union River dam that creates the shallow reservoir used to power the downstream Union River hydroelectric dam in Ellsworth,Maine.

Therese M. Cote

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:10:11 +0000

THERESE M. COTE
ISLAND POND, Vt.— Therese M. Cote, 84, of Island Pond, Vt., and formerly of Norton and Canaan, passed away suddenly on Tuesday morning, Jan. 17, 2012, at her home in Island Pond.
She was born on Dec. 8, 1927, in Stanhope, Què., a daughter to the late Narcisse and Claire (Savard) Gosselin.
Therese grew up and was educated in Stanhope, and moved to Norton, Vt., when she married Leo Gagnon.They raised their family in Norton until Leo’s death in 1977, after which she moved to Canaan. For many years, Therese worked for the Norton Country Store. Her interest and passion
was always in helping senior citizens, and she was involved with the Senior Meals program in Canaan, Norton and later in Island Pond. Her work with seniors was recognized by Vermont’s governor in 2009 when she received the “Northeast Kingdom Senior of the Year Award” for her many years of service to the elderly.
Therese was always on the go. In her younger days, she enjoyed snowmobiling, and she always loved to travel. She was a member of the American Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary. She also loved to spend time with her all the grandchildren who she adored and who will all miss her dearly.
She is survived by two sons, Bernard Gagnon and wife Micheline of Canaan, Vt., Donald Gagnon and wife Ginette of Canaan; her daughter, Bernadette
Beloin and husband Regis of Derby Line, Vt.; a stepdaughter, Jean Frizzell; eight grandchildren, Brian Gagnon, Luke Gagnon and wife Heather,
Steve Gagnon, Jules and Jerry Beloin, Martin and Jesse Gagnon, and Sarah Guevara and husband Juan; four greatgrandchildren, Callie, Ryan, Noah, and Halley; her stepgrandchildren, Sharon Vaughn Nute, Scott and Chris Vaughn; as well as many nieces and nephews. Therese is preceded
in death by her first husband, Leo Gagnon in 1977; her second husband, Arthur Cote in 2007; five brothers, Jules, Marcel, Roland, Benoit and Camille Gosselin; two sisters, Yvonne Lamoureaux and Lucienne Brousseau; and a grandson, Jules Beloin.
Memorial calling hours will be on Friday, Jan. 27, 2012, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Jenkins and Newman Funeral Home in Colebrook. A memorial
Mass will be held on Saturday, Jan. 28, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of St. James’ Catholic Church in Island Pond, Vt.An interment service will be held at St. Matthew’s Cemetery in the spring in Stanhope, Què.
Expressions of sympathy in her memory may be made to the Orleans-Essex VNA and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, VT 05855. Condolences may be offered to the family online by going to www.jenkinsnewman.com.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Jenkins and Newman Funeral Home, Colebrook. NH.

Webinars and OHV Recreation Management Courses Offered in New Year

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:22:00 +0000

Webinars and OHV Recreation Management Courses Offered in New Year
__________________________________________________________

Course 4 in the OHV Recreation Management Course at Marshall University Offered
The last course in Marshall Universities OHV Recreation Management Program series is being offered during the spring semester, which begins next week on January 9, 2012. This is the first time the course is being offered. The permission for the course was granted this morning by the college Dean. In order to run, at least 3 students must register for the course.
For information regarding this course, contact Theresa Litteral the instructor at: tlitteral@njrati.org
For information regarding the program and how to register for the course, see the NOHVCC website University Courses page.

Free Webinars with CEUs Starting January 10th
The NOHVCC Land Advocacy Webinars are being offered again in January and February of 2012. These courses are designed for both the OHV professional and the enthusiast. There are 4 total webinars in the series. The series is being offered twice, once during the day time hours and once in the evening hours to be able to accommodate as many people as possible.
Module 1 - Route Designation: How Did We Get Here? Helps people understand the processes for land planning. It goes on to give the basics for OHV system planning, setting the stage for the other courses.
Module 2 - Trail System Planning Part 1 begins with a look for whom the trails are designed. It then takes you deeper into the concepts that are required for quality trail systems which riders want to stay on.
Module 3 - Trail System Planning Part 2 gives additional information regarding additional planning details, plus what to do after the design is done.
Module 4 - Making It Work: Where Do We Go From Here? Gives ideas for both enthusiasts and land managers to move forward for sustainable OHV trail systems.
Continuing Education Units are awarded through the Marshall Community and Technical College for all 4 courses. To get additional information regarding the webinars or the CEU units, go to the Webinar page.
To register for the webinars online, go to the Webinar Schedule page.
There are courses this week, so don't delay; register today!

Webinars and OHV Recreation Management Courses Offered in New Year

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:20:27 +0000

Webinars and OHV Recreation Management Courses Offered in New Year
__________________________________________________________

Course 4 in the OHV Recreation Management Course at Marshall University Offered

The last course in Marshall Universities OHV Recreation Management Program series is being offered during the spring semester, which begins next week on January 9, 2012. This is the first time the course is being offered. The permission for the course was granted this morning by the college Dean. In order to run, at least 3 students must register for the course.

For information regarding this course, contact Theresa Litteral the instructor at: tlitteral@njrati.org

For information regarding the program and how to register for the course, see the NOHVCC website University Courses page.

Free Webinars with CEUs Starting January 10th

The NOHVCC Land Advocacy Webinars are being offered again in January and February of 2012. These courses are designed for both the OHV professional and the enthusiast. There are 4 total webinars in the series. The series is being offered twice, once during the day time hours and once in the evening hours to be able to accommodate as many people as possible.

Module 1 - Route Designation: How Did We Get Here? Helps people understand the processes for land planning. It goes on to give the basics for OHV system planning, setting the stage for the other courses.

Module 2 - Trail System Planning Part 1 begins with a look for whom the trails are designed. It then takes you deeper into the concepts that are required for quality trail systems which riders want to stay on.

Module 3 - Trail System Planning Part 2 gives additional information regarding additional planning details, plus what to do after the design is done.

Module 4 - Making It Work: Where Do We Go From Here? Gives ideas for both enthusiasts and land managers to move forward for sustainable OHV trail systems.

Continuing Education Units are awarded through the Marshall Community and Technical College for all 4 courses. To get additional information regarding the webinars or the CEU units, go to the Webinar page.

To register for the webinars online, go to the Webinar Schedule page.

There are courses this week, so don't delay; register today!

Webinars and OHV Recreation Management Courses Offered in New Year

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:19:17 +0000

Webinars and OHV Recreation Management Courses Offered in New Year
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Recall of 2007 PZ50, PZ50W (Phazer), PZ50FXW (Phazer FX), PZ50GTW (Phazer GT), PZ50MW (Phazer Mountain Lite), and PZ50VTW (Venture Lite)

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:57:09 +0000

Yamaha Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Risk of Injury and Death from Steering Problem

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: 2007 Model Year PZ50 Snowmobiles

Units: About 5,700

Manufacturer: Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A., of Cypress, Calif.

Hazard: Snow and ice stuck around the steering idler arm can cause a loss of steering ability, posing a risk of injury and death to drivers and passengers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves all model year 2007 PZ50 snowmobiles, including PZ50W (Phazer), PZ50FXW (Phazer FX), PZ50GTW (Phazer GT), PZ50MW (Phazer Mountain Lite), and PZ50VTW (Venture Lite) model snowmobiles.

Sold by: Yamaha dealers nationwide from June 2006 through September 2007 for between $7,000 and $8,000.

Manufactured in: Japan

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled snowmobiles and contact an authorized Yamaha snowmobile dealer in their area to schedule a free repair. Registered owners were sent direct mail notification of this recall.

Consumer Contact: For additional information and to locate a Yamaha snowmobile dealer, contact Yamaha at (800) 962-7926, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.yamaha-motor.com

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about your experience with the product on www.saferproducts.gov
CPSC is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $900 billion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

Under federal law, it is illegal to attempt to sell or resell this or any other recalled product.
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, go online to: www.saferproducts.gov, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 for the hearing impaired. Consumers can obtain this news release and product safety information at www.cpsc.gov. To join a free e-mail subscription list, please go to https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.

Recall of 2009 Model Year FX10 Snowmobiles

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:52:51 +0000

Yamaha Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Loss of Steering Control

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: 2009 Model Year FX10 Snowmobiles

Units: About 2,500

Distributor: Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A., of Cypress, Calif.

Hazard: A bolt in the right front A arm can loosen in the suspension/steering system, resulting in the sudden loss of steering control. This poses a risk of injury or death to riders.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves the 2009 FX10 snowmobiles.

Sold by: Yamaha dealers nationwide from June 2008 through January 2010 for between $10,000 and $11,000.

Manufactured in: Japan

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled snowmobiles and contact an authorized Yamaha dealer to schedule a free repair. Registered owners were sent direct mail notification of this recall.

Consumer Contact: For additional information and to locate a Yamaha snowmobile dealer, contact Yamaha at (800) 962-7926 any time or visit the firm’s Web site at www.yamaha-motor.com

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about your experience with the product on www.saferproducts.gov
CPSC is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $900 billion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

Under federal law, it is illegal to attempt to sell or resell this or any other recalled product.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, go online to: www.saferproducts.gov, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 for the hearing impaired. Consumers can obtain this news release and product safety information at www.cpsc.gov. To join a free e-mail subscription list, please go to https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.

Recall of 2012 F, XF, and M model snowmobiles

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:58:00 +0000

ARCTIC CAT RECALLS SNOWMOBILES DUE TO CRASH HAZARD

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Communications
Washington, D.C. 20207
December 15, 2011
Alert #120009

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of product : Arctic Cat Snowmobiles

Units : About 7,100

Manufacturer : Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Hazard : The headlamp fuse can fail, disorienting the operator during periods of limited visibility and posing a crash hazard.

Incidents/Injuries : Arctic Cat discovered this condition during production testing of these models. There have been no reports of headlamp failures or injuries.

Description : The recall involves the 2012 F, XF, and M model snowmobiles:

Recalled snowmobiles can be identified by the last six numerals of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the following ranges: 105092 through 112175 or 800001 through 800033. The model name is located on each side of the hood. The VIN is located on the right side tunnel. The snowmobiles come in a variety of color combinations: Black, White and Orange, Black and Orange, and Black and Green.

Sold at : Arctic Cat dealerships nationwide from May 2011 through September 2011 for approximately $10,500 to $13,000.

Manufactured in : United States

Remedy : Consumers should immediately stop using these snowmobiles and contact their local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to schedule a free repair. Arctic Cat has notified owners of these snowmobiles directly by mail.

Consumer Contact : For additional information, contact Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s website at www.arcticcat.com.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about your experience with the product on SaferProducts.gov

CPSC is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $900 billion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products—such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals-contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

Under federal law, it is illegal to attempt to sell or resell this or any other recalled product.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, go online to: SaferProducts.gov, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 for the hearing impaired. Consumers can obtain this news release and product safety information at www.cpsc.gov. To join a free e-mail subscription list, please go to www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.

Recall of 2010 Arctic Cat Z1, TZ1, F, Bearcat, M, and CF model snowmobiles

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:55:27 +0000

ARCTIC CAT RECALLS SNOWMOBILES DUE TO A LOSS OF CONTROL HAZARD

US. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, D.C. 20207

January 18, 2011

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of product : Snowmobiles

Units : About 16,500

Manufacturer : Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Hazard : The front lower suspension arm can crack during use which could lead to loss of control, posing a risk of severe injury or death.

Incidents/Injuries : Arctic Cat has received 13 reports of suspension arms cracking. No injuries or accidents have been reported.

Description : This recall involves all 2010 Arctic Cat Z1, TZ1, F, Bearcat, M, and CF model snowmobiles. All variations of color and model features of the models listed are included in this recall. The model name is indicated on the side of vehicle, in the registration materials and owner’s manual.

Sold at : Arctic Cat dealerships nationwide from June 2009 through January 2011 for between $6,800 and $15,000.

Manufactured in : United States

Remedy : Consumers should immediately stop using these snowmobiles and contact their local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to schedule a free repair. Registered owners have been directly notified about this recall by mail.

Consumer Contact : For additional information, contact Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s website at www.arcticcat.com.

CPSC is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about it by visiting https://www.cpsc.gov...n/incident.aspx

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $800 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed to a significant decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC’s hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC’s teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 or visit CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

Recall of 2010 Arctic Cat 500 Sno Pro models

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:42:55 +0000

ARCTIC CAT RECALLS SNOWMOBILES DUE TO FIRE HAZARD

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, D.C. 20207

February 23, 2010

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product : Arctic Cat Snowmobiles

Units : About 1,300

Manufacturer : Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Hazard : Fuel can leak from the fuel pump at the fuel tank mounting screws, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries : Arctic Cat has received two reports of fuel leakage at the fuel pump mounting screws. No injuries have been reported.

Description :The recall involves all Model Year 2010 Arctic Cat 500 Sno Pro models. The model name and number are displayed on the side of the seat and on the engine cowling

Sold at : Arctic Cat dealerships nationwide from October 2009 to February 2010 for between $7,800.00 and $8,200.00.

Manufactured in : United States

Remedy : Consumers should stop using these snowmobiles immediately and contact their local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to schedule a free repair. Registered owners have been directly notified about this recall by mail.

Consumer Contact : For more information, contact Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.arcticcat.com.

CPSC is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about it by visiting https://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC’s hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC’s teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 or visit CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov

Recall of 2009 Arctic Cat Z1 Turbo, Z1 Turbo Sno Pro and TZ1 Turbo model snowmobiles

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:38:51 +0000

ARCTIC CAT RECALLS SNOWMOBILES DUE TO FIRE HAZARD

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, D.C. 20207

October 26, 2009

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Arctic Cat Snowmobiles

Units: About 3,000

Manufacturer: Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Hazard: Oil can leak into the engine compartment, posing a fire hazard to consumers. In addition, the fuel tank can come into contact with the engine posing a possibility of wearing through and fuel leakage.

Incidents/Injuries: Arctic Cat has received 33 reports of oil leaks including eight vehicle fires. There have been no reports of fuel leakage from the tank wearing against the engine. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recall involves Model Year 2009 Arctic Cat Z1 Turbo, Z1 Turbo Sno Pro and TZ1 Turbo model snowmobiles. The model name and number are displayed on the side of vehicle and in the registration materials/owner's manual.

Sold at: Arctic Cat dealerships nationwide from June 2008 through July 2009 for between $12,500 and $14,300.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using these snowmobiles immediately and contact their local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to schedule a free repair. Registered owners have been directly notified about this recall by mail.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm's Web site at www.arctic-cat.com.

CPSC is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about it by visiting https://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx.

Send the link for this page to a friend! The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC's teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To join a CPSC e-mail subscription list, please go to https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx. Consumers can obtain recall and general safety information by logging on to CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

Recall of 2009 Arctic Cat Mountain Cat and Crossfire Snowmobiles

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:33:48 +0000

ARCTIC CAT RECALLS SNOWMOBILES DUE TO FIRE HAZARD

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, D.C. 20207

December 16, 2008

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product : Model Year 2009 Arctic Cat Mountain Cat and Crossfire Snowmobiles

Units : About 10,000

Manufacturer : Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Hazard : The mounting hardware securing the fuel pump can allow fuel to leak, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries : Arctic Cat has received four reports of fuel leakage. There have been no reports of personal injury or property damage.

Description : This recall involves all 2009 model Mountain Cat and Crossfire snowmobiles within the Vin number range of 103896 through 118441. The Vin number can be found stamped into the tunnel near the right-side footrest.

Sold at : Authorized Arctic Cat dealers nationwide from June 2008 through November 2008 for between $7,500 and $13,100.

Manufactured in : United States

Remedy : Consumers should immediately stop using the snowmobile and contact authorized Arctic Cat service dealers to schedule a free repair. All known users have been contacted.

Consumer Contact : For more information, contact Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firms Web site at www.arcticcat.com.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC’s hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC’s teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 or visit CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

Recall of 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 Arctic Cat snowmobiles

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:26:39 +0000

ARCTIC CAT RECALLS SNOWMOBILES DUE TO LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL HAZARD

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, D.C. 20207

September 18, 2006

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product : Arctic Cat Snowmobiles

Units : About 50,500

Manufacturer : Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Hazard : The steering shaft used on certain 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 Arctic Cat snowmobiles can fail at the steering shaft/steering arm attachment. This could cause a loss of steering control of the vehicle, and result in injury or death.

Incidents/Injuries : Arctic Cat has received 42 reports relating to loss of steering control on the recalled Arctic Cat model snowmobiles. No injuries have been reported.

Description : The recalled steering shafts were installed on the following models:

All 2002 440 Sno Pro Models

All 2003 Firecat 500/600/700, Firecat 700 Sno Pro, and 440 Sno Pro Models

All 2004 Firecat 500/600/700 (STD and Sno Pro), and Sabercat 500/600/700 Models

All 2005 Firecat 500/600/700 (STD and Sno Pro), M5,M6,M7, and Sabercat 500/600/700 Models

All 2006 Crossfire 600/700, Firecat 500/600/700, Firecat 700 Sno Pro, Sabercat 500/600/700, and all M Series

NOTE : Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ranges of 4UF06SNWX6T100985 through 4UF06SNW26T128280 and 4UF06SNW16T900039 through 4UF06SNW06T900064 apply to 2006 models listed above only. For identification purposes, it is necessary to refer to only the last six digits of the VIN.

Sold at : Arctic Cat dealerships nationwide from May 2001 through April 2006 for between $6,500 and $9,000.

Manufactured in : Thief River Falls, Minnesota

Remedy : Consumers should stop using these snowmobiles immediately. Registered owners have been notified about this recall by mail. If consumers are unsure if their snowmobile is affected, they should call Arctic Cat. Consumers should have available the model name and model number of the snwomobile when they call. The model name and model number are displayed on the registration materials you received when you purchased your snowmobile and on your operator’s manual. Consumers with a recalled snowmobile should contact their local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to schedule the free repair.

Call Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or go to the firm’s Web site at www.arcticcat.com. The affected models were manufactured in a variety of colors and engine sizes; however, all are subject to this recall. Shown are samples of some, but not all color combinations produced by Arctic Cat.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC’s hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC’s teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 or visit CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

Recall of 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 Firecat and Sabercat models

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:20:50 +0000

ARCTIC CAT RECALLS SNOWMOBILES DUE TO FIRE HAZARD

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, D.C. 20207

April 25, 2006

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product : Arctic Cat Snowmobiles

Units : About 52,000

Manufacturer : Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Hazard : The recalled snowmobiles fuel tank could crack and leak, allowing fuel or fuel vapors to escape, posing a fire and burn hazard.

Incidents/Injuries : Arctic Cat has received 217 warranty claims related to two issues surrounding possible fuel leakage from fuel tanks including a crack in the fuel filler neck and leaks at the fuel outlet fitting. No injuries have been reported.

Description : The recalled fuel tanks were installed on all 2004, 2005 and 2006 Firecat and Sabercat models. The recall also includes all 2003 Firecat carbureted models. The affected models were manufactured in a variety of colors and engine sizes, however, all are included in this recall.

Sold at : Arctic Cat dealerships nationwide from May 2002 through April 2006 for between $6,500 and $8,500.

Manufactured in : United States

Remedy : Consumers should stop using these snowmobiles immediately unless instructed otherwise. Registered owners have been notified about this recall by mail. If consumers are unsure if their snowmobile is affected, they should call Arctic Cat. Consumers should have the model name and model number available. The model name and model number are displayed on the registration materials you received when you purchased your snowmobile and on your operator’s manual. Consumers with a recalled snowmobile should contact their local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to schedule a free repair.

Consumer Contact : For additional information, contact Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or go to the firm’s Website at www.arcticcat.com.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. The CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products — such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call CPSC’s hotline at (800) 638-2772 or CPSC’s teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 or visit CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. Consumers can obtain this release and recall information at CPSC’s Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

Polaris Industries Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Fire Hazard

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:49:04 +0000

Polaris Industries Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Fire Hazard

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC.

Name of Product: Polaris Snowmobiles
Units: About 7,200
Importer: Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.
Hazard: The fuel lines on the snowmobiles can make contact with one another, which could result in a fuel leak. This can pose a fire hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received eight reports of fuel leaks. No fires or injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves model year 2007, 2008 and 2009 Polaris snowmobiles with Clean Fire Injection (CFI) and a left-hand pump flange assembly.
Sold by: Polaris dealers nationwide from September 2006 through March 2009 for about $8,600.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled product and contact any Polaris dealer to schedule a free repair. Polaris has notified registered consumers directly about this recall.
Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Polaris at (888) 704-5290 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.polarisindustries.com.

Closed snowmachine trail angers Lewis

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:28:00 +0000

Closed snowmachine trail angers Lewis

by Paul Lefebvre - The Chronicle

MONTPELIER — The recent closure of the main snowmobile trail between Derby and Norton has local and state officials scrambling to find an alternative route over state land.
Representative Bob Lewis of Derby said Tuesday he was upset with the reluctance of the state officials to allow snowmachines to travel across state land where a deer yard is located.
“We have trails that go through deer yards now,” he said. “No problem.”
The problem arose in November when a Norton landowner closed off the trail that ran across his land. And Representative Lewis, a former game warden, thinks the boondoggle has gone on long enough.
“It’s time to sort it out,” he said.
Local negotiations for the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) are being handled by Ray Dubreuil of Canaan, who is the Essex County director on the VAST board.
Reached Tuesday evening, Mr. Dubreuil said he was hesitant to discuss the problem until after he meets with state officials later this month.
The state land in question is the Black Tern Brook State Forest that is located in Norton along the Coaticook River. The land is the former site of Earth People’s Park, a sixties style commune that was confiscated by federal authorities following a police bust for marijuana cultivation.
Both the Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation have been involved in trying to find a solution. Among the problems the sides have encountered is internal indecision and poor communication within VAST.
In an e-mail last week, Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Pat Berry said there has been “a lack of clarity” among the local clubs over who is in charge. The commissioner also noted there has been no follow-up to his suggestion to study the trail situation from a larger picture, as opposed to looking at it piecemeal.
Lack of snow has mitigated the financial impact the trail closure would likely have had on places like the Norton Restaurant or a snowmachine dealer in Derby.
Still, the state has expressed strong opposition to allowing a major snowmachine trail to go through Black Tern Brook State Park.
In a report to Commissioner Berry last month, Lou Bushey of Forests, Parks and Recreation said there was confusion among local club representatives over where the trail would go once it left Black Tern Park.
And while he noted that the area “has numerous wetland issues,” he said the park’s stewardship team believed that Black Term was not appropriate for a trail “because of the conflict with the deer wintering area.”
Representative Lewis said Tuesday he plans to meet with state officials this week to discuss the situation.
Sounding frustrated, he said if the state failed to meet him half way, he would withdraw his support for increasing the Fish and Wildlife Department’s budget by roughly $1-million.

Businesses Hold out Hope for Strong Snowmobile Season

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:10:55 +0000

Businesses Hold out Hope for Strong Snowmobile Season

By Laura Carpenter - Newport Daily Express

Snow and cold temperatures are in the forecast and these snowmobiles at Walt’s Sales and Service are waiting and ready to go. Photo by Laura Carpenter

ORLEANS CO., VT - The lack of snowmobliers in the area is noticeable. As of Thursday, the snowmoblie trails remain closed. However, snow and cold temperatures are in the forecast and many enthusiasts remain optimistic about the weather, even though the snowmobile season has had a slow start this year.
The lack of snowfall and warmer temperatures are having an effect locally, all over the Northeast Kingdom and beyond. No one seems to know the exact impact snowmobilers have on the economy in the NEK, but all say it's huge. And the trickledown effect from snowmobilers on the overall economy is significant.
“Those who snowmobile have money to spend,” said Gloria Bruce, the executive director of Northeast Kingdom Travel and Tourism Association out of East Burke.
Snowmobilers, many from out of the area, come to the region for the sport, spend money on snowmobiles, service, repairs, equipment and gear. They also stay in the local hotels, eat in the restaurants, buy gas, and shop locally.
Bruce said that when businesses lack customers, they no longer need as many employees and they cut back on hours. As a result, employees have less money to spend in the community.
Walt’s Sales and Service in Derby sells snowmobiles, equipment and gear and services the machines. Sixty percent of their winter business comes from people from out of the area. Right now, Walt’s is not as busy as it could be if the trails were open, said Scott Jenness, but they aren't concerned. Jenness said the last couple of winters saw early snowfall, and last year the trails opened in mid-December. But in past years, many times, the tails did not open until mid-January.
The Great Outdoors sporting goods store in Newport reported slow business from snowmobilers where typically they see a significant amount. However, the business is doing well with its ski and snowboard equipment and gear.
Bruce said it's important for businesses to be able to offer a variety of products and services rather than relying soley on snowmobilers alone.
Donna Higgons, the executive director of the North Country Chamber of Commerce in Newport, said that after October of 2010, visits to the center have slowed down significantly, especially now, but last year, in May through October, the number of visitors was up more than 10 percent.
The center was very busy last winter with snowmobilers asking for local attractions such has restaurants and places to service their sleds.
Higgons also said that many people have already began inquiring at the center about the big annual fishing derby and spring and summer activities in the area.

Maine and New Hampshire "Free Weekend"

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:17:21 +0000

Vermont registered snowmobiles will be able to operate in NH and ME without a NH or ME snowmobile registration on the advertised 3-day weekend. NH and ME registered snowmobiles will able to operate in VT that same advertised weekend without a VT TMA.

Trail Openings

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:26:02 +0000

From the Cannan Site

WED. JAN 11, 2012
GOOD DAY SLEDDERS...ITS OFFICIAL OUR TRAILS WILL BE OPEN FRIDAY.
WE ARE EXPECTING 3-6 INCHES OF SNOW , BUT BE ADVISED THE
CONDITIONS ARE "EARLY SEASON" WITH A MINIMAL BASE. UPPER
ELEVATIONS WILL BE GROOMED & EXPECT FAIR TO GOOD CONDITIONS,
LOWER TRAILS WILL BE POOR TO FAIR DEPENDING ON THIS STORM.
ONLY ONE ACCESS TRAIL IS OPEN TO TOWN (105C) WHICH BRINGS
YOU IN OVER THE NEW BRIDGE WITH THE CANAAN BORDER RIDERS
SIGN. NOT ALL THE TRAILS ARE OPEN...PLEASE FOLLOW THE SIGNAGE.
THE CONTE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE IS C L O S E D. CONNECTOR
TRAILS WILL BE BONEY. SPEED LIMITS SHOULD BE FOLLOWED AS
CONDITIONS WILL VARY WITH ALTITUDE. BE ADVISED THAT LAW
ENFORCEMENT WILL BE OUT SO HAVE YOUR REGISTRATION, TMA'S
& INSURANCE CARDS. WE EXPECT HEAVY TRAFFIC DUE TO THE
LONG WEEKEND SO CAUTION & COMMON SENSE SHOULD DICTATE
YOUR DRIVING. STAY ON THE TRAILS AS MANY DANGERS CAN BE
MASKED BY SNOW. AGAIN THE CONDITIONS ARE "EARLY SEASON"
DON'T LET YOUR ENTHUSIASM OUT WEIGH COMMON SENSE.

Snow Teaser

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 23:08:29 +0000

Seeing that we are still awaiting snow, I thought I would let you see a picture of snow from the past.(1960's)

Picture is looking down Cross St in Downtown Island Pond. Notice the Gulf Station which is now the Lakefront Fuel and Grocery, the International Harvester Dealer was the Blacksmith's Shop and Farm Dealer, now the area of the Lakefront Motel, the Restaurant behind that is now the location of the Island Pond Information Center. The small building just before the Gulf Station was Sherm's which had the best Curly Q's in the nation, now the location of the Town Pavilion and Gazebo, the Esso Station was Shortie's Garage and is now the Ponds Edge. Also note the buildings on the right, many are now gone, but many good memories.

Enjoy

Attached Thumbnails

Joseph Norman Couture

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:26:57 +0000

Joseph Norman Couture, 90, died on Friday, December 23, 2011, at his home.

Born in Coaticook, Canada, on March 25, 1921, he was the son of Joseph and Marie Anna (Hemond) Couture and had been a resident of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, for the past eight years, moving from Island Pond.

Mr. Couture was employed for many years as a railroad clerk with the Canadian National Railroad.

He was a member of Corpus Christi Parish.

Survivors include his sisters: Fernande Couture of Nashua, New Hampshire, and Gilberte Morello of Montrose, New York; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held December 28, 2011, in Portsmouth.

Burial will take place in the spring in Saint James Cemetery in Island Pond.

Marjorie Post Toombs

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:20:11 +0000

Marjorie Post Toombs, 86, of Monkton, and a summer resident of Island Pond, died on December 24, 2011.

Ms. Toombs was born on November 26, 1925, the daughter of William J. and Marjorie R. Post. She raised her family of four daughters in Massapequa, New York. Her life’s passions were dogs
and Morgan horses.

Ms. Toombs leaves behind her daughters and their families: Leslie and James Bell of Saratoga Springs, New York, Patricia and Alan Cole of Westmore, and Joanne and Fred Doucette of Monkton; her brother W. Deane Post of Massapequa; and a son-in-law, Andrew Vessalico also of Massapequa.

She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth L. Toombs, and her daughter Nancy Parke Vessalico

Our Free Classifieds Ads system is now up and running.

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:54:49 +0000

Our Free Classifieds Ads system is now up and running.

Have an item for sale? Looking for an item? Have an item to barter? Post it here on our Free Classified Ads. Many Different Categories, from A to Z.

You can find it on our main pages under "Free Classifieds", our at the top of our forums page under "Classifides" or just click here

Free Classified Ads Now Up and Running

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:49:06 +0000

Ice Fishing Caution and Safety Reminders

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:48:18 +0000

Ice Fishing Caution and Safety Reminders

WATERBURY, VT -- The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has some ice fishing safety reminders, but the department cautions there are few areas in late December where ice is safe enough to support fishing.

“Once we have sustained cold weather to form good ice, ice fishing can be safe and a lot of fun,” said Col. David LeCours, Vermont’s Chief Game Warden, “but when we go onto the ice, we need to use good judgment and observe several safety precautions.”

• Leave your car or truck on shore. Every year several motor vehicles go through the ice on Vermont lakes, and people have drowned as a result.

• Leave information about your plans with someone -- where you intend to fish and when you expect to return.

• Wear a personal floatation device and don't fish alone.

• Ice varies in thickness and condition. Always carry an ice spud or chisel to check ice as you proceed.

• Be extremely cautious crossing ice near river mouths, points of land, bridges, islands, and over reefs and springs. Current almost always causes ice to be thinner over these areas.

• Avoid going onto the ice if it has melted away from the shore. This indicates melting is underway, and ice can shift position as wind direction changes.

• Waves from open water can quickly break up large areas of ice. If you can see open water in the lake and the wind picks up, get off!

• Bring your cell phone with you.

• Carry a set of hand spikes to help you work your way out onto the surface of the ice if you go through. Holding one in each hand, you can alternately punch them into the ice and pull yourself up and out. You can make these at home, using large nails, or you can purchase them at stores that sell fishing supplies.

• Carry a safety line that can be thrown to someone who has gone through the ice.

• Heated fishing shanties must have good ventilation to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. Open a window or the door part way to allow in fresh air.

Brighton Municipal Building Makeover Begins

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 15:26:14 +0000

Brighton Municipal Building Makeover Begins

By
Jenn Hanlon - T he Newport Daily Express

The Brighton Municipal Building with siding stripped from it. Photo by Jenn Hanlon

BRIGHTON, VT - The white vinyl siding that enveloped the Brighton Municipal Building in Island Pond for a couple of decades is currently being removed so architects and engineers can assess the historical features hidden beneath it.
The work is the very first phase of a weatherization and historical preservation project funded mostly by grants totalling just over a half million dollars.

Lucille Stevens retires

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:07:31 +0000

ISLAND POND — Lucille Stevens is stepping down in March after serving as Brighton’s town clerk and treasurer for the past 31 years. Ms. Stevens’ career in public office began as an appointment on April 27, 1981, and has since spanned three decades in the growth and development of the town.

“I’ve always said it was the bestc job in town,” Ms. Stevens said in an interview with the Chronicle on Monday. “It was a paycheck, sure, but it was also a good way to get to know the people here in town. That part of the job I think I’ll miss the most.”

The town clerk’s office is a busy place on any given day. What with the demands of keeping track of the town’s finances, filing reports with the state and federal government and the countless little things that filled her day, Ms. Stevens felt that after 31 years it was time to take a
break.

“I’ll probably spend the first year getting around to those projects I’ve been putting off,” she said. “After that I might do a little traveling or maybe find myself a part-time job somewhere. I still plan on sticking around at least for the next little while.”

Ms. Stevens has presided over three interesting decades in town. She is pleased to see the positive changes that have taken place over the years in a community that is perhaps not as closely knit as it once was.

“We don’t have as many volunteers involved in the community as we once had,” Ms. Stevens said. “But the ones we’ve got have been very good for the town. There are some dedicated people working with the chamber of commerce and on our public boards.”

She is particularly pleased at the revitalization of the streetscape in Island Pond. The storefronts are full, the town’s lakeside park is being revitalized and even the town clerk’s office space is receiving a long delayed makeover.

“It’s kind of a new beginning for everyone,” Ms. Stevens said.

The incoming town clerk will face a bit of an uphill battle following Town Meeting. Despite training seminars available through the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT), the new town clerk will have to jump straight into the job.

“Two days after being elected they have to manage payroll,” Ms. Stevens said. “You don’t need any special qualifications to get the job but, boy, there is a steep learning curve. It will probably take a new person a good six months before things start rolling smoothly again.”

Not only is Ms. Stevens stepping down as town clerk but she is also retiring as the treasurer both to the town and the Brighton Elementary
School district. Managing tax collection for both entities has certainly been made more difficult due to the state’s education tax credit.

“Education tax has probably been one of the biggest changes I’ve seen in my time,” Ms. Stevens said. “I can’t say that I’m going to miss that very much at all.”

Indeed, while the office of town clerk and treasurer are distinct elected offices, it has been common practice for the town clerk to fill both roles, Ms. Stevens said. Though it would possibly lighten the load to have two different people serve those roles, the two have become almost inseparable.

“A lot of times people ask questions that you need to know both parts to answer,” Ms. Stevens said. “To tell you the truth, I’ve been doing both for so long that I’m not even sure if the answer comes from the town clerk or the treasurer. So I guess it’s pretty handy to know both jobs.”

The key to any successful tenure in public office is to strike the right balance of friendliness and objectivity, Ms. Stevens said. The town clerk is usually the first person to hear complaints about taxes or roads and, as such, needs to be able to handle the public with as much good grace as the situation requires.

“You have to have the right attitude because you deal with so many different people about so many different things,” she said. “Sometimes you just have to bite your tongue and do your job.”

The town clerk is also expected to be somewhat of a local encyclopedia. In days gone by it was easy enough to get to know everyone in town as they came in to buy dog licenses or pay their taxes. With so many second homes in town, however, that personal touch isn’t as frequent as it once was, Ms. Stevens said.

“That doesn’t change the fact that people will call you up and ask for somebody’s telephone number or address,” Ms. Stevens said. “People
just kind of expect you to know everything.”

One of the odder requests Ms. Stevens has had to field came from a visitor to the area. That individual asked Ms. Stevens where the best Blueberry picking might be found.

“It’s one of those questions you don’t really want to give the answer to,” she said with a smile. “It’s like asking where the best fishing hole
is. Some things you’d just rather keep to yourself.”

Island Pond Man Gets Jail for Trashing Apt.

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:11:58 +0000

Island Pond Man Gets Jail for Trashing Apt.
An Island Pond man was sentenced to 18 months to 36 months in prison Thursday after he agreed to plead no contest to a felony charge of unlawful mischief and guilty to a misdemeanor count of violating a condition of release.

Charles Krafton, 32, must complete a corrections' department domestic abuse program as part of his sentence following his sentencing Thursday in Essex Superior Court-criminal division.

According to the affidavit of trooper Callie Field, on April 20 Krafton did more than $3,000 damage to the residence of Rose Marie Hackett and violated court conditions issued in February that prohibited Krafton from having any contact with Hackett.

According to Field's affidavit, at 1:51 p.m. on April 20, state police dispatch received a call from Hackett, 46, reporting Krafton, her ex-boyfriend, was in her apartment in Island Pond smashing the windows and she wanted him to leave.

According to Field's affidavit, as she was enroute to Hackett's apartment, a dispatcher advised Field that there were conditions of release in effect that prohibited Krafton from being in contact with Hackett.

When Field arrived, a woman from an apartment next door to Hackett's came out to speak to Field, "to advise me of the windows being smashed out back and making sure I had plenty of back up."

Several minutes later, Hackett came out of an apartment and said her ex-boyfiend, Krafton was "out of control and going to hurt someone," according to Field's affidavit. Fields left Hackett in Fields'cruiser and approached the apartment accompanied by VSP Sgt. Lawrence Smith. She found Krafton sitting in the upstairs window, which was smashed out. Wood and glass lay on the ground.

Krafton told Field he would come out and put down a butcher knife and hammer he had in his hand. After Krafton put down the knife and hammer and came out of Hackett's apartment, he was taken into custody. Sgt. Smith and off-duty trooper Ben Shelp cleared the inside of the apartment while Field stayed with Krafton.

Processing the scene while Smith stayed with Krafton in Smith's cruiser, Field found all of the windows upstairs and downstairs in the two-story apartment smashed.

The tables, chairs, television and lamps were shattered into pieces and strewn about the apartment, with the damage estimated at $3,000, according to Field.

Hackett provided a sworn statement reporting the confrontation had begun the previous night when Krafton arrived at her place. She gave Krafton two of her prescription Clonazepam tablets she takes for panic attacks so that Krafton could use the pills to treat pain from his broken ribs.

The next day Krafton asked Hackett to call her doctor to get him some pain meds. According to Field's affidavit, "This is when things got out of control." Krafton told Hackett, "he would give her an attitude adjustment and her eyes have attitude." Hackett said Krafton told her, "You will not get rid of me out of your life unless you kill me."

According to Field's affidavit Krafton has conditions of release imposed by Caledonia Superior Court-criminal division Feb. 2, ordering him not to have contact with Hackett, her residence, vehicles or place of employment.He was arrested by state police Feb. 1 and charged with domestic assault and unlawful mischief.

According to court records, Krafton was convicted April 5, 1999 on three misdemeanor counts of engaging in prohibited sexual acts and was sentenced to six to 12 months to serve, all suspended with probation. On May 15, 1998, Krafton was convicted of a felony charge of lewd and lascivious conduct and got a five-year deferred sentence.

Judge denies bail in Island Pond meth case

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 19:55:27 +0000

Two Island Pond men who allegedly threatened a confidential informant in a methamphetamine lab case must be detained for public safety reasons, a judge has ruled.

Frank Santaw, 29, and Kevin Dodge, 43, are held without bail pending trial. Magistrate Judge John M. Conroy ruled there were no conditions or combination of conditions to reasonably ensure the public's safety.

Conroy said he would reconsider the issue if new information is provided including possible admission to a residential drug treatment facility.

Defense lawyer Bud Allen said efforts are under way to get Dodge into Serenity House, but because he was jailed for several days, his client had detoxed, and the rehab facility had lowered him on the admissions list. He could be screened as early as Tuesday, Allen said.

Conroy ruled a proposed release plan by Allen did not go far enough to protect the public. Allen had suggested Dodge be under virtual house arrest at his parents residence in Island Pond and that he needed to be accompanied by one of his parents if he had to leave the home.

Dodge's father, Eugene Dodge, a former Marine with high security clearance, testified Wednesday that he would report his son if he violated his release terms.

While he found the father credible, Conroy said the defendant had amassed "a significant criminal record" that could not be overlooked.

"He's been out of control quiet frankly," Conroy said. He said the love and support of his parents has not been sufficient to keep him off drugs. Even after treatment at Brattleboro Retreat, Dodge continued to use drugs, the judge said.

Dodge has convictions for three driving under the influence cases, two violations of conditions of release and two fights in Essex County, Conroy noted.

Court records also show Dodge had secured $1,000 and was preparing to leave the state before his arrest. An undercover state trooper assigned to the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force, testified that Dodge appeared headed to Florida.

Evidence also showed Dodge was interested in finding out the name of the informant in the case.

"I'm going to ... (expletive) figure it out," Dodge was quoted by one informant in the case.

Conroy also ruled there was probable cause for Dodge's arrest. He is charged with intentionally purchasing or possessing pseudoephedrine -- knowing that an associate planned to turn it into methamphetamine.

Pseudoephedrine is contained in products such as Sudafed decongestant and must be signed for when bought at pharmacies.

In a separate hearing, Santaw, who is charged with the manufacturing of methamphetamine from July to December, waived his right to a probable cause hearing. Conroy ruled there was enough evidence to justify the arrest and to hold Santaw pending trial.

The magistrate said Santaw was a threat to public safety because his record include convictions for arson in 2002 and that he later violated the terms of probation in the case. He ruled Santaw also has convictions for driving under the influence in 2003 and a burglary and possession of stolen property case in 2002 in Essex County that led to a probation violation.

Conroy said a court affidavit in the meth case showed he had engaged in threatening a witness. Santaw said he had driven around Island Pond with a baseball bat looking for the person he thought was a cooperating individual in a criminal case that led to police locating a meth lab at the apartment of Carl Coker, 36, of Island Pond on Nov. 18.

The Northern Vermont Drug Task Force said known associates of Coker continued to buy pseudoephedrine after he was jailed. Santaw bragged he did not need Coker anymore because he could cook his own meth, the task force said.

Coker, Santaw and a third person, who police say also manufactures meth, are among 14 associates involved with the drug in the Island Pond area, the task force said.

Sentencing in Brighton Assault Case

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 19:44:48 +0000

Sentencing in Brighton Assault Case

Mary Jane Taylor, 68, Island Pond, was sentenced to six to 12 months, all suspended except for three days in jail she has already served following her conviction by an Essex County jury on charges of disorderly conduct by fighting and attempted simple assault by menace.Taylor was convicted following a jury trial in October.

Taylor was out on probation and was convicted of violating her probation as the result of the assaults. She was jailed for three days as a result of her probation violation.

In addition to her suspended sentence with credit for three days served in jail, Judge Paul Gerety ordered Taylor to have no contact with the victim of her assault, Kathleen Nelson, 56, Brighton, and not harass or abuse Nelson. Taylor must also perform 40 hours of community service as directed by her probation officer.

Nelson read a statement into the record during Nelson's sentencing hearing Thursday morning in St. Johnsbury. The Essex County case was heard in Caledonia Superior Court.

The case against Taylor was prosecuted by Essex County State's Attorney Vincent Illuzzi while Taylor was defended by Sten Lium.

As Judge Gerety prepared to sentence Taylor, Illuzzi called Taylor's victim, Nelson, to the stand. She read a prepared victim statement in which she told the court she "feared for the loss of my eyesight and even for the loss of my life if she had succeeded in stabbing me in the eyes or throat."According to the affidavit of Brighton Police Chief Jeff Noyes, on June 18 Taylor was operating the Brighton recycling center at 49 Mill St. Extension in Island Pond. Nelson told Noyes that she went to the recycling center to dispose of her recyclable materials. While there, Nelson encountered Taylor, who was an employee at the recycling center.

Nelson, who is associated with the Brighton Cat Project, had removed 32 abused cats from Taylor's house as part of an investigation into cruelty and neglect of animals. Taylor was subsequently convicted Feb. 18 on 32 counts of cruelty to animals. Taylor received a three-year deferred sentence as a result of the cruelty convictions and was placed on probation.

The Vermont Department of Probation charged Taylor with violating her probation by being charged with threatening Nelson. According to Nelson, while at the recycling center, she asked Taylor about her behavior after witnesses told Nelson that Taylor had spoken badly about Nelson following an article in a local newspaper that referenced Nelson and was critical of Taylor.

According to Chief Noyes' affidavit, Taylor took a stick with several nails sticking out of it and threatened Nelson with the stick. Nelson, who felt threatened, took the stick out of Taylor's hand and threw it down.

Nelson, during her testimony from the stand Thursday morning, told the court she would like to see Taylor be required to write a letter to the Brighton Board of Selectmen apologizing for her conduct at the recycling center June 18 and also requested that the court require Taylor to write a letter of apology to Noyes. Nelson also recommended that Taylor perform 40 hours of community service that did not involve contact with children and animals.

But Taylor's attorney, Sten Lium, opposed efforts to make his client apologize to selectmen and Noyes and he further opposed Nelson's suggestion that Taylor's community service not bring her into contact with children and animals.

Lium called Taylor to the stand and began questioning her about her conversations with the Brighton municipal assistant, Joel Cope. Lium said in response to Illuzzi's objections that he wanted his client to describe the state of mind of Cope and selectmen to relate they weren't angry with Taylor and didn't need an apology.

Judge Gerety ruled neither the selectmen or the police chief were parties to the case, so Taylor would not be required to send either an apology.

As part of her penalty she will perform 40 hours of community service.

Two More Charged In Meth Case

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 12:20:21 +0000

Two More Charged In Meth Case
Two Essex County men with links to an alleged methamphetamine lab in Island Pond have been charged in U.S. District Court in Burlington with felony level drug charges.

Kevin Dodge, 43 and Frank Santaw, 29, both of Island Pond, were charged by criminal complaint during their court appearance Wednesday. Judge John Conroy ordered the men held without bail. According to Assistant U. S. Attorney Craig Nolan, within 30 days the U.S. Attorney's office will ask federal grand juries to return indictments against Dodge and Santaw.

In a state police affidavit, trooper Shawn Loan of the Vermont drug task force said the task force fitted a confidential informant with an audio transmitting device.

Frank Santaw is recorded telling the informant, during a Nov. 30 conversation, "Good thing you didn't show up last night to talk to Kevin here, 'cause I was going to pound your [expletive deleted] head in with a baseball bat."

Later in the conversation, Santaw said, "I would have went to jail for murder last night."

Loan's affidavit describes a pattern of activity in which Dodge and Santaw repeatedly purchased the drug Pseudoephedrine on numerous occasions from drug stores throughout Northeastern Vermont and in Rhode Island. According to the U.S. Attorney's office, the drugs purchased were used illegally to produce methamphetamine.

The pattern of criminal activity continued from July to December 2011. According to the affidavit, Santaw purchased pseudoephedrine, beginning on July 16, from drug stores in Newport, St. Johnsbury, Lyndonville, Derby, Derby Line in Vermont as well as Attleboro, Mass., and Pawtucket, R.I., with the last purchase listed occurring Dec. 3.

Dodge is listed in the task force affidavit as purchasing pseudoephedrine beginning July 15 from stores in Orleans, Newport and derby in Vermont as well as from stores in Attleboro, MA, Pawtucket, R.I., and Mount Ephraim, N.J.

The affidavit lists 14 individuals considered associates of Kevin Dodge. Not all of the 14 individuals have been charged with a crime and Nolan stated he was unable to predict how many of the individuals listed in the drug task force affidavit might eventually be charged with a crime.

Nolan confirmed that simply purchasing pseudephedrine from a drug store is not illegal. Purchasing pseudoephedrine only becomes a crime when it is part of a criminal conspiracy or when the purchaser knows or intends that the drug will be used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

Dodge and Santaw allegedly conspired with three other individuals who were involved in manufacturing methamphetamine in a lab at 389 Railroad St. in Island Pond.

Santaw was charged with knowingly and willfully conspiring with others to manufacture methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. If convicted, Santaw could face a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison.

Dodge was charged with possessing pseudoephedrine, which may be used to manufacture a controlled substance, knowing, intending or having reasonable cause to believe,, that it will be used to unlawfully manufacture a controlled substance. A conviction on the charge could leave to a federal prison sentence of up to 10 years.

Both men have been linked to three individuals previously charged in U.S. District Court in Burlington in connection with the operation of an illegal meth lab.

Carl Coker, 36, Charles "Tommy" Amerine, 33, and Mandy Johnson, 30, all whom moved to Vermont from Alabama have been formally indicted on meth charges and all three have denied the charges against them.

Coker is held without bail while awaiting trial while Amerine and Johnson were released on conditions that include a requirement imposed by Judge Conroy that they return to their homes towns in Florida and reside with parents while awaiting trial.

All three were taken into custody by U.S. marshals following a Vermont Drug Task Force raid on their apartment Nov. 18. The raid recovered materials and chemicals allegedly used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

Paul E. “Cubby” Goulet

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:15:06 +0000

Paul E. “Cubby” Goulet, 84, of Island Pond died on December 13, 2011, in Newport, with family and friends at his side.

He was born August 17, 1927, in Rochester, New Hampshire, a son of Joseph and Ellen (Daley) Goulet.

He graduated from Brighton High School in Island Pond and attended one year at the University of Vermont. Mr. Goulet was a dispatcher for the Canadian National Railroad in Gorham, New Hampshire. He was a veteran of World War II and a member of the American Legion Brighton Post #80 and the Orleans Country Club where he was club champion for thirteen years. He was also a good basketball player, excellent golfer, and baseball player.

He is survived by his brother John Goulet of Canton, Michigan; six nieces and nephews and their spouses; ten grandnieces and - nephews; and two great-grandnieces and -nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Joseph Goulet.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at the Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond, with full military honors.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Newport Health Care Center, 148 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855. Online condolences may be sent to the funeral home website at www.curtis-britchconverse-rushford.com.

Earl E. Martin Sr

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:50:48 +0000

Earl E. Martin Sr., 75, of Island Pond died on November 30, 2011, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born April 4, 1936, in Coteau-Station, Quebec, a son of Daniel and Myrtle (Aseltine) Martin. On December 31, 1955, he married Ruth Wood who survives him.

Mr. Martin was an equipment operator for Green Mountain Mulch in Derby. Among his hobbies he enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Ruth Martin of Island Pond; by his children: Earl Martin Jr. and his wife, Francine, of Island Pond, Robert Martin and his wife, Tia, of Niceville, Florida, Dale Martin of Nashua, New Hampshire, Denis Martin of Morgan, and Tammy Barrup of Derby; by ten grandchildren: Lance, Corey, Adam, Cody, Dawn, Andrew, Aimee, Eric, Jessica and Martin; and by his great-grandchildren: Chance, Sarah, Taylor, Connor, Austin, Leo, Lucas, Brooklynn, Gracie, Corey, James, Austin and Paul; by his sister Beatrice Gentley of Compton, New Hampshire; by his sister-in-law Eva Martin of Island Pond; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers: Floyd and Daniel Martin; and by three sisters: Myrtle Morrisette, Louella Covey, and Blanche Giroux.

A graveside service was held December 5 at the Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Dr. Ronald Holland Dialysis Center, North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport,Vermont 05855. Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britchconverse-rushford.com.

Philippe William Guay

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:44:07 +0000

Philippe William Guay, 52, of Island Pond died on November 27, 2011, in Burlington.

He was born March 11, 1959, in Newport, a son of Pauline (Elliott) Guay and the late Gerard Guay. Mr. Guay graduated from North Country Union High School in the Class of 1977.

He was employed as a carpenter in Burlington, and he also at one time was employed by Lyndon Office Equipment. His hobby was photography.

He is survived by his children: Staff Sergeant William Monfette, United States Marine Corps Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jessica Monfette of Orleans, Jeffrey Monfette and his wife, Marijah, of Morgan, and Eric Guay of Island Pond; his mother Pauline Guay of Island Pond; his grandchildren: Alyssa Monfette, Kaitlyn and Logan Verge, and Chase Monfette; his sisters: Leesa Guay Timpson and her husband, Cliff, of Milton, and Denise Clough of Burlington; a stepbrother, Richard Perry, and his wife, Gayle, of Danville; his companion Susan McNulla of Island Pond; his nephew Ian Clough; his step-nephew and -niece Travis and Angela Perry; and by Deborah and Shayne Monfette of Irasburg, the mother and adoptive father of William, Jeffrey, and Jessica Monfette. He was predeceased by his father Gerard Guay in 1983.

Funeral services were held December 1, in Island Pond. Interment followed at the Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britchconverse-rushford.com.

2 Vt. men arrested after chase across border

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 07:50:06 +0000

December 6, 2011

ISLAND POND, Vt. (AP) - Two Vermont men are facing a variety of charges after they fled police by crossing into Canada. The two were arrested several hours later as they tried to re-enter the United States.

State Police say a trooper tried to stop a vehicle early Monday in Island Pond because it had a loud muffler, but the car fled north, reaching speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour until its crossed illegally into Canada in Norton at about 2:30 a.m.

Police say the two were arrested by officers of Customs and Border Protection at about 11 a.m.

Twenty-3-year-old Joseph Truszkowski and 25-year-old Eric Jackson, both of Barton, are facing a variety of charges.

Both men were jailed for lack of bail. They're due in court later this month.

Chittenden Man Pleads Guilty on Bear Poaching Charge

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 13:13:31 +0000

Chittenden Man Pleads Guilty on Bear Poaching ChargeRUTLAND, Vt -- Jake Duprey, 27, of Chittenden pled guilty on November 14, 2011 in Rutland Superior Court Criminal Division to attempting to take a black bear by illegal means.
Duprey was apprehended on September 20, 2011 by State Game Wardens Lt. Don Isabelle and Dale Whitlock as he was observed checking a baited steel cable foot snare. Duprey admitted to the wardens that he had baited the snare with grain and donuts as well as setting the snare in an attempt to catch a bear.

Duprey told Lt. Isabelle that ever since he was a kid he always wanted to trap a bear and knowing that one was in immediate area felt this was an opportunity to do so. It is a violation of Vermont law to take a wild animal with a snare as well as to take a bear with a trap or the aid of bait.
Duprey was fined $371 and will not be able to have licenses to hunt, fish and trap in Vermont for three years and until he successfully completes a remedial hunting course.

Five Men Charged after Night of Poaching

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 13:09:24 +0000

Five Men Charged after Night of Poaching

BARRE, Vt – Vermont State Game Wardens have charged five men in connection with a deer poaching spree that occurred on the evening of Saturday, October 22nd and continued into the early morning of Sunday the 23rd.

After a lengthy investigation, meat from illegal deer was seized from three residences in Bristol Village. Also retained were several deer hides, tools, an electric chainsaw used to cut up the deer, three rifles, and the head of a 7-point buck that was shot illegally. The three rifles used by the poachers were a .22, a 30-30 and a 30-06.

Beginning late Saturday night, the poachers shot approximately eleven separate times while jacking deer in Lincoln, Ripton and Bristol. Four deer were confirmed killed, the last being shot on Carlstrom Road at approximately 4:30 a.m. One deer was not recovered by the poachers due to landowner intervention, and it is possible that several other deer were injured. The four confirmed deer killed were: a “button-horn” buck, a yearling doe, an adult doe, and a 7-point buck.

Initially called by a concerned citizen of Lincoln, wardens investigated a number of crime scenes where deer were shot at along several miles of back roads and meadows. The first call reporting the shots occurred after a person was awakened by gunshots close to their home just after 1 a.m. As the investigation developed, more witnesses came forward.

Not only were the poachers actions illegal, but extremely dangerous as well. Deer were shot at from a pick-up with the aid of a hand held spotlight, at times while the passenger sat on the door window-frame and fired over the roof of the truck. At least three of the shootings occurred in close to occupied homes and with unsafe backstops for the high-powered bullets.

The five men involved are ordered to appear for arraignment at Addison County Court in Middlebury on January 23rd. They are Steven Clark of Bristol, Israel Clark of Bristol, Collin Bell of Bristol, Adam Josey from Richmond, and Dana Lathrop from Florida, formerly from Bristol.

They face a variety of charges which may include taking big game by illegal means, possession of deer in closed season, spotting and locating deer, and shooting from a vehicle. Fines could be as high as $500 with $1,000 restitution for each deer killed. They may also lose their licenses for three years and be required to take a remedial course before having a hunting license again. Anyone who witnesses a Fish and Wildlife crime is asked to report it immediately directly to the local Game Warden by calling the state police dispatch or dialing 1-800-75ALERT (1-800-752-5378).

Vermont Muzzleloader and 2nd Archery Deer Seasons, Dec. 3-11

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 13:01:44 +0000

Vermont Muzzleloader and 2nd Archery Deer Seasons, Dec. 3-11

BARRE, Vt – Hunters have good reason to be excited about Vermont’s muzzleloader deer season and the second part of the archery deer season, both occurring December 3-11 this year. The later season offers the likelihood of colder temperatures and the prospects for snow – factors that can improve hunter success.

Vermont hunters may take up to three deer in a calendar year with appropriate licenses and permits. The annual limit may be achieved in any combination of seasons (archery, youth weekend, November rifle season, December muzzleloader). Only two of the three deer in the annual limit may be legal bucks, and only one legal buck is allowed per hunting season. All three deer in the annual bag limit may be antlerless deer.

A legal buck must have at least one antler with two or more points one inch or longer. The main antler beam counts as one point, regardless of length. An antlerless deer is a deer with antlers less than three inches in length or no antlers.Last year, muzzleloader hunters harvested 4,232 deer, including 558 legal bucks and 3,674 antlerless deer. Hunters are expected to take fewer deer in the muzzleloader season this year because the Fish and Wildlife Department issued 63 percent fewer antlerless deer permits due to the severity of last winter and herd reductions achieved in recent years.

Warrant details on Northeast Kingdom meth lab raid not yet public

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 12:59:40 +0000

Two weeks after police raided a methamphetamine lab in Island Pond, the state search warrant and inventory of seized items remains a secret.
Dec. 3, 2011

Carl Coker, 36, of Island Pond; Charles "Tommy" Amerine III, 33, Bell City, Ala.; and Mandy Johnson, 30, Tarrant, Ala., are charged in U. S. District Court with manufacturing methamphetamine at an apartment in the Northeast Kingdom community.

All three admitted to participating or being present when meth was cooked in the Essex County apartment, the Vermont Drug Task Force said.

Coker admitted cooking meth 10 to 15 times between April and his arrest last month, court records show. Coker said he had a customer base of about 10 people, some of whom would buy pseudoephedrine at area pharmacies, police said.

The state search warrant authorizing the sweep of Coker's apartment was obtained from Vermont Superior Court Judge Robert Bent following two purchases of methamphetamine from Coker by an informant, the task force said.

Bent presides over courts in Essex, Caledonia and Orleans counties. Court clerks in all three counties Friday were unable to shed any light on the request for the search warrants or the inventory list that police are mandated to file promptly after executing the warrant. State search warrants normally remain sealed until the inventory list is filed.

Vermont State Police Detective Capt. Glenn Hall said Friday evening the inventory of items seized during the raid at 389 Railroad St. was filed earlier this week. He could not explain why the courts had no record.

Essex County State's Attorney Vince Illuzzi said he was surprised to learn the search warrant information was unaccounted for. He said while the case is being handled in federal court, there is a strong need for accountability for state search warrants.

About 15 members of the Vermont Drug Task Force and State Police conducted the raid Nov. 18. Members of the Vermont State Police Tactical team with a new armored personnel carrier were also at the scene.

The three suspects were scheduled to be arraigned in U.S. District Court in Burlington on Friday afternoon but two of the cases were delayed. A not guilty plea was entered on behalf of Coker.

Amerine and Johnson, who were formally indicted on Thursday with Coker, had not received copies of the indictment. They have been free on conditions, including that they live with their fathers, undergo drug testing and have no contact with other co-defendants.

During the raid, the Brighton Elementary School about a quarter-mile from Coker's apartment was placed in lockdown. Principal Phyllis Perkins said Friday that state police had called to suggest the 100 pupils and staff should stay indoors and the doors be locked during the raid.

Suspects admit making meth

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 12:45:22 +0000

Island Pond, Vermont - December 2, 2011

Police say three suspected meth producers from the Northeast Kingdom admitted to producing and selling the drugs.

Police arrested Carl Coker, Charles Amerine, and Mandy Johnson after a raid at a home in Island Pond last month.

Prosecutors say the raid uncovered evidence of meth production.

In an affidavit, police say Coker admitted to making and selling meth to about 10 people, and Amerine admitted to assisting Coker. Police also say Johnson told them she was aware Coker was making the drugs and had bought drugs used in meth production.

Police say all three said meth had been produced the previous day

Brighton School in Lockdown as Police Search Suspected Meth Lab

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:01:31 +0000

BRIGHTON – Students and staff at Brighton Elementary School went under lockdown Friday while state police searched a nearby home for a methamphetamine (meth) lab.
Essex County State’s Attorney Vince Illuzzi said that state police executed a search warrant at a home on Rail Road Street. The house, said Illuzzi, is located near the Vermont Department of Transportation Garage.
“They were looking for evidence of a meth lab,” said Illuzzi. “Information was obtained that suggested people were going to drug stores in the region and buying Sudafed or pseudoephedrine,” which is used for the manufacture of meth.
The Vermont Hazardous Materials Response Team responded to the scene because some of the materials used to make meth can be dangerous and there was a potential risk to police. Illuzzi, when asked if neighbors were ever in danger, said that meth labs are known to explode.
“Some materials of interest were taken but they need to be analyzed to determine if they are chemicals used in the production of methamphetamine,” said Illuzzi, who didn’t know what exactly police found. “I don’t have an itemization list but they were taken back to Waterbury.”
Police picked up one of the occupants inside of the house for an arrest warrant from Alabama and two others for questioning and one may have been detained.
“The unusual thing about it is I never heard of a meth lab even being suspected in Essex County,” said Illuzzi.
As of Sunday, there were no pending charges, however Illuzzi expects that to change. He hopes the federal government will prosecute the case. Illuzzi said the U.S. Attorney's Office has the staff and resources to handle such a case. Essex County has a small, part-time, prosecutor's office, Illuzzi said. However, Illuzzi said his office will be glad to prosecute the case.
Meth is a highly addictive drug that can change the life for the person taking it.
“We want to send a message that it won’t be condoned in this area,” said Illuzzi.
Other agencies assisted.

Brighton selectmen accept gift of Island Pond Building

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:58:16 +0000

ISLAND POND — Pending a few slight changes to a purchase and sale agreement, the Brighton Selectmen accepted the gift of the former Island Pond Woodworkers building on Meadow Street on Tuesday night. The 15,000 square foot facility has been offered free of charge to the town by its owner, Robert E. Miller of REM Development Company in Williston.

The most immediate effect would be a loss of roughly $10,000 in local and education tax dollars, Brighton administrative assistant Joel Cope said. That amounts to roughly one cent on the tax rate, he added.

While the acquisition itself seemed relatively simple, real estate law aside, the bigger question remains what will become of the property. Mr. Cope said that there has been an inquiry from a buyer interested in purchasing the facility from the town.

“I guess it begs the question, what are we going to do with it when we have it?” Mr. Cope said.

Chairman of the Selectmen Melinda Gervais was not so certain that the town should simply view the property as a means to generate one-time income for the town. She proposed that the taxpayers of the town should be polled to see what vision they have for the nearly two-acre property.

“There has been a rumor going around that the town is going to make a mini-IROC,” Ms. Gervais said, referring to the Indoor Recreation of Orleans County facility in Derby. “The town will not take on the role of running a mini-IROC.”

While the selectmen did not rule out converting the space into a recreation facility, such a decision was something that warranted further study, Ms. Gervais said.

“Ultimately if that’s what the people want and that’s what they want to spend their tax money on, that’s something we could consider,” she said.

The town has its hands full maintaining its current facilities, so the option of taking on a recreation facility would be daunting, Mr. Cope said. As is, the town will need to find a way to allocate time among town employees to take over maintenance of the facility. Estimates from REM
Development estimated annual maintenance costs at $5,200.

“I’m sure a lot of that is just the time to have someone do what needs doing,” he said.

The exact format for seeking public input was not finalized on Tuesday night. While Ms. Gervais advocated for open public comment, Mr. Cope added a cautionary note.

“Brainstorming is great but you need some parameters for the discussion,” he said. “If people see that this option costs this much and that option that much, they have a better understanding of what it is they really want.”

On Tuesday night the selectmen also decided to tackle a thorny issue that erupted last winter — snow removal in the downtown core. Specifically, the selectmen opted to formalize snow removal between the town and the predominantly business occupied downtown area around Cross Street.

“The town doesn’t come and take away the snow from my yard,” Selectman Gerry Goupee said. “I don’t think we should take it away from the businesses downtown either. It isn’t fair to all the other taxpayers.”

Mr. Cope was instructed to send letters to the downtown businesses as well as several snow removal contractors known to operate in town. The letters specify that businesses are prohibited from either pushing snow into the streets or moving snow into the lakeside park.

Selectman Jim Webb expressed concern about the policy. He was concerned that while the policy addressed private landowners pushing snow into the road, it did not address town plows pushing snow back onto their properties.

“The snow that goes onto the businesses comes from the road,” Mr. Webb said.

“We’re not talking about the berm,” Mr. Goupee said. “We take care of the berm that we put up. He does it until every last snowflake is gone.”

Where to store a winter’s worth of snow is an ongoing problem, the selectmen agreed. Though the town has acquired a special snow bucket to help move snow, the number of options of where to put it remains limited. Ms. Gervais proposed that the selectmen take a walk to examine possible locations.

“I don’t know that we would be able to find any space,” she said. “It might be a case that the businesses will have to try and make better use of the space they have or pay someone to haul it away.”

In other business the selectmen agreed to post notices seeking the services of a part-time recycling center attendant. The attendant would work ten hours per week on Mondays and Saturdays.

Calling All Bird Lovers... IP Christmas Bird Count Dec 15th

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:34:31 +0000

Calling All Bird Lovers... IP Christmas Bird Count Dec 15th

gray jay

It's been said that the best gifts come in small packages and who wouldn't agree after hearing their first boreal chickadee or watching the antics of gray jays amidst the snow-covered firs? Each year within two weeks of Christmas birders all across the Western Hemisphere dust off their binoculars for this 112-year old tradition coordinated by the National Audubon Society and carried out by thousands of volunteers and organizations like NorthWoods. This year will mark the 38th consecutive Annual Island Pond Christmas Bird Count - covering a fifteen mile diameter circle centered in Island Pond. Armed with binoculars, bird guides and checklists, experienced birders and beginners alike will collect data that helps assess the health of bird populations and informs action to protect their habitats. Join us or let us know who shows up at your backyard feeder on the 15th. Please contact Jayson to register or for more details.

Possibility of Another Vermont Byway in the Northeast Kingdom

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:30:33 +0000

Possibility of AnotherVermont Byway in the Northeast Kingdom

The Northeast Kingdom Travel & Tourism Association(NEKTTA), in partnership with the Northeastern Vermont Development Association(NVDA), is exploring the possibility of adding another designated Vermont Bywayin the Northeast Kingdom. The Vermont Byways Program, which was established as a result of theScenic Road Law passed in 1977 and then remodeled to be consistent with theNational Scenic Byways Program established by Congress in 1991, provides aformal way for Vermontcommunities to identify, protect and promote road corridors that have specialqualities.

“NEKTTA and NVDA are very excited about the possibility ofestablishing another byway in the region. We have found the existing Connecticut River Scenic Byway to be awonderful asset to the area and hope to expand the program in an effort toincrease the favorable impacts here in the Northeast Kingdom”stated Gloria Bruce, the executive director of NEKTTA.

The national byways program was designed to recognizeresources along a roadway corridor, to conserve those resources, and thenpromote them for tourism development. Qualities of the selected roadway might be scenic or they might relateto any of five other “intrinsic qualities” defined by the program such asqualities of a natural, cultural, recreational, historical or archeologicalnature. The Vermont Byways Programhonors that framework but does not impose uniform requirements on communitiesas to how designated roads may be improved or maintained, nor is its scoperestricted to the road right of way. TheVermont Byway Program takes a flexible approach which only requires that thelocal community define what is special about a byway and then create and adopta strategy for managing the byway in a way that will protect the resources andpromote them for tourism.

In the coming weeks NEKTTA and NVDA will begin this processby creating a Byway Planning Group which will establish the evaluation criteriaby which possible byways will be considered. Local communities will then have the opportunity to nominate roadcorridors that meet the criteria for consideration. All of the nominated road corridors will beevaluated against the criteria and the intrinsic qualities of the program. Once the Byway Planning Group has selectedthe roadway from among the nominations, support for the byway program will bemeasured within the roadway communities that will be affected. If communities are supportive of the effort,the regional partners will prepare a final nomination package for considerationand approval.

Anyone interested in learning more about this program, theVermont Byways Program or in participating in the Byway Planning Group isinvited to contact Gloria Bruce by email, director@travelthekingdom.comor by phone, 802-626-8511.

Vermont Tourism Offers Free Ambassador Training Workshop Nov. 21

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:24:21 +0000

Vermont Tourism Offers Free Ambassador Training Workshop Nov. 21

MONTPELIER, Vt. – The Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing is hosting a Vermont Ambassador Training Workshop Nov. 21 in Brattleboro, Montpelier and Lyndonville.

The free workshop will give front-line staff and managers in the hospitality industry an opportunity to learn from tourism experts from across the state. Topics to be covered at the workshop will range from marketing and branding to agri-tourism and the arts. The event will be setup as a video-conference workshop with facilitators and speakers at each of thethree locations. All locations will be connected live on camera.

“The ambassador training is a perfect opportunity for the hospitality industry to learn what’s new, what’s popular and how tostay up-to-date,” said Tourism and Marketing Commissioner Megan Smith.“Customer service is the most important ingredient in the hospitality industry,and this program promises to offer valuable resources and information.”

Speakers include some of the best in Vermont's hospitality industry. A variety of organizations will be represented, including the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Vermont Hospitality Council, Vermont Welcome Centers, Ski Vermont, Vermont Dept. of Tourism and Marketing, Vermont Dept. of Agriculture, Vermont Arts Council, Vermont Historic Sites, and the Department of Fish & Wildlife. Special presentations on southern Vermont and the Northeast Kingdom are planned. Curtis Reed, director of Vermont Partnership for Fairness and Diversity, will also speak about the value of welcoming all people to Vermont.

The trainings will be at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Brattleboro Union High School at 131 Fairground Rd., Brattleboro; Lyndon State College at 1001 College Rd., Lyndonville; and the Vermont Department of Labor at 5 Green Mountain Drive, Montpelier.

For more informationand to register, visit www.vermontpartners.com/opportunities.asp

Hunters Urged to Wear Orange

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:22:26 +0000

Hunters Urged to Wear Orange

WATERBURY – Jackets and vests are ‘in’ this year, but hunters don’t need to keep up with the fashion blogs to know there is just one ‘in’ color for the woods: blaze orange.

Season after season, smart hunters choose fluorescent hunter orange. Because no matter how rare, each incident casts hunting in a bad light by reinforcing the perception that hunting is dangerous. As result, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department strongly urges hunters to include some fluorescent hunter orange clothing with their other essential gear.

“Hunter orange is a choice in Vermont,” said Chris Saunders, Vermont’s Hunter Education Coordinator. “But that’s no excuse. In the past ten years, almost half of the state’s hunting accidents might have been prevented with hunter orange.”

In a review of 20 years of Vermont hunting-related shooting reports, hunters moving into the line of fire of other hunters and mistaking other hunters for game are two of the three most common causes of the state’s accidents. Both types involve visibility problems, and both underscore the need for hunters to see and be seen during the fall firearms deer season.

Nationwide, data supports this. For instance, a New York study found that 94 percent of hunters involved in mistaken for game accidents were not wearing hunter orange. This is statistic is even more startling when you consider that 81 percent of New York hunters do wear hunter orange.

Concerns that deer are scared by hunter orange are unfounded. Recent research suggests deer do see color, but they have no red-sensitive cone cells, so they can't tell red or orange from green and brown. In addition, deer have a different sensitivity to various wavelengths of light. They see short wavelength colors such as blue brighter than humans do, but are less sensitive to longer wavelengths such as orange and red, so these colors look darker.

Fluorescent colors like hunter orange look bright to humans because they absorb UV rays we can't see and turn them into longer wavelengths we can see. The effect is opposite on deer. Hunter orange reflects less of the UV that deer see well and more of the rays deer don't see as well.

Regardless of how well they see it, ample anecdotal evidence suggests they aren’t bothered by it. Yearly deer harvests in many of the states that require hunter orange, like Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania exceed several hundred thousand animals a year.

However, even blaze orange won’t help you if you don’t follow the four basic rules of safe hunting:
1) Treat every gun as if it is loaded.
2) Point your gun in a safe direction.
3) Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
4) Be sure of your target and beyond.

Remember, hunting is very safe – but it could be even safer if all hunters wore a hunter orange vest and hat. You don’t want to be the only hunter in the woods without it.Hunt smart, think safety, and good luck.

Hunters Urged to Wear Orange

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:21:27 +0000

Rifle Deer Season Starts Saturday, Nov. 12

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:18:54 +0000

Rifle Deer Season Starts Saturday, Nov. 12

BARRE – Vermont hunters are looking forward to opening day of rifle deer season this Saturday, November 12 -- and with good reason, according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. Vermont has more older, bigger bucks after a regulation was enacted in 2005, protecting many yearling bucks.

Vermont’s traditionally popular 16-day November rifle season begins on Saturday, November 12, and ends Sunday, November 27. One legal buck with at least one antler having two or more points may be taken anywhere in the state.

The antler regulation for a “legal buck” is designed to recruit more older bucks into the population. Hunters may take one buck with at least one antler having two or more points one inch or longer. Spike-antlered deer are protected except during the youth deer weekend. A point must be one inch or longer from base to tip. The main beam counts as a point, regardless of length.

“Vermont’s pre-hunt deer population is estimated at 123,000 this year with the greatest numbers of deer found in the southwest, east-central, and northwestern regions of the state,” said Wildlife Director Mark Scott. “This is about 10 percent fewer deer than last year because of losses during the winter, but it is comfortably within the limits of the deer population goal set in Vermont’s 2010-2020 Big Game Management Plan. Analysis of fawn and buck body weights and reproductive capacity indicates the deer population is in very good condition.”

Planning Your Hunt
The 2010 Vermont Deer Harvest Report, available from the Fish and Wildlife Department’s web site (www.vtfishandwildlife.com ) has a wealth of information to help plan a hunt, including the number of deer taken in each town. Click on “Hunting and Trapping” and “Big Game” to download a copy of the report.

Vermont’s regular hunting licenses, including a November rifle season buck tag and a bear tag, still cost only $22 for residents and $100 for nonresidents. Hunters under 18 years of age get a break at $8 for residents and $25 for nonresidents. Licenses are available on Fish and Wildlife’s web site and from license agents statewide. Contact the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department for more information. Telephone 802-241-3700 or Email fwinformation@state.vt.us.

Rifle Deer Season Starts Saturday, Nov. 12

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:17:39 +0000

DEADLINE FOR WATERSHED GRANTS IS DECEMBER 9

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:15:40 +0000

DEADLINE FOR WATERSHED GRANTS IS DECEMBER 9

WATERBURY, VT - Applications are available for the 2012 Vermont Watershed Grants Program to fund projects that help Vermonters protect, restore and enjoy the state's watersheds. Applications are due to the Vermont Watershed Grants office by Friday, December 9.

"Watershed Grants are available to municipalities, local or regional governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, and citizen groups," said Rick Hopkins of the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (VTDEC). "Watershed Grants can be awarded for many types of watershed projects, including those that protect or restore water quality, shorelines, or fish and wildlife habitats."

“In light of the damage from Tropical Storm Irene, this year we are very interested in projects that implement practical measures or involve education on stream habitat protection, restoration, flood resiliency and related topics," added Hopkins.

Rod Wentworth of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department explained that watershed grants provide a way for local people to make a difference. "This is a great opportunity for sporting clubs or watershed groups to do something to help their local stream or lake, such as planting trees or developing a watershed conservation plan or outreach program," said Wentworth. “Many Vermont rivers sustained a lot of damage as a result of Irene and in some cases the recovery work that followed. The more we can do to spread the word about best practices for flood remediation, the better.”

Vermont Watershed Grants is a joint project of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department and VTDEC. It is funded by Vermont Conservation License Plate sales. The program has funded 292 watershed projects statewide since 1998. This year, $120,000 is available to fund grants up to a maximum possible per grant amount of $15,000.

"When Vermonters purchase a Conservation License Plate they're helping protect clean water as well as conserving wildlife and important habitats for future generations," said Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Patrick Berry. “Proceeds from the sale of Conservation License Plates fund the Watershed Grants program and help support the Fish and Wildlife Department's Nongame Wildlife Fund."

The Watershed Grants application guide and application forms are available on the web at: www.anr.state.vt.us/dec/waterq/lakes/htm/lp_watershedgrants.htm Applications for the Vermont Conservation License Plate are available on the Fish and Wildlife website: www.vtfishandwildlife.com/support_plates.cfm and at offices of the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Tips from Vt F&W for Hunting Mentors

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:13:54 +0000

Tips from Vt F&W for Hunting Mentors

WATERBURY, Vt -- A youngster’s first deer hunt can mark the beginning of a lifelong passion for the outdoors and a commitment to wildlife conservation. To make the most of the upcoming Youth Deer Weekend, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department offers these tips to mentors:

• Hunt Safe. No matter what the age of participants, hunting is one the safest outdoor activities. Youth hunters are some of the safest hunters when accompanied by an alert mentor.
• Hunt Smart. Scouting and range practice are necessary and exciting ingredients to any successful hunt.
• Model Behavior. Safe and responsible hunters are mentored by safe and responsible hunters.
• Go often. Lifelong hunting participation is directly related to the amount of time spent hunting in youth, especially when these experiences occur in a family or mentor setting.
• Respect the Intent: The youth deer weekend hunt on November 5 and 6 is for the youth, not you. Legally, you must leave your firearm at home, and the youth must harvest the animal.

Most Importantly

• Have Fun! Being with family and friends and generally having a good time is more important to youth hunters than bagging game. Don’t push them. Young hunters need positive reinforcement

Vermont Moose Hunters Had a Successful Season

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 12:12:20 +0000

Vermont Moose Hunters Had a Successful Season

WATERBURY, VT – Vermont moose hunters had a successful hunting season according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. A new archery moose hunt was held October 1-7, and the regular moose hunting season was October 15-20.

“A preliminary count shows that by October 25, the department had received official reports of 10 moose being taken by 53 hunters in the archery season, and 231 moose taken by 406 hunters in the regular season,” said Cedric Alexander, Vermont’s moose project leader. A few additional reports are still expected to be sent in from other reporting agents.

“Vermont’s moose population is being managed scientifically, according to a plan developed on sound wildlife biology and input from the public,” said Alexander. “We are pleased that licensed hunters achieved moose harvests very close to expectations for most Wildlife Management Units.”

This was Vermont’s 19th moose hunting season in modern times, the first occurring in 1993 when 30 permits were issued and 25 moose were taken by hunters.

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department reports that 1,008 residents and 450 nonresidents entered Vermont’s 2011 archery moose permit lottery, and an 8,788 residents and 2,614 nonresidents entered the regular moose season lottery.A final report on Vermont’s moose hunting season will be issued in January when all of the 2011 data have been received and reviewed.

Developer explores wind project in Essex County

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:23:50 +0000

Developer explores wind project in Essex County
by Paul Lefebvre

ISLAND POND — A renewable energy company from New Hampshire is the latest developer to proceed with plans to build an industrial wind project in Essex County.

Jack Kensworthy, the head of Eolian Renewable Energy of Portsmouth, said in a recent interview the company is exploring the opportunity of developing a wind farm of up to 25 turbines in the towns of Brighton and Ferdinand.

The development would occur on land owned by logger Dan Ouimette of Colebrook, New Hampshire.

Both he and Mr. Kensworthy appeared before the Brighton selectmen last month to talk over the plan.

According to the minutes of that meeting, the developers are only in the preliminary stages, but have begun environmental and scientific studies
in anticipation of going before the Public Service Board (PSB).

Eolian Renewable is a small company that currently has wind projects on the drawing board in both New Hampshire and Maine. According to the Bangor Daily News, the company has unveiled plans to build a ten-megawatt, $25-million wind project in Frankfort, Maine.

Speaking in a telephone interview, Mr. Kensworthy said it is too early in the planning process to know how much power the Vermont project would generate.

He said the company is at least 18 months away from filing a petition with the PSB to seek a certificate of public good for the project.

Most of the turbines are expected to be located in the town of Ferdinand, one of the members of the Unified Towns and Gores (UTGs). However, Mr. Kensworthy noted that looking east across the lake from downtown Island Pond, the turbines would be visible.

While controversy has dogged the two wind projects in Orleans County, Mr. Kensworthy said that opposition to wind projects is not unique to
Vermont. Nor would it scare him off.

“A well sited, well developed project will be supported,” he said.

Repeated efforts to contact Mr. Ouimette were unsuccessful.

Paul Joseph Leclerc

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:22:45 +0000

Paul Joseph Leclerc, 84, of Island Pond, formerly of North Andover, Massachusetts, died on October 31, 2011, in Newport.

He was born February 28, 1927, in Lowell, Massachusetts, a son of Arthur and Bertha (Auger) Leclerc. He married Beverly Jerdrone, in 1956, who survives him. He was a veteran of World War II and a graduate of a Lowell trade school. He was employed by General Electric for 24 years as a Heliarc welder. He enjoyed singing in choirs and was a member of the Lowell Opera Company for many years. He loved sailing with his 25-foot sailboat, camping with his family and building model airplanes.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Leclerc, of Island Pond; by his children: Richard Paul Leclerc and his wife, Donna, of Methuen, Massachusetts, Robert Charles Leclerc of Salem, New Hampshire, Paula Marie Coates and her husband, William, of Island Pond, and Carol Ann Leclerc of Island Pond; by his grandchildren: Damian, Derek, Matthew, Benjamin, Catherine, Andrew, Callen and Joshua; by his two great-grandchildren: Zachary and Alea; by his brother Joseph Leclerc and his wife, Anne, of Connecticut; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sisters: Annette Chaput and Lucille Aubin.

Funeral services were held on November 4 in Island Pond. Interment followed in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Division Inc., 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britchconverse-rushford.com.

Tiffany M. Wight

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:15:19 +0000

Tiffany M. Wight, 22, of Island Pond died suddenly on October 31, 2011, in Island Pond.

She was born November 28, 1988, in St. Johnsbury, a daughter of Anthony Wight and Elaine (Hinton) Wight.

Ms. Wight was a very devoted mother to her two babies. She enjoyed reading to them and taking them with her brother Kamren to the park to play.

She is survived by her children: Chase and Owen of Island Pond; her mother, Elaine Wight, of Island Pond; her father, Anthony Wight, of Enfield, New Hampshire; her fiancé, Troy Sheltra of Island Pond; her grandmother, Roberta Hinton of St. Johnsbury; her brothers: T.J. Wight of Buckfield, Maine, Brandon Wight of Buckfield, Nathan Wight of Enfield Center, New Hampshire, Justin Barlow of Island Pond, and Kamren Hinton of Island Pond; her sisters: Misty Wight of Nashua, New Hampshire, Amanda Wight of Island Pond, and Joshlynne Barlow of Island Pond; by her stepfather, George Barlow III, of St. Johnsbury; by her stepmother, Lori Burbank, of Maine; her step-grandfather, Bill Barlow Sr., of Island Pond; Mr. Sheltra’s mother, Ellen Sheltra, who treated her like a daughter; Mr. Sheltra’s grandparents, Frances and Donald Sheltra of Maine; and by several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her grandmother, Barbara Butterfield. Funeral services were held on November 4 in Island Pond.

Interment will be at a later date in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Owen and Chase Trust Fund, in care of Passumpsic Savings Bank, 1 Gardner Street, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britchconverse-rushford.com.