By Lani Duke
Can lightning strike twice in the same place?
PAWLET—Lightning struck an ash tree near the Mach General Store building and then rode the steel girders supporting the store over the Flower Brook gorge, to the propane line leading into the building and to the gas rage in DeAnna Mach’s apartment, causing a fire that made $100,000 in damage to the dwelling. Thanks to the Pawlet Fire Department and prompt action from Conrad Grillo, the propane tank and nearby vehicles were spared, as was Mach’s yellow Labrador retriever. Assistance was rendered by the fire departments of West Pawlet, Rupert, Wells, Dorset, and Danby, as well as Granville, N.Y. The building, where renovations are underway to install a new general store, restaurant and brewery, received no structural damage.
Something missing?
FAIR HAVEN—Fair Haven’s recreation committee seems to be missing. Apparently, it has not been meeting. The committee has given no input on the current year’s budget. Its planned fall soccer and winter basketball clinics did not materialize. Town office staff have tried to contact individuals on its roster without success. The Select Board has sent a letter to committee chair Brad Kendall, inviting the committee to a June Select Board meeting in hopes of reviving the group and figuring out short- and long-term recreation needs. At least some members of the existing rec committee are hoping that the call to action will help them get going again. So may the addition of two new, recently appointed members. Now is a good time for civic-mind recreation enthusiasts to get involved with the committee. Not all recreation in the town has evaporated. For the present, softball and baseball activities are being contracted out, and a paid staffer runs a summer rec program.
‘Tis the season to go to the beach
CASTLETON—Castleton recreation often seems to center on Crystal Beach, now open from 10 a.m. to dusk. Not all activities are on or in the water. The area boasts volleyball, bocce, and basketball courts. There are swings and a climbing structure. Picnic areas have charcoal grills. Need structured activity for children? Check out swim lessons, adventure camp and eco-exploration camp, plus soccer and art programs.
Route 30 detour is announced
CASTLETON—VTrans is closing a stretch of Route 30 south of Castleton Corners for almost the entire month of July, beginning after the Independence Day weekend, to replace the railroad bridge. Traffic will detour to Blissville or Sand Hill road.
