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11/8/26

Well, the weather has certainly shifted. Those warm sunny days were wonderful while they lasted – right into the beginning of November! Rifle season for white-tailed deer runs from 11/14 through 11/29. Of course that means the Bridgewater Grange will be having their amazing turkey supper on Sat, 11/14. Takeout dinners may be ordered until Friday by calling ‭(802) 672-3790‬. They need to be picked up between 4:30 and 5 PM. Those eating at the Grange will not be seated until 5:30.

If you are still craving more turkey, don’t forget the turkey dinner at the Plymouth town building on Saturday, 11/21 from 5 to 7 PM. Please call ‭(802) 500-1815‬ to make a reservation, so they can plan properly. According to Beth, meals can be delivered, too.

Tyson Ladies Aid held their regular monthly meeting last week with a delicious turkey dinner prepared by the members. Many boxes of tissues were collected for Gill Home residents and pantry staples for Black River Good Neighbor Services food shelf.

The 11/9 book discussion of Weyward by Emilia Hart will take place at 6 PM at Fletcher Memorial Library. It follows the live of three women of different centuries and the twists and turns that help and hinder them. Consider joining the Community Storytelling time at FML on 11/19 at 6 PM. Samara Anderson is hosting the event and will be encouraging participants to explore the art of storytelling and to share their creativity.

“A fallen leaf is nothing more than a Summer’s wave goodbye.” – Unknown

Letter from the Black River Academy Museum and Historical Society: Please join us for our Annual Dinner Meeting on Thursday, 1119/26 at 6:00 PM at the Catholic Church Parish Hall, 7 Depot St, Ludlow. It will be a Heritage Potluck. Our town was built on the traditions, hard work, and incredible flavors of the early immigrants who settled here long ago. This year, we are celebrating our Finnish, Polish, and Italian roots, so please bring a favorite family recipe or a dish inspired by these cultures to share!
Polish ideas: Pierogies, kielbasa, golumpki (cabbage rolls), or makowiec
Italian ideas: Traditional pasta dishes, focaccia, caprese salad, or cannoli.
Finnish ideas: Pulla (cardamom bread), Karelian pies, hearty root veggie casserole.
Our guest speaker will be Phillip Gatenby, a passionate historian and researcher who has personally visited and recorded 100 of Vermont’s historic covered bridges. Phill will take us on a visual and historical journey across the state, sharing the unique stories, architecture, and engineering marvels of these iconic landmarks.

We do hope you can attend – those of you who are already members and those who might like to join us for this fun and educational evening and wonderful food. Certainly, if you are not able to cook or bake a cultural dish, please bring a salad or dessert to share! Any questions please contact Sharon Bixby at seb1@tds.net or call her at work 228-8823.

11/1/26

A new month and a return to Standard Time all happened this Sunday. Since we did the usual “Fall Back”, both the sunrises and sunsets will be earlier. Controversy continues about the pros and cons of the current system. The Sunshine Protection Act of 2025 easily passed the U.S. House of Representatives with a 308–117 bipartisan vote, but it has been stalled in the Senate ever since!

The sunshine continues to be bright and beautiful, but the temps have dipped considerably. Again this year, planning your yearly Halloween costume presents a conundrum for warmth and comfort when moving from indoors to outdoors. There was a delightful article in the 10/31 VT Digger entitled Pranks, parties and prognostication: The history of Halloween in Vermont. This story by Kyle Neece was first published by Community News Service, a University of Vermont journalism internship, on 10/29/26 utilizing information from a recently published paper by the Vermont Historical Society that chronicles the history of the holiday from the 1870 to1940.

Please note that there is a Select Board meeting at 6 PM on 11/2. The agenda is on the town website. Also, don’t forget to set up an appt for re-appraisal at 802-500-1815, Ext. 3 or email assessorasst@plymouthvt.org
Some call this time of year “Stick Season”, although there are still some leaves on the trees at the moment. Many places, such as the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site and our two State Parks – Camp Plymouth and Coolidge State Park are closed for the season. Did you know that State Rep, John Murphy Sr was instrumental in saving the former Boy Scout property from going to private developers when it was offered for sale in 1984. Enlisting the assistance of the Ottauquechee Land Trust, the property was conveyed to the State of Vermont and opened to the public in 1989, so now we can all enjoy it. Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are winter pastimes there, but the trails can be explored for free when the park is closed for the season.

Just a heads-up about the free turkey dinner at the town building on Saturday, 11/21 from 5 to 7 PM. In addition to great food provided by Black River Good Neighbor Services and Plymouth Community Connectors, we are hoping to provide interesting information about the Plymouth Historical Society so folks can learn more about our fascinating town! Be sure to make a reservation.
When you stop at Fletcher Memorial Library for a piece of cake on 11/6 from 2 to 4 PM to celebrate the 125 years of continuous service, pick up a copy of the next book discussion selection, Weyward by Emilia Hart. Then be ready to join the group on Monday, 11/9 at 6 PM to talk about how this novel reflects on female resilience.

10/26/26

This weather has been truly amazing – cold overnight, but warming up during the day with bright blue skies and radiant sunshine. Some pockets still have beautiful leaves and present a honey-colored glow. I hope that everyone has been able to be outdoors to enjoy it!

I have been given a window feeder for meal worms, which is attracting chickadees and other small birds without attracting bears. It is important to remember that bears are packing on the pounds for their long winter sleep, so we still need to aware of attracting them to our homes. Feeding them can contribute to the nuisance bear problem. 

I had a nice conversation with Joshua Morse from VT Fish and Wildlife, who noted that figures for this year’s bear harvest are not available yet, since the season does not end until 11/22. The figures for the last 2 years have been – over 1000 bears. Our bear population is quite high, estimated at over 8,000, so that it is important to keep the number a bit lower to make sure there is enough food and viable space. He noted that the acorn and beechnut crop has been lower this year, forcing bears to venture beyond their unusual neighborhoods in search of food.

The Plymouth Reading group met last week to discuss The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig. It centered upon a small rural school and the surrounding community. Naturally it generated interesting conversation about the pros and cons of small schools and the consolidation controversy in our state today. We also chose the next three books:

December 9 – The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

January 13 – Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

February 17 – Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

I do want to mention that a number of our youngsters are shining in their pursuits. Jackson Fellow and Bea Hagge are setting records with mountain bike racing. It was a delight to see her energy, enthusiasm and confidence as Josie Flaster performed in the latest school play. I know there are many others who deserve mention, so please let know at tmmarrone@tds.net

The Fletcher Memorial Library is celebrating 125 years of Continuous Service 11/1/1901-11/1/2026. The Friends of the Library invite folks to enjoy a piece of cake on 11/6 from 2 to 4 PM and learn more about the amazing history. Also, coming up on 10/27 at 2 PM, consider learning more about Estate Planning Resources at the SENIOR PLANET presentation with BRGNS and FMS staff.

Friends and I participated in an interesting workshop this past weekend at Mission Farm. It was called Plant to Plate with Chef Charlotte Galley. She made use of local wild foods to make bread, fruit leather and kombucha, utilizing acorns and a delightful berry called autumn olive.

10/19/26

The winds and the rains have buffeted the area, but there are still some leaves and amazing pockets of color. Often in the fall, we seem to lose folks and this year is no exception. Shirley Billings, Jan Blanchard, and Richard North have all passed on and will be greatly missed. Shirley and Richard were both at the Jack Byrne Palliative Care facility. This is an amazing place with wonderful caring staff. Stuffed animals are always being sought to bring comfort to patients and young visitors. See their website for ways to help support this important place. Jan’s memorial service will be at the Union Christian Church at 1 PM on Thurs, 10/29.

Don’t forget the Trunk of Treat event taking place at the Plymouth Town Building from 4 – 6 PM on Sat, 10/24. Burgers and hot dogs will be serve, plus crafts, pumpkin decorating, and a haunted house. Then if that isn’t enough, Benson’s Chevrolet on Pond St in Ludlow will have their annual Trunk or Treat from 4 – 6 on Sat, 10/31.

So many wonderful program happening at Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow – check out the website. Also, the fundraising calendars of Ludlow are going fast, with nearly half of the stock already sold. Stop at library to see what’s going on and pick up one!

Bob Lambert delivering pumpkins to the Hagge family

10/11/26

The foliage has been spectacular this year and even with the red leaves fading and falling, the golden aura is gorgeous. The number of folks who have come to VT for this Holiday weekend has been mind-boggling. I was attempting to get to the last outdoor Ludlow Farmers Market on Sunday around noon. The traffic along Rte 103 was backed up past the entrance to Okemo, so I finally parked near the Fire Station and walked into town!

I noticed that the minutes to Select Board meeting are posted on the Town website. Bob Thompson from USDA talked about Money Brook and its erosion for the last decade. Apparently he gave attendees a handout and I am wondering if there are any remaining at the Town Clerk’s office. From the minutes it appears that the next phase is the Environmental Assessment, paid for by NRCS, which will give four or five alternatives. NRCS also pays for engineering and design, so at this point there is no cost to the town.

Tyson Ladies Aid met on 10/8, a week later than our usual 1st Thursday of the month. Plans were made for a traditional Thanksgiving meal for the 11/5 meeting when tissues are collected for Gill Home residents and non-perishable food for Black River Good Neighbor Services. Also Tyson Library is closing for the season.

Recently several of us from the neighborhood gathered at the Echo Lake Inn for dinner to bid a tearful farewell to Sherrie and Bill Kelley. Not only will they be missed, but also their huge, frisky dog, Mosher as well. We were also joined by new residents, Sarah and David Hendricks. Please note that the Echo Lake Inn will be taking a break after dinner on the 15th.

Friends of Fletcher Memorial Library are excited that the new 2027 calendar with photos of Ludlow is hot off the press! These pictures, by amateurs, are truly amazing and have helped with fundraising efforts. A number were sold at the Farmers Market, but you still have time to grab one. In collaboration with Divided Sky Foundation and the Book Nook, FML is helping to sponsor the discussion of Sober Mom by Elizabeth Jannuzzi at 6 PM on 10/14 at the Ludlow Town Hall auditorium. Also coming up on 10/27 at 2 PM, consider learning more about Estate Planning Resources at the SENIOR PLANET presentation with BRGNS and FMS staff.

10/4026

The trees have really burst into color this week. It actually saddens me to see the way those beautiful leaves are fluttering to the ground so quickly. I fear that in our immediate vicinity there will be none of this spectacular show left for visitors over the Holiday weekend.

I understand that there was a moose in the neighborhood, but unfortunately I missed it! Years ago when I worked in Windsor and traveled the Tyson/Reading Rd regularly, I would often see these amazing creatures and needed to be carefully when coming home in the dark.

Trivia: To show respect for the presidency, what did Coolidge require his two sons to wear to dinner most evenings in the White House?

Please note there will be a Select Board meeting at 6 PM on Monday 10/5. The agenda is on the website. One item is the appointment of a new road commissioner.

I have been listening to the book Sober Mom by Elizabeth Jannuzzi and finding it quite enlightening. The discussion at the free community author event at 6 PM on Wednesday, 10/14 at the Ludlow Town Hall auditorium should be very interesting. A collaborative effort of Divided Sky Foundation, Fletcher Memorial Library and the Book Nook, it will be moderated by Melanie Gulde of the Divided Sky.  All are welcome.

The answer: Tuxedos.

9/27/26

The weather was still lovely on Sat morning, but the inclement weather started to make an appearance by late morning. It was nice that it held off for the Bethany Birches Camp auction. The leaves were beginning to pop on the way up Lynds Hill and even in the rain on Sunday there was nice color heading into Bridgewater.

I guess it is past time to take down my hummingbird feeders. I viewed a few travelers the beginning of last week, but I imagine they are all on their way south by now. It is amazing not to frost at my house to date. My cosmos are bobbing in the gusty wind.

Folks have likely received that letter about the change of dispatch services from Ludlow Police Department to the Southwestern New Hampshire District Fire Mutual Aid System. Calling 911 is still the protocol. Please note that Deborah Pelkey is available at the Assessor’s office on Tuesdays 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM or Thursdays 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM or by appt (802-500-1815, Ext 3)

The Plymouth Reading group met on 9/23 to talk about Finding Freedom in the Lost Kitchen by Erin French. Her restaurant is still in operation in Freedom, ME, but dinner reservations are through a lottery system and the meals are rather pricey. It was nice to welcome Maureen McManus to the group! The next meeting is 10/21 to discuss The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig.

The growing season is winding down and Fletcher Memorial Library is accepting seed donations for the seed library. Also many interesting activities and programs are taking place. Besides Tuesday mornings Mahjong at 11, there is the writers group the 1st and 3rd Monday with Cathy Martin from 3 – 6:30. Check out the website for the wonderful children’s programs, too. Of special note is the Senior Planet program, Intro to Estate Planning with resources and tools that will take place on Tues, 10/27 at 2 PM.

I learned that Camp Plymouth State Park is still open until 10/11 with limited staff. The QR code is noted as you drive in the gate, since admission is still being charged. Boat rentals and the concession have closed for the season, however. Don’t forget the Fall Festival at the Calvin Coolidge Homestead on 10/3 from 10:00 to 4:00.

9/21/26

Some lovely weather lately, but rain seems to want to take over on Sundays. The leaves are filling my driveway and I need to keep my garage door closed to keep them from drifting in. Turkeys seem to be on the move in both small and large groups, so care is needed when traveling our roads.

Fall events are taking place, but the most crucial one for our town seems to be the 9/22 meeting regarding reappraisal. It is scheduled for 6 PM and I understand that Zoom will be available. The copy of the reappraisal info that I received and sent last week did not translate well. You can find details on the town website under Assessors.

The Plymouth Reading Group will be gathering on Wed, 9/23 at 6:30 to discus Finding Freedom in the Lost Kitchen by Erin French. It is a narrative of Erin’s struggles.
Please note the annual Bethany Birches Camp Auction is taking place this coming weekend, 9/26 although on-line bidding is already underway. Funds that are raised help to provide scholarships so this wonderful camping experience can be enjoyed by many. You can find all the important details on their website: bethanybirches.org.

Day’s Schedule:
9 am – Fresh made donuts, coffee and breakfast (Free!)
9 am – 10am – Viewing time. Stroll the tables and view the items for sale, while you reconnect and meet the rest of the BBC Community
9:50 – Children’s programming begins (at the bell). BBC Staff will lead activities for your children during the auction including crafts, critter catching, and the playground.
10 am – The auction begins! Bid or just watch & listen to the talented and humorous auctioneer.
12 pm – The auction wraps up. BBC will provide lunch for everyone (Granite Air Center and Jesse’s BBQ and staff and volunteers) to sit, talk and enjoy being together in a lovely place
Dessert
Post Lunch Fellowship and activities – enjoy spending time with one another. For the kids there will be tractor drawn hay rides, lawn games, gaga, among other things. You are welcome to explore camp and even hike to the treehouses.

Get ready for the Fall Festival at the Calvin Coolidge Homestead on 10/3 from 10:00 to 4:00. Enjoy wagon rides with Farmer Fred, heritage apple tasting, and cider pressing demonstrations. Historian and author Diana Carlin will give a presentation about “250 years of First Ladies.” All activities are included in a general admission ticket to the museum. As part of their annual fundraising, the Plymouth Fire Department will be having their Chicken BBQ at the Site starting at noon.

Also of interest, the Plymouth Planning Commission will be hosting a public forum to introduce the town plan update to residents on Tuesday, 10/6 at 6:00 PM. They have also put together a survey with questions focused on the Town Plan update. You can participate in the survey by going to https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/Y3nRGrGYhU

SEASONS

Summer turning into fall
Subtle changes in the air
Birds in flight, Flowers fading,
Leaves changing – time to prepare

Like years past in early September
New beginning of the school year
An inner yearning to learn & prosper
Confronting challenges – negating fear

Do the years really bring wisdom?
Life lessons learned along the way
So many seasons I have seen
As the years have slipped away

Snow and cold soon approaching
Winter in my countenance, too
With open arms & hopeful purpose
into the future, all things new

MM

Public Notice:

In an effort to keep our community safe in the event of an emergency, the Plymouth Volunteer Fire Department is leading a mutual aid exercise in conjunction with the Ludlow, Bridgewater, Killington, Proctorsville, Reading, Woodstock, and Pomfret Fire Departments.

Please be advised that this regional training exercise will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

Time: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Location: The Rt 100 / Billings Road area, specifically in and around the Hawk Inn & Restaurant parking lot areas.

Residents will see an unusual amount of emergency vehicles, lights, and personnel from multiple surrounding towns. This is a controlled training exercise, NOT an active emergency.

What to Expect:

A large presence of fire trucks and emergency vehicles on Rt 100 and Billings Road.

Increased use flashing lights.

Firefighters staging and operating in the Hawk Inn & Restaurant parking areas.

Safety Reminders:

Please drive slowly and use extreme caution if traveling through the Rt 100 / Billings Road intersection as there will be hose line laid on Billings Road.

For your safety and the safety of our crews, please do not stop to watch or block staging areas.

We thank our neighbors for their cooperation and support as we train alongside our mutual aid partners to keep our communities safe!

Questions? Contact : https://www.plymouthvt.org/fire-department/ 802-500-1816. Fire Department & First Response Team – Town of Plymouth, Vermont.