Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/25/21

Although a bit late this autumn, the first frost of the season has arrived.  A brisk morning (Sunday), but the sunshine was bright and beautiful.  I am not quite finished with outdoor projects, but I did manage to pull in plants that would have been in jeopardy.  

I noticed that last week’s VT Standard contained articles listing the availability of help with heating costs such as https://www.uppervalleywoodbank.com and Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA) (802) 722-4575 or 1-800-464-9951. Fuel prices are escalating and I was annoyed with myself for waiting to have my tanks filled.

Youth Hunting Weekend was this past Saturday and Sunday and by mid-afternoon Tyson Store had 9 deer registered, although Tina felt there might be more before the day ends.  My grandsons, Owen and Landon were both part of that count, with Landon getting his very first deer on Sunday.  Congratulations to all who participated.

Traveling on Rte 100A this week was delightful with the new pavement.  The news on Rte 100 is disconcerting, however.  I am noting a statement from the Select Board: “The Plymouth SB met with Kristin Higgins from the Structures Division at the Agency of Transportation or AOT. We were informed that the road will remain closed until November 27th due to contractor delays.”

“The Select Board inquired about legal action, additional help, or anything else that might move the project along.  AOT has advised that they are pressing the contractor and providing support however, there is no immediate solution. AOT did contact the Department of Forest Parks and Recreation (FPR) to request that the CCC road to Shrewsbury remain open.  FPR advised that they would honor that request as long as the weather cooperates and the road is passable.” 

Don’t forget that the new dates for the special town meeting are:  Monday night 12/6 at 7 PM for the informational meeting, then voting will take place on Tuesday 12/7 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.  Some information on the Short Term Rental proposal and the repairs to the Town Building can be found on the Town website.  I understand that there will be no need for new taxes or a bond issue in order to accomplish the needed upgrades and renovations.