Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

9/11/22

I am writing this on 9/11 and it brings back memories of that fateful day. The events don’t fade with time because it seems so inconceivable that such a horrendous atrocity could take place on our shores. This seems like a time to recall those who lost their lives, but also to note with gratitude the selfless assistance offered by so many.

I hope that everyone had an opportunity to view that amazing moon the other night. Although the full moon was actually on Saturday, it was Friday evening that my friend Betty and I saw it. The pictures we took could never compare with the huge orange globe that appeared in the sky. To add to the splendor, an owl flew beside the car in such close proximity, that it startled us. The wonders of nature!

Yet, we need to respect the creatures around us and to be aware of possible dangers. Bears live among us, so a healthy distance should be observed. I usually beep my horn as I drive up my driveway at night, to allow both of us a chance to avoid each other. Neighbors related a scary encounter with a rabid skunk that attempted to attack them in their yard. No injury resulted and the poor sick animal was eventually shot.

I haven’t seen the minutes from the 9/6 Select Board meeting, but the agenda listed discussion of the recent sale of the Plymouth Store in the Union area of town and discussion of the request by the Salt Ash Inn to conduct retail sales of cannabis. I would imagine there will much future discussion and permits needed on both of these items. Perhaps the VT Journal will do a synopsis of the meeting as they have done in the past.

The reading group will meet via Zoom on 9/14 to discuss The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak. I liked it, although it was a bit different to see events through the eyes of the various characters, including the perspective of a fig tree. It should be a lively discussion!

Although the Plymouth Farmers Market is winding down, you can start getting ready for the 6th Annual Plymouth Town Tag Sale on Sunday, 10/9 at the Plymouth Community Center from 9AM until 6PM. Residents (and friends of residents!) are invited to participate as vendors and the fee of $5 will be subtracted from your total sales. Contact Lauren Skaskiw, Community Center Director at 802 417 6895 for more details.

All items need to be marked with secure tags that note your initials and the price. Tables and floor space are available on a first-come, first-served basis and you can bring your treasures and set up on Wed 19/5 from 4:30-6:30PMand Sat 10/8 from 10:00AM-2:00PM. Volunteers are needed to handle the sales, 2 each for the following shifts: 9-12AM, noon-3PM, and 3-6PM. If you are not selling, consider coming out to peruse the offerings!

I understand that on 9/17 from 1 to 4 PM, Farm & Wilderness will be exploring common aquatic plants found in Woodward Reservoir, followed by an optional paddle on the lake. This event is free and open to folks of all ages, but those under the age of 18 must have an adult with them. Light refreshments are available during the events and participants are encouraged to bring their own water and snacks for the afternoon. For more Information and to register go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/402632965037.