7/21/25

If you like hot weather, it is here! The humidity/dew point has been high, but the wind has made it mostly bearable. My gardens are crying out for a lengthy gentle rain and I would add, preferably overnight. We are definitely fortunate to have so many lakes and other places for a cooling swim.

On Friday, 7/25 at 1 PM Vermont author Jo Knowles, writer of several middles grade novels as well as picture books, will be at Fletcher Memorial Library to share her experiences as an author and love of literacy. Participants will be able to choose 2 free books, too! Also, please remember that books in good condition are being collected at FML for the fundraiser book sale on 8/15 – 16

I just learned about a delightful activity taking place at Camp Plymouth State Park on Sunday, 7/27 starting at 8:30 AM. It is a fundraiser for the Okemo Mountain School to help provide scholarships for local student athletes and features bike rides of 9, 32 or 45 miles. The entrance fee of $65 (adult) and $35 (youth) includes day use of the park, lunch and a beverage. Register and learn more at OKEMOMOUNTAINSCHOOL.ORG. Of course, the park is a terrific place for everyone to enjoy picnicking, boating and swimming and is open from 10 AM until dusk.

Amid the turmoil of our times,, a number of people will become US citizens on Thursday, 7/31 at 11 AM at the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Museum right here in Plymouth. The oath will be administered by U.S. District Court judge Mary Kay Lanthier. Tami Bowen, Office Administrator & Executive Assistant sent me this announcement: Come help us honor President Coolidge’s commitment to the principle that “Divine Providence has not bestowed upon any race a monopoly of patriotism and character.” Please join us for a cookie and lemonade reception immediately following the ceremony, hosted by the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation and the National Society of Colonial Dames of America in the State of Vermont.

Condolences to Randy’s family. Tyson, VT – Randall Lee Shimp, 73, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, at his home.Randy was born on January 19, 1952, in Lewistown, PA, a son of Robert R. and Elizabeth L. (Shenk) Shimp. He graduated from Mifflin County High School in 1969 and later attended Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, WV, where he met, Janet A. Bieling. They were married on October 14, 1973, in Centerville, PA. The couple settled in West Windsor, VT, where they started their family, later moving into the home he built in Tyson VT.

Randy worked in concrete starting in High School and later in construction management for many years, overseeing projects across Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Utah. Most recently, he was employed by the Town of Cavendish in the Water Department, retiring in September of 2023.He was a proud member and past Worshipful Master of Black River Lafayette Lodge #85 F&AM in Ludlow, VT. In his younger years, Randy was an avid soccer player and skier. He spent over 15 years teaching skiing at Killington. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, and most of all, tinkering, fixing, and building things—activities that brought him great joy. He was always up to tinker with his grandchildren and teach them his skills.

He is survived by his partner, Janet A. Shimp of Tyson; two daughters, Erin L. Shimp of Rutland and Jaclyn A. Olmstead (Richard G, III) of Ludlow; four grandchildren, Eliza R. Bridge, Richard G. Olmstead IV, Finnlee R. Olmstead, and Shannon L. Olmstead; four siblings, William Shimp, James Shimp, Betsy Olsen, and Barb Barton, all of Lewistown, PA; as well as many loving nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. A Masonic memorial service will be held Sunday, August 3rd, at his home.