9/14/25

Writing on Sunday evening when the dark clouds did not deliver any rain. Mid-afternoon there were a few drops on my windshield, but it was just a tease. While watering my pepper plants a toad appeared, apparently wanting to be sprayed. The weather forecast keeps pushing rain far into the future. Burning seems out of the question these days.

I attended the 9/8 Select Board meeting, then the public meeting to review and approve the pre-grant application for $250,000 for further study of Money Brook. Folks might want to watch the recorded account or at least look at the minutes on the website. At this point, the town is not committed to putting forth any funding since this is only a study.

I have exciting news about the opening of Jen’s Kitchen immediately to left of the former Tyson Store on Rte 100. Work has been ongoing on the adorable little shack with tables outside. I stopped and met Jen and Robin and even sampled some delicious pea soup. In additions to burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads, Jen is making use of her Italian heritage with offerings such as baked ziti, meatballs, and mac and cheese. The plan is to be open daily from 11:30 to 3:30, although they hope to remain open later on Fridays.

The much anticipated annual Bethany Birches Camp Auction will be taking place on Sat, 9/27. You can find all the details on-line, but the fun includes absentee bidding (closes Fri, 9/26), breakfast at 9 AM, including a preview, then at 10 the live auction begins! Children’s activities by staff will be available. At the conclusion of the auction, lunch will be provided by Granite Air Center and Jesse’s BBQ. The funds that are raised make assistance available for campers so all can attend. In addition to the auction items, there are craft items to purchase. You can also enjoy time afterward to enjoy this beautiful space and chat with your friends.

Nobody wants to contemplate another flood disaster or even a severe snow storm in our area, but this program at Fletcher Memorial Library called, Be Ready Before Disaster Strikes! seems prudent. The Upper Valley Medical Reserve Corps will be at FML on Monday, 9/29 at 5:30 pm for a free Personal Preparedness Planning presentation. Learn how to: ✔ Build a go-bag for your household (pets included!)
✔ Create evacuation and shelter-in-place plans
✔ Stay connected with loved ones during an emergency
✔ Access tools and resources like VT-ALERT & CARE

On 9/30, 2025 from 6 – 8pm at FLM there will be a discussion regarding the changes to the Current Use Forest Standards for landowners in the program. It will focus on discussing the standards, how and why they are changing, what it means for landowners, and will also provide opportunities for input, questions and answers. Registration for this program is required. Interested participants can register via email- keith.thompson@vermont.gov.

Although the Echo Lake Inn is usually busy with weddings on most weekends, don’t forget the mid-weeks specials Tues – Thurs. They will, however, be open for dinner on Sunday 10/12, also offering dinners Tues – Thurs that week before taking a much needed break. The plan is to re-open again the Wed before Thanksgiving.