State Grant to Study Sediment Loading in the Upper Black River

Posted on 03/08/2013 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Focus is on Patch, Buffalo and Money Brooks in Plymouth, VT

The Lake Rescue Association is very pleased to announce a grant from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation to study causes for the large amounts of sediment deposited in four lakes on the upper Black River. While Tropical Storm Irene is the most recent example, many earlier storms resulted in similar damage. The $41,510 grant will be used to extend previous studies of Buffalo and Patch Brooks. Money Brook will be studied for the first time. The combined amounts of sediment from these sources cause extensive damage and expense to both private and public property. They also negatively impact water quality and fish habitat.

Kristen Underwood of South Mountain Research conducted the earlier geomorphic studies of Buffalo and Patch brooks. She and George Springston of the Norwich University Geology Department have been retained for the current study. A steering committee of town officials and citizens will be formed to monitor and assist in the project. Marie Levesque Caduto, Watershed Coordinator for the Department of Environmental Conservation will also serve on the steering committee. Completion will be in mid-2014.

The Lake Rescue Association (LRA) is a not for profit foundation of property owners on Lake Rescue and Lake Pauline. LRA president Marty Fino said: “We are very interested in addressing the upstream causes of sediment. We are delighted to be working with officials and property owners from both Ludlow and Plymouth where damage is equal to or greater than ours.” Fino noted that this grant builds on earlier work also funded through LRA.

Contact Information: Charlie Robinson, 802 989 7079

Posted in Community News | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 03/08/2013 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

3/4/13

Tyson Ladies Aid will having its regular monthly meeting on Thurs 3/7 at 11:30 downstairs in Tyson Church. Plans will be discussed for the Easter plants that will be distributed, as well as the Good Friday Bake Sale to be held at Shaws in Ludlow on 3/29. We always enjoy having new members!

I noticed that the Town Meeting warning was printed in the VT Journal this week, which is helpful. Also listed was the new hours for the Clerk’s office – Mon – Fri 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 9:00 until noon.

Well, I have no other news to report, but I just couldn’t resist including this happy picture of Josie Flaster. I hope that this type of cheerfulness pervades the Town Meeting on Mon night!
JosieSmiles_022013

Posted in Community News | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Plymouth Votes Yes on Budget This Year

Posted on 03/06/2013 by The Plymouth Press

From Jen Flaster, Plymouth Press Editor

Voters approved the town budget on the first vote at Town Meeting on Monday night, following an enlightening presentation by selectboard member Russ Tonkin. Tonkin walked those present through the year-to-year budget changes and major budget areas, giving a welcome explanation on the town’s financial position.

One amendment to the budget was adopted before the budget passed easily. Those present agreed to reduce the budget by the $65,000 slated for the Windsor County Sheriff patrols. Residents raised issues with the town’s need for the patrols. Some cited incidents in which the sheriffs did not provide assistance to residents when asked, while on patrol in Plymouth. The Winsdor County Sheriff’s Office does not typically provide assistance in Plymouth, unless an officer is on duty in town. Others just didn’t feel their presence helped the town or its residents and that we might be better served by electronic speed limit signs placed strategically. The income generated from their presence varies from year to year, but in the last year, their patrols generated roughly $11,000.

The other articles on the agenda all passed. These included allocating $10,032.50 for Human Services and $10,000 to retain a qualified person to promote and coordinate community activities at the Plymouth Elementary school property. The latter article passed by just one vote.

Voters also eliminated the office of auditor. Past auditors spoke up on behalf of the article to say that the town finances have become more complex and the budget so large, that we would be better off with a professional auditor. The town will now contract with a public accountant in accordance with the Vermont State Statute 17 VSA 2651b.

Elections were held by Australian ballot on Tuesday. Most positions were not contested, however a few positions had no candidates, so write-ins were offered. The results for the elections were:

Moderator: Thomas W. Harris
Selectperson: Ralph J. Michael
Lister: Tom Marrone
Auditor: (no candidate running) Office eliminated by voters
Trustee of Public Funds: Bobbi Jean Lambert-Lynds (by write-in)
School District Clerk: Barbara L. Rabtoy
School Director: Jim Reiger
Del. Tax Collector: Kathleen Billings
Grand Juror: Joseph Rebideau
Town Agent: Joseph Rebideau
Cemetery Commissioner: (no candidate running) No write-in candidate received 1% of the vote, the state threshold for write-ins.
School Director: (no candidate running) No write-in candidate received 1% of the vote, the state threshold for write-ins.
School Moderator: Thomas W. Harris

Posted in Town Meeting | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 02/28/2013 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

2/25/13

Some news on our young people! Congratulations to Sage Allen who made the 8th grade honor roll at Black River. Also, Holli Olsen placed 6th in the Slalom & 16 in the GS, as Woodstock competed at Burr & Burton recently as District Runners up. She is looking forward to competing in the States on 3/4 at Stowe. Stewart Olsen is half way through a 3 month program at Killington Mountain School, where he competes on the Freestyle A Team. Christy Harris is part of the Nordic ski team. We certainly do have some academically talented students & good athletes in our area. There are probably others that could be included if you let me know

For those who pursue a different kind of sport, State law requires that shanties be removed from the ice before it becomes unstable or no later than March 31. Guess folks don’t want to take a chance – the fine for leaving an ice-fishing shanty on the ice can be as high as $1,000.

Work continued at the recent Historical Society meeting on programming for the upcoming year, with a lecture scheduled by Bill Hoyt on Gold Mining in Plymouth, which will take place on April 7th at the town hall. Painting will soon begin at the school to refurbish their new space. In addition they are attempting to correct some errors in the Plymouth Album in anticipation of a reprint or at least an addendum. Anyone that has read the book and knows of errors should contact Barb Lurie. Work is continuing to compile stories, photos and videos of TS Irene as they related to Plymouth. Anyone who has not already given copies are encouraged to do so.

Ready for some family fun in our wonderful outdoors? Church of our Saviour is having a free family snowshoe for all ages on trails surrounding the church on Sunday 3/3 from 1-3 PM (alternate date, March 4th if there is inclement weather). Equipment will be provided if needed. Gentle sledding will also be available with refreshments by the fire in the guest house afterwards. Contact Betsy Tonkin for more information (672-3179).

Posted in Community News, Events, Plymouth People | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Reminder: Free Guided Snowshoe Tours on March 3

Posted on 02/28/2013 by The Plymouth Press

From Betsy Tonkin

On Sunday, March 3rd, from 1-3 PM, Church of our Saviour, Mission Farm Road, Killington, opposite the gondola, will sponsor a free snowshoe event on groomed trails surrounding the church. Hawk Mountain Resort, Killington Elementary School and the Killington Recreation Department have partnered with Church of our Saviour to make this event possible. All ages are welcome and families especially are encouraged to join the fun.  Equipment will be provided if needed. “Gentle” sledding will be available for those who prefer not to snowshoe. Come prepared with layered winter clothing.

The snowshoe will include mountainside trails behind the church as well as flatter terrain along the Ottauquechee River. The treks will be guided and will include information on the winter environment. Depending on age, ability and choice of trails, the snowshoe will take approximately one hour. Refreshments will be served after the outdoor activity in the guest house opposite the church. The church is always open for visits, prayer or quiet meditation.

In the event of inclement weather, the snowshoe event will be held the following day, Monday the 4th of March, from 1-3 PM. Please call Betsy at 802-672-3179 for last minute updates or additional information. Join us for this outdoor adventure and learn more about the lands and buildings that surround Church of our Saviour.

Posted in Events | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 02/21/2013 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

2/18/13

I marvel at the length of the weekly reports from some of the correspondents because there are weeks, like this one, when I can find very little to say! Looking out my window at the sparkling white snow & clear azure sky, it seems inviting, but a quick glance at the thermometer reminds me that is it one of those beautiful yet frigid winter days.

There were so many people around this weekend – filling our restaurants & enjoying our many recreational opportunities. For those who are still here, I can envision them lingering over breakfast this morning! How nice for our local businesses to be so busy. The parking lot at the Echo Lake Inn was so full, cars overflowed all around the church!

Speaking of church, we had a special musical treat with Kathy Lynds’ grandchildren & Theresa Steward performing on the organ & flute for our service on Sunday. Always fun to have youngsters will us!

The monthly Reach Out Luncheon will be held in the Community Room downstairs at the church on Thurs, 2/21 starting at 11:00 AM. Meatballs & noodles are on the menu & I understand that Liza Ward may be making some of her yummy rolls! All are welcome, so consider joining this friendly group…..

Don’t forget the upcoming Lynx snow camp – Mar 1-3 (Grades 5-7) at Bethany Birches Camp. Call (802) 672-5220 for more information.

Posted in Community News, Plymouth People | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Town Meeting Warned for March 4, Australian Ballot March 5

Posted on 02/21/2013 by The Plymouth Press

WARNING

The legal voters of Plymouth are hereby warned to meet at the Plymouth Municipal Building at 7:00 P.M. on Monday, March 4, 2013 to transact at that time business not involving voting by Australian Ballot or voting required by the law by ballot. The polls will be open Tuesday March 5, 2013 at the Plymouth Municipal Building from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. for the purpose of voting by Australian Ballot.

The business to be transacted will include:

Article 1. To elect Town Officers for the ensuing year(s) by Australian Ballot.
Moderator, Selectman, Lister, Collector of Delinquent Taxes, Grand Juror, Town Agent, Trustee of Public Funds, Auditor, School District Treasurer, School District Moderator, School Board Director and Cemetery Commissioner.

Article 2. To see if the town will vote $10,032.50 for Human Services to be allocated as follows:

A. Visiting Nurse Alliance……………………….. 2050.00
B. Mental Health Services…………………………. 568.00
C. Red Cross………………………………………………. 250.00
D. Black River Senior Center………………….. 2000.00
E. VT Center for Independent Living………….. 175.00
F. Windsor County Partners……………………… 500.00
G. Green Mtn. Eco. Dev. Corp……………………. 309.50
H. Northern Vt Res……………………………………. 100.00
I. Martha Lussier Service………………………….. 200.00
J. Green Up Vermont…………………………………… 50.00
K. Black River Good Neighbors…………………. 300.00
L. Fletcher Memorial Library………………….. 1200.00
M. Black River Area Community Coalition… 500.00
N. Vermont Trails and Greenways……………….. 30.00
O. LPCTV……………………………………………………. 600.00
P. Tyson Library…………………………………………. 500.00
Q. Historical Society…………………………………… 400.00
R. Plymouth Memory Tree………………………….. 250.00
S. Plymouth Press…………………………………………. 50.00
TOTAL………………………………………………….. $10,032.50

Article 3. To see if the Town will continue to collect taxes in two (2) installments and no longer accept postmarks.

Article 4. To see if delinquent taxes shall be printed in the Town Report.

Article 5. To see if the Town will vote to raise $10,000.00 to retain a qualified person to promote and coordinate community activities at the Plymouth Elementary school property.

Article 6. To see if the Town shall eliminate the office of auditor and contract with a public accountant in accordance with the Vermont State Statute 17 VSA 2651b.

Article 7. To see if the Town will vote to raise $1,085,863.52 to pay estimated expenses of $1,235,863.52.Article 7. To transact any other necessary and legal business.

Dated at Plymouth, Vermont this 5th day of February 2013

Ralph Michael, Chair

Andrew Crossman

Russ Tonkin

Posted in Town Meeting, Town News | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Free Guided Snowshoe Tours on March 3

Posted on 02/20/2013 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

From Betsy Tonkin

On Sunday, March 3rd, from 1-3 PM, Church of our Saviour, Mission Farm Road, Killington, opposite the gondola, will sponsor a free snowshoe event on groomed trails surrounding the church. Hawk Mountain Resort, Killington Elementary School and the Killington Recreation Department have partnered with Church of our Saviour to make this event possible. All ages are welcome and families especially are encouraged to join the fun.  Equipment will be provided if needed. “Gentle” sledding will be available for those who prefer not to snowshoe. Come prepared with layered winter clothing.

The snowshoe will include mountainside trails behind the church as well as flatter terrain along the Ottauquechee River. The treks will be guided and will include information on the winter environment. Depending on age, ability and choice of trails, the snowshoe will take approximately one hour. Refreshments will be served after the outdoor activity in the guest house opposite the church. The church is always open for visits, prayer or quiet meditation.

In the event of inclement weather, the snowshoe event will be held the following day, Monday the 4th of March, from 1-3 PM. Please call Betsy at 802-672-3179 for last minute updates or additional information. Join us for this outdoor adventure and learn more about the lands and buildings that surround Church of our Saviour.

Posted in Events | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

AARP Driver Safety Course – 2/21 in Ludlow

Posted on 02/17/2013 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

From Bill Cherico

On Thursday, February 21, 2013 at 9:30 AM, there will be a Driver Safety Course sponsored by AARP. The course will be held at the Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow in the downstairs meeting room.

After registration at 9:30, the course will begin and be four hours in length. There will be a lunch break at 12:30 PM. Participants may either bring their lunch/snack or visit a local restaurant. The course will end between 2:30 PM and 3:00 PM. Completion of the course will earn participants a certification of course completion which may entitle them for a discount from their insurance provider.

AARP member registration fee is $12; nonmembers $14. For call in registration please call Bill at 802-672-1823.

Posted in Events | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 02/16/2013 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

2/11/13

Enough snow to whiten things up & encourage our out-of-town winter enthusiasts to venture to VT – that’s what Nemo did for us! Now we can also frolic in the snow as well, as long as the predicted rain doesn’t materialize this afternoon.

Speaking of winter fun, don’t forget the upcoming snow camps at Bethany Birches Camp: Bobcat: Feb 15-17 (Grades 3-6) & Polar Bear: Feb 22-24 (Grades 6-8). From the pictures in last week’s Standard, everyone had a great time at the Family Fun Day there on the 3rd!

With school vacation coming soon, please make note of some activities happening at the Notch. Family Day is planned for 2/ 23 at the President Calvin Coolidge Museum & Education Center. The Calvin Coolidge Memorial Foundation in cooperation with the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation, is offering a variety of activities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information call 802-324-3389 or see www.calvin-coolidge.org.

The church season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on 2/13. I am hoping to preach the Lenten series at Tyson Church, which will begin 2/17. Everyone is welcome to attend our Sunday morning Worship at 10:30 AM.

Posted in Community News, Events | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment