Elaine Gambone will be missed in Plymouth

Posted on 10/26/2012 by The Plymouth Press

Editors Note: Over the last year I had the good fortune to work closely with Elaine on the Plymouth Memory Tree to help Plymouth residents recover from Tropical Storm Irene. Our community benefited in so many ways thanks to Elaine’s dedication, even while facing her illness. I will also miss the whimsical photos she always provided to the Plymouth Press. 

-Jen Flaster, Plymouth Press Editor

Below is the obituary which appears this week in The Vermont Standard.

A memorial service for Elaine Gambone, 60, who died at home after a long illness, will be held at the Bethany Mennonite Church in Bridgewater Corners on Saturday, Oct. 27 at 11 a.m.

Elaine was born Sept. 11, 1952 in Boston, Mass., daughter of Salvatore and Heloise (Lucier) Gambone.

She graduated from Woodstock High School in 1970. She attended University of Vermont and Castleton State College before graduating from Community College of Vermont in 1989 and Johnson State College in 1995. Elaine studied herbalism with Rosemary Gladstar. Elaine loved to sing and studied voice for many years and sang in area churches.

Elaine and Eric Johnsen married on September 13, 1972 and have lived in Plymouth since 1974.

They operated E&E Tree Service from 1974 to 1986 and E&E Horticultural Services from 1991 to the present.

Elaine loved to garden and created many gardens in the Plymouth-Woodstock area. Her perennial and vegetable gardens at her home on Messer Hill delighted both her and visitors alike.

Another passion was cooking, from soups to desserts. She was a master in the kitchen. She also loved to swim, hike, camp, travel and walk her dogs. Her two constant companions were Mason and Oscar, rescued racing greyhounds.

Elaine is survived by her loving husband, Eric, two brothers, Steven and Gerald, and a sister, Denise; also four nephews, Philip, Jacob, Noel and Nicholas.

The community will miss Elaine’s dedication to Green Up Vermont; she was the Plymouth coordinator for over 10 years. She resurrected the Plymouth Memory Tree Fund, a community fund that helps Plymouth residents in need. After Tropical Storm Irene, the fund morphed into Plymouth Memory Tree Community Fund, Inc. Elaine was a leading force within this organization and served as treasurer.

Donations in Elaine’s name may be made to Plymouth Memory Tree Community Fund, PO Box 47, Plymouth, VT 05056.

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Plymouth Emergency Services: Be prepared for Monday’s storm

Posted on 10/25/2012 by The Plymouth Press

From Al Poirier, Plymouth Emergency Services

With the potential of a very wet and windy event early next week it is time to take out those emergency preparedness booklets and make sure you and your family are ready.

The town is doing what it can to make sure we are ready to respond but we cannot do it alone we need your help.

This is the time to make sure you have fuel for the generator, prescriptions filled, and enough food and water to support yourself for at least three days.

If anyone needs special assistance please call Al Poirier (228-3308) or send an email arpcolby@yahoo.com.

Lets be ready and stay safe.

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New Dry Hydrant Installed at Municipal Building

Posted on 10/25/2012 by The Plymouth Press

From Al Poirer

The Plymouth Volunteer Fire Department has completed the installation of a dry hydrant at the municipal building. The installation of this dry hydrant is part of a comprehensive program to improve fire protection in Plymouth.

The Fire Department is in the process of improving fire protection in Plymouth by installing dry hydrants to improve the availability and accessibility of water for firefighting purposes. The Vermont Rural Fire Protection Task Force through the Northern Vermont Resource Conservation and Development Council provided assistance to the Fire Department in developing a plan to improve water supply in Plymouth.

The Vermont Legislature approved appropriations to assist communities in installing dry hydrants to improve fire protection in the rural area of Vermont.  The Vermont Rural Fire Protection Task Force with the assistance of the Northern Vermont Resource Conservation and Development Council administers the grant program.

Dry hydrants are a preferred method of providing water for firefighting in areas where there are no water mains. A dry hydrant consists of a 6 to 8 inch pipe with a fitting to which a pump/ tanker truck can attach. The pipe connects to a water source (Pond or stream) that can supply at least 60,000 gallons under drought conditions.

This is but one example of the service your fire department provides in preparation for the next alarm.

If you have any questions about developing a rural water supply in your area, please contact the Vermont Rural Fire Protection Task Force at 802-828-4582 , dryhydrantguy@yahoo.com , or visit www.nvtrcd.org/vtrfptf.html .

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Memorial for Elaine Gambone on 10/27 – Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 10/25/2012 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/22/12

Things are winding down all over town. Still some tourists out & about, but the roadways are less busy these days. Just to let you know that Nancy said that the Wilder House will officially be open until 10/27 for the regular hours. From that point it will be open from 9:00 – 1:00 only until the end of the month.

I attended the Selectmen’s hearing on 10/15 regarding reclassifying Library Road. It is a bit more complicated than it initially appeared! Going from a Class 3 road to a trail left some question about plowing & road maintenance, which could impact the Tyson Library & church parking along that side. Roger Carlsten & Clare King (Frank Jewell’s former property) wanted consideration of “throwing up” (the town relinquishing it) their half of Library Road, so they could reconnect the two sections of their property, which now includes both sides of the road. Most folks seemed to favor a foot bridge as opposed to a vehicle bridge. Unless there is a petition to send it to a town vote, the Selectmen get to decide, but there was no indication that they had reached a consensus.

Lucy MacKenzie-Animal Blessings. Photo by Mark Stanley

Lucy MacKenzie Animal Blessings. Photo by Mark Stanley

I was pleased to be invited to participate in the Blessing of the Animals at Lucy MacKenzie Humane Society this past Saturday. The weather cooperated nicely, allowing the 6 congregations that were represented under the leadership of Rev. Cheryl Heater, to hold a short service, then individually bless the animals that were brought by their owners. We remembered loved pets that have passed on & also received donations for LMHS, then went inside to bless those animals as well. In the tradition of St Francis, October is the month to celebrate animals.

Please know that Tyson Church is planning to have its traditional potluck Thanksgiving Diner on Thanksgiving, 11/22 at 1:00 PM. As the plans unfold, there will be more news, but the contact person will be Denise Dean (245-4686) or email deand. Please let her know if you plan to attend, leave your contact information & what you would like to contribute to the meal! All are welcome.

Heartfelt sympathy goes out to Eric Johnsen on the passing of Elaine Gambone, who left us on Saturday, 10/20 after a courageous battle with cancer. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, 10/27, at 11:00 AM at Bethany Mennonite Church, followed by a lunch. Those who would like to come to the house afterward, are welcome to do so for the spreading of her ashes in her beloved perennial garden. Also, Eric is asking that donations in her memory be made to the Plymouth Memory Tree.

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Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 10/19/2012 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/15/12

Although the Historic Site has officially closed, some dates have been arranged for bus tours & I understand that several hundred people enjoyed tours there this weekend. A bit sad that the leaves have mostly blown down, but I imagine they still enjoyed themselves & learned a great deal about Calvin Coolidge! Hopefully Nancy has been busy at the Wilder House – consider stopping in for lunch sometime this month…..

Oops – I forgot to note Bill Jarvi’s birthday on 10/11! Family was down on the weekend to celebrate & to help with some work around the place. I have noticed that even when chores are being done there is still a party atmosphere!

Just wanted to note a typo in the paper last week. Tyson Library closed on 10/13, not 10/30, so sorry if you missed your chance to pick up some books. By the time this goes to print, the meeting to discuss the reclassification of Library Road will have happened.

Tyson Congregational Church warmly welcomed new members on Sunday – Mike Clarke, June Capron, Denise Dean, & Maddie Dean & associate member, Kathy Tuttle!

Lots of seasonal changes taking place. The Plymouth Vermont Historical Society has closed its doors for the winter season. Of course, the collection can still be accessed by contacting one of the officers. Email addresses are posted on the Historical Society link through the town of Plymouth’s website until their own website is established. A move to the former school building is anticipated in the spring of 2013. The new membership drive will begin in January 2013 – memberships & contributions are always needed & appreciated!

Some of our local restaurants will also be taking a break. The Echo Lake Inn will stop serving on Saturday, 10/20 & reopen for Thanksgiving. Lodging is still available. The River Tavern at Hawk will also be closing 10/20 & it will reopen some time in Dec.

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Plymouth Historical Society Closes for the Winter

Posted on 10/14/2012 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

From Betsy Tonkin, PHS Secretary

The Plymouth Vermont Historical Society has closed its doors for the winter season. However, anyone wishing access to the collection can contact an officer. Visit www.plymouthvt.org/historical.php and scroll down to the bottom of the page to find officer e-mail addresses.  The society is anticipating a move to a new building in the spring of 2013 as well as its own website. Watch for updates early next year.

Over the winter, local members will concentrate on developing collection care policies and expanding documentation of acquisitions as it prepares for a move and new software cataloging.

Thank you all for your continuing interest in Plymouth history. The Historical Society depends on your patronage and financial support. Our membership drive will once again begin in January 2013. Please keep us in mind.

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Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 10/13/2012 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/7/12

The weather seems to have shifted into fall mode with cooler temps, but as I write this on Monday morning, at least the sun is shining! The rain on Saturday did not end in time for the late afternoon outdoor weddings planned around the area, but it had stopped in time for the Melissa Maravell concert at Tyson Church. More than 50 people enjoyed the wide variety of songs & at times joined in the singing. It was a lovely & lively evening!

Before I forget, is there anyone out there who might want to help Jen Flaster with the Plymouth Press? It is such a great vehicle for disseminating information within our community, but Jen has other responsibilities (including her little bundle of joy, Josie), so she would appreciate some help. She assures me it is easy! If you would like to become part of this worthwhile endeavor, please email her at plymouthpress (at) me.com.

We took our weekend guests to the Tyson Library on Saturday & it has really become such a cozy place, filled with an amazing number & variety of books. Monies received in memory of Betty Jarvi & Mary Gross have helped with building restoration & needed improvements. Some of the remaining funds will also be used to purchase new books. The library will be closing for the season on 10/13, but you can obtain books this weekend, then returned them to the book box, which is checked regularly.

Sherry Thornburg, Executive Director of the Ottauquechee Health Foundation (802/457-4188) was our guest at the Tyson Ladies Aid meeting last week. She told us about a number of programs that the Foundation sponsors. There are organizational grants, but also programs to help individuals, such as the Good Neighbor Grant & the Community Care Coordination Program.

Sherry will be the guest speaker at the 10/18 Reach Out Luncheon at 11:00 AM in the Community Room at the Tyson Church. The menu for that day will be soup (3 kinds) & grilled ham/cheese sandwiches. So that we know how much to prepare, if you plan to attend, please call either Kathy Lynds (672-3709) or Betty Aubin (484-9130).

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Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report-Events this weekend!

Posted on 10/06/2012 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/1/12

Well, we certainly have been getting the rain we need, but that doesn’t seem to have dampening spirits around our area! Nice to see some colorful leaves these days. The Tyson Reading Rd was bright & beautiful last week & when we went down to Manchester on Sat, the trees were lovely along Rte 100 South.

We had company this weekend & enjoyed a wonderful lasagna dinner at the Catholic Church in Ludlow on Sat evening. I was so pleased that they had made a wheat-free pan, so I could eat there too. Of course we saw a number of Plymouth folks there – some working & some simply enjoying the meal! Bob & Shirley Billings were among the missing, but they were out to dinner for their anniversary instead – congratulations!

Sounds like there was good attendance at the Historic Site both days this past weekend. The 3rd Grace Coolidge Musicale will take place on 10/7 from 3:00 – 4:30 with Susan Schroeder & Abigail Charbeneau playing patriotic & classic 4 hands piano music. Plan on tea at the Wilder House following the performance!

The Historic Site will be closing for the season on 10/14, but please note that the Wilder House will remain open through the rest of Oct & will be serving a full menu. Lunch can be obtained until 2:30 each day!

I understand that this year Camp Plymouth State Park is remaining open through the Holiday weekend, so consider stopping over there. Even if it is too cold for you to swim, it is still a lovely park to enjoy sitting by the water & playing in the fields. Camping continues at Coolidge State Park as well.

Don’t forget Melissa Maravell’s performance at Tyson Church (located just off Rte 100 across from the Echo Lake Inn) at 7:00 PM on Sat, 10/6. She will be singing a wide variety of songs – something for everyone! A free-will offering will be taken & cookies will be provided.

I understand that there will be a hearing on Mon, 10/15 at 6:00 PM to discuss reclassification of Library Rd in Tyson from a Class 3 road to a trail. As most folks know, the bridge from Rte 100 to Dublin Rd along that road was destroyed during “Irene”, so consideration is being given to simply having a foot bridge instead of a car bridge there. This will be an opportunity for community input.

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Margo Marrone’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 09/27/2012 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Republished with permission from The Vermont Standard

9/25/12

Thank you to Allison Clarkson for being our speaker at the Reach Out luncheon on 9/20. We learned a bit about her & also some of the issues that will be hot topics during the upcoming legislative session. Seeing Roger Pingree there jogged my memory about his 9/9 birthday, so belated Happy Birthday to him!

Tyson Ladies Aid had a work day at Tyson Library on Saturday & they want to thank Bob, Rudy, Andy & Trinady Gross, Doug, Ann & Josh Rose, Norm & Betty Aubin & Ginny Kottkamp for all their hard work on the siding & in the gardens. Things are looking great, so be sure to get over there to check it out! The Library will be closing for the season after Sat, 10/13. The hours are 10:00 to noon.

I have had the pleasure of being in the company of both Marie & Michael Caduto recently! Marie’s talk at the Library in Ludlow last week was quite informative as we learned more about the washout at the top of Money Brook & how water picks up sediment & redistributes it. Michael was the speaker at Justin Morrill State Historic Site on Sunday, where we discussed wild edibles, then went outside to see some of them. Both presentations were very interesting!

The Cheese & Harvest Festival at the Notch was well attended with a few hundred people milling around. The rain held off & Fred took a break from giving wagon rides (pulled by his tractor) to shear sheep. Our little Owen considered petting one of the sheep, but didn’t quite feel comfortable reaching his hand out. He settled for petting an adorable & friendly little dog instead! He did enjoy the cheese samples at the Cheese Factory & the tables set up by Crowley & Cabot.

Although I did not arrive in time to attend, I understand that Adam Boyce as “Charles Ross Taggart: Vermont’s Traveling Entertainer,” did a great job. He told me he would return to Plymouth & do it again, perhaps under the auspices of the Plymouth Historical Society.

I noticed that on Sat, 9/29, there will be an opportunity to properly dispose of used or expired prescription drugs (pills or capsules) at the Woodstock Police station & the Ludlow Police station from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. There is a permanent drop-off from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Mon – Friday at the Police Dept in Windsor at 29 Union St, that will take liquids as well. Flushing them or putting them in the trash pose public health & safety hazards, so please consider these more
appropriate options!

Thanks to Robin Bebo-Long for letting me know that Madison Cassano & Sahara Bebo are also on the field hockey team. I really appreciate a heads-up on our young people, especially since I don’t even know some of their names any longer. Please feel free to contact me!

Lastly, thanks to Terry Bascom for covering for me this past Sunday. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Melissa Maravell’s concert at Tyson Church on Sat, 10/6 at 7:00 PM! Some of you are familiar with Melissa, a singer/songwriter who has performed in our area over the years. including the Hawk summer series. She played at the church on 8/26 & was also willing to perform in the tent that day, but the lively chatter made that difficult. So, you have another opportunity to catch her! Opera trained, Melissa sings a wide variety of tunes & her rich contralto voice makes anything she sings a delight to hear. A free-will offering will be taken.

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Community Event Honors Resilience a Year After Irene

Posted on 09/10/2012 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

From Margo Marrone

8/27/12

Wow, what an amazing event Sunday turned out to be & the weather cooperated nicely! There were probably 50 or so people there for the church service & well over 100 in the tent for the remainder of the activities. Something for everyone!

Thanks to the many people who helped to make the Tender Hearts & Helping Hands Celebration happen. The planning committee of Tina & Bruce Verdrager. Carolyn Scott, Pieter Bowen, Russ Tonkin & myself helped with good ideas & practical preparation. We couldn’t have done it without Laurence Jeffrey providing his lovely tent as the location & Jim Neilson from Hawk providing some great food & paper goods.

Tyson Church made delicious desserts & members, Cheryl Bishop & Denise Dean helped with getting decorations, while Ann Rose helped to get things set-up. The teens & staff from Windsor Youth Services were an immense help & a joy to have around! Melissa Maravell played & sang in the church & a bit in the tent, but the volume of animated conversation made it impossible to hear. She has said she will come another time & do a concert in the church! It was truly a community happening for all ages, with a wide variety of dishes brought to the potluck.

Thanks to all of our speakers, who briefly gave thanks. Laurence provided the welcome & noted how wonderful it is to live in such a caring community. Jonathan Wilson from Farm & Wilderness spoke, as did Russ Tonkin on behalf of the Select Board. Jill Davies spoke for the Resource Center & the Plymouth Memory Tree Fund, while Al Poirier did the same for Incident Command & Emergency Services.

A delightful young man expressed thanks for the support given to Windsor Youth Services as they continue to rebuild their damaged youth home. Laurie Marechaux brought materials about Starting Over Strong VT & also did some face painting. Tom’s mom was sporting a lovely flower on her cheek!

I mentioned the donation received by the church from the National United Church of Christ & other donations that were received from individuals that allowed us to disburse funds within Plymouth, but also out of our borders to those in need. Forgive me if I left anyone out!

A list of possible future community events was encouraged & these were suggested: book club, writing group, Dharma group, town-wide garage sale, sledding party near the cheese factory, bingo & possibly a wild game supper. Some folks posted individual notes of appreciation on the Board, but I imagine there are some more who might want to do so. We will leave it at the church for this Sunday, than take it to the Town Hall, so others can participate!

This was a celebration of the resiliency of the community as we reached out to one another & worked to care for those around us. Al Poirier touched upon preparedness for the future & Todd Menes talked briefly about the environment factors. Both of those issues probably bear further discussion at another time.

Thanks to everyone who joined the party & made it so much fun!

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