Welcome to The Plymouth Press Online

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

1/1/23

A new day, a new month, and a new year! Although the weather on New Year’s Eve was not perfect, fireworks seemed to be exploding in many places. I did not stay up for midnight (I am just too old), but was awakened by loud bursts in the neighborhood by those reveling in the New Year.

Anyone interested in watching the recent housing meeting (12/19) may do so at http://www.okemovalley.tv. It appears that the VHIP program may have been inundated with applications and may not accepting new ones at this time.

Rep-Elect Tesha Buss ( http://www.teshabuss.com) has compiled a more extensive list of resources that I am copying below. The Hub can provide assistance in filling out these applications and be contacted at https://woodstockcommunitytrust.org/current-projects/the-hub.html?blm_aid=557056

Programs for Individuals:

Rebates for energy efficiency/electrification projects https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/rebates

Help with heating: https://buttonupvermont.org/

Funding to repair vacant rental units or add an accessory dwelling unit: https://accd.vermont.gov/housing/vermont-housing-improvement-program

Emergency rental assistance: https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/reachup/RUERA

Child care financial assistance: https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/ccfap

Subsidy for groceries: https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/3SquaresVT

Subsidy for internet service: https://publicservice.vermont.gov/content/affordable-connectivity-program

Help with utility bills: https://publicservice.vermont.gov/node/2035

First Generation Homebuyer Grant: https://www.vhfa.org/homebuyers/First-Generation-Homebuyer-Grant-Program

Funding for projects that spur economic recovery (like housing or childcare projects, or agriculture, arts, recreation or food businesses)

https://accd.vermont.gov/economic-development/funding-incentives/community-recovery-and-revitalization-program

Funding for agricultural and forestry businesses: https://workinglands.vermont.gov/grant-contract-opportunities/arpa-primary-producer-impact-grant

Health insurance plans and subsidies: https://portal.healthconnect.vermont.gov/VTHBELand/welcome.action

Remember you must register for Health insurance by Dec 15 for a January 1 start date. Also take note that the income thresholds were increased allowing more Vermonter’s access to tax credits to lower their monthly premiums!

BROADBAND

It is likely that Federal funds are coming to VT to help install more Broadband infrastructure, but many of the Federal map locations state that broadband is available at locations where broadband doesn’t exist yet. Be a part of the solution to get broadband to every house in VT, no matter how rural! Click on this article below to learn more and to follow the links to check the status of your home and business. It is very simple to challenge your location, if the map says broadband is available when it is not.

VT Digger Article to Challenge Errors in Broadband:

Officials urge Vermonters to challenge errors in FCC’s new broadband map

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

12/26/22

It seems like the deep freeze is lessening a bit, although the high of 20 degrees today (Monday) is still rather nippy. I hope that electricity has been restored to everyone, although there may be a few customers without power. I feel so fortunate to have Ludlow Electric because we rarely have an issue.

I attended the 12/19 meeting at town hall, where much information was presented by Tesha Buss and Jill Davies about housing needs. It was stressed that big, new structures are not always an easy solution to the housing crisis in our area.  VHIP (Vermont Housing Improvement Program) hasgrants available to allow existing homes to be modified to provide separate living space for another resident.  Go online to their website and also learn about the Healthy Homes Initiative (HHI) that provides additional grant funding that offers property owners supplemental grants ranging from $500 to $30,000. These grants can be used to fix leaking service lines, old plumbing, replace outdated fixtures (sinks, toilets, dishwashers, laundry) with high-efficiency devices, and install new water systems (wells and septic systems) and water efficiency improvements as part of VHIP housing rehabilitation projects. 

Home-sharing is another way to provide additional needed housing and the Thompson Senior Center (802-457-3277) is offering a service to help connect people. The newly reimagined HUB helps folks to explore resources.  It began operations in December 2022, building on the results of WARF. In 2020 and 2021 our community raised and distributed nearly one million dollars of assistance to residents of Barnard, Bridgewater, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Reading and Woodstock. Last winter, The HUB ran a pilot project to provide fuel assistance. Working with funding partners, we distributed $103,00 to 100 people.Woodstock Community Trust and Ottauquechee Health Foundation are sponsoring organizations. Funding partners include Barnard Helping Hands, Faulkner Fund, King’s Daughters, Pivotal Steps and Plymouth Memory Tree. For more information, call 802-457-7214, email: apply@thehubneighbors.org or pick up an Application: Outside the Ottauquechee Health Foundation office at Simmons House at 30 Pleasant Street, Woodstock.

I do not feel like I have a handle on all of these resources, but it is nice to know that there are options to help enhance living situations that can benefit us all. Mike Coleman was on hand at that meeting to provide Planning & Zoning information on the subject. It was suggested that Plymouth might want to form a Housing Committee, so anyone who is interested can let Tesha Buss know at 802-245-4746 orteshaforvt@teshabuss.com

Many blessings to everyone for a happy and healthy New Year!

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

12/18/22

Well, it appears that we will have a white Christmas with the recent snow. I have learned that I can shovel 2 feet of snow off my deck – in 3 and 4 inch increments! It is a winter wonderland, but I know that many folks have experienced lengthy power outages. Those with generators have weathered the storm better… (for my friend, Gerry)

I wish I had known to alert folks to the Candlelight Service at Tyson Church on Sunday, but I just happened upon it on my way home. It was a nice way to present the true meaning of Christmas. Erik Johannson and a friend provided wonderful music to help celebrate the season.  If you are seeking a Christmas Eve Service, please note that there will be one at 7:00 PM on 12/24 at Bethany Mennonite church, 169 VT-100A in Bridgewater Corners.

I understand that there will not be a Select Board meeting on Monday, 12/19, but the housing discussion with Tesha Buss will still take place at 7:30.  Many of us likely know people who would like to live in town, but are unable to find or afford housing here. I have no solution, but it will be nice to put our heads together and consider this issue.

Thanks to Cassie for sharing the notice printed below.. We have two delightful parks in our town. I would think that folks might like to provide feedback about them.

Vermont State Parks Seeks Public Input for Parks Modernization Study

Parks staff is working collaboratively with park and recreation professionals from BerryDunn, a national consulting firm. The study is scheduled to be completed by early spring, with a final report being issued in May 2023.

This study will provide a comprehensive assessment of the state park system including park amenities, operations, maintenance, revenue, and program delivery. It will identify key challenges, and resources needed to maintain core services and enhance offerings to meet current and future demands.

Nate McKeen, Director of State Parks elaborates, “Throughout the years, with considerable public support and prudent management, Vermont State Parks have weathered societal changes and economic challenges of all sorts. Now, as we approach the 100th anniversary of Vermont state parks in 2024, and as park visitation continues to increase, this study will help us create a road map for the future of our state parks.” 

FPR is seeking public input and feedback about the park system, its infrastructure, programming, prices, and innovations. Input is being collected via a link on the state parks’ webpage, vtstateparks.com, and will consist of three ways to provide feedback: a community forum for open dialogue, a category-based ideas page, and a short survey. Additional information about the study and timeline is also available. Input will be collected through February 15, 2023.

McKeen continues, “The parks enrich the quality of life for Vermonters and visitors, and contribute significantly to community prosperity, tourism, and the outdoor recreation economy. Because of this vital role state parks play in Vermont; we really encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas with us as we help to build a better park system for all.” 

Stephanie Brackin (she/her) | Communications CoordinatorVermont Agency of Natural Resources1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, VT 05620(802) 261-0606 | stephanie.brackin@vermont.gov

Wishing everyone a blessed Holiday season, plus health and safety for the New Year!

Since a quorum will not be present, the Select Board meeting scheduled for Monday, December 19, 2022 at 6:00 P.M. is cancelled.

The discussion on Community Housing Issues with Tesha Buss will still be held at 7:30 P.M

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

12/11/22

Writing on Sunday evening as the snow is falling lightly. There seems to be an inch or so, but three are predicted. I bet the ski areas are pleased after all of that rain!

Come enjoy the Fun Day for all ages on Saturday December 17th from 10am – 4pm (come when it suits your family) at Bethany Birches Camp. Lunch Provided!

Here are the Reading Group choices for books over the next 3 months. Happy reading!

1/11 — Family Tree by Susan Wiggs

2/15 — The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict

3/22 — Flying Solo by Linda Holmes

From the Select Board – Community Discussion: Housing in Plymouth, 12/19 at 7:30 PM

There is a lot of talk about the ongoing housing crisis in Vermont by employers, families, government and non-profits. The local discussion will be held in the Plymouth Municipal Building and will start with locally identified needs and possible solutions. Our local State Representative Tesha Buss will join us to share what she has learned about Government Funding for Accessory Dwellings, and Moderate Income Housing Development, as well as the HomeShare Vermont program and Plymouth local government representatives will be there as well for zoning and infrastructure questions. If you are interested in helping to solve the problem, someone who’s housing needs are not fully met, investing in a project, or just learning more, please join us. Okemo Valley Television will be providing coverage and zoom video conferencing support. Please contact jkullman@plymouthvt.org if you have questions.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88347138689?pwd=dnRjQUlYT0lXR0k3SlYrVW9aNHNlUT09

Meeting ID: 883 4713 8689 Passcode: 143124

+13126266799,,88347138689#,,,,*143124# US (Chicago)

+19292056099,,88347138689#,,,,*143124# US (New York)

Dial by your location Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdyuDWKca9

Also, Rep-Elect Tesha Buss Windsor-5 (www.teshabuss.com) has shared some resources.

Programs for Individuals:

Rebates for energy efficiency/electrification projects

Help with heating

Funding to repair vacant rental units or add an accessory dwelling unit

Emergency rental assistance

Child care financial assistance

Subsidy for groceries

Subsidy for internet service

Help with utility bills

First Generation Homebuyer Grant

Funding for projects that spur economic recovery (like housing or childcare projects, or agriculture, arts, recreation or food businesses)

Funding for agricultural and forestry businesses

Health insurance plans and subsidies — remember you must register for Health insurance by Dec 15 for a January 1 start date. Also take note that the income thresholds were increased allowing more Vermonter’s access to tax credits to lower their monthly premiums!

BROADBAND

It is likely that Federal funds are coming to VT to help install more Broadband infrastructure, but many of the Federal map locations state that broadband is available at locations where broadband doesn’t exist yet. Be a part of the solution to get broadband to every house in VT, no matter how rural! Click on this article below to learn more and to follow the links to check the status of your home and business. It is very simple to challenge your location, if the map says broadband is available when it is not.

https://vtdigger.org/2022/12/09/officials-urge-vermonters-to-challenge-errors-in-fccs-new-broadband-map/?utm_source=VTDigger+Subscribers+and+Donors&utm_campaign=39d7e2134d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2022_12_10_03_05&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_dc3c5486db-39d7e2134d-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D

Tesha also noted THE HUB: a 501c3 Project of Woodstock Community Trust, non profit

– Is a new program that makes it easier for you to get help during a time of need.

– Is a central point of contact for you.

– Is a connection with an experienced community volunteer who responds quickly and will help you get assistance.

– Is confidential and respectful of your situation, whether due to divorce, job loss, family illness, financial stress, and food or heat insecurity.

– Can help you if you live in Barnard, Bridgewater, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Reading, or Woodstock.

– Works with many local organizations such as Barnard Helping Hands and Ottauquechee Health Foundation.

Contact The HUB

1. Online: Complete an Application at: https://apply.thehubneighbors.org/form
2. Phone: 802-457-7214
3. Email: apply@thehubneighbors.org
4. Pick up an Application: Outside Ottauquechee Health Foundation at Simmons House, 30 Pleasant Street, Woodstock. Feel free to attend the Christmas Eve Service at Bethany Mennonite Church at 7 PM on Christmas Eve. All are welcome

Note from Jennifer Coolidge Harville Hello All! I saw Bill at the Coolidge Holiday Open House this past Saturday. He looks wonderful. He is walking a couple of miles each day. Well rested. Taking time to do the things that he wants to do.

No snow at the Notch. Rainy, but a good core group attended. This was my first time attending the Open House. Rejoice’s mom did a hand crank sewing demonstration, we stenciled cards, Terry G. guided wreath making. The tree was set up in the Wilder Barn. President Coolidge, aka Tracy Messer, made remarks and then lit the tree. He offered some information about the Coolidge years in the White House. Did you know that Mrs. Coolidge had 200 roses sent out to the business owners in DC where she purchased holiday gifts?

We sang carols at the church with the accompanied by Steve Morse on the pump organ and Rejoice Sherry played violin. It was beautiful. Between hymns ‘President Coolidge’ shared more anticdotes about Coolidge White House Christmases 1923-1928.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

12/4/12

Here we are into December and we have had both snow and rain. At the moment, almost all of the snow is gone from my yard. What is on the ground, however, are plenty of twigs and branches from the severe wind. Today (Sunday) afforded a nice walk when the wind was at our backs!

Folks have been asking if it is ok to put out bird-feeders. I haven’t seen any evidence of bears lately, but my feeder is high up and inaccessible, so I cannot be sure.  Thanks to friends and neighbors who have so kindly helped bring 40 lb bags of sunflower seeds into my basement. That seems to be a favorite food!

Please note that there is a Community Appreciation Evening planned at the Fletcher Memorial Library on Wednesday, 12/7 from 3:30 – 6:00 PM. Enjoy festive music and light refreshments, plus a chance to see Santa.  If you have not visited this 121 year old historic building, come check it out!

The next book group meeting is also on Wednesday, 12/7 at 6:30 PM via Zoom.  Discussion of the book Powder Days: Ski Bums, Ski Towns, and the Future of Chasing Snow by Heather Hansman is the topic, but in addition we will determine the next few months of reading.

The agenda for the 12/5 Select Board meeting is noted below.

• Call meeting to order

• Introduction of those present

• clerk applicants – training

• Special Staff Meeting in DEC 13 – payroll, training

• Budget for FY24

• Mail and Warrants

The scheduled site visit to the Salt Ash Inn has been canceled for tomorrow, due to illness.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

11/28/22

Coming to the end of November and the rain has washed away most of the snow.  Sounds like the World Cup at Killington was able to proceed and the precipitation did not appear until the end.  Driving home from ME last evening was a bit of challenge with the rain, heavy at times.

Since I have been away, I don’t have much local news.  Thanks to friends for checking my house while I was gone!  The Planning Board will be doing a site review at the Salt Ash Inn at 5 PM on Tuesday, 11/29 to help them make a decision on the feasibility of the cannabis retail store proposed for that location.

Don’t forget the happenings at the Coolidge Homestead on Saturday, 12/3.  1PM tree lighting at the Ciley Store, singing afterward at the Union Christian Church, on-site visit from “Calvin Coolidge” (Tracy Messer), plus vendors and craft opportunities.  The Cheese Factory will be open, too.  Fun for everyone!

Please note that Santa will be making an appearance at the Fletcher Memorial Library on Wed, 12/7 from 3:30 to 6 PM.  Enjoy refreshments and free books for youngsters (as long as they last).

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

11/20/22

Although I was enjoying the warmer weather, I will say that the snow is lovely. I just wasn’t ready for it! The colder temps have allowed it to stay around. Killington is likely quite happy with their World Cup events and I believe that Okemo may be opening this coming weekend.

In speaking with Midge Tucker, I learned that due to illness, the 11/26 and 27 Craft Fair sponsored by the Historical Society has been canceled. I understand that they are hoping to provide other activities, such as Sunday afternoon movies at the Community Center on a monthly basis. New members are always welcome!

Prepare to have some fun at the Coolidge Holiday Open House on Sat, 12/3. Gather for the lighting of the Christmas tree, singing carols, and other entertainment.

It is with great pleasure that I announce the arrival of Lauren and Matt Harootunian’s twin sons, Logan and Landon, who join big brother, Liam.

I missed some November birthdays and others are coming up: Willow Bascom (11/2), the younger Julia Baldwin (11/20), and Joan Day (11/30). Congratulations one and all!

Condolences to the family of Julia Pierson, formerly of Dublin Rd, who passed away at the Gill Home this week. There will be a memorial service at Tyson Church at 1 PM on Friday, 12/2.

A reminder about the important Select Board meeting at 6 PM on Monday, 11/21. There are so many crucial issues to be discussed – weatherization/bond issue, cannabis moving forward, pending law suit, audit review, budget and more. Attend in person or via Zoom.

Join Zoom Meeting

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Meeting ID: 883 4713 8689

Passcode: 143124

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Big Brother Liam proudly holds one of his twin brothers

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

11/14/22

A few snow flurries in the air yet this morning. It does seem that those recent warm days are gone. Well, it is the middle of November, so it should not be a surprise! Folks are beginning to consider the upcoming holidays. Please note the Holiday Craft Fair on 11/26 & 27 at the Community Center. There is no admission charge.

Mark your calendar for Holiday events at the Historic Site on Saturday, 12/3. This will be delightful family-friendly time and although admission is free, donations are always appreciated. The Tree lighting will take place on the porch of the Cilley General Store at 1:00, followed by caroling at he Union Christian Church with pianist Stephen Morse. Tracy Messer will be on hand as President Coolidge.

While touring the Site, you will be able to make stenciled holiday stationary with local artist Polly Forcier; constructor purchase a live wreath with Terry Guilick and shop at the Cheese Factory. What fun!

There seems to be some consternation about the election outcomes, so please know that a petition to reconsider any article can be submitted with a written petition including signatures of 5% of registered town voters. Also, the VT Journal article regarding the 11/7 special town meeting contained several errors.

For those concerned about the confusing language of the Bond issue, I understand that will be a topic of discussion at the next Select Board meeting scheduled for Monday, 11/21. I have included the proposed agenda below;

Call meeting to order

• Introduction of those present

• LHMP

• Retail Cannabis next steps (if passed)

• Weatherization/bond discussion

• Fire Truck

• Pending lawsuit

• Audit review

• Lister proposal for digitized records $3K setup and annual fee

Budget

• Mail and Warrants