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Holiday Craft Fair, Plymouth Community Center Route 100, Plymouth, VT.

Saturday and Sunday, November 26 and 27 from 10AM to 4pm.

No admission fee.

Masks optional.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

11/6/22

Wow, this weather has been amazing – I guess I removed my window screens too soon! I hope that everyone was able to get outside and enjoy it since temps will be dipping again. I spent several days in ME recently and really enjoyed the sunsets because I can’t see any from my house.

Some of you may remember Dick and Marilyn Geise who lived on Dublin Rd over 30 years ago, then moved back to Ohio. They were delightful neighbors with three children who came back to visit a number of times. It has been learned that Marilyn recently passed away. If anyone would like to send condolences to Dick, his address is: 4115 Woodsly Drive, Batavia, OH 45103; phone: 513-256-8949.

A reminder that the wonderful turkey dinner is on for Saturday, 11/12 at the Grange in Bridgewater at a cost of $15. Dinners may be ordered to go by calling 802-672-6223 by Friday and pick-up will be at 4:30. The other option is to eat-in from 5:30 – 8 PM. Either way, it will be delicious!

In addition to the Board, there were a dozen or so people at the 11/1 Planning & Zoning meeting, many of whom had questions regarding the proposed cannabis retail store at the Salt Ash Inn barn. Several of the issues brought up were not within the purview of these boards, but the concerns expressed by several people regarding parking and traffic backing out into Rte 100A could be deemed “undue adverse impact”. Of course, ballots (pink) were mailed out to voters and that will be the determining factor in whether the town as a whole is in favor of a local dispensary.

There are many important items to be discussed at the Special Town Meeting at 6 PM on Monday 11/7: the proposed building renovation and Bond issue; the adoption of the Declaration of Inclusion; the declaration of becoming a Second Amendment Sanctuary town; plus addressing questions regarding the proposed cannabis retail sale within Plymouth.

Directions for how to join meeting by Zoom:

11/4. Cross Lake, ME

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/31/22

Well, I am writing this on Halloween, but I don’t anticipate any treat-or-treaters to stop here this evening, although I always have treats available just in case! Perfect weather recently to tend to outdoor tasks to prepare for winter. All my planters and most of my outdoor furniture is now safely stored away. As far as I am concerned, the snow can hold off for a bit longer.

The Jarvi field on Dublin Rd has been a favorite place for a dozen or so turkeys lately. Sometimes they venture over to my house and set off my driveway alarm. I understand they may only be hunted with a shotgun, bow and arrow, or crossbow. I am not sure how these wild creatures compare with domestically raised one, however.

For those who are interested, the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment consideration of an application for Conditional Use and Permit and Variance for: Salt Ash Land LLC 4738 RT100A Plymouth, VT 05056 to consider change of occupancy of Salt Ash Inn from lodging to retail sales will take place on Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at 7:00 P.M., in the Town Hall. I assume the request was made as a result of the desire to sell cannabis from that location, the vote for which is now on the ballot.

For your info, the Echo Lake Inn is currently closed for dinner, but will reopen on 11/23. Be sure to make reservations for Thanksgiving Dinner – 802-228-6802

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/24/22

Although we are past peak and into the golden foliage season, there still seem to be many visitors here peering at the leaves. Although it is comical at times to see the extent to which people go in order to obtain a picture, it can also be dangerous. I try to remember that they are here to enjoy our beautiful state….

Tourists staying at the Echo Lake Inn lately have been treated to the sight of a young bear basking in the sun a mile up on Dublin Rd. On a recent walk, I was proudly shown a photo by a woman who was thrilled to get that close!

The election is fast approaching. Just a reminder that you will need to bring the ballot mailed to you by the State, even if go to the polls to vote. Recently the town has sent out a separate ballot about allowing a cannabis retailer to operate in Plymouth. This is an important decision for our town, so please make sure to cast your vote for this issue as well.

Sometimes pertinent info comes my way after I have submitted my weekly report.  So, I want to share with you a couple items that Plymouth folks might find interesting. 

I have learned that the VT Standard will be moderating a forum between VT House candidates Tesha Buss and Keith Cappelini that can be accessed via okemovalley.tv this Friday. Although not a live event, questions will be asked that should provide an opportunity to examine the views of each candidate.

Also, if you peruse the town website with a bit of persistence, all sorts of interesting information can be gleaned. For instance, there are several warnings listed, one of which I have noted below.

TOWN OF PLYMOUTH PUBLIC NOTICE OF HEARING

BEFORE THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

A public hearing before the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment of theTown of Plymouth will be held on Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at 7:00 P.M., in the Town HallMunicipal Building, 68 Town Office Road, Plymouth, VT, to consider an application for Conditional Use and Permit and Variance for: Salt Ash Land LLC 4738 RT100A Plymouth, VT 05056 To consider change of occupancy of Salt Ash Inn from lodging to retail sales.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/17/22

As I write on Monday AM, it is raining gently, yet still lovely with the remaining golden hue. The weekend was delightful and allowed some fall clean-up. This morning before the rain started, it seemed like everyone was out walking. A neighbor had just seen a young bear on the road, but it disappeared into the woods. I don’t usually see cardinals, but one was hanging around today!

I did visit the Historic Site on Saturday with a friend from NY. I must admit that I take it for granted so it is important to do the tour periodically to be reminded what a well-organized and lovely place it is. Although a few tour buses can be seen there on occasion, it is actually closed for the season, at least until the winter weekend event.

There will be a Select board meeting this evening, but the discussion of those various issues previously warned, will not happen until 11/7. There are a couple of birthdays to mention: Steve Moyer (10/18) and Robert Buchan (10/25) – congratulations!

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/10/22

I am finding the brilliance of the foliage this year to be breath-taking. Just when you think you have seen the best, you round a corner and see an even more spectacular view. I have a friend coming up on Thursday and I am so afraid the beauty will have passed.

I stopped at the tag sale on Sunday and visited with folks. It seemed like many of the tables were greatly depleted. According to Lauren, the total sales amounted to $1,277.50, with 15 different vendors. It was nice that Joy had opened the Historic Society room. I understand that there are only a few active members, which seems a shame since the collection is so interesting and enlightening.

The next Book Group meeting is Wednesday, 10/12 at 6:30 PM, when we will discuss A Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb. Thanks to Rose, we will meet via Zoom. Please note that the Historic Site will be closing on 10/16, so if you plan to visit the time is running out!

Although there will be a Select Board meeting on 10/17, I have been told that the special meeting to discuss the items warned for 10/17 has been postponed until 6 PM on 11/7, which is the day before Election Day.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

10/3/22

October is here, hailing autumn with leaves glowing in the bright sunlight on this crisp Monday morning. Cooler temps seem to have descended upon us quickly this year. So many happenings this weekend that I couldn’t attend them all. There was a nice crowd at the BBC auction on Saturday bringing much support for the camp’s mission and service to youngsters. The parking lot at the Historic Site appeared to be full, so hopefully the turnout there was good, as well.

The Town-wide tag sale is fast approaching – Sunday, 10/9! Don’t forget that this fun event at the Community Center (former Plymouth Elementary School) from 9 AM to 6 Pm is mainly indoors, so it will proceed rain or shine. Contact Lauren Skaskiw, Community Center Director at 802 417 6895 for more details.

On a sad note, there was a terrible fire on Lynds Hill on Saturday night that has left Felicia Pierce and Nate Marcotte and their young children, Carson and Piper in dire straits. It appears that they have lost everything. Neighbors responded quickly, as did the fire dept, but it was impossible to save the structure. In speaking with Nate yesterday, they are slowly trying to assess their situation and make a plan.

It is strange time as it seems like the birds could use some food, but feeders are a favorite target for our large bear population. I understand that Bob Lambert bagged a large bear recently.

I am hoping to present more information regarding the upcoming town meeting on Monday 10/17 at 6:00 PM. There is a wide range of diverse issues under consideration, so it seems important that folks attend, in person or virtually to ask questions and have input. 

On a lighter note, I just had a call from a neighbor who received a call this morning saying that her it was her grandson & his voice might sound strange because he was sick and on his way to the hospital when he had an accident. She played along for a time and was told he was in jail because he hit a politician and didn’t want his mom to know, but he needed bail of $17,000. Another fellow, supposedly his lawyer, got on to tell her where to send the money. I think this particular scam has been around for quite some time!

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

9/26/22

I understand that we are not quite up to our normal rain level, but the recent storms must have made an impact on our drought conditions. Several people have mentioned the toll the rains have have taken on their driveway. I am glad to have a brand new one now!

The Bethany Birches Camp Benefit Auction will take place on Sat, 10/1, although on-line bidding has already begun. This is a major fundraiser that allows more youngsters to gain awonderful camp experience at the top of Lynds Hill. Check out the BBC website and come enjoy the fun, starting with fresh donuts at 9 AM!

You can also enjoy the happenings at the Historic Site on 10/1 from 10AM until 4PM. Feel like a workout? Participate in the 5K race at 10 and possibly win the cash prize. Or join the less strenuous “I Do Not Choose to Run” 1-Mile Walk following the race. Both will allow you meander about the grounds.  Pack a lunch or enjoy something from the Fork in the Road food truck.

At 1:00 view the 45-minute film entitled “Vermont is a State I love,” at the Union Church, which depicts the 1927 floods and President Coolidge’s well-known speech about “the brave little state of Vermont.” President Calvin Coolidge impersonator, Tracy Messer will be on hand to interact with the audience. There will be entertainment by the Stringfield Springers, plusactivities and demonstrations in celebration of apples. The Cheese Factory will also be open, so come enjoy some fun and food.

Please note that the Plymouth Farmers Market is done for the season. The Town-wide Tag Sale is Sunday, 10/9 of the holiday weekend. This is a wonderful opportunity to shed some unused items and possibly provide just what is needed by someone else. Contact Lauren Skaskiw, Community Center Director at 802 417 6895 for more details.

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the important special Town Meeting coming up at 6:00 PM on Monday, 10/17.