Welcome to The Plymouth Press Online

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.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

I enjoyed a lovely weekend at Omega wellness center in Rhinebeck NY with a former work colleague.  Traveling  different roads made me even more aware of the changing leaves as the weather flip-flops bad for back and forth during this in-between season.

Even though preparing for a new school year is long in my past, this time of year makes me feel like starting anew.  I have been going through baskets where I often toss items while deciding if they need to be saved or not. This is the perfect opportunity to look at possessions and decide if they might become treasures for someone else. So, don’t forget the town wide tag sale coming up on Saturday, 10/9.

Changes changes, life is full of them! Please note that the time for picking up items after the sale on Monday, 10/10 will begin at 4 PM.  Also, please bear in mind that the correct date of the special town meeting is Monday, 10/17 at 6 PM as noted in the revised Warning. 

Be sure to mark your calendar for the Plymouth Notch Apple Fest and 5K race on Saturday, 10/1.  The Coolidge Foundation “I do not choose to run“ 1 mile walk will begin at 10 AM. Lots of other activities will be taking place at The Historic Site, including cider pressing, sampling of apple goodies, along with wagon rides, craft demonstrations, cheesemaking and more.

Congratulations to Chase Morrissey and Mary Covell who were united in marriage this past Saturday in what I understand was a delightful wedding at the Middleberry Inn.  I love it when people share good news, so be sure to send me information!

TOWN OF PLYMOUTH VT

There will be a Special Informational meeting for public discussion of the proposed building renovation and Bond issue, Inclusion Statement and Second Amendment sanctuary town designation prior to the November 8th election. The meeting will be held Monday, October 17, at 6:00 PM in the Plymouth Municipal Building.

Following are the Articles for THE NOVEMBER ELECTION:

Article 1

VOTE FOR ONLY ONE

Shall the Town of Plymouth borrow up to an additional $800,000 thru a Municipal Bond to pay for the full and proposed weatherization/deferred maintenance project to be paid back over a 25-year period?
Shall the Town of Plymouth proceed with the weatherization/deferred maintenance project and only complete portions of the project with the funds previously authorized by the Voters in the amount of $950,000?

Article 2

VOTE YES OR NO

Shall the Town of Plymouth adopt the Declaration of Inclusion as signed by Vermont Governor Phil Scott in 2021 to condemn racism and welcome all persons to live freely and express their opinions as stated in the proposed language for a Plymouth Declaration of Inclusion as written below:
The Town of Plymouth condemns racism and welcomes all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, age, or disability, and wants everyone to feel safe and welcome in our community.

As a town, we formally condemn all discrimination in all of its forms, commit to fair and equal treatment of everyone in our community, and will strive to ensure all of our actions, policies, and operating procedures reflect this commitment.

Article 3

VOTE YES OR NO

Shall the Town of Plymouth VT declare itself a Second Amendment Sanctuary town?

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

9/11/22

I am writing this on 9/11 and it brings back memories of that fateful day. The events don’t fade with time because it seems so inconceivable that such a horrendous atrocity could take place on our shores. This seems like a time to recall those who lost their lives, but also to note with gratitude the selfless assistance offered by so many.

I hope that everyone had an opportunity to view that amazing moon the other night. Although the full moon was actually on Saturday, it was Friday evening that my friend Betty and I saw it. The pictures we took could never compare with the huge orange globe that appeared in the sky. To add to the splendor, an owl flew beside the car in such close proximity, that it startled us. The wonders of nature!

Yet, we need to respect the creatures around us and to be aware of possible dangers. Bears live among us, so a healthy distance should be observed. I usually beep my horn as I drive up my driveway at night, to allow both of us a chance to avoid each other. Neighbors related a scary encounter with a rabid skunk that attempted to attack them in their yard. No injury resulted and the poor sick animal was eventually shot.

I haven’t seen the minutes from the 9/6 Select Board meeting, but the agenda listed discussion of the recent sale of the Plymouth Store in the Union area of town and discussion of the request by the Salt Ash Inn to conduct retail sales of cannabis. I would imagine there will much future discussion and permits needed on both of these items. Perhaps the VT Journal will do a synopsis of the meeting as they have done in the past.

The reading group will meet via Zoom on 9/14 to discuss The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak. I liked it, although it was a bit different to see events through the eyes of the various characters, including the perspective of a fig tree. It should be a lively discussion!

Although the Plymouth Farmers Market is winding down, you can start getting ready for the 6th Annual Plymouth Town Tag Sale on Sunday, 10/9 at the Plymouth Community Center from 9AM until 6PM. Residents (and friends of residents!) are invited to participate as vendors and the fee of $5 will be subtracted from your total sales. Contact Lauren Skaskiw, Community Center Director at 802 417 6895 for more details.

All items need to be marked with secure tags that note your initials and the price. Tables and floor space are available on a first-come, first-served basis and you can bring your treasures and set up on Wed 19/5 from 4:30-6:30PMand Sat 10/8 from 10:00AM-2:00PM. Volunteers are needed to handle the sales, 2 each for the following shifts: 9-12AM, noon-3PM, and 3-6PM. If you are not selling, consider coming out to peruse the offerings!

I understand that on 9/17 from 1 to 4 PM, Farm & Wilderness will be exploring common aquatic plants found in Woodward Reservoir, followed by an optional paddle on the lake. This event is free and open to folks of all ages, but those under the age of 18 must have an adult with them. Light refreshments are available during the events and participants are encouraged to bring their own water and snacks for the afternoon. For more Information and to register go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/402632965037.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

9/6/22

A bit late this week and I missed the early deadline for the VT Standard, but I did want to share some news with all of you. As you know, we are receiving much needed rain, although the past 2 days have been rather gloomy. Good for attending to indoor projects!

There was much happening in town this past weekend. The Shakespeare Alive performance was outstanding as usual and was viewed with great enthusiasm. The church was full and reverberated with laughter as the Bard’s words tumbled out in various new circumstances. Well done!

I was able to attend the Saturday part of the Folk and Blues Festival. Those in attendance filled the lawn and included all ages and many dogs, who seemed to get along famously. I understand that a similar crowd enjoyed the music on Sunday, as well.

On a more somber note, Sandie Small passed away unexpectedly on 8/27. She was an important part of our community serving as Town Clerk from 2015 until earlier this year. Hailing from NJ, she and her husband purchased their parcel of land at Hawk in1987. She was well-known within our community and I will always remember Sandie’s warm smile. No services are planned at this time.

In speaking with Tiffany at Camp Plymouth State Park, I have learned that although it will remain open until 9/25, you might be disappointed to hear that the food truck is gone for the season. You can still enjoy the park, however, and possibly even more now that the geese have departed. Apparently there was a three week period when 30 geese, including babies decided to take up residence on the lake. The park opens at 10 AM each day and boats may be rented from 11 until 4. Also, there is some mid-week availability at the cottages, the week of 9/12 and 9/19 if anyone is interested.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

2/29/22

Well, August marches on and although there has been a recent crispness to the air, heat and humidity are still with us at times. I missed the thunderstorm that struck our area last Friday in the early afternoon, but when I arrived home that evening, I found plants, twigs, and branches strewed everywhere.

At first I didn’t even notice the tree leaning on my house. Somehow it broke and appears to have bounced on the ground before bending toward my dining room. I am assuming that is what took the brunt of the impact and meant no damage to my roof. I feel very blessed and also very grateful to Justin who came the next day and spent over an hour rigging lines and pulleys, then safely taking it to the ground. He even cut it up and pushed it over the bank for me.

The holiday weekend is fast approaching with many activities both in Plymouth and neighboring towns. At the Notch, don’t forget Shakespeare Alive at noon on Saturday and the Folk and Blues festival on both Saturday and Sunday from 2-5 PM. You might even be able to squeeze in a visit to the Plymouth farmers market on Sunday afternoon, too!