Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
4/4/22
Writing on Monday morning, the sun is shining brightly. It was interesting that during the night I looked outside and saw the stars of the big dipper shimmering in the sky, but also snowflakes! Such strange weather these days.
I actually don’t have much news today. In addition to our group of five, plus one dog, walking the neighborhood the other day, many others were enjoying time on Tyson Road. I assume some were staying at the Echo Lake Inn. One disheartening issue, however, is the litter along the road and into the woods. It is difficult to comprehend why some folks can’t find a better place to discard their cans and bottles.
Well, I am already late with noting some April birthdays. Sally Dolloff was 4/1, Dana Dolloff was 4/3. I believe that Shirley Billings is 4/12, Cheryl Bishop is 4/13, Brandon Bergey is 4/19 and Kathy Lynds is 4/29. Congratulations to one and all!
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
3/27/22
There were some lovely warm days this week that beckoned several of us on Dublin Rd to get out and go for a community walk. Some of us ventured out again today (Sunday), at a time when the blowing snow had subsided a bit. Although the flurries have been happening all day, not much has accumulated. That may change as the snow is predicted to continue overnight. Spring is being elusive. At least the wind has been drying out some of the mud!
I am wondering if the bears are disgruntled about this wintry weather. They were out in force this weekend, with several people reporting bird feeders being mangled and suet feeders missing all-together! They even set their sights on beehives as they are emerging from hibernation.
I understand and some of you may have seen that there was a VT Fire Academy training at Woodward Reservoir on 3/19 and 3/20 that provided Technician certification for Ice and cold-water rescue. Over 30 Fire fighters from Fire Departments throughout Vermont participated. Congratulations to Steve Radonis for becoming Technician level certified and offering Plymouth another level of protection!
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
3/21/22
One of my weather apps noted there might be snow this morning (Monday), so waking up to sunshine instead was delightful! I also had a frisky doe prancing up and down my driveway and setting off my alarm today She seemed excited about the prospect of spring, as are the myriad of chirping birds. Yes, it is still early and not time to retrieve the hummingbird feeder from the garage yet, but there are hopeful signs that winter may be retreating.
Of course we still have snow in the Dublin Rd area, but that is not unusual. As a matter of fact several young fellows had a mishap on Patch Brook Rd when GPS sent them that way back to their rental house in Mount Holly. Those of us who live here are aware that road is closed in the winter, but the snow bank left by the town plow usually alerts folks from out-of-town.However, the rain had melted the snow, allowing access. One of their vehicles skidded into the ditch, which was actually better than going off the cliff on the other side. AAA was of little help, but neighbors here on our road very kindly responded and rescued the truck on Sunday. There was much celebration and thanksgiving! It seems it might be prudent to have signs on either end indicating the winter closure.
I was pleased to see that the VT Journal extracted considerable information from last week’s Select Board meeting. This publication is becoming a valuable information source for what is happening in Plymouth.
I was able to attend the Yoh Theatre presentation of “The Three Musketeers” on Sunday. It was wonderfully energetic and entertaining. I am not sure if any Plymouth students were involved (I just know the names these days), but of course Marcia Bender is the talented director. Donations for Ukraine were also collected.
Please note that someone from Senior Solutions plans to be at the town hall on Thursday, 3/24 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM. Residents 60 and older can drop by and learn about 3Sq. VT and fuel assistance (LIHEAP) and other nutrition and assistance programs like Meals on Wheels. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about resources for yourself or others.
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
3/14/22
More interesting weather around here! The 10 inches of snow we received in Tyson was somewhat denser that previous storms, so even the strong winds (a neighbor clocked a 45 mph gust) did not blow it away. The birds are depleting my feeder very quickly these days, but singing cheerfully despite the up and down temperatures.
I understand that congratulations are in order for the 65th anniversary of Phylis and Donald Martin that took place on 3/9. Also, happy birthday to Taylor Lynds on 3/17.
The book group will be meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, 3/16 at 6:30 PM to discuss All That She Carried: The Journey of Ashley’s Sack, a Black Family Keepsake. As one reviewer noted, “a poignant story of resilience and of love passed down through generations of women against steep odds”
With a pleasant nod to warmer weather, please note that the Plymouth Farmer’s Market is planning to start Sunday 6/5 from 3-6 PM. Located at The Community Center each Sunday, there will be no fees for venders, just at opportunity to provide wonderful fresh produce and other items for sale. Plus a time to socialize!
I just learned about a meeting on Tuesday – sorry for the late notice. From 11 AM – 1 PM, there will be a someone from Senior Solutions at the Town building who will be providing information on 3Squares food benefits and fuel assistance. You do not need an appointment to attend.
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
3/7/22
Writing this on Monday morning and the clouds have now filled the sky. The brief sunshine this morning encouraged a walk, although it began to sprinkle before getting home. Yesterday afternoon temps in the mid 60s were amazing, but while out for a walk with a neighbor about 3:30, a sudden gust of wind nearly knocked us over. New birdsong could be signaling spring, but that seems a bit premature since it is only the beginning of March!
I believe there were 20 to 25 people who attended the informational town meeting last Monday and it was a fairly quiet group. A few people also joined on zoom. All of the articles were approved and I was amazed that there were no questions raised about the town budget.
Charlie Kimball attended and provided answers to a number of questions. He mentioned legislative concerned about workforce housing that is quite limited and broadband expansion, both of which are being discussed. He also noted that he is running for lieutenant governor, so he will not be our representative how much longer.
There was a fairly low turnout for voting and all of the articles passed. Congratulations to Naomi Moyer, our new part-time Lister and Elliott Ruben, our new school Director for Plymouth. Selectman Rick Kaminski let me know that 28 properties are scheduled for tax sale on 4/7 and there will be a second tax sale in May and possibly another in June.
I am experiencing some computer issues, so doing this article from my iPad without access to the few names I have on my birthday list. Hopefully I can get back on track soon!
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
2/27/22
Well, the nearly bare ground is covered in white again – lovely light and fluffy snow that was easy to push off the deck. To my way of thinking, that is the best kind! A few of us enjoyed the new powder over at Camp Plymouth State Park today. Our group used snowshoes, several others had cross-country skis and a few just boots. The dogs were certainly enjoying romping in it, but a startled grouse did not appreciate their presence.
I learned from Jay that the Select Board meeting last Monday was not available because Okemo Valley TV could not be there. This will be a busy week with the information-only Town Meeting at 7 PM on Monday, 2/28. It will be in person, but also available on Zoom at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88347138689?pwd=dnRjQUlYT0lXR0k3SlYrVW9aNHNlUT09Meeting ID: 883 4713 8689. Passcode: 143124One tap mobile. +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
Voting by Australia ballot will take place at the Town Building on Tuesday, 3/1 from 10 AM to 7 PM and will include all of the Articles, plus the School Budget. In completing my absentee ballot I noticed that Lister candidate Naomi Moyer’s name was spelled Meyer, but most of us know her well! There was nobody on the ballot for School Director, so I am attaching a letter of recommendation by Pete Fellows for a write-in person, who is eager to serve in that capacity. Don’t forget to vote!
Per Pete: A fellow Hale Hollow-er (not holler-er) Elliot Rubin is running to fill Josh Linton’s vacant seat. See below for some background. You will need to write him in though. We have known him and his wife for many years now and just wanted to let you all know what an asset they are to our little community. Elliot is a retired pediatrician and is excited to serve his community in a new way. He is thoughtful and is also willing to speak up and advocate for children.
Hello, my name is Dr. Elliot Rubin, and I would like for you to consider me as a write-in candidate for the Windsor Central Supervisory Union School Board, representing Plymouth. My wife and I moved to Plymouth full time in 2020 to start our retirement. I have, for the last 36 years, been in practice as a primary care community Pediatrician in central NJ. I am thrilled to be back in Vermont having graduated from UVM Medical School in 1981. I feel that my experience as a primary care Pediatrician, caring for children from birth to young adulthood and their families, would positively inform my decision making as a school board member. I am excited for the opportunity to make this transformation from clinical Pediatrics to serving our local community in another way, as a Plymouth WCSU School Board representative.
Please consider writing-in my name in the Australian Ballot on Tuesday, March 1st, 2022 at Plymouth Town Hall where in person voting is from 10am-7pm. Please also consider passing my name and this notice along to your Plymouth friends and neighbors.
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
2/20/22
It is certainly a windy world of late. Whether the weather is frigid or slightly warmer, that wind just doesn’t want to quit! I actually went snowshoeing last Thursday morning and it was sunny, fairly mild and delightful. Of course, that was before the wind picked up and the rain rushed in. The 3 inches of snow from morning snow squalls on Saturday succeeded in covering up the ice and I know of several people who slipped and fell as a result.
As the poem “Wind On The Hill” by A. A. Milne says: No one can tell me, Nobody knows, Where the wind comes from, Where the wind goes.
When the Book Group met on 2/9, the books for the next several months were selected. The book for 3/16 is All that She Carried: The Journey of Ashley’s Sack, a Black Family Keepsake by Tiya Miles. For 4/13 the choice is: The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. The 5/11 book is The Push by Ashley Audrain.
Hopefully voters have received the Plymouth Town Report by now or have had an opportunity to look at the information on the town website. The Select Board will answer questions at their meeting on 2/21 at 6:00 PM, in person or via Zoom in advance of the Information only Town Meeting on 2/28. To join go to: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88347138689?pwd=dnRjQUlYT0lXR0k3SlYrVW9aNHNlUT09Meeting ID: 883 4713 8689. Passcode: 143124One tap mobile. +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
Just a reminder about the upcoming informational meeting on Thursday, 2/24 at 6:30 P.M. to explain the 2022-2023 proposed budget the Windsor Central Unified Union School District. You can access this zoom meeting on the Windsor Central Supervisory Union website.
In order to provide clarification, Recycling Coordinator, Mary O’Brien has provided information regarding the 6 mandated materials for recycling in VT, which are listed below:
1. Paper – newspapers, mail, phone books, mixed paper, and newspapers; NO paper towels, tissues, or hardcover books
2. Aluminum – clean cans, foil, pie tins and trays, NO scrap metal, pots or pans
3. Cardboard – clean and dry cardboard, cereal, cracker, and Kleenex boxes; NO juice cartons or greasy pizza boxes
4. Steel – clean cans (incl. tin), lids, empty aerosol cans; NO pesticide sprays or paint cans
5. Glass – clean jars and bottles; NO window glass, light bulbs, ceramic dishes, or tableware
6. Hard Plastics – #1 water and salad dressing bottles, #2 milk and juice jugs; NO plastic bags, Styrofoam, or any black plastic
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
2/13/22
Isn’t it interesting that a sunny day in the 30s feels like spring! I think it has been the strangest weather this winter – longer periods of cold, stubborn cloudiness, mixed precipitation. My yard is crisscrossed with diverse tracks – deer, foxes, turkeys, squirrels, all looking for some nourishment.
It is hoped that the Town Report will be in the mail and on the website shortly, so that townsfolk can review the information, especially the Town Budget. The Selectmen have agreed to address questions at the next regular Select Board meeting, scheduled for 2/21. You may attend the meeting or tune in via Zoom to pose questions. Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88347138689?pwd=dnRjQUlYT0lXR0k3SlYrVW9aNHNlUT09Meeting ID: 883 4713 8689. Passcode: 143124One tap mobile. +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
Don’t forget about the informational school budget hearing to be held via audio/video on Thursday, 2/24 at 6:30 P.M. to explain the 2022-2023 proposed budget. Noting Article 2 (paraphrased): Shall the voters of the Windsor Central Unified Union School District approve the school board expending ($24,314,318), which has been determined necessary for the ensuing fiscal year? If approved, it is estimated that this proposed budget, will result in education spending of $19,567 per equalized pupil. See their website for details.
Per the Mountain Times, “this projected spending is $1,558,680 or 6.85% higher than spending for the current year. As such, the pre-CLA adjustment tax rate for FY 2023 will be $1.5125 per $1,000 appraised value, a decrease of $.11 from the previous year. The fact that WCUUSD has experienced a 5% increase in enrollment, may mean lower budgeted cost per pupil.” Plymouth will also be voting in a school board director, all of which will take place at the Town Building on 3/1 along will the other town items to be voted.
This winter has been a cold one, so please know than an application for the VT Seasonal Fuel Assistance (LI-HEAP) program can be done online at www.benefitsapplication.com/program_info/VT/LIHEAP or in person at the local LI-HEAP office. Also, the Woodstock Area Relief Fund, Barnard Helping Hands, Kings Daughters, Bethany Mennonite Church and Ottauquechee Health Foundation have joined forces to provide a centralized application for those needing help with home heating bills and this includes Plymouth residents. Grant money for up to $1,000 will be paid directly to the provider, so go to https://bit.ly/3JxvybE for the online application or call 802-457-7214.
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
2/7/22
Well, here it is, Monday morning and sunny! Actually the sunrise yesterday morning was spectacular, but it was nice to see the less flashy morning glow today, too. What strange weather last week. Snow reached our area, but kept flip-flopping over to sleet or rain. That made for crunchy snow with ice crystals. Ludlow was overflowing with skiers this weekend. When it warms up a bit, a friend and I are planning to snowshoe today.
I feel so fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful wildlife. Famished finches are decimating my sunflower seed feeder, while the chickadees demurely sneak it to pluck a seed and depart to eat it. The other night (well 3:30 AM) I saw a fox roaming around my dooryard. When I turned on the floodlight, it even paused in the driveway so I could see its beautiful busy tail.
There has been some confusion about the warning for Town Meeting on 2/28, which is now also posted on the Town website. The Monday evening meeting will be both in person and available via Zoom. As a result, this will only be an informational meeting according to the Select Board with voting on the articles by Australian ballot on Tuesday. Per Sandie, the Town Report should be ready to mail later this week, so folks will have an opportunity to examine it and formulate questions. You may also call her (802-672-3655) for an absentee ballot.
The book group will meet by Zoom on Wednesday, 2/8 at 6:30 PM to discuss Whistlin’ Dixie in a Nor’easter by Lisa Patton. Although containing some stereotypical comments about Vermonters, it also pokes fun at southerners as well. Ideas for the next books for upcoming months will be discussed, too. All are welcome to participate!
Birthday best wishes to Lisa Obriskie (2/8) Scott Hepler (17) Naomi Moyer (25). I am sure there are many folks to celebrate, so let me.
A few more property transfers:
894 East Ash Rd $260,000.00 KKJ Investments LLC to Jason & Jessica Pollard
71 Pollard Rd $716,000.00 Kathleen Brown to Pollard Rd LLC
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