Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
4/18/22
Knowing what to wear these days is problematic with sunny, warm or cold with rainy and snowy conditions coming and going with regularity! Easter attire included sweaters and heavy coats this year. Writing on Monday morning the sun is shining brightly, but Tuesday’s forecast of several inches of snow is unnerving. My snow shovels remain handy and my car is still adorned with snow tires, so I guess I am all set.
The Personal Librarian generated a great discussion during book group. What makes it so special is that each person picks up on slightly different details so that more meaning is obtained from each selection. It was nice to have Rose’s from friend, Pam, join us on zoom. Our next book is The Push by Ashley Audrain, that will be discussed on Wednesday, 5/11. I gather it is a thriller that includes debate over the nature/nurture issue.
I see that work has been done to grade most roads and they seem to be in good shape now, despite the horrendous mud season. I don’t believe Patch Brook has been touched yet and the last I checked there were some severely washed out places.
Everyone is out trying to clear the winter debris from yards but the weather is not always cooperating. I have not heard about Greenup day, but it is usually the first Saturday in May. More to come on that….
I am still having difficulty with my computer, even though Matt came and helped me clean it up. If anyone is knowledgeable and feels like helping me on my iMac, feel free to get in touch!
Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard
4/11/22
Monday has dawned bright and beautiful – so nice to see the azure sky and sparkling sunshine! We all know that April means spring showers, but it will a day to work in my bedraggled yard.
I imagine that most folks are aware that Sandie Small submitted her resignation at the last Select Board meeting. Many thanks to her for doing this detailed job for several years with a bright smile on her face. According to the Selectmen, the town office will be open only on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday for the time-being until additional staff can be hired.
The Book Group will be reviewing The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict on Wednesday evening 4/13 at 6:30 via Zoom. It is about Belle Da Costa Greene, who was the personal librarian to financier J.P.Morgan. It is non-fiction, but I found it to be riveting as she gained expertise and confidence at a time when women were not well-accepted in the world of rare books, manuscripts and art that became world-renowned.
In other town news, I understand that 15 property owners paid their balances prior to the tax sale, which is so encouraging. It sounds like it will be another summer of road work extending along Rte 100 from Rte 4 to Rte 103. The same company that did such a nice job on 100A will be handling this project, starting at Rte 4 beginning in May. Happily, there is not to be full road closure, but one-way traffic as they proceed.
The Select Board is seeking applications for the Town Clerk position that will be an appointment until the election in March of 2023. The VT Journal will post it, but here are some of the specifics. Applicants need to be Plymouth residents. Duties include a wide range of responsibilities such as: setting up elections, recording deeds and licenses, warning meetings and posting minutes, dispersing information to other town departments, grant application and reporting.
Lastly, let’s join together at the Coolidge Museum and Education Center to celebrate Bill Jenney and thank him for his many years of tireless attention to details at the Coolidge Homestead on 5/22 at 3:00 PM. He will be difficult to replace!
What: This is a public ‘forum’ for anyone that would like to brush up on first aid topics. Come with your questions or email them with your registration ahead of time. Topics to be covered right now include: Hands only CPR for adult, child and infant, stroke symptoms, emergency first aid when you are out in the woods…
When: Tuesday, April 26th
Time: 6:30 – ????
Cost: Free . This is done as a community service for Plymouth residents by the Plymouth First Response Team.
The class will be taught by an AHA certified CPR/First Aid instructor, EMS instructor/coordinator. It is not a certification course.
Registration is required ahead of time so that we can accommodate all.
Please contact the Town Assistant Clerk Monday – Thursday or email asstclerk@plymouthvt.org
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.
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