Welcome to The Plymouth Press Online

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

2/1/21

I am late in writing my article because I have been attempting to prepare for the anticipated Nor’easter coming our way.  A few quick items at the pharmacy, then distributing peelings outside for the animals, plus securing anything that might blow around.  It is amazing that there are still such huge clumps of snow in the trees.  Here’s hoping that the power outages are limited!

Not much news today.  There was considerable input at the recent Zoom meeting, with a wide range of opinions expressed about the proposed Airbnb regulations.  Clarification was requested and received about the tax collection issue.  Although the voter turnout was quite low last Thursday, both articles were approved, which will allow the Selectmen to appoint the Collector of Delinquent Taxes and to pay that person on a part-time basis.

Whether The Weather –

Lyrics from the internet

Whether the weather be fine, 

Or whether the weather be not, 

Whether the weather be cold, 

Or whether the weather be hot.

We’ll weather the weather, 

Whatever the weather,

  Whether we like it or not! 

Picture by Naomi Moyer

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

1/24/21

Some nippy temps lately and wild wind.  As I look at the rest of the country, I guess we are not having more than a normal VT winter.  Of course, our snowfall has been fairly light the last couple of years.  The road crews, utility workers, and snowplow operators have been kept pretty busy lately.  My leaf blower has been a tremendous help when the snow is light.  Some areas still need to be shoveled, but I keep telling myself that it is good exercise.

We had a good discussion 1/21 about Lisa Wingate’s book, The Book of Lost Friends.  The fact that some slave owners moved their slaves to TX after emancipation in order to keep them subjugated was an eye-opener for several of us.  The book also brought into perspective the long-term consequences of slavery.  The Book Group has chosen the next three selections:  Spindle City by Jotham Burrello for 2/18; Mud Season by Ellen Stimson for 3/18; and The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Dare for 4/15.  Since we meet via Zoom, it is a safe and enjoyable way to discuss these books.  All are welcome to participate.

Just a reminder about the special meeting on Wed, 1/27 at 6:00PM to discuss proposed Airbnb regulations and the appointment of the Collector of Delinquent taxes.  Contact Sandie at the Town Office to zoom information.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

1/17/21

Well, this is turning out to be quite a winter!  The snow Friday into Saturday was so heavy that I struggled to clear my deck.  Yet Saturday night’s was mostly light and fluffy.  I believe we received a total of 14 inches here in Tyson.  We are definitely in a snow zone – Rutland had mainly rain.

I heard that 20+ inches fell on Lynds Hill, though.  I understand that several brave families made it to the Bethany Birches Camp Fun Day on Saturday and while adhering to Covid precautions, did indeed have fun.  Snow camps will be happening this year with similar safeguards.  For more information and to register, please go to camp@bethanybirches.org or call 802-672-5220. 

Polar Bear (Grades 7-10) February 12-14

Lynx A (Grades 4-7) February 19-21

Bobcat (Grades 3-6) February 26-28

Lynx B: (Grades 4-7) March 5-7 

I was told that moose tracks have been seen on Scout Camp Rd recently.  When I worked in Windsor and traveled the Tyson/Reading Rd, I used to see these huge creatures regularly.  Snowshoeing on the Patch Brook Rd on Tuesday, we did not see moose tracks, but plenty of deer ones. I admit that I have trouble distinguishing dog, coyote, and fox, which were there as well.

Just a reminder of the special meeting to discuss the proposed Airbnb regulations and the appointment of the Collector of Delinquent Taxes coming up on 1/27.  Voting will be on 1/28 and I imagine that absentee ballots can be obtained if you call the Town Building.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

1/10/21

It seems like January is moving along quite quickly and the slightly longer daylight hours are certainly heartening.  I am still using my grippers to get from the house to the garage, but then removing them.  If you have ever tried to shop wearing them, you know how slippery and dangerous that can be!

Karen Evans and I ventured over to Camp Plymouth State Park on Sunday afternoon to snowshoe.  It was delightful.  Although there was evidence of many recent visitors – walkers, cross country skiers, dogs and other creatures, there were only two other cars in the designed parking area.  The snow was crunchy under the trees, but smooth out in the open.  We noticed that a porta-potty has been placed near the concession building for the convenience of those enjoying the park.

Bethany Birches Camp will be holding a Family Fun Day on Saturday, 1/16 from 11 AM – 4 PM. Activities will be outside and masks are required (2 per person), along with bringing your own lunch.  Covid protocol will be closely followed.  Check the website: camp@bethanybirches.org for options to sign up since attendance is limited to 50 individuals.

Just a heads-up on the proposed Airbnb ordinance that will be discussed at the special informational meeting at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, 1/27.  It is quite comprehensive and can be found on the Town website by clicking on the Bulletin Board.  Also at that meeting there will be discussion about the Select Board appointing the Collector of Delinquent Taxes, which has previously been an elected position.  Per Sandie, please call the Town Office to reserve one of the twenty in-person spots for the meeting.  A code will be forthcoming for those wanting to attend via Zoom, so email her with your desire to receive it.

Apparently WARF is still providing financial assistance of up to $1000 for a number of towns, including Plymouth.  For more information you can call 802-281-9902 or apply at www.woodstockarearelieffund.org.

Sincere condolences to the family of Ralph Michael, who passed away on 12/28/20.  He played a major role in serving the Town of Plymouth in several capacities over many years.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

1/4/21

Writing this on Monday, the sun is beginning to shine and cause sparkles on the new-fallen four inches of snow.  It is winter and so important to see the beauty rather than the momentary inconveniences.  I think I could have made it down my driveway with my trusty Subaru, but my plow guy is here already!

I wanted to alert folks to the delightful performance of the Nutcracker in which Ayla Price of Dublin Rd was the Dew Drop Fairy in the Dance Factory of Springfield performance.  You can watch it on Okemo Valley TV.

A new year and I imagine we are all speculating about what it will hold.  On a day like today, it seems easy to be optimistic.  I was helping my youngest grandson with a homework assignment and came across this pun – When you dream in color, is it a pigment of your imagination?  Wishing you colorful dreams for 2021 and that they all come true.

More property transfers:

1) 81 Harrier Way       $520,000      Robert and Judith Zimpfer to Mario, Matthew, Nicholas, and Paul LaRosa

2) Dix Hill Rd. 11.25 Acres       $55,000        Nancy Coe McLane to Robert and Barbara Bessette

3) 81 Goshawk Dr      $512,000      Maurice and Robin DeFina and Lawrence DeAntonio to Terrence and Leanne Dunn

4) 101 Birch Landing # 9      $340,000    John and Linda Bermingham to Timothy and Erin Colleran

5) Route 100 1.5 Acres      $16,500      Justina Pingree and Roland Sinotte to Alan and Karla Bradis

6) 84 Dillon Rd       $200,000      Peter and Sandra Mollica to Mitchell Rae and Joel Quinones

7) 894 Scout Camp Rd        $554,900           Estate of Thompson Eddy to Paul and Jesse Glynn

8) 790 Grand View Lodge Rd      $285,000        Mark Bredice to ABC Homes, LLC

9) 553 Echo View Dr. 3.10 Acres      $112,000       Michael Bentley to Erik and Annamaria Forselius

10) 388 Snowy Owl Ln.    $785,000    Robert and Carol Stohrer to John Ruiz

11) Dam Road  1.5 Acres     $45,000         Kevin Chu to Charles Duffy and Marta Flanagan

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

12/27/20

I hope that everyone had a very merry Christmas and that folks were able to reach out to loved ones, even if it was not a face-to-face gathering.  Isn’t it amazing how the rain demolished all that snow. It cleared my roofs, except for a small amount in the valleys. But the best part was that there was nothing left on my driveway to freeze and become hazardous. 

I do feel sorry for all of the people who have come up here to enjoy skiing, since I am not sure that the ski areas have fared very well. The cold temps may ease the situation with man-made snow. I have been walking daily with neighbors and for the most part there has been very little wind, which makes these early morning jaunts delightful. 

The sunrise on the 26th was breathtaking and the sprinkling of light snow the last couple of mornings has whitened up the snowbanks, making them look fresh and clean. I don’t know about dining in other areas of Vermont, but there is a holiday Dining in Okemo Valley guide that lists many places for eat-in and take-out dining.  I will say that three of us obtained the Christmas day dinner from the Echo Lake Inn, which was delicious.

I don’t have a great deal of news, but I imagine people are occupied with their loved ones at this time of year in any case. The next book for our Reading Group is The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate.  Our Zoom meeting to discuss it will be Thursday, 1/21 at 6:30. 

I have heard so many people say they will be glad to say goodbye to 2020. It certainly has been a difficult year on so many levels.  I haven’t noticed that people are making many New Year’s resolutions, however. I do hope that everyone will attempt to think positively about this upcoming year and will try to take good care – physically, mentally and spiritually. I found this quote by Voltair “think for yourself and let others enjoy the privilege of doing so too”. That in itself sounds like a good stress reliever.  Wishing everyone many blessings for the New Year.

Reprinted with permission of The Vermont Standard

12/20/20

In my last report, the snow had melted, then Wednesday into Thursday, we received about 40 inches here in Tyson.  I tended to my back deck on three separate occasions, easily moving the light and fluffy snow off into the driveway.  Although the morning walks have been brisk, there has been little wind, making getting out in the fresh air delightful.

One of my neighbors brought over his tractor/snowblower and did an amazing job clearing my driveway and dooryard. (He also assisted folks all up and down the road).  My regular plow fellow finished up the next day and even shoveled up from my basement.  The grandson of another neighbor cleared my other deck.  Blessings were coming one right after the other. Since I didn’t need to go anywhere, I could appreciate the beauty of the snow sparkling in the sunshine.

Looking for some special culinary treats, check out the website for the Echo Lake Inn.  Meals in the restaurant or to go are available and special feasts planned for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Christmas Blessings (MM 12/3/05)

Christmas comes upon us

With its sparkle and its rush.

We need to look beyond it

And to seek the peace and hush,

That come when to the manger

We bring our hopes & fears ~

The Holy Babe of Bethlehem

Has come to wipe our tears.

Although the world’s in turmoil

With disharmony & strife,

Jesus, our precious gift from God,

Was born to bring us life.

So may this season be for you

One of joy and love,

Filled with many blessings,

Shining like the Star above.

Reprinted with permission from The Vermont Standard

2020 – a year of transitions

Last December we were frantically searching to find a place for Christmas dinner so that Tom & I could meet with the Gedney & Stern families.  Albany turned out to be the halfway point & we actually had a nice meal & enjoyed spending the Holiday together.  This year,  with COVID flourishing, even going to a restaurant seems questionable. 
It would be impossible to list all of the cordial gatherings that took place in the beginning of 2020, but there were many dinners & wonderful times with family & friends. When the pandemic began to take center stage, then walking together seemed to become the way to socialize.  

We did tap out & made maple syrup, but already knew it would be our last season.  Thanks to the folks who helped with the various tasks that sugaring entails.  It was a blessing to have been able to stockpile some of our syrup, so we are still gifting & enjoying it.

It was a strange summer – much too warm & humid for such an extended period in VT.  As a result, swimming in Echo Lake was almost a daily ritual & we were glad to have several friendly points of access.  Lake George provided a delightful outing for my 75th birthday.

Then came the end of July & the world turned upside-down.  On a beautiful summer day, Tom & I brought Owen (9) & Landon (7) to the state park on Echo Lake.  The boys & I dove right in and they quickly garnered quite a collection of rocks.  We took them back to the shade to show Poppy & soon a lesson in juggling began. Later the boys ventured back into the water with Tom while I remained in the shade.  As usual, he swam out further to enjoy some solitary time in the water.  When the boys returned & we realized that Tom was missing, I quickly surmised what had happened.

Blessing:  a beautiful day with family, a gentle sinking below the surface in a beloved lake, & a peaceful transition to eternity.  Because of COVID we were only able to gather a few at a time to honor Tom – at the cemetery, on Echo Lake & at Lake George.  The tender presence of family & friends via calls, cards, & emails has been a great comfort.  We have many fond memories & funny stories & now a wonderful structure built by Chris called Poppy’s Place. 

I hope that all of you reading this can smile as you recall Tom & the times you shared with him.  I believe he would like that.  I certainly would appreciate it.  In peace & love, may the New Year bring you abundant joy & blessings. 

With heartfelt affection, 

Margo

Advent leads from darkness to light

Heavy hearts can find their load lightened

As the days lengthen, our spirits can be brightened

For with the Love that came to illuminate our way

We can rejoice in past joys & look forward to new blessings

May it be so –

Amen

Reprinted with permission of The Vermont Standard

12/13/20

Well, between the warm temps and the rain, the snow has melted on my 2 decks without any effort on my part!  I understand that skiing at Okemo was actually quite good on Sunday morning – more like spring skiing apparently. More my speed, I have gone for nice walks with friends both Friday and Sunday.

Please note that the Plymouth Memory Tree was lit on 12/6 with the list of remembrances being read.  Check it out at the “municipal complex” on Rte 100. It seems like many people have taken the governor’s suggestion to heart and have placed various lighted decorations on or outside their homes.  This is a way to brighten our lives during the darkest part of the year and to bring a note of optimism and cheer during these stressful times.

The next book group is meeting on a Friday for a change, 12/18 at 6:30 PM via Zoom.  The discussion will be about Miss Benson’s Beetle by Rachel Joyce.  I haven’t finished it yet, but it should provide a good discussion!  

Many of us have experienced losses this year, so I wanted to mention that Bethany Mennonite Church will be offering a Longest Night service on Monday, 12/21 at 7 PM via Zoom. This will be a simple, quiet “Blue Christmas” service, for anyone who is grieving losses of any kind. This will be a time to name losses,  seek hope together, and turn toward the coming Light on this longest night of the year.  Please contact Wendy at gardenersjournal at gmail.com for a Zoom link.coming up this week.

Now for the latest silly joke to come my way:  What falls in winter but never gets hurt?  Snow!

Stay safe and well.