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6/16/25

Nice to see the sun this Monday morning, plus it looks like it will be warmer today.  Some places have experienced flooding with all the rain.  The streams are running quickly and the lakes in Plymouth are quite high.  Despite the weather animals abound in my yard including birds, bears and raccoons. We share our world with so many wonderful creatures!

Hopefully the weather will cooperate for the annual Strawberry Festival on Wed, 6/18 at Camp Plymouth State Park from 5 – 8 PM. Lots of lucious food, including the amazing and renowned strawberry shortcake, plus music by Adam Boyce and Sue Hunt that is always a treat! The fee admission to park at that time allows for a swim or boat ride in addition to other activities for the young at heart. Proceeds are well used for various community needs.

Come learn about Flood Mud by attending an informative talk by Dartmouth College student Holly Sullivan at Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow VT on 6/20  at 11 AM. Sediment in Lake Amherst has been extreme of late and is the subject of Holly’s senior thesis. For remote access via a “Zoom Room” call 857 345 0004; contact Holly with questions at holly.m.sullivan.25@dartmouth.edu

Tami Bowen from the Calvin Coolidge Foundation tells me they are looking for Citizen Judges for the Speech & Debates Coolidge Cup being held July 2nd, 3rd and 4th. Choose from any of the three days and judge as many as you’d like. No experience is necessary in speech, debate or judging. Training will be provided. To learn more and to register to judge go to coolidgefoundation.org/debate or call Tami at 802-672-3389, Ext. 100.

There are many events taking place at the Historic Site on July 4^th, which is also the birthday of Calvin Coolidge. The Declaration of Independence and moment of reflection will happen at 9 AM at the Union Christian Church. Join the processional to the cemetery at noon, led by the VT National Guard, where a wreath will be laid at the president’s grave and readings will be offered by the president’s descendants. The ceremony will be emceed by the 80th Vermont Governor, James Douglas. At 1 PM John Masko will conduct a 13-piece orchestra playing a wonderful array of musical selections. Birthday cake will be served after the concert. Throughout the day, the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation will host the Coolidge Cup national speech and debate competition. Come join the fun!

6/9/25

Well, these rainy Saturdays are tough to take. It was amazing to see so many people at Beverly Johnson’s graveside service despite the downpour. A heartfelt tribute to Bev and to her family members. This Monday morning is brightening up and the wind is helping to keep the mosquitoes at bay. Concerning, however is the air quality that has been in the 90’s lately due to the Canadian fires. I hope those with breathing issues have been able to stay indoors.

I know that most of us are busy and cannot be present at Select Board meetings or even attend on Zoom, so it is very helpful to be able to review the minutes on the town website. The bridge repair schedule has been causing much consternation, so I am including an email I recently received from the state. Please note the full closure on 100A starting 7/7.

DATE: June 6, 2025 VT Agency of Transportation

A long-term southbound lane closure is now in effect on Vermont Route 100A leading to Bridge 9. Traffic is being controlled primarily by a temporary signal, with flaggers assisting during certain operations. This traffic pattern will remain in place until July 7, when a full closure of the bridge is scheduled to begin.Starting June 24, nearby Bridge 4 will see additional activity. ADA Traffic Control will be on site to manage flagging and signage while geophysics staff conduct lane-specific work. The work will begin in the northbound lane and is expected to take only a few hours per lane, with completion anticipated within a single day.

With school soon closing for the summer, it can be challenging to keep youngsters occupied. Don’t forget that Fletcher Memorial Library in Ludlow is available to Plymouth residents and has a number of free passes for a variety of interesting places, so check out their website. Adults, too! The Bethany Birches Camp Fun Day on Sunday, 6/14 can be a great way to start summer vacation.

Since our weather has been cold and rainy, it is fortunate that Tyson Ladies Aid does not need to pick the berries for their delicious strawberry shortcake offered at the annual Plymouth Strawberry Festival starting at 5 PM at Camp Plymouth State Park on 6/18. Hopefully the precipitation will hold off that day, but the pavilion does provide some shelter. The park entrance fee is waived for this amazing community effort that includes hot dogs and various burgers offered by EMS, plus baked beans and various salads from the community. Kids crafts, face painting, touch a truck, and terrific music by Adam Boyce and Sue Hunt help to make this fund-raising event so much fun. Plus you can go for a swim, see friends and perhaps meet some new folks!

Register here: https://www.triquest.co/

6/2/25

Well, more wild weather recently! Perhaps June will see the end of these cold temps, wind and rain. I couldn’t believe how two of my hanging plants dried out very quickly and I imagine the wind was the culprit.
The Select Board will be meeting at 6 today. You can find the agenda and zoom info on the website. In speaking with Jacqueline at Camp Plymouth State Park, she wanted to make sure that everyone is aware of the free park entrance on 6/14 and 15.

Coming up on 6/9 at 6 PM consider attending the discussion of the Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson at Fletcher Memorial Library. On Saturday, 6/14 at 11 AM join professional home organizer Kris Harmelink for helpful tips for successful home organizing. On 6/23 from 5 to 6:30 PM ages 12 & up can gather with friends in the activity room. Supplies will be available for jewelry making, drawing, painting and more.

Please note that Sunday, 6/15 will be fun day at Bethany Birches camp providing a taste of summer camp with activities led by camp staff (pond time, archery, playground, gaga, group games, craft hut, etc) and property tours given by the leadership team. There will be a church service at 10 featuring camp songs, community members with reflections on 60 years at BBC, then the commissioning prayer for the summer staff team. There will be a chicken BBQ for lunch. Come to any or all of these activities. Please RSVP, so we know how to prepare – (802) 672-5220