President Coolidge Homestead “Old Home Day” Coming Soon — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 07/24/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Coolidge Old Home Day, 2014. (Image: T. Bascom)

After being bombarded by large pellets of hail in Ludlow the previous Monday evening, it has been nice to have sunshine this past weekend.

My only animal encounter this past week was with bickering hummingbirds who nearly crashed into me while chasing each other from the feeder. Why can’t they play nice and share?

 As I am writing this, we are on our way home after visiting friends on Webster Lake in NH, then Pontoosuc Lake in MA. This has been a “Lake” week for us with a trip to Lake George last Tuesday!

Our next Book Club selection is “A Piece of the World,” by Christina Baker Kline about Andrew Wyeth’s mysterious painting, “Christina’s World.”  With the upcoming move, Betsy will only be joining us for this book discussion on 9/7, but Cassie Horner will be taking over as organizer with help from the rest of the group!  All the best to Betsy and Russ, who have contributed greatly to our town over their years here in Plymouth.

Mark your calendar for Old Home Day at the Notch on 8/5. More details next time! 

Please note the informational meeting on 8/7/17 at 6:00 PM by the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) to  discuss Bridge #115 over Reservoir Brook

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Bears, Eating, and Reading — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 07/17/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

7/16/17

I hope that folks are more tuned into the closing of Rte 100A than I am.  I had just made note of it last week, but when I had to do an internment at the Notch Cemetery, I didn’t remember until I was on my way.  Traveling at a good clip, it took me 20 minutes from the bottom of the hill to go around!

I had an interesting bear encounter the other evening.  On my into the house at 7:30 PM, I noticed the small hummingbird feeder was empty.  So, I brought it inside, washed and refilled it, then headed back out the door to replace it on the deck.  As I stepped out and was about to let go of the door, I heard a commotion on the bank just across the driveway.  I froze as 2 large bears emerged about 20 feet from me.  They were as startled as I was and froze in their tracks too.  Time seemed to stand still as the 3 of us stared at one another.  The idea that I could certainly get to the edge of the deck and hang the feeder crossed my mind, but I decided against it.  The bears, obviously not seeing me as a threat, finally turned up the hill between our barn and sugar house and ambled further up into the woods.  My fear subsided and awe took over – they were very handsome!

The Reach Out Luncheon will take place this Thursday in the newly painted Community Room of the church.  The menu is chicken, pasta salad, potato salad & tossed salad with strawberry dessert.  Come join the fun!  Coming up this week is Justine Jeffery’s birthday and on 7/30 is Bea Wheeler’s.  While visiting John Wheeler this past week as the Gill Home, he said to send his regards to folks in town.

Thursday evening at 6:30 PM will be the Reading Group discussion of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrow and Mary Ann Shaffer.   It was very light and entertaining, even though it told about the German occupation of the Channel Island of Guernsey during WWII.   Don’t worry if you haven’t read it, feel free to join the group and help to choose the next selection.

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Josiah Wood’s Tavern Opens for One Day Only! Come Celebrate with Us!

Posted on 07/12/2017 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

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Road Construction Reminder, Reach-Out Luncheon Coming — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 07/10/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Bethany Birches Campers. (Click image to access their website.)

7/9/17

Wow, all I have seen for storm damage around town is certainly minimal compared to some areas of VT, although I know that several of us have had to do some re-grading of our driveways!  I am loving these low-humidity days, though.  The nice weather and the holiday meant Camp Plymouth State Park has been hopping and watercraft of every size and shape could be seen vying for space on Echo Lake.

On the birthday list I believe I missed Susie Bergey turning two on 7/1.  Also, Larry Miller had a birthday on 7/3 that included the gift of a new grill so the BBQ with family and friends proceeded nicely!  Our Owen had a delightful time at Bethany Birches Day Camp last week and will attend another week in August.

Lots of wildlife have been seen in the area lately.  A moose further up Dublin Rd caused quite a reaction from Steve and Cindy’s dogs.  Besides deer, we had a red fox in the yard the other day.  I took Landon to a raptor program last week and I think I have been hearing a red-tailed hawk in the area during the day and of course the barred owls at night.  However, I didn’t exactly appreciate the dead skunk at the bottom of our driveway!  Life in VT…..

There seems to be road construction no matter where you go these days.  By the time this comes out, 100A will already be closed weekdays between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, although it will be open on the weekends.  It is anticipated that the work will continue until 8/25.  Going all the way around to Rte 4 will certainly add extra time to your trip, so plan accordingly!

As usual, we enjoyed wonderful music with Erik Johansson at church this week.  Next month Melissa Maravell will be providing her lovely music for us.  The Reach Out Luncheon (sponsored jointly by Tyson Ladies Aid and Tyson Church) will take place at the church on 7/20.  The menu will be chicken, mac and cheese, salads and a strawberry treat for dessert.  The Community Room has been painted and several other events have taken place, so consider attending and socializing in our revitalized space.  All are welcome!

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Tyson Store is Under New Management — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 07/02/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Tyson Store has reopened under new management!

Enjoy the 4th of July at the Coolidge Homestead!
President Calvin and First Lady Grace Coolidge.

The holiday weekend is upon us and the weather looks challenging.  This has been a busy week, but I wanted to let folks know that if you need any last minute supplies, visit the newly renovated Tyson Store.  It looks so clean and organized now. 

Pictured are Maddie Cassano, Vickie Henry, and co-owner, Tina Rebideau.  She and her husband, Jeff purchased the store a few months ago and now have an updated deli and fully stocked shelves. 

They are still offering boat rentals, along with fishing and hunting supplies.  

Erik Johansson will join us for Worship at Tyson Church on 7/9 at 10:30 AM with his harp, guitar and other instruments.  All are welcome

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Get Ready for the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site July Fourth Celebration — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 06/26/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard.

6/25/17

Photo by Betty Aubin

Photo by Sue Poirier

Well, another successful Strawberry Festival.  According to Chris at the park, the count was 360, including those who worked at the Festival.  I believe that is a few less than last year, but it was still a wonderful cooperative effort and a fabulous gathering.  I just love meandering around and visiting with folks I don’t ordinarily see.   It was nice to have Sally and Bruce Markwell back in town and they pitched right in.  Music by Adam Boyce and Sue Hunt set a nice tone for the evening.   Many thanks to all who came over and joined the fun and to those who donated time, effort, items and food!

The Notch will be hopping on the 4th.  The Naturalization Ceremony, hosted by the Coolidge Foundation and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will take place at 10:00 AM.  The Procession to Cemetery with the Vermont National Guard laying the wreath from the White House will begin at noon.  At 1:00 PM, Cal Thomas will interview President Coolidge (portrayed by impersonator Tracy Messer), then the group reading of the Autobiography of Calvin Coolidge will commence.  Contact Ryan Kline in the Coolidge Foundation office at events@coolidgefoundation.org or 802-672-3389 Ext. 113 to volunteer to read a part!  The final rounds of the Coolidge Cup National Debate Tournament will begin at 2:00 PM.

By the way, if you are interested in learning about fly fishing, lessons are being given at Hawk Mtn Resort with Kathy Ehlers.  Rod, reel and equipment are available for the lesson.  Call 802-672-3811 ext 2 to learn more.

Tyson Ladies Aid was pleased to award Andrew Buchan-Groff one of the two scholarships that they give out each year.  A graduate of WUHS, he will be going to UVM in the fall.  We have considerable talent in our small town!  Please note that a new edition of Jon Clinch’s book, Finn, is in bookstores, with a passionate introduction by Oscar winner Jared Leto.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of Dick Turner.  The Celebration of Life last Saturday was a wonderful tribute to him and his legacy will live on.

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See You at the Strawberry Festival! — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 06/20/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Strawberry Festival, 2015

6/18/17

I don’t know why some weeks there is much to write and other weeks I am at a loss.  This is one of those weeks!

Strawberry Festival, 2015

Of course the Plymouth Strawberry Festival will be happening on Wed, 6/21 starting at 5:00 PM, which is always a wonderful time to see folks you may not have seen lately.  That can be accomplished while enjoying the BBQ, salads, and strawberry shortcake.

Strawberry Festival, 2015

Youngsters can have their faces painted and try a craft or touch a truck, while the adults can peruse the raffle table to see the amazing prizes.  All of this happens with wonderful music by Adam Boyce.

Now all we need is for the weather to cooperate, but don’t forget that there is indoor seating so don’t let a little rain keep you away!

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Celebrate 200 Years of History and Sample Period Food!

Posted on 06/13/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Church of Our Savior at Mission Farm

Church of Our Savior Episcopal Church, that pretty little stone church on Mission Farm Road (against the hills opposite the Killington Skyeship on Route 4), is celebrating the 200th anniversary of the 1817 farmhouse that has been serving as the church’s vicarage.

The former vicarage was once a tavern and community gathering place. It will be re-inaugurated as the Josiah Wood’s Tavern Stand at the celebration, which will take place on Sunday, July 23rd, from 3-6 pm. The Tavern will offer period food and beverages, and live entertainment.

The public is cordially invited to the party!

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Plymouth Memorial Garden Inauguration

Posted on 06/13/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Midge Tucker inaugurates our new Memorial Garden. (Photo: Kathy Lynds)

Plymouth’s beautiful new Memorial Garden, located at the Community Center, was dedicated at a special ceremony on Sunday, June 11, 2017. The Garden was created by Midge and Bruce Tucker, with help from town volunteers, in honor of their long-time friend and neighbor Eliza (Liza) Ward.

The Memorial Garden has space for 94 memorial bricks. Currently 24 are in place. You can purchase bricks in memory of your loved ones by contacting Midge Tucker at midgetucker@gmail.com or 802-672-3086. The cost is $25.50 per brick, and includes up to 6 lines of text, with 20 characters per line (including spaces).

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Liza Ward Remembered at Inauguration of Our New Memorial Garden — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 06/13/2017 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Plymouth residents share remembrances of Liza Ward at the inauguration of our new Memorial Garden. (Photo: Betsy Tonkin)

6/11/17

Summer seems to have arrived all of a sudden!  I am not complaining although it does seem strange to have to water the plants these past few days.  Tom was over at Camp Plymouth State Park on Sunday and it was bustling.  Some folks were even swimming!

Well, that old adage is true – you can’t be in two places at once and not three either!  I understand that the dedication of the Memory Garden and new signs at the Community Center was well-attended.  Fond memories of Liza Ward were shared.  There are currently 24 bricks in place, but there is room for 94 of them.  You can still purchase a brick in memory of a loved one by contacting Midge Tucker at midgetucker@gmail.com or 802-672-3086.   The new sign identifies the Plymouth Community Center and also notes the presence of the Plymouth VT Historical Society and the Plymouth Schoolhouse Day Care Center that are also on the premises.

Our new Community Center sign! (Photo: Betsy Tonkin)

Baccalaureate for Black River High School was held at the church at the same time on Sunday, with 15 of the 27 seniors participating.  Plymouth resident Sage Allen was one of them and I am sorry that I was not aware that Olivia Burroughs and Dillon Murray from Tyson were also part of the class of 2017.  Best wishes for the future for all of them!

The third event that was taking place on Sunday was the Quilting in VT Hill Town exhibit at the President Coolidge Historic Site.  If you missed it as I did, be sure to check out the new exhibit – Homespun Treasures.  Also, it is so nice to have Wilder House open again!

There were many laughs as the Reading Group discussed Erma Bombeck’s book.  Although there were numerous references to happenings in the 70s, most of us could relate!  Our next selection will be The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrow and Mary Ann Shaffer.  The review says it is: “written with warmth and humor as a series of letters, this novel is a celebration of the written word”.  So there you have it – consider joining us for the discussion to take place on 7/20 at 6:30 PM at the Community Center

Don’t miss our annual Strawberry Festival on June 21st!

Belated Happy Anniversary to Bob & Kathy Lynds who celebrated their 50th on 6/4!  Please note that there will not be a monthly community Reach Out Luncheon in June.  It is hoped that everyone will gather at Plymouth Strawberry Festival at Camp Plymouth State Park on Wed, 6/21, starting at 5:00 PM.     Many fun activities are planned for young and not-so-young alike.  Please consider attending to socialize and to support the three groups that offer services to the community – Plymouth Emergency Services, Tyson Ladies Aid and Tyson Congregational Church.  By the way, the list of raffle prizes keeps growing and you can buy tickets ahead of time through church members so you don’t miss out!

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