In Memoriam: Roy M. Pierson

in-memoriamRoy M. Pierson, 85, of Dublin Road died Monday, January 9, at the Veterans Administration Hospital in White River Jct., VT, following a period of failing health. He was born in Springfield, VT on December 10, 1931, and had been a lifetime area resident.

Roy was a veteran of the US Army, serving during the Korean War. He had been employed as a Quality Control Technician by Precision Valley Communications in Springfield, VT. Roy was an avid reader. He enjoyed crossword puzzles and bird watching. He served as a volunteer librarian at the Tyson library as well as a member of the Tyson’s volunteer fire Department.

On July 4, 1964, he married the former Julia Massey. They had been married for 52 years. Members of his family include two sons, Scott Pierson and his wife, Tammy, of Vernon, CT, and Michael Pierson of Tyson, VT; and a daughter, Sheila Pierson-Roy and her husband, Jon, of Strafford, NH. Roy had four grandchildren, Benjamin Roy, Timothy Roy, Britney Pierson-Thomas, and Caitlin Pierson; and four great-great grandchildren, Reagan E. Roy, Calvin B. Roy, Turner B. Roy, and James E. Thomas, IV.

There will be no visiting hours. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, Jan. 13, at the Tyson Congregational Church, 39 Dublin Road, Ludlow, VT, with Margo Marrone, pastor, officiating. Committal services will be held in the spring in the Plymouth Notch Cemetery.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the VA Patient Activity Fund, 215 N. Main Street, White River Jct., VT, 05009, or the American Lung Association, VT Chapter, 372 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT, 05495.

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Mindfulness Movement Program at the Community Center — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard.

1/8/17

Well, we are home from our 8 day vacation to warmer places and have had to put on more clothes!  We left home and then flew out of Logan just ahead of the 12/29 storm.  We enjoyed a long overdue cousins’ reunion and New Year’s Eve in Charleston, then headed to FL.  Spent 2 days with Sandy and John Kaliscak (former ranger at Camp Plymouth State Park).  Then we proceeded to Sarasota to visit friends from our former White Plains days.  Isn’t wonderful to have such good friends that you can pick up right where you left off, even after not seeing each other in several years?  It was a very enjoyable trip, but it is always nice to get back into your own bed!

It looks like more nice happenings at the Community Center.  You can participate on the 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings from 8:00-9:00 AM in Rise and Shine with Mindful Movements.  That will entail gentle stretches and chair yoga to awaken the body and settle the mind. Sounds like a wonderful way to bring in the new year with sixty minutes of self-care.  The program began 1/7, so sorry I was not here to note it at that point.   Donations accepted but not expected.  Contact Susan Mordecai with questions or to RSVP: smordecai6@gmail.com

On a sad note, condolences go out to the family of Mark Stocker, who passed away suddenly this week.  Please note that the calling hours at Adams Funeral Home will be Tues, 1/10 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM.  The memorial service will be at Tyson Church at 2:00 PM on Wed, 1/11.  Tyson Ladies Aid will be assisting with refreshment downstairs in the Community Room following the service.

This is Children’s Sunday (1/15) at Tyson Church, when we dedicate some time during our 10:30 AM Worship service to youngsters in our area.  We have a children’s story, then a craft time downstairs.  All are welcome to join us!  Also, we are looking for a part-time organist.  If you are interested, please leave a message on the church phone (228-4770) or email me.

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Plymouth Memory Trees Seeks Member of the Board

Consider a seasonal gift to the Plymouth Memory Tree to help fellow townies.

Consider a seasonal gift to the Plymouth Memory Tree to help fellow townies.

The Plymouth Memory Tree is seeking a person to serve on its Board of Directors. The Memory Tree is a non-profit organization which provides financial assistance to residents of Plymouth, Vermont who are in need. Meetings are generally held when an application for assistance is received, usually, no more than six times a year.

Those interested should submit their curriculum vitae to Robert Fishman (rlf254@gmail.com) or to PO Box 4, Plymouth, VT 05056. An applicant need not be a permanent resident of Plymouth.

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Plymouth Christmas Season Activities; New Events at Schoolhouse Community Center — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Consider a seasonal gift to the Plymouth Memory Tree to help fellow townies.

Consider a seasonal gift to the Plymouth Memory Tree to help fellow townies.

12/19/16

What a roller-coaster ride with the weather lately – hope everyone has managed to stay dry, warm and upright!  The snow, rain, then freezing temps have left us with a dangerous undercoating of ice.  I received several calls from people who had planned to attend our Annual Community Candlelight Service, but who were uneasy about the road conditions.

We still had enough brave souls that allowed us to fan out around the sanctuary in a circle to sing Silent Night with our lit candles.  It was wonderful to have Erik Johansson to add special music with his harp.  Thanks to the teens and staff from Windsor Youth Services, who helped with many tasks that evening.  Our offering this year is going to a local family in need.  Tyson Church will be having Worship at 10:30 AM on Christmas morning.

Speaking of snow, local metal sculptor Paul Machalaba is apparently willing to do some shoveling in the Plymouth/Ludlow area.  He is a metal sculptor/welder living in Plymouth, with a studio in Woodstock, specializing in large abstract aluminum works, plus he also does custom welding and design year round.  You can reach him at Paulmachal@aol.com

How nice that Energy Healing Classes by Maggie Dembinski will be offered at Community Center some time in January!  You can learn about these various techniques that will promote healing and assist your body to become relaxed, plus more energized.  The fee will be $15 per class, but contact Maggie with for additional information at: maggiebinski@gmail.com.

Thanks to the Sullivan’s for donating a lovely small upright piano for use at the Plymouth Community Center.  Also, appreciated was the help of Matt Harootunian & Greg Skaskiw, who moved the piano!  Now the plea is going out for someone who might want to give piano lessons there, then for students who are interested in learning to play.  Contact Lauren Summer Skaskiw at 802 855 7566 or lskaskiw@gmail.com if you are interested.

I just attended a fabulous workshop at Kripalu – Windows to the Soul led by Mark Grossman, an optometrist and acupuncture practitioner.  Thus a slightly different Christmas poem this year.  Many blessings!

JOURNEY ONWARD
The journey of life is one we all must take –
Times can be tough with many choices to make.
Yet as Christmas approaches, we can turn our gaze
To the reason we celebrate and the manger displays.
We may become stuck and our vision impaired
Unless we are mindful and have openly declared
That Jesus, the Christ is born anew every year
And then welcome Him with both joy and good cheer.
So now may the Holiday bring you delight
And the Holy One fill you with peace and new sight.

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It’s Plymouth Historical Society Membership Renewal Time

The Plymouth Historical Society documentary on Tropical Storm Irene is available.

The Plymouth Historical Society documentary on Tropical Storm Irene is now available.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Looks like Vermont will have a white Christmas! The Plymouth Historical Society wishes you a fun filled, safe holiday and all good things in the coming year.

Please consider becoming a member or renewing your membership for 2017. Five dollars per person affords you a membership for 2017 and supports the activities and mission of the Society. A donation of any amount is always gratefully received! Send your check, made out to the Plymouth Historical Society, and accompanied by our Membership Form, to the address at the top of the form. Or, follow instructions on the form to pay with paypal.

(The Form is available to download here in either Word or PDF format.)

Our activities for 2017 include updating and expanding our website, completing and dedicating the memorial garden in front of the community center, erecting a permanent Community Center sign along Rt. 100, rotating exhibits, adding new artifacts to the museum, cataloging and digitizing the entire collection for online research and access, and a new and exciting program for the fall.

The debut of the documentary film, “Irene: Ruin to Renewal,” focusing on Plymouth, was a huge success. If you are looking for a last minute Christmas gift, DVDs are available for $10 at the Plymouth Town Hall, Monday through Thursday between 8 am and 4 pm. If you would like one shipped, contact Betsy Tonkin at 802-672-3179 or tbone6547@aol.com to complete your order.

Thank you for your support. Keep in touch by watching our website and facebook page. The museum will reopen in May but is always available for visits by prior arrangement.

Betsy Tonkin
Plymouth Vt. Historical Society

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Late Fall in Plymouth — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard.

12/11/16

The snow is just starting as I am beginning to type on Sunday night – right at the predicted time of 9:00 PM!

It didn’t seem that cold today when I went for my walk, especially with the nice sunshine.  Yesterday was a bit nippy, so I drove up to Joan Day’s to see her latest “hatch” of bunnies.  At this time she has 3 big ones and 5 new babies – so cute!  There are others around the neighborhood, too, but I heard there is a fox in the area, too….

I am disappointed that I was not able to get to the latest Yoh Theater performance, but I understand is was wonderful.  I know that several Plymouth students participated – acting or being stage help, but I hesitate to list names for fear of leaving anyone out.  We have lots of talent here and of course, Marcia’s leadership is outstanding.

I understand there was a good turnout for the Holiday doings at Coolidge this Saturday, with many folks stopping at Wilder House to warm up with soup, chili, and other goodies being sold by Tyson Ladies Aid.  I didn’t make it over there to help, but I heard many of the husbands were there to lend a hand!  By the way, if you see Carol Coyne on 12/17, wish her a Happy Birthday.

This Sunday for Advent the topic was joy and the holidays can certainly be a joyous time even amid the hectic pace of the season.  Of course, there is some sadness as well.  Our condolences go out to the Moyer family on the passing of Danny, who formerly lived in town.  I always remember his warm smile, although I had not visited him at Stoughton House for some time.

Following church today we formed a Prayer Circle and lifted a number of people who are experiencing health difficulties.  I have received permission to mention a couple of them who have connections to Plymouth, so you might ask for comfort and healing for Dale Wade and Doris Earle, both of whom are in Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

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Book Selection for Reading Group

PLYMOUTH READING GROUP

WHEN: Thursday Jan. 19, 2017

              WHERE: Community Center 6:30 PM

The Outside Boy  by Jeanine Cummins

Here is a poignant story about a young gypsy boy’s coming-of-age in 1950’s Ireland. This tale has it all: an inside look at the Traveller’s culture, a young boy’s search for identity, believable characters, the challenge of acceptance, and a little mystery and suspense. Rated highly by several websites, this novel should be enjoyed by everyone.

Join us for discussion and congenial conversation.

Email:      tbone6547@aol.com or call 672-3179 for questions

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Tyson Ladies Aid Christmas Celebration; Coolidge Homestead Holiday Program — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Ladies Aid Christmas Party, 2016

Ladies Aid Christmas Party, 2016

12/4/16

Well, I have to tell you – I am very disappointed about having to miss the VT Standard correspondent’s luncheon on Thursday.  There were actually 3 different events calling to me for that day, but I have committed to doing the 1:00 PM service at Gill Terrace Apts.  Hope everyone has fun at the luncheon!

Ladies Aid Christmas Meeting, 2016

Ladies Aid Christmas Meeting, 2016

Tis the season for parties and Tyson Ladies Aid had their Christmas Party (meeting and luncheon) at the Echo Lake Inn.  There were 2 wonderful soups, sandwich-makings, and yummy dessert!  We collected tissues for the Gill Home and gifts for the teens at Windsor Youth Services.

By the way, the Echo Lake Inn (228-8602) will be open Friday and Saturday (12/9 and 10) for dinner and starting the week of 12/19, 7 days per week.  The Inn at Water’s Edge (228-8143) is serving again, with Italian specialties on Thursdays and other specials on Fridays.

We had a nice discussion at the Book Club about James Rebanks The Shepherd’s Life.  We all learned quite a lot about shepherding!  Our next book is The Out Side Boy by Jeanine Cummins, which will be discussed on 1/19.  We get off-track at times, but we all enjoy each other’s company, so who cares!

Have you seen the star on Tyson Church?   Everyone wants to know how Steve Heilner and Cindy Summer managed to get it up there.  I am just glad they did it without mishap and that it is spreading Light into the community.  If you don’t have a chance to head our way before, be sure to join us for our Annual Christmas Candlelight Service at 7:00 PM on Sunday, 12/18.  We will sing Christmas carols, have special music by Erik Johansson and a children’s story, plus a time to socialize afterward in the downstairs Community Room.

I think there has been quite a bit of publicity about the Coolidge Holiday program on Sat, 12/10, so I just want to remind folks to plan to attend because there will be something for everyone.

How exciting, voice lessons with Dan Laubach available at the Community Center!  I think I am hopeless, but it sounds like he might like a challenge.  Contact him at 802-332-3324 or dan.laubach711@gmail.com.

So many good things are definitely happening at the old school.  Consider “Date Night” Childcare with Lauren.  She is planning the first one for 12/17, but space is limited so contact her at lskaskiw@gmail.com or 802 855 7566.

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Coolidge Holiday Open House and Plymouth Events for December — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Pam Bruno, Sally Scarp, and Sandie Small staffed the Wilder House for the Ladies Aid Society in 2014

Pam Bruno, Sally Scarp, and Sandie Small staffed the Wilder House for the Ladies Aid Society in 2014

11/27/16

So many people in the area these past several days.  I guess the holiday weekend may be one reason, but judging from the various license plates, the World Cup at Killington seemed to have brought folks from all over the country!

Ages ago Tom and I made plans to meet friends from MA in Weston at the VT Country Store on Friday.  I guess I wasn’t paying attention because the Craft Fair was taking place at the Playhouse.  Needless to say there was quite a crowd.  We were very glad that we had a reservation for lunch at the Bryant House.

It seems like so much is happening in December.  Please join us at Tyson Congregational Church at 4:00 PM on 12/4 for our Service of Remembrance.  We will be lighting candles for those loved ones no longer with us to celebrate the Holidays.  All are welcome and we are handicapped accessable.

There will be many wonderful events at the Coolidge Holiday Open House on 12/10.  The museum buildings will be open 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.   At 11:00 AM consider coming to a reading by Willem Lange of “Favor Johnson: A Christmas Story,”   At 12:30 PM, poet Carol Johnson Collins of South Duxbury will read poems based on her life growing up on Vermont farms, with Louli Zeichner of Northfield accompanying her on the banjo.  There will be organ and piano music by Steve Morse throughout the day and carol singing in the church at 1:30 PM.

Also, you can enjoy homemade soups and pies at the Wilder House, sponsored by Tyson Ladies Aid.  Let’s not forget the Vintage Hat Fashion Show at 3:00 PM, organized by the Black River Academy Museum, with a prize for the best “Great Winter Hat”!  The event would not be complete without fiddle music by Adam Boyce and wagon/sleigh rides with Fred.  And of course there will be craft demonstrations, samples at the Plymouth Cheese Factory and the special holiday postal cancellation.

Then on Sunday, 12/11 from 2-4 PM you can participate in the Craft workshop at the Plymouth Schoolhouse Community Center and make wonderful Christmas decorations for a donation of only $2.00.  Bring your appetite, prepare some food and join the potluck.  Childcare will be available on-site for only $10.00 per child for the 2 hour event (space is limited, so contact Lauren Skaskiw @ 802 855 7566 or lskaskiw@gmail.com to reserve a childcare spot and RSVP for the Crafting event).

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Plymouth Student Achievements, and Yep, It’s Snow Camp Time! — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

bethany-birches-snowcamp

Snow Camp fun at Bethany Birches

11/18/16

I know the weather may change by the time this issue is printed, but I have been sitting out at our picnic table reading the VT Standard these last two days in the sun and just loving it!

I see that Andy Buchan-Groff is one of the WUHS seniors who has been chosen for the State All-Star football game – way to go!  Also, proud grandmother, Lonnie Ennis is pleased that her granddaughter, Teresa helped with the benefit to support the Woodstock Food Shelf that took place at Angkor Wat Restaurant.

Congratulations to the following students on the scholastic achievement:  Anna Hepler (10th grade Summa Cum Laude) and Andy Buchan-Groff (12th grade Summa Cum Laude).  Sorry if I missed anyone – I just don’t know all of the students any longer!

Thanks to all the folks who cooked, baked and participated in the Reach Out Luncheon on 11/17.  It was a marvelous turkey dinner with all the trimmings.  We always appreciate all of the help provided by the teens and staff of Windsor County Youth!

It seems impossible that Advent is almost here.  At Tyson Church we will be pondering the season with thoughts by Richard Rohr this year.  Our Service of Remembrance will take place 12/4 at 4:00 PM, when we will light candles in honor of loved ones who have passed on. Also, mark your calendars for our Annual Candlelight Service on 12/18 at 7:00 PM.  Refreshments and social time will follow downstairs in the Community Room

Think ahead to the fun that your youngsters can have on the winter weekends at Bethany Birches Snow Camps.  Here is the schedule and remember that there is a sliding fee scale.

GRADE    DATES
3-6    Bobcat: Feb 10-12
5-7    Lynx: Feb 18-21
7-9    Polar Bear: Feb 24-26
ALL   Winter Family Fun Day: Jan 28; Mar 4 for free

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