Reach Out Luncheon and Historical Society Meetings; Upcoming Bethany Birches Silent Auction — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 09/12/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

happy-fall9/11/16

Well, I had so much to talk about last week, but not much new for this week.  So, I guess that means that I have been out of touch!  In any case give me a hand by providing some local news.

All are invited to the monthly Reach Out Luncheon downstairs at Tyson Church on Thursday, starting at 11:00.  It is jointly sponsored by Tyson Ladies Aid and Tyson Church.  Sloppy Joes, chips, salad, and apple crisp with ice cream will be served.

I noticed that Andy Buchan-Groff is playing football again this year and I believe they won the season opener.  I don’t have any information on our other students, so please send me some!  It’s not bragging, it is simply interesting for our community to know about our young people and what they are doing.

Don’t forget the Plymouth Historical Society meeting on Thursday, 9/15 at 7:00 PM.  On tap for discussion are:  the recent gala showing of “Irene: Ruin to Renewal“, how to disperse copies of the video, the Memorial Garden, and other items as well.

If you missed collection and safe disposal of household hazardous wastes last week in Springfield, you still have an opportunity at the Weathersfield Transfer Station between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on 9/17.

The Bethany Birches Camp Annual Benefit Auction will be here before you know it – Saturday, 9/24.  More items are needed and don’t forget you can bid online, but being there is lots more fun!  The views from up there are spectacular and the folks are delightful.

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Camp Plymouth to Close for the Season, Caligraphy Comes to Plymouth, and Fall’s Hazardous Waste Disposal Days Arrive — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 09/07/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

2016 cast of Shakespeare Alive performed at Union Church, President Calving Coolidge State Historic Site

The 2016 cast of the Stand-Up Shakespeare Company performed in Union Church at President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

9/4/16

There is definitely a nip in the air these mornings, but the days have been sunny and delightful.  I saw an article recently confirming fewer apples this year, which concurred with my observations of the trees in our neighborhood.  A friend with an apple orchard in CT tells me that untreated trees often revert to production bi-annually, so that may be part of what is happening near us.  I do miss freezing up batches of applesauce, though.

In my opinion this year’s “Shakespeare Alive!” by the Stand-Up Shakespeare Company was the best ever!  This talented group of actors nailed every single vignette, using humor and the Bard’s words to full advantage.  It was well-attended and I feel sorry for those who missed it….

We attended the Sunday Folk and Blues performance and as usual it was wonderful.  Of course, the weather was perfect, too.  I am told that over 300 people were there on Saturday and possibly 250 folks on Sunday.  Thanks to Jay Ottaway for organizing this terrific music event!

With these sunny days, be sure to take advantage of the last weekend at Camp Plymouth State Park.  The final day for the season will be 9/11.

Don’t forget the special days set up for the collection and safe disposal of household hazardous wastes that include Plymouth residents.  On 9/10 the collection will be at the Springfield Transfer Station from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM and the same times apply to the one on 9/17 at the Weathersfield Transfer Station.  Only businesses must register and will be charged.  If you bring in a mercury fever thermometer, you can receive a new digital fever one in exchange.  For more information, call 674-9235 or visit http://www.vtsolidwastedistrict.org.

I understand there is a wonderful opportunity to attend a free demonstration of Calligraphy and Lettering Arts with Artist Kate McKulla at the Plymouth Community Center on 9/28 at 7:00 PM. Children are encouraged to attend with their parents, plus there will be an Open House for The Plymouth Schoolhouse Childcare at the same time.  A weekly Calligraphy class is being planned for a number of weeks thereafter at a cost of $20 per hour.

I found an amazing product recently at the Upper Valley CoOp in White River Junction.  It is called Best Bee Savvy and is made by Tita Manice of Bridgewater.  It contains wonderful ingredients: Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Beeswax, Certified Lemongrass Essential Oil, Certified Grapefruit Essential Oil, and Certified Ylang Ylang Essential Oil.  This product is packaged in the most adorable jar, so it is perfect for a gift, too!  You can also find it on-line.

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Remembering “Irene” and Looking Forward to a Fun Weekend — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 08/29/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

"Irene: Ruin to Renewal" video cover

“Irene: Ruin to Renewal” video cover

8/28/16

Monday was a lovely morning for a bike ride and I met several others enjoying the sunshine and light breeze.  We are so blessed to live here!  I have been noticing a slight change in the air and even saw an orange maple leaf on the ground – changes to come……

“Wow” is all I can say about Irene: Ruin to Renewal, the collaborative effort between the Plymouth Historical Society and LPCTV.  I know it took considerable effort by a number of people to bring all the pieces together, but the result is a very professional portrayal of the devastation, along with the compassion and the resilience of our community.  I can’t wait to obtain a copy of the video!

Laurence noted in the video the town-wide party that was held in his tent at the Echo Lake Inn.  I believe there were at least 200 people who came together to mark the one year anniversary and to celebrate the way the community responded with helping hands and caring hearts.   The planning committee for the event, Pieter Bowen, Russ Tonkin, Jim Neilsen, and Tina and Bruce Verdrager represented the various parts of town and we even enjoyed treats by Tina when we met!  Everyone provided food, with Jim serving up a substantial amount from Hawk that day.  Fond memories.

Riding there this morning I was reminded of the wedding that I officiated at Hawk after the flood.  The bride had so looked forward to crossing over the bridge into the field to join the groom.  However, the ceremony took place on the only grassy area, at the corner of Salt Ash and Billings Roads.  The tent for the reception was set up in front of the library and potted plants were strategically placed, hiding the bleakness of the surrounding area and generating hope for the couple and for the town.

Again this year there will be a performance of “Shakespeare! Alive”  at noon at the Union Christian Church on 9/3 when this beloved group of professional actors will regale us with humorous interpretations of the Bard’s writings.

Don’t forget the 11th Annual Plymouth Folk and Blues Festival 9/3-4 starting at 2:00 PM both days with a fabulous line-up of performers organized by Jay Ottaway.  Bring a donation for the VT Foodbank and relax with others who appreciate good music. Enjoy other activities for the whole family at the Historic Site – something for all ages!

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Irene Video Premier, Organ Dedication, Plymouth Resident Runs for State Rep — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 08/23/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Image result for sailing on echo lake vt

Margo and Tom take their little dinghy out for a spin on Echo Lake.

8/22/16

As I write this article on Sunday evening, the gardens are being watered!  Such variable weather.  Tom and I went sailing on Echo Lake on Friday and dark clouds filled the sky at times.  They were so dark and pervasive that we couldn’t believe it wasn’t raining.  There was a brisk breeze that helped us move along nicely!

Not sure the reason, but attendance was down a bit at the Reach Out Luncheon last Thursday.  There was an amazing amount of food – chicken and corn from the Tyson Ladies Aid Bazaar, pasta salad, green salad, and potato salad.  Thanks to Jean Fanciullo, Narda DiGioia, and Michelle Pingree for the salads.

Terry Bascom very kindly borrowed the grill from the Echo Lake Inn and grilled hot dogs for us.  Joan Day made two jello cakes that were a big hit.  Our speaker was June Capron who discussed volunteering she has done since retiring.  The teens were particularly interested in learning about service opportunities in the US and other countries.

I understand that refreshments are being served at the Saturday evening (7:00 PM) and Sunday afternoon (3:00 PM) showing of “Irene: Ruin to Renewal” video.  Saturday is full, but you can still make a reservation for Sunday by contacting Midge at midgetucker@gmail.com or 672-3086.  If you have a favorite cookie recipe and want to make some to share, please let Midge know, too!

By the way, belated anniversary congratulations to Cindy Summer and Steve Heilner!  Also, I hope that Sandie Small had a Happy Birthday on 8/11 and Elaine Pauley on 8/24

We are planning to make our organ dedication service at Tyson Church on 8/28 at 10:30 AM, one filled with music, using favorite hymns and noting a little history about them.  We hope folks will join us and also stay to enjoy refreshments after the service.

I try very hard not to be political in the column, but it has been brought to my attention that we do have a VT House candidate who is from Plymouth and Keith Cappellini has indicated his desire to give our town some representation in Montpelier, which certainly would be nice for a change.

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Correction to Margo’s Plymouth Report Title

Posted on 08/16/2016 by The Plymouth Press
Oops!

Oops!

We erroneously titled Margo’s Plymouth Report to say the Irene video will debut this weekend.

It will debut next weekend, the 27th-28th.

Margo correctly identified the date in the body of her Report. The error is ours; we created the title.

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Plymouth Documentary on Tropical Storm Irene Debuts This Weekend — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 08/16/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard.

Thanks to the Volunteers at Pingree's 10/29/11

Tropical Storm Irene remembered with a new documentary film this weekend at the President Coolidge Education Center.

8/14/16

Can you believe this heat?  A day here or there is one thing, but this sustained hot weather and humidity is so un-Vermont-like!  Since we live in the middle of the woods, it is not usually a problem, but lately the only cool place is our basement.  Thank goodness we have refreshing lakes, too.

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Tyson Ladies Aid Bazaar on Saturday.  It was moved to the Ludlow Community Center, which is located in the old Armory.  No air conditioning, but with fans, it was a bit cooler than outside.  When the downpour came at 1:30, it would have been a disaster if we had been in Veterans Park as initially planned.

I understand that Richard Moore’s son, Timothy, who grew up in Plymouth passed away on 8/4 at the age of 59. He was well-known in the fire fighting community.  Sorry I did not know earlier to advise you about his celebration of life that was held 8/13.

Please note that the Reach Out Luncheon will be held downstairs at Tyson Church on Thursday, 8/18, starting at 11:00 with June Capron as our speaker.  The BBQ will include chicken and hot dogs!

Another reminder at the “Irene” film to be shown at the Historic Site.  Check with Midge (midgetucker@gmail.com or 672-3086) to see if Saturday, 8/27 at 7:00 PM is booked up.  There are probably still openings for the showing at 3:00 PM on Sunday, 8/28, though.

Also, please mark your calendar for the new organ dedication to be held at Tyson Church during our regular morning Worship at 10:30 AM on 8/28.  We want to thank everyone for participating in our successful fundraising effort.  All are welcome and encouraged to attend!  Refreshments to follow.

 

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August, and the Living is Good in Plymouth — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 08/08/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

august-image-clipart8/7/16

Oh, I hate having to type August these days and we have already passed the 1st week.  It seems that the hummingbirds are already gorging themselves in anticipation of their long journey south and personally, I am not ready for autumn to be around the corner!

Tyson Ladies Aid met around the noon hour on 8/4 and finalized plans for the Annual Bazaar to be held on Saturday, 8/13 at Veterans Park in Ludlow.  Some of you may recall that it was held on a Thursday on the lawn of Tyson Church for many years, with a big dinner that evening.   Well, times have changed and the venue has been shifted to the weekend in a more populated place.

Baked goods are still a priority, but a huge selection of gift certificates and baskets make the raffle a wonderful opportunity to win some great prizes.  The chicken BBQ is always delicious, too!  Funds go to support scholarships, help with the monthly Reach Out Luncheon, and many other community needs.

A lively discussion ensued at the Book Club on 8/4 about Fannie Flagg’s The All Girl Filling-Station’s Last Reunion.  As usual there were differing opinions, but that makes it even more fun!  Our next selection is America’s First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie, an historical novel from the perspective of Jefferson’s daughter.  A bit longer than some of the selections we have read, so we are giving ourselves extra time.  Our next meeting will at 6:30 on 9/29.

There was a good turnout for Old Home Day and basically the weather cooperated, except for a brief downpour.  My grandsons and I went on a wagon ride and were entertained by Farmer Fred as we jostled along.  Thanks to Theresa Steward for babysitting for them for a couple of hours for me.  She ran hard with them and they took a nice nap a bit later!

I understand that the Naturalization ceremony was wonderfully moving and included folks from many different countries.  A number of them came through the Fire Dept BBQ line and they were beaming.  Setting up behind the barn allowed the smoke to be contained & utilizing the tables under the barn was ideal, especially when the rain came!  Thanks to everyone who lent a hand and to those who purchased and enjoyed the chicken & fixings.  I understand that John Dupont used John Wheeler’s baked beans recipe, then he brought a dinner down to the Gill Home, where John W is rehabbing after his hip surgery.

The next meeting of the Historical Society will be Thursday, 8/18.  Also, in light of the overwhelming response, another showing of the documentary “Irene: Ruin to Renewal,” has been set up for Sunday, 8/28 at 3:00 PM in order to accommodate everyone.  Again, please make your reservation with Midge atmidgetucker@gmail.com or 672-3086.

On another note, the Echo Lake Inn has been extremely busy with weddings and reunions this summer and could use some extra help (breakfast servers, grounds assistance, and housekeeping help).  If interested, call 802-228-8602.

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Old Home Day at Calvin Coolidge Historic Site!

Posted on 08/01/2016 by The Plymouth Press
See the Coolidge Basket Quilt, among many artifacts, at the Coolidge Old Home Days Celebration on Saturday.

See the Coolidge Basket Quilt, among many artifacts, at the Coolidge Old Home Day Celebration on Saturday.

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

8/1/16

This seems to be family season for us, my sister and brother-in-law, plus my cousin’s son from Texas were here last week.  We had a delightful picnic at Camp Plymouth State Park with our grandsons and their parents.  We really are so fortunate to have such a wonderful place right here in town that is open 10:00 AM until ½ hour after sunset.  Lush grass, nice BBQ units and picnic tables, plus refreshing Echo Lake provide a good way to cool off on these hot days.

The Reading Group will meet on Thursday, 8/4 at 6:30 at the Community Center to discuss Fannie Flagg’s The All Girl Filling-Station’s Last Reunion.  Feel free to attend even if you have not read the book!

Don’t forget Old Home Day at the Coolidge Homestead is this Saturday, 8/6.  The Naturalization Ceremony will take place at 11:00 AM.  Plan to attend the special program and book signing with the authors of Intimate Grandeur.  Bring your historic clocks and pocket watches to the Green Mountain Timekeepers Society to learn more about them.  Please note that the reenactment of Calvin Coolidge’s “Homestead Inaugural” will take place at 2:47 PM .

Enjoy wagon rides, old-time music, sheep shearing, craft demonstrations, and Clara’s historic children’s games sponsored by the Vermont Historical Society.  Come savor the chicken BBQ sponsored by the Fire Dept.  By the way, I need a babysitter for Owen (5) and Landon (3) for a couple of hours, so I can help with serving.  Let me know if you are available!

Get ready for the fabulous Tyson Ladies Aid Bazaar that will be held at Veterans Park in Ludlow on Saturday, 8/13.  As usual there will be an amazing array of baskets and gift certificates for the raffle, scrumptious baked goods, huge book sale, and the chicken BBQ.  Funds that are raised are utilized to help with community needs such as scholarships at WUHS and Black River and they also help maintain our tiny but extremely well-stocked Tyson Library.  All your friends will be there, so join the crowd!

Bill Cherico, AARP Smart Driver Instructor (672- 1823 or wbcherico@comcast.net) will be leading a course right here at the Community Center on Friday, 9/16 at 10:00 AM.  This four hour session (bring a lunch) is designed to keep seniors up to date on their driving skills as they age, promote independence and mobility, and it usually helps to save on car insurance.  The cost, paid at the time of registration, is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members. Reserve a spot with Lauren Summer Skaskiw (802-855-7566)

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Tropical Storm Irene Documentary

Posted on 07/22/2016 by Betsy Tonkin

Seats are filling up! Don’t forget to make your reservation for the debut of “Irene: Ruin to Renewal” produced by the Plymouth Historical Society and LPCtv. The film will be shown at 7 PM at the Coolidge Historic Site on August 27th. The fifth anniversary of the storm is a time to reflect on past memories and rejoice in the recovery. The event is FREE and refreshments will be served.

Storm erosion by Jim Nielsen

Storm erosion by Jim Nielsen

Kingdom Rd. during the storm by Tom Ellis

Kingdom Rd. during the storm by Tom Ellis

Call Midge at 802-672-3086 or email midgetucker@gmail.com to secure your seats.

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Summer’s Half Gone! But There’s More to Do! — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 07/19/2016 by tbascom

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Sheep shearing demonstration at the Plymouth Old Home Day

Sheep shearing demonstration at the Plymouth Old Home Day

7/17/16

Amazing weather these days, sunshine sprinkled with downpours of rain!  I was visiting John Wheeler and others at the Gill Home last Thursday when the skies opened up.  As I approached Tyson, I noticed that the roads were dry – not a drop had fallen here!

This has been a music weekend for us.  The Opera North performance on Saturday the 16th at Marsh/Billings was amazing.  Then, Bruce & Caleb Freeberg performed at church on Sunday afternoon, following a fantastic potluck lunch.  We capped things off by going to hear Gypsy Reel at the bandstand in Ludlow Sunday evening.  Isn’t it wonderful to have all of these free concerts to attend!

Making note of August happenings is a bit disheartening for me since it seems like summer is proceeding too quickly, but here goes….  The Reading Group will be discussing Fannie Flagg’s The All Girl Filling-Station’s Last Reunion on Thursday, 8/4 at 6:30 at the Community Center.

Don’t forget Old Home Day at the President Coolidge Historic Site on Saturday, 8/6 which will include the Naturalization Ceremony at 11:00 AM.  There will a special program and book signing with the authors of Intimate Grandeur, plus the Green Mountain Timekeepers Society will be on hand, so bring your historic clocks and pocket watches to learn more about them.  At 2:47 PM the reenactment of Calvin Coolidge’s “Homestead Inaugural” will take place.  Also, you can enjoy wagon rides, the chicken barbecue, old-time music, sheep shearing, craft demonstrations, and Clara’s historic children’s games sponsored by the Vermont Historical Society.  Wow, lots to do – don’t miss it!

It was nice to see Irene Fennell (formerly of Tyson) and some of her family in church.  Eleven of them are staying in the area for a week.  Also in church today there was profusion of color on numerous hats in honor and memory of Rose Frye.

Condolences go out the family’s of Norman Dupont and Eliza Ward,  Norm passed away on 6/12 after a long illness. His service will be held on the Plymouth Notch Cemetery on Saturday 7/23 at 1:00 PM.  Liza passed away on 7/13 and her graveside service and time of remembrance will take place at 2:00 PM on Sunday 7/24 at the Notch Cemetery.

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