The Snow is Thin, Winter Camp is Coming, and Lent is Near — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 02/02/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard.

Calvin and Grace

Calvin and Grace Coolidge

1/31/16

More strange weather.  On Sunday a friend and I went for a walk up past the Cheese Factory.  It had been so nice and sunny, but raindrops began to fall as we stepped out of the car.  The temperature was 40.  We had hoped to go snowshoeing, but the snow cover was too thin.

Afterward we stopped by the Cheese Factory and chatted a bit with Ann.  Then we ventured into 5 Corners Pub and Brewhouse to have a look around.  I guess I hadn’t been to the Salt Ash Inn since before “Irene” came to town, so I was pleasantly surprised to see how nice and cozy the bar area looks.  Talked with Paul and met his sister-in-law, Karen.  We also scanned the menu as my friend sampled a new light ale.  The Wednesday evening Chat Series is continuing.  Nice to have some place local to gather!

I had noticed some ice fishing shacks on Echo Lake last week (probably in anticipation of the free ice fishing day), but those have now been pulled out, likely because of the warmer temps that are expected.  I have heard that skiing is still fairly good, although limited to certain trails.  My grandson, Owen, told me that all of his trails (less difficult) from the top were closed, so he had a challenging time getting down the other day!

For various reasons, we need some snow.  By the time this comes out in the paper, Punxsutawney Phil will have emerged and made his prediction!  Justine told me today in church that they have been intrigued by some tracks going up the hill from their place on Dublin Rd.  Not a groundhog, but a mink has been inhabiting the neighborhood!

Still time to sign up for the Snow Camps at Bethany Birches.  I understand the tube run is quite exciting!  Here are the dates:  Lynx: February 13-16 (Grades 4-7); Polar Bear: Feb 19-21 (Grades 7-9); Bobcat: Feb 26-28 (Grades 3-6); and Connect: Mar 25-27 (Grades 8-11).  For more information go to http://www.bethanybirches.org/winter-camps/ or call the camp at (802)-672-5220.  Also, there is still some work needing to be done on the new pavilion, so consider joining the crew on Sat, 2/6, but call to let them know you are planning to be there!

School vacation will be coming up before we know it.  On President’s Day, 2/15 at 2:00 PM, at the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site, Rushad Thomas will expound on the ’24 campaign and election.  Also, the Museum and Education Center will open.

It is hard to believe, but the church season of Lent is nearly upon us.  Ash Wednesday is 2/10 and we will have a short service at Tyson Church at 4:00 PM, with the imposition of ashes.  Everyone is welcome to attend.

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Winterfest, President’s Day, and Wednesday Pub Speakers — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 01/26/2016 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

"Winter" (Mural at the Plymouth Schoolhouse Activity Center)

“Winter” (Mural at the Plymouth Schoolhouse Activity Center)

1/24/16

Well, I have mixed feelings about the storm missing us.  It was convenient for things we had planned, but snow is needed for those who depend on it to make a living and for our VT economy, as well. Maybe next time……

It was a fantastic meal for the Reach Out Luncheon last week thanks to Tyson Ladies Aid and Tyson Church volunteers.  Sherry Thornburg from the Ottauquechee Health Foundation (802-457-4188) was our speaker and she provided considerable information about their programs that help to improve health care for the community and for individuals.

The Good Neighbor Grants have helped many local people with health needs, including but not limited to: medical equipment, mental health, pharmaceutical and dental concerns.  All information is strictly confidential.  There are financial criteria, but they also assist folks in finding other resources to see that their needs are met.  It is obvious that caring for the people in their catchment area is important to them, so considerable effort goes into fundraising to make sure money is available.

In addition, Sherry keeps up-to-date on local resources and she mentioned the new FallScape program from the VT Dept of Health; that sounds wonderful and very similar to the Safe Steps program of years ago.  Individuals can help to develop their own safety plans with someone who will come out and help to size up your home for risks and preventive measures.  To learn more call 802-863-7227.

Have you heard about the Winter Fest at Mt Ascutney on 2/6, being sponsored by Ascutney Outdoors and The Trust for Public Land.  It starts at 9:00 AM and there will various activities for all ages, including: fat-bikes, skis, snowshoes to demo, food and music by the Davis Brothers.  Sounds like a great time!  For more details go to www.mountascutneyourdoors.org

Also, please note the 2/15 President’s Day Event at the President Coolidge Historic Site that will feature a lecture by Rushad Thomas on the 1924 Presidential Campaign.  Lastly, don’t forget the ongoing Wed evening speaker series the 5 Corners Pub and Brewhouse!

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State Legislative Update from Representative Alison Clarkson

Posted on 01/24/2016 by The Plymouth Press

Vermont_State_House,_Montpelier_VT11 January 2016

It was a somber and historic beginning to Vermont’s 2016 Legislative Session.  The opening days of the second year in a legislative biennium aren’t usually very dramatic.  But this year, we had two events which distinguished 2016’s Session launch.  For the first time a Senator was suspended and Governor Shumlin gave his sixth and final State of the State speech.  While there were no interruptions or protests – it was no lame-duck speech.  It was full of ambition and a ‘cup half-full’ review of all that has been accomplished in his five years as governor.  He focused on moving ahead on education reform, improving Vermont’s fight with opiate addiction and identified the parameters in which he’d consider the legalization of marijuana.

In an historic vote on the second day of Session, Senator McAllister of Franklin County was suspended by the Senate in a 20-10 vote.  As you’ll recall McAllister is charged with sexual assault and his trial is upcoming.  Comparing their action to that of other public-trust professions (teachers or police) the Senate chose to suspend him until his case has been adjudicated.  Ironically, the entire Legislature had its annual sexual harassment prevention training the following morning.

On the first day, January 5th, legislative committees got right to work addressing the challenges the Legislature faces this year.  As you are aware, these include: follow up work on the education (Act 46) and water quality bills of last year; the upward pressures of the growth of Medicaid in health care; ongoing revenue concerns (the cost of operating state services is still growing faster than state revenues); the debate over proposed legalization of marijuana and the tax on carbon; possible divestment of fossil fuel investments; mental health and substance abuse treatment and programming; growth in the number of children taken into state custody; continued work identifying efficiencies in state government and analyzing its work more thoroughly – reviewing outcomes and performance; and a sizable budget gap.  On January 15th most of the studies and reports requested in last year’s work will be delivered to the Legislature for review and the Governor’s budget address is scheduled for Thursday January 21st.

It is gratifying to get back to work.  One of the first things which we address every January is the Budget Adjustment.  This is a mid-year adjustment to the FY16 budget we are in, and allows us to respond to changing needs in state government.  The FY16 budget made a number of aggressive assumptions:  that we’d achieve savings in retirements, that we’d find savings in not filling vacancies, and that we’d reduce our operating costs.  We achieved the targeted labor savings – both in vacancy savings and retirements – and we exceeded our target of statewide efficiency savings.  The good news is that it looks like this year’s budget adjustment will need no new revenue.

I appreciate hearing from you.  I can be reached by email:  aclarkson@leg.state.vt.us or by phone at the Statehouse (Tues-Fri) 828-2228 or at home (Sat-Mon) 457-4627.  To get more information on the Vermont Legislature, and the bills which have been proposed and passed, visit the new legislative website:  legislature.vermont.gov

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Special Music at Tyson Church This Sunday

Posted on 01/19/2016 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Join us at Tyson Congregational Church on Sunday, 1/24 at 10:30 AM, when well-known local musician, Erik Johansson, will join us with his harp for special music.  All are welcome to attend.

Parking is kindly allowed at the Echo Lake Inn.

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Parents’ Night Out Babysitting, Snowshoeing, and Wednesday Pub Talks — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 01/19/2016 by The Plymouth Press

owl in flight1/17/16

Just took a short trek up Patch Brook Road.  Nice going and not too cold.  A good workout for a 1st day of snowshoeing this season!  There is some ice underfoot, so caution is still needed.   The road conditions in Plymouth were a bit tricky this past Saturday, causing 2 rollovers and keeping the Plymouth Fire Department busy.  I don’t believe that anyone was seriously hurt, which is good.  Be careful!

I understand that Jim Cooke (fondly known around here for his delightful impersonation of Calvin Coolidge) is interested in selling some of his many books about Cal and that era.  For those history buffs out there, you may reach Jim at 617-939-7328 or www.crankyyankees.net

I am sure there must be more January birthdays, but the only one I know is Cindy Vosburgh on 1/20.  Best wishes!  Somewhat in line with birthdays, Joan Day has managed to keep a half-tame bunny from starving or becoming a meal for the local predators, but low and behold, the furry little creature seems about ready to give birth.  Well, that is what bunnies do…..

I am told that the talk by Lisa Kaiman of Jersey Girls Dairy and Store was quite informative and the samples were delicious.  Since I babysit through dinner most Wednesdays, I am afraid I will be missing the Five Corners Pub and Brewhouse Pub Talks series.  This week the speaker will be Chris Moonen of Plymouth Artisan Cheese.

You may have seen in the paper that Killington is offering a babysitting service, so couples can have some time to themselves and know that their youngsters are safe and entertained.  So, I was not surprised to read that Lauren Skaskiw will be offering babysitting at our Schoolhouse Community Building in Plymouth (where she offered summer child care) starting 1/23 from 4:00 – 9:00 PM.  The fee is $30 per child, 3 yrs and above. $40 per child under 3 yrs of age.  Contact her at 802-855-7566 for more details or to reserve a spot.

Cheryl Bishop read the story of the Wise Men for the children in church today, then helped them with a special craft.  The youngsters also decided to use the money they collected for the Heifer Project to buy a goat to help a family in a 3rd world country, although when initially discussed, the animals of choice were a leopard, then a whale!

Lastly, I wanted to share a poem written by Elaine Pauley that I hope you will enjoy:

snow
gently falling
weak sun striving
thru thick gray clouds
rabbit tracks in the snow
imprint of owl’s wing tells the story.

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It’s a Quiet January — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 01/12/2016 by The Plymouth Press

1/10/16

Well, the weather certainly has been strange this winter and the most I guess we can say is that it has been changeable!  I was so glad it was fairly warm on Sunday, so most folks made it to church without mishap despite the rain.

Lots of parties going on in Tyson these days – good food, good friends and good fun.  Sunday evening while we were enjoying a wonderful array of appetizers, the rumble of thunder caught our attention, then the flashes of lightening brightened up the room!

We had an animated discussion of The Race to Paris at the Reading Group last week.  The next book is The Light Between Oceans, which will be discussed on 2/11.

I really don’t have much news about what is going on in Plymouth.  Haven’t made it to the 5 Corners Brew Pub yet, but hope to do so soon.  So, let me know what is happening in town that would be of interest to folks!

On a sad note, we have lost 2 local folks recently.  Town Clerk, Sandie Small’s husband, Charles, passed away a week or so ago and I received a call from Linda Rossi that Gail Carbonaro passed away on 1/9.  Charles had been in Cedar Hill Nursing Home and Gail had been living with her sister for the past several months.  Both will be missed.  Condolesences to their families and friends.

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Winter Has Arrived … Time for Camp! — Margo’s Plymouth Report

Posted on 01/05/2016 by tbascom

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard.

Brrr!

Brrr! 

12/30/31

Well, snow has arrived, but can’t say I am thrilled with this “wintry mix”!  Been using my boot gripers just to get from the house to the garage.  May we all be prudent in these kinds of conditions and make 2016 a safe year!  That goes for traveling the roads, too.  So many people here for vacation, despite the so-so snow. Stores are crowded, but so are the roads.

Tom and I took Owen and Landon to the Monshire Museum on Wednesday and although the parking lot was nearly full, there was still plenty of room inside at the exhibits.  What a great places with things for various age levels.  A number of  gray-hairs there with little ones, so I suppose many other grandparents were looking for an indoor activity with their young charges.  By the way, they had the big conference room open and were serving a limited selection of food.  We brought our lunches as did most folks, but supplemented with delicious turkey/rice soup!

Winter fun will be happening at Bethany Birches Camp in February, so I am noting the dates so you can register ahead of time and be sure of getting a place.  Lynx (2/13-16) is for grades 4-7.  Polar Bear (2/19-21) covers grades 7-9.  For grades 3-6, plan on attending Bobcat (2/26-28).  To register or to obtain more information, call 802-672-5220 or click here to go to the website.

With sadness, I want to let folks know that Richard Murphy passed away on 12/9.  You may recall seeing Dick riding his bicycle near Hawk in past summers.  He and his wife, Chris, bought their place off Rte 100 in Plymouth over 20 years ago and have enjoyed summers here, while wintering in SC.  Sincere condolences to Chris.

Happy, healthy New Year!

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Okemo – Jackson Gore Ski Trail Plans for Christmas Week

Posted on 12/21/2015 by tbascom

I received this from the Okemo Valley Area Chamber of Commerce last night, who received it on December 19th from Bruce at Okemo, to share with the broader community.

Okemo Logo EuroThe Okemo snowmakers are working hard and the temperatures look like they will be cooperating thru the weekend.  We have a very aggressive plan to be executed. Snowmaking has been strong and many objectives were met.  Below are some highlights and information on where we are, where we are headed and the Crystal ball of the future

 Snowmaking has been going on since Friday afternoon.  The objectives are to work on some of the existing terrain while at the same time heading into new territory.  Our plan is to run as many snow guns as possible with the temperatures that we have.  With Saturday night being the coldest night we fully anticipate having up to 200 guns running across the resort.  Okemo is working hard to have the Jackson Gore base area open by Monday.  We can assure our loyal guests that the entire Okemo team is laser focused to making this happen.

Our snowmaking plan continues to be to make snow on trails that will be for the good of many. What this means is that we will work on trails many people can ski and ride, we will be staying away from expert trails, we won’t be working on terrain park trails, but will put out rails and hits on existing terrain, and we will work to spread out across the mountain.

 Once we get the Jackson Gore area open our anticipated trail count will be around 25. With these trails we will have 8-10 lifts operating during the holiday week.

 Our Terrain park features will be on the upper section of Sapphire.  Okemo is committed to having some aspects of our terrain parks on the side of the Sapphire trail so all our guests can enjoy what they want on the slopes

 There will be a shuttle service between Jackson Gore and the slopes until the Jackson Gore Base area is opened. This shuttle service will be operating through the day to move skiers and riders as needed.  Okemo will also be enhancing our shuttle service through the Christmas Holidays in the Solitude condominiums and Solitude Single Family homes areas.

 Round House – Open for the season on 12/19                  *Sushi station opening 12/27

Coleman Brook Tavern – Open for the season for Lunch and Dinner

Epic – Open for the season                                                *Epic Deli opening 12/19                 *Epic Starbucks  – Opening 12/28

Sugar house – Open 12/26                                                *Smokey Jo’s – Opening 12/19    *Sugar House Tia noodle station – Open 1/04

Siena – Open for dinner 12/18 & 19. Winter Holiday schedule after Christmas

Base Starbucks – Open 12/26

Summit Vermont Pizza & Sky Bar– Open 12/26               *Jump Asian Cuisine Open 12/28

Sitting Bull Vermont Pizza – Open  12/28

The ticketing kiosks located at the base of the Sunburst as well Solitude will be opening after Christmas.  Until that time guests will need to go down to the Jackson Gore base area or the Clocktower base area for their tickets. Guests with Real.Easy cards who have registered them can load tickets on their cards on line and go direct to the lifts.  A great suggestion for those who are not near a ticket location.

The long range forecast if for milder weather to return after the weekend and go through Christmas Eve.  Around Christmas it is looking like some colder weather will be in place for hopefully some snowmaking.

Our plan moving forward with the next cold snap will be to shore up any existing terrain challenges and then heads towards another trail in Solitude, Wardance or lower Chief, and look at some lodging trails such as Sachem or some in the Solitude area.  We also will begin heading toward South Face with Count Down, Sprint, Moments rest on the list.  This will happen when the next long term cold spell arrives.

  Iknow these challenges have not been easy on anyone, but a large part of the battle is remaining positive and optimistic.  Negativity is contagious, but optimism will change attitudes and bring about a vision that things will be better.  Our guests believe in Okemo.

Bruce Schmidt
Vice-President & General Manager
Okemo Mountain Resort (twitter.com/okemogm, www.okemo.com)

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Unseasonable Weather! — Plymouth Report from Margo

Posted on 12/15/2015 by The Plymouth Press

Reprinted by permission of The Vermont Standard

Pic is Brian Hayes on bench on top, standing Landon Perrino, sitting in back Owen Bishop, side is Crystal Hayes, sitting in front Owen Marks, & Owen Perrino. Gingerbread church by Rose Frye.

Pic is Brian Hayes on bench on top, standing Landon Perrino, sitting in back Owen Bishop, side is Crystal Hayes, sitting in front Owen Marks, & Owen Perrino. Gingerbread church by Rose Frye.

12/13/15

I don’t know what to make of these balmy temperatures.  I can’t imagine the ski areas are pleased with this turn of events, especially when CA received quite a snowfall!  I don’t think there is any doubt that the white stuff will come, however…..

So many activities going on that it is impossible to get to all of them.  Taking a break from the Santa domination of Christmas, the youngsters at our Children’s Sunday talked about Jesus’ place in the holiday mix.  They also gleefully dismantled and ate the lovely gingerbread church so beautifully crafted for us by Rose Frye.  Don’t forget the Community Candlelight Service at 7:00 PM on Sunday, 12/20!

Although it was a sparse crowd at the Memory Tree Lighting on Sunday, it was amazing how many names were on the list to be remembered – treasured folks missing from our midst.  By the time we chatted and had refreshments in the Community Center, the tree and luminaria really looked quite lovely.

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Wits End?

Posted on 12/14/2015 by Plymouth Press Contributing Writer

Are you at your wits end dealing with a loved one’s addiction problem?

Come to a free, open and confidential discussion with other people like you. Share what works and what doesn’t with a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor present.

2nd & 4th Tuesdays of every month at 6pm at Fletcher Memorial Library, Ludlow.

Sponsored by the Okemo Community Challenge Grant and Black River Area Community Coalition (BRACC).

For more info please call BRACC at 802-228-7878

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