Be Smart, Be Safe in Weathersfield Vermont July 6
Great paddle from North Hartland Lake to the Quechee Gorge on Thursday. Saw two young bald eagles on the nest and one adult watching over them.
And my friends and I saw more turtles on this paddle than we've seen all season so far.
We saw a Great Blue Heron way up in a tree, maybe cooling off or drying it's wings?
We cooled off too in the Quechee Gorge swimming holes. Most people were trying to stay physically distanced.
More photos: https://photosbynanci.smugmug.com/Kayaking-Adventures/North-Hartland-Lake-to-Quechee-Gorge-July-2/
And speaking of Swimming
How Clean is the Water You Swim in?
Check out this database to see how clean the water you want to swim in is. You might be surprised.https://connecticutriver.us/content/sites-list?fbclid=IwAR1EjoqRiRx-6GLHGbiePhka859nfX1jahmi9WMnsJRx0xVSmKbQDJ01VaY
2020 Census
Have you filled out Your 2020 Census Questionnaire Yet?
It's so easy to do online, takes 5 minutes and you won't get a visit from a Census taker.
Do it NOW-CLICK HERE for the easy questionnaire.
July 1 New Laws in Vermont
As of July 1, stores across the state can no longer bag customers’ purchases in plastic.
No Food Waste in Trash Stream for Vermont Guidelines
Vermont State law bans food scraps from the trash starting July 1, 2020.Eat What You Buy, more info on composting.
Single Use Products Law
AGENCY OF NATURAL RESOURCESDepartment of Environmental Conservation
From their website:
According to the Vermont Department of Health, reusable bags are safe to use, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Follow these COVID-19 tips for reusable bags and see our Tips and FAQ for more information on safe use of reusable bags:
Bag your own groceries.
If a store has temporarily banned reusable bags, consider putting your groceries back into your cart and bag them at your car.
Clean your bags regularly.
Why did Vermont pass a single-use products law?
To lessen the harmful effects of single-use products and to reduce the amount of single use products Vermonters landfill. Preventing waste has the best environmental and social benefits and saves money.
Go to the Vermont Legislature to read the full bill (Act 69 of 2019, as enacted).
According to the Vermont Department of Health, reusable bags are safe to use, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Follow these COVID-19 tips for reusable bags and see our Tips and FAQ for more information on safe use of reusable bags:
Bag your own groceries.
If a store has temporarily banned reusable bags, consider putting your groceries back into your cart and bag them at your car.
Clean your bags regularly.
Why did Vermont pass a single-use products law?
To lessen the harmful effects of single-use products and to reduce the amount of single use products Vermonters landfill. Preventing waste has the best environmental and social benefits and saves money.
Go to the Vermont Legislature to read the full bill (Act 69 of 2019, as enacted).
Thing to Do In and Around Weathersfield
Free Minecraft Bash Summer Camp!
When: Jul 13, 2020, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Jul 17, 2020
This free virtual (online) summer camp explores critical and computational thinking skills, problem-solving, and more, all leading up to an amazing end-of-camp challenge! Learn about Minecraft's many game modes while participating in individual and team-oriented builds! Open to all students grades 5-11.
Dates: July 13-17 Schedule: 9am - 12pm, Break: 12pm - 1:30pm, 1:30pm - 3pm.
For more information about BRIC summer camps and to register, visit https://bricvt.org/camps - Registration for the Minecraft Bash summer camp ends Friday, July 10 at 8pm! Questions can also be emailed to innovate@bricvt.org
This free virtual (online) summer camp explores critical and computational thinking skills, problem-solving, and more, all leading up to an amazing end-of-camp challenge! Learn about Minecraft's many game modes while participating in individual and team-oriented builds! Open to all students grades 5-11.
Dates: July 13-17 Schedule: 9am - 12pm, Break: 12pm - 1:30pm, 1:30pm - 3pm.
For more information about BRIC summer camps and to register, visit https://bricvt.org/camps - Registration for the Minecraft Bash summer camp ends Friday, July 10 at 8pm! Questions can also be emailed to innovate@bricvt.org
The Waypoint CampOut is Going Virtual
On Saturday, August 29, CAMP OUT, each in our own way!
They invite you to dedicate this night to “camping out” by sleeping either outside in the yard, in the woods, on the porch, or on your floor, and share photos or videos of yourself during your camping experience.
They want to see you doing things like:
They invite you to dedicate this night to “camping out” by sleeping either outside in the yard, in the woods, on the porch, or on your floor, and share photos or videos of yourself during your camping experience.
They want to see you doing things like:
- roasting marshmallows
- telling ghost stories
- hunkering down in a sleeping bag
- singing songs by campfire/candlelight/lantern/flashlight
- pitching a tent
- backpacking through the woods with your dog
- laying on the ground looking up at the stars
Register or DONATE: http://act.waypointnh.org/site/TR?fr_id=1100&pg=entry
- Serve as a lifeline and line of defense for kids at risk of abuse or neglect
- Provide trauma treatment for those who’ve endured adverse childhood experiences
- Work to preserve families who are in distress and on the brink
- Optimize chances for children with chronic health conditions
- Empower struggling families with what they need to become functioning, self-sustaining, and successful
- Build a foster care support system for kids who need out of home placement
- Advocate at the legislative level to protect the rights and well-being of all children in NH.
Travel Plans this Summer?
Check out AAA COVID-19 Guidelines
President Trump to Hold Campaign Rally in NH
President Trump’s re-election campaign announced Sunday that the president will headline an outdoor rally in the battleground state of New Hampshire next weekend, just his second rally since the coronavirus pandemic swept across the nation in March.Campaign staffers said the rally will be held next Saturday, July 11, 8 p.m. at the Portsmouth International Airport in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Register for FREE TICKETS on the "Trump 2020" App, the only way to redeem expedited entry into a rally. Text APP to 88022
The president drew smaller-than-expected crowds at his first rally, which took place in Tulsa, Okla., on June 20.
The president drew smaller-than-expected crowds at his first rally, which took place in Tulsa, Okla., on June 20.
Vermont COVID-19 Updates
I think the press conferences have been changed to Tuesdays and Fridays at 11 am on WCAX for the Governor's COVID-19 updates.
Past Press Conferences may be viewed on the ORCA media YouTube channel
Governor of Vermont Press Releases
COVID-19 Modeling for Vermont
Department of Financial Regulation has a whole resource center for COVID-19 Updates and Modeling.
The Travel Map was updated on July 2 to include many more counties.
Vermont Department of Health-COVID-19 information
Get Tested, if you want or you suspect you have been exposed
COVID-19 pop-up testing facilities for anyone who wants to be tested but you must reserve a spot- https://humanresources.vermont.gov/popups?mc_cid=8dd0a480da&mc_eid=62773da223
There are spots open in Springfield, VT on July 7.
Watch for symptoms
People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle pain
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
This list is not all possible symptoms. Other less common symptoms have been reported, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
SARS-CoV-2-the virus that causes COVID-19, isn't done with us yet. Please continue to wear facial coverings when in public and stay 6 feet apart for physical distancing. People around Weathersfield have been observed NOT wearing masks and NOT physical distancing.
Do the right thing and protect others from yourself. Even if you don't feel ill, you may still have the virus and you are highly contagious up to two day before you show symptoms!
You are NOT Alone, Please Reach Out!
In either VT or NH dial 211
To access a 24-hour Crisis Text Line people can text VT to 741741
This is a stressful time for everyone. Don't go it alone.
Health Care and Rehabilitation Services 24-hour crisis hotline 1-800-622-4235
HCRS Warm Line for people struggling with COVID-19 related stress and anxiety 1-800-917-1622
Headrest local crisis line 603-448-4400 and Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255
Also check out Upper Valley Strong
Also check out Upper Valley Strong
Be Smart, Stay Safe friends and neighbors.
Remember to call or check in on your elderly neighbors, bring them some cheer from a proper physical distance.
Remember to call or check in on your elderly neighbors, bring them some cheer from a proper physical distance.
Ongoing Things to Do In and Around Weathersfield
Weathersfield Hikes are Back!
The 8th Annual Weathersfield Hikes have been announced. They are being held under the auspices of Weathersfield Parks and Recreation. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. They expect a range of hiking speeds and abilities.
Reserve Your Spot on the Hikes
Contact Steve Aikenhead, at 263-5439 or stevea47@tds.net to reserve your spot on the hikes.
Are you new to hiking?
Wear footwear that is broken in and appropriate for our uneven trails. Hikers join at their own risk.
Questions?
Feel free to call Steve, organizer, at 263-5439 or stevea47@tds.net
Experienced hikers are also encouraged to ask questions or comment freely.
COVID-19 Precautions
Please observe COVID-19 precautions: physical distancing, wearing masks etc.. If you don't feel well, please stay home.
The Hikes
Saturday, July 11, 9:00 AM: Cathedral RocksThis hike is on wood roads. Its length has not been calculated, but it descends to the River Road (Route 10) from Stokes Road, which is just short of Wellwood Orchard. We will spot cars at the end of the hike for a ride back to Stokes. There is a nice view near the top of the descent. The rocks are very big. Two hours?
Saturday, July 18 9:00 AM: The Ancient Hemlocks
This route – notice I don’t say “trail” – is over fields and through the woods, up and down a logging road and over a rivulet or brook, including the headwaters of Mill Brook. You won’t have to remove footwear. There is some awkward footing.The last half mile is up Little Canada Road, past the 1791 John Warner house. If Dave Noake, the owner, is home, he enjoys giving a tour. The trees are about 500 years old. Your guide will use instinct to find his way through one section – he’s confident, despite an occasional debacle. Total distance 2 ½ miles?
Saturday, August 1, 9:00 AM: A Felchville Forest Walk
Marianne Walsh leads this hike through beautiful forest on well-maintained logging roads. The distance is about 3.5 miles on moderate terrain. There is a nice view of Ascutney Mountain, but the main attraction is the forest. The previous owner, Fred Hunt, now deceased, was and is famous locally for this forest. The current owners welcome walkers. The location is off Tyson Road, and the property borders the Knapp Brook Wildlife Management Area.
Saturday, August 15, 9:00 AM: Little Ascutney
We will walk up to the ledges – very nice view – on a trail that in part is strenuous. There is first a long steady climb, then a steep ascent, and then a steady climb. We will have gone from the parking lot at 900 feet to the summit of Little Ascutney at 1,709 feet. The hike probably will take over two hours. It feels like 2 miles up.
Saturday, August 29, meet at Downers’ at 9:00 AM: Mt. Tom
Don’t tell Mt. Tom, but this is a hill, not a mountain. The climb is 907’ to reach the summit at 1,357’. That climb, a little steep at first, is on a smooth carriage trail all the way up, passing the Pogue (Scottish for pond) on the way. The view of Woodstock in the valley below and of the surrounding area is lovely. Round trip of 4.6 miles.
Saturday, September 5, 9:00 AM: “Up on the Hill” on conserved land near Charlestown
Marianne Walsh has been here and expects to join us. We will walk on trails by a river, though a forest and through meadows, and up the hill to a view of Ascutney. After looking at the map on the website, my guess is that we’ll do up to 3 miles of walking. I searched “Up on the Hill UVLT” and went to the website.
Sunday, September 20, 5:00 PM: Ferry Road and the Connecticut River
This generally level route with one steep descent heads down shaded Ferry Road and into Skyline Nursery. Soon it follows the river, sometimes with views. At one point the remains of the huge Consul Jarvis sheep barn can be glimpsed. The total length is about 2 miles. Carol Orth is the leader.
September date to be announced, 8:30 AM: Windmill Hill, the Pinnacle
Rated as a moderate climb because of some uphill and some rocks to step over, this well-maintained loop of 3.8 miles goes through a forest to an excellent view at the top. There are informational markers along the way. The car ride from Ascutney Park and Ride will take about 40 minutes.
Saturday, October 10, 9:30 AM: Cooks Pond Loop
This is a route on wooded dirt roads more than on trail. There is a lovely framed view of Mt. Ascutney from the south end of Cooks Pond. Other mountain views occur at later points. Difficulty: easy to moderate, with one long incline and a shorter one. Distance: almost 3 miles.
Saturday, October 17, 8:00 AM: Ascutney Mountain
We will go to the fire tower and the Brownsville Overlook. We will go up the Weathersfield Trail, but people wanting a less strenuous hike (.7 miles up) could drive up and meet us at the top, we hope. I might join that shorter climb. We leave early because parking later is a problem.
Want to Try Yoga? Within Reach Yoga Under the Trees
Weathersfield resident, Lisa Gleeson is hosting outdoor yoga classes under the trees at the Weathersfield Center Church on Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Weathersfield Meeting House/Church:
Vinyasa Flow
Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 pm
Slow Flow, Rest + Restore
Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 am
Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 am
To stay in the loop for classes and locations, for questions, to register, or to subscribe to our newsletter, please email lisa@withinreachyoga.com. Follow her on facebook for class updates.
Local Dining
Local favorites are re-opening for outside and limited inside dining.
Exit Ate is back at it with limited indoor seating (with AC) and outdoor seating. Greg is making homemade bread and potato chips and they now have a variety of salads for your quarantined BBQs: Potato Salad, Tuna Mac, Italian Pasta, and our delicious Cole Slaw.
Exit Ate is back at it with limited indoor seating (with AC) and outdoor seating. Greg is making homemade bread and potato chips and they now have a variety of salads for your quarantined BBQs: Potato Salad, Tuna Mac, Italian Pasta, and our delicious Cole Slaw.
Inn at Weathersfield-dine inside or outside Thursdays, fridays and Saturdays, call for a reservation 802-263-9217. They also offer a take away menu.
Springfield Diner-seating inside/outside daily 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Ice cream shop open Thursday-Sunday 1-7 pm. Please use ice cream shop entrance for ice cream. Daily specials.
Villagers Ice Cream Hours Noon-8:30 p.m. except Monday
The Hanover Chamber put together this list of Curbside Restaurants: https://www.hanoverchamber.org/upper-valley-restaurants-delivery-curbside-pi
Check to see if your favorite restaurant is open for outdoor and/or indoor dining. Most are requiring reservations so call ahead for their guidelines and business hours.
Food Assistance
Ascutney Union Church Food Cupboard in Ascutney 5243 Route 5 Saturdays 9-10 a.m. call 802-674-2484.
Weathersfield Food Shelf in Perkinsville. The 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month from 2-4 p.m. WFS is located in the 1879 Schoolhouse at 1862 Route 106 in Perkinsville. Donations of non-perishable food are always welcomed and may be dropped off at the facility during open hours or placed in the collection box at Martin Memorial Hall. For more information, call 802-263-5584 or email weathersfieldfoodshelf@gmail.com.
Hartland Food shelf in Hartland. 4 Corners UU Church Fridays 8-10 a.m.
Reading-West Windsor Food Shelf in Reading. Mondays 2-4 p.m. and Thursday 4-6 p.m. Stone School 3456 Tyson Rd, Reading.
Low Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic for Cats and Rabbits only on July 7th
Springfield Human Society is hosting their annual Spay and Neuter Clinic. on Tuesday July 7. Sign ups are starting NOW, so do not delay, call today.To sign up, please call 802-885-3997 with a debit/credit card to pre-pay for your spot. Cash payments are accepted, by appointment only. Please call to set up a time! Pricing is as follows:
Males: $50
Females: $60
Rabbits: $80
Rabies: $10 (required unless proof of current vaccine)
Distemper: $10 (optional, but highly recommended)
Microchip with registration: $25 (must have valid email address)
The clinic is located at the shelter, in our community room! You will receive drop off and pick up instructions upon signing up. We are taking extra precautions currently to keep everyone safe during the covid-19 virus.
DROP OFF: 8:15-9AM & PICK UP: 3PM
-All pets attending clinics MUST be in SECURE cat carriers. Please refrain from using cardboard carriers or mesh, collapsing carriers, as these tend to be less effective.
-All carriers should have a blanket or a towel inside the carrier.
MORE INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE GIVEN UPON SIGN UP
Males: $50
Females: $60
Rabbits: $80
Rabies: $10 (required unless proof of current vaccine)
Distemper: $10 (optional, but highly recommended)
Microchip with registration: $25 (must have valid email address)
The clinic is located at the shelter, in our community room! You will receive drop off and pick up instructions upon signing up. We are taking extra precautions currently to keep everyone safe during the covid-19 virus.
DROP OFF: 8:15-9AM & PICK UP: 3PM
-All pets attending clinics MUST be in SECURE cat carriers. Please refrain from using cardboard carriers or mesh, collapsing carriers, as these tend to be less effective.
-All carriers should have a blanket or a towel inside the carrier.
MORE INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE GIVEN UPON SIGN UP