Be Smart, Be Safe in Weathersfield VT September 7
Yum! Nothing like a crayfish for breakfast.
Loon with crayfish on Silver Lake in Barnard, VT
For the Love of Loons (my Spirit Animal)
From the Vermont Center for EcoStudies September 2020 edition:
Soon, this summer's loon chicks (in Vermont, that's 75 and counting!) will take to the skies on their first migratory flight to the Atlantic Ocean. As all of "our" beloved loons prepare for their annual fall voyage, VCE staff and volunteers continue to monitor and rescue them from an array of hazards like fishing line entanglements, crash landings–and in the coming months–dangerous lake ice strandings. Your support will help us continue our work with these iconic birds to ensure a future filled with yodels, tremolos, hoots, and wails. Please contribute to the Vermont Loon Conservation Project today. You can donate securely online (dedicate your gift to "Loons") or send a check to: VCE, PO Box 420, Norwich, VT 05055
School lunches. Plans for highways. Support for firefighters and families in need, the list goes on.
The local ducks were on parade.
And an eagle flew over us send the loons into a tremolo calling frenzy.
More photos
While at Billings, we also checked out the Quilt exhibit. All the quilts on display were made by people living in Windsor County. They were all pretty amazing.
More photos
Soon, this summer's loon chicks (in Vermont, that's 75 and counting!) will take to the skies on their first migratory flight to the Atlantic Ocean. As all of "our" beloved loons prepare for their annual fall voyage, VCE staff and volunteers continue to monitor and rescue them from an array of hazards like fishing line entanglements, crash landings–and in the coming months–dangerous lake ice strandings. Your support will help us continue our work with these iconic birds to ensure a future filled with yodels, tremolos, hoots, and wails. Please contribute to the Vermont Loon Conservation Project today. You can donate securely online (dedicate your gift to "Loons") or send a check to: VCE, PO Box 420, Norwich, VT 05055
Did you fill out your 2020 Census yet?
Have you filled out Your 2020 Census Questionnaire Yet? You need to be counted so Vermont can get the Federal money we deserve; it's based on the Census data that is ONLY collected every 10 years!
School lunches. Plans for highways. Support for firefighters and families in need, the list goes on.The results of the 2020 Census will help determine how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funding flow into communities every year for the next decade. That funding shapes many different aspects of every community, no matter the size, no matter the location.
You ONLY have until the end of September.
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.
Paddle Report and Staycation Adventures
Last Tuesday, my friend and I did a staycation day in the Woodstock Vermont area. We totally played tourist and it was a blast.
We met at Silver Lake in Barnard, Vermont, about ten minutes outside of Woodstock, for an early morning paddle. We were treated to the two resident loons fishing and even saw one of the loons catch a crayfish (see the photo above).
Our next stop was at the Billings Farm and Museum.
We'd been reading about the Sunflower House and just had to check it out.
It DID NOT disappoint, in fact it was worth the price of admission.
Who knew there were over 50 varieties of sunflowers, I sure didn't but I know now!
Our final stop of the day was to Sculpturefest 2020.
I've covered the event many times for the Vermont Standard but this was the first time as a visitor.
Vermont COVID-19 Updates
COVID-19 health information, guidance and case data, visit www.healthvermont.gov/covid19.
The Governor’s actions, visit https://governor.vermont.gov/covid19response.
The state’s modeling, visit https://dfr.vermont.gov/about-us/covid-19/modeling.
Cross-State Travel Information
The state’s modeling, visit dfr.vermont.gov/about-us/covid-19/modeling.
Updated travel map
TRAVELING TO VERMONT
Travel FAQsWondering what rules to follow if you visit Vermont? Or, if you’re in Vermont and planning a trip out of state, what to do when you come home?
If you travel, you may need to quarantine to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our state. See guidance on this page to find out what you need to do.
You are NOT Alone, Please Reach Out!
We're all stressed out and are wondering about the future. Don't go it alone.
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
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.
Town of Weathersfield Updates
REMINDER-Special Town Meeting (Informational) September 19 at the Weathersfield School at 1 p.m. for Zoning Bylaws amendment for the processing of firewood.
The meeting will be held outside rain or shine or can be accessed online remotely. Visit the Town Website for instructions.
The vote will be held on November 3, 2020 by Australian ballot during the General Election. Polls will be open 8 a.m.-7 p.m..
Select Board Meets on Sept. 8 (and Sept. 21)
School Updates
Chromebooks for Remote Learning-Pick up Sept. 8
If you have a K-8 student at WS and you applied for remote learning, it has been approved. A date has yet to be set when remote teaching will occur. Stay tuned.
Larry Dougher sent an email out on August 20th. In order for any student, remote or in person, to get a Chromebook, parents need to sign the AUP and the Chromebook Promise.
Larry Dougher sent an email out on August 20th. In order for any student, remote or in person, to get a Chromebook, parents need to sign the AUP and the Chromebook Promise.
In person students will get their Chromebooks on September 8th, if parents have signed the two forms.
Remote students may pick their Chromebooks up at WS between 2 and 4 pm on September 8th, if parents have signed the two forms.
Here is the link to the form.
Musical Instruments-Hold On to Them
Parents, Guardians, and Students, please don’t turn your instruments in. The school is planning to introduce band lessons for grades 5-8 in late September/early October.If your child is registered for remote instruction, they will have a weekly band lesson taught by HES band director Jaimie Bernstein.
You should be hearing from your child's band director, Zach or Jaimie, in the coming weeks with more information about scheduling the lesson time.
The school will not be starting any beginning band students at this time.
All health and safety guidelines will be followed.
The Ellis Music Company is up and running with COVID safe protocols and can take orders and do deliveries/ship/curbside pickup.
COVID-19 Updates From the Supervisory Union
Back to School Updates- August 27
Mask wearing for Children
Principal Oakman posted a "Social Story" about children and mask wearing. It can be viewed here: https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1595976556/wsesunet/psbwhxb1mzbhjaj7zqho/MaskSocialStory.pdf
Things to Do In and Around Weathersfield
Helicopter Golf Ball Drop to benefit Zack's Place
They are selling Golf Balls for $50.00.
What will happen is on September 18th at 5:45P, Sharkey's Helicopter is going to buzz over the Woodstock Country Club and drop 500 balls.
The closest to the hole wins $5000, 2nd place is $2000 and third place has 10 winners at $100 each. You can buy the balls online.
If this event is successful it will raise $17,000 of much needed funds for Zack's Place.
Due to Covid-19 they have had to modify their fundraisers. During this period of time Zack's Place has remained open offering Zoom Classes daily. These classes have been a life saver for their participants which gives them the opportunity for a social outlet in these difficult times.
To buy a golf ball go to: Click here to register for the golf ball drop More information email execdir@zacksplacevt.org
To buy a golf ball go to: Click here to register for the golf ball drop More information email execdir@zacksplacevt.org
Weathersfield Hikes
8th Annual Weathersfield Hikes-Only 3 Remaining
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
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.
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.
8th Annual Weathersfield Hikes-Only 3 Remaining
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
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.
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.
Within Reach Yoga Under the Trees
Weathersfield resident, Lisa Gleeson, Within Reach Yoga, is hosting indoor yoga classes at the Weathersfield Meeting House/Church on Saturdays.
Slow Flow, Rest + Restore Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 am
Email lisa@withinreachyoga.com to register or with any questions.
COST: $12 drop-in or one punch for those who have purchased punch passes.
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.
Slow Flow, Rest + Restore Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 am
Email lisa@withinreachyoga.com to register or with any questions.
COST: $12 drop-in or one punch for those who have purchased punch passes.
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.
Learn to Meditate
Sundays, 11 am to Noon. Register before Sunday to get the link if you would like to be on the notification list. Or if you just want to try it once, email whiteriver@shambhala.info to request the zoom link.
Learn to Meditate Class and Dharma talk: For beginners and practitioners. This online open house is a great introduction to the Shambhala Buddhist teachings and an opportunity to connect with other practitioners. It features half an hour meditation practice with meditation instruction, followed by a talk by one of our senior teachers, and discussion period. Attendance is free and open to the public. A good class for both beginners and meditators.
If you would like to make a donation to the White River Shambhala Meditation Center for the online class, you can do so on this link to Paypal or by mailing a check to the White River Shambhala Center, PO Box 1254, WRJ, VT 05001.
ALL WELCOME. The class will be led by Shastri Donna Williams of the White River Shambhala Meditation Center.
Watch NCCT Miscast Cabaret Online
Learn to Meditate Class and Dharma talk: For beginners and practitioners.
If you would like to make a donation to the White River Shambhala Meditation Center for the online class, you can do so on this link to Paypal or by mailing a check to the White River Shambhala Center, PO Box 1254, WRJ, VT 05001.
ALL WELCOME. The class will be led by Shastri Donna Williams of the White River Shambhala Meditation Center.
Watch NCCT Miscast Cabaret Online
Take a little break with the talented folks of NCCT. If you are like me you are really missing live performances. Here's a little show to tide you over. There is NO CHARGE to watch but if you like what you see please DONATE to this wonderful theatre group.
Special Thanks to:Briggs Opera House
Dan Drye of Roll Films, LLC
Craig Mowery
Director: Lanni Luce West
Accompanist: Gerry Grimo
Production Manager: Beth Zuttermeister
Sound and Lights: Emma Hadden and Ken Munsey
Technical Director: Clif Rogers
Performers (in alphabetical order): Mark Boutwell, Loida Boy, Constance Bryan, Taylor Burgess, Andrew Carmichael, Elizabthe Chambers, Mark Cookson, AJ DeFelice, Amy Fortier, Jacqueline Griggs, Emma Hadden, Isabelle Hall, Lia Hammond, Eli Hoffer, Da-Shih Hu, Margaret Hunton, Katharine Kitchel, Amye Mason, Lori Mather, Whitney Carroll McKinnon, Danny Mello, Ken Munsey, Anna Munsey-Kano, Daniel Naranjo, Julia Pierce, Sam Powers, Cameron Stevens, Olivia Swayze, Darik Velez, Barry Wenig, David Wilson
Sign Up for Zack's Place Annual Turkey Trot-Virtually
T-shirt Artwork by Keegan Moriarty
Zack's Place 2020 Virtual Turkey Trot Register now to support Zack's Place
The Zack's Place Turkey Trot is virtual this year. Organizers are hoping that the community will still get outside and trot on Thanksgiving Day to support Zack's Place, see other people trotting, feel good, burn calories and do something really great.
Zack's Place needs you more now than ever. They need your help raising the money to keep their programs going, so that when it is safe, they are ready to go, in person again. Please join them on Thanksgiving Day for the Zack's Place Virtual Turkey Trot!
To register now click here: Click Here to Register for the Zack's Place Turkey Trot
Visit Out Local Restaurants
T-shirt Artwork by Keegan Moriarty
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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.
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, Saturdays 10 a.m-2 p.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.
REGISTER to VOTE
General Election is November 3, 2020Secy of State Jim Condos said on Thursday that ballots will go out during the last 10 days of September—and that people planning to mail them in should post them by Oct. 26. The early date's precautionary, he told VTDigger: "We don’t suspect we’re going to see any problems with the Postal Service here in Vermont."
In all, about 70 percent of Vermont voters cast their ballots by mail in the August primary.
Did you know you can register to vote ONLINE
There is no deadline to register, you may register to vote up to and including the day of the election. However, if you register online the day before the election or on Election Day, your application may not be processed and your name may not appear on the checklist and you may be asked to fill out another application at the polls. To be sure your name appears on the checklist, please register by the Friday before the election.
What are the key races in my Vermont?
U.S. president
U.S. House: Incumbent Peter Welch (D) vs. Miriam Berry (R) and Chris Brimmer (P)
Governor: Incumbent Phil Scott (R) vs. Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman (D)
State Senate: All 30 seats
State House: All 150 seats
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, Saturdays 10 a.m-2 p.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.
REGISTER to VOTE
General Election is November 3, 2020
Secy of State Jim Condos said on Thursday that ballots will go out during the last 10 days of September—and that people planning to mail them in should post them by Oct. 26. The early date's precautionary, he told VTDigger: "We don’t suspect we’re going to see any problems with the Postal Service here in Vermont." In all, about 70 percent of Vermont voters cast their ballots by mail in the August primary.
Did you know you can register to vote ONLINE
There is no deadline to register, you may register to vote up to and including the day of the election. However, if you register online the day before the election or on Election Day, your application may not be processed and your name may not appear on the checklist and you may be asked to fill out another application at the polls. To be sure your name appears on the checklist, please register by the Friday before the election.
There is no deadline to register, you may register to vote up to and including the day of the election. However, if you register online the day before the election or on Election Day, your application may not be processed and your name may not appear on the checklist and you may be asked to fill out another application at the polls. To be sure your name appears on the checklist, please register by the Friday before the election.
What are the key races in my Vermont?
U.S. president
U.S. House: Incumbent Peter Welch (D) vs. Miriam Berry (R) and Chris Brimmer (P)
Governor: Incumbent Phil Scott (R) vs. Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman (D)
State Senate: All 30 seats
State House: All 150 seats
U.S. president
U.S. House: Incumbent Peter Welch (D) vs. Miriam Berry (R) and Chris Brimmer (P)
Governor: Incumbent Phil Scott (R) vs. Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman (D)
State Senate: All 30 seats
State House: All 150 seats
Travel Plans this Fall?Check out AAA COVID-19 Guidelines. This map shows restrictions and guidelines to all 50 states and some parts of Canada. https://gds.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=2ec42826968d4d0980ccca0fbbfe0c7c&mc_cid=01b40a6b30&mc_eid=62773da223
Travel Plans this Fall?
Check out AAA COVID-19 Guidelines. This map shows restrictions and guidelines to all 50 states and some parts of Canada. https://gds.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=2ec42826968d4d0980ccca0fbbfe0c7c&mc_cid=01b40a6b30&mc_eid=62773da223
We'll get through this together. We're all connected.
#StayatHomeSavesLives
#StopTheSpread
#WearAMask
If you have anything you think I should post drop me an email: photosbynanci@comcast.com