Be Smart, Be Safe in Weathersfield Vermont October 12

Fall in Vermont
As a friend said "We live in a postcard!"

Fall Foliage in Reading, VT

Be safe out there with all the visiting leaf peepers .

The election is 3 weeks away!
REGISTER to VOTE General Election is November 3, 2020
Did you know you can register to vote ONLINE

By now, registered voters in Vermont should have received their ballots in the mail. Follow the easy instructions and mail it in before Oct. 26 if at all possible.


Check out this video from VT Digger if you have questions.
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

Paddle and Concert Report 


Woodward Reservoir

On a chilly and gray Tuesday, I paddled Woodward Reservoir in Plymouth VT. It lies along Rte 100 near Rte 4. It's a beautiful body of water but it's a bit noisy with the highway right there.

As I launched my kayak, a lone juvenile loon found me and swam with me for a little while.


The foliage was still happening but definitely fading fast.




Twisted Pine

On Saturday, we went to our first concert since early March 2020, March 9 to be exact!, when the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown was implemented. 

Saturday's concert was outdoors, physically distanced with 10 foot pods for concert goers, masks were worn and everyone brought their own food and beverages. People were well behaved and I felt totally comfortable. As a germ freak BEFORE the pandemic-this is saying A LOT!

The band that performed was Twisted Pine. They put out a new CD right as the pandemic was hitting and have only been able to perform two shows promoting this CD "Right Now". 

As you may know the music and entertainment industry has been especially hard hit by the pandemic. Many venues will go out of business and bands are struggling to stay together and pay their bills. Others are finding creative and safe ways to get the music to the people.

As a concert photographer, I can tell you, it was an absolute joy to be able to photograph a live performance after this seven month drought of in-person performances.









#SaveOurStages

Vermont COVID-19 Updates

For more information on:
COVID-19 health information, guidance and case data, visit www.healthvermont.gov/covid19.

The Governor’s actions, visit https://governor.vermont.gov/covid19response.

(The travel maps will be updated on Tuesdays now)
New National Case Map October 6


K-12 Dashboard



Vermont College Dashboard Links


Updated travel map September 2

TRAVELING TO VERMONT



Travel FAQs

Wondering 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.

New Hampshire COVID-19 Updates


Dartmouth COVID-19 Dashboard up and Running

Dartmouth updates this COVID-19 dashboard on Mondays and Thursdays. For more information on how Dartmouth is working to help keep our community safe, please visit our COVID-19 Information and Resources.


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

Select Board Meets on October 19

Select Board Meeting Oct. 5-at press time of October 12 the minutes from the Oct. 5 meeting were not posted and cannot be referenced here.

School Updates


School Board

Meets October 13 5:30-9 p.m. remotely. visit the school's newsletter for the link.

School Dates and Events

Stay up on all the school events visit: School Calendar

Health Department Guidance for School

Fact Sheet

This guidance was developed by public health and health care professionals using proven public health principles at a time when community transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19 illness in Vermont is extremely low. 

It may be revised in response to changing local and state circumstances. 
What happens if my child has symptoms at home or gets sick in school? 
• If your child has any of the symptoms listed below, keep them home from school and call the school to report their absence.
 • If your child has any of the symptoms listed below while at school, they will be moved to an area set up specifically for students not feeling well and you will be called to come pick up your child as soon as possible. 
• We encourage you sign a consent form that allows information to be shared between your child’s school nurse (when available) and health care provider when your child is sick. 
• While it is strongly encouraged that decisions about when a student may return to school are made with the school nurse, the student’s health care provider, and the family, such decisions must ultimately ensure the health and safety of your child’s school and community. 

COVID-19 Updates From the Supervisory Union

From Dr. Baker September 25 Update
  1. It is critical that parents notify the nurses if you or your child is traveling outside of Vermont - even for a day. We ran across a situation this week where we found out that a student visits another state every other weekend. This student should have been quarantining on return. After consultation with the VDH it all worked out and the student is quarantining, but we need to know immediately. Your cooperation is critical.
  2. Along those same lines, it is critical that we pay attention to our school nurses as they check in with both staff and families if symptoms arise. They have been trained to apply an algorithm to determine if quarantining or COVID testing is necessary. They are the coordinators and they have the last word. Principals will always follow their lead. I know it is tough when unplanned absences occur - it is tough on our end when staff have to be out - but we need to do this for all our protection. I applaud the nurses and our recently hired LNA's for stepping up. This has not been easy.
  3. I know that we heard the Governor announce that we are moving to Phase III. As we look at those guidelines, there really are no major changes for us. The biggest change will be for those schools that were NOT going 5 days a week. There still needs to be significant masking, distancing, hand-washing and health checks. So we will stay as we are for now. Our sports teams will be able to start playing other local schools - so that was good news.
  4. We are putting the final touches on an afternoon schedule. We need to provide our staff with a duty free lunch and their contracted planning time. But each school will be adding some learning experiences for children in the afternoon. It will also be a great opportunity to support students who are struggling. Our support staff is ready to go. These schedules will come out from your building principals.


Things to Do In and Around Weathersfield

Weathersfield Proctor Library

Buy a Raffle Ticket!


The Weathersfield Proctor Library Fundraising Committee is hosting a raffle to benefit the library. The drawing will be held on October 31.

Stop by and get your tickets!
Wednesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. open for those over 60 years old and those with at risk health conditions. 11:00 a.m. to 4: p.m. open to the general public.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Open for those over 60 years old and those with at risk health conditions. 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. open to the general public.


WPL on YouTube

Did you know our library has a YouTube Channel? Yup they do! Follow the Library's YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9NePacWIiuqxvRogrMnJMQ

Night Sky ZOOM Class Starts TONIGHT Oct. 12


Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wished you could point out something, anything, interesting? 
Beginning Monday, Oct 12 at 4:30 p.m. this course, will cover what sights are currently visible in the night sky. You will adopt a constellation, learn how to find it in the wild, and pick out some points of interest to impress your friends. The course will cover resources for keeping up to date with what’s out, and finish up with astronomy news.
This class is presented FREE, virtually via Zoom. (After you register you will receive a link to the online portion of the class.)
Register: https://claremontmakerspace.org/events/#!event/2020/10/12/what-apos-s-up-with-the-sky-tonight
All ages, all skill levels.
Instructor: Mits Kobayashi
Mits Kobayashi is a mathematician and lifelong astronomy enthusiast. He has taught mathematics at Cal State LA, Cal Poly Pomona, and Dartmouth College. His hobbies involve learning how to do new things: cooking new food, building furniture, and playing musical instruments are some current
projects.
More Info: Brendan Dangelo, Director of Education and Workforce, The Claremont Makerspace (603) 504-3419

Gravelin RD-Guess the Pumpkin Weight


Take a ride down Gravelin RD (off Rte 131 or the Weathersfield Center RD) and you'll come across the Creepy Hollow Guess The Pumpkin Weight stand (and pumpkins for sale!)
Take and envelope, put $1 per guess inside along with your name and phone number. Seal it and drop it in the box.
Make your guesses before Halloween Oct. 31 when they'll weigh the ginormous squash.


Good luck to everyone!

Weathersfield Hikes


8th Annual Weathersfield Hikes-Only ONE Hike Left

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.

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. (Safe mat distancing and mask wearing occurs)

Slow Flow, Rest + Restore Saturdays, 9-10 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.comFollow 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 their page 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 This Year


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 Our Local Restaurants

Exit Ate is back at it with limited indoor seating 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 menuOn break November 1, 2020.

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.

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.

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

Did you fill out your 2020 Census yet?
Deadline extended until Oct. 31

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 NOW have until the end of October.

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.



We'll get through this together. We're all connected.
#StayatHomeSavesLives
#StopTheSpread
#MaskUpVermont

Nancy Nutile-McMenemy is an Upper Valley freelance photographer and writer who loves to attend concerts and local events in and around Weathersfield and the Upper Valley.

If you have anything you think I should post drop me an email: photosbynanci@comcast.com

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