Weathersfield Weekly Blog May 17 edition

Mill Pond (or Kennedy Pond) in Windsor VT

Paddle Report

Mill Pond, Windsor VT

The Hump Day Paddlers visited Mill Pond on Wednesday and assisted in saving a kayaker who fell out of his kayak while fishing. 911 was called and Windsor Fire and Rescue responded. The Hump Day Paddlers (myself and Jan Stryker) collected the wet and cold kayaker and handed him off to the firefighters and paramedics. Then Jan and I went to retrieve his kayak from the middle of the pond.


All involved were safe and no injuries were reported.


More photos: CLICK HERE


Kent Pond, Killington VT-Kayak and Hike


The Kayak Krew wanted to paddle Kent Pond in Killington VT. The weather forecast was iffy but they decided to try the pond anyway. 

Kent is located in Gifford Woods State Park. It's stocked with fish by the state and is heavily fished. It  is also located near the Long Trail and Appalachian Trail so it's a big attraction for hikers and mountain bikers.

But the Krew was there to paddle. Miss Macie, Michelle's puppy, had her first kayak ride and seemed to enjoy it after she figured out it was fun. 

The skies were getting dark so we turned the boats around and decided we'd hike some before heading home.

The views on the trails are stunning.


Trish and I also hiked the Kent Pond Loop Trail in search of Old Growth Trees-and some pretty impressive glacially deposited boulders.


More photos CLICK HERE



CBHM Training

Covered Bridges Half Marathon (CBHM) Team-TuTu Much Fun made a training walk on Saturday. Myself and four friends will be walking/biking the 13.1 miles VIRTAULLY this year. 

CBHM canceled their in-person race in 2020 because of COVID-19 and opted to go VIRTUAL for 2021 to keep the race communities safe. 
Virtual runners, like our team, are allowed to complete their 13.1 mile any time, anywhere from June 6-13.

This training walk started at Suicide Six (S6) Ski Area in Pomfret, VT (the CBHM Race Start Area)


We walked through Woodstock to Cloudland RD and turned around to head back to Suicide Six.

We stopped along the way to enjoy the spring flowers like these White Trilliums.

We also took many photos of Middle Bridge and it's new lights.

On a water break we visited with a few Billings Farm cows.

Then made our way back to S6. We're pretty confident that we will complete the 13.1 in one day during the week of June 6-13. Wish us luck.

More photos CLICK HERE

Hike Report

Paradise Park, Windsor VT

After our stressful paddle on Mill Pond on Wednesday, the Hump Day Paddlers went on a 2 hour hike in Paradise Park, in Windsor VT.

The streams are still flowing and creating spectacular waterfalls.

We hiked up to check out the lightening strike on the pine trees-pretty impressive.

And we stopped to ponder-what in the world this structure is? If anyone has any ideas please email me and let me know.

More photos: CLICK HERE



9th Annual Weathersfield Hikes Announced



And speaking of Hiking...
The Weathersfield Hikes for 2021 have been announced. Steve sent out an email listing all the proposed hikes. You can view this email HERE. You will need to contact Steve to attend any of the hikes-DO NOT JUST SHOW UP

Feel free to call Steve, the hike organizer, at 263-5439, or EMAIL him. He welcomes questions and comments.
Experienced hikers please contact Steve to let him know you'll be attending. 

The hikes are being organized under the auspices of Weathersfield Parks and Recreation

Well-behaved dogs are welcome. We expect a range of hiking speeds. 

You can view photos of past hikes: HERE


News You Can Use

Town of Weathersfield

WES 7th Grade Class Exposed to COVID-19-Remote Learning May 17-24

The school was notified Friday by the Vermont Department of Health that the seventh grade class was exposed to a positive Covid case. 

Exposure took place on Monday, May 10th. The state has instructed the school to quarantine the class. The class will do remote learning for the week of May 17th - May 21st. 

Students can take a PCR covid test on Monday, May 17th. If parents choose not to have their child tested, they will need to quarantine for 14 days and can return to school on Tuesday, May 25th. 

If a student has a PCR and they test negative, the student can return to in-person learning on Monday, May 24th. 

If the student is a student athlete, they may return to practice and games, once they have received a negative PCR covid test, as long as they have been in attendance for remote learning. 

For 7th grade students, SBAC testing has been rescheduled to start on Tuesday, May 25th. 

On Monday, May 17 and Friday, May 21st, 7th grade students will have a regular classroom schedule, but remotely. During remote learning on Monday, May 17th, teachers will explain what the school day will look like for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday’s remote learning.

If you have questions and/or concerns, or need help setting up covid testing, please contact the school nurse, Emily Stevens at estevens@wsesu.net or call the school at 674-5400. 
https://www.healthvermont.gov/covid-19/testing/where-get-tested#other-testing


Weathersfield To Stay With School Choice

Alex Hanson of the Valley News is reporting that school officials have opted to keep school choice after the town voted to approve the school budget at Town Meeting in March. The budget approved on March 3, by a vote of 249-223, carried a $440,000 increase in high school tuition payments, thanks to the arrival in the district of 16 new students.  Read More

Taxes are Due May 19



Veterans Memorial Committee’s Memorial Day
Monday, May 31 Noon


The public is invited to attend the Weathersfield Veterans Memorial Committee’s Memorial Day ceremony on Monday, May 31st at 12:00 noon on the Perkinsville Memorial Green. 
COVID restrictions will be in place. Call 802-674-5021 for more information.


Household Hazardous Waste Collection
May 25, 2021, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Springfield Transfer Station

If you are a resident of: Andover, Athens, Baltimore, Cavendish, Chester, Grafton, Ludlow, Plymouth, Reading, Rockingham, Springfield, Weathersfield, West Windsor, or Windsor, you are welcome to participate in the household hazardous waste collection on TUESDAY, May 25, 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at the Springfield Transfer Station, 135 Fairground Road/100 Recycle Way

Wear a mask and stay in your vehicle. For a list of what to bring and what not to bring, visit www.vtsolidwastedistrict.org
For more information, call 674-9235 or email mobrien@swcrpc.org.

Be prepared to wait in line - bring something to read - no cell service.

PAINT - The following retailers will accept any brand paint, year-round, during regular business hours: Aubuchon Hardware and LaValley Building Supply in Ludlow; Bibbens Home Center and Sherwin-Williams in Springfield; and Aubuchon Hardware in Windsor. These retailers only accept paint in labeled, non-rusty cans. Bring all other paint cans to a household hazardous waste collection.


Upcoming Town Board and Committee Meetings


Selectboard Members  
David Fuller Chair  
Mike Todd   Vice Chair
Kelly O'Brien  Clerk
Joseph Jarvis Member
Paul Tillman Member

Select Board Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month
May 17 Agenda  Packet

Meeting Minutes
April 19
April 5February 1
According to the Town manager minutes can be posted up to 10 days post meeting during the state emergency 

Vermont Open Meeting Law

Minute posting: Minutes of all public meetings shall be matters of public record, shall be kept by the clerk or secretary of the public body, and shall be available for inspection by any person and for purchase of copies at cost upon request after five calendar days from the date of any meetingMeeting minutes shall be posted no later than five calendar days from the date of the meeting to a website, if one exists, that the public body maintains or has designated as the official website of the body. Except for draft minutes that have been substituted with updated minutes, posted minutes shall not be removed from the website sooner than one year from the date of the meeting for which the minutes were taken.


Weathersfield School

Weathersfield School Dates and Events

Stay up on all the school events visit: 
School Calendar

Holidays/Breaks: 
Memorial Day May 31
Last Day of School June 10
It will be a half day. Students will have lunch and board the buses for the summer.
More details to follow as the day approaches.

Graduation Dates and Times

June 4, 2021 - WHS - 7:00 pm 
June 7, 2021 - Windsor 8th Grade - 7:00 pm 
June 8, 2021 - Weathersfield 8th Grade - 4:00pm 
June 9, 2021 - Albert Bridge 6th Grade at 9:00 am - Hartland at 4:00 pm 
June 10, 2021 - Last Day of School 

From The School Newsletter

Reusable Grocery Bag Science Project by J. Villa WS Middle Science Teacher 

The Grade 6 Science class designed posters expressing their ideas in regards to what they learned about climate change and how it affects the environment. 

The project goal was to have the students create artwork that would look like a design similar to those found on reusable grocery bags. The activity was such a great success, that Ms. Polidor and Mr. Villa began to explore the feasibility of actually having some of the posters printed onto a grocery bag. These items could then be distributed throughout the community, highlighting the academic achievements of the students and the positive work of from the school. 

The bags are Panther Red. On each side is a display of the artwork of two of our six graders, Olivia LaRochelle and Jazmine White. Wendy Allen and the WS PTO helped support this project. Mona Arruda from Proforma R&E Graphic also gave support. 
Limited supplies are available.

Grade 8 Graduation Details 

8th Grade Graduation ceremony on June 8, 2021 at 4:00 pm at Weathersfield School. 

The ceremony will be in person, some Covid regulations will be followed. 

Graduation will take place outside on WS athletic field. Each graduate will be allowed to invite six family members to the outdoor graduation ceremony. 

If there is inclement weather,  the ceremony in the Jonathan Crawford Gymnasium. Restrictions for inside events are more stringent. Graduates will only be allowed to invite four family members to an indoor ceremony. 

Tickets were mailed to 8th grade parents on May 10, 2021 in case the ceremony is inside. 

In order to keep everyone safe, masks and social distancing outside of family pods are both required. If the weather does not cooperate, the school will make the decision to hold the ceremony inside by 10:00 am on June 8, 2021. 

Please do not hesitate to contact BJ or Mimi Oakman with any questions or concerns. 

HACTC Tech Camp coming in June

The Hartford Area Career and Technology Center (HACTC) is holding its Summer Tech Camp June 21-25 for students entering grades 7, 8 and 9 in the fall. They will explore 10 hands-on activities in one week. Past activities have included photography, creating edible centerpieces, basic welding or plasma cutting, building direct- current circuits, and more. 

The camp registration fee is $30. Hit this link  HACTC CAMP for more information and a camp application. Sponsored by the HACTC

Testing of Students

SBAC Testing for Grades 3-8 May 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 Make up dates: May 21 and 28
Due to COVID-19 Exposure 7th grade testing has been rescheduled to start on Tuesday, May 25th. 
VSAT Testing for Grades 5 and 8 May 4, 5 and 6

School Board 

Meeting Dates:
June 8, 6-9:30 p.m.

The school board’s month meetings will continue as remote meetings until further notice and will occur the second Tuesday of every month at 6:00 pm. The agenda and the link to each meeting is put out by the Superintendent prior to each meeting and can be found on the WSESU website and the school's website. These meetings are open to the public. 

Please note: During this time of social distancing, all board meetings are taking place online using Google Meet. You can join each meeting live (via phone or Google Meet) by following the connection details listed on each unique meeting Agenda document. 

Minutes:
May 11 Meeting VIDEO

Supervisory Updates

Dr. David Baker
Superintendent
Windsor Southeast Supervisory Union
Updates:

COVID-19 in Our Communities

PROTECT YOURSELF AND LOVED ONES

What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
  • Wear A Mask (this is not a political affiliation designation, it's a public health-your health safety measure)
  • Stay 6 feet Away-assume everyone has been exposed but if you stay six feet away for under 15 minutes, you should be OK
  • Avoid Crowds-the more people, the more potentially infected people you will encounter
  • Wash Your Hands A LOT-remember your mom telling you this, it's a big DUH! Also try to avoid touching your face.
  • Stay Home if You Are Sick-even if you only feel a little "off"
  • Keep an EXPOSURE JOURNAL-when you leave your home "pod" keep track of where you go and who you saw and if you want to be proactive-how long were you with them.

VERMONT FORWARD

The State is moving on to STEP 3
Weeks Ahead of Time


Most COVID-19 Restrictions will be lifted July 4th
(Masking and Physical Distancing "Encouraged" after 4th)

Vermont COVID-19 Vaccination Update

It's NOT over, the virus and variants are still out there.
GET VACCINATED!

Vermont continues to rank 1st nationally in Covid-19 vaccination rate



Vermont remains first in the nation in its Covid-19 vaccination rate, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.


Sign Up for Vaccine Appointments
or Attend a Walk-In Site

Vermonters can schedule vaccine appointments at: The Vermont Department of HealthKinney DrugsCVS and Walgreens

The best way to make an appointment is through the Health Department’s website: healthvermont.gov/MyVaccine. 

BY PHONE 855-722-7878
Monday – Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

You will be asked to provide your name, date of birth, address, email (if available), phone number, and health insurance information (if available, but not required).

Create an Account





COVID-19 Vaccinations

Track Vaccinations

Benjamin Renton, a senior at Middlebury College who has been tracking data during the pandemic, has launched a new dashboard using local news reports and press releases to track how many vaccine doses each state is being allocated. 
The feds have cut way back on their initial promises and have no readily available public data effort like it on their own,  Renton updates his dashboard regularly as new information becomes available. Click Here to Track

Vermont COVID-19 Resources:

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questionshttps://apps.health.vermont.gov/COVID/faq/#vaccine

COVID-19 vaccinations, including who can get the vaccine and who will be eligible next. Check this website often: https://www.healthvermont.gov/covid-19/vaccine/about-covid-19-vaccines-vermont


CDC COVID-19 Worldwide Tracking Database

National COVID-19 Data

Tracking the COVID-19 Variants
The CDC has just gone live with a map tracking the known cases in the US of the three emerging coronavirus variants that have the world on edge: B.1.1.7 (the one known as the UK variant); the B.1.351 variant first seen in South Africa; and the P.1 variant first seen in Brazil. At the moment, there are cases of B.1.1.7 in NY, MA, and CT, but none reported so far in VT, NH, or ME. Note that the CDC says their numbers are based on sampling, and so "do not represent the total number" of cases that may be arising.

National Case Info.  

US COVID-19 Risk Levels

Realtime US COVID Risk Map


 

Click on the map to access the website COVID ACT NOW
This website tracks cases, infection rate, positive test rate, ICU capacity and Contact tracers hired.

Northeast Region Data 

updated May 11

Vermont Data

The Numbers

VT reported 57 new cases Friday, 65 on Saturday, and 28 yesterday, bringing it to a total case count of 23,883. 
Deaths held steady at 252, while 10 people with confirmed cases are hospitalized (no change). 

Windsor County gained 23 new cases over the weekend and stands at 1,436 for the pandemic, with 77 over the past 14 days, while Orange County added 12 cases and stands at 805 cumulatively, with 49 cases in the past 14 days. 

In town-by-town numbers released late last week, Randolph saw 10 new cases over the week before; Hartford gained 9 and Springfield 8;  and Windsor added 2; and Killington, Reading, and W. Windsor gained 1 apiece.


Vermont State COVID-19 Response Information

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

The state’s modeling, visit https://dfr.vermont.gov/about-us/covid-19/modeling.


You can set up your account for vaccination at: https://vermont.force.com/events/s/selfregistration

More information at the Health Department’s website: healthvermont.gov/MyVaccine.


COVID-19 IN VERMONT COMMUNITIES

Town by Town Counts 

as of May 11

Weathersfield remains at 51 total cases (no change since last week) since March 2020.

 

Public School Interactive Map



COVID-19 and YOU

You are NOT Alone 
Get the Support YOU Need
Please Reach Out--Dial 2-1-1

Or Text VT to 741741 to access a 24-hour Crisis Text Line. We're all stressed out and are wondering about the future. Don't go it alone. 

Upper Valley COVID Relief

Mental Health Support for members of the Upper Valley impacted by Covid

15+ NH/VT psychotherapists are volunteering to provide free 30-minute telehealth or phone support appointments to people impacted by Covid in the Upper Valley!

Sign up for up to six 30 minute support sessions by going to the website below. 
Book an appointment: www.UVCovidRelief.org

Support is available to *any member* of our Upper Valley community impacted
by Covid, including but not limited to:
- Retail and grocery workers
- Teachers and educational staff
- First responders
- All hospital employees
- Nursing home/home health aides
- Postal, UPS and FedEx workers
- Correctional officers
- Stay at home parents
- Elders in isolation
Any questions, email UVCovidRelief@gmail.com

Other Services

This is a stressful time for everyone. 
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.

Weathersfield COVID-19 Response

The Town of Weathersfield has created a Volunteer Network to help during these times of COVID-19. 
If you are at risk for being exposed to COVID-19 or are currently in quarantine or isolation due to a positive COVID-19 test, please click the link below and fill out the form. These forms are being monitored by Susanne Terrill who will connect you with a volunteer quickly. 

CLICK HERE FOR ASSISTANCE

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the form please contact them and they will walk you through it.
Phone: (802) 674 - 2626
Email: weathersfield@weathersfield.org 


TRAVELING To/From VERMONT

As part of Vermont's phased reopening plan, there is new travel guidance. Except for international travel, travel no longer requires testing or quarantine. CDC recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated, because travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19.

Masks are required for people who are not vaccinated in public spaces in Vermont.

New Hampshire Data Dashboard

The Numbers

NH reported 178 new cases Friday, 145 on Saturday, and 139 yesterday for a cumulative total of 97,676. 

There were 6 new deaths over the weekend, raising the total to 1,332, while 50 people with confirmed cases are hospitalized (down 12). 

The current active caseload stands at 1,274 (down 176). The state reports 77 active cases in Grafton County (no change), 49 in Sullivan (up 2), and 112 in Merrimack (down 12). 

In town-by-town numbers, the state says Claremont has 23 active cases (up 5), Lebanon has 14 (down 3), Newport has 11 (down 1), and Enfield has 10 (up at least 6).

Things to Do In and Around Weathersfield

(Safely and/or Online)
Entertainment, Classes, Workshops

Entertainment



LEBANON OPERA HOUSE PRESENTS

LOH on Location ONLINE Shows Tuesdays at 6 p.m.

June 1 
Liz and Dan Faiella Register

June 22
Eugene Friesen, cello Register


Friday, August 13-Sunday, August 15


Lebanon Opera House proudly presents the FREE Nexus Music & Arts Festival in and around Colburn Park, extending to the pedestrian mall and the revitalized rail trail tunnel. Outdoor performances from regional touring artists, LOH’s community arts partners, and student-artists will be featured alongside displays of public art and al fresco dining—flashes of creativity and community at every turn. Necessarily, planning is being done with public health measures in mind.

Please consider a tax-deductible gift in support of Nexus
Thanks to the Osgood-Hilles Charitable Trust, your contribution can have twice the impact! LOH has been challenged to raise $10,000 by May 31 and the Trust will match it dollar-for-dollar.
Support Nexus

Opera North



Lake Sunapee Musical Dinner Cruise with Opera North
Sunday, July 11, 6 pm Sunapee Cruises, 1 Lake Ave, Sunapee, NH
TICKETS

TICKETS
Music of the Knights
Saturday, July 31 7 p.m. 
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John, and Sir Paul McCartney have a lot in common. They are all British-born, they each have an Academy Award and multiple Grammys and they have all been knighted by Her Majesty, the Queen. They are also three of the most successful songwriters of all time, with careers that span decades. From Broadway to the top of the pop charts, these three musical geniuses have created an incredible legacy. Their work is assembled in a theatrical concert that will have you on your feet and singing along to the soundtrack of your lives.

Havana Nights
Dates: July 16 – 7pm, Saturday, July 17 – 2pm, Saturday, July 17 – 7pm, Sunday, July 18 – 2pm
Opera North brings high-flying circus artistry and vocal virtuosity together again under the Big Top (with open sides). Pulsating Latin rhythms blend with circus acrobatics, juggling, and aerial work as Opera North’s Resident Artists bring sultry, sizzling, sensational favorites from Bizet, Lecuona, and Puccini to a joyous crescendo. Once again, the mash-up of song and circus promises to be a fun-filled family outing.

Extraordinary Women
Date: Saturday, July 24 – 7pm
This fusion of Baroque opera heroines showcases our Resident Artists in selections from operas by Purcell, Handel, Monteverdi, and Gluck. Presented in concert with semi-staging and small orchestra, considering this evening a highlight reel of great performances by strong, resilient, unforgettable women who persisted.

La Bohème
Dates: Wednesday, July 28, 7pm; Friday, July 30, 7pm; Sunday, August 1, 2pm
This exquisite story of love and loss sung through Giacomo Puccini’s exquisite, romantic opera lives on in an intimate new production. Under Opera North’s heaven of stars, accompanied by the lush sound of a full orchestra, the coquettish Mimi finds her true love (Rodolfo) while waltzing her way through the beguiling joys of a young romance. Savor “la vie en rose” with the rakish Bohemians of Paris and some of the most beautiful music ever written for the stage. Sung in English, this familiar story endures as a beloved classic.

Pick Now


Pentangle Arts Presents
Music By The River


Friday evenings 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Lawn opens at 5:30 pm
East End Park
217 Maxham Meadow Way
Woodstock, VT 05091

Pentangle Arts is pleased to present our annual Music by the River series of outdoor concerts in July and August. This popular concert series features renowned regional artists whose talents will be showcased in the newly renovated East End Park. Truly a magical setting, this outdoor amphitheater showcases a view of the Ottauquechee River. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of a cadre of volunteers, the East End Park features a beautiful riverfront setting and adjacent hiking trail that serves as an inspiration for repurposing land in a thoughtful, innovative way. The relaxed setting is perfect for music lovers of all ages to come together for a happy summer evening of music, food and friends.

Patrons are required to wear masks and observe social distancing. Masks may be removed for eating and drinking. Guests may bring their own picnics to enjoy or purchase food and beverages from the Worthy Kitchen.

Limited on site parking; guests are encouraged to car-pool when convenient to save parking space. Additional parking is available at the Woodstock Food Shelf and the Ottauquechee Health Center.

Food and beverages provided by:

Worthy Logo

Paul Asbell Quartet ft. Michael Zsoldos (Americana Folk Jazz) – July 2, 2021

Interplay Jazz (Cool Jazz) – July 9, 2021

Ben Patton Band (Pop Alt Rock) – July 16, 2021

A2VT (African/Western Hip Hop) – July 23, 2021

Myra Flynn & Paul Boffa (Indie Soul) – July 30, 2021

Marcie Hernandez (Latin Indie Folk) – August 6, 2021

Barika (West African Groove) – August 13, 2021

Jay Nash (Folk Jazz) – August 20, 2021



NORTHERN STAGE
Outdoor Courtyard Theatre


Opening the Courtyard Theater will be the irreverent romp, THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED), June 9-July 4, 2021. Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield, and directed by Carol Dunne, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) will feature 37 Shakespeare plays in 97 minutes...outdoors. Three madcap actors in tights weave their wicked way through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories, and tragedies in one wild ride that will leave audiences helpless with laughter. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare is sponsored by Stave Puzzles, hand-crafted jigsaw puzzles made in Vermont.

The outdoor summer season at the Courtyard Theater will conclude with the roof-raising musical MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, August 11-September 12, 2021. Million Dollar Quartet takes patrons back in time to December 4, 1956, when icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins gathered for the first and only time at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. That legendary night will
come to life with a score of rock hits including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Walk the Line,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and “Hound Dog.”

The breathtaking pas-de-deux play HEISENBERG, February 16-March 6, 2022, will bring audiences back into the Byrne Theater for the first indoor, fully produced play since March 2020. An electric encounter between two strangers in a train station grows, over six scenes, into a complex and life-changing relationship. Written by Simon Stephens and starring Northern Stage favorite Jamie Horton, the quietly powerful Heisenberg lays bare the beauty in the natural unpredictability of human connection.

Capping off the 2021/22 season at Northern Stage will be the uproarious MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT, April 13-May 15, 2022, in the Byrne Theater. With a book & lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle, Monty Python’s Spamalot is lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The outrageous and gloriously entertaining story of King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake will delight audiences as they search for the Holy Grail and “always look on the bright side of life.”


All Courtyard seating for the 2021/22 Season will be sold as General Admission, but seating locations will be assigned in advance on the day of performance. 
Early Bird Subscriptions cost $135 (more than 35% off the single-ticket price) and are currently on sale for Northern Stage Director’s Circle, Ensemble Members, and 2019/20 Subscribers only. 

Subscriptions for the general public go on sale March 24th. Single tickets cost $45 in the Courtyard Theater, and $34-$59 in the Byrne Theater. $19 tickets are available for all full-time students regardless of age, with a valid photo ID. 
Single tickets go on sale to the general public on April 1st.


Cooking Classes

Mexican Culinary Experience Online Classes

¡Buen Provecho!  with Laura y Cecilia


Saturday, May 22 – Carnitas y dos salsas – Mexico’s famous preparation of fried pork to make tacos and two types of salsa (5:30pm EDT)

Saturday, June 5 – Tostadas de Salpicón y de Acelgas a la Mexicana – Delicious tostadas prepared two ways, with shredded beef and with Mexican-style chard. Both served chilled (5:30pm EDT)

Sunday, June 13 – Tlacoyos de Frijol “con todo” – A Mexican classic with prehispanic origins. Corn masa patties, stuffed with beans, topped "with everything" (10:30am EDT)
Saturday, June 26 – Mole Verde con la Cosecha de Primavera – Spring Harvest Green "Mole". Served over pork. (Pork can be substituted for another protein or vegetables.) (5:30pm EDT)

Saturday, July 10 РPescado con Calabacitas. Y Chiles en Escabeche РFish with zucchini and summer squash. Plus marinated jalape̱os, cauliflower, carrots, zucchini, and garlic (5:30pm EDT)

Sunday, July 18 РMolletes con Pico de Gallo. Y Caf̩ de Olla РClassic Mexican comfort food to enjoy for breakfast or dinner: Baguette topped with refried beans and melted cheese, served with fresh sauce made from diced tomatoes, cilantro, jalape̱os, and onion. And traditional Mexican coffee prepared with cinnamon, piloncillo, and cloves (10:30am EDT)

Saturday, July 31 – Tortas de Coliflor. Y Arroz a la Jardinera – Cauliflower pancakes in fresh tomato sauce. And garden rice, made with fresh carrots, peas, and corn (5:30pm EDT)

Saturday, August 7 – Gorditas de Picadillo. Y Salsa Verde y Salsa Roja – Thick pockets of corn masa, stuffed with ground beef, carrots, onions, peas and potatoes. And Mexican green and red sauces made from seasonal vegetables (5:30pm EDT)

Saturday, August 21 – Sopa de Milpa. Y Flor de Calabaza Rellena de Queso de Cabra – Soup made from corn, zucchini, poblano peppers, zucchini blossoms, and epazote. And zucchini blossoms stuffed with goat cheese. (We are planning this session in collaboration with farmers in the Upper Valley (NH/VT). If the zucchini blossoms are not available (either from these farmers or in gardens you may have access to), we will substitute another delicious dish featuring late summer ingredients) (5:30pm EDT)

Saturday, August 28 – ¡Esquites! (dos estilos) – Back by popular demand, Mexican Street Corn. This time, we will prepare it two ways: Boiled and Fried (5:30pm EDT)




Whole Roasted Tro

Within Reach Yoga Under the Trees

Slow Flow, Rest + Restore Saturdays, 9-10 am 

Weathersfield resident, Lisa Gleeson, Within Reach Yoga, is hosting online yoga classes on Saturdays via Google Meet.

Email lisa@withinreachyoga.com to register or with any questions.
COST: $12 drop-in or one punch for those who have purchased punch passes ($60).

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.

Local RUNS In-Person and Virtual


Springfield Dam Run, May 22, 2021 8 am ET Registration
Run/Walk Kids Fun Run355 River Street Springfield, VT

Covered Bridges Half Marathon, June 6-13, 2021 Anytime, Anywhere Virtual
Registration


Windsor County Bike Routes



The Mount Ascutney Regional Commission is pleased to provide this guide to encourage residents and visitors to explore our region by bicycle. The guide provides both maps and narrative descriptions of 19 ideal cycling routes. All of the maps identify the towns and villages they pass through, so routes may be selected by location using the individual map panes or the area overview map.
Routes are identified by yellow or orange lines—solid lines denote paved routes while dashed lines denote unpaved routes.

Each route passes through multiple towns and villages, and while they may be started anywhere along the route, likely parking areas are denoted with a parking icon. Open circles on the route lines signify mile markers—simply count the number of circles on the route between your current location and your destination to calculate distance. Bike shops, food, ice cream, breweries and taverns, swimming holes, and covered bridges are all identified on the maps with corresponding icons. Areas with potentially steep grades and rail road crossings are also identified on the maps.

Turn-by-turn cue sheets, GPS tracks, and digital routes via Strava® are available on the '​The Routes' tab of this website for each route. You'll also find printable maps for each route (remember; there are plenty of areas along these rides where there is no cell service).

The Routes





Go Questing!


Questing is a place-based education model of creating and exchanging treasure hunts in order to collect and share your community’s distinct natural and cultural heritage — your special places and stories.

Follow the clues to the treasure box.
Inside the treasure box, you will discover more information about the site, a rubber stamp, stamp pad, a sign-in field journal, and a pencil. Sign your name in the book, adding a few notes or a sketch from your walk, and collect an impression of the stamp as a memento of your journey. Then, carefully re-hide the box exactly where you found it.


If you plan to go on more than one quest, you may wish to create your own “passport book” or field journal into which you will collect your stamp impressions.

You may also wish to create your own personal stamp so that you can leave your mark in each quest’s logbook.

If you are using one of the quests found online, simply print out the clues and the map and take it along with you, otherwise bring your quest book.

Just like any outdoor activity, be prepared for changes in the weather! It is important to bring a good map. Also bring a compass, a water bottle, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. It’s always a good idea to carry a first aid kit if you will be out in the woods. 

Do consider bringing along a field guide to local plants and animals, binoculars and a hand lens for magnification, and your passport book/field journal and personal stamp.

Valley Quest is always looking volunteers to be box monitors and quest testers. Each quest treasure box is checked on a regular basis during the questing season by a volunteer box monitor. These generous, fun-loving people help keep the Valley Quest program alive and running smoothly. If you are interested in becoming a box monitor for a quest in your town, please let us know!

The Valley Quest Google Map




 

Vermont Online Workshops

Lots of events and movies online. Contact: AARP Vermont Email: vtaarp@aarp.org with questions

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Returns for 2021 in Ascutney, Vermont

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides in-person and virtual tax preparation to help anyone FREE of Charge, with special focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low-to-moderate incomes.

All tax-aide volunteers are trained and are IRS-Certified every year to make sure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Tax-Aide has introduced some changes to the process; you will be instructed on these changes when you make your appointment. Call Tax-Aide in Ascutney 802-875-2418 on Tuesdays.


Visit Our Local Restaurants

Exit Ate  Eat In or Take-Away
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.
Be sure to try some of Greg's Raisin Bread!

Harpoon Beer Garden and Brewery 802-674-5491
336 Ruth Carney Drive
Windsor, VT 05089

Inn at Weathersfield-Re-opening April 30, 2021 (802) 263-9217
Dine inside or outside Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, call for a reservation 802-263-9217. 1342 VT Route 106 Perkinsville, VT 05151


Springfield Diner-seating inside/outside daily 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Ice cream shop open Thursday-Sunday 1-7 pm. Daily specials.

Villagers Ice Cream Restaurant-11:30 a.m. -8 p.m. CLOSED MONDAYS (802) 795-0063
4261 Route 106 Perkinsville, VT 05151



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.
WFS is located in the 1879 Schoolhouse at 1862 Route 106 in Perkinsville.
Open the  2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month from 2-4 p.m. COVID-19 policies are in place with groceries delivered to shoppers in their cars.
If you are in need of food and are unable to get to the facility during open hours, food will be delivered to your home.

Call the Weathersfield Town Office to be refereed to a volunteer, visit the Weathersfield Food Shelf Facebook page and leave a message or email weathersfieldfoodshelf@gmail.com
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 Spring?

We'll get through this together. We're all connected.

Be Smart, Be Safe
#MaskUpVermont
#GetTheVaccine

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.com

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