Weathersfield Weekly Blog July 31 edition
11th Annual Summer Evening with Friends and Neighbors-A Huge Success
On Saturday, July 29, The Weathersfield Proctor Library hosted their 11th annual "Summer Evening with Family and Friends at the Center Meeting House/Church on the Weathersfield Center Road.
Library Trustee chair Rick Bates welcomed the close to 100 "friends and neighbors" to the event. And encouraged them to enjoy some of the many dishes created by event volunteers. He also invited them to place their bids on the many items that were donated to the Silent Auction.
The food was abundant and included something for everyone's taste.
Music for the event was provided by UNREEL. A four piece string band with two members from local favorites Gypsy Reel.
I've always wanted to try Pan Dulce and tonight I had my chance-it was delicious.
These roll-ups didn't get a card to explain what they were but they were "AWESOME" according to one of the volunteers who brought them to the table.
More photos from past library events: CLICK HERE
Mark Your Calendars
Nature Walk to Ascutney Notch RD. Saturday, August 5 8:30 AMThe Weathersfield Conservation Commission and the Weathersfield Parks and Recreation Committee will lead a Nature Walk from the Salmond Covered Bridge onto Ascutney Notch Road on Saturday, August 5 from 8:30 am to 10:30 am, weather permitting.
This approximately 2-mile walk will feature human and natural history comments.
Meet and park along Henry Gould Road off Route 131 in Weathersfield.
For more information call 802-263-5584. This program is free and open to all.
Mark Your Calendars
Nature Walk to Ascutney Notch RD. Saturday, August 5 8:30 AM
The Weathersfield Conservation Commission and the Weathersfield Parks and Recreation Committee will lead a Nature Walk from the Salmond Covered Bridge onto Ascutney Notch Road on Saturday, August 5 from 8:30 am to 10:30 am, weather permitting. This approximately 2-mile walk will feature human and natural history comments.
For more information call 802-263-5584. This program is free and open to all.
Green Dragon farm is OPEN for PYO Blueberries
Green Dragon farm is OPEN for PYO Blueberries
Beautiful big berries grown using organic farming practices. Available at Green Dragon Farm. Field is open for picking on Friday afternoon 12-4 p.m. or Weekends 9-4 p.m.
You can call the farm for a phone message. We usually don't pick in rain or excessive heat. The bushes are in wetlands so wear good footwear! Questions: Call 802 263-9429
You can call the farm for a phone message. We usually don't pick in rain or excessive heat. The bushes are in wetlands so wear good footwear! Questions: Call 802 263-9429
Frippery August 18 and 19 Route 5 Ascutney (Claire Murray Building)
Item Drop-off Aug. 5 and 12 or by Appointment
Item Drop-off Aug. 5 and 12 or by Appointment
Weathersfield Historical Society Announces
Frippery
Is back!!August 18th and 19th.
Their location for 2023 is 5357 US Route 5 in Ascutney.
Please consider donating items for this special event. They are looking for small appliances, furniture, jewelry, linens, coffee table books and those select quality items you’re ready to part with for a good cause.
Volunteers will be at the location on 8/5 and 8/12 to accept donations. They are more than happy to pick up items if that makes it easier.
Please call Maureen (603) 252-0936 with any questions.
Weathersfield Historical Society Announces
Frippery
Is back!!
August 18th and 19th.
Their location for 2023 is 5357 US Route 5 in Ascutney.
Their location for 2023 is 5357 US Route 5 in Ascutney.
Please consider donating items for this special event. They are looking for small appliances, furniture, jewelry, linens, coffee table books and those select quality items you’re ready to part with for a good cause.
Volunteers will be at the location on 8/5 and 8/12 to accept donations. They are more than happy to pick up items if that makes it easier.
Please call Maureen (603) 252-0936 with any questions.
Area Summer Concert Series
Mondays in Lebanon NH
Wednesdays in Hartford VT
Thursdays in Farilee VT
Lake Morey Summer Concert Series
Food and Drinks Available.
Gates Open at 7:15pm | Shows Start at 8pm
August 3 Yonder Mountain String Band
August 10 Rev Peyton's Big Damn Band
August 17 Enter the Haggis
August 24 Big Head Todd and the Monsters
August 30 Della Mae (rescheduled from rain out July 13)
Discounts available for Lodging Room Rates
Discounts available for Lodging Room Rates
Lake Morey Inn
82 Clubhouse RD Fairlee VT
Lake Morey Resort
Fairlee, VT July 27, 2023
Lake Morey does it right.
They have a pro-stage, pro-sound and pro-lighting. With Kat Wright's intense vocals and Bob Wagner's memorizing guitar playing, last Thursday night was HOT and it wasn't just the air temperature.
More photos: CLICK HERE
You really should check out this venue for one of their FREE shows. They have a pizza oven for dinner, or you could dine inside or on the back porch before the show. And they have arranged for a Vermont Brewery to supply beer and they have their Tiki Hut set up for frozen beverages too.
Fridays in Woodstock VT
Music by the River, Summer Concert Series
Pentangle Arts hosts Music by the River FREE concerts Friday evenings 6-7:30 p.m. at East End Park in Woodstock, VT.
August 4 The Freese Brothers Big band with Sabrina Brown
August 11 Wesli
August 18 Jay Nash and Friends
August 25 Houston Bernard
Lawn opens at 5:30 pm
East End Park
217 Maxham Meadow Way
Woodstock, VT 05091
Rain Location:
Woodstock Town Hall Theatre
Fridays in Springfield VT
Concerts at Comtu Park-Hosted by Springfield on the Move
Springfield, VT 6 PM
August 4 John Sullivan Band
Also at this show Claflin Family Food will be serving up their yummy fare, Dance Factory students will perform at intermission, there will be gift certificates to give away, and a 50/50 raffle
August 11 Beartracks band
Also at this show Claflin Family Food will be serving up their yummy fare, Uplift Acrobatics will be performing during intermission, there will be gift certificate giveaways, and a 50/50 raffle
August 18 Mello Yellow
Also at this show Claflin Family Food will be serving up their yummy fare, Dance Factory students will be performing during intermission, there will be gift certificate giveaways, and a 50/50 raffle
August 25 Moxley Union
These guys ROCK!!! Don't miss this show.
More info on Concerts at Comtu Park check out their FB Events Page
Sundays in Hartland VT
Hartland Rec Center Summer Concert Series
Summer Concert Series at the Hartland Rec Center Gazebo Sunday evenings
Sundays at 5 pm July 16 - August 13
Sundays at 5 pm July 16 - August 13
August 6 Carlos Ocasio
August 13 Jim Yeager
All concerts are free and open to the public. Sponsored by Mascoma Savings Bank.
Hartland Rec Center Gazebo
Hartland VT July 30, 2023
Ali T (Alison Turner) performed before an intimate audience on Sunday evening. It was a perfect evening for an outdoor concert. Ali was performing as part of the Hartland Recreation Department's Summer Concert Series.
There are just two shows left in the schedule, don't miss Carlos 8/6 and Jim 8/13!
More Hartland Rec photos: CLICK HERE
News You Can Use
ICYMI (In case You Missed It)
Town/School News
The Windsor Southeast Supervisory Union (WSESU) Summer Meals Program begins this week.
WHO: For ALL youth up to age 18 including those who haven't started school or who have graduated; WSESU students from Hartland, Weathersfield, West Windsor, and Windsor.
WHAT: FREE Food for most of the summer; breakfast and lunch offerings, food offerings vary by week but includes balanced meals with drinks, fruits/veggies, proteins, etc.
WHEN: Runs Monday - Friday, from July 10 - August 11, 2023
WHERE: Windsor School, 127 State Street Windsor VT 05089
HOW: 7:30am - 9:00am drive-thru pick up option (on the way to camp or daycare)
9:00am - 11:00am pick up inside or kids can eat their meals in the dining hall.
Town Volunteer Vacancies
There were no appointments made at the April 17th meeting but Selectboard Chair Mike Todd read the available vacancies
August 28th Welcome Back BBQ and Open House
August 30th First Day of School
Weathersfield School Board meets on Tuesdays
Historic flooding puts a spotlight on Vermont’s dams
More than a thousand dams dot Vermont’s waterways. Amid this month’s relentless rainfall, they are drawing scrutiny — and concern.
By Peter D'Auria reporting for VT Digger
For years, local officials have sought to remove the Hands Mill Dam, a decades-old concrete structure on the Jail Branch, a tributary of the Winooski River, in the town of Washington.
The structure was in poor condition and was classified as a “significant” hazard, meaning it could cause “major or extensive” property losses if it failed, according to state officials. Conservationists also wanted to restore the river’s natural ecosystem.
After years of work to secure funding, find a contractor and design a deconstruction strategy, officials planned to remove the dam next summer. Earlier this month, historic flooding beat them to it.
On July 10, floodwaters smashed through the concrete dam. The deluge downed trees, destroyed a shed and camper and washed massive quantities of sediment into the Winooski — until, some officials believe, it ended up coating the streets of downtown Barre.
READ MORE
By Peter D'Auria reporting for VT Digger
In 2018, Zack Porter moved from Missoula, Montana, to Vermont.
Porter, the executive director of a small regional forest conservation nonprofit, grew up in New England but had lived in the West for about 15 years. As Western states endure hotter, dryer summers, however, Missoula has been increasingly smothered with smoke from nearby wildfires, and Porter and his wife grew worried about the health of their young daughter.
After “two back-to-back horrific smoke seasons,” he said, the family decided to pack up and move to Montpelier.
As the world warms, Vermont has been touted as a climate refuge, a place that has drawn people — like Porter and his family — who are seeking escape from the worst effects of climate change.
But this summer has forced Vermonters to reexamine that reputation. Unrelenting rainfall — a phenomenon exacerbated by climate change, experts say — earlier this month left Vermont’s capital and other towns underwater.
By Ethan Weinstein reporting for VT Digger
Phish will play two shows next month to raise money for flood recovery efforts in Vermont and upstate New York, the band announced on Tuesday.
The Vermont-bred jamband will play Aug. 25 and 26 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga, New York. Net proceeds from the show and merchandise will go to the WaterWheel Foundation, which handles Phish’s charitable endeavors.
The fundraiser “will support the many victims and their families, area businesses and non-profits” in Vermont and upstate New York, according to an announcement issued by the band Tuesday. “The Recovery Fund will support both shorter term needs and long-term recovery and resiliency projects,” the announcement reads.
Tickets start at $49.50, with special package tickets that include a separate pre-show performance by guitarist Trey Anastasio and keyboardist Page McConnell available for up to $750.
After Tropical Storm Irene, Phish played a benefit show at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction in front of a crowd of 12,000, raising $1.2 million for people affected by that disaster.
Flooded Ludlow store turns to a tent — and tech — to stay open during cleanup
Shaw’s, the only supermarket in a half-hour radius of the Windsor County town, operated under a canvas canopy after 2011’s Tropical Storm Irene. After this month’s washout, the chain is back under temporary cover — this time with online advances.
By Kevin O'Connor reporting for VT Digger
When 2011’s Tropical Storm Irene flooded the local Shaw’s — the only supermarket in a half-hour radius of this Windsor County town of 2,172 residents — the chain rented a tent and created its first-ever canvas commissary during the cleanup.
A dozen years later, another historic rainfall has swamped the Route 103 store near Okemo Mountain Resort, spurring Shaw’s employees to again juggle mopping while moving temporarily under a tarp.
This time, it’s Tent 2.0.
Back when flooding from Irene shuttered the store, contractors replaced concrete flooring, conduits and cable as employees set up shop in the parking lot. Scaling down their usual 20,000 items to the best-selling 700, they traded newfangled barcodes and laser beams for old-fashioned price tags and punch-key cash registers.
“For them to open a tent within 10 days of Irene,” the head of the Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce said at the time, “to serve the community and save their employees’ jobs — it’s a very honorable thing.”This week, Shaw’s is bringing back its canopy. But instead of stocking it with merchandise, the New England chain is moving forward with online ordering.
People who log on to the store’s website can sign up or sign in, choose the Ludlow Shaw’s zip code 05149, shop by clicking on items, then select a time for pickup in the parking lot.
Shaw’s reported flooding this month at several of its Vermont and New Hampshire stores, although its Ludlow location is the only one still closed.
“We are incredibly thankful for our associates and vendor partners that have been working around the clock to address the damage,” company spokesperson Teresa Edington said.
a. Budget Committee (5 Vacancies)
b. Conservation Commission (2 Vacancies)
c. Energy Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
d. Green Up Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
e. Lister (1 Vacancy) f. Parks and Recreation (2 Vacancies)
g. Veterans Memorial Committee (4 Vacancies)
h. Zoning Board of Adjustment (2 Vacancies)
Anyone interested in serving should contact the Town manager Brandon Gulnick at 802-674-2626
Select Board
August 7 Public Hearing Agenda
6:45 p.m. Martin Memorial Hall, Planning Commission, Zoning Definitions
Select Board Minutes: The minutes can now be found at https://www.weathersfieldvt.org/node/586/minutes
All regular meetings are broadcasted live on Comcast channel 1087, VTEL Channel 161, and SAPA.org on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.Select Board Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month 6:30 p.m. August 7August 21
Meeting Minutes https://www.weathersfieldvt.org/selectboardMay1 (minutes were not posted within 5 days, a violation of the Open Meeting Law)
Select Board Minutes: The minutes can now be found at https://www.weathersfieldvt.org/node/586/minutes
Select Board Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month 6:30 p.m.
August 7
August 21
Meeting Minutes https://www.weathersfieldvt.org/selectboard
May1 (minutes were not posted within 5 days, a violation of the Open Meeting Law)
*Vermont Open Meeting LawMinute 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 meeting. Meeting 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 Police Blotter
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeathersfieldPoliceVT
Weathersfield School
August 30th First Day of School
Meeting Agendas may be found HERE
Weathersfield School Board meets on TuesdaysIn Person at Weathersfield School (135 Schoolhouse Road, Ascutney)
Location: 135 Schoolhouse RD Ascutney
The June Board Meeting is the annual Board Retreat and July there is no Board Meeting. The next regularly scheduled Board Meeting for August 8th at 6:30 PM.
School Board MeetingsMeeting MinutesAugust 8June Retreat
Weathersfield Proctor Library
Route 5 (5181 US-5 Ascutney VT 05030)
Route 5 (5181 US-5 Ascutney VT 05030)
WPL Drop in Scrabble
Mondays at 1 p.m.
Mondays at 1 p.m.
Please call Maureen Bogosian for details
@ 603-252-0936
Please call Maureen Bogosian for details
@ 603-252-0936
@ 603-252-0936
Weathersfield Historical SocietyFollow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weathersfieldhistoricalsociety
Weathersfield Historical Society
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weathersfieldhistoricalsocietyWeathersfield Garden Club
The Weathersfield Garden Club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at rotating venues around town at 6 p.m. Locations TBA.
New members and guests are always welcome.
Any questions? please email weathersfieldgardenclub@gmail.com
Weathersfield Garden Club
The Weathersfield Garden Club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at rotating venues around town at 6 p.m. Locations TBA.
New members and guests are always welcome.
Any questions? please email weathersfieldgardenclub@gmail.com
Weathersfield Center Church and Meeting HouseFollow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeathersfieldCenterChurch
Weathersfield Center Church and Meeting House
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeathersfieldCenterChurchLocal and State News
Historic flooding puts a spotlight on Vermont’s dams
More than a thousand dams dot Vermont’s waterways. Amid this month’s relentless rainfall, they are drawing scrutiny — and concern.
By Peter D'Auria reporting for VT Digger
For years, local officials have sought to remove the Hands Mill Dam, a decades-old concrete structure on the Jail Branch, a tributary of the Winooski River, in the town of Washington.
The structure was in poor condition and was classified as a “significant” hazard, meaning it could cause “major or extensive” property losses if it failed, according to state officials. Conservationists also wanted to restore the river’s natural ecosystem.
After years of work to secure funding, find a contractor and design a deconstruction strategy, officials planned to remove the dam next summer. Earlier this month, historic flooding beat them to it.
On July 10, floodwaters smashed through the concrete dam. The deluge downed trees, destroyed a shed and camper and washed massive quantities of sediment into the Winooski — until, some officials believe, it ended up coating the streets of downtown Barre.
READ MORE
Unscathed, Springfield and Rockingham turn to helping their neighboring towns
Among the spared landmarks was the Worrall Covered Bridge, Rockingham’s last remaining 19th-century covered bridge.
By Max Scheinblum reporting for VT Digger
Despite being on the banks of both the Connecticut River and a major tributary, Springfield and Rockingham appeared to be conducting business as usual a week and a half after historic flooding.
The nearby towns of Chester and Ludlow did not fare as well.
“We’re actually feeling a little guilty because our neighbors are hurting so much,” said Scott Pickup, municipal manager of Rockingham. “Knock on wood, but we’re doing just fine.”
Springfield received minor damage, including a culvert washout in its southwestern corner and a sewer break in the north, on July 11, the day after flood waters receded. But both were resolved within a day, town officials said. The public works department has since been deploying spot crews to Ludlow, Chester and Cavendish and expects to continue helping nearby towns into next week.
Springfield largely has the Black River’s North Springfield Dam and Reservoir to thank for avoiding the heavy rain’s most catastrophic effects, according to Brian Benoit, administrative assistant to the town manager of Springfield. Built in the late 1950s, the dam provides flood protection to Springfield and to other communities that sit downstream of where the Black River empties into the Connecticut River, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Among the spared landmarks was the Worrall Covered Bridge, Rockingham’s last remaining 19th-century covered bridge.
By Max Scheinblum reporting for VT Digger
Despite being on the banks of both the Connecticut River and a major tributary, Springfield and Rockingham appeared to be conducting business as usual a week and a half after historic flooding.
The nearby towns of Chester and Ludlow did not fare as well.
“We’re actually feeling a little guilty because our neighbors are hurting so much,” said Scott Pickup, municipal manager of Rockingham. “Knock on wood, but we’re doing just fine.”
Springfield received minor damage, including a culvert washout in its southwestern corner and a sewer break in the north, on July 11, the day after flood waters receded. But both were resolved within a day, town officials said. The public works department has since been deploying spot crews to Ludlow, Chester and Cavendish and expects to continue helping nearby towns into next week.
Springfield largely has the Black River’s North Springfield Dam and Reservoir to thank for avoiding the heavy rain’s most catastrophic effects, according to Brian Benoit, administrative assistant to the town manager of Springfield. Built in the late 1950s, the dam provides flood protection to Springfield and to other communities that sit downstream of where the Black River empties into the Connecticut River, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Vermont was seen as a climate haven. This summer has complicated that image.
Catastrophic flooding, wildfire smoke and shuttered beaches have pushed Vermonters to reexamine the state’s reputation as a refuge from the worst effects of climate change.By Peter D'Auria reporting for VT Digger
In 2018, Zack Porter moved from Missoula, Montana, to Vermont.
Porter, the executive director of a small regional forest conservation nonprofit, grew up in New England but had lived in the West for about 15 years. As Western states endure hotter, dryer summers, however, Missoula has been increasingly smothered with smoke from nearby wildfires, and Porter and his wife grew worried about the health of their young daughter.
After “two back-to-back horrific smoke seasons,” he said, the family decided to pack up and move to Montpelier.
As the world warms, Vermont has been touted as a climate refuge, a place that has drawn people — like Porter and his family — who are seeking escape from the worst effects of climate change.
But this summer has forced Vermonters to reexamine that reputation. Unrelenting rainfall — a phenomenon exacerbated by climate change, experts say — earlier this month left Vermont’s capital and other towns underwater.
Phish to play benefit shows for flood recovery next month
The Vermont jamband will play Aug. 25 and 26 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, raising money to support flood recovery in Vermont and upstate New York.By Ethan Weinstein reporting for VT Digger
Phish will play two shows next month to raise money for flood recovery efforts in Vermont and upstate New York, the band announced on Tuesday.
The Vermont-bred jamband will play Aug. 25 and 26 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga, New York. Net proceeds from the show and merchandise will go to the WaterWheel Foundation, which handles Phish’s charitable endeavors.
The fundraiser “will support the many victims and their families, area businesses and non-profits” in Vermont and upstate New York, according to an announcement issued by the band Tuesday. “The Recovery Fund will support both shorter term needs and long-term recovery and resiliency projects,” the announcement reads.
Tickets start at $49.50, with special package tickets that include a separate pre-show performance by guitarist Trey Anastasio and keyboardist Page McConnell available for up to $750.
After Tropical Storm Irene, Phish played a benefit show at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction in front of a crowd of 12,000, raising $1.2 million for people affected by that disaster.
Preliminary tally indicates Vermont floods damaged more than 4,000 homes and 800 businesses
The figures, which were self-reported to 2-1-1 and haven’t been independently verified, suggest that the damage from this month’s floods was at least comparable, and perhaps greater, than that caused by Tropical Storm Irene.
By Kristen Fountain and Lola Duffort reporting for VT Digger
The full tally of damage to homes and livelihoods from the historic flooding across Vermont two weeks ago will take months, if not years, to determine.
However, preliminary figures released by Vermont Emergency Management on Wednesday suggest that the impact was considerable, and that the total will be at least comparable, and perhaps even greater, than what was suffered during Tropical Storm Irene.
By the end of the day Tuesday, (July 25), the state had received reports of damage to 4,087 residential units and 839 businesses, according to preliminary information collected by the State Emergency Operations Center and provided to VTDigger.
Among the residences damaged, 754, or 18%, were reported to be no longer habitable. A total of 314 people reported to the state that they needed shelter.
Vermont Emergency Management emphasized that the data consists of self-reports via the state’s 2-1-1 system and has not been verified.
By Kristen Fountain and Lola Duffort reporting for VT Digger
The full tally of damage to homes and livelihoods from the historic flooding across Vermont two weeks ago will take months, if not years, to determine.
However, preliminary figures released by Vermont Emergency Management on Wednesday suggest that the impact was considerable, and that the total will be at least comparable, and perhaps even greater, than what was suffered during Tropical Storm Irene.
By the end of the day Tuesday, (July 25), the state had received reports of damage to 4,087 residential units and 839 businesses, according to preliminary information collected by the State Emergency Operations Center and provided to VTDigger.
Among the residences damaged, 754, or 18%, were reported to be no longer habitable. A total of 314 people reported to the state that they needed shelter.
Vermont Emergency Management emphasized that the data consists of self-reports via the state’s 2-1-1 system and has not been verified.
Vermont launches $20 million flood relief program for businesses — but knows it won’t ‘come close’ to need
Commissioner of Economic Development Joan Goldstein said she hopes the state can start getting money out the door in a matter of weeks.
By Sarah Mearhoff reporting for VT Digger
The state of Vermont is launching a $20 million grant program to offer businesses a financial lifeline in the immediate aftermath of this month’s devastating flooding.
But at a press conference on Thursday announcing the imminent launch of the grant program, officials quickly added a disclaimer.
“I want to be clear right up front: $20 million will not be enough,” Gov. Phil Scott told reporters. “It won’t even come close to meet the total need, or even reach all impacted businesses.”
State officials, who previewed the program last week, expect applications for the first-come-first-served grants to go live next week.
The grant program is designed for speed — both in administrative setup and in its application and distribution process — to meet the urgency of the moment.
Scott acknowledged on Thursday it “isn’t a perfect or complete solution to the challenges employers face, but we know it’s important to do what we can as soon as possible.” Coupled with hopes for congressional aid, as well as Small Business Administration loans and grassroots fundraising, Scott said the $20 million program is meant to be “a lifeline” so businesses can reopen more quickly.
By Sarah Mearhoff reporting for VT Digger
The state of Vermont is launching a $20 million grant program to offer businesses a financial lifeline in the immediate aftermath of this month’s devastating flooding.
But at a press conference on Thursday announcing the imminent launch of the grant program, officials quickly added a disclaimer.
“I want to be clear right up front: $20 million will not be enough,” Gov. Phil Scott told reporters. “It won’t even come close to meet the total need, or even reach all impacted businesses.”
State officials, who previewed the program last week, expect applications for the first-come-first-served grants to go live next week.
The grant program is designed for speed — both in administrative setup and in its application and distribution process — to meet the urgency of the moment.
Scott acknowledged on Thursday it “isn’t a perfect or complete solution to the challenges employers face, but we know it’s important to do what we can as soon as possible.” Coupled with hopes for congressional aid, as well as Small Business Administration loans and grassroots fundraising, Scott said the $20 million program is meant to be “a lifeline” so businesses can reopen more quickly.
Shaw’s, the only supermarket in a half-hour radius of the Windsor County town, operated under a canvas canopy after 2011’s Tropical Storm Irene. After this month’s washout, the chain is back under temporary cover — this time with online advances.
By Kevin O'Connor reporting for VT Digger
When 2011’s Tropical Storm Irene flooded the local Shaw’s — the only supermarket in a half-hour radius of this Windsor County town of 2,172 residents — the chain rented a tent and created its first-ever canvas commissary during the cleanup.
A dozen years later, another historic rainfall has swamped the Route 103 store near Okemo Mountain Resort, spurring Shaw’s employees to again juggle mopping while moving temporarily under a tarp.
This time, it’s Tent 2.0.
Back when flooding from Irene shuttered the store, contractors replaced concrete flooring, conduits and cable as employees set up shop in the parking lot. Scaling down their usual 20,000 items to the best-selling 700, they traded newfangled barcodes and laser beams for old-fashioned price tags and punch-key cash registers.
“For them to open a tent within 10 days of Irene,” the head of the Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce said at the time, “to serve the community and save their employees’ jobs — it’s a very honorable thing.”This week, Shaw’s is bringing back its canopy. But instead of stocking it with merchandise, the New England chain is moving forward with online ordering.
People who log on to the store’s website can sign up or sign in, choose the Ludlow Shaw’s zip code 05149, shop by clicking on items, then select a time for pickup in the parking lot.
Shaw’s reported flooding this month at several of its Vermont and New Hampshire stores, although its Ludlow location is the only one still closed.
“We are incredibly thankful for our associates and vendor partners that have been working around the clock to address the damage,” company spokesperson Teresa Edington said.
READ MORE
Recreational Water Safety After a Flood Recreational Water After a Flood
And there are two large families of Canada Geese.
While you're waiting on the loons, there are all sorts of other birds and aquatic critters to watch for. Like this Eastern Kingbird.
Lots of painted turtles.
And if you're lucky a flock of Cedar Waxwings will hang out with you.
More info visit the event's FB page.
Grateful Jam-Friends Play Dead Session I
Join Upper Valley Trails Alliance for their scenic, pedaling picnic through the Connecticut River Valley. Bring your bike to enjoy the autumn foliage and beautiful scenery at your own pace. Along the way you will meet local food producers and community members at food stops as you taste the delicious harvest bounty from local farms and restaurants.
Choose one of our three routes: the family-friendly Lake Morey Loop (6 miles), the Classic Loop (19.5 miles), or the River Road Extension designed for advanced riders (31 miles). Please see below for a synopsis of the three routes (when registering you will be required to identify which route you will be riding).
Your registration includes detailed route maps, directions, support vehicles, and, of course, an incredible menu of locally-produced foods! More info: CLICK HERE
Local trails to explore: CLICK HERE
One Love Bodhi Works has a massage made just for you.
Each person is unique and so are their massage needs.
Bistro Midva Midva is open Wednesday-Saturday 4:30-9:30 p.m. (Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday) Call (802) 299-1553 or visit their FACEBOOK PAGE for more information.
Inn at Weathersfield (802) 263-9217
Maebellines (802) 591-4311
VT Digger Coronavirus Report: CLICK HERE
Stoughton Pond on Sunday 7/30
While rivers and lakes can have hazards and contamination under normal conditions, severe storms and flooding can increase the risk of getting hurt, sick, or drowning at these bodies of water.
Stay out of any body of water for at least 48 hours following heavy rains, and longer if it has flooded.
Rainstorms and Floods Create Hazards
• Swollen rivers and fast-moving currents can create dangerous conditions at swimming holes and rivers for days after a heavy rain event.
• Severe rains may bring bacteria or microorganisms that can make you sick into the water from overwhelmed wastewater systems and runoff.
• Sharp objects, like glass or metal fragments, and spilled fuel or chemicals can also be carried into swimming areas by stormwater runoff and flooding.
Stay Out to Stay Safe
• Stay out of rivers and streams until the water is clear and calm – usually several days after a storm. Watch the currents and listen for the sound of unusually loud rushing water. Natural waters can have hidden dangers below the surface, like formations that create suction.
• After heavy rains, stay out of any body of water for at least 48 hours to avoid the risk of getting sick from contaminated water. In a public swim area, you can swim if the water has been tested and it’s safe. • After a flooding event, it may take several days before water is safe for swimming and recreation.
What to Know Before You Swim
• Check with the park manager or town to see if the swim areas are open and whether they have tested the water quality.
• Look for and obey any posted signs at beaches and parks.
• Never swim alone. Water is stronger than you think, and accidents can take only an instant.
• Watch for cyanobacteria in the water, since extra nutrients from the floodwater may cause blooms. They can make the water appear dark green, and look like pea soup or spilled paint.
• Don’t swallow beach water or swim with open wounds that can get infected.
• Shower after swimming, and wash your hands before eating.
More swimming tips:
Kayaking Adventures
I've found a few places to paddle that don't seem too affect my the recent floods. The roads leading to these ponds were a bit iffy but passable.
Lowell Lake State Park PaddleLondonderry, VT July 24, 2023
Lowell Lake State Park is a beautiful area to paddle and hike. During the COVID years you could enter FREE but now they are back to charging $5 per car and parking is limited-get there before noon on weekends-the earlier the better before the parking lot is full.
But if you do go, you'll definitely encounter the loon family. The chick was at it's molting stage when I was there last week.
There were so many damsel and dragon flies, of all colors and shapes.
The bog area, that has great views of Magic Mountain, and it has so many bog flowers and plants to check out. Like this Spoonleaf Sundew.
More photos: CLICK HERE
Kayaking Adventures
I've found a few places to paddle that don't seem too affect my the recent floods. The roads leading to these ponds were a bit iffy but passable.
Lowell Lake State Park Paddle
Londonderry, VT July 24, 2023
Lowell Lake State Park is a beautiful area to paddle and hike. During the COVID years you could enter FREE but now they are back to charging $5 per car and parking is limited-get there before noon on weekends-the earlier the better before the parking lot is full.
But if you do go, you'll definitely encounter the loon family. The chick was at it's molting stage when I was there last week.
There were so many damsel and dragon flies, of all colors and shapes.
The bog area, that has great views of Magic Mountain, and it has so many bog flowers and plants to check out. Like this Spoonleaf Sundew.
More photos: CLICK HERE
Solo Paddle on Knapp Pond II
Cavendish, VT July 26, 2023
The Knapp Ponds are two of my favorites, and not just because they are close to home. They are my favorites because pretty much every time I visit, I'm the only one on the pond.
It's usually just me and the painted turtles.
Sometimes the cormorant will land nearby to dry it's wings.
More photos: CLICK HERE
Solo Paddle on Knapp Pond ICavendish, VT July 28, 2023
Knapp I is the smaller of the two but can take just as long to paddle because you'll want to sit quietly and wait for the loon pair to show up.
More photos: CLICK HERE
Things to Do In and Around Weathersfield
Get Outdoors, Entertainment, Classes, Workshops
Grateful Jam-Flood Relief Concerts 6-10 PM
August 11, 18, 25 and Sept. 8
One Heart Wellness Cooperative 64 Main St, Windsor, VT
More info visit the event's FB page.
Enjoy some local LIVE music and support our neighbors
A Benefit for Vermont Flood Relief
One Heart Wellness Co-op
Windsor, VT July 28, 2023
You have four more chances to catch "Friends Play Dead" and to help raise money that will go to help out our neighbors after the July Flood.
Weathersfield's own Glenn Selwitz on bass
Jon Scott
Rich Meijer
Pete Meijer
Steve Drebber
More photos and a few video clips: CLICK HERE
Break out your Birkenstocks and tie-dye and come groove to the jam.
2023 UVTA Tour de taste
2023 UVTA Tour de Taste
Sunday, September 10, 10 AM
Samuel Morey Elementary School School St Fairlee, VT 05045Join Upper Valley Trails Alliance for their scenic, pedaling picnic through the Connecticut River Valley. Bring your bike to enjoy the autumn foliage and beautiful scenery at your own pace. Along the way you will meet local food producers and community members at food stops as you taste the delicious harvest bounty from local farms and restaurants.
Choose one of our three routes: the family-friendly Lake Morey Loop (6 miles), the Classic Loop (19.5 miles), or the River Road Extension designed for advanced riders (31 miles). Please see below for a synopsis of the three routes (when registering you will be required to identify which route you will be riding).
Your registration includes detailed route maps, directions, support vehicles, and, of course, an incredible menu of locally-produced foods! More info: CLICK HERE
Early Bird discount ends today, July 31
Volunteers in Action (ViA) is seeking volunteers
Volunteers in Action (ViA), a neighbor helping neighbor organization, is seeking immediate volunteer support for two Meals on Wheels routes in Windsor. Details:
Melanie P. Sheehan, MPH
Director of Community Health
Andy Warhol in Vermont
Hall Art Foundation, Reading VT
The Hall Art Foundation is pleased to announce an exhibition by famed American artist Andy Warhol to be held in its galleries in Reading, Vermont from 13 May – 26 November 2023.
Hall Art Foundation, Reading VT
Cultural icon, celebrity and provocateur, Andy Warhol produced works that are instantly recognizable and have inspired a generation of artists. Seriality and appropriation were signature aspects of Warhol’s painting and sculptural practice.
He often made many different versions of the same subject, perhaps most famously with his iconic multi-part work, Campbell’s Soup Cans (1962) which depicts 32 different versions of a Campbell’s soup can. Shortly after completing these works, Warhol began to make paintings using silk-screens, a process that greatly facilitated his explorations of image multiplicity.
For any given subject, Warhol might use several different source images, producing multiple versions of each picture, sometimes in different sized formats, or sometimes using different color combinations for the silkscreen inks and paints, or sometimes both.
In other cases, he would use the same exact silkscreen and the same color silkscreen inks and paints, allowing the randomness of the screening process itself to introduce variations in tonality and color saturation in the individual paintings.
Volunteers in Action (ViA), a neighbor helping neighbor organization, is seeking immediate volunteer support for two Meals on Wheels routes in Windsor. Details:
- Open shifts available Monday through Friday, help when you have time
- Roughly 2-hour commitment (10am – Noon) on volunteer days
- Individual training available upon sign-up
- Minimal driving, low mileage routes.
- There are additional needs in Weathersfield as well, if people are interested.
Melanie P. Sheehan, MPH
Director of Community Health
Local trails to explore: CLICK HERE
Also Hiking Close to Home: CLICK HERE
All shows are at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise stated.
Arrival from Sweden-The Music of ABBA, August 8 TICKETS
NEXUS August 11, 12, and 13-FREE Learn More
Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel July 27-30, 2023 TICKETS
Yoga and Massage
Yoga
Whole Roasted Tro
Whole Roasted Tro
Within Reach Yoga
at the Weathersfield Meeting House (Center Church)
You must Register for each class at least a day ahead by emailing Lisa.
Classes are Mondays (on hold until the Fall) and Tuesdays
Monday Evening-Candle Glow Gentle Flow-On hold until the Fall
Tuesday Morning 9-10 a.m.-Slow Flow, Rest + Restore NOTE-August 1, Tuesday class is 5:30-6:30 in the evening.August Tuesday classes: August 8, 15, 22, 29
Walk-ins can register up to 24 hrs. ahead by emailing Lisa and are available on a first-come, first served basis (classes fill early!).
Please arrive 5-15 minutes early with your own props and mats.
REFRAIN FROM: Wearing ice cleats (into the building), shoes, perfume, or cologne in the practice space. Do not come to class if you are feeling ill.
Tuesday Morning 9-10 a.m.-Slow Flow, Rest + Restore
Each person is unique and so are their massage needs.
Anne will identify and address your barriers and help you to live relaxed and pain-free.
Sign up with Anne S. today and you'll thank yourself tomorrow BOOK an appointment.
One Love Bodhi Works is located at 289 Putnam Road, Springfield, VT 05156
10% of profits go back to the community. Giving back has never felt so good.
Post Flood Information
Post Flood Information
Flood Clean UP-What to knowThose cleaning their homes after the flood should put their debris near the public road (*not common household trash). Towns will either pick up the debris or work with a contractor to haul it away.
It is important that you sort out any household hazardous waste like cleaning supplies, fuel, paint, etc. Those items will be collected at a later date.
Guidance can be found at https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/debris-removal-guidelines-help-you-and-your-community, you needn't make six piles but hazardous materials should be stored away.
Front Porch Forum-Disaster Response Board-CLICK HEREyou need to sign in to access the board.
Flood Clean UP-What to know
Those cleaning their homes after the flood should put their debris near the public road (*not common household trash).
Towns will either pick up the debris or work with a contractor to haul it away.
It is important that you sort out any household hazardous waste like cleaning supplies, fuel, paint, etc. Those items will be collected at a later date.
Guidance can be found at https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/debris-removal-guidelines-help-you-and-your-community, you needn't make six piles but hazardous materials should be stored away.
Front Porch Forum-Disaster Response Board-CLICK HERE
you need to sign in to access the board.
A guide to the FEMA aid process for flooded Vermont homes
Since historic flooding swept through the state last week, Vermont Public and VTDigger have been working to gather information on what you can expect when applying for federal aid. Here’s what we know so far.
By Carly Berlin reporting for VT Digger
Who’s eligible for federal assistance right now?
Residents of six Vermont counties — Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor — are eligible for Individual Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency as of July 20. Other counties that also faced flooding could be approved as FEMA continues to assess damage on the ground.
You must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen (including refugees and people granted asylum) to apply.
What is Individual Assistance? What should I expect from the application process?
Individual Assistance can cover such expenses as repairing damage to your primary residence, rental support if you’re displaced from your home, and loss of personal property (belongings in your home), among other things. It’s sometimes referred to as the Individuals and Households Program.
It’s meant to help with costs not covered by insurance — but it’s not a replacement for insurance. FEMA aid likely won’t replace everything you lost. It’s meant to meet basic needs and “make homes habitable, safe and sanitary again,” said FEMA spokesperson Briana Summer Fenton in a phone interview.
You can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, on the FEMA app, by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362, or in person (more on that below).
When you register, you’ll be asked for identifying information like your Social Security number, an address where the disaster happened and where you’re currently staying, and a description of the damage you experienced. That’s why it’s important to document your damage before you start cleaning up.
After you apply, FEMA will determine what kind of assistance you’re eligible to receive. An inspector may get in touch with you to assess the damage; you can ask to see their government ID to confirm they’re not a scammer.
How much money are we talking about here?
The maximum amount FEMA provides for housing-related assistance is $41,000, though financial assistance to rent temporary housing and for “accessibility-related real property costs” aren’t subject to that cap.
READ MOREWhen should I apply?--The deadline to register is Sept. 12
A guide to the FEMA aid process for flooded Vermont homes
By Carly Berlin reporting for VT Digger
Who’s eligible for federal assistance right now?
Residents of six Vermont counties — Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor — are eligible for Individual Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency as of July 20. Other counties that also faced flooding could be approved as FEMA continues to assess damage on the ground.
You must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen (including refugees and people granted asylum) to apply.
What is Individual Assistance? What should I expect from the application process?
Individual Assistance can cover such expenses as repairing damage to your primary residence, rental support if you’re displaced from your home, and loss of personal property (belongings in your home), among other things. It’s sometimes referred to as the Individuals and Households Program.
It’s meant to help with costs not covered by insurance — but it’s not a replacement for insurance. FEMA aid likely won’t replace everything you lost. It’s meant to meet basic needs and “make homes habitable, safe and sanitary again,” said FEMA spokesperson Briana Summer Fenton in a phone interview.
You can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, on the FEMA app, by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362, or in person (more on that below).
When you register, you’ll be asked for identifying information like your Social Security number, an address where the disaster happened and where you’re currently staying, and a description of the damage you experienced. That’s why it’s important to document your damage before you start cleaning up.
After you apply, FEMA will determine what kind of assistance you’re eligible to receive. An inspector may get in touch with you to assess the damage; you can ask to see their government ID to confirm they’re not a scammer.
How much money are we talking about here?
The maximum amount FEMA provides for housing-related assistance is $41,000, though financial assistance to rent temporary housing and for “accessibility-related real property costs” aren’t subject to that cap.
READ MORE
Individual Assistance can cover such expenses as repairing damage to your primary residence, rental support if you’re displaced from your home, and loss of personal property (belongings in your home), among other things. It’s sometimes referred to as the Individuals and Households Program.
It’s meant to help with costs not covered by insurance — but it’s not a replacement for insurance. FEMA aid likely won’t replace everything you lost. It’s meant to meet basic needs and “make homes habitable, safe and sanitary again,” said FEMA spokesperson Briana Summer Fenton in a phone interview.
You can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, on the FEMA app, by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362, or in person (more on that below).
When you register, you’ll be asked for identifying information like your Social Security number, an address where the disaster happened and where you’re currently staying, and a description of the damage you experienced. That’s why it’s important to document your damage before you start cleaning up.
After you apply, FEMA will determine what kind of assistance you’re eligible to receive. An inspector may get in touch with you to assess the damage; you can ask to see their government ID to confirm they’re not a scammer.
How much money are we talking about here?
The maximum amount FEMA provides for housing-related assistance is $41,000, though financial assistance to rent temporary housing and for “accessibility-related real property costs” aren’t subject to that cap.
READ MORE
When should I apply?--The deadline to register is Sept. 12
Disaster resources available for Vermont residents and businessesFederal grants and loans can help provide relief to individuals and businesses in eligible counties.
By Hannah Cho reporting for VT Digger
At a press conference Monday morning, federal and state officials gave a rundown on disaster help available for Vermont residents and businesses as they recover from last week’s flooding.
Assistance for individuals
So far, residents of Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties are eligible for federal grants to help cover uninsured or under-insured losses resulting from last week’s flooding.
More counties are likely to be added to the list as federal assessments of the damage continue, and state officials said residents should wait until their county is approved before applying. As part of that data collection, state officials are encouraging residents to continue reporting damages by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting vermont211.org.
The aid is available through the Individual and Households Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA.
“This assistance can be for home repairs, or rent support for displaced individuals while repairs are made, and for other disaster-related expenses such as medical, dental, funeral, moving and storage and personal property losses,” said FEMA branch director Chelsey Smith.
The agency will accept applications through Sept. 12 on its website and at its call center, said Smith. Staff will be available at recovery centers and on the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to answer questions.
Once a person registers for FEMA assistance, staff members, who will be carrying badges, will visit that property to learn more about the damage, Smith said. To date, the agency “has received 882 valid registrations for assistance,” with about $56,000 in recovery funding disbursed so far, she added.
READ MORE
Disaster resources available for Vermont residents and businesses
By Hannah Cho reporting for VT Digger
At a press conference Monday morning, federal and state officials gave a rundown on disaster help available for Vermont residents and businesses as they recover from last week’s flooding.
Assistance for individuals
So far, residents of Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties are eligible for federal grants to help cover uninsured or under-insured losses resulting from last week’s flooding.
More counties are likely to be added to the list as federal assessments of the damage continue, and state officials said residents should wait until their county is approved before applying. As part of that data collection, state officials are encouraging residents to continue reporting damages by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting vermont211.org.
The aid is available through the Individual and Households Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA.
“This assistance can be for home repairs, or rent support for displaced individuals while repairs are made, and for other disaster-related expenses such as medical, dental, funeral, moving and storage and personal property losses,” said FEMA branch director Chelsey Smith.
The agency will accept applications through Sept. 12 on its website and at its call center, said Smith. Staff will be available at recovery centers and on the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to answer questions.
Once a person registers for FEMA assistance, staff members, who will be carrying badges, will visit that property to learn more about the damage, Smith said. To date, the agency “has received 882 valid registrations for assistance,” with about $56,000 in recovery funding disbursed so far, she added.
READ MORE
“This assistance can be for home repairs, or rent support for displaced individuals while repairs are made, and for other disaster-related expenses such as medical, dental, funeral, moving and storage and personal property losses,” said FEMA branch director Chelsey Smith.
The agency will accept applications through Sept. 12 on its website and at its call center, said Smith. Staff will be available at recovery centers and on the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362 to answer questions.
Once a person registers for FEMA assistance, staff members, who will be carrying badges, will visit that property to learn more about the damage, Smith said. To date, the agency “has received 882 valid registrations for assistance,” with about $56,000 in recovery funding disbursed so far, she added.
READ MORE
Unemployment relief, rebuilding help offered after Vermont floods
The federal government has approved disaster unemployment assistance benefits and eased restrictions for homeowners in flood-ravaged regions seeking financial help.
By Paige Fisher reporting for VT Digger
The Vermont Department of Labor will make federal disaster unemployment benefits available to Vermonters who were left without work due to last week’s catastrophic flooding, while the U.S Department of Agriculture has made it easier for rural residents to recover and rebuild.
The benefits are available to people in the counties for which the Biden Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Administration have made major federal disaster declarations. So far there are six: Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties. Additional counties may be added to the list in the future, the agency has said.
Individuals living, working, or scheduled to work in these counties may be eligible for disaster unemployment assistance. Also, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants program is available to low-income flood victims.
The federal government has approved disaster unemployment assistance benefits and eased restrictions for homeowners in flood-ravaged regions seeking financial help.
By Paige Fisher reporting for VT Digger
The Vermont Department of Labor will make federal disaster unemployment benefits available to Vermonters who were left without work due to last week’s catastrophic flooding, while the U.S Department of Agriculture has made it easier for rural residents to recover and rebuild.
The benefits are available to people in the counties for which the Biden Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Administration have made major federal disaster declarations. So far there are six: Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties. Additional counties may be added to the list in the future, the agency has said.
Individuals living, working, or scheduled to work in these counties may be eligible for disaster unemployment assistance. Also, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants program is available to low-income flood victims.
When Flood Warnings/Watches are posted-What should I do?
Vermonters should monitor media reports, follow instructions from Vermont Emergency Management, never attempt to walk or drive through flood waters, and familiarize yourself with your best flood evacuation routes.
Some key resources
2-1-1: For help getting connected to resources and services such as shelter, disaster response, and more, call 2-1-1.
9-1-1: For emergency situations, always call 9-1-1.
Language Translations for Flood Resources: https://www.healthvermont.gov/emergency/prepare/stay-safe-flood
Vermont Emergency Management:
Twitter: @vemvt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement
VT-Alert: VT-ALERT is used by the state and local responders to notify the public of emergency situations. Those include, but are not limited to, evacuation information, chemical spills, shelter-in-place alerts, severe weather advisories, boil water advisories, and roadway interruptions. NOTE: Residents can tailor the alerts to specific locations, types of alerts, and on which devices they will be notified.Sign up to receive VT-Alerts, here: https://vem.vermont.gov/vtalert
Follow VT-Alert on social media for quick updates:Twitter: https://twitter.com/vermontalert Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VermontAlert
Best Practices for Safety
- Never drive or walk through floodwaters. Strong currents or unseen washouts can sweep you and your car away.
- Turn off the circuit breaker in your home before you evacuate – if you can do so safely.
- If rising water is approaching, leave.
- If you need to evacuate, do so over high ground. Plan that route as soon as possible.
- If your home floods, have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical system before you once again occupy your home.
- If you are in a flood-prone area, or if you believe your home will be flooded, it is advisable to move valuables from your basement in case water enters your home.
- Check your insurance coverage now, and then contact your insurance company if you have damage.
Emergency UpdatesFor additional updates, you can find below some recommended social media accounts to follow:- VT State Police:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VermontStatePolice/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VTStatePolice - VT Division of Fire Safety:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VTFireMarshal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VTFireMarshal - VT Agency of Transportation:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VTransontheroad/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AOTVermont - VT Department of Health:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealthVermont/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/healthvermont - National Weather Service Burlington:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSBurlington/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWSBurlington
National Weather Service Albany:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSAlbany/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWSAlbany
Information for Local Farmers
This is a challenging time for many farmers, and we’re thinking of everyone who has been impacted, big or small, by the latest storm. We wanted to send out a reminder of the resources available to you through Farm First.
Free access to a Farmer Peer. Peers are trained in active listening, troubleshooting, and accessing resources. You can find one by location or discipline at: https://farmfirst.org/peer-support-network
Free access to a counselor. While your immediate needs are in the fields, if you need support processing your response you can access a counselor by reaching out to Eva Griffin, the Farm First Resource Coordinator.
During daytime working hours (8am-4:30pm M-F) call: 802-318-5538
Outside of daytime work hours call: 877-493-6216
Email Eva at evag@farmfirst.org
Free access to resources. On the FarmFirst website, there is a searchable database of resources that can assist you with a variety of services or accessing resources.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Get help for your animals
NOFA is collecting info on impacts
Vermont Emergency Management Website
New England 511 Road Closures
Vermont River Levels & Forecast
Vermont Alert Emergency Notification System
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me to learn more or get support! If you have other helpful resources that we should be sharing please send them my way as well.
Stay safe out there
Valerie & the Farm First team
www.HoneyFieldFarmVT.com
How to Help with the Recovery Efforts
At a press briefing about the floods on Tuesday morning, Public Safety Commissioner Jennifer Morrison also plugged a state website, vermont.gov/volunteer, where Vermonters can register to volunteer.
"For now, please focus your volunteer efforts on the hyperlocal level," Morrison said. "Check on your neighbors and the most vulnerable in your neighborhood."
The Vermont Community Foundation announced on Tuesday the creation of the VT Flood Response & Recovery Fund 2023 to coordinate and distribute support to hard-hit communities. The foundation also recommended other organizations to donate to, including the American Red Cross of Northern New England; BROC Community Action; Capstone Community Action; Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity; Northeast Kingdom Community Action; and Southeastern Vermont Community Action.
When Flood Warnings/Watches are posted-What should I do?
Vermonters should monitor media reports, follow instructions from Vermont Emergency Management, never attempt to walk or drive through flood waters, and familiarize yourself with your best flood evacuation routes.
Some key resources
2-1-1: For help getting connected to resources and services such as shelter, disaster response, and more, call 2-1-1.
9-1-1: For emergency situations, always call 9-1-1.
Language Translations for Flood Resources: https://www.healthvermont.gov/emergency/prepare/stay-safe-flood
Vermont Emergency Management:
Twitter: @vemvt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement
VT-Alert: VT-ALERT is used by the state and local responders to notify the public of emergency situations. Those include, but are not limited to, evacuation information, chemical spills, shelter-in-place alerts, severe weather advisories, boil water advisories, and roadway interruptions. NOTE: Residents can tailor the alerts to specific locations, types of alerts, and on which devices they will be notified.Sign up to receive VT-Alerts, here: https://vem.vermont.gov/vtalert
Follow VT-Alert on social media for quick updates:
2-1-1: For help getting connected to resources and services such as shelter, disaster response, and more, call 2-1-1.
9-1-1: For emergency situations, always call 9-1-1.
Language Translations for Flood Resources: https://www.healthvermont.gov/emergency/prepare/stay-safe-flood
Vermont Emergency Management:
Twitter: @vemvt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement
VT-Alert: VT-ALERT is used by the state and local responders to notify the public of emergency situations. Those include, but are not limited to, evacuation information, chemical spills, shelter-in-place alerts, severe weather advisories, boil water advisories, and roadway interruptions. NOTE: Residents can tailor the alerts to specific locations, types of alerts, and on which devices they will be notified.Sign up to receive VT-Alerts, here: https://vem.vermont.gov/vtalert
Follow VT-Alert on social media for quick updates:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/vermontalert
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VermontAlert
- Never drive or walk through floodwaters. Strong currents or unseen washouts can sweep you and your car away.
- Turn off the circuit breaker in your home before you evacuate – if you can do so safely.
- If rising water is approaching, leave.
- If you need to evacuate, do so over high ground. Plan that route as soon as possible.
- If your home floods, have a licensed electrician inspect your electrical system before you once again occupy your home.
- If you are in a flood-prone area, or if you believe your home will be flooded, it is advisable to move valuables from your basement in case water enters your home.
- Check your insurance coverage now, and then contact your insurance company if you have damage.
Emergency Updates
For additional updates, you can find below some recommended social media accounts to follow:- VT State Police:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VermontStatePolice/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VTStatePolice - VT Division of Fire Safety:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VTFireMarshal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VTFireMarshal - VT Agency of Transportation:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VTransontheroad/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AOTVermont - VT Department of Health:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealthVermont/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/healthvermont - National Weather Service Burlington:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSBurlington/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWSBurlington
National Weather Service Albany:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSAlbany/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWSAlbany
Information for Local Farmers
This is a challenging time for many farmers, and we’re thinking of everyone who has been impacted, big or small, by the latest storm. We wanted to send out a reminder of the resources available to you through Farm First.
Free access to a Farmer Peer.
Peers are trained in active listening, troubleshooting, and accessing resources. You can find one by location or discipline at: https://farmfirst.org/peer-support-network
Free access to a counselor.
While your immediate needs are in the fields, if you need support processing your response you can access a counselor by reaching out to Eva Griffin, the Farm First Resource Coordinator.
During daytime working hours (8am-4:30pm M-F) call: 802-318-5538
Outside of daytime work hours call: 877-493-6216
Email Eva at evag@farmfirst.org
Free access to resources. On the FarmFirst website, there is a searchable database of resources that can assist you with a variety of services or accessing resources.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Get help for your animals
NOFA is collecting info on impacts
Vermont Emergency Management Website
New England 511 Road Closures
Vermont River Levels & Forecast
Vermont Alert Emergency Notification System
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me to learn more or get support! If you have other helpful resources that we should be sharing please send them my way as well.
Stay safe out there
Valerie & the Farm First team
www.HoneyFieldFarmVT.com
During daytime working hours (8am-4:30pm M-F) call: 802-318-5538
Outside of daytime work hours call: 877-493-6216
Email Eva at evag@farmfirst.org
Free access to resources. On the FarmFirst website, there is a searchable database of resources that can assist you with a variety of services or accessing resources.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Get help for your animals
NOFA is collecting info on impacts
Vermont Emergency Management Website
New England 511 Road Closures
Vermont River Levels & Forecast
Vermont Alert Emergency Notification System
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me to learn more or get support! If you have other helpful resources that we should be sharing please send them my way as well.
Stay safe out there
Valerie & the Farm First team
www.HoneyFieldFarmVT.com
At a press briefing about the floods on Tuesday morning, Public Safety Commissioner Jennifer Morrison also plugged a state website, vermont.gov/volunteer, where Vermonters can register to volunteer.
"For now, please focus your volunteer efforts on the hyperlocal level," Morrison said. "Check on your neighbors and the most vulnerable in your neighborhood."
The Vermont Community Foundation announced on Tuesday the creation of the VT Flood Response & Recovery Fund 2023 to coordinate and distribute support to hard-hit communities. The foundation also recommended other organizations to donate to, including the American Red Cross of Northern New England; BROC Community Action; Capstone Community Action; Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity; Northeast Kingdom Community Action; and Southeastern Vermont Community Action.
Workshops Online
Vermont Online Workshops
Lots of events and movies online. Contact: AARP Vermont Email: vtaarp@aarp.org with questions.
Visit Our Local Restaurants
The Copper Fox 56 Main St., Ste. 1 Springfield, VT 05156 (802) 885-1031
Dinner 5:00pm - 9:00pm Sunday Hours 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Wednesday through Sunday (Closed Monday and Tuesday)Dinner 5:00pm - 9:00pm Sunday Hours 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Daily Grind Café Call ahead for take out (802) 674-9859
93 Pleasant St. Claremont, NH (in the space formerly occupied by Dusty’s Café)
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Inn at Weathersfield (802) 263-9217 Daily Grind Café
Call ahead for take out (802) 674-985993 Pleasant St. Claremont, NH (in the space formerly occupied by Dusty’s Café)
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dine inside or outside Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, call for a reservation 802-263-9217. 1342 VT Route 106 Perkinsville, VT 05151
12 Clinton Street, Springfield, VT Open for breakfast and lunch, daily except Sundays.
Outer Limits Brewing (802)-287-6100
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays; Wednesdays and Thursdays 3-8 p.m.; Saturdays noon-8 p.m. with LIVE MUSIC; Sundays noon-6 p.m..
60 Village Green, Proctorsville, VT 05153
4261 Route 106 in Perkinsville, Downers Four Corners to the locals.
The Vermont Creemee Database: Vote for your favorite
Erin Petenko reporting for VT Digger
Nothing goes better with a hot Vermont summer day than a cold, sweet, creamy cone of soft serve ice cream.
Wait, soft serve? What are you talking about? There’s only one type of ice cream that reigns supreme in the Green Mountain State: the creemee.
A creemee is not quite synonymous with soft serve, but they share some similarities. Both take prepared ice cream “bases” that vendors can mix flavor into and serve from the same machine, according to E.B. Flory, dairy chief of the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets.
Creemees, however, are supposed to contain a higher percentage of butterfat — a minimum of 14%, versus 10%-14% for soft serve, Flory said. Creemees are often sold in maple, black raspberry, vanilla and chocolate flavors, or as a twist of two flavors. They can come with toppings or be dipped into chocolate or other sauces to create a hard outer coating.
How many creemee stands are there in Vermont? Until recently, this seemed an unanswerable question. But then Secretary of Agriculture Anson Tebbetts revealed on Twitter that his agency maintains a licensing system that tracks this sort of thing.
So VTDigger did what VTDigger does: We filed a public records request.
The data we obtained shows that roughly 400 Vermont establishments have active licenses to operate “frozen dessert” machines. That count, however, includes vendors who sling creemees, as well as those who dish out soft serve.
About a quarter of the licensees were chains such as McDonald’s, Cumberland Farms and Walmart. There were also some oddball spots, such as universities, movie theaters and hospital cafeterias.
Outer Limits Brewing (802)-287-6100
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays; Wednesdays and Thursdays 3-8 p.m.; Saturdays noon-8 p.m. with LIVE MUSIC; Sundays noon-6 p.m..
60 Village Green, Proctorsville, VT 05153
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-(802) 795-0063 Open for the Season
Tuesdays-Sundays 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. (they stop cooking at 7:30 p.m.) 4261 Route 106 in Perkinsville, Downers Four Corners to the locals.
Unicorn Sundae at Villagers Rtes. 131 and 106, Downers Four Corners, in Perkinsville
Erin Petenko reporting for VT Digger
Nothing goes better with a hot Vermont summer day than a cold, sweet, creamy cone of soft serve ice cream.
Wait, soft serve? What are you talking about? There’s only one type of ice cream that reigns supreme in the Green Mountain State: the creemee.
A creemee is not quite synonymous with soft serve, but they share some similarities. Both take prepared ice cream “bases” that vendors can mix flavor into and serve from the same machine, according to E.B. Flory, dairy chief of the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets.
Creemees, however, are supposed to contain a higher percentage of butterfat — a minimum of 14%, versus 10%-14% for soft serve, Flory said. Creemees are often sold in maple, black raspberry, vanilla and chocolate flavors, or as a twist of two flavors. They can come with toppings or be dipped into chocolate or other sauces to create a hard outer coating.
How many creemee stands are there in Vermont? Until recently, this seemed an unanswerable question. But then Secretary of Agriculture Anson Tebbetts revealed on Twitter that his agency maintains a licensing system that tracks this sort of thing.
So VTDigger did what VTDigger does: We filed a public records request.
The data we obtained shows that roughly 400 Vermont establishments have active licenses to operate “frozen dessert” machines. That count, however, includes vendors who sling creemees, as well as those who dish out soft serve.
About a quarter of the licensees were chains such as McDonald’s, Cumberland Farms and Walmart. There were also some oddball spots, such as universities, movie theaters and hospital cafeterias.
Don't freak out but I had a Pistachio Creemee at the Brownsville Butcher and Pantry
And it was excellent!
And it was excellent!
Food Assistance
Weathersfield Food Shelf in Perkinsville.
The food shelf is open 2:00 pm-4:00 pm on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month. The Weathersfield Food Shelf is located in the 1879 Perkinsville Schoolhouse at 1862 Route 106 in Perkinsville. The Food Shelf has lots of good food to offer!
Call the Weathersfield Town Office to be refereed to a volunteer, visit the Weathersfield Food Shelf Facebook page and leave a message, 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.
Weathersfield Food Shelf in Perkinsville.
Call the Weathersfield Town Office to be refereed to a volunteer, visit the Weathersfield Food Shelf Facebook page and leave a message, 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.
The food shelf is open 2:00 pm-4:00 pm on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month.
The Weathersfield Food Shelf is located in the 1879 Perkinsville Schoolhouse at 1862 Route 106 in Perkinsville. The Food Shelf has lots of good food to offer!
Call the Weathersfield Town Office to be refereed to a volunteer, visit the Weathersfield Food Shelf Facebook page and leave a message, 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.
Vermont State Resources and
COVID-19 Response Information
GET VACCINATEDand GET YOUR BOOSTERDo it for Yourself, Your Family, Your Community
GET VACCINATED
and GET YOUR BOOSTER
Do it for Yourself, Your Family, Your Community
Vermont Department of Health COVID-19 Information Page.
Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center is now offering walk-in service on weekday afternoons for people ages 2 and older, according to a news release.
The visits are available for urgent, but non-emergency medical needs Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. Patients can check in at the hospital’s central registration, through the main entrance.
Some of the conditions appropriate for care through walk-in services are minor cuts and burns; urinary tract infections; strains and sprains; minor fractures; rashes; and ear, sinus and eye infections. In addition, X-ray and lab services are available on-site.
A nurse will be on hand to determine if a patient’s condition calls for transfer to the emergency department.
The visits are available for urgent, but non-emergency medical needs Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. Patients can check in at the hospital’s central registration, through the main entrance.
Some of the conditions appropriate for care through walk-in services are minor cuts and burns; urinary tract infections; strains and sprains; minor fractures; rashes; and ear, sinus and eye infections. In addition, X-ray and lab services are available on-site.
A nurse will be on hand to determine if a patient’s condition calls for transfer to the emergency department.
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Nancy Nutile-McMenemy is an Upper Valley freelance photographer and writer who loves paddle, hike, attend concerts and local events in and around Weathersfield and the Upper Valley.
Scan this QR Code to see all the latest photos in my Galleries
or visit: www.photosbynanci.com
Have an Event/Announcement you want Advertised?Drop me an Email (at least two (2) weeks before)and you'll get your Event Listed Here.
Nancy Nutile-McMenemy is an Upper Valley freelance photographer and writer who loves paddle, hike, attend concerts and local events in and around Weathersfield and the Upper Valley.
or visit: www.photosbynanci.com
Have an Event/Announcement you want Advertised?
Drop me an Email (at least two (2) weeks before)
and you'll get your Event Listed Here.