Weathersfield Weekly Blog September 11 edition

Trees with a view


Heads Up-No Weathersfield Weekly Blog on September 25-I'll be busy volunteering to help clean up after the Vermont 50.


Mark Your Calendars

Town Caucus Time

Weathersfield Republicans Sept. 19 at 6 PM
All Republican Voters of the town of Weathersfield, County of Windsor are hereby notified, in accordance with 17 V.S.A. § 2303, to meet in caucus on Tuesday, Sept 19th at 6:00 pm, at the Martin Memorial Hall.
The Agenda for this Caucus is as follows:
I. Election of Town Committee
II. Election of Officers by the Town Committee
III. Election of County Committee Members
IV. New Business
For information or questions can be sent to: weathersfield.gop@gmail.com

Weathersfield Democrats Sept. 24 6:30 PM
The Weathersfield Democrats are holding our annual Caucus Meeting on Sunday September 24 at the Weathersfield Center Meeting House. 

They'll have a potluck dinner at 5:30, and meeting at 6:30. 
Please bring a dish to share; they'll provide tableware and beverages. 
Also, please bring a friend who may not have attended a town caucus before. 
They'll meet outdoors if the weather allows, so bring a chair as well.

The meeting agenda includes electing officers, electing county committee delegates, and conducting new business.

Questions? Email julielannen@gmail.com


Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" Reading Group at WPL Tuesday evenings 6:30-8 PM




William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night features shipwrecked identical twins, unrequited love, drunken debauchery, and unbridled ambition! What could go possibly wrong?
Come and find out!

Join the revelry at the Weathersfield Proctor Library on Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00, as we read and discuss one of Shakespeare's most popular plays.



An evening with author Marilyn Webb Neagley, September 14 at the Weathersfield Proctor Library at 6:30 PM
Weathersfield Proctor Library and the Weathersfield Historical Society announce an evening with author Marilyn Webb Neagley September 14 at the Library at 6:30 PM.

Attic of Dreams: A Memoir by Marilyn Webb Neagley, former resident of Ascutney, Vermont and one of the formative leaders of Shelburne Farms will be released by Rootstock Publishing on September 5, 2023.

Julia Alvarez, Dominican-American poet, novelist, essayist, and author of Afterlife, says about Neagley’s book: “Marilyn Neagley’s memoir addresses issues so critical now: how to take care of our natural world, of each other, of ourselves—we need magic attics of imagination and stories that inspire our activism. In addition her book touches on a beloved place in Vermonters’ hearts, and by extension all the beloved places on our planet home we have neglected for far too long!”

Attic of Dreams is a lyrical memoir tracing a life of healing from family dysfunction and jumping headlong into a life of natural curiosity, art, and activism. Themes explored include home and community; addiction and secrecy; recovery and restoration; the arts and the natural world; growth and wholeness; and how the changing times and culture are perceived through older eyes.

Marilyn Webb Neagley served as president of Shelburne Farms from 1976 to 1988. She is the author of two previous books and co-editor of another. Her 2007 book, Walking through the Seasons, received an IPPY gold medal for best northeastern nonfiction. She has been a Vermont Public Radio commentator and has written essays for her local newspaper. Neagley, raised in Ascutney, Vermont, currently lives with her husband in Shelburne.

Yankee Bookshop will have books available for sale.


Lucy Mac 5K9
Saturday, September 16
Ascutney Outdoors, West Windsor VT


The Lucy Mac 5K9 on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Ascutney Outdoors is fast approaching - be sure register today!

The Lucy Mac 5K9 is one of Lucy Mackenzie Humane Society’s largest fundraising events of the year, offering a great opportunity for animal-lovers to have fun on the trails while raising critical funds to support the work of Lucy Mackenzie.

The 5K9 offers both a 5K route as well as a 1-mile option. Runners and walkers can participate solo or as a team while enjoying the thrilling and beautiful trails of Ascutney Mountain. As always, dogs are welcome to join in on the fun!

Participants will be treated to a scenic Vermont adventure as they race along handcrafted trails located on the western base of Ascutney Mountain. The 5K trail will lead participants across fields, over streams and through the woods before they finish winding down the ski slopes of the mountain. The 1-mile course will take participants around the fantastic “Discovery Trail” – one of Ascutney Outdoors newest trail offerings.

The registration fee is $30 for the 5K and $20 for the 1-mile. All participants completing the 5K9 will receive a custom Lucy Mac 5K9 medal!

**The first 50 participants to register for the 5K9 will receive a free race-day t-shirt!**


Check-in and registration will be 9 – 10AM at the Ascutney Outdoors Center located at 449 Ski Tow Road, Brownsville, VT 05037.

The 1-mile race will kick-off at 10AM, and the 5K race will start at 10:30AM. Please contact us at info@lucymac.org or 802-484-5829 with questions.


 WS PTO Paw Drop 
Friday, September 22, 5-8PM 
Weathersfield School


The PTO is kicking off the school year with an evening of FUN for students, friends, families, & community. 
Activities will be happening all evening, culminating in a PAW drop & glow dance
party. 

PAWS are on sale NOW for $1/each. Unlimited # of PAWS available for purchase.
Cash, check, & Venmo accepted. 
Reach out to the PTO to purchase. 
Prizes will be listed on the website & Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/WSPTO)
Follow the event on their Instagram account too: https://www.instagram.com/weathersfieldschoolpto/

You don't have to be present to win.


Flapjack Frolic at the Weathersfield Proctor Library, October 13 and 14

Friday, October 13--Families drop off stuffed animals.
Saturday, October 14, 9:00 am--Pancake breakfast for stuffed animals and families.

Flapjack Frolic Guide:
On Friday, October 13, 2023, Library Bear will host a sleepover for his Weathersfield stuffed animal friends. Overnight activities will include story time, pizza, games, and a movie.

Stuffed animal parents can drop their animals off at the Weathersfield Proctor Library on Friday, October 13 with a permission slip that lists bedtime and any food allergies.

The Friends of the Library will host a pancake breakfast at 9:00 am, Saturday, October 14 for families to share with their stuffed animals as they pick them up.

Participants will receive photos of all activities.

Flapjack Frolic: Sign up required. Email The Library or sign up in person.



Community Contra Dance Sept. 23


Join us for the next contra dance in Weathersfield Center! 
Saturday, September 23, 6:30–9:30 pm
Weathersfield Center Meetinghouse 2579 Weathersfield Center Road, Weathersfield, VT  
Doors open at 6:30
Dancing 7–8:30; Social 8:30–? 

No special clothing, footwear, or experience required. You're welcome to dance, listen, sit or chat and enjoy that cold beverage you brought along.

Caller Mary Wesley teaching and guiding everyone through the dances. Wonderful live music provided by Naomi Morse ~ fiddle & Amy Englesberg ~ piano.

Contra Dance (noun) A traditional New England folk dance style, similar to square dancing, in which couples dance in two facing lines, following the instructions of a caller.

Potluck snacks/dessert after the dancing.
Feel free to bring simple finger food to share.
Bring a beer, a wine, seltzer, or whatever you fancy.

Adults: $10, Children: $5, Families: $20 
Parking in the field across the road. 
ALL ARE WELCOME ~ ALL DANCES TAUGHT 
~ Masks welcome but not required 



News You Can Use
ICYMI (In case You Missed It)

Town/School/Regional News

Ret. Major Gerald Malloy joins VFAF Veterans for Trump as ambassador and hints at 2024 VT senate run

PERKINSVILLE , VERMONT , USA, September 7, 2023 /EINPresswire.com
From the L-Strategies press room : the official press of Veterans for Trump

Retired Major Gerald Malloy was endorsed by former President Trump, and VFAF Veterans for Trump, during his 2022 Vermont senate bid. During a recent interview with the Veterans organization Malloy stated he was preparing to announce another run at the Vermont Senate seat.

VFAF partners with Real America’s Voice RAV, and the John Fredericks Trump bus tours, which spent time campaigning for Malloy last cycle.
https://fox59.com/business/press-releases/ein-presswire/648837640/stan-fitzgerald-with-jared-craig-to-sponsor-real-americas-voice-john-fredericks-bus-tour-with-veterans-for-trump/

Gerald Malloy, a combat veteran, has been named Ambassador by Veterans for America First AKA Veterans for Trump announced Stan Fitzgerald president of the grassroots national veterans’ group
https://veteransfortrump.us/ret-major-gerald-malloy-joins-vfaf-veterans-for-trump-as-ambassador/

READ MORE



NOTICE TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED

THE TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 & 13, 2023 TO ATTEND VMCTA TRAININGS.

ALSO, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2023 TO ATTEND VERMONT’S ANNUAL TOWN FAIR

SORRY FOR ANY INCONVIENCE THIS MAY CAUSE YOU



Leaf peepers beware: One of Vermont’s most photographed foliage spots closed to tourists

Thousands of flannel-clad visitors flock to Sleepy Hollow Farm every autumn for an Instagram photo op, creating a dangerous nuisance for the town and local residents.
By Ethan Weinstein

Amid social media-induced traffic jams, the towns of Pomfret and Woodstock plan to close roads this fall leading to a popular foliage photo op.

Pomfret’s picturesque Sleepy Hollow Farm has featured in films and magazines for years. The property’s winding driveway leads downhill past a small pond to a weathered barn and farmhouse, backed by grassland and a wooded hillside. Photographers tend to congregate on the road looking over and above the Disneyworld version of Vermont.

But town officials say that since the advent of social media, hundreds of cars and thousands of tourists now flock to the dirt road every fall.

“It’s always been a popular foliage tourist destination, attraction, whatever you want to call it,” said John Peters Jr., chair of the Pomfret Selectboard. “People post and then everybody sees it. And then everybody wants to come see it.”

Thousands of TikToks and Instagram posts — many garnering tens of thousands of likes — have tagged the location of Sleepy Hollow Farm, which is near the Woodstock town line on Cloudland Road.



Take the Climate Impact Survey
Please visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/K2ZGPN8
The Town of Weathersfield will be updating its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in 2023. The purpose of this planning effort is to identify natural hazards and vulnerabilities, assess risk, and identifies mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate future losses resulting from those hazards.

This survey provides an opportunity for you to share your opinions and participate in the planning process. The information you provide will help us better understand your hazard concerns and can lead to mitigation activities that reduce the risk of injury or property damage in the future.

This survey consists of 16 questions and will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.



USDA approves disaster declaration for Vermont farmers after July floods
Unlike other forms of natural disaster aid, the U.S. Department of Agriculture offers emergency loans, which carry interest, to farmers hit by disaster. Any interest-free aid to Vermont farmers from the federal government would need to be approved by Congress.
By Sarah Mearhoff 

Nearly two months after devastating floods submerged thousands of acres of Vermont farmland, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack on Tuesday approved a Secretarial Disaster Designation for all 14 counties in the state.

The declaration from the U.S. Department of Agriculture allows Vermont farmers to be considered for its Farm Service Agency loans. Farmers impacted by floods in all 14 counties have eight months to apply for the emergency loans.

The USDA’s process for declaring a disaster is slow. Farmers must first document the damage wrought on their farms — an often labor-intensive, tedious undertaking amidst an emergency response — in order for a given county to meet a damage threshold, determined by USDA, to qualify for the designation.

USDA Under Secretary Robert Bonnie paid a visit to Vermont in mid-August to survey some of the crop damage. In his letter to Gov. Phil Scott on Tuesday, Vilsack said all 14 counties sustained enough production losses to qualify.

In a subsequent statement, Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Anson Tebbetts thanked Vilsack for the disaster declaration — the second approved for Vermont this growing season. Vilsack issued the first in July after a late spring frost decimated millions of dollars in fruit crops across the state two months earlier.




Town Volunteer Vacancies
The vacancies are as followed:
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 (1 Vacancy)
g. Trusties of Public Funds (1 Vacancy)
h. Veterans Memorial Committee (2 Vacancies)
i. Village Wastewater Committee (3 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


All regular meetings are broadcasted live on Comcast channel 1087, VTEL Channel 161, and SAPA.org on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.

Selectboard Members  and Term 
Mike Todd Chair 2024
VACANCY Vice Chair 2026
David Fuller Member 2025
Kelly O'Brien Clerk 2025
Wendy Smith Member 2024
Select Board Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month 6:30 p.m. 
September 5 Agenda, Packet Canceled no explanation given
September 18

*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 Police Blotter



Weathersfield School




Weekly Newsletter: September 1

Save the Dates
September 4th Labor Day Holiday, No School

September 12th Weathersfield School Board Meeting
September 22nd PTO PAW Drop


Meeting Agendas may be found HERE

September 12 Agenda

Weathersfield School Board meets on Tuesdays
In Person at Weathersfield School (135 Schoolhouse Road, Ascutney)
Location: 135 Schoolhouse RD Ascutney 

School Board Meetings
Meeting Minutes
September 13
August 8
June Retreat

Weathersfield Athletics Fall registrations are open


WS PTO
Newsletter August 18


Weathersfield Proctor Library
Route 5 (5181 US-5 Ascutney VT 05030)


WPL Drop in Scrabble
Mondays at 1 p.m.

Please call Maureen Bogosian for details
@ 603-252-0936



Weathersfield Historical Society
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weathersfieldhistoricalsociety


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 House
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeathersfieldCenterChurch


Adventures

Zack's Place Tournament of Champions and Golf Ball Drop
Woodstock Inn and Resort Golf Club
Woodstock, VT  September 7, 2023

Last Thursday I covered a golfing event. I don't know much about golfing but I sure had a fun time. Yes it was extremely hot and yes there were rumbles of thunder off in the distance but the SOLD-OUT event went on as planned. Every team seemed to be having a blast.

There was ice cream to cool you off.


An air-cannon to get your golf ball to the next hole.


Lots of fun...

... and frustration.

And a chance to win $5000 if your golf ball was closest to the hole after being dropped out of a helicopter.


And on top of everything else, the event was a fundraiser for Zack's Place in Woodstock, VT. 

More photos: CLICK HERE




Things to Do In and Around Weathersfield

Get Outdoors, Entertainment, Classes, Workshops


Star Parties Planned at Hoisington Field

The Southern Vermont Astronomy Group (SoVerA) and the Weathersfield Proctor Library will host Star Parties at Hoisington Field this fall. The parties will be on Fridays when the weather is good and the Moon cooperates (that is, it doesn't shine so brightly that it washes out the sky).

They are posting a list of potential star party dates, so that interested people can pencil them in on their calendars. They will also send out notices closer to the date when it looks like we will have clear skies for an upcoming Friday. All of these dates are weather dependent.

They are planning for this to start with a cookout at Hoisington Field — a Star-B-Q. Grills will be provided. Bring your own food to grill, and a small side to share. If this is a success, we may make it a regular feature of our star parties.

Below is the list of Friday nights with crescent moons or no moon for the rest of the year.
Friday Night Star Party Possibilities:
September 15, New Moon sets at 6:40 pm
September 22, 1st Quarter sets at 11:40 pm
October 6, 3rd Quarter sets in daylight
October 13, No Moon
October 20, Waxing Crescent sets at 10:35 pm
November 3, 3rd Quarter sets at 9:19 pm
November 10, Waning Crescent sets in daylight
November 17, Waxing Crescent sets at 9:32 pm
December 1, Waning Gibbous rises at 9:27 pm
December 8, Waning Crescent sets in daylight
December 15, Waxing Crescent sets at 8:27 pm



14th Vermont 50 FREE Kids FUN Races-REGISTRATION is OPEN

~~14th VT 50 Kids Fun Trail Run or Mountain Bike Ride~~
(For Children 14 And under)
Saturday, September 23, 2023 Noon-4 PM
Location: Ascutney Outdoors, 450 Ski Tow Rd. Brownsville, VT
Bib Pick up/Walk up Registration noon-1:45 PM

Register (one form per child) : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-IG_ELgZT-EBIkkwtOZJrzCzXiFrWbwkOi2djkCVz6mBvDg/viewform

Bike Ride* meets at 2 PM
1 mile Bike Ride*
2 mile Bike Ride**
*Helmets are required for ALL Bike Rides
**2 mile bike ride is for children who are able to bike independently.



Kids Fun Runs meets at 2:30 PM
1/2-mile Run
1 mile Run
2 mile Run


The course will be a loop at the start/finish of the VT50 race.

These FREE fun races give the kids a chance to feel like they’re part of the Vermont 50 and are held during Vermont 50 race check-in and bib pick up Saturday noon-1:45 p.m.

ALSO--FREE Hay Bale Treasure Hunt for The Wee Ones ~3 PM Toddlers-10-year-olds

SPREAD The Word About Running and Mountain Biking for OUR NEXT GENERATION!

These races are FREE, however they accept DONATIONS for Vermont Adaptive (https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/VT/Brownsville/Vermont50)  or look for the donation jar at the Kid’s Race Table on Saturday.

More info. please visit: https://vermont50.com/kids-fun-run/


30th Vermont 50 Needs Volunteers September 23 and 24.

30th Annual Vermont 50 Race is happening Sunday, September 24 at Ascutney Outdoors 5:30 am-6:30 pm, 450 Ski Tow RD in West Windsor, Vermont. 

Race registration fees from their races: 50 Mile Mountain Bike, 50 Mile Run, 50 Mile Team Relay and 50 Km Run benefit Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports (which started at Ascutney Mountain!) a Vermont nonprofit that provides four season programs for people of all abilities.

The race couldn’t happen without the generosity of  local landowners and race volunteers.

They need volunteers! Before, during and after the race!

They  are still looking for volunteers to help on Saturday (parking, racer bib pick-up, vendor fair, kids’ FREE fun rides and runs) and Sunday, Race Day at the finish line and aid stations and MONDAY-race clean-up. 

Volunteers get a cool t-shirt, meal ticket to our Sunday BBQ catered by Brownsville Butcher and Pantry! and some pretty sweet memories and maybe some new friends 
Sign Up today! More info: https://vermont50.com/vt-50-volunteers/
More info about the races: https://vermont50.com/



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. 

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) 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:
  • 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.
For more information: Call (802) 674-5971 Email via@mahhc.org
Melanie P. Sheehan, MPH
Director of Community Health




Local trails to explore: CLICK HERE

Also Hiking Close to Home: CLICK HERE
The opera house in Lebanon is CLOSED for renovations but the SHOW must go on, LOH is taking the SHOW on the Road.

All shows are at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise stated.


Brian Glowacki "LOH on Location" in Windsor, VT, October 13 TICKETS

Newberry and Verch "LOH on Location" in Enfield, NH, October 27 TICKETS


Yoga and Massage

Yoga

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



Monday Evening-Candle Glow Gentle Flow 5:30-6:30 PM
September 11, 18, 25

Tuesday Morning 9-10 a.m.-Slow Flow, Rest + Restore 
September 12, 19, 26

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.



One Love Bodhi Works has a massage made just for you. 
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

FEMA extends deadline for Vermonters applying for flood aid

Residents of nine counties included in a federal disaster declaration now have until Oct. 12 to apply for individual assistance, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said Friday. State officials requested an extension earlier this week.
By Paul Heintz reporting for VT Digger

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Friday that it has extended by a month the deadline for Vermonters to apply for individual assistance related to this summer’s flooding.

The new deadline is Oct. 12.

Earlier this week, state officials called on FEMA to extend the deadline beyond Sept. 12, and the agency’s federal coordinating officer in Vermont, Will Roy, promised a “very prompt response” at a Wednesday press conference.

Individual assistance is available to homeowners and renters in nine counties included in the federal government’s major disaster declaration: Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor. Residents of other counties hit hard by summer flooding, such as Addison, have so far been excluded.

According to FEMA, those who qualify for individual assistance may be able to receive help with housing or driveway repair, temporary housing, hazard mitigation, the replacement of damaged household items or vehicles, and disaster-related child care and medical expenses. The U.S. Small Business Administration also provides low-interest loans to individuals for similar needs. (See VTDigger’s and Vermont Public’s guide to FEMA aid for flooded homes.)


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 MORE

When should I apply?--The deadline to register is October 12


Disaster resources available for Vermont residents and businesses
Federal 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



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.


When Flood Warnings/Watches are posted-What should I do?

Vermonters should monitor media reports, follow instructions from Vermont Emergency Managementnever 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:

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 Updates
For additional updates, you can find below some recommended social media accounts to follow:

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 EnglandBROC Community ActionCapstone Community ActionChamplain Valley Office of Economic OpportunityNortheast Kingdom Community Action; and Southeastern Vermont Community Action.


Stoughton Pond on Sunday 7/30

Recreational Water Safety After a Flood Recreational Water After a Flood  

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:


Workshops Online

 

Vermont Online Workshops

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




Visit Our Local Restaurants

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.

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)

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.

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

Inn at Weathersfield (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

Maebellines (802) 591-4311
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 

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 CLOSED 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




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.


Don't freak out but I had a Pistachio Creemee at the Brownsville Butcher and Pantry
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.


Vermont State Resources and
COVID-19 Response Information

GET VACCINATED
and GET YOUR BOOSTER
Do it for Yourself, Your Family, Your Community


Vermont Department of Health COVID-19 Information Page.

VT Digger Coronavirus Report: CLICK HERE

Answering your questions about COVID-19 in Vermont this fall
Vermont Public | By Sophie Stephens

This summer has shown some of the lowest COVID-19 numbers nationwide since the start of the pandemic. However, recently there has been a small increase in cases seen nationwide and in Vermont, and a new variant — EG.5, which is a member of the omicron family.

There’s also a new booster coming this fall.

So it seems COVID-19 is starting to be on people’s minds again. Many of you had questions — and so did we.
We talked to state experts to help answer some of these new and recurring questions to help you take stock of the current state of COVID-19, fall vaccines and testing.

What’s causing the current uptick in COVID-19 cases?

These new COVID-19 cases are starting to be comprised of a new variant, EG.5, which Dr. Tim Plante — a general internist, epidemiologist and assistant professor at the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine — said is on its way to being the dominant strain in the U.S. The variant is related to others in the omicron family.

"It's thought to evade antibodies from prior vaccines and prior infections," Plante said recently on Vermont Edition, which is leading to more cases after a quiet stretch.

So far, Eris doesn’t seem to be more worrisome than other omicron subvariants, as far as transmission and the severity of infections.

And new variants are expected — it’s just the nature of COVID-19 and a lot of other diseases, and they aren’t necessarily a cause for concern according to John Davy, a Vermont Department of Health epidemiologist.


Mt. Ascutney Hospital Open for Walk-Ins M-F 1-5 PM
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.



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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.

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