Weathersfield Weekly Blog November 6 edition
Ammolite Fossil found in the Bearpaw Formation in southern Alberta, Canada
A visit to Harvard Museum of Natural History won't disappoint
More photos HERE and below
Mark Your Calendars
Veterans Day in Weathersfield
Veterans Day Assembly at Weathersfield School, Nov. 9 at 8:10 AM
The school will be hosting their Veterans Day Celebration on Thursday, November 9th at 8:10 AM. Students will be honoring our Veterans with songs, poems and poppies. Everyone is invited to help the school celebrate all of our Veterans.The 11th Day of the 11th Month at the 11th Hour
at the Perkinsville green November 11 at 11:00 AM. Special guest speakers will be on hand and a presentation is planned.
Weathersfield veterans Committee photos: CLICK HERE
Perkinsville Village History and Nature Walk, Nov. 11 at 8:30 AM
Join Weathersfield’s Conservation Commission, Historical Society and Parks and Recreation for a history and nature walk through Perkinsville Village on Saturday, November 11 at 8:30 am.The walk will leave from the 1879 Schoolhouse and take hikers along the Black River to the former Perkinsville Lower Village.
Becky Tucker, author of We Remember: Before and After the North Springfield Flood Control Project, will locate the settlement that was taken down beginning in 1957.
Hikers will have time to look at the old power dam and the work that the Army Corps has undertaken to restore this area after the July floods.
Hikers will be back in Perkinsville in time for the Veterans Day Memorial Service on the Perkinsville Green.
This event is rain or shine, free, and open to all. Wear bright clothing. Park at Hoisington Field (1862 VT-106, Perkinsville, VT 05151).
Copies of We Remember (book and map of houses taken) will be available for $15.
For more information, call 802-263-5584.
Star Parties Planned at Hoisington Field-Next up November 10
November 10, Waning Crescent sets in daylight
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).
November 10, Waning Crescent sets in daylight
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).
Ascutney Union Church hosts a Pasta Dinner in Support of House of Hope in Haiti Nov 10, 6-8 PM
Ascutney Union Church, U.S. 5, Ascutney, VT
Join online: https://www.facebook.com/events/1094638121697369
Please join them for a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser in support of the House of Hope, Haiti. Your donation will get you a delicious meal and provide much needed financial support for this worthwhile organization.
Join online: https://www.facebook.com/events/1094638121697369
Please join them for a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser in support of the House of Hope, Haiti. Your donation will get you a delicious meal and provide much needed financial support for this worthwhile organization.
Ascutney Union Church has a long-standing relationship with House of Hope and is very familiar with their good works. Dinner is served starting at 6pm at the Ascutney Union Church 5343
Can't make it but would like to donate? CLICK Link: https://houseofhopehaiti.com/donate/
Can't make it but would like to donate? CLICK Link: https://houseofhopehaiti.com/donate/
Thanksgiving Community Meal at the Weathersfield School, Nov.15-RSVP by Nov. 8
Weathersfield School would like to invite our community to their Thanksgiving Meal on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.
They will have 3 different settings.
For students in Grades 3 - 5 Lunch will be from 10: 45 - 11: 15
For students in Grades K-2 Lunch will be from 11: 30 - 12:00
For students in Grades 6-8 Lunch will be from 12:15 - 12:45
If you would like to join them with your loved one(s) please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/Lt1aa7Cgj4j8JH9S8 before November 8th.
Winter Tips
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Adventures, Concerts and Theatre
Harvard Museum of Natural History
Cambridge MA
My friends and I visited the Harvard Museum of Natural History last weekend. When I was in school we took many field trips to this museum but its been quite awhile since I was last inside this stunning place.If you love rocks, crystals and minerals there is a whole floor just for you. The Earth and Planetary Gallery is loaded with specimens from around the world and outer space.
The Glass Flower Gallery will amaze you. Everything in it is made of glass! Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka created all these stunning glassworks-you won't believe your eyes-they are glass not preserved flowers.
Jobi Riccio and Palmyra
Billsville House Concerts
Manchester VT
We attended a concert on Wednesday at one of our favorite listening room in Vermont, Billsville House Concerts. The artists this venue brings in never disappoints and Wednesday was no exception.We got to hear Jobi Riccio, who was just named the Winner of the 2023 JOHN PRINE Songwriter Fellowship from NEWPORT FOLK
She is on the road promoting her new album Whiplash.
Co-headlining with Jobi was the band Palmyra
They are a folk trio from Virginia who draw from the music of Appalachia and Midwestern Americana, with their own modern twists and turns.
Videos: CLICK HERE
Trumbull Hall Troupe-Les Misérables-school edition
The Trumbull Hall Troupe's annual fall show this year was Les Misérables.
In nineteenth century France, Jean Valjean is released from years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment.
Marius and Cosette arrive to find Valjean near death and learn of Cosette's mother.
From their website:
Trumbull Hall Troupe is a teen and tween theatre group located in the Upper Valley. Our Troupe accepts middle schoolers and high schoolers (grades 6 to 12). Once kids are in the Troupe they are in until they graduate high school or want to leave. So each year cast members are guaranteed a spot in the show and the show auditions determine which role they’ll rock. New cast members are added by an annual open audition process which is separate from show auditions.
THT wants to entertain the community, give kids a great theatre experience, and contribute to those less fortunate. Each year we fundraise to cover our production costs so that we can give net show proceeds to charities that support children. Our current charities are CHaD (Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth), the Upper Valley Haven, and the Zienzele Foundation.
Trumbull Hall Troupe-Les Misérables-school edition
Dress Rehearsal, Briggs Opera House
White River Junction, VT
The Trumbull Hall Troupe's annual fall show this year was Les Misérables. In nineteenth century France, Jean Valjean is released from years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment.
He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a lifelong struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert, who refuses to believe Valjean can change his ways.
Jean Valjean comes to the aid of Fantine.
Jean Valjean cannot let another man suffer when he, Valjean, is the man Inspector Javert really wants sent back to prison.
The innkeeper entertains and steals from his clients.
The underclasses revolt.
Marius and Cosette arrive to find Valjean near death and learn of Cosette's mother.
Trumbull Hall Troupe is a teen and tween theatre group located in the Upper Valley. Our Troupe accepts middle schoolers and high schoolers (grades 6 to 12). Once kids are in the Troupe they are in until they graduate high school or want to leave. So each year cast members are guaranteed a spot in the show and the show auditions determine which role they’ll rock. New cast members are added by an annual open audition process which is separate from show auditions.
THT wants to entertain the community, give kids a great theatre experience, and contribute to those less fortunate. Each year we fundraise to cover our production costs so that we can give net show proceeds to charities that support children. Our current charities are CHaD (Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth), the Upper Valley Haven, and the Zienzele Foundation.
News You Can Use
ICYMI (In case You Missed It)
Town/School/Regional News
Selectboard meets Monday, Nov. 6; Budget Discussion on Agenda
The Selectboard will have their first regular meeting of the month Monday night, November 6 at 6:30 PM in Martin Memorial Hall and on Zoom (visit the town website and click on the mountain for ZOOM access).
On the agenda are budget discussion for the following: FY25 COLA, Replace Police Cruiser, FY25 Highway Department Budget, and FY25 Solid Waste Budget.
The Selectboard are still looking to fill many vacancies on various town committees including:
Budget Committee (5 Vacancies)
Conservation Commission (2 Vacancies)
Energy Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
Green Up Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
Lister (2 Vacancies)
Parks and Recreation (1 Vacancy)
Veterans Memorial Committee (2 Vacancies)
Zoning Board of Adjustment (2 Vacancies)
The board plans to appoint the following Ann Marie Christensen, John Arrison and Mark Richardson to fill the Village Wastewater Committee openings. And Bruce Cox will be appointed to one of the open Conservation Commission positions.
Patchwork system of Covid vaccinations leaves vulnerable Vermonters behind
The state’s Covid vaccination rate is far below previous years, driven by low supply. High-risk Vermonters say the lack of access is hitting them hard.
By Erin Petenko
In a way, the vaccine clinic at Crossett Brook Middle School last weekend was a scene out of 2021.
The clinic was hosted by Waterbury Ambulance Service, an EMS service that administered Covid-19 vaccine doses at the height of the pandemic. Maggie Burke, executive director of the service, said the clinic put 1,100 shots of Covid and flu vaccines combined in the first two days of its run this year.
But this progress was belied by an unfortunate quirk. Because of the way the funding for the clinic was structured, Burke said it was unable to vaccinate anyone 65 or older.
Victoria Rhodin, a Montpelier resident, was one of the people turned away from the clinic last week. She said clinic staffers appeared to be mortified at having to explain to older people who showed up that they couldn’t get vaccinated there.
Rhodin finally got a vaccine appointment for next week after weeks of scouring pharmacy websites and calling doctor’s offices. “There’s just bunches of high-risk people walking around unvaccinated right now,” she said.
By Erin Petenko
In a way, the vaccine clinic at Crossett Brook Middle School last weekend was a scene out of 2021.
The clinic was hosted by Waterbury Ambulance Service, an EMS service that administered Covid-19 vaccine doses at the height of the pandemic. Maggie Burke, executive director of the service, said the clinic put 1,100 shots of Covid and flu vaccines combined in the first two days of its run this year.
But this progress was belied by an unfortunate quirk. Because of the way the funding for the clinic was structured, Burke said it was unable to vaccinate anyone 65 or older.
Victoria Rhodin, a Montpelier resident, was one of the people turned away from the clinic last week. She said clinic staffers appeared to be mortified at having to explain to older people who showed up that they couldn’t get vaccinated there.
Rhodin finally got a vaccine appointment for next week after weeks of scouring pharmacy websites and calling doctor’s offices. “There’s just bunches of high-risk people walking around unvaccinated right now,” she said.
READ MORE
Effective November 1, 2023, we have some game-changing improvements in our vehicle registration process.
One of the standout features of Act 41 (signed into law in June) is the elimination of the license plate validation sticker. Say goodbye to the tedious task of affixing those stickers on your license plates. Act 41 also ushers in a new era of convenience by allowing vehicle operators to present proof of registration electronically on a portable electronic device.
This means you can now show up-to-date registration with a tap on your smartphone or other portable electronic devices. No more worrying about stickers peeling off or expiring.
Act 41 reflects our commitment to embracing technology and making processes more user-friendly. It's a significant step towards modernizing our systems and reducing unnecessary hassles.
Vehicle Registration Change
One of the standout features of Act 41 (signed into law in June) is the elimination of the license plate validation sticker. Say goodbye to the tedious task of affixing those stickers on your license plates. Act 41 also ushers in a new era of convenience by allowing vehicle operators to present proof of registration electronically on a portable electronic device.
This means you can now show up-to-date registration with a tap on your smartphone or other portable electronic devices. No more worrying about stickers peeling off or expiring.
Act 41 reflects our commitment to embracing technology and making processes more user-friendly. It's a significant step towards modernizing our systems and reducing unnecessary hassles.
Top health care contractor at Springfield prison has long history of diverting opioids
The prison’s new health services administrator has had his nursing license suspended or revoked in three different states. In an interview, he said his disciplinary record was irrelevant to his current position.
By Ethan Weinstein
The top-ranking health care employee at Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield has faced disciplinary action in three states for diverting or wasting opioids, public records show, resulting in suspensions or revocation of his nursing license in North Carolina, New Mexico and North Dakota.
Robert Stevenson has worked as the health services administrator for Vermont Department of Corrections’s private health care contractor, Wellpath, since September.
According to a job description posted by Wellpath, the health services administrator in Springfield supervises health care staff and “collaborate(s) with interdisciplinary teams to maintain high-quality patient care.” The position also monitors health care services, pharmacy use and “potential catastrophic illnesses.”
By Ethan Weinstein
The top-ranking health care employee at Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield has faced disciplinary action in three states for diverting or wasting opioids, public records show, resulting in suspensions or revocation of his nursing license in North Carolina, New Mexico and North Dakota.
Robert Stevenson has worked as the health services administrator for Vermont Department of Corrections’s private health care contractor, Wellpath, since September.
According to a job description posted by Wellpath, the health services administrator in Springfield supervises health care staff and “collaborate(s) with interdisciplinary teams to maintain high-quality patient care.” The position also monitors health care services, pharmacy use and “potential catastrophic illnesses.”
Just after the above story was reported...
Department of Corrections pulls security clearance for health contractor with opioid diversion record
The decision came the day after VTDigger reported on the troubling disciplinary record of the top health care official at the Springfield prison, who faced suspension or revocation of his nursing license in three states.By Ethan Weinstein
One day after VTDigger published a report detailing a history of opioid diversion by the top health care contractor at the Springfield prison, the Department of Corrections revoked his security clearance, preventing him from working in Vermont’s prisons.
Al Cormier, the department’s chief of operations and acting commissioner, told VTDigger that corrections officials hope to have a “deeper involvement” in the hiring process by Wellpath, which holds the contract for health care in Vermont prisons.
Because Robert Stevenson, the former Springfield health care leader, is a Wellpath employee, the department does not have the power to terminate him, Cormier said. He called the revocation of security clearances “not uncommon.”
READ MORE
‘He’s a little bird who think he’s a human,’ said Mal Muratori, who works at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science
By Cathy Free
But Ferrisburgh, an American kestrel with an injured wing, is headlining art classes in Vermont and drawing crowds with his talented talons.
A couple of paintings done by Ferrisburgh are now being auctioned at a fundraiser online, and the raptor recently showed off his skills at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science.
About four years ago, the young male kestrel was brought to the bird rescue at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Quechee, Vt., after he was discovered in the nearby town of Ferrisburgh, a place known for its early art colonies, as well as being a stop on the Underground Railroad in the 1800s.
The bird had landed on the shoulder of an unsuspecting person who was out for a walk near his home. The kestrel was loud and chattering away as he perched on the man, and was probably looking to be fed, said Anna Morris, director of on-site and outreach programs at the institute.
By Ethan Weinstein
A new residential program for people recovering from drug and alcohol abuse will begin welcoming guests in the next few weeks.
The Divided Sky Foundation, a 46-bed nonprofit recovery center spearheaded by Phish frontman Trey Anastasio, will be an abstinence-based, nonmedical residence, one of the first of its kind in Vermont.
Amid record levels of overdoses in the state, advocates have called for more addiction recovery services, including residential beds.
The new recovery retreat’s approach —- which focuses on mindfulness education and spiritual support as well as the classic 12-step program popularized by Alcoholics Anonymous —- makes it a “unique model for this part of the country,” said Melanie Gulde, Divided Sky’s program director. The method sets the retreat apart from treatment centers elsewhere in the state, she said.
Limiting programming in that way also keeps the retreat clear of the Green Mountain Care Board’s “certificate of need” process, as long as no clinical or medical services are offered on site.
The Divided Sky Foundation is a charitable nonprofit founded by Anastasio; it purchased the Ludlow location to create a substance-use disorder treatment center back in 2021.
Anastasio, Phish’s lead guitarist and vocalist, has dealt publicly with his own drug and alcohol use and later sobriety, a journey that brought him under the supervision of drug court in Washington County, New York, in the mid-2000s.
Magic Mann in Essex has the new lockable storage bags free of charge to anyone.
“I hope that it prevents some of these kids and pets from having a bad experience. Because that in turn makes this beautiful plant that we’re trying to get out there and use responsibly look bad,” said Meredith Mann, the dispensary’s owner.
The state distributed 3,000 of the bags to cannabis retail shops. They say if the pilot program is successful, they’ll look into purchasing more.
Mann says she hopes it also encourages parents to talk to their children and educate them about cannabis. “I think it’s one of the most important things you can do. Lock it up and make sure that we don’t keep the cannabis stigmas going and that we’re promoting responsible use for adults and being really straight-up educational,” she said.
A new Health Department report shows a rise in accidental ingestion of substances among children since 2018. Cannabis was among the three most common substances involved in unintentional, nonfatal overdoses in 2022 for children under age nine.
By Diane Derby
A falcon lost his ability to fly. Now the bird is an artist in Vermont.
By Cathy Free
If someone said “falcon,” the next word to come to mind probably wouldn’t be “artist.”
But Ferrisburgh, an American kestrel with an injured wing, is headlining art classes in Vermont and drawing crowds with his talented talons.
A couple of paintings done by Ferrisburgh are now being auctioned at a fundraiser online, and the raptor recently showed off his skills at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science.
About four years ago, the young male kestrel was brought to the bird rescue at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Quechee, Vt., after he was discovered in the nearby town of Ferrisburgh, a place known for its early art colonies, as well as being a stop on the Underground Railroad in the 1800s.
The bird had landed on the shoulder of an unsuspecting person who was out for a walk near his home. The kestrel was loud and chattering away as he perched on the man, and was probably looking to be fed, said Anna Morris, director of on-site and outreach programs at the institute.
More Waypoint/VINS photos: CLICK HERE
More VINS photos: CLICK HERE
Divided Sky, Phish frontman’s drug and alcohol recovery program in Ludlow, is weeks away from launch
Amid record levels of overdoses in Vermont, advocates have called for more addiction recovery services, including residential beds. To avoid regulatory hurdles, the 46-bed facility is designed as explicitly nonmedical.By Ethan Weinstein
A new residential program for people recovering from drug and alcohol abuse will begin welcoming guests in the next few weeks.
The Divided Sky Foundation, a 46-bed nonprofit recovery center spearheaded by Phish frontman Trey Anastasio, will be an abstinence-based, nonmedical residence, one of the first of its kind in Vermont.
Amid record levels of overdoses in the state, advocates have called for more addiction recovery services, including residential beds.
The new recovery retreat’s approach —- which focuses on mindfulness education and spiritual support as well as the classic 12-step program popularized by Alcoholics Anonymous —- makes it a “unique model for this part of the country,” said Melanie Gulde, Divided Sky’s program director. The method sets the retreat apart from treatment centers elsewhere in the state, she said.
Limiting programming in that way also keeps the retreat clear of the Green Mountain Care Board’s “certificate of need” process, as long as no clinical or medical services are offered on site.
The Divided Sky Foundation is a charitable nonprofit founded by Anastasio; it purchased the Ludlow location to create a substance-use disorder treatment center back in 2021.
Anastasio, Phish’s lead guitarist and vocalist, has dealt publicly with his own drug and alcohol use and later sobriety, a journey that brought him under the supervision of drug court in Washington County, New York, in the mid-2000s.
Vt. officials offer free child-resistant cannabis storage bags
Starting this week, Vermonters can find free, child-resistant bags in some retail establishments as part of a pilot project by state officials to keep cannabis and other powerful drugs away from children.Magic Mann in Essex has the new lockable storage bags free of charge to anyone.
“I hope that it prevents some of these kids and pets from having a bad experience. Because that in turn makes this beautiful plant that we’re trying to get out there and use responsibly look bad,” said Meredith Mann, the dispensary’s owner.
The state distributed 3,000 of the bags to cannabis retail shops. They say if the pilot program is successful, they’ll look into purchasing more.
Mann says she hopes it also encourages parents to talk to their children and educate them about cannabis. “I think it’s one of the most important things you can do. Lock it up and make sure that we don’t keep the cannabis stigmas going and that we’re promoting responsible use for adults and being really straight-up educational,” she said.
A new Health Department report shows a rise in accidental ingestion of substances among children since 2018. Cannabis was among the three most common substances involved in unintentional, nonfatal overdoses in 2022 for children under age nine.
Hunters find body in Plainfield, 7th suspicious death in Vermont this month
“As far as we can tell, they are all isolated incidents with no corresponding trend that we can identify at this point,” said Col. Matthew Birmingham, who leads the Vermont State Police.By Diane Derby
Hunters on Friday afternoon discovered a body in a remote area in Plainfield, and Vermont State Police say the death “occurred under suspicious circumstances.” It marked the second time this week that hunters found a body in central Vermont.
Since Oct. 5, Vermont State Police have reported seven deaths considered to be suspicious. By comparison, there were only nine reported homicides in the state for all of 2021, although that number spiked to 25 reported homicides in 2022.
No arrests have been made in any of the seven recent cases.
Col. Matthew Birmingham, who leads the Vermont State Police, called the rash of killings in such a short period of time “a little unprecedented” in Vermont.
Until this month, Vermont’s homicide rate had been trending lower for the year, Birmingham said on Saturday. Prior to October, he said, nine homicides had been recorded. If all seven suspicious deaths this month prove to be homicides, the year-to-date total would be 16.
“As far as we can tell, they are all isolated incidents with no corresponding trend that we can identify at this point,” he said.
Since Oct. 5, Vermont State Police have reported seven deaths considered to be suspicious. By comparison, there were only nine reported homicides in the state for all of 2021, although that number spiked to 25 reported homicides in 2022.
No arrests have been made in any of the seven recent cases.
Col. Matthew Birmingham, who leads the Vermont State Police, called the rash of killings in such a short period of time “a little unprecedented” in Vermont.
Until this month, Vermont’s homicide rate had been trending lower for the year, Birmingham said on Saturday. Prior to October, he said, nine homicides had been recorded. If all seven suspicious deaths this month prove to be homicides, the year-to-date total would be 16.
“As far as we can tell, they are all isolated incidents with no corresponding trend that we can identify at this point,” he said.
Hartford to review low-barrier homeless shelter proposal
A low-barrier shelter is open to anyone in need of a bed, including people with substance use issues. The shelter guests will not need to complete paperwork or show evidence of a need for assistance, according to the site plan application.By Valley News
The Hartford Planning Commission will consider a site plan application next month from Upper Valley Haven, which seeks to convert the former “25,000 Gifts” building on North Main Street into a 20-bed homeless shelter.
Upper Valley Haven, a nonprofit social services provider, is proposing to renovate 608 North Main Street to create a “low-barrier” emergency shelter serving up to 20 people.
A low-barrier shelter is open to anyone in need of a bed, including people with substance use issues. The shelter guests will not need to complete paperwork or show evidence of a need for assistance, according to the site plan application.
To prepare the shelter, the plan proposes constructing a 1,600-square-foot addition, to expand the building’s total area to 9,400 square feet.
Why Merino Wool Is All the Rage
By Geoff Nudelman
With the continued embrace of all things Gorpcore and outdoor style, more clothing companies are flocking to Merino wool as a textile to craft performance apparel that will last the test of time.
Demand for the material is way up, with no signs of slowing down. Where an original group of three companies is still dominating the Merino wool landscape, other innovators are emerging to improve upon the performance and durability capabilities of the material.
Merino is certainly having a moment, so it’s worth taking a closer look at this special type of wool to better understand why it’s so valued and where it’s headed.
A Brief History of Merino Wool
Merino is not new by any means. The general consensus is that the original Merino sheep were bred in the 13th and 14th centuries in Spain, mixing mid-Asian sheep with a species from England. Fast forward to 1801 when an American merchant named William Jarvis introduced Merino sheep to American soil in Weathersfield, Vermont, essentially jumpstarting the New England textile industry.
According to the Vermont Historical Society, the popularity of Merino farming exploded, with over one million sheep in the state by 1837. However, growing competition in the state and out west drove down Merino prices through the late 1840s and dramatically slowed the industry in America.
Merino remained largely a niche piece of the larger wool market through most of the 20th century until a resurgence began in the 1990s with the founding of Smartwool, icebreaker and IBEX. All three companies focused on Merino in specific ways and were far ahead of the outdoor-driven trends that dominate the apparel market today.
Merino is not new by any means. The general consensus is that the original Merino sheep were bred in the 13th and 14th centuries in Spain, mixing mid-Asian sheep with a species from England. Fast forward to 1801 when an American merchant named William Jarvis introduced Merino sheep to American soil in Weathersfield, Vermont, essentially jumpstarting the New England textile industry.
According to the Vermont Historical Society, the popularity of Merino farming exploded, with over one million sheep in the state by 1837. However, growing competition in the state and out west drove down Merino prices through the late 1840s and dramatically slowed the industry in America.
Merino remained largely a niche piece of the larger wool market through most of the 20th century until a resurgence began in the 1990s with the founding of Smartwool, icebreaker and IBEX. All three companies focused on Merino in specific ways and were far ahead of the outdoor-driven trends that dominate the apparel market today.
Town Volunteer Vacancies
The vacancies are as followed (updated Nov. 6, 2023):
Budget Committee (5 Vacancies)
Conservation Commission (2 Vacancies)
Energy Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
Green Up Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
Lister (2 Vacancies)
Parks and Recreation (1 Vacancy)
Veterans Memorial Committee (2 Vacancies)
Zoning Board of Adjustment (2 Vacancies)
Anyone interested in serving should contact the Town manager Brandon Gulnick at 802-674-2626
Select Board
Select Board
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.
Selectboard Members and Term as listed on the town websiteMike Todd Chair 2024
August Murray Member 2026
Kelly O'Brien Clerk 2025
Wendy Smith Member 2024
David Fuller Member 2025
Select Board Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month 6:30 p.m. November 6 AgendaNovember 20December 4December 18
Meeting Minutes https://www.weathersfieldvt.org/selectboardSeptember 5 Canceled no explanation givenAugust 21 (published in a Word document)May1 (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
Selectboard Members and Term as listed on the town website
| Mike Todd Chair 2024 August Murray Member 2026 Kelly O'Brien Clerk 2025 Wendy Smith Member 2024 David Fuller Member 2025 |
Select Board Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month 6:30 p.m.
November 6 Agenda
November 20
December 4
December 18
Meeting Minutes https://www.weathersfieldvt.org/selectboard
September 5 Canceled no explanation given
August 21 (published in a Word document)
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
November 6th-9th Variety Show Auditions
November 8th Fall Sports Night 6:00 PM
November 9th Early Release Day for Students 12:00 Dismissal Time
November 10th- No School for Students Conference Day
November 14th School Board Meeting at 6:30 PM
November 15th Community Thanksgiving Meal
November 22nd-24th No School Thanksgiving Holiday
Weathersfield School Winter Sport Registrations are OPEN-Coaches are needed
Indoor Soccer (grades 3/4/5 & 6/7/8) starting November 1st! https://weathersfield-athletics.sportngin.com/register/form/362376011Basketball (K-8) https://weathersfield-athletics.sportngin.com/register/form/985197993
Cheerleading (K-8) https://weathersfield-athletics.sportngin.com/register/form/531435234
Interested in coaching? https://weathersfield-athletics.sportngin.com/register/form/299461426
Meeting Agendas may be found HERENovember 14 AgendaDecember 12 Agenda
Weathersfield School Board meets on TuesdaysIn Person at Weathersfield School (135 Schoolhouse Road, Ascutney)
Location: 135 Schoolhouse RD Ascutney
Location: 135 Schoolhouse RD Ascutney
School Board Meetings MinutesOctober 10September 12
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.
Please call Maureen Bogosian for details
@ 603-252-0936
Please call Maureen Bogosian for details
@ 603-252-0936
@ 603-252-0936
Calling All Writers!Weathersfield Proctor Library is hosting two writing events with the National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) 2023.Event 2: TGIO Saturday, December 2, 2024
Bring your writing or an excerpt to the library. Read some of your work to an admiring audience, or listen to others read. Celebrate your achievement, large or small. Most importantly, snacks will be provided!
Note: Anyone younger than 18 must have a parent’s or guardian’s permission to set up a NaNoWriMo account online.
Any questions please email the library: weathersfieldproctorlibrary@gmail.comor call 802-674-2863
Bring your writing or an excerpt to the library. Read some of your work to an admiring audience, or listen to others read. Celebrate your achievement, large or small. Most importantly, snacks will be provided!
Language-Focused Book Discussion Group at WPL through December 18
Language-Focused Book Discussion Group at WPL through December 18
Weathersfield Historical SocietyFollow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weathersfieldhistoricalsociety
Weathersfield Historical Society
Weathersfield Garden Club
Weathersfield Garden Club
The Weathersfield Garden Club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at The Weathersfield Proctor Library from 6-8 p.m.
No Garden Club Meeting in November or December.
They will reconvene on January 16th at Weathersfield Proctor Library. New members and guests are always welcome. Any questions? please email weathersfieldgardenclub@gmail.com
The Weathersfield Garden Club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at The Weathersfield Proctor Library from 6-8 p.m.
No Garden Club Meeting in November or December.
They will reconvene on January 16th at Weathersfield Proctor Library.
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/WeathersfieldCenterChurchThings to Do In and Around WeathersfieldGet 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:
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
On November 18, 2023, the Raqs Salaam Dance Theater proudly presents Showcase 19, BELLY DANCE BEYOND THE BORDERS!
This year’s epic presentation highlights the diversity of eastern dances as they inhabit, and cross, the borders of North Africa. From classical Egyptian dance, to American “popping and locking”, prepare to travel 16,000 miles around the globe through movement. Showcase 19 features traditional dances from Africa, Asia and India, as well musical theater straight out of recent Hollywood and Bollywood movies.
Prepare to be uplifted in joy and laughter, as well as to learn about current events in the Middle East, as they relate to women. This family-friendly and “relatable” show is both entertaining and educational for theater-goers young and old.
The Raqs Salaam Dance Theater is the largest and longest running all-female performing group in the Upper Valley. Through the transformative energy of the feminine spirit, we celebrate and contribute to a positive shift in the world’s health and well-being.
Please note that our show location seats 500 people. You will have an opportunity to socially distance should you like to do so. TICKETS
This year’s epic presentation highlights the diversity of eastern dances as they inhabit, and cross, the borders of North Africa. From classical Egyptian dance, to American “popping and locking”, prepare to travel 16,000 miles around the globe through movement. Showcase 19 features traditional dances from Africa, Asia and India, as well musical theater straight out of recent Hollywood and Bollywood movies.
Prepare to be uplifted in joy and laughter, as well as to learn about current events in the Middle East, as they relate to women. This family-friendly and “relatable” show is both entertaining and educational for theater-goers young and old.
The Raqs Salaam Dance Theater is the largest and longest running all-female performing group in the Upper Valley. Through the transformative energy of the feminine spirit, we celebrate and contribute to a positive shift in the world’s health and well-being.
Please note that our show location seats 500 people. You will have an opportunity to socially distance should you like to do so. TICKETS
Mascoma Community Auditorium, 27 Royal Rd, Canaan, NH, 03741
Lebanon Opera House
The opera house in Lebanon is CLOSED for renovations but the SHOW must go on, LOH On Location is taking the SHOW on the Road.
All shows are at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise stated.
2024
Sasha Velour-The Big Reveal Show, March 4, 2024 TICKETS
The Capitol Fools, March 9, 2024 TICKETS
Red Barat-Festival of Colors, March 16, 2024 TICKETS
The String Queens, April 4, 2024 at 10 a.m. TICKETS (YES-Youth Education Series)
Claremont Opera House
Justin McKinney, November 17, 7:30 p.m. TICKETS
A Seuss-ified Christmas Carol November 30 and Dec 1, 7 p.m. TICKETS
Foreigners Journey, December 2, 8 p.m. TICKETS
Revels North Presents: Midwinter Revels on Tour, December 15, 7 p.m. TICKETS
Toonerville Trail Turkey Trot 5K
Nov. 23, 9-11 AM
Toonerville Trail Turkey Trot 5K
Nov. 23, 9-11 AM
Nov. 23, 9-11 AM
Where: Toonerville Rail-Trail Parking, Charlestown Road, Springfield, VT
The Toonerville Trail Turkey Trot 5K takes place Thursday, November 23, 2023 at 9 a.m. The event starts and finishes at the Toonerville Trail trailhead at 280 Clinton St, Springfield, VT. The course is a mostly flat 5K out-and-back along the Black River.
Proceeds will benefit Meals on Wheels of Greater Springfield and Springfield High School Cross Country, and we will also be taking donations of non-perishable food items for the Springfield Food Bank.
Registration fee: $20
https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=108580
In-person paper registration at Edgar May Health & Rec Center in Springfield.
More info: http://www.runlikeardy.com/races/toonerville-trail-turkey-trot/
Zack's Place Turkey Trot
Nov. 23
As participants line up and register for the race they are entertained by a band on a flatbed truck. Hot coffee, tea and hot chocolate are offered. The race begins in front of the Woodstock Elementary School at 10:00 AM, with the more skilled runners in front and the rest following.
The run meanders through the historic Village of Woodstock, then on towards Billings Farm, around Mountain Avenue, and back around The Town Green, ending at the starting line. An award ceremony, also with refreshments and a band, follows the race where medals are presented.
Families run together as college kids and relatives gather for the Thanksgiving celebration. Grandparents and young children in carriages participate as walkers, dogs join in as well.
It has become a tradition for many in the Woodstock area; however we also have “satellite participants” who cannot be in Woodstock but who run with family wherever they are: Hawaii, Italy, New York City, etc.
This is indeed a day of thanks where individuals help support our enrichment center and give thanks for their own gifts at the same time.
Yoga
Yoga
Whole Roasted Tro
Whole Roasted Tro
Within Reach Yoga
at the 1879 Schoolhouse in Perkinsville
You must Register for each class at least a day ahead by emailing Lisa.
Tuesday Morning 9-10 AM-Slow Flow, Rest + Restore November 6 (NOTE DAY CHANGE), 14, 21, 28
Tuesday Evening-Candle Glow Gentle Flow 5:30-6:30 PMNovember 6 (NOTE DAY CHANGE), 14, 21, 28
Payment: Cash/Check/Venmo @Lisa-Gleeson-6. Sliding scale available - please inquire if needed. 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 AM-Slow Flow, Rest + Restore
Tuesday Evening-Candle Glow Gentle Flow 5:30-6:30 PM
November 6 (NOTE DAY CHANGE), 14, 21, 28
Andy Warhol in Vermont
Hall Art Foundation, Reading VTEnds November 26th
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.
Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024
April 8, 2024Vermont’s location within the path of totality makes it an ideal place to take in the wonder and spectacle of this natural event.
Time to start planning, sign up for solar eclipse updates by email.
Road rules were changed to allow for the minutes of darkness and bulletins advised drivers to pull over and turn off headlights so as to preserve the natural phenomenon.
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
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
Vermont Online Workshops
Lots of events and movies online. Contact: AARP Vermont Email: vtaarp@aarp.org with questions.
Visit Our Local Restaurants
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.
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.
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
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.
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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.