Weathersfield Weekly Blog, February 5 edition
Ascutney Mountain in the Clouds at Sunrise
Mark Your Calendars
Town Meeting 2024 Tuesday, March 5
Selectboard Meets Monday Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m.
Martin Memorial Hall, Ascutney
The Selectboard meets Monday night February 5th for their regular meeting at 6:30p.m. at Martin Memorial Hall, Route 5 in Ascutney.
The meeting agenda and Selectboard packet are posted on the Town's website.
On the agenda is the discussion about CLA. What is CLA you ask...it's the Common Level of Appraisal.
All 259 towns in the state maintain data on each of the properties values. Town's determine the assessed value and set the timing for town wide reappraisals. Town's cannot reappraise each year so there is a difference between the assessed value and the fair market value. (Fair market value is an estimate of the potential sale price of the property on the current real estate market).
The common level of appraisal (CLA) adjusts the locally assessed property values to the estimated fair market value. The CLA ensures that each town is treated equally and uniformly regardless of when the last appraisal was completed.
The CLA is determined by the Department of Taxes. Each year the Department of Taxes performs a study that compares the listed/assessed value of property in each town to the price for all the sales in each town over the past three years. They compare the fair market value (sale price) to the Assessed Value (appraised) and determine the percent difference.
Because Vermont has a statewide education fund and property tax system to ensure that all schools have equal access to funding, the use of a statewide formula requires that all properties be evaluated equally for the homestead and non-homestead education taxes. To ensure equitable treatment, all properties across the state are taxed on their fair market value.
By using CLA both the homestead and non-homestead education taxes rates are adjusted instead of using the assessed value of the tax payer's property.
Currently, properties in Weathersfield have lower assessed value than fair market value. The Town's CLA is 72.18% with a Coefficient of Dispersion (COD) of 23.34%. (Vermont municipalities will be required to reappraise when the COD falls above 20%. 32 VSA, § 4041a. The statutory definition is in 32 VSA, § 5401.) According to the minutes from the January Selectboard meetings, the town has contracted with a company to perform the town wide reassessment.
Martin Memorial Hall, Ascutney
The Selectboard meets Monday night February 5th for their regular meeting at 6:30p.m. at Martin Memorial Hall, Route 5 in Ascutney.
For more information, please visit Department of Taxes website.
Letter to the Town from the State
Computation Sheet
The town's last reappraisal was done in 2008.
Celebrate The Year of the Dragon
Celebrate Lunar New Year at
the Weathersfield Proctor Library
Saturday, February 10, 10:30 a.m.
· hear stories and sing Chinese children's songs (10:30)
· make a dragon craft
· learn to use chopsticks
· practice brush writing
More information, please visit the Library's Website of give them a call 802-674-2863
Ascutney Outdoors Winter Fun Nights
More info about these and other events visit their website: Ascutney Outdoors
Weathersfield School PTO hosts a Family Dance
Weathersfield Proctor Library Announces the Opening of their Seed Catalogue
Oooh Fondue!
February 24 at 5:30 p.m.
at the Weathersfield Proctor Library
The Weathersfield Proctor Library is hosting a Fondue Night to chase away our winter blues on Saturday evening, February 24 at 5:30 p.m.
Call or email them to let them know you will be attending and what dish you'd like to share. 802-674-2863
Free Tax Prep Offered by AARP at the Library in February on Tuesdays by appointment
The AARP Taxaide program will once again offer free, in-person tax preparation to anyone, free of charge. Volunteers will be preparing returns by appointment at the Weathersfield Proctor Library in Ascutney on Tuesdays beginning in February.
You do not have to be an AARP member to take advantage of the service. Taxaide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified each year to ensure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the US tax code. There are, however, some situations that are considered out of scope for the volunteer preparers.
To schedule an appointment, contact Mary Beth Adler at 802-875-2418 and leave a message. Calls will be returned and appointments scheduled in the evenings.
News You Can Use
ICYMI (In case You Missed It)
Town/School/Regional News
Weathersfield Student Goes Above and Beyond with his Drone Team
Adler Gleeson's team won 3rd place at the Drone Competition held on Saturday, January 27th at Riverside Middle School. Roughly 100 middle and high school students from Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts participated in the tournament hosted by the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation.Adler's team will travel to Connecticut on Saturday, Feb. 10th to compete in another competition. Good luck and we are so proud of you, Adler!
Update: Affidavit reveals sexual exploitation allegations against Newport's Beard
An affidavit filed in Windsor County Criminal Court reveals some of the allegations facing former Newport, N.H., School Board Member Timothy Beard, who police say had a sexual relationship with a minor at Running Bear Campground in Windsor more than five years ago.
He resigned from the Newport board Tuesday, the same day he was arraigned.
Beard, 40, is charged with "engaging in a sex act with a minor … while the defendant was in a position of power, authority, or supervision over the minor by undertaking the responsibility to provide for the health and welfare of minors, or guidance, leadership, instruction or organized recreational activities for minors."
According to the affidavit, Weathersfield Police Chief William Daniels took a report from Newport Detective Alex Marvin about an alleged sexual relationship involving a 17-year-old at the campground.
Marvin reviewed text messages provided by Beard's wife, Theresa Szelangowski, showing a conversation in which the alleged victim seems to admit to multiple sexual encounters with Beard.
Detective Trooper Kelsey Knapp then interviewed the individual, who admitted to the relationship.
The alleged victim said they were staying at the campground when everything started happening.
If convicted of the felony count of sexual exploitation of a minor, Beard could be imprisoned for not more than five years, fined $5,000, or both.
He resigned from the Newport board Tuesday, the same day he was arraigned.
Beard, 40, is charged with "engaging in a sex act with a minor … while the defendant was in a position of power, authority, or supervision over the minor by undertaking the responsibility to provide for the health and welfare of minors, or guidance, leadership, instruction or organized recreational activities for minors."
According to the affidavit, Weathersfield Police Chief William Daniels took a report from Newport Detective Alex Marvin about an alleged sexual relationship involving a 17-year-old at the campground.
Marvin reviewed text messages provided by Beard's wife, Theresa Szelangowski, showing a conversation in which the alleged victim seems to admit to multiple sexual encounters with Beard.
Detective Trooper Kelsey Knapp then interviewed the individual, who admitted to the relationship.
The alleged victim said they were staying at the campground when everything started happening.
If convicted of the felony count of sexual exploitation of a minor, Beard could be imprisoned for not more than five years, fined $5,000, or both.
Beard was appointed to the Newport, SAU 43, School board in 2022 and elected to a full three-year term in 2023.
Heat pumps by the numbers: Vermont leads New England in per capita installations
Vermonters have installed a total of around 63,000 heat pumps, about 97 heat pumps for every 1,000 Vermont residents, according to Efficiency Vermont.
By Emma Cotton
Vermonters are installing cold-climate heat pumps at high rates, according to new data from Efficiency Vermont.
Vermont ranks first in New England for heat pump installations per capita, having installed an all-time total of roughly 63,000 heat pumps in homes and businesses, Efficiency Vermont reported on Monday. That’s 97 heat pumps for every 1,000 Vermont residents.
Of the 63,000 heat pumps installed in Vermont, more than 57,000 are residential, and almost 6,000 are commercial.
Vermont is followed closely by Maine, where residents and businesses have installed more heat pumps in total — roughly 131,000 — but fewer per capita, at 94 heat pumps per 1,000 residents. Meanwhile, Massachusetts, a state with roughly 7 million residents, installed fewer than 30,000 heat pumps between 2020 and the first half of 2023, the time period for which the state has recorded data about rebated installations.
Recently, state lawmakers, municipal leaders and environmental groups have taken steps to encourage Vermonters to install heat pumps, usually with an eye on reducing climate emissions that come from the heating and cooling of buildings.
By Emma Cotton
Vermonters are installing cold-climate heat pumps at high rates, according to new data from Efficiency Vermont.
Vermont ranks first in New England for heat pump installations per capita, having installed an all-time total of roughly 63,000 heat pumps in homes and businesses, Efficiency Vermont reported on Monday. That’s 97 heat pumps for every 1,000 Vermont residents.
Of the 63,000 heat pumps installed in Vermont, more than 57,000 are residential, and almost 6,000 are commercial.
Vermont is followed closely by Maine, where residents and businesses have installed more heat pumps in total — roughly 131,000 — but fewer per capita, at 94 heat pumps per 1,000 residents. Meanwhile, Massachusetts, a state with roughly 7 million residents, installed fewer than 30,000 heat pumps between 2020 and the first half of 2023, the time period for which the state has recorded data about rebated installations.
Recently, state lawmakers, municipal leaders and environmental groups have taken steps to encourage Vermonters to install heat pumps, usually with an eye on reducing climate emissions that come from the heating and cooling of buildings.
David Briggs owns the Hotel Coolidge and the adjacent Gates-Briggs building. He’s pursuing the sale of both, with potential tear-down and redevelopment of the hotel.
By Ethan Weinstein
David Briggs, who owns two large buildings that are at the heart of downtown White River Junction, is starting to talk publicly about an “exit plan.”
Last week, Briggs presented a mockup to the Hartford Selectboard of his vision for the Coolidge block, the building that includes the iconic Hotel Coolidge and a number of small businesses. His plan would involve knocking down the decaying three-plus-story building. The replacement structure would be a five-story building with underground parking, first-floor commercial space, housing and possibly a hotel.
The Hotel Coolidge, a contributing building to the White River Junction Historic District, is the property’s most recent iteration after fires in 1878 and 1925 destroyed previous structures. Nathaniel Wheeler, who purchased the hotel in the early 20th century, named it after John Coolidge, father of President Calvin Coolidge.
Briggs told the board that he is on a “quest” for the “highest and best use and outcome” for the Coolidge block and is currently functioning as a “pre-developer” while he works on securing a buyer or buyers. Though in active talks, he declined to share more details — both with the selectboard and in a later interview with VTDigger — on who might purchase the building.
Briggs owns both the Coolidge block and the neighboring Gates-Briggs building, which contains businesses like the Tuckerbox restaurant and the retail shop Revolution, as well as the Windsor County State’s Attorney’s offices and Briggs Opera House upstairs. The two buildings together make up a large chunk of the core of downtown White River Junction.
By Ethan Weinstein
David Briggs, who owns two large buildings that are at the heart of downtown White River Junction, is starting to talk publicly about an “exit plan.”
Last week, Briggs presented a mockup to the Hartford Selectboard of his vision for the Coolidge block, the building that includes the iconic Hotel Coolidge and a number of small businesses. His plan would involve knocking down the decaying three-plus-story building. The replacement structure would be a five-story building with underground parking, first-floor commercial space, housing and possibly a hotel.
The Hotel Coolidge, a contributing building to the White River Junction Historic District, is the property’s most recent iteration after fires in 1878 and 1925 destroyed previous structures. Nathaniel Wheeler, who purchased the hotel in the early 20th century, named it after John Coolidge, father of President Calvin Coolidge.
Briggs told the board that he is on a “quest” for the “highest and best use and outcome” for the Coolidge block and is currently functioning as a “pre-developer” while he works on securing a buyer or buyers. Though in active talks, he declined to share more details — both with the selectboard and in a later interview with VTDigger — on who might purchase the building.
Briggs owns both the Coolidge block and the neighboring Gates-Briggs building, which contains businesses like the Tuckerbox restaurant and the retail shop Revolution, as well as the Windsor County State’s Attorney’s offices and Briggs Opera House upstairs. The two buildings together make up a large chunk of the core of downtown White River Junction.
Vermont lawmakers consider banning pesticide class to help insect pollinators
New research in Vermont about bee exposure to neonicotinoids and a new law in New York State restricting their use has laid the foundation for a bill that would ban them altogether.
By Emma Cotton
When honeybees gather food from flowers near their hive, they attach beads of pollen and nectar to concave pockets on their legs. The tiny colorful pellets contain residue from all of the plants where the bees have foraged.
For scientists, the pellets are a treasure trove of information about the flowers and plants the bees have come into contact with, and what they’re bringing back to the hive to feed other bees.
“It’s a huge workforce,” Samantha Alger, University of Vermont researcher and director of the Vermont Bee Lab, told state lawmakers last week. “It’s tens of thousands of little bodies that are going out and sampling for us.”
Those pellets may provide answers about why beekeepers are reporting deteriorating health in their colonies. Screens, placed at the entrance to the hives, scrape off the pollen pellets and collect them. For several years, scientists at the Vermont Bee Lab have been sending the pellets to a laboratory at Cornell University that can detect tiny amounts of various substances.
In 2023, the Vermont Bee Lab sent Cornell more samples than ever before. Out of 61 pollen samples, the lab found 309 instances of 34 pesticides, Alger said.
READ MORE
By Emma Cotton
When honeybees gather food from flowers near their hive, they attach beads of pollen and nectar to concave pockets on their legs. The tiny colorful pellets contain residue from all of the plants where the bees have foraged.
For scientists, the pellets are a treasure trove of information about the flowers and plants the bees have come into contact with, and what they’re bringing back to the hive to feed other bees.
“It’s a huge workforce,” Samantha Alger, University of Vermont researcher and director of the Vermont Bee Lab, told state lawmakers last week. “It’s tens of thousands of little bodies that are going out and sampling for us.”
Those pellets may provide answers about why beekeepers are reporting deteriorating health in their colonies. Screens, placed at the entrance to the hives, scrape off the pollen pellets and collect them. For several years, scientists at the Vermont Bee Lab have been sending the pellets to a laboratory at Cornell University that can detect tiny amounts of various substances.
In 2023, the Vermont Bee Lab sent Cornell more samples than ever before. Out of 61 pollen samples, the lab found 309 instances of 34 pesticides, Alger said.
READ MORE
Town Volunteer Vacancies
The vacancies are as followed (updated January 16, 2024):
Appointments
a. Budget Committee (5 Vacancies)
b. Conservation Commission (1 Vacancy)
c. Energy Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
d. Green Up Coordinator (1 Vacancy)
e. Lister (2 Vacancies)
f. Parks and Recreation (1 Vacancy)
g. Veterans Memorial Committee (2 Vacancies)
i. Zoning Board of Adjustment (2 Vacancies)-Beth Hunton (pending approval)
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. February 19 (probably on the 20th)
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.
February 19 (probably on the 20th)
*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
February 7th Winter Activities 4th andFINAL DAY
February 12th-16th Lunch with a Loved One
February 13th School Board Meeting
February 16th P.R.I.D.E. Assembly
February 20th-February 24th Winter Break No School
February 12th-16th Lunch with a Loved One
February 13th School Board Meeting
February 16th P.R.I.D.E. Assembly
February 20th-February 24th Winter Break No School
Final Day for Winter Activities is Wednesday, February 7th
Winter activities are finishing up this week on Wednesday, February 7th. Remember all students have an early release day, so that they can attend their Winter Activity.
The school is looking forward to the final week of students and staff having a great time. It is wonderful for all of the students to experience something that they may not get to do on a regular basis.
Just a reminder if there are families that still need to pay for their child's winter activity, please do so, ASAP. Please reach out if you have any questions.
The school is looking forward to the final week of students and staff having a great time. It is wonderful for all of the students to experience something that they may not get to do on a regular basis.
Just a reminder if there are families that still need to pay for their child's winter activity, please do so, ASAP. Please reach out if you have any questions.
4th Grade Field Trip-Freedom Songs at Claremont Opera House
On Friday February 9th, the entire 4th grade is invited to attend a showing of Freedom Songs at the Claremont Opera House.
A permission form was given to students on Thursday with specific information about the performance and can also be found here.
Please reach out to Melissa Cole, school counselor, with any questions.
School announces Lunch with a Loved One
During the week of February 12th-16th you have the opportunity to come and have lunch with your loved one. If you would like to participate, please fill out the attached form. You will just choose a date and enjoy the time at school.
Meeting Agendas may be found HEREFebruary 13
March 12
Weathersfield School Board meets on TuesdaysIn Person at Weathersfield School (135 Schoolhouse Road, Ascutney)
Location: 135 Schoolhouse RD Ascutney
Location: 135 Schoolhouse RD Ascutney
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
Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024
Eclipse Events around Vermont
April 8, 2024 Vermont’s location within the path of totality makes it an ideal place to take in the wonder and spectacle of this natural event.
The last time Vermont had a “front row seat” for a total solar eclipse was in 1932, when it was hailed as a “grand celestial spectacle.”
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.
April 8, 2024 Vermont’s location within the path of totality makes it an ideal place to take in the wonder and spectacle of this natural event.
The last time Vermont had a “front row seat” for a total solar eclipse was in 1932, when it was hailed as a “grand celestial spectacle.”
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.
Weathersfield Proctor Library, Reading Public Library and Southern Vermont Astronomy Group to Host Eclipse viewing.
The Weathersfield Proctor Library, in a joint effort with the Reading Public Library and the Southern Vermont Astronomy Group (SoVerA) has been awarded a nearly $5,000 grant for the purchase of a solar telescope.The funding was part of an effort by the American Astronomy Society to provide opportunities for people to observe the upcoming solar eclipse, which will occur on April 8, 2024 and which will pass through parts of Vermont and adjacent New York state.
152 grant applications were submitted to the Jay M. Pasachoff Solar Eclipse Mini-Grants Program, of which 35 received grant funding. The joint Weathersfield Proctor and Reading Library and SoVerA proposal was among the top 35, and was awarded 100% of the requested amount of the grant.
With the grant, the groups will purchase a solar telescope with hydrogen-alpha filter, a tripod and motorized mount, and assorted eyepieces. The total cost of these items is $4,819.96. The grants were awarded to coincide with the upcoming eclipse, but the equipment will be used by the libraries and SoVerA for many years to come.
The telescope is equipped with a motorized tracking mount which will find the sun and then track it as it passes through the sky.
The reason this equipment is so costly compared to shade 14 welders’ glass or cardboard and mylar viewing glasses, is that it has a very specific and costly filter which permits only a very narrow portion of the visible spectrum to pass through. This results in a very clear view orange of the textured surface of the sun and the spectacular coronal flares around the perimeter of the sun. The less expensive equipment protects the viewer’s eyes, but only affords a dull, more or less black and white view peppered with black dots of sunspots and no coronal flares.
The telescope will be set up on Hoisington Field in Perkinsville, VT on the afternoon of April 8, 2024, to observe the eclipse, which will begin at 2:14 p.m. The eclipse will be at its darkest around 3:26 pm. The total eclipse will only last about three minutes, and the sun will be fully visible by 4:37 pm.
As with every visible spectrum telescope-related event since Galileo first aimed his device upward, this one will be dependent on cooperation from the weather.
You are invited to join us at Hoisington Field in Perkinsville, VT. If you have solar viewing glasses, bring them with you. A limited number will be available at the event.
More info: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/
Scientists gear up for Vermont’s 2024 total solar eclipse
The unique celestial event on April 8 will provide opportunities for local scientists and space enthusiasts to combine knowledge with firsthand experience.
By Erin Petenko
In old German mythology, the sun and the moon were married. A solar eclipse — when the moon passes completely in front of the sun, blocking most of its light — was seen as the moon being drawn to his bride.
Hazel Wilkins, a recent graduate of the University of Vermont, knows all about the science of solar eclipses. Yet she drew on stories like the German one to describe her viewing of a partial solar eclipse in 2017 as an almost spiritual experience. “Seeing (an eclipse) for the first time really opened my eyes to the possibility of connections — not only in the astronomical world, but really in our own lives,” she said.
Wilkins is the regional lead trainer of a group of academic researchers, citizen scientists and local space enthusiasts who are planning to study the sun in detail when it is covered by the moon for about three minutes on April 8.
The roughly once-in-a-century opportunity to view a total solar eclipse in Vermont is not just a chance to conduct astronomical research close to home, it’s also a chance to deepen the public’s connection to science, and for scientists to experience the topics they study firsthand.
The unique celestial event on April 8 will provide opportunities for local scientists and space enthusiasts to combine knowledge with firsthand experience.
By Erin Petenko
In old German mythology, the sun and the moon were married. A solar eclipse — when the moon passes completely in front of the sun, blocking most of its light — was seen as the moon being drawn to his bride.
Hazel Wilkins, a recent graduate of the University of Vermont, knows all about the science of solar eclipses. Yet she drew on stories like the German one to describe her viewing of a partial solar eclipse in 2017 as an almost spiritual experience. “Seeing (an eclipse) for the first time really opened my eyes to the possibility of connections — not only in the astronomical world, but really in our own lives,” she said.
Wilkins is the regional lead trainer of a group of academic researchers, citizen scientists and local space enthusiasts who are planning to study the sun in detail when it is covered by the moon for about three minutes on April 8.
The roughly once-in-a-century opportunity to view a total solar eclipse in Vermont is not just a chance to conduct astronomical research close to home, it’s also a chance to deepen the public’s connection to science, and for scientists to experience the topics they study firsthand.
Wilkins is the regional lead trainer of a group of academic researchers, citizen scientists and local space enthusiasts who are planning to study the sun in detail when it is covered by the moon for about three minutes on April 8.
The roughly once-in-a-century opportunity to view a total solar eclipse in Vermont is not just a chance to conduct astronomical research close to home, it’s also a chance to deepen the public’s connection to science, and for scientists to experience the topics they study firsthand.
5 tips for viewing the 2024 solar eclipse in Vermont
There will be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view a total solar eclipse on April 8, but clouds and crowds are expected, too.
By Erin Petenko
When I asked experts and scientists about their suggestions for how best to view the April 8 eclipse, many of them started off with the same piece of advice: “Don’t look directly at the sun!” as Scott Whittier, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service, put it.
Even during a partial eclipse, the sun’s burning rays can penetrate your retinas and cause eye damage in minutes. But the once-in-a-lifetime chance to watch the sun be completely covered by the moon may make it worth finding safe ways to gaze upward.
There will be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view a total solar eclipse on April 8, but clouds and crowds are expected, too.
By Erin Petenko
When I asked experts and scientists about their suggestions for how best to view the April 8 eclipse, many of them started off with the same piece of advice: “Don’t look directly at the sun!” as Scott Whittier, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service, put it.
Even during a partial eclipse, the sun’s burning rays can penetrate your retinas and cause eye damage in minutes. But the once-in-a-lifetime chance to watch the sun be completely covered by the moon may make it worth finding safe ways to gaze upward.
Find out if your community will be on the eclipse path (YES! see above!)
Figure out a way to view the eclipse safely
Keep an eye out for these special details
Be ready for crowds
Be ready for clouds
Figure out a way to view the eclipse safely
Keep an eye out for these special details
Be ready for crowds
Be ready for clouds
Keep an eye out for these special details
Be ready for crowds
Be ready for clouds
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. 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.
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/WeathersfieldCenterChurchWeathersfield Parks and RecreationFollow them on their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550836741096
Things to Do In and Around WeathersfieldGet Outdoors, Entertainment, Classes, Workshops
The Eye of Senator Patrick Leahy:
Photographs of a Witness to History
Photo Exhibit Feb. 1-March 29
On February 1 (4:30 pm to 7:00 pm), Senator Leahy and his wife, Marcelle, are expected to appear at the opening reception for The Eye of Senator Patrick Leahy: Photographs of a Witness to History, the first art exhibition at the Vermont Supreme Court Gallery since the July 2023 flood.
The Eye of Senator Patrick Leahy is an extraordinary collection of his photographs that showcases the unusual access and unique perspective enjoyed by Vermont’s beloved longtime senator—with images captured throughout his career at the center of the nation’s political spotlight. The exhibition will be on view from February 1 to March 29, 2024.
A second reception will be held at the gallery on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 4:30 to 7:00 pm in conjunction with Montpelier’s Art Walk.
The Vermont Supreme Court Gallery is located at 111 State Street, Montpelier, Vermont.
More photos from Leahy's exhibit at the Brattleboro Museum &Art Center in 2014: CLICK HERE
The Eye of Senator Patrick Leahy is an extraordinary collection of his photographs that showcases the unusual access and unique perspective enjoyed by Vermont’s beloved longtime senator—with images captured throughout his career at the center of the nation’s political spotlight.
The exhibition will be on view from February 1 to March 29, 2024.
A second reception will be held at the gallery on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 4:30 to 7:00 pm in conjunction with Montpelier’s Art Walk.
A second reception will be held at the gallery on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 4:30 to 7:00 pm in conjunction with Montpelier’s Art Walk.
The Vermont Supreme Court Gallery is located at 111 State Street, Montpelier, Vermont.
More photos from Leahy's exhibit at the Brattleboro Museum &Art Center in 2014: CLICK HERE
No Transportation? Shopping just got easier!
Starting Wednesday January 17th, the MicroMoo bus line will be connecting to the Route 101 Shopper on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month! This means that Hartland, Ascutney, and Windsor Residents can get a ride on the MicroMoo to Exit 8 in Ascutney to take the Route 101 Shopper bus to Claremont for Shopping, for FREE !
Because there are two separate bus routes, reservations are required for both the MicroMoo and for the Route 101 Shopper. Reservations for Shopping trips are required at least 24 hours in advance by calling 1-888-869-6287 or 1-802-460-7433.
Reservations for using just the MicroMoo anytime, and not connecting to the Shopper line, use the same numbers as above, using Option #6, but only a 30-minute notice is needed.
Read more about the Shopper Route connection here: https://www.moover.com/moover-announces-changes-to-shopper-route/
Starting Wednesday January 17th, the MicroMoo bus line will be connecting to the Route 101 Shopper on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month! This means that Hartland, Ascutney, and Windsor Residents can get a ride on the MicroMoo to Exit 8 in Ascutney to take the Route 101 Shopper bus to Claremont for Shopping, for FREE !
Because there are two separate bus routes, reservations are required for both the MicroMoo and for the Route 101 Shopper. Reservations for Shopping trips are required at least 24 hours in advance by calling 1-888-869-6287 or 1-802-460-7433.
Reservations for using just the MicroMoo anytime, and not connecting to the Shopper line, use the same numbers as above, using Option #6, but only a 30-minute notice is needed.
Read more about the Shopper Route connection here: https://www.moover.com/moover-announces-changes-to-shopper-route/
Because there are two separate bus routes, reservations are required for both the MicroMoo and for the Route 101 Shopper. Reservations for Shopping trips are required at least 24 hours in advance by calling 1-888-869-6287 or 1-802-460-7433.
Reservations for using just the MicroMoo anytime, and not connecting to the Shopper line, use the same numbers as above, using Option #6, but only a 30-minute notice is needed.
Read more about the Shopper Route connection here: https://www.moover.com/moover-announces-changes-to-shopper-route/
Classes at the Co-op
Tickets
Location: Coop Food Store, Lebanon
12 Centerra Parkway Lebanon, NH 03766
Wednesday, February 7
Lunch 'n' Learn: Rigatoni Alla Zozzona'
Monday, February 12
Risotto with Winter Greens & Pancetta
Wednesday, February 14
Valentine's Day Chocolate Soufflé
Friday, February 16
Knife Skills 101
Monday, February 19
Lunch 'n' Learn: JFK's New England Fish Chowder
Wednesday, February 21
Braised Halibut
Tuesday, February 27
Taco Tuesday: Fish Tacos
Location: Coop Food Store, Lebanon
12 Centerra Parkway Lebanon, NH 03766
Wednesday, February 7
Lunch 'n' Learn: Rigatoni Alla Zozzona'
Lunch 'n' Learn: Rigatoni Alla Zozzona'
Monday, February 12
Risotto with Winter Greens & Pancetta
Risotto with Winter Greens & Pancetta
Wednesday, February 14
Valentine's Day Chocolate Soufflé
Valentine's Day Chocolate Soufflé
Friday, February 16
Knife Skills 101
Knife Skills 101
Monday, February 19
Lunch 'n' Learn: JFK's New England Fish Chowder
Wednesday, February 21
Braised Halibut
Lunch 'n' Learn: JFK's New England Fish Chowder
Wednesday, February 21
Braised Halibut
Tuesday, February 27
Taco Tuesday: Fish Tacos
Lebanon Opera House
Reopens on Wednesday February 7 with an OPEN HOUSE.
All shows are at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise stated.
2024 Season
Silent Film: Gold Rush, February 8 at 7 p.m. TICKETS
Recycled Percussion, February 10 at 3 and 7:30 p.m. TICKETS
2024 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival, February 16 at 7:00 pm TICKETS
Tom Papa: Good Stuff Tour, April 5 TICKETS
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
Comedian Bib Marley, March 23, 2024 TICKETS
The String Queens, April 4, 2024 at 10 a.m. TICKETS (YES-Youth Education Series)
Paula Poundstone Saturday, April 6 TICKETS
Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, April 8 TICKETS
Fly Fishing Film Tour, April 11 at 7 p.m. TICKETS
Summerfest 2024
Enjoy performances of the highest quality each summer at Blow-Me-Down Farm, a beautiful, outdoor setting on the banks of the Connecticut River in Cornish, NH.
Opera North is an American opera company based in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and is the region’s oldest professional opera company. The company presents an annual summer season of three fully staged and orchestrated productions ranging from classical and contemporary opera to musical theater.
Summerfest 2024 Subscriptions-TICKETS
Summerfest 2024 productions include:
Orpheus in the Underworld
Summerfest 2024 productions include:
Orpheus in the Underworld
Thursday, July 11 at 7pm
Friday, July 12 at 7pm
Sunday, July 14 at 5pm
Friday, July 12 at 7pm
Sunday, July 14 at 5pm
Thursday, August 1 at 7pm
Friday, August 2 at 7pm
Saturday, August 3 at 5pm
Sunday, August 4 at 5pm
Bright Star Children’s Theater Presents: Freedom Songs, February 9, 10 a.m. FREE
Johnny Folsom 4 – A Tribute to Johnny Cash March 9, 7:30 TICKETS
Jordan TW Trio March 16, 8 p.m. TICKETS
Jesse Agan -The Music of Queen March 23, 7 :30 p.m. TICKETS
Friday, August 2 at 7pm
Saturday, August 3 at 5pm
Sunday, August 4 at 5pm
Heartless, New England's Tribute to HEART, February 10, 7:30 p.m. TICKETS
COH Presents: Steel Magnolias, February 23, 24, 7 p.m. TICKETS
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.
Tues. Mornings
February 6, 13, 20, 27, 9-10am ~REGISTER NOW~
Tues. Evening Candlelit
February 6, 13, 20, 27, 5:30-6:30pm ~REGISTER NOW~
Class Fee: Buy the whole morning or evening session for $40 to guarantee your spot for the month. Or, drop in (space available and registration required) for $12 per class.
Please arrive to class between 5-10 minutes early. Earlier than that, and you may find the door locked while Lisa is prepping our space.
Please arrive to class between 5-10 minutes early. Earlier than that, and you may find the door locked while Lisa is prepping our space.
If you've prepaid for a spot but can't make it, please let Lisa know since someone may be on the waitlist.
And if you want to try to switch from the morning to evening class or vice versa, please ask Lisa if there's room so she can try to accommodate you.
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.
Exit Ate Reopened January 11
Route 5 in Ascutney
Monday-Saturday 6 a.m.-2 p.m.
One reader reported that the food was excellent. Let me know if you've stopped in for breakfast or lunch. "Warm and friendly, family all around, GOOD eats! Excellent onion rings and super homemade potato chips, and great sandwiches and chili"
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.
Route 5 in Ascutney
Monday-Saturday 6 a.m.-2 p.m.
One reader reported that the food was excellent. Let me know if you've stopped in for breakfast or lunch.
One reader reported that the food was excellent. Let me know if you've stopped in for breakfast or lunch.
"Warm and friendly, family all around, GOOD eats! Excellent onion rings and super homemade potato chips, and great sandwiches and chili"
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.
Winter Tips
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Be Ready for Winter Storms
Steps you can take now, to prepare for storms:
Keep your cellphone charged
Download the GMP app to help you report an outage and track restoration times
Have some bottled water and non-perishable food on hand
Have flashlights and fresh batteries where you can easily find them
Make a plan for where you can go if power is out for an extended time
Storm safety reminders:
Pay attention to the weather forecast and changing conditions
Stay far away from any downed lines
Always assume downed lines and trees are energized – you cannot tell by looking at them
Call GMP to report downed lines
Call 911 for medical emergencies
Call Vermont 211 for help with emergency housing and more
More storm preparation and safety tips are available on GMP's website at: https://greenmountainpower.com/safety/
%20copy.png)
Be Ready for Winter Storms
Steps you can take now, to prepare for storms:
Keep your cellphone charged
Download the GMP app to help you report an outage and track restoration times
Have some bottled water and non-perishable food on hand
Have flashlights and fresh batteries where you can easily find them
Make a plan for where you can go if power is out for an extended time
Storm safety reminders:
Pay attention to the weather forecast and changing conditions
Stay far away from any downed lines
Always assume downed lines and trees are energized – you cannot tell by looking at them
Call GMP to report downed lines
Call 911 for medical emergencies
Call Vermont 211 for help with emergency housing and more
More storm preparation and safety tips are available on GMP's website at: https://greenmountainpower.com/safety/
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.