Thrasher Road Closure / Route 131 Paving Project Update - 9/27/13

Thrasher Road Closure

Posted: 30 Sep 2013 05:22 AM PDT

Thrasher Road will be closed just south (uphill) of the intersection with Victory Drive Monday through Wednesday (9/30 -10/2) of this week.  The Weathersfield Highway Department will be replacing a large culvert in this location.
Drivers can detour around this point of closure using Victory Drive.

Route 131 Paving Project Update - 9/27/13

Posted: 30 Sep 2013 05:14 AM PDT

Work Update

Weathersfield Route 12/131

AOT Project No: STP 2913(1)

Saturday, 9/28/13 – As of Friday afternoon, crews were having mechanical difficulties with the some of the paving equipment. If crews can pave Saturday, they will be working between Victory Drive and Weathersfield Center Road. Cement reclaim crews will also be working all day. This operation should make it to Downer’s Corners which will complete the cement reclaiming. If paving is cancelled, crews will resume ditching along the project.

Week of September 30^th, 2013

Traffic Safety Warning – Crews are asking motorists who are exiting driveways or businesses on Route 131 to be aware that they may be pulling into a construction zone. With construction zones taking up to a mile of one lane, a flag person may not be stationed in the exact area to assist someone in pulling out. If there is no flagger present, motorists should wait for traffic flow in the direction they want to go before pulling out.

The construction zone will be marked with orange cones along the centerline.

VT Route 12 – I91 Interchange to NH Border

Crews will be working on the traffic signal, concrete sidewalks and islands at the intersection of Route 12/5/131.

VT Route 131 – I91 Interchange to Downer’s Corners

Ditching and clean-up work will occur in various areas throughout the project.

Paving – Crews will continue paving the base layer of asphalt between Victory Drive and Henry Gould Road throughout the week. Paving is contingent upon favorable weather conditions.
Please keep in mind that the base layer is the first of three layers of pavement that will be installed. Paving is expected to occur for several weeks.

TRAFFIC DELAYS – ALL operations will require travel to be reduced to alternating one-way travel around the construction packages. Traffic control personnel will be present to assist in maintaining traffic flow. Motorists should anticipate traffic delays while traveling through the project and plan accordingly. Please allow for extra time in your travel plans.
Contact Francine Perkins, Public Relations Officer, FRP Enterprises, LLC with any questions or concerns with regards to the project at 802-479-6994 or for a more up to date schedule visit www.roadworkupdates.com.

Thrasher Road at Victory Drive Closed Monday/Tuesday

Good Monday morning everyone!

Town crews will be working on the culvert on Thrasher Rd at Victory Drive today and tomorrow. As a result, drivers will not be able to detour around Route 131 construction by taking Thrasher Rd.

THRASHER RD WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY (9/30) and TUESDAY (10/1).

Please remember that Route 131 construction may delay travel.

Thrasher Road to Victory Drive Closed Monday, 9/30

Thrasher Road to Victory Drive on the 131end will be closed tomorrow due road maintenance . 

Please seek alternate route . 

Thank you

Weathersfield News, Week of September 16, 2013

Fall has almost officially arrived. The garden is winding down, the pumpkins are bright orange and the pigs are getting huge! School has started, there are frost warnings out for the area and the wood stove in the kitchen has been put to use already.

It seems as if there is nothing but meetings galore this week. After playing for most of the summer, it's now time to get back to business. Budgets are in the process of being created and discussed. Warmer coats, gloves and hats are being dug out from the closet.

The grandchildren, Camden, Jayda and Sage were over this weekend and wanted to earn a few extra dollars. They helped me stack quite a bit of wood. Cam and Jayda reached their goal of 200 pieces of wood, while Sage was very content with his 111 pieces. At the much discussed agreed upon price of 10 cents each, I lost and gained on the deal. Lots of wood stacked!! My slush fund money is quite drained, though!

Canning and freezing lots of vegetables from the garden. Last nights dinner was fresh cabbage. Tonight is shelled beans and string beans. The brussel sprouts are still growing. Pumpkins will be harvested this weekend.

If the fuzz on the horses and pony are any indication, we are headed for an early winter. I would love it if someone were to tell me that my predictions are wrong!  Stay warm!

Weathersfield News, Week of 9/23/13

The leaves are beginning to change on the hillsides. Mums are in full bloom. Pumpkins are bright orange and large in the dwindling garden. Fall has officially arrived.

School is in full swing. The newness has worn off the pencils, rumpled pages are present in the notebooks and shoes are scuffed.

Meetings are galore as the budget process has started in town. Reports are due, committees formed, meetings scheduled.

We have already had a couple of fires in the wood stove in the kitchen. The horses are truly turning fuzzy. The turkeys are getting huge! Sweat pants and sweat shirts have started appearing in the laundry basket.

I was out working in the field the other day and found a few wolly bear caterpillars.  They have very little brown on both ends, but lots of black in the middle. I guess the farmer's almanac has the same prediction.

 Enjoy the apples, the fall harvest, the crisp morning air. Winter is just around the corner. It was snowing in Anchorage yesterday. Guess I'm glad we only had rain showers.

Weathersfield Convenience Store Robbed

Posted: Sep 27, 2013 10:17 AM EST Updated: Sep 27, 2013 12:48 PM EST

 http://www.wcax.com/story/23547454/vt-state-police-investigate-store-robbery

Surveillance photo

 

Surveillance photo

WEATHERSFIELD, Vt. (AP) - Vermont state police are investigating the robbery of a convenience store as the clerk was preparing to close.

Police say a white male wearing a hooded sweatshirt and a mask walked into the Circle K convenience store just off Interstate 91 in Weathersfield at about 11 p.m. Thursday.

The man kept his right hand in his pocket during the robbery but did not brandish a weapon.

Police say the suspect made off with a small amount of cash and fled on foot. A K-9 team tracked him a short distance but did not catch up with him.

Investigators are reviewing store surveillance video and ask that anyone with information on the case call the Rockingham state police barracks at 802-875-2112.

New Vermont hunting rules

New Vermont hunting rules

Posted: Sep 27, 2013 12:15 PM EST Updated: Sep 27, 2013 12:15 PM EST

By WCAX News -

http://www.wcax.com/story/23548914/new-vermont-hunting-rules

MONTPELIER, Vt. -
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is reminding Vermont hunters there are some new rules in effect.

Hunters cannot take a wild animal within 25 feet of a public road.

It's now illegal to fire a gun, crossbow and bow and arrow across a public road.

It is now OK for a hunter to carry a pistol or revolver while hunting during bow and arrow season, but that gun cannot be used to kill a deer. It's still illegal to carry a rifle, shotgun or muzzleloader while bow hunting deer during bow and arrow season.

Celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day in Perkinsville

 http://www.pvfga.com/

WEATHERSFIELD HOME WEATHERIZATION CHALLENGE

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2013
10am to 3pm
BUTTON UP DAY OF ACTION

SAVE MONEY – ENJOY A WARMER HOUSE THIS WINTER AND A COOLER ONE NEXT SUMMER

Volunteers needed to donate a couple of hours to help promote this free program and go door-to-door with information for homeowners

Please leave a message for the Town Energy Group (with your name and contact) at the Weathersfield Town Office. Tel: (802) 674-2626 OR

Contact Efficiency Vermont (888) 921-5990 or efficiencyvermont.com to learn about grants and rebates on the 2013 Community Weatherization Challenge

Best Energy Saving Technologies

http://www.sevca.org/best-fee-for-service-wx

A division of SEVCA Weatherization

Best Energy Saving Technologies (BEST) is a fee-based service that was developed to serve households and businesses who did not qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), and were willing to pay for the high quality, cost-saving service that it provides.

Due to the escalating cost of fuel, the demand for, and the capacity of our BEST program has expanded significantly in recent years to meet the need. We provide the same state-of-the-art efficiency measures as in the WAP – energy audits, insulation and sealing, heating system improvements, and other energy-saving work for a reasonable cost that will be paid back rapidly with the resulting fuel cost savings.

BEST can provide energy improvements in existing homes and businesses as well as new construction. The same level of quality, professionalism and care is taken with the analysis and installation of measures in both of our programs.

BEST serves Southeastern Vermont and Southwestern New Hampshire.  Most of our BEST inquiries are a result of referrals from previously satisfied customers.  It’s never too late to make your home energy efficient. It’s your BEST bet.

Weathersfield Energy Group on Facebook

I've created a facebook page called Weathersfield Energy Group which can be found here:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Weathersfield-Energy-Group/431778983609763?ref=hl

I don't know if you use facebook at all, but at least you can tell other folks about it.

Health Officials Urge Parents to Buckle Up Children

Posted: Sep 27, 2013 8:56 AM EST Updated: Sep 27, 2013 9:54 AM EST

By WCAX News - bio | email

http://www.wcax.com/story/23546756/health-officials-are-urging-parents-to-buckle-up-children

RUTLAND, Vt. - After an alarming inspection, Vermont health officials are urging parents to check their children's car seats.

Technicians looked at 83 cars with children in them last week and only two had properly working car seats.

All the other vehicles either had car seats that were not installed correctly, defective or not used.

In some cases, children were found riding in adults' laps.

The Health Department says children should not use seat belts until they are at least 4-foot-9 inches.

Weathersfield School Newsletter - 9/27/13

Weekly News Letter from The Principal’s Corner

September 27, 2013

No School on Friday
Reminder: Friday is an inservice day for teachers, so students do not have school.

Bus Rules
Please notice the bus rules on the back of this week’s newsletter, as a good reminder….SAFETY FIRST!

PowerSchool Parent Portal – Open for Grades 5-8
We will no longer be posting the 5-8 homework assignments on the school website based on the fact that all assignments, tests, and quizzes can be found using the Power School Parent Portal. If you have any questions regarding homework, please contact your child's teacher.

No Dogs on School Property, Please
Please do not bring dogs on school campus during athletic events, (games and practices).  We had a situation recently which made it unsafe for spectators and took attention away from the game.  We want our students to be able to play with 100% concentration and not worry about distractions.  Many thanks for your thoughtful consideration in the matter.

Bus Driver Needed
We are still looking for a bus driver.  If you have a CDL or are interesting in obtaining one to become a WS bus driver, please contact the school at 6754-5400.

SBAC – New Exam Slated for Spring
There will be no NECAP testing at WS this school year. Instead, we will be giving an electronic pilot exam to grades 3-8 in the spring called SBAC, (Smarter Balance Assessment Consortium test).  More information will be revealed as we move closer to the testing date.

October 5^th Car Show
The WS PTA is sponsoring a car show to benefit the 8th grade trip to Boston this spring.  The car show will be held at the school from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 5, 2013.  There is no admission fee but donations are welcome.  Beautiful antique cars, hot rods, trucks, motorcycles, tractors, music, raffles, grilled foods, baked goods, awards and door prizes will make this a wonderful event for the entire family.  Hope to see you there!

Be Tick Smart
We want to help teach kids to Be Tick Smart. Lyme disease is becoming more common in Vermont, and can affect elementary school-aged children. But, kids can learn to prevent tick bites, which transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.  The Health Department created a succinct program for students in grades 3-5 that focuses on teaching children to follow three easy steps to prevent tick bites: repel, inspect, remove.  This program was created according to the Vermont Department of Education’s health education guidelines for curriculum and assessment. The complete program, including everything you need to teach students how to “Be Tick Smart,” are easily accessed online. Follow this link and scroll down to the section “For Schools and Camps,” where you will find PowerPoint slides and script, teacher’s guide, classroom activities and a list of goals and objectives according to the DOE standards. You can also email shari.levine@state.vt.us for more information.

Enjoy your long week-end,

JeanMarie K. Oakman, WS Principal

Town Clerk's Office Closed for Training

NOTICE THE WEATHERSFIELD TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2013 TO ATTEND THE VERMONT LEAGUE OF CITIES & TOWN ANNUAL FAIR Flo-Ann Dango, Town Clerk & Marion Ballam, Assistant Town Clerk

Celebrate the Freedom to Read!

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Banned Books Week, September 22-28, 2013

 

What is Banned Books Week?
Banned Books Week is the only national celebration of the freedom to read. It was launched in 1982 to draw attention to the problem of book censorship in the United States and is held during the last week of September. This year Banned Books Week will be held September 22-28.

 

Are Books Really Banned in the United States?
Yes! The American Library Association reports that at least 464 books–and probably many more–were challenged in schools and libraries during 2012. There are no reliable statistics on how many books are banned nationwide. However, the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas counted 50 challenges in 2011-2012; 13 books were banned. Book censorship happens in places you wouldn’t expect: in March The Chicago Public Schools attempted to issue a system-wide  ban on the critically acclaimed graphic novel Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi. 

 

What Can I Do?

·        READ more about banned books at www.bannedbooksweek.org

·        JOIN the Virtual Read-Out of banned books on the Banned Books Week website. Post a short video of yourself or a friend reading from a favorite banned book. Instructions are available at www.bannedbooksweek.org/virtual readout.

·        SHARE what Banned Book you are reading on Twitter, using #bannedbooksweek2013, Additional @ / @KidsRight2Read, @FTRF, @OIF. Possible tweet: “It’s #bannedbooksweek2013 and I’m/we’re reading [insert banned book here]. Check out www.bannedbooksweek.org!”

·        CELEBRATE Banned Books Week in your local community. Hundreds of libraries and bookstores around the country mount displays of banned and challenged books during Banned Books Week. There are events in many places, including readings.... There is a directly of displays and events at www.bannedbooksweek.org/events

 

Are There Other Ways to Support the Freedom to Read?
You can support the organizations that are fighting book censorship every day, including the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, www.abffe.org; the American Society of Journalists and Authors, www.asja.org; the American Library Association, www.ala.org; the Association of American Publishers, www.publishers.org; the Freedom to Read Foundation, www.ftrf.org; the National Association of College Stores, www.nacs.org; the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, www.cbldf.org; the National Coalition Against Censorship, www.ncac.org; the National Council of Teachers of English, www.ncte.org; PEN American Center, www.pen.org; and Project Censored/Media Freedom Foundation, www.projectcensored.org.

 

Banned Books Week Resources for Educators

Educators can help raise awareness by teaching students about the many great works of literature that have been challenged or banned in the US.

 

The National Council for Teachers of English

NCTE's anti-censorship center offers tools, documents, and other support to teachers faced with challenges to books, films and videos, drama productions or teaching methods used in their classrooms and schools.

http://www.ncte.org/action/anti-censorship

 

The American Library Association

ALA provides both classroom resources about banned and challenged books and support for teachers and librarians dealing with challenges.  Check out their award-winning print and web graphics and ALA's comprehensive challenge database, which offers information and data for student researchers.

BBW Graphics: http://www.alastore.ala.org/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=269

Challenge Database: http://www.ala.org/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks

Challenge Support: http://www.ala.org/bbooks/challengedmaterials/support

 

The Kids’ Right to Read Project

A grassroots initiative that tracks and responds to book challenges in schools and libraries nationwide.

http://www.ncac.org/Kids-Right-to-Read

 

Librotraficantes Underground Library

http://www.librotraficante.com/Banned.html

 

Lesson Activities Suggestions, TeachHub

http://www.teachhub.com/banned-book-week-activities

 

Censorship, an Educator’s Guide, Random House http://www.randomhouse.com/highschool/resources/guides3/censorship.html#4

 

“Celebrate Reading Freedom with a Banned Book”

Southern Poverty Law Center Teaching Tolerance Project

http://www.tolerance.org/blog/celebrate-reading-freedom-banned-book

 

“Books Under Fire”

Southern Poverty Law Center Teaching Tolerance Project http://www.tolerance.org/magazine/number-27-spring-2005/feature/books-under-fire

 

“Ways to Celebrate Banned Books Week”

The Learning Network Blog, The New York Times

http://learning.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/09/23/10-ways-to-celebrate-banned-books-week/

 

Censorship in the Classroom:  Understanding Controversial issues

In this lesson, students examine propaganda and media bias and explore a variety of banned and challenged books, researching the reasons these books have been censored. Following this research, students choose a side of the censorship issue and support their position through the development of an advertising campaign.

http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/censorship-classroom-understanding-controversial-203.html

Author and Book Signing at Martin Memorial Hall

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 26, 2013

CONTACT: NANCY TUSINSKI

802-674-2863

Author and Book Signing at Martin Memorial Hall in Ascutney
Tracey Medeiros, Author of The Vermont Farm Table CookbookThursday October 17, 2013 from 6:30 to 7:30

Come to Martin Memorial Hall in Ascutney, Vermont to meet Tracey Medeiros, freelance food writer, food stylist, recipe developer and tester. She writes a weekly food column for two Vermont newspapers and writes the Edible Farm column for Edible Green Mountains Magazine. Medeiros is also the author of Dishing Up Vermont.

The Vermont Farm Table Cookbook: 150 Home Grown Recipes from the Green Mountain State retraces the winding back roads of Vermont to bring us personal stories and signature recipes of dozens of farmers, food producers, chefs, and restaurateurs. 

Community members are trying their hand at recipes featured in the book for a tasting on this special night.  

 

If you would like to make a recipe from the Vermont Farm Table Cookbook, please contact Nancy at 802-674-2863 or email weathersfieldproctorlibrary@gmail.com.  

 

Please join us on this special night and bring a fork!  

 

Martin Memorial Hall is located at 5259 Route 5 North in Ascutney, VT.

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Nancy Tusinski, Director
Weathersfield Proctor Library
5181 Route 5 PO Box 519
Ascutney, VT 05030-0519
802-674-2863
http://www.weathersfieldproctorlibrary.org/

Appy Hour at the Library

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEPTEMBER 26, 2013

CONTACT: NANCY TUSINSKI

802-674-2863

Appy Hour
Weathersfield Proctor Library
Thursday, October 2, 2013 at 6:30 pm.

What are your favorite apps?  Do you map your daily walk? Can you scan documents using your phone? Are you learning about the night sky?  Come to the Weathersfield Proctor Library and share your favorite apps with neighbors and get some new favorites. It's Appy Hour at your Library! The library is located at 5181 Route 5 North Ascutney, VT. For more information please call 802-674-2863 or email weathersfieldproctorlibrary@gmail.com

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Nancy Tusinski, Director
Weathersfield Proctor Library
5181 Route 5 PO Box 519
Ascutney, VT 05030-0519
802-674-2863
http://www.weathersfieldproctorlibrary.org/

Questions and Ancestors at Library

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEPTEMBER 26, 2013

CONTACT: NANCY TUSINSKI
802-674-2863

 

Questions and Ancestors
Beginning Your Search

Weathersfield Proctor Library
Wednesday October 9, 2013 - 6:30 pm

Learn how to begin to search for your ancestors with Becky Tucker, local genealogist. 

 

This workshop will include an introduction to online sources as well as the Brother's Keeper program at the library which holds many local genealogy records. 

 

Please bring a laptop if you use one, however a laptop is not required for the workshop.

 

The library is located at 5181 Route 5 North in Ascutney, VT. 

 

For more information please call the library at 802-674-2863 or email weathersfieldproctorlibrary@gmail.com.

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Nancy Tusinski, Director
Weathersfield Proctor Library
5181 Route 5 PO Box 519
Ascutney, VT 05030-0519
802-674-2863
http://www.weathersfieldproctorlibrary.org/

Download eBooks & Audio Books at the Library!

Weathersfield Proctor Library

How to Download eBooks and Audiobooks from your Library - tonight Thursday, Sept 2@ 6:30 pm. Space is limited. Sign up required. Please call, email or fb msg to sign up! Bring your device and/or laptop if you have one.

 

Weathersfield Proctor Library

WeathersfieldProctorLibrary@gmail.com

WeathersfieldProctorLibrary.org

802-674-2863

Progressive Party Town Caucus

Notice
Vermont Progressive Party Town Caucus
https://www.facebook.com/events/1385645105002479/

Friday, September 27, 2013 

4:00pm

Town Clerk's Office, 5259 U.S. 5, Ascutney

Join with other Weathersfield Progressives as we continue to build the strongest third party in the nation!

The Agenda for this Caucus is as follows:
I. Election of Town Committee
II. Election of Officers by the Town Committee
III. Election of County Committee Members
IV. New Business
 
http://www.progressiveparty.org/2013_town_organizing/town_caucuses
http://www.progressiveparty.org/2013_town_organizing

Looking for Weathersfield Community Support - Tobacco Parphernalia Issue

Mt. Ascutney Prevention Partnership

Looking for Weathersfield Community support on the Tobacco Paraphernalia issue. A community group submitted an ordinance asking the Select Board to limit the sale of drug / tobacco "tools". One select board member asked if we could gauge how much community support there would be. 

To that end we created this petition, Please print it out, sign, collect signatures, etc.More information to come on places in the community where petitions can be found and / or dropped off. Thanks a bunch!

http://www.mappvt.org/uploads/Petition_to_Limit_Expansion_of_Drug_and_Tobacco_Paraphernalia_MPS.pdf

http://www.mappvt.org/uploads/Petition_to_Limit_Expansion_of_Drug_and_Tobacco_Paraphernalia_MPS.pdf

www.mappvt.org

Weathersfield School Announces Formation of Math Team

WS Math Team

We are proud to announce the formation of the Weathersfield School Math Team for the 2013/14 school year.

Members of our Math Team this year are:
Kacie Charest, Kristin Clark, Daniel Dexter, Maria Dolan, Rand Frazer, Ben French, Christina Gregory, Chris Gurney, Emily Lang, Serene Martens, Gideon Spikes, Skylar Swan. 

Team coaches are:
Mr. Lambert, Mr. Herbert, Mrs. Day

The first math meet will be at Fall Mountain Regional High School on October 24^th.

Storm Off East Coast

NE Emergency News & WX Feed

So im sure everyone has heard something about a storm for this upcoming weekend for the northeast. Well here are the latest EURO/GFS model runs showing the storm off the east coast. At this time it shows the Low going OTS "Out to Sea" missing the area. We will continue to watch this storm and will update when more models come in so please stay tuned. 0847hrs 9/25/13 (WXEM)

Book & Bake Sale at Library

Friends of the Library Book and Bake Sale - Sat. Sept 28 from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. 

 

Book signing with local author Judy Edwards and a mini yard sale!

Weathersfield School Newsletter - 9/20/13

Friday, September 20, 2013 at 2:32PM

Weekly News Letter from The Principal’s Corner

September 20, 2013 

Spelling Teams
On October 7th, five students in grades 5/6 and five students in grades 7/8 will represent Weathersfield School in the District Spelling Bee. This year, the bee will be held at Windsor State Street School in Room #210. The 5/6 Team will compete from 9:00 - 11:00 am and the 7/8 Team will compete from 11:45-1:45. The following students won a spell off contest to be on the teams:

5/6 WS Spelling Team
Johnathan MacLachlan, Morgan McKeen, Kate Murphy, Tori Amsden, Gunnar Waters, Virginia Snyder 

7/8 WS Spelling Team
Timothy Farren, Ben Millard, Skylar Swan, Rand Frazer, Brooke McKeen 
The winning teams in the district will go on a later date to compete at the state level.
Congratulations to all of our WS participants!  We are proud of you. 
Good luck and make our school PROUD!!!

Weathersfield School Advisors FY 14
 Math Team, Mr. Lambert &  Mr. Herbert
National Geographic Geography, Mrs.  Karaffa
Geo Bee Team, Mr. Herbert
Spelling Team Grades 5&6 and 7&8, Mrs. Gurney
Service Group, Mrs. Gurney
Student Council, Mr. Herbert
8th Grade Advisor, Mr. Berger
Drama Club, Mr. and Mrs. Yuengling
Yearbook, BJ Esty

PowerSchool Grades for 5-8
Parent portal is open for grades 5-8.  Parents can see their student’s grades as often as they like by checking their child’s grades in the electronic gradebook.  For more information, please call the school at 674-5400. Passwords and logins were sent out to grade5-8 parents last week.

Book Fair
Book Fair is October 3-9, 2013.  Special thanks to Karen McGee for facilitating this!

Nature Program
Here are some titles of books that would go great with our K-4 Nature Program – 
Thank you, Susan Hindinger!

Sunlight and Shadow
The Sun Is My Favorite Star, by Frank Asch, Gulliver Books, 2000.
Sun, by Susan Canizares and Daniel Moreton Scholastic, 1998.
Jump Into Science: Sun, by Stephen Tomecek. National Geographic Children’s Press, 2006.
Sun Up, Sun Down, by Gail Gibbons, Voyager Books, 1987.
The Sun: Our Nearest Star, by Franklyn Branley and Edward miller (illustrator), Harpertrophy Books, 2002.

Important Information
STUDENT ATTENDANCE

1. Vermont statute and local regulations require that all students attend school each day.
2. Parents should call the school whenever their child will be absent. If no call is received, the school will call home.
3. A student who is habitually absent may be considered truant. The school will contact the student’s family when a student has three unexcused or five excused absences or days tardy. Once a student reaches five unexcused or seven excused absences or days tardy, the truancy officer and the principal may be notified. The student’s family will receive a follow-up letter.
4. If a student has been absent two or more days due to illness, a note from a doctor will be required, or the absence will be considered unexcused.
5. In order to avoid being considered tardy, students must be in their homerooms by 7:50 or immediately following dismissal from the all purpose room. All students are expected to be in class at all times. 
6. Parents of students who miss school on a regular basis or exhibit a pattern of absence will be contacted by the school principal, guidance counselor, and/or nurse. Excessive absence may be reason for retention.
7. If a student leaves school early due to illness or is out sick more than half the day, he or she may not participate in any afterschool events or activities that day.
8. If parents elect that their students miss school for religious reasons, parents must notify the school in writing at least one (1) day in advance. If parents elect for religious reasons that their student remain in school but not participate in a particular activity, they must inform the school principal in writing at least one (1) day in advance, and the school will provide an alternate educational experience for that student.

APPROVED ABSENCES

1. Absences due to immunization and/or medical records attendance restrictions.
2. Confirmed religious observances.
3. Documented appointments (i.e. counseling appointment, court appointment, doctor’s appointment, etc.) that couldn’t be scheduled outside of school hours.
4. Documented family emergencies.
5. Documented illness.
6. School nurse’s documented recommendation that a student be sent home because of illness or injury.
7. Offsite educational activities approved by the principal or superintendent

MAKE-UP WORK
Students who are absent may have up to five days, based on their teacher’s discretion, in which to make up any missing work, including any classroom-based assessments.

VACATION DURING SCHOOL DAYS   16 V.S.A. 1123
Families who choose to schedule vacations when school is in session must request permission in writing from the superintendent of schools in advance of the trip, specifying the exact dates that their student will not be in attendance. If the absence is approved, the student is encouraged to obtain the schoolwork he or she will be missing before beginning the absence. In the case of extended prearranged absences, t is the student’s responsibility to complete all schoolwork and assessments within five (5) school days of their return to school. Requests must be in written form to: Dr. David Baker Superintendent, 105 Main Street, Windsor, VT 05089

DISMISSAL

1. Students are expected to be quiet and orderly during dismissal.
2. Students must walk when boarding the bus.
3. Walkers and other students who do not ride a bus will remain in their homerooms until dismissed.
4. Students involved in afterschool activities and sports may not change into uniforms or leave their homerooms until notified.

Halloween Dance
There will be a Light Up the Dance Night for Grades 5-8 on Friday, October 25^th sponsored by Service Group. The cost of the dance is $5.00 a person. 

Enjoy your week-end,
JeanMarie

Planning Commission Meeting Agenda 9-23-2013

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, September 23, 2013 7:00 PM Weathersfield Town Offices Martin Memorial Hall, 5259 Route 5 Ascutney, Vermont MEETING AGENDA       Introductions    Review Meeting Agenda – additions, corrections III.            Public Hearings: None. IV.            Requests/Reviews: None.    Discussions Town Plan Revisions – continue discussions with MAPP   Land Use   Economic Development   Utilities and Facilities   Natural, Scenic & Historic Resources VI.            Public Comment Approval of minutes: Meeting of September 9, 2013 Set or reinforce the agenda, date, time, and place for the next meeting IX.            Adjournment

Hit and Run in North Springfield

Saturday, September 21, 2013
A pedestrian was struck early last night at the intersection of Rt. 10 & 106.

The pedestrian was exceptionally fortunate to have received only minor injuries from this event.

Police are looking for the vehicle. It will be missing a passenger side mirror. Damage is believed to appear in the area of a marker light and possible break in the windshield on the right passenger side of the vehicle.

If you were travelling in this area and saw anything suspicious that may assist with locating the vehicle involved in this incident please call the Springfield Police Department at 802-885-2113.

 Source: Springfield Police Department

Today's Weather Forecast - Watch for Flooding

NE Emergency News & WX Feed

 https://www.facebook.com/NeEmergencyNewsWxFeed?hc_location=stream

Live radar update and you can see the front is pushing its way to the east. Some area's have been reporting minor flooding, stay tuned thru the night for updates. (WXEM)

 

Warning for Hunters

By WCAX News -

 

http://www.wcax.com/story/23496166/warning-for-hunters

 

MONTPELIER, Vt. - 

 

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is sending a warning to hunters this morning about game catches.

A reminder for hunters this morning about bringing deer and elk in from other states.

It is illegal to bring deer and elk from states or Canadian provinces that have had cases of chronic wasting disease.

The rules are designed to protect Vermont's deer herd from the deadly brain disease.

There are exceptions that include meat that is cut up and packaged.

Payroll Tax Overload

Weathersfield Vermont Community

 https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=743374529021819&id=522635541095720

 

Payroll Tax Overload

Governor Shumlin recently announced that increased payroll taxes will be a big part of raising the revenues necessary to fund Vermont’s new health care system. That’s right. After raising property taxes and creating a sales tax on gasoline earlier this year, Vermont Democrats now have trained their sights on a payroll tax which is almost certain to crush the average Vermont family. Where, may I ask, is the outrage?

Even before Obamacare passed, the Shumlin administration couldn’t wait to devise a massive overhaul of Vermont health care. The passage of the utterly unaffordable “Affordable Care Act” simply gave Vermont Democrats an excuse to push the pedal to the metal in a massive takeover of a huge segment of Vermont’s economy.

Along the way, Shumlin and others have repeatedly been asked how they were going to pay for their big plans. Repeatedly the question has been dodged. Now the truth is out.

Governor Shumlin and his cronies insist that such a tax will be offset by reduced costs of health insurance premiums presently paid (or co-paid) by Vermont employers and employees. Add those lofty assurances to the Democrat list of past rosy predictions of future costs and/or benefits which rarely turn out as nicely as predicted. Long after such promises and overly optimistic projections have been forgotten, Vermonters have been and continue to be stuck with the tab. Naturally government doesn’t give us the full blown details of such short falls or dreams that did not come true. After all, that would be tantamount to an admission of failure, that government “experts” are not as smart as they want us little people to think they are.

The elite political ruling class which has evolved in Vermont gives little note to outcomes and cost-benefit ratios, but it is their good intentions which get attention. Evidently as long as one has honorable intentions then past failures, cost overruns and harmful unintended consequences don’t matter.

This upcoming massive payroll tax expense exacerbates other rising costs of life in Vermont. Taxes always go up. Government spending always goes up. School budgets always go up. Government policy even drives up your electric bill. Small wonder that Vermont residency is becoming increasingly unaffordable.

Political elites are killing the goose that laid the golden egg. Working Vermonters will eventually vote with their feet by leaving the state, leaving the political elites wondering what happened.

•

Can anyone explain how Shumlin’s announcement that an allegedly necessary payroll tax increase is not front page above-the-fold news? The Valley News covered it....in section B.

•

Under ObamaCare you and I are mandated to pay for health insurance which covers, among other things, ambulatory patient services, emergency services, maternity and new born care, substance abuse, mental health, prescription drugs, rehab and rehab devices, contraception, sterilization, early abortion pills, etc. In addition, the following are mandated by the state of Vermont: home health care (with a union for those care givers sure to follow), autism, prosthetic devices, clinical trials for cancer patients, among other things.

Why should anyone be forced to pay for sterilization coverage? Why should those who use no addictive drugs pay for substance abuse treatments for others? Why should people absolutely opposed to all abortions be compelled to pay for abortion services?

In a free society, shouldn’t individuals be allowed to pick and choose the services for which they want to buy coverage?

Whether the issue is property rights, economic freedom, or tax burden, the sad truth is that we are an increasingly less free society.

Dick Tracy was raised in Woodstock and educated in Woodstock schools. He now lives in Sharon.

Fall Arrives - 4:44 pm, Sunday, September 22, 2013

Are you ready?

How Kids Should NOT Interact with Dogs

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Springfield-Animal-Hospital-VT/482300031807888

Route 131 Paving Project Update - 9/19/13

Work Update Weathersfield Route 12/131 AOT Project No: STP 2913(1) Saturday, 9/21/13 – Crews will be working on Route 131 continuing the cement reclaim, weather permitting, from Jarvis Road to Gulf Road. If it rains and crews cannot continue with the cement reclaiming, they will deliver gravel to the project and reshape the roadway from Gulf Road (west) to Downer’s Corners. Week of September 23rd, 2013 Traffic Safety Warning – Crews are asking motorists who are exiting driveways or businesses on Route 131 to be aware that they may be pulling into a construction zone. With construction zones taking up to a mile of one lane, a flag person may not be stationed in the exact area to assist someone in pulling out. If there is no flagger present, motorists should wait for traffic flow in the direction they want to go before pulling out. The construction zone will be marked with orange cones along the centerline. VT Route 12 – I91 Interchange to NH Border Crews will be working on the traffic signal at the intersection of Route 12 and Route 5. Guardrail crews will be working in various areas between the I91 interchange and the NH border. VT Route 131 – I91 Interchange to Downer’s Corners Crews will be delivering gravel and grading in various areas along Route 131 throughout the week. Ditching and clean-up work may also occur throughout the project. Cement Reclamation – Crews will continue cement reclaiming the roadway along Route 131 from Gulf Road (east) to Lottery Lane throughout the week. Similar to the reclaiming of the existing pavement, cement reclaiming consists of rototilling dry cement into the existing loose gravel roadway, then rolling the surface leaving the roadway a packed down gravel surface. Motorists are encouraged to reduce speed and use caution when driving over the gravel roadway. Paving – Crews may start paving the base layer of asphalt mid-week. They will start at the I91 interchange and work their way West towards Downer’s Corners. Please keep in mind that the base layer is the first of three layers of pavement that will be installed. Paving is expected to occur for several weeks. TRAFFIC DELAYS – ALL operations will require travel to be reduced to alternating one-way travel around the construction packages. Traffic control personnel will be present to assist in maintaining traffic flow. Motorists should anticipate traffic delays while traveling through the project and plan accordingly. Please allow for extra time in your travel plans. Contact Francine Perkins, Public Relations Officer, FRP Enterprises, LLC with any questions or concerns with regards to the project at 802-479-6994 or for a more up to date schedule visit www.roadworkupdates.com.

Weathersfield Democratic Caucus Tonight - 7 pm

Dear Resident,

This is one of your last chances to make your voice heard. Dozens of towns across the state have already held their Democratic town caucuses. Over 150 towns will be holding their caucuses tonight.

Click here now and make sure you know where and when your caucus is.

The Weathersfield Democratic Caucus is Tonight, (Sept 19) 
at 7 pm, at Martin Memorial Hall in Ascutney, VT.

Why attend your caucus? Because it’s your chance to grow our Party, and your voice really matters. As a grassroots, democratically elected organization, the decisions of the Vermont Democratic Party are made by you, the activists. Members of our county committees and state committee come directly from the ranks of local committees, so you should plan on being a part of it.

Get involved today and set the agenda of the Vermont Democratic Party.

Whatever your issue is- health care, equality, or education reform- this is the best way to get involved. As we move forward into next year’s legislative session, you can be the voice that helps set the tone for the direction we head in. But you need to attend your caucus to do so.

Attend your town caucus and help make a difference.

If you don't see your town listed, there is still time to organize! Email me at: remerson@vtdemocrats.org for more info.

Thanks for your continued support!

Ryan Emerson
Party Outreach and Communications Director



Paid for by the Vermont Democratic Party, www.vtdemocrats.org, and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee

Parent Discussion Group

Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at 9:34AM

http://www.weathersfieldschool.org/

 

This is from Rachel Williams, our VKAT Advisor:

Next month the Youth Managed Cafe will be starting out Parent Discussion Group that will take place every other Saturday. We are requesting a 3 dollar donation from parents who attend that will go towards keeping the 802 Lounge a safe and substance free environment for people of all ages to hang out at. The meetings will go from noon to 2pm. We welcome family members and caregivers of youth all ages. These meetings will take place at the 802 Lounge on River st. in Windsor VT

October 19th - Youth and Technology: Discussing internet safety, bullying and sexting
November 2 - Underage Drinking
November 16 - Bullying
November 30 - Marijuana and Other Substance Use
December 14 - Sexting
December 28 - Tobacco Usage
January 11 - Texting and Driving
January 25 - Depression and the Teenage Mind

Drive 4 Pledges Day - It Can Wait Campaign

Tomorrow (9/19) is the national "Drive 4 pledges" Day. The VT Youth Safety Council and AT&T are raising awareness of the dangers of texting while driving. AT&T will be collecting pledges inviting drivers of all ages to pledge not to text and drive at the It Can Wait campaign web site www.ItCanWait.com

It Can Wait

 

itcanwait.com

 

Texting while driving causes over 100,000 crashes a year! Take the pledge to never text and drive at itcanwait.com. #ITCANWAIT

full Harvest Moon!

WCAX-TV

 https://www.facebook.com/WCAXTV

Inside The Forecast:

Tonight is the full Harvest Moon! That's the full moon that is closest to the Autumnal Equinox, which is this Sunday. Technically, the actual moment of "fullness" will be at 7:13 AM on Thursday, but tonight is the closest night to that time. It will still be considered full on Thursday night, too. see more...

Front Porch Forum Now Available in Weathersfield

Exciting news... Front Porch Forum is now available in every Vermont town! You added your email address to our waiting list at some point in the past, and we're following up now to invite you to join.

Please go to FrontPorchForum.com and enter your street address to check it out in your locale.

If you're already a member, then please help spread the word to other Vermonters... send them to http://FrontPorchForum.com.

FPF helps neighbors connect and build community by hosting regional networks of online neighborhood/town forums. We started in our Burlington neighborhood in 2006 and now serve the entire state. More than 60,000 households use FPF to find lost dogs, report car break-ins, borrow roof rakes (snow will fly soon enough!), recommend a babysitter, and more. Each community has its own distinct FPF.

Thank you and best wishes. -Michael

Michael Wood-Lewis, co-founder

EEE Detected in Mosquito Pools - Chittenden County

Joe Gullo FOX 44 & ABC 22 here... Mosquito pools in Cornwall, Brandon, and Milton have tested positive this week for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The detection of EEE in Milton is the first ever in Chittenden County.

Read more: http://bit.ly/1dmriX1

EEE detected in Chittenden County for 1st time

http://www.wcax.com/story/23456234/eee-detected-in-chittenden-county-for-1st-time

Posted: Sep 17, 2013 3:03 PM EST Updated: Sep 17, 2013 3:04 PM EST

By WCAX News

 

BURLINGTON, Vt. - 

 Eastern equine encephalitis has been detected in Chittenden County for the first time. It was found in a mosquito pool in Milton.

Despite a chilly night, the threat is not over. That's according to the Health Department.

EEE has infected two horses in Vermont so far. One died; one was euthanized. The illness is spread by mosquitoes. Health officials say cold weather can temporarily reduce the threat. But until there's a widespread killing freeze, the threat still exists and people should take precautions.

Two Vermonters died from EEE last year.