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Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Weathersfield School - Important Information


School Improvement Meeting The School Improvement Team will be meeting tomorrow, Jan 29th from 3 to 4:00 pm in the conference room to discuss the plan and evidence to support our progress.  Light snacks will be served.  We do not have babysitting available for this meeting, as we have lots of illness here.....sorry!   This meeting is open to the public.

Attendance Reminder
Cold and flu season is certainly upon us!  Please remember if your child is absent 2 or more days due to an illness a note from a doctor will be required.  Failure to provide a doctor will result in an unexcused absence. Thank you!

Kindergarten Round-Up
If you know a child who lives in Weathersfield and who will turn five on or before September 1, 2014, please call the school at 674-5400.  We are having Kindergarten Screening on March 31, 2014 and if you call early, you will get the appointment time of your choice.

Panther Cub Night
Mark your calendars, please.  Panther Cub Night will be held at the school on April 24th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm in the Kindergarten Room.  This is when parents and their incoming Kindergarteners get to come to school to meet the teacher and other adults who help with the program.  Fun stations are set up for the children to enjoy.  They get to meet their new classmates and enjoy some delicious snacks.  For more information, please call the school at 674-5400.

Happy Tuesday!
JM

Weathersfield School - Panther Cub Night


Panther Cub Night
Mark your calendars, please.

Panther Cub Night will be held at the school on April 24th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm in the Kindergarten Room.

This is when parents and their incoming Kindergartners get to come to school to meet the teacher and other adults who help with the program.

 Fun stations are set up for the children to enjoy.

They get to meet their new classmates and enjoy some delicious snacks.

For more information, please call the school at 674-5400.

JeanMarie

Weathersfield School - 21st Century Grant Writing Meeting


Hello!
A group of us would like to meet to discuss the possibility of writing a 21st Century Grant for an afterschool/summer program at the Weathersfield School. The grant deadline is Feb 7th, so this is a long shot, but at the very least, we can talk about the process and what we hope to accomplish. We are hoping that parents, community members, teachers, staff, and local organizations will join us and to be partners in this grant writing effort.  

We are meeting for 50 minutes tomorrow evening, from 5 to 5:50 pm in the conference room at school for our first conversation about the grant. (K-3 music program starts at 6 pm on Tuesday, so we will have to end the meeting by 5:50 pm).

If you can attend, super! If not, but you would like to be apprised of future meetings, just let me know in an email.
Thanks so much!
JeanMarie

Weathersfield Knit/Crochet Gathering. Come Join Us!


Love yarn? 
Want to see what others are creating? 
Want to learn to knit or crochet? 
No experience necessary!

Knit/Crochet Gathering

Mondays from 1-2:30 pm at Perkinsville Community Church in Perkinsville.
Thursdays from 1-2:30 pm at Martin Memorial Hall in Ascutney


Bring your current project or your own supplies to get started.

Not sure what to create? Come help create an afghan! (Yarn and instructions provided.)

Contact Lynn Esty at 263-9441 or lynnesty@comcast.net if you have any questions.

Help Wanted - Land Use Administrator


Help Wanted
Weathersfield Land Use Administrator

The Town of Weathersfield, Vermont is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Land Use Administrator. 

This is a permanent, part-time, hourly position, working a total of 24 hours per week, with retirement and other benefits.

Salary range $16.00 - $19.25/hour depending on qualifications and experience. A complete job description and application for employment are available from the Town Manager.     

Applicants should email a letter of interest, resume, and employment application to Weathersfield Town Manager Jim Mullen at townmgr@weathersfield.org.

Review of applications received will begin on 2/11/14.

Position open until filled.

Bernie Sanders - Minimum Wage, Income Inequality, Birth Control

Today's news from Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.):

Minimum Wage: President Barack Obama will announce during Tuesday night’s State of the Union address that he's raising the minimum wage for workers under federal contracts to $10.10 per hour, The Huffington Post reported. The move marks a significant victory for labor unions and a handful of progressive Democrats who pressed the president to issue the order, including Reps. Keith Ellison and Raul Grijalva and Sen. Bernie Sanders. The new policy, to be instituted via executive order, may affect hundreds of thousands of workers whose jobs are supported by federal dollars. Fifteen senators, led by Sanders, sent a letter to the president urging him to exercise his executive authority to raise the minimum wage, Politico reported.

Minimum Wage: An analysis by the Employment Policies Institute found that 96 percent of House and Senate sponsors of the minimum wage bill do not pay their interns, according to FoxNews.com. Sen. Sanders is the only sponsor who pays all of his interns, the Washington Examiner reported.

Income Inequality: Sen. Bernie Sanders told CNN’s Wolf Blitzer Monday that providing a quality education to every American should be a top priority to reduce poverty. “We should learn from many other countries that understand that education is an investment, and that every kid in this country regardless of income should have educational opportunity.” At one point, Sanders accused Bachmann of wanting to cut Social Security. “That’s absolutely a lie,” Bachmann responded, not mentioning that in 2010 she called the program “a tremendous fraud” in 2010 and supported Rep. Paul Ryan’s program in 2011 that called for doing just that, The Raw Story reported.

Sanders Signs Supreme Court Brief in Birth Control Case: In a brief to be filed with the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday, 18 Democratic senators and an independent, Sanders, side with the Obama administration against evangelical Christian businessmen who argue that paying for their employees’ birth control, a requirement under Obamacare, violates their company’s religious freedom. The senators—five of them women—argue in their “friend of the court” brief that the owners of the Oklahoma-based crafts store chain Hobby Lobby are not exempt from the Affordable Care Act’s contraceptive mandate simply because some forms of birth control offend their religious beliefs, Yahoo News reported.

Continue reading here: http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/newswatch/012814

FOUND - Zachary Lee - Safe!

VSP: 12 year old Zachary Lee of Sunderland, VT reported alive and well. 

 Police say he was spotted with his mother, Patricia Kane, and teenage sister at a restaurant in Hanover New Hampshire around 10:30 Monday night. 

The three were eventually found by police at a hotel in Lyme, Hampshire. 

Kane was taken into custody without incident for questioning. 

A Vermont State Police investigation is underway.

 

Barrack: http://vsp.vermont.gov/press_release_012714_amber_alert_sunderland

Shaftsbury
Zachary LeeSTATE OF VERMONT
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
VERMONT STATE POLICE
PRESS RELEASE

Amber Alert for Missing Juvenile from Sunderland, VT
Lt. Tim Oliver, Rockingham Barracks Station Commander – 802-875-2112.

Captain JP Sinclair, Vermont State Police Chief Criminal Investigator – (802) 244-8781

Sunderland, VT – 1/27/14 – Today, at approximately 4:46PM, the Vermont State Police received information regarding a missing juvenile Zachary Lee, age 12 of Sunderland, VT. Zachary was dropped off at the foot of his driveway at his foster home at 2327 North Road in Sunderland Vermont, but never made it inside. An AMBER Alert was activated at 8:35PM tonight for Zachary.

Zachary was recently repatriated from France. Authorities have been concerned that Zachary’s mother, Patricia Kane, age 49, may take off with Zachary. This is based on a documented history of such attempts while the child was in the custody of the Republic of France.


Patricia has been highly unstable and volatile since Zachary’s arrival in the U.S.  This has been noted by several members of the Vermont Department of Children and Families staff, as well as by legal authorities, and school authorities.  All treatment team members have been working together to help safe-guard against possible attempts to abscond with him.

Zachary Lee is described as a white male, age 12, approximately 5’, weighing 95lbs, with brown shoulder length hair, brown eyes, and speaks with a French accent. He was last seen wearing a black puffy coat with white stripe, jeans, a light-colored sweater, blue & black sneakers.

Patricia Kane, Zachary’s biological mother, is a 49 year old white female is approximately 6’0” tall, weighs 125lbs., with white or blonde (possibly dyed) hair, brown eyes; and also speaks with a French accent. Her direction of travel or mode of travel is unknown.

The Vermont State Police have concern for Zachary’s welfare because he is under 13 years old; he is unfamiliar with this area, having been here only since January 14, 2014; he is absent under circumstances inconsistent with his established pattern of behavior; and given his mother’s history of attempting to abscond with the child while in France.

Law enforcement authorities are using all available investigative resources available and coordinating with state, local, county, and federal agencies to safely bring Zachary home.

Anyone with information regarding Zachary’s disappearance, please call 802-442-5421 or submit an anonymous tip to www.vtips.info or send a text to “CRIMES” (274637) with keyword: VTIPS.

Updates will be issued, as they become available.

Monday, January 27, 2014

Weathersfield's Got Talent!

Weathersfield's got Talent!

I know it does! Talent show forms are due this Friday so I (Erica Petersen Yuengling) can schedule you an audition appointment.

Auditions will be in the music room on Tues. Feb 4 and Thurs. Feb 6 since there is a faculty meeting on Wednesday.

Talent show is Feb 27 at 6:30 and is a fundraiser for Drama Club.

Let me know if you would like to help with concessions, raffle or anything else that can make it a success! Thank you!

Call the school at 802-674-5400 for more information

Sunday, January 26, 2014

February 2014 Events at Weathersfield Proctor Library

PRESS RELEASE-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 27, 2014

CONTACT: NANCY TUSINSKI
weathersfieldproctorlibrary@gmail.com
802-674-2863


Weathersfield Proctor Library Expansion Project Information Night
Monday February 3, 2014 at 6:30 pm
Come view the plans, ask questions tour the library and meet library board members. Refreshments will be served. For more information about the library expansion project visit www.weathersfieldproctorlibrary.org. The library is located at 5181 Route 5 Ascutney Vermont.


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Love Your Library Day at the Weathersfield Proctor Library
Saturday February 8, 2014
9:00 am - Noon
Come make a Valentine Card for someone special and if you'd like, make a video Valentine for your library to be shown on YouTube!  Ages 5 and up. The library is located at 5181 Route 5 Ascutney VT. For more information please call 802.674.2863 or visit www.weathersfieldproctorlibrary.org

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Special February Vacation Program - Discovering the Giant Mantas
Wednesday February 19, 2014 from 11:00 - Noon
Weathersfield Proctor Library
Join us for an undersea adventure with photographer Nancy Nutile-McMenemy as she and her husband travel 240 miles south of the Mexican Baha Peninsula to the remote Revillagigedo Islands (Soccorro Islands) in search of the Giant Mantas. Some call these islands the "Little Galapagos" for their rich and diverse marine life. Nutile-McMenemy has been photographing the underwater world for almost 9 years and has only encountered one Giant Manta on one dive in the Galapagos many years ago. Travel with us on this journey of "Discovering the Giant Mantas" through her images and videos. All ages welcome.

The talk will be held at the Weathersfield Proctor Library. For more information please call 802-674-2863 or visit www.weathersfieldproctorlibrary.org.  Pizza will be served. The event is free and open to the public but donations towards the library's expansion project will be greatly appreciated.

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Introduction to Zentangle
Saturday February 22, 2014 at 1:00 pm
Weathersfield Proctor Library

Discover Zentangle®, an easy to learn method of creating beautiful images from structured patterns. Fun and relaxing, Zentangle helps increase focus and creativity, provides artistic satisfaction and an increased sense of personal well being and calm. A wonderful practice for both non-artist and artist alike, if you can write your name, you can create magical art!  Materials provided in this hands-on introductory workshop.

Sadelle Wiltshire, a Certified Zentangle® Teacher (CZT), has long been a fiber and mixed media artist, teacher and web developer. She enjoys playfully creating, teaching and finding artistic ways to work 'outside the box'. In both her art and technical teaching, Sadelle loves to encourage, enable and empower her students.

Ann Coakley, MSW, is also a Certified Zentangle® Teacher (CZT). Her creative passion has long been expressed in artisan baking and playful cooking. Over the last 25 years, working with youth has been central to her work, both in and out of the kitchen. She holds a Master's in Social Work and loves to connect people to finding creative paths to empowerment and nurturing their spirits.
Age 12 and up welcome. Space is limited and sign up is required for this class.  For more information please visit www.weathersfieldproctorlibrary.org or call 802-674-2864. The library is located at 5181 Route 5 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/

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Lost and Found: Found tool bag


On Tuesday, Jan 21, 2014, a tool bag was found on Route 5 in Ascutney. 

To claim the bag you must contact the town office and describe the bag and its contents.  

802-674-2626 Mon - Thurs  7:30AM - 5:30PM.

Planning Commission Public Hearing - zoning bylaw amendment 2-24-2014


Notice of Public Hearing
In accordance with the provisions of Title 24, Sections 4441(d) and 4444, of the Vermont Statutes Annotated, the Planning Commission for the Town of Weathersfield, Vermont, will hold a public hearing on Monday, February 24, 2014, at 7:00P.M., in the Weathersfield Town Office, at 5259 Route 5 in Ascutney, Vermont, to hear public comments on proposed amendments to zoning bylaw section 7.9.1, Signs. The proposed amendments are generally described as follows:
Statement of Purpose
The proposed amendment to section 7.9.1 adds language to allow off-premise agricultural signs.
Geographic Areas Affected
The entire Town of Weathersfield is affected by this amendment.
Section Headings
Section 7.9.1 Signs
Copies of the full text of the proposed amendments are available for review at the Weathersfield Town Office and the Weathersfield Proctor Library in Ascutney, Vermont.
Persons wishing to be heard may do so in person, be represented by an agent, or may file written comments with the Commission prior to the hearing.
Dated at Town of Weathersfield, Windsor County, State of Vermont, this 21st day of January, 2014.
Michael Todd, Chair
Weathersfield Planning Commission

Planning Commission Reporting Form
for Municipal Bylaw Amendments
Section 7.9 Signs
(Off-premise agricultural signs)
This report is in accordance with 24 V.S.A. §4441(c) which states:
“When considering an amendment to a bylaw, the planning commission shall prepare and approve a written report on the proposal. A single report may be prepared so as to satisfy the requirements of this subsection concerning bylaw amendments and subsection 4384(c) of this title concerning plan amendments.…. The report shall provide(:)

(A) brief explanation of the proposed bylaw, amendment, or repeal and ….include a statement of purpose as required for notice under §4444 of this title,

This amendment will add language to section 7.9.1 of the Zoning Bylaws to allow off-premise agricultural signs. The signs are for the sole purpose of directing potential customer traffic to farms that are located “off the beaten path”.

(A)nd shall include findings regarding how the proposal:

  1. Conforms with or furthers the goals and policies contained in the municipal plan, including the effect of the proposal on the availability of safe and affordable housing:

Section IV of the Introductions Goals and Objectives:
#5 – Preserve … farm land… . What better way to preserve farm land than to keep the farms that use them in business?
#8 – Retain the rural way of life. Allowing consumers to have access to locally produced agricultural products will help retain our rural way of life.

This amendment will have no effect on the availability of safe and affordable housing.
  1. Is compatible with the proposed future land uses and densities of the municipal plan:

This amendment will have no effect on the proposed future land uses and densities of the municipal plan.

  1. Carries out, as applicable, any specific proposals for any planned community facilities.”

There are, at present, no proposals for any planned community facilities.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Proposed amendment to section 7.9 Signs of the Weathersfield Zoning Bylaws
Add the following to section 7.9.1:
7.9.1(g) Signs for the sole purpose of public safety, information, or directions, but bearing no advertising matter are allowed without permit or fee. Such signs shall not exceed two (2) square feet in area unless permitted under 7.9.1(p).
7.9.1(O) Signs shall be located on the property to which they pertain, except for signs permitted under Section 7.9.1(P), and for which the sign owner has obtained written permission from the owner of the land on which the sign is to be placed.
7.9.1(P) Directional signs with a total surface area not to exceed four square feet providing directions to places of business offering for sale agricultural products harvested or produced on the premises where the sale is taking place are allowed without a permit or fee, provided the sign owner files with the zoning administrator a copy of written permission from the owner of the land on which the sign is to be placed.

Intersection Signal Work on Thursday, 1/30/14


Traffic Alert 
Intersection – ROUTES 5/131/12
TRAFFIC SIGNAL WORK – On Thursday 01/30/14.
          Weather permitting work to complete the installation of the traffic signals, camera and pre-emption will be done throughout the day. This work will require the signals to be shut down for a portion of the day and Traffic Officers will be used to direct traffic through the intersection. This work should be completed in one day.
Motorists should anticipate traffic delays while traveling through the intersection that and plan accordingly.  Please allow for extra time in your travel plans. If weather affects the schedule an traffic alert will be issued and the update will be placed on message boards on VT 131 and VT 12 on each side of the intersection.

Ascutney Volunteer Fire Dept "Breakfast for Dinner!"


Are you ready for a change from your ordinary dinner routine? Then come have "Breakfast for Dinner' and help support the Ascutney Volunteer Fire Department.

When:   Saturday, February 1, 2014
Where:  Martin Memorial Hall, 5259 Route 5, Ascutney, VT
Time:    5pm - 7pm

Menu: locally grown eggs, homemade pancakes – regular + blueberry,
homefries, bacon, sausage, fruit salad, pastries, and assorted beverages.

Cost: Adults $10, Children (5-10) $5, and under 5 is free
To-Go meals will be available

For more information email avfa@outlook.com or call 802-674-6869

Select Board 01/27/2014 Special Meeting Agenda


Weathersfield Select Board
Martin Memorial Hall
5259 Route 5
Monday January 27th, 2014
Special Meeting, 7:00 PM
1.         Call to Order
2.         Comments from Citizens and Select Board Members
3.         Review Minutes from Previous Meetings
4.         Regular Business
  1. Adopt FY2015 General Fund, Highway Fund, and Solid Waste Fund Budgets
  2. Adopt FY2015 Reserve Fund Plan
  3. Adopt FY2015 Capital Replacement Plan and Long-Term Debt Schedule
  4. Adopt the Warning for the 2014 Town Meeting
  5. Pass the Resolution on the Library Bond, schedule the 3/4/14 Library Bond Vote, and schedule the 3/3/14 Public Informational Hearing on the Bond Vote
  6. Land Use Administrator Vacancy
    1. Approve Job Description for Land Use Administrator and authorize posting/advertising of the position
    2. Approve Membership and Purpose of Land Use Administrator Candidate Review Committee
5.         Future Meeting Agenda Items
            A. Monday, 02/03/2014
                        -   Public Hearing #2 / Revised Land Use Chapter for Town Plan
-   Amend Weathersfield Roadway and Bridge Standards (second reading)
-   Authorize Treasurer to pay off Center Road Paving Loan
                        -   Perkinsville School Reuse Project: update on size and configuration of lot for 1879 school building
                        -   Contract Review / U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Police Patrol, North Springfield Lake
                        -   Update on Applications to allow emergency extraction of sand from Bow Sand Pit
                        -   Approve 2014 Certificate of Highway Mileage
                        -   Conduct Annual Evaluation of Town Manager (continued)
            B. Wednesday, 02/12/2014, Special Meeting (Replaces 2/17/14 Regular Meeting)
                        -   Amend Weathersfield Roadway and Bridge Standards (final reading of 3)
                        -   Appoint 2 citizen members to Land Use Administrator Candidate Review Committee
            C. Monday, 02/24/2014, Special Meeting (???)
                        -   Town Meeting Preparation
D. Future Undated Meeting Items
  1. Amend Large Gathering Permit Ordinance
  2. Establish appropriate charge for Fire Department filling of swimming pools
  3. Amend Delinquent Tax Policy
  4. Set Public Hearing date for Asa Grout Lane
  5. Public Hearing to Lower Speed Limit on paved portion of Thrasher Road from 40 to 30 MPH
  6. Need for Engineering/permitting for future projects:
    1. Airport Road Reconstruction
    2. Thrasher Road Culvert #3
    3. Baltimore Road 0.85 Mile Culvert
7.         Executive Session: Conduct Annual Evaluation of Town Manager
8.         Adjourn

Employment Opportunity: Weathersfield Proctor Library


Part time Youth Services Librarian

The Weathersfield Proctor Library is currently seeking an energetic, creative and collaborative person to join the staff as our new part time Youth Services Librarian 8- 10 hours per week. Major responsibilities include: plan and implement youth programming including preschool story time, school age programs, and the summer reading program.

The Youth Services Librarian will also assist in collection development; assist at the circulation desk and perform other duties as needed. This position requires significant interaction with the public; the ability to provide reader’s advisory service, reference service and the use of print and digital resources to youth and their parents. Strong multi-tasking, customer service, organizational and interpersonal skills are essential for this position. Computer literacy skills and experience with social media required.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate discipline, plus two years working with youth, preferably in a library environment, or a combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills are acquired.
  • Broad knowledge of literature for children and adults highly desired.
  • Proven record of strong customer service experience dealing with a variety of patrons
  • Prior experience working with children and families in a library or school setting
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Strong computer skills
  • Attention to detail.
Compensation:
Starting salary $11.25 - $11.75

Accepting applications until February 21, 2014
Interviews will begin February 27, 2014

Apply:
Send resume, cover letter and 3 references to: Nancy Tusinski, Library Director weathersfieldproctorlibrary@gmail.com

Friday, January 24, 2014

New Rules for Renewing Your Drivers License


Do You Know The Location Of Arianna Quinlan?

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=693661560657040&set=ms.693660283990501.693661123990417.693661367323726.693661560657040.bps.a.693660277323835.1073741831.133631763326692&type=1&theater

Arianna Quinlan 5-9-93: $500 Warrant for Disorderly Conduct


Do You Know The Location Of James Massey?

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=693661367323726&set=ms.693660283990501.693661123990417.693661367323726.693661560657040.bps.a.693660277323835.1073741831.133631763326692&type=1&theater

James Massey 8-16-90: $500 Warrant for Disorderly Conduct


Do You Know The Location Of Joshua Congdon?

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=693661123990417&set=ms.693660283990501.693661123990417.693661367323726.693661560657040.bps.a.693660277323835.1073741831.133631763326692&type=1&theater

Joshua Congdon 10-5-79: $500 Warrant for DLS #2

Do You Know The Location Of Christopher Price?

 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=693658467324016&set=pcb.693660130657183&type=1&theater
There is an active Vermont State Only Warrant in the amount of $5,000 Bail (no reward) issued for Christopher Price, DOB: 8-4-87, last known to be transient within Springfield. 
 
Price is wanted for failing to appear in court stemming from prior charges of False Info to an Officer and 2nd Deg Agg Domestic Assault. 
 
If you know where Price is within the state of VT, please contact your local authorities.

Do You Know The Location of Dorian Thompson?

 https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=693648867324976&set=pcb.693654457324417&type=1&theater
There are multiple active Vermont State Only Warrants in the amount of $10,000 Bail (No, there is no Reward) issued for Dorian Thompson, DOB: 01-04-1989, last known to be transient within Springfield. 
 
Thompson is wanted for failing to appear in court stemming from prior charges of False Info to an Officer; Violation of Conditions; Agg Assault; Domestic Assault; Grand Larceny and Operating Without Owners Consent. 
 
If you know where Thompson is within the state of VT, please contact your local authorities.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Carbon Monoxide Safety Important - Especially This Time of Year

http://dps.vermont.gov/co
 
Carbon Monoxide poisoning is an issue this time of year. We have a page dedicated to CO info and safety: http://dps.vermont.gov/co
Carbon Monoxide | Vermont Department of Public Safety
dps.vermont.gov
Carbon monoxide (CO) can be deadly. The gas is colorless and odorless, and can cause illness or death if ingested - early signs of CO poisoning include headache, nausea, and dizziness. CO can enter the home through a blocked heating vent, exhaust from

Police investigate BB gun shootings in Weathersfield

WEATHERSFIELD, Vt. - Who shot at cars with a BB gun?

That's what police in Weathersfield want to know.

They say over the last few days they've received two reports of someone shooting at cars-- both happened on Interstate 91.

Police believe the shots came from a bridge on Route 44A.

If you have any information call state police.

Weathersfield School - Weekly Newsletter January 24, 2014

Weekly News Letter from The Principal’s Corner
January 24, 2014

Report Cards
Report cards were sent home with students on Thursday. Please feel free to call the school if you have questions!

Bullying Program
On January 22, 2014, Weathersfield students received a presentation from Puppets in Education on Bully Prevention. Grades K-2 received an additional presentation on Cultural Diversity while Grades 3 and 4 discussed Learning Differences.  The students heard essential information from the puppets, asked a lot of fantastic questions, and many will want to continue this discussion at home.  Research suggests when parents collaborate with schools and bring their child’s education home, it deepens knowledge and increases retention. 

Thank you, Mrs. Sprague, for making this outstanding program happen.  Special thanks to the Hicks Nichols committee for making such important events that are informative and enjoyable for children possible!  The students said they learned a lot about how bullying and mean-spiritedness can really hurt others. Mrs. Sprague is working with the PTA to hopefully bring another special and informative presentation to Grades 5-8 on the Dangers of Social Media.  More information coming soon!   
Open Practice Time
Mr. Ramsey is pleased to offer an Open Practice Time every Monday from 2:20-3:00 in the music room.  Band students in grade 4-8 are invited to bring their instruments and stay every Monday to practice.  Please see Mr. Ramsey for a permission slip if you are interested.  Open Practice Time will begin on Monday, February 3, 2014.

Grade 7 Meeting for Parents and Students
Grade 7 students and their parents were asked to attend a PTA sponsored Boston Trip fund raising planning meeting on January 28th at 6 pm at the school.  That is K-3 Winter Concert night so the fund raising meeting will be on Wed., January 29th at 6 pm.  All 7th graders and their parents need to attend as it is to plan out the April 5, 2014 Penney Sale!

Kindergarten Screening
Friday, March 21st is the day for Kindergarten Registration/ Screening!  It is an all-day event so there will be no regular kindergarten classes for our WS kids on that day.  If you have a child who will turn 5 years old on or before September 1, please call the school at 674-5400 for an appointment for your child.

Grade 4 and 8 Science NECAP
Mark your home calendars, please. We will be testing all 4th and 8th grades May 19, 20 and 21, 2014. Make-up testing day will be on May 22, 2014. Please make sure students in these grades have perfect attendance during testing. By letting you know in advance, we won’t need to be concerned about dentist appointments and such during testing week.

Update on Supplemental Education Services, (SES)
Many of you may be wondering where we are with SES services this year! After a long and complicated fall, trying to figure this all out, we now have contracts with SES providers in place and students are receiving services…yeah! 

Please note that there is a second SES notice attached to this newsletter, (hard copies will be sent home on Thursday, as well). If you would like to know more about SES services, or need help understanding the attached letter, please call Mimi Oakman or BJ Esty at 674-5400.

Student Council News from Mr. Herbert
The Student Council will hold a Valentine themed dance on February 7, from 6-8:00 pm. Admission is $5.00, with free snacks and beverages included. This dance is open to 5th- 8th grade students. School dress code applies.  

Our annual Valentine carnation sale, to benefit the Make-A-Wish foundation, is coming. Student Council members will take orders for pink, white, or red carnations the week of February 3-7. They will be delivered in school on Valentine's Day. Our supplier has not set their price but count on about $1 per flower.

Stay Warm,
JeanMarie
JeanMarie K. Oakman, WS Principal

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

New law in place for work zones

 http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20140122/THISJUSTIN/701229969

Police in Vermont are reminding motorists that a new state law makes it illegal for drivers to use portable electronic devices in work zones.

The law took effect Jan. 1.

The devices that can’t be used in work zones include cellphones, portable music players, GPS, tablet computers, unless they are being utilized with a hand-free feature.

The only exception is when it is necessary to communicate with emergency services in an emergency.

The penalty for a first offense is two points on a driver’s license and a waiver fine of $230. Subsequent offenses carry a five point penalty and fine up to $479.

Delayed Opening for Weathersfield Proctor Library Today

Due to illness, the Weathersfield Proctor Library will have a delayed opening today.

We should be open by 2 pm at the latest.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you.

Thank you for your understanding.

Nancy & Lynn

Search expanded for missing Vt. man

GRANVILLE, N.Y. - 
 
 http://www.wcax.com/story/24507987/search-expanded-for
 Day four of a missing Vermont man and still no sign of him on Tuesday. But investigators say they did uncover a new clue. Jonathan Schaff's cellphone was found in an abandoned vehicle, and that could give investigators a piece of the puzzle. As the search for the Fair Haven man continues, many in town where Schaff went missing, say the community is on edge.

"A lot of people out there are looking for him. It's a sad situation," said Granville N.Y. resident Ernie Wood.

Wood says people aren't giving up on finding 23-year-old Jonathan Schaff. Police say the Fair Haven man was last seen early Saturday morning.

"He simply disappeared -- and we don't have any leads pointing us in a direction," said Capt. Donald Patch of the Vermont State Police.

Granville police say Schaff left the Riverside Pub around 4:30 Saturday morning after getting into an altercation at the bar. Police say he had parked a vehicle just over the Vermont boarder and was last seen walking back on Route 149 towards the car with two friends.

"During the day on Monday and during the day today we conducted ground searches of the area. We covered the roadways that he would likely walk on -- if he did cross the border on 149 -- for up to five miles," said Patch

Vermont and New York Police are working together and called upon the Vermont National Guard for a helicopter search on Tuesday. Although the ground and air searches were unable to locate Schaff -- police say they did find his cellphone.

"It was located in an abandoned vehicle at the Loomis Trucking -- which is where the car was that they were walking to that evening to go home," said Patch.

Captain Patch says police will be scaling back on searches -- to focus more energy on interviews and investigation. For many locals like Ernie Wood they are hoping for the best, but fearing the worst.
"Everybody is worried about him -- it's kind of a bad situation. There has been an extensive search for him -- but no results yet. They are finding clues every day -- but it's looking more and more bleak all the time," said Wood.

Police say although Schaff was last seen Saturday Morning -- he wasn't reported missing until Monday morning when he didn't show up to work. Officials say at this point, there is nothing to indicate his disappearance is suspicious. If you know anything about his whereabouts -- you are asked to call police.

Vermont State Police: 802-773-9101
Granville N.Y. Police: 518-642-1414

On-Line Used Sports Equipment Exchange

I have been thinking about the idea of an online used sports equipment exchange.

I find carting my kids to ski swaps and the like to be overwhelming and claustrophobic. How does one sort through all that stuff, battle the crowd, keep track of little ones and pocketbooks and wind up with what one needs? It's beyond me. I tried it once and swore "never again."

Anywho, I'd be happy to employ a good old fashioned spreadsheet to match seekers with sellers/givers/swappers. Nothing fancy, but an easy way to pass along what we all no longer need and someone else can surely use.

If you want to be part of it, send me an email with what you have -- equipment name (e.g., hockey skates, soccer cleats, snowshoes, downhill skis, etc.), size, condition (lightly used, heavily used, new), color or style (say, "Hello Kitty") if that's relevant, and indicate a price or "free." Also your contact info (email and phone maybe?) and location (town). I'll make a "notes" field if there's any other info or detail you wish to provide.


If there is something you are looking for, email me whatever of the same categories you require.
I'll put you in touch with someone who wants your stuff or who has the stuff you're looking for, and the two parties can sort out the details.

We'll see how it goes.
Thanks!
Susan

 Shindinger@tds.net

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Candle Light Vigil for Calvin Payne - Friday, January 24th at 7:30 pm

There will be a candle light vigil for James"Calvin" Payne at the Perkinsville Green on Friday January 24th at 7:30pm.

We invite those who would like to write a favorite memory or simply something nice and bring it to hang on the tree on the Green.

There will be a table with paper if you choose to write it there.

The memories will be hung on the tree and later gathered so the Payne's will see how their community remembers their dear son, Calvin.

Join "Front Porch Forum"

Neighboring towns are finding it helpful to utilize "Front Porch Forum" to share information.

Helping Neighbors Connect

Front Porch Forum is a free community-building service. Your neighborhood's forum is only open to the people who live there. It's all about helping neighbors connect.
So far, 28 people from Weathersfield have requested this free service, but until we have 50 (22 to go!), our town cannot be "Switched ON."

For more information, click on :
http://frontporchforum.com/

http://frontporchforum.com/areas/421/flyer


What is Front Porch Forum?

FPF is in the business of helping neighbors connect and build community. Since 2006, we’ve been hosting regional networks of online neighborhood forums where clearly identified nearby neighbors share postings about all sorts of topics.

Why does FPF need my street address?

FPF requires your street address in order to place your account in the FPF neighborhood forum where you live. We do not share your street address with anyone (see our Privacy Policy). Your street name (but not your house/apt. number) is revealed to your nearby neighbors when you submit a posting to FPF.

Where is my archive? How do I see past postings?

Click LOGIN in the top right corner of your screen. Once logged in successfully, click the Archive tabs... then browse or search to find what you're looking for..

Is it available in my area?

FPF started in Burlington, Vermont, USA, and is growing.

Is Front Porch Forum free of charge for users?

Yes, FPF core service is free to its members.

Is Front Porch Forum private or wide open?

FPF neighborhood forums are private, limited to just the folks who live in each area, plus local public officials.

How do I sign up?

Go to our home page and enter your street address. Follow the prompts from there.

How do I post to my Front Porch Forum?

Once you’re signed up, you may post via email or our website. Log into this website or see your FPF e-newsletter for details.

What do people post about on Front Porch Forum?

Members post on just about any topic that neighbors discuss. Common issues include lost pets, mechanic recommendations, block parties, break-ins, helping neighbors in need, group buying, politics, buy/sell/give away items, wildlife sightings, and much more.

What kind of topics are allowed on Front Porch Forum?

Most topics are welcome, although neighbor-vs-neighbor attacks are not (see FPF Terms of Use). People use FPF in lots of ways. Our goal is to help neighbors communicate, not to tell them what to talk about.

Veterans memorial Committee Meeting Agenda 1-28-2014


veterans memorial committee
MEETING
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
6:30 PM
Martin Memorial Hall, 5259 US Route 5

AGENDA

  1. Approve minutes from the last meeting (October 16, 2013)
  2. Additions or corrections to the agenda
  3. Veterans Day – review of event
  4. Payment for flag pole lighting project
  5. Final grant payment
  6. Set date, time, location and agenda for next meeting
  7. Adjournment

Planning Commission Meeting Agenda 1-27-2014


PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Monday, January 27, 2014, 7:00 PM
Weathersfield Town Offices
Martin Memorial Hall, 5259 Route 5
Ascutney, Vermont
MEETING AGENDA
  1.       Introductions
  1.    Review Meeting Agenda – additions, corrections
III.            Public Hearings: None.
IV.            Requests/Reviews:
  1. Sketch Plan Review
    1.                                                              #01.1414 by Herbert and Patricia Steel for the subdivision of parcel 05-03-15 on Dan Jarvis Road into three lots
  1.    Discussions
    1. Zoning Bylaw Revision
      1.                                                              Drug and tobacco paraphernalia establishments
      2.                                                            Report for proposed amendments to section 7.9 (Signs)
  2. Town Plan Revision
    1.                                                              Utilities and Facilities chapter
VI.            Public Comment
  1. Approval of minutes: Meeting of January 13, 2014
  1. Set or reinforce the agenda, date, time, and place for the next meeting
IX.            Adjournment

Free Ice Fishing Day Festival - January 25, 2014

Free Ice Fishing Day is new to Vermont in 2014 and will be held annually on the fourth Saturday in January.

http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/fish_icefishingfestival.cfm
www.vtfishandwildlife.com
Always wanted to go ice fishing but couldn’t find a good excuse to get away? Now we have found that excuse for you: a “FREE ICE FISHING DAY” on the fourth Saturday in January.

Support 802 Lounge - Youth Managed Cafe

Help support the 802 Lounge! 

Go to:  http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/support-the-802-lounge/105705
  and make a donation, no amount to small or too large.
 
Hello my name is Rachel Williams; I am the director of the Youth Managed Café (YMC). If you have never heard of the YMC before we are a non-profit organization working that works with young adults in the upper valley to help them become positive and productive members of the community.

We offer a variety of support to young adults including our youth center/arts venue in Windsor Vermont better known as the 802 Lounge.
 
The YMC fills a much-needed niche working with a segment of our population that is frequently overlooked and alienated, namely our marginalized youth. It is rightly located where there is a high percentage of a low-socioeconomic population and a high school drop out rate that is 3 times the state average.  Recent reports indicate rising use of heroin, prescription medicine, bath salts and other drugs among area youth.  Tragically, this summer four young people in the area committed suicide and officials have reported a rise in self-cutting.
 
The YMC offers youth a place to go that is safe and substance-free. It offers a broad range of no-cost workshops and activities to build youths’ skills and provides them with an affordable, alternative outlet for arts, music and events.  For example, through the Youth Café Kids group, which is in charge of running all of the events and programs, young people learn such skills as fundraising, organizing and public speaking. While youth oriented, YMC is also a resource for parents, providing workshops on such themes as bullying, substance abuse and current hot topics such as sexting.

With poverty rates rising and schools facing tight budgets, organizations such as the Youth Managed Café are more needed than ever. We are currently trying to meet a matching grant of 25,000 from the Byrne Foundation by the end of 2013. There is no amount too small or too large. Every bit donated helps provide oppertunities for young adults. If you are wondering what will happen to your donation if we dont meet the 25,000 dollars in time don't worry. Every dollar donated will go immediatly towards helping youth and the community, and once we reach the $25,000 goal every dollar you have donated will magically turn into a second dollar thanks to the Byrne foundation.

You may be wondering what programs we offer and what your money will be going towards helping. Below is a list and a brief description of the programs we offer:

Youth Cafe Youth Group (aka Youth Cafe Kids): The youth cafe youth group is open to young adults ages 12 to 21. Our youth group is the heart of the organization and is in charge of running all of our events and programs. The group learns skills in fundraising and event organization. The group is in charge of running the 802 Lounge. Our youth group is a great peer support group that works one on one with our councilor to help make fun activities that apply to young adults in the upper valley as well as receive assistance with continuing education and job placement.

The 802 Lounge: The 802 Lounge is  substance free art and music venue/lounge on River street in Windsor Vt. It is open to people of all ages (those under 12 must be accompanied by a chaperone) 6 days a week.

The Lounge schedule is Tuesday-Thursday 3pm to 9pm, Friday 3pm-12am, Saturday 2pm-12am and Sunday 2pm-pm.

The lounge is free during normal operation and offers free wifi, laptops for in house use, cable on our 50 inch tv, a playstation with a variety of games, an air hockey table, books games and our great resource area (the resource area features free health products like soap and tooth brushes as well as a community bulletin board and useful brochures).

Most of all the lounge is a great place to come and hang out, do homework and purchase snacks. We also offer music and art events, art workshops, business workshops, a parenting group and health workshops.

Although the lounge is open to people of all ages it primarily is used by young adults between the ages of 14 and 25 reducing the loitering issue and substance use issue in Windsor Vt.

Art and Music Events: The Youth Managed Cafe offers low cost music and art events featuring local artist. These events range from concerts to art galleries and everything in between. Our events are held all over the upper valley to insure everyone the access to cultural events.

Art Workshops: We offer a variety of art workshops that resemble day camps for people under the age of 19. Working with experienced artists our workshops are a great way to provide a variety of art education to all in the community for low to no cost.

Business Workshops: The key to a successful career is experience. We offer a variety of business workshops at no cost to young adults that are hosted by professionals in our community. These workshops expose young adults to programs being used by most companies, practice interview skills and let the participants use lap tops to successfully use the skills they practice in the workshops.

Health Workshops: This year we will be starting health workshops for young adults to better expose them to topics they are currently facing that they may not have access to in other forms. An example of this will be Planned Parenthood coming and discussing personal health topics with kids in Windsor who are at least a fifteen minute drive from their nearest clinic.

Parent Workshops: We offer a bi weekly workshop on Saturday for adults that discusses current issues facing teens such as sexting, bullying and substance use and abuse.

Artist Assistance: We offer assistance to artist under the age of 25 finding galleries to display their work, schools and classes to better educate themselves and help with creating forms to sell their work in a responsible and legal manner (such as artist contracts and bills of sale).

Assistance Continuing Education: Our employees work one on one with young adults helping them research colleges, research scholarships, apply for both colleges and scholarships, write essays and create portfolios. We take pride in this program and the fact that over 90 percent of our youth group members continue education after the completion of high school.

Community Art and Philanthropic Projects: Our youth group works in different art and philanthropic projects throughout the Upper Valley. Past projects have included green up at the Windsor Welcome Center and our annual jack o lantern decorating at CHAD.

Youth Training and Collaboration with Other Youth Organizations: We take our youth group to a variety of youth summits and training events and work with other local and state wide youth groups to work on different projects such as our work with VKAT/OVX in assistance withe the Free My Ride Campaign.

The Youth Managed Cafe has received plenty of recognition over the years for our work in the community. We hope to continue offering these great programs and serving young adults throughout the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire. This is were you come in. Please help us by donation to our organization and to the future of youth. Any amount is appreciated and all will be doubled by the Byrne Foundation once we reach our goal.

Feel free to email our director Rachel Williams, williams.youthcafe@gmail, if you have any questions and please feel free to drop by the 802 Lounge!

Weathersfield School PTA - Seeking Penny Sale Donations

The PTA will be hosting its 2 Penny Sale on April 5 at the school in Ascutney.

We are hoping to get our community and family members involved in helping us to get at least 300 items.

Any items that are new, handmade or cash donations will be greatly appreciated.

This event will help us raise money so that our students can go on trips and do many other events throughout the school year.

Please feel free to contact:  Jim Rice-263-5167, Krissy Preston- 236-2446 or Crystal Thibodeau-802-230-6104 if you have any questions.

Remember no donation is too small.

Weathersfield School - Kindergarten Registration/Screening - Friday, March 21, 2014

Friday, March 21st is the day for Kindergarten Registration/ Screening!.
 Thanks,
JM

Weathersfield School - No Outdoor Recess Today; Open Practice Time

No outdoor recess today, as it is too cold to be outside even for a few minutes.

Open Practice Time
Mr. Ramsey is pleased to offer an Open Practice Time every Monday from 2:20-3:00 in the music room.  Band students in grade 4-8 are invited to bring their instruments and stay every Monday to practice.  Please see Mr. Ramsey for a permission slip if you are interested.  Open Practice Time will begin on Monday, February 3.


JM

Americans Prefer Print Books Over E-Books


nation --By: Newsdesk/
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2014/01/americans-prefer-print-books-over-e-books.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=pbsofficial&utm_campaign=newshour

 

Although more Americans own electronic readers, most prefer reading print books. 
Photo by Flickr user srharris

Despite an increase in electronic readers and tablets, most Americans still prefer flipping through the pages of a book.

A report released Thursday found that 70 percent of Americans read print books last year, but only four percent read exclusively e-books. According to the survey, conducted by the Princeton Survey Research Associates International, the average adult read five books in 2013.

While Americans read both print and e-books, the survey also found that half of American adults now own an e-reader or tablet, which is a seven percent increase from 2012.

H/T Bridget Bowman

James Calvin Payne, 15

James Calvin Payne of Perkinsville, Vermont, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, January 17, 2014. Calvin would have turned 16 on March 6.

Calvin had passions for aggressive inline skating, freestyle skiing, parkour, and technology. He enjoyed photography, drawing, and making things. Calvin was fiercely independent and adept at teaching himself new skills and pursuing self-directed research into a myriad of topics. Despite his young age, Calvin was an accomplished videographer having produced several polished skating-oriented short subjects. Calvin had a lifelong love of being outdoors and was fascinated by nature and wildlife.

Calvin possessed a special energy and focus that will be sorely missed by everyone that he touched.

Calvin is survived by his family; parents Heather and James Payne, his younger brother Mason, grandparents Patricia and Martin Clark of Landenburg, PA, grandparents Susan and James Payne of Willow Street, PA, and aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Arrangements are being made by the Davis Memorial Chapel of Springfield, Vermont.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Springfield Humane Society in Calvin's name. http://www.spfldhumane.org/

The family will be holding a celebration and remembrance of Calvin's life in the spring when it can be held out of doors.

A candlelight vigil will be held on Tuesday, January 21, at 7:00 pm at the Compass School in Westminster, Vermont.

Formal Rememberance for Calvin Payne at the Compass School

Dear Compass Community and other friends of Calvin Payne and his Family,

The Compass Parent Committee invites you to gather tomorrow night at the Compass School to honor and remember the life of Calvin Payne.  We gather not just to celebrate Calvin’s too short life, but also to comfort each other as we grapple with and begin to heal from the tragedy of suicide that has touched us so closely.

We will begin to gather in silence around 6:45 pm in the big room.  Sharing out of the silence will begin at 7:00.  Should you arrive after 7:00, please just quietly join us.  When you arrive you will find a slip of paper and a pencil on your chair.  This is for you to write a message to Calvin should there be something you wish to communicate to him.  We invite each student, parent, teacher and friend of Calvin to come prepared to share a short story about Calvin, read a poem, or lift up a song as each feels appropriate.  One can also just listen to the sharing of others.  We will share in this manner for about three-quarters of an hour.  We will then move outside in silence for a brief time around a fire.  Those with messages for Calvin will be invited to burn them. This time outside will end our formal remembrance. 

Following our time outside, the school will provide desserts and finger foods inside allowing a time to share each other’s fellowship more informally.

As this is a difficult time, we recommend that teens and young people be accompanied by a parent or other adult.  We wish to share the information that Calvin’s family has no immediate plans for a funeral or memorial service.  

Please dress appropriately to be outside as tomorrow is predicted to be very cold so even being outside for a brief time requires preparation.

Please contact Ruth Nangeroni at 603-852-0353 should you have any questions. 

Thank you for your support and concern,

The Compass Parent Committee