| | Today's Forecast: A chance of rain showers before 4pm, then showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 72. South wind around 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible. | | | | | The "Future of Star Lake" meeting on May 29th, presented by the Conservation Commission, the Community Association and the Conservation Trust, was a rousing success. Not only did well over 40 residents attend the meeting, they contributed their ideas and committed their energy to enhancing Star Lake as a recreational opportunity for all.
Three speakers led off the meeting, each briefly outlining the current status of the lake and of projects planned or currently underway to enhance accessibility and use.
JIM CORVEN opened with a summation of the recent Arrowwood Environmental analysis.
The Lake is not polluted.
Currently, the only non native invasive aquatic plant present is curly pondweed
Phosphate levels of the lake have not changed since last checked
Lake plants are decomposing at a rate which increases both nutrient deposits and sediment build up on the lake bottom.
Jim added that State regulations, stemming in part from a large portion of the Lake's designation as a wetland, prevent any dredging, use of sterile fish, and widespread use of herbicide.
JEAN MARIE FITZGERALD then spoke of the Lake's current and potential recreational value, focusing on;
Improvements to the beach area, including a possible playground, increased picnic facilities, shade area and work to prevent storm runoff.
The MHCC will continue to pursue grant funding to support the above projects, as well as organize fund raising for improvements.
PHIL LEONARD talked about ongoing efforts at weed control, including;
Bottom barriers off the the swimming area and the boat launch area.
Hand pulling of weeds, (there are no restrictions on hand pulling)
Continuing to explore a state permit for limited mechanical harvesting.
He also noted the importance of encouraging young families to participate in Lake activities, as well as the planning and implementation of improvements.
KATY STILES, District Manager for the Rutland Natural Resources Conservation District, gave a brief description of Vermont's Lakeshores and LakeWise program, which can give waterside property owners vital information, at no cost, regarding managing their property. https://dec.vermont.gov/watershed/lakes-ponds/lakeshores-lak...
Participants then joined one of 3 groups for further discussion on how to overcome obstacles and concrete next steps to make the lake more usable and fun in 2025 and beyond
Group 1 /Park Recreation Area - discussed and agreed that priorities should include creating a natural playground area, additional seating, landscaping for more shade, a fire pit and a bocce court.
Group 2/ Swimming and Boat Access Area expressed strong interest in opening a 'water pathway' for boaters to navigate. Closer to shore, perhaps even lanes for swimmers who want to do laps. There was support for keeping the swimming and boating areas as free of weeds as possible, using both volunteer hand pulling, mechanical harvesting, (if approved)and increasing the use of bottom barriers.
Group 3/Rest of the Lake - wanted to widen the exploration of mechanical harvesting to open pathways for boaters, explore harvesting of the Water Lilies, composting options and borrowing or sharing equipment from other Vermont lakes.
The Conservation Commission has already submitted to the State an application to allow mechanical harvesting at the boat and swimming access area. We are hopeful that it will be granted. But much still remains to be done.To improve access and enhance recreation opportunities at the beach will, even if grant funding is found to cover some costs, require major investments of time and money. As will even the limited harvesting under consideration.
Generations of Mount Holly residents and their children have enjoyed Star Lake but it will take the commitment of many to ensure that remains an option for generations to come. | | |
| | Today's Forecast: Partly sunny, with a high near 63. Southeast wind around 8 mph. | | | | Reminder! Star Lake June Finale Cleanup Many thanks to all who have helped with the June 14 and 21 cleanup sessions at Star Lake. The third of three June cleanup activities at Star Lake is planned for this Saturday morning, June 28, from 9am to 11am. Please join in We will meet at the beach recreation area. This Saturday's session will again involve significant weed removal in preparation for the installation of bottom barriers early in July. Please call Phil at 259-2694 if you have questions. | | | | |
It's Friday and the weekend is here! Wow, what a week of weather here at the farm. Very hot and humid for 4 days in a row. We moved the cattle into our most shaded pasture and kept them there for a few days until the heat died down. We did more water and wellness checks throughout the day to make sure the chicks, meat birds, laying hens and pigs were watered and comfortable. The good weather also meant being in the hay field. It's can make for a long, hot day, but knowing there will be feed for the cattle in the winter makes it worthwhile. The grandkids are officially on summer break and they will be starting their summer lemonade business next week. Hand-squeezed and simply delicious and refreshing. The farm stand is open for the weekend and for your shopping pleasure. We've got our shelves filled with local goodies like honey, jams, mustards, vinegars, coffee beans, note cards, and canvas prints. Don't forget to grab some of our award-winning, wood-fired maple syrup when you're here. Not just for pancakes, try it over burgers, pizza, or in a glass of ice cold milk. You're welcome! Get a jump on the holiday weekend shopping and grab some of our pre-made ground beef patties! Each package contains 4 pre-made patties, ready for your grill. We look forward to seeing you at the farm stand this weekend. We are open Wednesdays through Sundays from 12:00 - 5:00. We accept cash, credit cards, and checks. Plenty of parking in front of the farm stand too!. With the summer season upon us, please be mindful of hay equipment, customer traffic, and grandkids as you drive in and out of the driveway.
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SHOP OUR WEBSITE How's your supply of maple syrup? Are you almost out of our maple almonds? Our website has just what you're looking for and is open 24/7 for your shopping convenience. All things maple from our Vermont farm to your family. You shop, we ship.
| | | | Plew Farm 1966 Healdville Rd, Mount Holly, VT 05758 | | Farm stand open Wednesdays through Sundays from 12:00 - 5:00. 802-259-2250 |
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Tomorrow: Book Talk at Mount Holly Library Saturday June 28 at 1:30 pm GATHER by Ken Cadow Rachael Cohen, from Vermont Humanities, will be coming to Mt. Holly Library, June 28, at 1:30, to talk about Ken Cadow's prize winning novel, Gather. A resourceful teenager in rural Vermont struggles to hold on to The family home while his mother recovers from addiction in this striking debut novel. Winner of the Kirkus Prize A National Book Award Finalist A Michael L. Printz Honor Book "Arguably one of the finest novels of the year." - Booklist (starred review)
| | | | | "COME ONE, COME ALL"
Wallingford Day is July 19!!The day begins with a town-wide tag sale- this is not directly organized by the Wallingford Day committee but it's been a tradition for Wallingford residents to hold tag sales in the morning, a great time to clear out unwanted possessions and reconnect with neighbors.
There will be activities in town until 2pm including around the library, at the Rotary building, Dentist parking lot, and First Congregational Church! Food truck will be parked on Main Street to add to the amazing food you can already get around town.
At 2pm activities continue. The food truck will move to the Recreation area on Meadow Street. There will also be other food, drinks, desserts and ice-cold options available at the rec field. New this year there are bouncy houses for the kids. Music also starts at 2pm at rec field with Phil Henry, Honey, and finally DJ Brett Myhre, followed by the Lawrence Kaminski Memorial Fireworks Show after the sun goes down.
Follow Wallingford Day on Facebook and look for announcements there and on Front Porch Forum to see details about the schedule for the day and any necessary changes in plans due to unforeseen circumstances. | | | | | Free cast aluminum cafe set. Contact connor@ohio.edu
Old Tiffany Road, Belmont | | | | |
Two Local Business Celebrations Mark a Bright Day for Okemo Valley Economy Ludlow & Proctorsville, VT – June 20, 2025 — The Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce (OVRCC) proudly celebrated two milestone ribbon cuttings on a beautiful summer day, spotlighting the vibrant growth and community spirit in the region's small business scene. The day kicked off in Ludlow with the grand re-opening of Aubuchon ACE Hardware on Main Street. Following major renovations and a new partnership with ACE Hardware, the store welcomed guests with a festive ribbon cutting officiated by Will Aubuchon, CEO of Aubuchon Hardware. Vendors, loyal customers, and team members gathered to explore the refreshed space and mark the company's renewed commitment to local service and quality. Later in Proctorsville, the celebration continued with the official opening of Green Mountain Fireplace Specialties (GMFS) at their new retail location on Route 103, adjacent to the Grafton Village Cheese Store. A beloved family-run business, GMFS unveiled an expanded product line that goes beyond stoves to now include BBQ grills, outdoor living products, and a delicious selection of BBQ sauces, condiments, and grilling tools. In addition to home and outdoor goods, the store proudly features Vermont favorites such as maple syrup, Vermont Flannel shirts, and Vermont Teddy Bears—offering both locals and visitors a warm taste of the state's traditions and craftsmanship. These two ribbon cuttings were made even more memorable by the arrival of sunny summer weather, adding a festive glow to the day's celebrations. "These events reflect the energy and resilience of our local businesses," said Carol Lighthall, Executive Director of OVRCC. "We're honored to support their continued success and the important role they play in the heart of our communities." About OVRCC:
The Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, member-driven organization working to promote and support the businesses and communities of the Okemo Valley region. Learn more at www.yourplaceinvermont.com.
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| | Today's Forecast: A chance of rain showers after 1pm. Partly sunny. High near 70, with temperatures falling to around 64 in the afternoon. East wind around 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. | | | | | Book Talk at Mount Holly Library
Saturday June 28 at 1:30 pm
GATHER
by Ken Cadow
Rachael Cohen, from Vermont Humanities, will be coming to Mt. Holly Library, June 28, at 1:30, to talk about Ken Cadow's prize winning novel: Gather.
A resourceful teenager in rural Vermont struggles to hold on to
The family home while his mother recovers from addiction In this striking debut novel. Winner of the Kirkus Prize, A National Book Award Finalist A Michael L. Printz Honor Book
"Arguably one of the finest novels of the year." - Booklist (starred review | | | | |
Vermont Home Gardener July Gardening This is the time of peak flowers and fresh veggies, sweet berries plus weeds and pesty bugs. It's the best of gardening and time to enjoy all your work coming into fruition. There is also work to do. Mulching and fertilizing, regular weeding, watching for pests (bugs & critters) but also early harvests have begun, and succession plantings can start. In the July article I'll cover some ideas about converting weeds to fertilizer, mulching, succession planting, and tips for lawns & veggies. Read the full article at VermontHomeGardener.com | | |
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