Sad News

I expected to take a few days off from writing on the blog, but unfortunately there is more sad news to report to the Joe's Pond community.

Jennie Gilbert passed away On February 20th. Jennie was well known in the Danville and West Danville community. The blueberries she and her husband, Richard, produced at Silver Fox Farm in West Danville are legendary. In addition, their son, Dick Gilbert, has been taking care of residences of Joe's Ponders for many years and is well known for his expertise and efficiency. Jennie was a sweet lady, full of energy and enthusiasm. She will be dearly missed by her family and many friends and my thoughts are with all of them. 

Joe's Ponder Mary Ellen Stover (Old Homestead Road) passed away recently, as well. I didn't know Mary Ellen well, but the few times I met her I was impressed with her good humor and lively spirit. I know she dearly loved being at Joe's Pond. Her friends and neighbors here will miss her, I'm sure. Condolences may be sent to: Stover Family, 540 Manning Dr., Charlotte, NC 28209.

It seems that spring is making at least a brief appearance here at Joe's Pond. Today we have temperatures in the high 30s and low 40s, and a few minutes ago I noticed some raindrops on the window. We need to enjoy this break while we have it - later this week we are heading into another deep freeze, according to the forecast. The good news is that once we get into March we know that spring is almost here - only a few weeks away. I think most people are ready and even looking forward to mud season!

A few sugar makers in the area have tapped and may get a preliminary run during this brief warmup. Those who aren't quite ready are braving the deep snow in the woods to get taps set. They may not catch this run, but they will be ready for the next one. Town meeting is a week from today and often producers in our area are boiling by then. This year has been more like our "old fashioned winters" so now we'll see if we get an "old fashioned spring" as well - preferably not with running-board-deep mud!

I also want to remind you that April 1st is the deadline to get your guesses in for the Joe's Pond Ice-OutContest. The flag isn't out yet - the weather has been way too wintery for Larry and his team to attempt to get it out there. The whole apparatus would be completely buried under snow had it been out this past week. They will have it out there soon, though, and I'll try to keep you posted. You will find good statistical information and ways to enter the contest on the Joe's Pond website. Look for Ice-Out in the menu at the top of the page. This photo was taken in 2006 showing lois of open water and the flag still upright. Every year is a little bit different and predicting when the clock will stop has no formula. It all depends on the weather and we all know that is very unpredictable! Good luck - you could be the winner of more than $5,000!!

 And here's an interesting item that my friend, Hank Bauer sent: Vermont Education rating.