The Flag is Out!

 The Ice-Out flag was put out early this morning. I wasn't on hand to see it getting done, but Diane sent pictures. It was a perfect day to do it - the sun was shining and it was already in the high 40s by the time they were putting it out. Some years it has been cold and blustery - or soggy wet and raining! There is a fair amount of preparation that goes into assembling the apparatus, and it's best to do that on solid land where they have tools handy. Then the whole thing gets carried out and placed, poles set to help keep the line from getting frozen into the ice and preventing the block from sinking -- so much to think about to get it just right. The ice is safe right now, but in another week or so nobody wants to be out on it, so they need to be sure everything is shipshape. Larry Rossi and his crew have been doing this for a while and have a system that goes very smoothly.

WCAX had mentions of our Ice Out during the weather report this morning and again at noon. Lots of folks will be watching to see when the flag goes down, hoping they have the winning date and time the clock stops. Tickets are still available at various outlets and on line - check the website for details. You'll find the Ice Out link on the menu at the top of the page. That's the block and flag - that dot beyond the clock in this bottom photo, with stakes holding the line off the ice. Nice work, Larry & guys!

Enjoy the warmer weather - looks like we are really into spring now! Glory be!! I'm so tired of winter, even mud season sounds good!