Colchester Sun: December 6, 2018 by Colchester Sun

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{ Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 }

DeCk the halls PHOTO BY KYLE ST. PETER

Burnham Memorial celebrates the holidays with gingerbread decorating, hot cocoa and a tree lighting. For more photos, see pages 18-19.

Community outreach team From Vt. to the DRC Local nonprofit helps victims of sexual violence brings support to locals By MADELINE CLARK By AMANDA BROOKS The Colchester Selectboard heard an update from police Chief Doug Allen and First Call assistant director Brandi Littlefield at its last meeting on the community outreach program that started in January. The town and police department developed the program last year in response to an increase in mental health calls and suicide attempts, former police Chief Jennifer Morrison told the Sun last spring. The program is funded by all six towns involved: Colchester, Essex, South Burlington, Winooski, Shelburne and Williston. In its first five months of operation, April 30 to September 30, the community outreach team has made 611 contacts with community members in the six towns. This breaks down to 329 distinct clients served, either face-to-face or over the phone, according to the Howard Center community outreach report.

In Colchester, the team has made 75 contacts with community members, which amounts to about 12 percent of the total contacts. In Essex, the team made 85 contacts. The team excels at alleviating police of-

“The start of this program is catching fire.” Jeff Cook

Community outreach specialist ficers’ stress by assisting them on certain calls, Littlefield said. When a police officer is dispatched, he or she can bring along an outreach specialist, especially if the call will reSee SUPPORT, page 2

Cleophace Mukeba sat in a boat crowded with over 100 people, a third colossal wave of the night headed in their direction. Some passengers screamed, some prayed and some sang. They were fleeing war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, then named the Republic of Zaire. In the midst of the chaos, Mukeba recalled, he simply sat and accepted his fate, whatever it might be. Unbeknownst to him, it was the start of an over decadelong journey that would take Mukeba to Vermont, gain him a political science degree at St. Michael’s College and inspire him to start a nonprofit orga-

nization, the Vermont Ibutwa initiative, for victims of sexual violence in the DRC. “Ibutwa” means renaissance in Lega, a dialect spoken in the Congo, Mukeba said. It suggests rebirth for the Congolese women and children his nonprofit helps with medical coverage, education fees and sustainable livelihoods. By May 2011, nearly 2 million women were raped in the DRC, victimized at a rate of nearly one per minute, The New York Times reported. Many were mutilated, leaving them unable to have children or control their bladders. The conflict started, in part, over precious minerals

See IBUTWA, page 6

2 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

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SUPPORT continued from page 1

quire helping someone with behavioral or mental health concerns. Essex PD Sgt. John Dunn said the team has assisted the department on 42 calls involving mental health and substance abuse, the two primary issues affecting the community. “It’s been working great so far. It saves a lot of man hours for us, and there’s more follow up with people that the patrol wouldn’t necessarily be able to follow up with on a regular basis,” Dunn said. “You spend a lot of time with these people, and it’s things that generally don’t need law enforcement, they just need some services.”

Dunn added the program is well-received in the community and hopes it can grow as the PD continues to gather more data. He said EPD recorded 17 calls where officers could have used an outreach specialist, but they came in after hours. This data will help the Howard Center possibly determine new hours down the line if the community needs it, Dunn said. Littlefield said that when a community outreach specialist is brought along with a police officer, he or she can stay with the individual and allow the officer to leave for the next call knowing the individual who called is in good hands. “The community outreach

specialists are able to remain with that individual and then get them connected to the right services, the right support, build a rapport with them,” she explained. “They have a relationship so that maybe [the individual is] contacting community outreach instead of contacting 911 the next time that they need support and assistance.” Littlefield noted the team’s greatest number of referrals, 68 percent of the time, are made for behavioral and mental health services, including counseling, addiction services and other forms of therapy. She added the team has helped police decrease the

COURTESY PHOTO

The community outreach team is currently made up of three staff members: Rachel Castillo, Jeff Cook and Mike Muery. The team hopes to expand to four members soon.

number of individuals they send to the emergency room. The report shows the team referred clients to a hospital only 39 times, or about 6 percent, in the first five months. “Before [the police department] had this option … that percentage was much much higher,” Chief Allen said, estimating officers previously sent clients to the emergency department around 80 percent of the time. “We don’t have the expertise or the resources, so our go-to was the ED.” Community outreach specialist Jeff Cook said this can divert police from situations where they’re not needed, saving time and energy. When the team started in April, specialists asked police departments for a list of people who frequently call emergency dispatch who might need other services instead. “Being proactive on our end is making sure that those constant contacts are calling us instead of police in those crisis situations, that don’t necessarily need the emergency room,” Cook said. This “proactive community support” is the team’s most frequent service: They’ve clocked in 222 instances in just five months. Unlike police officers, outreach specialists can treat in-

dividuals in their home and help them figure out the services they might need, Littlefield said. “People are being served in the best place possible for them, because they’re in their home where they’re most comfortable,” she said. “As opposed to having to ride in a police car and go to the ED, potentially unnecessarily, many of the needs are met without having to have somebody go into a hospital at all.” Community outreach specialist Mike Muery said the team works with clients of all ages, especially seniors who have trouble finding support to help with aging and housing issues. He added the team can alter its services based on the client’s age and needs. Overall, team members said they’ve made progress and are excited to keep working in the communities to continue making a difference, one person at a time. “The more times we can hand out our cards and say, ‘Hey, this is what we can do, just give us a call,’ I think that you’ll start to see more towns maybe want to get on [board] one day,” Cook said. “The start of this program is catching fire.”

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Crews battle large fire at Colchester truck company

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PHOTOS BY MADELINE CLARK

Responders from around Chittenden County and the state fought flames at the J&B International Truck Center on Hercules Drive near Costco last Wednesday.

By MADELINE CLARK A massive fire erupted at J&B International Truck Center in Colchester last Wednesday morning, temporarily closing a section of nearby Interstate 89. Black smoke billowed from the building at 964 Hercules Dr. just after 10 a.m. November 28. All employees safely evacuated the building, and no injuries were reported, Colchester police Chief Doug Allen said. The blaze started after a natural gas-powered truck began leaking, and nearby heating equipment in the shop ignited the fuel, according to a press release late Wednesday night from Colchester Center Volunteer Fire Company. The fire was ruled accidental. The building and at least six vehicles were heavily damaged in the incident, police said. The Colchester Dispatch Center received a call around 9:27 a.m. reporting a natural gas or propane odor in the building, Allen said. Less than a minute later, they received word that the building was aflame. The blaze sent large, dark clouds of smoke high above the treeline separating the scene from the highway. Vermont State Police initially closed I-89 between Exits 15 and 16 due to visibility and other safety concerns. The lanes were reopened about an hour later. “We were afraid that any kind of shift [of the wind] at all would make a blackout condition so state police chose to close it down,” Allen said. As of 11:25 a.m. the fire was under control, according to Colchester police. Responders came from Burlington, Colchester, Essex Town, Essex Jct., Malletts Bay, Winooski, St. Michael’s

College, Vermont Hazardous Materials Response Team, the Vermont Air National Guard and the American Red Cross. According to Colchester police, at least six vehicles in the shop were heavily damaged or destroyed in the fire. No other industrial park tenants had to evacuate since the wind carried the smoke in a southerly direction. “We would have had a different situation [if the direction was different],” Allen said. “We may have had to close down Costco [and] some other businesses in the area.” Allen was unsure of how many employees were in the building. He said employee training protocol helped with the smooth exit. “My understanding is as soon as they knew they had a leak, they started their procedures,” Allen said. “When the fire happened, they were that much more ahead of the game with everyone out safe.” The last responders left around 5 p.m. last Wednesday. Colin Flanders contributed to this story.

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Welch sees bipartisan possibilities Dairy legislation is one of them By MICHELLE MONROE St. Albans Messenger Staff Vermont Congressman Peter Welch believes there are issues on which Republicans and Democrats can work together in the upcoming Congress. Although ballots are still being tallied in some states, the Democrats will take a majority in the House of Representatives in the next Congress, to be seated in January, having taken 37 formerly Republican seats with a handful still to be determined. “We want to do things and reach out to Republicans,” said Welch, explaining outgoing House Speaker Paul Ryan, who retired rather than seek reelection, had a policy of passing legislation with only Republican votes. It was a policy Welch said empowered the most extreme members of the party, effectively giving them veto power over legislation. A group of Tea Party Republicans, known as the Freedom Caucus, “was an impediment even to many of my Republican colleagues,” Welch said. Ryan’s approach is not one Welch wants, or expects, the Democrats to emulate. Among the issues where Welch believed cooperation is possible are prescription drug prices, infrastructure, broadband expansion and energy efficiency. “I want us to focus on doing things that will be good for everybody, regardless of who they voted for,” Welch said. Dairy legislation is also a possibility: “We’re in such a crisis that we’ve got to have significant change such as a supply management program,” Welch said. The last time Congress considered a supply management system in 2012, Welch said the votes were there to pass it. However, then-House Speaker John Boehner – a recipient of campaign donations from dairy processors – wouldn’t allow a vote. But before the House can get down to business, Welch believes it must get its own affairs in order. Power has become too concentrated in the speaker’s office, in his view, and Welch wants to see power returned to committees where discussions and hearings over legislation allow people

COLCHESTER SUN FILE PHOTO

Vt. Congressman Peter Welch says Republicans and Democrats can work together on some issues in the upcoming Congress this January.

more we have people participating,” he said. He added voting rights is not an issue on which he expects a lot of bipartisan agreement. With Democrats taking over the House, much of the discussion has focused on investigations. Welch currently sits on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, although it is not certain he will have that position in the next Congress. Asked about what he sees as investigative priorities, Welch said, “The emphasis should be on oversight.” Congress has a Constitutional duty to oversee operations of the executive branch, Welch said. That includes keeping agencies accountable and eliminating waste, fraud and abuse. Over the last two years, the House has not fulfilled that duty, in his view. However, Welch added, “I do not want us to turn it into the revenge committee.” The focus should be on how agencies are running and protecting taxpayer money, Welch said. He also sees a role for Congress in investigating corporations, particularly pharmaceutical companies. Welch would like to see investigations into prescription drug pricing and what role the companies played in promoting use of prescription opioids.

to be heard and differences to be re- according to Welch. The holdup has always been an inability to find common solved. Both the Republican bill to rescind ground on a funding mechanism. However, he believes a dedicated the Affordable Care Act, more commonly known as Obamacare, and the tax funding system not used for anything bill passed earlier this year were writ- else could get bipartisan support. Asked about protection of voting ten entirely in the speaker’s office, said rights, Welch said he expects it to be Welch. Prior to the passage of the ACA, the one of the first issues addressed: “Our commerce committee, on which Welch democracy has been successful the sits, held 14 months of hearings and heard from 400 witnesses, Welch said. For the repeal bill, they were locked in a room with the completed bill for 27 hours with no public hearings or witnesses. OPEN HOUSE “That’s a sham Saturday process,” Welch said. Dec. 8th There is widespread agreement 11am -2 pm Santa visits among both Republi11 am - 1 pm cans and Democrats on the need to address the nation’s infrastructure needs from VISIT OUR GIFT DEPT. OUR BAKERY IS MAKING roads and bridges to Home Decor, Garden Accents, Donuts, Pies, Breads & water and wastewaCandles, Jewelry, Scarves & Rolls, Holiday Cupcakes ter, as well as broadOrnaments, Plush, Puzzles & band in rural areas, Let us help you with your

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Ibutwa continued from page 1

in the country. Deposits of tin, tungsten, gold, tantalum and coltan—all used to manufacture electronic devices— caused militia groups to exploit the region and engage in a bloody war. “The consequences of exploiting that mineral was the raping of women,” Mukeba

said. “And young kids.” Mukeba fled the country unaware of the mineral conflict, and he returned in 2012 to find out how best to aid women from his homeland. “I asked the question ‘What can I help you [with]?’” he said. “[But] you can’t ask someone who is suffering, ‘How can I help?’ The answer is: ‘Everything.’” Ibutwa began raising funds for women’s medical bills, covering surgery to re-

pair fistulas and other needs, Mukeba said. The group then helped send children to school, educating them and sheltering them from their unstable environs, Mukeba said. Families “believed that ... the teacher is a protection,” he said. Today, Ibutwa helps women build sustainable livelihoods by teaching a micro-business model that has spawned a few successful ventures like a bakery. And Ibutwa has leased land for a community garden where Congolese women can grow and sell crops and livestock, said Patricia Siplon, Ibutwa’s program management committee chairwoman and a St. Michael’s College professor. The women’s smiling faces tell a story of improvement in the villages of Uvira and Kamanyola, where the nonprofit has focused its efforts. “When I met them in 2012 it was really bad,” Mukeba said. “Now when I see their pictures I can see their smile.” Over Ibutwa’s nearly seven years, Mukeba and his crew have helped 30 women with medical bills and 70 children attend school, seven of whom have graduated. To continue its efforts, Ibutwa needs more resources, like translators for French and Swahili, committee members, bloggers and monetary donations. The organization spends $600 monthly for its six staff members and on transportation; the remaining donations directly support Congolese women and children, Mukeba said. Contributions of any amount make a big difference in the Congo, he added. Siplon said it’s difficult knowing Congolese women are suffering, but she’s fortunate to work with Ibutwa and help ease their plight. “The world is so indifferent,” she said. “It feels really important for them to know that they are not forgotten … it’s not enough help, but [it’s] some.” Learn more about Ibutwa at www.ibutwa.org

COURTESY PHOTOS

Cleophace Mukeba on a visitto the Democratic Republic of the Congo to meet with Congolese women and children for Ibutwa. The nonprofit has helped around 30 women and 70 children with medical bills, education and creating a sustainable livelihood.

Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 | 7

Business Directory

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Serving the community for over 33 years with the best dental care. Schedule a dental check-up today to maintain that beautiful smile! Most insurance plans accepted. Accepting new patients. miltonfamilydentistryvermont.com 157 River St., Milton • 893-4734

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The sTory conTinues

online! Don't forget to check our website weekly for:

• Photos from community events • Bonus sports photos • Breaking news • colchester Police reports • Legals and Classifieds

it is all at colchestersun.com!

8 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS & JOB SEEKERS

FOR SALE

dows 10 installed. $95 OBO. Call only. Call 802-868-6231 Clothing & Accessories 802-578-7606 FREE KITTEN, MALE, 8 weeks GIRL’S HOLIDAY DRESSES, XBOX 360, COMES with ev- old, gray and white, box trained, Velvet, Sizes 10, 12, 14 & 16, Ex- erything needed, as well as 50 very playful. Call 802-399-6218 cellent Condition, $8 Each. Call games. Asking $125. Call 802Pools/Spas 802-891-6140 868-6231 MEN’S SUIT, HART Schaffiner Firearms,Bows, Etc and Marxs, Like new, just dry cleaned, 30” inseam, 42” waist, .22 SHELLS, 800 count, pack46R Jacket. $30. 802-868-7613 age deal. Asking $100 for all. Call 802-238-9677 Children’s Items & Toys MUZZLELOADER, .50 CAL, AMERICAN GIRL DOLL, still in Thompson New Englander. Askoriginal box, comes with book. ing $140. Call 802-370-0295 Asking $100. Call 802-868-4199 Lawn/Garden Crafts/Homemade Items/Sewing Mach BISTRO TABLE WITH two SEWING MACHINE, BROTH- chairs, wrought iron, black, ER, 12 different stitches, still in Hampton Bay. Brand new, fully box. Paid $129. Asking $95. Call assembled. Paid $159.99, selling 802-848-3336 for $65. OBO. Moving, must sell! Electronics/Cameras/Etc.

Pets 42” FLAT SCREEN, TV, Magnavox brand, comes with remote, 802-578-7606 in great shape. Asking $150. Call 802-868-6231 BUNNIES (3), 2 young females, DVD PLAYER, COMES with 20 1 older male. Free! Call or text for movies, in great shape. Asking more information. 802-782-7827 $25. Call 802-868-6231 FEMALE KITTENS (2), One Ti-

HP LAPTOP, CHARGER includ- ger and one Black/White. Not ed, fairly new, comes with Win- fixed, looking for a good home

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ELLIPTICAL, VISION FITNESS S7100, like new, low use. SusFor 42 years, Lafayette Paintpension elliptical trainer. Bought ing has provided top quality, 2011. Paid $2,400, asking $750. fairly priced, painting services for Call 802-238-2652, Pick up in Chittenden County. Essex Junction, VT. This winter, schedule your free SWIMMING POOL, COME with estimate and see why we were everything, in great shape. Free! voted the Best Household PaintCall 802-868-6231 ing Company in Vermont. Skiing/Snowboarding/Sleds Call 802-863-5397 or visit lafayettepaintinginc.com MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY SKI Yates Family Farm Maple PACKAGE, includes skis with Syrup bindings, ski poles & ski boots New 2018Crop size 11-11.5. $115. Call 802All Grades 891-6140 Gallon $44.00 Half Gallon $24.00 Wanted to Buy Planning to buy a Christmas Quart $15.00 tree? Please consider supportBUYING ANTIQUES Pint $10.00. ing Essex Boy Scout Troop 635’s Complete households, most Contact anything old/of good quality. 45+ annual Christmas tree fundraiser Garrys Barber Shop at Essex Discount Beverage (Rt. years buying! Fair prices paid! 89 Pearl Street 15 in Essex)! Trees are from Call Ed Lambert Essex Junction Canaan, VT and are priced by 802-528-5651 or 802-878-4010 size. Weekends (9am-8pm) 802-782-1223 and Mon-Fri (5pm-8pm) beginSt. Albans ning November 24th and running FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIthrough December while supFIED BUYER will PAY CA$H for plies last. Decorated wreaths R12 cylinders or cases of cans. also available. (312) 291-9169; www.refrigerant finders.com

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Essex Center: Share a home with senior woman who enjoys history shows and keeping up on current events. Seeking housemate to help with cooking, grocery shopping and housekeeping in exchange for reduced rent of $350/mo (all inc). Private BA. No deposit! 802-863-5625 or www.HomeShare Vermont.org for application. Interview, references, background checks required. EHO

APPLIANCES KENMORE FREEZER, FREE, 12 cubic inches, in great working condition, you pick up. Call 802789-0578

Showcase of Homes FOLLOW US! @colchestersun

To advertise your listings contact your ad rep today! 802-524-9771

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WARM & WELCOMING 4 bedroom home in a popular neighborhood. Loaded with character, home offers a fireplace and wood floors. The screened porch and large kitchen windows bring the sunshine in and you can look out to the spacious back yard. Well maintained with a newer roof, furnace, some windows and more. Offered at $327,900.

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Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 | 9

FOOD

Chocolate-dipped spicy molasses cookies By NANCY MOCK

A classic and delicious molasses cookie gets a little extra zing, with a chocolate dip and spicy bits of ginger! TOTAL TIME: 53 MINUTES SERVINGS: 72 COOKIES

INGREDIENTS 2/3 cup butter, unsalted 2 cups dark brown sugar 2 eggs 1/2 cup molasses 4 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup buttermilk 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate 2 teaspoons vegetable shortening 1 ounce crystallized ginger pieces INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Cream together the butter and brown sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer (or in a large bowl with a hand mixer) for 5 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add the molasses to the

bowl and mix everything together well. In a separate bowl mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, chili powder and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the bowl in 2 or 3 additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Use a small cookie dough scoop (2 teaspoons size) to place dollops of cookie dough on the prepared baking sheet: the cookies spread to be about 2-3/4 inch in diameter, so give plenty of space between each cookie. I recommend 3 by 3. Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes, until the edges are just set. Transfer them immediately to a cooking rack. While the cookies are baking, mince the crystallized ginger using a very sharp knife to do this. The ginger will be sticky, but the mincing will go just fine if you take your time: slice the pieces of ginger into long strips and then cut them crosswise into tiny pieces. Separate and spread the tiny pieces over a cutting board and allow them to sit until it’s time to use them. While the cookies cool, melt the chocolate: heat the chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons of vegetable shortening in the top of a double-boiler, or in a heatproof bowl set over (but not touching) a pan of simmering water. Heat and stir

the chocolate and shortening until it is melted and smooth. Cover a few cooling racks with wax paper or parchment paper. Dunk one edge of each cookie into the melted chocolate and lay them on the wax paper. Add a few bits of minced ginger to the still-wet chocolate. Allow the cookies to sit until the chocolate has cooled and set, about 30-40 minutes. Makes 72 cookies. Once completely set, store the cookies in an airtight container for up to one week. Recipe note: I add vegetable shortening to the chocolate to help thin it a little. If you’d rather omit the shortening, the chocolate will still melt fine on its own, but it will be thicker when dipping the cookies. You may possibly

COURTESY PHOTO

need to melt a little extra chocolate to have enough for all the cookies.

Aunt Clara’s sour cream sugar cookies with maple tops By NANCY MOCK Sugar cookies with a unique, pillowy texture and soft spice flavor, with a sweet maple-glazed top! INGREDIENTS 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs, lightly whisked 1 tablespoon orange juice 1 cup sour cream 4-1/3 cups all-purpose flour unbleached 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/3 cup Vermont maple syrup 1-1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar, sifted INSTRUCTIONS Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Beat together the softened butter and sugar for 5 minutes until they are light and fluffy. With the mixer running add in the whisked eggs and mix to combine them. Mix in the

orange juice and then the sour cream, until the batter is smooth. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, nutmeg and baking soda. Add this dry mixture to the batter in two or three additions, mixing after each addition to incorporate it. The batter will be thick and sticky. Use a 1-1/2 tablespoon sized scoop to drop mounds of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, about two inches apart. If you don’t have a scoop do rounded tablespoons of batter. *Note: keep the rest of the batter waiting in the fridge

between bakes. If the batter gets too warm the texture of the cookies will be affected. Bake the cookies for about 18 minutes until they are set and beginning to lightly brown around the edges. The cookies should only spread a little if at all. Allow the cookies to cool completely. Use a mixer to combine the maple syrup and the confectioner’s COURTESY PHOTO sugar until the mixture is smooth. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, or use a spoon to drizzle it over the tops, and then place them on a cooling rack. Allow the cookies to rest until the glaze has

set: about 30 minutes. Makes about 40 cookies. Store the cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 days.

Nancy Mock is a Colchester food writer. Find more of her recipes at HungryEnoughToEatSix.com.

OPEN HOUSEE Music, Food, Fun & Surprises — Beginning at 6 PM

Thursday, December 13, 2018 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester 802.862.5724 / info@lcatv.org

10 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

OPINION & COMMUNITY Burnham Memorial Library book reviews

W e e k ly

TownNews Manager’s Message Aaron Frank Many thanks to the Colchester public safety agencies, staff and volunteers who responded to the fire last week at J&B International Truck Center including Colchester Center Fire, Malletts Bay Fire, St. Michael’s Fire, Colchester Rescue and Colchester Police. Our neighboring communities, their public safety agency staff and volunteers are always quick to lend a hand. Special appreciation to Winooski Fire, Milton Fire, Essex Jct. Fire, Essex Town Fire, Burlington Fire, American Red Cross and from the State of Vermont, the National Guard Fire, the Hazardous Material Team, the State Police and the Fire Marshal’s Office. We wish the Cleary family and J&B International Truck Center – in business for over 40 years – a speedy recovery for their business, employees and customers. For more about the town manager’s office visit http:// colchestervt.gov/manager or call 264-5509. Police Department Chief Douglas Allen On our last newsletter report we talked about the winter parking ban becoming effective November 15. We didn’t really expect to have record snowfall for the month. Time to review those winter driving tips. • Allow extra time to get where you’re going. Reduce your speed on slippery roads or when visibility is restricted. • Double the following distance of the vehicle in front of you on snow and/ or ice covered roads. • Equipment – snow tires, (or at least good all season tires), winter wiper blades, a snow brush, and general upkeep of your vehicle will help you stay safe. • Vermont law requires you to clean off snow and ice from the surfaces of your vehicle. Roof snow that suddenly slides onto your

How Not to Kill Your Houseplant Survival Tips for the Horticulturally Challenged

windshield or flies off and hits another vehicle creates a serious safety hazard. • Do not use cruise control on slippery road surfaces. Roadway conditions on state highways can be found at newengland511.org CPD responded to 1,054 calls for service in the past four weeks for complaints ranging from three untimely death investigations, to larceny complaints and drug investigations. This was an increase of over 10 percent from the same time frame last year. For more about Colchester Police Department visit http://colchestervt.gov/police or call 264-5556 (non-emergency). Rescue & Technical Rescue Rescue Chief Scott Crady Colchester Rescue had a relatively uneventful November with outreach and training. Colchester Rescue is working on updating our driver and probationary training programs to better align with the department needs. We are completing the new set-up of our medical bags, to configure our equipment to best fit the medical needs during an incident. We are currently rolling out the new design and starting the final phase of making minor adjustments. We also purchased carbon monoxide detectors that are attached to the medical bags. These will be instrumental in alerting our providers of the presence of Carbon Monoxide when there is not a detector present on the residence. CRS providers would then know when to evacuate and request additional resources as needed. There were 124 emergency medical calls for October 2018, an increase of 23 incidents from October 2017, which had 101 incidents for the same time period. For more about Colchester Rescue, please visit http:// colchestervt.gov/rescue or call 264-5990.

By Veronica Peerless • •

Adult Nonfiction, 2017 Reviewed by Kelly McCagg, Library Director

Are you more effective than Roundup in killing plants? Do co-workers lock their office doors when they go on vacation, just so you can’t water their plants? Veronica Peerless is here to help with over 100 common houseplants identified via color photos. Once you know what you’re dealing with, you can easily find out where to place your plant for optimal health, how to water it without drowning, and other helpful tips for dealing with common problems and diseases. Basics such as repotting and feeding are also included. This is a great reference book to have on hand for the home botanist. So be brave, and give a plant a chance.

Bob By Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead • •

Juvenile Fiction, 2018 Pam Tallmadge, Youth Services

Five years have passed since Livy has visited her grandmother in Australia. Livy’s mom and grandmother are concerned how little Livy remembers from her previous visit. When Livy goes upstairs to get settled, she finds someone she had forgotten, and he is dressed in a chicken suit! Who is this mysterious creature? Little by little Livy remembers the chicken suit she made from her pajamas. The creature, Bob, has spent five years waiting for Livy. Bob doesn’t know what he is or where he came from. Will these two friends reconnect? Will Bob find his family? You might want a cupcake while you are reading this wonder-filled adventure.

OPINION & COMMUNITY

Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 | 11

Green Mtn. Care Board needs to be OneCare’s defender By EMERSON LYNN, co-publisher It is arguably the most significant policy change in health care and most Vermonters have not heard about it. Of those who have, a small percentage can explain what it is, and how it is supposed to work. And, to boot, this year it comes with a $900 million budget. It’s OneCare Vermont, the accountable care organization that is on task to set up and to manage Vermont’s all-payer health care system. The first of its kind model was set up in 2016 and was designed as a partnership between Vermont and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The point of the model is to shift from the traditional fee-for-service system, where doctors and hospitals are paid according to the services provided, to a “capitated” system in which health care providers are paid regular, predetermined amounts based on the populations served. To say it’s a radical change in how Vermont is about to deal with its approach to health care is not an understatement. No one else in the nation has embarked on such a venture. Generally, a solo venture would invite pause. This approach, however ambitious, is not only defensive, but essential. It has the twin goals of reducing costs and improving health care outcomes. As complicated as the process is, it boils down to the recognition that the only way to reduce health care costs is to reduce usage. The only way to reduce usage is to get people to live healthier lives. The best way to get people to live healthier lives is to focus more on primary care initiatives. It’s both highly progressive in its approach, and conservative in its nature, which is why it has strong appeal on both sides of the political aisles. The worry, however, is that it can be picked apart by those who oppose change, and those who think it doesn’t go far enough. That vulnerability exists because it’s virtually an unknown.

It’s easy to pick something apart when it has a budget of $900 million and its operations are not understood. It’s easy to pick something apart if it doesn’t have articulate defenders beyond OneCare itself. That brings us to the Green Mountain Care Board, the group of five that is responsible for passing judgment on OneCare Vermont’s budget. If the board is committed to responsible budgeting going forward, then it should lend its strength to OneCare Vermont’s mission, and it should do so with a full throated, fully articulated explanation of OneCare’s importance. It’s this five-person board that can put in place the underpinnings for Vermont’s evolution from a fee-for-service model to an all-payer model. They are the ones best positioned to explain its mission and defend its need. To do anything less is to regress. To do less is to put the fate of the all-payer system at the mercy of those opposed to change, and those who use perfection as the enemy of the good to derail such programs. The Green Mountain Care Board needs to tell OneCare Vermont’s story and it needs to put in place the support systems within our community hospitals to ensure its success. That includes RiseVt, the preventive health system that had its beginnings in Franklin and Grand Isle counties, which has now gone statewide. Vermont is mid-step in its evolution to a health care system that has wellness, not sickness, as its focus. It’s a critical point in the debate. Vermonters should encourage the Green Mountain Care Board to explain and to defend OneCare Vermont and its purpose, which, in turn, would establish Vermont as a model of health care reform. It’s hard to imagine a better, bigger billboard for a state keen on attracting growth.

Davis: Not a fair shake for Vermont ratepayers By ERIC DAVIS The Vermont Public Utilities Commission is currently considering a rate increase request from Green Mountain Power, the state’s largest electric utility. Last week, the PUC posted on its website an anonymous letter claiming that “the Department of Public Service, under Commissioner June Tierney, serves the interests of Green Mountain Power and not the public. The Department’s participation in GMP’s recent rate case was a sham.” The letter, which appears to have been written by someone inside DPS, provided a detailed list of the ways in which the Department of Public Service did not undertake an independent review of GMP’s proposed rate increase. The letter also claimed that Brian Winn, the director of finance and economics at DPS, frequently disagreed with Commissioner Tierney’s approach to the GMP rate case, and was dismissed from state service after he testified before the PUC on the GMP case. Winn told Vermont Public Radio that he “can confirm most of the allegations” in the letter, and that he would provide a detailed response in the form of a public comment to the PUC, which will be posted on the PUC’s website. The anonymous letter also noted that Elizabeth Miller, a former Shumlin Administration official who served as both the governor’s chief of staff and as com-

missioner of Public Service, is an attorney representing GMP in the rate case. This is not the first time GMP and other Vermont utilities have hired former state officials as staff, attorneys or lobbyists. Neale Lunderville, who worked in the governor’s office under both Jim Douglas and Peter Shumlin, served on the staff of GMP, and then as general manager of the Burlington Electric Department, after leaving state government. Former Democratic legislators Robert Dostis and Lucy Leriche both worked for GMP after leaving the Vermont House. During both the Douglas and the Shumlin administrations, the Department of Public Service was criticized for being too close to the utility companies. For many years, Montpelier observers have said that the revolving door spins too quickly among the DPS, the governor’s office, the Legislature and the utilities. Because this issue continues to recur, the Legislature should take a close look at the administrative structure for representing the consumer and public interest in utility rate cases. Vermont is the only one of the six New England states in which the responsibility of representing the public interest is given to a department in the executive branch, headed by a commissioner who is appointed by and responsible to the governor. In Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the Attorney General’s office is responsi-

ble for representing the public when utilities file requests for rate increases. In both of those states, as in Vermont, the Attorney General is a separately elected official, independent of the governor. A better structure is that used in Connecticut, Maine and New Hampshire. In these three states, an independent office of the public advocate is responsible for representing the public and consumer interest before utility regulators. The director of the public advocacy office is appointed by the governor, but for a fixed term that overlaps any one governor’s term. Additionally, the director of public advocacy can only be removed from office for cause, not at the governor’s discretion. Under the structures in the five other New England states, the state public service or energy department is responsible for energy policy and planning, and for considering how energy policy intersects with state attempts to control climate change. These responsibilities do entail working closely with the electric utility companies. In these five states, and many others, the representation of the public interest in rate cases is in the hands of another department of state government, one that has a more arms-length relationship with the utilities. Vermont should do the same. Eric L. Davis is professor emeritus of political science at Middlebury College.

Colchester Sun 281 North Main St. St. Albans, Vt. 05468 EDITORIAL: 893-2028 ADVERTISING: 524-9771 news@colchestersun.com www.colchestersun.com facebook.com/colchestersun twitter: @colchestersun

EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE EDITOR Courtney A. Lamdin courtney@colchestersun.com SPORTS EDITOR Josh Kaufmann josh@samessenger.com REPORTERS Colin Flanders

colin@colchestersun.com Madeline Clark madeline@colchestersun.com Amanda Brooks amanda@colchestersun.com NEWS & SPORTS CLERK AND CALENDAR Ben Chiappinelli ben@colchestersun.com

BUSINESS OFFICE CO-PUBLISHERS Emerson & Suzanne Lynn emerson@samessenger.com GENERAL MANAGER Suzanne Lynn suzanne@samessenger.com ADVERTISING John Kelley john.kelley@samessenger.com CLASSIFIEDS & LEGALS Gail Wells gail@samessenger.com Ben Letourneau ben.letourneau@samessenger.com

DEADLINES Fridays at 5 p.m.

Published Thursdays Circulation: 5,100 The Colchester Sun is owned by Vermont Publishing Corp Inc. and is a member of the Champlain Valley News Group.

12 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

DEC 6 6 Thursday Preschool yoga

11:30 a.m. - noon, Burnham Memorial Library. Join instructor Melissa Nutting for yoga for you and your preschooler. We will be singing, relaxing, reading and stretching a delightful way to spend a half an hour with your child. Melissa earned her Children’s Yoga Teacher Certification through the Child Light Yoga Center.

colchesTer/ MilTon roTary MeeTing

Noon, the Hampton Inn, 42 Lower Mtn. View Dr., Colchester. For more information, contact Earl Wertheim at 651-1690 or vt210@earthlink.net.

lego club

ColChester

Religious Directory Daybreak Community Church 67 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester 338-9118 / Jesse Mark, lead pastor www.daybreakvermont.org Sunday Service at 10:30 a.m. AWANA, Fridays twice a month brentdaybreak@gmail.com Malletts Bay Congregational Church UCC 1672 West Lakeshore Dr., Malletts Bay 658-9155 / Rev. Sally May / revsallymbucc@gmail.com www.mallettsbaycongregationalchurchucc.com Worship Service: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. Church School: Sunday, 10 a.m. Fellowship time: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. Childcare provided. All are welcome! St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 1063 Prim Road, Colchester 658-0533 / Rev. Lisette Baxter, rector Sundays: 8 a.m. & 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist Sunday School & Nursery: 10 a.m. Wednesdays: 11:30 a.m. Bible class; 12:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist Facebook: St. Andrew's Church, Colchester VT All are welcome. United Church of Colchester - ABC Rte. 2A-Village Green, Colchester 879-5442 / Rev. Dr. Russell Willis Worship: 10:30 a.m. with youth Sunday school available; preschool to 11 years old Adult Sunday school: 9 a.m. Nursery care available during worship. Christ centered — family oriented.

4 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Do you know someone who likes Legos? Stop by the library and join us!

Teen cenTer

6 – 8 p.m., Cornerstone Community Church, 26 Bombardier Rd., Milton. Check out this awesome, safe space to come together and have fun! Whether your thing is basketball, volleyball, pool, foosball or just hanging out with friends - there is something for everyone at the Teen Center. Teen Night is free however be sure to bring a few dollars to enjoy a well-stocked snack bar with everything from pizza and hotdogs to drinks and candy. Please call 893-1481 for more information.

cMs WinTer choral concerT

7 p.m., CHS Performing Arts Center, 131 Laker Ln., Colchester. The Concert will feature all four Colcheser Middle School choral ensembles: sixth grade chorus, seventh and eight grade mixed voice choir, seventh and eighth grade women’s choir and the multi-grade select choir.

7 Friday baby sTory TiMe

10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Enjoy the magic of stories, songs, rhymes, bounces and fingerplays. Participants will receive books and more at each session they attend. For babies aged 0-18 months and their caregivers. No sign-up required.

blood drive

11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Essex Cinema, 21 Essex Way, Essex Jct. Thank you for supporting our community

Community

and the American Red Cross!

Train hoP and Tree lighTing

5:30 p.m., Downtown Essex Junction. Let’s kick-off the holidays! See your old favorites, including Santa at the teen center, the Roaming Railroad and model train displays in participating businesses and community partners.

coMMuniTy chorus chrisTMas concerT

7:30 p.m., CHS Performing Arts Center, 131 Laker Ln., Colchester. Made up of over 45 members from surrounding communities, the chorus will perform sacred and secular works of the season by Pergolesi, Rutter, Sirettv and Helvey with a “slice” of humor.

ecP PresenTs “The regiFTers”

7:30 p.m., Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd., Essex Jct. When a couple “regifts” a not-so-great Christmas present, then finds out it’s worth a fortune, they will stop at nothing to get it back. But they’re not the only ones who rewrapped it - in the mad pursuit to reclaim the gift, everyone who gave it away learns about friendship, real wealth, and the value of a gift truly given. $16, seniors/students; $18, adults. Visit EssexPlayers. com for more information and to purchase tickets.

8 saTurday nWv Model Train oPen house

10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Pinewood Plaza, 57 River Rd., Ste. 1011, Essex Jct. The open house will feature the 33’ x 32’ operating HO-scale layout depicting Vt., as well as a smaller operating N-scale layout. Free; donations appreciated.

saTurday sTory TiMe

10 - 10:30 a.m., Burnham Memorial Library. A weekly selection of music and books for children of all ages. No sign-up required.

2018 Polar ride and cook oFF

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m, Green Mountian Harley, 157 Pearl St., Essex Jct. Join us for the last ride of the year, and enter your chili, soup or chowder in our cook off. Also, Biker Santa will be visiting from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

ecP PresenTs “The regiFTers”

2 and 7:30 p.m., Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd., Essex Jct. (See Friday, Dec. 7 for details.)

holiday Tree lighTing

7 p.m., Milton Municipal Building, 43 Bombardier Rd., Milton. The Indy hosts its fourth annual tree lighting! Bring an ornament (that can withstand winter weather) to hang on the tree, visit with Santa Claus, marvel at the SD Ireland truck covered in hundreds of Christmas lights, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, join in on some carols by select members of the Milton Community Band.

9 sunday hog breakFasT

9 - 10 a.m., JP’s Diner and Deli, 39 River Rd., Essex Jct. Join the local Champlain Valley Harley Owner Group for a hot breakfast at the best breakfast places around. Visit greenmountainharley.com for details.

ecP PresenTs “The regiFTers”

2 p.m., Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd., Essex Jct. (See Friday, Dec. 7 for details.)

holiday concerT and sing-along

2 p.m., Milton High School auditorium, 17 Rebecca Lander Dr., Milton. The Milton Community Band invites you to to listen to familiar tunes of the season, special guest musicians, and a sing-along to well-known songs. Gather family or meet your friends - this is a special way to capture the holiday spirit. For information, call 8931398 or visit miltonband. net.

balkan Folk dancing

3:30 - 6:30 p.m., Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, 188 N. Prospect St., Burlington. Easier line and circle dances are taught the first hour, then intermediate dances, reviews and open request dancing. Beginners are welcome and no partner is needed. Lots of parking, come in the back door. Wear informal, comfortable clothing. Free the first time; $6 donation and snacks for the break, if you can. For more information, please call 802 540-1020, or email dance@together.net.

10 Monday holiday sTory TiMe

10:30 - 11 a.m., Burnham Memorial Library.

Preschool Music i

11:30 a.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Come to the library for music and fun every week. Best for ages 3 - 5. Sponsored by the Friends of Burnham Library.

r 3 c i o S o

Mbs caregiver/ d child PlaygrouP r 1 - 2:30 p.m., Malletts Bay School, 609 Blakely Rd., Colchester. This is a great chance to visit with other Colchester parents while the children play in a beautiful early childhood classroom. Play, songs, stories, crafts and snack are all part of our free playgroup experience. Call MBS at 264-5900 for more information. Free; just drop in!

Mah Jongg

1 - 2 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Join in Mah Jongg, the Chinese tile game that has become increasingly popular in the US. Whether you’re new to the game, or have played for years, you’re invited!

needleFelTing ornaMenTs

6:30 - 7:45 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Learn how to needle felt holiday ornaments. All materials provided. Registration is required online or by calling 264-5660.

croWs and ravens

7 p.m., Town Meeting House, 830 Main St., Colchester. They’re considered harbingers of evil by some, and for others, are an endless curiosity. Join bird diva Bridget Butler as she pulls back the shroud on these birds known as corvids. Find out how intelligent crows really are, the difference between crows and ravens and their complex social structure. Learn how you can help unravel the mystery of “murders” of crows that form in the winter by participating in the Crows In Vermont project. Registration is not required, but appreciated.

11 Tuesday Toddler sTory TiMe

10:30 - 11 a.m., Burnham Memorial Library. A weekly selection of music, rhymes and stories! For ages 18 months to 3 years. Call 264-5660 to sign up.

droP-in yoga

4:30 - 5:30 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Bring a mat and enjoy

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yCalendar poses for mindful stretching and relaxation. A registered nurse of over 30 years, Betty Molnar is certified as a Hatha Yoga instructor from the Temple of Kriya Yoga in Chicago. Sponsored by the Friends of Burnham Library.

draFt Plan review

6 p.m., Town Offices, 781 Blakely Rd., Colchester.

historical society christMas Party

7 p.m., United Church of Colchester, 900 Main St., Colchester. Featuring festive music by Colchester High School choral groups. Parking, admission and refreshments are free; donations always appreciated.

12 wednesday PlaygrouP

9:30 - 11 a.m., Colchester Meeting House, 830 Main St., Colchester. Playgroups are a great way for families to connect with other families, find out about other resources in the area and begin conversations about child development and parenting. If school is cancelled due to bad weather, so is playgroup. Due to construction at the meeting house this fall, some playgroups may be impacted and cancelled. If closed, a sign will be posted on the front of the meeting house. Parents please bring a snack for your child. Free; ages 5 and under.

young writers and storytellers 4 - 5 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Join this writing club for children from grades K-5. Let’s create stories! Call 264-5660 for more information and to sign up.

Knitting and More: Mitred square BlanKet

6 - 8 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Knitters and other needle workers of all skill levels meet Wednesdays, beginners welcome. This month, come and learn how to make a mitred square blanket.

13 thursday Preschool yoga

Children’s Yoga Teacher Certification through the Child Light Yoga Center.

colchester/ Milton rotary Meeting

Noon, the Hampton Inn, 42 Lower Mtn. View Dr., Colchester. For more information, contact Earl Wertheim at 651-1690 or vt210@earthlink.net.

cooKing the BooKs

1 - 2 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Each season the group will pick a different cookbook or novel that features several recipes. Participants will sign up to make a recipe, and to bring it the day of the meeting. Staff will make a copy of your recipe. This season, we’ll be choosing recipes from The Nature of the Feast by Louise Penny. Call 264-5660 for information.

lego cluB

4 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Do you know someone who likes Legos? Stop by the library and join us!

teen craFt: hot chocolate ornaMents

4 - 5 p.m., Burnham Memorial Library. Time to make tasty hot chocolate ornaments! Fill a clear ornament with chocolatey goodness to keep or give as a gift. Check out Kelsey’s sample on our Instagram: @ burnhamlibraryya. Sign up online at colchestervt. gov/158/BurnhamMemorial-Library. Teens grades 6-12

teen center

cMs winter Band concert

7 p.m., Colchester High School Performing Arts Center, 131 Laker Ln., Colchester. Featuring the Colchester Middle School sixth grade concert band, the seventh and eighth grade concert band, and the jazz band.

DEC 16

Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 | 13

REBECCA J. COLLMAN, MD

26 years in Colchester Board certified High continuity of care Available 24 hours Intimate office Personalized attention Convenient location Complimentary prenatal visits

local Meetings tuesday, deceMBer 11 6:30 p.m., selectboard, Outer Bay Conference Room, Town offices, 781 Blakely Rd., Colchester.

14 Friday PlaygrouP

BaBy story tiMe

dinner with santa

6:15 - 7:15 p.m., Colchester Middle School cafeteria, 425 Blakely Rd., Colchester. Join Santa and all of the elves in the Colchester Parks and Recreation Department and Colchester Lions Club for a delicious ‘breakfast’ dinner of pancakes, eggs and sausage. Don’t forget your flashlight for the candy cane hunt too! After dinner, Santa will read you his favorite holiday story. Wear your PJ’s if you want! $5, children; $10, adults; under 2, free.

15 saturday saturday droP-in story tiMe

10 a.m., Burnham Memorial Library. A weekly selection of music and books for children of all ages. No sign-up required.

aMnesty international Meeting

10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Brownell Library, Essex Jct.. All are welcome, even from neighboring towns and

cities.

16 sunday woKo Flea MarKet

8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., Champlain Valley Expo, 105 Pearl St., Essex Jct. Call 878-5545 for more information.

Pediatrics Primary medical care for newborns through age 18

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chs winter concert

1 p.m., Colchester High School Performing Arts Center, 131 Laker Ln., Colchester. Featuring the Colchester High School concert band, wind ensemble and jazz band as well as the five choral ensembles, including the CHS all-male ensemble, the Testostertones.

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ongoing events coBra wrestling

The season is just beginnig! Practices are held weekdays at 3-5 p.m. at our practice facility located at 880 Prim Rd, Colchester. Interested students or parents can email Holly Lavoie at maple35@yahoo.com or call 497-0917.

verMont genealogy research

Tuesdays, 3 - 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Vermont Genealogy Library, Fort Ethan Allen, 377 Hegeman Ave., Colchester. The library will be open for research throughout the year. Please visit vtgenlib. org or call 310-9285 for more info.

PuBlic sKating or sticK and PucK at leddy ParK

Gordon H. Paquette Ice Arena, 216 Leddy Park Rd., Burlington. Come to the home ice of the CHS hockey programs for a number of public skating times open to the public as well as stick and puck sessions, where you can bring your stick, skates and a helmet to improve your shot, or join in a small game. We also have skates available to rent. Visit enjoyburlington. com/place/leddy-arena for skating schedules and fees.

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14 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

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Meet your Guard "Meet your Guard" is a feature in the Colchester Sun, provided by the Vermont National Guard. Each month, we'll feature another soldier or airman. Stay tuned!

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Reason here: We were found as strays Special Considerations: We must go home together!

If your kingdom is missing a couple of fun-loving feline sidekicks, look no further than Cinderelly and Gus Gus! This duo’s carriage ride brought them to HSCC where they have been waiting for Prince (or Princess!) Charming to whisk them away to the ball - luckily they won’t turn into pumpkins when the clock strikes midnight! They may not be able to dust the floor or sew you a dress, but they will definitely keep you enchanted with their playful antics and silly expressions (just look at those faces!). Cinderelly and Gus Gus are ready to live happily ever after, so come on in and meet this terrific twosome! My thoughts on: Cats: We have lived together at HSCC and may do well with other cats Dogs: We have no history with dogs

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Senior Airman Cody L. Bushway Military Specialty: 3P0X1-Security Forces Years of Service: 3.5 Unit: 158th Fighter Security Forces Squadron Hometown: Colchester, VT Current Town: Georgia, VT High School/Graduation Year: 2015 College/Graduation: CCV Why did you join the National Guard? I joined the Vermont Air National Guard to give myself a successful career in the Size/Weight: Large/ 68 lbs. military and be able to attend college for free. I wanted the chance to serve my country in a great career field as well as travel the world. What do you do in the Vermont National Guard? I am a security forces officer (military police). What do you do for civilian work? I work full time at the Vermont Air National Guard Base on active-duty orders as a security forces officer. What do you think is the greatest benefit of being in the National Guard? I think knowing that when you join the National Guard you are creating a great stepping stone for a successful life. The National Guard offers great educational benefits and also a career that you can enjoy working on base or take those skills you gained through your military training schools and apply them at a civilian job. How has being a National Guard member benefited you in your local community and job? Being in the National Guard brings us closer to the community especially as a security

COURTESY PHOTO

Senior Airman Cody Bushway moves toward his family after basic training graduation.

forces member as we interact with people every day coming through our front gate for appointments or visits onto our installation. We also hold recruiting events around the state and in the neighboring states which allows us to meet new people and explain what we do in the National Guard. What is your most memorable military moment? One of my most memorable military moments is seeing my parents and wife run up to me at my boot camp graduation after the ceremony had ended. The feeling after graduation was emotional and also finally seeing your family after two months of being away was awesome. How long have you lived in Vermont? All my life, and I love this state so I plan on staying here. What is your favorite aspect of living or working where you do? One of the greatest aspects of working where I do is the people I work with. I have great co-workers and leadership that take care of each other like family. You really are treated like you belong when you join

the National Guard regardless of which job you choose to do while you are in.

What has surprised you about the Vermont National Guard? What surprised me is how often you get to travel our country and the world while you are in the National Guard. It could be a deployment or just a school you are attending to better your knowledge of your career field, but you get a lot of opportunities to travel around the world.

What is your favorite part about serving in the Vermont National Guard? I think my favorite part is knowing I set myself and family up for a successful and happy life. I know if I serve in the National Guard for 20-plus years and retire that I will have a great retirement with my family. Also being able to travel the world for free and be given the opportunity to experience different things around the world is a blessing as well.

BONUS: Ask a question for the next soldier or airman? What other jobs interest you in the National Guard?

Got a news tip? Email our editor at news@colchestersun.com

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Education tax rates expected to remain steady

coLchESTER PoLIcE REPoRTS Emergency: 911 • Non-emergency: 264-5556 • 835 Blakely Rd., Colchester, VT 05446 • colchestervt.gov/261/Police-Department

Increase in grand list, other revenues credited By MICHELLE MONROE St. Albans Messenger MONTPELIER — Vermont’s education property tax rates are expected to remain steady for the 2020 fiscal year, according to projections from Kaj Sansom, Vermont’s tax commissioner. Sansom attributed the steady rates to a combination of factors: an increase in the value of the state’s grand list; an increase in non-property tax revenues going into the Education Fund, such as the sales and use tax; and anticipated one-time carry over funds. The tax department is statutorily required to project the non-homestead property tax rate, and the yield is used to determine the tax rates for homestead property tax owners by November 30 each year. School districts and boards will use Sansom’s calculations as a guide while crafting budgets. However, the final yield isn’t set by the legislature until after Town Meeting Day, when school budgets have been approved. The yield is a key part of the tax rate formula. It represents the amount each school could spend per pupil based on a homestead tax rate of $1. By adjusting the yield, the state ensures property taxes raise enough funds to cover the cost of running Vermont’s schools. Last year, the tax department projected the yield would be $9,842, assuming school spending would rise 3.5 percent. However, spending rose just 1.7 percent, resulting in a yield of $10,220. For homeowners, a higher yield means a lower tax rate. This year, Sansom is projecting a yield of $10,660. Based on that yield, the average property tax rate is expected to be $1.50 per $100 of assessed value for homeowners.

The non-property tax rate is expected to remain the same – $1.58. About two-thirds of Vermont’s homeowners pay based upon income. In the current school year, the average rate for those Vermonters is 2.49 percent of income. That is expected to decline to 2.45 percent. However, just because the rates are projected to remain the same, that does not mean property tax bills won’t increase, Sansom noted, as increased property values and incomes will likely bring a larger bill. While overall education spending is expected to increase 3.2 percent, a decrease in pupils means per pupil spending is expected to rise 4.1 percent. Because pupils are continuing to decline, dropping almost a full percent to 87,621 equalized pupils this year, Vermonters should not expect property tax rates to remain steady in the future, Sansom wrote to the legislature. A court decision allowing Vermont to collect more sales tax from online purchases is expected to add $6.6 million to the Education Fund’s coffers in fiscal year 2020, Sansom wrote. Gov. Phil Scott has proposed using those funds to invest in early education and other initiatives. Sansom concluded his letter to legislators by noting if school boards can once again hold spending increases to 1.7 percent, the state could lower tax rates while still investing more in early education. “Said plainly, this year we have an opportunity to both lower the non-residential and average homestead rates and increase investments in our children’s early care and learning,” Sansom concluded.

local headlines

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Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 | 15

NoVEMBER 27-DEcEMBER 3 WaRNINGS: 38 TIckETS

16 Parking without authorization on public grounds (winter parking ban) 7 Speeding 5 Using portable electronic device (first violation) 2 Operating after suspension/revocation/refusal (first offense) 2 Operating without liability insurance 1 Possession of marijuana/hashish (first offense, under 21) 1 Operating without a license 1 Operating without a learner’s permit 1 Vehicle not inspected within 15 days of Vt. registration

aRRESTS

2 Driving with a criminally suspended license 1 Domestic assault 1 Petit larceny, shoplifting 1 Simple assault

TuESDay, NoVEMBER 27

4:58 a.m., Domestic assault; location withheld 5:29 a.m., Weapons offense on Heineberg Dr. 7:48 a.m., Motor vehicle complaint on Malletts Bay Ave. 9:03 a.m., Utility problem on Prim Rd. 9:09 a.m., Motor vehicle complaint on Blakely Rd. 9:59 a.m., Juvenile problem; location withheld 10:38 a.m., Trespass on Prim Rd. 1:42 p.m., Juvenile problem; location withheld 1:59 p.m., CHINS; location withheld 2:18 p.m., Domestic disturbance; location withheld 3:22 p.m., Property damage on Holy Cross Rd. 4:43 p.m., Suspicious event on Main St. 5:53 p.m., Suspicious event on Ethan Allen Ave 11:08 p.m., Motor vehicle complaint on Ethan Allen Ave. 8:09 a.m., Burglary on Main St. 8:38 a.m., Vandalism on Creek Farm Rd. 9:18 a.m., DLS on W. Lakeshore Dr. 1:02 p.m., Drugs on Laker Ln. 1:34 p.m., Accident with property damage on Hercules Dr. 3:25 p.m., Utility problem on Bay Rd. 4:15 p.m., Fraud on Bonanza Park 4:58 p.m., Accident with license suspended on Kylies Way 5:12 p.m., Mental health issue; location withheld 11:25 p.m., Suspicious event on Main St.

ThuRSDay, NoVEMBER 29

9:57 a.m., Vandalism on Mchawk Dr. 10:31 a.m., Domestic disturbance; location withheld 10:55 a.m., Missing person on Laker Ln. 11 a.m., Drugs on College Pkwy. 1:04 p.m., Lock down drill on Porters Point Rd. 2:14 p.m., Accident with property damage on College Pkwy. 2:40 p.m., Domestic disturbance; location withheld 8:28 p.m., Juvenile problem; location withheld 9:21 p.m., Fireworks on Wiley Rd.

11:01 p.m., Found/lost property on Ethan Allen Ave. 10:02 p.m., Fire call on Hercules Dr.

FRIDay, NoVEMBER 30

1:40 a.m., Intoxication on Canterbury Way 7:34 a.m., Motor vehicle complaint on Blakely Rd. 8:20 a.m., Retail theft on Mountain View Dr. 10:07 a.m., Death investigation on Walden Rd. 11:23 a.m., Phone problem on Church Rd. 1:01 p.m., Trespass on Shannon Rd. 1:42 p.m., Mental health issue; location withheld 2 p.m., Disturbance on S. Park Dr. 8:53 p.m., Suspicious event on College Pkwy.

SaTuRDay, DEcEMBER 1

12:10 a.m., DLS on Blakely Rd. 2:23 a.m., Suspicious event on Thomas Dr. 3:11 a.m., Animal problem on Bay Rd. 3:16 a.m., Suspicious event on Ethan Allen Ave. 3:26 a.m., Juvenile problem; location withheld 9:32 a.m., Burglary on Lower Mountain View Dr. 12:22 p.m., Animal problem on Mt. Mansfield Ave. 12:49 p.m., Suspicious event on Severance Rd. 2:36 p.m., Animal problem on Lower Mountain View Dr. 3:22 p.m., Retail theft on Prim Rd. 4:07 p.m., Fire call on Main St. 4:25 p.m., Suspicious event on Valiquette Ct. 4:58 p.m., Simple assault on Ryan Pl. 7:55 p.m., Domestic disturbance; location withheld 8:39 p.m., Noise on Main St. 9:48 p.m., Welfare check on Morehouse Dr. 11:15 p.m., Intoxication on College Pkwy.

SuNDay, DEcEMBER 2

8:39 a.m., Citizen dispute on Country Meadows 9:50 a.m., Animal problem on Hegeman Ave. 10:59 a.m., Animal problem on East Rd. 11:03 a.m., Animal problem on Roosevelt Hwy. 12:59 p.m., Death investigation on Overlake Dr. 1:32 p.m., Suspicious event on Hidden Oaks Dr. 6:37 p.m., Suicidal subject/suicide attempt; location withheld

MoNDay, DEcEMBER 3

Midnight, Noise on Canterbury Way 12:23 a.m., Suspicious event on Catamount Ln. 8:47 a.m., Citizen dispute on 5th St. 10:10 a.m., TRO/FRO service: location withheld 10:56 a.m., Vandalism on Mill Pond Rd. 11 a.m., Assist with car seat inspection on Blakely Rd. 1:12 p.m., Vandalism on Mchawk Dr. 1:22 p.m., Drugs on Winooski Pkwy. 1:32 p.m., Juvenile problem; location withheld 1:50 p.m., Citizen dispute on Pheasant Woods 2:51 p.m., Noise on 5th St. 5:07 p.m., Noise on 5th St. 5:20 p.m., Accident with property damage on Forman Dr. 6:56 p.m., Motor vehicle complaint on Church Rd. 11:30 p.m., Domestic assault; location withheld

ToTaL: 267

This log represents a sample of incidents in the date range. For more information, call the non-emergency number: 264-5556

16 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

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The Vermont Watershed Grants Program is now accepting applications for projects that protect, restore and enhance the state’s lakes, streams, rivers and ponds, including Vermonters’ ability to understand and enjoy these treasures. Applications are due no later than Friday February 15, 2019. Program grants are available to municipalities, local and regional government agencies, sporting clubs, non-profit organizations, and water-related citizen groups. The range of

past projects is just as diverse and has included invasive species education, shoreline vegetation restoration and the removal of old dams and replacement of culverts to improve fish movement. For 2019, $85,000 is available to fund three categories of projects. The three categories and the maximum amount for each project type are: education and outreach ($5,000), planning, assessment, inventory, monitoring ($3,500) and on-the-ground implementation ($10,000). The Vermont Watershed

Grants Program is a joint project of the Fish & Wildlife Department and the Department of Environmental Conservation. It was established by legislature and funded by sales of the Vermont Conservation License Plate. “When Vermonters purchase a Conservation License Plate they’re helping protect healthy streams and lakes as well as conserving wildlife and important habitats for future generations,” said Fish & Wildlife Commissioner Louis Porter. “Proceeds from the sale of

Conservation License Plates fund the Watershed Grants program and help support the Fish & Wildlife Department’s Nongame Wildlife Fund.” The Watershed Grants application guide and application forms are available on the web at: http://dec.vermont. gov/watershed/cwi/grants/ watershed-grants. Applications for the Vermont Conservation License Plate are also available on the web: http://dmv.vermont.gov/ sites/dmv/files/documents/ VD-154-Conservation_Plate_ App_0.pdf.

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Take the ‘Hunter Effort Survey’ before December 16 Hunters are asked to record how many hours they hunted and how many deer, moose, bears, or other wildlife they saw throughout the November rifle season (Nov. 10 - 25). Even if you did not hunt or harvest, your insight is helpful to guide wildlife management practices, thank you. There are currently two ways to participate in the Hunter Effort Survey: •

If you were one of 10,000 licensed hunters who received a survey in the mail, please fill it out and return it after rifle season.

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Or fill it out online at: https://anrweb.vt.gov/ FWD/FW/RifleSeasonDeerHunterEffortSurvey. aspx.

2019 Watershed Grant application due by February 15th

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Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 | 17

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CMS students selected to participate in area jazz festival On Friday, November 9, 13 CMS musicians attended the District III Jazz Festival at Brown’s River Middle School. CMS students spent the day rehearsing with guest conductors and other students from surrounding schools. The day concluded with a concert featuring jazz guitar/ukulele, choral, and instrumental ensembles. All CMS students in the instrumental ensemble had improvised solos during the concert. COURTESY PHOTO

CMS students in attendance (left to right): Jascha Kitchin, Ryan Baldasty, Leah Cartwright, Jared Carnesale, Izzy Bledsoe, Mei-Ling Correll, Grace Robinson, Owen Loftus, Jeannine Bourassa, Abbey Hoag, Mia Williams, Lily Neimi-Moskowitz and Mason Alling.

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11/23

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70 N. Main St., St. Albans | Mon.–Sun. 10–5:30 | (802) 527-7243 | books@TheEloquentPage.com

30% OFF HOCKEY EQUIPMENT 50-70% OFF ALL OTHER INVENTORY

12/22

ALL SALES FINAL

38 SOUTH MAIN ST., ST. ALBANS

802-524-3312 Nancy Hudak, proprietor,

Rail City Market

HOLIDAY RAFFLE ~ We wish you a wonderful holiday season filled Spend $100 more on one visit with love and many blessings in or the coming year. and ENTER to WIN a We thank you for your support. ~

Nancy Hudak, Proprietor

$500 CASH PRIZE !

Drawing to be held Jan. 5th, 2019

Corner of Lake and Main - downtown St. Albans

Monday - Saturday 9 - 6Mon-Sat 9AM-6PM 8 South Main St., St.Open Albans • 802-524-3769 • Open

18 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

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Winter cheer is here

PHOTOS BY KYLE ST. PETER

THAT REASON IS YOU. Thank you, Vermont, for voting us your #1 credit union. See where better ba n ki n g takes you.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

We were voted #1 for a reason.

HERE

Community members gathered at the Burnham Memorial Library and the Colchester Meeting House on Sunday to drink hot cocoa, decorate gingerbread houses, listen to the Colchester Community Chorus sing carols and experience the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual tree lighting.

Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 | 19

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SHARP Christmas Tree Farm

Choose and cut Christmas trees 204 Cobble Hill Rd. Milton, VT 05468 www.sharppark.com

If thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s snow bring a sled or

rent a snowtube!

Sharp park will be open for Christmas week! Check our website for up to date snow conditions.

Sharp Farm is also an inexpensive quintessential Vermont wedding venue. Check out our heated post and beam barn and our four sites for the wedding ceremony. Call (802) 879-3507 or www.weddingsatsharpfarm.com for details.

ijuana have ERFORMANCE ROSPECTS— tinue using rly show a

20 | Colchester Sun | Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018

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NorthCountry Federal Credit Union supports the Colchester Community Food Shelf SouTh BurlingTon – northCountry Federal Credit union presented a check for $2,500 to the Colchester Com-

munity Food Shelf on november 20. northCountry’s Abbey Welch (branch manager, Colchester) and Scott Driver

(director, information technology) presented the check to Kareen Perry (of the Colchester Community Food Shelf).

in october, northCountry’s Colchester branch and information Technology Department teamed up to support the Colchester Community Food Shelf during northCountry Cares Week. in addition to collecting cash donations, community members were invited to visit the credit union to donate non-perishable food items and supplies, enter raffles, and learn more about this great organization. The iT staff raised additional funds by offering computer repair services to employees. The $2,500 donation also included funds designated for community giving by the northCountry Board of Directors. This month, northCountry donated $20,000 to food shelves throughout northern Vermont. “As a community credit union, we want to be involved in local initiatives that help Vermonters cope with challenges in their everyday life, as well as provide folks with the tools they need to thrive,”

says Bob Morgan, CEo of northCountry. “Supporting food assistance programs is just one way we hope we are serving our communities, beyond financial services.” The Colchester Community Food Shelf is 100% volunteer-run and provides non-perishable and fresh food to those in need. Volunteers assist clients during their shopping visit, stock shelves, and pick up food and other donations. The food shelf assisted 2,900 individuals in 2017, and 1,023 thus far this year. The need is always great. northCountry Federal Credit union is open to anyone who lives or works in northern Vermont, and is headquartered in South Burlington. it provides financial services designed to provide convenience and value, and commits 10% of its previous year’s net revenue to community giving. it was organized in 1950, and is the third largest credit union in Vermont.

Teens who use marijuana have LOWER ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AND WORSE JOB PROSPECTS— and those who continue using marijuana regularly show a Teens who use marijuana have IN IQ 20 YEARS LATER. DECREASE

LOWER ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AND WORSE JOB PROSPECTS— and those who continue using marijuana regularly show a DECREASE IN IQ 20 YEARS LATER.

arentUpVT.org

ParentUpVT.org

COURTESY PHOTO

Scott Driver (left) and Abbey Welch (right) from NorthCountry Federal Credit Union present a $2,500 check to Kareen Perry on behalf of the Colchester Food Shelf.