Williston Observer 12/15/2022

Who’s Feeder?

Town budget draft shows 6.5% increase

Wells presents $14 million proposal for upcoming year

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

It will cost the Town of Williston an additional $857,000 to maintain current operations through the upcoming fiscal year, according to a draft annual budget Town Manager Erik Wells presented to the Williston Selectboard last Tuesday.

The $14 million draft budget represents several weeks of preparation by town administrators and department heads and the beginning of selectboard input and consideration. The board plans to host a Jan. 3 public hearing then to finalize a proposal on Jan. 17. The selectboard-approved budget will be up for voter consideration on Town Meeting Day (March 7).

The $857,000 spending increase amounts to a 6.5 percent increase over the current fiscal year. It would cost Williston homeowners an additional $32 in property taxes annually for every $100,000 of assessed property value, Wells estimates. On a median-priced ($300,000) home, for example, the annual property tax bill would rise roughly $96. The proposal meets Wells’ goal of increasing less than the rate of inflation,

Rec the halls…

St. Hilaire resigns from selectboard

Gordon St. Hilaire resigned his seat on the Williston Selectboard Tuesday in a statement read by board chair Terry Macaig.

“I consider my service to the Town of Williston an honor and have enjoyed my time on the board,” St. Hilaire said, according to Macaig’s reading at the outset of Tuesday’s board meeting. “It has been a pleasure to work with the Williston community.”

St. Hilaire had been absent

from the past two board meetings since he was arraigned in Chittenden County Criminal Court on Dec. 1 on charges of stalking and unlawful mischief. He has declined to comment on the charges. His statement Tuesday was his first public statement since the charges were filed; it did not address the charges. St. Hilaire pleaded not guilty in court.

The charges stem from a series of incidents this fall when St. Hilaire is alleged to have

gone to the home and workplace of his ex-girlfriend and deflated the tires on her car. According to police, an officer staked out the workplace in Williston and caught St. Hilaire carrying three cartons of eggs. According to Williston Police Officer Avery Lemnah, St. Hilaire admitted he was there to “do some not good things.” He also admitted to deflating the woman’s car tire on multiple occasions,

NOW

Holiday lights are on display and ready to be judged in a friendly competition organized by the Williston Recreation and Parks Department. Residents are encouraged to view the entrants’ displays and vote online for their favorites. Judging begins this Saturday and runs through Dec. 22. More information is available at www.willistonrec.org.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

see ST. HILAIRE page 2 Gordon St. Hilaire

Budget

which, according to the Northeast Region Consumer Price Index, was at 7 percent in October.

“It certainly is a very challenging year looking at all these inflation factors at play, which we could not have predicted a couple years ago,” Wells said.

Inflationary pressure will push the price the town pays for goods and services up $225,000 in the coming year, according to the budget draft. But the primary driver of the 6.5 percent increase is bumps in salaries and benefit costs for town staff.

The town employs 98 fulland part-time employees. The draft budget proposes no new employees — only an increase in hours for part-time positions in the library, parks and finance departments. Still, employee salaries are set to increase 5.5 percent (3.5 percent for cost-of-

St. Hilaire

continued from page 1

according to Lemnah.

The charges carry a potential penalty of up to two years in prison. Judge Gregory Rainville released St. Hilaire on the condition that he not attempt to contact the alleged stalking victim and not

living and 2 percent for longevity), benefits that are written into employee union contracts previously approved by the board. Health insurance costs for town staff are set to rise 8 percent.

of dollars from a 1 percent tax on retail sales in Williston. In its most recent reported quarter of sales tax receipts, the town had a record haul of $900,000, reflecting the positive impact the rising price of goods has on this revenue source. Wells is budgeting for $3.6 million in local sales tax revenue in the coming fiscal year, an increase of $180,000 over the current year’s projection.

“The town has really benefitted from its foresight over 20 years ago to establish this tax,” he said.

In all, salaries and benefits will cost the town an additional $667,000 in next year’s budget, according to Wells.

While a majority of the town’s revenue comes from property taxes, the town reaps millions

go within 300 feet of her. No other court hearings have yet been set.

St. Hilaire had been on the selectboard since 2019 when he ran unopposed for a two-year seat. He won an uncontested election for a three-year term in 2021. That seat was due to be up for election in 2024.

The board may now advertise

In addition to the budget, voters will also decide on two selectboard seats, a school board seat, town clerk, lister and library trustee at Town Meeting Day. Voting will take place at the National Guard Armory on Williston Road on March 7. The night before, the town will conduct its Annual Meeting. Town administrators are planning to host the meeting at the Williston Central School auditorium.

and interview to appoint a person to fill the vacancy, Macaig said, then hold a vote to fill the final remaining year of the seat at the upcoming Town Meeting Day in March.

“The board will discuss this at next week’s meeting,” Macaig said.

— Jason Starr

“It certainly is a very challenging year looking at all these inflation factors at play, which we could not have predicted a couple years ago.”

Erik Wells Williston Town Manager

Chef turns the corner toward retirement

The “chef” in Chef’s Corner has always been Jozef Harrewyn. That will change after the new year.

The Belgian-born, South Africa-raised former teacher at the New England Culinary Institute is retiring from the Williston café he founded 25 years ago, leaving the business in the hands of his partners Scott Sorrell and Jeff Moisan.

It was 1997 when Harrewyn left his teaching job to open Chef’s Corner at its original location on Route 2A. The café moved to Cornerstone Drive in 2017, where, after pandemic-induced changes, it continues to serve breakfast and lunch on a fiveday-a-week schedule.

“It’s a very emotional, spiritual and beautiful transition,” said Harrewyn. “I’m lucky I have two business partners who can take over and continue. Nothing is going to change at Chef’s Corner.”

The son of a Belgian confectioner, Harrewyn’s career has had an international flare, with stops in Canada, South Africa, Europe and the U.S. (Chicago, Houston and Vermont). He plans a similarly well-traveled retirement, kicking it off in January with a two-month

trip to see family in South Africa, followed by an extended European trip in April.

Harrewyn, 70, plans to spend summers in Vermont and may occasionally work shifts as needed at the café. He also plans to volunteer overseas.

“Whether it’s cooking or building houses, I want to go to countries in need,” he said. “I definitely need to keep busy. I’m not going to sit around my house and look at the plants grow.

“I’m very grateful for my career,” he added. “It’s been absolutely amazing, when I think of what I’ve done with it, where I’ve been and who I’ve worked with.”

—Jason Starr

Richmond’s robot army looks to fight climate change in the ocean

BY AUBREY WEAVER Community News Service

You might wonder what an ocean robotics company is doing in quaint, landlocked Richmond. Despite the perceived impracticality, Greensea Systems Inc. has been operating from Richmond for the past 16 years and is only expanding.

The company builds computer systems for unmanned marine vehicles — “underwater robots,” said CEO Ben Kinnaman, who founded the company in 2006.

HOT DOG DECEMBER

Kinnaman isn’t from around here — his southern drawl is a dead giveaway — but he and his wife, Joanna, have been in Richmond since the company began. They moved from the beltway area around Washington, D.C., drawn by the lifestyle opportunities in Vermont. They have a family now, and Kinnaman said they plan to stick around for the long haul.

Operating so far from the ocean has its downsides for the business.

“Vermont doesn’t have the strongest subsea robotics industry,” he said.

But some constraints have less to do with the location and more to do with the “shallower pool of resources” for robotics training in the area, he said.

The software and robotics engineered at Greensea have been used for many underwater tasks, but one of the most interesting is detecting and disposing of dormant, unexploded ocean mines. Traditionally, finding and safely getting rid of those forgotten mines often requires manned missions that are difficult, costly and even dangerous. The

Underwater robots developed by Greensea in Richmond help militaries with underwater explosive disposal and maritime industries with ship streamlining. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Jozef Harrewyn

Greensea

logical fouling, in the industry, and Armach is one of the few companies focused on “proactive cleaning” as a way to combat it.

practices have “changed very little since World War II,” said Kinnaman.

“We’re still to this day putting divers in boats — little rubber boats — going out on the ocean to about where that other robot said that it found something that may or may not be a mine, having the divers go overboard, swim around until they find this thing and identify it,” he said, calling that process out of date and deadly.

So his company engineered a solution that could save lives.

“We provide a … software package that automates the process of looking for a threat in a suspected area of the ocean, identifying that threat and even neutralizing that threat,” he said. “All the while, the operators and the supervisors are all the way back on the beach, high and dry, safe and sound. And not in a little rubber boat anchored above a big mine that’s designed to sink, you know, a 1,000-foot-long carrier ship.”

About 70 percent of Greensea’s business is done with the defense industry, he said.

“We support 14 militaries worldwide in special operations and explosive ordnance disposal,” said Kinnaman. “So we are a very heavy defense company. But we also have a pretty strong commercial player as well.”

Greensea could develop plenty of software, but it wouldn’t be much use without robotics systems to use it. Kinnaman worried about the difficulty posed in finding partners that fit the company’s niche, he said. So he and his team made their own.

In 2017, Kinnaman started a break-off company called Armach Robotics, also headquartered in Richmond, which builds robots focused on cleaning up ships to reduce their carbon emissions. When microorganisms, plants, algae or small animals accumulate on the surfaces of boats, it takes

According to a report this year — by two U.N. agencies and a multi-nation environmental fund — a layer of slime as thin as half a millimeter on part of a hull’s surface can raise greenhouse gas emissions from a boat by 25 percent. A light layer of barnacles on an average-length container ship could boost the vessel’s greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60 percent, the report says, and the numbers only continue to go up.

Armach wants to combat that through the use of software-driven robots that can navigate accurately once adhered to a ship.

“It truly has the potential of leaving the ocean in a better state than we inherited, and that’s really exciting,” said Kinnaman.

“That’s inspiring.”

As with unexploded mine detection, ship cleaning is typically done by people. But moving to robotics like those developed by Armach is not necessarily going to put anyone out of work, said Kinnaman.

“We use autonomy all the time. We use robots all the time,” he said. “The concept of robots is that they still require a supervisor. You are creating jobs. Because now we have to build the robots. We have to program the robots. We have to service the robots.”

Don’t expect those robots to take over the world themselves. Kinnaman reassures folks that they only have the cognition range of a 5-year-old. He finds it humbling.

Not all his work centers on disarming bombs and scraping barnacles though. Kinnaman has twice worked with famed director James Cameron to survey the shipwreck of the Titanic, the star of one of the director’s biggest hits.

When asked if he thought Jack could fit on the floating debris with Rose at the famous close of the movie, Kinnaman laughed and admitted he hasn’t actually seen the movie, but he’s seen the actual wreckage up close, and to this reporter,

About 70 percent of Greensea’s business is done with the defense industry.

Healthy Living gives $91K back to communities

Healthy Living shoppers in Williston, South Burlington and Saratoga Springs, N.Y., by rounding up their purchases to the next dollar, have contributed about $91,000 to local nonprofit organizations. Round-ups were matched by Healthy Living as part of its “Together We Can Help” campaign.

Recipient organizations include the Williston Community Food Shelf, the Intervale Center in Burlington and the Thoroughbred

Retirement Foundation of New York, among others.

“With these funds we are improving farm viability, taking care of land and water resources, and connecting people with food and nature, both in Burlington’s beloved Intervale and across Vermont,” said Intervale Executive Director Travis Marcotte.

Healthy Living CEO Eli Lesser-Goldsmith gave “a huge thankyou to our shoppers for seeing the value in contributing and continuing to care about others.”

Gordon’s takes over Wall Doctor business

Bill and Judy Galdi started the Wall Doctor in 1986 in South Burlington. Now, after 37 years, Bill has decided to retire and has sold the Wall Doctor to Gordon’s Window Décor in Williston.

“Judy and I took great pride in creating a locally owned business. She would be happy to see it passing to the next generation and staying local,” Bill Galdi said.

“It’s really an honor that Bill felt that Gordon’s was the right choice for him and his clients,” said Kelly Clements, president of Gordon’s Window Decor. “I have always respected the Wall Doctor and am eager to bring it under the Gordon’s umbrella.”

Gordon’s manufactures and supplies custom-made window treatments from its headquarters and showroom on Leroy Road.

State renews worker relocation grants

The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development has opened applications for the state’s Worker Relocation Incentive Program, offering grants of up to $7,500 to people moving to Vermont to take a job here, and to remote workers moving to Vermont even if the remote job is out of state.

The Legislature approved $3 million for the program last spring.

“This program alone won’t solve our demographic challenges, but it is a piece of the puzzle as we con-

tinue our work to roll out additional housing and economic development programs,” said Commerce and Community Development Secretary Lindsay Kurrle.

Since 2018, Vermont has awarded $1.8 million to roughly 435 people in worker relocation grants. Program details and eligibility requirements are online at www. ThinkVermont.com.

Throughout the month of October, Lenny’s customers were encouraged to make a $10 donation to the Vermont Foodbank or Plattsburgh (New York) Foodshelf in exchange for exclusive access to a storewide sale on Oct. 22. The charity sale has raised $222,000 over the past 12 years to fight hunger.

Credit Union merger to take effect Jan. 1

Lenny’s donates $27K to fight hunger

Lenny’s Shoe & Apparel customers helped raise roughly $27,000 to fight hunger in Vermont and New York during the business’ Charity Sale in October.

Members of the Vermont State Employees Credit Union and the New England Federal Credit Union have approved a merger of the two organizations. The merger will take effect Jan. 1, but unifying the two organizations will take several more months. The new organization will have a new name to be announced later in 2023. The merged entity will be Vermont’s largest credit union with 165,000 members, 460 employees, 17 local branches and $3 billion in assets.

A Winter Artisan Festival

On a dark, December night, Illuminate Vermont shines bright with the power of artistic expression and celebration.

Grab a cocktail or some culinary treats. Enjoy the live music from the main stage. Stroll the artists’ market, featuring great holiday gifts from Vermont artisans. Best of all, admission is free.

EXPERIENCE VERMONT’S NEWEST ARTISTIC FESTIVAL. 180 Market Street, South Burlington, Vermont www.illuminatevermont.com

GUEST COLUMN

Where’s the line between free speech and harassment?

BY RODNEY SMOLLA

Freedom of speech is protected under the First Amendment. Harassment is not.

A lawsuit filed in Vermont federal court arising from the controversy surrounding allegations of harassment targeting a transgender student on the Randolph Union High School girls’ volleyball team challenges us on how to tell the difference.

The transgender student and Randolph High School claim that the transgender student was the victim of harassment after the student entered the girls’ volleyball team locker room. The alleged transgressor was briefly suspended and required to participate in a restorative justice circle illuminating the legal rights of students to access accommodations in a manner consistent with their gender identity.

The disciplined student and her parents claim they are being punished for exercising their freedom of speech.

So how does the law draw the line?

First, there must be a clearly written rule. School officials can’t just make up the standards as they go along. On this score, Randolph school officials are on solid ground. A Vermont statute defines harassment as conduct “motivated by” another student’s “race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability,” if that conduct “has the purpose or effect of objectively and substantially undermining and detracting from or interfering with a student’s educational performance or access to school resources or creating an objectively intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.”

Second, the Vermont law must not conflict with the Constitution. The First Amendment strongly protects expression in the general marketplace of ideas — on streets or parks or internet postings. Yet that protection partially gives way to other societal values in certain special settings, such as within

public schools.

There are things citizens are free to say while marching in the street or trolling online that they are not necessarily free to say while attending public school. Even so, students do not check their free speech rights at the schoolhouse door.

The constitutional principles governing speech in public schools remain an ongoing work in progress. Yet I believe, as an experienced constitutional law scholar and litigator, that the Vermont law should be upheld as

consistent with the First Amendment. The Vermont law requires that the speech be “motivated by” the identity of the targeted student (here, the identity of the student of transgender), and that it has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with the educational environment.

Distilled to its core, the key issue is whether the law legitimately protects targeted student victims from palpable harm, or instead illegitimately penalizes students for opposing the political or ideological viewpoints that the school has embraced.

A student has a free speech right to express views on public policies involving transgender athletes. A student does not have a free speech right to specifically target and harass a transgender athlete.

Third, a federal judge — acting as a “gatekeeper” to safeguard free speech rights while simultaneously respecting Vermont’s right to safeguard the well-being of all its students, including transgender students — must determine whether the specific statements made in this controversy could be regarded, by a jury, as crossing the line from the expression of opinion to targeted harassment. Then, if it comes

to it, a federal jury instructed by the judge on the law will hear evidence on the “who, what, when and where” and decide the facts.

I am an ardent advocate for protecting the human dignity of all within the LGBTQ+ community and feel particular empathy for protecting trans persons from the cruel slings and arrows to which they are so often unjustly subjected.

Vermont has good reason for adopting laws protecting those persecuted for their gender identity. We know that high school students from the LGBTQ+ community are far more likely to be bullied and harassed than straight students, and far more likely to suffer deep and lasting wounds as a result.

I also have an abiding faith in our legal system. It is important that we respect the process, and that all sides have the full and fair opportunity to present their arguments, legal and factual, to the judge and jury, in the confidence that they will follow the law and do the right thing.

Rodney Smolla is president of the Vermont Law and Graduate School.

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A student has a free speech right to express views on public policies involving transgender athletes. A student does not have a free speech right to specifically target and harass a transgender athlete.

Rooftops or Camel’s Hump?

As a regular traveler on Mountain View Road for the past 21 years, I always enjoy the view of Camel’s Hump along the way. It’s a delight and most worthy of a thoughtful and thorough discussion of how to preserve this view for posterity.

When I learned the property at the corner of Old Stage Road and Mountain View was facing development, I experienced a deep sense of loss considering the prospect of losing this beautiful view forever. I have learned much at the public meetings about this proposal, and I believe it should continue to be considered by the Planning Commission.

The proposal for the Glaser property has been submitted under a provision of the Williston Zoning Bylaw defined as a “Specific Plan Proposal” — an amendment to the

bylaw that requires the planning commission to hold public hearings and vote whether a “substantial public benefit’ could result. One potential benefit the planning commission can consider is preservation of open space.

I am a firm supporter of taking the next step in the specific plan process, which is the appointment of an Advisory Committee.

Some people at the Dec. 6 public hearing stated there is insufficient public benefits to warrant going forward. For me, the prospect of preserving a magnificent view for the enjoyment of anyone who drives on Mountain View Road dramatically diminishes these claims. Take the drive. Take a look. Rooftops or Camel’s Hump?

Please join me in supporting taking the next step in this process.

Tim Carney Williston

Heady shopper

Williston artist Deb Peate’s work is on display throughout December at the South Burlington location of Healthy Living Market and Café on Dorset Street. Peate is an established watercolor painter with work on sale at Arthound in Essex. Her Healthy Living exhibit features 20 of her “fantasy” animal heads made with textiles and vintage jewelry. Visit www.debbiepeate.pixels.com for more information.

Estate Planning, Elder Law & Medicaid Planning

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Ellen B. LaPlante, Esq. Stephen A. Unsworth, Esq. Wendy S Hillmuth, Esq.

Members of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys & National Association of Elder Law Attorneys. 26

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Indy film premiers at Majestic

Local cinematographer Ashton Harrewyn has announced the Vermont premiere of his film “Roads to Olympia” on Dec. 15 at the Majestic 10 Cinema at Maple Tree Place in Williston. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m.

Harrewyn, the son of Chef’s Corner founder Jozef Harrewyn, is a UVM graduate who currently lives in South Burlington. The film was shot in Brazil, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, France, New York City and at UVM’s athletic facilities.

The film follows three aspiring athletes fighting homophobia, sexism and poverty on their way to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. It was shot in 2016 and first premiered at the Durban International Film Festival in South Africa in 2019.

Visit www.roadstoolympia.com for more information.

Vermont cinematographer Ashton Harrewyn takes in the view in Jordan while filming ‘Roads to Olympia.’

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

A second life for your old house plants

Propagation takes water, soil and patience

BY DEBORAH BENOIT Special to the Observer

There are many reasons to propagate your houseplants. Maybe you want to share with a friend. Maybe your plant has gotten too large and you’d like to replace it with one of a more manageable size. Or, sadly, it’s taken a turn for the worst, and you want to be sure you have another if it doesn’t recover.

Whatever the reason, with a little patience, you can grow new plants from houseplants you al-

ready own.

It all begins with taking a 3-6-inch cutting from the tip of a healthy stem, being sure to include several leaf nodes. A node is the bump where the leaf meets the stem.

There are two basic ways to root a cutting, in water or in soil. Which one you choose is a matter of personal preference. Rooting in water allows you to watch the roots develop. Rooting in soil avoids the need to transplant the cutting from water into soil once the cutting has rooted.

Vining plants such as jasmine, English ivy, pothos and inch plant, as well as many houseplants and

even holiday cactus, are easy to root in water.

Take your cutting and remove the leaves from 1-2 nodes at the bottom of the cutting. Place the cutting in a container of room temperature water and put it in indirect light. Be sure no leaves are below the surface of the water.

If the water begins to become cloudy, replace it with fresh room temperature water. It can take days or weeks, sometimes months, for roots to form. As long as the cutting looks healthy, be patient and you should be rewarded with the development of tiny roots. When they have grown to more than 2-3 inches, you can pot up the cutting in a container with a soil mix appropriate for the type of plant.

If you prefer, you can root cuttings directly in soil. While not necessary, rooting hormone (available where garden supplies are sold) can be applied to the base of the cutting according to package directions. Fill a small container with moistened potting mix. Be sure it has drainage holes. A larger pot or tray can be used to accommodate multiple cuttings.

Make a hole in the soil using a pencil. Put the cutting into the hole and gently firm the soil around the cutting. Water lightly. Cover the pot with a large, inverted jar, plastic bag or a humidity dome to retain moisture while the cutting is rooting. If the moisture begins to drip from the cover, open it to allow air circulation.

Check periodically to be sure the soil is moist, not wet. Water as needed. Do not let the cutting dry out. If you see new growth, roots have likely formed. You can test this by gently tugging on the cutting. If there is resistance, roots are growing.

When propagating houseplants, don’t be discouraged if it takes longer than expected to produce roots. The time frame will vary depending on the type of plant, the amount of light and the method you choose. But with patience, you’ll enjoy an interesting indoor gardening project for times you can’t be outside in the garden.

Deborah Benoit is a UVM Extension Master Gardener from North Adams, Mass., who is part of Vermont’s Bennington County Chapter.

With a little patience, you can grow new plants from houseplants you already own.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Will

founder of Gardener’s Supply, dies

BY PAUL HEINTZ VTDigger

Will Raap, the Vermont entrepreneur and self-styled “restorationist” best known for founding Gardener’s Supply Company, has died.

According to his family, Raap “succumbed to a long-term illness” Monday night.

“He was a guiding star and instrumental in the lives of many of us,” Raap’s wife, Lynette, and their three children, Kelsy, Addison and Dylan, said in a written statement Tuesday. The family did not provide additional information and asked for space to grieve.

Raap founded Gardener’s Supply, the Burlington-based retailer and mail-order business, in 1983 — eventually growing it into an employee-owned operation with more than 250 employees and stores in Williston, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

He later founded Burlington’s nonprofit Intervale Center and cofounded Restoring Our Watershed, which seeks to restore the Nandamojo River Basin in Costa Rica.

More recently, Raap had been working to convert Charlotte’s Nordic Farm into an environmentally sustainable operation focused on agriculture and agritourism, and helping his children grow Upstate Elevator Supply Co., a Burlington-based CBD company.

Will Raap

Vermonters urged to challenge federal broadband map

BY JULIET SCHULMAN-HALL VTDigger

The Vermont Community Broadband Board is asking Vermont residents to check their addresses on the Federal Communications Commission’s national broadband map to see if their internet speed and provider availability are reported accurately.

State broadband officials have challenged the accuracy of the map, which shows that more than 95 percent of Vermont households have broadband internet access.

Herryn Herzog, communications and outreach manager for the broadband board, said that by reporting errors, Vermonters can help the state get the “money it de-

serves.”

The state will receive at least $100 million through the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program, but the federal government will distribute an additional $37.1 billion to states based on the numbers of unserved locations that appear on the FCC’s map.

Alissa Matthews, special projects director for the broadband board, said it’s not clear how much money the state could obtain by correcting the addresses, but it could be between $5,000 to $10,000 per address, which could amount to millions of additional federal dollars.

The broadband board doesn’t know exactly how many addresses are inaccurate, but, according to Matthews, an initial analysis

Halston Shoshanna Monique Lhuillier Joseph Ribkoff Alice&Olivia Brochu Walker

showed about 13,000 locations with broadband availability discrepancies.

Matthews said analysts “keep finding more issues” with how data was mapped or recorded. The board is doing additional analysis and may

file bulk challenges to the FCC.

The Vermont Department of Public Service already sent one challenge to the FCC in October, pointing out that 11 percent of the locations in the federal database didn’t match those in Vermont’s own database. An additional 22 percent of addresses in the Vermont database didn’t appear in the federal database at all.

Herzog said the state plans to file additional challenges.

The FCC is relying on “self-reported” data from internet service providers, which could lead to errors, according to Christine Hallquist, executive director of the broadband board.

State broadband officials have also expressed concern about how

wireless internet companies use propagation studies — computer-generated estimates of signal strength from cell towers — to determine a signal’s ability to travel. Vermont’s topography has “nooks and crannies” that could block those signals, according to Hallquist.

Vermont’s congressional delegation has also weighed in, with Sen. Patrick Leahy, Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Peter Welch all issuing statements to urge residents to review the map.

Individuals can file a “location challenge” or an “availability challenge” for their address on the commission’s website (www.fcc.gov/ BroadbandData/consumers) until Jan. 13.

Church

December 18th

9:30 a.m. Children's Christmas Pageant

December 21st

6:30 p.m. The Longest Night Service a special service designed for those who find the holidays to be a difficult time.

December 24th

5:00 p.m. Family-focused service (designed with children in mind) 7:30 p.m. Candlelight service

11:00 p.m. Community Service at the Old Brick Church

December 25th

9:30 a.m. A short program and singing of carols

By reporting errors, Vermonters can help the state get the ‘money it deserves.’

Herryn Herzog Communications and Outreach Manager, Vermont Community Broadband Board

BY FRED THYS VTDigger

GlobalFoundries has begun laying off employees at its massive plant in Essex Junction.

“As communicated in early December, we have begun the process of notifying impacted employees at our Burlington, Vermont, site and plan to complete these notifications by the end of this week,” Gina DeRossi, a spokesperson for GlobalFoundries, said in an email to VTDigger.

DeRossi declined to say how many Vermont employees are losing their jobs.

The Essex Junction plant, which was operated for decades by IBM, is the largest private employer in Vermont, with more than 2,000 employees and 800 contractors. Worldwide, the semiconductor manufacturer employs about 14,000 people.

The company said previously that it would lay off about 800 people worldwide, or about 5.7 percent of its employees. The company’s chief executive officer, Thomas Caulfield, said last month that the company would have to cut $100 million in costs next year in anticipation of a decline in demand for semiconduc - GlobalFoundries

has not revealed how many people in Vermont are losing their jobs.

FILE PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

tors as the world economy slows down. Dustin Degree, deputy commissioner of the Vermont Department of Labor, said the department has not been formally notified of layoffs by GlobalFound -

ries, but he said the company has been in contact with members of Gov. Phil Scott’s administration regarding layoffs.

“We expect to receive official, detailed communication of this action required under state and federal notice statutes in the coming days,” Degree said.

An employee at the plant told VTDigger that layoffs are being announced de -

partment by department, with no overall number of layoffs at the plant being released to employees.

That employee and two others spoke to VTDigger on the condition of anonymity out of fear of retribution for speaking about their employer.

“It’s basically coming down manager by manager,” the first employee said, noting there were three layoffs in their department. “Apparently, we’re not allowed to know (about) any other departments, who got laid off.”

“This has cratered morale at the company,” the employee said.

The second employee reported being one of two people laid off in a different department.

“Everybody is on pins and needles and it really kind of hurts the work,” said the second employee. “It slows everything down. Nobody feels like working.”

The employee said people who are laid off have been told they will be paid until March, at which time they will receive two weeks of severance pay for each year of service, up to a maximum of 26 weeks.

“They walked me out,” the second

employee said. “I tried to get on my email to send all my friends a note and say how nice it was to work with them and they’d already taken away my email account.”

The third employee questioned whether layoffs were the best way to cut costs.

“Instead of letting people go, why not ask ‘Who wants to work part time?’” the employee asked. “It’s horrible timing. Merry Christmas! You’re laid off!”

In October, U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy visited the Essex Junction plant as the company announced it had secured $30 million in federal funding to develop advanced semiconductors at the plant.

Leahy released a statement on the latest development Tuesday.

“Like all Vermonters, I am always concerned when I hear news of layoffs in Vermont,” Leahy said. “Far too often jobs that leave the state ultimately do not come back. Unfortunately, current economic conditions are causing global demand issues everywhere across multiple industries, including in Vermont. It is still very difficult news, especially with the upcoming holidays.”

Happy Holidays

Birders wanted

Join volunteers in community study of bird populations

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The annual Burlington-area Christmas Bird Count will take place this Sunday, Dec. 18 — an opportunity for citizen birders to contribute to the world’s longest running community science survey.

Sponsored by the National Audubon Society, the CBC is in its 123rd year and involves thousands of volunteers in 20 different countries in North and South America. In each location — a defined circle 15 miles in diameter — volunteers fan out to spot birds and record what they see. Data from all the locations are compiled and kept by the Audubon Society. The data goes back to the early 1900s.

“It’s an excellent way for anyone and everyone to get involved in community science, learn the joy that birds bring us and contribute to the data collection that scientists use to understand bird populations and what they need for survival,” said Cassie Wolfanger of Audubon Vermont.

Burlington’s zone extends over Lake Champlain and the greater Burlington area including Williston. The area has a new organizer this year, Larry Clarfeld, a teacher and naturalist with a doctorate from UVM in computer science.

Email Clarfeld at burlington-

cbc@gmail.com to register to take part in the Dec. 18 bird count. All skill levels are welcome. Counting can be done by foot, bike or car,

century-plus record of CBC results — the results have proven instrumental in understanding bird population fluctuation and habitat migration. It has also helped pinpoint one effect of global warming: the northward migration of some species, Wolfanger said.

“It’s a long-term data set over a wide geographic area, so it’s been very important for scientists and researchers,” she said.

“It’s been really a group effort over multiple generations to sustain this count,” Clarfeld added.

The Christmas Bird Count began in 1900 as a reaction to the loss of bird species, and species continue to be threatened, Clarfeld said.

Who’s

with or without binoculars. All that’s needed is a pen and paper (or some other method of recording what you see). Your count, including where you went and how long you spent, should be sent to Clarfeld at the end of the day to be compiled with data from other Burlington-area volunteers.

“We don’t care if you see a few birds or a ton of birds,” said Clarfeld. “It’s all about just getting out and seeing what’s there … It’s fun. There is a friendly competitive nature to it. It’s really a person vs. themselves to see how much you can find.”

Taken together and combined with data from roughly 2,400 other localities — and added to the

“Birds are not doing well,” he said. “There is major cause for concern and continued efforts to monitor them so we can keep track of these declines, advocate for them and teach the next generation to care for them.”

Christmas Bird Count

Sunday, Dec. 18

Register by emailing: burlingtoncbc@gmail.com

More info: www.audubon.org/conservation/join-christmas-bird-count

Gift cards can be emailed to the recipient or downloaded to your device.

Order online: kwiniaska.com/gift-cards Call: 802-985-3672

Email: ckail@kwiniaska.com

A stunning 18-hole golf course nestled in Shelburne, Vermont!

This osprey was seen winging its way over Davis Park in May.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

Mini Fact:

A Festival of Lights

At sunset on Tuesday, Dec. 18, Jewish people around the world will begin the eightday celebration of Hanukkah (HAHN-uhkuh). This week, The Mini Page learns more about this special holiday and the faith of the Jewish people.

What do Jews believe?

Jewish people practice a religious faith called Judaism (JOO-dee-iz-um). They believe in one god who created the universe and controls nature.

Jews also believe that their god chose them especially to receive his message. For example, God sent his message about the Ten Commandments through Moses.

The word “Jew” comes from Judah, the name of an ancient land where modern Jerusalem is located. The people who lived there later moved into many different areas, including Europe and eventually the Americas.

Where do Jews worship?

Jewish people go to a synagogue (SINa-gog) for prayer services led by a rabbi (RAB-eye) and a cantor, a special religious singer. “Synagogue” comes from a Greek word meaning “assembly.”

In most synagogues, a special cabinet holds the scrolls of the Torah. The Torah is the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Old Testament.

The Hanukkah story

In ancient Israel, a king named Antiochus (an-TIE-uh-kuss) tried to make all the people in his kingdom adopt one religion. He dishonored the Jewish temple in Jerusalem and said they could not practice their religion.

People in the area, led by Judah Maccabee, revolted, or rose up, against Antiochus. They won their religious freedom and later rededicated, or blessed, their temple. (“Hanukkah” means “to dedicate.”)

Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration when Jewish people remember their struggle and their victory against Antiochus.

Observing Hanukkah

During Hanukkah, Jews light candles in a special candelabrum called a menorah (mehNOR-uh), which holds nine candles. On each of the eight nights of Hanukkah, another candle is lighted.

It is said when ancient Jews were rededicating their temple, they could find enough oil to burn in the menorah for only one night. However, that small amount of oil kept burning for eight days and nights. The menorah lighting tradition is in honor of the miracle of the oil.

Jewish people light one more candle every night and say prayers. They use the middle, or shamash, candle to light the others.

Dreidel

Next Week: Winter reading

The dreidel (DRAY-duhl) is a special toy top that Jewish children play with. It has four sides with the Hebrew symbols for the words meaning, “A great miracle happened there.”

The dreidel goes back to ancient times when Jews could not worship as they wanted. They would meet in secret, and someone would read the service. If an enemy came near, they would get out a dreidel and start playing. This way the enemy soldiers didn’t know the Jews were worshipping.

Gifts

Jewish boys and girls may receive gelt, or money, during Hanukkah. Sometimes this is chocolate candy coins.

They may also receive gifts. Some get gifts on only one night, and others get one gift every night.

Food

Families gather to enjoy delicious foods during Hanukkah. Many of the foods are fried in oil, in remembrance of the miracle of the light. Potato pancakes called latkes (LAHT-kuhs) and jam-filled doughnuts are other special traditions.

Menorahs are traditionally placed in windows to share their light with the world.

Founded by Betty Debnam Issue 51, 2022

photo by Joe Goldberg

photo by Shawn Anderson

photo by Rebecca Siegel

photo by Roland Scheicher

Moses

Latkes

In most synagogues, a special cabinet holds the scrolls of the Torah. The Torah is the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Old Testament.

Try ’n’ Find

Jewish people light one more candle every night and say prayers. They use the middle, or shamash, candle to light the others.

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of Hanukkah are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

ANTIOCHUS, CANDLE, CANTOR, DREIDEL, EIGHT, FESTIVAL, GELT, GIFTS, HANUKKAH, ISRAEL, JEWISH, JUDAISM, LATKE, LIGHT, MENORAH, MIRACLE, RABBI, SHAMASH, SYNAGOGUE.

Cook’s Corner

Classic Potato Latkes

You’ll need:

• 1 pound Russet potatoes, peeled (about 2 medium)

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

What to do:

• Canola oil, for frying

• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives

• Applesauce, for serving

• Sour cream, for serving

1. Using box grater, grate potatoes. Put in a bowl of ice water until ready to use. 2. Drain potatoes well and combine with eggs, flour and 1 teaspoon salt. 3. In large skillet, heat about 1/8 inch oil until it shimmers. Add a few spoonfuls of potato mixture and flatten. Fry until crispy, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towel to drain, then sprinkle with remaining salt.

4. Serve with chives, applesauce and sour cream. Serves 4.

* You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.

potatoes does it take to make a potato pancake?

Eco Note

An environmental group called Greenpeace claims that about 95% of plastics used in U.S. households are not being recycled and wind up in landfills. The organization says it is not entirely due to the lack of recycling efforts, but that only a few types of plastic are actually recyclable. The sorting and collection of plastic items deposited in recycling bins is also a problem, according to Greenpeace. It says a significant portion of the debris is contaminated with toxic materials.

For later: Look in your newspaper for items about Hanukkah celebrations in your area.

Teachers: Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!

G E O G L A V I T S E F H S E I L E K T A L D P Y T H S Y L F C H H A N U K K A H S A N D T A M E N O R A H Y G I M A N S R R B F T H G I L I W A G A R I L E D I E R D P E E H O C A M S U H C O I T N A J S G O B Q G P H C C P M S I A D U J

B J Q R O T N A C Y H V O E U I D L E A R S I X Z T L E G Y

BY DAN THOMPSON

By Jim Miller

Savvy Senior

Tips for being a long-distance caregiver

Dear Savvy Senior, What tips do you recommend for long-distance caregivers? I help take care of my stubborn 86-year-old mother who still lives at home about 150 miles from me.

Dear Need, Providing care and support for an aging parent who lives far away can present a variety of challenges that can make the job difficult and stressful. Here are some tips and resources that may help you.

When it comes to monitoring and caring for an aging parent from afar, you have a couple of options. You can hire a professional to oversee your mom’s needs, or you can manage things yourself by building a support system, tapping into available resources and utilizing technology devices that can help you keep tabs on her.

If your mom needs a lot of help, you should consider hiring a geriatric care manager who will give her a thorough assessment to identify her needs and will set up and manage all aspects of her

care. But geriatric care managers are expensive, typically charging between $100 and $250 per hour after an initial assessment of $150 to $750, and they are not covered by Medicare.

To find a geriatric care manager in your mom’s area, visit www.AgingLifeCare.org or contact the nearest Area Agency on Aging (call 800-677-1116) to see if they have a list of providers.

If, however, your mom only needs occasional help, or if you can’t afford to use a care manager, here are some things you can do yourself to help her.

Create a care team: Put together a network of people (nearby friends or family, neighbors, clergy, etc.) who can check on your mom regularly, and who you can call on from time to time for occasional help. Also, put together a list of reliable services you

can call for household needs like lawn care, handyman services, plumbing, etc.

Tap local resources: Most communities offer a range of free or subsidized services that can help seniors with basic needs such as home delivered meals, transportation, senior companion services and more. Contact the nearby Area Aging Agency to find out what’s available.

Use financial tools: If your mom needs help with her financial chores, arrange for direct deposit for her income sources and set up automatic payments for her utilities and other routine bills. You can also set up her online banking service so you can pay bills and monitor her account anytime. Or, if you need help, hire a daily money manager (www.AADMM.com) to do it for

"Take care " two simple words that have always characterized Nina's professional and personal life. As your Realtor, she will bring the same dedication to you as she does with her family and community. In her free time, Nina serves on the boards of the Cancer Patient Support Foundation and the Vermont Italian Cultural Association.

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1791, the Bill of Rights took effect after ratification by Virginia.

• In 1961, convicted of war crimes, Adolf Eichmann, the architect of the Nazis’ “final solution,” was sentenced to death by an Israeli court.

• In 1970, the Soviet probe Venera 7 landed on Venus, becoming the first spacecraft to complete a soft landing on another planet.

• In 1978, President Jimmy Carter announced his intention to grant diplomatic recognition to Communist China, severing ties with Taiwan, on Jan. 1, 1979.

TODAY’S FACT:

• The Venera probe that landed on Venus in 1970 transmitted data to Earth for a total of 53 minutes, including just 20 minutes from the surface of the planet.

ments:

pacitated;

if needed.

If she doesn’t have these documents prepared, now is the time to make them. And if they are prepared, make sure

they’re updated and you know where they are located.

Hire in-home help: Depending on your mom’s needs, you may need to hire a part-time home-care aide that can help with things like preparing meals, housekeeping or personal care. Costs can run anywhere from $12 to $25 per hour. To find someone, try websites like www.Care. com or www.CareLinx.com.

Utilize technology: To help you keep tabs on your mom from afar, there are various technologies that can help. For example, there are medical alert systems, video camera monitors, wearable activity track-

ers and electronic pill boxes that can notify you if she has taken her medications. And to help you coordinate her care with members of her care team, there are websites like www.LotsAHelpingHands.com.

For more tips, call the National Institute on Aging at 800-222-2225 and order their free booklet, “Long-Distance Caregiving: Twenty Questions and Answers.”

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

The Williston Recreation and Parks Department is located at the Annex Building at 7878 Williston Rd. For online program registration, visit www. willistonrec.org. For department information, email recreation@willistonvt. org or call 876-1160.

HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST JUDGING

It’s time for the community to judge all the participants in this year’s Holiday Decorating Contest. Judging will take place from Dec. 17-22. The judging form is available at www.willistonrec.org. Vote for the entrant you like the best in each category. Winners will be announced the week of Dec. 27. Thank you to the sponsors of this contest who provided prizes: the Williston Observer, Healthy Living Market, Adams Farm Market, Vermont Meat & Seafood, Williston Coffee Shop and Shaw’s.

NEW ONLINE PROGRAMS

There are a series of new programs now available at www.willistonrec.org under the “Home Programs to Enjoy!” tab. There are programs on national park tours, Vermont State Parks, the Green Mountain Club, the Chittenden Solid Waste District and other fun things and your. Enjoy the videos in each category from home.

ADULT PROGRAMS

DOG TRAINING PROGRAMS

The Therapy Dog Training program starting Jan. 9 still has spots available. Mondays, Jan. 9-Feb. 20, 7:30-8:30 a.m. Gold Star Training.

BOXING INTRO

An eight-week introduction to the fundamentals of boxing — for fun, fitness, and self-defense. We’ll focus on learning footwork, defense and proper punching mechanics through a variety of safe, fun drills. Tuesday, Jan. 10-Feb. 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m. ONTA Studio

TAI CHI INTRO

Tai Chi for Health and Wellness. Come strengthen your body, regulate and build

physical energy, and cultivate your mental concentration and spirit with this gentle and nourishing practice. Thursdays, Jan. 12-March 2, 6-7 p.m. ONTA Studio

SANGHA STUDIO YOGA PASS

The five-class pass allows you to donate to the studio and receive five classes for $50 or $10 per class. At Sangha Studio, one of the core values is accessibility. This includes financial accessibility. We want everyone to practice yoga no matter what. Visit the Recreation website for link to purchase the pass.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

CHESS WIZARDS

Ages 6-12. Join these programs for tons of challenging chess lessons, exciting games and cool prizes. You’ll improve your chess skills, meet new friends and work out your most powerful muscle — your brain. Instructors: Chess Wizards staff. Dec. 2729 or Feb. 27-March 3.

LEARN TO SKI/RIDE

Registration is now open for the Learn to Ski/Ride Program for grades K-8th. Be sure to register before the Early-bird Discount to save- December 18. There will also be two fitting dates for equipment in late November and early December. You must register your family for a fitting time. Info is on the registration page.

KINDERREC BASKETBALL

This is a parent/child program designed to teach the fundamentals of the game. Each week youngsters will be introduced to a new skill and fun activities that will enhance their learning. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February.

GRADE 1-2 BASKETBALL

This program provides the opportunity for youngsters to learn the game, improve their skills and enjoy playing. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February. The hour session will consist of a practice and scrimmage time. Parent volunteers are needed to coach teams. Sign up to coach when registering your child.

E M P L O Y M E N T

Service Coordinator: Continue your career in human services in a supportive environment by providing case management for individuals either for our Adult Family Care program or our Developmental Services program. The ideal candidate will have strong clinical, organizational & leadership skills and enjoy working in a team-oriented position. $47,000 annual salary, $1,500 sign on bonus.

Residential Program Manager: Coordinate staffed residential and community supports for an individual in their home. The ideal candidate will enjoy working in a team-oriented position, have strong clinical skills, and demonstrated leadership. $45,900 annual salary, $1,500 sign on bonus.

Direct Support Professional: Provide 1:1 supports to help individuals reach their goals in a variety of settings. This is a great position to start or continue your career in human services. Full and part time positions available starting at $19/hr, $1,000 sign on bonus.

Residential Direct Support Professional: Provide supports to an individual in their home and in the community in 24h shifts including asleep overnights in a private, furnished bedroom. You can work two days, receive full benefits and have five days off each week! Other flexible schedules available, starting wage is $20/hr, $1,000 sign on bonus.

Shared Living Provider: Move into someone’s home or have someone live with you to provide residential supports. There are a variety of opportunities available that could be the perfect match for you and your household. Salary varies dependent on individual care requirements. $1,000 sign on bonus.

Join our dedicated team and together we’ll build a community where everyone participates and belongs https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/

https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/

Champlain Community Services, Inc.

Why not have a job you love?

Positions include a sign on bonus, strong benefits package and the opportunity to work at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont”.

Make a career making a difference and join our team today!

OBITUARIES

James Grover Donovan

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Grover Donovan, 82, formerly of Richmond, Cambridge and Hyde Park, VT, on Nov. 29, 2022 at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington surrounded by his loving family.

James was born in Waltham, MA, on August 1, 1940 to Edward James and Mary June (Lewis) Donovan. After graduating from high school, he attended Husson University in Bangor, ME. On July 7, 1962 James married the love of his life, Norma Murphy, in Robbinston, ME. They made many happy memories together in their 60 years of marriage.

Beneath his warm smile and friendly personality was a keen business sense. James was the

owner operator of Cambridge Village Market in Cambridge, VT; Richmond Trailer Sales in Richmond, VT; and Lucky Spot Variety also in Richmond, VT. When not at work, James loved spending time with his family, gardening, and riding his motorcycle. He was also an avid hiker who conquered all 4,000 foot mountains in New England, hiked the Long Tail with his son, Angels Landing in Zion National Park, the Knife Edge Trail on Mt. Katahdin in Maine, and many others. James and his friend Charlie, also delivered Meals on Wheels.

Left to cherish James’ memory are his wife Norma; daughter Brenda Bouvier and her husband Tom; son William Donovan and his wife Linda; sister Sandra

Donovan Kershaw; grandchildren Madison, Hannah, Nicholas, Michelle, Jessica, and Chelsea; many nieces, nephews; great nieces and nephews; and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents; and brothers Craig Nevel Donovan and Kenneth Blaine Donovan.

Visiting hours were held Dec. 10, 2022, at Gifford Funeral Home, 22 Depot Street, Richmond, VT. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in James’ memory to the Green Mountain Hiking Club, 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677.

Arrangements are in care of Gifford Funeral Home, 22 Depot Street, Richmond, VT 05477.

Mary Ann Durivage Conant

Mary Ann Durivage Conant, 84, of Bittersweet Circle in Williston, VT died on Monday, Nov. 28, 2022 at The Arbors at Shelburne following a long battle with corticobasal degeneration.

She was born on June 22, 1938 in Orleans, Vermont the daughter of Arlan Durivage and Dorothy McWilliams Durivage. She was a graduate of Orleans High School Class of 1956. She was married May 6, 1961 at the First Congregational Church in Burlington to David Bent Conant of Hanover, NH.

Before starting a family she worked for the telephone company and in her later years she worked as a bookkeeper. Mary was an avid bowler earning many trophies and

awards. She also enjoyed golf and knitting.

Mary and David raised their 2 boys in Mayfair Park on Elsom Parkway, So. Burlington. Mary is survived by her children Robert (Stacey) Conant of Shrewsbury, MA; Scott (Jamie) Conant of Winooski; her 4 grandchildren Emily Brynn Conant, Brendan Michael Conant, Daniel Ryan Conant and Sean Patrick Beaudoin; two great-grandchildren; her sister Beverly & brother-in-law Barry Connolly of So. Burlington; her nephew Mark Tubbs and his wife Denise of Lexington, SC; her nephew Peter Tubbs of Sandwich, MA; her niece Kim Kiley of Edgewater, FL; nephew John Conant of Colchester; niece

Nancy and her husband Dennis Armell of No. Ferrisburg, VT; and by several grand nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her loving husband David Bent Conant in 2007, her brother David Durivage in 2003 and her sister Alice Bruno in 2020.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Deer View Cemetery in Williston.

Arrangements are in care of the Ready Funeral & Cremation Service. To send online condolences visit www.readyfuneral.com.

Christmas Church Service Directory

Christ Memorial Church

1033 Essex Rd., Williston www.cmcvermont.org

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Dec. 24, 4 p.m.

• Christmas Sunday Service, Dec. 25, 10 a.m.

Community Lutheran Church

1560 Williston Rd., South Burlington www.communitylutheranvt. wpcomstaging.com

• Christmas Eve Services, Dec. 24, 5 p.m.; Candlelight Service, 7 p.m.

• Christmas Morning Service, Dec. 25, 10 a.m.

Crosspoint Church

237 Commerce St., Williston www.crosspointvt.org

• Sunday Service, Dec. 25, 3-4 p.m.

Essex Alliance Church

37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Junction www.essexalliance.org

• Christmas Eve Services, Dec. 24, 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m.

• No services Christmas Day

Immaculate Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church

7415 Williston Rd., Williston https:// immaculateheart.vermontcatholic.org

• Christmas Vigil Mass, Dec. 24, 5:30 p.m.

• Christmas Mass, Dec. 25, 10 a.m.

St. Timothy Anglican Church/Williston Church of the Nazarene

30 Morgan Parkway, Williston https://sttimothyburlington.org

• Christmas Eve Service, Dec. 24, 5 p.m. (a combined service of all the churches that share worship space at Williston Church of the Nazarene.)

Trinity Baptist Church

300 Trinity Drive, Williston www.tbcvt.org

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Dec. 24, 5:30 p.m.

• Christmas Morning Service, Dec. 25, 10 a.m.

Vibrant Church

2025 Williston Rd., South Burlington www.vibrant.ch

• Christmas Eve Candle Light Service & Kid’s Presentation, Dec. 24, 6 p.m.

Williston Federated Church

44 North Williston Rd., Williston www.steeple.org

• Christmas Eve Services: Children’s Service, Dec. 24, 5 p.m.; Candlelight Service, Dec. 24, 7:30 p.m. followed by cookies and punch; Community Christmas Eve Service at Old Brick Church, Dec. 24, 11 p.m.

• Christmas Sunday, Dec. 25, 9:30 a.m. live-streamed and in-person short program and singing of carols.

We Can Take It!

From an armoire to a zucchini, check our A-Z list and learn how to reuse, recycle, or dispose of items and materials you no longer want.

Now serving you with eight Drop-Off locations in Chittenden County.

Visit cswd.net for locations and materials accepted.