Williston Observer 1/12/2023

Recreation department expands

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The Williston Recreation and Parks Department recently doubled its full-time staff and is preparing this winter to expand its footprint and increase offerings.

Formerly a one-person outfit, the department brought on a program coordinator in June to work alongside director Todd Goodwin. That new staffer, Alex Mihavics, will take the lead on scheduling a newly leased indoor recreation space at 64 Harvest Lane.

The space is being called the R.O.C. —Recreation Opportunities for the Community.

“For us to continue to grow and reach demographic groups that we don’t currently reach, we needed to look for a rental space in Williston,” said Goodwin.

The 2,130-square-foot space is mostly a spacious rectangle for all manner of fitness and wellness programs. The department is currently recruiting professionals to lead classes. Those interested can find a program proposal form at www.willistonrec.org.

“Tell us what you’re passionate about. Something that you love to do. Something you wish more people took interest in. Tell us what makes it great and let’s make a plan to make a program out of it,” the department wrote in its instructor solicitation.

The department has a particular interest in providing programs for seniors and preschool-aged children. It has historically used Williston’s school gymnasiums for programming space, but that left it at

Re’tree’val

Twenty members of Williston Scout Troop 692 along with 15 supporting adults picked up hundreds of used Christmas trees Saturday for recycling and composting at the Chittenden Solid Waste District dropoff center on Redmond Road. The Scouts loaded and transported the trees using commercial trucks from New England Air and Pinnacle Properties. Scout spokeswoman Julia Nesbit said: ‘We would like to thank our community for the overwhelming support with our Christmas Tree pickup! We would also like to thank New England Air and Pinnacle Properties for the use of their large trucks, which made the task a whole lot easier! It is always wonderful to be reminded, and especially for our youth to be reminded, of what a wonderful and generous community we live in. Happy New Year to all of you and thanks again for your continued support.’

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

‘It’s brand new and it’s mine’

Redeveloped Taft Corners hotel provides new affordable housing

BY AUDITI GUHA VTDigger

After shuttling between friends’ houses and motels for four years, Michelle Lucas moved into her own apartment early last week.

“It was a little overwhelming,” she said. “It felt nice to wake up and know that … I’m not going anywhere anytime soon.”

Lucas, 45, is one of Chittenden County’s many unhoused residents who are moving into Zephyr Place, a former 99-room hotel in Williston that Champlain Housing Trust

acquired and converted into 72 units of affordable housing.

When she walked in and saw the one-bedroom, Lucas said, she started to cry. She had been living at Harbor Place in Shelburne for several months. The former motel provides temporary lodging for people experiencing homelessness. The housing trust owns it and has filed plans to redevelop it to provide affordable multifamily housing.

In recovery from substance use and sober for 14 years, Lucas said she recently

Seeking the right recipe for ice cream shop

Island Ice Cream moved manufacturing to Williston last year

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

An ice cream factory tasting room is in the works on Williston Road if planners can figure out how to safely integrate commercial truck deliveries alongside a family oriented scoop shop.

Island Homemade Ice Cream moved from its original headquarters in Grand Isle into a former ice-making facility in Williston last year. Property owner Bob Lake of Shelburne had purchased Island Homemade Ice Cream two years earlier. The business was founded in Grand Isle in 2004, with its ties to the Lake Champlain Islands essential to its brand. Manufacturing and distribution is now up and running at the corner of Williston Road and Commerce Street, on two parcels Lake owns under the name Jared Enterprises.

Island Homemade Ice Cream distributes pints to convenience stores, supermarkets and specialty shops throughout Vermont and into other parts of New England and New York. The move to Williston was part of a plan to grow into a more regional brand, Director of Operations Maura Fitzgerald said. The factory on Commerce Street is bigger than the former space in Grand Isle and had a large freezer in place from its ice manufacturing days.

The building sits across from Affectionately Cats veterinarian and New England Chimney Supply. One parcel to the north, with a gravel parking lot that has an entrance at both Commerce Street and Williston Road, is Island Ice Cream’s dry storage building where it takes delivery of things like ingredients and packaging. The company presented plans Tuesday with the

Alex Mihavics

Ice Cream

Williston Development Review Board to carve out a 1,200-square-foot portion of the building for retail ice cream sales.

It will be a chance to test market new flavors, Lake said, and sell pints and single servings of Island’s 15 existing ice creams and sorbets. Some indoor seating is planned. But outside the retail area, the safety of customers congregating before and after getting their treats is a sticking point for Development Review Board members.

“I have a big concern with trucks backing up with little kids running around and bicycles. That’s a problem,” board member John Hemmelgarn said.

The board tabled the application Tues-

Rec Dept

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the mercy of the school calendar, with no access during the school day and sporadic access in the summer.

“It was very broken up,” Goodwin said. “We’d have to put programs on hold, then set them up again … The priority (for

day until its next meeting on Jan. 24 and asked Lake and his engineer, Rick Hamlin, to revamp the site plan. The plan submitted Tuesday shows a commercial truck loading zone right next to the front entrance of the shop.

“I love the concept —a neighborhood ice cream shop. I’m just really concerned about the safety of people going to the shop,” echoed board chair Peter Kelley.

Lake said truck deliveries happen once or twice a day and could be limited to morning hours when the retail area is closed. Kelley said that would be unenforceable.

“Planning and Zoning should not become the compliance agency to make sure there aren’t deliveries during retail hours,” he said.

“I’d like to see a new site plan … with safety in mind,” Hemmelgarn said.

the new space) is long-term, continuous, year-round programs.”

The space shares a building with private businesses and is located near the Williston Goodwill store. It is owned by Allen Brook Development and is on a one-year lease.

Rec programs are expected to launch there in February.

PROPERTY TRANSFERS DECEMBER 2022

• Judy McCawley bought a condominium on Commons Road from Barbara Greene for $420,000.

• Sisters and Brothers Investment Group bought property on 2 acres on Zephyr Road from M&E Boudah Enterprises LLC for $800,000.

• Michael Gravelin bought a home on 4 acres on Lefebvre Lane from A&M Construction Corp. for $343,150.

• Martin Zirkle bought a condominium on Hideaway Lane from the Rose G. Hanson Living Trust for $310,000.

• David Pawlusiak bought a condominium on Seth Circle from Andrew Filion for $305,000.

• Kory Key bought a mobile home on Porterwood Drive from Fecteau Residential Inc. for $190,562.

• Jason Carney bought a home on 6 acres on Maple Road from Paula Morin for $600,000.

• Abigail Daley bought a home on Dunmore Lane from the Daniel P. Contos Trust for $725,000.

• Edisandro Cepena bought a home on Hickory Hill Road from Thanh Nguyen

for $410,000.

• The Christopher and Amie Frederick Revocable Trust bought a home on 2 acres on Sunset Hill Road from Philip Robillard for $785,000.

• Darlene LeClair bought a home on Shunpike Road from David LeClair for $300,000.

• Brant Gage bought a home on 1 acre on Terrace Drive from Alex Daley for $965,000.

• David Jensen bought a home on 5 acres on Old Stage Road from the Rufus P. Duell Jr. Revocable Trust for $557,000.

• Johnathan Bratko bought a home on Jakes Way from Village Associates LLC for $470,000.

• Scott Wege bought a condominium on Kadence Circle from Northridge-Williston LLC for $378,660.

Property Transfers sponsored by

INSTAGRAM PHOTO @ ISLANDHOMEMADEICECREAMVT

had Covid and is often tired. She said she has faced a long string of challenges — the death of her mother, an abusive relationship, a slumlord, chemotherapy for malignant melanoma, and mental health and physical disabilities, including fibromyalgia — all of which led to her becoming unhoused in November 2018.

So when Lucas got a call in November informing her she had been accepted for an apartment at Zephyr Place, she was ecstatic and overwhelmed.

She signed a lease for a one-bedroom apartment on Dec. 20.

Champlain Housing Trust, a nonprofit that creates and preserves affordable housing in northwestern Vermont, acquired TownPlace Suites on Zephyr Road in November 2021 and started construction in May 2022. The first building opened in December and the second is expected to open soon. Together they will provide 72 perpetually affordable apartments — 29 studios and 43 one-bedrooms. Thirty-eight of them are reserved for unhoused households who will receive rental assistance from the Burlington Housing Authority, according to housing trust CEO Michael Monte.

The hotel was in good shape and is in a great location, close to jobs and public transportation, Monte said.

The project, which cost $19 million, relied on federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. Champlain Housing partnered with the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, which secured more than $8.5 million; the Vermont Housing Finance Agency, which provided $650,000 in debt funding; and Evernorth, a nonprofit development company that helped line up funding and handled construction.

“I’ve spoken to maybe 50 or so folks out there right now who don’t have shelter, and this is going to have a major impact in terms of providing an opportunity because people are coming out of shelters or other resources,” Monte said. “So it’s going to free up a lot of the pending demand for shelter resources in the community.”

William Lancour is among those moving from a shelter to Zephyr Place.

Two years ago, congestive heart failure landed him in the hospital for a couple of weeks, Lancour said. “Then I got out but things were going south, so I was pretty much homeless.”

High health costs led to Lancour losing his home. He went back and forth between the street and crashing with friends.

Then he went to the Committee on

Temporary Shelter for help and was temporarily put up at Harbor Place. “It was OK,” he said.

Lancour said he continued looking for housing everywhere but it wasn’t easy to find in the middle of the housing crisis in Vermont. And he stayed in touch with all the social service agencies helping him.

A few months ago, he got a call from the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity, informing him that he had a new apartment in Williston. It was a long time coming but it felt “so wonderful,” he said.

Lancour moved into his new studio apartment on Dec. 19.

“Any additional safe, affordable housing in our community is worth celebrating, and we are thrilled for the 72 households who will now have a place to call home,” Jonathan Farrell, executive director of the Committee on Temporary Shelter, said in an email. “We are proud to assist several clients with their move into Zephyr Place this winter, and grateful to CHT for making this opportunity possible.”

After several years of being unhoused, Lucas listed the things that make a difference in her new place: “Finally I

have a big refrigerator,” she said. “I have a kitchen sink. My stove and then a microwave up above the stove. I have lots and lots of cupboards.”

The apartment came partially furnished — a bed, nightstands, a desk, a small couch and a TV. She likes that it’s clean, safe and doesn’t have curfews.

Lucas doesn’t drive and she uses a walker, so an old friend helped her move about two carloads of her clothes and things from Harbor Place — and took her grocery shopping.

“I didn’t completely fill my fridge but it was nice to be able to buy meat and put it in the freezer. I haven’t eaten meat for so long. I haven’t been able to cook it,” she said.

Lucas, who is in a third-floor apartment, said she’s happy there’s an elevator and a laundry in the building because her health issues make it hard for her to navigate stairs.

“She’s struggled a lot,” said longtime friend Erika Martin, who often gives Lucas rides to the doctor or to buy groceries because Lucas does not have a car. “This new place they renovated that she’s moving into will be better for her.”

“It’s brand new and it’s mine and I can

decorate it however I want,” Lucas said. High on the list: getting some pictures on the walls.

Now that she has stable housing, Lucas is making plans to do things long on hold, like making dental appointments and improving her diet to lose some weight and hopefully avoid back surgery for a ruptured disc and sciatica.

“I’ll be able to eat proper foods that I can mix together, not processed foods or TV dinners,” she said.

Currently in remission from melanoma, she has a dermatology appointment set for later this month.

Most importantly, Lucas said, she can continue therapy and her recovery journey in a safe place.

“That’s something people take for granted. I know addiction is hard because I’ve been in recovery for 14 years,” she said. “If you have the mindset, you can do it. You may not have anybody else rooting for you, but you’re gonna root for yourself, number one.”

Another thing Lucas is looking forward to: having her grandchildren visit from St. Albans.

“I can keep my grandbabies overnight,” she said.

Michelle Lucas at her new apartment at Zephyr Place in Williston last Saturday. Lucas moved into the Champlain Housing Trust building after experiencing homeless for five years.

PHOTOS BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

Colchester pulls out of regional dispatch effort

BY AUDITI GUHA VTDigger

Citing financial pressure, Colchester has pulled out of an ongoing effort to regionalize emergency dispatch services in Chittenden County.

Town Manager Aaron Frank, who is vice chair of the public safety board overseeing the initiative, said Colchester “values regional dispatch even if it is not the path for the town.”

Colchester’s departure brings the number of participating municipalities down to four — Burlington, South Burlington, Winooski and Williston — from the eight envisioned when planning began in 2016. It remains to be

seen how much of a setback this will pose to the yearslong effort being spearheaded by the Chittenden County Public Safety Authority.

And now, Burlington isn’t sure it will remain committed.

“This is a major disappointment and very concerning for the municipalities, departments and voters that have long understood the meaningful benefits of standing up a regional dispatch system,” said Derek Libby, acting fire chief in Burlington who is on the board of the authority.

“Without a resolution before Town Meeting Day, it is unlikely that Burlington will be able to continue supporting this initiative,” he said.

Despite the dwindling numbers, others involved in the project said the long-term benefits of a regional service — combining dispatching for police, fire and EMS — still outweigh the financial hurdles. It’s a conversation that dates back 50 years but budgetary concerns, staffing challenges and varying public safety needs across Chittenden County have made it a challenge to implement.

Leaders say they are eager to continue toward consolidation but are cautioning that progress on the project, which was formally launched in 2018, could be slow.

“We are being very open and working in partnership with all of our surrounding communities about how we can provide better regional services,” South Burlington City Manager Jessie Baker said. “If it’s not with Colchester, it could be with any of the other partner communities currently in CCPSA. So, yes, I think something could move forward at an incremental pace.”

In the meantime, Williston, another member town, has just signed an agreement to merge its police dispatch services with those of Essex but will remain a partner in the regional effort.

Williston Town Manager Erik Wells, who serves on the public safety authority’s board, said he anticipates the board “will continue to look at approaches and strategies to stand up the dispatch center in the coming years.”

South Burlington Fire Chief Steven Locke, who chairs the public safety authority, said a regional system would enhance capacity, help address staffing challenges and create a system in which dispatchers know “the status of every fire truck, every ambulance, every police car in the county, and if they need to send resources they can send the closest available unit, as quickly as they can, to provide the best service to our citizens.”

“It really comes down to quality of service and the ability to share resources across the county seamlessly,” Locke said. So, “when someone calls 911, that call goes to that one place and it is not transferred.”

The current effort stems from a 2016 study that prompted a joint survey committee with representatives from eight Chittenden County communities. The com-

mittee determined a combined regional dispatch and 911 call center in one location could reduce response time by an average of 71 seconds per call by eliminating call transfers.

In 2018, seven communities signed an agreement for the formation of a union municipal district, as laid out by Vermont statute.

That March, residents in Burlington, Colchester, Milton, South Burlington, Williston and Winooski voted to create the public safety authority to provide regional emergency dispatch services.

Essex had earlier decided not to vote on it. Shelburne voters rejected the proposal, and in 2019, Milton decided to instead turn to

funds, according to documents. After two rounds of local capital funding totaling $612,553 from the five member communities, the CCPSA hopes to collect the remaining funds by Jan. 15.

At present, municipalities are expected to contribute financially each year. After ratification of the funding agreement, the payments will become mandatory. Contributions are based on call volumes for police, fire and rescue services in each community.

For fiscal year 2024, the authority requested an additional $463,765 from Burlington, $235,914 from South Burlington, $206,447 from Colchester, $128,978 from Williston and $114,896 from Winooski.

After decades of failed attempts, Libby from Burlington said the authority made great progress in the last two years. It was on the verge of hiring an executive director and nearly ready to encumber capital construction expenses.

“Unfortunately, recent events have seriously jeopardized the viability of the project,” he said, citing lost state funding and Colchester’s recent decision.

St. Albans to provide services. Williston does not plan to use the regional dispatch until fiscal year 2025, according to documents shared by Frank, the vice chair of the public safety board.

“As the number of partner communities diminished, it was more difficult to make CCPSA work for a similar cost as we had planned,” he said.

The public safety authority, which has so far created a budget and secured startup funding, was aiming to begin regional dispatch operations in fiscal year 2024. It is unclear whether Colchester’s departure will delay that timeline.

The effort does not come cheap. The operating cost for fiscal year 2024 was estimated in November to be between $2.8 million and $3.8 million.

“Regional dispatch requires significant new overhead costs in professional services and insurance, software and IT services; rent, utilities, telecom and supplies,” Frank said.

The authority has outlined more than $3.5 million in startup costs and has secured more than $2 million in state and federal

The Colchester Selectboard voted on Dec. 13 to not provide the funding this year. In a letter to the public safety authority, Pam Loranger, the board chair, wrote that the decision “was not intended to be a dismissal of the vision of regional dispatch” but rather a financial decision “in a year where we are facing unprecedented cost increases due to inflation.”

Colchester has five staff and one vacancy for dispatchers for four areas of public safety — police, fire, rescue and technical rescue — plus some part-time workers. It has budgeted $558,071 for dispatch services in fiscal year 2024. Participation in the CCPSA dispatch services would cost the town $770,376 or 38% more, according to Frank.

“There are areas where local governments can do things better together when they share common values around the services being delivered. I believed regional dispatch was one of those areas,” he said.

Colchester’s decision to withdraw was announced at the public safety authority’s last meeting on Dec. 19. The town seeks to remain

“Unfortunately, recent events have seriously jeopardized the viability of the project.”

Derek Libby Acting Burlington fire chief

GMT gets new GM

The Green Mountain Transit Board of Commissioners has hired Clayton Clark as the organization’s next general manager, effective Jan. 10.

The board conducted a national search while Assistant General Manager Jon Moore temporarily stepped in as general manager. Clark comes from an executive director position at the Converse Home, a nonprofit assisted living and memory care residence in Burlington.

“We are excited to welcome Clayton to the team, and we’re confident that he will lead our organization long into the future,” said Austin Davis, chair of the board of commissioners. “I’d like to take a moment to thank Jon Moore for his years of service in the General Manager role. The board is grateful for Jon’s steering the agency through a global pandemic, among other challenges. We are grateful that Jon will stay on board in the role of assistant general manager, where he will lend his years of experience in operational matters.”

Green Mountain Transit operates public transportation systems service northwest and central Vermont.

GMT plans to bring back bus fares

BY SHAUN ROBINSON VTDigger

Green Mountain Transit plans to start charging fares this summer on its bus routes in Chittenden County for the first time since the outset of the pandemic, a move the agency says is necessary to make up for a drop in federal, state and local funding.

The decision to bring back fares is not yet final, Jon Moore, Green Mountain Transit’s general manager, said Friday: Fare revenue is included in the agency’s draft operating budget for the 2024 fiscal year, but the board of commissioners has not yet approved it.

If the plan moves forward, Moore said fares would go into effect July 1 at the same price point as before the pandemic. The agency does not currently plan to bring back fares on its rural services; Moore noted those routes accounted for only a small fraction of pre-pandemic revenue compared to the Burlington-area routes.

Green Mountain Transit was able to waive fares on its routes for the current fiscal year, which runs through June, only after state lawmakers approved a $1.2 million add-on to the state transportation budget last spring. But the agency doesn’t have a similar infusion of cash available for the next fiscal year, Moore said, nor will it be able to count on the same level of federal Covid-19 relief funds it’s had in the past.

“Long story short,” he said, “we couldn’t balance the budget without resuming fares.”

Green Mountain Transit has struggled for years with a lack of stable funding. The agency receives revenue from only a portion of the municipalities it serves, and isn’t guaranteed support from large companies whose employees ride the bus.

Moore also noted that the agency does not currently have enough bus drivers,

which, in addition to putting a strain on the workers themselves, also means the agency has had to fund “unsustainably high” overtime costs.

To ease revenue shortfalls, Green Mountain Transit has asked the state to consider subsidizing the agency on a permanent basis. But despite backing from the Chitten-

den County Regional Planning Commission, some legislators have opposed the idea, arguing it would be unjust to charge state taxpayers for a regional transit system.

Moore acknowledged Friday that bringing back fares could cause the agency to lose some riders. Advocates of fare-free

Passengers disembark from a Green Mountain Transit bus at the Downtown Transit Center in Burlington.

FILE PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

Clayton Clark

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GUEST COLUMN

Public transit is truly for everyone

BY AMY BREWER

I am an advocate for a community that balances transportation options that include walking, rolling, transit (buses) and cars. Williston is lucky enough to have good (although not yet perfect – more connections need to be made) infrastructure for all these transit modes. This is especially true in Taft Corners and surrounding neighborhoods, in the Village and neighborhoods surrounding the schools, and in some of neighborhoods north of Williston Road and along Route 2A.

But while the town and its partners continue to work toward a more connected, safe community, and community voices continue to help identify ways to make Williston better and safer for walking and rolling (this includes bikes, strollers, wheelchairs, etc.), many of us might forget that we have good access to Green Mountain Transit (GMT) buses. And at least for now, they are free! For teenagers, older Vermonters, parents with little ones, folks going to work, people shopping, for medical appointments, going out to

lunch … you name it, GMT buses are there.

Whether you’re focused on how to reduce your carbon footprint, hoping to spend less by using your car less (or getting rid of it all together), if you don’t drive, or you’re wanting to increase your health (bus riders often walk more as they walk to and from bus stops), hopping on GMT buses can help.

Williston is served directly by two different bus routes, the No. 1 and the No. 10. The No. 1 connects downtown Burlington with Taft Corners along Williston Road by way of the University Mall. The No. 10 connects Williston to Essex Junction via Route 2A and then continues to the Essex Experience, through Essex Town, and back along Route 2A to Taft Corners. Although a less-traveled route, it is a simple way to get to the Amtrack station, connect to other routes into Winooski and Burlington, or head out to Essex destinations.

In addition to these “fixed” routes, GMT contracts with SSTA to provide “paratransit” services in Williston. These services serve

residents who meet specific criteria and may be served door-to-door by SSTA vehicles. Recently at a Williston selectboard presentation about GMT, the selectboard asked about how Williston residents can access these services. If you’re not sure if you qualify for paratransit services, you can reach out to GMT at (802) 864-2282 or ADA@RideGMT.com to ask. They will help.

If you’re ready to take the bus, check out the GMT website at www.ridegmt.com for schedules, an interactive map or access to a trip planner service. You can also download the GMT app for your smartphone. Then, all you do is hop on and let the great GMT drivers take you to where you want to go. It’s fairly easy.

As your Williston representative to the GMT Board of Commissioners, I’m here to help you as well. Please reach out to me with any questions at abrewer@ridegmt.com.

Amy Brewer is Williston’s representative on the Green Mountain Transit Board of Commissioners.

Police presence appreciated

I would like to commend and congratulate the Williston Police Department for being one of very few Vermont police agencies that has been able to recruit and sustain healthy staffing numbers for their patrol division.

As a Williston resident of 22-plus years, I am pleased that our police department can still function proactively and provide a visible presence throughout our communities.

Our community benefits from all of the motor vehicle stops that are listed in the monthly police activity summaries. Driver attention, courtesy and safety have declined tremendously, and all efforts by our Williston officers to educate us about our poor roadway manners is appreciated.

Sue Roberts Williston

Child care as public infrastructure

This is such an exciting time, when the state Legislature convenes for the first time of the two-year biennium. We welcome dozens of new lawmakers, inaugurate our governor and state-wide officials, and continue the critically important work of solving our child care crisis.

This work has been decades in the making, and the child care crisis in our state has never been more dire. Vermonters have made clear, child care is

essential and we can no longer afford to get by with small steps or half measures. We need a child care system that meets the needs of our children, families and early childhood educators, and supports our workforce and economy.

In the weeks to come, we are counting on lawmakers and our governor to advance and support legislation that provides a comprehensive and equitable solution to the child care crisis. The solution must include ongoing and long-term public investment to ensure every child who needs it has access to quality child care, that families spend no more than 10 percent of their income on child care and that early childhood educators are fairly compensated.

The solution must also improve the state’s child care governance structure by creating a single, empowered state entity to oversee the child care system. Additionally, state leaders must keep their focus on equity and accessibility, so that every child has access to care regardless of zip code, ability, racial or ethnic background, health needs or family composition.

Anything less than this is a disservice to Vermonters. This is the time for leadership to fully address this crisis and that means investing in child care as public infrastructure.

Public investment in our child care system solves so many of our state’s toughest challenges. Thousands of business leaders, community stakeholders, parents and Vermonters from every corner of the state have

banded together in this moment. Vermont’s youngest children are relying on us to get this done.

Aly Richards CEO

Let’s Grow Kids

Housing first

We are encouraged that many of the policy priorities presented by the Governor in his recent inaugural address are top concerns for the Vermont business community. In particular, his commitment to addressing housing, and the acknowledgment that the issue is foundational to the workforce crisis, aligns with our 2023 legislative session priorities.

Given the legislative leadership’s acknowledgment that housing is at the top of their agenda as well, we sincerely hope to see the housing bill be the first on the governor’s desk this session.

In recent years we’ve seen hundreds of millions of dollars invested in housing, and while this has been critical to making progress, the housing crisis continues to worsen. This session, we will bring forth additional balanced solutions, because money alone cannot fix this problem.

In the months ahead, the Vermont Chamber will advocate for creative solutions that do not add to the economic burden for small businesses and Vermonters.

Betsy Bishop President Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Who’s

a non-voting member of the authority and is interested in collaborating on a computer-aided dispatch system and improving mutual aid, Frank said.

In Winooski, City Manager Elaine Wang, who is on the CCPSA board, said she still hopes the regionalization effort comes to fruition. The City Council will discuss the dispatch budget on Jan. 23.

Wang has recommended a $458,618 budget for fiscal year 2024.

“My hope for the initiative in 20232024 is that we find a solution that is consistent with the initial plan: be financially affordable for Winooski, and have dispatch services that work well” for the city’s emergency responders, Wang said.

With one dispatcher on at all times, Winooski Fire and EMS is challenged when there is more than one call for service at a time, and a complex situation often calls for multiple dispatches, she said.

transit say it has the potential to attract “choice” riders — people who have the means to drive themselves somewhere but choose to take the bus for convenience or cost-saving reasons.

But other factors have impacted the agency’s ridership, Moore noted, such

making permanent a handful of service reductions the transit agency has had in place throughout the pandemic. Those include, according to documents posted to Green Mountain Transit’s website:

• On the No. 1 Williston, No. 2 Essex Junction, No. 6 Shelburne and No. 7 North Avenue routes, reduced service after 7 p.m.: 60 minutes between buses (up from 30 minutes previously) Monday to Friday, and 75-minute gaps on Saturday

• On the No. 11 Airport route, service every 45 minutes (up from 30 minutes previously) between 6 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., and every 75 minutes (up from every 45 minutes) from 7:30 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.

• Combining the No. 4 Essex Center and No. 10 Williston/Essex routes, with 75 minutes between buses

General

as the rise of remote working during the pandemic. Across the system, data shows Green Mountain Transit ridership hasn’t rebounded to pre-pandemic levels.

“Our costs have increased much faster than our revenues. I think that’s the underlying issue,” Moore said Friday. “And if we want to provide a high-quality, functioning transit system, we need to find a more sustainable funding model.”

The agency’s FY24 budget also calls for

donate a vehicle

• Eliminating two evening trips on the No. 9 Winooski route

• Eliminating the Barre LINK Express Moore said the agency needs to make service reductions in its upcoming budget, and believes it will be easier on riders to cut trips that haven’t been running for multiple years. He also noted these service changes could still be adjusted based on public input. The agency plans to host a public hearing on its proposed budget on Jan. 10 at 4:30 p.m. via Zoom. Visit https://ridegmt.com/ public-hearings/ for the meeting link.

“Long story short, we couldn’t balance the budget without resuming fares.”

Jon

Moore

Manager Green Mountain Transit

Williston first-responders arrive at the scene of an emergency last year. Efforts are underway to regionalize emergency dispatch under one Chittenden County entity.

OBSERVER FILE PHOTO

Creating a garden in a terrarium

BY DEBORAH J. BENOIT Special to the Observer

Terrariums are miniature gardens in lidded, clear glass containers. Their closed environment requires little care and only occasional maintenance.

The container can be a jar, a glass globe or an unused aquarium. Whatever size you choose, just be sure it’s been thoroughly cleaned.

Select plants that either are naturally small and slow-growing or that can be pruned to remain small or they will soon outgrow the container and overcrowd their companion plants. For best results, choose plants with similar light and humidity requirements.

Plants to consider include miniature ferns, such as maidenhair fern and button fern, the palm-like little tree plant, polka dot plant and miniature African violets. Carnivorous plants, such as Venus flytrap or sundew, will appreciate the humidity.. In addition, mosses can be the star of a tiny terrarium or serve as ground cover in a large one.

To provide a good foundation for plants to grow, begin with a 1-2inch layer of coarse gravel or small stones. Use the thicker layer for a larger container. This layer provides necessary drainage since the terrarium’s container has none.

Next, add a thin layer of activated charcoal. The charcoal will help prevent odors and bacterial growth.

The top layer in which plants will grow is made up of 2-3 inches of

light potting soil that contains perlite and/or vermiculite.

Plan the arrangement of plants using a plate or a piece of paper the size of the planting area within the container. Taller plants should be placed behind shorter ones. Allow enough room for plants to grow.

When satisfied with your design, remove the plants from their pots, working away excess soil and freeing roots. Make a hole in the terrarium’s soil and spread roots to accommodate the shallow soil depth. Gently press soil around the base of each plant.

It may be difficult to use your hands to place plants in some terrariums. You can use a long-handled spoon, dowel, chopsticks, tongs and other items to place each plant and firm it in soil.

Water sparingly by misting or adding spoonfuls of water. Soil can be covered with sand, gravel, colored aquarium stone or a living ground cover such as moss. Consider adding shells, miniature figurines and other decorative accents. Finally, secure the lid in place to create a closed environment that will need minimal maintenance.

If excess moisture accumulates on the inside of the glass, briefly open the lid. Conversely, if the seal is not tight, the terrarium may need to be watered periodically. If you have a lid with a good seal, you may not need to add water for months.

As plants grow, they may need to be groomed periodically with pruning to remove unhealthy or damaged

growth or to maintain shape or size. Select a location for the terrarium with bright light but avoid placing in direct sunlight as the glass will magnify the sun’s rays and overheat the environment inside the terrarium, damaging the plants.

If you’d like a terrarium featuring cactus and succulents, which prefer far less humidity, you can accommodate them by making an open terrarium in this same manner. Omit the lid to allow air to circulate. Monitor and water as needed.

Large or small, terrariums are a wonderful way to enjoy a tiny, private garden even in the middle of winter.

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

Plants that are either naturally small and slow-growing or that can be pruned to stay small will work well in a terrarium.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Phosphorus reduction incentives now offered

Applications are now open for the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets’ Pay for Performance program for agricultural phosphorus runoff reduction.

The program grants payments to farmers for reducing phosphorus runoff from their fields — part of the state’s water quality improvement efforts.

To be eligible, farmers must manage hay, crop or pastureland, have an up-to-date nutrient management plan that meets the agency’s Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) standards and be registered with the USDA Farm Service Agency.

Selected applicants will receive a stipend of up to $4,000 to enter their farm management data into an online phosphorus reduction planner. Technical assistance is available for data entry. The planner calculates annual phosphorus losses on fields and allows farmers and others to calculate phosphorus reductions from the baseline assumptions of the Lake Champlain Total Maximum Daily Load regulation.

Last year, 53 farms enrolled in the program.

If program participants demonstrate sufficient phosphorus reductions on their operations, they can be be selected for larger performance-based contracts averaging $18,000 annually.

“This program is beneficial to Vermont farmers because it evaluates what each individual farm is doing on an annual basis to reduce their own phosphorus loss,” said Geoff Sweeney, an organic dairy farmer in St. Albans who participated in the program in 2022. “It also provides valuable information about average phosphorus losses

on each of our fields so we can better plan on where to focus our conservation and nutrient planning efforts in the future.”

For more information and to apply, visit www.agriculture.vermont.gov/vpfp. Applications are due by Jan. 20. All applications will be competitively ranked and reviewed.

Winter manure spreading ban takes effect

The annual winter manure spreading ban for farmers began Dec. 15 and runs through April 15.

During this time, no manure or other agricultural wastes (including compost and spoiled feed) may be spread on agricultural fields throughout Vermont.

This annual ban is part of the Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) enacted with the 2015 Vermont Clean Water Act. They are administered and enforced by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets as part of the state’s water quality improvement strategy.

Required Agricultural Prac-

tices also prohibit the application of manure or agricultural wastes on any frozen, saturated or snow-covered fields, even outside of the winter manure spreading ban timeframe. Manure spread over frozen or saturated ground has a heightened risk of running off into waterways.

Under the RAPs, farmers must either have a storage structure that can hold all manure produced in the winter or be able to stack all manure produced in a way that meets RAP standards and will not lead to adverse water quality impacts.

Manure spreading is a com-

mon practice in Vermont agriculture. Under the right conditions, it enriches soil for crop production — part of the agricultural nutrient cycle: Fertilized crops become feed for livestock that then produce manure that is then spread on fields.

The RAPs require farms to use nutrient management planning and to keep records of applications that occur including the date, time, amount, field location and weather and field conditions.

For more information, call Laura DiPietro at (802) 595-1990 or visit www.agriculture.vermont. gov/rap.

Cover crops take root on a farm in Waterford. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Balint builds out Congressional staff

Newly sworn in Vermont Congresswoman Becca Balint has announced the hiring of several staff members in both her Washington D.C. and Vermont offices. After winning the seat in the November general election, Balint hired Megan Garcia as her chief of staff and David Scherr as state director.

Other staff members now include:

BEN SARLE — DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Sarle has two decades of experience in communications, photography and design, including his time as the communications director for the Vermont Democratic Party, a contributing writer for The Atlantic and the Wall Street Journal, and a member of the communications team for New York City Mayor Bill Deblasio. Sarle was most recently creative director for Congressman Peter Welch’s campaign for U.S. Senate.

PETER TROMBLEY — LEGISLATIVE CORRESPONDENT

Trombley was the regional organizing director on Balint’s congressional primary campaign in northwest Vermont, and deputy political director during the general election. Trombley is a graduate of Mcgill University and is a native of Shelburne.

TARYN BROWN — OPERATIONS DIRECTOR AND SCHEDULER

Brown has been on Capitol Hill for nearly a decade. She most recently served as the deputy chief of staff for Congressman Andy Levin of Michigan.

Brown is a native of Minnesota.

SOPHIE POLLOCK — COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Pollock comes to Balint’s team after serving in Rep. Ritchie Torres’ office over the last two years, mostly recently as communications director. Previously, Pollock worked as an organizer in New York City on Rep. Max Rose’s 2020 re-election campaign.

XITLALI PACHECO RAMIREZ — STAFF ASSISTANT

Pacheco Ramirez most recently was a legislative intern for Sen. Alex Padilla.

AILEEN LACHS — DIRECTOR OF CONSTITUENT SERVICES

For the past several years, Lachs, a practicing attorney, has served as an immigration caseworker for Sen. Patrick Leahy.

JESSICA NORDHAUS — DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Nordhaus began her career as an entrepreneur, founding Horny

Toad Activewear (now Toad & Co.) immediately after graduating from Yale. Her path then led to education, community organizing, K-12 school reform, political consulting, public policy, non-profit development and equity work. Most recently she directed Change The Story VT, leading the initiative until its sunset in 2022.

CAROLYN WESLEY

— VERMONT DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AND CULTURE

Wesley most recently served as chief of staff to Balint in the Vermont Senate President Pro Tem’s office. Wesley has worked on early childhood education and renewable energy. She previously served as deputy director of Building Bright Futures and director of constituent services for Gov. Peter Shumlin.

MORGAN NICHOLS — COMMUNITY LIAISON/ CONSTITUENT SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Nichols comes to Balint’s team from Vermont Main Street Alliance, where she was the state director and led a policy campaign for paid family leave. She is a UVM graduate and native of Stowe.

THOMAS RENNER — COMMUNITY LIAISON/CONSTITUENT SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Renner is a UVM and Norwich University graduate who comes to Balint’s staff with multiple years of federal government

Becca Balint

Redhawks clip Bobwhites’ wings

Keeping the Wolves at bay

CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU’s Elise Ayer drives into the paint on South Burlington’s Elaina Ross during the Redhawks’ win over the Wolves on Tuesday evening at CVU. Maddie Bunting adds points to the scoreboard with a couple of free throws. Addi Hunter puts up a short jumpshot over Aleah Staley. Kate Boget pushes the fast break.

CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU’s Sam Sweeney launches a shot from behind the arc during the Redhawks’ Thursday evening win over the BFA Bobwhites at CVU. Logan Vaughn fights to the rim for a bucket against BFA’s Seth Richards. Tucker Tharpe draws a foul. Nik Blasius brings the ball up court. A drive up the lane by Alex Provost past BFA’s Jonathan Ireland results in a basket.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

Frosted

CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU’s Travis Stroh gets off a backhand shot on MMU’s Lucas Parisi during the Redhawks’ loss to the Cougars on Dec. 2 at Cairns Arena.

Goalie Tommy Barnes denies a shot from point blank range by MMU’S Owen Jones.

CVU’s Devon Fay wins the faceoff from MMU’s Alex Brown. A fast break by the Redhawks is led by Nic Menard.

Below, CVU’s Brady Jones and MMU’s Sam Molson battle for possession behind the net.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

Helen Barbara Phillips

Helen Barbara Phillips, 96, passed away peacefully at her home on Hinesburg Hollow Road surrounded by her family Tuesday evening Jan. 3, 2023.

She was born at home in St. George, May 3, 1926, the daughter of Fredrick N. and Jennie E. (Wellinger) Peet.

Helen grew up on a family farm across from what is now Rocky Ridge Golf Course on Route 116 and would walk to the one-room schoolhouse in St. George. She graduated from Hinesburg High School and from Burlington Business College. The oldest of seven, Helen had many happy memories of her childhood fishing on Shelburne Pond when she wasn’t helping on the farm or picking berries to earn money to go to the Champlain Valley Fair.

She worked for the Venetian Blind Company of Burlington after graduating from college and was the elected Huntington Town auditor for 42 years and helped uncover a fraud by the Town Clerk in 1968.

Helen married the love of her life, Gerald (Gerry) Phillips on July 7, 1948 and moved to his family farm at the top of Phillips Road, now called Trapp Road in Huntington. They moved to Hinesburg Hollow Road in 1961 where their four children were raised on their small farm. Helen and Gerry were married for 59 years before his passing in 2007.

She enjoyed company, canning, gardening, taking walks, picking berries, family gatherings and being a loving mother. For many, many years, she and Gerry hosted all-day Christmas gatherings with many people coming and going. She made sure everyone found a present under the tree, no matter how tough the times. She was like a second mother to many.

Helen was kind, caring, agreeable, and always willing to lend a helping hand. Her home was a stopover for many friends and family passing through Huntington and always had an open door and warm welcome for visitors. Over the years, she babysat many children, too many to count.

She also had an adventurous side and took many trips outside of Vermont. She had a permit for 30 years and never drove, but if someone stopped to see if she wanted to take a ride, she would always hop in their car and go.

She also enjoyed the many years of Senior Dinners and being on the van to visit with her friends.

Helen is survived by her daughter Kathy and Harold Wendel of Huntington, their son Christopher and Samantha, and son Michael; son Lawrence and Tammy Phillips of Huntington, their daughter Lindsay, son Chad and significant other Cody, and daughter Courtney and fiance Sasa; daughter Patrica Henry of Huntington, her son Philip and significant other Wendy; daughter Amy and Chris Knapp of Monkton, son Jacob and Emma Tracy, daughter Laney and son Sam; great-grandchildren Bailey, Riley, Dalila, Gabrylle, Ryan, Caleb, Myles, Caylan, Logan, Finlee, Luka, Oakley; sister Joyce and Lyle Bissonette of Hinesburg; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was predeceased by her husband Gerry, grandson Justin Henry and siblings Clara, Fredrick (Bud), Alson, Marilyn (Junie), and Lucille.

Thank you to Dr. Pamela Dawson, UVM Home Health & Hospice nurses and support staff and the many caregivers. A very special thank you to Shirley Weaver for the many years of home care, friendship and companionship during Helen’s later years.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Huntington Senior Citizens, ℅ Donna Lewis, 97 Trapp Road, Huntington, VT 05462; Richmond Rescue, 216 Railroad Street, Richmond, VT 05477; UVM Home Health & Hospice, 1110 Prim Road, Colchester, VT 05446.

Visiting hours will be, Jan. 12, from 2 pm to 5 pm at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 10759 Rt. 116, Hinesburg, VT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 am Jan. 13, 2023 also at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church.

OBITUARIES

Roger A. Dunn

Proud to be a Mainer, Roger A. Dunn was the first born of Charles H. Dunn and Marilyn J. Dunn of Brownfield, ME Dec. 5, 1952. Humorous, kind, and wonderfully complex, at the age of 70, Dec. 18, 2022, Roger died unexpectedly in Portland, Maine.

Roger spent his early childhood on his grandparents’ farm in Brownfield owned by Roger C. Dunn and Olive H. Dunn. Roger would credit growing up on the family farm for his love of outdoor exploration and his unwavering work ethic.

At the age of 12, Roger moved with his family to Burlington, VT where he continued to pursue his passions for gardening, animals, hunting, and fishing and returned to Maine as often as possible.

Roger was most at home with his hands in the soil nurturing plants or with his foot on the gas pedal of something engine-driven, be it a car, truck, motorcycle, or tractor.

In Vermont, he met his wife, Suzanne Richard, and together they raised their two children Allan and Jennifer. Roger’s children

brought him great pride and joy and providing for his family was forever foremost.

Although Roger by nature was content spending time alone, he sought the close company of friends and family. Cooking was a joy for Roger particularly if the ingredients were harvested from his own garden. Sitting down to a meal prepared by Roger, one could taste the love.

Like the nurturing of plants, Roger cultivated close relationships. His sense of humor and ability to spin a story drew peo -

ple to him. Roger’s artistic talent evolved into drafting and eventually he designed and installed fire protection systems. At the height of his career, Roger co-owned and operated Advance Sprinkler Systems Inc., a fire protection company in Williston, Vermont. The close knit relationships of coworkers and the construction community sustained Roger.

After retiring in 2016, Roger moved back to Maine happily immersing himself in his Denmark surroundings, rediscovering his beloved aunts and cousins, and making new friends. Roger had come full circle.

Roger is survived by his wife Suzanne Richard of 35 years; their two children Allan Dunn of Denmark, ME and Jennifer Dunn and Skylar Macarthy of Minneapolis, MN; his mother Marilyn Dunn of Essex Junction, VT; his siblings Gayle and Bert Reid of Vale, NC; Dana and Kathy Dunn of Seymour, TN; Dawna and Tim Brisson of Williston, VT; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be planned for a future date.

Daniel Charles Clark

Daniel “Dan” Charles Clark was born in Winooski, VT Dec. 9, 1938. He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022, surrounded by a loving family.

During his 84 years of life, he accomplished many things. He was a skilled athlete, excelling at baseball, basketball, football, and intramural sports. His athletic ability earned him the prestige of being a “4-letter man”, a badge he wore with pride.

In 1958 he had the honor of being a member of the last graduating class from Cathedral High School. After high school, he attended radiology classes and became an x-ray technician for a short period of time.

Dan always had a strong work ethic and became a proud business owner in 1960 when he acquired American Window Cleaning. He owned and operated the business until he retired in 2017.

On April 18, 1960, he married his first wife, Anne Zahoruko, which led to the births of his three oldest children; Jon, Dawn, and Eric.

On June 30, 1973, Dan married

his second wife, Lynn Titus, to whom he stayed devoted until the end. Their marriage resulted in daughters, Andrea and Danielle.

His proudest accomplishments have always been his wife, kids, work, and the home he built for his family.

Dan Clark was a strong, proud, independent man who worked hard all his life and stood with hishead held high.

He was a loyal UVM hockey fan, read the Burlington Free Press daily, and loved his family

deeply.

He is predeceased by his parents Alan and Marie Irene Clark; his siblings Francis, Robert “Pete,” and Richard, along with his first wife, Anne.

He is survived by his wife Lynn Clark of Williston, VT; son Jon Clark of Bexley, OH; daughter Dawn Richards and husband Patrick of Canton, MI, and her children Kyle Ludwig of Providence, RI, and Katie Sawyer and her husband Kadison, of Traverse City, MI; son Eric Clark and wife Lisa of St. Albans, VT; daughter Andrea Clark-Allen and husband Shawn of Colchester, VT, and their children Thomas Allen of Colchester, VT; Adam Allen of Swanton, VT, and Nora Allen of Colchester, VT; and daughter Danielle Hampton and husband Robert of North Bend, OR and her child Kiah Clark of Denver, CO.

Dan had the fortune of being survived by two great-grandchildren, Lily Allen and Amelia Allen of Swanton, VT and many step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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.

INSTRUCTORS WANTED (PROGRAMS AND CAMPS)

The rec department is beginning work on program offerings for March through August. An ad listing of programs will come out in February. We are also looking for instructors to offer camps in

June, July or August. A camp flyer will be coming out in February. If you are interested, please fill out a Program/Camp Program Proposal Form on the Recreation website (www.willistonrec.org).

NEW SPACE: THE R.O.C.

The rec department will be opening a rental space named The R.O.C. (Recreation Opportunities for the Community) for recreation programs to be offered yearround.

If you have a talent, craft, fitness expertise or other type of program you would like to offer

in the space, fill out a Program/ Camp Proposal Form at www. willistonrec.org. We hope to open this space in February.

ICE RINK

The rink is closed due to weather. The lights are not working currently due to vandalism. The entrance to the rink, by the warming hut, will be reopened when the rink is safe to use. Rink openings and closings will be posted on Facebook and at www. willistonrec.org.

Please respect the rink and be careful of the liner, boards and brackets so they can be reused each year. Also, stay off the rink when it is closed so ice can be formed. Respect the users of the rink and share in the use. No one group has priority or an allocated time. All are welcome.

PROGRAMS

NINJA KIDS & NINJA TEENS

Ages 4-8, 7-11 and 9-15. This play-based curriculum increases strength and self-confidence, while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff

DANGEROUS GIRLS

Ages 14-plus. This is a women-only cardio-kickboxing class that combines strength and conditioning with practical combat skills. Learn trips and throws, bounce to Beyoncé, hit hard, laugh a lot. Instructor: Zachary Stevens, 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.

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.

Next Week: Grand Canyon

Leading the Way

Americans celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day this week. Dr. King led America’s struggle for equal rights for people of all races during the 1950s and ’60s. He was known for his strong belief in nonviolence.

What kind of doctor?

Martin Luther King Jr. was not a medical doctor. He received a Ph.D., or a doctor of philosophy degree, from Boston University. His degree was in theology, or the study of religion.

King’s early life

King was born on Jan. 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia. He had an older sister, Christine, and a younger brother, A.D.

He was named after his father, Michael King Sr. When Dr. King was a little boy, his father changed his own name and his son’s to Martin Luther King Sr. and Jr. Young Martin was called M.L. by family members and friends.

King Sr. was the pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Dr. King’s grandfather, A.D. Williams, had also been a pastor at the church. Later, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a pastor there, too.

Fighting for civil rights

In the 1950s and ’60s, Black people

Mini

Fact: Martin Luther King Jr. stood behind President Lyndon Johnson as he signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

were joining in the fight for their civil, or citizens’, rights. Dr. King started the Southern Christian Leadership Conference to help organize and support protests against discrimination, or unfairness.

He became a symbol of the movement for equality when he led a boycott against the bus system in Montgomery, Alabama, after Rosa Parks was arrested for not giving up her seat on a city bus. A boycott is a refusal to deal with a business or use a service.

Civil rights victory

Dr. King wanted the protests to be peaceful, but that was not always possible. After some large and sometimes violent events in Southern cities, President John F. Kennedy presented a bill to Congress that would make discrimination illegal.

With the 1963 March on Washington, which included more than 250,000 people, Dr. King and his supporters hoped to convince Congress to pass the bill.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 made it illegal to discriminate against people in public places based on their race. It also called for equal chances for jobs and education.

April 4, 1968

Dr. King went to Memphis, Tennessee, in April 1968 to support a three-monthlong strike, or work stoppage, by African American garbage workers. He gave a famous speech on the evening of April 3.

Here are a few lines from his speech: “We aren’t engaged in any negative protest and in any negative arguments with anybody. We are saying that we are determined to be men. We are determined to be people.”

The next evening, Dr. King was standing on a balcony at the Lorraine Motel when he was shot by James Earl Ray. Ray was found guilty of killing Dr. King and died in prison in 1998.

The work continues

After he died, Dr. King’s work did not end. On April 11, President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1968, which promised fair housing for all people, no matter their race, religion, color or nationality. He also sent officials to Memphis to settle the garbage workers’ strike.

Dr. King’s legacy, or the ideas he left behind, continues to this day. In 1968, his wife, Coretta, established The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Fighting for civil rights

In the 1950s and ’60s, Black people

Try ’n’ Find

in public places based on their race. It also called for equal chances for jobs and education.

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

ATLANTA, BOYCOTT, CENTER, CHANGE, CIVIL RIGHTS, CORETTA, DISCRIMINATION, DREAM, FAMILY, LEGACY, MARCH, NONVIOLENCE, PASTOR, PHILOSOPHY, ROSA PARKS, SPEECH, STRIKE.

Cook’s Corner Honey Cinnamon Carrots

You’ll need:

• 3 cups baby carrots

• canola oil cooking spray

• salt and pepper

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

What to do:

1. Cut carrots in half lengthwise.

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

2. Spray a rimmed baking pan with canola oil cooking spray. Spread carrots in a single layer on the pan. Spray carrots.

3. Sprinkle carrots with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Broil for 10 to 11 minutes, stirring halfway through.

5. Meanwhile, combine remaining ingredients in a small bowl. Pour mixture over carrots and coat evenly.

6. Broil for 2 more minutes until carrots are tender. Serves 4.

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

Mini Jokes

Mark: Why did the girl keep her trumpet out in the snow? Millie: She liked playing cool jazz!

Eco Note

Earth’s natural sunscreen against ultraviolet radiation continues to slowly heal after suffering significant damage from now-banned humanmade chemicals. NASA scientists say the ozone hole was smaller at its annual peak from early September until mid-October, but its size varies each year. “We see some wavering as weather changes and other factors make the numbers wiggle slightly from day to day and week to week. But overall, we see it decreasing through the past two decades,” said Paul Newman, chief scientist for Earth sciences at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

For

later: Look in the newspaper for articles about Martin Luther King Jr.

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

BY DAN THOMPSON

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

Estate Planning, Elder Law & Medicaid Planning

Peace of mind for families and loved ones

What we do:

• Protection of assets without spending all down to qualify for Medicaid

• Wills & Living Trusts

• Assistance with Medicaid Applications

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 Railroad Avenue Essex Junction, VT (802) 879-7133

For FREE consumer reports, articles, and estate planning webinars, please visit us at www.unsworthlaplante.com

Speak up.

Send your letters to email editor@ willistonobserver.com

Savvy Senior

When can I change my Medicare coverage?

Dear Savvy Senior, Is it possible to make changes to my Medicare coverage now?

I know we’ve passed the fall open enrollment period, but I’ve heard that there are other times of the year beneficiaries can make changes. What can you tell me?

Changed My Mind

Dear Changed, Yes! The annual Medicare open enrollment period isn’t your only opportunity to swap out Medicare coverage. There are other opportunities, but the timing of when you can make those changes depends on your specific circumstances and the kind of Medicare coverage you have. Here’s what you should know.

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE CHANGE

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you may be able to use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which occurs each year from Jan. 1 through March 31.

During this period, you can switch from your current Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan or to

original Medicare with or without a prescription drug plan. You can only make one change during this period, and it will be effective the first of the next month after you make the change.

SPECIAL ENROLLMENT

Depending on your circumstances, you may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to change your Medicare health and drug coverage.

By Jim Miller

There are a number of circumstances by which you may have a Special Enrollment Period, such as if you moved outside of your plan’s service area, your Medicare Advantage Plan terminated a significant amount of its network providers or you are enrolled in a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program.

Those with Extra Help – the federal program that helps pay for drug costs – also have a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in a Part

Honor the memory of your beloved pet.

D plan, or switch between plans once per quarter in the first three quarters of the year.

If you need to make changes to your coverage but aren’t sure whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which provides free Medicare counseling. To find a SHIP counselor in your area, visit www.ShipHelp. org or call 877-839-2675.

Also, be aware that if you’re enrolled in a Medicare plan by mistake or because of misleading information, you may be able to disenroll and change plans.

Typically, you have the right to change plans if you joined unintentionally, joined based on incorrect or misleading information or, through no fault of your own, were kept in a plan you did not want.

To get help, call Medicare at

800-633-4227 and explain to a customer service representative how you joined the plan by mistake and request retroactive disenrollment or a Special Enrollment Period.

FALL OPEN ENROLLMENT

As you noted in your question, there’s also the Fall Open Enrollment Period that allows all Medicare beneficiaries – those with original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans – to make changes.

The Fall Open Enrollment Period occurs each year from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. During this period, you can join a new Medicare Advantage Plan or stand-alone prescription drug plan (Part D) plan. You can also switch between Original Medicare with or without a Part D plan and Medicare Advantage.

You can make as many changes as you need during this period, and your last coverage choice will take effect Jan. 1.

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

It’s never easy to say goodbye to a beloved pet, but a well-chosen pet memorial can help soothe some of the pain and keep your pet’s memory alive. Let us help.

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CROSSWORD

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1915, the U.S. House of Representatives rejected a constitutional amendment to give women the right to vote.

• In 1932, Hattie Wyatt Caraway of Arkansas became the first woman elected to the Senate.

In 1991, a divided Congress authorized President George H.W. Bush to use force in expelling Iraq from Kuwait.

• In 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti destroyed a majority of the buildings in Port-au-Prince and left more than 200,000 dead.

TODAY’S FACT:

• Amazon.com opened for business online in 1994, but it didn’t make a profit until 2002.

SHELBURNE

Public Notice

Request for Proposal: Construction Services

The Town of Shelburne seeks proposals for construction services for demolition of the existing Shelburne Beach House and construction of a new Beach House at the Town’s Shelburne Beach property. The deadline to submit bids is February 10, 2023 at 2:00 P.M. EST at which time bids will be opened. Information for bidders and the complete RFP may be obtained at Blueprints, etc and the Town of Shelburne:https://www.shelburnevt.org/398/Bids-RFQs-RFPs. Questions from bidders are due by Feb. 1, 2023, and answers will be posted on the website above by Feb. 3, 2023. A nonmandatory site visit is scheduled for Jan. 24, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. For more information contact Al DiPietro (802) 862-8435 or al.dipietro44@gmail.com.

Sanders: Moderna’s vaccine price hike ‘unacceptable’

Following news reports that the pharmaceutical corporation plans to quadruple its price for the Covid vaccine up to $130 per dose, Sen. Bernie Sanders, the incoming chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, on Tuesday sent a letter to Moderna’s CEO urging the company to reconsider its decision and refrain from any price increase in light of the role the federal government has played in the development of the vaccine.

“The huge increase in price that you have proposed will have a significantly negative impact on the budgets of Medicaid, Medicare and other government programs that will continue covering the vaccine without cost-sharing for patients,” Sanders wrote. “Your decision will cost taxpayers billions of dollars. Your outrageous

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price boost will also increase private health insurance premiums. Perhaps most significantly, the quadrupling of prices will make the vaccine unavailable for many millions of uninsured and underinsured Americans who will not be able to afford it.”

While the price hike planned by the company would make the vaccine unaffordable for millions of Americans, estimates show that the cost of producing the vaccine is now as low as $2.85 per dose –2.2 percent of what Moderna plans to charge. Meanwhile, over the last two years, Moderna made over $19 billion in profits off of the Covid vaccine, which they developed in partnership with scientists from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a U.S. government agency that is funded by U.S. taxpayers.

The federal government directly provided $1.7 billion to Moderna’s Covid vaccine research and development, and guaranteed the company billions more in sales. “The purpose of the recent taxpayer investment in Moderna was to protect the health and lives of the American people, not to turn a handful of corporate executives and investors into multi-billionaires,” Sanders wrote. “As you know, the federal government, over the years, has supported Moderna every step of the way going back to 2013 when your company reportedly only had three employees. Now, in the midst of a continuing public health crisis and a growing federal deficit, is not the time for Moderna to be quadrupling the price of this vaccine. Now is not the time for unacceptable corporate greed.”

We Help You Help.

When you help care for a loved one, you take care of everything. But are you taking care of yourself?

AARP can help with information and useful tips on how you can maintain a healthy life balance, care for your own physical and mental well-being, and manage the challenges of caring for a loved one. Because the better care you take of yourself, the better care you can provide for your loved one.

You’re there for them. We’re here for you.

Find free Care Guides to support you and your loved one at AARP.org/caregiving

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

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.

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Postal Regulatory Commission unveils 5-year strategic plan

The Postal Regulatory Commission unveiled its 2023-2028 Strategic Plan earlier this month, its newest plan to ensure transparency and accountability at the United States Postal Service.

The Postal Regulatory Commission is a federal agency that provides regulatory oversight over the Postal Service to ensure an efficient U.S. mail system. The commission is comprised of five Presidentially-appointed and Senate-confirmed commissioners, each serving terms of six years.

“We used foresight methodologies to prepare robust plans for different futures and continue the evolution of the commission as the postal ecosystem changes,” said commission chairman Michael Kubayanda.

The plan identified four strategic goals through 2028.

• Anticipate and adapt to an evolving postal system through a responsive and trusted regulatory framework.

• Enhance and expand communication of accurate and rel-

evant regulatory information to postal stakeholders, policymakers and the general public.

• Develop an internal infrastructure to support and strengthen our regulatory capabilities through adaptive policies, efficient processes and scalable platforms.

• Build an organization that will attract, develop and retain a diverse workforce of experts.

Read the full plan at www. prc.gov.

Attorney General sues Nano hearing aid company

The Vermont Attorney General’s Office has filed a lawsuit against Nano Hearing Aids, alleging it misled consumers about the effectiveness and quality of its products.

The lawsuit alleges Nano made misleading statements on its website and in advertisements, implying its products are FDA-approved, and falsely representing its products as American-made. Nano is also accused of putting consumers’ health at risk by promoting a deceptive online “hearing test” that leads consumers to believe their test results are reviewed by hearing experts, when they are not, and invariably recommending the purchase of Nano’s most expensive product regardless of the results.

“Our investigation revealed that Nano left consumers in the dark about the potential and serious health risks associated with

their products,” said Attorney General Susanne Young, who has since been replaced by Charity Clark. “Vermonters experiencing hearing loss should not be discouraged from seeking the professional diagnoses and care they need. The Attorney General’s Office will continue to hold businesses accountable for putting profits before the health and wellbeing of Vermonters.”

From January 2018 through July 2021, Nano sold at least $200,000 worth of products and warranties to approximately 800 Vermont consumers, according to the Attorney General’s Office. Nano is alleged to have:

• offered a hearing test on its website misleadingly described as an “accurate hearing test” in less than ten minutes that “works as free audiologist consultation;”

• implied that professional audiologists review each consumer’s hearing test results;

• directed sales staff to identify themselves to consumers as “hearing specialists” despite having no related specialized medical training or advanced degrees;

• directed sales staff to persuade dissatisfied consumers into keeping their devices past the point of when returns are possible under Nano’s 45-day money-back guarantee;

• perpetually listed their products as being on sale;

• claimed products are designed in the U.S. when they are designed in China;

• unlawfully promoted its products for children; and

• implied its products are approved by the FDA when they are not.

The lawsuit seeks to require Nano to refund money to consumers, to give up any profits resulting from violations of the law and to pay penalties.

Vermonters who purchased products from Nano are encouraged to contact Vermont’s Consumer Assistance Program at 1-800-649-2424 or complete an online complaint form atago.vermont.gov/cap.

The lawsuit was filed in Vermont Superior Court.

experience, having previously worked for Sen. Leahy. He also has private sector experience in the aerospace and healthcare industries. Most recently Renner

worked at the University of Vermont Medical Center. He lives in Winooski where he serves on the city council.

OWEN DOHERTY — VERMONT STAFF ASSISTANT

A UVM graduate, Doherty was most recently an executive

assistant in the Vermont State Treasurer’s office.

Balint was sworn in to the U.S. House of Representatives on Jan. 7.

“I am so very honored to represent the people of Vermont

in Congress,” she said after the swearing-in. “I wouldn’t be here without the support of my family and all the people back home who believed in me.

“I decided to run for Congress because working people in Vermont and across this country are

struggling and they’re worried that democracy is at risk. I’m excited to work with my colleagues to make life for regular people easier and more affordable … I promise to lead with the honesty, grit and fight that Vermonters expect from their representative.”

E-mail: georgessafes@gmavt.net www.georgeslocks.com www.georges-safes.com

A celebration of the dream

Community invited to join MLK Day virtual event

BY SUSAN COTE Observer staff

The second annual Williston Martin Luther King Jr. Day observance, a virtual gathering taking place on Monday, Jan. 16 at 10:30 a.m., will be enhanced this year with a live musical performance by singer/songwriter KeruBo.

The event will also feature brief remarks from several community members and information about the Williston Racial Equity Partnership.

KeruBo, who is Kenyan-American and became a naturalized citizen about 15 years ago, notes that Dr. King is celebrated and honored in Kenya and around the world.

“He touched the whole world ... Without any violence (he) forged the civil rights movement,” she said.

Thinking of how he would

want to be honored, KeruBo plans to perform music that Dr. King knew and loved that was sung by American gospel singer Mahalia Jackson.

Jackson performed many times at events with Dr. King and is said to have prompted him to improvise his “I Have a Dream” speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington in August 1963.

Dennis Francis, a member of the Williston Racial Equity Partnership and town resident who will be speaking Monday, said he finds the significance of the holiday in the opportunity to reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.’s “life of unselfish dedication in trying to uplift humanity.”

“Many people have grasped the idea that he has given his life to see a community, a country, improve itself. That’s

what the celebration of Martin Luther King means,” he said.

For his remarks, Francis plans to highlight ideas from Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, including the illusion of gradualism; the importance of acting now; the value of inclusiveness, that we cannot walk alone; and the dedication to non-aggression.

Asked what she hopes people get from the experience of the observance, KeruBo said she is hoping “that the more we talk, the more people will be inspired again, the more they will remember his vision ... That they will be propelled into action. They will be kinder. They’ll be bolder.

“It’s time that we stop being stuck in the mundane and move from lack of concern or indifference and just act on the things he was dreaming

KeruBo, singer and songwriter, will be performing live at the MLK event.

PHOTO BY LUKE AWTRY

about,” she continued. “Be the dream. Imagine a world without racism. Be held accountable. Choose the right.”

The Martin Luther King Day observance, sponsored

by the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club, is free and open to all who would like to join. To register and receive the Zoom link, go to https://bit. ly/WillistonMLKDay.

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.