Williston Observer 4/6/2023

Snyder, Summer Field dominate Growth Management

DRB grants home allocations to an array of subdivisions, large and small

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The Williston Development Review Board approved 66 new homes for construction last week for eight different subdivisions during its annual Growth Management meeting.

The Annex project by Snyder Homes (31 homes approved) and the Summer Field project on what is now the Catamount golf course (15 homes approved) received the most allocation. A series of smaller subdivisions outside of the town’s state-designated “Growth Center” — the Taft Corners area — received approval for one or two new homes apiece.

The Growth Management section of Williston’s land use regulations limits home construction approvals to no more than 80 per year. Each year, 50 units are available within the state-designated Growth Center, 20 are available outside the Growth Center but inside the sewer

service area, and 10 are available in areas not served by sewers. Land developers compete for allocation based on a scoring system that rewards affordable housing, energy conservation, land conservation and new path or trail construction, among other factors. Town staff recommends a score for each subdivision to the board.

THE ANNEX BY SNYDER HOMES

The Annex project, which calls for 276 homes on 54 acres off Route 2A, was the only applicant within the Growth Center. It had already received 173 units of allocation over the past two Growth Management meetings, in 2022 and 2021. It came into last week’s meeting needing 66 units (a senior housing building proposed for the neighborhood is exempt from Growth Management restrictions).

The board unanimously approved 31 units, following the recommendation of the town’s planning staff.

SUMMER FIELD (CATAMOUNT GOLF COURSE)

The Summer Field subdivision is being developed by Chris Senesac of Ethan Allen Homes on part of what is now the Cat-

Church abandons subdivision plans

Last year, Trinity Baptist Church received preliminary approval and Growth Management allocation for a planned 58-unit residential subdivision on its 50-acre campus on Mountain View Road.

Along with the proposed conversion of the nearby Catamount golf course into housing and another residential subdivision in the works down the road at the Old Stage Road intersection (the Glaser property), Trinity’s plan was part of an impending housing growth spurt in northern Williston.

But despite preliminary approvals from the Development Review Board, church leaders have decided to abandon plans for the neighborhood, according to Pastor Rob McIlwaine.

“The church, through a congregational vote, decided not to sell the property to a developer,” McIlwaine said in a March email to the Observer.

Last Tuesday, the 13 homes it received approval for during the board’s Growth Management hearing last year were put up for grabs again for other developers to compete for. The church does still plan to create one new home on a portion of its property fronting Mountain View Road, which the board granted allocation for last week (see related story, above).

— Jason Starr

Is NECS next with a ‘Specific Plan?’

Manufacturer looking to expand on Williston Road

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

Town planners shot down New England Chimney Supply’s expansion plans two years ago, but the manufacturing company’s desire to just about double its Williston Road operation has not gone away.

Last week, NECS representatives met with the Williston Planning Commission about reviving its “Specific Plan” zoning application that would allow for a 30,000-square-foot expansion on a parcel that straddles both a residential and industrial zoning district.

Because of the residential zoning on a portion of the parcel, the company is turning to the town’s rarely used Specific Plan development process — a way to create site-spe-

cific land use regulations in exchange for a public benefit. In this case, NECS is proposing the construction of a stretch of sidewalk along Williston Road and a bus stop for Green Mountain Transit’s use.

Similar public benefit ideas were part of the company’s denied 2021 application, but NECS is willing to go further this time by installing pedestrian accommodations at the

New England Chimney Supply is working with town planners to expand its operations onto the residential property next door.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY JASON STARR

“This is a challenging one. It puts a very large industrial building in the backyards of a residential neighborhood.”

Matt Boulanger Director Williston Planning and Zoning

Inaugural Williston Community 5K registration opens

The RehabGYM and Williston Recreation and Parks Department will be hosting the 1st Annual Williston Community 5K on Saturday, May 13 at 9:30 a.m.

Open to runners aged 12 and up, the race takes place at Williston Village Community Park. The course

Growth

continued from page 1

amount golf course on Mountain View Road. During Growth Management meetings in 2022 and 2021, the project received 76 units of allocation. In total, 141 homes are planned on 30 acres. The parcel is located outside the Growth Center area but inside the sewer service area. Last week, the board unanimously approved 15 units.

RICE SUBDIVISION

Another proposal within the sewer service area is known as the Rice subdivision: 30 homes on 10 acres owned by Cody Rice near the Winooski River on Essex Road. Tuesday was the project’s first at-

NECS

continued from page 1

nearby intersection of Williston and South Brownell roads, where the sidewalk would end. Two years ago, the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) declined to support the sidewalk plan without the intersection improvements — input that was a key factor in the planning commission’s denial of the application.

“VTrans considered it a sidewalk to nowhere,” said Rick Hamlin, an engineer working with NECS on the application.

If new pedestrian accommodations are first installed at the intersection, VTrans would be willing to approve the sidewalk, according to Hamlin.

“Those two things will have to be built at the same time, otherwise VTrans won’t permit it,” Hamlin said, adding that a portion of private property would have to be acquired to improve the intersection.

How far does NECS have to go in terms of constructing all that public infrastructure in order to receive Specific Plan approval

is accessible, and adaptive athletes are encouraged to participate. Sport chairs or racing chairs are suggested. The goals for the event are to bring the community together, support local businesses and organizations and (hopefully) enjoy some warm spring weather. All proceeds will

tempt at Growth Management allocation. It received 13 units.

SHORTSLEEVE AND MAGUIRE SUBDIVISIONS

The board granted one unit to a two-lot subdivision on North Williston Road, allowing a second home to be built on a three-quarter-acre lot owned by George and Patricia Shortsleeve. It also granted two units to Jonathan Maguire for a new building on a 6-acre parcel on Mountain View Road. Both parcels are in the sewer service area.

TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH

Trinity Baptist Church has abandoned plans for a 58-home condominium development on its campus on Mountain View Road

to expand? That was the central question up for discussion when Hamlin and company owner Pierre Simard met with the planning commission on March 21. According to Hamlin, the company is willing to acquire the land and engineer the sidewalk and intersection plans to VTrans’ approval, then hand over a “shovel-ready” project to the Town of Williston to apply for grants for the construction.

“Just getting the permits and the design is a very significant lift,” Hamlin said.

Simard said the company would fund all the required public improvements if approval of the expansion plans can be assured.

“If we have to pay for everything, that’s what we are willing to agree to, but we don’t have the ability to risk the money without the expansion,” Simard said.

Some members of the planning commission who were on the board when the 2021 application was denied said they aren’t willing to revisit it. Williston Planning and Zoning Director Matt Boulanger noted that plan-

be donated to local, nonprofit organizations including The Kelly Brush Foundation, the Northeast Disabled Athletic Association (NDAA) and the Williston Recreation Fortin Memorial Scholarship Fund.

To register visit https://rehabgym.com/5K/

(see related story, page 1) but still plans to build one home on a twolot subdivision. The board granted the church the one unit of allocation it requested. The parcel is outside the sewer service area.

OLSON AND BOARDMAN SUBDIVISIONS

The board approved one new home for the Olson family parcel on Snowdrift Lane and two for the Boardman family parcel on Ricky Vista. Both parcels are outside the sewer service area.

For all of these projects to retain the allocations the board granted Tuesday, final plans must be filed for Development Review Board consideration within one year.

ners’ main concern at that time was that the expansion would be approved without assurances that the pedestrian improvements and bus stop would be built. He also reminded planners about some of the concerns raised by nearby homeowners. Simard said he met with neighbors to address their concerns as part of the 2021 application.

“This is a challenging one,” Boulanger said. “It puts a very large industrial building in the backyards of a residential neighborhood.”

In an informal vote on March 21, a majority of planning commission members said they would be willing to take up a new Specific Plan application, and the main sticking point would be how to guarantee the public benefit infrastructure is built. Hamlin said the onus is on VTrans to approve the sidewalk and intersection plans.

“It seems most of the planning commission would be willing to review (it),” vice chair Cate Lamar said during the meeting. “That’s all we can give you tonight.”

Cookie store starts mixing things up at Finney Crossing

In six years, Crumbl Cookies has grown from a single shop in Utah to roughly 700 locations in 45 states.

The company is opening its first Vermont location this week with a store at Finney Crossing in Williston. The store is next to Jersey Mike’s and Men’s Wearhouse, both of which opened last year in the building anchored by L.L. Bean.

According to a news release, the owners and manager of the Williston store come to Vermont by way of New Hampshire.

Crumbl offers new cookie flavors every week from a menu of about 300 varieties, while regularly bringing back old favorites. In its first week of operation, the Williston store will have on hand carrot cake, iced oatmeal, double fudge brownie, lemon bar and classic milk chocolate chip cookies. The store is open from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m.-12 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Watershed partners unite to develop Watershed Action Plan for Lake Iroquois and Patrick Brook

The Winooski Natural Resources Conservation District (WNRCD) has been awarded funds through the Lake Champlain Basin Program to develop a Watershed Action Plan for Lake Iroquois and the Patrick Brook watershed.

Lake Iroquois straddles Williston and Hinesburg, while the Patrick Brook runs through Hinesburg past Champlain Valley High School.

The WNRCD is partnering with a group of homeowners on the lake — the Lake Iroquois Association — and the Lewis Creek Association, as well as Waterbury-based engineers from SLR Consulting, to identify and

address areas where stormwater runoff and phosphorus pollution could be improved to benefit water quality, wildlife habitat and climate change resilience.

Throughout this spring and summer, the partners will be conducting road and stream assessments to identify areas where erosion, limited trees next to streams or road runoff/culverts could be contributing pollutants like phosphorus to streams and lakes that flow to the LaPlatte River and into Lake Champlain.

Pollutants like phosphorus can contribute to algal and cyanobacteria blooms, impacting aquatic life and human health.

In addition to the road and

stream assessments, the WNRCD has a goal to complete Lake Wise assessments for lakefront properties and Storm Smart assessments on riparian or upland properties. During an assessment, WNRCD staff will visit a property and create site-specific clean water best management practice recommendations — such as rain gardens, buffer plantings and driveway water bars — to keep water on site, spread it out and sink it into the ground. These assessments are voluntary and free of charge.

Lakefront property owners can sign up for an assessment at https://bit.ly/lake-wise. Upland property owners can sign up at https://bit.ly/storm-smart.

Employees celebrate the opening this week of Vermont’s first Crumbl Cookies, located next to Jersey Mike’s in Finney Crossing. OBSERVER PHOTO BY RICK COTE

Burlington airport to be renamed for former Sen. Leahy

BY PATRICK CROWLEY VTDigger

More than a century after the first plane touched down at what’s now known as Burlington International Airport, Vermont’s aviation hub is poised to get a new name: Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport.

During his State of the City address Monday night, Mayor Miro Weinberger announced the rechristening, which comes months after former Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., retired from the U.S. Senate.

“You have always understood what a critical link the airport is between Vermont and the world, and for 48 years you worked to strengthen that link,” Weinberger said, addressing Leahy, who he said was listening remotely. (Weinberger got his start in politics as an intern and mail clerk for the senator in the early 1990s.)

Leahy’s wife, Marcelle Pomerleau Leahy, attended the ceremony in a packed City Hall, along with U.S. Sen. Peter Welch and U.S. Rep. Becca Balint.

“I can tell you that he is very humbled and deeply moved to have his name associated with the Burlington International Airport — oh, that name’s going to change,” Marcelle Leahy said.

She said flying to or from the Burlington airport was always a big part of his work.

“Many of you have heard him say, and I have too, when greet-

ing us at the airport on the return flight, that familiar phrase, ‘It’s good to be home,’” Marcelle Leahy said.

In addition to those applauding Leahy in person, two national figures and longtime colleagues of Leahy’s — U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and President Joe Biden — celebrated him in short video messages played for the audience.

“It’s fitting the Burlington International Airport will be named after you,” Biden said. “Everyone that flies through will remember your tenacity, your service, honesty, dignity and the best of what you provided our country.”

In order for the airport’s name change to become official, the Burlington City Council would need to ratify the plan. Though the airport is physically located in South Burlington, it is owned by the Queen City.

Former U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy

The main concourse of the Burlington International Airport in South Burlington.

FILE PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

‘Reunited and stronger’

Burlington’s Mayor Weinberger delivers State of the City

BY PATRICK CROWLEY VTDigger

Mayor Miro Weinberger called the City of Burlington “reunited and stronger” after weathering storm after storm during his 11year tenure as mayor — a period he described as “one of the most momentous and tumultuous periods in American history.”

In a packed City Hall with twothirds of Vermont’s congressional delegation in attendance (U.S. Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., and U.S. Rep. Becca Balint, D-Vt., were both on hand), Weinberger said it was his 12th time — “somewhat surprisingly to me,” he admitted — he was delivering a State of the City address.

Weinberger used the occasion Monday night to draw comparisons between the state of Burlington in 2012 and the present day, arguing that “we have faced crises since the day I took office.”

Back then, Weinberger said, the city had a grim financial outlook and was “pock-marked” with incomplete projects. But now, he said, the city could look to such projects as the revived Champlain Parkway, renovated Moran Frame and the recent groundbreaking for the nearly $200 million Burlington High School construction project.

Over the previous three years, Weinberger acknowledged, he faced “gridlock” with the City Council, but he sought to characterize the results of Town Meeting Day last month as an opportunity to move forward, arguing that the “priorities of the community are clear.”

“When we meet again in two weeks, I will be asking for the council’s approval on outstanding elements of the most recent public safety plan I announced in January,” he said. Those items include a plan to retain senior officers in the police department, hiring an assistant director in the department to oversee a new crisis response team and to continue to partner with outside agencies on downtown patrols until the city’s own department is fully staffed.

Also on the topic of police, Weinberger called on the city to provide the Police Commission an

expanded role in police oversight, a matter the mayor called an “unfinished debate.”

“We should bring this process to resolution by formalizing the Police Commission’s role in a manner that promotes public trust and carefully protects procedural justice for our officers,” Weinberger said.

The mayor also focused on housing, blaming state lawmakers for “just plain bad state policies that make it harder to build homes in Vermont than just about anywhere else.”

Specifically, Weinberger railed against inaction on Act 250 reform, Vermont’s strict land-use law. Weinberger said he and other

Vermont mayors and the Vermont League of Cities and Towns have

been arguing that changes to the law would have “an immediate positive impact.”

“For years, these pleas have been ignored, and that seems to be happening again,” Weinberger said. “Just last Friday, the Vermont Senate voted to study Act 250 yet again, as has been done many times before.”

The housing issue was not the only issue that Weinberger pushed for state action on. He made multiple calls for the state to be “allin” on gun reform, child care and substance use disorder.

“When the state goes all in on these critical challenges, Burlington will benefit greatly,” he said.

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There is no plan to house the homeless

BY BETH ANN MAIER

Vermonters, we have a housing emergency, and it will reach crisis proportions this summer.

If that sounds alarmist, it only hints at how alarming it will be for Vermonters experiencing homelessness and the cities, towns and villages of Vermont that will need to respond to people without shelter in their communities.

Despite all the talk about housing being everyone’s number one priority, the only plan offered for the coming year, is a massive unhousing of those currently in hotel-based shelter. This program has been funded with federal Covid emergency dollars, which are due to run out this spring. The Budget Adjustment Act is set to extend the funding through May with surplus state funding, but come July, funds to shelter those without housing will need to come from the Fiscal Year 2024 budget.

The State of Vermont has been spending $6-7 million a month to provide hotel housing for 1,800

households (2,800 individuals) as of January. Among them are 600 children. The Vermont Legislature and the Gov. Scott Administration are on track to allocate less than half that amount in their current budget plans for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts in July.

For three years, we have paid hotel owners tourist room rates, and the owners have not been held accountable for even a minimum of health, safety, security and facility maintenance. We have had three years to form a plan that is smarter, that allows people to move forward, a plan that doesn’t continue to throw good money after bad. It is an outrage that, after three years, our only plan is to turn people out on the street. We know what that looks like.

At my church in Montpelier, there are 10-12 people sleeping on cots, crammed into our 30-by-40foot parish hall because there is no other shelter space available. They leave in the morning with an agenda that includes finding bathrooms, finding food, finding warmth and

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then, maybe, search for housing and a job if they have any time and energy left. Come April 15, they will be in tents in the woods.

With the proposed state budget, it will look like this in every community of the state. The communities will absorb the increased costs of public safety, emergency medical systems, public health resources and sanitation at a time that staffing of those services is already severely strained in our municipalities.

We have a housing emergency, and we, the citizens of Vermont, are

to blame.

We knowingly under-invested in our housing stock for the last 30 years, leaving us with a need for 40,000 units. We knowingly have underfunded the community mental health and supportive housing resources that care for the disabled and the elderly. We knowingly exit people from our correctional facilities without the evidenced-based support that will allow a successful transition. We knowingly have not increased the minimum wage to a level that would allow working families to meet their basic needs of food, warmth and housing, much less childcare.

Many of our neighbors sheltering in the hotels are elderly or have significant disabilities; struggle with mental health and substance use challenges; are working families with low-incomes; left substandard housing for health and safety reasons; or were recently released from

corrections. There is a large and growing body of research showing that it is less expensive to provide supportive housing than leaving people unsheltered, and that people carrying all of these challenges can be successfully and permanently housed when their housing is paired with adequate support.

Hotel-based shelter has been very expensive and not uniformly safe or healthy, but turning half of the people in hotel housing out into the street is unacceptable. And it won’t save money. Over 1,000 of our neighbors will experience the very real trauma, lack of safety and deprivation that comes from living without any shelter.

When Gov. Scott was questioned on March 14 about his plan for sheltering those in hotels, he did not offer a plan. Instead, he responded that the administration is sending staff out to talk with those

see MAIER page 8

There is no pathway for them to achieve housing and literally nowhere for them to go.

Glaser plan is a good fit for Williston

The Town of Williston’s zoning bylaws provide for the possible exception, or “Specific Plan,” to rules governing development provided there is a “substantial benefit” to the town. Formed through the Planning Commission, the Glaser Specific Plan Advisory Committee is charged with evaluating whether the Glaser’s proposal to protect the view corridor, wetlands and working landscape on their property meet the definition of substantial benefit.

The committee’s March 9 and 16 meetings revealed that this development plan is a good fit, based on the substantial benefit requirements, and would have minimal impact on the rate of housing construction in Williston.

Here’s why.

Currently, this specific plan proposes erecting 18 dwelling units per year over six years (108 units total) in exchange for protecting the neighborhood treasure and iconic view of Camel’s Hump along Mountain View Drive and preserving a portion of the property as open space.

An analysis of the construction results of the town’s growth management system across fiscal years 2016-2023 revealed that 142 dwelling units provided by the system were not utilized. This is more than the 108 units proposed in the Glaser’s Specific Plan. Furthermore, this develop -

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

ment plan helps the town meet the current and future needs of housing in Williston as shown in a recent housing needs assessment prepared by the town in partnership with the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission and Vermont Housing Finance Agency. This important analysis shows how the future vitality of Williston is tied to more housing over the next 10 years.

This Glaser Specific Plan proposal provides an opportunity to build appropriate housing sooner, protect a beautiful view of Camel’s Hump and preserve open space.

Who knows what would happen to this land if this proposal

is not approved? However, these meetings have revealed that, without this specific plan, the towns’ growth management plan provides for the possible construction of nearly twice as many homes on the same property.

What’ll it be? Rooftops or mountaintops on Mountain View Road?

Tim Carney Williston

Williston School meals for all

As a concerned citizen and advocate for the well-being of our children, I am writing to

express my strong support for making Universal School Meals a permanent program in Vermont. This initiative would ensure that all students, regardless of their income, have access to nutritious meals while at school.

It is well-established that good nutrition is critical for children’s physical and mental health, as well as their academic performance. Unfortunately, many children in Vermont go without regular, healthy meals due to financial constraints on their families. This can have long-term consequences for their health, education and overall well-being.

Universal School Meals help

to address this problem by providing all students with healthy, filling meals at school. This would also help to reduce the stigma that some children experience when they must rely on free or reduced-priced meals, as everyone would have equal access to the same quality meals. In addition to the health and social benefits, Universal School Meals provide economic benefits for Vermont. By offering meals to all students, schools are able to reduce administrative costs associated with processing and verifying meal applications. This could help free up resources that could be used to improve see LETTERS page 8

Maier

continued from page 6

in the hotels to determine where they might be able to go. The Agency of Human Services had already interviewed those living in the hotels this past fall to determine their needs. Most responded that they needed financial assistance with rent and access to someone who can help them secure rental housing.

Even assuming that rental units are available — which they are not — funding the requested supports for the number of people due to exit the hotels does not appear in the proposed state budget. There is no pathway for them to achieve housing and literally nowhere for them to go. It is magical thinking to assume otherwise.

We need leadership and innovative alternatives to the use of private

hotel properties for shelter. We need state government to take ownership of this crisis, create these alternatives and get them staffed. We need to add funding in the budget to make it happen.

At this late date in the budget process, we are seeing none of this. Shame on us.

Please contact your representatives and senators today, as well as the governor, to urge them to adequately fund emergency shelter with supports in the Fiscal Year ‘24 budget so that 1,000 of our neighbors are not out on the street.

Beth Ann Maier is a retired pediatrician, an ordained deacon in the Episcopal Church and a volunteer with Vermont Interfaith Action. As a volunteer, she has helped manage shelters in Montpelier and visited people sheltering in local hotels.

Letters

continued from page 7

other aspects of the school experience.

In conclusion, I urge our elected officials to continue supporting the implementation of Universal School Meals in Vermont. It is an investment in our children’s health and future, one step toward creating a more equitable and just society.

Malarie McGalliard Williston

News and views

Thank you to the Observer for reporting Williston issues of concern to residents.

I worked for decades for a large municipal government in Oregon. I have a hard time sometimes understanding the work of a small town system.

The “Hotel headaches” headline (March 30) does not seem apt. The mess at the site affects anyone shopping on that block and trying to do business there. I would hope the fire marshal has tools to enforce occupancy codes and storage violations in electrical areas — that the pressure on violators is strong and ongoing.

Any impediment to the delivery of mail (and everyone in this town knows what a serious prob -

lem this has been for some time) should be addressed proactively and immediately. That includes requiring adequate drainage from the construction site.

As for the morphing of the Glaser project (March 30), more homes appears to be the bottom line. As for the March 30 advisory committee meeting on this issue — I didn’t get the Observer until the 31st due to the mess with post office delivery.

Tricia Knoll Williston

No limit to government spending

I would like to acknowledge the regular updates from our Williston representatives and senators (Notes from the Legislature, March 30). Thank you.

Reading these updates would lead one to believe that Williston is being well served and everything is going very smoothly. However, I’m seeing much to be concerned about, especially concerning our financial wellbeing.

All the major bills come with huge new expenses. They are carefully yet complexly worded to confuse and distort the real effects on many of us. These bills have a profoundly negative impact on low- and middle-income residents. This is not okay.

Our representatives voted for

the cynically named Affordable Heat Act, which carries as-yet undetermined massive expenses.

Universally free school meals will allow financially able parents a free ride because taxpayers can pick up the tab. The paid family leave bill replaces an existing tax-neutral, third party-managed, voluntary program. The new bill creates a government department with 60 new employees, charges payroll tax on employees and employers and is significantly underfunded.

Motor vehicle fees will be raised by about $20 million dollars to provide a slush fund for future projects that are not asked for by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Did you get a 12 percent raise this year? That’s what the $8.5 billion budget amounts to. Vermont’s tax burden is already the nation’s fourth highest and our economic outlook is the 47th worst.

What about the Let’s Grow Kids bill, another mega-million-dollar bill paid on the backs of low- and middle-income residents.

All of these bills have a basis of need and desirability, but Vermonters cannot be treated as a bottomless bank. We can’t afford it. What is the limit?

John Marcotte Williston

Vermont population growth flattens

BY ERIN PETENKO VTDigger

Vermont’s population grew by less than 0.02 percent from 2021 to 2022, according to new population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The low population growth — a change of fewer than 100 people out of more than 640,000 residents — mirrors data from 2010 to 2019, when experts and policymakers raised alarms about the state’s aging population, waning birth rate and net loss from people moving out of the state.

But from 2020 to 2021, that trend completely flipped, with a reported 4,800 net gain from Covid-19 pandemic migrants, according to the census. Home sales to out-of-state buyers surged, and ski towns gained more people than the census ex-

pected based on pre-pandemic trends.

Now, it appears that Vermont’s population growth in the second year of the pandemic came closer to its pre-pandemic average than to that brief surge. The state gained a reported 2,000 people from domestic and international migration, but that increase was almost completely counterbalanced by deaths and a low birth rate, according to census data.

Michael Moser, head of the Vermont State Data Center at the University of Vermont, cautioned that the data may be skewed by unique challenges in the 2020 census that could resonate down census datasets for years to come.

“We have to keep in mind that there are very many confounding factors,” he said.

Among those factors are the first all-digital census, temporary shifts in

people’s residency in the early days of the pandemic and new rules to protect privacy by obscuring certain datasets. The 2020 census counted almost 20,000 more residents than the 2019 population estimates — but it’s hard to say what may be true growth and what is a remnant of data issues.

“The Census Bureau is trying to claw back closer to reality, but they can’t go

back in time. They can only go forward,” Moser said.

But there are other signs that waning migration is more than just a blip in the data. For one thing, it’s reflected in national trends. Rural states gained thousands of new residents in the early days of the pandemic, then reported far less migration in the second year, the Census Bureau reported.

Home sales to out-of-state residents also fell in the second year of the pandemic, according to data from the Vermont Department of Taxes. About 4,000 home sales reported out-of-state buyers in 2022, compared with about 5,200 in 2021.

Kevin Chu, executive director of the Vermont Futures Project think tank, said via email that telework was part of the reason for the early pandemic’s population boom, along with a variety of reasons see POPULATION page 20

Diane Von Furstenberg Shoshanna Alice & Olivia Shona Joy Trina turk Halston Hutch Julie Vos Monique L huillier Toccin Mac Duggal Ted Baker Joseph ribkoff soia & kyo

“I think the state should be doing its best to retain new Vermonters that have moved here in recent years.”

Kevin Chu Executive Director Vermont Futures Project

Unified hoopsters

Left, the CVU faithful cheer on the Redhawk Unified team in its win over the South Burlington Wolves Unified team on Tuesday afternoon in Hinesburg. Above (l to r) CVU’s Matt Lollis drives to the hoop for two points. Ezra Millington puts up a short jumpshot. Gloria Millington takes a shot from the paint. Junie Leet makes a bucket from just inside the foul line.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

Appreciating the springtime tulip

BY DEBORAH J. BENOIT Special to the Observer

It’s finally spring (never mind any remnants of snow on the ground). Daffodils have emerged, their buds anxious to open. Soon tulips (Tulipa), perhaps the most anticipated flowers of spring, will grace front yards and town squares.

Tulips are so plentiful that sometimes we take their presence for granted. They’re common flowers, but how much do you really know about them?

Many people assume that since tulips are associated with Holland they originated there. They’re actually descendants of wildflowers native to central Asia. The word “tulip” is derived from the Persian word for turban.

Around 3,000 years ago, they were being grown in what is now Turkey. Today, the tulip is Turkey’s national flower.

In the late 1500s, tulips made their way to Europe as a gift to a botanist at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands. By the 1630s, tulips were being grown commercially in

Holland, and hybrid varieties were being developed. The new and exotic flowers were a favorite of the well-todo.

Along with an increasing demand for tulips, prices grew. During a few years in the 1630s, speculators drove the contract price of the rarest varieties to extremes, eventually

that scientists had the technology to discover that the broken coloration of the petals was caused by a virus (“tulip breaking virus” aka “tulip mosaic virus”) transmitted by aphids.

After the drastic drop in the price of tulip bulbs and the end of contract price speculation in 1637, commercial growing of tulips continued to expand. Holland is still recognized for its production of tulips and remains the world’s largest producer with about 3 billion bulbs each year.

Today, there are over 3,500 named tulip varieties that come in a wide selection of colors and shapes. While they can be grown from seed, to do so would take 7-12 years to flower, since a bulb must be formed first.

with ruffled or fringe-edged petals, pointed petals and single or double varieties.

reaching a fever pitch with certain bulbs selling for as much as a craftsman might earn in a year. That bout of “Tulip Mania” came to an end in 1637 when prices outpaced contract buyers’ willingness to pay.

Some of the most sought-after varieties that helped fuel Tulip Mania had striped or streaked petals, a condition referred to as “broken.” It wasn’t until nearly 300 years later

Growing tulips from bulbs is quick and easy. Just plant in the fall and enjoy flowers the next spring.

Perhaps the most difficult part of growing tulips is choosing which tulips to grow. Pick one color or several. Tulips come in warm colors ranging from white, cream and yellow to pink, red and orange.

Flowers are available in the readily recognizable egg shape, along

Tulips bloom for about a week. If you’d like to extend the time, plant several types, including early, midand late-spring bloomers.

While tulips are a perennial, they may fail to bloom after the first year. Sometimes the bulbs fall victim to hungry squirrels. Sometimes it’s the result of unfavorable conditions.

Tulips prefer sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. The bulbs will rot in soggy soil. After flowering,

leave foliage until it dies back on its own to allow the bulb to store nutrients for flowering the following spring.

For more information on growing tulips, visit https://go.uvm.edu/tulips.

It won’t be long before tulips are blooming in gardens all around us. While it’s too late to plant bulbs for this year, there’s plenty of time between now and fall planting to choose the perfect tulips for your garden.

Deborah J. Benoit is a UVM Extension Master Gardener.

Tulips, a spring garden favorite, grow in a range of colors, from white, cream and yellow to pink, red and orange.

COURTESY PHOTO BY DEBORAH J. BENOIT

Growing tulips from bulbs is quick and easy. Just plant in the fall and enjoy flowers the next spring.

Slow down — amphibians on the roads

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is asking drivers to slow down and be cautious when travelling at night near ponds and wetlands — or take alternate routes — as salamanders and frogs are crossing during their early spring breeding season.

The department also seeks public reports of the amphibians.

Vermont Fish and Wildlife herpetologist Luke Groff encourages Vermonters to explore roads and report amphibian road crossings, with photos if possible, to the Vermont Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (www.vtherpatlas.org/sighting-submission-form).

The information is used by the Fish

and Wildlife Department, the Agency of Transportation and other conservation partners to assess the need for wildlife passages and barriers in road construction plans that allow wildlife to more safely cross roadways.

“One of the benefits of checking out amphibian road crossings,” Groff said, “is that you can see many individuals and species in a short period and small area, and some species may not be seen the rest of the year. The spotted and blue-spotted salamanders, for example, belong to a group called the ‘mole salamanders,’ because after breeding, they retreat underground or under logs or stumps, and are rarely seen until the next spring.”

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is asking drivers to slow down and be cautious when travelling at night near ponds and wetlands — or take alternate routes — as salamanders, like this spotted mole salamander, and frogs are crossing during their early spring breeding season.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO BY LUKE GROFF

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.

THE R.E.C. ZONE

SENIOR STRENGTH

JOB POSTINGS AND COMMUNITY NEWS

The rec department is currently hiring for a parks maintenance worker and day camp counselors. Job postings and application instructions are available at www.willistonrec.org.

The ice rink is closed for the season.

Age 50-plus. Senior Strength will work your upper and lower body strength as well as your balance and core. Modifications are shown and participants are encouraged to work within their abilities while socializing and having fun. Instructor: Toni Kunker

RETRO DANCE CARDIO & CORE

Get up and move to some of your favorite hits from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. All fitness levels welcome as

there will be modifications for low impact and high energy. Geared toward adults 55-plus but open to everyone. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck

JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT

Age 18-plus. Low-impact classes incorporate dance cardio with strength training to sculpt and tone your muscles — whether you’re looking for physical results or a way to relieve stress and feel your best. Single, 5- and 10-class passes available. Instructor: Kit Sayers

GET FIT W/JAZZY

Age 18-plus. This high-energy dance and core sculpting class combines aerobic dance and core stability along with a curated playlist of Latin, house and rock style tunes. Everyone welcome! Impact levels can be modified. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck

FULL BODY BANDS

Age 18-plus. Great for both new and experienced athletes exploring what resistance training can do for them. You can expect a full-body, strength-focused workout with some brief cardio intervals. No experience necessary. Instructor: Mary-Ellen Longworth

FELDENKRAIS

Age 18-plus. Most people haven’t heard of the Feldenkrais Method, but when they experience it, people tend to say it’s like magic. They feel more grounded, lighter and more connected. Instructor: Gillian Franks

JUBO

Age 50-plus. Learn to play the four-hole Ocarina the easy way. Jubo is a new music methodology for all who want to learn an instru-

ment quickly. Jubo is a lightweight pendant whistle with four holes that allows one to master music quickly.

Instructor: Wayne Hankin

KINDERMUSIK

Age 0-5. Classes provide a playful, supportive environment for children and their caregivers to play together with music, dancing, singing, exploring instruments and more. Different levels are offered for age groups. Instructor: Rachel Smith

STARGAZING: THE CURRENT NIGHT SKY

Age 6-8 and 9-12. View the current night sky in a digitized planetarium dome, set up inside, where you’ll feel like you are outside at night looking at a perfect sky. Explore the current night sky constellations. Come to one or more viewings. Instructor: Carrie Cruz

FAMILY PROGRAMS

REHABGYM 1ST ANNUAL WILLISTON COMMUNITY 5K

Ages 12-plus. Saturday, May 13, 9:30 a.m. The goal for this event is to bring the community together, support local businesses and organizations and enjoy the spring weather. The course is accessible, and adaptive athletes are encouraged to participate. Registration is open at www.willistonrec.org.

BOATERS SAFETY

Age 12-plus. Boating safety education is required for any operator, 12 years of age or older, born after Jan. 1, 1974. The course is eight hours and is offered over four days. Participants must be present at all classes to be eligible for certificasee RECREATION page 15

continued from page 14

tion. Instructor: Jon Fick

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS INTRO

Age 13-plus. The program mixes training techniques from boxing, kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu to create a fun, non-competitive environment where you will get a great workout and learn practical self-defense skills. Instructor: ONTA Studio

ADULT PROGRAMS

TAI CHI

This program focuses on learning Yang Style Tai Chi. Come strengthen your body, regulate and build physical energy, and cultivate your mental concentration and spirit with this gentle and nourishing practice. Instructor: ONTA Studio

PRE-SCHOOL/ YOUTH/TEEN PROGRAMS

YOUTH LACROSSE

Grades K-8. Registration is now open. Lacrosse is a fast-paced sport that combines the power of football and hockey and the endurance of soccer and basketball. The kindergarten and grades 1-2 programs are coed, and the grades 3-8 programs offer separate boys and girls teams. Volunteer coaches are needed.

NINJA KIDS INTRO

Age 4-8 or 7-11. 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

NINJA TEENS INTRO

Age 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

DINOSAUR DIG AND FOSSIL HUNT

Age 6-11. April Break. Explore archeology, paleontology and geology and excavate simulated bones of a model dinosaur. Assemble a fossil from your own dig to take home. Instructor: STEAMworks.

NINJA SCIENCE CAMP

Ages 5-10. April Break. This camp unites the body and mind by combining martial arts, tumbling and parkour with environmental science. We help children realize their potential in an environment that is playful. Instructors: ONTA Studio

SUMMER CAMPS

Registration is open for summer camps. Check out the rec website (www.willistonrec.org) for offerings and to register. Early registration is encouraged. A camp grid is available to help plan your children’s summer fun. New camps added this year include Culinary Mashup Camp (Age 10-14, 1-4:30 p.m., June 26-30); Creative Engineering Camp (Age 6-11, 1-4:30 p.m. July 24-28); and Kids Kitchen Camp (Age 6-12, 1-4;30 p.m., Aug. 7-11).

The Titanic Wreck

About 111 years ago, what people called the greatest ship ever was taking to the sea for its first voyage. The Titanic was noted for being fast and comfortable. The Mini Page studies the Titanic shipwreck this week.

Luxurious ship

The Titanic was a passenger ship constructed by White Star Line. It was built in Ireland, and it took three years to be ready. The Titanic was special because it was the most luxurious, or fanciest, ship people had ever seen. It was also the biggest, at a length of nearly 900 feet. That’s as long as three football fields. It was thought to be unsinkable.

The Titanic set out from Southampton, England, headed for New York, on April 10, 1912, on its maiden, or first, voyage. There were 2,240 people on board.

White Star Line claimed the Titanic was the safest ship of its time. The hull, or main body of the ship, was made up of 16 sections. If up to three sections were damaged and water got in, the ship would still be safe. Iceberg!

Right after midnight on April 15, the Titanic hit an iceberg. Four sections of the hull were damaged, and the ship began to sink.

Try ’n’ Find

The captain, Edward John Smith, and his crew began sending out distress signals to ships that were nearby, hoping they would be able to rescue passengers.

The crew on the Titanic began handing out life jackets and loading passengers into lifeboats so they could safely exit the ship. Sadly, however, there were only 20 lifeboats on board, which could carry no more than half the people on the ship. Women and children were given seats on the lifeboats first.

The Titanic eventually broke apart and settled onto the bottom of the ocean.

The Carpathia, a ship that had seen the distress signals and immediately changed course to help the people on the Titanic, arrived at 3:30 in the morning, roughly one hour after it had sunk. Since the water was extremely cold, people who were not in lifeboats didn’t stand a chance of surviving in the water.

By the time the Carpathia arrived, only the people in lifeboats could be saved. The Carpathia turned around and headed back to New York with all the survivors. About 700 passengers and crew were saved.

this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

CARPATHIA,

Next Week: Earth Day

Search for the Titanic

Despite years of searching for the remains of the Titanic, it was not located until 1985, when an oceanographer named Robert Ballard found it 373 miles off the coast of Canada using a robot submarine called the Argo. (An oceanographer is a scientist who studies the ocean depths.)

Many things have been found inside the Titanic’s wreckage during expeditions since then, including food menus, perfume, plates, clothes, jewelry and furniture. A pocket watch frozen on the time the ship sank was also discovered.

Remembering

In May 1931, a Titanic memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C. This memorial honors the men who gave their lives so that children and women could be saved.

There are now many Titanic memorials throughout the world, including in Belfast and Cobh in Ireland, Southampton and New York. Museums and attractions featuring the Titanic are also scattered all over the world.

Resources

On the Web:

• si.edu/spotlight/titanic

• bit.ly/MPTitanic

At the library:

• “Titanic Q&A: 175+ Fascinating Facts for Kids” by Mary Montero

Mini Jokes

magician say to the fisherman? Pick a cod, any cod!

Marine mammal researchers say they now have hope for the recovery of endangered North Atlantic right whales after the birth of nine calves in

Mini Fact: The world’s largest Titanic museum attraction is in Branson, Missouri.

Words that remind us of the Titanic are hidden in

The Mini Page® © 2023 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Founded by Betty Debnam Issue 14, 2023

CREW, DISTRESS, FRIGID, HULL, ICEBERG, LIFEBOATS, MAIDEN, MUSEUM, NEW YORK, OCEAN, PASSENGERS, SHIP, SOUTHAMPTON, TITANIC, VOYAGE, WRECKAGE.

photo by Nancy Fry

photo courtesy of the Smithsonian

photo courtesy National Archives photo courtesy National Parks Service

Life vest from Titanic Titanic during sea trials

Titanic hit an iceberg. Four sections of the hull were damaged, and the ship began to sink.

with all the survivors. About 700 passengers and crew were saved.

Try ’n’ Find

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

CARPATHIA, CREW, DISTRESS, FRIGID, HULL, ICEBERG, LIFEBOATS, MAIDEN, MUSEUM, NEW YORK, OCEAN, PASSENGERS, SHIP, SOUTHAMPTON, TITANIC, VOYAGE, WRECKAGE.

Cook’s Corner

Tuna Scoops

You’ll need:

• 1 (6-ounce) can albacore tuna, packed in water

• 1 stalk celery, chopped

• 1 tablespoon onion, chopped (optional)

• 2 teaspoons honey

What to do:

1. Open can of tuna and drain well.

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon sweet relish

• 4 flat-bottom ice cream cones

2. Mix together tuna, celery, onion, honey, mayonnaise and relish.

3. Place one scoop of tuna in each cone. Serves 4.

7 Little Words for Kids

Use the letters in the boxes to make a word with the same meaning as the clue. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in the solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all letter combinations will be necessary to complete the puzzle.

1. one end of a pencil (6)

2. it’s used to cover a bed (5)

3. letters from A to Z (8)

4. old dinosaur bone (6)

5. dried grape (6)

6. yellow vegetable (4)

7. where you find ice cream (7)

Mini Jokes

Tilly: What did the magician say to the fisherman? Terrance: Pick a cod, any cod!

Eco Note

Marine mammal researchers say they now have hope for the recovery of endangered North Atlantic right whales after the birth of nine calves in the first weeks of the breeding season. Moira Brown of the Canadian Whale Institute told Canadian Press that fewer than 100 of the surviving right whales are mothers, and the new babies are a hopeful sign for the future. She says that there were only 15 calves born last year, compared to the average of 24 since the early 2000s. Some of the perils faced by the species are ship strikes, entanglements in fishing gear and other debris, and dwindling food supplies.

For later: Look in the newspaper for articles about ships.

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

Answers: eraser, quilt, alphabet, fossil, raisin, corn, freezer.

The Mini Page® © 2023 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Fun part-time job ideas for retirees

Dear Savvy Senior,

As a 68-year-old retiree, I’m interested in finding a fun parttime job that can occupy some of my time and generate a little extra income. Can you write a column on low-stress part-time jobs that are popular among retirees?

Part-Time Retiree

Dear Retiree, Working part-time in retirement can be a terrific way to occupy your time and earn some extra income. The key, however, is finding the right gig that’s fun and satisfying for you. While there are literally hundreds of different part-time job opportunities out there for retirees, here are a few possibilities to explore.

Pet services: If you love animals, consider pet sitting and/ or dog walking. Pet sitters, who attend to a pet’s needs when their owner is away, can earn $15 to $40 per visit. Dog walkers can make $10 to $30 for a 30-minute walk.

To find these jobs, advertise your services in veterinarians’ of-

fices or online at sites like www. Craigslist.org or www.Care.com. Or, if you’d rather work for an organization that offers these services, visit www.Rover.com.

Teach or tutor: Depending on your expertise, you could substitute teach or tutor students privately on any number of subjects. Substitute teachers typically make between $75 and $125 per day, while tutors can earn between $15 to $30 per hour.

To look for substitute teaching positions, contact your local school district to see if they are hiring and what qualifications they require. To advertise tutoring services, use websites like ww.Wyzant.com and www.Tutor. com.

Or, if you have a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, inquire about adjunct teaching at a nearby college or university.

Drive: If you like to drive, you can get paid to drive others around using Uber or Lyft apps, or become a food delivery driver through Instacart or Uber Eats. Drivers make around $15 per hour.

Community Bankers – Chittenden County

Part Time Opportunities - 10am-2pm shifts available

BUILDERS | MAKERS | DOERS®

There is no better time to join our Team!

Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is the largest banking institution headquartered in Vermont. We are committed to providing a welcoming work environment for all. Consider joining our team as a Part Time Community Banker!

Relevant Skills:

• Customer Service • Cash Handling (we’ll train you!)

Even better… if you have prior banking experience, we encourage you to apply!

If you are 18 or older and have a high school diploma, general education (GED) degree, or equivalent, consider joining the NSB Team!

What NSB Can Offer You

Competitive compensation based on experience. Profit-Sharing opportunity. Excellent 401(k) matching retirement program. Positive work environment supported by a team culture. Opportunity for professional development.

Please send an NSB Application & your resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com

Equal Opportunity Employer / Member FDIC

By Jim Miller

Babysit: If you like kids, babysitting can be a fun way to put money in your pocket. Hourly rates vary by location, ranging anywhere from $10 to $40 per hour. To find jobs or advertise your services, use sites like www.Care. com and www.Sittercity.com.

Tour guide: If you live near any historical sites or locations, national parks or museums (anywhere that attracts tourists), inquire about becoming a tour guide. This pays anywhere from

$10 to $40 per hour.

Write or edit: Many media, corporate and nonprofit websites are looking for freelancers to write, edit or design content for $20 to $60 per hour. To find these jobs try www.FreelanceWriting. com, www.FreelanceWritingGigs. com and www.Freelancer.com.

Consult: If you have a lot of valuable expertise in a particular area, offer your services as a consultant through a firm or on your own through freelancer sites like www.Upwork.com, www.Fiverr. com, www.Freelancer.com or www.Guru.com.

Translator or interpreter: If you’re fluent in more than one language, you can do part-time interpretation over the phone or translate documents or audio files for $20 to $40 per hour. Try sites like www.Translate.com, www. ProZ.com or www.Gengo.com to locate translation jobs.

Public events: Sporting events, festivals, concerts and shows need ticket-takers, security guards, ushers, concession workers and more. The pay is usually $10 to $20 per hour. Contact nearby venues to apply.

Tax preparer: If you have

tax preparation experience or are willing to take a tax prep course, you can find seasonal work preparing tax returns at tax firms like H&R Block or Jackson Hewitt for around $17 per hour.

Bookkeeper: If you have a finance or accounting background, you can find freelance bookkeeping gigs at sites like www.Upwork.com and www.Fiverr.com, or through firms like www.BelaySolutions.com.

Librarian assistant: If you love books, public libraries hire part-time workers to shelve books, send out overdue notices, help patrons, etc. Contact your local library to see what’s available.

If you don’t find these options appealing, try www.FlexJobs. com, which lists thousands of flexible work-at-home jobs from more than 5,700 employers. Membership fees start at $10.

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.

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1830, Joseph Smith established the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in Fayette, New York.

• In 1896, the first modern Olympic Games opened in Athens, 1,500 years after the last recorded original games.

• In 1917, the United States formally entered World War I by declaring war on Germany.

• In 1947, the first Tony Awards were presented for achievement in live Broadway theater.

• In 1992, the Bosnian War began in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

TODAY’S FACT:

• American explorer Robert Peary and his team were long believed to be the first humans to reach the North Pole, on this day in 1909. Navigational errors documented in Peary’s journals and analyzed decades later placed the expedition roughly 30 miles outside the Pole.

SOLUTION FOUND ON PAGE 20

Find the 7 words to match the 7 clues. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in each solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all letter combinations will be necessary to complete the puzzle.

1 “The Princess Bride” bride (9)

2 love interest of Donald Duck (5)

3 British sitcom’s Bucket (8)

4 “Trolls” princess (5)

5 “Downton Abbey” baby (8)

6 “Peanuts” character Gray (6)

7 Hepburn character Golightly (5)

We’re proud of our smiles! We believe that our state-of-the-art, impeccable skills; cheerful, approachable attitudes and ability to handle all your dental needs under one roof means a visit with us will always leave you with a beautiful smile.

SALES EXECUTIVE

Population

continued from page 9

and where,” he wrote.

SHOP DINE SPEND ENJOY L O C A L

Award-winning group of community weeklies with offices in Stowe, Morrisville and South Burlington seeks a sales person. Ideal candidate should have a basic knowledge of the local towns, business and communities we serve. A proven track record in sales and an ability to offer topnotch customer service is a required. In addition to servicing established accounts, candidate must be able to generate sales from qualified leads as well as establish new ones. Our company offers health benefits, vacation time, and provides on the job training in newspapers sales. Generous base salary during training and ideal hours (few nights or weekends). If you possess these qualifications and would like to be considered, please send your resume and cover letter to: Bryan Meszkat at bryan@newsandcitizen.com.

Williston

for each person: new jobs, family, politics and pandemic safety among them.

“I’d like to know if these new Vermonters are considering staying, and I hope the answer is yes,” he wrote. “I think the state should be doing its best to retain new Vermonters that have moved here in recent years.”

Vermont’s rapidly aging population — reflected in the latest figures — could have long-term impacts for the state’s economy, public services and health care, he said. But he thinks there are still high levels of interest in Vermont.

“The pandemic caused a societal-level moment of reflection. People had to consider what was most important to them, what kind of life they wanted to live,

Human Resources

Benefits & Payroll Administrator

There is no better time to join our team! Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is the largest banking institution headquartered in Vermont. We are committed to providing a welcoming work environment for all.

Our Human Resources team is GROWING,and we are looking for a professional to join our exceptional HR team in our Berlin Operations Center.

Job Responsibilities & Requirements

The Benefits & Payroll Administrator will be responsible for processing bi-weekly payroll, handing employee benefits information updates, maintaining employee files and reports, and will act as the primary contact for internal questions and requests related to benefits and payroll.

The successful candidate will have excellent verbal and written communication skills, be highly organized, and have a high attention to detail. This position will support the HR team in many capacities, while supporting the organization and maintaining confidentiality. A high school diploma, general education degree (GED) or equivalent is required.

Prior Human Resources, Office Management, or Accounting experience is welcomed.

Opportunity for Growth

Our team will encourage and help you develop within Human Resources, providing guidance on how to obtain appropriate HR certifications. The average years of service for an NSB employee is 9! If you’re looking to start or continue your HR career, join us!

What NSB Can Offer You

Competitive compensation based on experience. Well-rounded benefits package. Profit-Sharing opportunity. 401(k) matching retirement program. Professional development. Positive work environment supported by a team culture. Work/Life Balance!

Please send an NSB Application & your resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com or mail to: Northfield Savings Bank Human Resources PO Box 7180, Barre, VT 05641

He said Vermont has a window of opportunity to address that demand by creating additional housing capacity and planning for sustainable — and equitable — population growth.

Research before the pandemic showed that people moving into the state tended to have higher incomes than people leaving. Chu is concerned that trend could continue going forward.

“We can either say, ‘oh, yeah, people are going to want to move here, that’s going to help with our workforce issues in the long term’ and then sort of be reactive when that movement happens,” he said. “Or we can be proactive and say, ‘how do we set up our state to be welcoming and a viable option for everyone and anyone across the socioeconomic spectrum?’”

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19

Williston

March 24 at 1:48 a.m. — Following a motor vehicle stop, a female, age 36, was issued a citation to appear in court for possession of cocaine and violating conditions of release.

March 24 at 8:46 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. Case is still under investigation.

March 24 at 9:20 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. A female, age 31, was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.

March 24 at 9:49 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. A male, age 26, was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.

March 25 – Several car break-ins reported in the early morning hours throughout Williston. Case is still under investigation.

March 26 at 12:28 a.m. — Fol-

lowing a motor vehicle stop, a male, age 36, was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI-second offense.

March 27 at 3:20 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. Case is still under investigation.

March 28 at 12:48 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Ulta Beauty. Case is still under investigation.

March 28 at 3:30 p.m. — Reports of car break-ins at Sucker Brook Trail and Five Tree Hill Park. Case is still under investigation.

March 28 at 5:45 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. A female, age 39, was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.

March 28 at 10:51 p.m. — Death investigation at Falcon Manor. Nothing suspicious reported.

March 29 at 9:00 a.m. — Suspi-

cious male in Walmart. A male, age 45, was issued a citation to appear in court for petit larceny and violating conditions of release.

March 29 at 2:47 p.m. — Report of a retail theft at Hannaford. Upon investigation, it was discovered that a female, age 43, had an active arrest warrant. She was transported to the correction facility.

March 29 at 6:16 p.m. — Attempted theft at Ulta Beauty. A female, age 36, was issued a citation to appear in court for violating conditions of release.

March 30 at 10:40 a.m. — Retail theft at Walmart. Case is still under investigation.

March 30 at 12:42 p.m. — Suspicious male in Walmart. Upon investigation, it was discovered that a male, age 39, had active arrest warrant. He was transported to court.

March 31 at 9:05 p.m. — Report of two males breaking into a business on Chad Lane. Two males, age 45 and 35, were both issued citations to appear in court for unlawful mischief.

The Williston Observer is mailed to every home and business in Williston and St. George every Thursday. In addition, we provide rack distribution to locations in Williston, Richmond and Essex.

Williston

Adams Farm Market

Belle’s Café

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library

Fairfield Inn

Gardener’s Supply

Green Mountain Bagel

Hannaford

Healthy Living Williston

Home2Suites

Korner Kwik Stop

Marriott Courtyard

Men At Wok

People’s United Bank

Ramunto’s

Rehab Gym

Shell Gas Station (Essex Rd)

Simon’s Mobil Williston

Simply Divine Café

Sonesta

Sunoco Station

Town of Williston Offices

UPS Store

Williston Coffee Shop

If you would like copies for your location, call Rick Cote at (802) 373-2136 or email Rick@WillistonObserver.com

Food Prep/Server

Redhawk Cafe

at Champlain Valley Union High School

FULL TIME POSITION needed helping prep and serve food and/or run register.

Committed to serving students nutritious meals to keep them healthy and focused throughout the day.

MONDAY-FRIDAY school year schedule, out by 2:30PM every day.

BENEFITS: Holiday pay, 5 paid personal days, February and April paid school breaks, $250 uniform reimbursement, $250 wellness reimbursement, state retirement program. Medical, dental, & 403b available.

CONTACT: Leo LaForce, Food Service Director by email: llaforce@cvsdvt.org or phone: (802) 482-7176.

Or apply online: https://www.vermontjoblink.com/ jobs/1006970

Redhawk Cafe Website: https://cafe.cvuhs.org Champlain Valley Union Highschool, 369 CVU Road, Hinesburg, VT 05461

Community Bankers - Chittenden County BUILDERS I MAKERS I DOERS

There is no better time to join our team!

Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is the largest banking institution headquartered in Vermont. We are committed to providing a welcoming work environment for all. Are you looking to start or continue a career in the finance industry? Consider joining our team as a Community Banker!

Job Responsibilities & Requirements

This frontline position is crucial in creating a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience for NSB customers. The successful candidate for NSB customers. The successful candidate will have exceptional customer service and communication skills.

Essex Junction

Essex Automotive Five Corner Variety

Hannaford (at Essex Shoppes) Inn at Essex

Mac’s Market

Martone’s Deli Price Chopper

Quality Bake Shop

River Road Beverage

Richmond

Cumberland Farms

Richmond Free Library

Richmond Market

Richmond Mobil Mart

The Community Banker will be responsible for receiving and processing customers’ financial transactions as well as opening and maintaining customer accounts and services. We are looking for someone who can develop and maintain relationships with our valued customers, protect bank and customer information, and uphold customer confidentiality. A high school diploma, general education degree (GED), or equivalent is required.

If you have customer service, previous cash handling, or banking experience we encourage you to apply!

Opportunity for Growth

NSB has training opportunities to engage employees and assist with professional development within our company. The average years of service for an NSB employee is 9! If you’re looking for a career in an environment that promotes growth, join our team!

What NSB Can Offer You

Competitive compensation based on experience. Well-rounded benefits package. Profit-Sharing opportunity. Excellent 401(k) matching retirement program. Commitment to professional development. Opportunities to volunteer and support our communities. Work-Life balance!

We understand the importance of having evenings and weekends with our friends, families, and the communities we serve!

Please send an NSB Application & your resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com or mail to:

Northfield Savings Bank Human Resources PO Box 7180, Barre, VT 05641

Opportunity Employer / Member FDIC

Williston

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL

TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA

Tuesday, April 11, 2023 – 7:00 PM

Town Hall Meeting Room (Town Hall, 7900 Williston Road, use rear entrance) or

Zoom Meeting ID 846 5863 3532 on zoom.us/join or call 1-646-558-8656

DP 23-13 Pre-App Leo and Mona

Bountin request pre-application review for a 2-lot residential subdivision of a ±40 acre lot with ±30 acres of open space to create a new ±2.2 acre lot with an existing dwelling at 1513 Old Creamery Road in the Agricultural Rural Zoning District (ARZD).

Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt.org

LEGAL

TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA

Tuesday, April 25, 2023 – 7:00 PM

Town Hall Meeting Room (Town Hall, 7900 Williston Road, use rear entrance) or Zoom Meeting ID 846 5863 3532 on zoom. us/join or call 1-646-558-8656

DP 23-12 U-Haul Moving & Storage

c/o Jeffery Vaine request a discretionary permit for their proposed 17,780 SF warehouse facility and associated parking at 5038 Williston Road facility in the Industrial Zoning District West (IZDW).

DP 17-01.5 Northridge Williston, LLC request a discretionary permit for their proposed community elements including a pool, pool house, playground, and sports field at Kadence Circle in the Northridge Subdivision in the Residential Zoning District (RZD).

Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt. org

MOVING SALE

Downsizing/Moving Sale — Furniture and miscellaneous household items for sale. Please call or text 802-7349879 for more information.

Excavators,

Bandanas for Benefts

Do you want a customized bandana for your pet?

If so, Bandanas for Benefits has just what you’re looking for. It’s a micro business started by four students in the CVU Principles of Business class.

Our goal is to create customizable dog bandanas and dog boxes for your pet(s). All of our profits will be donated to the Chittenden County Humane Society!

If you are interested in supporting our small business and the Humane Society, scan the QR code above to place your order!

If you have any questions please contact us at catherinesaladino@cvsdvt.org, or on Instagram: @bandanas_for_benefits.

EMAILED ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISING INSERTION ORDER

Community Bankers – Chittenden County

Thomas Hirchak Company

FROM: Dakota Ward

Phone: 802-888-4662

BUILDERS | MAKERS | DOERS®

Email: Advertising2@THCAuction.com

There is no better time to join our Team!

Even better… if you have prior banking experience, we encourage you to apply!

To: Rick & Susan Cote

Paper: Williston Observer

Max Length 12.5

TODAY’S DATE: 03/31/2023

NAME OF FILE: 04062023_WO

Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is the largest banking institution headquartered in Vermont. We are committed to providing a welcoming work environment for all. Consider joining our team as a Temporary Community Banker!

DATE(S) TO RUN: 4/6/2023

Relevant Skills:

SIZE OF AD: 1/16 page (2” x 5”)

• Customer Service • Cash Handling (we’ll train you!) Even better… if you have prior banking experience, we encourage you to apply!

EMAILED TO: Rick@Willistonobserver.com

If you are 18 or older and have a high school diploma, general education (GED) degree, or equivalent, consider joining the NSB Team!

Publishes in Williston Observer

SECTION: Auctions

PO# 1485

Please send an NSB Application & your resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com Equal

WCS students shine at statewide middle school conference

A group of 26 Williston Central School students in grades 6-8 spent a day on the Champlain College campus in Burlington recently as part of a Vermont Association for Middle Level Education (VAMLE) conference.

The March 16 event featured workshops geared toward adolescent issues. About 350 middle-schoolers from around the state attended.

Jared Bailey, a WCS grade 5-6 teacher and president of VAMLE, kicked off the event with a welcome speech, and WCS sixth-grader Eisley Devitt also addressed the crowd. Later in the day, Bailey and Eisley facilitated an “Implementing Social Courage” workshop along with fellow WCS students Anna Thorley-Doucette, Annika Scott, Teague Flattery and Varian Theriault.

“It was a really fun experience. It was amazing to see students from all over Vermont. There were a lot of people there all learning from each other,” WCS sixth-grader Nora Brady said.

Eighth-grader Malashie Tonokie added: “This conference was a great learning experience. It reinforced that, when students can express themselves, they can become leaders.”

The keynote speaker of the event was Bennett Townley from Special Olympics

CVSD BRIEFS

Fun and prizes at WCS

Mark your calendars for Fun Night at Williston Central School, to coincide with the school’s 20 th Annual Big Basket Raffle.

Both events take place April 15 inside the school. Fun Night, from 6-8 p.m., features games, activities, crafts, a movie and food for kids in grades K-4. The cost is $10 per child or $15 per family for those preregistered; or $15 per child and $25 per family at the door.

Preregister by contacting Lisa Barland at lbarland@cvsdvt.org.

Raffles for the Big Basket Raffle will be drawn at 6:45 p.m. in the cafeteria. Prizes include up to 60 themed baskets. Proceeds benefit Families as Partners (FAP) programming.

CVSD presents expert panel on student vaping

Champlain Valley School District (CVSD) leaders will convene a panel of experts for a Zoom webinar April 13 about the use of vaping among teenagers. The event begins at 7 p.m. A Zoom link is available by emailing parentincvsd@gmail.com.

Expert panelists include pediatrician Leah Costello and school counselors from CVSD and the Burlington School District.

Vermont. The WCS and CVU graduate spoke about being treated unkindly and excluded as a middle school and high school student, and about the sense of community he found in the Unified Sports program at CVU, where he was part of the basketball team.

Some of the day’s workshops included: Alternatives to Hazing in Athletics, Creating Change in Your School, Responding to Social Media, Unified School Communities,

Organizing Against Racism, and Learning About Gender, Pronouns and Sexuality, among others.

“It was really great to see the diversity of students from all over Vermont,” WCS seventh-grader Orion Power-Freeman said. “I loved knowing students all over are working on the same issues we are here at WCS.”

VAMLE is the Vermont chapter of the national Association for Middle Level Edu-

cators. Bailey is the leader of the organization in Vermont.

“It was great to see students from all over the state come together to share concerns, learn from each other, and leave with ideas on how to make their communities better,” he said. “We hope to see many of this year’s attendees back as presenters next year.”

— Adapted from a report by Williston Central School councilor Lynn Camara.

The event will cover an introduction to nicotine and cannabis electronic delivery systems (vapes), the harms of use and examples of commonly used products. It will also cover how to recognize signs of youth vaping and how to talk to kids about it, as well as resources to support youth who need help quitting.

Student art on display

The Williston Schools annual Spring Art Show is ongoing through April at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. Visit the library to see artwork from WCS students in grades K-8. A separate K-2 art celebration at Allen Brook School is scheduled for 6-7:30 p.m. May 18 at ABS.

WCS students attended a statewide conference for middle-schoolers at Champlain College in March.