Williston Observer 5/18/2023

A(nother) new hotel planned for Taft Corners

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The first-ever land development application under Williston’s new form-based code was recently delivered to the town’s planning department.

The same ownership group that constructed the Hilton Home2 Suites hotel in the Finney Crossing neighborhood in 2020 is proposing a new four-story hotel just a stone’s throw to the east. Once constructed, the two hotels would be about a football field’s length apart.

“The existing hotel is doing very well, and that might give you some insight why another hotel might work,” Finney Crossing developer Scott Rieley said, referring further questions to Erik Hoekstra of Redstone development company in Burlington. Hoekstra is the “managing general partner” of both the existing 100-room Hilton and the proposed 115-room hotel, which will be sited at the corner of Holland Lane and Market Street. He could not

be reached for comment.

The landowner and official project applicant is Rieley Properties and Snyder Commercial Properties — the partnership of Rieley and Chris Snyder that has created the mixed-use neighborhood that now boasts a variety of national and regional restaurants and retailers, as well as a mix of condominiums and apartments.

Snyder, Rieley and Hoekstra attended Tuesday’s meeting of the selectboard, where they asked to purchase 10,000 gallons per day of wastewater capacity to accommodate the hotel’s operations. The board unanimously approved.

“Another hotel is a planning goal for the town?” asked board member Jeanne Jensen. “I’m struggling with that. Every hotel, is that housing that doesn’t get built?”

The hotel is sited on one of three remaining unbuilt lots in Finney Crossing. On the drawing board for the other two remaining lots are an apartment building and a multi-tenant commercial building. In contrast to the Hilton ho -

tel, the new hotel is designed in an “L” shape and with a sloped roof, in accordance with the new formbased code.

The selectboard adopted the form-based code last year, creating new building standards that focus on the look of construction and its relation to streets and surrounding buildings, rather than the traditional form of zoning that regulates building uses. The hotel application is the first to be filed under the new code. It will be reviewed by town staff for conformity with the code, instead of the traditional land use review by the Development Review Board.

However, one aspect of the plan does need to go before the DRB for approval, according to Planning Director Matt Boulanger. That is a land subdivision that is a prerequisite of the project. The developers last week filed the required subdivision permit application with the DRB, of which Rieley is a member and former chair who typically recuses himself from applications involving Snyder and Finney Crossing.

Sanchez earns contract extension

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

This year’s evaluation of Champlain Valley School District Superintendent Rene Sanchez resulted in a contract extension as well as modifications to the way the school board evaluates administrators.

In his second school year with the district, Sanchez was

offered a one-year contract extension after his annual review was completed by the school board in late February. The nod of approval came as Sanchez was spearheading the formulation of an over-arching strategic plan for the district, which the board approved this spring.

“I’m really excited about Rene’s level of community engagement and especially throughout the process of building the strategic plan,” said board chair Angela Arsenault, “and I’m really eager to see

Rene Sanchez see SANCHEZ page 7

School board tackles transgender policy

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

“What do you do as an educator if a student comes to you and says that they want to be called a name other than their given or legal name and they want to use pronouns different from what their parents put on a form that they filled out at the beginning of the year, and they don’t want you to tell their parents?”

This is among the sensitive specifics that the Champlain Valley School District is grappling with as it tries to ensure equity and fairness for transgender and gender non-conforming students.

“We’ve had teachers in that very difficult position,” school board chair Angela Arsenault said, “and I think it’s really important for everyone involved that

we have clarity around what we do in that case. How do we support students, how do we support teachers, and how do we include families as partners — and keep kids safe?”

To this point, the district has relied on Vermont Agency of Education guidelines written in 2017 to guide decisions about transgender and gender non-conforming student education. But on May 4, the school board’s policy subcommittee began work on a district-specific policy that it plans to present for approval this year to the school board.

A draft of the policy is based entirely on the Agency of Education guidelines, Arsenault said. It requires the district to use a student’s preferred name and gender on school records, except when lesee TRANSGENDER page 7

Architectural plans for a new hotel in Finney Crossing were recently submitted to the Williston Planning and Zoning Department. COURTESY OF WILLISTON PLANNING AND ZONING

Around Town

Williston Antiques Roadshow event set for May 20

Wondering whether that family heirloom or yard sale find is the real deal? On Saturday, May 20 from 2-4 p.m., the Williston Historical Society invites you to have your treasures appraised by local auctioneer and appraiser Ethan Merrill of Merrill’s Auction Gallery.

A $5 donation for each object appraised supports the Williston Historical Society. Limit of three items per person. Only cash or checks are accepted and no fire -

arms are allowed.

Memorial Day Observance to be held in Williston Village

On Monday, May 29 at 9 a.m., the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club will host a Memorial Day observance at the Williston War Memorial Park between Town Hall and the Town Hall Annex. The event will honor those who are no longer with us who served our country and communities in the military or as first-responders. Community members are invited to the half-hour ceremony,

which will feature trumpet and bagpipe music and the dedication of several new bricks placed in the memorial patio to honor veterans. The event will be followed by coffee and light refreshments.

For more information, contact Lesley Murray at lesleymotr@ gmail.com.

A with several unspecified items taken. All the cases are under investigation, Lt. Josh Moore of the Williston Police Department said.

Vermont Open Studio Weekend upcoming

The 31st Vermont Spring Open Studio Weekend will be held Saturday and Sunday, May 27 and 28, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. Organized by the Vermont Crafts Council, over 155 member sites are participating.

Visitors will have the opportunity to plan a tour that brings them through the small towns of Vermont to studios, where they can purchase items and talk with the artists who made them.

Williston student receives national recognition

Samuel Yager, a Williston student who attends Champlain Valley Union High School, was selected this year as a U.S. Presidential Scholar.

Yager was among 161 high school seniors chosen for the honor, which recognizes outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, technical expertise, leadership, citizenship, service and contribution to school and community.

One male and one female from each state are chosen.

“U.S. Presidential Scholars have always represented the future of our country and the bright promise it holds. I want each of these remarkable students to know: your passion and intellect, pursuit of excellence and spirit of service are exactly what our country needs,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said.

Thieves target storage units

Williston Police are investigating a spate of break-ins to local storage units. Police reported four separate incidents of storage unit break-ins from May 5-11. Two incidents on May 5 involved the theft of a bike, silver, electronics and medications at a storage unit on Winter Sports Lane and another attached to an apartment complex on Knight Lane.

On May 8, storage units on James Brown Drive were broken into, according to police, and on May 11, three units were broken into at a storage facility on Avenue

The game is designed to instill the value of long-term investing and boost students’ math, economics and personal finance knowledge. The SIFMA Foundation was formed in 1977 to help foster greater knowledge of the financial markets for young people of all backgrounds.

Vermont Studio Tour Map booklets can be found at travel information centers on I-89 and I-91, from participating artists or at www.vermontcrafts.com/visit-open-studio/.

Blood drive planned at Crosspoint Church

On Wednesday, May 31 from 12-5 p.m., Crosspoint Church at 237 Commerce St. in Williston will hold a Red Cross blood drive. Donors will receive a limited-edition Red Cross beach towel. Quantities are limited.

To schedule an appointment to make a life-saving donation, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-7332767).

Williston Playwright brings home Lady Diana musical

Williston Central School and CVU graduate Charlotte Munson is returning to Vermont for a performance of her musical “Di Lady Di” at Main Street Landing in Burlington on May 26-27. The play is a chronicle of the life of Lady Diana.

Munson currently lives in Los Angeles and first premiered the play in Hollywood.

Tickets are available at https:// www.showtix4u.com/event-details/74156. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. May 26-27 and a 2 p.m. matinee on May 27.

Book fair and art show on tap at Williston schools

The Spring Scholastic Book Fair returns to Allen Brook School on Tuesday, May 30 through Friday, June 2. All ABS students will have a chance to shop the fair and pick out books for summer break. Williston Central School students are invited on June 1, from 5-8 p.m. Volunteers are needed. Signup at https://signup.com/go/faRgpqE.

Williston student ‘investors’ win statewide contest

Williston Central School students Rowan Shrestha and Thor Cossette won a year-long stock market simulation contest organized by the SIFMA Foundation, turning a fictional $100,000 into $120,000 through simulated trades of stocks, bonds and mutual funds.

The pair beat out other student investors in middle schools throughout the state.

Another school event, the WCS Art Show, is scheduled for May 24 from 5-7 p.m., featuring the artwork of the school’s thirdthrough eighth-graders.

Mail fail

Postal customers were locked out of the Williston Post Office on Tuesday morning as a sign on the front door noted a “lack of help.” By the afternoon, however, the post office was reopened. The post office has been struggling with staffing issues affecting service for more than two years.

A trip down memory lane with members of the Williston Historical Society

First encounters with the Old Brick Church

The story of the Village landmark’s restoration

EDITOR’S NOTE: Former Williston resident Mark Hutchins is writing a first-person history of the restoration of the Old Brick Church in the 1960s for eventual archiving at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. This is part 2 of his first installment. Part 1 was published in last week’s Observer. The full history of the building’s restoration will be available at the library later this year.

BY MARK HUTCHINS Special to the Observer

My first recollection was the realization we had just “broken” into the Old Brick Church, the first major criminal activity of my life. While I was now a teenager (age 13), I had no illusions of how my father would react if I got caught. It would have swiftly resulted in a painful inability to sit down for a while!

But any concerns about this

were fleeting, quickly evaporating as I stood there in the utter gloom and peered around.

We found ourselves in a huge room, with a very dark beamed and planked ceiling stretching off in the distance. It having been an overcast morning anyway, only fitful little slivers of light penetrated through the shuttered windows along the sides of the room.

There was still a winter chill in the basement that, combined with dampness, enhanced the feeling of long abandonment. As our eyes adjusted, David led the way along the back (north) stone wall to the east wall and began to step in the soft dirt along the wall for nearly 60 feet or so.

A pool of standing water occupied the center of the basement area where there seemed to be a depression in the ground level. The soil along the wall was dry however. We passed a bolted exterior door. Even if it was still operable, David said it faced directly on “Old Lady” Urie’s house and would not have been as safe an entry as the rear window had been over the years.

We continued along the wall

toward the south end of the basement in the east corner, where I made out what at first seemed to be a ladder of some sort climbing upward. As we approached it, I also made out in the opposite corner to the west a pile of some kind of furniture resting on the dirt floor, but it was too dim to make out.

The ladder proved to be a very steep set of stairs. The treads were widely spaced apart, open and nearly a foot or more apart. It was entirely unpainted and obviously very old wood. It was also extremely narrow — no more than 2 feet or so wide, and there were no handrails.

David scampered up ahead of me like a monkey, exhorting me to keep up, and I climbed up behind him. As I climbed, I passed a window that was tightly shuttered on my left. It had quite a collection along its unpainted sill of broken pieces of glass, which I could not immediately identify. I was careful not to cut myself as we emerged into the room above. The door was open here and the area better lit.

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The Old Brick Church after restoration in the mid-20 th Century.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Proposed Burton-Higher Ground venue goes to trial

BY PATRICK CROWLEY VTDigger

More than four years after announcing plans to partner with Higher Ground to turn vacant warehouse space into a performing arts center, Burton Snowboards is still fighting for approvals.

According to plans submitted to Burlington’s Development Review Board, Burton is seeking to turn 11,560 square feet of unused warehouse space and a new outdoor plaza at Burton’s Queen City Park Road headquarters into a music venue, relying on partnerships with Higher Ground and other companies. The capacity for the new space would be 1,500 people.

Over the years, Burton has worked to obtain zoning changes, Burlington Development Review Board approvals and eventually a state Act 250 permit. But after the DRB and state decisions, a group of residents, under the name “citizens for responsible zoning,” appealed in

state environmental court.

Last month both cases were argued in front of Judge Mary Teachout in Vermont Superior court in Burlington. Following attorneys’ arguments, both sides have until early June to file post-trial memos. Once all filings in the cases are complete, Teachout will consider the appeals and issue a ruling.

In a written statement, Justin Worthley, Burton senior vice president of people and culture, described the “Global HUB project” as “a new, mixed-use project that complements the exciting arts and cultural growth happening in Burlington’s South End.”

“Burton is confident in its careful design of the Project, believes the concerns raised by a small group of opponents are misplaced, and looks forward to a decision from the Environmental Court in the pending appeal of the project’s zoning and Act 250 permits,” Worthley wrote. He declined further comment, citing the ongoing legal process.

Burton said on its website that, back in

2014, it started looking to fill vacant space at its headquarters with other manufacturers, since at that time it was the only permitted use in that zoning district. Without any tak-

Smith said the informal group was formed shortly after the Burlington zoning change. It received support from a nonprofit called Voice for the Potash Brook Watershed, which has fought development in South Burlington.

Smith said that, before going to trial, the group had mediation sessions and conversations about a settlement, both unsuccessful.

Lawrence Smith

ers, Burton and other manufacturers made the case to the city in January 2019 for more flexible zoning requirements, as reported in the Burlington Free Press.

Eventually, the city agreed. A set of zoning changes that paved the way for the Burton venue were eventually approved by the City Council in June 2019.

With the zoning change in hand, Burton moved forward with its specific plans. In September 2020, the Development Review Board approved the proposed venue. The first appeal by Citizens for Responsible Zoning, or CRZ Group, was filed later that month. The state’s Act 250 approval took longer, but arrived in early 2022. That, too, was appealed by CRZ Group last March in a separate case. Both cases are now linked in environmental court.

Lawrence Smith, a South Burlington resident from a nearby neighborhood who is the designated representative for CRZ Group, said in an interview that the group is “not opposed” to development in general at the Burton campus. Its opposition centers on “traffic, noise and safety” that would come from the performing arts center, he said.

“We have tried to settle or have a collaborative negotiation with Burton since day one,” Smith said. “They basically spoke with us up until the time they filed their first permit application, at which point it became very clear that they were just going to try to do what they wanted without — from our perspective — without having a willingness to really address the concerns that the neighbors have.”

According to Smith, noise is one of the biggest concerns the group has, in particular the effect on nearby Red Rocks Park in South Burlington.

Burton used a noise expert, Eddie Duncan from the consulting firm Resource Systems Group, according to court files. Duncan’s analysis concluded that noise levels at the nearby homes would be “comparable to existing nighttime sound levels in the area,” according to a court memo by Burton’s attorneys.

Smith said almost two days of the trial centered on Burton’s noise analysis, which Burton stood by.

Another issue raised was parking and traffic. Currently the Burton campus has more than 400 parking spaces, but with a capacity of 1,500, some neighbors worry about possible spillover of cars on residential streets. During the trial, Burton’s side again stood by an analysis that it will have enough parking.

The attorney for CRZ Group, James Dumont, also argued that the Burton plans still violate Burlington’s zoning ordinance, even after the 2019 accommodations were passed. Dumont argued that under the updated zon-

“I would say there’s a higher likelihood that this will end up going to the Supreme Court than it will end with the judge’s ruling.”

Church

continued from page 3

I remember being very excited as I gazed around the low-ceilinged room. The floor was scattered with various kinds of paper debris but nothing large, and there was no sign of any furniture.

My first impression was one of amazement that the walls were not only intact but still almost white! We saw no indication of peeling paint or cracked plaster anywhere. The floor proved to be simple gray-painted planks and did not appear to show much wear.

I remember telling David, whispering of course, that this was not so scary or spooky at all and we could clean it up quickly with a good broom. He laughed and led me to up to a double door on the interior wall that was covered with some kind of green cloth, partially ripped on the inside where we stood. He gestured for me to follow and pushed open the door. “Just wait,” he whispered, and we stepped through the opening.

How can I ever really explain that moment? I remember it vividly and drank in every detail. We walked into the original “sanctuary” of the old church and stood stock still taking it all in. It was almost as dimly lit as the basement but presented a dusty, dry, chalky scent of long disuse. It was magnificent to me and to that point in my life was the most elegant space I had ever been in, even obviously in disrepair.

As we gingerly walked down the center aisle, our feet crunched on the inches of bird refuse that coated the floor and pews, particularly under the stove pipes. Our intrusion disturbed several pigeons who fluttered nervously overhead. They had gained entry from a number of broken windows and damaged slats in the covering shutters, we supposed. The horizontal stove pipes connected to two outlets in the north wall on each side of the platform. Each set of suspended pipes were heavily coated with bird refuse as well, indicating a favorite roosting place for decades.

Glancing at the pews I found them to be

Higher Ground

continued from page 4

ing, performing arts centers are not supposed to be serving alcohol in more than 50 percent of their space.

But acting Burlington City Attorney Kimberlee Sturtevant responded in a memo, saying Dumont and CRZ Group misinterpreted the zoning ordinance. Sturtevant said the 50 percent threshold is about where food and beverages are “prepared and served” and that customers are allowed to consume elsewhere in the facility.

Burlington is not the only municipality that is an interested party in the appeals. South Burlington is also involved, and one city councilor said she is concerned about the impact on South Burlington neighborhoods that are close to the Burton campus.

“We are concerned about the quality of life of the residents in that neighborhood,

completely upholstered in a dark fancy looking crimson material, although dusty. I did not notice any hymnal racks, but there were a few damaged books scatted among the general debris. As we stepped slowly down the aisle, we encountered a large gold fixture lying on its side in our path. As I got closer, David tilted it upright and I found it was an elaborate and very elegant looking chandelier.

A few gilt chains still hung from several of its tiers, which looked like gold crowns. I had not seen anything like this before and was impressed.

about, mainly wallpaper. There were also some books lying about. Some had covers torn off and pages scattered among the general detritus.

David led the way, expert guide that he was, around to another door and opened it, letting me look around the frame and upward. Another steep and narrow stairway, entirely unpainted, climbed into a dark void above. David said he had gone up there a few times and even climbed into the belfry.

He gestured for me to proceed with him up, but at this point my curiosity was overcome by a growing nervousness about the entire adventure. To my mind, we had already committed a major crime. To David, it was a lark, but the image of my father finding out about it was getting vivid.

I said that my leg was tired and we needed to think about getting out. I told him I had a long bike ride home.

life.

Excited, my imagination raced with scenes of people gathered in their tall hats and dark clothes filling the pews, the walls blazed with color again. I could imagine it all. I left David with great thanks at the library and started the long bike ride west on Williston Road to Taft Corners and then started the long walk uphill on Route 2A to home.

As happened frequently in the early 1960s, a passing motorist stopped and offered me a ride up to my home. To my mother’s inquiry, I told her I had just had a good time with David.

That day will never fade away for me. Even years later when I would return to the church — now clean, antiseptic and bright — I never could forget it as it appeared in its ruined finery that early spring day.

Much of its architectural features exist today, but not with the same sumptuous Victorian decoration it had in 1963.

Looking ahead, my eyes widened at the sight of a huge, round plastered molding in the ceiling directly above me. It was painted in many colors with gold leaves and intricate embellishments. Again, I was struck by the elaborate decoration in this room. To my eyes it must have been the largest and fanciest room in the entire town!

We approached the platform, which had narrow little steps set into each side, and climbed up to survey the room from that angle. Immediately, I noticed the balcony at the front end of the church. There were four doors up there and I think I excitedly asked David if there was anything up there. He replied that the way to the attic and tower was from up there. We walked back down the west aisle and I noted that there were smaller pews facing the platform on each side. David said they must have been for the “big shots” of the church.

Retracing our steps out of the sanctuary into the foyer where we had entered, we made our way up steep, narrow stairs in the southwest corner, emerging onto a balcony. Here, as down below, scattered debris was strewn

as well as the wildlife and natural resources that are in Red Rocks Park,” South Burlington City Councilor Meaghan Emery said in an interview.

Regarding Red Rocks Park, Emery said she also worries that, with alcohol being served at the new venue, there could be drinking inside the park before or after an event, which she said raises safety concerns with the high cliffs near the lake.

Emery said South Burlington primarily wanted to make its presence known at the trial.

“We really wanted to register our concern that this is something that we are not indifferent to,” Emery said.

As the parties await Teachout’s ruling, Smith said he doesn’t expect the environmental court cases to be the end of the story.

“I would say there’s a higher likelihood that this will end up going to the Supreme Court than it will end with the judge’s ruling,” Smith said.

He was immediately very understanding, and we retraced our steps down and out through the basement and window into fresh air. We walked up the west side to the street and along the highway to the library where we had left our bikes.

It had been the greatest adventure of my

Perhaps someday, the rich wall papers, thick carpets, damask cushions and gold accents will return. But for me, the interior we see today seems like an empty stage after the sets are struck. Harsh daylight floods the interior and spoils the mystery of the magic box we opened that day.

I was struck by the elaborate decoration in this room. To my eyes it must have been the largest and fanciest room in the entire town!

GUEST COLUMN

A mass unsheltering or housing for all?

BY REP. BRIAN CINA

Vermont has an opportunity to lead the nation in our response to the housing crisis by building housing for all. But instead, state policymakers may cause a humanitarian disaster that threatens to undermine our collective recovery by passing a budget that evicts more than 2,800 individuals from hotels to the streets.

The forced eviction of the residents from Sears Lane by the City of Burlington in 2021 illustrates the potential harm, just on a smaller scale. After three years of tolerating a large encampment on city-owned land, the siege and displacement at Sears Lane not only destroyed homes and personal belongings of vulnerable people, but also bulldozed the social support network of a community. Despite the emergency assistance offered by the government, the services provided by nonprofit organizations and the mutual aid of neighbors and volunteers, the

state violence against Sears Lane caused tremendous trauma for individuals, families and communities.

The approximately 1,800 households potentially displaced from hotels on July 1 do not have the same safety net that Burlington offered to the people of Sears Lane. The eviction of people from hotels could fill roughly 70 encampments the size of Sears Lane spread across Vermont. Some people may find permanent and temporary housing, but many others will be sleeping in cars, in parking lots, on the streets and in the woods. More people will move in and out of prisons and hospitals due to the impact of eviction on the social determinants of health and crime. Hundreds of people are facing abandonment — cast into the shadows after being treated as if they mattered and belonged — traumatized by the loss of shelter and community due to another broken promise between the government and the people.

The unintended social and economic costs could increase exponentially over time. Consider just the cost of the increased amount of time people may spend in other state facilities due to the impact of eviction. The cost of eviction over time will most likely exceed any savings and yield no identifiable benefits.

Instead of mass unsheltering, we can choose housing for all by:

• Appropriating the funding needed to guarantee shelter and peace of mind to the people in hotels for the next year as we build bridges to housing.

• Providing community-based services to people in hotels that improve social determinants of health, with pathways to permanent housing that meet the unique needs of individuals and families as soon as it is available.

• Negotiating lower fees with all hotels (a reduction from $149 per day to $100 per day would save about $30 million per year).

• Purchasing some hotels for conversion into a range of temporary and permanent housing options; buy manufactured housing to fill vacant lots in mobile home parks.

• Identifying state and munic-

ipal land near a few of the hotels and rapidly building permanent public housing not only for unhoused people, but also for other people who want to move around or to Vermont for work, school and retirement.

• Incentivizing private development in the neighborhoods between new housing and the hotels as part of a broader process of economic and social revitalization.

• Coordinating current appropriations for the Vermont Housing Conservation Board and Vermont Housing Finance Agency with the development of both public and private housing around as many hotels as possible.

• Easing regulations on emergency assistance and on de -

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Some people may find permanent and temporary housing, but many others will be sleeping in cars, in parking lots, on the streets and in the woods.

Cina

continued from page 6

velopment as part of a coordinated plan to redevelop designated neighborhoods around hotels.

Vermont can learn from the success of other states that have chosen to creatively invest recovery funds, such as Project Turnkey in Oregon or Project Homekey in California.

Sanchez

continued from page 1

where this plan takes us.”

On Tuesday, the board approved a change to the Superintendent Evaluation Subcommittee that was formed shortly before the retirement of longtime Superintendent Elaine Pinckney in 2021. In the absence of state standards that define the role of a school district superintendent, the change will create defined benchmarks for the board to rely on when evaluating its top leader.

“We wanted more structure to the superintendent evaluation and really spell out the process so it could be repeated with fidelity year to year,” Arsenault said. “We want to make sure that, no matter who is serving in that role, they are being evaluated objectively and completely and in a really fair way.”

The subcommittee’s new direction will be to align superintendent evaluations with the educational outcomes in the district’s new strategic plan. While the strategic

continued from page

gally required not to, and it addresses how students can change their name and gender on school records retroactively. It also requires school staff to “respect any requests to use a name and pronoun that corresponds to the student’s gender identity that the student asserts or wishes to assert at school.”

The draft policy also provides for students to participate in activities where students are separated by gender — such as sports teams and overnight field trips — in accordance with their gender identity and requires the district provide accommodations to address student privacy concerns on a case-by-case basis. The same holds for the use of locker rooms and restrooms.

“A transgender student should not be required to use a locker room or restroom that conflicts with the student’s gender identity,” the draft policy states.

Arsenault said the policy subcommittee

At this moment in time, the General Assembly must choose housing for all. When we compare the costs versus benefits of this decision, the choice is clear. As we recover from the pandemic emergency, Vermont can build a future of social and economic opportunity for all by guaranteeing housing as a human right, once and for all.

Rep. Brian Cina represents Burlington’s Chittenden 15 District in the Vermont House of Representatives.

plan has been approved, the board is still working to pinpoint the specific educational outcomes — academic, social-emotional and behavioral — that the plan will strive for and “that the superintendent is in charge of delivering on,” Arsenault said.

“We’re about to develop those desired outcomes and use them to hold our superintendent accountable to our community,” she said. “That’s an improvement.”

is considering whether to change some of the wording from “should” to “shall” or “must.”

“‘Should’ makes it a judgement call,” she noted.

“There are some questions that are left unanswered by the model guidelines,” she said.

The policy-creation process is informed by the district’s 2021 adoption of an equity policy. That policy was adopted based entirely on a model policy issued by the Vermont School Boards Association.

“We kind of moved too fast with that one,” Arsenault said. “It was a major policy. We were really excited to adopt it, and to have an equity policy. But we didn’t take the time to be sure we were adopting an equity policy that was directly relevant to our district. So we’re slowing down the process a little bit with (the transgender and gender nonconforming) policy to make sure there are more voices and more input … It’s a more intentional process and it does mean that it takes more time, but I believe the end result will be that it’s more representative of our community and our values.”

“We want to make sure that, no matter who is serving in that role [CVSD superintendent], they are being evaluated objectively and completely and in a really fair way.”

Angela Arsenault CVSD board chair

Ellen

Stephen

Wendy

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

Retirement time for Naru founders

Asian restaurant plans June closing after 20 years

A Williston staple for more than two decades, Naru Asian Cuisine is closing in June.

The restaurant’s founders are retiring with a trip to their native China planned before returning to Vermont later this year, daughter Ivy Li said Tuesday. Li and her siblings, who have worked at the restaurant, are making the trip, too, and also plan to return to Vermont. But they are not planning to reopen the restaurant.

“We are going to go back to our country to relax and travel,” said Li.

For now, Naru is open for takeout only; it has closed its indoor dining room. With the springtime weather, some customers are dining at the

tables alongside a small playground that is just outside the restaurant’s side door in the Cornerstone Drive plaza.

On Tuesday, three longtime customers ate lunch there. They had heard about the closing of the restaurant just minutes earlier when placing their order.

“I’ve been coming here since I was 5,” said one diner who grew up in one of the nearby neighborhoods. “It’s our go-to Chinese food place.”

Like many regulars, the customers said they watched the owners’ children grow up at the restaurant. The children often spent time in the dining room and at the outdoor playground as their parents worked

lunch and dinner shifts.

“It’s so good, the prices are affordable and they are so nice,” said another outdoor diner. “I came here when I was younger when their kids were literally babies and my sister would always hang out with them

and play with them.”

Naru, which specializes in both Chinese and Korean cuisine, will join Walgreens, two doors down, as businesses that are vacating the plaza this spring.

Jason Starr

Collaboration assists businesses owned by people of color

BY FRED THYS

VTDigger

Businesses owned by black and indigenous people and other people of color are eligible to

receive technical assistance and development services through a new collaboration between Gov.

Phil Scott’s office, the Vermont Department of Economic Development and the nonprofit Vermont Professionals of Color Network.

“Building equity across the state is a priority of my administration and that means including all of our community members in these efforts,” Scott said in a press release. “This exciting partnership will help support businesses, our workforce, and further assist Vermont’s economic development efforts.”

Vermont Professionals of Color was awarded a contract to run the program.

Weiwei Wang, director of operations and development for the organization, said she plans to use the grant to hire more people to reach out to business owners and professionals, particularly in southern Vermont and the Northeast Kingdom.

“We do have community members there,” Wang said. “We just are not able to do as much right now with the capacities that we have.”

Wang said she hopes to connect community members with one another. She said that although her organization is called the Vermont

The dining room at Naru Asian Cuisine is closed in anticipation of a June retirement of its owners after 20-plus years at Cornerstone Drive.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY JASON STARR

Lenny’s supports food shelf and Green Mountain Club

Lenny’s Shoe & Apparel recently made a donation of $4,698 to the Vermont Foodbank and Plattsburgh Foodshelf.

Lenny’s worked with Darn Tough Vermont and Skida headwear to create limited-edition, Vermont-made socks, hats, neck warmers and hair scrunchies and release them for sale exclusively at Lenny’s last October. Lenny’s sent $2 from every item sold to the food banks.

Over the past 12 years, Lenny’s has donated over $225,000 to the Vermont Foodbank and Plattsburgh Foodshelf.

Lenny’s philanthropic collaboration with Darn Tough is continuing with the release of a hiking sock this year to support the Green Mountain Club.

Jersey Mike’s donates one day of sales to Flutie Foundation

The Flutie Foundation joined forces with Jersey Mike’s Williston store to highlight its Day of Giving on March 29. On that day, 65 Jersey Mike’s franchises in New England donated 100 percent of their sales to the Flutie Foundation, which helps families affected by autism.

Jersey Mike’s Williston store opened last year and has become the company’s busiest franchise nationwide. Leaders of the company joined leaders of the nonprofit at the store on March 29 to kick off the event.

Since 2011, Jersey Mike’s philanthropic efforts have raised about $67 million for charities.

GlobalFoundries launches apprenticeship program

In an effort to develop the nation’s semiconductor talent pipeline, the National Institute of Innovation and Technology has established an apprenticeship program at GlobalFoundries’ Essex Junction location.

The program is designed to meet the company’s technician workforce needs and to provide workers with the skills necessary to progress into higher level positions.

Apply at www.gf.com/careers/

gf-maintenance-technician-apprenticeship-essex-junction-vt.

All Earth Renewables hires director of operations

AllEarth Renewables of Williston has hired Eric Pierce as director of operations. Pierce’s 25-year career spans a variety of industries, from multinational entities to niche Vermont-based organizations. He is a graduate of Marist College.

AllEarth Renewables installs solar arrays throughout the country, including over 3,500 in Vermont with trackers that are designed, engineered and built in Vermont.

Staying calm before games

Hey Woodski!

I get really anxious before games. I always have to make sure I’m really early, and my heart races and palms sweat. I’m fine once it starts. Any ideas on how I can calm myself?

Nervy Nate, Age 14 (male, soccer)

Dear Nervy Nate,

While pregame rituals like arriving early are great for keeping calm, let’s go a little deeper.

Even without being aware of it, sometimes people repeat a loop of

negative thoughts in their heads. Before we know it, these negative thoughts take root like weeds, and can make our heart race and palms sweat.

So grab a piece of paper. Write down how you feel when you are playing soccer well. Writing it down takes it from your brain and puts it into your body.

Now use those words to create affirming sentences that describe your best future self. Something like: “I love soccer and I am always calm, cool and collected.” If that’s not believable for you, try: “I’m in the process of being calm,

cool and collected.” These are just examples. Create one or two that are right for you.

Here’s the key part: Take 20 index cards or post-it notes and write your affirmation(s) on those pieces of paper. Place these wherever you’ll see them. In your room, bathroom, kitchen, into your school notebooks, etc. Be ready to share with family and friends about your pre-game jitters so they can support you. Repeat the

affirmations every time you see a note and even when you don’t. This will take some time; weeks, even months. But it’s important because it gets to the most-likely root cause of your nerves — your thoughts. So keep at it! You’ll never completely eliminate stress, but you can control how it affects you.

Steve Fuchs is a health coach at Steve Fuchs Health Coaching. Go

to www.vermonthealthcoach.com to anonymously ask a question about things that affect your athletic performance, such as performance anxiety, workload balance, nutrition, willpower and procrastination. The advice offered in this column is not intended to replace professional medical advice. It is advised that you talk to your doctor before making any changes in your diet, exercise or lifestyle choices.

Springtime chores to tackle around the house

After months spent largely indoors while harsh elements battered your home’s exterior, homeowners are throwing open the windows and embracing spring’s arrival.

Every home requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it’s living up to its aesthetic and functional best. Use this checklist to create a comfortable home setting for enjoying the warmer months.

Check gutters — During the colder months, debris can accumulate in gutters, which can be problematic when spring rains arrive. Clogged gutters prevent water from flowing efficiently away from the roof and house. When they’re backed up, they can cause water damage in a short amount of time.

Faulty guttering can also cause slow leaks that lead to damage you may not discover until major repair work is needed. Properly functioning gutters are clear of debris, flow freely and are securely attached to the home.

Inspect the roof — Your roof takes a real beating in all kinds of weather conditions. Making it a common practice to carefully inspect the roof with the change of seasons can help you identify potential problems while they’re still in early stages, before a big storm hits and major damage occurs. Some roof issues can be addressed with simple repairs you can do yourself, while others may require a professional. A roofing expert can help you determine whether any trouble areas can be patched

or if a more complete restoration is in order.

Replace the dryer vent — Upgrading your dryer vent is an opportunity to conserve energy and prevent flammable lint buildup in your dryers. One option for updating the exhaust system is a paintable version of InoVate’s Prime Dryer Wall Vent (www. DryerWallVent.com). Engineered for both vent replacement and new construction, the vent includes features such as a gravity-assist damper, integrated magnets and a drip edge to provide extra protection from the elements as well as pests. A large, clean opening and lightweight angled damper promote exceptional airflow efficiency.

Cleaning window screens improves indoor air quality when summer breezes blow.

PHOTO BY PEXELS.COM

Turn up the heat on your favorite recipes

BY MELINDA MYERS Special to the Observer

Don’t worry if the rest of your family doesn’t appreciate the spicy heat that your favorite hot peppers add to entrees, beverages and desserts. Proper pepper selection, care and preparation can help you turn down the heat as needed so more people can enjoy.

Hot peppers’ spicy heat is measured in Scoville Heat Units named for Wilbur Scoville. The level of heat was originally determined by a panel of individual tasters. Today a more accurate, less subjective high-performance liquid chromatography method can be used for measuring the pungency of hot peppers.

Poblano and Siracha rate between 1,000 to 2,500; jalapenos up to 8,000; cayenne can

peak at 50,000; habaneros up to 350,000; and one of the hottest, the ghost pepper, at as much as 2,200,000 units. If you like the citrusy flavor of habaneros but not the heat, try the All-America Selections winner Roulette.

Ornamental peppers are edible as well as pretty. Most rate anywhere from 10,000 to 50,000 Scoville units. Chilly Chili ornamental pepper produces an abundance of attractive yellow, orange and red upright fruit on 10-12-inch plants. As the name suggests, they have almost no heat. Mix with flowers for decorative displays in containers and garden beds.

Peppers grow and produce best when day temperatures are 70-80 degrees and night temperatures are 60-70 degrees. Cold, heat and drought are the most common cause of blossom

drop, misshapen fruit and a poor harvest.

Use a hand pruner or garden snips to harvest peppers without damaging the plants. Harvest most hot peppers when fully mature and red for the strongest flavor. Green chili and jalapeno peppers are harvested when green. And some, like jalapeno, habanero and Anaheim, are hot whether harvested when green or red. When your summer is filled with long hot days, hot peppers tend to be even hotter. Avoid hot surprises when cooking by labeling hot peppers when growing, harvesting and storing them. Many sweet and hot pepper varieties look similar, and confusing the two could be unpleasant. Just keep a glass of milk handy in case you need to neutralize the sting.

Roulette peppers have the citrusy flavor of habaneros but not the heat.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALL-AMERICA SELECTIONS see PEPPERS page 15

Turn to basil for year-round flavor

BY ANDREA KNEPPER Special to the Observer

Basil is an easy to grow annual herb that thrives in Vermont summers and has several culinary uses. Plant some in your garden this summer to enjoy year-round.

Plant basil seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and water thoroughly. Enrich the soil before planting with compost. The seeds will germinate quickly, in five to seven days. Wait until the soil has warmed and air temperatures average in the 70s before planting basil transplants.

Basil loves sun and heat but may need afternoon shade if planted in an exceptionally sunny spot. The plants need to be kept moist, but don’t overwater as the roots are prone to rot.

Pinch back leaves once the plant reaches about 6 inches tall. To do this, look for a point where two leaves branch off from a stem. Clip just above this

point. Continue pinching back to encourage bushy growth and leaf production, but avoid harvesting more than one-half of the plant.

Genovese basil, or other sweet basil varieties, are the goto varieties for pesto. If you end up overrun with basil and want to try something different, I like to keep some in my freezer. This adds a spicy touch to pasta, soups and vegetables. Any variety can be preserved this way.

To freeze basil, add oil to prevent the leaves from turning black. Trim and clean the leaves. Add the leaves and olive oil to a food processor and process until the basil is finely chopped.

Put the mixture into small ice cube trays to freeze. Remove the cubes when frozen and store them in a freezer-safe container.

Basil also can be dried for later use. Using a food dehydrator preserves the vibrant color. Separate individual leaves along trays and follow the instructions for your dehydrator.

In addition, clean leaves can

be dried in the oven. Spread the leaves on parchment-lined baking trays. Set your oven to its lowest temperature setting, below 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Check frequently for dryness and remove when leaves crumble easily.

Make yourself at home with our no closing cost mortgage.*

Some other varieties of basil to try this year are Thai, lemon and cinnamon. All can be grown and dried using the methods described above. However, they have slightly different culinary uses.

Thai basil has a subtle anise

or licorice flavor that enhances the flavors of Asian dishes. The fresh leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Add to salads, stir-fries or simmer in curries. Dried Thai basil can be added to your cooked meals.

Lemon basil has a subtly tangy citrus flavor. Try blending it into salad dressing, using it as a garnish or muddling it in cocktails or lemonade. Lemon basil is best used fresh.

Cinnamon basil is another interesting variety that adds a sweet, cinnamon-y flavor. Fresh or dried leaves can be added to baked goods, steeped for tea and used as a garnish. Try including some cinnamon basil in baked applesauce for a twist on your usual recipe. View additional resources on growing and using herbs at www.uvm.edu/extension/mastergardener/gardening-resources.

Fresh Basil Pesto

Ingredients

2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed 1/2 cup freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese (about 2 ounces)

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup pine nut

3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Pulse the basil and pine nuts in a food processor (or blender).Add the garlic and cheese. Slowly pour in the olive oil: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Toss with pasta for a quick sauce, dollop over baked potatoes, or spread onto crackers or toasted slices of bread.

Andrea Knepper is a University of Vermont Extension Master Gardener.

Basil is an easy to grow annual herb that can be used to spice up soups, vegetables and other culinary dishes.

Peppers

continued from page 13

Turn down the heat, if needed or desired, when preparing your favorite recipes. Since most of the capsaicin, which gives hot peppers their heat, is in the white membrane that houses the seeds, just remove this and the seeds if you want the flavor, but with less heat.

Wear rubber gloves and avoid touching your face and eyes when working with hot peppers as they can burn. Wash your hands, utensils and cutting boards when finished.

Turn a portion of your pepper harvest into pickled peppers for the hot pickle fans in the family to enjoy throughout the winter.

The key to success and safety is using a tested recipe that contains the right amount of ingredients and processing it properly. Check university or other vetted sources for safe recipes and processing guidelines.

Try some of these strategies and mention the many health benefits to encourage reluctant eaters to try hot peppers. Although hot peppers and spicy food can add to the pain and irritation of ulcers, they do not cause them, contrary to some of the hot pepper myths. They do, however, provide gastric relief, kill cancer cells, prevent sinus infection, reduce inflammation and even burn fat.

Over time, you may be

able to turn up the heat on your favorite recipes for all to enjoy.

Melinda Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is www. MelindaMyers.com.

Chores

continued from page 12

Service air conditioning units — Your heating and cooling system works hard to keep your indoor climate comfortable when extreme temperatures make the outdoors unbearable. That’s why it’s important to have your systems serviced by a professional. Spring is a smart time to do so before they’re hard at work throughout the warmer months. Service can correct problems and ensure everything is operating efficiently, which can lead to money sav-

ings as well.

Repair window screens —

Throughout the winter, your home’s window screens can accumulate a layer of dirt and grime that isn’t just unsightly, it blows indoors when you open the windows to welcome a fresh breeze. What’s more, if your screens have rips and tears, pesky bugs and other critters can make their way into your home more easily. Cleaning and repairing your screens can make your home more secure and help protect your indoor air quality.

— Family Features

Next Week: Our states: Connecticut

Ahead of Her Time: Ada Lovelace

We might not think people from the 1800s had much of an impact on modern technology such as computers or search engines.

This week, The Mini Page learns about the surprising contributions of Ada Lovelace. Ada’s early life

Ada Lovelace is often regarded as the world’s first software engineer, but did you know she came up with her ideas way before computers were even invented? In fact, she was born in 1815.

Ada was the daughter of Lord George Byron (a famous poet) and Lady Anne Byron in England. Lord Byron left the family soon after Ada was born, and Ada never met him. He never returned to England.

Ada’s mother hired the most knowledgeable experts and tutors to teach Ada about logic, science and mathematics. When she was a girl, before airplanes were invented, Ada was interested in machines and wanted to invent a flying machine.

Meeting her mentor

When Ada was 17, she attended a party and met a famous inventor and mathematician, Charles Babbage. He had designed something called the Difference

Mini Fact: Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm to be used by a machine.

Engine, which was basically an early version of a calculator. Babbage soon became her mentor, or adviser.

Adult life

When Ada was 19, she married William King. Ada was called Countess of Lovelace after William became an earl. They had three children together, and Ada continued to be involved in the fields of mathematics, inventions and science throughout her life.

Analytical Engine

In 1843, Ada made notes on Babbage’s newest design, an updated version of the Difference Engine that was called the Analytical Engine. In her notes, Ada predicted the engine could follow codes to calculate numbers and form letters. This was an early model of what would become known as a computer.

Babbage’s funding ran out, and he didn’t complete the Analytical Engine, but Ada’s notes were published in a book on digital computing in 1953 — more than 100 years after she had made them! This book explained how computers follow patterns in order to work, just as Ada had predicted.

Ada Lovelace Day

Ada made such an impact on the world that the second Tuesday of every October is called Ada Lovelace Day. This day celebrates her legacy, or her influence and accomplishments. The day also marks a time for other women to celebrate their achievements in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Many people consider Ada Lovelace to have been a trailblazer, imagining how a machine could make detailed calculations — especially during the days when women were expected to marry and raise children rather than having jobs in scientific fields.

Ai-Da

In 2019, a robot art system called Ai-Da, named after Ada Lovelace, was completed. This robot uses algorithms, or a set of rules, to create paintings, statues and other art forms.

Resources

On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPAda

At the library:

• “Ada Lovelace” by Inspired Inner Genius and Stephanie Willis

• “Ada Lovelace” by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

Founded by Betty Debnam

Ai-Da

Difference Engine photo by Erik Pitti

Ada’s diagram is the world’s first published algorithm

Charles Babbage. He had designed something called the Difference

years after she had made them! This book explained how computers follow patterns in order to work, just as Ada had predicted.

Try ’n’ Find

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

ADA, ALGORITHM, ANALYTICAL, ART, BABBAGE, CALCULATE, CODE, COMPUTER, ENGINE, ENGLAND, FAMILY, INVENT, MATH, MENTOR, NOTES, ROBOT, SCIENCE, TUTOR.

Cook’s Corner Roasted Sweet Potatoes

You’ll need:

• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled

• 1/4 cup canola oil

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

What to do:

1. Cut peeled sweet potatoes into 1-inch chunks.

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• pinch of cayenne pepper

• juice of 1/2 lime

2. Heat oil in 9-by-13-inch baking dish in a preheated 375-degree oven for 5 minutes.

3. Place cut sweet potatoes in heated oil and bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking time.

4. Meanwhile, mix together brown sugar and spices.

5. After 20 minutes, stir to coat potatoes with brown sugar mixture.

6. Roast for another 10 minutes until potatoes are light brown.

7. Drain potatoes on paper towels; transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with lime juice. Serves 6.

Mini Jokes

Anna: Why did the kid cross the playground?

Albert: To get to the other slide!

Eco Note

Analysis of satellite images suggests that rainfall is decreasing in tropical regions of the world where forests are being felled. A study led by Callum Smith at Britain’s University of Leeds says the loss of the trees results in vast amounts of water not evaporating from the leaves of trees in tropical forests and falling as rain nearby. This disruption of the historic water cycle in tropical regions also increases the risk of wildfires and reduces the chances that remaining tropical forests will survive, Smith says.

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

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

Andrews McMeel Syndication

We’re listening.

Senior

Toenail trimming tips for seniors

Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good toenail clipping solutions for seniors? My toenails have gotten increasingly thick since I’ve gotten older and have become very difficult for me to reach down and cut.

Almost 80

Dear Almost,

Trimming your toenails is a task that most people don’t think much about, but as we get older it can become very challenging. For many older adults, like yourself, toenails can become thicker and harder to cut, and reduced flexibility can make it more difficult to even get into the right position to cut them. Fortunately, there are solutions available that can make this job a little easier.

One of the simplest tricks for cutting thick toenails is to simply take a bath or shower, or soak your feet in warm water, prior to cutting them. The water helps soften them for easier cutting.

There are also toenail softening creams you can buy, like “Miracle of Aloe Toenail Soft” and “Barielle Toenail Softening Cream,” that temporarily soften thick, hard nails. Just rub it into your toenails at bedtime and in the morning, and they’ll be easier to cut and file.

Most people’s toenails grow

By Jim Miller

about one-sixteenth inch per month, so it’s appropriate to cut them every six to eight weeks.

When cutting nails, take care not to cut too far down. Overaggressive trimming and cutting toenails too short can lead to ingrown toenails. Podiatrists typically recommend leaving a very small bit of nail past the nail bed when trimming.

You may also want to avoid a rounded cut. It’s best to cut the nails fairly straight across, ensuring that the corners of the nail do not cut into the skin folds of the toe. And use an emery board to smooth the jagged edges and corners that can snag and potentially tear the nail as it grows.

TOP TOENAIL CLIPPERS

There are a number of medical-grade or specialty toenail clippers recommended by professionals for older adults.

For thick nails the “New Huing Podiatrist Toenail Clippers” is a top option. This clipper has a sharp, curved blade that easily cuts through any toenail, no matter how hard or thick it has gotten, and a nonslip, cushion grip that allows for comfortable clipping.

For those with limited mobility, check out the “Clipperpro Omega Select Toenail Clipper,” which has a long plastic grip that’s much larger than that of a standard set of nail clippers and a blade head that swivels 180 degrees. Both of those features make this clipper much easier to use for anyone with arthritis or mobility issues, since they have more control and an added range they can reach.

And for people who have a hard time bending over, there are long-handled toenail clippers like the “DriFeez Long Handle Toenail Clippers,” which come in four sizes – 20, 24, 28 and 32 inches long. It also has a heavy-duty clipper with a one-eighth-inch-wide jaw opening designed to cut thick toenails.

All of these clippers are available online at sites like www.Amazon.com or www.Walmart.com at prices ranging between $10 and $40.

TOENAIL TRIMMING SERVICES

If you get to the point that you can’t, or would rather not, cut your own toenails, a podiatrist can provide both foot and toenail care. But be aware that routine foot care is not covered by Medicare unless you have an underlying condition or injury that requires a professional to tend to your feet.

If you are generally in good health, regular pedicures at a nail salon is a good option for getting your toenails cut and is much cheaper than visiting a podiatrist.

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.

CROSSWORD

SOLUTION ON PAGE 22

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1917, the United States passed the Selective Service Act, a conscription law requiring registration of all men ages 21 to 30 who were not already in the military.

• In 1974, India successfully tested its first nuclear weapon.

• In 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted in Washington state.

• In 1998, the U.S. Department of Justice and the attorneys general of 20 states and the District of Columbia filed an antitrust case against Microsoft.

TODAY’S FACT:

• Five countries (the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France and China) have officially acknowledged a capability to deploy nuclear weapons. At least four others (India, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea) have nuclear capability but are not signatories to nuclear non-proliferation treaties.

SOLUTION FOUND ON PAGE 22

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.

Collaboration

continued from page 8

Professionals of Color Network, it does not just serve professionals.

“We don’t mean just white-collar office folks,” she said. “We mean everyone: folks who are in the gig economy, folks who are sole proprietors. Everyone who is working for a living, we consider them a professional.”

The initiative is part of a workforce development law the Legislature passed and Scott signed last year, tapping $250,000 from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to reach out to, support, train and provide technical assistance and help navigating resources to black, indigenous and persons of color who own businesses.

“Vermont Professionals of Color submitted a compelling proposal to bolster this work statewide,

and we are confident in the organization’s ability to effectively reach more Vermonters and make connections to the information and services they need to thrive,” said Joan Goldstein, the state’s economic development commissioner, in the press release. “We are excited about this partnership and the additional opportunity to transform our state and generate economic opportunity for all Vermonters.”

The Vermont Professionals of Color Network has worked with other statewide organizations to help people of color who own businesses write grant proposals, apply for forgivable loans, and learn about budgeting and management. It has also been organizing networking events and job fairs, and Wang said she would like to start scheduling these events by region and business sector.

JOB POSTINGS

Day camp counselors are wanted for REC camp and OUR camp. For job details and to apply, visit www.willistonrec.org.

INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENT

The July Fourth Parade theme is “Growing Community.” Registration for the parade is open at www.willistonrec.org. Parade Grand Marshal information is coming soon. Activities will be offered on the Village Green from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. after the parade.

There will also be activities from 6-9 p.m. at Village Community Park. The fireworks show will begin at 9 p.m. at Village Community Park. For event information and ongoing updates, visit www. willistonrec.org.

THE R.E.C. ZONE

GET FIT W/JAZZY

Age 18-plus. Wednesdays,

6-6:45 p.m., $10 per class. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck

RETRO DANCE CARDIO & CORE

Age 50-plus. Mondays, 4:305:30 p.m., $5 per class. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck

JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT

Age 50-plus. Mondays and/or Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Instructor: Kit Sayers

SENIOR FITNESS

Age 50-plus. Tuesdays, 10:3011:30 a.m. Instructor: Toni Kunker

TAI CHI- BEGINNER SUN STYLE

Age 50-plus. Thursdays, 11:45

a.m.-12:45 p.m. Instructor: Chris Curtis

TAI CHI- SEATED

Age 50-plus. Fridays, 10-11 a.m. Instructor: Adina Panitch

HEALTHY LIVING FOR YOUR BRAIN & BODY

Age 50-plus. Last Monday of each month, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Instructor: The Alzheimer’s Association-VT Chapter

ADULT PROGRAMS

PICKLEBALL 101

Age 18-plus. Similar to the “Pickleball Intro” program but

more time spent on each part of the game. Drills will include serving, return of serve, third shot drop, the soft game, volleying, basic strategies and actual playing time. Instructor: Corey Gottfried

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

PRE-SCHOOL/ YOUTH/TEEN PROGRAMS

SUMMER CAMPS

Registration is now open for all summer camps. Be sure to check out the rec website (www. willistonrec.org) for offerings and to register. Early registration is encouraged as some camps fill fast. 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 2630); Creative Engineering Camp (Age 6-11, 1-4:30 p.m. July 2428); and Kids Kitchen Camp (Age 6-12, 1-4:30 p.m., Aug. 7-11).

TRACK & FIELD

Ages 6-14. Participants will learn the basics of running, jumping, throwing and relays. There will be meets with other area rec departments and a state meet.

Attendees gather at an event sponsored by the Vermont Professionals of Color Network.

COURTESY PHOTO BY ISORA LITHGOW CREATIONS

OBITUARIES

Loretta LaRosa-Martellaro

In Loving Memory

10/11/1962 – 5/21/2021

It’s been two years now since we lost you. Not a day goes by that Rose, Jordan and myself don’t miss you and think about you. Though we miss you dearly, we are so gratefull you no longer live with the daily

Arthur C. Keppelman, Jr.

Arthur C. Keppelman, Jr. (Aug. 22, 1946 – May 15, 2023) of Williston and Jonesville, VT, died peacefully after a long illness at the Arbors in Shelburne, after a weekend surrounded by his loving family and friends.

He was born in Burlington Aug. 22, 1946, and moved with his family as a young child to Buffalo, NY, then to Essex Fells, NJ, and later to South Orleans, Cape Cod.

Art attended high school at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA, graduating in 1964. In 1968 he earned a degree in history at Lawrence University, Appleton, WI. He then served in the Army in the Vietnam War in 1969-1970 before returning to live in Vermont in 1971.

Passionate about music, Art particularly liked the Kingston Trio and Bob Dylan. He had a great voice and he loved to sing and play the guitar. He worked for many years as a superintendent at Engelberth Construction in Colchester.

He was preceded in death by his parents Arthur C. Keppelman and Carolyn Jewett Keppelman. He will

pain you suffered with for so many decades.

We celebrate all the holidays and birthdays with you in our hearts and on our minds. We continue to celebrate those days with the traditions you helped us start.

You will always be loved and missed by us, and all that knew you. You truly were a bright shining star to all that knew you.

All my love, Steve

be deeply missed by his longtime partner/caregiver Darlene Worth, his daughter Alana Quinn of Arlington, VA, his siblings Lynn Hermans, Del Sheldon, Phil Keppelman, and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves Darlene’s family that he was a part of for many years and good friends with whom he enjoyed bridge (Burlington Bridge Club), poker, biking, and golfing.

Art’s family would like to thank the following caregivers: Dr. Pamela Dawson, GP for many years; the Binter Center for Parkinson’s Disease; physical therapy at Fanny Allen; Ashley Couture, speech therapist; and Doris Sage.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Green Mountain Audubon Center or to the Lewy Body Dementia Association. A celebration of Art’s life is planned for August.

JOB FAIR

May 24, 2023

12:00 - 4:00 PM | Airport Mezzanine

This event is free for job seekers, and all are encouraged to attend. No pre-registration is required. Open

•

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• Skinny Pancake

• Janitech Services

• United Ground Express And more!

Community Bankers - Chittenden County BUILDERS I MAKERS I DOERS

There is no better time to join our team!

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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.

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

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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!

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Equal Opportunity Employer / Member FDIC

In print and online: we’re your neighbors, committed to keeping you informed on what’s going on in Williston.

CLASSIFIEDS

YARD SALES

WILLISTON WOODS

COMMUNITY YARD SALES—

Friday & Saturday, June 2 & 3 from 9 a.m.

– 3 p.m. Grilled hot dogs lunch on Friday from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Williston Woods is located off North Williston Rd.

LEGAL

TOWN OF WILLISTON

DEVELOPMENT REVIEW

BOARD AGENDA

Tuesday, May 23, 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 23-15 Pre-App Lakeside Electric

c/o Robert Caneco requests preapplication review of their proposed 7,600 SF commercial building at 358 Shunpike Rd in the IZDW. 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.

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CROSSWORD SOLUTION

PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19

May 5 at 8:37 a.m. — Report of a storage unit getting broken into. Bike reported missing.

May 5 at 9:46 a.m. — Report of a male acting suspicious at Home Depot and looking in cars. The male, age 34, was issued a citation to appear in court for two counts of violating conditions.

May 5 at 11:22 a.m. — Report of

a storage unit getting broken into. Silver, electronics and medications were reported missing.

May 5 at 6:55 p.m. — Assisted rescue with male that fell off his bike. Male was transported to the correctional facility for detox from alcohol.

May 5 at 11:24 p.m. — Following a traffic stop, a male, age 24, was

Community Bankers – Chittenden County

Temporary Positions Available

BUILDERS | MAKERS | DOERS®

There is no better time to join our Team!

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

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!

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Equal Opportunity Employer / Member FDIC

SALES EXECUTIVE

SUDUKO SOLUTION PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19

issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.

May 6 at 5:32 p.m. — Report of hearing gunfire on Williston Road. After investigation, it was discovered that the noise was juveniles playing with fireworks.

May 7 at 6:54 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Christmas Tree Shop. After investigation it was discovered that a female, age 30, had an outstanding arrest warrant. She was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft and giving false information to a police officer.

May 7 at 9:54 p.m. — Report of a female in Hannaford that was previously trespassed. Officers were unable to locate female.

May 8 at 2:09 p.m. — Bed Bath and Beyond called to report a male that was in the store who previously stole from them. Wanted him trespassed. Male was trespassed and moved along.

May 8 at 3:15 p.m. — Report of storage units being broken into on James Brown Drive. Case is still under investigation.

May 9 at 8:59 p.m. — Report of gun shots on Cedar Lane. Officers checked the area, nothing found. May 10 at 10:39 a.m. — Report of a female causing a disturbance in Walmart. The female, age 31, was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.

May 10 at 1:54 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Christmas Tree Shop. Officer unable to locate individual. Case is still under investigation.

May 11 at 8:50 a.m. — Report of several storage units broken into on Avenue A. Several items taken. Case is still under investigation.

May 11 at 12:22 p.m. — Bed Bath and Beyond reported a suspicious female in the store. She was issued a no trespass notice.

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.

May 11 at 12:45 p.m. — Report of a stolen trailer from UHaul. Case is still under investigation.

Officers of the Williston Police Department also conducted 39 traffic stops and responded to six alarm activations and 13 motor vehicle crashes during this time frame.

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Patios

Can fungi curb phosphorus pollution?

A novel experiment takes root at Shelburne Farms

BY DENIZ DUTTON Community News Service

Riparian buffers are a big deal in Vermont. Millions of state dollars have been spent on planting vegetation between farmland and waterways to help stem fertilizer runoff — and the blue-green algae blooms stimulated by it — by letting the plants remove excess nutrients from soil.

A novel experiment at Shelburne Farms aims to enhance that process along Lake Champlain by using fungi. The ecological restoration project is centered on a relatively new strategy called myco-phytoremediation, a type of bioremediation — using nature to restore nature.

It was born out of a collaboration between the Burlington-based company MycoEvolve and a lab in the University of Vermont’s Department of Plant and Soil Science. MycoEvolve provides nature-based restoration services for degraded and contaminated sites and is spearheaded by founder Jess Rubin.

The main point source of phosphorus that MycoEvolve is trying to mitigate at Shelburne Farms is a 50-square-yard compost pile. The average level of phosphorus in soils at the site, according to the researchers, is about 17 times the maximum of a healthy range as described by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The farm has constructed wetland designed to intercept runoff from the manure pit before it percolates into a natural wetland and subsequently the lake.

The project dovetails with Shelburne Farms’ community-focused mission. This year the farm launched an educational program with Champlain Valley Union High School to introduce students to fieldwork and applied sustainability as they assist the remediation project. Signs along the Tunnel Trail provide visitors with information about the invisible processes going on beneath the ground that both help and harm the lake ecosystem.

“People will just stumble upon her research while they’re out taking a beautiful stroll on the property and go, ‘huh, I never really thought of that before,’” said Megan Camp, vice president and program director at Shelburne Farms.

Constructed wetlands are a proven method of water purification, but Rubin’s research shows that restorationists can find better results by incorporating fungi — known as mycorrhizal fungi ––that can form mutually beneficial relationships with plants. While plants have roots, these fungi have hyphae, which are finer and can more nimbly explore soil and mine nutrients that plants can struggle to collect.

In exchange, host plants can feed fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis. It’s an ancient relationship that dates back 400 million years; fossil re -

cords from Scotland show early terrestrial plants began associating with types of fungi that helped them survive in harsh, infertile soils. Today, up to 80 percent of all terrestrial plants are adapted to living with mycorrhizal fungi.

“In general, they’re kind of like an ecological scaffolding or a green infrastructure of much of the plant community that we see today,” Rubin said.

The Shelburne Farms experiment has yielded some promising results: in fungi-inoculated plots, soil phosphorus levels were significantly lower, and the con-

centration of phosphorus in plant tissue was significantly higher. If implemented at a larger scale, along with cyclical harvesting of the plants, the researchers believe the technique could mitigate some of the phosphorus pollution going into Lake Champlain.

The team hopes to triple the size of the experiment in the coming years to add statistical strength to the findings. When that expansion happens, Rubin said, the researchers will use fungi sourced from a wild area of the farm, rather than the commercial mix used now, and the plants used in the

restoration will be revised in collaboration with Vermont Abenaki partners — a social justice angle to the restoration work.

“I’ve grown up with the awareness that we are on unceded territory,” Rubin said, describing her affinity for this type of work and her approach to academia. “One of my kind of secret missions involves bringing in the First Peoples and their wisdom as equal participants — if not more appropriately guides and consults.”

Luca Kolba, MycoEvolve’s research assistant, said the project has dual priorities — to restore the environment within a scientific framework and to give Abenaki greater access to their ancestral lands — and balancing those is challenging.

“We’ve been learning as we go, and it’s really hard holding these goals as we’re still operating within a colonial scientific complex, and we’ve definitely hit some road bumps,” said Kolba, who wrote MycoEvolve’s guide on how to grow native mycelium, the below-ground body of a fungus.

In the next phase of the project, the team wants to bring on Abenaki youth to be part of the harvesting that ultimately removes phosphorus from the soil. The team will also work with a state branch of YouthBuild, a federal youth trades program, and the nonprofit Vermont Youth Conservation Corps in creating six new plots for the experiment, which, along with fighting phosphorus, could provide more pollinator habitat.

Researcher Jess Rubin examines a young willow at Shelburne Farms on a recent afternoon.

PHOTO BY AYLIN ARIFKHAN