Williston Observer 09/28/2023

Five goats and a donkey

BY SUSAN COTE

Observer staff

When a friend needed a place to relocate his small herd of goats and his 38-year-old donkey, Elizabeth Davidson jumped at the chance to give them a new home.

Davidson, who lives on just under three mostly scrubby wooded acres in Williston’s agricultural zone, has long wanted to clear out a portion of her land, which like much of the area, is overrun with invasive honeysuckle and buckthorn.

“For me, I really wanted the goats for the health of the land,” said Davidson, who notes that in addition to clearing unwanted vegetation, the animals return fertility to the soil with their manure.

So Daisy the donkey and her five goat companions, owned by Anthony Kessler, made the move this month from Duxbury to Williston.

“I’ve always had this direction toward homesteading and animals are a part of

Daytime burglary at South Ridge home

BY MIKE DONOGHUE Observer Correspondent

Williston Police are asking for help from town residents and visitors of the South Ridge development for aid in solving a recent home burglary.

Two men wearing gardening type bucket hats with masks over their faces were spotted leaving a home on Metcalf Drive between 1 and 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, town police said.

The video security system appeared to capture the men carrying some contents from the home, which is part of the neighborhood off both U.S. 2 and Old Stage Road.

The video system also captured the men speaking in Spanish before they departed the private residence, which was unoccupied at the time, police said.

The two men fled the area in a white Nissan Rogue, believed to be between 2011 and 2013, with a bike rack on the rear, according to another neighborhood video surveillance

camera.

The two men got into the backseat as the car left the scene, Officer Avery Lemnah said in a news release. Lemnah said she did speak to neighbors in the area that have cameras and those that had any interaction with the men.

She did not disclose what was taken or how the burglars got into the house.

The burglary appeared to be targeted — Lemnah said none of the other neighbors reported break-ins at their homes that day.

Williston Police Chief Patrick Foley said the town has had 44 reported burglaries since Jan. 1, 2020, an average of about one a month. He guesstimated that three quarters are into businesses and one quarter are into residences.

Foley said retail thefts at local businesses continues to be the largest crime issue in Williston.

Anybody with information about the two suspects or the ownership of the getaway car is asked to call Williston Police at 802-878-6611.

that,” said Davidson.

What drove Kessler to move his animals is a less happy story for him. In June of this

see DAVIDSON page 5

“I’m constantly in this stressed-out place that if one of my animals gets out on a road where no one else lives and the neighbor …complains to the town, the domino effect of destroying my farm is in place.”

Anthony Kessler Duxbury animal owner

Home surveillance cameras captured these images of the alleged burglars and their vehicle.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WILLISTON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Elizabeth Davidson offers treats to Daisy the donkey.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY SUSAN COTE

Vermont State Police seek lost property owner

The Vermont State Police are seeking the owner of what they describe as an “object of value” that was found on Sept. 17 in the roadway in the area of Randall Farm Rd. and East Hill Rd. in Richmond. If you are missing an item of value, please call Trooper Clay Knight at the Vermont State Police Barracks, Williston, at 802-878-7111.

Around Town

Blood donors urgently sought for upcoming drives

The American Red Cross continues to experience a national blood and platelet shortage and asks the public to book a time to give as soon as possible to overcome a late summer shortfall.

Crosspoint Church is hosting a drive at 237 Commerce St. in Williston on Tues., Oct. 3 from 12:30 to 5 p.m.

The Jericho-Underhill Lions Club is hosting a drive at the Covenant Community Church, 1

Community Harvest Party at Catamount Oct. 7

Whitcomb Meadows Ln. in Essex Junction on Wed., Oct. 11, from 12 to 5 p.m.

To schedule an appointment at one these drives or others planned for our area, call 800-733-2767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org.

Rotary speaker to discuss diversity, equity and inclusion

The Williston-Richmond Rotary Club will host Michael Carrier at their weekly breakfast meeting on Thurs., Oct. 5. He will present “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): The Key to Strengthening and Growing Your Club.” Carrier, district DEI chair, is the co-president of the Plymouth, NH Rotary Club, and a past Rotary district governor.

An optional breakfast will be served at 7:15 a.m. and the meeting will begin at 7:30 a.m.

Community members interested in attending in person or by Zoom should RSVP to RotaryClubofWillistonVT@gmail.com

The Catamount Outdoor Family Center will hold its first ever Community Harvest Party on Saturday, Oct. 7 from 3-7 p.m. to honor new and longtime members, volunteers, staff and board members

The afternoon will include awards, a debut of the center’s comprehensive trail planning process, skills clinics, guided rides and hikes, a fungi foray on bikes, Tick Talks, live music, a wild foraging cooking demonstration, a 5K fun run, bike rental sales and more.

The event is free and open to all. Donations are welcome.

EVENT SCHEDULE:

• 3 p.m. - Event kick off with executive director, board and guest speaker Peter Hawks, followed by awards

• 3:15 p.m. - Membership sales (10% off) and field games for all ages start

• 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. - Cyclocross clinic, guided group ride, animal pelt & skull demo, and a mushroll

• 3:45 p.m. - Live music by Ben Parker until 6:45 p.m.

• 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. - Manual

“wheelie” clinic, guided group hike and a tick talk

• 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. - Pump track time trials and a foraged cooking demo

• 5:30 p.m. – 5K Fun Run and Bike Jump Progression Clinic

• 6 to 7p.m. – Enjoy bonfire, s’mores, and the Catamount community

Attendees can take advantage of a 10% discount on Catamount membership in October.

NEFCU offering Medicare open enrollment webinar

On Oct. 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. the New England Federal Credit Union will host a free informational webinar about this year’s Medical Open Enrollment process. The session, led by a local Medicare expert with the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) from Age Well, will include information on how to review your current plan and a demonstration of the Medicare plan finder tool.

To register, call 800-4008790 or go to nefcu.com and click on “Learn.”

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Former World Cup mogul skier Dr. Kelsey Albert, above, has joined our team

Police cite 17-year-old for allegedly displaying a BB gun at a CVU football game

Juvenile cited with possession of a dangerous weapon on school property and giving false information to police

BY AUDITI GUHA VTDigger

Hinesburg Police Chief Anthony Cambridge said the 17-year-old male from Hinesburg was cited for possession of a dangerous weapon on school property and giving false information to police. Police released the juvenile to his family while the investigation continues, Cambridge said.

Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the suspect may also be charged with criminal threatening, the chief said.

The juvenile, a former CVU student, “threateningly displayed” a BB gun during a boys varsity football game at the Hinesburg school, according to a districtwide email that Champlain Valley School District superintendent Rene Sanchez sent late Saturday afternoon.

Students who saw the spectator brandish the gun immediately alerted an administrator, who then notified the Hinesburg Police Department, according to the email.

“He showed a number of people the gun (which was) in his waistband and then he did point it, at least at one person, that I know of,” Cambridge told VTDigger on Monday.

The incident occurred around 2:45 p.m., according to Cambridge, who said officers quickly arrived on the scene, met with the

Champlain Water District wins taste award

principal and located the juvenile with very little disruption.

Police asked the juvenile if he had the BB gun on him, and he said he didn’t have one, according to Cambridge. They later found it in a backpack that was associated with him or his girlfriend, the police chief said.

“Then he was cited, issued a trespass order to not come back to the school, taken back to the police department and then released to a family member,” Cambridge said.

In the district-wide email, Sanchez called it a “traumatic event” and said mental health professionals would be available at the school this week to support students.

“At this time, there is nothing new or additional to report,” he said in the email.

For the second year in a row, the Champlain Water District (CWD) won a blind taste test to earn recognition as “New England’s Best” tap water. The award was presented by the New England Water Works Association (NEWWA) at the organization’s annual conference, which this year took place in Burlington. This is the third time CWD has achieved this honor.

“The award reflects CWD’s dedication to provid -

Mums

ing high quality drinking water to our 83,000 customers in Chittenden County. It takes a team of qualified and passionate employees to do what we do, with a supportive elected governing Board,” said Joe Duncan, CWD general manager.

CWD supplies drinking water and fire protection to several municipal water systems in Chittenden County, including Williston.

Quality Plants

$20 million donation for affordable housing

MacKenzie Scott’s gift to the Champlain Housing Trust will be used to provide housing and strengthen community in three counties

PATRICK CROWLEY VTDigger

Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, one of the world’s wealthiest women, has donated $20 million to the Burlington-based Champlain Housing Trust — the largest gift in the nonprofit’s 40-year history.

The massive donation, made through

Scott’s Yield Giving fund, will be used to provide housing and strengthen community in northwestern Vermont, the trust said in announcing the news Wednesday morning.

“We are extremely grateful to Ms. Scott for the confidence she and her team have placed in our efforts to address the region’s housing crisis, the work we do in supporting people in need, and the track record of serving our com-

munities over the last 40 years,” Champlain Housing Trust CEO Michael Monte said in a written statement. “Her generosity gives our community the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to move the dial on affordable housing right now.”

Scott is a novelist and former Amazon executive. Since her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in 2019, she has become one of the most generous philanthropists in the country, donating billions of dollars each year — often to small nonprofits.

In 2020, she donated $9 million to the Vermont Foodbank, the largest donation in that organization’s history.

In an interview Wednesday, Monte acknowledged the $20 million wouldn’t be an immediate solution to the housing crisis in northwestern Vermont but said the donation

would benefit “a wide range of investments,” helping to “stabilize” the organization as it grows and provide resources “that will have a big and lasting community benefit.”

Some of the specific initiatives likely to benefit are the housing trust’s homeownership equity program, which supports BIPOC home ownership; the shared equity program, which helps buyers with down payments and mortgage payments; and the ongoing development of affordable housing projects.

Champlain Housing Trust is a community land trust serving Chittenden, Franklin and Grand Isle counties. According to its website, it has close to 150 employees. The nonprofit owns or manages more than 2,500 apartments and more than 100 shelter beds or motel rooms, it said in Wednesday’s announcement, see DONATION page 5

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

GLASS MENAGERIE is presented by arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc. on behalf of The University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee.

Donation

continued from page 5

and stewards 675 shared equity homes to keep them affordable.

The housing trust’s operating budget is about $27 million a year, but it also has a development budget of between $60 million and $80 million, which it uses for real estate deals.

Monte said his organization had received a call in February from an organization called the Bridgespan Group saying it represented donors who give to nonprofits. Not long after, a team from the housing trust joined a video conference with a few people in San Francisco.

“They all seemed to know us. They had done their research. They had done the background check,” Monte said.

After the meeting, according to Monte, the housing trust turned over documentation: audits, budgets, strategic plans and other information. Then they didn’t hear anything for months — until mid-July, when an email from someone representing a still-anonymous donor asked for a meeting.

Monte said it was during the July phone call that he learned the identity of the donor and the amount.

“I literally was pretty stunned by the sort of generosity of the gift,” Monte said. The team told the housing trust that the donation had “no strings attached, as simple as that,” Monte said, but it also added, “don’t come back asking for more. This is a one-time generous gift.”

During his weekly press conference on Wednesday, Gov. Phil Scott said he was “thankful for the injection of resources to help in our housing crisis.” He said it was too early to tell how the donation would change the state funding picture for housing.

— Sarah Mearhoff contributed reporting

Davidson

continued from page 1

year, the selectboard of the Town of Duxbury passed a livestock ordinance with the stated purpose to “protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public and the quiet enjoyment of Duxbury residents’ homes and property” from the danger posed by “Livestock Running at Large.”

The ordinance includes provisions for impounding animals and for levying fines of up to several hundred dollars per day per animal found to have gotten out of its enclosure.

“My animals are worth less than that, which makes it untenable to have animals in Duxbury,” said Kessler.

“I have over $4000 dollars invested in my fencing,” said Kessler. “Goats are historically hard to keep in a fence. They can climb a sheer cliff. If they want to get out, they’re going get out. Which means that I’m constantly in this stressed-out place that if one of my animals gets out on a road where no one else lives and the neighbor who comes up to his camp and sees that they’re out complains to the town, the domino ef-

fect of destroying my farm is in place.”

“In my case I’m a mile away from every other neighbor almost at the top of a mountain,” noted Kessler, but the ordinance applies to the entirety of the town.

Kessler had gathered signatures on a petition to stop the adoption of the ordinance but was unable to convince the selectboard to reverse course. He says his concern goes beyond the viability of his own small farm to the broader questions of food security and the sustainability of local food production in the state.

Kessler now plans to run for a selectboard seat himself.

“We need more sensible decisions around food sustainability in our local towns and because of lack of participation we don’t have it now,” said Kessler.

“We have places like Duxbury, which are very rural, being turned into bedroom communities where it’s impossible to actually have not just local produce, but local meat, local eggs.”

For now, says Kessler, “I’ve moved my animals to Elizabeth’s land which is incredibly bountiful in food [for the animals] and I think the goats and the donkey will be happy there for a while.”

One of the goats now living on Elizabeth Davidson’s property inside an electric fence.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY SUSAN COTE

Town Manager’s Message – September

Greetings Williston Community,

As we turn the page to fall this month there are several items to share from Town Hall.

ARPA FUNDS PUBLIC HEARING & PROCESS

The Williston Selectboard will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, Oct. 3r at 7:30 p.m. in the Beckett/ McGuire meeting room at Town Hall (with a remote option available on Zoom) to hear suggestions from the community of how the Town should spend its remaining $1.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds. Last month, Assistant to the Manager Erin Dickinson and I held dropin events to chat with community members to gather ideas. Thanks to everyone who stopped by and everyone who has emailed ideas to me so far. If you have an idea to share you can attend the public hearing, send me an email at ewells@willistonvt.org or give me a call at 802-876-1168.

I will be transmitting a report to the Selectboard in October that includes all ideas shared during

Manager chats, from emails/ calls and from this upcoming public hearing. In addition, the report will include ideas identified by policy advisory boards to the Selectboard and items I will highlight from the Town capital plan and for Town operations to consider. The Selectboard will be discussing the use of ARPA funds over the next several months. The Town must decide how to spend the funds by the end of 2024 and they must all be spent by the end of 2026. ARPA funds can be used for most general government operating or capital expenses to deliver services to the community. The Town’s capital programs for the general, water, sewer and stormwater funds are a good reference for project ideas. These programs can be viewed on the Town website at the following address: https://www.town.williston.vt.us/ budget

DEVELOPMENT BYLAW AMENDMENT – HOUSING SUPPORTIVE & COLLECTIVE AMENDMENTS

Williston’s Community Newspaper Since 1985

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P.O. Box 1401, Williston, VT 05495 | 802-489-5499

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Deadline is Monday noon for Thursday issue. News/ story tips are welcomed. Letters to the Editor must be 300 words or fewer and should include your name, address and a daytime phone number so that we can verify the letter’s author.

The Williston Observer reserves the right to edit or refuse submissions or advertising. Opinions expressed in the paper are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the paper.

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The Selectboard will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the Beckett/McGuire meeting room at Town Hall (with a remote option available on Zoom) to receive public comment on several amendments to the Town’s Unified Development Bylaw transmitted by the Planning Commission. A major component of the amendments proposed is housing supportive language, working to implement new policy tools to metaphorically “turn the spigot” slightly to make growing the capacity of an array of housing types easier to achieve in alignment with Town Plan goals. These tools include provisions to implement inclusionary zoning by establishing an alternative path to the growth management system for these housing projects, requiring a minimum percentage of affordable housing units in projects, and establishing fee-in-lieu of provisions in zoning. The pace of development in Town

is regulated overall by the sale of sewer capacity that Williston owns at the Essex Junction Plant, and each fiscal year the Selectboard amends the Town’s Ordinance to determine how much capacity to sell for various types of development for the year ahead.

To dig into the details of what is being proposed leading up to the public hearing please visit the Town website (town.williston. vt.us) and navigate to the news briefs on the homepage. There are several resources from Town staff available to review. In addition, Planning Department Staff will be hosting a public information session on Thursday, Oct. 12 in the Beckett/McGuire Meeting Room at Town Hall from 6 – 8 p.m. to review the findings of Williston’s 2023 Housing Needs Assessment, review the proposed bylaw amendments in detail, and answer any questions. The meet-

ing will also be available on Zoom and recorded.

COMMUNITY CENTER AND LIBRARY ASSESSMENT PROJECT UPDATE

A Steering Committee appointed by the Selectboard has been working with project consultant Black River Design to conduct public engagement and review different space configurations and options as part of a scoping and feasibility study to explore future community spaces in Town. The scope of the project is focused on the space needs of the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library and determining what could encompass a future Community Center space that includes options for recreational activities. The Committee received over 1,000 responses during two waves of outreach earlier this year, the first consisted of interviews with comsee TOWN MANAGER page 7

Town Manager

continued from page 6

munity members and the second was a survey built off the interviews. The voice of the community is critical in this process, and it is reflected in the work of the Committee as the potential size and scope of facilities that will be discussed reflects what community members would like the Town to consider moving forward based on different possible space uses. With the aid of the professional architects at Black River Design, the feasibility of these options are being vetted with the Committee. A final report will be transmitted to the Williston Selectboard to consider next steps in exploring the potential future capital projects for these facilities. A Special Selectboard meeting will be held this fall for a public presentation on the report at the Williston Central School Auditorium for the community. Once a date and time are set for the meeting the Town will be sharing the information on many platforms.

Enjoy the fall season, you can always reach me via email at ewells@willistonvt.org or at my desk at 802-876-1168. See you around Town.

During Covid adults failed our children

The September 14 article entitled ‘The Wildcat Way,’ featured school professionals creating a new ‘motto’ to guide children’s behavior. The school’s belief statement reads “we believe that behavior is a form of communication...” Jackie Parks, principal, described kids’ behavior last year, “They had lost up to two years of how to interact socially, how to be together in groups, how to negotiate conflict, because we were all at home and so isolated.”

The featured article continues a pattern of helplessness within the adult population communally as well as school districts locally and nationally. While Covid was a novel virus that initially presented unknown variables to navigate, the decisions made to close schools, mask children and ‘socially distance’ were not the only options. Dissent was ignored or attacked. In hindsight these policies should not be enshrined as ‘the way it had to be,’ as Jackie Parks implies. Reflection aids insight and accountability.

Adults are not the same as children. We all went through mandates. We were not all impacted equally. Brain development matters. Children rely on adults to put

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

their needs first—they cannot do this for themselves. During Covid the responsible adults failed our children. I spoke up as did many others. The negative impacts for our children were easily anticipated. It is brain development. Fear took precedence over rational, thoughtful analysis that prioritized children’s wellbeing.

People in positions of power deserve to humbly reflect on the impact of adult-directed policies. I have yet to hear that the school districts are doing any reflection and public apologies to our children and the community. Behavior does communicate a child’s inner world. Something went wrong communally to see this behavior across the board. Adults: reflect, apologize, learn. Commit to never doing this again. Then healing begins.

Esther Palmer Williston

Allow more chickens

I live in Shelburne and I support allowing up to 12 backyard chickens.

My neighborhood has homes with ¼ to ½-acre lots. I have 12 hens and have raised several flocks of different breeds and amounts. Willistonians have the right to keep chickens because

the cost of food—plus insurance, healthcare, daycare, taxes, homes, cars, gas, recreation, etc.—has increased dramatically with no relief in sight.

Many used to raise backyard animals, but as neighborhoods got denser, we restricted activities due to sounds, sights and smells. But now it is acceptable to hear snow blowers, leaf blowers and mowers in every season. Laying hens do make noise, but we need to relearn to accept it—like we did with all these machine noises. I do think roosters can be a problem in neighborhoods and the town can address this.

Williston should allow up to 12 chickens—the reward is barely worth the effort with fewer hens. A protein-hungry family can easily eat a dozen eggs every couple of days. Additionally, small flocks force people to buy poorly built coops that don’t work properly and deteriorate fast leading to unhealthy chickens, exposure to predators, and disappointing experiences. Bigger flocks equal more purposeful investment (not always more costly), which will help keep predators at bay and issues to a minimum.

Get creative. Find high school or college construction classes and have them build coops that meet the town’s goals: sturdy,

protected, and with food stored properly. Kids could learn how to “dispatch” chickens when the time comes and offer their services for fees.

It’s no longer acceptable to only allow chicken raising for those with acreage. Many have dreamed of moving to the country at some point, but sadly the cost of houses—even with lower interest rates—makes that impossible. While blessed to have a home at all, many of us are living in our forever homes, by choice or not. So, think outside the “coop” and help your citizens help themselves.

Tim Guiterman Shelburne

Letter Policy

We ask that letters run no longer than 300 words. We edit only for length, clarity, style, spelling and grammar. Please include your name, town or city where you live and a daytime phone number (which we won’t print) so we can verify you wrote the letter. The deadline is Monday at noon for letters to be printed in Thursday’s paper.

SEND TO: EDITOR@WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

Williston Energy Fair

An Opportunity for Community Outreach and Communication

BY REED PARKER

Public gatherings have always been one of the best ways to reach out to the community and spark impromptu conversations between residents on important topics. With a goal of starting conversations on the topics of energy efficiency and cost savings, the Williston Energy Committee sponsored a successful Energy Fair on Saturday September 16th, at the Allen Brook School, Williston. The catalyst for the discussions were numerous non-profit organizations and commercial firms invited by the Energy Committee, all who advocate energy conservation and provide products and services that help residents reduce energy consumption and their impact on our environment.

This year’s Energy Fair covered a wide variety of topics and while the Energy Committee is not endorsing the commercial firms that attended, we believe that it is important that Williston residents be aware of the valuable products and services that are available through Vermont-based companies in our immediate area.

As in the 2022 “EV Fest,” electric vehicle (EV) owners were again in attendance to display their EVs and to discuss with residents their experiences of evaluating, purchasing and owning an EV. In all, eighteen EVs of various makes and models and a battery powered e-bike with a solar charger were on display. EV owners discussed a variety of topics with residents including vehicle mileage, locating charging stations while traveling and the special features of their EVs. As the Energy Fair was held just before the

Energy Fair

continued from page 8

official national “Drive Electric Week,” we were very pleased to have a representative from PlugInAmerica.org in attendance.

Photovoltaic (PV) solar companies participating included Green Mountain Solar, Building Energy and Sun Common. While the number of installed solar PV systems is substantial in Vermont, the current federal tax credits for solar installations have increased to 30% of the cost under the Inflation Reduction Act, making solar a good investment for many years to come. Note: to ensure that you have the most up-to-date, accurate information, you should always consult with your tax advisor when considering a solar installation.

With one of the oldest housing stocks in the country, Vermont residents are constantly chal-

lenged to fill all the gaps to keep the cold out and the heat in. In one conversation a resident spoke of his need to insulate a room over his garage and was considering foam insulation. With the opportunity at hand, the representative from Building Energy said, “we do that, let’s talk.” Conversations like that one took place with the partner organizations throughout the event.

In the past year, there has been a significant expansion of electric mowers and other yard care equipment, both for residential and commercial use. MowElectric. org provided information on rebates and incentives for purchasing electric mowing, lawn care and snow blowing equipment.

eLAWNZ, a Williston-based fully electric commercial mowing company, displayed a fleet of the latest commercial e-mowers and e-lawn care equipment. With more residents and homeowner associations relying on commer-

cial mowing companies, the expansion of electric mowing equipment reduces noise pollution and has the potential to significantly reduce carbon pollution by not burning gas or diesel fuel.

Representatives from two major utilities, VT Gas Systems (VGS) and Green Mountain Power (GMP), were available to discuss a wide variety of programs and services provided by their companies including home weatherization, improved heating and air-conditioning systems and EV charging devices.

Public service organizations represented included the Safe Routes to School program, the Williston Planning Department, and members of the Williston Energy Committee.

The Williston Energy Committee was pleased to see so many residents turn out for the energy

fair and would like to hear from you about topics, products, and services that you would like to see added for our 2024 Energy Fair or any other future event.

To participate in Williston’s energy future, reach out to your Williston Energy Committee at energy@willistonvt.org

or attend a public meeting held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

The agenda for upcoming meetings is posted on the Town of Williston website (www. town.williston.vt.us). For more information, visit: https://www. willistonvtenergycommittee.org

All Hunter Douglas Shades On Sale

48,000 tons a year

How you can make the recycling journey smoother

BY RICK COTE Observer staff

Ever wonder what happens to those recyclables you place in the blue bin every day?

A tour of the Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD) Materials Recovery Facility (MRF – rhymes with “smurf”) offers visitors a first-hand view of the machines and people that sort our everyday recyclables into valuable commodities. It also provides insights into how one can recycle smarter to help the MRF produce higher value commodities by eliminating contaminants.

“The MRF came online in 1993, with a capacity to process 25,000 tons of mixed recyclables per year. Thirty years later, we’re operating at almost double that capacity – 48,000 tons per year,” said Beth Parent, community engagement and outreach manager for CSWD.

Operated under contract by Casella Waste Management, the MRF employs approximately 20 full-time equivalent employees who work to recover those 96 million pounds of recyclables and divert them from the limited capacity of Vermont’s only active landfill in Coventry.

Each weekday, haulers dump truckload after truckload of recy-

clables onto the concrete floor in the MRF receiving bay where a bucket loader transfers them to a conveyer belt to begin their sorting journey.

First stop, “Quality Control” where human “pickers” remove any trash they see, large items, film plastic, rigid plastic, unopened bags, and bagged, shredded paper. “Vermonters, overall, do a really good job at making sure they place the right items in the right place. In fact, more than 90% of what comes to the MRF gets recycled and that’s incredible. We still have some room for improvement! Occasionally, we do see items such as plastic bags [and other film plastic] which can be particularly problematic, as they can get tangled in our sorting machinery and slow down or stop the line,” said Parent. “Sometimes trash ends up in blue bins by mistake; other times “wishful” recyclers place trash in blue bins thinking it’s recyclable when it’s not, things like black plastic or milk cartons, but as a whole, our communities are doing a great job!

From there, the stream meets the Old Corrugated Container Screen, a series of rotating disks over which pieces of cardboard “float” to their own conveyer belt where employees check for quality control before the cardboard is baled. All other items fall through the screen to continue their sorting journey.

Glass is removed next. Bottles are smashed by spinning metal

discs two inches apart that allow all glass to fall and be separated from the remaining recyclables. Unwanted contaminants smaller than two inches – such as corks, bottle caps or pill bottles – also fall through the discs. The broken glass subsequently passes beneath a magnet, which removes any small metal, and is then further crushed and screened to remove plastics and other unwanted trash.

The stream next passes through a series of “polishing screens” which separate out newsprint and mixed paper. Human sorters again conduct quality control, manually picking any film plastic or other contaminants from the recyclable paper streams before baling.

The containers that fall through these polishing screens next pass below an electromagnetic separator that pulls any ferrous metals from the line followed by a series of three optical mechanical sorters that separate PET bottles, HDPE, and Plastics #2 - #7 from the stream. Non-ferrous cans are subsequently removed using a strong magnetic field that repels aluminum. Each of these individual material streams is again quality controlled by sorters who manually pull objects that don’t belong.

Finally, when all materials have been sorted, they are each baled and eventually loaded on outbound trucks headed for plastic processors, paper mills, and other end users – but not before one final human quality control check of the see RECYCLING page 11

Mixed recyclables are loaded onto the conveyor to begin their sorting journey.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY RICK COTE

Bales of aluminum and cardboard awaiting shipment.

Recycling

continued from page 10

finished bales.

Chittenden County voters overwhelmingly approved the planning and construction of a new MRF in November 2022.

“The new MRF is currently in the permitting and design phase,” said Parent, “with construction slated to begin in the summer of 2024.” The new MRF, which is anticipated to come online in 2026, “will have better cooling, heating and ventilation for employees, and more modern technology that will allow us to recycle more effective-

Helpful hints for thoughtful recycling

Blue Bin DOs Blue Bin DON’Ts

Single-Use Containers – glass, metal and plastic Bottles

Jars

Cans

Jugs

Tubs

Clean Aluminum - from pie plates to foil yogurt lids. Roll aluminum foil and lids into balls that are 2” or more in diameter!

Paper and cardboard – clean and dry

Office paper

Mail

Newspapers

Magazines

Corrugated cardboard

ly and efficiently, and to respond more quickly as markets for commodities change.”

A virtual tour of the current MRF is available online at:https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NYux4-KIY1o&t=8s

Boxboard

Shredded paper in a clear bag

Nothing else in your blue bin

NO Black plastic

NO Pill bottles – or any other items smaller than 2” x 2”

No Dirty containers – clean them first or they go to trash

NO Plastic bags or Plastic wrap

NO Hazardous containers (oil, pesticide, etc.)

NO Dirty or food covered containers (like oily pizza boxes)

NO wax or plastic-coated cardboard; If it had direct contact with food – even frozen – it is trash.

NO paper cups

NO Padded envelopes

NO paper towels or napkins

Visit CSWD.net and click on “How to Get Rid of…” to learn how CSWD can help you to recycle or dispose of just about anything.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DOUG HALL

Goldenrod: a useful wildflower

BY DEBORAH J. BENOIT Special to the Observer

Of all the wildflowers—or weeds, if you prefer—goldenrod (Solidago) is one of the most recognizable. Its plumes of bright yellow flowers atop tall stems bob in the breeze, making its presence hard to miss. If you have allergies, every time you drive by a stand of it growing along the roadside, you probably wish goldenrod would just go away.

Goldenrod blooms during late summer and early fall, the same time and likely in the same places as the real villain in all that sniffling and sneezing, ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia). In a clear case of guilt by association and by being the flashier of the two, goldenrod gets blamed for the ills brought on by the usually overlooked ragweed.

Ragweed’s pollen sails easily on the breeze. Goldenrod’s pollen is heavier, stickier and relies on pollinators to spread.

Solidago, the scientific name for goldenrod, means to make whole.

Flowers, leaves and stems have been made into herbal remedies for centuries. It’s been used in folk medicine to help heal wounds, as a diuretic, to treat inflammation, and as treatment for a variety of illnesses.

Historically, goldenrod took its place in America’s story when British tea was shunned after the Boston Tea Party and colonists turned to home grown berries and plants to create what were known as “liberty teas.” Goldenrod, fresh or dried, is still a popular ingredient in herbal teas today.

Adding to its versatility, goldenrod flowers can be used to create a natural dye. At their height of freshness, they yield a bright yellow while those turning to seed will result in a duller color.

A native plant found across the United States, goldenrod is a perennial, hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone 2. It grows between three and six feet tall, most enthusiastically in full sun. It dies back after the first frost, only to return again in the spring.

There are over 100 species of goldenrod. About a dozen species are found in Vermont.

Goldenrod is the state flower in Nebraska and Kentucky. In South Carolina, it’s the state wildflower. In Delaware, sweet goldenrod (Solidago odora) is the state herb.

Goldenrod makes itself at home in naturalized areas of yards and creates a colorful backdrop in the home garden in the fall. Its feathery flowers add fill, color, and texture when added to cut flower arrangements.

If you invite goldenrod into your garden, be sure it’s in an area where it can be

contained. At the very least, plan to actively discourage its spread into other parts of the garden where it isn’t wanted.

Goldenrod can be a bit of a bully. It not only spreads by seed but produces underground runners (called rhizomes) that can easily invade.

Planting goldenrod near a physical barrier, such as a wall, can prevent its spread underground. Cutting off faded flower heads and carefully disposing of any that have gone to seed outside the garden (not in the compost pile) can also help prevent the growth of new plants.

If your goldenrod tends to fall over as it matures and reaches its full height, it can be cut back by about a

third in early summer. The result at bloom time will be a more compact plant with more flowers to enjoy.

Goldenrod’s nectar is an important food source for pollinators. If found near crops, it invites bees, butterflies and hummingbirds to visit the garden. Goldenrod also provides a home for other beneficial insects. In the fall, its seeds feed birds such as goldfinches and cardinals.

All said, goldenrod is much more than just a pretty plant.

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

Goldenrod, which blooms during late summer and early fall, is not only an important food source for pollinators but can be used in herbal teas and to make natural dyes.

COURTESY PHOTO BY DEBORAH J. BENOIT

On pitch

Williston’s Jason LeFebvre pitches in relief of Ken Freeman during the Armadillos’ 7-0 semifinal win over Chelsea Bat Company at Williston Central on Sunday. The Armadillos play for the league championship in Montpelier Oct. 1. Below, on the defense, Eli Roque, left, catches an infield pop up and, right, Jeremiah Brooks makes the catch on a fly ball winging towards center field.

CVU’s goalie Ziggy Babbutt, left, tips the ball just over the bar on a Burr and Burton shot during the Redhawks win over the Bulldogs Sept. 18 in Hinesburg. Above, CVU’s Charlie Jennings takes the ball from Burr and Burton’s Kelly Moran.

Above, CVU’s Bibi Frechette scores from

during the Redhawks’ win over the Burlington Seahorses Friday in Burlington. Cordelia Thomas, right, starts a sprint down field.

CVU’s Chloe Pecor, top, works to get through two Essex defenders during the Redhawks’ 3-1 win over the Hornets on the 20th in Hinesburg. Above, Ava Barron gets control of the ball from Essex’s Molly Gilbert.

Staying up and yawning the next day

Hey Woodski!

I’m having trouble getting to sleep. My day is so busy with school and travel and homework that I just need time for myself. I stay up late and then I’m yawning all the next day. What should I do?

Night Owl, age 17 (female, gymnastics)

Dear Night Owl, Ain’t that a pickle? You know you need downtime. (correct!) But you find it mostly when you ought to be sleeping. (hmmm…)

It’s widely accepted that teenagers need 8-10 hours of shut-eye every night. While everyone loses sleep

now and then, habitually not getting your zzz’s is… well, a habit. We can swap this with a healthier habit.

What activities are you doing at night, especially that last hour? Are you on your devices? Does it feel like a good use of your time? Sometimes we settle for non-fulfilling activities, just to feel in control of our life. Does this sound like you?

To swap for healthier options, look for pockets of your day you can assign to your downtime. What relaxes you? Make yourself reminders to do calming activities in short chunks during your day. As a few examples, when travel-

ing to and from practice, maybe you can ground yourself with positive self-talk instead of social media. Affirmations or simple deep breaths can work also. Some teens draw, craft, or read.

Whatever you do, the goals are to be mindful and consistent. Take control of the minutes that are all yours and no one else’s. While it may feel awkward at first, you’ll be “practicing” how to master your day, just like you practice to master your sport. When bedtime comes, lay your head on your pillow knowing you did your best. It’s a great way to go to sleep!

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. 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.

When you shop for yourself, Remember the Shelf!

The Williston Community Food Shelf is seeing a large and increasing number of clients (over 300 families per month!) and WE NEED YOUR HELP!

We especially need items to fill our “Summer Bags” that provide children breakfasts and lunches: Canned Chicken

FOOD SHELF

The Granite State

New Hampshire is a small state that makes a big difference. At its widest point from east to west, it is only about 80 miles across. Its longest point is only 200 miles from north to south. Its population is about 1.4 million. New Hampshire shares a border with Quebec, Canada. In fact, many people there have French ancestry.

Our ninth state is especially proud of the role it plays in selecting the president of the United States.

It prides itself on being the first state to hold presidential primaries. A primary is an election where political party members (such as Democrats or Republicans) choose a candidate to run in the upcoming general election. The date of the 2024 presidential primary has not been set yet.

New Hampshire history

The state is named after Hampshire County in England. New Hampshire was one of the 13 original English colonies. It was the first colony to claim independence from England, in 1776.

Before English colonists arrived, Indigenous people, including the Abenaki lived in the area for centuries.

The oldest capitol building still in use in the U.S. is in Concord, the state capital. It was built in 1819. The largest city is Manchester, with about 423,000 in the metro area.

Mini Fact: New Hampshire’s ocean coastline is only 18 miles long, the shortest in the U.S.

Next Week: Navigating with clocks

New Hampshire notables

• Alan Shephard Jr. (19231998), the first American to fly in space, rocketed into space for 15 minutes in 1961. He did not orbit the Earth. Ten years later, he walked on the moon.

• Christa McAuliffe (19481986) was the first teacher to become an astronaut. She was killed when the space shuttle Challenger exploded during launch. The Christa McAuliffe Planetarium in Concord is named in her honor.

• Actor Adam Sandler and comedian Seth Meyers were born in New Hampshire, as was singer Mandy Moore.

While tourism is a big industry in cool New Hampshire, the state also produces dairy products, apples, electrical equipment and rubber and plastic products. Fun in the Granite State

Forests cover about 85% of New Hampshire, and there are plenty of outdoor activities for residents and visitors. The White Mountains offer hiking, snowmobiling, biking and wildlife-viewing. Snow skiing and snowboarding are popular sports. With lakes, ponds and rivers, the state is home to many summer camps and welcomes fishers and boaters.

Education

New Hampshire is home to many colleges and universities, including Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire.

• Richard and Maurice McDonald, who founded McDonald’s restaurants, were born in Manchester.

New Hampshire beauty

Maple and other trees turn the fall landscape into a blaze of color. Maple sugar is a top product.

Quiet New Hampshire towns are so beautiful in the winter, they’ve been models for Christmas cards.

Resources

• bit.ly/MPNewHamp

At the library:

• “New Hampshire” by Bold Kids

• “Exploring New Hampshire” by Nicholas Jacobson

The sweltering heat that is

Founded by Betty Debnam Issue 39, 2023

MAPLE, MOUNTAINS, NEW HAMPSHIRE, PRIMARY, QUEBEC,

photo by Peter Rintels

photo by AlexiusHoratius

photo by BEV Norton

photo by Robert Laliberte

Hikers at the summit of Mount Monadnock, 3,165 feet high.

New Hampshire state capitol

Alan Shephard in 1971

Christa McAuliffe

Photo courtesy of Ron Barabash, Unsplash

Before English colonists arrived, Indigenous people, including the Abenaki lived in the area for centuries. and universities, including Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire.

Try ’n’ Find

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

ABENAKI, COASTLINE, COLONY, CONCORD, DARTMOUTH, ENGLISH, FORESTS, GRANITE, LAKES, MANCHESTER, MAPLE, MOUNTAINS, NEW HAMPSHIRE, PRIMARY, QUEBEC, RIVERS, SNOW, SUGAR.

Cook’s Corner

Maple Syrup Pie

You’ll need:

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

What to do:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup nuts, chopped

• pinch of salt

• 1 unbaked pie shell

1. Combine first three ingredients in a large bowl. Mix well.

2. Add remaining ingredients (except pie shell) . Mix well.

3. Pour into pie shell.

4. Bake in a preheated 400-degree oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Serves 8.

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. Amazon vitual assistant (5)

2. you have one on each hand (5)

3. boxes are made of this (9)

4. extends an arm (7)

5. squeeze into pieces (5)

6. Muppet frog (6)

7. put on weight (4)

Mini Jokes

Noah: Did you know New Hampshire has two capitals? Hannah: Of course! N and H!

Eco Note

The sweltering heat that is creating misery for many across Florida is accompanied this summer by recordbreaking ocean warmth surrounding the Sunshine State. Water temperatures of 92 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit have recently occurred in parts of the Florida Keys. “More typically it would be in the upper 80s,” said Jeff Berardelli, chief meteorologist and climate specialist at WFLA-TV in Tampa. Cities such as Miami, Tampa and Fort Myers have sweltered with a heat index of 105 degrees or higher for days on end this month.

For later: Look in your newspaper for articles that mention New Hampshire.

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

Answers: Alexa, thumb, cardboard, reaches, crush, Kermit, gain.

Best stair lifts of 2023 according to National Council on Aging

BEST STAIR LIFTS

Dear Savvy Senior, Because of chronic arthritis, I have a very difficult time going up and down stairs anymore and am interested in purchasing a stair lift for my two-story house. Can you recommend some good companies?

Arthritic Andy

and $5,000 installed. Curved lifts, however, are much more elaborate and will go around corners, bends and changes in direction. Curved lifts are also much more expensive, typically running between $8,500 and $15,000 or more depending on the complexity of the installation.

Dear Andy,

Yes, of course! A good home stair lift is a great mobility solution for anyone who is unable, or has a difficult time climbing stairs. To help you choose a quality stair lift that meets your needs and budget, here are a few shopping tips along with some top-rated companies.

WHAT TO KNOW

There are two basic types of stair lifts that are sold today: straight and curved. The type you need will depend upon the design of your staircase.

A straight stair lift is one that travels in a straight line up a flight of stairs uninterrupted by landings, bends or curves, and costs anywhere between $2,000

Most stair lifts available today also have seats, armrests and footplates that fold up out of the way, and swivel seats that make getting into and out of the chair easier. They also come with standard safety features like seatbelts, braking systems and footrest sensors, push-button or rocker-switch controls located on the armrest for easy operation, and “call send” controls which allow you to call or send the unit to the other end of the stairs. Make sure the lift you choose has all these features.

If you are a large person, you may need to get a heavy-duty lift with a wider seat and bigger lifting capacity – all companies offer them. Or, if you’re tall, find out about raising the seat

Green Burials

To help you choose a great stair lift the National Council on Aging, which is a national nonprofit organization that advocates for older Americans, put together a review team to research the different companies. Their list of best stair lifts of 2023 includes: Editor’s Pick: Bruno (bruno. com)

• Most Affordable: AmeriGlide (ameriglide.com)

• Best Customer Reviews: Acorn (acornstairlifts.com)

By Jim Miller

height during installation. Depending on the company, you may also have the option of choosing between an electric (AC) and a battery powered (DC) stair lift. Electric stair lifts are simpler and cheaper than battery powered units, but if your home loses power so does your lift. Battery powered lifts work even if there’s a power failure.

• Most Supportive Design: Harmar (harmar.com)

• Most Adaptable to the Home: Access BDD (accessbdd.com)

• Best for Arthritis: Stannah (stannah-stairlifts.com)

See NCOA.org/adviser/stairlifts/best-stair-lifts to read their detailed reviews.

FINANCIAL HELP

Unfortunately, health insurance including original Medicare does not cover home stair lifts, but some Medicare Advantage plans may help pay. Or, if you have

long-term care insurance it too may cover a portion of the costs.

If you qualify for Medicaid, many states offer waivers that may help pay for a lift, and the VA has several grant and benefit programs that may offer assistance too if you’re a veteran.

To save some money, you may want to consider purchasing a used or refurbished model. Or, if you need a stair lift for only a short period of time, consider renting one. Most companies offer these options, and many offer financing too.

To get started, contact some of the previously listed stair lift companies who will put you in touch with a dealer in your area. All dealers provide free in-home assessments and estimates and can help you choose an appropriate lift.

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.

The practice of natural or “green” burials dates back thousands of years. The principle behind this practice is to follow the natural cycle of life. Green burials provide a reduced environmental impact, as well as the benefits of land preservation and affordability. To learn more, contact us today.

FUNERAL & CREMATION CENTER

Burlington - (802) 864-5682 | Elmwoodmeunier.net

Se r ving all faiths & cult ures since 1927

SOLUTION ON PAGE 22

TODAY’S HISTORY:

ANDREWS MCMEEL

• In 1066, William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, invaded England.

• In 1924, the first aerial circumnavigation of the world, conducted by a team of aviators from the U.S. Army Air Service, ended in Seattle, Washington, after 175 days.

• In 2000, the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of the pregnancy-terminating drug RU-486 after more than a decade of controversy.

• In 2008, the space transportation company SpaceX launched Falcon 1, the first privately developed rocket of its kind to enter orbit.

TODAY’S FACT:

• SpaceX’s Falcon rockets are named after the Millennium Falcon spacecraft from the movie “Star Wars.”

SOLUTION FOUND ON PAGE 22

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.

Hours:

• Monday and Wednesday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Visit www.damlvt.org to apply for a library card, renew materials, access digital offerings and to register for programs. Need help? Call 878-4918 or email daml@damlvt.org

The library will be closed Monday Oct. 9th in honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Consider reading a title by or, about indigenous people from the display in the library or, request one of the titles featured in our catalog: https://daml. kohavt.org/

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Children 4th grade and younger must be supervised by someone over 16 years of age.

TEEN NIGHT: DUNGEONS & DRAGONS

Friday, Sept. 29, 5-6 p.m. Ages 12+. Try out D&D with our bi-weekly campaign.

SATURDAY PRESCHOOL MUSIC

Saturday, Sept. 30, 10:3011 a.m. Wiggling and dancing with Linda Bassick.

STORYTIME

Tuesdays, Oct. 3 & 10, 10:30-11 a.m. On the Town Green when weather permits.

KID CRAFTERNOON

Tuesday, Oct. 3, 3-4 p.m. Make solar-eclipse and spacethemed artwork at the library.

BABY TIME

Wednesday, Oct. 4, 10:30-11

a.m. Gentle activities with baby for bonding and socializing.

AFTER SCHOOL LEGO TIME & BOARD GAMES

Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2-3 p.m. Have fun with LEGOs and playing games at the library.

PRESCHOOL MUSIC AND PLAYTIME

Thursdays, Oct. 5 & 12, 10:3011:30 a.m. Enjoy music, stay to play.

TEEN DUCT TAPE CRAFTS

Friday, Oct. 6, 5-6 p.m. Ages 12+. Make a duct tape wallet, pencil case, or box with our different colors of tape.

SATURDAY STORYTIME

Saturday, Oct. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Start your Saturday off with Cindy’s storytime Made possible by a grant from the Winnie Belle Learned Fund.

SPACE TRIVIA FOR KIDS

Tuesday, Oct. 10, 3-4 p.m. Work alone or in a group to answer and complete space-themed challenges and questions.

AFTER SCHOOL STEAM FUN ACTIVITY

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2-3 p.m. Experiment with STEAM activities after school.

LEGO CHALLENGE

Thursday, Oct. 12, 3-4 p.m. Use the library’s LEGO to design your own spaceship.

MULTI-AGE PROGRAMS

READ TO A DOG (ROCKO)

Thursday, Oct. 5, 3-4 p.m. Stop by to meet Rocko, a new visiting therapy dog.

ADULT PROGRAMS

For online programs, email daml@damlvt.org for link.

ADULT MEDITATION (ONLINE)

Fridays in Sept. and Oct., 1212:30 p.m. Guided meditation to reconnect for a peaceful body and breath led by Maryellen Crangle.

MYSTERY DATE WITH A BOOK

Register at damlvt.org between Oct. 2-15. We select a book for you from mystery category Cozy, Thriller, True Crime or Surprise Me. You’ll get a wrapped book to borrow from our collection (no peeking until you get home). Available for pickup starting Monday, Oct. 16.

SPANISH CONVERSATION (ONLINE)

Wednesday, Oct. 4, 5-6 p.m.

Brush up on your Spanish skills. All abilities welcome.

ADULT CRAFTERNOON: DECOUPAGE PUMPKINS

Thursday, Oct. 5, 2-3 p.m. Create a shelf-sitter fall decoration. Register at damlvt.org.

MAH JONGG

Friday, Oct. 6, 1-3 p.m. Drop by to play this popular tile game.

CURRENT EVENTS

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 10:3012. Gather in-person for an informal discussion of newsworthy topics. No registration required.

LIFE STORIES WE LOVE TO TELL (ONLINE)

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2-3:30 p.m. Share stories on a variety of topics. Come prepared with a story, or Maryellen Crangle will provide a prompt to guide the group in choosing a story to share.

AFTER HOURS BOOK CLUB

Wednesday, Oct. 11, 6:307:30 p.m. ‘The Boy from the Woods’ by Harlan Coben highlights Wilde, a man with a mysterious past, who must find a missing teenage girl. Available in print from the library.

Stephen C. Martin

Stephen C. Martin, 53 died unexpectedly Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023 at his home in South Strafford, VT.

He was born March 26, 1970 in Burlington, VT the son of Arthur H. and Judith (Parker) Martin. He attended Champlain Valley Union High School in Hinesburg, VT, where he graduated in 1988.

Following high school he worked 8 years at Blodgett Ovens in Burlington. He also had his own business, Stephen’s Repairs for many years. Currently he worked as a Fleet Mechanic for Chippers in Woodstock, VT.

On Oct. 25, 2003 he married Roberta A. Robinson of Strafford, VT. They have lived all their married life in Strafford where they raised their two children.

He was a member of Masonic Lodge #54 in Strafford, V.A.S.T. and the Justin Morrill Drift Skippers Snowmobile Club. He enjoyed dirt biking, snowmobiling, flying drones, fishing on Lake Ontario with his parents and going to Colorado to snowmobile. .

He is survived by his wife Roberta Martin, a son Jesse Martin and a daughter Julia Martin all of South Strafford, VT; his parents Arthur and Judith Martin of Williston, VT; his brother Donald Martin (Sara) of Underhill, VT; his sister Christine Martin-Mentzer of Port Charlotte, FL and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of life gathering will be held, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023 from 1-4 at Barrett Memorial Hall, 248 VT RTE 132, South Strafford, VT 05070.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to, Justin Morrill Drift Skippers Snowmobile Club, P.O. Box 64, South Strafford, VT 05070.

OBITUARIES

A private message of sympathy for the family can be shared at www.boardwayandcilley.com. The Boardway and Cilley Funeral Home, Chelsea, VT is in charge of arrangements.

Michael D. Poulin

Michael D. Poulin, 72, of Richmond VT passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Sept. 23 following a motorcycle accident.

Michael was born on April 4th, 1951 to Francis and Caroljean (Lozon) Poulin in Jacksonville, NC. After relocating to Vermont, Michael graduated from Burlington High School in 1969. He then joined the US Navy and served 4 years as a Machinists Mate in the Vietnam War.

For 49 years, Michael was a proud member of the Super Hog Motorcycle Club of Vermont. He loved all his “brothers” that he rode with and enjoyed many adventurous journeys with them.

Michael was greatly respected as a mechanic and spent many years building, fixing, and tinkering around with all kinds of motorcycles. For 16 years he worked for Green Mountain Harley Davidson before retiring in 2016. You could always find him in his garage working on one project or another.

Michael met Patty Goodrich in 2003 and they married in 2006. He was a loving husband and friend to Patty, who will miss him dearly.

Micheal was predeceased by his father Francis, his brother Andrew, and his sister Mary.

He is survived by his wife Patty, his mother Caroljean of South Burlington, his sister Cathy and her husband Ray Croteau of Grand Isle, his sister Jane and her husband Ken Cassidy of Richmond, his brother Joe and his wife Kingsley of Colchester and his brother John and his

wife Karen of Shelburne. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vermont Chapter of the American Diabetes Association at donors.diabetes.org.

A Celebration of Life for Michael was held on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at Ready Funeral & Cremation Service, South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Road, Burlington followed by visitation. To send online condolences to the family please visit www.readyfuneral.com

Edward E. Eno

Edward E. Eno, 95, a former resident of Ira, VT and more recently of Bennington, VT, where he had resided with his daughter and sonin-law, Sylvia and Edward Gulley, passed away Sept.20, 2023 at the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington.

Edward was born in Burlington, VT on Sept.9, 1928, the son of Edward and Bessie (Bower) Eno, Sr. Edward was a graduate of West Rutland High School and the Vermont Technical College. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War.

Edward married the former Elizabeth Isham on June 12, 1960 in Williston, VT. In earlier years, Elizabeth was employed at the New England Telephone Company. Following their marriage, Edward and Elizabeth worked at Smugglers Notch and the Groton State Forest in Groton, VT. They later moved to Emerald Lake State Park where Edward was a Park Ranger. Elizabeth died on January 27, 2020. Edward enjoyed fly fishing and was a member of the Harrisburg Fly Fishing Club, a Life Member of the American Legion and the VFW in Rutland, VT.

Survivors include his children; George (Elaine) Eno of Charlottesville, VA, Glenn (Diane) Eno of Wallingford, VT, Sylvia (Edward) Gulley of Bennington, VT and Susan (Brian) Clark of Rutland, VT. His grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. In addition to his wife Elizabeth, Edward was predeceased by one brother, Gerald Eno, and two sisters, Fern Jasmine and Betty Sempel.

A graveside service with military honors was held Sept.26, 2023 at the Vermont Veterans Cemetery in Randolph, VT.

The Mahar Funeral Home in Bennington is handling Edwards arrangements.

Sept. 15 at 4:22 a.m.— Report of a male going through the dumpsters behind Hannaford. Male was moved along.

Sept. 15 at 10:10 a.m.— Stolen tools from Home Depot recovered at a bus stop on Harvest Lane.

Sept. 15 at 12:40 p.m.— Retail theft reported at Home Depot. A male, age 26, and another male, age 52, were both issued citations to appear in court.

Sept. 15 at 1:54 a.m.— Report of an intoxicated male on Helena Drive. A male, age 52, was issued a citation to appear in court for violating conditions of release.

Sept. 15 at 3:25 p.m.— Retail theft reported at Home Depot. The two males were located in a stolen vehicle. One male had an outstanding arrest warrant and was transported to the correctional facility. Both males were issued citations to appear in court.

Sept. 15 at 5:56 p.m.— Report of a retail theft at Home Depot. A male, age 45, was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft, unlawful trespass and violating conditions of release.

Sept. 16 at 10:22 a.m.— Report of a male sleeping on the ground on Trader Lane. Male refused services and was moved along.

Sept. 16 at 10:27 a.m.— Report of a retail theft at Marshalls. The two males were located in a stolen vehicle. One male was issued a citation to appear in court for heroin possession.

Sept. 16 at 3:35 p.m.— Burglary on

Metcalf Drive. Several items taken. Case is still under investigation.

Sept. 17 at 5:54 p.m.— Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Two females were trespassed and moved along.

Sept. 18 at 6:27 a.m.— Report of a male and a female at Walmart causing a disturbance. They were both trespassed and moved along.

Sept. 18 at 1:15 p.m.— Report of a stolen U-Haul truck. Truck was located and a male, age 45, was issued a citation to appear in court.

Sept. 19 at 1:11 p.m.— Burglary of business on Walnut Street. Many items taken. Case is still under investigation.

Sept. 20 at 12:57 a.m.— Following a traffic stop, a female, age 39, was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.

Sept. 20 at 10:06 a.m.— Motorcycle reported stolen from Roadside Motorsports. Motorcycle was located the following day in New York. Case is still under investigation.

Sept. 21 at 11:50 a.m.— Retail theft reported at Home Depot. A male, age 43, and another male, age 46, were both issued citations to appear in court.

Sept. 21 at 8:10 p.m.— Report of a female causing a disturbance at Walmart. Female was moved along.

Officers also responded to nine alarm activations and six motor vehicle crashes and conducted 50 traffic stops during this time frame.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19

LEGAL

Town of Williston Selectboard Notice of Public Hearing

Tuesday, October 17, 2023 7:30 P.M.

The Williston Selectboard will hold a public hearing to receive comment on proposed changes to the existing Williston Unified Development Bylaw (WDB), pursuant to 24 V.S.A §4442 and the Williston Unified Development Bylaw. The public hearing will take place on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 7:30 PM in the Beckett/ McGuire Meeting Room of the Williston Town Hall located at 7900 Williston Road with remote participation offered using the online platform zoom with access information listed at the bottom of this hearing notice.

The proposed amendments to the Town’s Unified Development Bylaw include: Add provisions for inclusionary zoning:

• Establish an alternative path to growth management for inclusionary projects.

• Require minimum percentage of affordable units for inclusionary zoning.

• Establish fee-in-lieu provisions.

• Establish requirements for affordable units.

• Establish incentives for inclusionary projects.

• Add exemptions from growth management for low-impact projects (4 or less dwelling units on a parcel, adaptive reuse from commercial to residential).

• Amend growth management criteria to encourage applicants to commit to energy conservation measures in residential development.

• Amend density provisions:

• Adaptive reuse projects are exempt from residential density requirements.

• Residential projects in mixeduse districts that include >30% of affordable dwellings qualify for a density bonus.

• Clarify that Transfer of Development Rights applies only to receiving areas within the Growth Center outside of the Taft Corners Form Based Code District.

• Allow mobile vendors (i.e. food trucks) as accessory to commercial parking lots with an administrative permit

• Allow food & beverage manufacturers to have larger indoor eating areas (50% or 5,000 square feet whichever is less; currently 30%/2,000 square feet)

CLASSIFIEDS

and larger outdoor patios (up to 1,500 square feet; currently 500 square feet)

• Additional changes to encourage solar canopies in parking lots, amend the number of members and name of the Historic and Architectural Advisory Committee, allow electric vehicle charging infrastructure with an administrative permit, temporary events now regulated by Town Ordinance and not bylaw, requirements for demolition sites to be secured and erosion measures in place.

• Miscellaneous changes for language clean-up.

• If adopted, the amendments to the Bylaw will go into effect 21 days after adoption unless a petition is filed for a popular vote to repeal the amendments within 20 days of the adoption vote as provided for in 24 V.S.A. § 4442. The above is a summary. Copies of the entire text of the proposed Unified Development Bylaw amendments are available for review during regular business hours at the Town Hall located at 7900 Williston Road, Williston, VT and can also be found on the Town’s website at http:// town.williston.vt.us by navigating to public records & documents then legal notices. Contact Matt Boulanger, Planning Director & Zoning Administrator at (802) 878-6704, or at mboulanger@willistonvt.org with any questions.

Zoom Participation: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/88317489308

Phone: 1-646-558- 8656; Meeting ID: 883-1748-9308

LEGAL

Notice of Public Hearing

TOWN OF WILLISTON

Thursday, October 5, 2023, 6:30 PM

In-person: Town Hall Beckett/Maguire Meeting Room, 7900 Williston Road

Online: Zoom Meeting ID 873 0175 0819 on zoom.us/join or call (646) 558-8656

The Williston Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider proposed amendments to the Williston 2016-2024

Comprehensive Plan (Town Plan) and Williston Unified Development Bylaws (WDB). The purpose of these amendments is to proceed with the Glaser Specific Plan in strict conformance with the criteria and procedures of WDB Chapter 9.

To view the proposed amendments online, including the proposed site plan, go to https://bit.ly/GlaserSP. Or go to www. town.williston.vt.us then select “Public Records and Documents,” then “Agendas and Minutes” and navigate to the Planning Commission meeting of October 5, 2023.

NOW HIRING

Public comment is welcomed and encouraged. Comment letters can be emailed to Emily Heymann (eheymann@ willistonvt.org) or mailed: Williston Planning Commission, 7900 Williston Road, Williston VT 05495. Questions or requests for accessibility accommodations can be directed to Emily Heymann at the Williston Planning Office at (802) 878-6704.

The Glaser Specific Plan proposes a 109± unit residential subdivision with the provision of ±53-acres open space donated to the Town as the substantial benefit. Jack and Caitlin Glaser own the ±97-acre parcel located at the southwest corner of Mountain View Road and Old Stage Road, in the Residential Zoning District (RZD) and town’s sewer service area. It is undeveloped and portions are currently leased to a neighboring farm for hayfield and horse pasture. The homes are proposed in two distinct areas: 39-units on a cul-de-sac located off Mountain View Road and 57-units with two-points of access onto Mountain View Road (across from Wildflower Circle). The open space offered to the Town includes ±15-acres along Mountain View Road with views to the Green Mountains, a view identified in the town plan, and ±38-acres of pasture, wetland, and forest, in alignment with broader town plan goals to support working landscapes and conservation.

Informational Session: Thursday, September 28, 2023 from 12-1pm. Williston’s Specific Plan process is codified in WDB Chapter 9. Learn more about this unique and rarely used zoning tool, as well as Williston’s Town Plan and zoning bylaws at this online info session hosted by Planning staff.

LEGAL

Town of Williston Selectboard Notice of Public Hearing

Tuesday, October 3, 2023, 7:30 P.M. The Williston Selectboard will hold a public hearing to receive suggestions of how the Town should spend its remaining $1.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. These funds were distributed in 2021 and 2022 to aid in recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic to local governments. The Town received just over $3 million in total funding, and its uses to date have included projects identified in the Town’s capital plan, revenue allocations to the Town’s general fund (the operating budget) and launching a feasibility study to assess future spaces for the library and community/recreation center.

The public hearing will take place on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at 7:30 PM in the Beckett/McGuire Meeting Room at Williston Town Hall located at 7900 Williston Road with remote participation available using the online platform zoom with access information listed at the bottom of this hearing notice. Written comments can be submitted prior to the hearing to Town Manager Erik Wells at ewells@ willistonvt.org or by postal mail to his attention at Williston Town Hall, 7900 Williston Road, Williston, VT 05495.

The Williston Selectboard must decide how to spend all the remaining ARPA funding by the end of 2024, and the funds must be spent by the end of 2026. ARPA funds can be used for most general government operating or capital expenses to deliver services to the community.

The Town’s capital programs for the general, water, sewer and stormwater funds are a good reference for project ideas. These programs can be viewed on the Town website at the following address: https:// www.town.williston.vt.us/budget

Contact Town Manager Erik Wells at 802-876-1168 or the email address above with any questions. The Selectboard will be discussing the ARPA spending plan at public meetings over the coming months.

Zoom Participation: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/85267145744

Phone: 1-646-558-8656; Meeting ID: #8526714-5744.

Saint Michael’s College names Center for the Environment after Leahys

Saint Michael’s College celebrated the lifetime of service and generosity of former U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy ’61 and his wife Marcelle Leahy on Saturday during an event held on campus as part of Alumni and Family Weekend.

The College recently named its Center for the Environment for the Leahys to recognize their lifetime of environmental advocacy and stewardship. As one of his last acts as a U.S. Senator, Leahy secured a $6.5 million appropriation through the 2023 Omnibus Appropriation Bill for Saint Michael’s – one of the largest grants in the College’s history. The appropriation will fund the continued development and growth of the newly named Patrick ‘61 and Marcelle Leahy Center for the Environment over the next four years.

Senator Leahy, a 1961 graduate, spoke fondly about his and Marcelle Leahy’s deep connection to Saint Michael’s and his pride in seeing how the College is using the

appropriation money to educate and develop the environmental change-makers of the future. Dozens of Saint Michael’s community members, including current students, faculty, staff and alumni, attended the celebration to thank the Senator.

Kristyn Achilich, the Center’s Director, described how the Center has become an integral part of the campus, touching many different academic disciplines and turning the campus into a living laboratory. She said the appropriation will have an immense impact on Saint Michael’s students for generations to come who seek to solve some of the most pressing environmental problems of the day – including those who choose to stay in Vermont to work after graduation.

“You have shared these values on a national stage with your community,” Achilich said to the Leahys. “Your community justice work, your service to those who build our societies – educators, nurses, farmers, veterans and cur-

rent service members – you opened this conversation and began building the connective tissue through policy and funding work to connect for us previously siloed work on the environment, agriculture and humanitarian efforts.”

The Patrick ’61 and Marcelle Leahy Center for the Environment uses the College’s core curriculum and liberal arts approach to focus its teaching, learning, and institutional stewardship in five areas: farm and food, ecological restoration, sustainability, environmental education, and environmental analysis.

Exploration of these areas happens both in the traditional classrooms and the campus-wide living laboratory – the 360-acre Natural Area; the Teaching, Pollinator, and Tree Nursery Gardens, which are incorporated into the main campus’ landscape; the 1.75-acre Farm at Saint Michael’s; and the many sustainable initiatives that take place at the College. Connections with the greater community, in-

cluding paid internships, research, and social impact projects, expand the students’ access to immersive

learning experiences that set them up for success beyond Saint Michael’s.

From left, former U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy ’61, Marcelle Leahy, Center for Environment Director Kristyn Achilich, and Interim Saint Michael’s College President Lewis Thayne pose with the new logo for the Patrick ’61 and Marcelle Leahy Center for the Environment during a dedication ceremony on Sept. 23, 2023.

COURTESY PHOTO BY STEVE MEASE