Williston Observer 12/07/2023

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DECEMBER 7, 2023

WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

CJC prepares to take on domestic violence cases

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

Domestic violence would seem to be an ideal fit for restorative, rather than punitive, justice. With relationships, finances and living situations all hanging in the balance, keeping families whole rather than punishing a perpetrator has a host of benefits to a community.

But the community justice centers in Vermont that facilitate restorative justice for crimes have until now been barred from taking on domestic violence cases. A state law (Act 11) passed last spring changes that. Now, community justice center staff, including Williston Community Justice Center Executive Director Cristalee McSweeney, are partnering with the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence to enhance their training and expertise to handle a new kind of caseload.

“We’re willing to take domestic violence cases, and I think we should be taking domestic violence cases, without question,” McSweeney said. “I think the lack of accountability in a courtroom, the lack of justice for both victims, impacted parties and for the responsible party, don’t address the root causes.”

“It’s the right thing to do. We just need to have the expertise …. We’re laying the foundation right now.”

The restorative justice process involves a group of community volunteers working with both perpetrators and victims to repair the harm created by a crime. The parties meet

twice a week in the Williston Police Department’s community room over the course of two months to create a plan that holds the responsible party accountable.

“I think our setting is better than the judicial setting. It’s more supportive,” said Mia Marinovich, chair

“We’ll have to have specific volunteers who are willing to be trained in that kind of trauma…”

Mia Marinovich Board Chair Williston Community Justice Center

of the volunteer Community Justice Center (CJC) board. “You get to know these people and they are seen as a community member.

“We all make mistakes,” she added, “and we have to have second chances. We all need them.”

McSweeney said the CJC should be ready to take on domestic violence cases by the middle of next year. She expects cases to be referred by criminal court judges and probation officers, as long as both victims and responsible parties are willing; they won’t be mandated to go the community justice route.

McSweeney isn’t sure how large the domestic violence caseload will be in Williston. The CJC already is past capacity dealing with cas-

es of retail theft, driving under the influence and juvenile delinquency, among other crimes, she said.

“We also have people just walk in off the street every day looking for food,” Marinovich said, adding that volunteers keep a small food shelf stocked in the community room.

McSweeney is the lone fulltime staffer at the center. There are three other part-timers who, combined, put in about 40 hours a week. McSweeney is lobbying the selectboard for more town funding, saying the center already needs two more full-time positions, even before the addition of domestic violence cases.

“We are extremely underfunded for what we are doing and for the needs of the community,” McSweeney said. “Our caseload is extremely high. We don’t have what I consider to be anywhere near adequate funding.”

Domestic violence will add a new layer of complexity to the center’s work. In addition to the training that McSweeney and other community justice center staff around the state will undergo in the coming months, Williston’s volunteers will also need new skills to effectively handle cases of domestic violence, Marinovich said.

“We’ll have to have specific volunteers who are willing to be trained in that kind of trauma and how to deal with trauma like that,” she said. “It won’t be everyone. It will be a small group of people who feel like they have the skill set to do that work.”

WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

Troopers mark the opening of the new Vermont State Police Williston barracks Monday on Route 2A. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

State police completes move to new Williston barracks

OBSERVER STAFF REPORT Troopers and dispatchers with the Vermont State Police moved into their new Williston barracks on Monday. The building has been under construction since early 2022 and is co-located on Route 2A just south of the Exit 12 interchange of Interstate 89 with a park-and-ride that opened in October.

The new barracks replace a building about a half mile to the north on Route 2A, where the State Police had operated since 1992.

The newly constructed facility covers about 22,600 square feet and has an 11,000-square-foot equipment storage garage for special units such as the crime scene search team, mobile command post, tactical services unit and

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In addition to a police barracks, the building will also be home to a 911 call dispatch center and a Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department office. Two jail cells are also built on the 50-acre site.

Inside the barracks are offices for troopers and criminal detectives, interview rooms for speaking to victims, witnesses and suspects, secure evidence rooms and multiple conference rooms.

Smith Alvarez Sienkiewycz Architects of Burlington and DEW Construction of Williston managed the project.

The Williston barracks is commanded by Lt. Cory Lozier and provides police coverage throughout Chittenden and Lamoille counties.

Troopers stationed in Williston see BARRACKS page 24

Page 2 •

Williston Observer • December 7, 2023

Around Town

Dear Santa, Sugarplums r e n r o C s f e Ch To-Go Christmas Dinner Available for pickup up Dec. 23 and 24

Tree’s alight, spirits bright The annual Williston Community Tree Lighting was held at the Town Green gazebo Sunday evening. Turnout was strong despite the rain, and 64 hats, mittens and gloves were collected for donation to the Williston Community Food Shelf.

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Town bills due by year’s end The Town of Williston water, sewer and stormwater bills have been mailed and are due by Dec. 31. Contact the Department of Public Works at (802) 878-1239 for more information.

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Show your holiday spirit and join the Town of Williston’s Holiday Decorating Contest.

Whether for a prize, bragging rights or just to share your festive decorations, the Recreation and Parks Department is recruiting entrants.

Registration opens at www.willistonrec. org on Dec. 7. The registration deadline is Dec. 17. Judging will take place by community members in the evenings from Dec. 2229 and winners will be announced Jan. 4.

There are categories for residential holiday

decorating displays and business displays.

Residential winners will receive a gift basket, lawn sign and gift cards from Williston businesses. Business category winners will receive a lawn sign and a $1,000 advertising package from the Williston Observer.

Girls on the Run recruiting coaches The Williston-based nonprofit Girls on the Run is recruiting coaches for its 25th anniversary season this spring.

The program uses physical activity to inspire confidence, health and joy for girls in grades 3-8. Coaches are needed for a 10-week season beginning March 18, meeting twice a week for 90 minutes to empower girls to develop life skills, cultivate positive connections with peers and stand up for themselves and others.

The program culminates with teams participating in one of two non-competitive, celebratory 5K events in early June.

All coaches will be trained in-person and will receive the materials and resources necessary to facilitate lessons for the season. To learn more or to register to be a coach, visit https://www.gotrvt.org.

CORRECTION A story in last week’s Observer headlined “Time for ‘a pause’” misspelled the name of a Champlain Valley School Board member. The correct spelling is Barbra Marden. See Page 6 for a Letter to the Editor from Marden.

December 7, 2023

• Williston Observer •

Page 3

Students find loaded gun, drugs outside Hinesburg school OBSERVER STAFF REPORT A Hinesburg Community School student found a loaded gun near the school playground Friday morning, according to reports from the Champlain Valley School District and the Hinesburg Police Department.

Then, about 90 minutes later, after the gun had been turned over to police and students had been cleared to return outdoors, another student found what police later identified as several bags of crack cocaine.

School administrators then called all students inside, and police conducted a search of school grounds, declaring them safe.

The student who found the drugs was checked by the school nurse, according to school administrators, and some classrooms had visits from school counselors.

Hinesburg Police believe the found items are related to a highspeed chase the night before that led to a crash on Route 116 near the school and the eventual arrest of a suspect that had fled on foot and into a nearby home. The suspect was reportedly detained by an off duty Shelburne police officer who lives in the area.

“The original incident was an attempted traffic stop for speed,” Hinesburg Police Chief Anthony Cambridge reported on Monday.

“The officers had no reason to

believe that the suspect had a gun or went anywhere near the community school as the crash did not happen on school property and the suspect was not found on school property. This investigation is still ongoing, and we are currently investigating both incidents in an effort to prove they are connected.”

The police’s account of events places blame on school administrators for not allowing police to conduct a comprehensive search of school grounds after the gun was found.

“Officer Nick Labonte stated that he advised the (school) administrator that they had completed the search except for the

one area where the kids are and stated ‘Can we search where the kids are?’ The HCS administrator advised that she didn’t want to disturb or scare the kindergarteners,” Chief Cambridge wrote in his Monday report.

On Sunday night, the school district sent a letter to Hinesburg families, then to the wider Champlain Valley School District community on Monday morning.

“I am sorry for not getting this to you sooner,” District Communications Director Bonnie Birdsall wrote in the Monday morning send.

The letter is attributed to Hinesburg Community School

co-principals Suzan Locke and Tim Trevithick.

“Tomorrow (Monday), we will welcome our students and staff back to school for a regular school day,” they wrote. “We will provide our staff with resources to support students in their classrooms.

School counselors and Howard clinicians will be available to provide support. As with any incident in our district, we will do a formal review of our practices, policies and expectations.

“Thank you for your care and understanding. We remain dedicated to working together as a community to support the safety and security of all school community members.”

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Williston Observer • December 7, 2023

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As government officials enter the final stages of adopting new rules that will govern coyote hunting with dogs and trapping, lawmakers and members of the Fish and Wildlife Board may not be able to agree on several details.

The yearslong process has been hugely controversial among hunters, some of whom object to stricter regulations, and among animal welfare advocates, who have encouraged lawmakers to further regulate the activities.

The two bodies are struggling to find common ground on two issues: whether underwater and under ice traps can be set near public spaces, and whether trapping should be defined as a type of hunting.

In 2022, lawmakers passed two laws that required Vermont’s Fish and Wildlife Board to adopt rules that would govern both activities.

Act 159 requires the department to make trapping practices more humane.

Act 165 creates a moratorium on hunting coyotes with dogs, with some exceptions, until rules are created. The act of hunting coyotes with dogs has not previously been regulated.

Before the Fish and Wildlife Board can officially adopt new rules, they need to be approved by the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, or LCAR, a body of lawmakers that decides whether to approve or deny rules created by state government agencies.

Recently, members of LCAR and the Fish and Wildlife Board have clashed over whether the rules go far enough.

At a Nov. 16 meeting, members of LCAR decided that several details of the new rules don’t align with the mandate of the 2022 laws. They voted to approve the most recent version of the board’s rule — except for four pieces of the rule, which lawmakers rejected.

The Fish and Wildlife Board met last Thursday to review those objections. Catherine Gjessing, a lawyer with the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, had prepared recommendations for the board that would fix the rule to make it amenable to LCAR. While the board accepted several of those recommendations, it rejected others.

Later this month, LCAR is set to meet and decide whether it can approve the latest version of the board’s rule.

The Fish and Wildlife Board can move forward with their version of the rule, even if LCAR rejects the board’s new version, but that decision could have legal implications for the board.

If the board got sued over the rule, it would need to prove that the rules it certified are indeed aligned with the laws that passed in 2022.

Last Thursday, the Fish and Wildlife Board voted to change its proposed rules to address two concerns from lawmakers. The first change encourages hunters to request landowner permission to hunt coyotes with dogs, and it requires them to use specific training collars. The second change expands the definition of public trails, near which hunting and trapping are restricted.

The board rejected two of the recommendations that would have addressed lawmakers’ concerns, instead opting to keep the rules to which LCAR had objected.

In its definition of the word “trapping,” the board had added the word “hunt,” insee HUNTING page 11

Scott Administration projects 18% increase in property taxes

BY PETER D’AURIA VTDigger

The Vermont Department of Taxes is projecting a whopping 18.5 percent increase in residents’ property tax rates, a spike that Gov. Phil Scott quickly seized on Thursday to call for lawmakers to address the state’s “affordability crisis.”

That eyebrow-raising forecast is not set in stone. Lawmakers generally set property tax rates in the spring, and as more information about school budgets and tax revenue emerges over the coming months, those projections are likely to change at least slightly.

But the new figures, released in a Thursday letter by Tax Commissioner Craig Bolio, are still likely to unnerve taxpayers.

“For Vermonters and policymakers concerned about property taxes, housing affordability, or overall tax burden, this letter should sound a major alarm,” Bolio wrote.

According to the letter, for every $100 of property value, the actual average homestead property tax rate is expected to climb from $1.54 in the current fiscal year to $1.80 in fiscal year 2025, which begins July 1, 2024.

The average non-homestead rate — which covers properties that do not serve as an owner’s residence — is expected to climb from $1.60 in the current fiscal year to $1.86 for every $100 of property value.

The homestead rate varies from town to town, depending on local spending on school districts. The non-homestead rate is not pegged to local school budgets but does reflect local property value appraisals.

About two-thirds of Vermont homestead taxpayers receive an income property tax credit, meaning their homestead property tax rates are based on income, rather than the value of their property. The average income tax rate is expected to increase from 2.33 percent in the current year to 2.67 percent in the upcoming fiscal year.

If the projections come to pass, property taxes on a $250,000 home would increase

by about $650 in the next fiscal year, the letter said.

Bolio’s annual missive to lawmakers — called the Dec. 1 letter, but released a day early this year — includes projections about the state of the education fund, which pays for local school budgets, and the state property taxes that fill it.

The estimated tax increases are due largely to a projected 12 percent jump in education spending, a figure that Bolio said he believed to be unprecedented.

“I do not believe that in the

history of the December 1 Letter there’s ever been anything as large as 12 percent,” he said in an interview.

That expected increase is due to several factors, Bolio said in the letter: inflation, the expiration of federal pandemic aid, and a roughly 16 percent increase in health care costs and payments on school construction or renovation projects.

In an interview, Bolio added another factor, Act 127, a law passed last year that is intended see TAXES page 11

December 7, 2023

• Williston Observer •

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Williston Observer • December 7, 2023

GUEST COLUMN

Schools reflect statewide challenges, need statewide action

BY REPS. ERIN BRADY AND REBECCA HOLCOMBE Every year, the Vermont Commissioner of Taxes is required by statute to issue a letter that forecasts education tax rates for the coming year, and last week the letter included a projected 12.8 percent increase in education spending.

The letter is based on very preliminary budget information submitted by school districts across the state, revenue forecasts and the assumption of no legislative action. School boards are just kicking off their budget deliberations, which voters will consider in March, and the Legislature will do its very best to find a path that is fair and meets Vermonters’ needs. In recent years, that balanced approach has included ensuring our reserves are strong.

At the most basic level, just like Vermonters across the state, school districts face unprecedent-

ed inflation. With roughly 9 percent inflation in the cost of goods and services, and healthcare rate increases in the double digits almost every year of the Scott Administration, to expect that school districts would not experience significant increases this year is just out of touch thinking.

There is no one cause of higher spending, but Gov. Scott has missed opportunities to help protect a quality public education system that makes careful use of our precious dollars to make the biggest difference for all our children.

To his credit, the governor supported Act 187 of 2022 that passed with widespread bipartisan support. The law increases the tax capacity of school districts with many economically disadvantaged students. Upon signing, he said: “Giving all students an equal chance at success has been a priority of mine since coming to office.”

Schools cannot solve the gross inequality in our society, but they are on the front lines of the human costs of disparities in opportunity and wellbeing. Our community public schools put the resources of their communities behind all their children, showing us day after day that we are better off when we work to provide for all our children what some of them could not provide on their own. By making it easier for high poverty districts to purchase more for their children, we lift up those children … and we also spend more.

On a longstanding affordability challenge, the governor and his administration have been missing in action. The state has gone for decades without school construction aid, and we are currently the only state in New England without a statewide approach.

Schools are often the biggest asset in a community, and districts across the state face hundreds of

millions of dollars of deferred investments in infrastructure.

In the meantime, administrators and school boards have done the difficult work of writing budgets, and when hard decisions have to be made, they often choose to retain important programming and direct student support rather than replacing moldy carpet or leaky windows.

Instead of proposing a coherent strategy for chipping away at our tremendous facilities backlog, the Scott Administration has charged ahead with a first-in-thenation PCB testing program that has already cost the state $32 million and represents an unfunded mandate that could cost hundreds of millions more.

Under the current program, several schools have been forced to close parts of their building without any viable solutions for displaced students and learning, while schools are still reeling from the consequences of pan-

demic closures. Districts have spent millions of dollars on loud filters that fill the hallways, and yet testing levels are sometimes higher after all of this spending and disruption.

Last year, the House moved to pause PCB testing in order to allow us to more thoughtfully integrate testing for PCBs, or any other toxins, with longer term plans for our aging school infrastructure. But the administration continues to oppose this common sense step.

Finally, the governor’s responsibility for projected increases in education spending does not end with school budgets. By grossly underfunding the state mental health system and human services, the Scott Administration has driven a tremendous transfer of cost to the Education Fund from the state social services budget.

Districts spent much of the

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www.willistonobserver.com P.O. Box 1401, Williston, VT 05495 | 802-489-5499 ADVERTISING Rick Cote, Associate Publisher rick@willistonobserver.com 802-373-2136 EDITOR Jason Starr editor@willistonobserver.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN Jan Kenney jan@willistonobserver.com

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see SCHOOLS page 7

December 7, 2023

Schools

continued from page 6

federal pandemic-era funds that are now ending on staffing positions like behavior interventionists and increased mental health supports. Increased student needs continue to exist regardless of federal funds. When the state drops the ball, the schools are compelled to pick up the tab.

On Dec. 1, over 80,000 students across our state were engaged in literature groups with skilled teachers, grappling with the complex world we live in through respectful discussions and eating nutritious meals cooked by dedicated food service staff.

Our public schools have always played-— and must continue to play — an essential role in exposing our students to people from different backgrounds, perspectives and circumstances, and teaching them to

work together as members of a democracy.

When the Legislature convenes in January, we will work to balance our obligation to cover the needs of voter-approved budgets without placing an undue burden on taxpayers. We have significant policy levers to accomplish that.

Let’s all work harder to make our public conversations about schools about more than a single letter addressing tax rates.

Erin Brady of Williston represents the Chittenden 2 District in the Vermont House of Representatives. She is a public school teacher. Rebecca Holcombe of Norwich represents the Windsor-Orange 2 District. She is the former Vermont Secretary of Education.

Visit www.erinbradyforwilliston. com to read a version of this article that includes links to sources.

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

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• Williston Observer •

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Misguided and lacking context I am appalled to see the lead article in the Nov. 30 Williston Observer regarding the most recent CVSD school board meeting, focused on the color of my skin (“Time for ‘a pause’”).

In truth, the full board was discussing a matter that is ironically supposed to be about diversity, inclusivity and equity. There was a wide-ranging discussion across various board members, yet I was singled out and tokenized from the very first sentence in order to give the paper a catchy headline.

The comments that were included in the article lacked the full context as to what I was saying and instead focused on the color of my skin. In my nearly six years as a CVSD school board member, I have strived, along with my board colleagues, to raise the visibility of the essential and basic need to create a space where EVERYONE throughout our district feels welcome. It is on this backdrop that I

raised the possibility of putting a pause on the Black Lives Matter flag in favor of a more universal symbol or symbols of acceptance and tolerance.

Ultimately the board charged the administration with studying the issue of flags or other symbolic messaging as it relates to inclusivity, and to make recommendations to the board while keeping the BLM flag flying.

In the future, it is my hope that when individuals at your paper report on complex issues, they will endeavor to capture the full context of what has taken place, versus carving out a singular and possibly sensationalized aspect of the story and using that to lure in readers.

Such an approach is a disservice to your readership, prevents a full understanding of the issues and only serves as a diversion from the importance of the matter at hand.

Barbra Marden Champlain Valley School Board Shelburne

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Williston Observer • December 7, 2023

The recovering red spruce — a profile

BY ETHAN TAPPER Special to the Observer

Red spruce is one of three species of spruce trees native to Vermont. While the other two species — white spruce and black spruce — are common in the northeastern part of our state, in Chittenden County, if we’re talking about “spruce,” we almost certainly mean red spruce.

While red spruce is the most common spruce in Vermont, it is the least widespread of our three native spruces, with a range limited to northern New England and eastern Canada (as well as small island populations at higher elevations in the Appalachians). The ranges of white spruce and black spruce, by contrast, extend across northern New England, the northern lake states, most of Canada and all the way to Alaska. In general, spruces are extremely hearty and rugged trees, capable of surviving where few others can.

In northern New England, northeastern Vermont and higher elevations in Chittenden County, red spruce (along with balsam fir), is an important component of spruce-fir forest, a common boreal forest type. At lower elevations in Chittenden County, I usually see red spruce scattered throughout warmer, dryer forests, particularly on south-facing slopes, and in and around wetlands.

Red spruce bark is purple-black, broken-up into roundish chips. Their trunks are almost always arrow-straight, tufted with

dense, olive-green foliage. Spruce needles are short and slightly curved, with unmistakably pointy tips. They are the only conifer with needles that are angular in cross section, which allows you to easily roll them between your fingers. By contrast, our other common short-needled conifers — hemlock and fir — have flat needles with rounded tips.

Prior to European colonization, our three native spruces accounted for around 15 percent of all the trees in northern New England and New York. In Chittenden County, it was a more minor component of our forests — about 2 percent of the trees. While white pine was the tree species targeted in first waves of European timber exploitation in the 1600s and 1700s, by the end of the eighteenth century, the majority of the white pine timber in the region had been exhausted. It was soon discovered that red spruce, while smaller in stature than white pine, produced similarly strong, light, straightgrained lumber, perfect for many different uses.

In New England, logging of red spruce began in earnest in the early 1800s, targeting the largest and most valuable trees. Around 1870, it was discovered that wood fiber could be used to make paper (previously, paper was made from cloth rags), a discovery that incited much more widespread and intensive logging of spruce throughout its range.

Technological advances and market demand drove the cutting

Red spruce, with its compact cones and foliage, is the most common spruce in Vermont.

Observer courtesy photo

of smaller and smaller trees, until spruce trees of virtually any size were being cut for pulp. The aggressive logging of spruce in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and the massive forest fires that sometimes followed, led to red spruce

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being virtually extirpated from many parts of its range, especially at lower elevations.

The 1960s found remaining populations of red spruce in steep decline. The species was one of the “canaries in the coal mine”

that helped scientists (in particular Dr. Hubert “Hub” Vogelmann at the University of Vermont) unearth and understand the pervasive impacts of acid rain on trees and forests in our region. Vogelmann’s research connected the decline of spruce and other tree species to air pollution, which contributed to important revisions to the Clean Air Act in 1990.

Recent research has shown that spruce is recovering in Vermont, even spreading into lower-elevation forests. Besides benefitting from reductions in acid deposition as a result of the Clear Air Act, it is suspected that red spruce is also recolonizing its historic range, spreading back into forests in which it was once common but from which it was lost as a result of logging and land-clearing centuries ago.

While I don’t get a lot of opportunities to manage for red spruce in Chittenden County, I do promote it in the forests that I manage whenever I get a chance.

To support red spruce, the most important things we can do are to retain seed-bearing trees and to “release” established spruce regeneration — finding areas of young spruce trees and cutting the trees overtopping them.

Ethan Tapper is the Chittenden County Forester for the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. Visit him online at https://linktr.ee/ ChittendenCountyForester.

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State seeks feedback on ‘Age Strong’ 10-year plan Vermont’s demographics are changing, with nearly a third of the state’s population now over the age of 60 — a 30 percent increase over the past decade. This shift presents challenges for how to address the needs of an aging population in a small state.

To help ensure Vermont heads into the second half of the 21st Century as a healthy place to live, work, play and grow older, state officials are asking the public to comment on a new 10-year action plan called Age Strong Vermont.

“Age-friendly communities, programs and systems benefit people at all ages and stages of life,” said Health Commissioner Mark Levine. “I hope that people from across the state will share their unique perspectives. It’s with this input that we can build an enduring framework for the health and wellbeing of all people in Vermont.”

According to a poll conducted earlier this year by the University of Vermont’s Center for Rural Studies, 64 percent of people in Vermont are concerned that the state does not have adequate resources to address the needs of our older population as it continues to grow. What will it take to ensure all Vermonters regardless of background have the opportunity for financial security, health and wellness, social connection, housing, transportation and more?

Age Strong VT is intended to serve as a roadmap for building an age-friendly state — a place that is welcoming, inclusive and livable for all. State and local policy-makers, and others, including businesses, social service and non-profit organizations, and healthcare planners will be able to draw from the action plan to develop and implement policies

and infrastructure that will support Vermont’s aging population over the long-term.

“This plan lays out a strong foundation for Vermont’s future,” said Commissioner Monica White, of the Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living. “At every level, this will be a valuable resource for reimagining what it means to grow old in Vermont, and what it means to build communities and systems that support aging well.

I hope many people will read the plan and share their feedback.”

View the plan and submit comments at www.healthvermont.gov/agestrongvt, email comments to agestrongvt@vermont.gov or mail comments to Age Strong VT – Adult Services Division, Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living, 280 State Drive, HC 2 South, Waterbury VT, 054671-2070.

• Williston Observer •

Page 9

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Page 10

•

Williston Observer •

December 7, 2023

Perfect plants for the holidays

BY DEBORAH J. BENOIT Special to the Observer

The wintery winds of December bring with them shorter days and a host of holidays — and holiday plants. Walk into most stores and you’ll see shelves of poinsettias, holiday cactus and amaryllis among many other plants geared toward decorating our homes and gifting to our loved ones.

Poinsettia is arguably the plant most associated with the holiday season. Whether traditional green with bright red leaves or variations of cream and pink, they provide an impressive display with minimal care. Poinsettia flowers are actually the tiny, yellow blooms located at the center of the colorful leaves (called bracts) that we think of as flowers. Those leaves change color in anticipation of blooming.

Provide poinsettias with bright light, and avoid placing in a spot with hot or cold drafts from stoves or doors. If the poinsettia’s pot has a decorative foil covering, remove the foil to prevent soggy soil and provide a drainage saucer.

Water well when the soil feels dry, and remove any standing water from the drainage tray. Don’t let the soil dry out completely.

With care, poinsettias should bloom through the holiday season and beyond. Continue caring for it like a houseplant, and your poinsettia may bloom again next Christmas.

If you like large, showy flowers, amaryllis may be the holiday plant for you. Bulbs are readily available in late fall in anticipation of the holidays. They are sold as a single bulb in a kit containing bulb, soil and container, or as a potted bulb ready to bloom.

Pot the amaryllis bulb in moistened potting mix (not garden soil). Put it in a sunny window and rotate the pot each day to keep the stem growing straight. Leaves will soon emerge, followed by one or more flower stalks.

Water when the soil feels dry beneath the surface. Your amaryllis should flower in six to eight weeks.

Once the flower has faded, continue watering as usual and leave the foliage in place to feed

May the glow of the menorah inspire hope, resilience, and the joyous spirit of togetherness for all.

Happy Hanukkah!

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the bulb. After the foliage has died back naturally, store the bulb in a cool, dry location until it’s time to plant again for another holiday bloom.

If you’re looking for a holiday plant to enjoy year-round, a holiday cactus is a good choice. There are three types of holiday cacti, Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter.

You can tell the difference between holiday cacti by the shape of their leaf segments.

Thanksgiving cactus segments are more rectangular with clawlike points. Christmas cactus leaf segments are rounder with softly scalloped edges, and those of the Easter cactus are more oval shaped with an even less pronounced scalloped edge. Flowers can be found in shades of red, orange, pink and cream.

Holiday cacti bloom best in bright light. If your holiday cactus is in a foil-covered pot, remove the foil and provide a saucer to catch runoff from watering. Water when the soil just below the surface is dry.

Fertilize during spring and

Poinsettias do best in bright light in a location away from cold drafts or stoves and other heat sources.

PHOTO BY DEBORAH BENOIT

summer according to package directions. There’s no need to repot annually, but if the pot is overcrowded, repot in late winter after it has finished flowering and before new growth begins in the spring.

A little TLC can help to make the most of any holiday plants.

With the right care, they’ll look great throughout the holidays and into the coming new year.

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

December 7, 2023

Hunting

continued from page 4

dicating that trapping is a type of hunting. Since the word had not previously been part of the state’s definition, members of LCAR argued the decision had broader significance.

While hunting is protected under Vermont’s constitution, it’s unclear whether trapping is protected, Rep. Seth Bongartz, D-Manchester, a member of LCAR, argued at the Nov. 16 meeting. Adding the word to the definition could give trapping an added protection, which he opposed. The issue should be decided by the Legislature, he said.

At Thursday’s meeting, Michael Bancroft, a board member representing Orange County said he feels that “LCAR objecting to us adding ‘hunt’ to the definition is somewhat petty.”

The board also voted to keep part of its rule, related to trapping, the same.

While the rule prohibits traps from being set near trails and public areas, it exempts traps set under water and under ice. LCAR wanted to strike the exemption,

A trap, set underwater.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PROTECT OUR WILDLIFE VERMONT

arguing that traps under water could still cause danger to people and pets. The board voted to keep the exemption. One board member said that some of those traps are designed to catch beavers, and that beavers typically cause problems near culverts and roads, which are public areas.

During the meeting, several board members expressed concern about the continued backand-forth with lawmakers as well as a reluctance to make hunting and trapping regulations stricter.

“How long do we do this dance back and forth?” said Jay Sweeny, a board member representing Franklin County. “I

mean, we’ve sent it to LCAR, (it’s) come back for little changes and stuff. I think we’ve reached the point where there’s really not much more we can do.”

After the meeting, Brenna Galdenzi, president of Protect Our Wildlife Vermont, a wildlife advocacy organization, said the board members’ rejections represent a broader issue with the board.

“Since I’ve been involved, going back 10 years, they are just completely unable to move forward on any kind of improvements to the status quo,” she said.

“They’re unwilling to compromise, even when they are forced to by the Legislature.”

Galdenzi argued that many people take their dogs in water during hunting season, and that the traps could hurt pets.

“The broader wildlife coalition that I’m part of in Vermont, which has really made a huge showing over the past two years, is going to pursue ways, as far as litigation, against the state, against Fish and Wildlife, for ignoring LCAR’s recommendations,” she said. “So this isn’t going to end here.”

Taxes

continued from page 5

to direct more funding to school districts that need it more.

That law is expected to push up education spending statewide, although its exact impact remains unclear. The law includes a provision stipulating that year-over-year equalized tax rate increases (meaning increases before a property value appraisal system is factored in) are capped at 5 percent.

The tax department expects most of the school districts in the state to hit that 5 percent increase cap, meaning the rest of the money will be made up from the districts that don’t hit that limit.

In a statement released along with the letter, Gov. Phil Scott said the projected tax increase was “not acceptable” and called on the Legislature to take action.

“Put simply, a nearly 20 percent property tax increase would hurt Vermonters and our economy, and we cannot let it happen,” Scott said.

“At a time when housing costs and interest rates are elevated, higher property taxes will make our housing and workforce crises worse, and I sincerely hope the Legislature

• Williston Observer •

agrees.”

Ashley Moore, a spokesperson for Senate President Pro Tem Phil Baruth, D/P-Chittenden Central, said Thursday afternoon that Baruth had not yet had time to read Bolio’s letter.

Conor Kennedy, a spokesperson for House Speaker Rep. Jill Krowinski, D-Burlington, referred a reporter to Rep. Emilie Kornheiser, D-Brattleboro, who chairs the tax-writing House Ways & Means Committee.

“We have a really long, proud tradition in Vermont of supporting our public schools because our children are worth it and our teachers are worth it,” Kornheiser said in an interview. “And so seeing the decrease in federal money this year, but still seeing really, like, enormous needs in our schools, it makes sense that we would see education spending go up.”

Kornheiser also noted that the projections in the letter are far from final.

“There are always opportunities for both new revenue into the (education) fund and opportunities to move things in and out of the ed fund,” Kornheiser said. “So there’s a lot of policy levers available to us.”

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Page 12

•

Williston Observer •

December 7, 2023

SPORTS

Readying for the rinks

CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU-MMU girls hockey coaches review drills at last Friday’s practice before the start of the upcoming season. One of the two CVU-MMU girls hockey goal tenders, top right, blocks a shot. The team works on passing skills.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

December 7, 2023

• Williston Observer •

Page 13

SPORTS

New goals for the season Working on your game instead of blaming the refs Hey Woodski!

I keep getting yellow cards in games. I used to blame the refs but coach says I need to think about my game. Where should I start?

Rob B Alert, age 15 (soccer and baseball)

CVU boys hockey goalies, top right, workout as the rest of the team gets in some shooting practice, top left, last Friday evening in preparation for the upcoming season. The coaches, bottom left, explain a drill.

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Dear Rob B Alert, Good on you for agreeing to look at your game instead of blaming the refs.

I wish I talked to my coaches after practice and games more often when I was playing youth sports. When I had a question or a challenge like you have now, I worried that my coaches were too busy to take time to help me. I was wrong.

Your coaches not only want to help the team win, they want to help you overcome your challenges. Your coach can assist you in finding out where those yellow cards are coming from. Ask them for a one-to-one meeting to get

information and advice. Try to get something scheduled for after practice, so neither one of you is rushed. Together, perhaps you’ll come up with a plan to work on particular skills.

Whatever you agree to focus on, then it’s your job to go out and make those adjustments. It may take time, but you can do it. It’s never easy to look in the mirror when things aren’t going well. But it’s a great skill to have. You’ll be a better athlete and a better person.

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.

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•

Williston Observer •

December 7, 2023

Bird-feeding season sets in

Tips and reminders for a successful birding winter

Bird-feeders offer a way to interact with wildlife close-up. Installing them in December limits the potential of attracting bears.

VERMONT FISH AND WILDLIFE PHOTO

December is the start of Vermont’s bird-feeding season, a time to observe and learn about yearround bird residents like blackcapped chickadees, nuthatches and blue jays as well as winter visitors such as evening and pine grosbeaks.

The Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife offers these tips for bird-feeding enthusiasts.

Winter Safety Tips How to Detect a Gas Leak Smell: Natural gas is normally odorless. VGS adds an odorant similar to the smell of rotten eggs, so it can be easily recognized.

Sight: You may see a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, or blowing dust. You may also see vegetation that appears to be dead or dying.

Sound: You may hear an unusual noise like a roaring, hissing, or whistling.

Protect Meters and Vents from Ice and Snow Don’t push or pile deep snow around meters and ensure whoever removes snow from your property knows meter and appliance vent locations. Use extreme caution when clearing snow and large icicles near meters and vents. If your meter gets encased in thick ice, please call us.

If you suspect a leak: Move immediately to a safe location.

Call VGS at 800-639-8081 or call 911 with the exact location. Do not smoke or operate electrical switches or appliances. These items may produce a spark that might result in a dangerous condition. Do not assume someone else will report the condition.

More safety information here:

Have a happy and safe holiday season!

— Make your own feeding mixture to maximize the number of species visiting your yard.

Black oil sunflower seed is a favorite of many birds. Mix it with thistle or cracked corn to attract a wide variety of species. Add in suet to attract woodpeckers and chickadees.

— Mix up the type of feeders you use. Hopper feeders are great for large birds such as blue jays, while tube feeders are best for smaller birds. Elevated tray feeders will attract birds that usually feed on the ground, including juncos and larger bodied winter visitors such as evening grosbeaks.

— Place your feeders near nat-

ural habitat, or even add a habitat for birds to hide. A Christmas tree is a great addition to a snowbank next to your feeder to provide quick cover.

— Keep your feeders clean.

Only put out enough food for a day, and wash feeders every couple of weeks in a 10 percent bleach solution; let dry to prevent the spread of bacteria and disease.

— Feeding can expose birds to hazards they might otherwise avoid. The risks of predation are higher closer to people, especially from domestic cats — the leading cause of bird deaths in North America. Keep cats inside and see BIRDS page 15

Nov. 24 at 12:13 p.m. — Report of a retail theft at Marshalls. A female, age 37, was issued a citation to appear in court.

Nov. 24 at 2:05 p.m. — Male at Walmart refusing to give back property. A male, age 50, was lodged at the correctional facility for disorderly conduct, unlawful trespass, resisting arrest and assault on a law enforcement officer.

Nov. 24 at 7:08 p.m. — Report of a retail theft at Marshalls. A male, age 46, was located and issued a citation to appear in court.

Nov. 24 at 7:25 p.m. — Report of a retail theft at Ulta Beauty. A female refused to give ID and was lodged at the correctional facility for felony retail theft. She was later ID’d and is 55 years old.

Nov. 24 at 9:20 p.m. — Report of a male in the back room of Marshalls who should not have been there. Male was removed and trespassed from the store.

Nov. 25 at 10:49 a.m. — Report of a female who tried to take items from Home Depot. Another customer tried to stop her causing a dispute. Female left the area before officers could arrive on scene.

Nov. 26 at 11:42 a.m. — Male in Walmart refusing to leave. Male was trespassed and moved along.

Nov. 26 at 1:06 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. A female, age 62, was issued a citation to appear in court.

Nov. 26 at 3:55 p.m. — Contact

made with a male at Petsmart. A male, age 33, had an outstanding arrest warrant. He was transported to the correctional facility.

Nov. 27 at 11:02 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Home Depot. A male, age 46, had an outstanding arrest warrant. He was transported to the correctional facility. The male was also issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.

Nov. 27 at 1:25 p.m. — Report of a retail theft at Plato’s Closet. A female, age 37, was issued a citation to appear in court.

Nov. 28 at 8:41 a.m. — Report of a retail theft at Walmart. A female, age 30, was issued a citation to appear in court.

Nov. 28 at 6:47 p.m. — Report of a suspicious male at Marshalls.

Male was located at the bus stop and identified. He had an active arrest warrant. He was transported to the correctional facility.

Nov. 28 at 7:28 a.m. — Report of a retail theft at Jolly. A male, age 31, was issued a citation to appear in court.

Nov. 29 at 12:59 p.m. — Report of a stolen vehicle on Commerce Street. The vehicle has not yet been recovered.

Williston Police also responded to 12 alarm activations, 11 motor vehicle crashes and conducted 26 traffic stops during this time frame.

December 7, 2023

• Williston Observer •

Page 15

At Merrymac Farm Sanctuary, every animal has a story

BY MERYL HARTMANN Community News Service

Each day at Merrymac Farm Sanctuary, when 8 a.m. rolls around, it’s feeding time. And like clockwork there’s always a rowdy bunch, ready to eat.

Take a recent morning at the Charlotte sanctuary as proof: Quacking ducks, the baas of sheep and bleats of goats, horses snorting, pigs and turkeys roaming about — another day was beginning for the crew of rescued animals that live new lives in this haven off Lime Kiln Road.

The goal of the sanctuary is to provide lifelong care for farm animals who have been rescued from neglect or abandonment. It aims to educate the public about animal welfare issues and promote compassionate treatment of all animals.

Founder Era MacDonald calls herself a small-town “Kentucky girl in Vermont.” She’s had animals in her life since her youth and appreciates that in the rescue realm, people work together for a common goal, rather than compete.

In her experience these last few years running Merrymac, she has been “all in” with her team to take care of the animals day and night and to accept calls for those in need of her help. Currently the sanctuary has 125 residents, MacDonald said.

“Animal intakes are never-ending,” she said, describing how she constantly receives calls from those finding animals in need.

What’s new for the sanctuary is its status as a nonprofit, formalizing its bevy of volunteers and putting in place a board of directors. It’s the latest step in putting Merrymac on the map.

Every animal there has a story, and Era remembers every single one. Take Shadow and Queen, two goats rescued from a local property last year. They had

Birds

continued from page 14

take feeders down if predators become frequent visitors.

— Don’t feed birds when bears are active. Most bears are in dens from Dec. 1 to April 1, but some will delay hibernation or re-emerge to feed during periods of warmer weather. Remove bird feeders immediately if you see signs of bears or know a bear is active in your community.

Bears that learn to associate food with a house will continue to return, potentially leading to property damage and dangerous encounters with people. It is illegal to feed bears in Vermont.

— Once you’ve started feeding the birds, keep your feeders stocked. Although wild birds are not entirely dependent on bird-feeders, they can become accustomed

Kids gather around horses at Merrymac Farm Sanctuary in Charlotte as part of an afterschool program.

COURTESY PHOTO BY ERA MACDONALD

been forced to eat rotten food and were suffering from permanent foot issues and viral infections.

Or one of the sanctuary’s newest residents, a pig named Tucker, who arrived in September after he outgrew his home in Pennsylvania and his owner decided to find a better place for him. Farm animals from all backgrounds are welcomed at the sanctuary — not just those that have been abused.

Teaching people about the animals they house is another priority for the sanctuary’s team. Merrymac hosts an afterschool program on Monday afternoons for kids from Charlotte and Shelburne schools to come and learn.

“People want to get involved in the cause, they just need an outlet,” said MacDonald.

People get involved through donations to fund treatment and care for the animals, volunteering to do chores or helping build new spaces for the residents.

MacDonald said it “makes her heart sing” when people reach out to help, especially those who don’t have much to to this easy food source. If you wish to stop feeding during winter months, gradually taper off the amount of food you provide rather than stopping abruptly, giving the birds a chance to find other food sources.

This is especially important when food is scarce in late winter or during periods of extreme weather.

— Report your observations. While watching your bird feeders, you can participate in one or more bird monitoring projects by looking up the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, the Great Backyard Bird Count and Project Feeder Watch. They all collect important information for understanding bird populations.

— Find a comfortable spot inside where you can watch the birds visiting your feeders. Figure out what birds they are, observe how they interact with each other and see what they prefer to eat. It’s a perfect way to get to know the birds around you better.

give but believe in the cause.

Recently, sanctuary leadership has been working to build a new indoor space for the animals to keep them more comfortable in the colder months. MacDonald said some pigs are going to be moved into the new heated area due to their lack of fur.

Additionally, the team wants to use some of the new space for educational events.

“It’s a work in progress,” she said.

“But we’ve had this whole group of volunteer builders helping us.”

People such as Merrymac board member Russ Colvin, who is a retired structural engineer, and an additional crew of volunteers, have donated hours helping build. MacDonald said that “it’s been amazing how people come on a Sunday and donate their time to help.”

She predicts the new space should be

finished around mid-December.

But it’s getting chillier, and Charlotte has seen snow already. With all the electrical heating that needs to be put into animals’ stalls to keep them warm, Macdonald said, “prepping for winter is a nightmare.”

Sanctuary staff are “running on gas fumes right now” since everything is in startup mode, she said. But MacDonald has hope that Merrymac will garner “support from this community to stay alive.”

Meryl Hartmann reported this story on assignment for The Charlotte News. The Community News Service is a program in which University of Vermont students work with professional editors to provide material for local news outlets at no cost.

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Page 16release • Williston dates: Dec.Observer 9-15, 2023 •

December 7, 2023

49 (23)

Next Week: Be an interviewer

Founded by Betty Debnam

photo cvourtesy NPS

For thousands of years, evergreen trees and bushes have been symbols, or signs, of hope during the dark, cold winters. Ancient people decorated their homes with evergreen The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center branches during the New York City winter solstice* (SOLE- in has been a beloved stis), or the shortest day symbol of the holidays of the year. (The solstice since 1931. The tree comes from the happens on Dec. 21 or Catskill Mountains in 22 each year.)

New York.

Trees that stayed green in the winter, even when other plants looked dead, reminded people that spring would come again. Ancient people hung evergreen branches over their doors and windows to protect their families and keep out evil spirits.

Christmas trees

photo by Alsandro

A sign of life

In the 1500s, Christians began bringing evergreen boughs and trees into their homes at Christmastime. They added decorations

and candles. People later switched to electric lights.

Although some Christmas trees are still harvested from the forest, about 98% are now grown on Christmas tree farms. Evergreens take from seven to 10 years to grow big enough to be used as Christmas trees.

Christmas tree farmers often have to trim the trees at the top so they look more like traditional Christmas trees. Scotch pines grow at a Christmas tree farm near East The Scotch Lansing, Michigan. pine is the most popular Christmas tree sold in the U.S.

photo by Ken Hammond, courtesy USDA

All the beautiful Christmas trees, pine boughs, wreaths and holly decorations we enjoy at this time of year come from evergreens. Their leaves stay green on the plant all year round.

This week, The Mini Page learns more about these beautiful plants.

Evergreens are often the only trees able to grow high in the mountains, as here at Olympic National Park in Washington.

Cold-weather trees

Most plants lose their leaves in the fall when it turns colder. This strategy protects the rest of the plant. Plants usually lose their leaves when conditions in the environment, such as drought or cold, become too harsh for the plant.

Evergreens have a different way of surviving. They keep their leaves on. As the weather turns colder, chemicals in evergreens begin to change. Special parts of their leaves change fats, proteins and sugars into a kind of antifreeze. This antifreeze substance allows the leaves to stay on the tree during the cold winter.

Christmas trees are conifers (KAHNuh-firs), or trees that hold their seeds in cones. Most conifers are evergreens. These include pines, spruces and firs.

Conifers have leaves shaped like needles. The thin needles offer more surface area for absorbing sunlight.

Their shape allows them to hold on to water better Scotch pine needles than flat leaves. The leaves are also covered with a waxy substance that helps seal in water.

photo courtesy The National Christmas Tree Association

Evergreen Season

A different kind of tree

Mini Fact:

Staying alive

Conifers have developed many different strategies for survival. For example, one of the oldest trees in the world is a bristlecone pine that is The Gran Abuelo about 5,000 years old. tree in Chile’s This pine can shut itself Alerce Costero down in times of stress, National Park is such as severe drought. believed to be the oldest living tree Then, when the rains in the world. come again, it wakes up.

photo by Patagonia/Argentina

Issue 49, 2023

Resources On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPevergreens

At the library:

• “Christmas Tree Farm” by Ann Purmell • “Pick a Pine Tree” by Patricia Toht • “The Magic Christmas Trees” by Karen diCristofaro Mondragon

The Mini Page® © 2023 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of evergreen trees are hidden in this puzzle.

Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: CHEMICALS, CHRISTMAS, COLD, CONIFER, DECORATION, DROUGHT, EVERGREEN, FARMS, FIR, LIGHTS, MOUNTAINS, NEEDLE, PINE, SOLSTICE, SPRUCE, SURVIVE,

R E E E F R I T N A O G C Y

L S P R I I M I R R G R N I I H A E V E T F R R P S U G W Y S R L M O

F V V R E S U

E E E S C R N

A R L D C U Y M I T A E T A

F E R B S Y I

K L C E N H P S R O L I L O S Q C T N S M

Teddy: What did the beaver say to the Christmas tree?

Twila: “Been nice gnawing you”!

Eco Note Thousands of rhinos, bred in an unsuccessful attempt to reduce the

Christmas trees

In the 1500s, Christians began bringing evergreen boughs and trees into their homes at Christmastime. They added decorations

• “Christmas Tree Farm” by Ann Purmell • “Pick a Pine Tree” by Patricia Toht • “The Magic Christmas Trees” by Karen diCristofaro Mondragon December 7, 2023 • Williston Observer • Page 17

change fats, proteins and sugars into a kind of antifreeze. This antifreeze substance allows the leaves to stay on the tree during the cold winter.

The Mini Page® © 2023 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of evergreen trees are hidden in this puzzle.

Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: CHEMICALS, CHRISTMAS, COLD, CONIFER, DECORATION, DROUGHT, EVERGREEN, FARMS, FIR, LIGHTS, MOUNTAINS, NEEDLE, PINE, SOLSTICE, SPRUCE, SURVIVE, SYMBOL, TREE, WINTER, YEARS.

R E E E F R I T N A O G C Y V D R E N D

L S P R I I M I R R G R N I I H A E V E T F R R P S U G W Y S R L M O E C O R A T N I W Z L O C C H

Teddy: What did the beaver say to the Christmas tree?

Twila: “Been nice gnawing you”!

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

Eco Note Thousands of rhinos, bred in an unsuccessful attempt to reduce the impact of poaching, or illegal hunting, will soon be released in the African savanna. The African Parks organization says it will release the entire population of about 2,000 white rhinos across Africa during the next 10 years.

Experts say that before the animals can be released, they need to be toughened up for life in the wild and taught how to find food in their new homes. The rhinos may also be targeted by poachers there for their valuable horns. adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

Cook’s Corner • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon salt • pinch of cayenne pepper • juice of 1/2 lime

What to do: 1. Heat oil in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish in a preheated oven (375 degrees) for 5 minutes.

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

3. Meanwhile, mix together brown sugar and spices. Add brown sugar mixture to potatoes and stir to coat. Roast for another 10 minutes until potatoes are light brown.

4. Drain potatoes on paper towels; transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with lime juice. Serves 6 to 8.

The Mini Page® © 2023 Andrews McMeel Syndication

You’ll need: • 1/4 cup canola oil • 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

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

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

For later:

Look through your newspaper for ads from Christmas tree farms in your area.

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

Page 18

• Williston Observer • December 7, 2023

SAVVY SENIOR How to ease the winter blues

By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about seasonal affective disorder?

I’ve always disliked winter, but since I retired and am home a lot more, the gray, cold winter months make me feel really blue.

Sad Sam Dear Sam, If you get depressed in the winter but feel better in spring and summer, you may indeed have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD — a wintertime depression that affects roughly 5 per-

cent of Americans.

In most cases, SAD is related to the loss of sunlight in the winter months. Reduced sunlight can upset natural sleep-wake cycles and other circadian rhythms that can affect the body. It can also cause a drop in the brain chemical serotonin, which affects mood, and can increase the levels of the hormone melatonin, which can make you feel more tired and lethargic.

If you think you may have SAD, a trip to your doctor’s office is the best way to diagnose it, or you can take a SAD “self-assessment” test at the Center for Environmental Therapeutics website at www.CET.org/assessments. If you find that you have SAD, here are several treatment options and remedies that can help.

Light therapy: The most effective treatment for SAD is sitting in front of a specialized light therapy box for 20-30 min-

utes a day, within the first hour of waking up in the morning. Light therapy mimics outdoor light to cause a change in brain chemicals linked to mood.

While you can buy a light box without a prescription, it’s best to use it under the guidance of a health care provider and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Most health insurance plans do not cover the cost.

The best light therapy lamps provide 10,000 lux of illumination, many times stronger than typical indoor light, and have a diffuser screen that filters out ultraviolet rays and projects downward toward the eyes.

Some top-rated light therapy products include the Carex DayLight Classic Plus Bright Lamp ($145); Northern Light Technology Boxelite-OS ($205); and the budget-friendly Verilux HappyLight Luxe ($70), all of which are available at Amazon.com.

Cognitive behavioral therapy: Even though SAD is considered to be a biological problem, identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns can help alleviate symptoms too. To help you with this, choose a therapist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and who has experience in treating SAD. To locate someone in your area, Psychology Today offers a search tool at www.PsychologyToday. com/us/therapists/cognitive-behavioral-cbt.

Antidepressants: Some people with SAD benefit from antidepressant treatments. Some proven medications to ask your doctor about are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and the extended-release antidepressant bupropion.

But keep in mind that it may take several weeks to notice full benefits from an antidepressant.

In addition, you may have to try

different medications before you find one that works well for you and has the fewest side effects.

Lifestyle remedies: Some other things you can do to help alleviate your SAD symptoms include making your environment sunnier and brighter. So, open up your blinds, sit closer to bright windows and get outside as much as you can. Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help, especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning.

Moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga and even tai chi can also help alleviate SAD symptoms, as can social activities.

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.

We’re listening.

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www.WillistonObserver.com

HOLIDAY SOCK DRIVE The Williston Observer is collecting new, comfortable socks to donate to area nursing homes.

Help us show our seniors we care!

Please drop off your donations by Dec. 15 at:

Williston Coffee Shop 400 Cornerstone Drive, Williston

Williston Optometry 33 Blair Park Rd., Williston

December 7, 2023

• Williston Observer •

Page 19

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 23

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

• In 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing 2,403 American service members and civilians.

• In 1999, the Recording Industry Association of America filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against the online file-sharing service Napster.

• In 2002, Iraq denied that it had weapons of mass destruction in a United Nations declaration.

TODAY’S FACT:

• Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, the Senate voted for a war resolution 82-0. The House of Representatives approved the resolution 388-1.

SUDOKU • SOLUTION ON PAGE 23

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Page 20

• Williston Observer • December 7, 2023

OBITUARIES

Charlotte I. Marcotte Charlotte I. Marcotte of Essex Junction, VT and formerly of Williston, VT passed away peacefully after a few years of declining health Nov. 28, 2023. Charlotte

was predeceased by her husband Robert (Bob) A. Marcotte and her daughter Carolyn Marcotte.

“Boots”, her childhood nickname for her habit of wearing her father’s boots around the farm, was born on Jan. 30, 1931, to George and Sylvia (Wellinger) Isham of Williston. Charlotte grew up on the family farm in Williston with her 13 brothers and sisters — 7 of them will join us to celebrate their sisters’ well lived life of almost 93 years.

Charlotte left the farm when she married her husband Bob Aug. 30, 1952, and spent a busy remainder of her life making a home for her 5 children, John, David, Maureen, Brian and Carolyn, and her husband. As her children’s spouses, grand kids and great grandkids entered the picture over her many years, her life really blossomed.

She truly enjoyed being the maternal head of a large family. She was a proficient cook and always en-

joyed so much having family gatherings at their home in Pinewood Manor in Essex. Often a gathering of 30 to 40 people or more was enjoyed, and no one left hungry.

For the past 6 years (approximately) Charlotte lived at Mansfield Place in Essex, first in assisted living on the third floor with amazing views of Mount Mansfield and Camels Hump. She always enjoyed outdoor views whether it was birds, deer, people in the neighborhood pool near her home, cars going by in Pinewood Manor, or the beauty of Vermont’s mountains. When finally necessary, she moved to the memory center at Mansfield Place where her extended family was able to visit and keep her company for her remaining time in this world.

As her memory of current events faded, it was fun to hear her reminisce about long ago happenings in her youth growing up

on the farm. She and her siblings may have been a bit mischievous playing in the hay loft at times and scampering around the fields surrounding the farmhouse. To the very end of her days, she was very peaceful, pleasant to be around and contented with the results of her long life.

She had many of her family with her as she very comfortably and peacefully passed into the next chapter of her existence in the eternal world where we imagine her reunited with her husband, Bob, daughter, Carolyn, Momma and Poppa, and her brothers, sisters and friends who predeceased her. I’m sure there are potluck dinners being prepared and enjoyed.

The family wishes to send our sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone at Mansfield Place for their 6 years of caring for and becoming a part of her family until the final day. This care was invalu-

able and so comforting.

In lieu of flowers please consider sending a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association of VT, www. alz.org/vermont, in Charlotte’s name to help battle and find a cure for this terrible disease.

On Dec. 10 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. her family and friends are invited to gather at Ready Funeral Home, the Mountain View Chapel, 68 Pinecrest Drive, Essex Jct., VT to mingle and pay their respects.

At about 1:30 a brief informal celebration of her life will be held and anyone who wishes to share any memories of Charlotte will be able to do so. In the spring of 2024 the family will have a private internment ceremony at East End Cemetery in Williston.

Arrangements are in care of the Ready Funeral and Cremation Services. To send online condolences please visit www.readyfuneral. com.

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December 7, 2023

OBITUARIES

Patricia A. Crone Patricia A. Crone, 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023 at Berlin Health and Rehab Center in Berlin, VT. Born Feb. 20, 1932, in Albany, NY, she was the daughter of Harry H. Raeder and Vieva A. (Kibby) Raeder. The family resided in Kenmore, NY for most of her childhood.

After graduating from Kenmore Senior High School, she attended Lasell College and received an associate degree in retailing.

On Dec. 29, 1953, she married Richard P. Crone in Kenmore, NY. They raised three sons Alfred P.

Page 21

Crone, Lawrence F. Crone and Bryan R. Crone in Williamsville, NY. Her true passion was raising purebred dogs. She raised many different breeds of dogs during her lifetime. Her two prized golden retrievers earned both American and Canadian Kennel Club obedience titles.

Patricia and Richard travelled extensively in North America and Europe. They enjoyed sailing, and collecting antiquarian maps, prints and books. She also enjoyed bowling and rug hooking.

In 1988, Patricia and Richard relocated to the Champlain Valley. They resided in Williston, Essex and then Shelburne. Patricia worked at Porteous department store in Burlington.

Patricia was a kind, caring and strong person, who was there as a caregiver for family members when needed.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 50 years Richard P. Crone, her sons Alfred P. Crone and Bryan R. Crone, and her brothers Robert C. Raeder and Arthur C. Raeder.

She is survived by her son Lawrence F. Crone and his wife Debra (Palmer) Crone of Barnet, VT, her grandsons David A. Crone, his wife Amber (Farquharson) Crone of Kennebunk, ME, and Bradley R. Crone of Port Richey, FL, and her great-grandchildren Aurora, Emily, and Logan, as well as a niece and several nephews.

Her family thanks the staff of Berlin Health and Rehab Center for the kindness and care provided to Patricia.

The service to honor and celebrate her life will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Chittenden County or your local animal shelter.

Last week to remember our community’s elders!

The deadline to donate new, comfy socks to be distributed to Williston’s older residents is Dec. 15. Drop off at Williston Coffee Shop or Williston Optometry.

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When you shop for yourself, Remember the Shelf!

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WE NEED YOUR HELP! We especially need items for kids’ breakfasts and lunches. And items for holiday dinners are also appreciated at this time of the year.

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Delford Harland Burton, 88, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Nov. 27, 2023 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

He was born on Dec. 11, 1934 in Rutland, Vt. Son of the late Richard and Madeline Burton.

He was predeceased by his wife Myrn and son Raymond.

He is survived by his children: Bobby-Ray and his wife Linda Popkes; Sheryl and her husband Gary Asper; daughter-in-law AnneMarie Lapierre Burton; Donald Burton and his wife Joan; Nanette and her husband Donald Tougas; Laurel and her husband Ronald Paquette; William Burton and his life partner Jeanne Grimes; his brother Henry and his wife Shirley; and several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was a member of the US Air Force in the radar division from 1951 until 1966. He worked at Roy’s Mobile Homes, Union Carbide in St. Albans, in building maintenance for the State of Vermont and at MVUHS before moving to Connecticut and working at Canadair.

He moved to Naples, Florida when he retired and then to South

Williston Observer •

CONTRACTORS | HOME-OWNERS

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Delford Harland Burton

Dakota before eventually moving back to Vermont. He lived his last 6 years at Memory Care at Allen Brook in Williston where he was well loved and cared for by the staff.

He will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor, which he used right up to his passing.

A private memorial service will be held in the spring of 2024.

The family wishes to thank Age Well, Memory Care at Allen Brook, the VA, and Hospice for the wonderful love and care they gave him. You are all truly angels in our eyes.

•

Page 22

• Williston Observer • December 7, 2023 Tuesdays, Dec. 12 and 19, 10:3011 a.m. Drop in for stories and fun.

AFTER SCHOOL STEAM FUN ACTIVITY

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library 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 and to register for programs where required.

Need help? Call (802) 878-4918 or email daml@damlvt.org.

YOUTH PROGRAMS Children in fourth grade and younger must be supervised by

12-plus. Join our teen advisory board. You bring the thoughts, we bring the food.

BABY TIME

Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2-3 p.m.

Experiment with STEAM at the library.

Wednesday, Dec. 20, 10:30-11 a.m. Enjoy gentle activities with your baby.

FRENCH STORYTIME

PRESCHOOL MUSIC AND PLAYTIME

AFTER SCHOOL MOVIE

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Drop in for stories read aloud by a native French speaker.

Thursdays, Dec. 14 and 21, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Enjoy music, then stay to play.

POKÉMON CLUB

LEGO TIME

Monday, Dec. 11, 4-5 p.m. Stop in for activities and show off favorite cards.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 3-4 p.m.

Build something with the library’s LEGO collection.

TEEN MOVIE NIGHTS

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Monday, Dec. 11, 5-7:15 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 20, 5-7:45 p.m.

Ages 12-plus. PG. Get your cloak and broom ready for some first- and second-year shenanigans.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 4-5 p.m.

Learn how to make German pancakes with sauteed fruit with Joanne Heidkamp, registered dietician, in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Register online at www.damlvt.org.

someone over 16 years of age.

STORYTIME

TEENS D&D

SHELBURNE Human Resources Coordinator $24 - $28 hourly DOQ Full-time with a great Town Office team and excellent local government benefits.

The Town of Shelburne team has grown to require a dedicated human resources professional. Help all our staff achieve their best, and cultivate the spirit of public service in our town. This coordinator will support all of our departments in the full suite of HR routines and special projects. The ideal candidate has related education and experience in human resources work, including recruiting, benefits administration, training, and problem solving. We are excited to shape this position to the skills and interests of the right candidate.

Visit www.shelburnevt.org/jobs to see the full job description and application. To apply, email scannizzaro@shelburnevt.org. Review of applications begins immediately.

The Town of Shelburne is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 5-6 p.m.

Ages 12-plus. Join our Dungeons & Dragons campaign.

LITTLES DUNGEONS & DRAGONS

Saturday, Dec. 16, 1-2 p.m. A mini session of Dungeons & Dragons for children ages 6-8. No prior experience required. Adults should stay to help their campaigner(s).

Register each individual child that plans to participate.

TEEN NIGHT: FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Monday, Dec. 18, 5-6 p.m. Ages

Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2-4 p.m.

PG. Celebrate what makes you “you,” magic or no magic.

MULTI-AGE PROGRAMS GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Decorate a gingerbread house to take home. Register online at www. damlvt.org and indicate your preferred time to stop in. Thanks to the Friends of the Library for sponsoring this event.

VERMONT READS: “LAST NIGHT AT THE TELEGRAPH CLUB”

Pick up a copy of this year’s Vermont Reads book at the Library (also available in Libby/Overdrive).

Through Jan. 31, submit a family recipe with a 3-5 sentence story for a chance to win a cookie decorating set. Details at www.damlvt.org.

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

ADULT MEDITATION (ONLINE)

Fridays in December, 12-12:30 p.m. Join our online guided medi-

tation.

MAH JONGG

Fridays, Dec. 8 and 15, 1-3 p.m.

Drop in to play this popular tile game.

FRENCH CONVERSATION

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Brush up on your French language skills.

CURRENT EVENTS

Wednesdays, Dec. 13 and Dec. 20 (special date for this month only).

Drop in to discuss topics of the day.

LIFE STORIES (ONLINE)

Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2-3:30 p.m. Come prepared with a story to share, or choose a story using the prompt provided.

AFTER HOURS BOOK CLUB

Wednesday, Dec. 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m. “I’ll Be Your Blue Sky” by Marisa De Los Santos.

BOOK CLUB BUFFET (ONLINE)

Tuesday, Dec. 19, 12:30-1:30 p.m. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. TECH TUTOR

Wednesday, Dec. 20, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Call to reserve a time slot for help with your tech.

COOKIE SWAP

Thursday, Dec. 21, 12-5 p.m.

Drop off two dozen individually wrapped cookies and a copy of your recipe. On Friday, Dec. 22 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., pick up a lovely assortment of cookies.

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE INOGEN ONE G5 PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR. —

Included with concentrator is extra battery, carrying case AC & DC power cords. Like new condition. Call 802-922-5145 or email lllvt@msn.

LEGAL

Harvest Lane, Williston (use north entrance) or Zoom Meeting ID 846 5863 3532 on zoom.us/ join or call 1-646-558-8656

on an existing ±10.38-ac parcel to create a ±6.35-ac lot for the existing home, 1 ±1.86-ac lot, and 1 ±2.18-acre lot for 2 new dwellings at 1318 Butternut Rd in the ARZD.

DP 11-08.1 Vermont State University requests a discretionary permit for a Master Sign Plan at 201 Lawrence Pl. & 72 Helena Dr. in the BPZD.

DP 24-10 Pre-App N. Williston Cattle Co. requests pre-app review of a proposed 3-lot subdivision to create 2 parcels for existing dwellings and 1 open space lot at 347 Fay Ln in the ARZD. No new dwellings will be created.

TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, December 12, 2023 – 7:00 PM

DP 24-08 Pre-App Jim and Lucy McCullough request pre-app review of a proposed residential subdivision on an existing ±10.48-ac to create 39 new dwelling units at 88 Mtn. View Rd in the RZD. The application includes 2 concept layouts.

Williston Recreations “R.E.C. Zone” 94

DP 24-09 Pre-App Anna Benedetto requests pre-app review of a proposed 3-lot subdivision

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

Last week to remember our community’s elders!

This new position is a priority for the Shelburne Selectboard, to enhance all of the Town’s services.

The deadline to donate new, comfy socks to be distributed to Williston’s older residents is Dec. 15. Drop off at Williston Coffee Shop or Williston Optometry.

December 7, 2023

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

SUDOKU SOLUTION

Puzzle found on page 19

•

Williston Observer •

Page 23

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

Puzzle found on page 19

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Page 24 •

Williston Observer •

December 7, 2023

Dispatchers at the new Vermont State Police Williston barracks provide emergency communications and dispatching services to the Vermont State Police and other law-enforcement and first-response agencies throughout the northern half of the state.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VERMONT STATE POLICE

Barracks

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provide primary law enforcement services for the towns of Bolton, Buels Gore, Charlotte, Huntington, Jericho, St. George, Underhill, and Westford in Chittenden County, and Belvidere, Cambridge, Eden, Elmore and Waterville in Lamoille County.

Troopers also provide assistance as requested to local police departments including Burling-

ton, Colchester, Essex, Hinesburg, Milton, Morristown, Richmond, Shelburne, South Burlington, Stowe, Williston and Winooski as well as the University of Vermont Police Department and the sheriffs’ departments in Chittenden and Lamoille counties.

The Williston Barracks also patrols 40 miles of interstate highway within Chittenden County.

A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony is expected to be held at a later date.

Winged wonder Madeleine Dawson recently captured this photo of a Cedar Waxwing in front of berries outside her Highlands Drive home.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Williston Holiday Decorating Contest

recr Ema il p eat i to b ion@w ctures e vi to illis ewe t d & on. vt jud .org ged

2023

Show your holiday spirit and join this friendly competition while infusing cheer throughout the community whether you’re a Williston residence or business! Decorate to win a prize, for the bragging rights, or just to share your festive decorations — we want YOU to participate!

Judging: Online voting link coming soon!

DECORATING CATEGORIES:

Residential: To judge: get addresses of participants at recreation@willis- 1. “Traditional/Refined” (Keep it classic!) tonvt.org; drive by from 5:30-7 p.m., Dec. 22-29; vote online. 2. “Fun/Festive” (Inflatables & yard décor welcome!)

3. “Multi-Family Housing” (Apt.,condos, etc. - decorate the Winners Announced January 4 personal space that is viewable from the street!)

For Rules and Two Residential Winners Guidelines visit One Business Winner Business: “People’s Choice Award” recreation@ willistonvt.org

PRIZES:

Residential: Gift baskets and gift cards from Williston businesses plus “bragging rights” lawn signs!

Business: $1,000 advertising package from the Williston Observer plus a “Bragging rights” lawn sign!

Register prior to Sunday, Dec. 17 at willistonvt.myrec.com