Williston Observer 12/14/2023 by Williston Observer

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DECEMBER 14, 2023

Townwide property reappraisal postponed

Real estate values have climbed well above what the Town of Williston is assessing property at for taxing purposes. That’s why Williston was among the majority of Vermont municipalities due for a townwide reappraisal in 2024. Last done in 2016, a reappraisal would have affected the tax liability for nearly every property owner in town. But legislation passed earlier this year repealed the previous trigger point for reappraisals. The state used to mandate reappraisals when the assessed value of property in a town fell below 85 percent of the market value. With the new law, reappraisals will be triggered by a term of art in the property assessment profession called the coefficient of dispersion.

‘Kind of a free-for-all’ WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

“I do not foresee us reappraising any earlier than 2027.” Bill Hinman Williston assessor

The coefficient of dispersion (COD) is a measure of how uniform the difference between assessed and market values are among neighbors. “It gives us our best glance at what we are doing in town as far as equitably assessing properties,” Williston Assessor Bill Hinman said. “The goal is that everybody pays taxes based on what they own.” Under the new law, when a town’s COD climbs above 20 percent, a reappraisal will be ordered. Williston’s COD currently sits at 12 percent, according to Hinman. Given that difference, he expects the state won’t be requiring a Williston reappraisal for several years. “I do not foresee us reappraising any earlier than 2027,” Hinman said. When a reappraisal is mandated, the new law puts the state’s Department of Taxes in charge of undertaking the task. In the past, municipalities hired contractors to do the job. This Friday, Jill Remick, the state director of property valuation and review, is required by the law to submit a reappraisal schedule for every Vermont municipality. “We’ll have to wait and see what the state’s priorities are,” Hinman said. “The larger suburban communities like we have in Chittenden County will probably be (reappraised) later, rather than earlier.” — Jason Starr

Walmart employees recently requested a more visible presence from Williston police officers in their Taft Corners store during the holiday season. OBSERVER PHOTO BY JASON STARR

Police try to coordinate with retailers to stanch shoplifting spree BY JASON STARR Observer staff Cristalee McSweeney describes a scene during a recent shopping trip to Marshalls in Taft Corners when she witnessed a group of people take suitcases that are for sale in the store and tote them around filling them with merchandise. She alerted a store employee to the apparent larceny and was told store policy prevents them from intervening, or even calling police. McSweeney then saw the thieves walk out the door with the merchandise. “Not a care in the world,” she recalled of their demeanor. As executive director of the Williston Community Justice Center, where retail theft cases are often adjudicated, McSweeney is more aware than most of the spike in retail theft in Taft Corners — a regional retail hub with multiple national chain stores. “This is happening on a daily basis, several times a day,” she said.

The assumption in law enforcement is that people stealing from Williston’s stores are feeding a drug addiction. But there is a criminal organization to it that reaches beyond local addicts, according to Jim Baker, a town-hired consultant who recently released a report about policing in Williston. “The folks that we’re catching are not the organization,” Baker said while delivering the report to the selectboard Dec. 5. “There is someone behind that, and there’s a level of organization that is not getting addressed now because agencies in the county are shorthanded,” Williston Police Chief Patrick Foley is hoping to fill a long-vacant detective position in the department, but says his first priority is to fully staff patrols. A detective would give the department a chance to disrupt the organized element of the theft-drug trade. “They’ve been told, ‘if you want drugs. I need you to go get this item.’ And they tell them exactly what they want,” Foley

said. “Those are the people we want to go after … That’s the value of having a detective who could follow these people around, do surveillance and find out who they are bringing the stuff to. That’s what you need to do. “These are career people who deal in stolen goods,” he added. “They are not novice. They’re career criminals.” McSweeney has gained some insights from her interactions with shoplifters who do get caught and come through the Community Justice Center. While some of the stolen goods are sold locally through online platforms, much of the merchandise is being transported to larger cities out of state, she has been told. “People are handing the goods over to organizers coming from the inner cities,” McSweeney said. “It’s not being organized in Vermont. It’s coming from Springfield, Boston, Brockton, New York City, Montreal … That’s what I think. I can only go by what my clients share see THEFT page 10

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Williston Observer • December 14, 2023

PROPERTY TRANSFERS NOVEMBER 2023

Around Town along eight different routes, supported by adult leaders from the town’s rec department, Sustainable Williston, the Williston Energy Committee and the Williston police and fire departments. The next Walk to School Day is scheduled for Jan. 11. Contact coordinator Amy Brewer at abrewer@nmcinc.org for more information.

Rotary speech contest for high school students offers cash prizes Maeve Phelan, center, participates with fellow Williston Central School students in a Walk to School day from the Southridge neighborhood last Tuesday. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Winter walk attracts about 50 Williston students Safe Routes to School, an initiative from the nonprofit Local Motion, is sponsoring a series of “Walk to School” days in Williston this school year to promote walking or biking among the Williston Central School student population. Last Tuesday was the second event of the year, and it attracted about 50 students

The Williston-Richmond Rotary Club invites high school students who reside in Williston, Richmond and St. George, regardless of where they attend school, to participate in the annual Rotary Speech Contest. Each contestant is to prepare and deliver a five-minute speech on this year’s theme: “How can we increase hope in our schools?” The first round of the contest will take place in Williston in mid-January with the final round taking place at the Rotary district conference in Fairlee, Vt., in late April. Cash prizes are awarded to winners at each level of the contest with total potential winnings of $1,750. For complete information about the contest and how to register, email Barbara LeWinter at lewinterb@yahoo.com.

• Colin Anderson bought a home on Oak Hill Road from John Barth, Jr. for $880,500. • Zachary Wengrovius bought a home on Chloe Circle from Leonard Lambert for $750,000. • Mario Nardelli bought a mobile home on French Hill Manor from Morgan Benoit for $20,000. • Jaclyn Raia bought a home on Williston Road from Brooke Kelley Reagan for $416,000. • 4SQ Williston LLC bought a home on Jakes Way from Tyler Wainer for $555,000. • Russell Japikse bought a home on 4 acres on St. George Road from Jenny Parker for $15,000. • Snyder Williston Properties LLC bought a home on 52 acres on Alpine Drive and Beaudry Lane from the Essex Alliance Church for $3.5 million. • Snyder Annex Lot 2A LLC bought 2 acres of open land on Alpine Drive from the Essex Alliance Church for $493,750. • Rieley Properties LLC bought 2 acres of open land on Alpine Drive from the Essex Alliance Church for $1.48 million.

• Chandelle Johnson bought a mobile home on Sugarbush Road from Marcia Pressey for $250,000. • The LP Korich Family Trust bought a home on Fieldstone Drive from Stephen Hackett for $960,000. • Jennifer Woods bought a condominium on Honeysuckle Lane from Linda Wilkinson for $570,000. • Rita Berube bought a condominium on Churchview Drive from Madison Tourville for $482,000. • The Leblanc Boisvert Family Trust bought a home on Katie Lane from the Leblanc Boisvert family for $764,900. • June Tomasi bought a mobile home on Stonehill Road from Theresa Drouin for $240,000. • Andrea Smith bought a condominium on Southview Lane from Christopher Farnsworth for $340,000.

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December 14, 2023 •

Shelburne Post Office damaged in car crash A car crashed into the Shelburne Post Office last Wednesday morning when the driver mistakenly sped up while trying to park in front of the Falls Road building, according to Shelburne Police. The driver, a 75-year-old woman from South Burlington, reportedly stepped on the gas pedal instead of the brake while attempting to stop her Toyota Corolla. No one inside the building was injured and the post office remained open, according to police. “The vehicle lunged forward and struck the building causing significant damage to the main entrance,” a police news release stated.

Williston Observer •

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Santa’s helpers strut their stuff

Celebrate Christmas at the Williston Federated Church on-line or in person

An Open & Affirming, Reconciling Congregation December 17

9:30 a.m. Children's Christmas Pageant

December 20

6:30 p.m. The Longest Night Service a special service designed for those who find the holidays to be a difficult time.

December 24

9:30 a.m. Worship 5:00 p.m. Family-focused service (designed with children in mind) 7:30 p.m. Candlelight service 11:00 p.m. Community Service at the Old Brick Church

Williston Federated Church 44 N. Williston Rd. Williston, VT

WillistonFederatedChurch@gmail.com • 802 878-5792 • www.steeple.org The Vermont Reindeer Farm in West Charleston, Vt., brought “Cupid” and “Dasher” for a visit to Adams Farm Market in Williston on Sunday. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTOS

Visit our Facebook page @WillistonFederatedChurch

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Williston Observer • December 14, 2023

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Consensus builds for Act 250 changes BY CARLY BERLIN VTDigger

A new draft report recommends sweeping changes to Act 250 that, its authors say, could both boost housing development and safeguard Vermont’s most sensitive habitats. The document, requested by lawmakers, will likely help set the terms for debate over the state’s 53-year-old land-use law heading into the 2024 legislative session. A 17-person committee that included planners, engineers, attorneys and housing developers — convened by the Natural Resources Board and led by an independent facilitation team — spent months crafting the 36-page document, which was released last week. The proposal calls for exempting areas of the state that already have strong local zoning regulations from Act 250 review, a move stakeholders hope will encourage denser housing development in existing downtowns and villages. The study also calls for strengthening Act 250’s reach to more greatly protect highly sensitive natural resource areas. Lawmakers have commissioned multiple studies on the land-use law over the years. But committee members who drafted this latest report said it’s notable that those seeking stronger environmental protections, and others pushing for housing and economic development — oftentimes at loggerheads over the law — have come to some consensus over how to modernize it. “It’s pretty monumental to say that we have broad agreement that there are designated growth areas where development will be exempt from Act 250,” said member Kathy Beyer, senior vice president of the nonprofit affordable housing developer Evernorth. Rep. Seth Bongartz, D-Manchester, said he’s already developing a bill based in part on the framework outlined in the study. After hopes for more substantive Act 250 changes got dashed earlier this year, Bongartz said he thinks there’s momentum to take on the law heading into the new year. “I think what we’re doing here is really modernizing Act 250, and bringing it into the 21st century,” he said. Gov. Phil Scott “has not had the opportunity to review the full report yet,” his spokesperson, Jason Maulucci, said Friday. But, Maulucci continued, “the Governor has proposed common sense

updates to Act 250 for years, and he hopes this year the Legislature will finally recognize the urgency of our housing crisis and act accordingly.” Currently, Act 250 review is triggered when a proposed development contains certain key characteristics: things like a certain number of housing units, or the size of a commercial or industrial project. Some critics argue that the limits placed on housing units, and the sometimes circuitous process of securing a permit, stymie development and contribute to Vermont’s acute housing shortage. The framework outlined in the report recommends shifting to geographic-based triggers. The report proposes dividing Vermont into three tiers. Tier 1 would

“We have broad agreement that there are designated growth areas where development will be exempt from Act 250.” Kathy Beyer Evernorth

include areas “with the capacity for growth,” where the state wants to encourage development: places with water and sewer infrastructure and robust local zoning. There, all residential, commercial and industrial development would be exempt from Act 250. About 23 municipalities could qualify for these exemptions, and would need to go through a rigorous application process to secure them, according to the report. Others with slightly less local capacity might fall into a “Tier 1B” category, where many existing rules would still apply, but regulations around housing development would be loosened “to promote density.” Tier 2 would likely constitute “the majority of the state,” said Sabina Haskell, chair of the Natural Resources Board, which administers Act 250. There, rules would remain more or less “status quo,” she said. But a new “road rule” could mean Act 250 would kick in if a development results in 2,000 or more feet of new roads and driveways, a move aimed at stopping forest fragmentation, Haskell said. Tier 3 would constitute “ecologically important natural resource areas” see ACT 250 page 5

December 14, 2023 •

Act 250

continued from page 4

where Act 250 jurisdiction would become automatic. Brian Shupe, executive director of the Vermont Natural Resources Council, said the added protection “acknowledges that there are certain areas that really, even minimal development can have a profound impact on natural resources.” To him, the tiered framework strikes “the right balance” between encouraging compact growth and protecting “rural natural areas, forestland and farmland.” Just where and how to draw the boundaries of these three tiers remains an open question. “It can’t take so long that we’re still fighting over mapping in 15 years and haven’t made any progress,” said Megan Sullivan, vice president of government affairs for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, who served on the report committee. Members of the report committee emphasized that the recommendations laid out in the report are a compromise, and should be considered as a whole package, not an a la carte menu. “We can move forward with one piece if we know that those other pieces are also going to happen,” said Sullivan. Along with the three-tier model, the study suggests changing other aspects of how Act 250 works. It proposes shifting the existing citizen-based Natural Resources Board to a professional board, where members have relevant experience in engineering, law or land use planning. Haskell likened the new structure to be more akin to the Public Utility Commission, and said the change could address common complaints about the unpredictable and inconsistent administration of Act 250. A virtual public meeting for feedback on the report will be held on Thursday, Dec. 14, at 5:30 p.m. To participate, visit: https://nrb.vermont.gov/virtual-public-meeting-12-14-23 This story, by Report for America corps member Carly Berlin, was produced through a partnership between VTDigger and Vermont Public.

Williston Observer •

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Williston Observer • December 14, 2023

GUEST COLUMN

Williston

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Notes from Town Hall BY ERIK WELLS Williston Town Manager Greetings Williston community. There are several updates to share from Town Hall this month as we close out 2023 and prepare to welcome 2024. FISCAL YEAR 2025 BUDGET REVIEW

The town is preparing for Town Meeting Day 2024 on March 5 by developing the municipal budget to deliver town services for fiscal year 2025 (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025). In my role as town manager, I am tasked by the Town Charter to deliver a draft budget to the selectboard to begin the review process each year. I presented a general overview of the draft budget proposal at the Dec. 5 selectboard meeting. The selectboard then held a budget review meeting on Dec. 9 to hear an overview of each department’s budget. A public hearing is planned for Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall to receive public feedback on

the initial budget proposal. From there, the selectboard will deliberate on the budget over the course of multiple meetings in January to finalize the proposal for Town Meeting in March. All meetings are public meetings, and the community is encouraged to attend. All meetings will also be available over Zoom and recorded. The manager’s draft budget proposal and overview presentation is available to view on the town website at https:// www.town.williston.vt.us/budget. WILLISTON POLICING SERVICES ANALYSIS REPORT

Consultant Jim Baker has completed an analysis of our police department services to assist in planning for the future needs of the department for its ongoing delivery of services to the community. The report was presented to the selectboard on Nov. 7 with a follow-up discussion on Dec. 5. The report is available to read online with the meeting materials from both selectboard meetings. The report provides sever-

al findings and recommendations, along with a framework to expand the department over five years with a focus on the co-production of public safety by establishing a new community outreach unit, along with increasing the size of the patrol division and reestablishing a criminal investigation unit. I encourage all members of the community to read the report. The selectboard will be discussing the next steps to take from the report in January. GLASER PARCEL SPECIFIC PLAN PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED

The selectboard will hold a public hearing on Jan. 16 at 7:30 p.m. to receive comment on proposed amendments to the Unified Development Bylaw and Comprehensive Plan as part of a Specific Plan for the Glaser Parcel. The Glaser Specific Plan proposes an approximately 109-unit residential subdivision with the provision of about 50 acres of open space donated to the town as a substantial benefit. Jack and Caitlin Gla-

ser own about 97 acres at 1095 Old Stage Road, located at the southwest corner of Mountain View Road and Old Stage Road. The open space offered to the Town includes roughly 15 acres of viewshed along Mountain View Road with views to the Green Mountains, a view that is identified in the town plan, and about 35 acres of pasture, wetland and forest, in alignment with broader town plan goals to support working landscapes and conservation. The Planning Office will hold a pre-hearing public information session on Thursday, Jan. 11 from 12-1 p.m. on Zoom. Visit the town website and navigate to “public records & documents/legal notices” for information on how to join this session over Zoom, and for complete information about the specific plan proposal. I wish you all an enjoyable holiday season. You can always connect with me through email at ewells@willistonvt.org, at my desk at (802) 876-1168 or on Instagram @willistonvt_tm. See you around town.

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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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December 14, 2023 •

An open letter from school superintendent, Hinesburg town manager Editor’s Note: This letter was written jointly by Champlain Valley School District Superintendent Rene Sanchez and Hinesburg Town Manager Todd Odit in response to a recent incident at Hinesburg Community School (“Students find loaded gun, drugs outside Hinesburg school” – Dec. 7). We are writing as representatives of the Champlain Valley School District, Hinesburg Community School, the Hinesburg Police Department and the Town of Hinesburg to address the incident at Hinesburg Community School on Dec. 1. We understand there was great concern and worry about the incident involving the discovery of a firearm and illicit drugs on Hinesburg Community School property. As a result, we have met to address our parts in how this incident played out in the community. We are committed to addressing these issues and working toward a robust and effective partnership in the future. First and foremost, we wish to acknowledge the need for better communication and collaboration between our school district and the police department. We understand that this has caused concern among parents, staff

and community members, and we apologize for any distress or confusion this may have caused. We have come together to build an understanding of the sequence of last Friday’s event. We reached an agreement for many of the events and now recognize that misunder-

Misunderstandings in communications and authority impacted the response. standings in communications and authority impacted the response. Moving forward, we are dedicated to establishing open lines of communication. To facilitate this, we identified and agreed to these five commitments: frequent and regular communication; the need to repair; shared policy and procedures; memorandum of understanding; and monthly school safety meet-

Williston Observer •

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Williston Observer • December 14, 2023 NEW YEAR’S EVE BURLINGTON, VERMONT

2023

A VERMONT-MADE REVELRY OF ART & IDEAS

HIGHLIGHTBTV.COM

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Shelburne photographer Jim Westphalen positions his camera tripod in front a pair of old homes.

‘The beauty in decay’

COMMUNITY NEWS SERVICE COURTESY PHOTO

Shelburne photographer chronicles Vermont’s old barns BY CECILIA LARSON Community News Service

Prekindergarten Lottery is now open for 2024-2025!

Shelburne’s Jim Westphalen Prekindergarten Lottery is now open for 2024-2025! has become increasingly well-

The CVSD Early Education Program is now accepting applications for known in Vermont, where he a randomProgram prekindergarten lottery drawing applications for the 2024-25 for school Early Education is now accepting a random makes photographic subjects of year.drawing This lottery is for opportunity to enroll in oneThis of our school-is for moldering rural scenes. rten lottery for thean2024-25 school year. lottery an opportunity based classrooms which run 10 hours per week. Our school-based This year he released “Vanne of ourprekindergarten school-based classrooms which run 10 hours per week. Our schoolclassrooms are 5 STARs, licensed early education ish: Disappearing ndergarten classrooms are 5play-based, STARs, developmentally licensed earlyappropriate education programs that Icons of a Ruprograms that provide ral America” — a film telling the -based, environments developmentally appropriate environments all children in an inclusive for all children in an inclusive setting. Ourfor curriculum story of his most recent body of en Lottery forLearning 2024-2025! is based onnow the Vermont Early Standards (VELS). curriculum is is based onopen the Vermont Early Learning Standards (VELS). work: elegiac photos of decaying barns and buildings across the

Our follow the CVSD school Children will 3 state gram is now accepting applications forChildren acalendar. random and by beyond. It showed at ms follow theprograms CVSD school calendar. who will who be age or older be age 3 or older by September 1, 2024, who are not eligible for for the 2024-25 school year. This lottery is for an opportunity the Middlebury 1, 2024, kindergarten, who are notand eligible forcommunities kindergarten, and live in the communities of New Filmmakers live in the of Charlotte, Hinesburg, sed classrooms which run 10 hours per week. Our schoolFestival past summer and is inesburg, Shelburne, St. George, andareWilliston to enter the this lottery. Shelburne, St. George, and Williston eligible to are entereligible the lottery. set to screen at Burlington’s Conms areselected 5 STARs, licensed early education that o are choose toprograms enroll child CVSD program Families for whothe are lottery selected and for the lottery and choose their to enroll theirin a tois Auditorium on Feb. 21. ntally appropriate environments for all children anthe inclusive child in a CVSD program access their Act 166infor publicly funded Act 166 publicly funded prekindergarten funds school-based program. “It’s not just documenting on the Vermont Earlyfunds Learning prekindergarten for the Standards school-based (VELS). program. what’s there, you know,” he said

on CVSD a recent snowy ons must be received by February 5, 2024, and are located on the Early morning at his All applications must who be received by February 5, 2024, and are school calendar. Children will be age 3 or older by studio in Shelburne. “I see it as ebsite at: https://tinyurl.com/CVSDEarlyEd or using this QR code. on the CVSD and Earlylive Education at: https://tinyurl. eligible located for kindergarten, in thewebsite communities of art. The beauty in decay.” cations are available upon request. com/CVSDEarlyEd or using QR code. A self proclaimed “old soul,” , St. George, and Williston arethis eligible to enter the lottery. born and raised on Long Island, e lottery Paper and choose to are enroll theirupon child in a CVSD program available request. or any concerns New York, Westphalen grew up al information,applications questions about our program, ded prekindergarten funds for the school-based program. child’s development, please visit our website or contact surrounded by suburbia’s uniFor additional information, questions about our program, Director or any concerns about your child’s development, please visit our website Erin Gagne at egagne@cvsdvt.org. Our EarlyEarly Educationform, cookie-cutter landscape. He dcation, by February 5, 2024, and are located on the CVSD was always looking for something or contact Director of Early Education, Erin Gagne at egagne@ available for developmental screenings in the areas of nyurl.com/CVSDEarlyEd or using this isQR ever so slightly askew, something cvsdvt. Our Early Education team alsocode. ion, social-emotional development, screenings motor skills, adaptive development, upon request. that snagged his attention. So it available for developmental made sense that, after picking up a n. More ininformation an Early Multi-Tiered System of Supports is also the areas about of communication, socialfilm camera in childhood and caremotional development, motor skills, ions about our program, or any Services concernstab. the website under the Support rying it with him throughout his adaptive development, and cognition. More please visit our website or contact Director two years in college, he realized information about an Early Multi-Tiered at egagne@cvsdvt.org. Early Education image-making was his calling. System of SupportsOur is also available on the pmentalwebsite screenings in Support the areas of tab. After years in commercial phounder the Services tography and a move to Shelburne l development, motor skills, adaptive development, about an Early Multi-Tiered System of Supports is also he Support Services tab.

in the 1990s, Westphalen became infatuated with the state’s green landscape. He cites as inspiration Andrew Wyeth’s muted watercolors, the geometric shapes and shadows in Edward Hopper’s oil paintings and the detailed work of his late friend and American classic realist painter Hale Johnson.

“When I do my photography, it’s always with the goal and the mission of honoring the buildings as they are today — to make people notice what we’re losing.” Jim Westphalen Shelburne photographer

He wields a large-format camera, jury-rigged for digital use, and has for 35 years. His choice of camera plays a role in the sense of depth you see in a Westphalen gallery show. The large format makeup — he shoots a 4-by-5 inch frame — allows him to manipulate his subjects in the field, resulting in less time spent editing when he gets back to the studio. The work can feel like a race against the inevitable, he said, when his subjects are often build-

ings that are sinking into their old foundations more and more each day. He’s trying to capture the life of a structure before it becomes obsolete. In his mind, that decay ties the present to history, and he wants to give the past a future. Westphalen’s film explores his decades-long effort to observe the landscape and document accordingly, before it’s too late. Traveling on backroads, Westphalen became increasingly aware of the disappearing landscape of rural Vermont. What he was seeing reminded him of times at his grandmother’s house in the Poconos, when she’d tell him stories about who lived in each rundown farmhouse nearby. Buildings like that came to symbolize the cultural loss on which he’d become fixated. “In the various states of disrepair that they’re in — the textures and the patinas — there’s just so much beauty,” he said. “When I do my photography, it’s always with the goal and the mission of honoring the buildings as they are today — to make people notice what we’re losing.” Crafting images that evince for so many people a sense of mourning and reverence is the result of learning what does and doesn’t work, testing prints and exposures and angles. Decades into his adventure in trial and error, he’s learned how rotten wood and rusted metal can see WESTPHALEN page 9

December 14, 2023 •

The old Randolph Coal and Ice Company building in Randolph, built circa 1912. In recent years, unsuccessful appeals have been made to secure and preserve this rare example of silo and flume technology. PHOTO BY JIM WESTPHALEN

Westphalen

continued from page 8

produce an idealized portrait, a history written in walls. To lose those relics, he said, is to lose a connection to who Vermonters once were. Others are trying to restore and instill resilience in the state’s landscape and culture. Rural Vermont, a farmer-led nonprofit based in Montpelier that advocates for agrarian communities, has partnered with many art organizations to tell stories and raise awareness about agriculture.

Letter

continued from page 7

ings. These commitments to one another ensure a path forward for the safety and security of schools and our community. Transparency and open dialogue are crucial, and we are committed to keeping the community informed and involved in our decision-making processes. FREQUENT AND REGULAR COMMUNICATION

“I love thinking about facets of our rural landscape from a lens of art and creativity because I think the level of craftsmanship is often just so striking and tells the story of the landscape that Vermont has and how it’s changed,” said Mollie Wills, grassroots organizing director with Rural Vermont. Westphalen says his film, “Vanish” functions as a call to action for those who feel their connection to the past slipping away and want to do something about it. “‘Vanish’ reminds us that we are living in a dynamic landscape,” said Thomas Denenber,

We thank the Williston Community Justice Center for its role in helping each party further understand the other so we can reach this point.

Each of our organizations contributes to the safety and security of the Hinesburg community. We understand that effective communication — with you and between us as collaborators — helps build trust, which increases security.

deserve their trust, we need to build trust among one another. To do that, we will demonstrate integrity, humility and honesty towards each other.

NEED TO REPAIR

Responsibilities overlap regarding the safety and security of the Hinesburg community. Creating a common policy and procedure will go beyond just emergency operations to include a description of regular interactions, communication protocols and shared responsibilities.

Representatives from the school and police department were harmed by the media coverage, social media posts and direct attacks on their reported actions. In addition, other members of the community, students, caregivers, teachers and others were also impacted. For the community to believe we

SHARED POLICY AND PROCEDURE

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU)

the director of the Shelburne Museum, as part of an interview in the film. Asked what advice he would give an aspiring photographer, Westphalen had a succinct prescription: “Find something you are passionate about, shoot like crazy, create a cohesive body of work … and make it your own.” 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.

This is a written documentation of our shared policy and procedures. MONTHLY SCHOOL SAFETY MEETING

All schools in the Champlain Valley School District hold regular safety and security meetings. The Hinesburg Police Department will serve as a regular member of the HCS Safety and Security Committee. At these meetings, any items from the shared policy and procedure MOU can be reviewed to ensure the continued collaboration between HCS and Hinesburg Police. Act 29 requires all schools in Vermont to review and rewrite their emergency operations plan after it goes into effect in July. The town and the police department are essential partners in this endeavor. In closing, we thank the Williston Community Justice Center for its role in helping each party further understand the other so we can reach this point. We have learned from this experience and look forward to working alongside each of you to cultivate trust and shape an even more promising future for our community.

Williston Observer •

Page 9

Page 10

•

Williston Observer •

December 14, 2023

Theft

continued from page 1

with me. They are so desperate to feed their addiction that they are willing to engage.” “We haven’t been able to track where it leads once it leaves Chittenden County,” Foley said. “We just don’t have the resources to do that. My officers are busy enough going from call to call.” Stephanie Longshore, owner of Plato’s Closet in Taft Corners,

said she has spoken with Plato’s Closet franchise owners in bigger cities who are having similar retail theft problems, and dealing with police departments that are unresponsive. She’s thankful for the Williston Police Department’s attention to the issue. “I think the Williston Police is great to work with,” Longshore said. “They have supported us for 20 years and I support them and the work that they do. They come when we call them. For me that’s a big deal because

sometimes some of these people are a little bit scary.” In November, with the holiday shopping season on the horizon, Foley called a meeting with representatives of the local business community at the police station. About 30 store owners and managers participated. Some, including people from Walmart and REI, requested a more visible presence of uniformed officers in their stores. Foley asked the business representatives for more help in

tracking thieves. Even if corporate policies prevent employees from calling police, Foley asked them to at least provide video surveillance, witness statements, an account of what was stolen, and, if possible, license plate numbers of thieves’ vehicles. Cooperation from the stores is essential to improving the situation, McSweeney beleives. “When you have retailers who don’t work with you around public safety, I have to question why we have them here,”

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McSweeney said. Representatives from Walmart and Home Depot have told her that their Williston stores have among the highest rates of theft, per capita, of any of their stores nationwide. “If they have corporate policies that say they can’t call the police, then what are we going to do?” McSweeney said. “If we don’t have a way of addressing it, and intervening and holding these people accountable, then it’s kind of a free-for-all.”

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Williston Observer •

Page 11

Christmas tree farms grapple with a tight supply BY BABETTE STOLK VTDigger

Now that the countdown to Christmas is in full force, less-organized shoppers who celebrate the holiday may still be searching for this year’s Christmas tree. With some farms sold out of inventory and already closed, panic is possible. Although the supply of locally grown trees is tight this year, industry observers, including Jim Horst, the executive director of the New Hampshire-Vermont Christmas Tree Association, have an assuring message. “Most people that want to buy a Christmas tree are gonna be able to get one in Vermont,” said Horst. But it might require persistence. The current state of Vermont’s industry fits into a national trend of a tightening supply of Christmas trees. As trees take roughly a decade after they’re planted to grow large enough to sell, the industry goes through long cycles of supply and demand, with a tightening supply since 2016, according to the National Christmas Tree Association. “The Christmas tree industry, like most industries, goes through oversupply and undersupply, just like the housing market, or any market,” Jill Sidebottom, a spokesperson for the National Christmas Tree Association, said.

Given the long growing period of trees, the effects of financial crises that happened years ago can still be visible in the industry. “The start of the issues that we’re experiencing now started all the way back with the recession in 2008, and at that time there was an oversupply, and the economy wasn’t good, and a lot of tree growers were having a hard time selling their trees. And because of that many weren’t planting as many (trees) as they normally do,” Sidebottom said. However, the limited supply is not only due to financial ebbs and flows but also a potential increase in demand for the real thing. According to a survey by the Real Christmas Tree Board, a program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to promote the use of real trees, 20 percent of respondents this year were planning to buy a real tree for the first time. According to Horst and some tree farm owners, there is also growing interest among families in the cut-your-own tree experience in Vermont. “It’s just the trend of, and I think it started especially during Covid, that people like to get outside and do things,” said Jack Manix, owner of Walker Farm’s Elysian Hills in Dummerston. “You go outside and we have hot cider and popcorn and cookies and all kinds of stuff see TREES page 12

Mike Isham wraps a freshly cut Christmas tree at the Isham Family Farm in Williston on Tuesday. PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

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Williston Observer •

December 14, 2023

Trees

continued from page 11

Peter and Caryn Halvorsen pull their Christmas tree on a sled at the Isham Family Farm in Williston on Tuesday. PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

like that, and it’s like a little event.” While Manix expects to be open until Christmas Eve, others, such as Isham Family Farm in Williston and White Trees in Jericho, have already closed for the season. That’s not unusual for this time in December, said White Trees’ owner Bob White. “Everybody wants to cut their own trees — that’s typical. It’s a struggle to find a place to go this time of year. You could find a hundred farms — we all sell out pretty much, that I know of,” White said. During a call with VTDigger, White had to pause to send numerous customers away. When asked where to, he said: “There’s nowhere else to send.”

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White said that he needs to be judicious about how much he cuts to keep sales consistent from year to year. “If we cut (trees) all in one year, it will take four or five years before we open again,” said White. While the supply may be more plentiful again in the near term, the future of the local industry remains precarious for other reasons. White’s farm, for example, is on a floodplain. “If (a flood) happens in the spring or fall that doesn’t bother me at all,” he said. But when Tropical Storm Irene hit in late August 2011, “we lost half the farm and it took eight or 10 years to recover from that,” White said. And apart from a changing climate, the long cycles in the Christmas tree industry pose a real problem for Vermont’s aging population, as new farmers can only begin selling trees after four to five years. “Assuming you’re planting on an annual basis, you got ever-increasing expenses and no income coming in,” Horst said. “The flooding that we had in July has complicated things a little bit, but even over the last several years there have been people to some extent leaving the industry, primarily because of age, and no one to take over.” On top of that, the land available is limited, making it difficult to get into the industry, and also to expand to keep up with demand. “I’d love to plant a lot more trees (but) there’s no land available because I can’t bet against housing projects. Housing projects win every time,” White said. “We only grow X amount of trees, and the demand has grown. … So we do the best we can but we aren’t going to make it to Christmas anymore.”

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BY DEBORAH BENOIT Special to the Observer

Mistletoe — a parasite in the wild

The mention of mistletoe evokes images of a seasonal kissing ball adorned with its leaves and berries, or of someone sneaking a kiss beneath a sprig of mistletoe hanging in a doorway. You probably don’t think about where mistletoe comes from or what part it plays in the ecosystems where it grows in the wild. While there are over 1,300 species of mistletoe throughout the world, the one we’re most familiar with and what we see in stores during the holiday season each year is typically American mistletoe (Phoradendron serotinum). You may hear it called by other names, such as eastern mistletoe, hairy mistletoe or oak mistletoe. This flowering perennial plant is native to the southeastern regions of the United States. American mistletoe is hardy only to U. S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone 6, so you won’t find it growing in the wild in Vermont. The Greek word phoradendron translates to “thief of the tree” in English. Mistletoe is a semi-parasitic plant (called a hemiparasite) and, therefore, is

considered a plant disease. It must have a living host plant to survive. Its roots attach and tap into a host tree, extracting water and nutrients. It then uses those re-

Mistletoe’s white berries ripen in December, and, while toxic to humans, are a welcome feast for many species of birds and animals. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

sources along with sunlight and the chlorophyll (the green pigment) in its foliage to manufacture food through photosynthesis. Mistletoe grows into large, thick clumps on the branches of deciduous trees. Its evergreen foliage makes it easy to see during

the late fall and winter months when the host tree’s foliage has fallen. While mistletoe does take nutrients from its host, a healthy tree is unlikely to be significantly harmed by its presence. However, it may cause damage to the portion of the branch beyond its location. In addition, a severe infection of numerous mistletoe plants on a single host can stress the tree, making it more susceptible to disease or other problems. Fortunately, mistletoe spreads slowly so it is not a threat to forested areas. Mistletoe spreads with the help of birds who consume its berries. The seeds, which have traveled through a bird’s digestive system, are then deposited onto host trees. Seeds also spread when they adhere to birds’ feathers or animals’ fur. Once germination takes place, mistletoe’s roots penetrate the bark of the host tree and appropriate nutrients and moisture from the tree. While its evergreen foliage allows mistletoe to perform photosynthesis, providing it with some of its needed nutrients, mistletoe does require a living host to survive and to reproduce. Mistletoe produces small, white flowers in late spring and

early summer. The flowers are followed by white berries. All parts of the mistletoe plant are toxic to humans, and coming into contact with the plant may produce an allergic reaction and cause skin irritation or a rash for some people. Be sure to keep mistletoe, and its berries in particular, away from pets and small children. On the other hand, the nectar of mistletoe flowers provides a nutritious feast for pollinators. Mistletoe berries, which ripen in December, are a welcome food source for birds and animals during the winter months. The thick bunches of intertwined

Williston Observer •

Page 13

branches provide habitat and cover for birds and small, tree-dwelling mammals throughout the year. So, the next time you see a sprig of mistletoe this holiday season, remember the part it plays in nature all year long. For more information on mistletoe and its place in the ecosystem, visit https://go.uvm.edu/ mistletoe. Deborah Benoit is a UVM Extension Master Gardener from North Adams, Mass., who is part of the Bennington County Chapter.

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Williston Observer •

December 14, 2023

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Williston Observer •

SPORTS

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Page 16release • Williston dates: Dec.Observer 16-22, 2023•

December 14, 2023

50 (23)

Next Week:

Winter reading Issue 50, 2023

Founded by Betty Debnam

Getting to Know You: Interviewing

One of the best things about the holiday season is spending time with family and friends. For some people, it’s the only time of year when they see loved ones who live far away. For 2024, you could make a resolution, or promise, to get to know family and friends better. You can do that by becoming an interviewer. This is sort of like being a reporter, but instead of you building the story, you let loved ones tell their own stories. The Mini Page talked with some professional interviewers to find out more about this process.

Why ask questions?

When you interview a friend or family member, you are making history. Whether your interview is saved in your own notes, on an audio recorder or a video recorder, the words will be there for others to learn from and enjoy. Maybe your own kids will someday read the stories you collected. Sometimes we forget that older relatives were once young and went to school and played with friends. Interviewing an older person helps us see that Grandma or Uncle Paul is not just an old person, but a real person who has lived a full life.

Whom do I interview?

It doesn’t matter whether you are related to your interview subject. You might have a

Mini Fact:

Experts say a good place to start an interview is with questions about old photographs.

kind neighbor or a special teacher you’d like to learn more about. Older people may have more to say simply because they’ve had more experiences. Most people, young or old, love to tell about their lives.

Be organized

Be prepared. Decide if you’re going to record the interview and get your equipment charged and ready. Make a list of the questions you plan to ask. Schedule your interview for no more than 90 minutes. Otherwise, both you and your subject are likely to get tired. Show up for your interview with your questions clearly outlined. Set up any recording equipment and find comfortable spots for you and the subject. Talk to your subject about why you’re doing the interview. As you begin questions and answers, try not to interrupt. Listen carefully. If you’re not clear about an answer, ask your subject to explain it more. If your subject seems cranky, it might be time to stop. Before you leave, make sure to ask if there’s anything else they’d like to tell you. Don’t forget to thank your subject for his or her time.

What can I ask about?

Being an interviewer involves more than just asking a few questions. It’s important to ask in a way that will lead your subject into longer stories. For example, if you just ask, “Did you have fun as a kid?” the person can answer “yes” or “no” and stop there. But you can get more interesting stories by asking more open questions, such as “Tell me about the kinds of games you played as a kid. What were your favorites? Why? What sports did you play?” To get your interview started, you will probably want to start with basic questions about your subject, such as: • When and where were you born? • Were you named after anyone? • Where did you live? In a town, a city or on a farm? • How many brothers and sisters did you have? • What did you like to study in school?

Resources On the Web:

• youtu.be/ kO9WcdINoRk

At the library:

• “Interview With My Grandma: An Interactive Journal to Investigate Our Family History” by Courtney Littler

Where? en? Why? Who? W hat? Wh Try ’n’ Find Jokes HMini ow? Words that remind us of interviews are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ANSWER, EXPERIENCES, FAMILY, FRIENDS, INTERVIEW, LISTEN, LIVES, NOTES, PERSON, PROCESS, QUESTION, REPORTER, RESOLUTION, SCHEDULE, STORY, SUBJECT, TALK.

A N S W E R L A S L Q A S U B J E C I P E R S O N N C S P Q V Q U E S T T S E T O N Y R F E E X P E R I E N N R E P O R T E R B T K W E I V R E

S E C O R T Y O G J S E V I L I O N Y E A M I L Y C E S A R B N K B O T N I H T

P S C H E D U L

Franco: Why are fish so smart? Farrah: They live in schools!

Eco Note A massive plankton bloom off the eastern coast of Thailand has created a vast dead zone, where untold numbers of fish and other types of

person who has lived a full life.

Whom do I interview?

It doesn’t matter whether you are related to your interview subject. You might have a

Before you leave, make sure to ask if there’s anything else they’d like to tell you. Don’t forget to thank your subject for his or her time.

At the library:

• “Interview With My Grandma: An Interactive Journal to Investigate Our Family History” Littler • Page 17 December 14, 2023by•Courtney Williston Observer

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of interviews are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ANSWER, EXPERIENCES, FAMILY, FRIENDS, INTERVIEW, LISTEN, LIVES, NOTES, PERSON, PROCESS, QUESTION, REPORTER, RESOLUTION, SCHEDULE, STORY, SUBJECT, TALK.

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

Franco: Why are fish so smart? Farrah: They live in schools!

P S C H E D U L E L

Eco Note A massive plankton bloom off the eastern coast of Thailand has created a vast dead zone, where untold numbers of fish and other types of marine life have been killed. Marine experts say the bloom covers about a quarter of the Gulf of Thailand, where a pungent smell of rotting fish permeates the air. Fishers and mussel farmers say they have suffered a 100% loss of their livelihoods.Some blame the new El Niño for the bloom, while others believe recent intense heat caused by climate change, combined with pollution, are responsible.

Cook’s Corner • 1 cup dates, chopped

• 1 cup walnuts, chopped

• 1 cup dried apricots, chopped • 1 cup dark chocolate yogurt raisins What to do: 1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. 2. Transfer to plastic bag or bowl for storage. Makes 5 cups.

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

1. one way to cook eggs (9) 2. small stream (5) 3. leather seat on a horse (6) 4. person who grows flowers (8) 5. a, e, i, o, or u (5) 6. 10-legged sea creature (5) 7. area behind the house (8)

GAR

SCR

LED

AMB

BRO BACK

DLE

SQU VOW

YARD DEN

SAD

adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

• 1 cup sunflower seeds

You’ll need:

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

Energy Snack Mix

For later:

Look in the newspaper for articles that feature quotes from people. These sources were interviewed for the stories!

Teachers: Follow and

interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!

Answers: scrambled, brook, saddle, gardener, vowel, squid, backyard.

Page 18

• Williston Observer • December 14, 2023

SAVVY SENIOR Smart home devices can help seniors Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve been talking to my mobility challenged mother, who lives alone, about automating her house with some smart home products to make it more convenient. She’s very interested, but we’d like to get your opinion as to which types of smart devices are most helpful for seniors aging in place. Searching Daughter Dear Searching, If your mother is game, smart home products — such as smart lights, video doorbells and voice-activated speakers — can be very useful for aging in place. These devices can add safety and convenience to a home by providing voice and app-controlled operation, which is extremely helpful for seniors who have mobility issues or reduced vision. Smart home technology can also provide family members peaceof-mind by giving them the ability to electronically keep tabs on their elder loved one when they can’t be there. If you’re interested in adding some smart home products to your mom’s house, she’ll need home WiFi installed, and she’ll need either a

smartphone, tablet or smart speaker to operate them. To help you get started, here are some different types of devices to consider that are very helpful to older adults. Smart speakers: A smart speaker — like the Amazon Echo, Google Nest or Apple HomePod — can serve as the brains of a smart home, controlling devices with voice commands or automating them. These devices can also play your mom’s favorite music, read audiobooks, make calls, set timers and alarms, provide reminders for medications, appointments and other things, check traffic and weather, answer questions, call for help in emergency situations and much more — all done by voice commands. Smart light bulbs: To help prevent home falls, which are often caused by fumbling around a dark room looking for a light switch, smart light bulbs will let your mom turn on and off the lights by voice command, smartphone or tablet. These bulbs can also change brightness and color and be programmed to come on and off whenever she wants. Smart plugs: These small units plug into a standard outlet and connect to the internet. That means your

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mom can control whatever she plugs into them, from a space heater to a coffee maker, using her voice or phone. Video doorbell: Safety is a concern for older adults who live alone.

By Jim Miller A video doorbell would let your mom see and speak to visitors at the door without having to walk over and open it. Smart locks: For convenience and safety, smart locks would give your mom keyless entry to her home, provide customized access to family, friends and caregivers, and let you monitor who comes and goes from your mom’s house. Smart thermostat: This lets your mom pre-program or manually control the temperature in her home with voice commands or via a phone,

and lets you monitor it too. Smart smoke alarms: These will alert your mom when smoke or carbon monoxide is detected and will also send alerts to your phone if a problem is detected. Stovetop shut-off: To prevent home cooking fires, smart stovetop shut-off devices, like the IGuardStove, will turn off electric and gas stovetops when left unattended, and will alert you via text. Medical alert system: These devices provide bracelet and/or necklace emergency buttons that would allow your mom to call for help if she were to fall or need assistance. Many systems today also provide voice activated and fall detection features, and caregiver tracking apps that will let you keep tabs on her. Cameras and smart sensors: If your mom needs more in-depth monitoring, there are indoor cameras you can install so you can see, hear and talk to her from your phone. Or, if that’s too intrusive, you can install smart contact sensors on her doors so you can know when she comes and goes, or on her refrigerator door so you can know if she’s eating. 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.

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Holiday volunteering options abound in Chittenden County BY OLIVIA WILSON Community News Service With the holiday season underway, many Vermonters are asking themselves what they can do to give back to their communities. Sonja Paulson with United Way Northwest Vermont is herding volunteers in Chittenden, Grand Isle and Franklin counties. “Vermonters really care about each other — there is such a large sense of community, and everyone just wants to be a team and help each other,” Paulson said. She said she’s received an influx of emails asking about opportunities to give back. Her response: “Let’s find something that fits your needs as well as helps out whatever nonprofit you want to work with.” Whether you’d prefer to sell raffle tickets, cook holiday dinners or bring kids some holiday cheer, there are opportunities everywhere.Here are a few ways to give your time and energy. • Santa might be a little busy this year — that’s why they need as many elves possible at the station when the Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation’s Polar Express arrives at the Wing building at the bottom of King Street in Burlington. Volunteers can dress as elves and cheer the kids on as they ride by. • Burlington Dismas House is a community made up of people transitioning from incarceration. The organization provides housing and a “family-like” structure, according to its website, and this season the team there is looking for volunteers to help cook Christmas dinners and join house residents for a meal. The relationships created during times like those are just as important as the donations, the group says. • Feeding Chittenden, founded in 1974, fights against food insecurity in the county by supplying groceries to families in need. Located on North Winooski Avenue in Burlington, the nonprofit serves hot meals on weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteering is sign-up only. If you don’t have time this year, there are other ways to help. The see VOLUNTEER page 20

December 14, 2023 •

Williston Observer •

Page 19

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 23

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1799, George Washington died at Mount Vernon, his home in Virginia. • In 1819, Alabama was admitted as the 22nd U.S. state. • In 1911, explorer Roald Amundsen and his party became the first humans to reach the South Pole. • In 2001, after Hurricane Michelle devastated Cuba, a commercial shipment of food left the United States for the island nation for the first time since 1963. • In 2012, a 20-year-old gunman killed 26 people at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, before taking his own life.

TODAY’S FACT:

• Historians have estimated that physicians drained 5 to 7 pints of blood from President George Washington in the day prior to his death, in an attempt to cure him.

SUDOKU • SOLUTION ON PAGE 23

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Page 20

• Williston Observer • December 14, 2023 passes: five for $99, 10 for $180. Instructor: Kit Sayers CARDIO SCULPT

Tuesdays, 4:45-5:45 p.m. $25 per class; class passes: five for $99, 10 for $180. Instructor: Kit Sayers RETRO DANCE CARDIO & CORE HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST

INSTRUCTORS WANTED

Have you decorated your house, condo, apartment or business for the holiday season? Do you want to show it off? If yes, be sure to register for the Williston Holiday Decorating Contest. Show your holiday spirit and join this friendly competition while infusing some cheer in the community. Registration Deadline is Sunday, Dec. 17. Judging of homes and businesses will take place by the community from Dec. 22-29, 5:30-7 p.m. each night (be sure your decorations are on). Winners will be announced Jan. 4. The contest is sponsored by the Williston Observer, Healthy Living Market, Adam’s Farm Market, Vermont Meat & Seafood and Williston Coffee Shop.

Do you have a talent or skill that you would like to share with others? The rec department is accepting proposals for new programs and/or camps from people who have a talent to share or want to give to the community by being an instructor. Consider becoming an instructor and offering an ongoing program at The R.E.C. Zone or a program with 6-8 week sessions. We are always looking for people with a talent to share. We are currently looking for a senior fitness instructor, a yoga instructor and people who can teach art, dance, fly-tying, crafts, jewelry, writing, flower arranging and educational programs.

BASKETBALL REFEREES WANTED

The rec department is looking for basketball referees in January and February for Youth Rec Basketball programs. Referees are needed for grades 1-8 programs. If interested, contact the rec department at recreation@willistonvt.org.

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18-plus. Wednesdays, 5:45-6:30 p.m. $10 per class. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT

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Age 50-plus. Wednesdays, 4:45-5:45 p.m. $5 per class. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck

YOUTH PROGRAMS LEARN TO SKI/RIDE

Registration is open for the Learn to Ski/Ride Program. Register before Dec. 17 for early bird discount. Equipment fitting nights are coming soon. An email will be sent out to those who are registered to sign up for an equipment fitting time slot. KINDERREC BASKETBALL

Ages 5-6. This is a parent/child program designed to teach the fundamentals of the game. Each week, youngsters will be introduced to a new skill and fun activities that will enhance their learning. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February. Instructors: Rec Department staff GRADE 1-2 BASKETBALL

This program provides the opportunity for youngsters to learn the game, improve their skills and enjoy playing. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February. One-hour sessions will consist of a practice and scrimmage time. Parent volunteers are needed to coach teams. Sign up to coach when registering your child.

Volunteer

continued from page 20

United Way of Northwest Vermont, Common Good Vermont and other organizations lay out ways to give year-round. Anyone can donate money, food or other essentials to local charities and nonprofits around Vermont. According to Common Good Vermont, one in seven Vermont workers are employed by nonprofits. Paulson said the United Way is committed to bringing local people together with businesses, policymakers and organizations to help meet community needs based on areas served. “There’s a lot more behind the scenes work that gets done,” said Paulson, regarding nonprofits cultivating a space where community members’ voices mean more. When approaching the topic of volunteering, Paulson said it’s okay to think selfishly sometimes. “Volunteering can help your mental health and wellbeing,” said Paulson, “and just kind of help in feeling a better sense of community.” Not only can it help reduce stress, but volunteering can also create a sense of meaning that people might need around the holiday season. Olivia Wilson reported this story on assignment for the Vermont Community News Group. 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.

GIVE

LOCAL n o t s i Will

Williston

The Observer published a list of groups and organizations in our area who would welcome the support of the community through donations and volunteers in the Nov. 2 edition. To access this information please visit our website: willistonobserver.com and search for the GIVING GUIDE.

Givinigde Gu

December 14, 2023 •

Williston Observer •

Page 21

OBITUARIES

Carol Ann (Niquette) Izzo Carol Ann (Niquette) Izzo of Williston, Vermont, died on her 81st birthday on Dec. 2, 2023 at The McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester, Vermont after an extended illness. She was born at Fanny Allen Hospital in Colchester, Vermont on Dec. 2, 1942, the daughter of Theodore J. Niquette and Gertrude Marcotte Niquette. Carol was married to Louis M. Izzo on June 19, 1965 at St. Francis Xavier Church in Winooski, Vermont. She graduated with degrees from Trinity College (French) and the University of Vermont (Theater), and she taught French at Burlington High School and Trinity College for several years in the 1960s. Carol is survived by her husband of 58 years, Louis M. Izzo; her son, Antonio D. Izzo and his wife, Stacy, and their children, Evan and Ari of Burlington, NC; her daughter, Maria C. Walker and her husband Ronald and their children Lucia, Nicolas, and Silvia of Bloomington, Indiana; and her daughter, Gianna B. Messier and her husband Armand Messier, and their children, Theodore and Madeleine of St. Albans, Vermont. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Frances Izzo Roth and husband Stephen, sister-in-law Sharon Chittenden Niquette, and several cousins, nephews, and nieces. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Constance Loso, and her brother, Richard Niquette. Carol’s family was her constant focus. She put tremendous care and attention to detail in everything that she did, and she had endless thoughtful and

creative ways to show her love to her family. Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and special celebrations always meant gifts specially wrapped by Mom/ Mémère, a special celebratory song on the phone, or a hand-written note. Carol was an artist through and through and she had a unique and beautiful way of looking at the world. As a visual artist she drew and painted many works that were a wonderful ref lection of this perspective. Theater was a lifelong love, and she participated in nearly every aspect of it throughout her life. Carol shared her special singing, dancing, and acting talents with countless audiences over her lifetime. In her early years she played Marion the librarian in a Burlington production of “The Music Man.” For decades to follow she continued to bring to life many more fantastic roles. Some particularly special performances on stage were as Lady Thiang in “The King and I” and as Madam Paroo in “The Music Man.” Other highlights included the role of Aldonza/Dulcinea in “Man of La Mancha,” as well as performances in both “Godspell” and “I Do, I Do” with the Essex Players. She performed the title role in “Mother Courage” with UVM Theater and worked with both the M&M Players and the Champlain Shakespeare Festival. Carol was also the Artistic Director for Lyric Theatre’s first production of “The Sound of Music.” Carol’s Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a communicant of the Catholic churches, a prayer warrior, and was intensely pro-life. She had a beautiful voice and she loved to sing. For many years, she sang with the Midnight Mass choir at Saint Francis Xavier Church and Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Williston. Visiting hours were Dec. 8, 2023 at LaVigne Funeral Home, 132 Main Street in Winooski. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 9 at Saint Francis Xavier Church, 3 Saint Peter Street in Winooski. Burial followed at St Francis Xavier Cemetery. To send online condolences to her family please visit www. vtfuneralhomes.com.

Rita J. Parker It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rita J. Parker, 78, formerly of Richmond, VT, Dec. 4, 2023. She was born on July 30, 1945 to Sidney and Emma (Hallock) Jennings. Rita was a 1964 graduate of Vergennes Union High School. On July 11, 1964 she married George Parker, Jr. at the Federated Church in Williston, VT. They celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary a month before George’s passing in 2009. Rita worked at Digital Equipment Corporation in South Burlington until 1985. After leaving Digital, Rita worked for Karl Suss America until her retirement in 2000. In her spare time, Rita enjoyed watching her critters, cooking for others, and playing cards and dice. She was an avid Red Sox fan! Rita loved spending time with her family. She was a devoted mother and loved being with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Left to cherish Rita’s memory are her son Matthew Parker and his wife June Root; her daughter Brenda Parker and her partner Matt Apgar; her granddaughters Ashley Gagnon and her husband James, Samantha Montgomery and her husband James, Alison Parker and Morgan Lewis; her great-granddaughters Brailynn Gagnon and Brianna Gagnon; her brother Lawrence “Bucky” Jennings and her sister Shirley King. Rita was predeceased by her parents Sidney and Emma Jennings; her husband George, Jr.; her father and mother-in-law George, Sr. and Evelyn Parker; her sister Virginia “Ginny” Morgan; and her brothers Frank Jennings and Gary Jennings. A graveside service will be held in the spring. Arrangements are in care of Corbin and Palmer Funeral Home, 9 Pleasant Street, Essex Jct., VT.

Robert Verne Vincent Robert Verne Vincent of Williston (formally Essex Junction), passed away peacefully following an injury Dec. 3, 2023 at the age of 94. He was born Sept. 17, 1929 to Earl and Gladys Vincent in Berlin and was the oldest son of 4 children. Bob will be missed dearly by all those he knew him for his commitment and loyalty to his family, friends and church. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Marilyn Booth Vincent who was the love of his life since high school. Their daughter Lynn Reynolds and husband George of Essex, their daughter in law Pam Vincent of Canandaigua NY, brother in law and sister in law John Booth and Carol of Essex. He leaves his grandchildren, Danny McCaffrey and Michael of Essex, Eric Palmer and Lisa of Waitsfield, Jeffrey Vincent and Sydney of Bauxite, Arkansas, and Jeanne Canough and Jonny of Canandaigua NY. And his great grandchildren, Daniel, Avery, Jacob, Macey, Issac, Mason J, Mason R, Carson, Alexander, Cooper, Ila, and Clara, the 13th is on the way. Also included is Darren Reynolds and Heather Crowley “Matt”. His niece, Ellen Booth and Joyce of Essex and nephew John Booth and Kirsten and great niece Amelia.

His remaining sibling, Raymond Vincent and Florence of NY. He is predeceased by his parents and two siblings, Richard Vincent and Ruth Ross, and son in law, Dan Palmer. Bob graduated from the Burlington Business School and went to work for General foods until he took a job with IBM that lasted for 23 years until he retired to work in Marilyn’s family yarn shop located in Essex Junction for 13 years. During his work and retirement years he took up cross stitch and created many beautiful samplers all the while being colorblind and only seeing the color yellow. He was also deeply involved in the Essex First Congregational Church where his father was the minister in his earlier years. Being the longest living active member of the church he also volunteered his time for various church activities including Superintendent of Sunday school and Treasurer for many years. He volunteered his service in the community as a member of the cemetery commission, serving as president and sales agent for a number of years. During that time he oversaw most burials ensuring the dignity and respect these events deserved. Until their move into independent living, he would walk to church most Sundays in a suit. He was also recognized as a WCAX Super Senior for his dedication to his church community in 2019. Bob also grew up being a Boy Scout with his father as his leader. This started his love of camping that grew over the years from being in a tent to driving large motorhomes around to various Holiday Rambler rallies or at Lone Pine Campground, an activity that he enjoyed with his family and eventually his grandchildren. The family wishes to acknowledge UVMMC and McClure Miller Respite house for their care of Bob and his family during his last week.

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• Williston Observer • December 14, 2023

Vermont State University announces new chancellor

The Board of Trustees of the Vermont State Colleges has chosen Dr. Elizabeth Mauch to be the next chancellor of the system, starting Jan. 1. Mauch is currently president of Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas. She will succeed outgoing chancellor Sophie Zdatny. The Vermont State Colleges system is comprised of Community College of Vermont and Vermont State University, with campuses in Williston, Johnson, Castleton, Lyndon and Randolph. Mauch joins the system as it is in the midst of a multi-year transformation and modernization effort. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Elizabeth Mauch to lead the next chapter of the Vermont State Colleges’ transformation,” said Lynn

Dr. Elizabeth Mauch

Dickinson, chair of the Vermont State Colleges’ Board of Trust-

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ees. “Dr. Mauch is joining us at a critical time in this work as we build on the sound plans laid to date to achieve financial sustainability across the system. She has impressive experience in bringing strategic and visionary approaches to leadership that will be essential in steering the Vermont State Colleges forward into the next chapter of transformation. Mauch previously was Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the College at Bethany. During her tenure there, she launched a collaborative strategic plan, campus master plan, and vision to lead the college through 2026. Additionally, she raised $32 million for building renovations, programming, and a strategic en-

rollment campaign. She has also worked in leadership at Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania. Mauch holds master’s and Ph.D. degrees in mathematics from Lehigh University and an undergraduate degree in mathematics from Moravian College in Pennsylvania. Mauch currently sits on the executive committee of the Presidents’ Council of the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Council (KCAC) and is a board member of the Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery. In 2019 she served as a Fulbright Specialist in Poland where she taught and collaborated with science and engineering faculty at a university there. Mauch plans to move to her

family’s home in Cornwall, with her husband James. Their daughter is an undergraduate student at Middlebury College. “I am excited and honored to lead the next phase of the Vermont State Colleges System’s transformation,” she said. “This is a critical time to shape the future of public higher and continuing education in Vermont, as higher education rapidly evolves and changes across the country. I look forward to collaborating with state and community leaders, our institutions and their teams, and our faculty, staff, and students to build a thriving Vermont State Colleges system that continues to transform lives and communities across the state.”

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL

TOWN OF WILLISTON Selectboard Notice of Public Hearing Tuesday, January 16, 2024 7:30 PM The Williston Selectboard will hold a public hearing to receive comment on proposed changes to the existing Williston 2016-2024 Comprehensive Plan (Town Plan), pursuant to 24 V.S.A §4384 and the Williston Unified Development Bylaw (WDB) pursuant to 24 V.S.A §4442. The public hearing will take place on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 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. Public comment is welcomed and encouraged. Comment letters can be emailed to Erik Wells (ewells@ willistonvt.org) or mailed: Williston Selectboard, 7900 Williston Road, Williston VT 05495. Questions or requests for accessibility accommodations can also be directed to Erik Wells, Town Manager at (802) 876-1168. The purpose of these amendments is to proceed with the Glaser Specific Plan (SP 23-01) in strict conformance with the criteria and procedures of WDB Chapter 9. The Glaser Specific Plan (SP 23-01) proposes a 109± unit residential subdivision with the provision of ±50-acres open space donated to the Town as the substantial benefit. Jack and Caitlin Glaser own ±97-acres at 1095 Old Stage Road, located at the southwest corner of Mountain View Road and Old Stage Road. The open space offered to the Town includes ±15-acres of viewshed

along Mountain View Road with views to the Green Mountains, a view that is identified in the town plan, and ±35-acres of pasture, wetland, and forest, in alignment with broader town plan goals to support working landscapes and conservation. Copies of the entire text of the proposed 2016-2024 Comprehensive Plan and 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 Emily Heymann, Senior Planner & Deputy Zoning Administrator at (802) 878-6704, or at eheymann@ willistonvt.org with any questions. The Town Plan and WDB amendments are summarized here: Town Plan Chapter 13: Refer to the fields southwest of the intersection of Mountain View and Old Stage with views towards the Green Mountains as a protected viewshed, rather than unprotected. Also, acknowledge the other protected open spaces for working landscape and conservation. WDB Chapter 11: At discretionary permit, the Development Review Board (DRB) must make findings that the subdivision upholds a 50-point score. Following approvals, no more than 18 dwelling units per fiscal year can receive administrative permits to being construction until project completion. This scoring and allocation schedule is separate from WDB 11.3 and 11.4-11.9. WDB Chapter 26: Clarify that the exemption from street trees to preserve a scenic vista applies to this property’s frontage along Mountain View Road and Old Stage Road.

WDB Chapter 39: Recognize the existence of the Specific Plan and codify its required substantial benefit purpose and requirements at discretionary permit. Appendix K: As required by WDB 9.3.5, The “detailed guideline for development” includes the site plan, Growth Management questionnaire, the viewshed rendering, and accompanying materials from the Planning Commission and advisory committee review process as reference documents during the permitting process. 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. Pre-Hearing Public Informational Session – Thursday, January 11, 2024 from 12-1pm. An overview of Specific Plan process per WDB Chapter 9, with question & answer time, hosted by Planning Staff. Online only with Zoom: www.zoom/ us/j/87596425042 or call 1-646-558- 8656 and enter Meeting ID: 875 9642 5042. Pre-Hearing Public Info Session 12-1pm Thursday, January 11, 2024 Zoom Participation: www.zoom/ us/j/87596425042 Phone: 1-646-558- 8656; Meeting ID: 875 9642 5042. Selectboard Public Hearing 7:30pm on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Zoom Participation: https://us02web. zoom.us/j/89328948554 Phone: 1-646-558- 8656; Meeting ID: 893-2894-8554

To place a classified or service directory ad, email rick@willistonobserver.com or call 373-2136

Deadline for classifieds is Monday.

December 14, 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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Williston Observer •

December 14, 2023

CHRISTMAS CHURCH SERVICE DIRECTORY

Sunday, Dec. 24

Monday, Dec. 25

1033 Essex Rd., Williston

www.cmcvermont.org

• Sunday Service: 10 a.m • Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: 4 p.m.

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• Christmas Eve Services: Children’s Program, 10 a.m.; Candlelight Service, 7 p.m.

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• Sunday Service, 10 a.m.

Essex Alliance Church

37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Junction

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• Christmas Eve Services: 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m.

Ignite Church

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• Sunday Service: 10 a.m. • Christmas Eve Service: 5 p.m.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church

7415 Williston Rd., Williston

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• Mass: 10:30 a.m.

Trinity Baptist Church

300 Trinity Drive, Williston

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• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: 5:30 p.m.

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www.vibrant.ch

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: 4:30 p.m.

www.steeple.org

• Christmas Eve Services: Worship, 9:30 a.m.; Family-friendly Service, 5 p.m.; Candlelight Service, 7:30 p.m. • Christmas Eve Service at Old Brick Church: 11 p.m.

Christ Memorial Church Community Lutheran Church Crosspoint Church

Vibrant Church Williston Federated Church

44 North Williston Rd., Williston

• Mass: 8:30 a.m.

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• Christmas Day Service: 10 a.m.

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Williston

Serving our community since 1985