Williston Observer 1/16/2020

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JANUARY 16, 2020

WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

Ingram to run for lieutenant governor

Putting the farm back in farmers’ market

By Jason Starr Observer staff

Observer courtesy photo

Isham Family Farm owners Helen Weston and Mike Isham plan a weekly Tuesday farmers’ market this summer at their Oak Hill Road property.

By Jason Starr Observer staff

The Isham name is synonymous with working land in Williston, and fifth-generation farmer Mike Isham is making plans to add a weekly farmers’ market to the family’s Oak Hill Road activities.

A farmers’ market in Williston — it’s been a tricky thing to sustain. There have been many incarnations in several different locations with a variety of organizational structures. From the nonprofit that held one on the village green from 2007 to 2012, to the move to the New England Federal Credit Union parking lot in 2013 and 2014 to, most recently, the parking lot of Kismet Place on Blair Park Road, farmers’ markets

WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

have materialized then dissolved over the past 13 years.

Isham, with his name recognition and leadership in Vermont agricultural circles and the family’s success selling products like pumpkins, berries and maple syrup at its restored roadside barn, believes he has the foundation for a successful farmers’ market.

“We want a place where people don’t just stop on the way home for five minutes,” Isham said. “We want it to be a destination.”

The plan is to open Tuesdays 5-8 p.m. mid-June through mid-August with music, burgers, baked goods, fruits, vegetables and crafts. It will be the only farmers’ market in Chittenden County located on a working farm. see MARKET page 3

Williston’s Debbie Ingram, a state Senator representing Chittenden County, announced Tuesday plans to run for lieutenant governor in November.

The announcement came a day after current Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman launched his campaign for governor (see page 14). Burlington’s Tim Ashe, Ingram’s colleague and fellow Democrat in the Senate, also announced plans this week to run for lieutenant governor.

Ingram started her political career with her 2010 election to the Williston Selectboard after serving six years on the Williston Planning Commission. She was elected to the Senate in 2016 and re-elected in 2018.

A United Church of Christ minister who leads Vermont Interfaith Action, Ingram has been a champion of affordable housing, access to health care and social justice.

“I have heard consistently that

pretty much everyone seeks housing they can afford, health care that gives them security, a job that treats them right and a better life for their children,” Ingram wrote in an email to the Observer.

“And they respect that these are the qualities that all Vermonters want — white people, people of color, members of the LGBTQ community, folks living with disabilities, those whose families have been here a year or for seven generations.”

Ingram was raised in a small town in Georgia where her father was mayor, an experience that guided her toward public service and politics.

An alcoholic, Ingram says she has been sober since the night of Oct. 12, 2017, when she was arrested for drunk driving after driving off the side of South Road near her home. Her blood-alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit, according to Williston Police. see INGRAM page 3

Debbie Ingram

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Page 2 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

ACADEMIC HONORS The following Williston residents, listed alphabetically, were recognized by their colleges and universities for recent academic achievements.

Kathryn Ahern earned a bachelor of science degree in nursing from Western Governors University.

Kristin Arles was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Kaylee Beyor was named to the dean’s list at New England University for the fall 2019 semester.

Alexa Bourbonnais was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Liza Cahill was named to the president’s list at Bob Jones University for the fall 2019 semester.

Joshua Cameron was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Silas Cote was named to the dean’s list at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University for the fall 2019 semester.

Julia Cronan was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Isabella Curtis was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Brigitte Durieux was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Natalie Durieux was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Scott Edwards graduated from Castleton University in December.

Jessica Gagne was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Jeffrey Goldman was named to the dean’s list at the University of

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Kyle Gorman was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Logan Griswold was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Megane Hamel was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

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Sam Koskinen was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Courtney Kumes was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

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Morganne Meunier was named to the dean’s list at New England University for the fall 2019 semester.

Jacob Murphy was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Paige Niarchos was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Mia OFarrell was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Maia Parker was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Kelsie Saia was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Dana Sartorelli was named to the dean’s list at Bucknell University for the fall 2019 semester.

Clara Schultz was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Kevin Veronneau was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Johana Vigoreaux was named to the dean’s list at the University of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

CVSD announces preschool lottery The Champlain Valley School District’s preschool programs are now accepting applications for a lottery drawing for the 2020-21 school year. The district operates licensed part-time, partial day preschool programs for all preschool-aged children at district schools. The curriculum is based on the Vermont Early Learning Standards, and the programs follow the CVSD school calendar.

Students who will be 3 or older

by Sept. 1 (but younger than 5) are eligible to enter the lottery.

Visit www.earlyedcvsdvt.weebly. com for an application and more information. Applications are due

by Feb. 7. Students will be selected and families notified by the end of February.

January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 3

Market continued from page

1

Jon Fleming, who attempted to reorganize a farmers’ market at Kismet Place in 2019 before abandoning the idea, said he is moving forward with plans for 2020.

So it appears Williston will have two separate farmers’ markets this summer.

“We are getting a much earlier start than last year, and I think that will make all the difference,” said Fleming, an acupuncturist with an office at Kismet Place.

Fleming supports Isham’s efforts.

“We are happy that there will be more access to local vegetables and products for all Vermonters, especially those in Williston,” he said.

Isham is the current president of the Chittenden County Farm Bureau, a trade association of agricultural producers, and he has been visiting with potential vendors this winter. He’s talked with meat, vegetable, cheese and berry producers about setting up every Tuesday this summer.

Recruiting quality vendors to consistently show up has been an Achilles’ heel of past farmers’ markets in Williston. Isham understands the challenge.

Attracting people for an evening of

dinner, socializing and music at the farm is one thing; getting them to buy produce from vendors is another.

“We love coming to the markets, but we find that (people) aren’t purchasing enough of the farm product for us to continue going,” Isham quoted one of his colleagues as saying. “It takes a day of planning to get to the market, then to clean up afterwards … It is better for us to not sell at the markets anymore and just sell from home.”

But Isham is undeterred by these concerns. He said the farm has a number of assets that make it an ideal location for a market, including meadows and trails, indoor and outdoor vendor spaces, ample parking and easy access off Oak Hill Road. The farm also has an existing customer base.

“It’s not going to be easy recruiting vendors and making it successful,” he said. “It’s going to be a lot of work, but I think it can be done … I think if you bring the people, you’ll bring the vendors.”

Isham chose Tuesdays so as not to conflict with other Chittenden County farmers’ markets, like Richmond’s (Friday) and Burlington’s (Saturday).

He also wants to work around the Thursday concert series at Maple Tree Place and the Wednesday Williston Town Band concerts on the Village Green.

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Ingram continued from page

1

“That was certainly one of the worst mistakes I’ve made, to drive in that condition,” she said in an interview Tuesday.

Ingram was convicted and completed a state-mandated alcohol education class and alcohol abuse counseling. For three months, she could only drive with a blood-alcohol detection device installed in her car that disables the vehicle if the driver is not sober. She continues to attend 12-step meetings.

“I am an alcoholic in recovery and I’ve worked really hard to make sure my recovery is strong,” she said. “I have a support group around me that I can count on.”

Ingram said she had stretches of sobriety in the past and that the incident in 2017 was a relapse.

She made a public apology after the arrest, expressing thanks that no one was injured.

“The DUI was a wakeup call that sometimes those of us with addiction need to understand how serious our problem is and redouble our efforts to be in recovery,” she said.

Ingram plans to continue focusing on her work in the legislature until the session adjourns in the spring before jumping into the lieutenant governor campaign. She serves on the Senate Health and Welfare Committee and the Education Committee.

She’s advanced legislation on health care system reform, raising the purchasing age for tobacco, child care accessibility, substance abuse

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‘The DUI was a wakeup call that sometimes those of us with addiction need to understand how serious our problem is.’

–Debbie Ingram State Senator

prevention and gun safety, and she supports bills currently under consideration to address climate change.

The party primaries are in August, with the general election in November.

Ingram believes her abilities as a communicator, active listener and unifier are a good fit for the lieutenant governor’s office.

“The lieutenant governor post is mostly a ‘create your own adventure’ kind of job, with few designated duties,” she said. “It is the perfect platform to listen to people and to bring them together — two practices we don’t see enough of in our society today.

“I have the skills and experience to bring everyday Vermonters into the law-making process so that they feel heard and respected, by each other and by legislators and the administration.”

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Page 4 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

NONPROFIT NEWS

How are Vermont’s children and families faring?

Building Bright Futures releases annual report Building Bright Futures last week released its 2019 edition of “How Are Vermont’s Young Children and Families?,” an annual look at the well-being of children in Vermont that includes data on economics, demographics, early learning and health.

Its recommendations focus on how to support early care and early education workers and the mental health of children and families, recognizing the early childhood period as the foundation for future development and lifelong outcomes.

Building Bright Futures is a public-private partnership based in Williston that was established by state law with a mission to improve the well-being of children and families by using evidence to inform policy and solve problems.

The full report is available at www.

buildingbrightfutures.org.

Among the report’s findings: l 5,655 babies were born in 2017 and the number of children under age 9 is steadily declining. l Although the vast majority of Vermont’s children identify as white (91.5 percent), the state is slowly growing more racially diverse with 2.6 percent of children under 10 identifying as Hispanic or Latino and 4.2 percent identifying as two or more races. l 8 percent of children under 9 experienced multiple adversities, including living in a home where it is hard to cover basic needs, experiencing the divorce of a parent or caregiver, living with someone with a substance use disorder and living with someone with a severe mental health challenge. l There are 659 children under 9 in protective custody in Vermont, compared to 343 seven years ago. l Since 2014, the number of children enrolled in preschool has

Photo courtesy of pexels.com

Building Bright Futures released its 2019 annual report last week on the state of Vermont’s children and families. Among the key recommendations is to focus state resources on early childhood mental health.

increased by more than 2,000. l 83 percent of Vermont children are ready for kindergarten. About 50 percent of third grade students

are proficient in reading and math assessments. l 14 percent of all families with children under 5 live under the federal poverty level. The percent of single mothers with children under 5 living under poverty is three times higher than the overall percent of Vermont families living in poverty (48 percent). l About one in seven children in Vermont live in food insecure households. l Half of families who rent, and a third of families who have a mortgage, spend more than 30 percent of their household income on housing. l 98% of children have access to health insurance. l More Vermont women use alcohol during pregnancy (14 percent) than the national average (8 percent).

Among the report’s recommendations:

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l Support the mental health of children and families.

“Early childhood mental health is the foundation of all future development,” it states. “Positive environments and stable, responsive relationships build a strong foundation which shape a child’s ability to make friends, cope with adversity and achieve success in school, work and community.” l Support the early care and education workforce.

“The childcare profession has changed to encompass a wider range of skills and responsibilities befitting early childhood, when most brain development is happening,” the report says. “The expectations for childcare professionals has grown to include knowledge of child development, education and psychology. The need for a robust support system for early educators to be well compensated and educated is driven by the needs of families.”

January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 5

Plans underway for Mt. Philo State Park improvements Enhancements to parking, trails and summit access planned After nearly a decade of planning and public input, the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation has completed a long range management plan for Mt. Philo State Park in Charlotte. The plan will guide the stewardship of the area’s natural resources and management of human use.

Among the needs the plan identifies at Mt. Philo — Vermont’s oldest state park — are enhancements to trails and parking areas in response to increased park use, as well as a new design to address vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow at the park entrance and summit.

Mt. Philo had 68,638 visitors between Memorial Day weekend and the Oct. 20 end of the operating season in 2019. That is a 30 percent increase from 2018 and nearly triple the visitors from 2009.

The goal of the long range plan is to more efficiently greet people entering the park and more effectively get them to the places they want to enjoy, while minimizing the impacts of overcrowding at the park’s access and most visited

Mt. Philo had 68,638 visitors between Memorial Day weekend and the Oct. 20 end of the operating season in 2019. That is a 30 percent increase from 2018 and nearly triple the visitors from 2009.

Observer courtesy photo

A woman checks out the view of the Adirondack peaks from the top of Mt. Philo in Charlotte.

The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation recently completed a long range management plan for the popular state park.

points. The design will likely include expanded parking at the entrance and enhanced signage and accessibility near the summit. The department expects to have potential designs ready to share for public feedback later this spring.

Another aspect of the plan is addressing maintenance needs of the park’s trail system.

“Ongoing communication and collaboration with our community partners and park users is critical to our success at Mt. Philo and else-

where, and just because the plan is complete doesn’t mean the process of designing needed improvements to the park is going to stop,” Parks Regional Manager Reuben Allen said.

“We welcome feedback and ideas for us to continue to improve our ability to serve those who enjoy our unmatched park system.”

The Mt. Philo long-range management plan can be viewed at www.fpr.vermont.gov.

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Page 6 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

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As legislative leaders prepare to tackle pressing issues confronting Vermont, the Gov. Phil Scott administration has signaled that they shouldn’t be looking to state government for any more help. If the legislature wants to combat climate change, expand the availability of high-quality child care or extend paid family and medical leave benefits, any new investments will have to come from existing programs because state government is doing all it can do.

At least that seems to be the clear implication of the letter sent early last month to House Speaker Mitzi Johnson and Senate President Pro Tem Tim Ashe: “It is our view that if the percent of a household’s income captured by government is increasing, government is having a regressive economic impact on households,” Administration Secretary Susanne Young wrote as part of a document about projected education tax rates for the coming year.

State of Working Vermont 2019, which Public Assets Institute released just before Christmas, shows that state and local taxes collected

in Vermont, as a percentage of Vermonters’ total personal income, has remained flat for 25 years.

In fiscal year 2017 — the latest year for which data are available and the year Gov. Scott took office — state and local taxes were 11.8 percent of Vermonters’ total personal income. In fiscal 1992, taxes were 12 percent of personal income, and they average 11.6 percent over the entire period.

According to the Scott Doctrine, however much money Vermont’s tax system was generating when he took office — as a share of income — is all that Vermonters can afford. He’s also saying that, despite the changes we’ve seen in the last generation — the rise in health care costs and fuel prices, the opioid epidemic, the need for high-quality child care, climate change, security threats, the explosion in telecommunications — the level of Vermont public resources available in 1992 is adequate for the world we live in today.

The Scott Doctrine is based on the governor’s belief that public investments make Vermont unaffordable.

“One of the key performance indicators we use to measure how

effectively state government is helping to make Vermont more affordable for families is the percent of household income spent on state taxes and fees,” Secretary Young said in her letter.

But for Vermonters struggling with affordability, it’s low wages that are at the root of the problem.

State of Working Vermont 2019 shows that prices, as calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, were only slightly higher (2.5 percent) in Vermont than the national average. Vermont’s average wage, meanwhile, was 18 percent lower than the U.S average wage.

Vermont’s fiscal policies — decisions about how much to raise and invest — should be based on upto-date assessments of what it will take for Vermont to meet today’s challenges, not the ones the state faced 25 years ago.

Planning and investing in the future is the way Vermont moves forward. The Scott Doctrine has the effect of holding the state back.

Jack Hoffman is a senior policy analyst at the Montpelier-based Public Assets Institute, online at publicassets.org.

January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Every year, we observe Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on Jan. 9 to celebrate and honor our brave men and women in uniform. Every day, our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to keep us safe, to combat dangerous crime and to help preserve the Green Mountain State’s unique beauty and quality of life. This involves tremendous daily sacrifice on their parts, to be sure, but also on the parts of their families and loved ones, who worry about whether officers will come home to them safely at shift’s end.

Consider the case of a young patrol officer who had recently graduated from the Vermont Police Academy.

Last year, she responded to a domestic violence call on behalf of her local police department. When she arrived at the residence — alone, as backup had not yet arrived — she found a badly beaten, unconscious woman on the floor. A man of large stature stood in proximity.

When the newly minted officer gave commands to the man, he did not comply. Without firing shots or drawing her gun, the officer subdued the assailant, saving the woman’s life. This is heroism. And heroic

acts like these are performed by our law enforcement officers every day.

For every dispatch and 911 call to which they respond, they have no idea what danger may await them.

But they always respond as quickly as they can.

Take a moment to show support for those who serve and protect by sending them an email, taking them to coffee or lunch, tweeting support for them or just giving them a call to say “thank you.” This is the least we can do to give back to those who dedicate their lives to public protection and run toward danger to keep us safe.

As we enter this New Year, it’s also a good time to reflect upon, and raise awareness of, officer wellness.

In 2019, there were 228 police officer suicides nationwide, up from 172 in 2018. Three Vermont officers have died by suicide since 2016. The trauma, stress and long hours of the job — and harrowing experiences like responses to violent domestic crimes — contribute to these tragic outcomes. While there is much we can and should do to address the tragedy, a doubling-down of appreciation and support for officers would be a great and much-needed start.

Christina Nolan U.S. Attorney, District of Vermont

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Special to the Observer

A proposal to degenderize a section of the Vermont Constitution was introduced into the Vermont Senate last week and sent to the Government Operations Committee.

Offered by Democratic Sens.

Debbie Ingram and Ginny Lyons of Williston and Ruth Hardy of Addison, Proposal 8 would change the title of Section 42, Chapter II of the Vermont Constitution (voter’s qualification and oath) from: “Qualifications of Freemen and Freewomen” to “Voter Qualifications.”

If approved by the legislature and signed by Gov. Phil Scott this year, Prop 8 would have to be affirmed by the legislature next year, then approved by voters at a November 2022 statewide referendum — possibly the same referendum as Proposal 5, which would make unrestricted abortion a constitutional right.

OTHER ACTIVITY AT THE LEGISLATURE THIS WEEK l The House Human Services Committee reviewed H.663 this week, which would require health insurance plans to cover all methods and forms of contraceptives without cost shar-

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ing, require school districts to make free over-the-counter contraceptives available to all secondary school students and direct the Department of Health to coordinate with stakeholders to make free over-the counter contraceptives available in a variety of settings statewide. l Vermont Press Association President Mike Donoghue appeared before the Government Operations Committee on Wednesday discussing accessibility to public records and speaking against Attorney General TJ Donovan’s insistance on fees for any state employee-assisted document review. l The Government Operations committee also got its first look at H.614, introduced by Rep. Jim McCullough of Williston, that would provide a 20 percent pay hike for the Speaker of the House, Senate Pro Tem and all committee chairs. It also would raise all other lawmakers’ in-session weekly pay to $743 in 2021, with annual increases thereafter indexed to state employees’ raises.

Guy Page is the publisher of Vermont Statehouse Headliners, online at www.pagecommunicationsvt.com.

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The library will be closed Monday, Jan. 20 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Programs for youth PRESCHOOL MUSIC Mondays at 11 a.m. and Fridays at 10:30 a.m. For children up to age 5 with a caregiver. No pre-registration necessary. (No music program on Monday, Jan. 20 — library closed).

STORY TIME Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and a simple craft activity.

Jan. 21: Pets; Jan. 28: Dinosaurs.

Geared toward preschoolers, but all are welcome.

TODDLER TIME Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Sing, move and read, followed by free play. Jan. 23: Pirates; Jan. 30: Polar

Bears. Aimed at toddlers, but all are welcome.

THURSDAY PLAYTIME Thursdays, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Informal play for little ones and their caregivers. For children up to age 5.

AFTER-SCHOOL TUESDAYS Games Cafe: Jan. 21, 2-3 p.m.

Enjoy board games and a snack.

Grades 3 and up.

Friendship Bracelets: Jan. 28, 2-3 p.m. Make friendship bracelets with our youth volunteers. Grades 3 and up.

Programs for adults PLASTICS FORUM Thursday, Jan. 16, 7 p.m. Environmental attorney Maggie Eaton will discuss Vermont’s new plastics legislation along with recommendations for how to live without single-use plastics. Presented in

MEDITATION PROGRAM Friday, Jan. 17, 12-1 p.m. Lower your stress level and unlock calm at our bi-monthly meditation program. All levels are welcome.

BROWN BAG BOOK CLUB Tuesday, Jan. 21, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

This month we will discuss “In the Midst of Winter” by Isabel Allende. Books are available for checkout at the front desk. Beverages and dessert provided.

COOK THE BOOK Wednesday, Jan. 22, 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. This month’s featured cookbook is “The Joy of Cooking: 2019 Edition” by Irma S. Rombauer et al. Stop by the library and photocopy a recipe of your choice, then prepare the dish and share it along with the recipe at our potluck meeting. Pre-register at 878-4918.

PUT YOUR HOUSE ON A DIET SERIES: CLEAR THE CLUTTER Tuesday, Jan. 28, 12-1 p.m. Feeling overwhelmed with stuff? Come learn simple steps to reduce your

clutter and lighten your home.

Bring your own lunch and learn something new at each session of the “Put Your House on a Diet” series. Presented by Melanie Saia, director of staging services at The Malley Group and KW Vermont.

MAH JONGG Wednesday, Jan. 29, 1-3:30 p.m.

Learn how to play or just enjoy the game of Mah Jongg. Come alone or bring a friend and play with members of our community. All experience levels are welcome.

TECH TUTOR Wednesday, Jan. 29, 4-6 p.m.

One-on-one technology help from a teen. Guarantee a time by making a 30-minute appointment at 878-4918. Drop-ins are welcome if space is available.

Adult nonfiction “Fentanyl, Inc.: How Rogue Chemists Are Creating the Deadliest Wave of the Opioid Epidemic”

by Ben Westhoff Investigative journalist Ben Westhoff uncovers how fentanyl and other synthetic drugs were cre-

ated for medical purposes, hijacked for recreational use, manufactured in labs, sold through the dark web and put on the streets.

Picture book “Alpaca Lunch” by John and Jennifer Churchman Poppy the alpaca eats her way through the seasons at Moonrise Farm in this latest installment of Vermont’s own Sweet Pea & Friends series. Spring, summer, fall and even winter bring exciting new foods, and Poppy’s adventures are illustrated with colorful enhanced photographs.

Juvenile graphic novel “Guts” by Raina Telgemeier Telgemeier’s biographical follow-up to “Smile and Sisters” turns from dental and sibling drama to anxiety and stomach issues. When she develops phobias related to her digestive troubles, Raina goes to therapy to learn how to deal with her anxiety. Young readers with anxiety, or anyone who has dealt with worries, can read this book and feel less alone.

January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 9

SPORTS

Harvey hits game-winner to topple Hilltoppers

By Lauren Read

Observer correspondent

The Champlain Valley Union boys basketball team held off a late push by St. Johnsbury to earn a 61-58 win on Monday in Hinesburg.

Ethan Harvey had 27 points for the Redhawks to lead all scorers. CVU led by as many as 18 points in the third quarter, but watched the Hilltoppers go on 18-0 run to tie the game.

Harvey hit a 3-pointer with one second remaining to lift CVU to the win. Noah Allen added 13 points for the Redhawks, who move to 8-1.

The Redhawks also got a win last Thursday, beating Colchester 75-38.

Devin Rogers had 19 points to lead CVU, while Ryan Spear and Noah Allen each added eight points.

NORDIC SKIING The Champlain Valley girls nordic team captured a win at the three-stage Tour de Chittenden after the competition wrapped up on Monday.

The Redhawks finished with 23 points in the Hill Climb on Monday at Cochran’s. Emma Strack finished second in the race, Esther Cuneo was third and Finnegan Mittlestadt came in fifth place.

In the Classic race on Saturday, Strack was second, Mittelstadt was fourth and Cuneo was sixth, while Emma Crum finished in eighth place.

In the skate prologue in Colchester on Friday, Cuneo came in first place, Mittelstadt was second, Strack was fourth and Isabelle Mittelstadt was tied for seventh.

In the boys race, Champlain Valley see SPORTS page 11

Observer photo by Al Frey

CVU’s Devin Rogers (24) rejects a shot by St. Johnsbury’s Murphy Young during the Redhawks’ win Monday in Hinesburg.

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SPORTS

Observer photos by Al Frey

ABOVE: CVU’s Noah Allen makes a layup to spark a Redhawks’ first-quarter run during their game against St. Johnsbury on Monday in Hinesburg. LEFT: Alden Randall slices through the St. Johnsbury defense for a score.

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SPORTS Sports continued from page

9

came in third place overall after the three-race competition.

Skyler Heininger was seventh in the Hill Climb on Monday.

GIRLS BASKETBALL Champlain Valley 74, Brattleboro 34: The Champlain Valley girls basketball team continued its undefeated season with a 74-34 route of Brattleboro on Monday.

Madison Reagan led the Redhawks (7-0) with 16 points, Shelby Companion added 15 points and seven rebounds and Mekkena Boyd had 11 points and eight points.

CVU led 18-11 at the end of the first quarter and shut out the Colonels in the second frame to move to a 39-11 lead at halftime.

The Redhawks also captured a win on Saturday, beating Burlington 69-36.

Julia Blanck had 13 points and Boyd added 12 points. Quinn Boardman (11 points) and Companion (10 points) also hit double-figures.

BOYS HOCKEY South Burlington 6, Champlain Valley 5 (OT): South Burlington scored in overtime to earn a come-from-behind victory over Champlain Valley and capture the CSB Cup on Saturday.

The Redhawks (2-7) had a 3-1 lead after two periods, but watched South Burlington come back to get the win.

Aiden Achilles had two goals and one assist for CVU, while Angelos Carroll tallied twice. Austin Igler added a goal and Jason Douglas stopped 20 shots.

Observer photos by Al Frey

ABOVE: CVU’s Quinn Boardman leads a fast break during the Redhawks’ win over Spaulding last week in Hinesburg. BELOW: Julia Blanck gets free for a layup.

GIRLS HOCKEY Essex 5, Champlain Valley 0: The Champlain Valley girls hockey team was shut out by Essex on Saturday.

Grace Ferguson made 19 saves in a losing effort for the Redhawks, who fell to 4-5.

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Page 12 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

Deer hunters post strong numbers in 2019

Preliminary results from Vermont’s 2019 deer hunting season show that 16,479 deer were taken, according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. It was the fourth-highest total since 2000.

The total harvest breaks down as follows.

3,739 deer were taken in archery season; 1,636 in youth season; 7,467 in rifle season; and 3,637 in muzzleloader season.

The Fish and Wildlife Department estimates that the harvest yielded 3.3 million servings of venison.

Hunting seasons are part of the state’s deer management strategy, to keep the herd stable and in balance with available habitat.

“Maintaining an appropriate number of deer on the landscape ensures deer and the habitats that support them remain in good condition and are productive,” said Fish and Wildlife Department Deer Project Manager Nick Fortin. “A strong buck harvest following the relatively severe winter of 2019 clearly demonstrates the value of keeping the deer population in balance with its habitat.”

Each year, the department operates biologi-

cal check stations during deer hunting seasons to gather information on the age, sex, weight, antler characteristics and overall health of Vermont’s deer herd. In 2019, biological data were collected from about 1,200 deer during the two-day youth season and the November rifle season.

Hunters also submitted about 2,600 teeth from bucks harvested during rifle season, which will provide additional age information. Hunters who submitted a tooth will be able to see the age of their buck later this year at www.vtfishandwildlife.com.

The 2019 White-tailed Deer Harvest Report with final numbers will be on Fish and Wildlife’s website. Beginning in late March, department biologists will be holding statewide informational hearings to share biological information and to listen to any information people wish to share.

Observer courtesy photo

Donald Morgan of Charlotte poses with an eight-point, 192-pound buck he took in November in Addison County.

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Pianist Sammy Angstman, top, joined soprano Helen Lyons, above, for a night of opera and classical music last Friday at Williston’s Brick Church Concert Series. Carl Recchia, above left, provided keyboard accompaniment.

January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 13

Page 14 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

Zuckerman announces run for governor

Champlain cruise boat to install low-emission engines

The company that owns the Spirit of Ethan Allen, an excursion boat on Lake Champlain, has received a $268,000 grant from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation to replace four unregulated diesel engines that power the boat.

The engines are “heavily polluting,” according to the department.

The grant comes through the department’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Program to Mesa Leasing, the boat’s ownership company.

“The project will improve air quality along the Burlington waterfront, protect public health and decrease greenhouse gas emissions,” states a press release announcing the award.

It is the largest grant in the 12year history of the Diesel Emissions Reduction program.

“We want to do our part to protect the waterfront and the lake, to cut down our carbon footprint and be more environmentally friendly,” said Spirit of Ethan Allen Head Engineer Wilson Tucker.

The old engines will be replaced with engines that meet more stringent emissions standards. The new engines will eliminate an estimated 457.2 tons of diesel emissions, including 17 tons of nitrogen oxides, 0.6 tons of fine particulate matter,

Observer courtesy photo

The Spirit of Ethan Allen will replace its four unregulated diesel engines with new, lower-emission engines thanks to a DEC grant.

0.6 tons of hydrocarbons, 2 tons of carbon monoxide and 437 tons of carbon dioxide.

The ship will begin operating with the new engines in May. Vermont Diesel Emissions Reduction Grants are made possible with funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the Diesel Emission Reduction Act. The program has provided roughly $3.2 million in grants to Vermont schools, municipalities

and businesses to reduce diesel emissions. It has helped fund the early replacement of more than 60 more heavily polluting school buses, 12 older diesel trucks and five pieces of heavily polluting construction equipment. Grants have also been awarded to install idle reduction technologies for emergency vehicles at hospitals and on locomotive engines, and to retrofit 12 waste haulers with emission controls.

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In an announcement Monday in Montpelier, Zuckerman said his focus as governor would be on economic challenges Vermonters face.

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Rep. Welch announces staffing changes Rep. Peter Welch has announced that his long-time chief of staff, Bob Rogan, will retire at the end of February.

Welch appointed Rogan to lead his staff soon after he was first elected to Congress in 2006.

Prior to working for Welch, Rogan worked for Gov. Howard Dean, first as deputy chief of staff then as deputy campaign manager of Dean’s presidential bid. He also worked as an executive for both Central Vermont Public Service and Green Mountain Power. Prior to moving to Vermont in 1994 to work for Dean, Rogan worked for U.S. Senator and Gov. Lawton Chiles (D-Fla.), and U.S. Senator Bob Graham (D-Fla.).

Replacing Rogan as chief of staff will be Patrick Satalin, Welch’s deputy chief of staff.

Satalin first joined Welch’s staff in 2011 and has served in various roles since, including legislative director, before being promoted in 2015 to deputy chief of staff.

of Bristol, Welch’s director of scheduling and operations. Etka joined Welch’s staff in 2015 after working for U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.). He holds a bachelor of arts degree in economics and political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Rounding out Welch’s staff leadership team is state director Rebecca Ellis of Waterbury and deputy state director Shannon Furnari of White River JuncRep. Peter Welch tion.

Prior to working on Capitol Ellis is a former state legHill, he worked for the commis- islator, deputy Department of sioner of the Federal Housing Environmental Conservation Administration and for a na- commissioner and assistant tional accounting firm. He holds attorney general. She was apa master’s degree in public ad- pointed to her current position ministration from Syracuse Uni- in 2019. versity’s Maxwell School and a Furnari first joined Welch’s bachelor of arts degree in media staff in 2010 and has served in and communications studies various roles since, including from The Catholic University as a community liaison and of America in Washington, DC. casework manager. She was Replacing Satalin as deputy appointed to her current position chief of staff is Patrick Etka in 2018.

Catholic church creates victim assistance coordinator position In response to concerns raised by survivors of clergy sexual abuse and their families, the Diocese of Burlington has created a process external to the church for supporting and caring for survivors.

In many conversations and communications with survivors, Bishop Christopher Coyne and other church leaders have been told that it is often difficult for survivors to approach the church directly, especially since it was an agent of the church that was responsible for their abuse. Many felt that there needed to be another way to get the help and support they need.

As such, the Diocese of Burlington and Vermont Catholic Charities, Inc. has contracted with Sheila Conroy LCMHC (licensed mental health counselor) to serve as a Victim Assistance Coordinator to assist in bringing about healing, justice and peace for those suffering from sexual abuse perpetrated by clergy and others employed by the church in years past.

Under this new endeavor, survivors can contact Conroy directly without having to contact the church. Conroy is tasked with providing a safe, warm and respectful welcome to survivors of

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sexual abuse, their families and friends and impacted parishes outside of the normal church environment. Along with listening to survivors, she will provide therapeutic service and confidentially communicate victims’ needs and concerns with diocesan leaders. She will also provide healing workshops and support groups.

Conroy began her clinical studies 37 years ago focusing on the impact of early harm to children and young adults.

She has held positions as contractor to the State of Vermont, dealing with the effects of sexual abuse on children and their families. She has worked as a clinician in a behavior hospital for adolescents, most of whom had suffered from profound physical and sexual abuse that led to their placement.

Conroy also has years of experience contracting with the local and federal government as a Military Family Life Counselor for clients suffering from life-changing effects of war and as a first responder, as well as contracted work with Vermont Catholic Charities.

Conroy can be reached on a confidential line at (802) 855-3016.

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Page 16 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

Slimming scams weigh down New Year’s resolutions

The new year can be a difficult and confusing time for consumers whose resolutions involve getting into shape. Every year there’s a new cream, pill, drink or fad diet that promises spectacular weight loss results. Consumers who want to get in shape or lose weight are at risk of being deceived by products that do not work as advertised or come with a host of unwanted side effects.

“Any time you see miracle claims for weight loss, you have to be very skeptical,” said Claire Rosenzweig of the Better Business Bureau.

“There is no such thing as a ‘secret ingredient’ or ‘breakthrough formula’ that can result in weight loss virtually overnight.”

Many consumer complaints to the Better Business Bureau describe weight loss programs as difficult to cancel, even if the product doesn’t work as claimed in the ads.

Some consumers say they believed they were making a one-time purchase, but then received recurring charges to their credit cards for more of the product. When they contacted customer service, they were informed that they had signed up for a subscription, which was only disclosed in the terms and conditions of their original purchase, which the consumers had not seen.

In other, similar complaints, consumers described being notified of an additional shipment of the weight loss product that they did not order. When they tried to contact the

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The Better Business Bureau reminds consumers to be aware of potential scams related to weight-loss products.

company to cancel, the company claimed the item had already shipped, and the consumer struggled to receive a refund for the shipped product. Many consumers also filed complaints after being unable to reach the weight loss goals stated in advertising for the product.

To help avoid weight loss scams, BBB recommends the following:

l Always be wary of advertisements and customer endorsements promising “miracle” results or immediate weight loss. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a gradual loss of 1-2 pounds per week is a healthy goal and is more successful for achieving long-term weight loss. Ask your doctor what an achievable weight loss goal

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January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 17

Scams continued from page

Siegel resigns from Peace & Justice Center

16

to purchase, and are not signing up for a subscription unless you want it. Be cautious of any contract that takes payment from your credit card until you cancel. l When participating in online forums and chat rooms focused on weight loss and fitness topics, be wary of individuals pushing products they claim will help you reach your goals. l Research the company at www.

BBB.org before purchasing. Many companies peddling “miracle” weight loss products have “F” ratings with BBB. Check the product or company name by checking www.bbb.org, and searching the internet in general, to see if there are any complaints alleging that it’s a scam. l Be wary of free trial offers, and before signing up, understand all the terms and conditions. These deals can become “subscription traps” that hook consumers into expensive shipments of products they did not explicitly agree to buy. l Report the deceptive ads. Be suspicious of ridiculously positive testimonials on the company website. Testimonials become an easy marketing tool and are easily faked.

These are often accompanied with glorious before and after pictures.

Consumers can report deceptive ads to the Federal Trade Commission by calling 877-FTC-Help or at www.bbb.org.

— Article provide by the Better Business Bureau

Rachel Siegel has resigned as executive director of the Peace & Justice Center in Burlington. She will step down in June after seven years leading the organization.

The organization, headquartered in Burlington, is focused on issues of peace, human rights and economic, social and racial justice.

Over the past two years, Siegel has led several protests of federal immigration policy at the federal building in Williston.

“I can’t imagine a job that would have been better for me,” Siegel said. “I am so grateful to have had the chance to work with and learn from so many inspiring people … With the number of strong and committed people currently connected to PJC, this is a good time to make a transition. We are on solid ground and are ready to grow beyond what I am able to do.”

Playing into her decision was her belief that someone with lived experience in oppression should guide the organization.

“The people who benefit materially from systems of oppression — people who have class and/or race privilege — we‘re the least likely to be able to see the solutions to these systems,” she said. “There is a role for us, for me — I’m not going to disappear — but it no longer makes sense to me to continue as executive director.

Someone with more relevant lived experience should be up front.”

The Peace & Justice Center Board of Directors is organizing a search committee and expects to launch the search this month.

“We are sad to announce Rachel’s departure after all that she has done to strengthen the organization and take action on multiple causes,” said board treasurer Nathan Suter.

“When she arrived at the helm in 2013, the center was just emerging from several years of instability, financial challenges and an absence in the role of executive director. Rachel led us through that recovery and expanded the relevance of PJC and its work to many, many

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Observer courtesy photo

Rachel Siegel, seen here during an immigration policy protest at Maple Tree Place in Williston last year, plans to step down as executive director of the Peace & Justice Center in June.

more Vermonters.”

Lam Phan, chair of the board, added: “We are grateful for Rachel’s commitment, passion and talent. Rachel’s leadership has helped to solidify the PJC’s status as a leader in social

justice and racial justice work within the State of Vermont. Rachel is leaving the organization on more solid ground than the one she inherited, and she is committed to ensuring a smooth transition, and for that, we are thankful.”

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Page 18 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

SENIORS

Savvy Senior

By Jim Miller

Monitoring solutions for loved ones with dementia

Dear Savvy Senior, My husband, who lives at home, has dementia and I worry about him wandering off and not being able to get back. Can you recommend some monitoring technology devices or any other solutions that can help me keep tabs on him?

Exhausted Spouse

Dear Exhausted, This is a concern for millions of Americans caring for a loved one with dementia at home. About 60 percent of people who suffer from dementia wander at some point, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

For caregivers, this can be frightening because many of those who wander off end up confused and lost, even in their own

neighborhood, and are unable to communicate who they are or where they live. Here are some product and service solutions that may help.

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS For starters, there are a number of simple home modifications you can make to keep your husband from wandering away. Some solutions include adding an extra lock on the top or bottom of the exterior doors out of the line of sight, or installing door alarms on the exterior doors that let you know when they’re opened. See www.AlzStore.com for a variety of product solutions. And, be sure you hide the car keys to keep him from driving.

You should also alert your neighbors that your husband may wander so they can keep

Volunteer opportunities ON THE ICE — Military Kids Vermont is planning its annual Military Kids Vermont Skate Day on Jan. 26 at Leddy Park in Burlington’s New North End. Volunteers are needed to serve as greeters, photographers, food servers and bakers ahead of the event. Contact Allison Smith at 651-8343 or email mkvt@uvm.edu.

M E N TOR! M E N TOR! — Me r c y

Connections, in par tnership with the Depar t ment of Cor rections, matches women volunteers with women being released from prison for nonviolent offenses. Volunteer mentors are needed to help women stay focused on the goals they have set for themselves and to help identify community resources they may see VOLUNTEER page 19

Home is a garden overflowing with memories.

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an eye out, and have a recent picture of him on hand to show around the neighborhood or to the police if he does get lost.

MONITORING TECHNOLOGY For high-tech solutions, there are a variety of wearable GPS tracking devices available today that can help you keep tabs on him.

Some top options to consider include AngelSense (www.AngelSense.com), which can be attached to clothing or worn around the waist; wristwatches like the Theora Connect (www.TheoraCare.com) or NurtureWatch (www.NurtureWatch.com); and the GPS SmartSole (www.GPSSmartSole.com), which is a shoe insole tracker.

All of these products come with smartphone apps that would alert you if your husband were to wander beyond a pre-established safe area and would let you know where to find him if he did. These products (except the GPS SmartSole) also provide two-way voice communication and auto pickup speakerphone so you can talk to him if he does wander off.

LOCATING SERVICES If the previously listed options don’t work for you, there are also locating services — like the MedicAlert + Safe Return program (www.MedicAlert.org/alz) and Vitals Aware Services (www.TheVitalsApp.com) — that can help you if he does wander off.

The MedicAlert + Safe Return program comes with a personalized ID bracelet that would have your husband’s medical information engraved on it, along with his

membership number and the toll-free MedicAlert emergency phone number. If he goes missing, you would call 911 and report it to the local police department, which would begin a search then report it to MedicAlert.

Or, a Good Samaritan or police officer may find him and call the MedicAlert number to get him back home.

The Vitals Aware Service works a bit differently. This is a free app-based network system that comes with a small beacon that your husband would wear. If he did go missing, anyone in the Vitals app network community that came within 80 feet of him would receive an alert and information about him so they could contact you.

Another option that could help, depending on where you live, is a radio frequency locater service like SafetyNet and Project Lifesaver, which are offered by some local law enforcement agencies.

With these services, your husband would wear a wristband that contains a radio transmitter that emits tracking signals. If he goes missing, you would contact the local authorities, who would send out rescue personnel to use their tracking equipment to locate him.

Visit www.SafetyNetTracking.com and www.Projectlifesaver.org to see if these services are available in your community.

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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January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 19

Volunteer continued from page

CROSSWORD

18

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

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CROSSWORD SOLUTION PAGE 21

need to reach those goals. Training will be offered in February. To register, contact Maeve Keating at 846-7063 or email mkeating@ mercyconnections.org.

ON THE SHELF — Northwest Family Foods is in need of volunteers from 9 a.m. to noon to weigh and sort donations from local grocery stores and shelve the donations in their proper places.

Volunteers may also be needed to assist the coordinator with pickups from donors. Contact Toni Auriemma at 527-7392, Ext. 106, or email tauriemma@cvoeo.org.

WISH LIST — YWCA Vermont/Camp Hochelaga invites volunteers and donors to help them continue to create unforgettable summer camp experiences for girls. Their donation wish list includes tents and camping equipment, life jackets, paddleboards, yoga mats, arts and craft supplies, sleeping bags, twin size sheets and blankets, cleaning supplies and office supplies. Volunteers can serve as board members or on committees, bookkeepers, carpenters, indoor/outdoor painters, gardeners and more. Contact Hannah Bogard at 862-7520 or email Hannah.bogard@ywcavt.org.

AND JUSTICE FOR ALL — Essex Restorative Justice is seeking volunteers to serve on its restorative justice panel. The panel uses restorative justice to support low level offenders to be accountable for their crimes and to support them in making amends to the victims and to the community. Volunteers are needed for panels in Milton, Colchester and Essex. Background check required.

Jill Evans at 872-7690 or email jevans@essex.org.

TIME TO SHARE — Bayada Hospice invites volunteers to share some time and companionship with patients in their facilities or at home. Hold a hand, read a story, share a hobby … 30 minutes of your time can make a huge difference for someone. Training and support provided. Interview and background check required.

Contact Beverly Hill at 448-1610 or email bhill2@bayada.com.

CHILD AIDES NEEDED — Good News Garage, in partnership with the Vermont Department for Children and Families, is looking for volunteers to provide ride services to children to and from daycare centers, Monday-Friday, typically within the hours of 6-10 a.m. and 2-5:30 p.m. Volunteers can assist children entering and exiting the vehicle, securing them in car seats, entertaining and managing behavior and walking the children into and out of the daycare centers. Volunteers can commit to any time that works for them. Training provided. Contact Amanda Allen at 864-3667 or email aallen@goodnewsgarage.org.

ACROSS 1. Animal doc 4. Foolhardy 8. Ardent 12. Student fear 14. Do __ others 15. Agrees (with) 17. “Interview with a Vampire” writer 18. Prejudice 19. Bedtime activity 20. Barrage 22. Legendary story 24. Madame 25. “Game ___ and match” 26. Notable times 28. Plane arrival time, for short 30. Surgery type 31. Bikini top 32. Jungle swinger 35. Infrequently 38. Hula go-with 39. Calendar square 40. What creditors hope to be 41. Taxi 42. Not working 43. Pray 44. Completely worn out 46. Felt 48. Casual attire 49. Partake of 50. Watch sound

51. Guy’s partner 52. Apiece 53. Flower pollen insect 56. Ruin 59. Start 61. Some tournaments 63. Nobility 65. Prod 67. Has some 68. Actors’ area 69. Wood factory 70. Academic field 71. Whole bunch 72. Look-see 73. Like some wines DOWN 1. Action words 2. Napoleon, once 3. Implied 4. Massage 5. Brute 6. Execution postponements 7. Guest greeter 8. Long-eared beast 9. Fancy home 10. Interpretation 11. Monopoly acquisition 13. Assembled 16. Hari, for one 21. From ___ to 60 in 6 seconds!

23. Brave individual

27. April sign 29. Select 30. Bizarre 31. Hair style 32. Combines together 33. Eastwood’s ___ Rider 34. Looked at carefully 35. To-do 36. Alleviate 37. Go for 38. Bowler or sombrero 41. Camp bed 42. Pigmented fluid 44. Mermaid setting 45. Aura 46. Attack word to a dog 47. Grotto sound 50. Snarl 51. Valley 52. Like a haunted house 53. Santa Claus feature 54. “Come in!”

55. Short literary composition 56. Pkg. deliverer 57. NBA team 58. Hand out cards 60. Gas station fixture 62. Stew ingredient 64. Darn 66. Hunter’s prize, perhaps

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Page 20 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

Cooking Corner

A hearty, make-ahead meal This sweet potato lasagna can be made in advance, frozen for later use and is perfect as an on-the-go meal.

SWEET POTATO LASAGNA Nonstick cooking spray 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 white onion, chopped 1 package (8 ou nces) mushrooms, sliced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 pounds lean ground turkey 5 cups baby spinach 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup marinara sauce 1 cup raw cashews 2 cups fat-free cottage cheese, strained 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick crosswise 1 cup low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese Heat oven to 375. Spray 13-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil; add onion and cook 5 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add mushrooms; cook 4 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Add turkey; cook 8 minutes, or until browned, breaking up turkey with side of wooden spoon. Add spinach, Italian seasoning and salt; cook 3 minutes, or until spinach wilts. Stir in marinara; cook 1 minute.

In food processor, pulse cashews 20 times, or until small crumbs form.

In medium bowl, stir cottage cheese and cashews.

Shingle 1/3 of sweet potato slices in bottom of prepared dish; top with 1 cup cottage cheese mixture followed by 1 1/2 cups turkey mixture.

Repeat layers twice; sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and cover tightly with foil. Bake 45 minutes; remove foil. Bake 20 minutes, or until top is golden brown.

Freeze up to 3 months.

— Family Features

CALENDAR THURSDAY, JAN 16.

Forum on single-use plastics Lear n about Ver mont’s new single-use plastics law, as well as plastic recycling information.

7-8:30 p.m. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. 21 Library Lane, Williston. A program of Sustainable Williston. mjpetter@gmail.com.

Tax talk A panel discussion with professionals from the IRS, Vermont Tax Department, the Taxpayer Advocate Service and an accountant.

Sponsored by the New England Fedearal Credit Union. 6-7:30 p.m.

Delta Hotels by Marriot, 1117 Williston Rd. 879-8790.

FRIDAY, JAN. 17 Yankee Sportsman’s Classic The 28th annual hunting and fishing expo, continues Jan. 18-19.

Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex Junction. www.yankeeclassic. net.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22 Winter birds discussion Which birds are you likely to see in Vermont in the winter? What

are the secrets of feeding birds to attract a variety of species? What is Project Feeder Watch and how can you get involved? 1:30 p.m. Birds of Vermont Museum, 900 Sherman Hollow Rd., Huntington.

For family members and close friends of a loved one with a serious mental illness. First and third Monday of the month. 6-7:30 p.m. at the NAMI-VT office, 600 Blair Park Rd, Williston. 310-4199.

THURSDAY, JAN. 23

Sustainable Williston monthly meeting Fourth Thursday of each month.

7:15 p.m. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, 21 Library Lane, Williston. Meet to discuss sustainability issues and projects and plan new steps for the future. 6 p.m. potluck dinner precedes discussion.

Movie: ‘Last Tracks’ The Jericho Energy Task Force and Vermont Climate and Health Alliance present a showing of “Last Tracks,” a UVM documentary about the impact of climate change on skiing. 7 p.m. Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, 8 River Rd., Jericho. A Q&A will follow with a panel that includes Sen. Ginny Lyons of Williston. dan@ solavida.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 25 Pan-Celtic concert and dance Traditional Irish and Scottish music and highland dance, with Quebecois and Appalachian tunes. 7 p.m. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 273 Route 15, Essex.

ONGOING NAMI-VT Williston Family Support Group

Alzheimer’s caregiver support group Alzheimer’s Association caregiver support group. 300 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 130, Williston. Meets second Tuesday of each month, 5-6:30 p.m. alz.org/vermont.

Adult survivors of suicide loss Suppor t group in Williston, meets third Thursday of each month, providing a safe, respectful space where group members can talk about their loss. For more information and meeting location, call Joanna at 777-5244 or Maria at 879-9576.

TO SUBMIT AN EVENT: email editor@willistonobserver.com

All Indoors!

Join the Fun on February 1st

CHAMPLAIN VALLEY EXPOSITION 105 PEARL STREET, ESSEX JUNCTION

Vermont’s Premiere Indoor Brew Festival Saturday, February 1, 2020

Dr. Kasia Dionne and her experienced staff offer gentle touch dentistry for patients of all ages in a relaxed and friendly setting.

Personalized expert care delivered through state-of-the-art technology, with your comfort in mind.

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January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 21

MOVIES 10 AT MAPLE TREE PLACESt., Williston Majestic 10 atMAJESTIC Maple Tree Place – 190 Boxwood 190 Boxwood Williston, Jan. VT 05495 Friday, Jan. 17St. – Wednesday, 23

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Page 22 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Public Hearing The Town of St. George is considering making application to the State of Vermont for a VCDP Planning Grant under the Vermont Community Development Program.

A public hearing will be held at 6PM on January 30, 2020 at Town Hall, 21 Barber Road, to obtain the views of citizens on the proposal; to furnish information about the range of activities that may be undertaken under this grant and the impact to any historic and archaeological resources that may be affected by the proposed project, and to give affected citizens the opportunity to examine the proposed statement of projected use of these funds.

The proposal is to apply for up to $60,000 in VCDP funds, to be used to accomplish the following:

To enable St. George Community Cooperative to thoroughly assess the condition of its drinking-water, septic, and wastewater infrastructure, and identify options for improving them.

Copies of the proposed application are available at Town Hall, 21 Barber Road, and may be viewed during the hours of 8AM - 2PM Monday through Wednesday, and Thursdays 4:30PM-6:30PM. Should you require any special accommodations, please contact April Pillsbury at 802-4825272 to ensure appropriate accommodations are made.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF ST. GEORGE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to 24 V.S.A. § 4444, The Selectboard will convene a public

hearing on Thursday, September 19, 2019, 7:00PM, at the St. George Town Office, 21 Barber Road, to discuss and receive comments on draft amendments to the Town of St. George Land Use Regulations.

The purpose of the proposed Flood Hazard and River Corridor Overlay District is to regulate land development within the special flood hazard area and river corridors to: (1) Avoid and minimize the loss of life and property, the disruption of commerce, the impairment of the tax base, and the extraordinary public expenditures and demands on public services that result from flooding related inundation and erosion; (2) Ensure that the selection, design, creation, and use of development in hazard areas is reasonably safe and accomplished in a manner that is consistent with public wellbeing, does not impair stream equilib-

rium, floodplain services, or the river corridor; and (3) Manage flood hazard areas in accordance with state and federal regulations so that the Town of St. George, its residents and businesses will remain eligible for federal flood insurance, federal disaster recovery funds, and hazard mitigation funds.

Copies of the draft Land Use Regulations and Planning Commission report are available for review at the St. George Town Office, 21 Barber Road, during normal business hours. Contact: April Pillsbury, Town Clerk, 482-5272, stgeorgevtclerk@comcast.net.

Jeff Pillsbury, Chair St. George Selectboard

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To: Marianne Apfelbaum Williston Observer January 22, 9am - 1pm & JanuaryPaper: 23, 2pm - 6pm

30 Community Drive, Suite 6B, South Burlington TODAY’S DATE: 01/07/2020

The Town of Williston seeks an experienced finance professional to join its team as Town Treasurer & Accountant

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Built in 2017, this 3BR/2.5BA townhouse style condo is located on a cul-de-sac. 2,500±SF open floor plan with huge master bedroom, great room, dining room, 2-car attached garage, basement. If you’re looking for maintenance free living in Chittenden County, this could be your dream home!!

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This full-time position is primarily responsible for maintaining The Patient Access Specialist/Registration Representative DATE(S) TO RUN: 01/16/2020 the Town’s cash accounts, investing town money, approving is a key part of the patient experience and is essential to accounts payable and payroll, and collecting and recording tax the financial health of the organization. The Specialist SIZE OF AD: 1/8 page (2” x 10”) payments and fees. The Town Treasurer & Accountant plays coordinates scheduling, registration, insurance and payer a critical fiduciary role in the financial operation of the Town. eligibility management and financial screening activities to Visit town.williston.vt.us for a complete job description.

EMAILED TO: Marianne@Willistonobserver.com provide an exceptional customer service experience for patients, families and visitors.

A Bachelor’s Degree and 3-5 years of financial administrative Publishes in Williston Observer

Full and part time positions available. Bring your resume SECTION: Classified Auction and come ready to interview.

Sign on bonuses are available for applicants hired into part and full time positions!

oversight experience, or a comparable knowledge base and skill set are required. This is an exempt position with a starting salary range of $44,000 - $53,000.

If this job sounds like the right fit for you then take the next step and tell our hiring committee the reasons why. Please submit a resume and cover letter to Erik Wells, Assistant Town Manager at ewells@willistonvt.org. This position is open until filled, but the preferred deadline for applying is Friday, January 24, 2020.

The Town offers an excellent benefits package. EOE.

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January 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 23

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Page 24 • Williston Observer • January 16, 2020

ReSOURCE purchases Harvest Lane building

ReSOURCE, a nonprofit that moved its headquar ters f rom Burlington to Williston in 2017, announced the purchase last week of the building at 329 Harvest Lane that it occupies alongside Lumber Liquidators and Natural Provisions Market.

The organization operates a reuse store in the building, as well as workforce development programs, an appliance repair service and administrative offices. The building is the former location of a Goodwill store.

“Completing our campaign to purchase this building is not only a tremendous accomplishment, but speaks volumes about the belief our donors have in our mission of empowering Vermonters through workforce development, poverty relief and environmental stewardship,” ReSOURCE Executive Director Tom Longstreth said. “We are now better positioned to lift a much larger community of at-risk Vermonters out of poverty.”

T h e bu i ld i ng’s wa r e hou s e provides a central location for

Observer courtesy photo

ReSOURCE will be able to expand its workforce development programs and warehouse space after purchasing the building it had been renting at 329 Harvest Lane, which is also home to Natural Provisions Market and Lumber Liquidators.

donations to supply the four ReSOURCE stores in Burlington, Barre, Hyde Park and Williston.

It also has f lexible multi-use spaces that ReSOURCE uses for

its workforce training program.

The purchase allows for the organization to expand the program from 275 students to 500 within the next five years.

A recently installed solar array on the building’s roof produces more than 100 percent of ReSOURCE’s electrical needs at the site.

I N

“I hadn’t planned to sell the Harvest Lane building, but when I was approached by ReSOURCE, I felt thei r mission would be better served through ownership than renting,” said Al Senecal, president of Omega Electric Construction. “I was pleased to speak at their Youth Build program g raduation ceremony and am com mit ted to suppor ting ReSOURCE’s transition to conscientious landlord as they take over the maintenance and management of the building.”

ReSOURCE started 28 years ago as a reuse shop in Burlington selling furniture and appliances.

It has expanded to focus on workforce development, poverty relief and environmental stewardship.

Its stores provide job and life skills training to displaced individuals and at-risk youth, while preventing roughly 1,000 tons of material from ending up in the landfill annually. Its poverty relief program has awarded over $1.7 million worth of goods to more than 14,000 low-income Vermonters.

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