Issuu

ECRWSS PRSRT STD US Postage

PAID

Permit #15 Williston,VT 05495 POSTAL CUSTOMER

OCTOBER 29, 2020

WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

House candidates speak Three-way contest for two seats to be decided Tuesday Three candidates are vying for two seats representing Williston in the Vermont House of Representatives. The Observer asked each of them — Democrat incumbent Jim McCullough, Democrat first-time candidate Erin Brady and Republican first-time candidate Tony O’Rourke — a series of questions about their candidacy and the issues that face the town and the state. Election Day is Tuesday; voting by mail is already underway. Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Vermont National Guard Armory, 7846 Williston Rd. for those who have not voted early. Q: Describe your history in Williston and your connection to the community. BRADY: My husband and I picked Williston as our family’s hometown 15 years ago because of the strong sense of community, excellent schools and unparalleled access to the outdoors. Strong schools provide a critical foundation for every child, they increase property value and they create a sense of community. Before COVID, I enjoyed being an active volunteer in the Williston schools and a tee-ball coach. Every time we take our boys for a ride on the bike path, a hike at Catamount or go fishing on Lake Iroquois, I’m reminded of how lucky we are here. I have been an elected member of the Champlain Valley School Board for the past four years. I advocated for universal free meals through the COVID-19 crisis and flying the Black Lives Matter flag at our schools as a first step toward addressing racial injustice in our community. I am a working mom in my 15th year teaching social studies at Colchester High School. I was honored to be named Vermont’s Gilder Lehram History Teacher of the Year in 2019. I also coordinate professional development at Colchester and train teachers-to-be as an adjunct instructor at Saint Michael’s College. I wear many hats and am

$2 million debt question By Jason Starr Observer staff

Erin Brady

Tony O’Rourke

Jim McCullough

grateful to the support of wonderful neighbors and friends here in Williston that help make that possible.

Master (youngest in the state), late 60s; followed by stints on the Planning Commission, Conservation Commission (seminal) and as Green Mountain Transit Commissioner. Additionally, I served Williston on many Town Plan revisions, as a CVU Budget Buddy and many other assignments. Lucy and I started and ran many small businesses in Williston, starting when I was in high school. We raised sheep and were a certified tree farm, earning the Vermont State Tree Farmer of the year award in 1989. We started Catamount Family Center in 1978 and gave the business to a not-forprofit in 2005. We conserved 376 acres of our family farm in 2019. It is now known as the Catamount Community Forest and owned by the Town of Williston.

of thousands of Vermonters out of work, our state’s tourism and hospitality industry on the brink, and our day-to-day lives being disrupted, we’ve made tremendous sacrifices that need to be addressed by the legislature next year. The state has done a good job supporting Willistonians who have lost their jobs, providing grants to businesses that lost revenue, creating alternative childcare programs and providing hazard pay. But these are temporary programs and more must be done. The crisis has exposed several fundamental flaws: lack of high-quality, affordable childcare; lack of paid family and medical leave; and the need to raise the wages of essential workers. If elected, I’ll be laser focused on these issues.

Q: How would you assess state government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic in terms of balancing business, employee and educational needs with public health concerns?

O’ROURKE: Vermont has a history of rising to the challenge during the most trying times. The response to COVID-19 serves as an example of this. Led by Gov. Scott, we saw a synergy between the private and public sector to balance public safety and our economic security. We were one of the first states to move to remote learning to keep our students, educators and families safe. While this move created many challenges, it provided a sense of continuity, which I believe was the correct decision. Our state is being recognized nationally as an example of proper response and precaution to COVID-19. This challenge is far from over and we must continue to balance public safety and allowing businesses to operate on a wider basis, especially the hospitality industry. This is not only a source of em-

O’ROURKE: Our family has enjoyed making Williston our home since 2002. Here, we have raised our five children while working in the private sector. In those 18 years, I have started, built and sold two small businesses that created jobs while also serving the community. I am a firm believer and practitioner of supporting our local economy and community through a collaboration of personal, private, public and non-profit efforts. I have proudly supported many causes including the Williston and Vermont food banks, Camp-TaKum-Ta, Cancer Patient Support Foundation, Ronald McDonald House and the March of Dimes. I have served on our neighborhood board, been a CVU Grad Challenge mentor and panel member, and supporter of youth sports and programs. My only other foray into politics was a run for Williston Selectboard in 2015. I view politics as an opportunity to serve the community, not to forward a specific political party. I am running to represent people of all demographics that are seeking a safe, clean and affordable place to live and work. I hope to earn a seat at the table to be your representative. MCCULLOUGH: My Williston roots date to the 1700s through the Fays (grandmother Abbie Fay). My great grandparents (Smith and Clarissa Wright) acquired the home farm in 1873 where Lucy and I farmed and still live. My community service started as a Boy Scout in 1956; Scout

BRADY: As a front-line worker who helped implement the hybrid education model in my classroom and as a parent of Williston students, I’m proud of the pandemic response our schools, our community and our state have undertaken. The fastest way to return to normal and rebuild stronger is to implement measures that stop the spread of the virus. The New York Times and the Washington Post recently noted our success stems from “... having a high degree of social trust.” Vermont, with leadership from Gov. Scott, has done a great job preventing the virus from becoming a partisan issue. But with tens

see CANDIDATES page 2

At the end of a ballot that takes voters through their choices for U.S. president, Vermont governor, local legislators and 15 justices of the peace, among other things, comes a wordy, technical question of hyperlocal significance. The yes/no question is whether to authorize the town to borrow up to $2 million to replace water pipes in a 100-home neighborhood on the northwest end of town. Known as the Lamplite neighborhood, it includes White Birch, Pine, Aspen and Lamplite lanes. This type of bond question might typically appear on a Town Meeting Day ballot. But town administrators are eager to take advantage of a one-time bump in money available through the state’s drinking water loan fund. They hope that, if a majority of voters approve the question in the Nov. 3 election, the town will be granted half the project cost through the state fund. “This is an awesome opportunity for the Town of Williston to take advantage of to reduce the cost of the project,” Williston Finance Director Shirley Goodell-Lackey said at a recent public information session on the project. The town’s public works department found numerous abnormalities with water piping in the neighborhood in 2018 when working on a stormwater retention project, according to Public Works Director Bruce Hoar. The main line, constructed in the 1960s, was not buried to enough depth to prevent freezing. Also, at 7,000 feet, it has only two shutoff valves. So if there is a problem, the entire neighborhood’s water service must be shut down to fix it. “We should be able to isolate the system with valves,” Hoar said. “That’s not the case.” Because the line is shallowly buried, the town each winter asks residents of about 10 homes to run water continuously to prevent pipe freezes. “It is definitely a needed upgrade,” Town Manager Erik Wells said of the project. The bond would be paid by the town’s water users. Administrators are not able to pin down what the cost to rate-payers will be. They noted that existing debt associated with a land purchase for a water tower is on pace to be retired in 2022, softening the impact of the new debt. “We don’t know the exact impact, but it shouldn’t be a significant impact to the water users,” Goodell-Lackey said.

Page 2 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

Candidates continued from page

ployment and tax revenue, it includes farms, family-owned stores and shops, restaurants and inns that have served our communities for generations. It also includes musicians, florists, event planners and other small businesses that support the wedding and tourism industries. We need to make sure they have access to support so they can remain a vital and vibrant part of the Vermont landscape. MCCULLOUGH: I give an A-plus to state government’s response to the pandemic regarding balancing business’ and employee’s health, indeed the entire state’s health. I feel we should have done more for education. We should have dedicated more money to school districts to affect necessary pandemic-related changes. We should have been more prescriptive on school scheduling and protocols. Q: Have federal pandemic stimulus funds in the CARES Act been effectively distributed in Vermont, and what do you think will be the most pressing pandemic-related needs in 2021? BRADY: Our state’s congressional delegation delivered $1.2 billion in aid to Vermont. My husband, Ted, serves as deputy secretary of the Agency of Commerce in Gov. Scott’s administration, and helped administer more than $200 million to businesses and non-prof-

its and those at risk of foreclosure or eviction. I was pleased to see funding go to keep childcare providers afloat, reopen our colleges and schools, reimburse towns, provide hazard pay to healthcare workers and first responders, help farmers recover, build more affordable housing, and even indirectly provide a lifeline to our state college system — including Vermont Tech right here in Williston. I have watched our state leaders work tirelessly to make difficult decisions and prioritize public health. Early in the pandemic, I heard an interview with Neel Kashkari (current president of the Federal Reserve of Minneapolis; he ran the bailout of the banks and car companies in 2008 for the U.S. Treasury) and his advice for fighting a crisis like the one we’re facing has stuck with me: “Whatever you think you should do, do more. Whenever you think you should do it, do it sooner.” I’m hopeful that Congress and the newly elected president will provide Vermont with additional funding. I will fight for relief for Vermonters, especially women, who have been disproportionately displaced from the workforce by the pandemic. I’ll focus on grants and stimulus to businesses, especially those in the hospitality sector. I’ll advocate for extending unemployment benefits, increasing childcare support to allow families to go back to work and funding for municipalities like Williston to prevent cuts to services or increased taxes.

O’ROURKE: The CARES Act provided much-needed relief to many who were suddenly unemployed and facing the struggles that accompany the income loss. In Vermont, I agreed with Gov. Scott’s efforts to release a larger portion of the available federal funding immediately while members of our legislature were hesitant to support this in June. I was pleased to see another $76 million of grant money being approved for release just last week by Gov. Scott. We need to support our economy, especially our small businesses, or we will face an even greater tax burden for years to come. This is in addition to the mental health crisis that I see as the biggest challenge in our state and nation. COVID-19 only served to make this crisis worse through the negative economic and psychological impact it imposed on society. This is not a problem that will remedy itself and we all need to be vested in providing access and assistance to those in need of support. I am confident that we can rebuild our economy in a safe and sustainable manner through a collaborative approach. I commit to being a bipartisan representative acting in the best interest of my constituents. MCCULLOUGH: The legislature was very effective in its distribution of the CARES Act money, even as we understood many were still shorted, based on tremendous needs. Parsing out of the funds was a very difficult task, exacerbated by uncertain and changing

federal regulations. The Scott Administration’s distribution of the CARES Act funds has been slow and clumsy in some cases. The Department of Labor’s unemployment funds distribution performance was particularly ugly. Unfortunately, Gov. Scott had pulled Vermont out of a multistate unemployment insurance modernization project several years ago. The Department of Labor had stone-age equipment and protocols to deal with the issue. In 2021, pandemic needs will likely be a replay of 2020 with many indications of a COVID resurgence. I am hoping that lessons learned will be applied in 2021. Q: What are the biggest issues facing Williston and how would you work to address them? BRADY: Williston is not immune to national challenges like the existential threats of climate change and the systemic impact of economic inequality. As Williston’s Farmer Mike Isham told me just last week during a tour of his farm with former Gov. Howard Dean and Lt. Gov. candidate Molly Gray, climate change threatens his family’s business. Maple sugaring is threatened by global warming and crops are regularly damaged by severe weather. Vermont must continue to grow the climate economy. Businesses like Williston’s All Earth Renewables provide a model. Williston’s growth over the past two decades demonstrates our need to balance growth with climate considerations. I welcome the town’s shift

to carefully managed growth and focus on walkable communities in Williston’s growth center. I’m pleased to see large investments in preserving our natural spaces like Catamount and Mud Pond. One of the most important factors in a child’s health and future economic security is the zip code in which they were raised. I will work to ensure every zip code in Vermont offers the same promise as Williston, and I’ll work to support economic policies that favor all Vermonters. Many of us in Williston benefit from privilege, but there are families in our community struggling to make ends meet and we need to do more for those most in need. O’ROURKE: Williston is a unique town in comparison to many other towns, villages and cities in Vermont. We are a vibrant mix of businesses, homes and undeveloped land, all of which make this an attractive place to call home. The challenge is to provide a balanced approach to our future. With growth comes stress and strain on our infrastructure, our public safety, our schools and our environment. Local grassroots groups like the Citizens for Responsible Growth are a wonderful example of how to seek a sustainable outcome in relation to development. The involvement of citizens is critical. I have attended selectboard meetings when there were less than 10 people in attendance. As a candidate, I have met with members of public safety, our town office administrators, local

VOTE BRADY FOR STATE REP “I’ve known Erin since she worked on Capitol Hill as an education, environment and energy advisor for one of my Democratic colleagues in the Senate and I’m so proud of her success as a nationally recognized teacher. She would bring honesty, determination, character and good judgment to Montpelier. Marcelle and I hope she will earn your vote.” — Senator Patrick Leahy

Go to erinbradyforwilliston.com to see what supporters are saying PAID FOR BY ERIN BRADY FOR WILLISTON 48 BROOKSIDE DR. WILLISTON, VT 05495

Erin Brady for Williston

October 29, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 3 business owners, developers and concerned citizens. We are a growing town and what our future looks likes depends on the efforts that we make today. We can achieve responsible growth while maintaining the character that makes Williston a unique and desirable place to reside, work and recreate. We must also continue to make Williston, and the rest of Vermont, a more affordable place to live. MCCULLOUGH: Many of Williston’s issues are municipal, not legislative ones. That said, Williston needs to address required road and ditch reconstruction commitments made to the Vermont Department of Conservation. If needed, I will help facilitate the construction scheduling and Municipal Road Grants Program funds to fulfill this requirement. This is a serious water quality issue responsibility. Williston continues to be short shifted by the Vermont Tax Department on aid to education funding when tax appeals are found in an appellant’s favor. Towns are currently required to pay based on the original assessment, not the newly adjusted one. I will continue to press for this change. Williston has an affordable housing issue. I have worked and continue to be committed to address this statewide. Q: What other issues would you focus on if elected to the legislature? BRADY: One of the important lessons I’ve learned from my years as a public school teacher is the cumulative effect of inequitable opportunities and experiences on young people and their families,

so I would be particularly focused on issues that impact working families. I support a $15 minimum wage. So many complex issues, including racial injustice, cannot be solved unless we address income inequality. I believe that all Vermonters should have universal, high-quality healthcare and until we arrive at a national solution, we should continue to improve our system here in Vermont. I will continue to be a strong advocate for children and families. While we have a very well funded K-12 system and should continue to find efficiencies, we need to make investments in the “bookends” of our system. Research shows that every dollar invested in birth to 5 yields a $3 return. We have a severe shortage of high-quality childcare in Vermont and yet early childhood professionals are underpaid and undervalued. On the other end of the system, I know all too well how difficult it is for graduating high school seniors to access and afford post-secondary education and training. We need to do more to retain our graduates and help them reach their full potential. I am proud of my endorsements from the VT NEA and the AFT, Vermont’s healthcare and higher education unions, because they represent important policy priorities.

surviving on fixed incomes in one of 13 states that tax Social Security. Their everyday expenses are compounded by ever-rising taxes. As a result, we continue to see the relocation of many seniors that have called Vermont home their entire life. This is truly heartbreaking. We are seeing a similar exodus among our younger residents, whether it’s to seek employment or a place to purchase an affordable first home. In addition, Vermont is not an attractive place to conduct business. By increasing our business base, we can apply this revenue instead of treating our citizen taxpayers like an ATM machine. I will question every dollar of expenditure and fight to stop the expansion of taxation and fees. Programs are not government funded, they are taxpayer funded, and we need to make sure we are receiving a return on our investments.

MCCULLOUGH: Identify and implement an equitable and sufficient funding source for phosphorus total maximum daily load (TMDL) water quality in Lake Champlain and throughout the state as mandated by the federal EPA. Gov. Scott has been playing a shell game with funds that depend significantly on borrowed money to convince the feds that we are in compliance. This policy will come back “to bite us.” The Vermont economy needs help in a very systemic manner. Vermonters need paid sick leave, paid family leave and sustainable wages. Gov. Scott has vetoed these initiatives. I believe businesses and the economy will flourish with these policies as many new bright young families come to Vermont to enjoy these rights while raising business productivity. By the way, those of us already here are suffering and need these initiatives as well!

A familiar voice with a new perspective.

VOTE

Tony O’Rourke Democrat for State Senate Background & Qualifications

• 3 Term South Burlington City Councilor • University of Vermont Faculty Senate President • Green Mountain Transit Board Chair & Vice Chair • Deep Rooted Vermont Values • Lifelong Community Volunteer

Priorities

• Affordability • Helping Vermonters • Keeping Vermont Green • Environmentally Sustainable Economic Growth • Opportunity for Current & Future Vermonters

thomaschittenden.com Paid for by Thomas Chittenden for State Senate, 1600 Dorset St., South Burlington, VT 05403

Q: Is there anything else you would like voters to know about you? BRADY: I want to thank those voters who have already voted for me, my campaign volunteers who helped me make almost 2,000 phone calls, the many families who have placed a sign on their lawns and joined me to wave on street corners, and the more than two dozen Willistonians who have voiced support for me in the Observer and Front Porch Forum. I hope those who plan to vote in the coming days join the majority of the Williston Selectboard, my fellow Williston representatives to the CVSD board, our current see CANDIDATES page 4

O’ROURKE: As a “political outsider,” my focus will be to address the issues that residents of Williston have voiced as their largest concerns. At the top of this list is cost of living. Over the course of the last several months, I have spoken with hundreds of Williston residents from all demographics. Folks of retirement age are worried about

— Please Vote —

We need to continue to progress on eliminating institutional and systemic racism, even as we recognize our personal responsibilities to do the same.

VT House of Representatives Williston, Vermont

Let’s Get to Work! Paid for by Tony O’Rourke for VT House 49 McMullen Lane, Williston, VT 05495

Page 4 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

K-4 students set to return amid stricter guidelines By Elaine Pinckney Special to the Observer

This week we celebrate bringing our K-2 students safely back for four days per week instruction and look forward to welcoming most of our grade 3 and 4 students. The joy and enthusiasm generated by having them in school is palpable. By next week, we hope to have all students in this age group back. Staffing issues, not

our ability to meet health and safety guidance, is what is keeping us from bringing all grade 4 students back at this time. Please know that we are doing everything we can to resolve this issue as soon as possible — and know that we’ve been working on it for several weeks now. We have broadened our normal venues for posting positions and are making personal contacts with qualified individuals. Last Friday, the Agency of Ed-

Your locally-owned hardware store! Village Hardware

ucation released revised Safe and Healthy Schools guidance. The main changes impacting our school district’s plans relate to social distancing. The new guidance explicitly sets a 3-foot minimum for students through grade 6, and a 6-foot minimum for Grades 7-12. Gone are the “if possible” qualifiers. We are currently meeting these more stringent guidelines in kindergarten through grade 4. The guidance also frames the use of plexiglass as an added layer of protection rather than a means of reducing distancing requirements. Now that sixth-graders have officially been included in the 3-feet group, we will start to discuss how

and when we will bring these students back for four days per week of in-person learning. As you can imagine, there is a lot of conversation about Thanksgiving travel and the possible need to quarantine. If you are traveling outside of Vermont, please be aware that there are travel restrictions put in place by Gov. Phil Scott that would require you to quarantine for up to 14 days upon your return to Vermont — if you have travelled to a red or orange zone. The Vermont Agency of Education will be providing guidance regarding travel of families and staff for the upcoming holidays by the end of October. We will

need to work together to ensure adequate staffing and a safe and healthy school environment. Finally, please know that our middle level principals are working together to clarify expectations for hybrid learning on remote days. While there will always be differences between schools based on individual choices and unique configurations, we aim to provide equity of learning standards, learning opportunities and learning time. Wishing you a safe and healthy week — and Halloween!

Candidates

I am open to civil dialogue with anyone. I want to represent all of Williston and will commit to always answer an email, take a phone call or stop and have a conversation on an issue important to the people of Williston.

has taught us anything, it is that the path of life is filled with uncertainties and we must be prepared to address challenges that we have never faced before. If we work hard, are empathetic and demand that our elected officials work on behalf of everyone, especially the most at risk and in need, we will not only survive, we will thrive. I hope to earn the opportunity to play a role as your representative and I sincerely appreciate your consideration. Fun facts: My first car was a Chevy El Camino. My favorite foods are pizza and paella. My favorite movie is “Tommy Boy.” My favorite bands are The Who, Thin Lizzy, Bob Seger and Iron Maiden.

continued from page

Hardware, Paint & much more!

Village Hardware Williston 364 Essex Rd. (Route 2A), Williston 878-3301 www.willistonvillagehardware.com

House delegation in the legislature and many others in supporting my candidacy. During this campaign I have clearly outlined my beliefs on the issues and I believe substance matters. I want Williston to know where I stand and will readily answer policy questions, because the work of a legislator requires policy decisions. I feel strongly about women’s reproductive rights (which will be on the agenda next year under Proposal 5), the need to address racial injustice, increased gun safety measures and robust policies that make Vermont a more affordable and better place for all families.

O’ROURKE: I would like the voters to know that I am running to represent you, not a political agenda. I am confident that we can, and must, balance our efforts to create a sustainable economy, environment and educational system for generations to come. We must be willing to work hard and be responsible for our personal conduct and accountable for the consequences of inaction. I believe that the lessons taught around the dinner table are the most valuable of all. If this year

57 th Anniversary YOUR FRONT-ROW SEAT ON ELECTION DAY

SHOP V

SALE! Ends Sunday!

Past Season’s Gear & Outerwear Up T0

80% OFF Special 20% OFF

GET INTERVIEWS, ANALYSIS & LIVE LOCAL, STATEWIDE &

BOGO’s Throughout Store

MCCULLOUGH: I am doing a good job! Please vote for me.

Williston Community Food Shelf

ual Turkey Da n y An

Saturday, Nov. 21 8:30-11 a.m.

Williston Community Food Shelf 400 Cornerstone Dr., Williston Consider donating a turkey to the address below, or drop off or send a gift card ($15 from a local grocery store is best) to Williston Community Food Shelf, P.O. Box 1605, Williston, VT Turkeys will be collected and distributed on “Annual Turkey Day.”

NATIONAL ELECTION RESULTS.

WILLISTON COMMUNITY

TUNE IN

TUES. NOV. 3RD @ 7:30 PM COMCAST 1087 BT 17/217 CH17.TV

Elaine Pinckney is superintendent of the Champlain Valley School District

FOOD SHELF Mon-Sat 10-6 / Sun 10-5 www.AlpineShopVT.com 1184 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT. 802-862-2714

400 Cornerstone Dr., Suite 130, Williston Hours: Tues. 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m., Thurs. & Sat. 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

willistonfoodshelf.com

October 29, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 5

Staffing shortage jeopardizes in-person learning School districts in the Champlain Valley region are struggling to bring more students back for full-time, in-person learning due to staffing shortages, according to an announcement Friday from the Champlain Valley Superintendents Association. School districts in Addison, Chittenden, Franklin and Grand Isle counties have a combined estimated 100 teaching and support staff positions open. The situation could result in reduced in-person instruction just as school districts are trying to return at least elementary school students to the classroom after months of fully or partially remote learning.

‘We’re confronted with the reality that we may not have adequate staffing to bring our students back. It is heartbreaking all around.’

“We have been so singularly focused since last June on bringing our students back for in-person instruction, whether that be two days a week, four days a week, or five days a week, depending on local circumstances. We’ve operated all along with the notion that keeping our students and staff safe and

healthy was our top priority, and if we could do that, we’d be able to increase the number of in-person student days. Now we’re confronted with the reality that we may not have adequate staffing to bring our students back. It is heartbreaking all around,” said Champlain Valley School District Superintendent

Elaine Pinckney. Staffing levels could potentially drop further as a result of staff quarantining, either due to holiday travel (which is being cautioned against given the current guidance and travel map from the Vermont Department of Health), contracting COVID or having close con-

tact with a COVID positive individual. The Champlain Valley Superintendents Association is encouraging Vermonters looking for steady employment to consider applying to work in public schools. Jobs in the Champlain Valley School District are listed at www.cvsd.org.

Start the holidays ® with a NEFCU VISA · · · · ·

No annual fee Access online 24/7 No balance transfer fee (see below for details) No hidden fees 1% cash back rewards on purchases (One point for every $1 spent)

· Rates starting at

7.15%

APR*

Lower your credit card debt when you open a new NEFCU VISA® card. You’ll receive 0%** interest on balance transfers from external cards for the first six months of having the account open. It’s a great way to pay down your balance without interest adding up! Purchases and cash advances will receive your regular rate. **0% APR is the Annual Percentage Rate for the first six months of account opening on balance transfers. Terms of this offer can change at anytime.

— Elaine Pinckney, Champlain Valley School District Superintendent

New

NEIGHBORHOOD! Caroline Court in Williston has only 2 more family lots for sale!

www.adamspropertiesvt.com 207 Boyer Circle #30 Williston, VT 05495 Phone: 802-863-3663 josilyn@adamspropertiesvt.com

Unique opportunity to bring your own builder to design and build your dream home! Each lot is permitted for a 4 bedroom home. There are minimal HOA design restrictions! Utilities will be brought to each lot, including: Town water and sewer, Vermont Gas and Green Mountain Power. Each lot abuts over 18 acres of common land!

3 lots are already taken, reserve your lot today before they are gone!

Page 6 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

GUEST COLUMN

Avoiding a school tax increase amid COVID shortfall By Paul Cillo

www.willistonobserver.com A publication of Twin Ponds Publishing, LLC

Phone: (802) 872-9000

Mailing address: P.O. Box 1401, Williston, Vt. 05495

PUBLISHER: Susan T. Cote - susan@willistonobserver.com EDITOR: Jason Starr - editor@willistonobserver.com ADVERTISING: Marianne Apfelbaum - marianne@willistonobserver.com

BANG

Burlington Area Newspaper Group

MEMBER:

Burlington Area Newspaper Group

• Williston Area Business Association

SUBMISSIONS/LETTERS editor@willistonobserver.com • News/story tips welcomed • Letters must be 300 words or fewer • Deadline is Monday at noon • Include your name, address and a daytime phone number (so we can verify the letter’s author — phone numbers and street addresses will be kept confidential)

Letters may be edited for clarity and brevity. Letters that have been submitted to multiple media outlets may not be printed.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Send to Editor@willistonobserver.com

waba williston

area business association

Must include:

• name of event & organization • date, time and place of event • contact information. We only print submissions for nonprofit groups and organizations.

CLASSIFIEDS marianne@willistonobserver.com PAID CLASSIFIEDS: There is a fee for business, real estate and help wanted ads. FREE CLASSIFIEDS:Printed on a ‘space-available’ basis; no guarantee of placement. • 25 words or fewer • Deadline is Friday at noon

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

The legislature did the right thing this year by holding property tax payers harmless after the COVID pandemic took a big bite out of the state’s Education Fund. The state is better situated to deal with a revenue shortfall than individual taxpayers or school districts, which already face monumental trials during this crisis. The shortfall this year mostly has to do with a loss of sales, rooms and meals taxes. All sales tax revenue and a quarter of rooms and meals taxes go directly into the Education Fund, along with property taxes and state lottery receipts. Together these sources cover the cost of public education in Vermont. When the governor shut down all but essential businesses in March to stem the spread of the virus, stores, restaurants and lodging establishments were closed. That not only created a big problem for these businesses and their employees, but it also reduced taxes needed in the Education Fund. State revenues from sales, rooms and meals taxes dropped sharply in the spring and are projected to remain down in this fiscal year, which ends next June 30. In

August, the legislature learned that the Education Fund will probably take in $84 million less than had been forecast last January. The shortfall is mostly due to lower revenue from these two taxes. Legislative leaders knew in the spring that the pandemic was creating a revenue problem for the Education Fund. Their choice was whether or not to fill the gap with an increase in the property tax. The increase needed was about eight cents on property tax rates. In the end, their solution was to allow the Education Fund to run a deficit this fiscal year rather than raise property taxes. While the state will use federal coronavirus relief funds to offset some of this deficit, the hope is that Congress will act to loosen fund restrictions or make additional federal funds available to states. Neither has happened yet. But in the meantime, the legislature developed contingency plans to fill the remaining gap: use reserves, borrow, transfer money from other state funds, increase other revenue or cut spending. Essentially, this approach bought some time for the state to better assess the situation when lawmakers return to work in January. Normally, if the Education Fund

runs a deficit one year, the shortfall has to be made up the following year. But the legislature recognized that Vermonters will still be struggling next year, too, and took steps to avoid a big property tax increase. It waived a requirement of state law that has the tax commissioner recommend, by Dec. 1 each year, statewide education property tax rates for the coming fiscal year sufficient to cover any projected deficit in the current year and to maintain a stabilization reserve of 5 percent. The legislature instructed the commissioner to ignore the 2021 deficit and to assume that the fiscal 2022 reserves would remain at the 2021 level. This has been a challenging year to say the least. But what we have seen this year are the kinds of solutions that are possible when policy makers put people first. While no legislation can commit a future legislature, legislators went as far as they could to protect school districts, students and property tax payers from carrying the additional burden of COVID economic losses this year and next. They deserve credit for this work. Paul Cillo is president and executive director of Public Assets Institute

NEED to SELL? We rank in TOP 10 for New England!

New England Top Producing KW Teams, Closed Volume in Sept. 2020 1. The Ivey Team, Boston - Metro (MA).....................................$5,459,695 2. Gina & Associates, Greater Newburyport (MA)...................$4,828,500

3. Polli Properties, KW VT (VT).....................$4,793,500 4. Rouhana Real Estate, Signature Properties (MA)................$4,549,500 5. Pam McKee Team, Beverly (MA)...........................................$4,365,200 6. The Jackie O Real Estate Team, Boston - Metro (MA)..........$4,140,050

Happy, Healthy and Hassle-Free 55+ INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments Optional Living and Health Services Convenient Dorset Street Location Vibrant Social Atmosphere, Weekly Activities 7 Aspen Drive, South Burlington, VT 802. 865.1109 www. SummitPMG. com

7. Potter Realty Group, Metropolitan (NH)................................$4,103,999 8. Lori Seavy Realty Team, Keller Williams Elite (MA)................$4,014,470 9. Amy & Kyle Bergquist, Greater Hartford (CT)........................$3,898,100 10. Pozerycki Arpino Realty Team, Merrimack Valley (MA).........$3,839,850 Source: Keller Williams Realty New England Region

Call your local Williston agent, Elise Polli, at 802-399-0134!

October 29, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 7

Playoffs begin for Redhawks fall sports By Lauren Read Observer correspondent

The Vermont Principals’ Association released its pairings for the playoffs on Monday. Check below to see what is in store for the Champlain Valley Union High School teams. BOYS SOCCER After capturing the Division I state title the last two seasons, the Champlain Valley boys soccer team will enter this year’s postseason with the No. 2 seed. The Redhawks (8-2) faced No. 15 Spaulding (0-8) this Wednesday in the playdowns. With a win, CVU would advance to the quarterfinals to face the winner of No. 7 Rutland vs. No. 10 Brattleboro on Friday at 3 p.m. CVU has seen neither Spaulding nor Brattleboro this season, but did earn a 3-0 win over Rutland in the final game of the regular season. GIRLS SOCCER For the fourth year in a row, the Champlain Valley girls soccer

team finished the regular season with an undefeated record. The 8-0 Redhawks have earned the No. 1 seed in the Division I tournament as they go for their fourth state title in four years. CVU earned a first-round bye and will wait for the winner of No. 8 Burlington vs. No. 9 Essex in the quarterfinals. That game will be played in Hinesburg on Saturday. The Redhawks faced both Essex and Burlington once this season, earning a 4-0 win over the Hornets and a 5-0 win over the Seahorses. BOYS VOLLEYBALL The Champlain Valley boys volleyball team enters this postseason in a very different position than previous years. Not only will this tournament, which is not sanctioned by the VPA, be outside at South Burlington High School, the Redhawks will also not be the No. 1 seed. CVU earned the No. 2 seed with an 8-1 record. If the Redhawks advance to Thursday’s championship game, they will play the winner of No. 1 Essex vs. No. 4 Rice.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL The Champlain Valley girls volleyball team will take to the field looking to capture a postseason title, albeit in a non-VPA tournament. The Redhawks entered the tournament as the No. 4 seed. If CVU advances to the Thursday’s final, it would face either Mount Mansfield or South Burlington. FOOTBALL After embracing the 7-vs.-7, no-touch season, the Champlain Valley football team had a banner year, losing just one game and earning the No. 1 seed in the Burlington area regional playoff. The regional postseason — not sanctioned by the VPA — will have the top teams in the Burlington area play each other. Champlain Valley earned a firstround bye with the top seed and will await a winner for the quarterfinals. The Redhawks will play the winner of No. 8 BFA-St. Albans vs. No. 9 Mount Mansfield in the quarterfinals on

Observer photo by Al Frey

CVU goalkeeper Ella Polli punts the ball away at a game on Oct. 8. The 8-0 Redhawks girls soccer team has earned the No. 1 seed in the Division I tournament as they go for their fourth state title in four years.

Saturday. CVU beat Mount Mansfield 3520 in the final game of the regular season and beat the Bobwhites earlier in the season. FIELD HOCKEY The Redhawks captured a 4-0

win over Colchester on Saturday to advance to the D-I semifinals, where they were set to take on Mount Mansfield on Wednesday in South Burlington. With a win, the No. 3-seeded Redhawks would advance to the state championship game.

DEAN

ROLLAND

HOW TO DEAL WITH

LEAVES Store THEM

VERMONT SENATE

Supports small and all businesses Supports tax reform Supports 1st and 2nd Amendment Rights Supports public safety Supports education Supports addressing the $4.5 billion state pension debt

Store leaves in a covered container to add to your backyard compost pile. Microbes like lots of leaves!

www.facebook.com/rollandforsenate rollandforsenate@gmail.com www.deanrolland.com Paid for by Dean Rolland 418 Turkey Lane Hinesburg VT

SHRED THEM

Use your mower to shred your leaves and keep them on your lawn to feed the soil.

DROP THEM OFF

CSWD Drop-Off Centers & Green Mountain Compost accept leaves. For seasonal leaf drop-off hours, visit www.cswd.net/leaves.

Stop Worrying and Start Living® Find out how to have more money, more income, and more certainty. Call 802-227-2727 or visit ckfinancialresources.com/offer to receive our Economic Advisory Opinion on how to reduce risk and assess whether common financial advice is serving you well.

LEARN MORE:

C.K. Financial Resources Shelburne, VT

(802) 872-8111 www.cswd.net/leaves 5x775 Leaves BANG.indd 1

10/26/20 5:41 PM

Page 8 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

Library hosts trick-or-treaters The Dorothy Alling Memorial Library is hosting a drop-in trickor-treating event outside the library from 4-6 p.m. Friday. The public is invited to come in costume and pick up pre-bagged treats, then take a stroll along the library’s storywalk on the town green. At the end of the storywalk, trick-or-treaters can check out the library’s new “candy slide” designed by a local artist. For Halloween on Saturday, the Vermont Department of Health is recommending people keep 6 feet of physical distance from others, wear masks and avoid crowds.

“If you’re trick-ortreating and one street or neighborhood seems too busy, skip to the next one,” Health Commissioner Mark Levine said. “The candy haul will be good and maybe if it’s not busy, you’ll get a better haul. “Like with everything else we want to do, and the upcoming holidays, we can find a way to enjoy. Follow the guidance, and act as we should. And that’s how we can bend the curve.”

Thanksgiving food drop-off set for Nov. 14 Help make a joyful Thanksgiving for local families with a community-wide food drop-off at Williston Federat-

ed Church. Food items can be dropped of from 9-11 a.m. Nov. 14 in the church parking lot at 44 North Williston Rd. Items that make a complete Thanksgiving dinner are sought, plus staples to supplement families’ needs during the school break. Items of need include: bags of potatoes, canned vegetables, pie crust mix, pie filling, evaporated milk, cranberry sauce, stuffing, gravy and gift cards from Hannaford for the purchase of a turkey. Additional items of need include: peanut butter, cereal, pasta sauce, canned fruit and granola bars. Excess food will be donated to the Williston Community Food Shelf. People are asked to wear a mask when dropping

off food.

State tracks multiple virus outbreaks On Tuesday, Vermont Health Commissioner Mark Levine said that multiple simultaneous outbreaks of COVID-19 have been discovered among unrelated groups and individuals. These outbreaks have spread from the original cases, to their contacts and contacts of those contacts, crossing situations and geographic regions of the state, Levine said. “There are several such events happening at once,” he said, noting that schools especially are being impacted. “This is really a wake-up

Nuggets of praise

Observer courtesy photo Eva Benway, a grade 3-5 Williston girls rec soccer coach, shared this photo and praise for her team. ‘The girls had great enthusiasm that was clear to anyone who watched them play. To all of my Kickin’ Nuggets (our team name), I’m very impressed with you. Sonya, Nikeelar, Laura, Kali, Adeline, Maya, Bridget, Evangeline, Sisi, Ari, Naz, Olivia and Kayleigh, thank you for a great season and I hope to see you again next year!’

call for us all.” He asked Vermonters to seriously consider their activities and interactions with others right now, even though these are difficult choices. “The bottom line is that small gatherings can have a big impact

— something to keep in mind as the holidays approach,” Levine said. “It is best to not travel at this time. Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Staying home may be the best way to protect yourself and others.”

OBITUARY MARYJANE MEUNIER WILLISTON - MaryJane Meunier, 60, went to be with God on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2020, with family by her side, after a courageous desire to live with failing health. MaryJane was born Feb. 21, 1960 to Shirley (LaBarge) and John W. Perry, III. She was known to all as “MJ.” MaryJane was a caring and devoted caregiver for many years. She enjoyed her arts and crafts, shopping, spending time with friends and family, and especially enjoyed watching her granddaughter Arabelle.  MaryJane leaves behind the love of her life, husband of 39 years, Daniel Meunier of Williston; her son Timothy Meunier of Burlington; granddaughter Arabelle Meunier; her siblings John Perry, IV and wife Brenda, Robert Perry, Natelie Morin and husband Terry, Melissa Robair and husband Larry, and her sister-in-law Paula Perry. She also leaves several nieces and nephews. MaryJane was predeceased by her son Travis Meunier, and her parents Shirley and John Perry, III.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020 at 10 a.m. at St. John Vianney Church, 160 Hinesburg Rd. So. Burlington, with burial to follow in Resurrection Park Cemetery.

Why clutter your house and garage?

Safely store your extra stuff with us! 319 Shunpike Road, Williston • 328-9471 www.willistonselfstoragevt.com

October 29, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 9

OBITUARY SILAS CATLIN SKIFF WILLISTON - Beloved son of Stephanie Pierce and William Skiff and treasured brother of Shane Skiff. Silas grew up on Butternut Road surrounded by his loving family including his maternal (Tom and Carol Pierce) and fraternal (Bill and Ruth Skiff) grandparents and many aunts, uncles and cousins. At 6’4”, he was a giant in size, spirit and heart, and a rock for his family and large circle of friends. His eagerness to help, love for family and friends, and commitment to doing things “the right way” made him the go to guy for so many things including his grandparents’ daily tech issues, endless demolition projects on the farm and managing apartment finances. His smile lit up a room and his goofy, easygoing, loving nature enriched all whom he encountered. He had a positive impact on everyone he met. He loved spending time with family at the farm, at his grandparents’ home in East Montpelier, and at the family camp on Maquam Shore, where he was the master

of corn hole. Silas especially cherished his many adventures with his younger brother Shane, including mountain biking, skiing, jetting around town in the old Ranger, and raucous towel wars in the kitchen. Silas was a renaissance man with a love of both precision and chaos and eclectic interests including music, art and vintage clothing. He was a skilled woodworker who took great pride in the exquisite paddleboard that he designed and created as part of his Grad Challenge at CVU, where he made many lifelong friends. His love of numbers and precision led him to pursue engineering at UPitt. He later switched majors to pursue a more diversified curriculum including poetry and world music. Si was a deep thinker. Teachers spoke of his keen intellect, strong work ethic, commitment to excellence and quiet leadership. In the words of one teacher, “When you speak, people listen because what you share is meaningful.” He found a second family at UPitt, where he developed an exceptional group of friends who loved, cherished and supported him even in the darker times. He was be-

loved and a source of light for the entire Pitt community. He enjoyed feathering the nest at his apartments in Pittsburgh, including building custom tables and a corn hole game with the school colors. He found brotherhood and took great pride in being a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity, whose members supported him with incredible kindness and compassion. Silas proudly completed the Iron Phi challenge this past summer with his father to raise money for ALS. In the words of one of his best friends, “Silas was a brilliant and a truly amazing human. He brought a light to my day whenever I got to see him. The world lost an amazing young man who will be dearly missed.” Silas struggled with depression for years with his family by his side. He was a warrior in battling against this disease showing remarkable courage, resilience and grace. Silas taught us many lessons throughout his life. We now have a greater understanding of the disease of depression and the challenges related to treatment. We wish to deepen public awareness to reduce stigma and open

people’s hearts to those individuals suffering from mental illness and their families. It is a disease. It is not a choice or weakness. Silas loved life. Silas loved his family. Silas loved his friends. Our love for him is fierce and FOREVER. Rest in peace, our sweet boy. On Oct. 30 at dusk, please join us and light a candle or lantern in celebration of Silas’ remarkable life. The service will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: project HOePpnEr at www.projecthoeppner.com or another organization promoting suicide awareness and prevention,

some of which are listed on the resources page at project HOePpnEr. The family is planning on establishing a scholarship at UPitt, The Iron Si, through his fraternity in honor of Silas’ legacy and in recognition of their strong bonds of friendship and support of Silas.

Where Safety Meets Social The help you desire and the freedom to fill your days with the things you love learning, culture, entertainment, and more! All in a safe environment surrounded by friends.

Independent, Assisted & Memory Care Living

Winnie B.

Schedule a tour and lock in your rate until 2022!

Middlebury | 802-278-0229

S. Burlington | 802-992-8153

Shelburne | 802-231-3724

Owned and operated by LCB Senior Living. Twenty-five years of excellence in New England.

Page 10 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

SENIORS

By Jim Miller

Helping seniors recognize misinformation and propaganda Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any resources that you know of that can help seniors detect fake news? My 75-year-old mother shares a lot of misinformation with her family and friends that she sees on Facebook. I’ve talked to her about it, but for some reason she has a difficult time deciphering real news from fake news and propaganda. - Frustrated Daughter Dear Frustrated, Unfortunately, the digital misinformation problem your mom is experiencing is not uncommon. According to researchers from Princeton and New York University, people aged 65 and older are up to seven times more likely to share fake news and dubious links on social media than their younger counterparts. Why? There are several theories. The first is that many seniors started using social media sites like Facebook only within the past five or six years and may lack the digital

literacy skills to identify false or misleading content. Some other possible theories are that most seniors experience some cognitive decline as they age, making them more likely to fall for hoaxes. Many older Americans also suffer from chronic loneliness, which can cause them to share misinformation as an attempt to make connections with other people. And studies have shown that older people are generally more trusting than younger generations, which can make them more gullible. All this is particularly concerning now as we sit in the midst of a global health pandemic and a 2020 election season, both of which are ripe with misinformation, rumors and conspiracy theories. And seniors are prime targets of this false/misleading information because they are much more likely to vote than their younger cohorts and are much more vulnerable to getting sick and dying if they contract COVID-19. WHERE TO GET HELP To help your mom detect and

combat online misinformation, there are several great resources she can turn to that offer free courses and tips. One is MediaWise for Seniors, a project of the Poynter Institute, which offers two free online courses to help seniors detect and combat online misinformation — see www.Poynter.org/mediawise-for-seniors. In addition, Poynter has worked with AARP to produce Fact Tracker interactive videos and a webinar on spotting and filtering misinformation at www.AARP.org/facttracker. Some other free course options you should look into include Senior Planet, which is offering a one-hour online course on “How to Spot Fake News” at www.SeniorPlanet.org. The News Literacy Project that provides the Checkology virtual classroom, which was initially created for middle and high school students, is now offering an independent learners option that is ideal for older adults — see www. Get.Checkology.org. Their lessons

A Griswold caregiver can help you or your loved one stay happy, healthy, and independent at home during the holidays.

802.862.7200

GriswoldHomeCare.com/ Northern-Vermont

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.

Bundle up for savings

When you choose Allstate to protect what matters most, you get an expert agent who will make it easy for you to save. Like with bundling your insurance. It’s the simplest way for you to save time and money, while getting protection for the things that matter most. Stop by or call today and let’s get you bundled up.

The Coburn Agency 802-658-7800

1134 South Brownell Rd. Williston, VT 05495 michaelcoburn@allstate.com

Personalized service. Trusted advice. Subject to terms, conditions & availability. Savings vary. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co. © 2020 Allstate Insurance Co

What if Dad needs our help in the future? Give the gift of care this holiday season.

mom fact check a story to help her identify fact from fiction. These sites have most likely already factchecked the latest viral claim to pop up in her news feed.

11963183

Savvy Senior

will help your mom detect the difference between news, opinion and propaganda. Also consider Coursera, a free world-wide online learning platform that offers an in-depth sixweek course called “Making Sense of the News: News Literacy Lessons for Digital Citizens,” which she can access at www.Coursera. org/learn/news-literacy. There are also many good websites, like www.PolitiFact.com, www.Snopes.com and www. FactCheck.org that will let your

Paw Print is your source for custom holiday cards!

**Special Offer**

Will you be able to be there for him? Let me help you navigate Elder Law, Special Needs Planning, Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Probate Matters

Holly K. Lemieux, Esq., PLLC Attorney at Law

802-871-5410 21 Carmichael St., Ste. 201 Essex Jct., VT Holly@Lemieux-Law.com www.plantogetherlaw.com

Order Custom Holiday Cards online at

pawprint.4printing.com and receive FREE shipping and FREE return address printing on envelopes

Offer ends December 5, 2020

802-865-2872 printcare@paw-prints.com pawprint.4printing.com

October 29, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 11

CROSSWORD

CROSSWORD SOLUTION BELOW

25% OFF REPAIRS

Performed by Our Master Jewelers Same-Day Repair When Possible (Call to Make an Appointment) Ring Sizing • Cleaning • Stone Tightening • Rhodium Plating



20% OFF APPRAISALS Performed by Our Graduate Gemologists

Valid through November 30, 2020. Coupon must be presented at time of drop-off. Coupon valid on original pricing.

91 MAIN STREET, STOWE VILLAGE ~ 802.253.3033 STOWE@FERROJEWELERS.COM ~ FERROJEWELERS.COM/STOWE LIKE US ON FACEBOOK.COM/FERRO.JEWELERS

Honor the memory of your beloved pet.

It’s never easy to say goodbye to a beloved pet, but a well-chosen pet memorial can help soothe some of the pain and keep your pet’s memory alive. Let us help.

ELMWOOD-MEUNIER FUNERAL

CREMATION CENTER

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

ACROSS 1. Bothered (with “at”) 4. Cigar leftover 7. False show 10. Entirely 13. Happy as a lark 14. Black or Irish water body 15. Profit bringer, cash ___ 16. Crusted dessert 17. People who are against you 19. Distorted 21. Unmatched, like socks 22. George Harrison’s “___ It a Pity” 23. Group of people 26. “Holy smokes!” 28. ___ Eaters 32. Portrayed 33. Bacon and __ 35. Pink, as a steak 36. Tawny, for example 37. Proverbs preposition 39. Minded 41. As well 43. Disoriented 44. Small horses 46. Winter blanket 48. ___ a good plan! 51. A string has two 52. Repetitious sound 54. Latitude/longitude shower 55. Round home 56. “Love ___ Madly”

57. Passionate 59. Different 62. Cooking equipment 63. G.I. 66. Established 70. Overwhelming admiration 71. The P of RPM 72. Unfavorably 73. Sculler 74. Rainy 75. Something blue 76. Dig 77. Have a go at DOWN 1. Length of life 2. Beach bonus 3. “Red __ “ thriller 4. Stage direction 5. Start of something 6. Comprises 7. On the stage 8. Milk dispensers 9. Mirror image 10. Not out of place 11. Story 12. Marshaled 18. Unruly crowd 20. Stashes 23. Word with ‘’faced’’ or ‘’fisted’’ 24. Like most recruits 25. Middle kitchen counters

26. Said hello to 27. Since 29. Soap opera’s slot 30. Metal mixture 31. Spectrum end 34. Going alone 37. Milk, in a way 38. Schnozzola 40. Tie 42. Written in a column, as “todo” things 44. Enclosure 45. “___ night love affair,” Bryan Adams 46. Nautical pronoun 47. Common conjunction 49. What a steamroller steamrolls 50. Mole with secrets 53. Bright red 57. Error 58. Tavern 60. Kissers 61. Hide and ___ 62. Barbershop emblem 63. Divide in a way 64. Have a tab 65. Allow 66. Nabisco’s ___ Newtons 67. Sentence ender 68. Keen perception, musically 69. Kind of ice

Crossword Puzzle ABOVE RIGHT

r. Goslin and his dedicated, skilled dental team provide focused and personal care with your comfort and trust in mind through routine and complex treatments. • Whitening, Veneers • Comprehensive Dental Care • Implant Placement and Restoration • Clear Braces • TMD, Sleep Apnea & 3D Imaging • Crowns, Partials, Dentures

Dr. Ryan Goslin

75 Talcott Rd., Ste 20, Williston • 662-5966 • DRGOOSEVT.COM

Page 12 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

WILLISTON

RECREATION &PARKS

W I L L I S T O N

Recreation & Parks

The Williston Recreation and Parks Department is located at the Town Hall Annex Building at 7878 Williston Rd. For online program registration, visit www. willistonrec.org. For department information, email recreation@ willistonvt.org or call 876-1160. THANK YOU! Thank you to all the Rec Soccer coaches. Without the help of these dedicated parents and community members, the program would not be as successful as it was. Coaches gave an hour of practice each week and an hour of game time each Saturday for seven weeks. Thank you to: C. Areson, J. Colf, T. Greiner, R. Hayes, T. Henry, C. Koenemann, E. LaPlante, D. Lewis, A. Metzger, C. Riani, A. Sutton, D. Whritenour, E. Benway, K. Benway, E. Godbout and N. Tuco — and thank you to all parents who helped out this fall.

Celebrate the Charm of Vermont

LEARN TO SKI/RIDE PROGRAM The ski/ride program will be on Wednesdays from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Cochran’s ski area starting in January. Busing may be available. Registration will open in December. The program is open to all Williston residents. If you have equipment borrowed from last year’s program and your child is not doing the program this year or they need new equipment, please return equipment at the following dates and times: Nov. 5, 5-6 p.m. and Nov. 6, 3-4 p.m. If your child

is going to do the program and the equipment fits, hold on to it and wait for an email to register. NINJA KIDS Try a four-week introduction to kids martial arts. Ninja classes help girls and boys realize their full potential in an environment that is playful, supportive and fun. Ages 4-9, sessions in November, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays, 4-4:50 p.m. or Saturdays 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages 10-15, Wednesdays or Fridays, 5-5:50 p.m. or Saturdays 1-1:50 p.m. $60. VIRTUAL PROGRAMS Strength Training — Online live with Toni Kunker, age 50-plus, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:1511:15 a.m. Free. Gentle/Seated Yoga — Online live with Toni Kunker, age 50plus, Fridays, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Free. Fit Training — Online live with RehabGYM, Age 55-plus, Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-10 a.m. $120. Senior Personal Training — Online live with RehabGYM, Age 60-plus, ten 60-minute sessions, register with RehabGYM. $450. Personal Training — Online live with RehabGYM, age 18plus, ten 60-minute sessions, register with RehabGYM. $450. Ukulele Clinic — Level 2, online live with Clare Innes, age 18-plus, Mondays or Thursdays in October, $35.

So many need homes!

We have a veritable cornucopia of dogs arriving on 11/2 starting with Louie a 115 pound Great Pyrenees, Rusty a two year old Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Ike a twelve pound wore haired Terrier and sweet Apple a 15 pound Chiweenie!

A p p le

91 MAIN STREET, STOWE VILLAGE ~ 802.253.3033 ~ STOWE@FERROJEWELERS.COM

WWW.FERROJEWELERS.COM/STOWE ~ LIKE US ON FACEBOOK.COM/FERRO.JEWELERS

Louis

Ik e

Ru st y

Got a story idea or photo? Send to:

editor@willistonobserver.com

We are located in Williston! Please fill out a non-Bulldog application on our website: www.vermontenglishbulldogrescue.com SPONSOR•

62 Knight Lane • Williston www.kinneypike.com

October 29, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 13 IN-PERSON PROGRAMS Cardio Kickboxing — Age 18-plus, Thursdays in November, 6:30 p.m. $60. Dangerous Girls — Age 14plus, Wednesdays in November, 6:30 p.m. $60. Fighter Fitness — Age 18-plus, Mondays 6 p.m., Tuesdays 8 a.m. or Saturdays 1 p.m. in November. $60. MMA for Nerds — Age 18plus, Tuesdays in November, 6:30 p.m. $60. Street Fighter 9000 — Age 18-plus, Fridays in October and November 7 p.m. $60. Thai Chi Form — Age 18-plus, Tuesdays, 5:30pm, Nov. 3-Dec. 15. $90.

Thai Chi Fundamentals — Age 18-plus, Thursdays, 5:30 p.m., Nov. 5-Dec. 17. $90. Ninja Kids — Ages 4-9, four different November sessions. $60. Ninja Teens — Age 10-15, three different November sessions. $60. FACILITY UPDATE The last week of October is used for closing fields, courts and amenities for the winter. All nets on fields and courts are taken down by Oct. 29. The playground at Williston Central School remains open for use. The school has placed orange fencing around it to control access of schoolchildren during recess. The opening to access the playground is near the picnic shelter.

Resort-Lifestyle Residences for Sophisticated Seniors

NOW OPEN! ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Vermont’s only independent senior community located on a full resort. Luxury rental apartments on the campus of The Essex Resort & Spa with fantastic amenities, including: Pool & Spa World-Class Tennis Resort Dining Options Lounge & Screening Room Beautifully Landscaped Grounds

Classes & Community Events Wellness Programs Under-Building Parking Full-time staff and on-premises PT/OT Plus more!

NOW OPEN! To learn more:

Email Stan@essexresidences.com, call (802) 861-1131 or visit essexresidences.com 5 Freeman Woods, Essex Junction VT 05452

I feel safer having someone here.

HOMESHARE Bringing Vermonters together to share homes

802-863-5625 HomeShareVermont.org

Page 14 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL NOTICE WARNING TOWN OF WILLISTON SPECIAL TOWN MEETING NOVEMBER 3, 2020 The legal voters of the Town of Williston are hereby notified to meet on November 3, 2020, at Vermont Army National Guard Armory located at 7846 Williston Road at 7:00 AM, at which time the polls will

open, until 7:00 PM, at which time the polls will close, to vote by Australian ballot upon the following article: ARTICLE 1: Shall bonds of the Town of Williston in an amount not to exceed Two Million and 00/100 Dollars ($2,000,000.00) be issued under subchapter 2 of chapter 53 of Title 24, Vermont Statutes Annotated, payable only from net revenues derived from the Town’s water utility system to pay for the replacement of watermains, pipes and appurtenances within the

road rights-of-way of White Birch Lane, Lamplite Lane, Pine Lane and Aspen Lane, to connect the newly installed watermains and pipes to water service lines along White Birch Lane, Lamplite Lane, Pine Lane and Aspen Lane, and to pay related professional fees and project costs? BALLOTS TO BE MAILED: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic this article will appear on the General Election ballot mailed by the State of Vermont to all registered voters in the Town of

Tired of working for the corporate chain? Join our team! Family-owned practice seeking a motivated licensed Dental Hygienist to join our team. We have JADE air purification units in every operatory, provide any and all PPE to meet your COVID requirements, provide 60 minutes for prophys, and additional 30 minutes for FMX. Eaglesoft, digital X-ray and computer skills a must. Great pay, benefits and relocation assistance.

Call 802-748-9357 or email kirsten@stjdental.com

1 Place Notre Dame, St. Johnsbury, VT

Williston. IF YOU PREFER NOT TO VOTE IN PERSON, your completed ballot must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office by NOON on Monday, November 2nd, 2020 or dropped off at the Vermont Army National Guard Armory located at 7846 Williston Road between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM on Tuesday, November 3rd. IF YOU PREFER TO VOTE IN PERSON, you may do so on November 3rd between 7:00 o’clock AM and 7:00 o’clock PM. PUBLIC INFORMATION

HEARING: A public information hearing will be held using the videoconference platform zoom on October 26, 2020 at 7 o’clock in the afternoon (7:00 PM). Public Information Hearing Access: Web Link: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/85337495843 Phone: 1-646-558-8656 Meeting ID: 853 3749 5843 If using phone hit *9 to alert host to comment

Shop the store that builds homes. SAVE 50%–75% off retail prices on quality home goods.

build Your purchases help ity an Habitat for Hum homes in our area. Green Mountain

528 Essex Road (Rt. 2A • Williston • 857-5296 Open M-F 10-6, Sat. & Sun 10-5 414 Route 7 South • Milton • 891-9829 Open W-F 10-6, Sat. & Sun 10-5

vermonthabitat.org

FURNITURE • APPLIANCES • ART • HOUSEWARES RUGS • TOOLS • BUILDING MATERIALS

Hannaford Williston

JOB FAIR

Tuesday, Nov. 3 from 3-6pm OPEN POSITIONS INCLUDE:

FULL TIME • CAO Lead • Diary/Frozen Food Lead • Deli Service Lead

Competitive pay and benefits package!

PART TIME • Night Crew • Cashier • Bakery Associate • Hannaford To Go Shopper • Deli Associate • Pharmacy Tech

APPLY ONLINE: www.hannaford.com/careers

Or Email Hiring Manager Becky Ashton Reashton@hannaford.com or call 802-878-0032

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Town of Williston Public Works Department

Full-time position

The Public Works Department is accepting applications for a Water & Sewer Division position. This is a full-time position with an excellent benefit package. The ideal candidate should be experienced in the operation and maintenance of public water and sewer systems and reside within 25 miles of Williston.

available for a

Highway Equipment Operator/Maintenance Worker Responsibilities include snow plowing, road repairs, and maintaining road and related facilities. Experience in highway maintenance is desirable and applicant must have good working knowledge of heavy equipment. Class B CDL is required. Excellent benefits.

Position is open until filled and can be found at www.town.williston.vt.us EOE

Applications are available at: www.town.williston.vt.us. Applications will be received until the position is filled. EOE

erver

October 29, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 15

CLASSIFIEDS Adopted and approved at a regular meeting of the Selectboard of the Town of Williston duly called, noticed and held on August 24, 2020. Williston Selectboard:Terry Macaig, Chair, Joy Limoge, Vice Chair, Ted Kenney, Jeff Fehrs and Gordon St. Hilaire.

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020 – 7:00 PM

Zoom Webinar ID: 823-369-798 DP 21-06 Adams Real Properties, LLC requests a Discretionary Permit for a change-of-use to a wholesale bagel bakery with accessory café and outdoor seating at 31 Adams Drive in the IZDW. DP 21-07 Whitney Fellows C/O Trudell Consulting Engineers requests a Discretionary Permit for a Boundary Line Adjustment for the purpose of constructing a home at 146 North Williston Road in the RZD.

DP 09-01.20 The Snyder FC Commercial Properties, LLC & Rieley Properties, LLC request a Master Sign Plan Amendment for “Building J” at Finney Crossing (Healthy Living Market, retail tenants, and restaurant tenant) on Williston Road at Boxwood Lane intersection, opposite of Shaw’s in the TCZD. Project details and site plans are available on the website, town. williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas

& Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 878-6704 Meeting Location: Zoom Webinar ID: 823-369-798 https://zoom. us/j/823369798

SERVICES Painting - Since 1977, Lafayette Painting has provided top quality painting services. Our experts will complete your job quickly and the finished work is guaranteed to look

great. Learn more about us at www. LafayettePaintingInc.com or call 863-5397.

FOR SALE Tires - 4 Yokohama tubeless, studless, steel-belted radial ice guard winter tires 235/R19 101T/G1. Used two winters, $200. Call 878-0405. Snow Blower - Cub Cadet 3-stage 24-inch 277ccOHV electric start. $700. Call 878-0405. To place a classified ad, email marianne@willistonobserver.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY TREE SERVICE

NOVEL RELEASE

The Search for Christopher Gordon A Novel by Gordon R. Lawrence

Locally published

Adam’s Tree & Yard Tree & Stump Removal Yard & Brush Pile Clean Up Insured

00/week $936 and available through Phoenix Books

For more information go to: gordonrlawrence.com

Serving Chittenden County and beyond.

Adam Hall • 802-309-8971

BUILDING SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

BEAGLE BUILDERS, LLC Vinyl/Wood/Composite Kitchens & Bathrooms Sunrooms & Garages

Edging and Mulching • Walkways, Patios and Walls

Guiding You Home

802-453-4340 CALL US!

have jewelry you don’t it’s broken or out of style? JEWELRY REPAIR

CARPENTRY

Is your Jewelry Broken or Out of Style?

MINI EXCAVATOR

• TRACTOR SERVICES

— Snow Plowing —

Hydraulic Thumb Site Work Stump Removal

Free Estimates!

Lawn Care Custom Carpentry Driveway Grading

233-6938

yardjacks.com

FULLY INSURED • www. kingfishvt.com Call today to get on our 2021 calendar! (802) 345-4280

BUSINESS SERVICES

High Standards, LLC

We will repair or redesign it so you can start enjoying it again

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

RESIDENTIAL / COMMERCIAL

Snowplowing • Salting • Scheduling Fall Cleanups now!

beaglebuilders@gmavt.net

97 Pearl St. • Essex Jct Shopping Ctr. Shannonsofvermont.com • 802-878-3774

802.878.6167 802.878.6167 802.878.6167

11 Maple Street, Street, Essex Junction, VT VT 11 Maple Essex Junction, 11Open Maple Street, Essex Junction, VT Mon Sat 10-5 Sun 11-4 Open Mon - Sat 10-5 Sun 11-4 Open Mon - Sat 10-5 Sun 11-4 5CornersAntiques.com 5CornersAntiques.com 5CornersAntiques.com

(802) 846-9503 Michelle@DesautelsVT.com DesautelsVT.com

Windows & Doors • Decks & Porches

Locally, Family Owned All Work Done On Site

A Multi Dealer Shop A Multi Dealer A Multi Dealer Shop Shop

REALTOR®, PSA

ALL TYPES OF SIDING

Watch Repair, Battery Replacement

IVE CORNERS ORNERS FIVE CORNERS FFIVE C ANTIQUES NTIQUES ANTIQUES A

Michelle Desautels

Remodeling & Additions

Monkton, VT

ANTIQUE ANTIQUE SHOP SHOP

Remodeling, Rot Repair, Decks, Windows, Doors

Carpentry

Drywall, Siding, Finish Work, Pressure Washing

24/7 On Call – Free Estimates – Fully Insured

802-355-8193

Matt Levee • HighStandards802@gmail.com

Photos from the Williston Observer

available for purchase! Visit our website to see current and past photos of Williston events, school sports, nature shots and more! Digital and prints available. Very reasonably priced.

Frey AL

photography

AlFreyPhotography.com Place your order online or email afrey202@gmail.com

CREDIT CARD PROCESSING CAN BE CONFUSING WE ARE LOCAL EXPERTS PROVIDING WORLD CLASS SERVICE

802-288-0833 POS ★ ZERO COST CREDIT ★ QUICKBOOKS WEB ★ HIGH RISK

BASEMENT SYSTEMS

Page 16 • Williston Observer • October 29, 2020

Williston-Richmond Rotary Club Service Above Self

Our Mission: To provide service to our community, promote integrity and advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through fellowship of business, professional and community members. Service Project Examples: Support literacy through the schools and Town Library; fund fuel assistance program; holiday dinner for senior citizens; Thanksgiving baskets for those who are food insecure; run annual egg hunt; support international efforts to eradicate polio, improve sanitation, and provide for cleaner water sources; and a variety of community improvement projects.

Our service projects and activities are made possible through the generosity of the following 2020 Sponsors:

Gallagher, Flynn & Co. Stewart Home Improvements Dr. Sally Stockwell Metro Stowe Rotary Club Union Bank Twincraft Northfield Savings Bank Champlain Periodontal Truexcullins Lendio-John Jacob Red Sox Nation Albert Hardy Hamlin Engineering Bob & Marsha Drake New England Air Systems Northern Vermont Oral Surgery South Burlington Rotary Club Vermont Home and Marine Ericson Group Making the Grade-Barb LeWinter Champlain Orthodontics Assoc Quintin Bros. Associates in Orthodontics Venus & Crew Smart Endodontics Bentley A. Merrick Charlotte-Shelburne-Hinesburg Rotary Club Kinney Pike Insurance

Thank You for Your Support!