Williston Observer 4/9/2020

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APRIL 9, 2020

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Observer courtesy photo by Andy Duback

Williston resident Dana Pontbriand stands in his driveway with his wife Katie and newborn son Holden, along with the family dogs.

By Jason Starr Observer staff

Dana Pontbriand returned to work Monday, a new dad and fully recovered from a COVID-19 infection.

The co-owner of Vermont Meat and Seafood Market in Williston, Pontbriand was among the early cases of the coronavirus in Vermont. His doctor pinpointed his date of infection as March 7.

Pontbriand believes he came into contact with the virus at a sporting event.

The timing of the onset of symptoms — fatigue and fever — coincided with the birth of his son March 15. He was barred from entering the hospital for the birth and was separated from his wife and newborn under quarantine for 11 days until his symptoms cleared.

Pontbriand described his infection as similar to the flu. His most severe symptom was fatigue. After about seven days, his energy began to return.

“I started to want to get out of bed and had the energy to do things,” he said. “(My family) could see my smile was back, and

they knew I was getting better.

We’re all healthy now, and I’m happy to be a dad.”

He is also happy to be back at work.

The market closed for two weeks after Pontbriand’s positive test.

All of his co-workers, friends and family members have remained healthy. The store re-opened last week, and Pontbriand returned this week.

He returned to a very different operation. The pandemic has affected all businesses, But unlike many, Vermont Meat and Seafood — like traditional grocery stores — is seeing increased business as people stock up on food for extended stretches of staying at home.

The store has reduced staff to follow social distancing setbacks and is bringing orders out to customers in the parking lot.

“It’s all different,” Pontbriand said. “It’s all emails, calls and curbside … We’ve been really busy.”

Tuesday marked one month since Pontbriand contracted the coronavirus. His doctor has advised him that he should now have immunity to the virus.

Observer photo by Al Frey

Inspiring sidewalk art appeared just west of the Korner Kwik Stop on Route 2 in Williston this week including this colorful and inspirational message.

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SOUTH BURLINGTON AND WILLISTON LOCATIONS OPEN

Page 2 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

Town shutters park amenities Trails, paths remain open On Monday, the Town of Williston closed all park amenities until further notice. The closure includes playground structures, tennis/pickleball and basketball courts, bathroom facilities, pavilions, volleyball courts and the skatepark.

Town parks and trails remain open, but visitors are required to adhere to social distancing measures recently enacted by Gov. Phil Scott, including staying at least 6 feet apart form other park users and not congregating or participating in group activities. This includes in parking lots.

Closing the amenities aligns with guidance from the National Recreation and Parks Association in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is part of the town’s efforts to prevent community spread of COVID-19.

“Closing these facilities is a necessary best practice to follow,” a

press release from the town states.

Town administrators encourage residents to remain active with outdoor exercise. Town paths, sidewalks and trails are open for this purpose, while retaining proper social distancing.

“Stay spread out, wave to your friends and neighbors and work together to flatten the curve,” the press release states.

All dogs are required to be leashed in town parks and on paths and trails. Dogs are not allowed at the Catamount Community Forest. People are advised to avoid touching and interacting with other people’s dogs.

“Let’s continue to be (active) during this time, but we need to make some adjustments to how we enjoy recreation. It takes everyone doing their part to stop community spread,” the press release says.

“In the days of the COVID-19 virus, there are still positives, you just have to look.”

– Al Frey, Williston

Town paths, sidewalks and trails are open for this purpose, while retaining proper social distancing.

Observer photo by Al Frey

According to EarthSky.org, Tuesday’s supermoon, also known as the pink moon, happens to be the closest of the year.

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April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 3

Town manager search hamstrung McGuire: ‘not going to leave town high and dry’ The search for a new Williston town manager has not escaped disruption by the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Tuesday, current Town Manager Rick McGuire assured the selectboard that he would postpone his planned July 1 retirement if the board needs longer than expected to hire his successor.

“I can delay it a bit,” said McGuire, the town manager since 1998. “I’m not going to leave the town high and dry.”

The board decided to extend the deadline for applications — which was originally scheduled for next Monday — by 30 days.

That came on the recommendation from two consultants the board hired to help them recruit a new manager.

Alan Gould and Bob Mercier of New Hampshire-based Municipal Resources video-conferenced with the board Tuesday and provided an update on the hiring process.

“We’re not inspired by the candidates we

have,” Gould said.

A total of 20 applications have been submitted, but only three are “of interest,” he said, and just one is “top tier.”

Municipal managers who may be interested in the job but are currently leading other municipalities are too busy managing their towns through crisis to apply.

“It’s a difficult time for any administrator or manager to start thinking about other communities when they are just trying to hold together their own community,” Mercier said.

“They don’t want to bail on their community in the middle of this crisis.”

Plus, with travel restrictions and social distancing, any hiring process could not yet proceed to site visits and face-to-face interviews.

Mercier plans to continue the process by sending written questions to the existing candidates of interest and incorporate any new candidates as they apply.

“Let’s allow more time for people to apply,” he said. “Otherwise, you’ll have an extremely limited pool.”

--Jason Starr

Food shelf scrambles as demand rises

By Jason Starr Observer staff

The Williston Community Food Shelf is scrambling to meet increased need at the same time that its volunteer corps is diminished and its supply chain disrupted.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenging dynamics, pushing food shelf president Ginger Morton into a frenzy trying to keep shelves stocked and food distribution uninterrupted for the residents of Williston, Richmond and St. George that the food shelf supports.

On a typical two-hour Saturday morning shift, between 15 and 20 families come to the 400 Cornerstone Drive location to receive food. Last Saturday saw an increase to 34 families, according to Morton — the effect of rising unemployment and financial uncertainty as businesses are forced to close due to Gov. Phil Scott’s emergency orders aimed at slowing the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

“Every shift we are signing up new clients,” Morton said.

At the same time, the food shelf’s primary supplier, Hannaford, has suspended deliveries. The grocery store has been struggling to keep up with demand from shoppers stocking up amid an extended stay-at-home directive from Gov. Scott.

Hannaford typically provides the food shelf with baked goods, meat, deli items and

produce.

“People were buying so much that there wasn’t anything left for them to donate to us,” said Morton.

Gone also is the food shelf’s ability to place spot orders for specific items of need from a variety of different grocery stores in the area.

“That is all shut down,” Morton said.

The food shelf has remained viable thanks to continued deliveries from the Vermont Foodbank, as well as the Essex Alliance Church.

Donations from the public have also increased.

To fill in for the lost supply from grocery stores, Morton recently placed an order with Macauley’s Food Service, a wholesaler out of Barre.

“I am cautiously optimistic that our food supply will remain enough,” she said.

The food shelf is requesting donations from residents of peanut butter, jelly, pasta boxes, pasta sauce, canned fruit, baked beans and raviolis. Donations can be made during the food shelf’s open hours, Tuesdays 5-6:30 p.m., Thursdays 9-11 a.m. and Saturdays 9-11 a.m.

Operations at the food shelf have been altered to curbside pickup. Clients remain in their cars while volunteers deliver a pre-packaged box of standard items. Volunteers can then try to fill requests for specific items.

The food shelf is requesting donations from residents of peanut butter, jelly, pasta boxes, pasta sauce, canned fruit, baked beans and raviolis.

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Page 4 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

Internet connectivity is holding up, but weaknesses are exposed

By Guy Page Special to the Observer

Despite unprecedented internet use, Vermont’s connectivity remains stable.

That was one takeaway from an update last week from the state’s executives for electricity, communications, computer operation and security to the Vermont House Committee on Energy and Technology.

“A question we’re getting a lot is, ‘with the increased traffic, is it going to break the internet?,’” Clay Purvis, Director for Telecommunications and Connectivity for the Department of Public Service, said. “The answer is ‘no,’ that’s not something that has happened yet. The major carriers say they can handle the traffic they are seeing. They are seeing longer peaks, and different times of peak usage.”

Carriers have suspended dis-

connections, waived data caps and created wi-fi hot spots for non-customers to access nearby customers’ modems for free. Families with school-age children can get connected at low or no cost.

But Rep. Laura Sibilia (I-Londonderry), a champion of rural internet use, flagged a problem: “Residential usage in places that can’t access high speeds isn’t necessarily smooth sailing.”

“That’s been a longstanding problem we’ve been trying to address” since before the pandemic, Purvis answered. “At the risk of sounding callous, the pandemic is going to highlight for America the real effect of the digital divide.

People are used to using the internet at school or at work, and they could say, ‘I don’t really need it at home,’ but now we’ve taken that away.”

And that’s a problem because the State of Vermont has mandated that education happen at home.

“The government has an obligation to make that feasible,” Public Service Department Commissioner June Tierney said.

She said she will use the pandemic as a “battering ram” in Washington D.C. to secure more funding for high-speed residential service everywhere.

Power grid runs smoothly, electricity cheap Among pandemic woes facing Vermonters, expensive, unreliable electricity is not among them.

New England grid operators report plenty of reliable, low-cost power.

Natural gas is cheap. Spring runoff is pushing hydro plants to full capacity. Longer days mean more solar power. With workplaces and schools closed, demand is low. As of last Thursday, the wholesale power price in Vermont was about half the usual price, and the lowest in New England.

Old Dept. of Labor computer survives unemployment application rush Vermont’s Agency of Digital Services Secretary John Quinn admits one worry that kept him awake at night was whether the mainframe computer at the Department of Labor would process an unprecedented number of applications for unemployment insurance.

Hallelujah, it did.

“The main frame has never seen

loads like this,” Quinn said. “It’s a miracle that it has been able to do what we’ve asked it to do, given the number of claims going through.”

There was a backlog. One particularly busy day, the DOL phone line registered 40,000 busy signals. Nevertheless people will “get checks pretty close to on time, if not on time,” he said.

State employees’ transition to working at home has run fairly smoothly, Quinn said.

He thinks the pandemic has created awareness about the possibilities of remote work.

“Looking longterm, this will absolutely change the way we work as state government,” he said.

Guy Page is the publisher of the Vermont Daily Chronicle, online at www.vermontdailychronicle. com.

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April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 5

Container gardening for kids A container garden makes a great first garden project for gardeners of all ages. All you need is something that can hold soil with small holes in the bottom for excess water to drain.

The following instructions are for planting a container garden in a bucket, but you can make a container garden from any object that holds soil that you can drill drainage holes in — even an old shoe or boot.

Start by deciding if you want to plant edible crops or if you want to stick to ornamental plants. The reason to determine this ahead of time is that if you want plant edibles, you need to be extra careful to choose buckets that are food-grade safe.

Next, collect your buckets. If you have chosen to make an edible garden, look for buckets that are labeled “Food Grade Container” at the hardware store, or you may also want to check with local restaurants or grocery stores to see if they might have buckets they can donate to you.

Many bulk food items are delivered in buckets, so they may have some on hand.

Common sizes for buckets are 3 gallons and 5 gallons.

Pick out your plants. You can start your garden by planting seeds or by selecting young seedlings. If you have a 3-gallon bucket, look for smaller plants that stay compact, such as herbs, lettuce or seasonal annuals. If you have a 5-gallon container, you can grow just about any type of annual vegetable or landscape plant because you have more room for roots; however, the ultimate size of your plant will determine how many will fit in each bucket. For example, you would only want one cherry tomato or one cucumber plant per 5-gallon bucket.

If you are planting several different types of plants in one container, make sure they have the same sunlight and water requirements. For example, thyme, rosemary and sage like full sun and very well-drained soil. Basil and dill like full sun, too, but need consistently moist soil.

Pick out your potting soil. You will want to use a well-draining potting mix that absorbs water, but also drains well. Don’t use soil from the yard or garden, because it likely drains poorly and may contain plant disease organisms.

Drill five to seven holes in the bottom of your bucket. The holes should be about a quarter to a half-inch in diameter. If you want, you can also decorate the outside of your container with paint, waterproof markers or by adding other decorations. It is usually easier to decorate before you add soil.

Moisten your soil before placing it in your bucket. To make sure your soil mix is evenly moist, it is best to slowly add water and mix it thoroughly before placing it in the bucket. If you do not do this ahead of time, you may end up with pockets of soil that stay dry and will have more settling of the soil over time.

Place your soil in your bucket and plant. If you are planning on planting seeds, add soil to about 1 inch below the rim, then follow the directions listed on the seed packet. If you are planting seedlings, add soil until reaching the size of the seedling pot plus about 1 inch.

If your soil is too high, it will be difficult to water your containers.

However, also avoid having your soil too low, because then you will not have good air movement around your stems and you may end up having problems with disease.

Gently water your new garden until water begins to drain from the bottom. Place your containers in a spot to match your plants’ sunlight needs.

Enjoy! Check on your container garden daily and look for changes and growth. Monitor to determine watering needs. The best way to determine when your new container garden needs water is to put your finger in the soil and check to see if it is dry.

Also, keep an eye out for pest problems and nip them in the bud early.

Materials Container (a 3- or 5-gallon bucket works great) Potting soil Seeds or young plants Approximate time to complete: 30 minutes Location: Indoor or outdoor Ages: All ages Season: Spring through Fall This article was provided by Kids Gardening (www.kidsgardening.org), a Burlington-based nonprofit project of Gardeners Supply Company.

Observer courtesy photo A container garden makes a great first garden project for gardeners of all ages. All you need is something that can hold soil with small holes in the bottom for excess water to drain.

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During extreme cold weather events “working with other MRC volunteers to staff a temporary shelter was an easy and rewarding way to make things a little better for my neighbors and maybe save a life.”

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Visit OnCallforVT.org to learn more.

Page 6 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

Guest Column What’s the cost of living and staying healthy? www.willistonobserver.com Published by Williston Publishing & Promotions

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By Jack Hoffman

Let’s all take a deep breath.

Before we jump to the conclusion that $600-a-week federal unemployment checks, on top of state benefits, are going to destroy the work ethic and wipe out the labor force, let’s remember why we’re doing this.

The intended consequence of federal pandemic unemployment benefits through July is that workers will stay home. Until there is a vaccine, isolation is the best defense against the coronavirus. And if people are going to be confined to their homes, they need to have enough money to feed themselves and their families, make rent or mortgage payments and pay for essential goods and services.

We’re looking at this the wrong way if we’re trying to balance “unemployment compensation” in one hand and “to not be working” in the other. The amount of the payments has to be weighed against the cost of feeding and housing a family. And it has to be weighed against the public health risk — not just to the stay-athome workers, but to all of us.

How much is it worth to not be getting COVID-19?

There’s an unfortunate moralistic undertone to some of the complaints about the temporary federal benefits. People at home aren’t getting money to be lazy.

People at home aren’t getting money to be lazy.

For many of them, especially those with kids, it’s a lot of work.

For many of them, especially those with kids, it’s a lot of work.

Not only are they providing child care, they also have had to become teachers. Some of these “unemployed” workers are working as home health aides for family members who shouldn’t risk trips to the grocery or pharmacy or who have come down with the virus.

We all should be grateful for the essential work these people are doing at home. The people in essential jobs who are still serving the public need livable incomes, too.

When it’s safe to go out again,

we’ll be glad that these housebound workers can return as consumers. That’s why it probably will be necessary for Congress to extend pandemic unemployment benefits after stay-at-home orders are lifted.

For businesses to get up and running again, they will need customers. For customers to be able to buy things, they’ll need money to spend. The federal government will have to keep priming the pump.

There are lessons to be learned from this crisis to guide future policies. For one, we need to be more realistic about the cost of food, housing and other basic needs for Vermont families. Those costs should be reflected in how much people are paid, especially the lowest wage workers, and how much unemployment compensation they require when there is no work.

The sky is not falling — at least not from trying to keep people safe in their homes.

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

April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 7

Please keep our postal workers safe During these challenging times, postal employees are working hard to ensure residents stay connected with their world through the mail. Whether it’s medications, a package, a paycheck, benefits or pension check, a bill or letter from a family member, postal workers understand that every piece of mail is important. While service like this is nothing new to us, we need our communities’ help with social distancing.

For everyone’s safety, our employees are following the social distancing precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health officials. We are asking people to not approach our carriers to accept delivery. Let the carrier leave the mailbox before collecting the mail. With schools not in session, children should also be encouraged to not approach a postal vehicle or carrier.

If a delivery requires a signature, carriers will knock on the door rather than touching the bell.

They will maintain a safe distance, and instead of asking for a signature on their mobile device, they’ll ask for the resident’s name. The carrier will leave the mail or package in a safe place for retrieval.

We are proud of the role all our employees play in processing, transporting and delivering mail and packages for the American public. The CDC, World Health Organization, as well as the Surgeon General indicate there is currently no evidence that COVID-19 is being spread through the mail.

With social distancing, we can keep the mail moving while keeping our employees, and the public, safe.

Regina Bugbee District Manager U.S. Postal Service – Northern New England District

National Guard continues F-35 training amid COVID response The 158th Fighter Wing will continue flying operations as scheduled in order to maintain federal mission readiness requirements while also supporting the State of Vermont response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vermont National Guard said Friday.

The Vermont Air National Guard currently has 50 airmen on state active duty directly supporting COVID-19 response efforts.

“We are in a unique position as an F-35 Air National Guard fighter wing, playing a critical role in the nation’s national security. We have a responsibility and obligation to meet our federal readiness requirement and stay on our conversion timeline,” said Col. David Shevchik, commander of the 158th Fighter Wing. “We take our state and federal missions very seriously and are taking every precaution to maintain the health of our force during this unprecedented time.”

“The National Guard has the unique responsibility to support our home state of Vermont while also maintaining readiness for federal call-ups,” said Brig. Gen. Greg Knight, adjutant general of the Vermont National Guard. “We will

U.S. Air National Guard photo by Julie M. Shea

An Airman assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard, measures lumber while constructing a 400-bed medical health facility at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction on April 4. The Vermont National Guard is working with the state of Vermont and emergency response partners in a whole-of-government effort to flatten the curve during the COVID-19 pandemic.

practice social distancing in all our training to include a virtual drill (in) April. We are uniquely built for this, and will continue to provide all assets available to us as requested from the governor.”

F-35 training at the 158th Fighter Wing will continue as scheduled with take-offs planned for the morning and early afternoon. The Vermont

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Air National Guard received its first two F-35 Lightning II aircraft in September 2019, and now has 15 assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing. The full complement of 20 aircraft is scheduled to arrive in Vermont by summer.

The Vermont National Guard is working side-by-side with Vermont Emergency Management, the Vermont Department

of Health, Gov. Phil Scott’s office and all emergency response personnel to support a whole-of-government approach.

Vermont National Guard missions are in direct support of the governor, the Vermont Department of Health and the Department of Emergency Management in combatting COVID-19.

Page 8 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

PBS changes schedule and website with homeschooling in mind

Vermont PBS has announced a partnership with the Vermont Agency of Education to provide educational programming and online content to supplement remote learning for Vermont students and school districts during the COVID-19 outbreak.

This initiative will give Vermont students access to free educational resources throughout the duration of school closures to help complement distance learning efforts by Vermont school leaders.

Vermont PBS will use two statewide channels to broadcast programming across the age spectrum from Pre-K through the 12th grade. It will also allow teachers and caregivers to access activities, assignments and learning objectives at www.vermontpbs.org/athome-learning.

“I recognize there is no replacement for in-person instruction and the learning that takes place in a

classroom, but this is an unprecedented public health situation and we must work together to provide the best possible remote learning opportunities for Vermont’s kids,” Gov. Phil Scott said. “Educators and parents are working hard to achieve these goals, and this initiative will help support their work. I am grateful to Vermont PBS, as this partnership will give those already doing so much another tool to reach and educate students.”

A full schedule of programming started April 6 and includes paired lesson resources for educators and students. Vermont PBS’ main channel will cater to grades PreK3 from 7-9 a.m. and grades 4-8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Vermont PBS Plus channel will focus on grades 6-12 from noon to 5 p.m.

“From Sesame Street to NOVA, education has been the heart of

Vermont PBS will broadcast programming across the age spectrum from Pre-K through the 12th grade. our mission for over 50 years,” said Holly Groschner, CEO of Vermont PBS. “We are honored to join the State of Vermont in meeting the educational needs of families and children in these challenging times. Our combined statewide broadcast and internet systems will provide free access to high-quality PBS educational resources. We are committed to reaching all Vermont students and providing them with the same opportunities for learning,” Vermont PBS content can aug-

ment the distance learning programs and tools Vermont schools are launching statewide to help students continue to learn during the state’s COVID-19 response.

The programming is aligned to national standards and includes interactive lessons and paired suggested activities for educators, students and families. Both channels are broadly available on all cable systems, and available for free over the air through a digital antenna without the need for cable subscription or broadband internet access.

“We know schools have to reach students of all ages and in all corners of Vermont, including areas without robust connectivity,” said Secretary of Education Dan French. “While this is tremendously challenging for our educators, they are stepping up to provide both hands-on, non-digital lessons and online learning

on a variety of platforms. Having one more widely accessible and high-quality tool available will be helpful to their efforts.”

Resources for educators, parents and caregivers found at www. vermontpbs.org/at-home-learning will be paired with the broadcast content weekly to facilitate learning. These resources, culled from the offerings at PBS Learning Media, offer activities, questions and additional video content to support the broadcast schedule and include printable resources. Educators and families will also be able to access the PBS site and additional strategies and resources at www.education.vermont.gov.

These resources include graband-go activities, lesson plans, interactive lessons and media that illustrate specific topics or themes and support materials across subjects.

Learning lessons during the coronavirus

By Karen Sturtevant Special to the Observer

We are living history. One day we will look back on these days of social distancing and share the stories with our kids and grandkids. As a self-proclaimed introvert, I was one of the first to embrace this physical separation from my fellow humans.

We introverts are “in our heads.” We have been self-isolating for forever. We need time alone to recharge in order to function in the world of noise and motion. We relish our quiet times in the bath, getting lost in a novel and listening to music while daydreaming about our latest book-boyfriend.

We, who are blessed to be here in our cozy, safe homes, are indeed the fortunate.

Our greatest “concern” is keeping busy, staying connected.

I get my updates on this horrid virus each day. After the governor’s news conferences, I shut my radio off. My brain needs a break from the bombardment of charts and dismay.

Three weeks ago, I made light of this now-super-serious condition. How many times has the media cried wolf only to determine that the predator is really an innocent little lamb?

Two weeks ago, I noticed a few people wearing masks and gloves. Last week, during my weekly-only-time-outside-mybubble outing to the grocery store, I wore plastic gloves. Confirmed coronavirus cases rise daily, hourly. We’re frightened.

We’re frightened for our family, friends, colleagues and neighbors.

We’ve put our lives on hold, and rightly so. Life and health take precedence over pastimes, hobbies and conveniences. If our

only complaint is, “I’m so bored,” let’s be grateful. People, just like you and me, are dying, suffering. We are the chosen, the lucky. We have healthcare professionals, albeit stretched to snapping, doing their darndest to protect us. Heroes don’t always change costume in phone booths. They wear uniforms, name tags, logos on their shirts, name badges around their necks and greet us outwardly with warm smiles while their insides churn with anxiety.

As scary as today is with news of more confirmed cases and pleas to stay at home, even the introvert in me misses the face-toface connection with people. I won’t jeopardize my health and the health of others to venture out just for the sake of seeking physical human connection. I do miss my coworkers, the guy at the deli, the backand-forth with the girl at the pharmacy.

Our house is ready for its debut in Better Homes and Gardens as this disruption of the turning world has allowed me the time, and excuse, to clean and organize every drawer, closet and shelf.

Who knew that my high school yearbooks were under the bed in the guest bedroom?

We will persevere, and soon, the pandemonium and panic that ensues will be a memory. We need to heed these lessons.

Learn, remember and prepare for the next time.

We are all fallible, but we need to step up to do our best in a collaborative effort to beat back this beast. We will certainly gather again to raise our glasses in celebration of life.

As for me, I’m riding this out with my little pup. We have lots of reading to do, walks to take, sit-ups to count and naps to enjoy.

April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 9

Gov. Scott submits federal disaster declaration request Gov. Phil Scott on Monday requested federal disaster funds to assist the state of Vermont in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The request asks for federal Public Assistance funds for the state and all towns for costs incurred in the response to and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as Individual Assistance, including Disaster Unemployment Assistance and Crisis Counseling Assistance for all Vermont counties.

If granted, this disaster assistance would provide a 75 percent reimbursement to state and local governments and some non-profits for emergency protective measures, including actions taken to save lives and protect public health and safety.

“The COVID-19 disaster is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and the affected local governments,” said Gov. Scott said in a letter to President Trump. “Federal assistance is absolutely necessary to ensure the

health and safety of all individuals in Vermont.”

A request for a disaster declaration typically includes an assessment of physical damage to property in order to qualify for relief. Under these extraordinary circumstances, preliminary damage assessments are not required or recommended due to the dynamic nature of the pandemic. Cases continue to increase each day and ongoing life-saving response activities are overwhelming state and local resources. Conducting assessments at this time would also jeopardize the health and safety of state and Federal Emergency Management Agency staff.

However, as of the date of the request, the Vermont Department of Finance and Management has advised that the state has already expended over $20 million in response costs, including personal protective equipment, medical equipment and personnel. The final cost of the response is expectT:7” ed to be far greater.

Non-profits that could be eligible for reimbursement include

nursing homes, laboratories, rehab centers that provide medical care, hospitals and emergency care facilities, fire/rescue emergency services and education facilities.

In addition to Public Assistance funds, the governor has requested authorization for Individual Assistance. In addition to unemployment assistance, this disaster relief would address the long-term impacts on services provided to the most at-risk populations, which are experiencing reduced operations or closures of services such as libraries, adult daycare centers, skilled nursing programs, counseling and support groups and more.

This assistance would also be used to expand access to mental health services and supports to help those in need who are experiencing significant emotional and mental health distress as result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Gov. Scott also requested authority and additional funding to activate additional personnel in the Vermont National Guard.

Trail treasures

Karen Sturtevant submitted these photos with the message: ‘To the family who sporadically placed natural treasures to be found on the walking paths of the Allen Brook Nature Trail: Thank you! What a treat it was to unexpectedly discover them while my little pup and I were enjoying a much-needed breath of fresh air.

During the current days of anxiety and uncertainty, these little tokens are going to bring smiles to many faces. Bravo, well done!’

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Page 10 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

CARING

Right now providing the very best care and safety for our residents is of utmost importance.

We want to thank all of our current and future families for their patience, as we cannot allow visitors at this time.

Stay healthy and stay home. Follow the CDC guidelines, visit us online, enjoy a good book, talk with friends on the telephone and embrace all that is positive and possible.

We look forward to welcoming you back inside our community as soon as we are able.

Be Well, All of us at Mansfield Place To learn more call Laurie at 802-871-5808

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HONOR ROLL

Williston and St. George Willsiton and St. George 2019-2020 Honor Roll Semester Semester 1 One 2019-20 Honor Roll High Honors Emma G. Allaire Baker J. Angstman Allison M. Bates Sabina E. Brochu Karina I. Bushweller Samuel J. Clear Ally E. Clos Esther L. Cuneo Naomi L. Diamond Reagan L. Dufresne Turner B. Elliott Nathaniel R. Frazee Alexa J. Gillis Rosalee I. Giubardo McKenna E. Griswold Cameron J. Hoff Addison K. Hunter Bray F. Hunter Alex D. Jadus Adele O. Jennings Peyton R. Jones Grace M. Kafferlin Dana M. Kasti Dani M. Kasti Jared B. Kennedy Ella G. Kenney Leigh M. Kerbaugh Myleigh E. Kilbon Jessica L. Klein Amelia D. Lawlor Lily I. Ledak Kiley J. McClure Camille M. Menard Olivia G. Miller Nakobe Morgan Parmett Anthony H. Nguyen Mykala R. O'Farrell Lauren M. Parent Josie A. Pecor Kylie C. Pierce William B. Pintair Mira N. Rieley Hannah R. Roberts Jonah B. Roberts

A/B Honors Morgan T. Ackerly Codi A. Aldrich Jacob R. Allaire Harper Anderson Brianna P. Armstrong Anna S. Arsovski Lindsey M. Auriemma Brianna S. Bachinski Ellie J. Bachinski Kayla M. Barnes Ava K. Bartlett Samuel R. Bartley William A. Bartley Aiden P. Blevins Gregory W. Bliss Ella F. Bohmann Chloe E. Boliba Jacob S. Boliba Laurynn J. Bombardier Mekkena S. Boyd Mark E. Brodowski Jacob Bronner Riley N. Brown Georgia H. Bruneau Madeline C. Bunting Kayden Bushey Kayleigh V. Bushweller Katherine M. Cabral Sedira N. Callas Duncan R. Campbell Julia Cichoskikelly Riley M. Clos Quinn A. Connolly Celia A. Cote Eric Couture Natalie A. Curtis Brianna D. Cushion James M. Cusick John P. Dasilva Ashley B. Davidson Tyler A. Davis Mason O. Desautels Mateo E. Doris Adelaide M. Durant

April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 11

ACADEMIC HONORS The following Williston students, listed alphabetically, were recently honored for academic achievements at the collegiate level.

John Colt was named to the Dean’s List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the 2019 fall semester.

Lily M. Cote was named to the Dean’s List at Saint Michael’s College for the fall 2019 semester.

Nikolas Delphia was named to the Dean’s List at Community College of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Jack N. Fitzgerald was named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester at St. John Fisher College.

Cody L. Flanagan graduated in December from Saint Michael’s College with a Bachelor of Arts in political science.

Jesse Germain was named to the Student Honors List at Community College of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Talia Germain was named to the President’s List for the fall 2019 semester at Northern Vermont University.

Elena L Godbout was named to the Dean’s List at the University of Alabama for the fall 2019 semester.

Patricia Heck was named to the Dean’s List at Community College of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Elizabeth Hunt was named to the Dean’s List at Emmanuel College for the fall 2019 semester.

Mark J. Lang was named to second honors on the Clark University Dean’s List for the fall 2019 semester.

Rachel Lehman was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2019 semester at Northern Vermont University.

Alexandra Maklad was named to the Dean’s List for the fall semester at Quinnipiac University.

Margaret Mathon was named to the Dean’s List at Elms College for the 2019 fall semester.

Brooke Merchant was named to the Deans’ List for the fall 2019 semester at Bryant University.

Austyn Morin was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2019 semester at Stonehill College.

Aidan Palmer was named to the President’s List at Community College of Vermont for the fall 2019 semester.

Nicole Poquette earned a Bachelor of Science, Nursing degree from Western Governors University.

Kaitlin G. Robert was named to the Dean’s List at Saint Michael’s College for the fall 2019 semester.

Hattie Roberts was named to the Deans’ List at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for the fall 2019 semester.

Elizabeth J. Sandberg was named to the Dean’s List at Saint Michael’s College for the fall 2019 semester.

Elijah Thurston was named to the President’s List for the fall 2019 semester at Northern Vermont University.

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Page 12 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

Video series released to highlight Lake Champlain cleanup The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) has developed a series of animations and videos that describe in simple terms the Lake Champlain phosphorus Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) and the work being done to achieve the goals of this pollution diet for the lake.

The full collection of media is available at www.cleanwaterwork.com. The series presents short, easily understood messages that explain complex pollution management efforts and provides spotlights of people and organizations that are doing their part to reduce pollution.

TMDLs — or pollution budgets — for phosphorus have been developed for both the Vermont and New York portions of the Lake Champlain Basin. The TMDLs are technical documents that identify pollution targets and the reductions required to meet these targets.

The states of Vermont and New York each have implementation plans that outline work across all land use types that will be necessary to achieve TMDL goals for different areas of the watershed.

Three animations describe why too much phosphorus in the lake is a problem, what the TMDL is and what citizens can do to help achieve its goals. Eleven videos document the work being done by farmers, road crews, municipalities and others to reduce the amount of phosphorus that reaches the lake.

Visitors to www.cleanwaterwork.com also will find additional information about the TMDLs, including resources from the LCBP and its partners and links to the full documents.

The media series was produced in partnership with Peregrine Productions and Devin Renca Design. Support for the project was provided with funds awarded to the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission on behalf of the Lake Champlain Basin Program by the U.S. EPA.

Observer courtesy photo

The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) has developed a series of animations and videos that describe in simple terms the Lake Champlain phosphorus Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) and the work being done to achieve its goals.

Call us to take a personalized virtual tour.

Visit our website to learn about our COVID-19 preparedness measures.

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April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 13

NONPROFIT NEWS

Providing a special cheer During the last week of March, hundreds of athletes, coaches and volunteers were scheduled to come together for the Special Olympics Vermont 2020 Winter Games. Instead, athletes stayed home, unable to compete for gold, which they had been training for throughout the winter months.

Special Olympics Vermont

Illegal ATV use being patrolled

staff searched for ways to keep the athletes connected, while engaging the larger community. Last week, it launched the first step in that effort — the “Use Seclusion to Spread Inclusion” campaign.

Vermont residents and families are invited to send positive, uplifting messages to Special Olympic athletes. Here’s how it works: Step 1: Create a sign of encouragement. Be creative. Some possible phrases include: “Keep going for gold!” “We are so proud of you!” “You inspire us!” “Keep up

the great work!”

Step 2: Take a photo of you, your family, your children, pets, etc. holding the sign Step 3: Post the photo on your social media with any additional message you would like to send to our athletes. Be sure to tag @specialolympicsvermont (instagram & facebook) or @sovt (twitter) and use the hashtag #cheer4sovt The campaign can provide a fun activity, while also spreading happiness and cheer during this tough time.

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department’s Law Enforcement Division is increasing patrols on closed Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) snowmobile trails and other areas where all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders or others without permission may be causing damage.

Wardens are actively discouraging illegal riding and trail use and doing so while maintaining social distancing and practicing other measures to protect the public. The department has teamed up with VAST and the Vermont ATV Sportsman’s Association (VASA) to ensure that ATV riders and other trail users are using trails safely and legally.

FWD is stressing the importance of social distancing and personal safety: limiting travel to within 10 miles of home, not carpooling to recreation areas and avoiding congregating in groups at parking areas or other areas.

In addition, out-of-state visitors should not be coming to Vermont to recreate.

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Wooded lot with access off School Road. A mix of hard and soft woods. Appears to be a nice flat building area up top.

Wastewater and building permits would need to be obtained. No site work has been done at this time. Elementary School just down School Road. Please when accessing the land, park on School Road (Thomas Road is private).

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Page 14 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

Puppets in Education offers video help for youth anxiety

Vermont Family Network’s Puppets in Education has released a COVID-19 version of its PreK– grade 4 anxiety program for families needing support during this time.

The program, which is available at www.vermontfamilynetwork. org/what-we-do, features two kid puppets and provides tips and tools for parents and children to use when worry feels big. Families can watch the video together, talk about worry and discuss what tools to use.

This is the first time one of Puppets in Education’s shows has been put online in the program’s 39-year history. Usually, its programs are presented exclusively live to children at schools and local organizations. Many students may already be familiar with the puppets, as they reach up to 10,000 school children annually in the region.

The anxiety program was created in conjunction with school counselors, teachers, psychiatrists, psychologists and kids, with fund-

ing from the Vermont Department of Mental Health and the National Life Group Foundation.

“When schools moved to online learning, they were contacting us and asking how the students could still have puppet shows, especially the ones about anxiety,” said Sarah Vogelsang-Card, Puppets in Education program manager said. “So, it got us thinking, how can we best support the students?”

Vogelsang-Card worked with her family in their living room to deliver a presentation she hopes will help children and families work through the unusual stresses of this time.

“Because we are so close together when we puppeteer — less than 6 feet apart — we weren’t able to have our usual puppeteering staff film the program. Instead, my husband and I turned this into a homeschooling family project with our son.”

The key program points include: • Worry is normal; everyone experiences it.

• Our bodies have useful built-in alarm systems that tell us when there is a problem.

• Sometimes our alarm system goes off too often or when it’s not necessary.

That’s when wor r y becomes a problem.

• There are lots of ways we can make worry smaller and more manageable, so it doesn’t get in the way. It will never go away completely because it is a normal part of life.

• Worry tries to boss us around, but we can boss wor r y back and be empowered.

• There are many tools we can use when worry feels big. It’s good to have a lot of tools, because different tools will work for different people on different days. The tools we talk about are: stand up to worry, busy mind, calm breath, talk to a grown-up, and move my body.

The video also has some suggested conversation starters for families for after you watch it together, plus a list of resources for continued reading and activities.

Puppets in Education is a pro-

gram of Vermont Family Network which empowers and supports all Vermont families of children with special needs. For more information, visit www.VermontFamilyNetwork.org.

Our community is always bustling with friends and laughter, and we love to entertain!

In light of the COVID-19 situation, we have suspended all events for the time being to tend to the health and safety of our residents.

Thank you for understanding we can’t wait to see you soon!

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April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 15

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Page 16 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

Vermont trout season opens April 11 Officials recommend fishing low and slow

With Vermont’s traditional trout fishing season opening Saturday, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department advises anglers can have fun and be successful outings while following COVID-19 safety precautions.

— Refrain from carpooling.

Drive to your fishing spots only with your immediate family members and only if everyone is feeling well.

— When fishing from shore, keep a distance of at least 6 feet between you and your companions. A good way to measure this is with your fishing pole. Hold the pole straight out in front you. If you can turn in a circle without hitting anyone, that is a safe distance.

— Don’t share fishing gear with others. Each angler should have their own fishing gear (rod and reels, bait, lures, towels, pliers and other personal items).

— Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

— Clean your gear well after using it.

— Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water after fishing.

“Just like any other time of year, anglers fishing early in the spring should adjust their tactics

Anglers who like to fish and release their catch don’t need to wait for opening day.

based on conditions,” said State Fisheries Biologist Shawn Good.

“Trout will become more active with warmer water temperatures, and despite an early spring, most streams and rivers are still quite cold.

“But if you can find a good location and present your bait or lure without spooking the trout, you can enjoy getting outside and you have a good chance of catching a few fish.”

Finding a small to medium low-elevation river or stream that is not too murky from spring run-

Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department advises anglers can have fun and be successful outings while following COVID-19 safety precautions.

off can be key, Good said. Trout are coldblooded and may be slow to bite especially with low water temperatures, so it’s important that they can also see your bait, lure or fly.

Larger baits can often be more effective for enticing early season trout into biting. Spin-anglers should try nightcrawlers, egg imitations, or bright colored spoons and spinners. Fly anglers may find success in the early season by drifting large, more visible flies such as wooly buggers, streamers, or San Juan worms along the bot-

tom in slower pools and runs.

Trout will often hold close to the bottom in the deeper areas of streams during high flow conditions to conserve energy. Choose locations and tactics that allow you to fish using a slow retrieval right along the bottom. Focus on deep holes behind current breaks created by big boulders, downed trees or log-jams where trout may be resting. If possible, approach the hole from downstream as trout will often orient themselves facing the current.

While Vermont offers diverse fishing opportunities for wild trout, stocking also occurs in many streams and rivers where wild trout populations are low or absent. This generally happens between May and June each year following spring runoff.

“Early in the season, like on opening weekend, you’ll probably have more success if you focus on waters known to hold wild trout,” said Good. “Despite unpredictable weather during early spring, each year anglers report catching impressive trout during opening weekend.”

Anglers who like to fish and release their catch don’t need to wait for opening day. There are yearround catch-and-release fishing opportunities for trout and bass in Vermont.

April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 17

Enter the Williston Observer Coloring Contest

Email pdf or photo of your finished artwork to marianne@willistonobserver.com by Tuesday, April 14.

We will select a first and second place winner who will each win a $25 gift card to Vermont Meat & Seafood. The first prize winner will also have their artwork in next week’s Observer!

Page 18 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

How to get help from Social Savvy Senior Security during the pandemic

By Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve heard that the Social Security Administration has closed all their offices because of the coronavirus pandemic. How are they accommodating people while they’re closed down?

Recently Retired Dear Recently, Yes, that’s correct. The Social Security Administration has closed its 1,200 field offices throughout the country to protect benefit recipients and workers from the coronavirus pandemic. Their offices have been closed since March 17. How long they will be closed is unclear. It will depend on the

course of the pandemic.

In the meantime, services will continue to be available online at the www.SocialSecurity.gov website, and over the phone. You can also rest assured that monthly payments to the more than 69 million Social Security beneficiaries will not be affected in any way.

Here’s a rundown of how you can get help and get answers to your Social Security questions while their offices are shut down.

ONLINE HELP For any Social Security business you need to conduct, go to www.

SSA.gov/onlineservices.

There you can view your latest statement and earnings history, apply for re-

Green Burials

tirement, disability and Medicare benefits online, check the status of an application or appeal, request a replacement Social Security card (in most areas), print a benefit verification letter, and much more — from anywhere and from any of your devices.

Their website also has a wealth of information to answer most of your Social Security questions without having to speak with a representative. For answers to your Social Security questions, see their frequently asked questions page at ww.SSA.gov/ask.

and provide other services over the phone.

Or, you can also call the Social Security national toll-free number at 800-772-1213. This number has many automated service options you can use without waiting to speak with a telephone representative.

If you already have an in-office appointment scheduled, Social Security will call you to handle your appointment over the phone instead. The call may come from a private number and not from a federal line.

PHONE ASSISTANCE If you can’t conduct your Social Security business online, check the SSA online field office locator (see www.SSA.gov/locator) for specific information about how to directly contact your local office. Your local office will be able to provide critical services to help you apply for benefits, answer your questions

BEWARE OF SCAMS Be aware that Social Security telephone impersonation scams are growing. These scammers may falsely tell you that there is a problem with your account, that your Social Security number has been suspended because of suspected illegal activity, that you’re owed a cost-of-living benefit increase

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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or that your monthly benefits will stop because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The caller may also threaten your benefits, suggest you’ll face legal action if you don’t provide information or pressure you to send money via wire transfers, cash or gift cards. They may even “spoof” your caller ID to make it look like Social Security is actually calling.

If you receive one of these calls, hang up. Social Security rarely contacts anyone by phone unless you have ongoing business with them, and they never threaten you or ask for any form of payment.

For more information on how to get help with Social Security during the coronavirus shutdown, visit www.SSA.gov/coronavirus.

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April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 19

Hospitals still open for ‘other’ health emergencies such patients should also check in if their symptoms change.

It just might not happen in person. A doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant or registered nurse might suggest meeting by video chat or talking over the phone.

There’s no reason to think emergency rooms will stop seeing patients even as coronavirus cases increase, he said.

“In fact, as we get further on into this pandemic in America, the COVID patients will be in a whole different area possibly than the rest of the emergency room.”

But Eisenman said studies from other types of disasters serve as a warning. For example, heart attacks and other cardiac problems rise after large earthquakes.

“People get sick and people die way after a disaster because of lack of access to care, possibly because of stress, possibly because of loss of social support or other things.”

The exact cause of such post-disaster deaths is unclear, he said.

And the pandemic so far has been different from disasters where essential services have been destroyed.

“Pharmacies are staying open,” Eisenman said. “People aren’t losing their medications in a flood or an earthquake. But they may be afraid of going to the pharmacist.

They may be afraid to go into the doctor’s office.”

Perman emphasized that people should put fears of being a burden aside.

If someone has a nagging complaint or symptom that has gotten a little more pervasive “and you think, ‘Well, maybe I should just get this checked out,’ — maybe that’s a symptom that you could potentially call your primary care physician, your primary cardiologist or neurologist.” They can decide where and how you might need to be seen.

But if you’re experiencing warning signs of a heart attack or stroke, call 911.

“Clearly, if there’s an emergency, we are available and capable and eager to take care of you,” Perman said.

This article was provided by the American Heart Association.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION PAGE 21

With hospitals across America focused on people who have developed COVID-19, some people with unrelated but still urgent health problems are feeling awkward about reporting to emergency rooms.

They shouldn’t, doctors say.

It’s true the coronavirus is stressing the health care system.

Hospitals have canceled or postponed elective surgeries and taken other steps to make sure they can handle patients who develop severe cases of COVID-19. Everyone can help ease the strain by finding alternate ways to handle routine requests.

But people with serious symptoms shouldn’t ignore them, said Dr. Sarah Perman, associate professor of emergency medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver.

Emergency workers know what to do, she said, even when things seem chaotic. Departments are making plans behind the scenes to ensure adequate staffing and keep patients and workers safe amid a surge.

“This is kind of our forte,” she said. “We’re all trained in disaster.”

As she’s worked the ER in recent days, she’s heard people with urgent needs apologize for coming in. They say, “Wow, I know you’re really busy,” and think they probably shouldn’t have sought help.

That’s a mistake.

In fact, her advice on who needs emergency care now isn’t “incredibly different from what I might have suggested a month ago. Clearly, red flag symptoms like chest pain, acute onset of shortness of breath, acute weakness in an arm or leg — those sorts of things” required emergency care in the past, and they require emergency care now.

That doesn’t mean people shouldn’t adapt to the fast-changing situation, which could vary from community to community.

David Eisenman, director of the Center for Public Health and Disasters at the University of California, said people with ongoing concerns such as heart disease need to continue to check in with their doctors and other clinicians.

Just as in pre-pandemic times,

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Curve type 4. Annex 7. Slick 10. Piece of old cloth 13. In addition 14. Setting for “The hunt for Red October” 15. Musical aptitude 16. Beach grease 17. Hold 18. Wager 19. Had a helping 20. Bush with yellow flowers 22. Found on the beach 24. Dessert from an oven 25. Verb for a historian 26. Often-stubbed digit 27. Presses clothes 29. Skewer 31. Temporary stay place 32. Jets or Sharks, e.g.

33. Barnyard cluckers 34. List beginning 35. Kid’s query 36. Instigate 37. Prone 38. Persian, e.g.

39. Collide with 42. Put to the test

43. Way off 44. This location 45. Sports equipment 47. Hollywood tree 48. Contest for Spieth or Weir 49. Mammoth 50. “I cannot tell a __!”

51. Not waste 52. Significant period 53. Stringent 55. In position 58. Pipeline contents 59. Top end of a scale 60. Labrador or Newfoundland 62. Link 63. Grow mature 64. Swallow 65. Bedazzle 66. “Game, ___, and match” 67. Was first 68. Like some wines 69. Cherry DOWN 1. Tiny parts of matter 2. Propel a boat, manually 3. Everlasting 4. Conked out 5. “It’s a ___!”

6. Vampire’s undoing

7. Arsenal item 8. At the table 9. Grove view 10. Plunder 11. Tire contents 12. Like some reviews 21. Quaker ___ 23. Kind of office 28. Sunshine shaft 29. “___ sells seashells . . . “ 30. Hanging place 31. Fake 35. In the vicinity, as guesses go 37. Caught for a crime 38. Event schedule 39. Says again 40. ‘You’ verb 41. Pawns or knights 42. License plate 43. So-so 44. Gardener’s need 45. Auto house 46. Cleaned, as a disk 47. A lot 49. Allowed by law 51. Implored 54. Fly 56. Fizzle out 57. Nonetheless 61. Be indebted

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Page 20 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

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Armande Thibault Armande L. (Lehouiller) Thibault, age 87 of Williston, VT passed away Sunday, April 5, 2020 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Armande was the third oldest (of 14 kids) to be born on June 17, 1932 in Ham-Nord, Quebec, Canada, to Antonio P. Lehouiller and Jeanne (Guertin). Her family migrated to Underhill, VT and purchased a dairy farm in 1948.

Being the eldest daughter she helped her parents to care for her siblings along with her chores which taught her to be the great Mother, Grand/Great Grandmother that we know today. Her caring heart always put others first. Her lack of speaking English did not stop her. She was persistent and initially worked in some manufacturing companies but landed a job as a Nanny for Dr. Terrien's family where she was able to learn some English. Ironically, Chris Terrien became her cardiologist - the boy she helped care for.

She later worked at a number of other companies landing at IBM where she worked for 13 years until retirement. She found that she just couldn't stop working and socializing so she started working part-time at T.D. Bank North for 13 years. When she left the bank she had time to volunteer her time at The American Red Cross and enjoyed her hobbies of knitting, crocheting hand and dish towels, making Christmas ornaments and beautiful quilting projects. She was famous for her bake beans and meat pies (tourtieres) that were always a priority to bring to any family gathering.

She was a member of Saint Jean the Baptist and The Elks Club. Again, a place where she would volunteer serving breakfasts to help raise money for various charities.

She is survived by her six children; France and her husband Guy Dauphinais, Gille and his wife Polly Thibault, Arlene and her husband Stanley LaFlamme, Alain Thibault, Louise and her husband Nick Christou and Elaine and her husband Bill Heath, Jr. She also leaves her brothers and their wives, John and Aline, Maurice and Valerie, and George and Barbara; sisters, Laurette Atkins, Pierrette Lyman, Francoise and Wayne Beauchemin, Lise and John Wursthorn, Diane and Don Blais, and Suzanne and Steven Owen and sister-in-law's Joan Lehouiller and Carleen Lehouiller; and 15 Grandchildren, several Great Grandchildren, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; brothers, Gerald, Marcel, Michael Lehouiller and brother-in-law Bill Atkins and Howard Lyman and sister, Lynn Kittell.

Armande's family would like to extend a special thanks to Patty Towle, ANP who was an exceptional medical provider who showed such care and compassion to our mother and always brought a smile to her face.

Due to this challenging world we are currently facing, arrangements will be made later this year at Ready Funeral Home Mountain View Chapel 68 Pinecrest Drive, Essex Jct. A short announcement will be made when arrangements have been confirmed. To send online condolences please visit www.readyfuneral.com.

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South Burlington - Robert (Bob) William O'Brien died peacefully of natural causes April 1, 2020 at the age of 91, in South Burlington Vermont.

He was born in Hartford, Connecticut and was adopted by his parents Timothy and Alice (Bennett) O'Brien. He was raised in West Springfield, Massachusetts where he attended Cathedral High School and then completed his undergraduate degree at Saint Michael's College in Winooski, Vermont. During his years of service in the US Army (serving in Germany in 1951-1952), Bob and his fiancé, Mary Celestine Quinn, exchanged daily love letters and planned their life together. Bob married Mary on January 17, 1953 and shared his life with her for the next 66 years with all of its blessings and challenges.

Bob completed a Master's in Business Administration at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst before settling in Vermont and beginning his professional career at Union Carbide in Saint Albans. Together Bob

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April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 21

OBITUARIES (CONT.) and Mary raised six children who already miss him deeply. He worked for many years as a School Business Manager in Chittenden County and ended his career at the Williston Central School where he loved engaging with both students and staff, who knew he was coming down the hall when they heard his signature whistling.

Bob had a genuine openness of spirit that inspired many. He welcomed the stranger, the foreigner, the not-yet-known soul with open arms and was rewarded with deep, lifelong relationships with people whose stories, interests, and opinions expanded his world and the world of those around him. He had a passionate interest in music, and enjoyed years singing in the St. Michael's College choir. Bob actively participated in the political process, including letter writing on issues where he saw injustice or inequality. He was passionate about finding ways of providing for the basic needs of all members of the human family. He believed in education, in family, in science, and in the goodness of others. His welcoming spirit will be missed greatly by all those who knew him.

Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary, his mother and father, Alice and Timothy O'Brien, and son-in-law, Keith Frantz. He will be sadly missed by his loving children: David, Anne, Mary (Richard), John (Erika), Michael (Teri), and Robbie. Grampy's loss is felt deeply by his grandchildren: Rebecca (Jon), Josiah, and Luke Bergeron, Daniel and Nina McMahon, Justin (Sara) and Caitlyn Landry, and Lucien and Elias O'Brien.

Bob is also survived by Mary's dear sisters: Carolyn LaCoss (James), Ann Dombrowski (Lawrence), and Ellen Halligan (William), who were like sisters to him. He will be missed by many well-loved friends and extended family, including Awa Bamba, Afua, Kobe and Fode Busia.

Bob's final farewell to all: Peace & Love one another.

The family would like to thank the staff at Gazebo Senior Living for the excellent care Bob received over the years and a special thanks to the UVMMC Hospice team. The family would also like to thank Dr. Dennis Beatty and his team for many years of compassionate care.

A Memorial Mass will take place at later date and time, that will be announced. Burial will take place at Shelburne Village Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Ready Funeral Home.

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Crossword Solution Puzzle page 19

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Page 22 • Williston Observer • April 9, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS

Apply Today!

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, April 14, 2020 – 7:00 PM Zoom Webinar & 7900 Williston Road – Town Hall Meeting Room Due to COVID-19, in-person attendance should be used as last resort. DRB members and applicants will join remotely via Zoom. Only one staff-person will be present in the meeting room. If social distancing protocol cannot be maintained, the hearing will be continued. Public comment at this hearing is welcomed and encouraged using the following methods: Online: https://zoom.us/j/245406312 Telephone: 1-646-558-8656 Zoom Webinar ID: 245 406 312 DP 09-01.18 The Snyder FC Commercial Properties, LLC and Rieley Properties, LLC request a discretionary permit to amend Building A3 to include 2 additional studio/1-bedroom dwelling units, a larger trash & recycling building, and public art at 664 Zephyr Rd, Finney Crossing in the TCZD. DP 20-18 Ethan Allen Holdings LLC c/o Christopher Senesac requests pre-application review of a proposed 141-unit residential subdivision with a road connection to Raven Cir and community amenities on a 30± acre parcel located at 1400 Mountain View Rd in the RZD. Continued from 12/10/2020.

DP 20-03.1 AMERCO Real Estate Company & U-Haul International request a discretionary permit for development of a U-Haul moving and storage facility on Lot 3 of the Robear Subdivision at 4964 Williston Rd in the IZDW. Continued from 3/10/2020.

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 information: 878-6704

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF WILLISTON Selectboard NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Tuesday, April 21, 2020 7:45 PM Pursuant to 24 V.S.A., Chapter 59, and Section 4 of the Town of Williston Sewer Allocation Ordinance, the Williston Selectboard is considering the adoption of amendments to the Sewer Allocation Ordinance referred to as "Attachment A" - an existing ordinance pertaining to the allocation of public sewerage. Upon adoption, this attachment will designate the portion of the uncommitted reserve capacity that will be available for use during the next fiscal year which starts July 1, 2020.

The public hearing on this matter is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at 7:45 P.M. The hearing will be conducted remotely due to COVID-19. To participate in the hearing visit the website https://zoom.us/j/896895145 or call 1-646-558-8656 and enter the meeting ID 896895145#. Comments can also be submitted to Assistant Town Manager Erik Wells at ewells@willistonvt.org prior to the hearing.

Below is the proposed Attachment A. Allocation Category New commercial/industrial New Residential Residential Additions Affordable Housing Planned Public Facilities Pollution Abatement Specific Development Reserve Total Allocated *gpd = gallons per day

Amount (gpd)* 7,500 10,390 1,500 4,775 0 1,500 10,000 74,900 110,565

Attachment A may become effective 60 days, after the public hearing by vote of the Selectboard. If you have any questions, please contact Planning Director Matt Boulanger at mboulanger@willistonvt.org.

Notice is hereby given that any ordinance or amendment thereto adopted by the Town of Williston may be disapproved by a vote of a majority of the qualified voters at an annual or special meeting as provided in 24 V.S.A. §1973.

Copies of the entire text of the proposed Attachment A are available for review on the Town's web page at http://town.williston.vt.us.

Dated at the Town of Williston, Vermont this 3rd day of April 2020.

Richard McGuire

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Community Banker Shelburne Road, Chittenden County – Floating & Summer There is no better time to join NSB’s team!

Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is the largest banking institution headquartered in Vermont. We are looking for professionals to join our team as a Community Banker for our Shelburne Road Branch, Community Banker – Floating for Chittenden County, and for a Summer Community Banker – Floating for Chittenden County. As a Community Banker-Floating you will have the opportunity to work in multiple branches within our Chittenden County region. Both positions offer an excellent opportunity to work for an established and growing premier Vermont mutual savings bank.

Job Responsibilities & Requirements • The Community Banker will be responsible for receiving and processing customers’ financial transactions, matching customers’ needs with appropriate products and s ervices, protecting customer information and maintaining customer confidentiality. We are looking for someone who will consistently provide outstanding customer service, has excellent communication skills, and will build rapport and develop relationships with our valued customers. A high school diploma, general education degree (GED) or equivalent is required.

Opportunity for growth • The Community Banker position offers room for growth and the opportunity to learn about the banking industry. The successful candidate will enjoy a wide variety of changing duties and build relationships with our valued customers. We offer a comprehensive Community Banker training program to assist with learning the fundamentals of this position.

If you are looking for a career in banking, this is the place to start.

What NSB can offer you • NSB offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, profit sharing and a matching 401(K) retirement program. NSB also offers professional development opportunities, and a positive work environment supported by a team culture. NSB has ten paid holidays. Northfield Savings Bank hours of operation are Monday – Thursday, generally 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Northfield Savings Bank appreciates that their employees need to enjoy time with family, friends and community on the weekends.

Please submit your application and resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com (Preferred) Or mail: Northfield Savings Bank Human Resources P.O. Box 7180, Barre, VT 05641-7180

April 9, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 23

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Fate whispers to the warrior, ‘You can not withstand the storm.’

The warrior whispers back, ‘I am the storm.’

WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER This is a moment that will define us. We can string up one set of lights, shining for a few hours each evening, as a symbol of our community solidarity and hope.

Thank you to everyone who is working to keep things going in these trying times.

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS