Williston Observer 7/16/2020

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JULY 16, 2020

WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

Town sets tax rate, extends payment deadline The Williston Selectboard has set the municipal property tax rate for the new fiscal year at .275 — or 27.5 cents per $100 of assessed property value — and extended the deadline for homeowners to pay the first tax installment by one month.

The rate is close to the rate of .2743 that the board estimated would be the tax impact of the $11.6 million budget voters approved at Town Meeting Day in March. The rate is slightly higher than the projection due to smaller-than-expected growth in the total value of the town’s taxable property — it’s Grand List — Town Manager Rick McGuire said. The grand list has grown by $40 million since last year, McGuire said, an increase of 2 percent.

The .275 tax rate represents an increase of about a half-penny per $100 of property value over the

last fiscal year rate of .2695. The increase amounts to an additional $14 on the annual property tax bill of a $300,000 home, for example.

Williston’s education property tax rate has also been set by the Vermont Department of Taxes at $1.5818.

Because of the federal extension for filing income taxes to July 15, about 500 homeowners have not yet filed homestead declarations to determine their income-based education tax credits, according to McGuire. That has delayed the town’s typical tax billing timeline.

On Tuesday, the selectboard pushed back the deadline for paying the first of three property tax installments to Sept. 15. Typically, the first installment is due Aug. 15. The second and third installment due dates will remain the typical Nov. 15 and Feb. 15. — Jason Starr

Shots fired near Best Buy Several gunshots were fired a possible exchange of gunfire benear the Best Buy store in Maple tween two people. Officers were Tree Place on Monday night, Wil- told that the people involved in liston Police reported. the shooting had fled in two sepPolice were notified of several arate cars.

911 calls about 10 p.m. with callPolice are investigating the iners reporting the shooting. Williston police arrived with backup cident and are unsure if anyone from Vermont State Police, Rich- was shot. Anyone with informamond Police and the Williston tion or who witnessed the incident is asked to contact Williston PoFire Department.

Officers interviewed several lice at 878-6611.

The Observer will post ScrapFoodWaste-10-25x3-H-snap.pdf 1 6/17/20 3:07 updates PM witnesses CSWD who reportedly said on Facebook as we get more info. there were several shots fired and

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Playing at the park

Observer photo by Al Frey

Summer sports were on display at Community Park on Monday. For more photos, see pages 12 and 17.

F-35 noise monitoring program to launch

By Jason Starr Observer staff

Three noise monitors will be placed at Burlington International Airport later this year to verify decibel levels associated with the Vermont Air National Guard’s F-35 fighter jet program.

Airport Director of Aviation Gene Richards told Williston Selectboard members on Tuesday night that he had received tentative approval from the Federal Aviation Administration earlier in the day to initiate the noise monitoring program. One of the monitors will be placed at the southern end of the runway close to the Williston town line, Richards said.

Another will be placed at the north end of the airport, and another near South Burlington’s Chamberlin Elementary School.

The monitors will be used to verify a noise impact map airport officials published last year in anticipation of the arrival of the F-35s, which began flying out of Burlington last fall.

The map, which is based on modeling rather than actual noise data, outlines land around the airport where noise from the F-35s averages greater than 65 decibels. It shows an oval-shaped area around the airport with a 65 decibel-level zone spreading into the western edge of Williston, including portions of Insee F-35 page 20

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Page 2 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

Voters urged to vote by mail

‘The polls will look very different this year’

By Sarah Mason

Williston Town Clerk

The Vermont Secretary of State’s office has sent a postcard to residents with information about how to request an absentee ballot, if you would like one for the upcoming elections. Voters who have already requested an absen-

tee ballot via a phone call, email, My Voter Page or a paper request can disregard the postcard.

To use the postcard, fill in your information, select which election(s) you would like an absentee ballot for and place it back in the mail.

Vermont has offered early vote, absentee vote and vote-by-mail for many years, whereas some states are just getting comfortable and up to speed with the process. Ver-

mont is also what is called a “no excuse” absentee vote state: You do not need to be at work or out of town or ill to be able to vote early or by absentee (which is the same thing).

During this unsettling time, it is imperative to give voters a safe option to cast their vote. The Secretary of State’s office was quick to prepare and plan for the Aug. 11 primary and the Nov. 3 general

election, and secured funds to get postage-paid envelopes in both directions for both elections. It has also secured a supply of personal protective equipment and surveyed every town clerk as to what their needs might be for August and November.

Everyone is encouraged to use the vote-by-mail option, even if you are young and healthy and able to come to the polls. The polls

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will look very different this year.

We have been instructed to limit our poll workers and the number of voters in at any one time. You can expect to wait in a line, outside, 6 feet apart, and be allowed into the Armory as space becomes available.

Some other polling place guidelines this year: Wear your own mask. If you forget, you will be provided one. Bring your own pen.

If you forget, you will be provided one. No groups. No kids. No dogs.

No restrooms. There will be one direction flow of traffic from the front door to the back door of the Armory.

Already, more than 500 mailin ballots have been cast, which is more than any election before.

Ballots are separated from regular mail, marked with special election mail tags and never leave the Williston post office. The Post Office staff has been incredibly helpful to work with and are an important part of making this all work.

Voters must fill in and sign the certificate envelope for your voted ballot or it will not be counted. You must return two unvoted ballots in the other envelope as well, or your voted ballot will not be counted.

Online voter registration is available at www.olvr.vermont. gov. Ballots are available by calling the town clerk’s office at 8785121 or emailing smason@willistonvt.org.

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July 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 3

Golf course redevelopment receives initial approval

By Jason Starr Observer staff

A land development proposal that would transform the majority of the Catamount Country Club on Mountain View Road into a 141home neighborhood cleared its first public review hurdle in June.

A four-member quorum of the seven-member Williston Development Review Board approved a preliminary review of the application during a June 23 meeting and cleared the way for the applicants to compete for housing unit allocation at the board’s annual growth management meeting in March.

Landowner Alex Kourabanas is partnering with Chris Senesac under the name Ethan Allen Holdings LLC on the proposal. The Senesac family previously built the Chatham Woods neighborhood in Williston.

Plans show the neighborhood establishing a new connection between Mountain View Road and Williston Road, via Raven Circle.

Three holes of the nine-hole golf course would remain, as would the clubhouse. A neighborhood pool, community center, playground and athletic field are part of the plans.

Under Williston’s growth management restrictions, the construction of the neighborhood would be limited to no more than 15 homes per year. Development proposals compete for up to 20 units of allocation annually. No one project can account for more than 75 percent of the 20 available units.

At that pace, buildout of the neighborhood would take seven years. Builders typically wait until they’ve accumulated a critical mass of allocation before initiating construction, instead of building what they are allocated annually, said Williston Planner Emily Heymann.

The project will also require two more levels of review by the board — discretionary and final approval.

The proposal has drawn opposition from residents of neighboring subdivisions, who have questioned the scale of the neighborhood and the ability of Williston’s infrastructure to accommodate it.

In its June 23 approval, the Development Review Board mandated a traffic study as well as a public site visit to be held as part of future deliberations on the project.

Police search for fleeing suspect near Lake Iroquois Williston Police and Chittenden County Sheriff’s deputies are searching for a man who reportedly fled on foot near Lake Iroquois after allegedly leading police on a high-speed chase that began on Interstate 89 near Richmond on Tuesday morning.

Police originally believed the suspect was involved in a shooting the night before near Best Buy in Williston (see related story

page 1), but have concluded they are separate incidents, according to a Vermont State Police press release.

Both investigations are ongoing.

About 8 a.m. Tuesday, a Chittenden County Sheriff’s deputy attempted to stop a white van for speeding on Interstate 89 in Richmond. The operator reportedly accelerated and led police on a

pursuit that ended at Lake Iroquois.

The driver fled on foot, police said. He was last seen wearing blue shorts and no shirt. Two occupants of the vehicle were questioned and released.

A multi-agency search is underway for the driver. Law enforcement agencies involved include the Chittenden County Sheriff’s Department, Colchester Police

Department, Hinesburg Police Department, Richmond Police Department, Vermont State Police, Williston Police Department and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Members of the public were advised Tuesday to be cautious if they live in or are passing through the Lake Iroquois area, or to take alternate routes. Police are continuing to patrol the area.

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Page 4 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

Some work-break exploration revealed this reptilian neighbor

An unexpected guest

By Karen Sturtevant Special to the Observer

Next door stands a slice of Vermont history. A-seen-better-days, however-still-charming barn built in the 1800s. With its foundation of rock and fixes from years past, it’s a landmark quickly disappearing from our rolling hills.

The barn lives at the end of a so-far undeveloped field. During COVID-19 and the governor’s stay-at-home orders, my little dog and I had ample opportunity to trespass. Trespass and explore we did. Under the barn, around the field, through the cemetery and into the marshland.

What a fascinating ecosystem we found, and later, as it would turn out, found us.

Our daily commune with nature gave me an appreciation for the continuous movement of workings typically unseen. Has the chipmunk population exploded this spring? They’re everywhere.

Chirping their authority, I watch with awe as my curious canine strains at her leash.

One recent morning, we garnished the alert attention of a mother groundhog sounding the alarm to her four babies to retreat and retreat quickly. Baby groundhogs are darn adorable rodents —really, they are. You wouldn’t think they could move fast, but their stubby legs led them to the safety of a wood pile, allowing both parties (human and animal) to pass without incident.

And the birds. My grandparents had a large birdfeeder (build by my granddad) just outside their living room window. They would watch

for hours. As a kid, I couldn’t understand the allure. Now, some 40plus years later, I do.

With the birds’ distinctive chirps and frantic, ticking movements, bird watching is a new pastime. I may need to invest in a good set of binoculars. Dare I admit, I am turning into my grandmother? I should be so lucky.

I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the rabbits. Little brown, white-tailed-cute-as-a-button bunnies. Like chipmunks, there seems to be a surplus this year — just ask my dog, who thinks she’s a master tracker and hunter. It’s rare we don’t encounter a few on our daily walks.

As I’ve been working from home since March, I take movearound breaks in and out of the house. Recently during a glance out our back door, I spotted a monster thing leisurely sunbathing in the driveway. And you thought monsters didn’t exist. Not so!

As my heart skipped a beat trying to catch up with what my brain was registering and my eyes seeing, all finally synced to determine this thing was a snapping turtle.

As I grabbed my camera and admonished my timid dog to stay inside, out I went to meet this fellow trespasser. She (he?) didn’t seem to mind the interruption. If you’ve not had the chance to see this reptile up close, it’s a sight unlike any other. Imagine a fierce looking prehistoric creature mixed with a really angry looking uncle.

After taking way too many pictures, I went back to my home office. During the course of the afternoon, she made her way back to the wetland behind our house.

She’s been doing her turtle gig for 90 million years — no assistance needed from the work-from-ho-

mer. I wished her well and back to work I went.

Fast forward to the next day, another look outside yielded another surprise. She was back. This time smack in the middle of our front lawn. Congratulating myself on my bravery, I approached. I noticed her right back leg was missing its foot and claws — perhaps due to an encounter with another snapper or possibly a trap. As she lumbered, tilting a bit on the right side, she was oblivious to the middle-aged woman watching her in wonder.

As a lover of all things animals, I appreciate the cuteness of a puppy, the innocence of a lamb and wonder how in the heck the Monarch butterfly population knows how to navigate thousands of miles during the time of migration. On the visual surface, this particular critter left a lot of wiggle room in the beauty department.

“Miss Snapper” could not be described as remotely pretty, but she did have her own mystic.

She was scaly with an algea-covered shell.

Her thick legs were similar to that of a lizard with claws jutting out from stumpy feet.

Her eyes, alert and intelligent.

Her beak-like jaw was intact and her best survival tool. Her neck,

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Some work-break exploration revealed this reptilian neighbor.

snake-like and long.

No, she wasn’t aesthetically pleasing. She was more than that.

She was admirable for her longevity and fortitude, her survival instinct and endurance. She was beautiful, in her own reptilian way.

Was this my spirit animal?

Was she delivering a life-altering message to me? Or, was she simply doing what she does, maybe looking for a nesting spot, and it just happened to be while I was at home to witness? Most likely, the latter. I can live with that.

A litany of questions remain.

Did she lay her eggs? How many will survive? How long has she

been our quiet, stealthy neighbor?

Will she come back to visit?

Since our initial encounter we, my little dog and I, continue to walk the field next door and explore the barn. Discovering new flora and appreciating the changing cloud formations, we are now on the look out for our enduring friend.

Working from home has its advantages. One I never imagined was having the opportunity to be hurled back tens of millions of years to experience, up close and personal, this ancient and impressive, beautiful creature. Beauty, after all, is in the eye of the beholder.

July 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 5

Report pinpoints affordable housing challenge In order to afford a two-bedroom apartment in Vermont, fulltime workers need to earn $23.36 an hour, or $48,597 annually, according to the national “Out of Reach” report released Tuesday.

The report annually calculates each state’s “housing wage” — the hourly wage a full-time worker must earn to afford a rental home without spending more than 30 percent of their income on housing costs. It is compiled by the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

The Vermont Affordable Housing Coalition assists with Vermont’s calculations.

The average renter in Vermont earns $13.81 an hour, which is $9.55 less than the housing wage.

The average renter can afford $718 a month for housing costs. The average statewide market rate for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,215 a month and $969 a month for a one-bedroom. Vermont’s one-bedroom housing wage is $18.64 an hour.

The housing wage in the greater Burlington area is $30.25, $6.89 an hour higher than the state average, and over $30 an hour for the first time ever Vermont has the fifth largest affordability gap for renters of any state in the nation, the report found.

“Each year, the ‘Out of Reach’ report is a painful reminder that too many Vermonters must struggle every day to afford a place to live,” Sen. Patrick Leahy said in a press release. “This year, the danger of losing one’s home is compounded by the dangers of a global pandemic. Low-wage workers who already struggle to afford safe, decent and affordable hous-

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ing are facing reduced hours, job loss and eviction.

“I will continue to push for housing supports in the next emergency coronavirus package to help ensure that families in Vermont and across the country can have a safe home in which to weather this pandemic, and to take another step in rebuilding our nation.”

At Vermont’s current minimum wage of $10.96, a wage-earner must have 2.1 full-time jobs or work 85 hours a week to afford a two-bedroom apartment and have 1.7 full-time jobs or work 68 hours per week to afford a one-bedroom apartment.

At Vermont’s current minimum wage of $10.96, a wage-earner must have 2.1 full-time jobs or work 85 hours a week to afford a two-bedroom apartment.

“The report illustrates what we already know to be true — that housing costs are too high for many Vermont households,” said Cindy Reid of the Vermont Affordable Housing Coalition. “The high cost of housing creates many challenges like food insecurity, inability to afford medical care or medicine and difficulty affording utilities. We must continue to work on solutions to address Vermont’s housing affordability crisis.”

The report also found that of the10 most common jobs in Vermont, only registered nurses and bookkeepers/accountants/auditing

clerks have average wages higher than the one-bedroom housing wage.

“Housing is a basic human need, but millions of people in America can’t afford a safe, stable home,” said National Low Income Housing Coalition President Diane Yentel. “The lack of affordable homes for the lowest-income people is one of our country’s most urgent and solvable challenges, during and after COVID-19; we lack only the political courage to fund the solutions at the scale necessary. It’s time for Congress to act.”

Bagels Plus has changed its name, but not its ownership.

ountain Green M Bagels

To Our Friends, Neighbors and Patrons of Bagels Plus, When my wife Vickie and I embarked on our journey nearly thirteen years ago to provide our hometown of Williston, Vermont with a family-owned bagel business, it was with the intent of not just baking the best bagels but also offering other items such as homemade muffins, hand crafted sandwiches, soups, beverages, etc. Thus, it only felt natural to call our bakery “Bagels Plus”. Over that time, our old friends and family became customers and many of our customers became new friends and family. We have been truly blessed by your patronage over these past eleven years.

Family-owned and operated As native Vermonters, Vickie and I also feel that as a local, family-owned small business, we stay true to what has made us successful, being hard-working Vermonters. And with that, we have decided that we would like to have the name of our business reflect our heritage here in the Green Mountain State. So as we head into the next phase of our journey, Bagels Plus will now become….

Green Mountain Bagels It is important to our family that our message is clear, our commitment to you our customer, will not change. Our baked fresh daily bagels, in-house made cream cheese flavors, homemade muffins, and hand-crafted sandwiches will still be made in the same caring manner you have come to know and love.

We cherish our community and will continue to offer a safe friendly place for you to gather.

From our family to yours, we wish you all the best and thank you for your patronage over the past thirteen years.

Sincerely, Steve, Vickie, Hunter, Hayden & Harlie Durgin

Page 6 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

GUEST COLUMN

Where do we find a leader for our times?

By Patrick Scheidel

www.willistonobserver.com

Is it 1968 again, complete with protests, riots and properPublished by ty ablaze and looted?

Williston Publishing & Promotions As reminded by George Will, Phone: (802) 872-9000 unlike all other countries who Mailing address: PO Box 1158, Williston VT 05495 originated from their history, America was founded on a philosophy — that of the EnEDITOR lightenment articulated mostly Jason Starr, x 117; editor@willistonobserver.com

by Locke and Montesquieu — who spoke to our natural rights ADVERTISING to “life, liberty and happiness” Marianne Apfelbaum, x118; marianne@willistonobserver.com as being self-evident. Governments do not dispense our rights, but rather secure these SUBMISSIONS/LETTERS Must include: unalienable “blessings” for us.

• name of event & organization editor@willistonobserver.com Our founders worried about • date, time and place of event “faction.” In his Federalist Es• News/story tips welcomed • contact information. say #10, James Madison held: • Letters must be 300 words or We only print submissions for non”The violence of faction is fewer profit groups and organizations. a mortal disease” of popular • Deadline is Monday at noon governments. He defines a facCLASSIFIEDS • Include your name, address and a tion as “a number of citizens, marianne@willistonobserver.com daytime phone number whether amounting to a ma(so we can verify the letter’s author — phone jority or minority of the whole, PAID CLASSIFIEDS: There is numbers and street addresses will be kept who are united and actuated by a fee for business, real estate and confidential) some common impulse of pashelp wanted ads.

Letters may be edited for clarity sion, or an interest, adverse to FREE CLASSIFIEDS:Printed and brevity. Letters that have been the rights of other citizens, or on a ‘space-available’ basis; no submitted to multiple media outlets to the permanent and aggregate guarantee of placement. may not be printed. interests of the community.”

• 25 words or fewer The Constitution details and CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS • Deadline is Friday at noon implements our rights and pro• Include name, address and daytections from tyrannical govSend all calendar of events time phone number ernment, while the police, as a submissions to Editor@ (street addresses will be kept confidential unless function of their employment, pertinent to ad.) willistonobserver.com. swear to defend and uphold The Williston Observer reserves the right to edit or refuse any it. The brutal dispersal of the submissions or advertising. Opinions expressed in the paper are those protesters outside the site of of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the paper. the 1968 Democratic National Convention by the Chicago police highlighted the need for change. Rather than decreasing GREAT PICKING - THE STRAWBERRIES ARE FABULOUS!! police resourc-

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es, the federal response through the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration was to increase academic, professional and tactical training via grants to local and state police departments. Education was key.

It must be a comprehensive, serious and civil discussion within a community before local and state legislative bodies decide to delete police resource allocations, that seemed so necessary when voting to approve their current budget. It’s the police who, because of their oath of office, will even protect the rights of the protesters who want to end funding of their department.

Reactionary legislative decisions would disturb the founders who, even in the 18th century, recognized the value of “slow” government. Citizens must demand that all elected officials take an oath of office that contains “upholding the Constitution” as a primary duty.

School districts must immediately undertake a major educational refocus on our founding documents, their authors’ personal risks and intellectual framework. From fifth grade through adult education, graduated classes on the philosophical foundation of America must be understood by more students than those in AP government.

Moreover, educators must teach the fourth “R” rhetoric.

“We are all entitled to our own opinions, just not our own facts,” repeated Daniel Patrick Moynihan.

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fuscate and threaten rather than to educate and persuade.

Residents must demand student proficiency in debating issues with other humans using facts and logic. Jonathan Swift’s reaction to dialogue based upon decibel levels is relevant: “I have always observed that your empty vessels sound loudest.”

In 1968, Moynihan, the embodiment of consensus, wrote that “liberals must ally themselves with conservatives” for social stability. But today, who will arise from the embers of contemporary burnt out buildings to lead political consensus-builders, securing our rights in the process of problem-solving?

Professor, ambassador, Sen. Moynihan, who, as a social scientist, formally advised two Democratic and two Republican presidents, has gone forever fishing as has his moderate bipartisan consensus colleagues.

Who possesses an intellect, seasoned by facts, and the loquaciousness and persuasiveness for our current challenges? Who will don Moynihan’s trademark Irish fishing hat as protection against the torrential storms of criticism and wade into the middle of the swift currents of change and slow them down for evaluation and understanding before recommending action consistent with our founding principles?

From what pool do we cast our line for such a leader?

Patrick Scheidel is the retired town manager of Essex. He lives in Williston.

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July 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Fish & Wildlife’s public comment charade Your opinions don’t matter to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department (VFWD) and its board, unless you hunt, trap or fish.

Your tax dollars don’t deem your opinion worthy even as the VFWD takes more of them from the general fund. Being a wildlife watcher, an activity that brings money into the local economy on par with hunting, also doesn’t give your opinion any weight. The VFWD website claims they base their decisions “on science, but also with public input.” The public comment process for a recent moose proposal tells a different story.

Recently, the VFWD went through the motions of taking public comments for the proposed 2020 moose hunt — despite Vermont’s plummeting moose population. I was already concerned about the proposal because it was based on a study that the highly controversial Safari Club International, a mouthpiece for trophy hunters worldwide, partially funded with $120,800. The April 22 board minutes state the results of the public hearing process was the “public generally supports the proposal” and “[t]here was some opposition which seemed to come from people who were opposed to moose hunting generally.”

These two comments confirm a misrepresentation of facts and bias that permeates VFWD and the board’s decision-making processes.

It is the responsibility of VFWD to work on behalf of the people of Vermont (not just the hunters and trappers of Vermont) and be transparent in their decision-making process. This means not misrepresenting the will of the public or dismissing public sentiment of certain people to suit their agenda.

Be aware. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and its board appears only to care what you think if you like to kill wildlife.

Your tax dollars, appreciation of wildlife and their statutory responsibility under 10 V.S.A §4081 to hold wildlife in trust for the benefit of Vermont citizens don’t mean a thing.

Kristen Cameron Burlington

Exerting civilian control over our police department I am moved to write by the letter “Bringing police investigations in house is the wrong move” (July 2) and by the Independence Day holiday.

This is the year of rebirth for our country, which has long professed “justice for all,” to finally make

the changes we need to live up to that creed.

When I first heard that civilian review of complaints about our police department seemed to be going by the wayside, I thought it was a mistake, but I wasn’t moved to get involved until I saw Jenna and Jonathan Comeau’s letter to the editor. The letter helped me to understand that I have a responsibility to act now in order to prevent future injustice.

I value the hard work and dedication of our police department to protect and serve. And I know as a businessman and the son of an auditor that the concept of a department investigating itself is fraught with conflicts of interest.

We citizens give cops the power to arrest and use lethal force in our name and with our money. Ours is a system of checks and balances, separation of powers. To say that we taxpayer employers have no right to investigate accusations of impropriety by our employees in uniform is ludicrous.

This gets to the issue of civilian control of our police department.

It is representatives of the citizens of Williston who must investigate complaints of abuse of the power that we have given to the people we hire to protect and serve us.

Ben Cohen Williston see LETTERS page 8

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Page 8 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

Letters continued from page

7

Going Gray During the 31 years I worked as a journalist, I followed local politics and public policy closely. I had the opportunity to see up close what it takes to be a good, effective public official.

The best are those who bring people together with a can-do spirit, creating realistic, sustainable solutions that have all of our best interests at heart.

I’m here to tell you that Molly Gray is that leader. That’s why I’m voting for Molly for lieutenant governor in the Aug. 11 democratic primary.

As someone born and raised on

a vegetable farm who earned high school, college and law degrees from Vermont schools, Molly stands out as a rising star who can help lead the state to a bright future.

She cut her teeth learning about public service working for Congressman Peter Welch (D-Vt.).

She honed her leadership skills working around the world for the International Committee of the Red Cross. She bolstered her knowledge of state policy and negotiating ability with a law degree from Vermont Law School and subsequent work as a criminal prosecutor.

There are no easy fixes to the challenges we face today, whether it’s education, the economy,

equality or any other topic. We need smart, ethical leaders with the intelligence to figure out where old systems have failed and the resourcefulness to re-imagine how they can be rebuilt to be more equitable, responsive and sustainable. Molly Gray is that leader.

Please join me in voting for Molly Gray for lieutenant governor in the Aug. 11 primary.

Terri Hallenbeck St. George

Support for Ashe I support Tim Ashe for Lieutenant Governor because I respect his lifelong commitment to public service and believe him to be exceptionally qualified for the job.

During the COVID-19 crisis, Tim continues to demonstrate the strong leadership skills that have defined his years in the Senate.

Tim possesses the experience, commitment and compassion for all Vermonters that we need in our executive offices.

Tim also cares deeply about land conservation, expanding local food markets and developing longterm solutions to clean our state’s waters.

Don’t forget to vote in the primary on Aug. 11 (or vote early or by mail). Voting is not only our right, it’s our responsibility.

Molly Stevens Williston

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Support local media and businesses Just in case readers haven’t noticed, it’s an election year. Of course, there is much focus on the presidential election. Understandably so given all that is a stake with the future of the country and everything.

But there are also statewide elections on the horizon, and those elections might have more impact on the day-to-day life of Vermonters than who ends up claiming the White House or Congress in November.

On Aug. 11, a little more than a month away, Vermonters will vote in statewide primary elections. While it’s important that people vote, either in person or by mail, it’s also important that candidates realize that how their campaign dollars are spent has an impact in their communities.

There has been a statewide push by local media to encourage candidates to “buy local” when it comes to their media choices.

Cathy Resmer, Deputy Publisher of Seven Days, put it plainly and succinctly in an editorial a couple of weeks ago. She wrote, in part, that “Candidates for elected office in Vermont and around the country routinely advertise their campaigns on Facebook and Google, sending money to Silicon Valley rather than to the local media outlets that write about them day in and day out, responsibly informing the citizenry so voters understand the choices before them.

“These digital ad platforms never write or broadcast a word of journalism, nor do they cultivate or invest in Vermont communities. Exempt from the libel laws that regulate traditional publishers, they have become conduits for misinformation, discredited sources, nefarious actors, and conspiracy theories.” Put another way, Facebook and Google aren’t covering local issues or statewide government. They don’t care a whit about what happens in your town. Local newspapers do.

Vermont media is fighting an uphill battle to survive every day. Candidates who profess to care about their state and their communities can show some of that caring by supporting the local media that report on them. Millions of dollars will be spent on campaigns in Vermont between now and November.

By putting some of those dollars back into local communities, by including local media as part of their strategy, candidates can show how much they value the efforts of local journalists and the companies they work for.

Also, there’s a Facebook boycott going on right now, mostly because of Facebook’s unwillingness to moderate hate speech. Does any candidate think being tied to hate speech is a winning formula right now? OK, maybe there’s one (at least on a national level), but that strategy probably won’t draw enough votes in Vermont elections to win anything.

Resmer noted that Vermont media outlets are working hard to keep the real, fact-checked news coming. She made some solid points asking candidates, businesses, and readers to support local media and local businesses.

Here they are: • Running for office? Restrict your campaign advertising to trusted local sources that cover, cultivate, and invest in our communities. Use social media sites to share your message, but do not support them financially.

Surveys show that people who read local newspapers and their websites are more likely to vote. Even in the middle of a pandemic, there's still time to get in front of those folks before the August primaries.

• Businesses, invest in your communities by advertising locally. Your customers will notice and thank you for it.

• Vermonters, support your local media outlet by subscribing and donating, and make a conscious effort to patronize the businesses that advertise in it.

We agree with those points, and hope others do as well. With national politics threatening to run off the rails as the country barrels headlong toward November, local and statewide candidates can do a lot of good by keeping their ad dollars local.

- Courtesy Deerfield Valley News, Wilmington, Vt.

July 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 9

ACADEMIC HONORS The following Williston students, listed alphabetically, received higher education honors during the spring 2020 semester.

Nathan Cuttitta of Williston Was named to the dean’s list at Endicott College for the spring 2020 semester.

Lindsey Albertelli of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Ithaca College.

Amelia Dodds of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May.

Casey Ammon of Williston was named to the dean’s list for the spring 2020 semester at Purdue University.

Megan Ammon of Williston graduated from Penn State University in May. Chiara Antonioli of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire.

Cole Bartlett of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire.

Liam Beliveau of Saint George graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Lydia Bernier-Boutot of Williston was named to the spring 2020 dean’s list at Vermont Technical College.

Erica Bouton of St. George graduated from Ithaca College with a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation in May. Kyle Burns of Williston graduated from Castleton University in May. He was also named to the spring 2020 dean’s list.

Liza Cahill of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester president’s list at Bob Jones University.

Joshua Cameron of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Kelly Champlain of Williston graduated from St. Michael’s College in May. She was also named to spring 2020 semester dean’s list.

Michael Edward Chirgwin of Williston graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Clarkson University in May. He was also named a presidential scholar for the spring 2020 semester.

Lily Cote of Williston was named to spring 2020 semester dean’s list at St. Michael’s College.

John Colt of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Morgan Doherty of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Laura Durkee of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at the University of Delaware.

Hadley Erdman of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Meghan Eustace of Willston was named to the spring 2020 semester President’s list at Plymouth State College.

Annabelle Sue Feist of Williston graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology from Williams College in June.

Sophia Gigliotti of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire.

Elena Godbout of St. George was named to the spring 2020 semester president’s list at the University of Alabama.

Henry Haller of Williston was named to the spring 2020 dean’s list at Vermont Technical College.

Jessica Hartman of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Anna Hauman of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Plymouth State College.

Grace Hemmelgarn was named a distinguished Alden scholar for the 2019-2020 academic year at Allegheny College.

Madi Hubbard of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Anna Johnson of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Margaret Krause of Williston was named to spring 2020 semester dean’s list at St. Michael’s College.

Courtney Kumes of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. see HONORS Page 10

Page 10 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

Academic Honors

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Shayla Lawrence of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester president’s list at Castleton University.

Taya LePrevost of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Gettysburg College.

Tara Lewis of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Benjamin Lloyd Longenbach of Williston graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Clarkson University in May.

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TRUCKIN’ TUESDAYS Every Tuesday thru Aug. 25 from 5-8pm

Trucks will be taking walk up orders from 5pm-8pm.

Social distancing is extremely important for customers to maintain while waiting or in line. Now that Vermont has increased outdoor event capacity, we can offer more seating for our “dine-in” picnic option. We will have our RED TENT set up for you to check in and we will take your contact info prior to you finding your dining spot on the property.

We still require that those dining on site bring their own blanket or chairs. Please remember to follow all State guidelines for outdoor dining, including wearing a mask until in your dining space.

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Elizabeth Niekrewicz of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Phillip Nguyen of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Devon Noyes of St. George was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Castleton University.

Brendan O’Connell of Williston graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Connecticut College in May. He was also named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list.

Shania Lunna of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May.

Aidan Palmer of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester president’s list at the Community College of Vermont.

Eamonn Maguire of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May.

Maia Parker of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May.

Caroline Mangione of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May.

Emily Pierson of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May.

Margaret Martell of Williston was named to spring 2020 semester dean’s list at St. Michael’s College.

Kristin Porter of Williston graduated from Vermont Technical College in May. She was also recognized as a member of the Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society.

Emily Marvin of Williston graduated from the Vermont Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) at Vermont Technical College in May. Kevin Masse of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Katherine Mathon of Williston was named to the fall 2019 dean’s list at La Salle University.

Dylan McAllister of St. George graduated from Ithaca College with a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy in May. Will McAllister of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Patrick McCue of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Kyle McDonald was named to the spring 2020 semester president’s list at Nichols College.

Brooke Merchant of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester president’s list at Bryant University.

Davis Mikell of Williston graduated from Castleton University in May. Samuel Mikell of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Eleanor Moody of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Lydia Moreman of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May.

Michaela Rehak of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Adelphi University.

Kaitlin Robert of Williston graduated from St. Michael’s College in May. She was also named to spring 2020 semester dean’s list.

Hattie Roberts of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester deans’ list at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Tyler Skaflestad was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Ithaca College.

Michael Staunton of Williston graduated with a doctorate degree in sociology from the University of New Hampshire in May. Khang Tran of Williston graduated from the University of Vermont in May. Jacob Veronneau of Williston graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of New Hampshire in May. Kelsey Walters of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester president’s list at the Community College of Vermont.

Olivia Werner of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Colby-Sawyer College.

Dane Whitcomb of Williston was named to the spring 2020 semester dean’s list at Endicott College.

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July 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 11

All Breed Rescue receives 3K grant for dog foster program 25% OFF REPAIRS

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The grant is part of the Petco Foundation’s recent distribution of more than $13 million to animal welfare organizations nationwide.

The Petco Foundation has also distributed $1 million in product and cash donations to partner organizations facing the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis, and put out a national call to mobilize animal lovers to take action through it’s “Pledge to Save Pet Lives” initiative.

All Breed Rescue saves adoptable dogs from high kill shelters and places them in homes throughout the Northeast. The nonprofit, founded in 1996, has rescued over 8,500 dogs from overcrowded shelters and worked within the community at schools, colleges and businesses to raise awareness of pet overpopulation and the need for rescue organizations.

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Williston’s All Breed Rescue has received a $3,000 grant from the Petco Foundation to expand its dog foster program. The grant ensures All Breed’s dogs receive food, care and training as they are introduced to new foster families.

“All Breed Rescue is very appreciative of this lifesaving grant form Petco,” said All Breed vice president Carolyn Paddock-Moore.

“In the crisis of COVID-19, this support allowed us to place many dogs into foster with the support

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Page 12  •  Williston Observer  •  July 16, 2020

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LIBRARY NOTES Dorothy Alling Memorial Library patrons can now browse inside the library by appointment. It’s easy to schedule a session. To book your visit, go to www.damlvt.org, send an email to daml@damlvt.org or call 8784918.

Patrons may also place holds and arrange to pick up library materials in the vestibule or on the bookmobile. Pickups are available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Book and media drops are open 24/7 for returns.

To get a library card or for help with holds, online programs or downloading eBooks and audiobooks, email daml@damlvt.org or call 878-4918.

tonioli for a writing series. July 16 and 23.

org for the schedule and to view bookmobile menus online.

Programs for Adults

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS PROGRAM Saturday, July 25, 10 a.m. Meet seven different creatures at this wild animal program, live via Zoom. Experts will share information about each animal and field your questions. Sponsored by the Friends of DAML.

SPOT THE DAML UNICORN Have you seen our magical unicorn around town? If you do, post a photo to #DAMLUnicorn for a chance to win a Fire HD tablet.

Williston and St. George residents only. Submissions due by July 31.

All adult programs are held via Zoom. To join one, email programs@damlvt.org or call 8784918 for an invitation.

Programs for Youth

For multi-age programs happening via Zoom, register at www.damlvt. org or call 878-4918.

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DOTTIE THE BOOKMOBILE Dottie is on the road, with materials for kids and adults. Arrange to pick up reserved library materials at any stop. Visit www.damlvt.

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IMAGINE YOUR STORY AS AN AUTHOR (VIA ZOOM) Thursdays, 3-4 p.m. Ages 8-12.

Join Williston author Taylor An-

WILLISTON STORYWALK Get moving and reading with a StoryWalk, “Stuck” by Oliver Jeffers. The story runs along the bike path, east of the Williston Community Park entrance.

‘AN AMERICAN MARRIAGE’ BOOK DISCUSSION Tuesday, July 28, 12:30 p.m.

Join our discussion of “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones.

The book is available to DAML patrons on LUV Overdrive/Libby and Hoopla. We also have a few hard copies available at the library.

Call 878-4918 to arrange for pickup.

NEW PERSPECTIVES BOOK DISCUSSION Tuesdays, July 21 and Aug. 4, 12 p.m. Take part in an in-depth discussion of “Sacred Instructions: Indigenous Wisdom for Living Spirit-Based Change” by

Fa m

AUTHOR VISIT WITH JOSH FUNK Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. Join children’s book author, Josh Funk, for a book reading and Q&A via Zoom. Participants will be entered into a drawing to win one of Josh’s picture books.

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE All ages are invited to enter our virtual Summer Reading Challenge. Log reading and activities online or with a mobile device and enter to win prizes. Register at www.damlvt.org. Williston and St. George residents only. Ends July 31.

MEDITATION Fridays at 12 p.m. Maryellen Crangle leads a short, guided meditation. July 17 and 24.

Op

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WEEKLY ‘TO GO’ CRAFTS Stop by the library or bookmobile and get a craft kit to take home. Available while supplies last.

Multi-age Programs

UKULELE JAM (VIA ZOOM) Friday, July 24, 10 a.m. All ages.

Sing and play along with Clare Innes.

CURRENT EVENTS DISCUSSION Wednesday, July 22, 10-11:30 a.m. Connect for an informal discussion of newsworthy topics.

LOC A

For youth programs happening via Zoom, register at www.damlvt.org or call 878-4918.

MINDFUL MOMENTS (VIA ZOOM) Monday, July 27 at 10 a.m. Ages 8-14. Maryellen Crangle guides children through a short meditation.

COMICS WORKSHOP SERIES (VIA ZOOM) Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. Teens and adults. Join local cartoonist Stephanie Zuppo for a cartooning series. July 16 and 23.

Sherri Mitchell. The book is available to check out from the library, or DAML patrons can download from LUV Overdrive/Libby.

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Page 14 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

SENIORS

OBITUARIES ANDREW CORROW

Savvy Senior

By Jim Miller

RV travel tips in the summer of COVID Dear Savvy Senior, Can you write a column on RV travel for novices? My husband and I have been cooped up all spring and summer because of the coronavirus and would like to take a trip using a rented RV but could use some tips and want to be safe.

Recently Retired Dear Recently, Recreational-vehicle (RV) travel has become a very popular option among U.S. retirees over the past few decades and is probably one of the safest and most convenient ways to get away this summer.

Because it’s a small home on wheels, RV travel will allow you to distance yourself from crowds of people and reduce your risk of COVID exposure that comes with other forms of travel, i.e. air/train travel, hotel/Airbnb lodging and eating in restaurants. But there are still risks — especially in public places like gas stations, shared restrooms and picnic areas — so exercise caution. If you’ve never traveled by motor home or RV, here are a few tips to consider.

RENTING AN RV To help you determine the RV size and model you need for your trip, consider your budget, destination and the number of travelers. If it’s just you and your husband, and you’re visiting several locations and driving lots of miles, you may want a smaller motor home with better fuel economy. But if you’re taking other family members or friends, you may want a larger RV with slide outs and more sleeping areas. See www.GoRVing.com for a breakdown of all the different types of RVs available today.

To locate an RV rental dealer near you, visit www.CruiseAmerica.com, one of the largest RV rental companies in the world, or search the

Recreation Vehicle Rental Association at www.

RVRA.org. Or use peer-to-peer RV rental sites like www.RVshare.com or www.Outdoorsy. com, which are usually a little cheaper.

Rental costs will vary greatly depending on what you choose and how far you drive, ranging anywhere from $50 up to $500 per day.

When renting a rig, be sure you get detailed instructions from the owner or rental company on how to use the RV’s systems, including the generator, air-conditioning, leveling, slide outs, electric and entertainment, as well as how to empty waste tanks and refill fresh water.

You should also know that, because of COVID-19, most RV rental companies are vigilant about cleaning and disinfecting their units.

But if you want to be extra safe, the CDC offers tips at www.CDC.gov/COVID19 — type “Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home” in the search bar.

TRIP PLANNING TIPS It’s always wise to map out your trip route and reserve your campgrounds in advance, especially now during the pandemic, because some campgrounds and RV parks, as well as local, state and national public parks, may be closed or operating with restrictions.

A free tool that can help you plan your trip is www.Roadtrippers.com, which lets you plot out routes, calculate mileage and travel time, and will identify RV campgrounds, points of interest and restaurants along the way.

You should also consider becoming a Good Sam Club member (www.GoodSam. com/club) for $29 per year, which provides access to a web-based trip planner, camping and fuel discounts, and a copy of the Good Sam Guide Series that features detailed information on more than 12,000

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private RV parks and public campgrounds.

Most RV parks rent spaces on a nightly or weekly basis with rates typically ranging from $30 to $50 per night. However, some in city and country parks may be $10 or even free.

RV parks can also range from rustic facilities with limited or no utility hookups, as are more often found in state and national parks, to luxury resorts with amenities that rival fine hotels.

For first-time RV renters, staying at a fully loaded RV park or campground with full hookups, a dump station and staff on site is highly recommended. Look at Kampgrounds of America (www.KOA.com) or www.ReserveAmerica.com to browse the accommodations.

And for more safe travel tips this summer, visit www.Coronavirus.gov and click on “specific resources for travelers.”

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.

Andrew Corrow, 68 years of age, died unexpectedly in his Burlington, VT home on June 29. He was born in St. Albans, to the late Max and Ruth (Lyon) Corrow.

He was a graduate of South Burlington High School and Vermont Technical College. He retired from IBM in 2007 after a long career.

Andy was a devoted family man and will be missed by his wife and his son Josh, his best friend. He was married to Jo (Joanne Fontaine). He was preceded by his parents, his father-in-law Raymond Fontaine, and his son Jake.

He is survived by his wife Joanne, his son Josh and Jennifer (Pike), his precious grandchildren Mason and Logan; his sister Marie Redmond (David) and their children Christopher (Mandy) and Ashley; brothers Steve, and his daughters Kim (Mike Hemond) and Mary Webster (Patrick); and Tom; his mother-in-law Gisele Fontaine and the entire Fontaine family.

He also leaves the extended Corrow family, Larry, Maureen and Darryl; as well as many dear friends.

A graveside service was held on Friday, July 10 at 11 a.m. in the East Cemetery in Williston, followed by an outdoor gathering at the Fontaine Family Farm, 2738 North Williston Road, Williston.

Arrangements are in the care of the Ready Funeral & Cremation Service. To send online condolences, please visit www.readyfuneral.com.

DONATE YOUR VEHICLE, HELP BUILD HOMES! Donate your used car, truck, trailer, RV, boat, or bike to Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity's Cars For Homes program, and we'll turn it into cash to help build affordable homes for low-income families in Chittenden County. Contact GMHFH's Williston ReStore at 802-857-5296 with questions or to arrange a drop-off or pick up. Tax receipts provided! vermonthabitat.org BUILDING HOMES, CHANGING LIVES IN VERMONT.

July 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 15

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57. Spanning 61. Turned gloomy

66. Sunglasses 67. Expected landing hr.

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Page 16 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

Tips to help your landscape beat the heat

By Melinda Myers Special to the Observer

Observer courtesy photo by Melinda Myers

Mulching garden beds and around trees and shrubs conserves moisture, keeps roots cool and moist, and suppresses weeds.

Summer has arrived and for many so has the heat. High temperatures and dry conditions often lead to watering bans. This is not only hard on gardeners but also our gardens and lawns. Fortunately, there are ways to help plants thrive despite stressful growing conditions.

Adjust landscape care based on the weather conditions, each plant’s tolerance level and your gardening goals. Enlist these low maintenance, eco-friendly strategies to help keep your landscape looking its best throughout the summer months.

Water plants thoroughly to promote deep drought- and pest-resistant roots. Wait until the top few inches of soil are crumbly and moist or footprints remain in the lawn before watering again.

Avoid light, frequent watering that encourages shallow roots. Shallow roots are less able to tolerate drought and more susceptible to disease and insect problems.

Water early in the day when possible to minimize water lost to evaporation. Avoid late evening watering that leaves foliage wet going into the night. This can increase the risk of disease.

Spread a two- to three-inch layer of shredded leaves, evergreen needles, or shredded bark mulch over the soil in garden beds and around trees and shrubs. Mulching will conserve moisture, keep roots cool and moist, and suppress weeds. As the organic mulch decomposes, it adds nutrients and organic matter to the soil. All these benefits stem from one maintenance task.

Mow lawns high and often, removing no

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more than one third the total height of the grass. Taller grass produces deeper roots, making the lawn more drought tolerant and more resistant to insects, disease, and other environmental stresses.

Leave the grass clippings on the lawn.

They add nitrogen, organic matter, and moisture to the soil. One season of clippings is equal to one fertilizer application. Every time you mow you are improving the soil and fertilizing the lawn.

Sharpen your mower blades to save time by boosting efficiency. And speaking of savings, your mower will consume 22% less fuel and your lawn will use up to 30% less water when your mower blades are sharp.

Use a low nitrogen, slow release fertilizer if your lawn and garden plants need a nutrient boost. These types of fertilizers release small amounts of nutrients over an extended period of time. The low level of nitrogen reduces the risk of damaging your already heat-stressed plants.

Remove weeds from garden beds and borders as soon as they appear. These “plants out of place” steal water and nutrients from your desirable garden plants. Plus, they can harbor insects and diseases that are harmful to your garden plants. Removing them before they flower and set seed means you will have hundreds of less weeds to pull next season.

Provide stressed plants with a bit of shade from the hot afternoon sun. Containers can be moved to a more suitable spot during heat waves. Add a bit of temporary shade to garden plants that are struggling to survive in the blazing hot sun. A strategically placed chair, lattice or umbrella may be all that is needed. As temperatures drop, you can move plants back in place and remove the temporary shade.

Use the shade to your advantage as well. Garden in the shady spots whenever possible or use a pop-up canopy to provide shade when needed. Always drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, and work during the cooler morning and evening hours.

Then take some time to enjoy your handiwork. Look at the progress that has been made as you sit back, relax, and enjoy your favorite beverage.

Melinda Myers is the author of more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.

July 16, 2020 • Williston Observer • Page 17

CY to ‘bee yourself’ Observer photo

by Al Frey

IT’S OUR 6TH ANNUAL

Selfie Contest!

A skater displays his moves and his T-shirt, which promotes the Connecting Youth Mentoring Program on Monday.

Enter now until

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2 Post the selfie to our Facebook and/or Instagram page @champlainortho

The Williston Central School CY Program Coordinator is Nancy Carlson.

Email: Ncarlson@ cvsdvt.org

3 Create a funny hashtag and like

and share the post to be entered to win $200 Visa Gift Card!

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Page 18 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS 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 LafayettePaintingInc.com or call 863-5397.

FOR SALE Miscellaneous - RCA 46” flat screen TV , $100. Oak TV cabinet, complete with shelf and storage, $20. Antique oak secretary desk, sturdy, good finish, $100. Call 352-406-6343. Leave message. Please speak clearly.

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The Town of Williston is soliciting established Landscaping and Property Management Companies for the Seasonal Maintenance of the Town’s 4 cemeteries.

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Page 20 • Williston Observer • July 16, 2020

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F-35 noise monitoring continued from page

1

dustrial Avenue and North Brownell Road.

The three noise monitors will be set up to verify the projections used to create the map and underpin claims homeowners will be able to make through the FAA’s Noise Compatibility Program for noise mitigation assistance. According to Deputy Aviation Director Nic Longo, affected homeowners will be eligible for help with selling a home — in some cases the airport would buy a home, install noise insulation, and resell it — or installing noise insulation.

The noise monitors won’t help Williston residents who live in other parts of town verify what they are hearing from the F-35s, which have replaced the F-16 fighter jets the Air Guard had been flying. The F-35s were billed as a louder aircraft, and several Williston residents from as far away from the airport as Lake Iroquois and East Hill Road have noticed the difference.

“I’m distressed by the noise, my animals are distressed, and the wildlife must be petrified,” said Terry Marron, who lives near Lake Iroquois.

Marron said she has used a phone app to measure decibel levels when F-35s are overhead, and has seen readings as high as 108 decibels.

“That’s in the dangerous range,” she said.

East Hill Road resident Art Cernosia said his phone app has also registered decibels as high as 108.

“I cannot carry on conversations inside my house when the planes go over,” he said.

Lake Iroquios-area resident Patrick Kelly said his phone app has registered a high of 90 decibels and an average of 75.

“We need to have monitoring here to know what the precise readings are and how it’s affecting the community,” Marron said.

Richards hopes the noise monitoring program can be expanded into Williston and Winooski, perhaps with funding from the Department of Defense.

“This isn’t enough,” Richards said. “We will have to continue to expand the program … I already know it’s loud at the airport. So I would prefer to move the (monitors) into the community, so when people have concerns there can be verification. That’s what the community is really asking for.”

Longo said the noise exposure map will be reworked next year, when the full complement of 20 F-35s are in place. The planes have been arriving sporadically since the fall, and are not yet all in Burlington.

Brig. Gen. Hank Harder, the assistant adjutant general of the Vermont National Guard, joined Tuesday’s selectboard meeting via videoconference and said that the Air Guard will do its own noise study in 2021 in an attempt to verify the noise assumptions that were incorporated into the Environmental Impact Statement the Air Force used in choosing Burlington as an F-35 base.

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