It’s 442 acres and comes with its own bridge over the Winooski River.
The Williston side of the GlobalFoundries campus is oneof-a-kind, and the company is planning to put it up for sale.
“We’ve come to the decision that we’d like to find another owner for that campus,” GlobalFoundries Director of Facilities Dan Forcier told the
Williston Planning Commission last week. “The property is no longer serving a direct need for us.”
Forcier came to the planning commission with a request: expand the allowable uses in the town’s “Industrial Zoning District East” that governs the parcel to include warehousing and distribution. That, the company believes, will increase its value on the market and facilitate a sale.
GlobalFoundries acquired the parcel from IBM in 2015, when it took over the entire IBM
Three 1980s-era office buildings totaling about 430,000 square feet are now nearly completely empty — the last remaining tenant plans to vacate in June.
microchip manufacturing facility that straddles the Winooski River.
The majority of the campus is in Essex Junction.
During its heyday in the 1990s, IBM stationed about 3,000 workers
on the Williston side, Forcier said.
Three 1980s-era office buildings totaling about 430,000 square feet are now nearly completely empty — the last remaining tenant plans to vacate in June.
“COVID really had an impact on the tenants that we did have,” Forcier said. “They are doing more work from home, and other tenants moved to more modern locations. It’s still on the market as available office space, and I don’t think we’ve had an offer on it since COVID.”
Forcier has consulted with a commercial real estate broker and learned that, while demand for office space is at a historic low in
Chittenden County, there is demand for warehouses and distribution centers.
“They are fairly confident that some sort of storage is going to be the future for the Williston campus,” he said.
Members of the planning commission are less than enthusiastic about the prospect of a warehouse and distribution center.
“We know an Amazon warehouse wants to come to this area, and I don’t think Williston wants that,” said planning commission member Jill Pardini.
Pardini was referring to an application last year to build an
The 442-acre GlobalFoundries campus in Williston has a solar array, office buildings and access to a bridge over the Winooski River.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WILLISTON PLANNING DEPARTMENT
The barn awaits
Williston theater group brings ‘Shakespeare in Love’ to Isham Farm
Every summer, something happens on the Isham Family Farm. The barn doors swing open, the lights go up, and for a few fleeting weeks, a working Vermont farm becomes something close to magic.
It’s become one of the quiet rituals of summer in the Champlain Valley — the kind of thing neighbors mark on their calendars and visitors plan trips around. This June, Vermont Repertory Theatre invites audiences back for the latest chapter: “Shakespeare in Love,” running June 11-20 at the Isham Barn Theatre in Williston.
comedy called “Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate’s Daughter.” When he falls for Viola de Lesseps — a spirited noblewoman who defies the era’s ban on women performers by disguising herself as a man to audition for his play — a passionate love affair transforms both their lives and his writing. The comedy becomes a tragedy. The tragedy becomes a masterpiece. And the result is the play we know as “Romeo and Juliet.”
In a case of life mirroring art, leads Connor Kendall and Merrill Cameron — who play Will and Viola — are a real-life couple who fell in love through theater themselves, lending the production’s central romance an unmistakable warmth and authenticity.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
EMAIL EVENT
SATURDAY, MAY 16
Tree planting. Habitat restoration near Allen Brook School. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. RSVP to dmoroney@willistonvt.org.
MONDAY, MAY 18
Library Trustees meeting. 7 p.m. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. Agenda at damlvt.org.
For those who’ve been before, the feeling is familiar: the drive out to rural Williston, the anticipation as you cross the farmyard, the hush that falls when the first lines land in a space small enough to feel every word. For newcomers, it’s the kind of discovery people talk about for years — part theatre, part community gathering, part summer night out under the Vermont sky, and a barn that feels like it was built for exactly this.
“Shakespeare in Love” follows a young William Shakespeare, mired in writer’s block and contractually on the hook for a
Around Town
Remember to revote
The Isham Barn, with its raw timbers and intimate sight-lines, will become something thrillingly close to the Globe Theatre of 1593 during the production. Whether you’ve been coming every year or this is the summer you finally make the trip, “Shakespeare in Love” is the invitation. Bring friends. Bring family. Bring someone who’s never been. The barn is waiting.
Tickets are available at www. vermontrep.com. Vermont Repertory Theatre is a nonprofit group headquartered on Commerce Street in Williston.
reconsider. The minimum number of votes needed to approve reconsideration is 842.
Hear the best in student music
Library Revote Public Informational Meeting. 7 p.m. Williston Central School.
TUESDAY, MAY 19
Library/Village Green Reconsideration vote. 7 a.m.-7 p.m. National Guard Armory.
Champlain Valley School Board meeting. 6 p.m. CVU High School. Agenda at cvsdvt.org. Selectboard meeting. 7 p.m. Town Hall. Agenda at town. williston.vt.us.
Planning commission meeting. 7 p.m. Town Hall Annex. Agenda at town.williston.vt.us.
THURSDAY, MAY 21
Williston voters are called to the polls Tuesday, May 19 to reconsider the Town Meeting Day approval of a $13.9 million bond to finance an addition to the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library and improvements to the Village Green. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the National Guard Armory next to Town Hall. The ballot contains one question. Voting “yes” is a vote to halt the project; voting “no” is a vote to proceed.
In order for the reconsideration to be successful, a two-thirds majority of the original 1,262 ‘yes’ votes from Town Meeting Day will need to vote ‘yes’ to
Sonic Futures will highlight some of Vermont’s best student-led bands with its Youth Music Showcase on Friday, May 29. The event takes place at Higher Ground in South Burlington starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. They can be purchased in advance at https://highergroundmusic. com/events/sonic-futures-youthmusic-showcase.
Volunteers sought for habitat restoration outside ABS
Volunteers are wanted to help plant native tree and shrub seedlings as part of a Lake Champlain Basin Program habitat restoration program. The plantings will take
Age Well Lunch. Ages 60-plus. 11:30 a.m. Reserve by May 18. St. George Historic Schoolhouse, 21 Barber Road. (802) 662-5283.
MONDAY, MAY 25
Memorial Day Observance. 9 a.m. Williston War Memorial Park between Town Hall and Town Hall Annex.
Merrill Cameron, left, as Viola De Lesseps and Connor Kendall as Shakespeare will be part of the Vermont Repertory Theatre’s performance of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ at the Isham Barn starting June 11.
Around Town
continued from page 2
place Saturday, May 16 at the “Tree Island” parcel between Allen Brook School and the Williston Fire Station on Talcott Road.
Coordinator Chapin Kaynor and Town of Williston Senior Conservation Planner David Moroney will lead the event. Volunteers are asked to email dmoroney@willistonvt.org in advance. Planting will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
EastRise names new CEO
The EastRise Credit Union Board of Directors has appointed Robert Miller as the organization’s new president and chief executive officer.
He succeeds John Dwyer, who is retiring in June after nearly 40 years leading the Williston-based organization. Miller is being promoted from his current role as chief operating officer. He was previously the CEO of the Vermont State Employees Credit Union, which merged with New England Federal Credit Union in 2023 to create EastRise.
Williston heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) supplier Johnstone Supply was recently awarded Efficiency Vermont’s Leadership Award as an energy efficient technology supplier embedded in the state’s construction supply chain.
The award was given at Efficiency Vermont’s recent Better Building by Design conference. According to Efficiency Vermont, the company sold about 1,200 pieces of equipment over the past year that received Efficiency Vermont incentives, amounting to about $800,000 in rebates.
Williston fire lieutenant receives professional honor
Williston Fire Lieutenant Anthony Simanskas has earned distinction as a National Chief EMS Officer by the Commission on Professional Credentialing at the Center for Public Safety Excellence. He is the second Vermont first-responder to ever receive the distinction.
Simanskas has worked for the Williston Fire Department for 18 years and is currently a shift supervisor and the department’s paramedic coordinator.
“This achievement represents years of dedication to advancing emergency medical services and serving the Williston community at the highest level,” Williston Fire Chief Aaron Collette said.
Community Garden gets raised beds thanks to Eagle Scout
Zach Pratt, 16, recently completed his Eagle Scout project as a member of Williston Scout Troop 692, designing and installing two raised garden beds at the Williston Community Garden off Mountain View Road.
Pratt worked with the Williston Recreation and Parks Department to determine the need for ADAcompliant raised beds, which will give gardening access to people with mobility difficulties. He fundraised for the materials and led younger Scouts in the construction process.
Residents interested using the new beds can contact the Rec Department at (802) 876-1160.
“The department thanks Zach for his contribution to the Community Garden and providing a means for everyone in the Williston community to take part in gardening,” Parks and Recreation Director Todd Goodwin said.
Robert Miller
Lt. Anthony Simanskas
Scout Zach Pratt donates raised gardening beds to the Williston Community Garden with Williston Recreation and Parks Director Todd Goodwin.
COURTESY PHOTO
GlobalFoundries
continued from page 1
Amazon warehouse and distribution center in the Saxon Hill Industrial Park in Essex. Protesters from around Vermont demonstrated against that proposal, which the Essex Development Review Board denied in July.
Pardini said any buyer of the GlobalFoundries property should be the one to make zoning change requests.
“I don’t think we should change the rules in advance of something we don’t know is coming,” Pardini said.
Changing uses in a zoning district typically requires approval from the Development Review Board, but could be done administratively by town staff in some cases, Williston Senior Planner Emily Heymann said.
The town’s Industrial Zoning District East was tailor made to suit IBM, which was already in operation when the town created its zoning map. The only other entity in the zone is the Chittenden Solid Waste District.
“The intent (of the zoning district) is allowing uses that don’t
generate a lot of traffic,” said Heymann.
And while a distribution center would certainly raise traffic concerns on Mountain View and Redmond roads, town planners are interested in a grander vision for the parcel.
Last year, the planning commission finalized a Comprehensive Town Plan to guide land use decisions through the year 2050. Nowhere does it call for increased commercial warehouses. But it does envision more housing diversity and transportation facilities. With that in mind, town planners want to explore the possibility of housing on the parcel, as well as public use of the bridge. Currently GlobalFoundries restricts bridge access to employees and contractors only.
“Access to another crossing of the Winooski River would be very useful,” said planning commission member Meghan Cope. “Having it open to general traffic, including bikes and pedestrians, is something the town should have an interest in.”
Williston Planning Director Matt Boulanger suggested
bringing in regional planners and working with the City of Essex Junction and GlobalFoundries executives on a master plan — potentially using the town’s “specific plan” process to create site-specific zoning on the parcel in exchange for a public benefit (i.e., public use of the bridge).
“The town has big goals for housing,” said Boulanger. “This is a potential solution for some of that — a piece of land this large that is situated where it is. It’s not going to be easy or quick, but I would encourage everyone to think long term …”
Forcier countered that GlobalFoundries executives are not adept at, or interested in, land use planning.
“Our intention is to add distribution and warehousing, then market it and see who comes to the table,” he said.
A portion of the GlobalFoundries parcel is zoned as agricultural/rural. The company has installed a solar array there, and Forcier said it will continue to build out a solar energy production plan for as long as the parcel remains in the company’s hands.
The red marker indicates the location of GlobalFoundries’ vacant Williston campus near the Winooski River.
The 442-acre GlobalFoundries campus in Williston has a solar array, office buildings and access to a bridge over the Winooski River.
PROPERTY TRANSFERS APRIL 2026
• Laren Glickman bought a home on Sunrise Drive from 160 Sunrise Drive LLC for $465,000.
• Paul Dinapoli bought a home on 196 Alpine Drive from Snyder Williston Properties LLC for $587,455.
• Sandra Hudson bought a condominium on Zephyr Road from the Ronan and Janet Cooper Joint Revocable Trust for $600,000.
• Cathy Tremblay bought a condominium on Honeysuckle Lane from Robert Goodwin for $585,000.
• Anne Hearth bought a condominium on Zephyr Road from Amy Jo Humphrey for $543,000.
• Lisa Jones bought a mobile home on Williston Woods Road from Mary Jane King for $267,000.
• Kim Tomlinson bought a home on Kirby Lane from Kearby Shields for $580,000.
• Adam Larges bought a condominium on Cedar Lane from Lorane Lapin for $328,000.
• Ethan Smith bought a home on Barrett Lane from Andrea Eaton for $765,000.
• Katherine Dynarski bought a home on Pleasant Acres Drive from the Lareau Family Living Trust for $560,000.
• Michael McLoud bought a mobile home on Porterwood Drive from Justin Dorman for $206,000.
• Michel Luis Vedana bought a home on Beaudry Lane from Snyder Williston Properties LLC for $865,145.
• Pamela Walsh bought a condominium on Meadowrun Road from Douglas Clifton for $455,000.
• Monique Fox bought a home on Christmas Lane from Hazel Winter for $15,682.
• Brent Raymond bought a home on Beaudry Lane from Snyder Williston Properties LLC for $914,310.
• Sam Dillender bought a home on Williston Road from Thanh Nguyen for $365,000.
Enjoy lunch in the Conservatory!
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Member:
A reckoning for computer use in schools
BY PATRICK LAWRENCE
The Vermont Senate Education Committee recently heard testimony from experts on the use of educational technology products in schools. The experts were clear: No evidence exists that ed tech products improve learning outcomes. The vast majority of ed tech apps share student data with advertising and marketing platforms, and many present safety risks for students.
These harms may seem abstract, but in a recent community support letter advocating for mitigating legislation, over 360 Vermonters from 85 towns recounted alarming stories about the misuse, dangers and distractions of products currently used by children in Vermont schools.
Parents shared that on school issued computers their children access non-educational experiences ranging from video games to far more dangerous encounters. Examples include using a school computer during the school day to order illicit drugs, accessing pornography and child sexual abuse material, sharing nude photos that could put them at risk for online exploitation, and communicating with predatory adults. The list of experienced harms is vast. Even when used as intended, stories of distraction, cognitive offloading and gamified learning are extensive.
Vermont’s student test scores have declined precipitously since the 2014 widespread adoption of digital devices in classrooms.
One bill under consideration, the ed tech registry bill (H. 650), begins to address these issues. It would create a registry for ed tech products, requiring a vetting process to evaluate products for safety, efficacy and legality prior to exposing our children to them. The language from another ed tech opt-out bill, (H. 830), if inserted into the miscellaneous education bill, would give parents the right to opt-out of digital instruction for their children.
Given the multi-billion-dollar size of the ed tech industry, it is not surprising that pushback to these bills has been strong.
A common justification for using ed tech claims that students need to stay competitive and workforce ready. We all share the goal of job market competitiveness, but no evidence supports the claim that one-on-one laptops or specific software advances these
aims. One might think that the evidence might at least be seen in standardized test performance, yet Vermont’s student test scores have declined precipitously since the 2014 widespread adoption of digital devices in classrooms.
Instead of learning foundational skills applicable to a wide variety of future jobs, our students acquire “thin” skills adapted to specific software that do not transfer easily to other contexts.
Considering that the current crop of tech executives managed to master programming, software and AI despite largely analog learning (due to being older), clearly ed tech isn’t required to ensure our students excel in STEM and other disciplines.
Another supposed boon of forcing students to use digital products is the ability to track individual progress. It’s hard to imagine why, when Vermont class sizes are often below 15 students, teachers wouldn’t gain a more holistic understanding of student strengths and weaknesses by working with them face-to-face. When teachers work directly with students, an empathetic connection is also established that motivates students and makes instruction more likely to be retained.
In addition to jeopardizing the student-teacher relationship, ed tech products train our students to seek entertainment rather than education. Game-like products
harness the same dopamine-response pathways that have been intentionally manipulated by social media. By pairing these pathways with brand-awareness from an early age, which is especially notable for companies like Google whose products are ubiquitous, we risk priming our children to continue seeking this rush in the future.
Given the lack of evidence of educational efficacy and the very real harms that have been caused by use of ed tech products, it seems perplexing that H. 650 has not already been passed. One justification has been that other organizations already vet ed tech products for efficacy and safety. However, the organizations referenced during testimony (ISTE-ASCE, Vita-Learn, and the Student Data Privacy Consortium) all have clear conflicts of interest in their relationships with tech companies.
Even when school districts adopt digital privacy agreements, no enforcement of those agreements exists.
Other reasons for delay in passing the legislation include committee wrangling over whether a registry is really necessary and who would create the vetting criteria.
In the midst of this, there has been constant misdirection, such
see LAWRENCE page 7
Lawrence
as implying skeptics of AI in schools are “luddites,” despite a recent expert publication from the Brookings Institute saying, “At this point in its trajectory, the risks of utilizing generative AI in children’s education overshadow its benefits.”
The EdTech Registry H650 and Opt Out H830 bills propose radically common sense first step solutions. Vermont needs to understand what ed tech products schools use and require independent product vetting for safety, efficacy and legality prior to being put in front of children. Parents need the option to opt-out of digital instruction and re-center the teacher-student relationship that supports meaningful learning.
We ask that the Legislature take these steps now, before even more harm is done.
Patrick Lawrence is the father of an 11-year-old in Middlebury, a sustainable agriculture consultant and a volunteer co-lead with the organization VT-IRL.org.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The bridges of Allen Brook
I very much appreciated the informative article on the rebuild of the footbridge over the Allen Brook near Williston Central School (“Blame the bats” April 30). In addition to the bats and the government quagmire we
find ourselves in, I call attention to another “B” word that has added to our troubles in negotiating the Allen Brook trails.
I am referring to some eager little beavers that have built a dam and flooded out another footbridge a short distance north of the project area, making a safe crossing to all trails and
residential areas north and west of Creek’s Edge inaccessible.
The decking on this little bridge is currently just above water, but the plank approaches to the bridge are unstable due to the high water. I have not tried to cross it — maybe a kid or a light dog might make it to the other side.
I am hoping this beaver generated quagmire can also be addressed creatively so that the fix at the project site doesn’t become a bridge to nowhere.
Dick Kraybill
Williston
McLaren my choice for Lt. Gov.
As we look toward the future of Vermont, we need leaders who are compassionate with a resilient, community-focused spirit. That is why I am proud to support Ryan McLaren for Lieutenant Governor.
I have followed Ryan’s career closely and am consistently impressed by his ability to
listen and to maintain a positive attitude. His experience is unmatched. From serving as a senior aide to Sen. Peter Welch to working within state government, he understands the intricacies of policy and how to navigate the legislative process to deliver results for everyday Vermonters.
He stepped up to serve on his local school board and is a staunch advocate for public education. But what truly makes Ryan stand out is his character. Nine years after a life-altering ski accident at Mad River Glen, he continues to see the world through a lens of gratitude.
He believes in showing up, especially when things are hard, bringing a sense of empathy and grit to every challenge.
Ryan McLaren has the experience to lead with thoughtfulness and integrity. I urge my fellow Vermonters to join me in supporting him.
Liz Subin Essex
After a small fire at our Williston ReStore, our team is working hard to clean, rebuild, and reopen safely. Thankfully, the damage was contained — but we need our community now more than ever.
Every donation helps restock our shelves and
Beaver activity on the Allen Brook near Creek’s Edge neighborhood has washed out a footbridge to the Allen Brook nature trails. Photo taken March 30.
PHOTO BY DICK KRAYBILL
HOME & GARDEN
Conquering spring cleaning
Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting and vacuuming — it’s about inviting sunlight and fresh air into your space through open windows and giving yourself a fresh start for the longer days.
It’s also a perfect opportunity to clear out the old and make room for new experiences, memories and energy. Whether you’re tackling deep cleaning for the first time or you have seasonal rituals for tidying up your home, this room-by-room guide can help you plan and conquer seasonal chores.
WHOLE HOME
• Declutter spaces — donate, recycle or discard what you don’t need
• Wash windows inside and out
• Dust baseboards, walls, vents and ceiling fans
• Wipe down doors, knobs and light switches
• Vacuum and clean under and behind furniture
• Clean curtains and blinds
• Store seasonal items like winter clothing and decor
• Replace air filters
• Shampoo carpet
KITCHEN
• Empty and wipe down refrigerator and freezer
• Clean oven, stovetop and microwave
• Scrub countertops and backsplashes
• Clean out the garbage disposal
• Sweep and mop floors
• Organize the pantry and throw away any expired items
BATHROOMS
• Scrub grout and tile
• Clean mirrors and glass surfaces
• Deep clean toilets
• Wipe down cabinets and bathroom fixtures
• Wash rugs, floor mats and the shower curtain and liner
• Empty trash and clean the bin
Breaking down spring cleaning into doable tasks can prevent the process from becoming overwhelming.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHUTTERSTOCK
HOME & GARDEN
Beware the mulch volcano
BY DEBRA HELEBA Special to the Observer
Gardeners and homeowners are turning their attention to preparing lawns and gardens for the growing season. For many, that includes applying fresh mulch to trees and garden beds. But as you reach for the mulch, a word of caution: Beware of the mulch volcano!
This common mistake happens when mulch is piled high onto a tree’s trunk, forming a cone-shaped mound resembling Mount Vesuvius. Unfortunately, this practice is harmful to trees, causing premature decline of these prized landscape plants.
Mulch should never touch a tree’s trunk. When piled against the bark, it traps moisture, encouraging decay and providing entry points for insects and diseases. Volcano mulching can also bury the tree’s root flare, a special part of the tree where the trunk expands and transitions to the root system. The flare should remain visible above the soil line to allow
Cleaning
continued from page 9
BEDROOMS AND OTHER LIVING AREAS
• Wash bedding, pillows and linens
• Organize closets and drawers
• Vacuum chair, couches and mattresses as well as under cushions
• Dust shelves and decor
• Clean light fixtures and lampshades
OUTDOOR AREAS
• Power wash patios, sidewalks and driveways
A simple shift from “volcano” to “donut” mulching can make all the difference to protect your trees and support their long-term growth.
for proper oxygen exchange for the roots. It also helps provide stability. Keeping mulch away from the flare ensures the roots have adequate oxygen for good growth and development.
The depth of mulch matters too. Applying more than 4 inches can encourage adventitious roots, those that grow from the trunk instead of the root system. Over time, adventitious roots can girdle the tree and interfere with water and nutrient movement through the trunk.
Volcano mulching can also create habitat for rodents like voles, giving them cover and easy
• Wipe down outdoor furniture and replace textiles like pillows, cushions and umbrellas
• Clear debris from garden beds
• Prune shrubs, plants and trees
• Organize garages and sheds
• Reconnect hoses and sprinklers
• Prep lawn equipment such as mowers, weed eaters and blowers
— Feature Impact
access to chew and girdle the tree’s trunk.
When applied properly, mulching does offer a number of benefits to trees. It helps retain moisture, moderates soil temperatures and prevents soil compaction. Mulches can suppress weeds that compete with the tree for water and nutrients. Importantly, mulches provide physical and visual buffers that keep lawn mowers and string trimmers at a safe distance from the tree’s trunk and roots. And, of course, many people enjoy the look of a well-mulched tree.
To avoid mulch volcanoes, there are some easy steps to take. First, take stock of the mulch already surrounding your trees. Bark mulch breaks down slowly and your trees may have ample mulch still in place. You can rake it out and refresh with a sprinkle of fresh mulch.
Instead of volcano, think donut! Mulch should be applied in a wide, even ring around the tree, at least 3 inches away from the root flare and extending to the tree’s
PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Full-service plumbing for new construction, renovations, and service work. Includes water and drainage piping, water heaters, and complete system installations.
HEATING SYSTEMS (BOILERS & FURNACES)
Efficient, reliable heating systems designed for Vermont conditions. Boiler and furnace installation, replacement, and system upgrades.
AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT PUMPS
Professional installation and replacement of air conditioning systems and heat pump mini-splits for homes and businesses.
COMMERCIAL PLUMBING, HEATING & HVAC
Installation and service of plumbing, heating, and cooling systems for commercial buildings and facilities.
PIPE WELDING & MECHANICAL PIPING
Specialized pipe welding for hydronic, gas, and mechanical systems, including fabrication and field installation.
An example of volcano mulching — a practice detrimental to trees. When piled against the bark, mulch traps moisture, encouraging decay and providing entry points for insects and diseases.
PHOTO BY DEBRA HELEBA
see MULCH page 10
Backyard burning reminders for wildland fire season
With spring cleaning underway, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is offering guidelines for backyard open burning with public health, safety and the environment in mind.
“Open burning releases toxins and particulate matter that can harm our health, air quality and environment,” said DEC Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli. “By following a few simple guidelines, Vermonters can help reduce these health and environmental impacts.”
In recent years, higher summer temperatures and drought have led to increased wildland fire risk in Vermont. Last season, Vermont had 84 wildland fires, the majority of which were caused by human activity, according to Vermont Forest, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Danielle Fitzko.
“Burning debris is the leading cause of wildland fires in Vermont, underscoring the critical importance of proactive measures,” Fitzko said.
To minimize the harmful impacts of smoke and reduce wildland fire risks, remember to:
— Get a permit to kindle by contacting
your Town Forest Fire Warden. You need a permit to burn legal materials such as tree limbs and branches.
— Consider alternatives to open burning such as chipping, composting or making a brush pile for wildlife.
— Check the latest wildland fire situation. Review the state’s fire danger forecast and the wildland fire situation update. Postpone burning during periods of moderate or higher fire danger. Sign up for daily fire danger alerts.
— Check the air quality forecast. Postpone burning if atmospheric conditions are not favorable to disperse the smoke, or if the air quality index is moderate or worse.
— Reduce air pollution. Check wind speed and direction before burning to minimize impacts on neighboring properties. Avoid burning green materials; allow them to dry first.
— Never burn trash, including paper, cardboard, tires, plywood, pressboard, asphalt shingles, plastics, or treated wood. Burning trash is harmful and illegal.
— Never leave a fire unattended. Ensure the fire is cool and cannot re-ignite.
— Report wildland fires immediately by calling 911.
“Our best suggestion is to avoid burning altogether and let the materials decompose naturally,” said John Wakefield, Compliance Section Chief for the DEC Air Quality and Climate Division.
On-premise or backyard burning of brush, deadwood, or tree cuttings collected from normal property maintenance is allowed under Vermont Air Pollution Control Regulations, if no public or private nuisance, such as excessive smoke, is created.
To get permission for backyard burning, obtain a permit to kindle from your Town Forest Fire Warden.
You may also need an open air burning permit from DEC when burning other materials, including wood waste from demolition activities at a business, industry, farm or a private residence.
Learn more about open burning at https:// dec.vermont.gov/air-quality/compliance/ open-burning/backyard-burning.
drip zone, the area beneath the tree’s outermost canopy. It should be applied no more than 2 to 4 inches deep. Many arborists recommend the 3-3-3 method of mulching to mature trees: at least 3 inches from the trunk, no more than 3 inches deep, and 3 feet in diameter to protect the majority of the root zone.
A simple shift from “volcano” to “donut” mulching can make all the difference to protect your trees and support their long-term growth. For more information on tree care, visit the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry program at: https://vtcommunityforestry.org.
For answers to home gardening and landscape questions, contact the University of Vermont Extension Master Gardener Helpline online at https://go.uvm.edu/gardenhelpline or by phone at (802) 656-5421. The phone line is open on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Debra Heleba is the statewide outreach and education program manager for the UVM Extension Community Horticulture Program and leads the Extension Master Gardener and Vermont Master Composter programs.
To Plant
Vermont’s Finest Plant Nursery
Overdose deaths in Vermont drop by 25%
BY BRENDAN ROSE VTDigger
Deaths in Vermont caused by overdoses dropped 25% in 2025 compared with the previous year, continuing a steady decline since 2022, according to a yearly report published by the Vermont Department of Health.
The report, which tracks the number of deaths reported due to overdoses and what drugs caused the overdoses, found that 170 Vermonters died from overdose in 2025, which is a 37% decrease in overdose deaths following a historic peak in 2022 with 269 deaths. The data is preliminary, the report said, noting that 12 death certificates were pending at the time of the analysis.
“It’s encouraging to see the number of overdose deaths declining in Vermont. However, we can’t let our foot off the gas because there’s still more work to be done to help those struggling with addiction,” Gov. Phil Scott said last Thursday in a press release announcing the report.
“We’ll continue to invest in proven strategies because overdose deaths have impacted far too many Vermonters and families,” he wrote.
Overdose deaths in 2025 were mainly caused by opioids like fentanyl, often in combination with stimulants like cocaine, the report found. The number of deaths involving most substances sharply decreased from 2024 to 2025. Most significantly, Xylazine-involved deaths decreased 67% from 76 in 2024 to 25 in 2025.
Xylazine, a veterinary drug not approved for human use, became a common additive to street opioids and was a significant contributor to accidental overdoses in 2022. The tranquilizer meant for animals is not affected by opioid overdose reversal medications like Naloxone, making it especially dangerous.
The decrease in deaths in Vermont is part of a larger national trend, according to Vermont Department of Health Interim Deputy Commissioner Shayla Livingston. Yet Vermont has seen one of the steepest drops in the nation, according to preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“No overdose death should ever be reduced to a statistic. Each one represents a person whose life was cut far too short,” said Health Commissioner Rick Hildebrant in
a press release. “At the same time, this sustained decrease in overdose deaths is a meaningful milestone and reinforces our guiding principles in how we approach substance use disorder: prevention works, treatment is effective and people recover.”
Vermont has made significant investment to combat overdoses and has received millions from opioid manufacturer settlements, which have helped pay for programs across the state.
“Our treatment, our intervention, our harm reduction, our recovery services, those are working,” Livingston said. “It’s really important that we continue that work and
that we don’t let up.”
Livingston said there is also a decrease in the number of people showing up to emergency rooms with nonfatal overdoses, but that may not show the whole picture of opioid use, in large part because of the accessibility to Naloxone. More people are able to reverse overdoses outside of a hospital setting, either at home or with intervention from a community member, according to Livingston.
Yet preventing a death gives a person a chance to access the state’s treatment and recovery infrastructure.
“I think there can be a lot of empathy fatigue with this disease, and
I understand that, but I think it’s really critical that we think about it as a chronic illness, and that we remind people that people recover,”
Livingston said.
“Every time somebody doesn’t die, that means we get another chance,” she said.
Overdose deaths in Vermont decreased by 25% in 2025, according to a recently published annual report by the Vermont Department of Health.
Not easy on the green
CVU’s Heather Pelletier, below, escapes a pack of Wolves during the Redhawks’ 6 - 5 loss to South Burlington on Saturday in South Burlington. Ava O’Brien, top right, sprints the ball up field. The team celebrates a Chloe Crowder goal.
Vermont vs. Trump — what have lawsuits accomplished?
BY ERIN PETENKO VTDigger
During the first Trump administration from 2017 to 2021, the Vermont attorney general’s office joined in on 54 lawsuits against the federal government, according to data provided by the office.
Fifteen months into Trump’s second term, the state has joined 49 lawsuits against his administration, making Vermont well on track to beat its previous total. The latest: Vermont joined a coalition of 14 states and local governments suing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over its failure to implement standards governing soot.
Jared Carter, a Vermont Law School professor and constitutional law expert, said the rate is “unprecedented” — but he was clear that it isn’t really Vermont that’s acting in an unprecedented manner.
“My view is that these are a response to unprecedented actions by the federal government,” he said. “The scope of what the Trump administration has attempted to do through executive action, for example, is pretty astounding.”
Vermont has joined suits challenging everything from Trump’s tariffs to federal workforce layoffs to the rollback of gender-affirming healthcare, cases that, if successful, could preserve tens of millions of dollars in federal funding for state programs and protect services that Vermonters rely on. But in the winding legal system, whether early courtroom wins translate into lasting results remains to be seen.
Attorney General Charity Clark and her office have joined in on a wide range of lawsuits generated by multistate coalitions dedicated to pushing back on Trump’s allegedly illegal actions.
“Over the past fifteen months, I truly believe that state attorneys general have served as a bulwark, protecting the Constitution and the rule of law, by blocking dozens of unconstitutional and illegal acts by the Trump Administration,” said Clark, who has served in the role since 2023, in a statement. Clark declined to be interviewed in the story, citing scheduling conflicts.
In an email, Gov. Phil Scott’s press secretary, Amanda Wheeler, said there have been instances where Scott has agreed with Clark’s decision to sign onto lawsuits from other states. There have been times when the two conflicted. In 2025, Clark implied Scott had stalled electric vehicle funds stemming from a lawsuit.
“In some cases, we’ve seen the positive outcomes of those lawsuits which is good news for Vermont,” Wheeler said.
She added, “The Governor has been clear that when it comes to the Trump Administration, he’ll continue to call balls and strikes and stand up for what’s in the best interest of Vermont and Vermonters.”
A gender-affirming care lawsuit has become one of the state’s most clear-cut successes: A federal judge ruled in favor of the coalition on April 18, blocking a rule that would have restricted gender-affirming care for minors.
“This decision is a victory in our ongoing fight for bodily autonomy and the rights
of transgender youth,” said Clark in a statement. “We will continue to fight to ensure that gender-affirming care remains safe, effective and protected.”
But according to a document provided by Amelia Vath, Clark’s senior advisor, few lawsuits have had such a definitive victory. In 19 of the 49 cases, federal judges have ruled in Vermont’s favor, but most of those still have the possibility of an appeal.
“In law, we learn never to pop the champagne bottle,” Carter said. “It’s always going to be an ongoing legal battle.”
Yet looking at the lawsuits so far, he said he believes Vermont has a good “batting average” on the suits it’s part of.
“When you see things like courts granting preliminary injunctions, what that means is a court is telling the Trump administration, ‘You cannot do this,’ or they’re telling the Trump administration, ‘You must do this,’” he said. “So a preliminary injunction is a win for a plaintiff like the State of Vermont and all the other states.”
Even after a win, enforcing court orders has been a challenge with Trump, Carter said. The U.S. Department of Justice “does his bidding” to find loopholes in judicial decisions.
“I think the Trump administration has taken that” to another level “when it comes to trying to figure out ways to work around decisions of the Supreme Court,” he said.
He gave the example of Trump’s tariffs on imported international goods. Vermont was a part of the case in which the Supreme
Court struck down the tariffs in March. Trump then immediately attempted to impose new tariffs, leading to yet another lawsuit Vermont joined.
Only two cases have been total failures, according to the attorney general’s records. One was a suit challenging the Trump administration’s defunding of Planned Parenthood, which the plaintiffs withdrew in March. The other was a suit attempting to block mass layoffs of federal employees, a decision one circuit court blocked but another overturned on appeal.
Vermont has yet to take the lead on any of the cases it’s joined, according to the attorney general’s records. It has also joined just a small part of the more than 700 lawsuits against the Trump administration, including 84 led by state plaintiffs, according to Just Security, a law and policy journal.
According to the attorney general’s records, 16 of the lawsuits explicitly mention funding for state programs or federal programs that provide services to Vermonters, such as federal food assistance, natural disaster aid and energy programs.
“Because of these lawsuits, my office has brought back tens of millions of dollars that were illegally withheld from Vermont,” Clark said in her statement. “I am very proud of the hardworking and patriotic lawyers in my office and our united mission to protect Vermont and our country.”
Carter said the direct financial consequences of Trump’s actions mean that these lawsuits seem like a good return on investment. Even non-financial lawsuits are important, though, because they rest on principles of equity and the rule of law, he said.
“Even if you just got a preliminary injunction, and it doesn’t result in money coming into the state, you still stood up on the right side of history and said, ‘What’s going on here is not legal,’” he said.
Carter himself has taken part in legal actions against the federal government before. He said that filing a suit against powerful figures like the president could be “intimidating,” but he also found it empowering.
“Plaintiffs with strong legal arguments and conviction in their constitutional rights can be more powerful than the president,” he said.
Vermont Attorney General Charity Clark FILE PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER
WILLISTON POLICE
April 5 at 1:44 p.m. — Speed enforcement on Industrial Avenue. Four traffic stops conducted resulting in warnings for driving over the speed limit.
April 5 at 4:08 p.m. — Neighbor dispute at Falcon Manor. Parties were separated.
April 6 at 1:43 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 6 at 2:59 p.m. — Argument at Zephyr Place. Female suspect was issued a citation to appear in court for criminal threatening.
April 6 at 4:51 p.m. — Report of males arguing at Zephyr Place. One male was not a tenant there and was issued a notice of trespass.
April 7 at 8:46 a.m. — Report of two males sleeping in a shed at Home Depot. After investigation it was revealed that one male had an active arrest warrant. The male was also issued a citation to appear in court for violation of conditions of release and false information to a police officer.
April 7 at 9:05 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 7 at 7:41 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy.
WILLISTON FIRE DEPT.
Call responses, May 1–6
Thursday, May 1
• At 11:10 a.m., firefighters were dispatched to West Street in Essex Junction for a reported incident that was canceled before crews arrived.
• At 3:12 p.m., crews responded to Williston Road for a hazardous situation involving a motor vehicle collision.
• At 7:51 p.m., a call to Maple Street in Essex Junction City was canceled.
• At 8:11 p.m., firefighters provided standby public service assistance on Marshall Avenue in Williston.
Friday, May 2
• At 9:32 a.m., crews assisted a resident with a lift assist call at Blair Park Road.
• At 11:47 a.m., firefighters investigated a fire or smoke alarm activation on Tyler Way.
• At 2:17 p.m., a response to Barber Farm Road in Jericho was canceled before arrival.
• At 9:08 p.m., crews responded to Eagle Crest for an accidental fire alarm activation.
• At 10:44 p.m., firefighters were dispatched to Bittersweet Circle, but no incident was found upon arrival.
Saturday, May 3
• At 10:59 a.m., a call on Lincoln Hill Road in
Female suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 8 at 1:36 p.m. — Death investigation conducted. Nothing suspicious.
April 8 at 5:35 p.m. — Report of a stolen wallet on Boxwood Street. Case is still under investigation.
April 9 at 2:42 p.m. — VIN verification conducted.
April 9 at 4:17 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 10 at 2:10 p.m. — Vehicle broke down at the intersection of Mountain View Road and Essex Road. Vehicle was towed.
April 10 at 2:24 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft and unlawful trespass.
April 11 at 12:41 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 11 at 3:17 p.m. — Suspicious male at Dick’s Sporting goods. Male suspect was located and issued a notice of trespass.
April 11 at 11:31 p.m. — Traffic stop conducted. Male operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
Officers also responded to seven alarm activations, 10 motor vehicle crashes and conducted 72 traffic stops during this time frame.
Huntington was canceled.
• At 12:22 p.m., firefighters investigated a report on Harvest Lane in Williston, but no emergency was found at the scene.
Sunday, May 4
• At 10:54 a.m., crews responded to Falcon Manor for a reported fire or smoke alarm.
Monday, May 5
• At 12:49 a.m., firefighters provided a lift assist for a resident at Falcon Manor.
• At 5:04 a.m., crews investigated a fire or smoke alarm at Cornerstone Drive.
• At 1:27 p.m., firefighters responded to an alarm activation at Eagle Crest.
• At 2:38 p.m., crews investigated a fire or smoke alarm at Market Street.
• At 3:04 p.m., firefighters extinguished a dumpster fire on Redmond Road.
Tuesday, May 6
• At 3:51 a.m., firefighters responded to a malfunctioning alarm at Cornerstone Drive.
• At 2:37 p.m., crews investigated a fire or smoke alarm on Redmond Road.
• At 3:32 p.m., firefighters responded to Tyler Way for a malfunctioning fire alarm.
• At 7:07 p.m., a call on Acorn Circle in Essex Junction City was canceled before arrival.
• At 7:57 p.m., crews responded to Tyler Way for a reported fire or smoke alarm.
These items represent the Williston Fire Department’s non-medical call responses. The department also responded to several medical emergencies during this time frame.
The President’s Own
Americans will celebrate Memorial Day on Monday, May 25. Memorial Day is a special day set aside to honor our service members who have lost their lives while serving in the military.
You might attend a parade or a concert where military bands play patriotic music. Military music has a long tradition. Thousands of years ago, the Greeks and Romans used drummers to help the troops march in step at the same speed.
Today, the branches of our military have bands that play to entertain and inspire those in the armed services as well as civilians. Military musicians are on active duty.
The U.S. Marine Band is our oldest professional musical organization, founded in 1798 by an act of Congress. It has grown from 32 members to about 130.
‘The President’s
Own’
In 1801, the U.S. Marine Band played for President Thomas Jefferson’s inauguration. He named it “The President’s Own.” It has played for every inauguration since.
The mission of the U.S. Marine Band is to play for the president of the United States. The band performs at concerts and ceremonial events
Mini Fact: Each branch of the U.S. military has a band that represents that part of the military.
as well. For instance, the band plays at the White House for the National Christmas Tree lighting, for the Easter Egg Roll and on Independence Day. Marine Band musicians appear at the White House about 200 times each year.
Joining the Marine Band
Musicians must audition to join the Marine Band. First, a musician performs behind a screen so that the judges can’t see him or her.
A committee from the band then interviews musicians chosen from the auditions. Once accepted, musicians join the Marine Corps. Members of this band are not asked to go into combat.
The uniform
Members of the U.S. Marine Band wear scarlet, or red, coats with blue or white pants or skirts. Their hats are white. These uniforms have been used since the Revolutionary War, when field musicians were used to send signals on the battlefield and in camp and needed to be easily recognizable.
Along with a large bearskin hat, the drum major wears a fancy sash across his chest called a baldric. He uses his mace, or staff, to signal directions to the musicians.
John Philip Sousa
Next Week: Summer reading
The 17th director of the Marine Band, John Philip Sousa (SOO-za), gets credit for developing the band to a high level of excellence. His father was a member of the Marine Band, and as a child he studied many instruments, but he loved the violin.
When John was just 13, he became an apprentice member of the Marine Band, and he remained a band member until he was 20.
In 1880, when Sousa was 26, he was offered the director position with the Marine Band. He was a strict director, and the band got better. Sousa also wrote many marches for bands. Eventually he became known as the March King. Listen for his music at Memorial Day or Independence Day celebrations.
bit.ly/41s7Mrq
youtu.be/YvnnzDgNj6o
the library:
“John Philip Sousa”
Try ’n’ Find
that remind us of the
Marine Band are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Mini Jokes
Mary: What’s the longest distance between two points? Mike: A parade!
Mitchell: How did the band fix a broken tuba? Maddie: With a tuba glue!
Founded by Betty Debnam
John Philip Sousa
The Sousaphone is named for John Philip Sousa.
Try ’n’ Find
Words that remind us of the U.S. Marine Band are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
1. Put beaten eggs in one small bowl and breadcrumbs in another.
2. Dip each tomato slice in the eggs and then in the breadcrumbs.
Mini Jokes
Mary: What’s the longest distance between two points? Mike: A parade!
Mitchell: How did the band fix a broken tuba? Maddie: With a tuba glue!
Eco Note
3. Place tomato slices side by side on a greased cookie sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Dot tops of tomatoes with butter.
4. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 15 minutes.
5. Remove from oven, sprinkle with cheese and paprika, and bake for 5 more minutes. Makes 4 servings.
You’ll
Nineteen cities across Europe, North America and Asia — including London, San Francisco and Beijing — have cut dangerous air pollutants by at least 20% since 2010, with some reducing levels of fine particles and nitrogen dioxide by nearly 45%, according to new research from the Breathe Cities initiative. Measures such as low emission zones, adoption of electric vehicles, cleaner home heating and expanded routes dedicated to cycling were credited with the gains. Beijing and Warsaw led reductions in fine particulate pollution, while Amsterdam and Rotterdam achieved some of the steepest declines in nitrogen dioxide generated by vehicle traffic.
For later:
Look in your local newspaper for items about Memorial Day events coming up in your area.
By Jim Miller
Dear Savvy Senior,
My wife and I are approaching 65, but I’m still working and have good health coverage through my employer. Do we need to enroll in Medicare at this point?
— Almost 65
Dear Almost,
If you or your spouse is still working past age 65 and have health insurance through your job, you may be able to delay enrolling in Medicare without a late enrollment penalty. However, the rules depend largely on the size of your employer.
First, a quick refresher: Remember that original Medicare
SAVVY SENIOR
Still working at 65? How to handle Medicare
has two parts. Part A, which covers hospital care and is premium-free for most people. And Part B, which covers doctor visits, lab tests and outpatient care and has a monthly premium of $202 in 2026. Higherincome individuals (over $109,000) and couples (over $218,000) pay more.
If you’re already receiving Social Security, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Parts A and B when you turn 65, and your Medicare card will arrive in the mail. It will include instructions on how to return it if you have employer coverage that allows you to delay Part B.
IF YOU’RE STILL WORKING
Start by talking with your benefits manager or human resources department to understand how your employer insurance works with Medicare. In most cases, it makes sense to enroll in Part A since it’s free. However, if you contribute to a health savings account, enrolling in Part A will stop those contributions.
Whether you should enroll in Part B usually depends on your employer’s size.
SMALL EMPLOYER
If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare becomes your primary insurance. In this case, you should enroll in Part B during your initial enrollment period, which lasts seven months: the three months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and the three months after.
If you aren’t receiving Social Security, you’ll need to apply for Medicare. You can do this online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up, by phone at 800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.
If you miss your initial enrollment period, you’ll need to wait for the general enrollment period, which runs Jan. 1 through March 31. Coverage begins the first day of the month after you enroll, but a 10 percent penalty is added to your Part B premium for each full year you
waited. Signing up on time helps you avoid both coverage gaps and added costs.
LARGE EMPLOYER
If your employer has 20 or more employees, your group health plan remains your primary insurance while you’re actively working. In this case, you generally don’t need to enroll in Part B at 65 if your coverage is adequate. If you do enroll, Medicare will serve as secondary coverage.
Once your employment or employer coverage ends, you’ll have an eight-month special enrollment period to sign up for Part B without penalty.
CHECK DRUG COVERAGE
You should also review your prescription drug coverage. Ask your benefits manager if your employer’s plan is considered “creditable.” If it is, you don’t need to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan. If it isn’t, you should sign up for Part D during your initial enrollment period to
avoid a penalty — typically 1 percent of the national average premium for each month you delay.
You can compare Part D plans at medicare.gov/plan-compare.
NEED HELP?
For free guidance, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program at 877-839-2675 or shiphelp.org. You can also call the Medicare Rights Center helpline at 800-333-4114.
Navigating Medicare while you’re still working can be confusing, but a quick check with your employer and a clear understanding of the rules can help you avoid costly mistakes. Taking the time to get it right now will ensure you have the coverage you need, without unnecessary penalties down the road.
Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
TODAY’S HISTORY:
• In 1607, the Virginia Company of London established a colony at Jamestown, Virginia.
• In 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark left St. Louis and set out on their historic expedition to explore the land acquired in the Louisiana Purchase.
• In 1940, the Netherlands surrendered to Nazi Germany.
• In 1948, the state of Israel was proclaimed during a ceremony in Tel Aviv.
• In 1973, Skylab, the first American space station, was launched into orbit.
TODAY’S FACT:
• The United States paid a total of $15 million for the entire Louisiana Purchase -- a little more than $18 per square mile.
Richard Labrecque
Richard Paul Labrecque, age 85, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2026, at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester.
Known affectionately to all as “Dick,” he was born in Boston, MA, on April 3, 1941. He was later adopted from St. Joseph’s Orphanage in Burlington by Paul and Emily Labrecque of West Charleston, VT.
Dick graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Newport in 1959 and went on to pursue a career in finance, earning an Associate Degree from Champlain College and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Trinity College. After a brief tenure with the State of Vermont, he began a distinguished 30-year career at IBM, retiring in 1995.
In 1962, Dick married the love of his life, Jackie. Together they built a beautiful life, welcoming their son, Wade, in 1967 and their daughter, Lori, a year later.
After his retirement from IBM—and much to the relief of Jackie, who worried about him being left to his own devices at home—Dick
OBITUARIES
embarked on new adventures. He worked for a carrier service delivering across Vermont before finding a deeper calling in healthcare. He became a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) and worked for the Visiting Nurse Association, eventually transitioning from individual cases to volunteering his time at the Respite House.
A man of many passions, Dick was a dedicated member of the Green Mountain Chorus for decades and a long-time usher for the Lyric Theatre. He was a talented gardener and ceramic artist, but he found his greatest joy in quilting, a craft he practiced up until the final week of his life.
Dick and Jackie cherished their time with family and friends, whether they were traveling across the country or hosting summer barbecues by the pool.
Dick’s faith was a cornerstone of his life; he was a devoted member of St. Joseph’s and later St. John Vianney. As a Eucharistic Minister, he took great pride in bringing communion and companionship to shut-ins, and as a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, he dearly valued the camaraderie of his brothers and their many bingo nights.
Dick is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Jackie; his son, Wade and wife Debra Brewbaker; his daughter, Lori, and husband Marcel Whipple; and his grandchildren, Ethan and Leela.
Later in life, Dick was blessed to connect with his biological family, gaining a whole new circle of brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Emily Labrecque; his brother, Ronald; his mother-in-law, Marion Joyal; his fatherin-law, Omar Joyal; and his grandson, Luke Whipple.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on May 12, 2026, at Saint John Vianney Church in South Burlington followed by an inurement at Resurrection Park Mausoleum.
Arrangements are in the care of the Ready Funeral and Cremation Services. To send online condolences please visit www.readyfuneral .com.
Joella Horton
Joella (Jody) Sweeney Horton — July 26, 1940 to April 20, 2026 — was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to many! She passed peacefully in her sleep at home.
She was born in Derry, NH to the late Virginia and Thomas Sweeney. She graduated from Poultney High School in 1958 and then went on to UVM and Castleton Colleges. She taught in the school systems in Vermont and Massachusetts, worked retail and was employed for 25 years at IBM in Essex, Vt.
After her retirement from IBM, she worked in the Williston school lunch program for a few years. Jody was a very generous person and donated to charities that she believed in, throughout her life.
Jody was loved by so many that are too numerous to mention, but they know who they are. She loved time spent with family and friends and hosted many gatherings. She was a fantastic cook and also loved crafting, gardening, playing cards and traveling. One of Jody’s specialties was her homemade Kahlua. Her infectious smile, contagious laugh, along with her sparkly outfits could instantly light up a room upon entering.
Her family meant everything to her. She was so proud when she became a grandmother and especially so when she became a great-grandmother. She is survived by her children; Thomas Horton of Williston, and Eva and Anthony J. Pellegrino of Colchester; grandchildren, Anthony Pellegrino of Milton, Emily Horton Cardinal (Mason)of Belvidere, Ethan Pellegrino (Jaylin) of Essex, Ella Pellegrino of Somerville, Ma.; and great-grandson, Wilder Cardinal of Belvidere; sister, Linda Sweeney Jackson (Tony) of Columbus, Ohio; brotherin-law, Ronald Vaughn (Vicky) from Poultney and nieces and nephews, Lisa Lamarre (Jason), from Granville, NY; Ryan Gorton of Rutland, Ginger Vaughn (Denver) fromWhitehall. NY; and her lifelong canine companion Chloe; plus numerous other extended family members.
She was predeceased by both parents, her
former husband, Chesley Horton of Hinesburg in 2002, and her sister, Vicky Vaughn from Poultney in 2023
A Celebration Of Life will be announced at a later date.
Pauline Dumas O’Brien
Pauline Dumas O’Brien, 91, of Williston was called home by God and now rests in peace. She passed peacefully on April 30, 2026 at McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester. Pauline was born on Jan. 16, 1935, at the family farm in So. Burlington. She was the daughter of Mose and Hildred (Broadwell) Dumas. She attended So. Burlington schools and graduated from Cathedral High School. In 1951, she married Gordon “Bud” O’Brien, with whom she shared many loving years and raised four children: Kim O’Brien Corley (Mike Corley), Kevin O’Brien (Caroline), Sean O’Brien, and Colleen O’Brien Matte (Paul Matte). Gordon “Bud” O’Brien predeceased her in 1990.
Pauline discovered a passion for hospitality and later went on to own and operate two small motels with her husband Bud. Pauline took great pride in her work, creating welcoming space for travelers and building lasting relationships with guests who often returned year after year. Her motels were known not only for their cleanliness and charm, but for the warmth and kindness she and Bud extended to everyone who walked through her doors.
Above all, Pauline’s greatest devotion was to her family, especially her beloved son, Sean. With unwavering strength and love, she dedicated her life to his care, ensuring he had every opportunity for comfort, dignity, and happiness.
She is survived by many grandchildren, Liza deTuro, Alice Cassano, Emily Corley, Justin O’Brien, and Travis Matte. Pauline will be sorely missed by her sister and best friend, Beatrice Carroll of South Hero.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to McClure Miller Respite House, 3113 Roosevelt Hwy., Colchester, VT 05446, and Box of LOVE, Knights of Columbus, 438 Church Rd., Colchester, VT 05446.
At the convenience of the family a burial will be at Resurrection Park Cemetery in So. Burlington on a future date. Arrangements are in care of LaVigne Funeral & Cremation Service. To send condolences to her family please visit www.vtfuneralhomes.com.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Plots are available in the Williston Community off Mountain View Road. Register for your plot online at willistonrec. org or by coming to the Parks and Rec office in Town Hall. Plots of various sizes are available, including two raised beds recently installed as an Eagle Scout project by Zach Pratt.
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
Ages 18-plus. This Cornhole Tournament is a fundraiser for the R. Fortin Memorial Scholarship Fund. Grab a partner and toss your way to victory. The tournament is a 16-team, double-elimination format to be held on Saturday, June 13 from 12-5 p.m. Pre-registration is required at willistonrec.org.
KIDS’ FEST
A kids’ festival is scheduled for Saturday, May 16 from 12-2 p.m. at Village Community Park, 250 Library Lane. The event is part of the National Parks Trust’s Kids to Parks Day.
There will be children’s activities, games, giveaways and food! This free event is sponsored by Upward Lift.
ADULT PROGRAMS
PICKLEBALL 101
Focus on the fundamentals of pickleball, including shot selection, court strategy, drills and playtime. Bring a paddle or borrow a loaner. This clinic is intended for players who already know the rules. Instructor: Corey Gottfried. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, May 26-28, 5:307:30 p.m., $75
RETIREMENT PLANNING SEMINAR
Whether you are beginning to plan for retirement or want to make sure you are on the right path, this session will help you understand the key steps to create a secure and enjoyable future. Instructor: Hammond Iles Wealth Advisors staff. Thursday, June 4, 5-6:30 p.m. $10.
ARGENTINE TANGO INTRO
Tango is a walking and turning collaboration with another dancer. Come and learn the basics. Program time includes 30 minutes of practice and one hour of instruction. Wear shoes that slide on a floor. Instructor: Michael Kiey. Monday June 1, 6:30-8 p.m. $5
FRENCH FOR TRAVELERS
Whether you are planning a trip to Montréal, Quebec City or Paris, this fun and interactive class will help you in your upcoming travels. You will learn to introduce yourself, make small talk, order food in a restaurant, ask directions and shop for souvenirs. The class is taught by an experienced teacher who has lived in France. Some previous language study is required. Instructor: Louis Giancola. Tuesdays, June 9-30, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $42.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
TRACK & FIELD
Ages 6-14. Participants will learn the basics of running, jumping, throwing and relays. There will be meets with other area Rec. Department teams. Practices are Monday and Wednesday evenings. Athletes ages 7-14 will have the opportunity to participate in a state championship on Saturday, July 18. Director: Catherine Moller. Mondays and Wednesdays, June 15-July 15, 6-7:30 p.m., $60.
60 Ethan Allen Drive South Burlington, VT 05403
LIVE FORECLOSURE AUCTION: Built in 1986, this property sits on 1.18± acres and offers a prime opportunity to acquire commercial real estate in one of Vermont’s most active and desirable business corridors, with convenient access to major routes, retail centers, and the greater Burlington area.
CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL
TOWN OF WILLISTON Notice of Adoption
On May 5, 2026, following a public hearing, the Williston Selectboard adopted an amendment to the Sewer Allocation Ordinance referred to as “Attachment A” - an existing ordinance pertaining to the allocation of sewer system capacity. 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, 2026.
The approved amendment is as follows:
EMAILED
ADVERTISING
Phone: 802-888-4662
The amendment to this ordinance will take effect on July 4, 2026, unless a petition signed by at least five percent of the voters of Williston is filed with the Town Clerk by June 18, 2026, asking for a vote to disapprove the adoption. If a petition
is received, the Selectboard will warn a special meeting and the voters may vote on that question pursuant to 24 V.S.A. § 1973. Copies of the text of the complete ordinance are available on the Town’s website at https://town.williston. vt.us. (Public Records & DocumentsOrdinances).
The application is available for inspection at the Town Clerk’s office by appointment. Please contact Town Clerk, Lisa Laramee, at townclerk@stgeorgevt.com or 802482-5272 for an appointment. To submit written testimony, please contact Acting Zoning Administrator Maya Holmes, at zoning@stgeorgevt.com.
Email: Advertising@THCAuction.com
To: Rick & Susan Cote Paper: Williston Observer Max Length 12.5
Any questions about this ordinance amendment should be directed to Matt Boulanger, Planning Director by mail at 7900 Williston Road, Williston, VT 05495; email mboulanger@willistonvt. org; or phone (802) 878-6704.
Dated at Williston, Vermont this 7th day of May 2026.
LEGAL
TODAY’S DATE: 05/07/2026
NAME
TOWN OF SAINT GEORGE DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD
Notice of Public Hearing
SIZE OF AD: 1/16 page (2” x 5”)
Participation in the hearing is necessary to establish status as an ‘interested person’ and the right to appeal a decision rendered in that hearing, according to the provisions of 24 V.S.A. 117 §§4465(b) and 4471(a).
Participation consists of offering, through oral or written testimony, evidence or a statement of concern directly related to the subject of the hearing.
Runs great/drives well. 207,417 miles. Very clean underneath.
TRANSMISSION IS MISSING 3RD AND 4TH. Needs rockers under plastics and passenger-side window and wing mirror. No middle seats.
$1,100/ Bill of sale only. More photos/info/contact
EMAILED TO: Rick@Willistonobserver.com
Publishes in Williston Observer
The Development Review Board will convene a public hearing at 6:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, in accordance with the provisions of §7.10 of the Town’s Land Use Regulations and 24 V.S.A. §4460(e)(8) for a Final 2-Lot Subdivision hearing regarding an application by Sarah & Marc Tischler. The application involves the creation of a 10-acre lot for subsequent development of a single-family dwelling.
SECTION:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85786269072
Meeting ID: 857 8626 9072
Dial by your location
• +1 646 931 3860 US • +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
https://www.facebook.com/ share/18D9qXQUwT/
On May 21st at 9:00 am on www.storageauctions.com The contents of the following units consisting of furniture, household goods and miscellaneous personal property will be SOLD to satisfy the lien of U-HAUL as self-storage operators. This Sale Is Held Under The Uniform
LAND MAINTENANCE
Forestry Mulching Services for private and commercial projects
Visit our website for more information: www.vtlandmaintenance.com Email: vtlandmaintenance@gmail.com
Brian Washburn
802-434-4533 • 802-373-1755 (cell)
Brian Washburn: 802-434-5533 • 802-373-1755 (cell)
is most often seen in raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, but unvaccinated pets and livestock can also get rabies. The virus is spread through the bite of an infected animal or contact with its RABIES BAIT continued from page 2
BAIT continued from page 2
saliva. If left untreated, rabies is almost always fatal in humans and animals. However, treatment with the rabies vaccine is nearly 100 percent effective when given soon after a person is bitten by a rabid animal.
ways
continued
So far this year, 23 animals in Vermont have tested positive for rabies, and 14 of those have been raccoons.
The week-long bait drop is a cooperative effort between Vermont and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services to stop the spread of the potentially fatal disease.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease of the brain that infects mammals. It is most often seen in raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, but unvaccinated pets and livestock can also get rabies. The virus is spread through the bite of an infected animal or contact with its
According to wildlife officials, rabid animals often show a change in their normal behavior, but you cannot tell whether an animal has rabies simply by looking at it. People should not touch or pick up wild animals or strays – even baby animals.
from
Shelburne display lead dors from creemees.
When social activities feel overwhelming, being happy and connected can seem impossible. Guidance and support from the Stern Center can help your child gain confidence, learn to connect, and build friendships.
Choose one-to-one or a small group. Openings available now and for summer.
CLOCKWISE (l to r): Pastor Paul Eyer, left, accepts a donation from Carlos Mejia at the Williston Federated Church Food Drive on May 9. Donna Goodheart delivers a donation.
Paul Bouchard mans the weigh station. Boxes were lined up along the church waiting for food to be sorted.
