Parking on the pitch
hot air
PHOTO BY KEVIN BROCHU
Town launches housing grant programs
Selectboard approves uses for Housing Trust Fund
BY JASON STARR Observer staff
The Williston Housing Committee will begin taking applications in July for two new housing programs approved by the selectboard earlier this month.
The board launched both a housing retention and housing improvement program for Williston residents as part of its May 6 adoption of a Williston Housing Trust Fund policy. The trust fund was established in 2017 to support housing affordability, and the board empaneled the housing committee in 2023 to recommend potential uses.
“Past efforts to incentivize the creation of affordable housing
have had mixed results,” the policy states. “Because of this, the selectboard decided several years ago the town should be taking a more active role in stimulating and supporting the development of affordable housing.”
The May 6 approval releases $40,000 in the new fiscal year beginning in July, split equally between the two programs. The housing retention program will offer grants of up to two month’s rent or mortgage payment to “households or individuals at risk of losing their current housing due to financial hardship,” the policy states.
“There’s a lot of people who run into tough luck. Sometimes just a helping hand is all they need to keep going,” board member Mike Isham said.
The housing improvement
see HOUSING page 8
Champlain Valley schools go cellphone free
School board steps aside as administrators draft phone ban plan
BY JASON STARR Observer staff
As the school year comes to a close, so does the era of students using cellphones in class, cafeterias and hallways in Champlain
Valley School District buildings.
School administrators capped months of inquiry into the possibility of banning phones with a presentation during last Tuesday’s school board meeting of their draft phone regulations for next year. In short, phones are to be out of sight from “bell to bell.”
“The expectation is, if phones are out, they will be taken until
“The expectation is, if phones are out, they will be taken until the end of the day.”
Katherine Riley CVU principal
NOW SERVING BREAKFAST
the end of the day,” CVU principal Katherine Riley said. “The consequences ramp up” for repeat offenders.
Phone free rules are already in place at the elementary and middle school levels of the district. They will be a change at the high school, where students currently are free to use phones while not in class; however, even in-class enforcement
has become inconsistent.
In an April survey of teachers, nearly 90 percent supported stricter regulation of student phone use at CVU. A survey on the subject emailed to parents in April showed 73 percent support for a phone free environment in school buildings, according to Riley.
“I think it’s very clear there
see PHONES page 8
A
balloon ride ended with a landing on the soccer fields at Village Community Park behind Williston Central School on Memorial Day. The passengers were a couple from Massachusetts celebrating their engagement. Park-goers helped with the landing and packing up the balloon.
‘Memorial Day asks something more of us’
BY SUSAN COTE Observer staff
About 80 people gathered at the small War Memorial Park that sits between Williston’s Town Hall and Town Hall Annex on Monday morning to remember and honor those who died while in service to our country.
The Memorial Day Observance, hosted by the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club and the Town of Williston, began with music as members of the community and Williston’s
Matthew Casey (left) of Williston addresses the Memorial Day gathering hosted by the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club in the Village Monday morning. Corey Caulfield (above), who researched the names of veterans who are buried in Williston cemeteries for his Eagle Scout project, contributed to the list of those honored that day. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
meaning of their sacrifice and our responsibility to carry that forward.”
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
EMAIL EVENT LISTINGS TO EDITOR@WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM
THURSDAY, MAY 29
Williston-Richmond Rotary Club breakfast and speaker ♦ 7:15 a.m. Clay Nicholson, captain of CVU robotics team, speaks about STEM experiences. Williston Federated Church. RSVP to RotaryClubofWillistonVT@gmail.com.
police and fire departments gathered.
In his invocation, retired pastor Gary Lewis offered, “Our heartfelt thank you to all who have lost their lives in service to our country and its founding principles — virtues of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness — where freedom and justice for all are not just words to be recited, but a motivating call to make life better for everyone.”
“Memorial Day asks something more of us,” Williston resident Matthew Casey told the gathering. “It asks us to pause, not to just remember the fallen, but to consider the
Around Town
Registration opens for Beckett 5K and Kids Run
Registration for the 2025 Deb Beckett Memorial 5K Run and Walk, sponsored by the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club and Williston Recreation and Parks, is open at https://willistonvt.myrec.com.
The July 5 event will take place at Village Community Park for runners and walkers of all levels. The deadline for preregistration is June 22.
In addition to the 5K, the event will also feature both a half-mile and a one-mile Kids Run for children ages 4-12 years. The 5K is also open to children. Race day check in will begin at 7:30 a.m. Races are set to start at 8:30 a.m.
State
parks passports available from Town Clerk
The Williston Town Clerk’s office reminds town residents of the availability of $2 lifelong day passes to all Vermont State Parks and historic sites. Vermont residents at least 62 years of age, and-or Vermont veterans of military service are eligible for these “Green Mountain Passports.” Visit the clerk’s office at Town Hall to fill out an application.
Get ready for Richmond Father’s Day fishing derby
Participants show their catch during last year’s Father’s Day fishing derby in Richmond. This year’s derby is set for Sunday, June 15.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Chittenden County Fish & Game Club in Jonesville will host a Father’s Day Fishing Derby on Sunday, June 15 from 8 a.m.-noon. Trophies will be awarded by age groups for kids ages 5-14 years. Admission is free.
The club’s address is 1397 Wes White Hill Rd. in Richmond. To get there, turn off Route 2 in Jonesville, cross the bridge over the river, take the second left at Wes White Hill Road and continue 1.25 miles up to an entrance on the left. Signs will be posted.
“It’s easy to let remembrance remain a quiet and internal act … Yet memory, especially collective memory, is not only meant to be passive. It’s meant to shape us, to change us, and to make demands on how we live,” he continued.
“We are called not only honor the dead, but to live lives that honor their sacrifice by upholding the values they served to defend: liberty, dignity, justice and service.”
Following a reading of the names of deceased veterans by members of the Rotary Club, Luke Buehler performed “Taps” to close out the ceremony.
Route 2A culvert replacement to slow traffic
Work crews have begun a replacement project for a deteriorating culvert pipe under Route 2A near the Exit 12 interchange of Interstate 89 at Maple Tree Place.
The work is expected to reduce travel lanes during daytime hours through June.
Williston’s Vogel among new Habitat board members
Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity has added three new members to its Board of Directors: Judy Bickford, Kathy Lavoie and John Vogel.
Vogel, of Williston, is a retired professor from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, where he taught real estate and nonprofit management. He previously taught at Harvard Business School and the Yale School of Management. He currently serves on the board of Evernorth and the Vermont Community Foundation and works as a consultant to businesses, nonprofits and government agencies.
Bickford, of Morrisville, previously served on the Lamoille County Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors. Lavoie, of Swanton, was a state legislator from 2000-2008.
“We are excited to have these talented, dedicated individuals on our board,” said Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity CEO David Mullin. “Their skills will help us further our impact as we work toward building 10 homes a year.”
Visit www.vermonthabitat.org for more information.
Heat Pumps 101 ♦ Learn about replacing or upgrading your home heating system with heat pumps. Hosted by the Williston Energy Committee. 6 p.m. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. More info at 878-6704.
SATURDAY, MAY 31
Bird walk with VT Master Naturalist Terry Marron ♦ 8-10 a.m. Catamount Community Forest. Preregistration required at www.damlvt.org.
Kids Fest Rescheduled ♦ 12-2 p.m. Family-friendly activities and food at Village Community Park. First 100 families receive a free kite to decorate and fly.
TUESDAY, JUNE 3
Williston Selectboard meeting ♦ 7 p.m. Town Hall. Agenda at town.williston. vt.us.
MONDAY, JUNE 9
Williston Racial Equity Partnership meeting ♦ 6 p.m. Williston Community Justice Center at Town Hall. More information at (802) 764-1151.
JUNE 11-14
‘The Miser’ by Vermont Repertory Theatre ♦ Isham Barn Theatre. Tickets and information at theaterengine.com. productions/2825.
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
Eighth grade graduation ♦ 6:30 p.m. Williston Central School.
FRIDAY, JUNE 13
CVU High School graduation ♦ 2 p.m. Patrick Gymnasium at UVM.
Finney Crossing Marriott opens for business
A Marriott hotel that specializes in extended stays opened to guests last Monday in Williston’s Finney Crossing commercial and residential neighborhood. It is the only “TownePlace Suites by Marriott” in Vermont, taking the place of one about a mile away that was redeveloped in 2021 into affordable and transitional housing.
“We’re excited to welcome guests with the kind of hospitality
Vermont is known for,” said Sean Riley, CEO of Maine Course Hospitality Group, the Freeport, Maine, company that is operating the hotel.
Developed by Redstone company of Burlington, the hotel is located a stone’s throw from a Home 2 Suites by Hilton, another Redstone hotel project that opened in 2020.
The new Marriott has 115 suites, each with a full kitchen
and office area, tailored to guests planning extended visits.
“This is more than a place to stay, it’s a place to settle in,” Riley said in a news release.
Erik Hoekstra, managing partner at Redstone, added: “This hotel reflects our focus on adding real value to the community with a focus on high quality design.”
Observer staff report
Teachers, school board agree to 3-year contract
The Champlain Valley School Board has agreed to a 15 percent increase in teachers’ salaries over the next three years in a new employment contract set to take effect July 1.
The board and the union of local teachers — an affiliate of the Vermont-National Education Association known as the Champlain Valley Education Association — agreed on the
contract May 20 after a series of closed-door negotiating sessions over the past several months. The agreement will run through June 2028. In addition to the salary increase, the agreement increases teachers’ life insurance benefit, strengthens health and safety provisions and expands a board certification benefit, according to a school district news release.
“I’m proud of the respectful and collaborative negotiations between the two parties,” Superintendent Adam Bunting said. “While neither team got everything they wanted, the agreement represents what’s best for our students and educators — and our community as a whole.”
— Observer staff report
The exterior of the new TownePlace Suites by Marriott, above, has been seen going up in Finney Crossing for months. Last week, The Suites opened, allowing guests and visitors to visit the interior, including the lobby, right.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Vermont Senate passes landmark education bill
Conference committee to work out differences with House version
BY SHAUN ROBINSON VTDigger
The Vermont Senate voted last Friday evening to approve its version of this year’s landmark education reform bill, H.454. The decision came after hours of discussion on the floor and days of debate in committee hearings and a number of other meetings behind the scenes last week in the Statehouse.
The Senate’s bill largely mirrors the version that the House passed last month, though with some changes that senators indicated may need to be worked out in a committee of conference in the coming days. The vote was not unanimous, but it was taken by voice, so individual senators’ votes were not on the record. Senators were facing intense pressure from Republican Gov. Phil Scott to pass a bill before
CVSD leaders critique education legislation, see page 7
adjourning for the year. He had all but demanded it, warning that he would use his powers to call them back for a special session until they came to a consensus. This year’s Legislative session is already well into overtime compared to years past.
Both chambers of the Legislature, and the Scott administration, have broadly agreed the state should transition to a new “foundation” education funding formula and move toward consolidating school districts. But they have disagreed over the details and the timeline. A foundation formula, the most common type of education funding system across the country, provides districts a set amount of money per student in each district.
The legislation senators
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Funding is made possible by your
Sen. Andrew Perchlik, D/P-Washington, rests his head in his hands while listening to debate on the Senate floor at the Statehouse in Montpelier last Friday.
PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER
approved Friday maintains much of the form of the House’s bill, including the overall timeframe for lawmakers’ proposed education transformation. Like the House bill, it lays out a four-year transition, with both new school districts and a new foundation funding formula taking effect at the same time on July 1, 2029. The Senate-passed language would also, like the House version, empower a task force made up largely of experts and representatives of different public school constituencies to create three school district consolidation maps for legislators to consider next year. Sen. Ann Cummings, D-Washington, who chairs the chamber’s finance committee, said it is not possible to fully understand the proposal’s tax rate implications until new school district boundaries are drawn up and approved by the Legislature next year, which is the schedule proposed in the bill.
“We’re aware that there are going
to be problems we need to solve. But we don’t need to solve them tonight in order for this process to go forward,” Cummings told her colleagues. “To do it now, is premature.”
Both chambers’ proposals set new average class size minimums, though the Senate’s proposal would have lower average numbers of students per class. For example, the House bill suggests minimums of 12 students for kindergarten and 15 students for grades one through four, while the Senate’s bill sets the standards at 10 students for kindergarten and first grade and 12 students for second through fifth grade. The Senate bill would also give the state secretary of education greater discretion over the enforcement of the class size standards.
Senators also increased the maximum size allowed for proposed new, consolidated school districts to 8,000 pre-k through 12th-grade students, compared to 4,000 students in the House version of the bill. The Senate bill also nixed a requirement for a uniform school calendar across the state.
Decoding what’s happening to our kids online
This column was submitted by a several state legislators: Rep. Monique Priestley (D, Orange-2), Rep. Michael Marcotte (R-OrleansLamoille), Rep. Edye Graning (D, Chittenden-3), Rep. Angela Arsenault (D, Chittenden-2), Rep. Dave Bosch (R, Rutland-2), Rep. Emily CarrisDuncan (D, Windham-6), Rep. Brian Cina (P, Chittenden-15), Sen. Wendy Harrison (D, Windam), Rep. Troy Headrick (I, Chittenden-15), Rep. Jed Lipsky (I, Lamoille-1), Rep. Tony Micklus (R, ChittendenFranklin), Rep. Rob North (R, Addison-3), Sen. Rob Plunkett (D, Bennington), Rep. Chris Pritchard (R, RutlandBennington), Rep. Laura Sibilia (I, Windham-2), Rep. Mike Southworth (R, Caledonia-2), Sen. Tanya Vyhovsky (P, Chittenden-Central).
There’s a battle happening over your child’s safety, and most Vermonters have no idea it’s underway. That’s because it’s being waged behind closed doors, not in press conferences or public hearings, but in whispered conversations, anonymous letters, and legal threats from some of the most powerful corporations in the world.
As Vermont state legislators and sponsors of the Vermont Kids Code (S.69) — also known as the Age-Appropriate Design Code — we’ve been on the frontlines of this fight. We want to share what we’ve seen, what’s really at stake, and why we need Vermonters to stand up and speak out before it’s too late.
S.69 is a common-sense bill designed to protect children online. It prohibits manipulative features like autoplay and endless scroll for minors. It prevents companies from making programming decisions designed to addict and
exploit. It defaults to strong privacy settings. And it says that if a company knows that its product is being used by a kid, they have a duty to protect them — not exploit them.
But big tech doesn’t want that. Your child’s attention is money. Their data is money. Their mental health? Their safety? That’s just collateral damage.
So the moment this bill started moving, the industry mobilized. But they didn’t show up themselves — not Meta, not Snap, not TikTok, not Google. Instead, they deployed front groups — organizations with friendly-sounding names like NetChoice and TechNet, funded by big tech but designed to appear neutral. These groups flooded lawmakers with memos filled with legal jargon and exaggerated fears of censorship.
Big tech refused to testify in public. And their front groups? They didn’t come out of the gate
disclosing who they represent. And not once — not once — did they mention the stories of children whose lives have been destroyed by the very systems we’re trying to regulate.
They didn’t talk about the 12-year-old Vermont girl who was raped by a man Snapchat recommended as a “friend she might know.” They didn’t talk about the students whose bodies were found after months of algorithm-fueled self-harm and depression. They didn’t talk about the parents who wake up every morning knowing their child will never come home again — because a multibillion-dollar company couldn’t be bothered to turn off a notification.
Instead, they told us our bill might be “too hard” to comply with. That’s not a legal argument. That’s a business model problem.
The truth is, we built this bill to withstand court scrutiny. We studied rulings in other states. We
tailored the language. We removed any provision that regulated speech and focused only on product design and data processing. We listened to civil liberties groups, constitutional scholars and children’s advocates. We did the work, because that’s our job.
The opposition? They’re doing theirs too — but their job is to protect profit.
These conflicting goals create a difficult fight. If we walked away from every hard fight, no child would wear a seatbelt. No parent would know if a toy was toxic. This is how progress happens. You write the strongest law you can, and then you defend it — because the cost of doing nothing is simply too high.
And here’s what keeps us up at night: every day we delay, more kids are being hurt. More are being addicted. More are being preyed upon. More are falling victim to a
S.69 page 8
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
A legislative threat to CSVD
A bill under consideration in the Vermont Statehouse — H.454 — was introduced in response to Gov. Phil Scott’s call for education spending and governance reform in our state. Given the stakes and the timing of the legislative session, it would be irresponsible to remain silent about a bill that will have dramatic impacts on the students we serve.
The bill is complex and far reaching, and many of the reform ideas in it could represent a meaningful step forward in Vermont’s long-standing conversation about equitable education. However, the most current version of the bill, largely drafted in the Senate, fails to achieve those objectives and politicizes the task force redrawing district lines. It includes few, if any, provisions to address the very real cost pressures facing schools — such as rising healthcare expenses, the increasing demands placed on the education system, and the economic inefficiencies associated with maintaining very small schools across the state. It proposes changing the way schools are funded by implementing a foundation formula.
Unfortunately, both the Senate and House versions of the proposed new foundation formula could result in a loss of at least another $10 million in funding for our schools. To put that in perspective: Over the past 12 months, we’ve already reduced $9 million — resulting in the elimination of 82 positions. A combined impact exceeding $20 million is unworkable.
Most importantly, from our perspective, this bill would significantly reduce opportunities for the students we serve.
We are open to being constructive partners in this work. But we urge you to contact your legislators and let them know that we need legislation that strengthens the Champlain Valley School District, not dismantles it.
Meghan Metzler, CVSD Board chair
Adam Bunting, CVSD superintendent
S.69
continued from page 6
system designed to exploit them.
The S.69 Age-Appropriate Design Code passed the Vermont Senate on a vote of 25–5 and the Vermont House on a vote of 133–9 with strong tri-partisan support. This week, the Legislature is expected to continue moving the bill forward and eventually send it to Gov. Phil Scott’s desk.
If you are a parent, a grandparent, an educator, or a young person tired of being treated like a product, you have a role to play.
Contact the governor’s office today. Ask him to stand with Vermont families, not with the powerful out-of-state corporations working behind the scenes to stop this bill.
Because this is the industry playbook. Meta, Snap, TikTok and Google profit from addicting and exploiting children, and when lawmakers push back, they send in front groups to confuse, delay and weaken the response.
Gov. Scott has an opportunity to rise above their tactics and lead.
We may not have their billions. but we have the truth. And the truth is, this bill will save lives.
Visit https://governor.vermont.gov/contact today. Let’s make sure the governor hears from Vermonters, not just Silicon Valley.
Let’s show our kids that, when it mattered, we stood up for them.
Phones
continued from page 1
is very broad support for it,” board chair Meghan Metzler said.
Student buy-in has yet to materialize. Several students spoke out against the policy at the school board’s April meeting. The expectation at the time was that the board would vote before the end of the school year whether to enact a district-wide policy. But during their meeting last Tuesday, board members deferred to administrators.
“You have our full support … to do what you feel is in the best interest of students,” Metzler said.
She noted that school administrators have already put in place phone free policies in the K-8 grade levels.
“We have the freedom to put into practice procedures we think are in the best interest
Housing
continued from page 1
program will offer grants of up to $20,000 for rehabilitation or accessibility improvements for homeowners, to be paid back upon the sale or refinancing of the home.
The fund currently has a balance of $60,000. The policy requires it to retain at least a $20,000 balance. Income into the fund is expected to increase in the coming
Ready, Set, Grow at Vermont’s Finest Plant Nursery
of our students,” said Riley. “I don’t feel like it necessitates a board policy.”
Board member Erika Lea questioned how administrators will explain to students who tried to persuade board members to abandon the phone free initiative that the decision was ultimately made by administrators.
“I’m disappointed with how this is being handled,” community member Tracey Brown said. “We’re not really addressing people’s issues or questions … I think there are a lot of kids who handle their phone use well, and I wish we would focus on that a little more.”
According to Riley, the purpose of the new rules is to reduce classroom distractions, reduce cyberbullying and increase “meaningful face-to-face” connections among students.
“CVSD is seeking to … improve overall student engagement, mental health and
years after the town’s adoption last year of “inclusionary zoning,” which requires housing developers who don’t include perpetually affordable homes in new developments to pay a fee into the fund.
“We’re going to have more money going into that fund with our inclusionary zoning, but it’s kind of hard to forecast that,” Town Manager Erik Wells said.
Other programs outlined in the Housing Trust Fund policy but not ready for launch
well-being,” she wrote in a presentation to the board.
The school district also plans to conduct a comprehensive, ongoing analysis of student use of school-issued computers next year.
“We will … view screen time by school, grade level and category,” administrators wrote in a May 20 memo to the board. “For example, how much time do third graders at Charlotte Central School spend on their Chromebooks on average by week, what types of tools and sites are they accessing, and for what purpose?”
Meanwhile, a statewide ban on cellphones and social media in schools appears on track to take effect in the fall of 2026. Williston Rep. Angela Arsenault, a sponsor of phone free school legislation, said Wednesday she expects full Senate and House approval by the end of the week.
are a homeowner grant program for septic capacity and water availability studies; down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers; construction and housing rehabilitation grants to developers of low-income housing; and affordable housing preservation assistance to private non-profits. For grant application information, contact Williston Community Development Planner Melinda Scott at (802) 878-6704 ext. 4.
at
Kids Fest ‘25
Recreation & Parks WILLISTON
Kids Fest was postponed due to weather last weekend. The new date is this Saturday, May 31 from 12-2 p.m. Kids Fest is a family friendly day at Village Community Park. There will be children’s activities, games, giveaways, food and fun. The first 100 families will receive a free kite to decorate and fly.
COMMUNITY GARDEN PLOTS
There are two medium plots and two raised beds available in the Williston Community Garden.
ADULT PROGRAMS
PICKLEBALL 102
Ages 18-plus. Pickleball
102 will focus on refining skills such as building a point, playing with intention, court coverage, positioning, and much more. Instructor: Corey Gottfried. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, June 10-12, 5:307:30 p.m.
YOUTH/TEEN PROGRAMS
TRACK & FIELD
Ages 6-14. Registration deadline is Sunday, June 15. Participants will learn the basics of running, jumping, throwing and relays. Practices are Mondays and Wednesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Meets are during the week against other towns leading to a state meet in July. The program runs June 16-July 16.
TEEN ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE
Grades 6-12. This strength and conditioning program is specifically designed for middle school and high school athletes looking to learn proper sprinting, running, jumping and strength training mechanics. The program will teach how to improve athletic performance, prevent injuries and increase overall knowledge about strength and conditioning for sports. Instructors: John and Sheila Stawinski of Fit 2 Excel. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 23-Aug. 7, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
R.E.C. CAMP
Grades 1-6. This child-centered day camp is the perfect blend of choice activities, group games, free play and the ever-popular field trip and swim day. Campers will make new friends, learn new things and have fun.
O.U.R. CAMP
Grades 7-8. O.U.R. Camps are for teens who are looking to be active during the summer. There are seven weeks of themed camps offered. Each one will have a variety of trips to keep teens moving and active. The camp is on-the-go and outdoors. Sign up your teen for one week or more.
ENRICHMENT CAMPS
All ages. Over 30 summer camps are offered in sports, specialties and technology.
FITNESS PROGRAMS AT THE R.E.C. ZONE
ACCESSIBLE YOGA
Ages 18-plus. Mondays, 1-2 p.m., $5 per class. Instructor: Robin Zabiegalski.
TAI CHI INTRO
Ages 50-plus. Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Free. Instructor: Adina Panitch.
BONE BUILDERS
Ages 50-plus. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11 a.m., Free. Instructors: Ann Naumann and Joyce Oughstun.
SENIOR STRENGTH & FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY
Ages 50-plus. Wednesdays and Fridays, 10-10:45 a.m., Free. Instructor: Jazmine Averbuck. ZUMBA GOLD
Ages 18-plus. Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $10 per class. Instructor: Ciara Gregory YOGA FLOW
Ages 18-plus. Fridays, 1-2 p.m., $10 per class. Instructor: Robin Zabiegalski.
JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT PROGRAMS
Ages 16-plus. Cardio Sculpt Low/Low, Tues. & Fri., 8:309:30 a.m.; Mon. & Wed., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Cardio Sculpt Low/High, Tues. & Wed., 4:455:45 p.m.; Sun., 8:30-9:30 a.m. Instructors: Kit Sayers.
Welcome to Iowa
Our 29th state, Iowa, was admitted to the Union in 1846. The midwestern state is bordered by two major rivers, the Mississippi on the east and the Missouri on the west.
When Europeans arrived in what is now Iowa, Native Americans in the region were farmers, growing corn and other plants on the prairies.
Early Iowa
The first explorers in the region were Frenchmen who claimed the land for France. It remained a French territory until 1763, when it was transferred to Spanish ownership. France reclaimed it in 1800, and it was part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.
Working in Iowa
Next Week: State flags
Mini Fact: Iowa produces more than 2 billion bushels of corn each year.
heavy machinery, electric equipment and chemicals, along with processed foods.
Iowa in politics
Iowa’s state capital and largest city is Des Moines (deh-MOYN), with about 850,000 people.
During presidential elections, Iowa proudly hosts the nation’s first caucuses, or meetings to choose presidential candidates.
In the Iowa caucuses, people gather in private homes or public places in January or February. People from different parties meet at different spots.
Famous Iowans
• Buffalo Bill was a wellknown soldier and showman who was born in Iowa in 1846. He performed in cowboythemed shows around the United States and in Europe in the late 1800s. He was also a rider for the Pony Express and a soldier in the Civil War.
• Caitlin Clark is a professional basketball player with the Indiana Fever. She was born in Des Moines in 2002. Clark was a two-time national player of the year with the Iowa Hawkeyes and a WNBA All-Star in 2024.
• Grant Wood, an American artist who created the painting “American Gothic,” was born in 1891 in Anamosa, Iowa. For his iconic painting, he used his sister, Nan, and his dentist as models.
Farmers grow hogs, corn, soybeans and cattle. The state is the largest supplier of corn in the United States.
Although agriculture was the main source of income for Iowans until the mid-20th century, manufacturing is the largest part of the economy today. Iowa workers produce
Try ’n’ Find
This is different from primaries, where polls are open most of the day.
Education
With a graduation rate higher than 44 other states, 90% of Iowa’s students graduate from high school. Many go on to the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, Drake University or other institutions.
Words that remind us of Iowa are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Carrie: Who is the leader of the corn army? Carson: The kernel!
Founded by Betty Debnam
photo by Shubert Ciencia
photo by Ellen Macdonald
photo by John Mac
The Iowa flag is patterned after the French flag. Iowans meet at
caucus
“American Gothic” by Grant Wood
Plowing” shows
of income for Iowans until the mid-20th century, manufacturing is the largest part of the economy today. Iowa workers produce
Try ’n’ Find
of Iowa, Iowa State University, Drake University or other institutions.
Words that remind us of Iowa are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
ARTIST, BUFFALO, BUSHEL, CAUCUS, CLARK, CORN, DES MOINES, FRANCE, GRADUATES, HOGS, IOWA, MISSISSIPPI, MISSOURI, PRAIRIE, PRIMARY, RIVERS, SOYBEANS, SPAIN, WOOD.
Cook’s Corner Apple Crisp
You’ll need:
• 4 apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
What to do:
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1. Place apple slices in bottom of a greased pie pan.
2. Combine remaining ingredients in a medium bowl. Mix well.
3. Sprinkle mixture evenly over apples.
4. Bake in a preheated 375-degree oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Serves 6.
Mini Jokes
Carrie: Who is the leader of the corn army?
Carson: The kernel!
Eco Note
You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.
Galápagos Islands yellow warblers exposed to regular traffic noise have become more aggressive, according to a new study from Britain’s Anglia Ruskin University. Birds living near roads displayed increased physical aggression during simulated territorial intrusions that were accompanied by traffic sounds, while those farther from roads showed less aggression under the same conditions. The warblers also adjusted their songs, lengthening them and raising their minimum frequencies to avoid being drowned out by low-frequency traffic noise.
For later:
Look in your newspaper for articles about events happening in Iowa.
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By Jim Miller
Dear Savvy Senior,
I take Advil pretty regularly for arthritis pain and headaches, but how can I tell if I’m taking more than is safe?
Achy Alan
SAVVY SENIOR
How much Advil (ibuprofen) is too much?
Dear Alan,
Ibuprofen — better known by one of its brand names, Advil — is one of the most popular medications on the market today for treating all different types of pain, headaches, fevers and cramps.
Given the drug’s broad pain-reducing effects, safety record and availability over the counter, it’s no surprise that some people pop these little tablets whenever they feel the slightest twinge of discomfort.
But ibuprofen, which is also sold under brand names like Motrin and Nuprin, can pose certain health
Quality Care for Your Entire Family
Dental Care for your
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Emergencies seen promptly. We now contract with all major dental insurances.
risks, especially for those with kidney or stomach issues.
WHAT’S SAFE?
For most adults and children ages 12 years and older, the recommended dose of ibuprofen is one (or two, if needed) 200-milligram tablets, caplets or gel caplets every four to six hours while symptoms persist. You shouldn’t take more than 1,200 mg (or six pills) in a 24-hour period.
If you haven’t consulted a doctor, or aren’t certain about your risk factors, it’s best not to exceed the recommended limit of 1,200 milligrams a day.
If you have chronic pain, or were recently injured or had surgery, your doctor may prescribe ibuprofen at a higher dose. Prescription tablets are usually stronger compared to the over-the-counter dose. Only take
what your provider has prescribed.
Also be aware that ibuprofen is sometimes added to certain cold and flu medications, so read the ingredient list on medications before using.
BE CAUTIOUS
Ibuprofen belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, which reduce pain and inflammation by blocking the activity of certain enzymes.
But these enzymes also help maintain kidney and liver function and regulate the balance of fluids and electrolytes in your body. So, taking ibuprofen can be dangerous for patients with kidney disease or
failure. Those at high risk for these conditions — as well as for stomach ulcers, heart attacks, strokes or bleeding problems — should talk with their doctors before taking ibuprofen. People who take medications such as diuretics, anticoagulants, ACE inhibitors or ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers) to manage cardiovascular issues should also be careful.
To reduce these health risks, don’t take the maximum recommended dose for more than a week or two at a time. If you feel you need it for more than that, or if you’re turning to ibuprofen every day to keep aches and pains in check, see your doctor.
When taken for long periods, ibuprofen can also increase the risk of stomach ulcers. The drug inhibits enzymes that, among other things, aid in the production of mucus that lines and protects the stomach lining.
Talk to your doctor about alternatives including acetaminophen (Tylenol), topical NSAIDs (diclofenac gel) nonacetylated salicylates, curcumin (an active ingredient in turmeric) and acupuncture.
Send your questions or comments to questions@ savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
TODAY’S HISTORY:
• In 1453, Ottoman armies captured Constantinople after a 53day siege, effectively crushing the Byzantine Empire.
• In 1790, Rhode Island became the last of the original 13 Colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
In 1848, Wisconsin was admitted as the 30th U.S. state.
• In 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers known to have reached the summit of Mount Everest.
TODAY’S FACT:
• Rhode Island’s constitution identifies the state’s official name as the “State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.” In 2020, Rhode Islanders voted to change the official name to “State of Rhode Island.”
Now Hiring
NURSING LEADERSHIP
April 6 at 2:53 a.m. — Following a traffic stop, male operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
April 6 at 6:50 a.m. — Car broken into on Holland Lane. Report of a computer and wallet taken.
April 6 at 11:21 p.m. — Female at Zephyr Place having a mental health crisis. Female had an active arrest warrant, was transported to the correctional facility.
April 7 at 3:00 p.m. — Assisted Williston Rescue with unresponsive female. Female was alert when officers arrived and refused all services.
April 7 at 5:34 p.m. — Report of a suspicious vehicle on Harvest Lane. Male operator was issued a citation to appear in court for driving with a criminally suspended license.
April 7 at 8:07 p.m. — Assault reported on Zephyr Road. Male and female suspects both issued citations to appear in court for simple assault.
April 8 at 3:10 p.m. — Officers responded to M&T Bank for someone calling 911. Employee advised it was dialed accidently.
April 8 at 7:37 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Male suspect was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 9 at 3:46 p.m. — Report of an assault that took place on Zephyr Road. Male suspect was issued a citation to appear in court for aggravated assault.
April 9 at 6:49 p.m. — Male sleeping in the vestibule at TD Bank. Male was moved along.
April 10 at 6:47 p.m. — Suspicious male on Connor Way. Male was gone before officer’s arrival.
April 10 at 9:19 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Female suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft. Female suspect also had an active arrest warrant.
April 11 at 8:10 a.m. — Following a traffic stop, male operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
April 11 at 6 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Female suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 12 at 12:35 a.m. — Report of a person trying to get into Gardener’s Supply. Individual was gone when officers arrived. They searched the area but did not find anyone.
April 12 at 6:19 p.m. — Report of someone climbing in the rafters at Home Depot. Male was issued a notice of trespass.
April 13 at 9:34 a.m. — Male on
Zephyr Road yelling and causing a disturbance. Advised that he wanted to harm himself. He was transported to the hospital for evaluation.
April 13 at 6:04 p.m. — Male sleeping in the vestibule at EastRise credit union. He was moved along.
April 13 at 10:58 p.m. — Report of people screaming at Zephyr Place. Female was located and told to quiet down.
April 14 at 9:45 a.m. — Attempted car thefts reported at Berlin City Kia. Case is being investigated.
April 14 at 6:21 p.m. — Suspicious male reported at Shaw’s. Male got in a car and took off. Officers were able to stop him. He was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
April 15 at 12:15 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Healthy Living. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 15 at 12:53 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Style Encore. Female suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 15 at 4:20 p.m. — Report of an embezzlement at Walmart. Male employee was referred to the Williston Community Justice Center.
April 16 at 2:04 p.m. — Report of a retail theft at Best Buy. Officers were unable to locate suspects.
April 16 at 2:10 p.m. — Report of a car driving erratically in the Hannaford parking lot. Car was gone before officer’s arrival.
April 17 at 11:08 a.m. — Suspicious male walking around Market Street. Male was located and moved along.
April 17 at 2:11 p.m. — Male attempted to a steal a light from Home Depot. Male was issued a notice of trespass and moved along.
April 17 at 3:38 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Female suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft and violating conditions of release.
April 17 at 9:32 p.m. —
Suspicious male reported at Walmart. Male had an active arrest warrant. He was transported to the correctional facility.
April 18 at 2:44 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Lenny’s. Female suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
April 19 at 7:02 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Male suspects left before officers’ arrival.
SPORTS
Tigers take down Redhawks
Left to right: CVU’s Ethan Whitcomb beats Middlebury’s Luke Nuceder during the Redhawks’ Lacrosse team’s 8-6 loss to the Tigers on May 16 in Hinesburg. Luke Buehler looks to get by Middlebury’s Callan Boulanger. CVU’s goalie, Shamus Phelan, makes a save on a Middlebury shot.
PHOTOS BY AL FREY
See how they run
Chris Gish of Jeffersonville, left, placed second overall and was the first Vermonter to cross the line at the M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay in Burlington on Sunday. Sarah Shiman, right, of South Burlington, was sixth in the female division and first Vermont female to cross the line.
PHOTOS BY AL FREY
CVU’s Levi Kidder, left, and Charlie Garavelli, right, were part of the Redhawk Ultimate team that produced a 20-14 win over the Milton Yellowjackets last Thursday in Hinesburg.
OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY