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Voters approve library expansion; groundbreaking expected in ’28 BY JASON STARR Observer staff Williston voters on Tuesday approved $9 million in bond financing to fund an addition and renovation to the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. It was the third time voters considered a library expansion this year, with a narrow approval in March overturned by a reconsideration vote in May. The project approved during Tuesday’s General Election is a pared down version of the original $14 million expansion plan.
“This is truly a compromise proposal that aims to meet the needs of the community while still being more affordable.” Kevin Unrath Library Director
Voter turnout more than doubled what it was for the original Town Meeting Day approval, with 69 percent of registered voters (6,021 people) casting votes Tuesday. The question piggybacked on the General Election ballot that featured statewide and national elected offices. The tally was 3,177 to 2,844. The Library Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to the community in a statement Wednesday.
“A library is more than a building,” the statement said. “It is a place where children become lifelong readers, neighbors connect and people of all ages learn and grow. As this project moves forward, (community) support will help ensure Dorothy Alling Memorial Library continues to be a welcoming place for everyone in Williston for many years to come.” Outside the polls Tuesday, a voter named Maggie (who declined to share her last name) explained her reasons for supporting the project. “As a renter, that one was hard for me to say ‘no’ to because I don’t pay property taxes,” she said. “Also as a renter, I feel like I’d benefit from that ‘third space’ that a library is.” For voter Michael Wayman, a paraeducator at Williston Central School, the price tag was too high, even pared down $5 million as it was from the Town Meeting Day proposal. Town Manager Erik Wells has estimated the annual tax impact of the $9 million bond debt to be between $72 and $108 on a median-priced ($300,000) home. “I was not completely sold on the idea of spending that amount of money for the improvements, even though there was compromise on the cost and it was brought down a little bit,” Wayman said. “I just don’t think, with the state of the economy and budgets being really restricted now, that it would be fiscally responsible to vote (‘yes’).” Library Director Kevin Unrath is encouraged by the 300-plusvote margin of victory and high voter turnout, following the
A library supporter urges voters to approve the proposed Dorothy Alling Memorial Library expansion on Tuesday. See more photos from the election on Page 24. OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY
narrow double-digit margins of the March approval and the May reconsideration. “I want to thank everybody who took the time to vote. Regardless of how they voted, we’re glad they participated,” Unrath said. “This is truly a compromise proposal that aims to meet the needs of the community while still being more affordable.”
The project will add 7,900 square feet in an addition to the north side of the building, remodel the library’s main entrance, add a new community room and upgrade the building’s existing interior and HVAC systems. The library trustees will continue to seek community input on the best layout and uses for the see LIBRARY page 24
Voters return incumbents to Legislature Williston’s representation in the Vermont Legislature will be unchanged for another two years. Voters on Tuesday re-elected incumbent Democrats Thomas Chittenden, Kesha Ram Hinsdale and Ginny Lyons to represent the Chittenden Southeast Senate District that Williston shares with 10 other municipalities. Republicans Bruce Roy, Javen Sears and Rohan St. Marthe were shut out of the three available seats, each garnering less than 10 percent of the vote, according to results reported by the Vermont Secretary of State. In the House of Representatives, incumbent Democrats Erin Brady and Angela Arsenault cruised to another term in an unchallenged election in the Chittenden-2 District encompassing the majority of Williston. In the Chittenden-8 District, representing southern parts of Williston and a section of South Burlington, incumbent Democrat Bridget Burkhardt beat out Republican challenger Mitchell Cypes by a roughly 60-30 percent margin. Williston voters contributed to Gov. Phil Scott’s re-election with 3,517 voters supporting the incumbent Republican compared to 2,523 voters supporting Democratic challenger Amanda Janoo. Williston voters also overwhelmingly supported the two Constitutional amendments on the ballot that were passed statewide. — Jason Starr
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Williston Observer • November 5, 2026
CVU Theater presents ‘Spamalot’
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR EMAIL EVENT LISTINGS TO
EDITOR@WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM THURSDAY, NOV. 5
Journalism Club. 6 p.m. Wild Meadows Books & Café. How elections are covered. wildmeadowsbooks.com/events. FRIDAY, NOV. 6
Education & Enrichment for Everyone series. 2 p.m. Faith United Methodist Church. 899 Dorset St., South Burlington. “AI in Society: Hype, Hope and Tough Questions” with UVM Professor Brandon Tieso. www.eeevermont.org. SATURDAY, NOV. 7
Williston Craft Show. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Williston Central School. WEDNESDAY, NOV. 11
The cast of ‘Spamalot’ pictured outside CVU in Hinesburg.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The CVU High School Theater Program presents four showings of the musical comedy “Spamalot” over three days, Nov. 13-15. The show is based on the classic movie “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Taking place at the CVU High School theater in Hinesburg, the show opens with a 7 p.m. performance Friday, Nov. 13. There is a 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. show Saturday, Nov. 14 and a 1 p.m. matinee Sunday, Nov. 15. Tickets are available online at ticketsource.com/cvutheater.
Veterans Day Observance. 9 a.m. Williston War Memorial Park (between Town Hall and Town Hall Annex). Indoors if inclement weather at Town Hall’s Beckett/ McGuire Meeting Room. Hosted by the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club. THURSDAY, NOV. 12
Gather with family and friends for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration beneath the Atrium’s glass canopy and enjoy a grand buffet featuring: • A traditional carving station with roasted turkey and gravy • Mashed potatoes, roasted butternut squash, stuffing, and all your favorite trimmings
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Williston-Richmond Rotary Club Meeting. 7:15 a.m. Vermont State University Williston campus. Speakers: VTSU staff. RSVP to RotaryClubofWillistonVT@gmail.com. THURSDAY, NOV. 12
Winooski Natural Resource Conservation District annual dinner and celebration. 5-7 p.m. Richmond Free Library. Socializing and discussion of Winooski Valley natural resources. www.winooskinrcd.org.
November 5, 2026 •
Williston Observer •
Williston student accepts nomination to be Vermont’s next ‘Kid Governor’
BY TYLER COHEN Champlain Valley School District
A Williston Central School fifth grader is on the ballot to be Vermont’s next Kid Governor. Oli Agoos secured her nomination for the state’s highest student office after winning WCS’ October primary, where Williston’s fifth graders chose between three candidates, and after having her platform recognized by the Vermont Secretary of State’s office. Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas made the announcement during lunch last Thursday, where Agoos’ supporters cheered fervently for their classmate. “It feels really good to have everybody here celebrating me,” Agoos said. “I think I have a really strong platform. I’m running to help stop climate change in our community.” As part of the Kid Governor program, fifth graders across Vermont learn how to identify a problem in their community that they want to solve and develop a three-point
platform to address that need. Candidates make a video sharing their platform; their peers vote in a primary to select a nominee; then seven finalists advance to a statewide election, where fifth graders in each school participating in the Kid Governor program cast votes. The winner becomes Vermont’s Kid Governor, and the runners up join the cabinet and have the opportunity to spend the year focusing on their project. The program, which seeks to foster civic engagement among young people, is organized by the Secretary of State’s office and began in Vermont last year. This is the first year Williston Central School has participated, and humanities teacher Aron Merrill sees the program as a meaningful, authentic opportunity to learn about government and the election process. “From exploring how the government works to identifying community issues and researching potential solutions, students learned that they have a voice and that the government provides a place for them to solve shared problems,” Merrill said. “It was especially exciting to see so many
Children invited to write letters to Santa The Williston-Richmond Rotary Club invites children to write a letter to Santa. Drop off letters in Santa’s special mailbox at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library in Williston Nov. 6 through Dec. 16. Parents will receive an email when Santa’s response is ready to pick up.
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students write and make such passionate speeches about their issue with a sincere desire to make a difference. Having one of our own students make the ballot in a statewide election makes the experience even more special.” “I’m proud of Oli for putting together a great video about a problem you think we should solve here in Vermont,” Copeland Hanzas said. “I happen to agree climate change is really serious, and it’s also something that each and every one of us can do something about.” Fifth graders will cast their vote for Vermont’s next Kid Governor this month.
Oli Agoos
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From MEDEVAC to mentorship:
Williston Observer • November 5, 2026
Williston veteran continues a life of service BY DAN DIPIETRO Special to the Observer
Civil Air Patrol Maj. Christopher J. Poirier of Williston and his grandson, Cadet Trevor Poirier, both members of Champlain Composite Squadron, stand together during a squadron meeting in South Burlington.
Decades before he stood in a South Burlington classroom teaching Civil Air Patrol cadets how to recognize hypothermia, Christopher J. Poirier flew MEDEVAC rescue missions through Alaska’s unforgiving arctic weather. Today, the Williston resident no longer flies rescue missions for the Army, but still prepares others to respond when people need help. As Deputy Commander for Cadets with Civil Air Patrol’s Champlain Composite Squadron VT-014, Major Poirier now passes lessons from a lifetime of military and public service to a new generation. As Veterans Day approaches, his journey offers a reminder that service does not necessarily end when the uniform is retired. Sometimes it simply takes a different form. “Any public service where a person unselfishly gives of themselves
Williston honors veterans All are welcome to Williston’s annual Veterans Day Observance, scheduled for 9 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Williston War Memorial Park next to Town Hall. The event is hosted by the WillistonRichmond Rotary Club. If weather is inclement, the observance will be moved inside Town Hall’s Beckett/ McGuire Meeting Room. to support the welfare of others is honorable service,” Poirier said. Poirier enlisted in the Army Reserve in 1986 while participating in the Senior ROTC program at Boston College. He joined for “patriotic reasons” and became a combat field medic to perform a lifesaving mission. The military’s work, discipline and culture felt like a natural
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continuation of his 10 years in the Boy Scouts of America. At Boston College, Poirier met his future wife, Linda, a fellow ROTC cadet who also became an Army officer. They later settled in Williston, where they raised five children. After receiving his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Medical Service Corps, Poirier learned that officers in his branch could train as MEDEVAC pilots, combining his interest in aviation with his desire to save lives. From 1988 to 1994, he served on active duty in medical operations, training and command positions. His most dramatic assignment came in Fairbanks, Alaska, where he served as a MEDEVAC pilot and operations officer from 1989 to 1991 at Ft. Wainwright. Poirier flew rescue missions across the state in challenging arctic weather, combining complex aerial navigation with the responsibility see VETERANS page 5
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November 5, 2026 •
Veterans
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of transporting injured patients. His medical background also allowed him to take a direct role in patient care. “Because of my prior emergency medical training, I could occasionally get out of the cockpit, assist the flight medic in treating and preparing casualties, and then fly the mission home,” he said. Poirier moved to Vermont in 1994, joined the Vermont Army National Guard in 1996 and has lived in Williston since 1999. During 13 years with the Vermont Guard, he held leadership positions in aviation, training, information operations, public affairs and domestic-response assignments. Following the Sept. 11 attacks, he helped establish emergency operations centers for the Vermont National Guard and National Guard headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. He later helped develop Information Operations training for the Army’s active component at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, and served at Vermont’s Joint Force Headquarters before retiring in 2009. Poirier said his greatest satisfaction came from helping soldiers and junior officers develop into capable professionals and selfless leaders. He considered joining Civil Air Patrol after retiring from the Guard, but frequent travel as a consultant prevented him from making a consistent commitment. That changed when his oldest grandson, Cadet Trevor Poirier, became interested in the organization last spring. Trevor’s participation set the stage for his grandfather to finally join in May 2026. Poirier found that Civil Air Patrol brought together many parts of his military career, including aviation, search and rescue, emergency management, leadership and training. Civil Air Patrol is a volunteer nonprofit organization and the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its members support emergency services, aerospace education and youth leadership development. As Deputy Commander for Cadets, Poirier helps oversee the squadron’s cadet program while mentoring its developing leaders. He uses experiences from his military and rescue career to show cadets why a lesson matters
and how it could apply outside the classroom. During a recent hypothermia prevention class, he described real-life scenarios where recognizing warning signs and responding appropriately helped save lives. Poirier also served as a tactical officer at a CAP cadet encampment during the summer. There, he practiced what he calls “opportunity training,” offering observations and coaching while cadets were actively leading others. Those interventions allowed young leaders to adjust their approach and see more effective results. Although Trevor opened the door to Civil Air Patrol, Poirier does not describe their participation as a shared grandfather-grandson project. They serve “in parallel,” each for his own reasons, and Poirier said he would remain committed even if Trevor eventually pursued something else. He hopes Trevor will better understand his grandfather’s life as a teacher and leader, and that their paths will intersect more often as Trevor advances. For Poirier, Veterans Day is an occasion to remember those who served, reflect on what their service represented and support those who continue to serve. It is also an opportunity to remind younger Americans that service can take many forms. “Military service is an honorable way to express and affirm your citizenship to a country which has given you so much,” he said. For those who do not choose the military, Poirier encourages public service through law enforcement, fire and rescue, government, volunteer organizations or community involvement. His own path has taken him from scouting and emergency medicine to Arctic rescue flights, the Vermont Army National Guard and now a squadron classroom filled with young people learning to lead. The uniform and mission have changed, but the purpose remains much the same: preparing others to serve when they are needed. 2nd Lt. Dan DiPietro is public affairs officer for the Champlain Composite Squadron, Vermont Wing, of the Civil Air Patrol.
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Williston Observer • November 5, 2026
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Nonprofit governance for the good of the commons BY BILL SCHUBART According to philanthropy. org, there are 6,906 registered nonprofit organizations in Vermont, roughly one for every 100 Vermonters. They report an aggregate $11 billion worth of revenue and $20 billion in assets. I expect that perhaps some 750 of these organizations actually make a substantive difference in the lives of Vermonters, our fauna and flora. I’d also suggest, sadly, that a significant number of them are ego-driven, rather than mission-driven. Businesses compete to earn profits. Nonprofits collaborate to achieve their stated mission. Businesses must have regulatory oversight and fair taxation, while nonprofits need appropriate board oversight and active governance. With both in place, each can provide their vital contribution to our socio-economic wellbeing. The most troubling issue for me in the nonprofit world is the depth of misunderstanding of the governance oversight needed if nonprofits are to “deliver-on-mission” as expected. Just as in the for-profit world, the current Congress’ failure to regulate and tax is producing untold damage, both to our middle class and to our
Most nonprofit failures can be traced to the failure of board members to honestly review the CEO’s performance annually. environment. Although I co-chaired Vermont’s Blue Ribbon Legislative Tax Commission in 2011, I would like to focus for now on opportunities in the nonprofit sector. There are distinct areas where our failure to understand governance and oversight have hurt us: healthcare, the environment, arts and culture, public education, and so on. I’ve chaired 13 Vermont and national boards, during which time I oversaw complex leadership changes. This has reinforced my sense of how thin the veneer of understanding among nonprofit boards is around governance conventions, trustee responsibilities, and integrity. At the heart of a board chair’s responsibilities is
respecting the management firewall between their board role and the paid leadership of the institution they oversee. A failure here puts the whole enterprise at risk. Governance in the non-profit sector is similar to governance in the for-profit sector — simple and elegant. But their goals differ. The for-profit sector chases profit through competition; the nonprofit sector works collaboratively with similar nonprofits to achieve a shared social mission. Some guidelines: 1. A board’s primary responsibility is to search for, hire, compensate and prepare an annual written review of the performance of (and fire, if need be) the chief executive (CEO). Such a review is based on inputs from trustees, employed staff, community constituents and civic leaders. Executive accountability is based on an accurate job description for the chief executive, a clear mission statement and an annual budget and operating plan. These documents become the criteria for which the executive is held accountable, and also reduces future liability for “wrongful discharge” litigation. Most nonprofit failures can be traced to the failure of board members to honestly review the
CEO’s performance annually or to their misuse of “executive session” guidelines in governance. 2. The most important relationship is between the chair and the CEO and their mutual understanding of one another’s unique responsibilities and boundaries, and that they discuss them with trust, candor and transparency. A good process for achieving this is called the “pro forma executive session.” At the end of every board meeting, the chair calls an executive session during which the CEO is dismissed. The chair invites trustees to share any positive or negative concerns about the CEO’s performance. The executive session is then adjourned and, after the meeting, the board chair meets with and shares all of the negative and positive feedback with the CEO, but not its source. A good leader wants and welcomes critical feedback. The process may be considered a “continuous improvement process.” Board governance and management are different things — and too often confused, to an organization’s detriment. A border wall makes clear that trustees neither manage nor interfere in management decisions. Nor do they see SCHUBART page 7
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Schubart
continued from page 6
accept feedback from the management team unless a staff member comes forward with substantive evidence of criminal or abusive behavior. Confusing to many nonprofits is the board/chief executive conundrum: Who works for whom? In addition to being the CEO’s bosses, trustees are also the CEO’s volunteers. As trustees, we are there to support, encourage, challenge, stimulate and help that professional whom we pick to lead our endeavor. 3. All plans come from staff up to board for discussion, amendment and approval and become the basis for accountability and performance reviews. Since the CEO and her/his staff are held accountable to plans, they must formulate and own them. Necessary plans include: strategic plan (3-year maximum); current-year operating plan; current-year budget, balance sheet and cash-flow analysis; and
current-year enterprise risk management analysis and contingency plan. 4. There must be a clear statement of board policies with regard to board makeup, required skills, diversity, constituencies, rotation or tenure (term limits), trustee self-evaluations, expectations, periodic internal and external by-law review, trustee obligation of loyalty, conflict of interest, etc. Nonprofit board members are not compensated except for verifiable expenses. 5. There must be clear committee architecture that conforms with the by-laws. Committees must include: — Finance, audit, enterprise risk management committee — Nominating and governance committee, to oversee and amend by-laws as needed. — Development committee, to help raise operating and endowment funds. — Community relations and outreach committee.
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In summary, a healthy, productive nonprofit will: do an annual performance review of their chief executive; articulate and account for effective delivery-on-mission, strategic and current-year operating plans; ensure financial integrity by monitoring balance sheet trends and strength, approve an annual budget and periodically review reports of performance against budget; ensure ethical and legal integrity by reviewing and approving published employee guidelines, especially with regard to equal opportunity and workplace harassment issues, and having a clear policy for board diversity and inclusion. Only when nonprofit boards fully understand their mission, commitments, opportunities and obligation to their enterprise’s success can the sector realize its full contribution to the common good. Bill Schubart of Hinesburg is a writer, retired businessman and former chair of the Vermont Journalism Trust, the parent organization for VTDigger.
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Williston Observer • November 5, 2026
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Zephyr Place policies explained A letter to the editor in last week’s edition (“Concerning churn at Zephyr Place”) discussed apartments in Williston owned and managed by the Champlain Housing Trust. The letter inaccurately described the situation. First, Champlain Housing Trust engages in robust service from staff on site to work with residents, access resources and sustain their housing. At Zephyr Place, we also collaborate with other organizations, such as the Turning Point Center of Chittenden County, to help residents succeed. Second, unless there is a safety concern, Champlain Housing Trust staff always continue to seek solutions for tenants even after filing a formal eviction notice, and we inform tenants about legal services that might be available to them. A court ordered eviction is never our first choice.
Lastly, to clarify the data provided in the letter: Since opening four years ago, Zephyr Place has offered affordable housing for 156 households. Many of them have been there since the opening of the property, several have moved into another apartment with CHT or another property owner, and some have moved in with family. In the past four years, we have completed eight evictions at this property, or an average of two per year — all of which were initiated because of harm being done to the broader community. Residents in our housing and in the communities we serve should know that we have a zero-tolerance policy for violence or drug trafficking, and we work closely with local police departments including the Williston Police. Pursuing eviction is only one tool we have to help keep our residents and the broader community safe, and we’re committed to efforts to make that an option of last resort. Chris Donnelly Champlain Housing Trust
Volunteers who helped repair the Barre ice rink gather for a photo in Barre on Friday.
Barre arena no longer on thin ice
PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER
Contractors, businesses volunteer to fix arena’s piping in time for opening BY ERIN PETENKO VTDigger On an October afternoon four days away from opening night, the Barre BOR Arena, with a coat of fresh paint and the ice bright and smooth, was quiet and still. It’s hard to imagine that just a week earlier, the rink was nothing but a concrete slab with more than a dozen people racing around the clock to fix its many broken pipes in time
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for the winter season. “There were 14 plumbers in this trench right here from different companies in central (Vermont),” said Trym Chouinard, one of the volunteers. “They all compete for the same jobs, get what I’m saying? But they’re all standing here together, working together for a common cause.” The Barre city manager first announced on Oct. 1 that the rink might not open due to the discovery that the pipes that cool the ice had broken down. That closure meant that hockey teams, figure skaters and local enthusiasts might have to crowd into other local rinks, costing them
valuable practice time and the loss of a venue where they love to skate. Chouinard, owner of a general contracting company, was devastated. His family donated some money to help build the rink in the 1970s. Chouinard once played hockey in this rink, and his kids now play youth travel hockey. “It’s a huge investment of time and money, but they love to play it,” he said. He’s not the only volunteer with a personal connection to the ice. Soon after the announcement, Chouinard got a call from Ed Patterson, a see RINK page 9
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Rink
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heating business owner whose son is a goalie for the Spaulding High School hockey team. “He called me in a tizzy and said, ‘This is ridiculous’, and ‘We got to do something,’” Chouinard said.
“There were 14 plumbers … from different companies in central (Vermont) … working together for a common cause.” Trym Chouinard Volunteer
Ultimately, the effort to fix the ice pulled in more than 20 volunteers, according to Tom Baker, Barre’s facilities director. Not only did volunteers contribute roughly 160 man hours, but local businesses donated supplies and provided materials at a steep discount. On Oct. 23, City Manager Patrick Cushing said via press release that the issue had been completely resolved. He thanked the volunteers for making it happen. “Committing city cash reserves alone to another repair attempt with an uncertain
outcome would have been difficult to justify,” he said in the press release. “The donated labor and materials allowed us to make that attempt while limiting the demand on those reserves.” Baker said the problems with the rink weren’t new, only the scale of it. “When you touch something that’s 50 years old, it’s an old system, and you touch it here, and then it breaks,” he said. Earlier this month, Barre city mayor Thom Lauzon said it was only a matter of time before the rink would need a more permanent upgrade beyond the recent repairs. “I think we got a little complacent and figured, ‘OK, if there’s a problem, we’ll just fix it,’” Lauzon said at the time. “And it’s time to take a real hard look at replacing the system. I don’t want to go through this again.” But repairing the rink has benefits, too. Lauzon said the arena earns the city about $130,000 in revenue each year, primarily from the cost of rink rentals. Chouinard pointed out that the arena is also relatively affordable compared to other local rinks. The BOR costs $220 per hour to rent, according to the city’s website. Four other arenas within a one-hour drive of Barre range from $235 to $265 per hour to rent. Rink costs are one factor in why hockey is one of the most expensive youth sports, so anything that can keep costs down is essential. “You need to have this stay as a community rink,” Chouinard said.
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Williston Observer •
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Page 10
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Williston Observer •
November 5, 2026
Workers at Lake Champlain Chocolates push to unionize BY THEO WELLS-SPACKMAN VTDigger
Lake Champlain Chocolates runs two separate molding lines at its facility in Williston. FILE PHOTO BY MIKE DOUGHERTY/VTDIGGER
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A group of employees at Lake Champlain Chocolates is pushing to unionize, saying they want better compensation and benefits, as well as changes to the company’s workplace environment. Workers at the company will vote Nov. 17 on whether to accept representation, according to Curtis Clough, president of the Vermont-based branch of the Teamsters union. The office also represents local groups of UPS and University of Vermont Medical Center employees, among other bargaining units. Family-owned Lake Champlain Chocolates, which employs 108 people in Vermont, was founded in Burlington in 1983. According to a Teamsters filing with the National Labor Relations Board last month, the proposed bargaining unit would comprise 34 members. At least
30% of the proposed unit must support such an election petition before it can be filed, and a simple majority is needed to accept representation. Nic Smith, who works in Lake Champlain Chocolates’ Williston factory and has been centrally involved in the push for unionization, said there had been “whispers” of such a move since he joined the company in 2022. The proposed bargaining unit would include production and packaging workers, as well as the shipping and receiving team, he said. Company leadership does not support the move, said President Eric Lampman in an emailed statement Monday. Staff are already “key stakeholders” at the company and have the opportunity to voice concerns through an employee council, among other channels, he said. “We simply believe a union is not right for Lake Champlain Chocolates at this time,” Lampman said. Such a move see UNION page 11
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Union
continued from page 10
“would change the culture of the company,” he added. Smith, a 35-year-old Burlington resident, said economic concerns were central for him. An internal survey conducted recently among staff showed that pay even for a number of long-serving staff fell below area cost-of-living benchmarks produced by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he said. (For a single adult in Chittenden County, that calculation comes out to $27.50 per hour.) Healthcare coverage was also a concern for Smith and fellow employees, he added. The cost of care is often difficult for employees to manage, he said, with coworkers reporting tough decisions between medical needs and rent or other bills. “We’re told that’s the best that they can do,” Smith said of the company’s healthcare package options. “It seems unlikely.” Lake Champlain Chocolates’ annual wage increases have exceeded both inflation and revenue growth over the past nine years, Lampman said. Compensation for particular positions is determined by “the level of responsibility and experience required by the role,” rather than primarily by tenure, he said.
A recent audit of the company’s benefits — which include full dental and partial vision plan coverage, as well as paid parental leave and “competitive” healthcare coverage options — indicated that the candymaker compared favorably with other similar-sized businesses, Lampman added. Smith also said workers wanted a stronger voice in shaping the workplace environment. Efforts to raise concerns with leadership about staff-management dynamics via the employee council had not been productive, he said. In his statement, Lampman said the company was “committed to promoting a work environment that fosters communication, productivity, creativity, teamwork, and employee engagement.” This proposed bargaining unit wouldn’t include all the staff who initially sought representation. Brie Sheridan, a retail employee who was involved in the push for unionization, said that the retail team had been siloed. Smith said the split, which was agreed upon by Teamsters leadership and a group of staff, made sense because he believed the needs of retail employees differed from the manufacturing and shipping teams. For Sheridan, 27, that’s been a source of frustration. He and his colleagues in retail had
similar concerns about healthcare coverage and compensation falling short of the area’s ever-increasing cost pressures. Sheridan did not say whether the retail team would seek separate representation. Company leadership has pushed back against the unionization effort in communications to employees, including at several meetings where Lampman spoke about the subject, emails to staff obtained by VTDigger indicate. “I’m unconvinced our employees would benefit from this structure. I do not think you need to pay dues to hire a third party to be treated fairly here,” Lampman said, according to a circulated copy of his remarks. Added costs for both the company and its employees as a result of unionization, he said, could “be diverted from supporting staff.” Smith expressed relative confidence about the vote later this month. But either way, he said, the process has brought attention to critical employee welfare issues. “I think that this is an eye-opening situation, regardless of the outcome,” he said. Theo Wells-Spackman is a Report for America corps member who reports for VTDigger.
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Page 12
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Williston Observer •
November 5, 2026
Phil Scott wins record sixth term as governor
Republican elected governor more times than anyone in state history BY SHAUN ROBINSON AND CHARLOTTE OLIVER VTDigger
Vermont’s Republican Gov. Phil Scott won re-election to a sixth term on Tuesday, defeating Democrat-Progressive Amanda Janoo in a race that proved more competitive than most voters would have imagined when Scott announced he would run again. Janoo, an economist from Burlington running her first-ever political campaign, conceded in a speech at her election night party in Burlington around 10:50 p.m. Scott, who is 68 and
lives in Berlin, has now been elected governor more times than anyone else in Vermont history, surpassing the previous record of five wins held by Democrat Howard Dean. According to The Associated Press, Scott won about 52% of the vote to Janoo’s 46%, with nearly all votes counted. That is the governor’s narrowest margin of victory since he was first elected in 2016. His support has dropped sharply in the last two years; when he last won re-election in 2024, it was with 73% of the vote. “Forty-eight hours ago, the political pundits were writing my obituary,” Scott said in a speech Tuesday night celebrating his win at the Associated
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General Contractors of Vermont building in Montpelier. Scott, who formerly owned a construction business, also acknowledged the early results in what looked like a wave of Democratic wins across the country in Tuesday’s election. “It’s been a difficult night for Republicans across the nation, and unfortunately Vermont wasn’t spared,” Scott said, noting that election results were on track to again give Democrats a supermajority of seats in the Vermont Statehouse. Scott said he expects to have some major differences in political views between himself and Democrats in the Legislature, but he took a collaborative tone, saying he extends an invitation to legislative leaders to make progress on the state’s economy. The state needs more taxpayers, not more taxes, he said, and the state’s spending cannot outpace Vermonters’ ability to pay. “I will continue insisting the math adds up when we spend taxpayer dollars responsibly,” he said. Scott’s understated election night party brought out just shy of 100 people, who filled an outfitted garage. For nearly the entire night, he stayed away from the party in an adjacent room, the window to which was covered with a trash bag. The first time he showed his face was to give his speech in celebration. At 10:57 p.m., when news of Janoo’s concession spread, the crowd began chanting “Let’s go, Phil” before he took the podium minutes later. In Burlington, Janoo spoke directly about the governor in her concession speech, congratulating Scott on his win and saying, “I believe that he really wants to ensure that Vermont has a steady hand in the face of a pretty petty president.” “But it is also on us at this moment to make sure that we continue this momentum and this push — and hold him accountable,” Janoo said to a large crowd. “Because the vision that we’ve advanced with this campaign doesn’t end here tonight.” Janoo organized her own election night gathering separate from one hosted by the Vermont Democratic Party. She spent most of the night at her own party — which was in a
Gov. Phil Scott celebrates his victory in Montpelier on Tuesday. PHOTO BY ANDY DUBACK/VTDIGGER
building across the street from the Democrats’ event — though also gave a speech at the party’s gathering earlier in the night. Asked why she hosted a separate party, Janoo told reporters she “just wanted to have, like, a fun party too.” “To be really honest with you, what we accomplished was genuinely more than I could
Election results were on track to again give Democrats a supermajority of seats in the Vermont Statehouse. have possibly dreamed,” she said in her concession speech. “We went from zero name recognition to, like, being pretty close.” Polling released ahead of Election Day suggested Scott’s favorability had taken a hit, especially among Democrats, many of whom reliably voted for him in the past. Scott has acknowledged that his vision for education reform and his decision to make state employees return to regular in-person work made him less popular with some voters. Janoo also raised more money than Scott over the last two months of the race and generated more excitement for her campaign than any other Democratic candidate for governor in years. But she had a significant
disadvantage: Before this year, she was virtually unknown to voters. Scott made the case on the campaign trail that voters, to the contrary, knew him well and could trust his leadership, reminding them that he was in office during the Covid-19 pandemic and the devastating floods of 2023 and 2024. He also made the case that even though he is a Republican, he’s stood up to President Donald Trump’s administration when he thought federal actions would hurt the state, which is something many Democratic voters have rewarded him for. Scott also likely benefited from a large infusion of cash into the race on his behalf — $950,000 as of last week, according to campaign finance reports — from the Republican Governors Association. The national organization donated to a Vermont-based super PAC that ran pro-Scott and anti-Janoo advertising on TV and online in recent weeks. Looking ahead, Scott said during the campaign that he would tackle the state’s affordability issues with a package of tax cuts or credits and pushing for more deregulatory reforms to the state’s healthcare system. He also wants the state government to continue on the path his administration set out over the last two years toward a consolidated education system with larger, regional districts. It remains to be seen, though, how much support he’ll get for those ideas from lawmakers next year.
Vermonters vote to approve 2 constitutional amendments
BY THEO WELLS-SPACKMAN VTDigger
Vermonters decisively approved two amendments to the state constitution Tuesday. The public referendums were the final steps in ratifying the new items, which fortify collective bargaining rights and guarantee equal protection under the law regardless of a number of characteristics. The complex, years-long amendment process requires legislative support in two consecutive bienniums. Voters last ratified constitutional changes in 2022, approving an explicit ban on slavery and landmark language affirming “an individual’s right to personal reproductive autonomy.” Proposal 3, or Prop 3, enshrines the right to collective bargaining for employees, and prevents lawmakers from easily passing legislation that “interferes with, negates, or diminishes” that guarantee. The language explicitly protects labor agreements in which union membership becomes a condition of employment at a company, outlawing “right-towork” legislation in the future. The measure received strong bipartisan support in both of Vermont’s legislative chambers, passing 29 to
zero in the Senate and 125 to 15 in the House last year. The item’s proponents have argued the change is a necessary stand against what they see as nationwide, decades-long efforts to restrict the influence of unions in the U.S. Vermont labor leaders looked to Illinois, which is the only other state to have similarly robust constitutional labor protections, as a model. Critics have argued that the restrictions on “right-to-work” laws will lock Vermont into an undesirable status quo and that the provision could cost Vermonters financially in the long term by giving unions too much power. One constitutional scholar also said the language would likely provide organizing protections to a broader set of employees in the state than is currently covered by statute — including farmworkers. Proposal 4, or Prop 4, is designed to guarantee people equal protection under the law, regardless of “race, ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or national origin.” A majority of states have a similarly aimed provision in their constitutions. This amendment proposal too enjoyed robust support among lawmakers, passing 128 to 14 in the House
and without opposition in the Senate. Supporters have said the measure will build on the protections afforded by the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, with part of the new item’s stated purpose being to shield the rights of historically marginalized communities in Vermont. The new language would likely strengthen the state’s legal foundations for some anti-discrimination lawsuits, according to constitutional experts. Some of those same experts raised concerns about the “list” approach this language takes, which includes some characteristics but leaves others out — such as age. Other critics argued the item’s stated purpose was essentially redundant with existing federal protections, and might create legal uncertainty in the future. Both proposed amendments have seen robust lobbying for and against them. A campaign supporting Prop 3 notably spent nearly $800,000 this election cycle, with contributions from an arm of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. As of Tuesday night, 74% of counted ballots had been in favor of Prop 3, with 25% against, according to the Associated Press. Prop 4 had received the support of 79% of tallied votes, with 21% opposed, the AP reported.
November 5, 2026 •
Williston Observer • Page 13
2026 WILLISTON COMMUNITY
GIVING GUIDE Publishing Nov. 12, 2026
The Observer will be producing a special pull-out guide in the newspaper that contains a list of nonprofit organizations located in or serving Williston who would welcome the support of the community through donations and volunteers.
To be included in the Guide: Non-profit Organization: email susan@willistonobserver.com An Advertiser: email adam@willistonobserver.com Williston
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Page 14
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Williston Observer •
November 5, 2026
SEEKING INPUT
HOURS:
• Monday/Wednesday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. • Tuesday/Thursday/ Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. • Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit www.damlvt.org to apply for a library card and register for programs. Need help? Call 878-4918 or email daml@damlvt.org. Please note, the library will be closed on Wednesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day.
Do you have something you’d like to learn about? Is there an interest we can help you with? The library is asking for input for youth and adult programs we could potentially add to our calendar! If there is anything you would like to see us offer, please let us know by emailing events@ damlvt.org with your ideas.
YOUTH PROGRAMS Children in fourth grade and younger must be supervised by someone over 16 years of age. SATURDAY STORYTIME
Saturday, Nov. 7, 10:30-11 a.m. Start your weekend off with Gerry’s storytime. STORYTIME
Tuesdays, Nov. 10 and 17, 10:30-11 a.m. Enjoy stories, songs and activities with Bonnie and Sarah.
MUSIC & PLAYTIME
Thursdays, Nov. 12 and 19, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Stop by for interactive music with Bella followed by playtime. LEGO TIME
Thursday, Nov. 12, 3-4 p.m. Build something exciting with the library’s LEGO collection. BABY TIME
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 10:30-11 a.m. Suggested ages 0-18 months. Bond with your little one while enjoying gentle pre-literacy activities led by Bonnie, then stay to socialize and play. AFTER SCHOOL CRAFT: BEADED TAPESTRY
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2-3 p.m. Use different colored pony beads to design and make your own mini tapestry.
MULTI-AGE PROGRAMS FRENCH CONVERSATION
Saturday, Nov. 14, 10:4511:45 a.m. Drop in to practice your language skills. READ TO A DOG (LOLA)
Thursday, Nov. 19, 3:304:30 p.m. Sign up for a 10-minute session to read to (or hang out with) Lola the Therapy Dog.
ADULT PROGRAMS ADULT MEDITATION (ONLINE)
Every Friday, 12-12:30 p.m. Join our guided meditation to relax and re-center. MAH JONGG
Friday, Nov. 6 and 13, 1-3 p.m. Drop in to play this popular tile game. LET’S TALK ABOUT BOOKS
BOOK CLUB BUFFET (ONLINE)
Tuesday, Nov. 17, 12:301:30 p.m. “Keeper of Lost Children” by Sadeqa Johnson. CURRENT EVENTS
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Discuss the topics that are on your mind with community members, in the Vermont Room. COOK THE BOOK
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 12-1 p.m. “Soup and bread.” Sign-up at the library. LIFE STORIES (ONLINE)
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2-3 p.m. Our prompts can help you share wonderful memories with our group. This is a great opportunity to get to know people better. SPANISH CONVERSATION (ONLINE)
Saturday, Nov. 7, 1-2 p.m. Share what you are reading with others and get some ideas for a new read. This group meets the first Saturday of each month.
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 5-6 p.m. Brush up on your language skills. All skill levels welcome.
ADULT CRAFTEREVENING: FIRE STARTERS
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 6:307:30 p.m. Matt Boulanger, Town of Williston Planning Director, and Kevin Chu, Vermont Futures Project Executive Director, will be speaking about what is happening in Williston and the vision for Williston’s future.
Thursday, Nov. 12, 5:306:30 p.m. These wax, sawdust and spice fire starters make coziness a breeze. Great to make as a gift! Registration required.
WILLISTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY: THE NOW & FUTURE WILLISTON
YOUR N E W HOM E I S
R E A DY F OR YOU NEIGHBORHOODS IN WILLISTON AND SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT
QUICK MOVE -IN HOMES F I N D YO U R H O M E H E R E S N Y D E R H O M E S V T. C O M |
Looking for volunteer opportunities? The United Way of Northwest Vermont has a wide variety of options. https://unitedwaynwvt.org/get-involved/volunteer
November 5, 2026 •
Williston Observer • Page 15
Molly Gray elected Lt. Governor, ousting John Rodgers BY OLIVIA GIEGER VTDigger Democrat Molly Gray is getting her old job back and will become Vermont’s next lieutenant governor. Lt. Gov. John Rodgers, a Republican, conceded the race around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday. As of 10:25 p.m., Gray had received 60% of the votes cast to Rodgers’s 37%. The mood was jubilant at the Vermont Democratic Party’s Burlington results watch party, which Gray shared with Democratic candidates across the ticket. Gray took the stage moments after Rodgers conceded and opened her remarks by thanking the sitting lieutenant governor. “I want to start by thanking him for his service to Vermont, his graciousness and also the tremendous work he’s done for rural Vermont,” Gray said at the Tuesday night event. The race against Rodgers became more personal as Rodgers started to lag Gray in the polls. In an Oct. 5 debate hosted by Vermont Public, Rodgers asked Gray about
Molly Gray celebrates her win Tuesday over Republican John Rodgers for lieutenant governor. PHOTO BY OLIVIA GIEGER/VTDIGGER
labor violations on her family’s South Newbury farm and accused her family of the “mistreatment of migrant workers.” Rodgers had obtained records from the Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Administration showing housing quality violations in 2024 and 2025 for the onsite accommodations for the farm’s seasonal workers on federal H-2A visas.
The issue became a flashpoint in the race. Gray, who did not hold elected office during the investigation, insisted that Rodgers should keep the focus of the race on her rather than her family, while Rodgers continued to highlight the violations throughout the campaign. Through October, the polling gap between the two widened, with the most recent survey from the University of New Hampshire showing Gray earning 63% of the polled population’s support. In a statement conceding the race, Rodgers called serving as lieutenant governor “one of the greatest honors” of his life, adding, “The voters of Vermont have made their decision, and while this isn’t the outcome we had hoped for, I respect their choice and congratulate Molly Gray on a hard-fought campaign.” This election cycle, Gray’s campaign centered on lowering
costs and “protect(ing) fundamental rights,” as she described on her campaign website. She advocated for a universal primary care program funded by recouping federal tax cuts on the wealthy and levying new state taxes on luxury second homes. She also touted a five-point plan to expand affordable housing. That work begins now, Gray said Tuesday. “We’re still going to talk about universal primary. We’re still going to be laser focused on affordable housing. We’re still going to be fighting for working families,” she said. Gray served one term as lieutenant governor starting in 2021, a role she relinquished
after unsuccessfully running for Vermont’s U.S. House seat. She then worked as the executive director of the Vermont Afghan Alliance before leaving that post to run again for statewide office. As fellow down-ballot Democrats won their races early in the evening and celebrated Democratic gains in Senate and House seats across the country, Gray said that Tuesday’s Democratic wins were not an excuse for a victory lap. “It is just a moment that comes with a massive amount of urgency, a moment that is going to allow us to do some extremely, extremely hard work,” she said.
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Page 16release • Williston Observer dates: Nov. 7-13, 2026 •
November 5, 2026
45 (26)
Next Week:
Seabird habitats Founded by Betty Debnam
Remarkable Reservists
Mini Fact:
photo by DVIDSHUB
Our country celebrates Veterans Day on Nov. 11, the anniversary of the end of World War I. This U.S. holiday was created in 1919 to honor members of our armed services. A military veteran is a person who has served in the armed forces. Do you know any veterans? The Mini Page looks at the reserve branches of the U.S. military this week.
Reserve support
The idea for a reserve force goes all the way back to Founding Fathers George Washington and Alexander Hamilton. They thought all men should be trained for military service so they could support the Army if needed. The Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy also have reserve branches. Many reservists are former active-duty troops.
Monthly job
Usually, reserve soldiers work part-time, just one weekend a month and two weeks in the summer. Sometimes, such as in wartime, they are called upon to be full-time. They might fill active-duty positions when those soldiers go to war. The president of the U.S. is the commander in chief of reserve units. They answer to the federal, or national, government. The National Guard is another branch of service. Each governor serves as commander in chief of the National Guard units in his or her state. They can be called to federal service by the president.
Reserve soldiers do different things during training, including driving through challenging courses.
Reserve branches
Reserve soldiers receive pay and benefits, such as education and insurance. Many of them like the idea of serving their country while continuing their civilian lives at home. The Army Reserve: • established in 1908 • about 190,000 warrior-citizens
Williston
The Marine Corps Reserve: • established in 1916 • about 100,000 Marines The Coast Guard Reserve: • founded in 1941 • about 7,000 Guard members The Air Force Reserve: • established in 1948 • about 69,000 airmen
A special job
An Army Reserve soldier chooses a specialty, or a job to do in the service, and trains for it after basic training. These jobs might include medics, military police, cooks or carpenters. After specialty training is complete, Reserve soldiers may train together one weekend a month to keep their skills sharp. They also must go to yearly training for two weeks that will help them work together better.
Master Sgt. Ed McKenna, a pararescue specialist with the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron, Kentucky Air National Guard, prepares to land from a freefall jump with a tandem nonqualified jumper while training in 2014.
Resources On the Web:
• bit.ly/4wyeJFA
At the library:
• “Otto’s Tales: Today is Veterans Day!” by PragerU
Observer rack locations:Mini Jokes Hannaford
Shell Gas Station (Essex Rd)
Words that remind us of reserve branches are hidden in this puzzle. Adams Farm Market Healthy Living Williston Simon’s Mobil Williston Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters Aromas of India Home2Suites Simply Divine Café are used twice. See if you can find:
Chef’s Corner
When a person joins the Army Reserve, he or she must complete basic training, which lasts eight weeks. After completing training, the reservist receives an Army beret, or hat. This ceremony marks the transition from civilian to soldier.
The Navy Reserve: • established in 1915 • about 57,000 sailors
The Mini Page® © 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication
Try ’n’ Find
Army reservist training
U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jenna Lenski
Issue 45, 2026
Island Homemade Ice Cream Sonesta
ACTIVE, AIR, COAST, Dorothy Alling Memorial KwikNStopI D N USunoco M T JKorner U G O FStation E L U CORPS, DUTY, FEDERAL, Library G J JMarriott F OCourtyard R C E H Z Town K ofNWilliston R C Offices C ck Cote at FORCE, FOUNDING, Call Ri Fairfield Inn Men at Wok UPS Store U O E V R E S E R O I L O T U 373-2136 or (802)GUARD, Folino’s Pizza A E MM&T P Bank V K F N B R Vermont K A Meat N &SSeafood T email Rick@ HONOR, m Observer.co MARINE, NATIONAL, Williston R S T I N U A E A B F N O A I & Café Gardener’s Supply Ramunto’s Wild Meadows Books copies if you would liketion PART, RESERVE, TIME, ca D B T R A P B M D R N O H O M lo Green Mountain Bagel Rehab Gym Williston Coffee Shop for your T C E P D U T Y C E E I T C E UNITS, VETERANS, A H W E E K E N D Q R T I N P WEEKEND. D R J Y H J D B B M I A E Q Y
Essex/Essex Jct. Price Chopper Vera: What is a soldier’s Essex Automotive Quality Bake Shop Five Corner favorite Variety month? River Road Beverage Vic: March! Hannaford Richmond Why did the optometrist set his clock Inn Van: at Essex Cumberland Farms to military time? Mac’s Market Richmond Free Library Vada: To see 20:20! Martone’s Deli Richmond Market Williston
Eco Note
Serving our community since 1985
For several years, the decline of Arctic winter sea ice appeared
in chief of the National Guard units in his or her state. They can be called to federal service by the president.
At the library:
• established in 1948 • about 69,000 airmen
• “Otto’s Tales: Today is Veterans Day!” by PragerU
The Mini Page® © 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication
November 5, 2026 •
Try ’n’ Find
Mini Jokes
Words that remind us of reserve branches are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ACTIVE, AIR, COAST, CORPS, DUTY, FEDERAL, FORCE, FOUNDING, GUARD, HONOR, MARINE, NATIONAL, PART, RESERVE, TIME, UNITS, VETERANS, WEEKEND.
M T J U G J J F U O E V A E M P R S T I D B T R T C E P A H W E D R J Y C O R P
G N O R R E V K N U A P D U E K H J S V
Vera: What is a soldier’s favorite month? Vic: March! Van: Why did the optometrist set his clock to military time? Vada: To see 20:20!
I D N U O F E L U C E H Z K N R C C S E R O I L O T U F N B R K A N S T A E A B F N O A I B M D R N O H O M T Y C E E I T C E E N D Q R T I N P D B B M I A E Q Y F E X M A N L V B
Eco Note
Mini Spy Classics
For several years, the decline of Arctic winter sea ice appeared to be slowing, offering hope that the far north might be gaining a reprieve. That hope is now gone. “What looked like a pause in the early 2020s now appears to have been a temporary slowdown within a longer-term decline associated with global warming,” said University of Southampton ocean scientist Duo Chan, who led a new study. Less winter ice leaves darker ocean water exposed to the atmosphere, releasing heat and moisture that can influence storms and weather patterns far beyond the Arctic. adapted with permission from Earthweek.com
For later:
Look in your local newspaper for articles about veterans.
Mini Spy Classics appear in the first issue of each month.
The Mini Page® © 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication
Mini Spy is playing fetch with her dog. See if you can find the hidden pictures. Then color the picture.
Based on materials originally produced and/or created by Betty Debnam.
• monkey • dragon • lips • heart
Williston Observer • Page 17
• carrot • bell • dolphin • word MINI
• number 3 • stork • frog • funny face
• pig’s face • shark
Photos from the Observer are available for purchase! Visit willistonobserver.com to see current and past photos.
AlFreyPhotography.com
Place your order online or email afrey202@gmail.com
AL
Page 18
• Williston Observer • November 5, 2026
CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 22
TODAY’S HISTORY:
• In 1605, Guy Fawkes was arrested in a Westminster Palace cellar, which thwarted the Gunpowder Plot to assassinate King James I of England and Ireland. • In 1940, incumbent Franklin D. Roosevelt defeated challenger Wendell Willkie to win an unprecedented third presidential term. • In 2009, a U.S. Army major fatally shot 13 people and wounded 32 others at Fort Hood in Texas. • In 2017, a gunman fatally shot 26 people and wounded 20 others at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas.
TODAY’S FACT:
• American inventor George B. Selden patented the first automobile on this day in 1895.
SOLUTION FOUND ON PAGE 22
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November 5, 2026 •
Williston Observer •
Page 19
SPORTS
Redhawks make it through semifinals
CVU’s Creston Lea-Simons, top, takes the ball by a South Burlington defender during the Redhawks’ 4 - 3 semifinal win over the Wolves on Oct. 27 in South Burlington. CVU’s goal keeper, Theo Scapof, middle left, keeps the ball out of the net. A South Burlington defender and goal keeper battle with Stefan Arsovski, middle right, as he nears the goal. Lincoln Ricketts, bottom, splits the efforts of two South Burlington defenders. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
‘Hawks taken down by Cougars During the semifinals in Jericho, CVU’s Myra Ngu, above, looks to get by a Mount Mansfield defender but by the end the Cougars scored one goal edging out the Redhawks 1 - 0. Ava Ringler, left, makes a pass to a teammate. Elliana Antonucci, below, battles to maintain possession. Attempting to tie things up, Allie Barrett, below, drives the ball towards the goal. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
Page 20
• Williston Observer • November 5, 2026
OBITUARIES
Stephen Burns Stephen Burns, 74, of Williston, passed away peacefully on Oct. 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Feb. 23, 1952, in Beaufort, South Carolina, to Joan (McKenzie) Burns and the late John J. Burns Jr. His father was stationed there with the Marines, but Stephen always considered himself a true Vermontereven if his birth certificate said otherwise. The eldest of eight children, Stephen carried a lifelong love of family, his dogs and the great outdoors. Stephen’s love of sports and the outdoors started early. He played baseball for Burlington High School, winning a state championship and played at Johnson College. That competitive spirit followed him into the U.S. Navy. While stationed at Souda Bay on the island of Crete, he worked as a supply clerk and spent several months chauffeuring Navy officials around Athens. He also found a way to keep playing ball, joining the All-Med softball team and traveling to other countries to compete. It was an experience that gave a young Vermonter the opportunity to see parts of the world he might never otherwise have known. Crete would also become part of one of the most important chapters of Stephen’s life. On Feb. 9, 1974, he married his high school sweetheart, Valerie Sheridan, in Iraklion. After his Navy service, they returned home to Vermont, first living in Burlington and eventually finding the place that truly felt like home in Williston. They would spend more than 50 years there, building a life and raising their family. Stephen loved the quiet of country life and took genuine pleasure in the simple things around him, especially the
wildlife that wandered through his yard. Stephen worked hard throughout his life. At UPS, he began in preload, moved to package car work, and eventually drove tractor-trailers on both long-distance and local routes. When illness forced him to stop working in Jan. 2000, life changed in ways he had not expected. Over the years that followed, he faced numerous health challenges, but he never allowed them to define him. He remained an eternal optimist, held on to his sense of humor, and made the best of the hand he had been dealt. Some of Stephen’s happiest moments were spent outdoors. His love of fishing and hunting began in childhood and stayed with him throughout his life. The Burns family camp, “Blarney Castle,” held an especially important place in his heart, filled with the kind of memories that come from years spent with family and friends. Whether he was out on the water, hiking, skiing, hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the wildlife around his home, Stephen felt at peace outdoors. Stephen leaves behind his wife, Valerie, of 52 years and their children: Christopher Burns, and his wife, Kristy, and their sons, Aidan and Thomas Burns of Lynnfield, MA; Jessica Restivo, and her husband, Nicholas, and their children, Luca, Ava, and Isla Restivo, of Canton, MA. His mother, Joan Burns; and his siblings, Barbara Burns Maynard; Julie Burns; Linda Riley and her husband, Timothy; Thomas (TJ) Burns and his wife, Wendy; Catherine Peltier; Robert Burns; and William Burns and his wife, Maria. He also leaves his sistersin-law, Susan Degnen, Barbara Mason and her husband, Dave, and Jerri Burns, in addition to many nieces and nephews and close friends. Predeceased by his father, John Burns and brothersin-law, Michael Peltier and David Degnen. No public service is planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors, Respite House or the charity of your choice. The family would like to give special thanks to the gracious and patient care Stephen received from the home hospice nurses, especially Jim, as well as those at the McClure Miller Respite House.
Meghan Elizabeth Fitzgerald Meghan Elizabeth Fitzgerald passed away peacefully at her home on Oct. 28, 2026, where she lived with her father and stepmother since 2016. Meghan was born on Nov. 6, 1986, at Winn Army Hospital, Fort Stewart Georgia. Her family moved to South Barre, Vermont in 1988. She attended Barre Town Schools until 1998, when she moved again with her family to Williston where she attended Williston Central School then Champlain Valley Union High School where she received her diploma in 2008. Meghan dealt with many challenges in her life, most of them medical. She faced EVERY challenge with strength, courage, and dignity. Her parents often commented that she was one of the strongest women they knew, as she bounced back from each challenge with her normal happy attitude. She was supported by many caring providers and caregivers; notably, Dr Greg Holmes, her neurologist, who followed Meghan for over 35 years from Savannah, Georgia to UVMMC in Burlington, VT. The care and love she received allowed her to live her best life. Despite not ever being able to speak or walk during life Meghan had many friends of all ages who enriched her life and whose lives she enriched. Meghan loved the outdoors, music, her family and friends, being with her dogs: Ophelia, Riko and Zeus, a good book, and foot massages. Meghan is lovingly remembered by her father and guardian Matthew J. Fitzgerald, stepmother Kathleen F. Fitzgerald and mother Lisa B. Fitzgerald; her siblings Molly K. Peet, Cameron M. Fitzgerald and his wife Julia, Kiernan J. Fitzgerald; her stepbrothers Patrick A. Lancaster & his parter Leah Cover, Connie
F. Lancaster, her stepsister Brianna A. Lancaster; nephews and nieces Maddox and Mekynzi Peet and Annabelle and Myles Fitzgerald; many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is predeceased by her paternal and maternal grandparents. A Catholic funeral Mass was held Nov. 2, 2025 at St. Augustine’s Church in, Montpelier followed by a Christian Burial at Doty Cemetery, East Montpelier Center. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Epilepsy Foundation, or a charity of your choice in Meghan’s memory. May she rest in eternal peace.
William “Bill” Edward Mast William “Bill” Edward Mast, M.D., 81, passed away peacefully on Sept. 27, 2026, in Essex Junction, Vermont. Born and raised in Stow, Ohio, to William Carlton and Vera Mast, William attended Ohio State University, where he met his wife of 59 years, Jean “Midge” (Zelazny) Mast. After completing his undergraduate degree at Ohio State and earning his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Mast served as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy. Following his military service, he and Midge settled in Chelmsford, MA where he built a private medical practice and raised their family. Later in his career, he practiced medicine on Nantucket— an island he held close to his heart. Despite the heavy demands of medicine, Bill’s devotion to family always came first. An Eagle Scout himself, he was deeply involved in supporting his three sons as they each earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He rarely missed a Scouting activity, game, or track meet, and took tremendous pride in watching his six grandchildren grow. An avid outdoorsman, Bill loved
fishing, new adventures, and time spent on the water. A passion for aviation led him to earn both his private pilot and seaplane ratings, frequently flying himself and family out to Nantucket. Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Jean “Midge” (Zelazny) Mast; his sons and daughters-in-law, Mark Mast and his wife, Debbie (Bond) Mast, of Shelburne, Vermont; Michael Mast and his wife, Andrea (Aspell) Mast, of Williston, Vermont; and Jonathan Mast and his wife, Katy (McFadden) Mast, of Plattsburgh, New York; his six cherished grandchildren, Morgan, Jamison, Sydney, Allison, Megan, and Caroline Mast; his sister, Marilyn Troyan, and her husband, Scott, of Madison, Wisconsin; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Linda Zelazny; his niece, Kim (Zelazny) Cohen; and his nephew, Greg Zelazny. He will be remembered for his gentle care as a physician, his adventurous spirit, and his unwavering devotion as a husband, father, and grandfather. At Bill’s request, there will be no services or formal arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his honor to the American Heart Association.
Elizabeth L. (White) Waters Elizabeth L. (White) Waters, 89, of Essex, VT, passed away on Oct. 21, 2026, with loved ones by her side. “Betty” was born March 28, 1937, in Brookline, MA, the daughter of Harry T. White and Mildred J. (Amirault) White, both of Nova Scotia. Betty spent many of her early years on Clear Pond in Plymouth, MA. and in North Miami, FL. Always a good athlete, she loved see OBITUARIES page 21
November 5, 2026 •
Williston Observer •
Page 21
SAVVY SENIOR
How to save on Medicare in 2027
By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, I’m on Medicare. What changes are coming in 2027, and how can I make sure I’m not paying too much for coverage? — Careful Shopper Dear Careful, If you have Medicare, now’s a good time to make sure you’re getting the best coverage for your money. Open enrollment runs through Dec. 7, giving you a chance to switch Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plans for 2027. Since costs, drug coverage and extra benefits can change from year to year, comparing plans now could save you money and headaches later. Even if you’re happy with your current plan, don’t assume next year’s coverage will be the same. Here’s what to look for. PRESCRIPTION DRUG CHANGES
deductible will rise from $615 to $700, while the annual out-of-pocket limit for covered Part D medications will increase from $2,100 to $2,400. That limit helps protect people who take expensive medications. Average premiums for stand-alone Part D plans are projected to rise by less than $1 a month, but individual plans can differ considerably. A temporary federal program that helped stabilize premiums is ending, making it especially important to compare your options. Your insurer may change its list of covered drugs, called a formulary, or move your medication to a more expensive cost tier. Check that your prescriptions are still covered and what you’ll pay for them. MEDICARE ADVANTAGE CHANGES
If you have Medicare Advantage, the private-insurance alternative to Original Medicare, review your plan carefully. Some insurers are dropping plans or leaving certain markets, while others may change costs or trim extra benefits, such as dental, vision and hearing coverage. Doctor, specialist and hospital networks can change, too. If your plan is being discontinued, you’ll need to choose new coverage. Even if it continues, compare next year’s costs, benefits and provider networks before automatically renewing.
Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are changing In 2027, the maximum annual
HELP WITH WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS
Obituaries
years before moving to Vermont. Anyone who met her soon understood that Betty’s greatest source of pride and joy was her family. In addition to her parents, Betty was welcomed into heaven by Ed, her husband of 58 years, along with her parents, her brother Ronald White of Prince Edward Island, her twin sister Barbara Brodeur of Plymouth, her grandson Nicholas Forsberg and many other cherished family members. Many wonderful memories comfort her beloved family: daughter Theresa Forsberg and husband David of Beverly, MA, son Thomas Waters and wife Carolyn Lewis of Essex, VT, grandchildren Jessica Massero, Kimberlie Conroy, Michael Desmarais, Liza Coleman, and great-grandchildren Evelyn and Nicholas Massero, James, Ryan and Isla Desmarais, and Lincoln, Olive and Eva Coleman, in addition to her many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. The family would also like to acknowledge Betty’s devoted friend, David Barnard, whose kindness has held a special place in Betty’s heart for many years. A private burial will be held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery where Betty will rest alongside her departed husband. In keeping with Betty’s love for children, memorial contributions may be made to her favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105 or www.stjude.org.
continued from page 20
to swim and ice skate with her siblings and friends while living at “The Grove”, the family home in Plymouth. She excelled in math (senior year class treasurer) and sports as a member of the first graduating class of North Miami High School in 1955. Soon afterwards, Betty met her future husband, Edward L. Waters, one summer while collecting cranberries. Ed and Betty soon married in Plymouth, started a family, and bought their first home in Wrentham, MA. It was in Wrentham where Betty established her career in the Wrentham Public Schools. Initially helping as a lunchroom volunteer when her two young children entered elementary school, she went on to enjoy positions of increasing responsibility with the last being Assistant to the Superintendent of Wrentham Public Schools. Betty managed an orderly office, enjoyed helping everyone who crossed her path, and made numerous friends both in and out of school. She retired in 2002. Betty especially enjoyed traveling, country music, knitting and crafting - especially anything blue - a good prank and a good back rub. But most of all, she enjoyed hosting her friends and family with Ed in their Plymouth and Port Saint Lucie, FL homes for many
A new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program
offers eligible beneficiaries certain medications for weight management for $50 a month through Dec. 31, 2027. Covered drugs include Wegovy, Zepbound (KwikPen only) and Foundayo. Eligibility is limited. For example, you generally need Medicare drug coverage and must meet specific body mass index and health requirements. The program operates separately from regular Part D coverage, so the $50 monthly payment doesn’t count toward your Part D deductible or annual out-ofpocket limit. Learn more and check eligibility at Medicare.gov/coverage/weight-loss-drugs. HOW TO SHOP SMART
Here are four ways to find coverage that fits your needs without overpaying. Read your plan notice: Your insurer should send an Annual Notice of Change explaining next year’s premiums, deductibles, co-payments and coverage changes. Medicare Advantage members should also check provider networks and extra benefits. Compare total costs: Visit Medicare.gov/ plan-compare. Enter your medications and preferred pharmacies to compare plans and estimate annual costs. Don’t focus on premiums
alone; include deductibles and what you’ll pay for prescriptions. Check your doctors: If you’re considering Medicare Advantage, contact your doctors and hospitals directly to confirm they’ll accept the specific plan in 2027. Online directories can be outdated. Get free help: Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling. Find a local counselor at ShipHelp.org or call 877-839-2675. One important caution: If you’re thinking of switching from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare, check your Medigap options first. In most states, insurers can deny you a Medigap policy or charge higher premiums based on your health history if you don’t qualify for guaranteed-issue protections. Make sure you understand your options before dropping your current plan. Take time to compare plans before Dec. 7. A little homework now could save you money and help you start 2027 with better coverage. Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
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Page 22
• Williston Observer • November 5, 2026
SUPPORTS
WILLISTON CRAFT SHOW Saturday, November 7 9 AM - 4 PM Williston Central School 195 Central School Drive, Williston, VT
Jewelry, artwork, woodcrafts, pottery, fiber arts, holiday and gifts, specialty food items, live music & food trucks! For Map & More Info:
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SUDOKU SOLUTION Puzzle found on page 18
CROSSWORD SOLUTION Puzzle found on page 18
for your generosity! Thank you
Support your local newspaper. READ IT. WRITE LETTERS. ADVERTISE. MAKE SUGGESTIONS. SHOP THE ADVERTISERS. Williston
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November 5, 2026 •
Williston Observer • Page 23
CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL
TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, November 10, 2026 – 7:00 PM Town Hall Beckett/McGuire Meeting Room (7900 Williston Road, use rear entrance) or Zoom Webinar ID 813 6162 7981 on www.zoom.us/join or call 1-646-5588656 DP 24-06.2 River’s Edge Development
c/o O’Leary-Burke Civil Associates requests a Discretionary Permit amendment to modify the Growth Management commitments for the residential subdivision located on Trails Bend Drive and Glaser Court in the RZD. Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt. org.
LEGAL
To place a classified ad, email Adam@williston observer.com or call (802) 338-1655 Deadline for classifieds is Monday.
permit to lift the affordability restriction on 2 dwelling units at 109 and 115 Kadence Circle in Northridge subdivision the RZD.
TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, November 24, 2026 – 7:00 PM Town Hall Beckett/McGuire Meeting Room (7900 Williston Road, use rear entrance) or Zoom Webinar ID 813 6162 7981 on www.zoom.us/join or call 1-646-558-8656
Project details and site plans are available on the website, town. williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-8786704 or email planning@willistonvt. org
DP 17-01.7 Northridge-Williston LLC c/o Ben Avery requests a discretionary
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Page 24 •
Williston Observer •
November 5, 2026
Library
continued from page 1
both the new and remodeled spaces. The trustees now plan to resume their private fundraising campaign to offset the cost of the project to taxpayers. According to Unrath, $800,000 has already been pledged. The fundraising goal is up to $1.5 million. “We do have some folks who have said ‘come back to us after the bond vote passes. We want to talk to you then,’” said Unrath. “We are excited to reconnect with folks who have pledged and to try to find some new folks to donate. That is our first, next step.” The target timeframe for a groundbreaking is the spring of 2028. Qualified contractors for a public project of this magnitude tend to be booked out a year in advance, Unrath said. “We don’t want to hurry things,” he said. “We’ve been told it’s more economical to make sure that we’re doing the competitive bidding when contractors are most hungry for projects, and we’ll get the best and the most bids by waiting a little bit for that.”
CLOCKWISE (l to r): A coffee delivery fuels various political sign-holders staked out outside of the Williston Armory on Tuesday. Traffic temporarily slowed on Route 2 as voters arrive to cast their ballots. Voters wait to be checked in. Taylor Auclair casts her ballot. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
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