Williston Observer 12/11/2025

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DECEMBER 11, 2025

WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

Town budget draft unveiled with 7.8 percent increase

The magic of the season

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The lights festooning S.D. Ireland’s concrete mixer truck cast a glow on the faces of this duo who turned up for Williston’s Tree Lighting on Dec. 7 on the Town Green. More photos on page 3.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

On Saturday, Williston Town Manager Erik Wells presented the Williston Selectboard with a first draft of the town budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

The board is planning a Jan. 6 public hearing on the draft, followed by deliberations and a final proposal to place on the ballot for voter consideration at Town Meeting Day in March.

The draft shows an increase in spending of $1.25 million over the current fiscal year to reach a total budget of $17.2 million — an increase of 7.8 percent over the budget voters approved last March.

Incorporated in the budget

‘Ready to rebuild’

are two new firefighter positions, a new part-time administrative assistant position and new human resource software.

The annual cost to the town of the new firefighters ($225,000) is paid for by increased revenue from the town’s ambulance service, according to Wells.

The majority of the spending increase comes from an increase of $808,000 in wages and benefits for the town’s roughly 100 employees. The budget includes a 3.4 percent wage increase for all staff, an increase of between 2.8 percent and 3.4 percent in retirement contribution costs and a 5 percent increase in health insurance costs.

Under the budget proposal, municipal property taxes would see BUDGET page 7

St. George leaders plan schoolhouse recovery after crash

BY JASON STARR Observer staff Community leaders in St. George are assessing damage and pledging to reconstruct the portion of the town’s historic schoolhouse that was torn off Nov. 20 when an allegedly impaired driver drove a vehicle into the building.

First-responders from Hinesburg, Williston and Richmond arrived that Thursday evening to find an unresponsive

driver and the front porch of the building destroyed. According St. George Selectboard chair Joel Colf, the driver had left the nearby gas station and crossed Barber Road before crashing into the building. The front porch that was destroyed was an add-on to the original historic structure.

“It’s pretty amazing that they did not hit the main portion of the building,” Colf said.

“It might have been by a matter of inches. They drove right

into that front porch and just knocked it clear off.”

In a news release the following day, Vermont State Police identified the driver as a 33-year-old resident of St. George. He was charged with driving under the influence of drugs and negligent operation of a vehicle. The driver was also found to have an arrest warrant for failing to appear for a previous driving-under-the-influence arrest, according to State Police. He has a hearing scheduled see ST. GEORGE page 4

A driver allegedly under the influence of drugs crashed into the historic schoolhouse, which serves as a community gathering place, in St. George on Nov. 20.

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Page 2 •

Williston Observer • December 11, 2025

CLARIFICATION A front page article in the Dec. 4 edition of the Observer headlined “Town accepts 48acre donation” reported that the Williston Selectboard accepted the land donation into town ownership on Dec. 2.

While the board did vote to accept the property, the legal transfer of land will not occur until Town Manager Erik Wells closes on the transaction, which he anticipates will happen after the New Year.

Around Town Rotary to host Vermont Comedy Club founder Natalie Miller, executive director of Vermont Comedy Arts, will be the guest speaker at the Thursday, Dec. 18 meeting of the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club.

Miller is a performer, educator, producer and co-founder of the

Vermont Comedy Club. Her talk is entitled “The Importance of Comedy in 2025.”

The meeting will take place at the Williston Federated Church.

Doors open at 7 a.m., breakfast is served at 7:15 and the meeting agenda starts at 7:30. Community members are welcome to attend in person or via Zoom by RSVPing to RotaryClubofWillistonVT@ gmail.com.

Old Brick Church Trustees to meet A Williston Old Brick Church Trustees meeting will be held Monday, Dec. 15 from 5-6 p.m. in

the Old Brick Church basement on 100 Library Lane. The agenda includes discussion of handicap access and reviving the Old Brick Church Music Series.

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9:30 a.m. Children’s Christmas Pageant

December 24

5:00 p.m. Family-focused service (designed with children in mind) 7:30 p.m. Candlelight service 11:00 p.m. Community Service at the Old Brick Church (in person only)

December 28

9:30 a.m Informal worship and breakfast in Fellowship Hall

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www.WillistonObserver.com

CALENDAR EDITOR@WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM MONDAY, DEC. 15

Old Brick Church Trustees meeting. 5 p.m. Old Brick Church, 100 Library Lane. Agenda at www.town.williston.vt.us.

Dorothy Alling Memorial Library Board of Trustees meeting. 7 p.m. 21 Library Lane.

Agenda at www.damlvt.org.

TUESDAY, DEC. 16

Williston Planning Commission meeting. 7 p.m.

Town Hall. Agenda at www.town. williston.vt.us.

Champlain Valley School Board meeting. 6 p.m. CVU High School. Agenda at www.cvsdvt. org.

THURSDAY, DEC. 18

Williston-Richmond Rotary Club breakfast meeting.

Speaker Natalie Miller, Vermont Comedy Club founder, on “The Importance of Comedy in 2025.” 7 a.m. Williston Federated Church.

RSVP to rotaryclubofwillistonvt@ gmail.com.

December 11, 2025 •

Oh, Tannenbaum!

TOP: A crowd gathers on the Town Green for Williston’s annual Tree Lighting celebration Sunday. Clockwise (l to r), volunteers hand out welcome hot chocolate and cookies on the chilly night; S.D. Ireland’s festive concrete mixer truck and the lighting of the tree itself in the central gazebo were integral to the festive atmosphere.

Williston Observer • Page 3

PROPERTY TRANSFERS — NOV. 2025 • John Pierce bought a condominium on Eastview Circle from Mary Schreiber for $113,575.

• Access Self Storage LLC bought a home on South Brownell Road from Pinetree Stairways Inc. for $500,000.

• Emily Trantum bought a home on 2 acres on Highlands Drive from Nancy Ryan for $915,000.

• Christopher Crowe bought a home on 4 acres on South Road from Dew Wilde for $420,000.

• Teresa Benevento-Munroe and Caryn Beneve bought a condominium on Whitewater Circle from James H. Bushey Trustee for $549,000.

• Rachel Allard bought a home on Lawnwood Drive from Jeffrey Huber for $875,000.

• Derek Goguen bought a condominium on Eastview Circle from Hisham Zafari for $350,000.

• Robert Chernoff bought a home on 1 acre on Caroline Court from Andrew Hunt for $1.6 million.

• Christine Campbell bought a home on Southfield Drive from George Tang for $689,000.

• Kylie Halpin bought a home on Alpine Drive from The Snyder Williston Properties LLC for $621,415.

• David Ricketts bought a condominium on Kristen Court from Paul Choiniere for $455,000.

• John Desousa bought a condominium on Primrose Lane from the Karen Villanti Revocable Trust for $600,000.

• Cody Mazza bought a home on Sharon Drive from Eric Allard for $500,000.

• Dante Fraire bought 5 acres of open land on Mountain View Road from Scott Batdorf for $375,000.

• Alexandra Livesay-Nicholas bought a home on Lefebvre Lane from Katharine Cieri for $520,000.

• Azizul Islam bought a home on Alpine Drive from The Snyder Williston Properties LLC for $641,395.

• The Moran Revocable Living Trust bought a condominium on Zephyr Road from Richard Bart for $595,000.

• Amine Benomar bought a condominium on Eastview Circle from The Mary E. Woodruff Trust for $362,000.

• The Martha Debucz-Huber Family Trust bought a home on 15 acres on Pumpkin Hill from Frederick Spencer for $1.9 million.

• Ian Hunter bought a home on 7 acres on St. George Road from Tucker Henne for $910,000.

• Barbara Jones bought a condominium on Eastview Circle from Yvan Cote for $385,000.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

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Page 4 •

Williston Observer • December 11, 2025

St. George

continued from page 1

for Feb. 12 in Chittenden County Criminal Court.

Colf said the schoolhouse will remain operational as a community gathering place despite the damage. Age Well hosts senior community meals there. It is also the venue for St. George’s annual Town Meeting.

The schoolhouse dates back to its construction in 1852. In the late 2000s, a community group formed to not only refurbish the building, but to move it to the town center, next to town hall, where it could serve as a civic gathering place. One day in 2012, the schoolhouse was loaded onto a flatbed truck and hauled about a half-mile along Route 2A to its current site.

Former selectboard member Wayne Ring was part of the group that spearheaded the move, and he built the front porch

that was destroyed. Although he’s since moved to Huntington, Ring was on scene with Colf the day of the crash, helping with cleanup and assessing the damage.

“He’s very strongly connected to the building and wants to see that it continues as a community space. We feel very fortunate for that,” Colf said. “We’re already in discussions with him about what a redesign would look like, or a reconstruction.”

Colf expects an insurance adjuster to visit in the coming weeks, and the selectboard to take up the question of appropriating reconstruction funds at a future meeting.

“We don’t have a lot of these types of events happening in St. George,” Colf said.

“It’s generally pretty quiet. So it was definitely a big thing for us. We got together and worked through the cleanup, and now we’re ready to rebuild.”

NOV 28 through DEC 31, 2025

Referee shortage threatens high school sports schedules

BY BUSY ANDERSON Community News Service

Vermont is in the midst of an alarming referee shortage — a problem unfolding nationwide, but one that has hit hard in a state with a small and aging workforce.

Between 2018 and 2023, the National Federation of State High School Associations reported a loss of almost 60,000 officials nationwide, a trend exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

In Vermont, officials are spread thin covering games across 23 sports at over 70 high schools sanctioned by the Vermont Principals’ Association — the state’s governing body for school athletics. Trainees aren’t offsetting the number of retiring veteran officials, and the resulting gap in personnel is forcing games to be postponed or canceled.

“What was just affecting a couple sports out of the wide pool of varsity sports in the state — now it’s virtually every sport,” said

Devin Wendel, president of the Vermont State Athletic Directors Association and athletic director at Mount Abraham Union High School.

“You’re seeing officials that are getting overworked, trying to hustle over to get from one location to the next.”

Michael Jabour Activities director South Burlington High School

With a working population that is already strained, the persisting shortage of officials in Vermont carries a serious risk of interrupting high school seasons. see REFEREES page 5

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Referees

continued from page 4

“If we don’t do something, in the next three to five years there won’t be enough of us to cover sporting events in Vermont, and that is bad for all involved,” Steve Cicio — president of Vermont’s branch of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials — wrote in a Nov. 13 email. “We are going to struggle this season with what we have for numbers,” he said.

This year alone, the association lost between 10 and 12 varsity officials, and five to six junior varsity officials, according to Cicio.

Many of those retiring have been in the profession for numerous decades, with expertise in multiple sports. Their retirements mean fewer mentors for the next generation filling their shoes.

A 2023 survey of the association’s officials found that around half planned to retire by 2028.

“Not only are we losing a large percentage of our board, but out of that 50 percent, a large percentage of those folks are capable and qualified to work almost any game in the state,” said Trevour Houle, a varsity basketball official of nearly 10 years. “If I were to guess, it’s going to create a snowball effect where we lose a large amount of officials — those who are left are asked to work more nights a week, those officials are probably going to get burnt out or injured, and they’re going to decide next year whether they want to do that all over again or not.”

Dwindling numbers puts a greater burden on those remaining, who are expected to cover more games across further distances than they had previously.

“You’re seeing officials that are getting overworked, trying to hustle over to get from one location to the next,” said Michael Jabour, senior director of activities at South Burlington High School and Middle School.

Varsity teams typically take priority because their regular seasons determine playoffs and championships, unlike junior varsity teams, said Tim Messier, athletic director at Lamoille Union High School. Teams at Lamoille Union lose a couple games each season because officials aren’t available, he said.

Referees are paid $97.50 for varsity and $75 for junior varsity games, plus the cost of mileage. First-time registration to be an official costs $30 and secures certification for one year. Referees can then officiate as many sports they choose to train for.

The VPA’s officials committee increased the pay by 30 percent two years ago and the earnings are aligned with all other New England states, said Lauren Young, executive director of activities at the VPA. “You take your $97.50 and it sounds like, ‘Wow, that’s a great fee for a game.’ Well, it was an hour (to get) there, and you have to get to the game an hour early. The game takes an hour and a half to two hours. You shower, you’re in the locker room for 20 minutes after the game and then you have your

Williston Observer • Page 5

The CVU boys basketball team hosts a scrimmage last week against Fair Haven in Hinesburg.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

hour ride home,” Houle said. “When you start breaking it down to an hourly rate, it’s not that great.”

Vermont’s handful of remaining referees also face continuing harassment, particularly from spectators, said Young. She suspects that poor sportsmanship is partially to blame for disillusionment about joining the force.

Among those who become certified, most new officials resign within their first three years, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations.

“They can never be right. They’re always to blame,” Jabour said. “It’s hard to be an official because you’re constantly being told how terrible you are.”

As the VPA ramps up their recruitment efforts, Young wants to see a more accurate representation of Vermont’s student body with whistles — particularly through more women and people of color becoming certified to officiate.

“We have diverse schools, and I think there’s power in seeing people in a position of authority in the game that are reflective of what they look like to try to dispel some of the older white male dominance over the officiating world,” she said.

Nationally, the shortage could be on the mend. The National Federation of State High School Associations reported an 8 percent increase in registered officials this year compared to 2018.

But in Vermont, the void left by referees stepping down isn’t being filled. While the VPA is marketing to college students and tapping school administrators to spread the word about the shortage in their communities, Young expects to draw in just two or three newcomers this year.

“Even recruiting 10 officials in the state of Vermont can have a huge impact on a local high school being able to actually keep their schedule intact,” Wendel said.

Busy Anderson is a reporter with the Community News Service, part of the University of Vermont’s Reporting & Documentary Storytelling program.

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Williston Observer • December 11, 2025

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Group seeks to address ‘serious lack’ of women’s history in curriculum

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BY EVAN WITT Community News Service On a recent evening at Pierson Library in Shelburne, more than 30 people gathered to hear students from CVU High School advocate for more women’s history in the curriculum.

While the group was formed at CVU, Her Education Required (HER) seeks to change how history is taught across Vermont.

“There is a serious lack of education around women’s history in the curriculum,” said Amelie Fairweather, co-founder of HER, “so much so that young girls don’t know how to speak up for themselves, don’t know when their rights are being called into question, because they don’t know what their rights are.”

The main goal of hosting the event was community outreach, getting people involved and spreading the message, said HER co-founder Eloise Glasscoe.

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Fairweather’s call to action originated from awareness of her own lack of knowledge when it came to women’s history.

According to Fairweather, HER began with a few girls presenting to ninth graders and middle school students. This year, they founded a club at CVU, attracting members and fostering a space for discussions. Now, they’ve begun to present their message to school administrators and to the community.

Their event included a presentation about how much students know, or don’t know, about women’s history. They conducted a poll on women’s history, answered by 305 students in grades 9-12.

“Students are not getting the education they deserve, and need, in order to make important decisions for the rest of their lives.”

Olivia Cieri HER group member

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According to their data, 95 percent of students could not explain what a suffrage movement was, and more than 92 percent had not received education about protections guaranteed in the Civil Rights Act. In addition, 90 percent of students said they had received no education around women’s rights from CVU, said HER member Olivia Cieri.

“What these numbers are telling us is that students are not getting the education they deserve, and need, in order to make important decisions for the rest of their lives,” Cieri said.

HER has taken other actions to further its goals, including hosting meetings, speaking to the CVSD School Board at a public forum, and hosting a fundraiser. The organization has plans to present to the State Board of Education as well. see HER page 7

December 11, 2025 •

Her

Williston Observer • Page 7

Budget

continued from page 6

continued from page 1

The organization plans to continue to advocate for the implementation of women’s history in schools, not just in their school district but in all of Vermont.

Response so far has come in the form of words of support, not action, Fairweather said.

“Although we have received verbal support, we are looking for action steps from faculty members, and we have not seen those action steps yet,” Fairweather said.

Charlotte resident Bethany Myrick, 74, said that she is grateful to the organization for fighting for the history of women’s rights for her granddaughters, a history that she feels is under threat.

“I’m so proud of this group of students that came forward and took a stand, and took some risks and know what they want, and probably will be great leaders,” Myrick said.

Via Community News Service, a University of Vermont journalism internship, on assignment for The Charlotte News.

increase by about $32 for every $100,000 of assessed property value, according to Wells — an increase of about 8 percent.

The new municipal tax rate would be $422 for every $100,000 of assessed value. It would cost the owner of a $400,000 home, for example, $1,688. The municipal tax rate accounts for about 15 percent of a homeowner’s property tax bill, with 85 percent funding public schools.

In their initial discussion of the proposal Saturday, selectboard members asked Wells to reduce the spending increase from 7.8 percent to around 5 percent, and potentially add money from the town’s reserve fund (fund balance) to reduce the tax increase. The reserve fund currently sits at $3.2 million, according to Wells. About $550,000 was included as revenue in the initial budget draft.

“Can you generate a menu of options for cutting expenses and (adding) fund balance, and let us mix and match?”

Selectboard chair Ted Kenney suggested.

Her Education Required members gather at an event at the Pierson Library in Shelburne.

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Page 8 •

Williston Observer • December 11, 2025

GUEST COLUMN

Legislative preview: a scalpel not a sledgehammer

BY REP. ERIN BRADY AND REP. ANGELA ARSENAULT It’s been an eventful couple of weeks in the world of headlines related to public education in Vermont. Both the tax commissioner’s letter and the final report from the School District Redistricting Task Force were published on Dec. 1. We’d like to talk a bit about each separately, and then address how these two important pieces of information interact and will inform the upcoming legislative session, which begins on Jan. 6.

First, the Dec. 1 letter from the state tax commissioner is a statutorily required projection of the anticipated average property tax increase that Vermonters may face for the next fiscal year. That number is calculated by the governor’s administration and the legislature’s non-partisan Joint Fiscal Office, who take into account factors such as: expected revenues, expected property values, early drafts of school budgets, other currently existing costs in the education fund, and any funding gap created by decisions the prior year.

This year’s projection is that

property tax rates will increase an average of 11.9 percent around the state. This increase is not acceptable.

About half of the projected increase is due to rising education costs. As we’ve discussed previously, many of these costs are driven by factors outside of any school board’s control, including double-digit increases in healthcare premiums.

Last year, increases in teacher healthcare drove total spending up about $100 million (ten cents on the tax rate).

Our severe shortage of housing paired with our aging population means we have fewer school-aged children in our school system.

Fewer kids means higher costs per student to maintain our same basic programs.

School districts also have become responsible for more social services, including for an unprecedented number of unhoused children this year. It is unclear how much upward pressure this will put on school budgets, and whether this is the most efficient and effective way to address child poverty.

The other half of the anticipated tax rate increase can be attributed to the tax rate buy-down that the

Legislature and governor supported last year. You may recall that roughly $118 million was transferred to

We expect that the Legislature will act again to buy down the tax rate, but we don’t yet know how much money will be available for this purpose nor how big a reduction it will produce. the education fund last year, which kept the average tax rate increase to about 1.5 percent. In Williston, we saw a tax rate decrease.

We expect that the Legislature will act again to buy down the tax

May the glow of the menorah inspire hope, resilience, and the joyous spirit of togetherness for all.

Williston’s Community Newspaper Since 1985

www.willistonobserver.com P.O. Box 1401, Williston, VT 05495 | 802-489-5499 ADVERTISING Rick Cote, Associate Publisher rick@willistonobserver.com 802-373-2136 EDITOR Jason Starr editor@willistonobserver.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN Jan Kenney jan@willistonobserver.com

ADVERTISING SPACE DEADLINE Friday at 5 p.m. for the next Thursday issue rick@willistonobserver.com, 802-373-2136 CLASSIFIED ADS Deadline is Friday 5 p.m. There is a fee for business, real estate, help wanted and legal ads. Free classifieds must be 25 words or fewer and are printed on a space available basis.

PUBLISHER Susan T. Cote susan@willistonobserver.com

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The Williston Observer reserves the right to edit or refuse submissions or advertising. Opinions expressed in the paper are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the paper.

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rate, but we don’t yet know how much money will be available for this purpose nor how big a reduction it will produce. We do know, however, that this cycle is not sustainable.

We also know there is no single change that will dramatically and immediately lower property taxes.

Which brings us to the Redistricting Task Force report, the introduction of which reads, in part: “Vermont is confronting a set of structural challenges in its public education system: declining enrollment, rising costs, persistent inequities in access to programs, and a governance structure that makes regional coordination difficult. Vermont’s school buildings are the second oldest in the nation.

In addition, Vermont funds services out of its public education fund that in other states are funded by non-education revenue sources.”

The detailed work of the Task Force clearly illuminates our options: We can address our issues

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with a surgical approach by making strategic, incremental changes over time, or we can use a blunt force tool on our entire system all at once, as Gov. Scott continues to support and Act 73 threatens to do.

We support the Task Force recommendation to employ a strategic approach. Over four months this fall, the Task Force conducted a rigorous review of Vermont’s educational landscape, drawing on statewide fiscal and enrollment data, research from comparable rural states, public input from more than 5,000 Vermonters, and extensive deliberation among members who were appointed by the governor and the Legislature. The Task Force did not find evidence that district mergers of the scale contemplated in Act 73 would reliably lower costs, improve educational outcomes, or expand equity.

The Task Force recommended see LEGISLATORS page 15

December 11, 2025 •

Williston Observer • Page 9

GUEST COLUMN

Highlighting success and seeking partnership

BY ADAM BUNTING I must admit I’m a little annoyed. I work hard not to be defensive of an educational status quo, as our schools, nationally, have significant work ahead to become more human and more future-centered. But I want to focus this column on the Champlain Valley School District (CVSD) because I worry that narratives like those offered by Sen. Beck and Rep. McCoy (“We have a spending problem” Dec. 4) and Gov. Scott (“Totally unacceptable” Dec. 4) misrepresent the success and hard work of our students, educators and families, risking support for our system.

In the past two fiscal years, CVSD has reduced our staff by 82 positions. While I acknowledge challenges in our education funding system, I don’t want to see resources for our students and a budget that you have long supported jeopardized based on hyperbole that is, at minimum, untrue for our district.

Here is the refrain published last week: “Republicans are deeply concerned that, despite nearly the highest per-pupil education spending in the nation, Vermonters are seeing diminishing returns: declining reading and math scores, deteriorating school infrastructure, low post-secondary enrollment, a rising

dropout rate, and the highest staffing ratio in the country — 3.4 to 1.”

Let’s start with the data. First is the idea of a rising dropout rate. So you are in the know, CVU’s graduation rate for 2025 is 96 percent.

This figure is impressive and even more so as some students can legally (and are welcomed) to attend school until they turn 22 years old.

The statistics that are used to illustrate Vermont’s educational decline come primarily from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). NAEP scores are reported statewide and cannot be disaggregated to individual school districts. And while we (CVSD) have not always highlighted our standardized-test successes (in part because test scores are such a narrow definition of meaningful learning, citizenship and human development), it is important to understand that statewide NAEP data does not represent CVSD performance.

NAEP would lead you to believe that our fourth graders may fall in the 30 percent range for proficiency in reading and math.

That is simply not our reality. A few points of celebration: — 87 percent of CVSD third graders were proficient or above in literacy on the 2025 spring i-Ready assessment; 70 percent were

proficient or above in math.

— On the Vermont Comprehensive Assessment Program (VTCAP), 75 percent of our fourth graders were proficient or above in literacy and 61 percent in math.

— Our seventh graders performed especially well: 83 percent were proficient or above on the VTCAP English Language Arts (ELA) assessment.

— On the SAT (which we provide to all students at no cost), 87 percent of CVSD students last year were proficient or above in literacy.

All of this data is accurate — and, yes, I am cherry picking, but I’ll be transparent about that. We certainly have areas for growth, but the dominant narrative would have you believe there are no bright spots. That’s simply not true. And as I mentioned earlier, I’m not a standardized-test advocate. Wouldn’t it be great if life were that easy — score well here and everything else falls into place?

I’ve worked in this district long enough to see longitudinal patterns, and to understand (as best I can) which factors more meaningfully contribute to long-term success and wellbeing. Academic proficiency matters, but equally — if not more — important are a student’s sense of purpose, the connections they form with peers, adults and their community, and

the identity they build as they navigate childhood and adolescence.

We’ve been measuring aspects of student engagement for more than a decade. Here are some data points (and we have generated hundreds of these) I care much more about than NAEP, as they represent both the celebratory and gaps: — 96.6 percent of CVU students say they have at least one trusted adult at school.

— 90 percent of CVSD students in grades 9-12 report feeling a sense of belonging.

— 96 percent of students surveyed say they have friends who treat them with kindness and respect.

— 86 percent of students in grades 3-8 say they can be themselves at school; 71 percent say school is helping them learn about themselves.

— 80 percent of students in grades 3-8 say school is important to them; 64 percent say they see themselves in the curriculum.

— Students with IEPs disagreed with the statement “I feel represented in school leadership positions and on committees” at nearly twice the rate of their peers (34.7 percent vs.

17.8 percent). see BUNTING page 10

PreKindergarten Lottery is now open for 2026-2027!

The CVSD Early Education Program is now accepting applications for a random prekindergarten lottery drawing for the 2026-27 school year. This lottery is for an opportunity to enroll in one of our school-based classrooms which runs 4 partial days per week. Our school-based prekindergarten classrooms are 5 STARs, licensed early education programs that provide play-based, developmentally appropriate environments for all children in an inclusive setting. Our curriculum is based on the Vermont Early Learning Standards (VELS).

Our programs follow the CVSD school calendar. Children who will be age 3 or older by September 1, 2026, who are not eligible for kindergarten, and live in the communities of Charlotte, Hinesburg, Shelburne, St. George, and Williston are eligible to enter the lottery. Families who are selected for the lottery and choose to enroll their child in a CVSD program access their Act 166 publicly funded prekindergarten funds for the school-based program.

All applications must be received by February 5, 2026, and are located on the CVSD Early Education website under PreK Enrollment. Paper applications are available upon request.

For additional information, questions about our program, or any concerns about your child’s development, please visit our website or contact Director of Early Education, Erin Gagne at egagne@cvsdvt.org. Our Early Education team is also available for developmental screenings in the areas of communication, socialemotional development, motor skills, adaptive development, and cognition. More information about an Early Multi-Tiered System of Supports is also available on the website.

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Williston Observer •

December 11, 2025

Bunting

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

continued from page 9

Stepping briefly out of my CVSD role, I want to share a personal belief: Education should transcend politics. While Vermont’s decline on NAEP scores is multifactorial, I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Vermont began to lag when we transitioned from a commissioner to a secretary of education. As in every realm of education, meaningful learning and progress start with relationships — and we have real work to do to repair them.

I’ve been told that we once enjoyed far greater cohesion and partnership. Yet in the past year, the most salient thing I’ve seen is divisiveness. So perhaps we can agree on three things: first, we could be doing much better as a state; second, we must mature beyond standardized tests as accountability metrics and honor the young humans we are gifted to serve; and third, our way forward lies not in op-eds and negative narratives, but in genuine partnership and collective purpose.

Adam Bunting is the superintendent of the Champlain Valley School District.

A second for food shelf support I want to commend Brian Forrest of Williston for his compassionate and heartfelt suggestion to our Williston town administration regarding the annual rent and utilities burden of the Williston Community Food Shelf (“All for food shelf rental assistance” Nov. 26).

After the tremendous dropoff in aid at the federal level and the worsening job market, it’s time for the Williston community to take care of its own.

With a population of slightly more than 10,000 residents, the cost to the community to support this mission is approximately $4.25 per person per year — less than the cost of a peppermint mocha frappuccino at Starbucks ($6.45).

During this season of giving and forgiving, let’s band together as the community we aspire to be and cover the annual $43,000 rent and utility cost for the food shelf. Remove the worry of food insecurity from

our less fortunate neighbors’ long list of concerns. This is less about opening our wallets and more like shaking our piggy banks.

Peter C. Dwyer Williston

Truth about refugees In this season of the year that is filled with aspirations of joy and peace and community — and indeed in any season — it is deeply distressing to hear entire ethnic groups demonized by powerful politicians in our nation’s capital.

For many of us, this time of year is set aside to celebrate the birth of the Christ child. And as we do so this year, we should especially recall that Jesus was a refugee. The gospel of Matthew recounts how King Herod had threatened (and indeed enacted) violence upon all the young babies in Bethlehem, but that Joseph and Mary and Jesus escaped into Egypt to avoid that fate. (Matthew 2:13-18.)

Fleeing to another country

to avoid persecution is the very definition of “refugee.” Yet in this country, there are people in power who are denigrating refugees (and others who entered this country legally) simply because of their ethnicity or nation of origin.

At Williston Federated Church, we have a long history of support for refugees. Our congregation has welcomed refugees from all over the world. In the 1990’s, members of our congregation invited refugees from Bosnia into their homes.

More recently, we have been blessed to connect with new Americans from the Congo and Afghanistan.

So when people holding high office hurl harmful insults and harsh threats at people we know to be good, we feel compelled to proclaim the truth instead. As we read in the first chapter of Genesis, all of us are created in God’s image.

May that truth pierce the darkness of this time with an unquenchable light.

In the hope-filled spirit of the season.

Rev. Paul Eyer Pastor Williston Federated Church

Letter Policy The Williston Observer welcomes your letters to the editor.

A few ground rules: We ask that letters run no longer than 300 words. We edit for length, clarity, style, spelling and grammar.

Please include your name, town or city where you live and a daytime phone number (which we won’t print) so we can verify you wrote the letter.

The deadline is Monday at noon for letters to be printed in Thursday’s paper.

Email: editor@willistonobserver.com or mail to Williston Observer, P.O Box 1401, Williston, Vt. 05495

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December 11, 2025 •

Williston Observer •

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Williston Observer •

December 11, 2025

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Sarita Devi — Growing up in Uttar Pradesh, northern India, Sarita learned to cook family recipes throughout her childhood. Nine years after moving to Vermont with her husband, Yogi Singh, she realized her dream of opening Aromas of India to share the food she loves with others. Her flavorful vegetarian menu (Indian food is so much more than curry!) features complex flavors and textures. Everything she serves, she makes from scratch, with attention to detail that shines in every dish.

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Carlos and Ricardo Guzman and Eduardo Fuentes have been friends since their grade school days in Jalisco, Mexico. With two other successful Tex-Mex restaurants up and running, the partners seized the opportunity to open their third, under Francisco’s leadership, when space came available in Williston.

At Casa Grande, Francisco has created a colorful, lively atmosphere, where he eagerly welcomes guests to enjoy authentic dishes with the vibrant flavors of Mexico.

Craig Anthony — Craig

The Kismet Building • 373 Blair Park Road • Suite 101 • Williston

Anthony grew up in Tamworth, New Hampshire. His love for cooking was found as

a child hunting and fishing, and grew during high school as a member of the Junior American Culinary Federation. In 2007, he relocated to Vermont, building a distinguished career with Mirabelles Bakery and Waterworks Food and Drink, before becoming Executive Chef at the Kitchen Table. Craig delights in creating a space for family and friends to gather and enjoy delicious homecooked comfort.

Samantha La Croix — Pastry Chef, Saman-

tha La Croix, was born and raised in Vermont where her passion for baking was sparked at an early age by her late grandmother.

Classically trained in Pastry & Baking Arts at The New England Culinary Institute, Sam has delighted diners at Jupiter Island Club in Southern Florida, Hen of the Wood, The Inn at Shelburne Farms, and Mirabelles Bakery. Widely recognized as one of the best dessert bakers in Chittenden County, she loves feeding people food that brings them to a warm, familiar place.

Bobby Seaman— Bob-

by, Director of Operations at Folino’s Pizza, has worked at the restaurant for 7 years.

Bobby was the leader behind opening their Williston location in 2021. Bobby comes from a rich culinary background but has found working with pizza is the most rewarding because of the flexibility of flavors and toppings. Bobby says, “Folino’s stands out because of our attention to high-quality ingredients and naturally rising dough.” His go-to order is the Margarita pizza. “It’s a classic pizza that lets our ingredients do the talking.” With multiple Folino’s locations, Bobby says, “The best thing about working in Vermont is

December 11, 2025 •

DINE IN!

EAT LOCAL!

TAKE OUT!

Williston Observer • Page 13

Yum!

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Tuesday - Friday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

getting to know the communities that we are a part of and bringing a smile to people’s faces.” Visit Bobby and the rest of the Folino’s family at our Williston location!

Saturday - Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Eric Kelley — Originally from Massachu-

Perry & Neil Farr — Perry & Neil Farr

met as students at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY then settled in Williston (Neil grew up in Colchester) to raise their family, where they each pursued careers in food service while exploring business ideas. When they discovered Poké on a trip to San Francisco they knew they needed to bring the concept to Vermont. The Scale was born. Perry & Neil take pride in sourcing only the freshest ingredients - mostly local – and offering hungry patrons fast, healthy and delicious food with a Hawaiian flare.

Max Fath — Max Fath grew up in Williston, the son of Jon and Lucie Fath who owned and operated the original Toscano Café Bistro on Bridge Street in Richmond. With twenty years of experience in restaurant service and management, Max was eager to launch a new rendition of Toscano when the opportunity became available in Williston. Max built a team of some familiar faces from the original Toscano and some new faces he met along the way and is grateful for the opportunity to serve our community once again, blending nostalgia from the original Toscano with contemporary elegance in his newly renovated space.

setts, Eric went to college in Colorado where he began his career in the food service business. After moving to Vermont in 2009, Eric saw an opportunity to create a gathering place in Williston where locals could connect to enjoy excellent coffee, espresso drinks, and fresh baked goods. He opened Williston Coffee Shop to serve the breakfast and lunch crowd. Over a decade later, Eric can be found in the early hours baking bread, croissants, scones and pastries to the delight of his regular customers. He takes pride in his products, the friendly atmosphere of the Shop, and the many employees who have learned from him. Located on Cornerstone Drive, it’s no surprise that Williston Coffee Shop has become a Williston cornerstone.

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Brian Lewis— Brian’s journey to Williston wends from his native Connecticut through Seattle, L.A., Rhode Island, and Waitsfield. After a season as Executive Chef at Sugarbush resort’s main slopeside restaurant, Lewis struck out on his own in Waitsfield, opening Toast and Eggs in 2018. After leading that restaurant through the pandemic, he purchased South Burlington’s Parkway Diner on Williston Road.

He also bought the original Yellow Mustard deli while launching Filibuster Restaurant and Bar, both in Montpelier. Following the floods of 2023 he successfully reopened both restaurants. After opening his second Yellow Mustard Subs and Sandwiches shop in Burlington, Brian is thrilled to join the Williston community with his newest location in the Taft Corners Shopping Center!

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Williston Observer •

December 11, 2025

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Legislators

continued from page 8

regional approaches (a similar strategy is being used in the healthcare sector to address our astronomically high healthcare costs) that respect Vermont’s rural geography, community identity, and limited statewide capacity for major structural change.

Specifically, the recommendations include: — Regional shared service structures for special education, transportation coordination, staffing, purchasing, data systems and other high-cost, low-scale areas that small districts cannot efficiently manage alone. Research from states with similar geographies shows that cooperative services improve efficiency far more effectively than district consolidation, which requires costly legal work and merging of different teacher contracts.

— Voluntary, strategic mergers where communities identify an educational benefit, community priorities and fiscal feasibility.

CVSD (and neighboring districts like Essex and MMU) voluntarily merged in the last 10 years under Act 46, and that consolidation work has generally been good for districts, but it has taken years to realize, with many hard changes along the way. Forcing districts to merge would be an enormous bureaucratic endeavor that lacks an educational or fiscal purpose.

— Comprehensive regional high schools (like CVU; we are fortunate to be at a scale that allows for extensive student opportunity) can offer advanced coursework,

world languages, technical education, mental health services, and extracurricular access, especially in small or rural districts that cannot sustainably provide these offerings alone. The Task Force did a detailed geographic analysis of where every high school is located, enrollment over time, capacity, and proximity to other schools. Using this information, they identified areas of the state where mergers into more appropriately sized high schools could benefit students and save money.

This is the kind of targeted work that can make meaningful change if it is done alongside a community engagement process rather than a forced merger.

To be clear, we are not advocating for doing nothing. Disagreeing with the governor’s irresponsible approach is not the same as pushing for the status quo. That’s just a catchy soundbite he uses to politicize education, which is a public good that should always transcend politics. There is broad tri-partisan agreement that many changes are needed to improve our education system for our students and for our taxpayers. We know that some school closures and district consolidation are necessary, but the sledgehammer approach does not lower costs or improve outcomes.

Let’s also be clear that schools are not “broken” or “failing.”

They are striving to serve every student who walks through their doors. They are working creatively to engender a sense of belonging and community at every stage — from kindergarten through

adolescence. And they’re doing it all against a backdrop of political, cultural and environmental turmoil. All this talk of “education reform” fails to acknowledge the incredible amount of good that is done on a daily basis at schools all around Vermont.

And here’s where the Dec. 1 letter and the Task Force report come together.

We will continue to advocate for finding ways to responsibly reduce the cost of education in Vermont. We will not sacrifice education quality to do it. The Task Force report offers the clearest path we’ve yet seen to reducing

costs while improving equity. We remain open to other ideas, (heck, even a map that makes sense!), but will hold the line at honoring the work of districts like ours that have followed legislative mandate after legislative mandate, cut dozens of positions over the past two difficult budget years, and continue to do their very best to serve the youngest members of our community.

We anticipate an intense legislative session ahead as we continue to work on Vermont’s interconnected affordability challenges: high healthcare costs, our dire need for affordable housing, and the

Williston Observer •

Page 15

instability of our education costs — all while contending with general chaos at the federal level, including huge losses in federal funding.

We strive to be accessible and responsive and look forward to hosting monthly legislative updates and community conversations again starting in late January. Please reach out anytime (erin.brady@vtleg.gov; angela. arsenault@vtleg.gov) with your questions, concerns or ideas.

Erin Brady and Angela Arsenault represent Williston’s Chittenden-2 District in the Vermont House of Representatives.

Be Wise About Winter Gas Safety

Protect Meters and Vents from Ice and Snow Don’t push or pile deep snow around meters and ensure whoever removes snow from your property knows meter and appliance vent locations.

Use extreme caution when clearing snow and large icicles near meters and vents. If your meter gets encased in thick ice, please call us.

More safety information here:

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How to Detect a Gas Leak You may see a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, or blowing dust. You may also see vegetation that appears to be dead or dying.

Natural gas is normally odorless. VGS adds an odorant similar to the smell of rotten eggs, so it can be easily recognized.

You may hear an unusual noise like a roaring, hissing, or whistling.

If you suspect a leak: Move immediately to a safe location. Call VGS at 800-639-8081 or call 911 with the exact location. Do not smoke or operate electrical switches or appliances. These items may produce a spark that might result in a dangerous condition. Do not assume someone else will report the condition.

12/9/25 11:11 AM

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Williston Observer •

December 11, 2025 is Sunday, Dec. 14. Judging will take place Dec. 18-21.

FAMILY SKATE & COCOA/ S’MORE NIGHT

COMMUNITY EVENTS HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST

Showcase your holiday spirit and contribute to the festive atmosphere of the community by participating in this friendly competition!

Prizes include bragging rights, gift baskets and lawn signs for homes; and $1,000 worth of marketing for businesses.

The contest is free to enter and open to Williston residents and businesses. To sign up, visit www.willistonrec.org. The registration deadline

Grab your skates and the whole family for an evening of outdoor skating at Village Community Park.

Glide across the ice, enjoy the wintery weather, and warm up alongside the fire with some hot cocoa and s’mores. This event is free. Saturday, Jan. 17, 5-7 p.m.

FAMILY PROGRAMS MATRIX WORKSHOP

Ages 14-plus. An Introduction to Matrices and Transformations workshop will explain what a matrix is and how they are used on a computer. We will look at images and simple geometric shapes as matrices, go over how they interact

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with each other and are used by the computer and more. Mondays, Jan. 5-Feb. 2, 3:30-5 p.m. Instructor: Michael Opperman. $30.

JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT

Instructors will show you how to take it high or low. Cardio Sculpt Low, Tuesdays and Fridays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. and Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Cardio Sculpt High, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4:45-5:45 p.m. and Sundays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Instructor: Kit Sayers.

VECTOR WORKSHOP

Ages 14-plus. An Introduction to Vectors and Motion workshop explores vectors and some basic uses for games and animation. Learn how to create objects and shapes with vectors, as well as a projectile with accurate collision effects.

Thursdays, Jan. 8-Feb. 5, 3:30-5 p.m.

Instructor: Michael Opperman. $30.

TAI CHI INTRO

Ages 50-plus. Mondays, 9:3010:30 a.m. Free. Instructor: Adina Panitch.

ADULT PROGRAMS

BONE BUILDERS

Ages 50-plus, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. Free.

Instructors: Ann Naumann and Joyce Oughstun.

SENIOR COMMUNITY MEALS

Ages 60-plus. The Recreation Department and Age Well will offer a free meal from 12-12:30 p.m. for anyone aged 60-plus and their spouse (regardless of age). Preregistration is required, and spots are limited. Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. with meals served at noon. Following lunch, enjoy a free senior-focused program from 12:30–1:30 p.m. Check out the menu at www.willstonrec.org. Location: the R.E.C. Zone, 94 Harvest Lane.

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, 8:45-9:45 a.m. Free. Instructor: Ciara Gregory.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

PICKUP PROGRAMS

SWIM LESSONS

Come out and play, stay fit and meet new people. These programs are open to all experience levels, meeting once a week through May. Register at www.willistonrec.org.

— Basketball: There are programs for men 20-plus, men 30-plus and women 19-plus.

— Table Tennis: adults 18-plus.

Players should bring their own paddles (a limited number of loaner paddles are available).

— Volleyball: adults 18-plus.

Ages 6 months-2.5 years. The Recreation Department and The Edge on Morse Drive in Essex are teaming up to offer preschool group swim lessons. The lessons introduce swimming techniques and increase safety skills around the water. Lessons are on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Dates and times at www.willistonrec.org.

RECKIDS BASKETBALL

Ages 4-5- Coed. This is a parent/child program designed to teach the fundamentals of the game. Each

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Instructors: Rec. staff. Fridays, Jan. 9- Feb. 6, 5:15-6 p.m. $42 ROOKIES BASKETBALL

Grades K-. Separate boys’ and girls’ programs will meet on Saturdays in January and February for an hour of practice and scrimmages. Parent volunteers are needed to coach — sign up when registering your child. Saturdays, Jan. 10Feb. 14, boys, 8-9 a.m.; girls- 9:1010:10 a.m. Early bird registration by Jan. 4 to get pricing of $48.

LEARN TO SKI/RIDE

Grades K-8. This program is held at Cochran’s Ski Area and is lesson based with opportunity to free ski/ride at the end of each lesson. Program meets Wednesdays from 2:30-4:30 p.m. starting in January. Transportation is available from Williston schools. Early bird registration deadline is Dec. 21 to get pricing of $90.

COOKIE DECORATING

Grades K-8. Join us for a funfilled afternoon of cookie decorating. Each participant will receive a cookie decorating kit. While decorating, enjoy a special feature that will keep everyone entertained.

Monday, Dec. 29, 2-3 p.m. $35.

Instructor: Taylor Hayes.

WINTER CULINARY ADVENTURE

Ages 8-16. Scavenger hunts, word puzzles, games, equipment swaps, etc., await each participant as they work together to overcome obstacles. Recipe-building skills will be acquired during this adventure. Monday-Wednesday, Dec. 29-31, 1-4:30 p.m. $224.

Instructor: Lynn Brown.

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December 11, 2025 •

Williston Observer •

Page 17

OBITUARIES

Stephen Cheney Stephen Cheney quietly passed away at his home in St. George, Vt., Nov. 25, 2025. Steve was surrounded by Judy, his wife of 52 years, daughter Krista, family, and beloved dogs. He was 71 years old.

Steve was born to Nelson and Nancy Cheney in Hartford, CT, after their car hit a tree en route to the hospital in a blinding snowstorm.

Steve lived in Connecticut throughout his childhood but considered himself to be an adopted Vermonter.

His lifelong love for the Green Mountain State began with spending childhood summers at his family’s home in Newark. His summers were filled with hiking, camping, and swimming in Willoughby Lake.

Steve learned to say “Willoughby Lake” vs. “Lake Willoughby” from Bud Chabot, an old-time Vermonter and wonderful family friend who also taught Steve to shoot and shared many WWII stories with him.

Steve graduated from Torrington High School in 1972. He was an excellent student with a lifelong love of learning about history and reading. Steve met his future wife, Judy McLam, while both were attending Champlain College in Burlington.

They later purchased a home in St. George, where they spent their life.

Steve was a hard worker and worked many jobs through high school. Working was a means of responsibility to those he loved. After college, Steve worked at Vermont Hardware Company, St. Johnsbury Trucking, Burlington Rent-All, and Vermont Tent Company.

Steve also played hard. He and Judy collected salt and pepper shakers. They took many Sunday trips looking for them and went to salt and pepper shaker conventions. They took trips to Las Vegas to see comedy shows, ride the roller coaster, and gamble a bit. Steve camped with friends at Button Bay State Park and went to Daytona 500 parties

His greatest passion of all, though, was fishing. Steve and Judy started fishing in a small boat and moved up to a bass boat. They went to major FLW and B.A.S.S. fishing tournaments as co-anglers and as spectators at tournaments in Plattsburgh, NY. After winning a trip to Australia, Steve and Judy went marlin and wahoo fishing in Bermagui N.S.W. Fishing was a means of being with friends and family and being in nature. When asked why he loved nature, Steve replied, “In nature there is peace and quiet. In peace and quiet there is bliss.”

Steve received and gave much love and admiration from and to his wife’s family, the McLams of Waits River, Vt. Their dedication to family, work ethic, and goodness contributed much to his life. Steve learned carpentry from his fatherin-law, Robert, and examples of a good partnership from Robert and his wife, Leota.

Steve loved dogs and shared his life with many. A Bluetick hound named Daisy held a special place in his heart. When asked why dogs were so special he said, “They are pure and inspire compassion.”

Steve was a good man, intelligent, handsome, loyal, and dedicated to his family and friends. He enjoyed the outdoors, camping, fishing, animals, and learning about anything historical. Steve, we’ll find you in the forests, fields, lakes, and streams. We’ll find you in the smell of warm dog fur, fall leaves, and pine. We will meet you there.

Steve is survived by his wife, Judy; daughter Krista; sister Ellen Cheney Friedler and her husband Don of Rochester, NY; brother Todd Cheney of Lancaster, NH; sisterin-law Lois McLam Cote and her husband Armand of Burlington; sister-in-law Sue McLam; aunt Sally Cheney of Enfield, CT; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his mother Nancy Cheney Rovero and stepdad Jim; father Nelson Cheney; brother Scott Cheney; and uncles Adrian Cheney and Al Scranton.

Per his wishes there will be no visiting hours. Burial will be a private gathering in the spring at Waits River Cemetery. For those who would like to honor Steve, please consider a contribution to North Country Animal League (www. ncal.com) or Long Trail Canine Rescue (www.longtraildogs.org).

Many thanks to Home Health and Hospice for their support.

Arrangements are in the care

of Hale Funeral Home in Bradford.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www. halefuneralhomes.com.

Marilyn Johnson Dunn Martin Marilyn (Johnson) Dunn Martin, 96, of Essex Jct., Vt., passed away at the McClure Miller Respite House Nov. 26, 2025, following a brief illness.

She was born in South Portland, Maine in 1929 and was a 1952 graduate of the University of Maine at Orono.

Marilyn married Charles H. Dunn in 1951 and, after graduation, moved to Brownfield, Maine where her husband worked in the family farm and lumber business. Marilyn taught elementary school and had a dressmaking and alteration business — and became the mother of five children.

In 1963 the family moved to South Burlington where Marilyn taught at Central School. In 1965 she became the first Principal of Gertrude E. Chamberlin Elementary School where she remained until she retired in 1987. Marilyn also taught sewing, tailoring, and furniture upholstering in the evening with the South Burlington Recreation Department.

Marilyn was active with many groups including the State Principals’ Association, New England Board of Curriculum Development, Delta Kappa Gamma, South Burlington Principal Group and the Vermont State Administrators’ Association.

After retirement she and her husband ran an upholstery and furniture refinishing business, Dunn-Over, and a bed and breakfast, Dunn-Inn. Marilyn is remembered by countless colleagues for her desire for better curriculum and teaching practices.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her son Charles B.; parents Roy

E. and Mildred (Dyer) Johnson; in-laws Roger C. and Olive (Hill) Dunn; husband of 48 years, Charles H. Dunn; second husband George L. Martin; step-daughter Laura and husband Joseph; and son Roger.

She is survived by her children Gayle and husband Albert; Dana and wife Kathy; Dawna and husband Tim; and daughter-inlaw Suzanne. Her grandchildren: Allan, Jennifer and husband Skylar; Kristina and husband Matthew; Joshua and wife Rici; Olivia and husband John; Meghan and husband Jason; Matthew and wife Shannon; Kevin and husband Adam; Scott and wife Angel; and Elise and husband Steve. She also leaves great-grandchildren Teagan, Kyra, Ida, Sophia, Bryanna, Isabella, Cecilia, and Waylon; two sisters-in-law Eva and Elaine; and nieces and nephews and their families.

A family graveside service will be held in the spring at East Cemetery in Williston. Donations in her name may be made to Home Health and Hospice, Attn: Development Office, 1110 Prim Road, Colchester, VT 05446.

Steven Zebertavage Steven Zebertavage, 64, of Williston, Vt. left us Nov. 27, 2025.

Born Oct. 28, 1961, Steve was a devoted husband and father who lived life with passion, humor and a ‘no-nonsense, tell it like it is’ approach, appreciated and admired by those who knew him best.

Born in Seltzer City, Pa., to mother Jean and father Anthony, Steve was the youngest of five brothers and sisters. Childhood stories from Steve included memories of early morning paper deliveries and playing in the woods around his home from the time his mother sent him out in the morning until it was time to return for dinner. Those early days spent fort-building in the

woods would evolve into a lifelong passion for the outdoors. Be it hiking the Green or White mountains, summer days spent by the lake, family camping trips, early morning runs or simply mowing the lawn, the outdoors were a place of great reprieve and joy for Steve.

On April 26, 1986, Steve married the love of his life, Marie. High school sweethearts, their marriage was one of affectionate teasing, devoted partnership and a deep and treasured understanding of one another. They began their life together in Marshall, Va. and welcomed their three children Aidan, Madeline and Grace. In 1994, the family moved to Vermont where Steve began working at the IBM plant in Essex Junction.

Steve was educated at the Lincoln Technical Institute in Pennsylvania and the University of Maryland which carried him through a 45-year career at IBM where he worked as a Physical Design Engineer.

Life was never dull with Steve and memories of his intrepid spirit abound. Whether those were marches through backwoods with his kids in search of a hidden pond, ten mile bike rides through thunderstorms that “are gonna blow over!” or ventures off the beaten path in search of the best hole-in-the-wall delicacies.

His outdoorsman spirit was equally balanced by a love of books, music, movies, and culture. Ever curious and young-at-heart, Steve was a man who contained multitudes and inspired his children to taste all of what life may have to offer. Always encouraging those around him to explore and discover new places, and cultivate new interests, Steve knew that life was meant to be lived, and embodied that every day of his life.

Steve is survived by his wife Marie, his children, Aidan (and Molly), Madeline (and Joe) and Grace (and Kameron). He was blessed with five incredible grandchildren, who provided him with immense joy and plenty of opportunities to be spoiled by their Pop. He also leaves brothers Gerald (and Marie) and Anthony, as well as sister Kathleen Pilus (and Charles), along with a large extended family of brother and sister in-laws, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his father, Anthony Zebertavage and mother, Jean Zebertavage, as well as his sister Jean Marie Weiner.

Per Steve’s wishes, there will be no memorial service and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Page 18release • Williston dates: Dec.Observer 13-19, 2025• December 11, 2025

50 (25)

Next Week: Winter reading

Issue 50, 2025

Founded by Betty Debnam

White House Christmas

Mini Fact:

The family tree of President Grover Cleveland in 1896 was in the Second Floor Oval Room. photos White House Historical Association

Where will you and your family sleep on Christmas Eve? How will you spend the holiday?

If you lived in the White House, your family Christmas would probably involve opening presents in the Yellow Oval Room, then sharing a big turkey dinner.

This week, The Mini Page learns more about Christmases in the White House.

Christmas history

In the mid-1800s, President Andrew Johnson held a party for about 500 children in the East Room. President Theodore Roosevelt invited children to a carnival party in 1903 where they danced, played games and received special treats: ice cream shaped like Santa Claus.

Blue Room tree

In the early years of the United States, Christmas was a private, family holiday.

People gathered together and perhaps shared a special meal.

In the 1800s at the White House, Christmas preparations were quite simple.

Greens such as holly or fir might have decorated the mantelpieces, along with stockings.

Some presidents had young children, but others sometimes had grandchildren or extended family living in the White House along with the first family.

For example, the first Christmas party at the White House was given in 1800 for President John Adams’ granddaughter Suzannah, who also lived there. In 1834, President Andrew Jackson planned a big party for children that included dancing, games, dinner and an indoor “snowball fight” with cotton balls!

The first Christmas tree in the Blue Room of the White House was placed there by the children of President William Howard Taft.

The president and first lady were away from the White House at Christmas in 1909, and their grown children were hosting extended family for the holiday.

Mrs. Hoover was the first to have an “official” White House tree, and it became a project for future first ladies. In 1961, Jacqueline Kennedy declared a theme for the public Christmas display for the first time.

The tree must not be more than 19 feet tall. Before President and Mrs. its arrival, workers Kennedy stand next to have to remove the the Blue Room tree in 1961. The theme for the chandelier in the Blue tree was the “Nutcracker Room for the tree to Suite.” stand in the center!

Presidents’ ornaments

In 1981, the White House Historical Association started making annual Christmas ornaments.

Each one honors one The 1981 ornament. of our presidents.

Money earned from sales of the ornaments helps the association preserve historic rooms at the White House and educate the public about the president’s home.

The first ornament, honoring President George Washington, was shaped like a The 1999 weathervane from ornament was in honor of President Mount Vernon, his Abraham Lincoln. home in Virginia.

The 2025 ornament celebrates the 150th anniversary of state dinners at the White House.

It features two plates from the White House State china collection.

Resources On the Web:

• bit.ly/46ToRyl • bit.ly/4oiiOJl

At the library:

• “A White House Christmas” by Laura Dowling

The Mini Page® © 2025 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Try ’n’ Find Observer rack locations Mini Jokes

Williston Essex/Essex Jct. Price Chopper Words that remind us of a White House Goodwater ChristmasBrewing are hidden in Rehab Gym Shell Gas Station (Essex Rd) Hannaford Adams Farm Market Essex Automotive Quality Bake Shop this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and Nick: What do gingerbread Simon’s Mobil Williston Healthy Living Williston Aromas of India Five Corner Variety Riverbreak RoadaBeverage men use when they leg? some letters are used twice. See if you can find: Chef’s Corner

Home2Suites

Simply Divine Café

Alling Memorial ADAMS, BLUEDorothy ROOM, T Y SIsland M Homemade A D A IceKCream X PSonesta A R T Y W Station Korner Kwik Stop CHANDELIER,Library CHRISTMAS, F A C J Y D E N N ESunoco K O Z U T Town of Williston Marriott Courtyard Fairfield Inn CLEVELAND, FAMILY, T D F H C H R I S T M A S ROffices N Call Rick Cote at ail UPSOStore MenTAt Wok Folino’s Pizza H I W P J O H N S N I E E 373-2136 or em HOOVER, (802) HOLIDAY, om Gardener’s Supply Vermont Meat & Seafood M&T Bank istonObserver.c JOHNSON, Rick@WillJACKSON, E L W H I T E H O U S E U V M would like copies Williston Coffee Shop Ramunto’s Green Mountain Bagel if youKENNEDY, M O O R E U L B B A K I L O A for your location ORNAMENT, E H Y L I M A F J A C K S O N PARTY, ROOSEVELT, TAFT, K Y Q G D N A L E V E L C H R THEME, TREE, WHITE X M R O O S E V E L T J I C O HOUSE.

Hannaford Nora: Candy canes!

Inn at Essex Mac’s Market Martone’s Deli

Eco Note

Richmond Cumberland Farms Richmond Free Library Richmond Market

Williston

Solar power has become the world’s cheapest energy source, now outcompeting coal, gas and even wind. Researchers from England’s University of Surrey

party for children that included dancing, games, dinner and an indoor “snowball fight” with cotton balls!

tree was the “Nutcracker Suite.”

Room for the tree to stand in the center!

At the library:

• “A White House Christmas” by Laura Dowling December 11, 2025 •

The Mini Page® © 2025 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of a White House Christmas are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ADAMS, BLUE ROOM, CHANDELIER, CHRISTMAS, CLEVELAND, FAMILY, HOLIDAY, HOOVER, JACKSON, JOHNSON, KENNEDY, ORNAMENT, PARTY, ROOSEVELT, TAFT, THEME, TREE, WHITE HOUSE.

T Y S M A D A K X F A C J Y D E N N T D F H C H R I S H I W T P J O H N E L W H I T E H O M O O R E U L B B E H Y L I M A F J K Y Q G D N A L E X M R O O S E V E P R E I L E D N A

P A R E K O T M A S O N U S E A K I A C K V E L L T J H C E

T Z S I U L S C I E

Nick: What do gingerbread men use when they break a leg?

Nora: Candy canes!

Y W U T R N E E V M O A O N H R C O R T

Eco Note Solar power has become the world’s cheapest energy source, now outcompeting coal, gas and even wind. Researchers from England’s University of Surrey found that falling prices for lithium-ion batteries, down 89% since 2010, and breakthroughs in solar panel materials are making clean energy cheaper. Global solar capacity surpassed 1.5 terawatts in 2024, twice that of 2020, and enough to power hundreds of millions of homes.

Cook’s Corner

What to do: 1. Scoop out seeds and stringy stuff from squash halves. Using a sharp knife, score the inside of each half several times.

2. Place the halves in a shallow baking dish, cut side up. Add about 1/4 inch water to the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the skins from burning.

3. Season the insides of the squash with salt and pepper.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the syrup, butter, sugar and cinnamon. Brush the mixture inside each squash half.

5. Bake for 1 hour or until squash is very soft and tops are browned. Serves 4.

Adapted from “The Robin Takes 5 Cookbook for Busy Families” with permission from Andrews McMeel Publishing (andrewsmcmeel.com).

7 Little Words for Kids Use the letters in the boxes to make a word with the same meaning as the clue. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in the solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all letter combinations will be necessary to complete the puzzle.

ICS

IVID

ANO

GLE

UAL

MITE

LUN

OLY

VOLC

CH

DY

TER

BU

CAN

IND

MP

adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

The Mini Page® © 2025 Andrews McMeel Syndication

• 2 teaspoons light brown sugar • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For later:

Look in your newspaper for items about Christmas at the White House.

Teachers: Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!

©2025 Blue Ox Technologies Ltd. Download the app on Apple and Amazon devices.

You’ll need: • 1 large butternut squash, halved lengthwise • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

* You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.

Butternut Squash With Maple Butter

1. noontime meal (5) 2. military horn (5) 3. bug that eats wood (7) 4. one person (10) 5. sweet treat (5) 6. mountain that spews lava (7) 7. international competition (8)

Williston Observer • Page 19

Answers: lunch, bugle, termite, individual, candy, volcano, Olympics.

Photos from the Williston Observer are available for purchase!

Visit willistonobserver.com to see current and past photos of events, school sports, nature shots and more!

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AL

Page 20

• Williston Observer • December 11, 2025

SAVVY SENIOR

How to locate an age-friendly doctor a geriatrician. A good primary care doctor with an age-friendly philosophy may be all you need. Here’s what you should know.

WHO NEEDS A GERIATRICIAN?

By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, My husband and I are relocating to a nearby state to be closer to our daughter and will need to find a new primary care physician when we arrive. We are both in our late 70s and are interested in getting a geriatrician to oversee our health care going forward. Any suggestions for finding someone?

Searching for Care Dear Searching, Choosing a geriatrician as your primary care doctor in your 70s is a good idea, especially if you’re dealing with various age-related health problems. But if you’re in relatively good health, you may not need

Geriatricians are primary care doctors that have additional specialized training in treating older patients. Those who can benefit the most from seeing a geriatrician are seniors age 75 and older with multiple health and age-related problems, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, incontinence, osteoporosis, cognitive decline, frailty, depression or trouble with balance and falls.

Geriatricians are also particularly adept at tackling medication problems. Because many seniors take multiple medications at the same time for various health conditions, and because aging bodies often absorb and metabolize drugs differently than younger adults, unique side effects and drug interactions are not uncommon. A geriatrician will evaluate and monitor your medications to be sure they are not affecting you in a harmful way.

Geriatricians can also help their patients and families determine their long-term care

needs, like how long they can remain in their own homes safely without assistance and what type of services may be necessary when they do need some extra help.

Unfortunately, there’s a shortage of geriatricians in the U.S., so depending on where you are moving, finding one may be difficult.

To help you locate one in your new area, use Medicare’s online find-and-compare search tool. Just go to Medicare.gov/ care-compare and click on “Doctors & Clinicians” and type in your location, then type in “geriatric medicine” in the Name & Keyword box. You can also get this information by calling Medicare at 800-6334227. The American Geriatrics Society also has a geriatrician-finder tool on their website at HealthinAging.org.

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, contact your plan for a list of network geriatricians in your new area.

Keep in mind, though, that locating a geriatrician doesn’t guarantee you will be accepted as a patient. Many doctors already have a full patient roster and don’t accept new patients. You’ll need to call the

individual doctor’s office to find out.

AGE-FRIENDLY PCPS

If you and your husband are in relatively good health or if you can’t find a geriatrician in your new area, a good primary care physician (PCP) that practices age-friendly care would also be a viable choice.

To search for a new PCP, use the previously listed Medicare tools. Once you locate a few, call their office and ask if they’re accepting new patients and if they practice the “4Ms” of age friendly care, which include: What Matters (your goals and priorities); Medication safety and appropriateness; Mentation (cognition and mood); and Mobility (ways to keep you moving).

You can also research new doctors at sites like Healthgrades.com and Vitals.com.

If you’re finding it hard to get into a new practice, you might consider looking for a geriatric nurse practitioner or advanced practice registered nurse to serve as your PCP. 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 21

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 24

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1816, Indiana was admitted as the 19th U.S. state.

• In 1941, the United States declared war on Germany and Italy, hours after those nations had declared war on the U.S. • In 1946, the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) was established.

• In 1972, the lunar module for Apollo 17, the final manned mission of the Apollo space program, touched down on the moon.

• In 2008, investment banker Bernie Madoff was arrested for perpetrating one of the largest Ponzi-scheme frauds in U.S. history.

TODAY’S FACT:

• Apollo 17 set records for the longest lunar surface exploration and the most lunar material collected.

SOLUTION FOUND ON PAGE 22

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Page 22

• Williston Observer • December 11, 2025

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL LAKE IROQUOIS RECREATION DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Lake Iroquois Recreation District, a Union Municipal District located in Chittenden County, Vermont, will hold a public hearing on Monday, January 5, 2026 to receive public comments on the proposed operating budget for Fiscal Year 27.

The hearing will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Annex meeting room.

Please contact Bruce Hoar, staff person, Lake Iroquois Recreation District at 878-1239 for copies of information relating to the proposed budget.

LEGAL Attention Town of St. George Property Owners The Town of St. George, Vermont, has started the Townwide Reappraisal Process for the 2026 Grand List.

All properties in St. George will be visited by spring 2026 for assessment purposes. If you would like an appointment, please email the Assessor at assessor@stgeorgevt.com.

Additional information is available at www.stgeorgevt.com/reappraisal.

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Executive Director Vermont Journalism Coalition

EMAILED ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISING INSERTION ORDER Thomas Hirchak Company (part-time) FROM: Cathy Morneault Phone: 802-888-4662 Email: Advertising@THCAuction.com

The Vermont Journalism Coalition is seeking its first executive director.

To: Rick & Susan Founded inCote June 2025, the nonprofit coalition represents more than Paper:40Williston Observer newspapers, television stations, radio stations, and digital news Max Length 12.5 across the state. It seeks to support and sustain its member organizations news outlets and advocate for the principles of journalism.

TheDATE: executive director will be charged with building the coalition into TODAY’S 12/04/2025

a robust institution that provides educational, public policy, business, The contents of the following self NAMElegal OF FILE: 12112025_WO and logistical support to its members. The ED should be equally storage unit will be sold at public DATE(S) TO RUN: comfortable 12/11/2025 communicating with members and allies, testifying at auction on December 27, 2025 the Vermont Statehouse, administering a nonprofit and securing at 10 a.m. financial support. importantly, the ED should bring an energetic, SIZE OF AD: 1/16 page Most (2” x 5”)

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The unit will be opened for viewing Publishes in Williston Observer nine-member board of directors, though they should be comfortable and sold as one lot, by sealed bid to working independently to achieve the board’s goals. the highest bidder, cash only, con- SECTION: Auctions or Real Estate tents to be moved within 24 hours PO# FAIRFIELDVT Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have deep knowledge of Vermont Access Self Storage of Williston reserves the right to reject any bid lower than the amount owed by the tenant.

and significant experience in at least one (and preferably more) of the following fields: journalism, nonprofit administration, advocacy.

Workplace: This is a remote position, but the ED should be prepared to spend time in Montpelier, particularly during the January-May legislative session, and to travel elsewhere in Vermont, as needed.

Hours and compensation: This position is currently envisioned as 20 hours a week, paying $40,000-$45,000 a year, though this could evolve over time. The position could work well for somebody engaged in freelance journalism or other contract work.

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How to apply: Please send a resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in this work to contact@vermontjournalism.com. The position will remain open until filled, but the hiring committee will begin reviewing applications Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025.

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INTERIOR PAINTING

WWW.VTPAINTERS.COM (802) 825-1578

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Forestry Mulching Services DEE.PT.bCA for private and commercial projects Driveways, Ponds, Land Clearing, Trails, Farms, Ski Areas, Natural Disaster Recovery, Logging Cleanup, Invasive Vegetation, Excavation

Visit Visitour ourwebsite websitefor formore more information: information www.vtlandmaintenance@gmail.com www.vtlandmaintenance.com Brian Washburn Email: vtlandmaintenance@gmail.com 802-434-4533 • 802-373-1755 (cell) Brian Washburn: 802-434-5533 • 802-373-1755 (cell)

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Ads, Service Directory, classifieds and yard sales.

WALLS•CEILINGS•TRIM•CABINETS•DRYWALL REPAIR Professional•Reliable•Free Estimates•Since 2005

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LAND MAINTENANCE

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Roofing Siding & Trim Work Siding Carpentry Repairs Renovations Painting & Staining Painting Decks & Porches Decks Outdoor Structures 802-343-4820 802-343-4820 www.pleasantvalleyvt.com www.pleasantvalleyvt.com

Sales • Install • Repair • Refinish Luxury Vinyl Planking

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Williston Observer •

PLEASANT VALLEY, INC.

HARDWOOD FLOORS

ANTIQUES ANTIQUE SHOP

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Contact Rick Cote rick@willistonobserver.com or call 802-373-2136

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Williston Observer •

December 11, 2025

Looking for volunteer opportunities?

SPORTS

Sweet score in scrimmage The CVU boys basketball team tips off its season last Thursday with a scrimmage against Fair Haven Union in Hinesburg. CVU came out on top 52-48 with solid freethrow shooting and defense.

The United Way of Northwest Vermont has a wide variety of options. unitedwaynwvt.galaxydigital.com

CROSSWORD SOLUTION Puzzle found on page 21

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

Small Animals and Exotics Urgent Care General Medicine & Surgery Imaging & Laboratory Dentistry House Calls

CARE SMILE!

Building homes, changing lives in Northwest Vermont.

104 Robin Hood Dr., Swanton 528 Essex Rd/Route2A, Williston 414 Route 7, Milton vermonthabitat.org @greenmountainhabitat

Donate a vehicle to help us build more homes!

that will make your pet

66 Knight Ln Suite 10, Williston 802-404-8210 hello@sugarmaplevet.com

Monday-Friday 8:00AM-5:30PM sugarmaplevet.com

Did you know that by donating your vehicle to Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity you can help us build affordable homes while helping the environment? We accept a wide range of vehicles including cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, boats, snowmobiles and even farm equipment! Towing is free, you may be eligible for a tax deduction, and you’ll be helping lowerincome families in Vermont build safe and affordable places to call home.

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