Williston Observer 12/16/2021

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WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

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Town sweetens deal for police

Selectboard, officers agree on 3.5-year contract

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The Williston Selectboard and police officers union have agreed on an employment contract through June, 2025 that sweetens the compensation package for officers at a time when the department is struggling to fill out its ranks.

The contract comes with an across-theboard pay increase of 4.5 percent for all officers starting Jan. 1. Another raise of 3.5 percent is set for July 1, with annual cost-ofliving increases each July after that, fluctuat-

ing based on inflation using the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index.

The starting officer wage will increase to $24.75 per hour in the new contract, up from $23.68. Officers will receive additional pay increases between 2-3 percent at certain longevity milestones.

The selectboard approved the contract Dec. 7 after a series of closed-door negotiations with officer union representatives. The contract replaces an 18-month deal officers had been working under since the summer of 2020.

“There is a fwocus on recruiting and retention of staff,” Town Manager Erik Wells Officer Sabrina Boutin, left, is sworn in as a Williston Police officer by Police Chief Patrick Foley said of the contract. “We are looking to stay in November at Town Hall. Boutin is one of two female officers on the force. The department see POLICE page 24 currently has three vacant officer positions.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Fire destroys Williston home Observer staff report

Firefighters respond to a house fire on Horseshoe Drive on Friday afternoon. The home collapsed and is considered a total loss.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WILLISTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

A home where nearly 30 adopted children from several different countries were raised was destroyed Friday in an electrical fire that is suspected to have originated in a garage.

Fire crews arrived to towering flames and smoke coming from a two-story home at the end of Horseshoe Drive about 4:20 p.m. The Williston Fire Department was the first on scene. Emergency personnel from several surrounding towns and the Vermont National Guard also arrived.

“Unfortunately, the fire progressed rapidly and portions of the building began to collapse,” a news release from the Williston Fire Department states. “The home is considered a total loss.”

All occupants were accounted for and no one was injured, according to the department. The American Red Cross responded with emergency housing assistance.

The homeowner, Theresa Tomasi, could not be reached for comment. Tomasi is a retired social services director at Vermont hospitals and former executive director of Lund, a Vermont adoption services nonprofit. She has been described as a visionary and adoption angel in profiles published in Vermont Woman magazine and Vermont Kids magazine.

Between 1972 and 2008, the unmarried Tomasi took in and raised 27 children at the home, from countries including Bangladesh, Ecuador, Cambodia and India. In a 2018 piece in Vermont Catholic Magazine, Tomasi says: “I look back and I wonder how that happened, but it did … It’s wonderful to provide a home for a child that needs a home.”

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Page 2 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

V E R M O N T

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Students raise record sum for Hunger Free VT This year’s Williston Central School Hike for Hunger set a fundraising record of $2,700 to be donated to Hunger Free Vermont. Students in the school’s Mosaic House raised the money and participated in the Oct. 21 hike at the Catamount Community Forest. Along with teachers, staff and parents, 83 students completed the 2-mile hike. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTOS

Holiday displays ready for judging The contestants are set for the second-annual Williston Holiday Decorating Contest.

Residents are encouraged to visit the following addresses, enjoy the holiday decorations and submit an online judging form.

Judging will be open from 5-7 p.m.

Dec. 17-22. Winners in each category will be announced Dec. 30. The judging form will be live at www.willistonrec.org through Dec. 22, or at this link: https://forms.gle/wMSoJwDRByeMK8Tc9 The contestant addresses are:

Stock up on the best beer & wine selection in Williston!

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Scout Christmas tree pickup planned for Jan. 8 The annual Williston Scout Troop 692 Christmas tree pickup is set for Jan. 8. Tree pickups are planned in the following neighborhoods: Eastview Circle, Stirrup Circle, Bittersweet Circle, Hillside Drive, Sharon Drive, Meadowrun Road, Lamplite Lane, Finney Crossing, Isham Circle, Brennan Woods, Ledgewood Drive, Southridge, Pleasant Acres, Wildflower Circle, Southfield Drive, Village Grove, Lefebvre Lane, Fair-

way Drive, Creek’s Edge Drive, Keystone Drive, Hillcrest Lane, Michael Lane and Sunrise Drive.

Those interested should place their tree curbside by 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 8. A $10 donation placed in an envelope tied to the tree to support troop activities is requested. Make checks payable to “Williston Troop 692.”

Trees are recycled for fuel or composted. To schedule a pickup in another location, call Brent at 310-2931.

December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 3

Health Care Coverage For Vermonters.

From Vermonters.

At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont, our employees live and work here — more than 400 of us.

So when it comes to the health and well-being of our neighbors in this brave little state, we know what’s important: You want your health care dollars to work their hardest. People who treat you right.

And affordable plans with extras to keep you well. That’s what makes us Vermont’s health plan.

Through the American Rescue Plan, your monthly costs could drop by 50% or more.

Find out if you qualify, go to VTBlue.com.

Open enrollment ends January 31. Federal subsidies available through January 15.

Page 4 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

WILLISTON: BUSINESS HUB OF VERMONT

Attention to Detail

Mission-driven Williston business receives national spotlight OBSERVER STAFF REPORT

CBS Morning News correspondent Christina Ruffini, above, interviews Spectrum Youth and Family Services Executive Director Mark Redmond in October at Detail Works on Avenue C in Williston.

Detail Works, top right, employs homeless and at-risk youth in the Burlington area as a way to teach job skills.

Ruffini, bottom right, interviews Detail Works employee Connor Copley at the detailing business.

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A national television audience was given a window last week into a one-of-a-kind Williston business.

In October, a correspondent with the CBS Morning News filmed interviews with staff and employees at Detail Works on Avenue C. The car detailing business was opened in 2017 as an initiative of Spectrum Youth and Family Services, a Burlington non-profit that supports teenagers and young adults who are homeless, at-risk of homelessness or aging out of foster care.

Detail Works is where youths in Spectrum’s orbit can practice

job skills like teamwork, communication, work ethic, accountability and punctuality. Spectrum Executive Director Mark Redmond said the organization’s leaders brainstormed many ideas for a business to serve this purpose (A coffee shop? A thrift store?) before settling on car detailing.

“There are so many jobs, where you’re like ‘Did I really accomplish something today?’ Here you know you accomplished something,” Redmond said during the four-minute television segment, which is estimated to have reached roughly 3 million viewers. It aired Dec. 9 as part of the CBS Morning News series “A More Perfect Union.”

“It’s a pretty big deal for our tiny, local non-profit,” Spectrum Communications Officer Erin Barnaby said.

Spectrum has recruited partner organizations like Vermont Gas, the UVM Medical Center, law enforcement agencies and Dealer. com to have Detail Works clean their vehicle fleets. The business is managed by Galen Blodgett, an auto industry veteran, and Cody Guyette, a former correctional officer.

“I’ve built up a lot of good work ethic, and I’m getting my stuff in order,” worker Connor Copley, a resident of Spectrum’s Burlington youth shelter, said during the segment, “It gives me hope.”

The job — waxing car exteriors and vacuuming interiors — is designed as a stepping stone to other employment. Charles Hemmingway said he used what he learned at Detail Works to land and retain a job with Jolley convenience stores.

“Detail Works taught me everything I know about my work ethic, about communication and about making sure that I take care of myself as well as take care of my job, so that I don’t wind up in a situation where I’m jobless or homeless again,” he said during the segment.

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December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 5

& the When

Voigt to lead VEDA

Steve Voigt

The Vermont Economic Development Authority Board has elected Steve Voigt of King Arthur Flower as its new chairman.

Voigt succeeds Thomas Gallagher, the CEO of the Peoples Trust Company.

Created by the Legislature in 1974, VEDA provides an array of financing programs to Vermont businesses.

“VEDA helped finance King Arthur Flour’s new buildings in Norwich and Hartford. I’d like to help VEDA help other great Vermont companies and organizations reach their growth goals,” said Voigt.

capability and desire to serve as a fund manager for these funds.

VEDA may select more than one fund manager. Interested parties can view the request for proposals at www.veda.org/ssbci. The deadline for proposals is Dec. 31.

has been in continuous operation in Vermont since 1919 and is internationally known for its dairy products. Its new line of dog treats includes meatball & cheese snacks, bac’n cheez chew bones and sweet potato cheez fries.

VEDA seeks investment fund managers(s)

Cabot introduces line of dog treats

Pandemic’s toll on businesses short-lived

Cabot dog treats are now available at retail outlets throughout the Northeast and online at www. dakinfarm.com.

Cabot Creamery Co-operative

Vermont netted a loss of 75 businesses between March 2020 and March 2021, according to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That is far fewer than the net loss of 258 businesses during the previous 12 months.

Of the nearly 2,500 Vermont businesses that shut their doors in the year after the pandemic began in March 2020, more than 2,400 have reopened, with the help from federal pandemic relief funding.

Job losses, however hit a record high in 2020. More than 40 percent of businesses eliminated

The Vermont Economic Development Authority is seeking proposals to support the management of venture capital funds to be allocated to the State of Vermont through the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative — part of the American Rescue Plan Act. The initiative will have $28 million to work with, to support credit and investments in new or expanding Vermont businesses. It is part of a $2 billion federal program.

VEDA is requesting proposals from organizations that have the

Be the sparkle at all your holiday parties

positions during the first months of the pandemic. Overall Vermont tallied 17,018 fewer jobs in March 2021 than in the same month the year before.

OneDigital acquires Kinney Pike Insurance Kinney Pike Insurance, with offices in Williston, Rutland and four other Vermont towns, was acquired in November by OneDigital, an insurance, financial services and human resources consulting firm based in Atlanta.

“We are excited to join the OneDigital team and look forward to leveraging national resources, expertise and collaborating with many of the industry’s leading insurance advisors,” said Justin Barwood of Kinney Pike see HAPPENINGS page 8

Come Celebrate Christmas Eve at the Williston Federated Church United Methodist and United Church of Christ An Open & Affirming, Reconciling Congregation

December 24 4 p.m. & 8 p.m. • Candlelight Service

at the church in person by reservation (visit our website for link). Masks required. Or join us online at Facebook/WillistonFederatedChurch

6 p.m. Lessons & Carols

at the Gazebo on the Village Green Masks required – bring a flashlight

Join us Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in person or online

44 N. Williston Rd. Williston, VT

WillistonFederatedChurch@gmail.com •

802 878-5792 • www.steeple.org Visit our Facebook page @WillistonFederatedChurch

MaxMara, Jonathan simkhai, Shoshanna, Alice & Olivia, Trina turk, Ted Baker, Julie Vos...

Page 6 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

GUEST COLUMN Williston’s Community Newspaper Since 1985

www.willistonobserver.com P.O. Box 1401, Williston, VT 05495 | 802-489-5499 PUBLISHER Susan T. Cote susan@willistonobserver.com 802-489-5499

TO ADVERTISE Submission deadline is Friday at 5 p.m. for next Thursday issue. rick@willistonobserver.com

ADVERTISING Rick Cote Associate Publisher Sales & Marketing rick@willistonobserver.com 802-373-2136

CLASSIFIED ADS Paid Classifieds: There is a fee for business, real estate and help wanted ads.

Free Classifieds: Must be 25 words or fewer. Printed on a space-available basis.

Submission deadline is Friday at 5 p.m. for next Thursday issue. susan@willistonobserver.com

EDITOR Jason Starr editor@willistonobserver.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN Jan Kenney jan@willistonobserver.com BILLING INQUIRIES Michael McCaffrey office@willistonobserver.com MEMBER:

BANG

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waba williston

area business association

SUBMISSIONS & LETTERS Send to editor@willistonobserver.com • Deadline is Monday at noon • News/story tips welcomed • Letters must be 300 words or fewer • Include your name, address and a daytime phone number so that we can verify the letter’s author.

Phone numbers and street addresses will be kept confidential • Letters may be edited for clarity and brevity • Letters that have been submitted to multiple media outlets may not be printed CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Send to editor@willistonobserver.com Must include • Name of event and organization • Date, time and place of event • Contact information We print submissions for nonprofit groups and organizations only.

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.

A publication of Twin Ponds Publishing LLC

Collective action for challenging times This column was submitted by the five members of the Williston Selectboard: Terry Macaig, Ted Kenney, Jeff Fehrs, Gordon St. Hilaire and Greta D’Agostino.

• Children under 2 years old; • A person with a disability or documented medical condition who cannot wear a face

that person’s face covering shall immediately be worn again after said communication is completed; • Places of worship.

The Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect us all, and we will continue to persevere through it.

Throughout the pandemic, we have needed to be flexible and resilient to help keep our neighbors and community safe, doing what each of us can to protect others.

We need to continue that mindset and practice as the pandemic is not over and continues to bring suffering to our community and throughout the world. We are all feeling the fatigue, stress and frustration from the last 22 months in this environment and want it to be over, but unfortunately, we are not in that place.

Last month the Vermont Legislature passed Act 1, an act relating to temporary municipal rules in response to Covid-19. This law provides temporary authority for local governments to adopt municipal rules requiring face coverings indoors in public spaces.

Under that authority, the Williston Selectboard unanimously adopted such a rule at its Dec. 7 meeting. This rule requires the wearing of face coverings that cover the person’s mouth and nose while indoors at locations that are open to the public. The following are exceptions to this rule:

… we felt it was imperative that our community do what it can to address this public health crisis with all the public health policy tools we have available.

Under the authority of Act 1, this rule is now in effect for 45 days and requires future action by the Selectboard to extend it in 30-day increments until April 30.

At that time, the temporary authority granted to municipalities by the Legislature ends.

The Selectboard adopted this rule to help protect our community from the spread of Covid-19.

Cases in our state and hospitalizations from Covid-19 have reached all-time highs in recent weeks and as the town’s selectboard, we felt it was imperative that our community do what it can to address this public health crisis with all the public health policy tools we have available.

Wearing a face covering is proven to reduce the risk of spreading or contracting Covid-19. We need to do what we can to prevent the spread of this terrible disease.

These are challenging times, and what we can do every day is to be kind to each other and help each other. We will get through this time, but it has and will continue to take our collective actions as a community.

Thank you for your help in keeping our community safe by wearing a face covering in public indoor spaces.

covering or cannot safely wear a face covering for reasons related to the disability; • A person for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to workplace health, safety or job duty as determined by the workplace risk assessment; • Any person while eating or drinking inside any establishment that serves food or beverage; • A person who temporarily removes his/her face covering to communicate to a group of people, such as a participant at a public forum, a leader of a religious service or public presentation, leader of song/ singing choir members or the like. Provided, however, that

December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Creating momentum for community/ aquatic center While the recent surge in Covid cases in our state is the “wave” most of us are concerned about daily, we want to remind you of a more hopeful “wave” in our community as we have an opportunity to move forward in the near future.

The proposed capital budget is being discussed by the selectboard this week. We encourage you to visit the town website for more information. Town Manager Erik Wells has included a Community Center and Library Space Scoping Study in the proposed Capital Budget for fiscal years 2023-28. This study would be funded with money allocated to our town by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This might just be the first (of many) important steps toward the creation of a community/aquatic center in Williston.

We met with Erik back in early October and shared the impromptu survey results we

had gathered earlier this fall. We were thrilled to learn that the idea for a community center in Williston has been on the town’s radar for some time! The recent groundswell of support has certainly had an impact.

We encourage folks to keep that energy and enthusiasm going for what would be an extremely beneficial project for our community and a big undertaking. We’ll try to forecast opportunities to raise your voice or participate in other ways. Erik told us that it’s possible the selectboard will seek volunteers for a new committee to explore the community center and library expansion idea further.

Neither of us are experts in land use, development, construction, finance or engineering, and we do not have a clear answer for what Williston’s path should be. But we are deeply committed to our community and inspired by the enthusiasm we’ve seen for a truly accessible community space in Williston to recreate and gather.

We’re willing to put the skills

and expertise we each have towards this goal. We will share an email list with those who filled out our survey this fall. We hope others will join the effort when it’s appropriate and/or consider joining one of the many public committees and boards that help our community serve all of our residents. We all need some more hopeful waves in 2022!

Angela Arsenault (school board chair) and Erin Brady (state representative) Williston

Taking exception with mask exception Thank you very much to the Williston Selectboard for mandating that people in public wear facemasks (“Selectboard mandates masks indoors” Dec. 9). However, I do not understand making an exception for churches because a local pastor believes the mandate violates their constitutional rights.

I am troubled by anyone who believes they do not need to wear a mask. I have great difficulty believing a pastor would tell his congregation that they do not need to wear masks. Jesus said: “Love the Lord your God, with all your heart, strength and mind, and love your neighbor and yourself.”

How can you say you love the Lord and your neighbor when you ignore common safety precautions to help reduce the spread of the deadliest disease in our lifetime? How can anyone ignore the rapidly rising number of cases and deaths?

Ron Faux Williston

Bring diversity to the selectboard During the selectboard’s meeting last week, Willistonians who spoke in person and on Zoom were about evenly divided for and against a mask mandate.

Police Chief Patrick Foley op-

posed a mandate, advising the board that enforcement would be a low priority given an understaffed department and the need to address more pressing matters. Yet, the board voted unanimously in favor of a broad mandate, including punitive fines.

One board member had a draft ordinance already prepared, and its broad wording was approved with limited exceptions, indicating a preconceived outcome. What is the value of asking for public comment if it is not acted upon, unless it supports the board’s view?

The board is not comprised of a cross section of residents. It has a mindset that rejects input contrary to its ideology. The terms of two members expire this March at Town Meeting. Now is the time for people to step up and run for these offices.

It’s time to give a voice to people who are not now represented, and to bring diversity to the board.

Anyone interested in running should be mindful that the filing deadline is in January.

Bret Powell Williston

GUEST COLUMN

Affirming our commitment to democracy The following is a transcript of Gov. Phil Scott’s address last week to world leaders and human rights activists attending the virtual Summit for Democracy. President Joe Biden invited Gov. Scott to speak.

perspectives.

What we have experienced in the U.S. from both major parties is a steady erosion of the basic civility and respect that is so essential to the health of our democratic republic.

Some of this is by accident, and unfortunately, some of it is by

BY GOV. PHIL SCOTT design.

Healthy democracies require Just 11 months ago, for examhealthy relationships amongst cit- ple, we saw our president fuel a izens and their governments. campaign to undermine and try Keeping these relationships to overturn the results of a free, healthy requires a constant com- fair and legal election. The elecmitment to listening, learning and tion was overseen by non-partialways working to do better. It san officials across the country needs an authenand validated tic effort to reach by governors One person’s ego consensus, comof both politpromise when ical parties, led us to a very necessary and which proved low moment in accept that we the system will not — and worked and American history. in fact should the values not — win evof democraery debate. And cy prevailed it takes humility to realize that no when tested. single party or person has all the Yet we cannot lose site of the best ideas. fact that one person’s ego led us Citizens and those elected to to a very low moment in Amerserve must also understand the ican history. This is a powerful point of view, the goals and the reminder of why we must always fears of those with whom we dis- guard against authoritarianism agree. and the manipulation of would-be The health of democratic na- dictators from both the right and tions themselves depends on lis- the left. tening to and considering other It is critical for our nation to

humbly reflect on these events and the many years leading up to them, and learn from it to make our nation, and all democracies, more durable. Because democracy is only as strong as our commitment to it, and we cannot let our

guard down.

In his farewell to the nation, Republican Sen. John McCain — someone I greatly admired — reminded Americans that the power of democracies is in their relentlessly optimistic commitment

to freedom, fairness and human rights.

He warned, however, that these systems are weakened when “we confuse our patriotism with tribal rivalries that have sown resentsee SCOTT page 8

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Scott continued from page

7

ment and hatred and violence in all the corners of the globe.”

Political polarization, what Sen. McCain called “tribal rivalries,” is one of the greatest threats to our nation and our ability to protect human rights.

When we stop listening and learning from each other; when we cannot debate issues and find common ground and a path forward; when we refuse to consider another person’s point of view or insist one party or politician is always right or always wrong, we are eroding core democratic values.

And make no mistake, other nations who do not share our commitment to the fundamental rights of all people use these fractures to destabilize and divide us further.

Now to be clear, a vigorous and healthy debate is a good thing.

It ensures the tough questions are asked, ideas are tested, and different perspectives are heard.

Unfortunately, we’ve reached a tipping point where political debates and activism have turned intensely personal — sometimes downright hateful — at a time when our challenges are in desperate need of more dialogue and understanding.

The words of war like “assault” and “attack” are too frequently used around issues like budget choices or tax policy.

Debates are often described as “battles.” And when legitimate policy debates are characterized in the terms of violence and war, people stop listening and become defensive, fearful and angry. The opportunity for real discussion and compromise slips away. Frustration grows, the di-

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vide deepens, the relationship between citizens is poisoned by hyper-partisanship, and the destructive cycle of polarization repeats. Worse yet, this divisiveness fuels hate and violence.

But in a democracy, there is always hope.

We know by working together, we can reverse these trends.

Calvin Coolidge, a Republican and America’s 30th president, who grew up in my state of Vermont, wisely said, “The only way I know to drive out evil from the country is by filling it with good.”

Filling the world with good created by healthy democracies is the best way to guard against authoritarianism. By expanding liberty and justice, we show how to engage in complex debates with both conviction and civility and prove the strength of every nation is in its diversity of people and opinion.

Democracies are a beacon of personal and economic freedom and opportunity. They cast a bright, hopeful and optimistic light, in stark contrast to the dark and oppressive regimes elsewhere.

If we follow this path — if we fill the world with good and set the example — we’ll rise above those who seek to dim the bright light of democracy, and democratic societies will flourish across the globe.

Happenings continued from page

5

Employee-owners step up for foodbank The Employee Owners of Vermont, made up of workers at Vermont’s many employee-owned companies, recently capped off its fourth annual fundraiser for the Vermont Foodbank. The group raised about $30,000, providing approximately 50,000 meals to bolster Vermonters’ food security.

Participating companies were: Vermont Information Processing, VHV Company, PC Construction, Stone Environmental, Hallam-ICS, 89 North, King Arthur Baking Company, Birdseye, Chelsea Green Publishing, Switchback Brewing Company and PT360.

GlobalFoundries recognized for hiring veterans GlobalFoundries, which operates a microchip manufacturing facility in Essex Junction, has received “Gold Medallion” recognition under the “Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act)” for its successful recruiting, hiring and retaining of military veterans.

GlobalFoundries met criteria that includes veteran hiring and retention percentages; availability

of veteran-specific resources; leadership programming for veterans; dedicated human resource efforts; and pay compensation and tuition assistance programs for veterans.

More information about the program is available at www.hirevets. gov.

New requirements enacted for investment advisors Effective, Dec. 16, the Securities Division of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation will require investment adviser representatives to complete annual continuing education courses.

Investment adviser representatives give advice on financial decisions and retirement planning.

Unlike other financial services professionals, they had not been subject to continuing education requirements to ensure their knowledge and competence is maintained or expanded. The new requirements are designed to address this gap for the protection of Vermont residents.

“This will help …investment adviser representatives better serve their clients by remaining knowledgeable of current regulatory requirements and best practices,” said William Carrigan, deputy commissioner of the Securities Division.

The requirement for investment adviser representatives is to complete 12 continuing education credits annually to maintain registration.

Visit www.nasaa.org for more information and course availability.

December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 9

REDHAWKS ROUNDUP CHAMPLAIN

VA L L E Y

UNION

HIGH

SCHOOL

Members of the boys hockey team do “wind sprints” during a preseason hockey practice.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

Boys Hockey COACH: JP Benoit LAST SEASON: 4-5, lost in the Division 1 semifinals KEY RETURNEES: Jack Averill, senior, goalie; Angelos Carroll, senior, center; Ryan Canty, senior defense; Owen Pierce, senior, defense; Nolan Shea, senior, wing; Sam Whitcomb, senior, defense; Devon Fay, junior, center;

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Harper Anderson, junior, wing; Jason Douglas, junior, goalie KEY NEWCOMERS: Nic Menard, sophomore, wing; Travis Stroh, sophomore, wing; Jacob Whitcomb, sophomore, wing; Alex Zuchowski sophomore, defense; Kalle Glader, junior, wing.

OUTLOOK: CVU started off the boys hockey season Saturday with a 3-0 win over Mount Mansfield and the Redhawks hope that is a sign of things to come as they blend a returning core with 11 underclassmen.

The team’s depth on the defensive end will be a strength to start, especially with two returning goaltenders on the roster.

“On paper this is the most skilled team we have had since our coaching staff arrived,” said coach JP Benoit. “The culture that has been created over the previous four years by our players is something that we feel will get us deep into the playoffs.”

The team will look to a cadre of returning players to power the offense as it seeks to improve on last year’s Division 1 semifinal appearance.

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Dec. 11....................at MMU, (Win 3-0) Dec. 15-16.............. Beech Tournament, Leddy Arena Dec. 18....7 p.m. at Stowe, Jackson Arena Dec. 22.........7:35 p.m. at Rice Memorial, Cairns Arena Dec. 29............ 6:25 p.m. vs. Burlington, Cairns Arena Jan. 5............ 6:20 p.m. vs. Middlebury, Cairns Arena Jan. 8......7:50 p.m. vs. South Burlington, Cairns Arena Jan. 12............ 7 p.m. at BFA-St. Albans, Collins-Perley Sports Center Jan. 15.................6:10 p.m. vs. Rutland Cairns Arena

Jan. 22............ 6:10 p.m. vs. Colchester, Cairns Arena Jan. 26.............7:25 p.m. vs. Spaulding, Cairns Arena Jan. 29....3 p.m. at Essex, Essex Ice Rink Feb. 2.......8:35 p.m. at South Burlington, Cairns Arena Feb. 5......... 8:35 p.m. vs. BFA-St. Albans, Cairns Arena Feb. 9... 7 p.m. at Rutland, Spartan Arena Feb. 12........3:55 p.m. vs. Rice Memorial, Cairns Arena Feb. 16........ 5:15 p.m. at Spaulding High School, B.O.R. Ice Arena, Barre Feb. 19..............7:10 p.m. at Colchester, Leddy Arena Feb. 23...... 5:10 p.m. vs. Essex, Cairns Arena

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Page 10 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

REDHAWKS ROUNDUP CHAMPLAIN

GIRLS HOCKEY COACH: Maggie DiMasi LAST SEASON: 3-4-1, lost in the Division 2 quarterfinal THIS SEASON: 1-0 KEY RETURNEES: Karina Bushweller, junior, defense; Tess Everett, junior, forward; Grace Ferguson, junior, goalie; Sabina Brochu, senior, forward; Anna West, senior, forward; Samara Tucker, junior, forward; Sasha Miller, junior, defense; Alyssa Benson, junior, defense; Hannah Schmid, junior, forward.

KEY NEWCOMERS: KerriBeth Aldrich, first year, forward; Rosie Brien, first year, defense; Sophie Brien, first year, defense; Mackenzie Rivard, first year, forward; Megan Rivard, first year, forward.

VA L L E Y

OUTLOOK: First-year coach Maggie DiMasi takes the reins of the Champlain Valley-Mount Mansfield girls hockey program this season, looking to get the CougarHawks in shape for a deep playoff run.

The team has a big roster, with a large group of returning players who will lead the team this season, including goaltender Grace Ferguson.

“We are a fast team with a lot of skill and a great goalie,” said DiMasi. “We are excited to see where this season takes us.

Our outlook on the season is to stay positive and outwork teams.”

Ferguson will anchor the team in net, while CVU-MMU also returns players on the defensive and offensive side of the ice. CVU-MMU will have to work in a group of new players as they look develop the roster and the program.

UNION

HIGH

SCHOOL

SCHEDULE

Dec. 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vs. Stowe, (Win 9-0) Dec. 15 . . 6 p.m. at North Country/Lyndon, Fenton Chester Arena Dec. 18 . . . . . 6:40 p.m. vs. BFA-St. Albans, Cairns Arena Dec. 22. 4:45 p.m. at Missisquoi Valley, Highgate Arena Dec. 27. . . . . . . . . . 6:45 p.m. vs. Rutland, Cairns Arena Dec. 29. . . . 4:10 p.m. at South Burlington, Cairns Arena Jan. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:15 p.m. at Essex, Essex Rink Jan. 8 . . . . . . . . 4:20 p.m. vs. Middlebury, Cairns Arena Jan. 12. . . . 5:10 p.m. vs. Colchester/Burlington, Cairns Arena Jan. 15 . . . 6:40 p.m. at South Burlington, Cairns Arena Jan. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 p.m. at Essex, Essex Rink Jan. 26 . . . . . . . . 6:30 p.m. vs. Spaulding, Cairns Arena Jan. 29 . . . . . 8:25 p.m. vs. Rice Memorial, Cairns Arena Feb. 2. . . . 6:20 p.m. vs. North Country/Lyndon, Cairns Arena Feb. 5 . . . . 8:25 p.m. vs. South Burlington, Cairns Arena Feb. 9. . . . . 4:30 p.m. at Colchester/Burlington, Leddy Arena Feb. 12,. . . . . . . . . . . . 1 p.m. at Rutland, Spartan Arena Feb. 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:10 p.m. vs. Essex, Cairns Arena Feb. 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 p.m. at BFA-St. Albans, Collins-Perley Sports Center Feb. 23. . . . . . 5:15 p.m. at Spaulding, B.O.R. Ice Arena, Barre

Grace Fergusson makes a blocker save at a girls hockey preseason practice. As in the past few years, the team combines players from CVU and MMU. OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

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December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 11

REDHAWKS ROUNDUP CHAMPLAIN

NORDIC SKIING COACH: Sarah Strack

LAST SEASON: Boys, fourth at the Division 1 state meet; Girls, third at the Division 1 state meet KEY RETURNEES: Boys — Geo DeBrosse, junior; Jack Crum, junior; Sam Holmes, senior; Anders Johnson, sophomore; Anders Linseisen, sophomore; Jameson McEnany, junior; Matthew Servin, junior.

Girls — Emma Crum, senior; Maddie Haddock, senior; Corinna Hobbs, junior; Carly Trapini, junior; Chloe SIlverman, senior; Zoe Zoller, junior; Ava Rohrbaugh, junior.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Boys — Niko Cuneo, first year; Owen Deale, sophomore; Patterson Frazier, first year; Charlie Garavalli, first year; Nolan Moriarty, first year.

Girls — Sego Johnson, first year; Hadley Auster, first year; Kate Silverman, first year; Annalise Wood, first year.

VA L L E Y

UNION

OUTLOOK: The CVU Nordic ski team aims to get back on top this season, with a large team and strong individual skiers.

The Redhawks have 91 skiers on the roster between the boys and girls teams, according to coach Sarah Strack, providing lots of depth for the always-competitive Redhawks.

On the boys side, the team returns top skiers as it looks to get back in the top 3 at the state meet.

“They’ve set high individual performance goals and, as a team, are working towards being in the top 3 at the state championships,” Strack said.

On the girls side, Emma Crum headlines the returners after a top 10 finish in the D-1 skate race in the state finals last year.

“The girls team has several equally strong individuals and also are aiming for top results at the state meet,” Strack said.

HIGH

SCHEDULE

Dec. 15............................... 2 p.m. at Middlebury, Rikert Ski Touring Center Dec. 23........................3 p.m. at Mount Mansfield, Sleepy Hollow Nordic Center Dec. 28..................................... 11 a.m. at Essex, Sleepy Hollow Nordic Center Jan. 6................. 3 p.m. Tour de Chittenden (skate), Colchester High School Jan. 8.............. 10 a.m. Tour de Chittenden (classic), Ethan Allen Firing Range Jan. 10............... 3 p.m. Tour de Chittenden (skate), Cochran’s Ski Area Jan. 13................................ 3 p.m. at Burlington, Sleepy Hollow Nordic Center Jan. 17................................ 2 p.m. at Middlebury, Rikert Ski Touring Center Jan. 22..........................11 a.m. at BFA-St. Albans, Hardack Ski Area Jan. 26........ 3 p.m. at Mount Mansfield High School Feb. 2................... 3 p.m. at Colchester High School Feb. 8........ 4:30 p.m. at Harwood Union High School Feb. 18.....3 p.m. at BFA-St. Albans, Hardack Ski Area Feb. 24-25.............10:30 a.m. State Championships, Craftsbury Nordic Center

ALPINE SKIING SCHEDULE Jan. 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 a.m. at Essex, Smugglers Notch Jan. 10 . . . . . . 10 a.m. vs. Essx, Middlebury Snow Bowl Jan. 17 . . . . . 10 a.m. at St. Johnsbury, Burke Mountain Feb. 4 . . 9:30 a.m. at Lyndon Institute, Burke Mountain Feb. 7 . . . . . . 10 a.m. vs. Essex, Middlebury Snow Bowl Feb. 11 . . . 10 a.m. at Mount Mansfield, Jay Peak Resort Feb. 17 . . . . . . . . . . 10 a.m. vs. Essex, Smugglers Notch Feb. 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:30 a.m. NVAC giant slalom, Middlebury Snow Bowl Feb. 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:30 a.m. NVAC slalom, Middlebury Snow Bowl Feb. 28. . . . . 10 a.m. State Championship giant slalom, Burke Mountain March 1 . . 9:30 a.m. State Championship slalom, Burke Mountain

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Page 12 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

REDHAWKS ROUNDUP CHAMPLAIN

VA L L E Y

UNION

HIGH

SCHOOL

Alex Provost (L) looks to drive to the hoop at a boys basketball preseason practice OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH: Ute Otley LAST SEASON: 9-0, withdrew from Division 1 playoffs due to Covid-19 KEY RETURNEES: Chloe Snipes, senior, forward; Allison Bates, senior, guard; Shelby Companion, junior, guard; Addi Hunter, junior, forward; Elise Berger, sophomore, guard, Samara Ashooh, sophomore, forward KEY NEWCOMERS: Too early to tell

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OUTLOOK: The CVU girls basketball team will start the season with some new faces — three sophomores and one first year join a team that lost four starters to graduation, including the Ver-

BOYS BASKETBALL COACH: Michael Osborne

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LAST SEASON: 8-4, lost in the Division 1 semifinals KEY RETURNEES: Oliver Pudvar, senior, guard; Braedon Jones, senior, guard/forward; Jared Anderson, senior, guard; Turner Elliot, senior, forward; Alex Provost, junior, guard; Logan Vaughn, junior, forward; Ethan Murphy, junior, guard; Tucker Pharpe, sophomore, forward; Kyle Eaton, sophomore, guard.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Chase Whitman, junior, forward; Max Destito, junior; Sam Sweeney, junior, guard; Ollie Cheer, sophomore, guard; Patrick Ricca, first year, guard.

mont Player of the Year Catherine Gilwee.

With new faces come new strengths for this year’s Redhawks, who have a lot of height — four players on the roster are over 5-foot-11 — and strong defensive skills on the roster.

While it will take some time to work in the team’s newer players, CVU will rely on returning players Shelby Companion and Chloe Snipes in the early part of the season to set the tone. As the Redhawks adjust to a younger roster, they may face some growing pains at the start, but will look to hit their stride heading into the postseason.

“I like the potential of this team … It’s just going to take us a while to gel,” said coach Ute Otley. “We want to be in the mix by the end of February and we always strive to

OUTLOOK: The CVU boys basketball team returns to the court with lots of experience and high expectations.

The Redhawks return nine players from last year’s squad, which provides the team with talent and versatility in the front court, according to coach Mike Osborne.

“We have terrific experience at guard, ball handling and shooter depth,” Osborne said.

“We are not as big as we’ve been, particularly with depth of size… We have very high expectations for ourselves.”

CVU will rely on its athleticism and depth in the front court to anchor the team as they make a push for another final four spot in the postseason.

“Certainly our goal is to be the last team standing and bringing CVU its first-ever boys basketball banner,” Osborne said.

make it to the final four.”

SCHEDULE

Dec. 11...vs. Mount Anthony, (Win 77-17) Dec. 18..................... 5 p.m. at Rutland Dec. 23................... 7 p.m. vs. Thetford Dec. 28............6:30 p.m. vs. Brattleboro Dec. 30.......6:30 p.m. at Burr and Burton Jan. 4........... 7 p.m. at South Burlington Jan. 7............... 7 p.m. at Rice Memorial Jan. 10............7 p.m. vs. BFA-St. Albans Jan. 13..................7 p.m. at Burlington Jan. 17.......... 6:30 p.m. vs. St. Johnsbury Jan. 20......... 7 p.m. at Mount Mansfield Jan. 24........................7 p.m. vs. Essex Jan. 27........ 7 p.m. vs. South Burlington Jan. 31............ 7 p.m. vs. Rice Memorial Feb. 3........... 7:30 p.m. at BFA-St. Albans Feb. 7...................7 p.m. vs. Burlington Feb. 10.......... 6:30 p.m. at St. Johnsbury Feb. 12.......... 2:30 p.m. vs. Shenendowa Feb. 15,........7 p.m. vs. Mount Mansfield Feb. 18.....................7:30 p.m. at Essex

SCHEDULE Dec. 11....... vs. Mt. Anthony (Win 75-36) Dec. 18..................... 7 p.m. at Rutland Dec. 22.................7 p.m. at Brattleboro Dec. 27.............7 p.m. vs. Mt. Mansfield Dec. 29,......... 6:30 p.m. at St. Johnsbury Jan. 3.............. 7 p.m. vs. Rice Memorial Jan. 6........... 7:30 p.m. at BFA-St. Albans Jan. 11......................7:30 p.m. at Essex Jan. 15......2:30 p.m. vs. Burr and Burton Jan. 18.................. 7 p.m. at Colchester Jan. 21.................7 p.m. vs. Burlington Jan. 25........ 7 p.m. vs. South Burlington Jan. 28......... 7 p.m. at Mount Mansfield Feb. 1........... 6:30 p.m. vs. St. Johnsbury Feb. 4............... 7 p.m. at Rice Memorial Feb. 8..............7 p.m. vs. BFA-St. Albans Feb. 11........................7 p.m. vs. Essex Feb. 17................. 7 p.m. vs. Colchester Feb. 21..................7 p.m. at Burlington Feb. 24......... 7 p.m. at South Burlington

December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 13

REDHAWKS ROUNDUP CHAMPLAIN

VA L L E Y

UNION

HIGH

SCHOOL

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Page 14 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

REDHAWKS ROUNDUP CHAMPLAIN

VA L L E Y

UNION

HIGH

SCHOOL

Gymnastics Dec. 13........7 p.m. vs. South Burlington, Colchester, Burlington at Green Mountain Training Center Dec. 23... 7 p.m. at Montpelier High School Dec. 28..... 5:30 p.m. vs. Burr and Burton, Colchester and Burlington at Green Mountain Training Center Jan. 8............ 2:30 p.m. at St. Johnsbury Academy

Jan. 11...........7 p.m. vs. Harwood Union, at Green Mountain Training Center Jan. 21.........7 p.m. at Essex High School Jan. 26... 7 p.m. vs. Randolph and Milton at Green Mountain Training Center Feb. 2................. 6 p.m. vs. Middlebury, Colchester and Burlington, location TBD Feb. 19......10 a.m. State Championships, location TBD

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December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 15

REDHAWKS ROUNDUP CHAMPLAIN

VA L L E Y

UNION

HIGH

SCHOOL

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Wrestling Dec. 11......10 a.m. at St. Johnsbury Academy Dec. 15.........7 p.m. at Essex High School Dec. 18.... 9 a.m. at Granville High School Dec. 21.......... 6 p.m. vs. Harwood Union Dec. 29........ 6 p.m. at Middlebury Union High School Jan. 5....5 p.m. at St. Johnsbury Academy Jan. 8.........10 a.m. at Mt. Anthony High School Jan. 14.........4 p.m. at Essex High School Jan. 15....... 10 a.m. at Essex High School Jan. 1,............. 6 p.m. vs. Spaulding and Mount Mansfield at Mount Mansfield High School Jan. 22.................................. 10 a.m.

at Vergennes Union High School Jan. 26...6 p.m. vs. Spaulding and Mount Mansfield at Spaulding High School Jan. 29......... 10 a.m. at Mount Abraham Union High School Feb. 1...... 6 p.m. vs. Mount Abraham and Colchester Feb. 5.. 10 a.m. at Mount Mansfield Union High School Feb. 12................... 10 a.m. NVAC Duals at Essex High School Feb. 25-26.... 9 a.m. State Championships at CVU High School

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Send your letters and story ideas to email editor@ willistonobserver.com

Page 16 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

Arbitrators side with teachers union

Decision paves the way for new statewide teachers’ health care contract

BY PETER D’AURIA VTDigger

Arbitrators have sided with teachers on negotiations over educators’ statewide health care contract, ending months of back-and-forth between the teachers union and the Vermont School Boards Association.

Against the backdrop of rising health care costs, the union and school boards spent most of the year haggling over a new statewide contract for health insurance, covering the period from 2023 to 2026.

The Vermont Education

Health Initiative, a nonprofit that provides health coverage to school districts, publishes regular updates on the rising rates of medical plans.

Rates for four medical plans jumped an average of roughly 11 percent between the 2020 and 2021 school years, and are expected to increase another 4 percent on average by the fall of 2022, according to the health initiative.

But the Dec. 1 arbitration decision ensured that employers will cover more health care costs for roughly 40,000 Vermonters — teachers, school staff and their dependents.

In October, negotiations deadlocked on the health plan and moved into arbitration.

The stalemate hinged on two issues: how much school boards

should pay out-of-pocket for union members’ medical costs and how health care grievances would be handled.

In testimony before arbitrators, school board representatives argued that teachers’ health plans were already generous, and making teachers shoulder more out-of-pocket costs would simply strip some “shiny chrome” from the “Rolls Royce” plan, according to a summary written by arbitrators.

But the teachers union argued that, for members at lower income levels or who needed more medical care, the proposed changes could “push employees over the edge.”

Union negotiators also noted that the state government was flush with federal pandemic aid, arbitrators wrote.

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In siding with the teachers, the arbitrators noted that “there are no clearly right or wrong answers to these weighty and complicated issues.” But their thinking, they wrote, aligned with a neutral fact-finding report released in September that proposed a compromise between the two parties’ original positions. (The teachers union subsequently adopted those terms as its offer.)

It also echoed a 2019 decision, in which arbitrators also ruled in teachers’ favor after negotiators deadlocked over outof-pocket costs.

In a statement issued after the decision, the school boards association warned of “ever increasing health care costs, which are relentlessly placing an ever greater financial burden on

local school districts.”

“The arbitration decision amplified the notion that public educational employees continue to receive one of the most generous publicly funded health benefits packages in the state,” the association said in a statement.

The teachers union bargaining team hailed the decision, calling it a victory over an “attempt to make health care more expensive and less accessible to the state’s educators, especially women and those who earn the least.”

Negotiators, they wrote, “came armed with facts, solid economic arguments, and a relentless focus on what’s really at stake: the health and well-being of the thousands of (union members) who dedicate (their) lives to Vermont’s children.”

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December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 17

Journalists reach first union contract with VTDigger

BY VTDIGGER

VTDigger and the VTDigger Guild, the union that represents its newsroom employees, have arrived at their first-ever collective bargaining agreement.

The three-year deal was ratified this month by unanimous votes of the Guild’s members and the board of the nonprofit Vermont Journalism Trust, which operates VTDigger. The contract establishes consistent standards, rewards longevity, guarantees minimum salaries and overtime pay, and continues to solidify the organization’s commitment to improving diversity, equity and inclusion.

Anne Galloway, executive director of the Vermont Journalism Trust, said both the management and Guild bargaining teams brought empathy, flexibility and a diligent exploration of solutions to the process.

“We believe the negotiations have resulted in mutual respect, better communication and excitement about the future,” Galloway said. “The resolution of the contract demonstrates the Guild’s commitment to the VTDigger mission, and management’s willingness to listen deeply and take action.”

The Vermont Journalism

Observer not yet arrived?

Trust and management voluntarily recognized the union in April of 2020, and the two parties have been negotiating a contract since August of that year.

“It has been a long and at times difficult conversation, but we had it as equals, and the or-

ganization is much stronger for it,” said Lola Duffort, co-unit chair of the VTDigger Guild. “I am delighted we have arrived — unanimously — at such a robust agreement.”

Bargaining unit members include staff reporters, photog-

raphers and editors working in non-supervisory roles. Reporting fellows become members of the union after their first year at VTDigger.

VTDigger Guild is a part of Providence Newspaper Guild, TNG-CWA Local 31041. The

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Dear Savvy Senior, When is it safe, or not safe, to split pills? I have a cousin who cuts almost all her pills in half in order to save money, but I’m wondering if she’s going overboard. What can you tell me about this?

Curious Cousin Dear Curious, Pill splitting — literally cutting them in half — has long been a popular way to save on medication costs, but your cousin, if she hasn’t already done so, needs to talk to her doctor or pharmacist, because not all pills should be split.

The reason pill splitting is such a money saver is because of the way drugs are manufactured and priced. A pill that’s twice as strong as another may not be twice the price. In fact, it’s usually about the same price. So, buying a double-strength dose and cutting it in half may allow you to get two months’ worth of medicine for the price of one.

But is it safe?

As long as your doctor agrees that splitting your pills is OK for you, you learn how to do it properly and you split only pills that can be split, then there’s really no danger.

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If you’re interested in splitting your pills, talk to your doctor or pharmacist

to find out if any of the medicines you use can be safely split. It’s also important to find out whether splitting them will save you enough money to justify the hassle.

The pills that are easiest to split are those with a score down the middle. However, not every pill that’s scored is meant to be split.

Pills that are most commonly split are cholesterol lowering drugs, an-

DON’T SPLIT THESE DRUGS

Savvy Senior

By Jim Miller

tidepressants and high blood pressure medicines.

USE A PILL SPLITTER

Having the right equipment is very important too. Don’t use a knife or scissors to cut your pills in half. This can cause you to split them unevenly resulting in two pieces with very different dosages, which can be dangerous. Purchase a proper pill cutter that has a cover and a V-shaped pill grip that holds the pill securely in place. You can find them at most pharmacies for $5 to $10.

For convenience, you might be

Some pills should never be split. Drugs that are time-released or long-lasting, and tablets that contain a combination of drugs, probably shouldn’t be split because it’s difficult to ensure a proper amount of active ingredient in each half. Pills with a coating to protect your stomach and pills that crumble easily or irritate your mouth shouldn’t be split either, along with chemotherapy drugs, anti-seizure medicines, birth control pills and capsules containing powders or gels.

Again, your doctor or pharmacist will know which drugs can and cannot be split. If you’re taking a medicine that can be split, you’ll need to get a prescription from your doctor for twice the dosage you need. Then you can start splitting and saving, safely.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

30 YEARS

Seasons Greetings!

The Paw Print team is thankful for all of the friends and customers we have partnered with in 2021.

In this time of giving, we ask you to remember our nonprofit organizations and the essential work they do in our community.

Best wishes from our team for a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

YO U R PAT H O N WA R D A N D U P WA R D

tempted to split the whole bottle of pills at once. But it’s best to do the splitting on the day you take the first half, and then take the other half on the second day, or whenever you are scheduled to take your next dose. That will help keep the drugs from deteriorating due to exposure to heat, moisture or air.

It will also help ensure that any deviation in the size of one dose is compensated in the next. It’s also important to know that pills are only safely split in half, and never into smaller portions, such as into thirds or quarters.

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December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 19

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ACROSS 1. Ballerina’s support 4. Welder of sorts 7. Alpine gear 10. Overwhelm 13. Place to turn in, perhaps 14. On top of everything else 15. Youngster 16. Possibly will 17. It may be housebroken 18. Crush, sportswise 19. Bedridden 20. “You ___ here” 21. Rear-end 23. Loftiest 26. Sensations of discomfort 28. Apiece, at Wimbledon 29. Hot beverages 32. Like fine whiskeys 33. Museum pieces 34. Bore diameter 35. “Go ahead” 36. Part of 37. Heavy-hearted feeling 38. “___ magic” 39. ___ com 40. Top stories 44. Pod dweller 45. Detective’s question 48. Whoop it up 49. Thing to do

Across

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10. Overwhelm

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50. Bird food 51. On-target 52. Rocks 53. Strange 54. Reduced 57. Throw a red __ to a bull!

58. Assembled 60. Traitor 61. __-way street 63. Steamy 66. Blast furnace material 67. Wasn’t fasting 68. Have some cake 69. It picks up sounds 70. Enraged 71. Sleeping need 72. It could cause highlights 73. Like a desert

13. Place to turn in, perhaps

DOWN 14. On top of everything elsehint 1. Helpful

15. Youngster

16. Possibly will

2. White Monopoly bill 3. Tournament participants 4. Tiny pieces of matter 5. Ticket info 6. Comprises 7. Useful abilities 8. John Grisham’s “A Time to ___” 9. Trifling 10. Beginner 11. Big fight

17. It may be housebroken 18. Crush, sportswise

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We've even put together a unique fondue cheese blend to warm up around, whether you need an appetizer for the holidays, a fun weeknight dinner for the kids, or a refuel after a day spent on the mountain. Stop by our Cheese Department and pick up our pre-shredded Holiday Fondue Blend this season!

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24. Confederate 25. Good student’s reward 26. Be worthwhile 27. Mature 30. Back from now 31. Put in stitches 33. Feed bag contents 34. Received 37. Wash process 38. Chilling 39. Abandoned 40. Competent 41. Shingle sealant 42. Committed 43. Account entry 44. Horse’s motion 45. Considered 46. “I Saw ___ Standing There” 47. Not matching 49. Oblique 50. Where the buoys are 53. Authored 55. Egyptian, for one 56. When repeated, like some shows 58. Tattoo letters sometimes 59. Stat for Clemens 62. “No ___!”

64. Sculler’s need 65. “Don’t give up!”

Traditional Cheese Fondue

28. Apiece, at Wimbledon Ingredients: 29. Hot beverages 1/2 cups grated 32. Like fine whiskeys1Gruyere

33. Museum pieces 34. Bore diameter 35. "Go ahead" 36. Part of

1 1/2 cups grated Emmental 1/2 cup grated Appenzeller 2-3 TB cornstarch 1 clove garlic, halved

37. Heavy-hearted feeling 1 cup dry white wine 38. "___ magic" 39. ___ com

1 tsp fresh lemon juice

40. Top stories

44. Pod dweller

20. "You ___ here"

45. Detective's question

21. Rear-end

48. Whoop it up

23. Loftiest

49. Thing to do

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Combine three cheeses in a bowl and toss with cornstarch. Rub garlic on the inside of fondue pot, discard. Add wine to fondue pot and heat over medium heat until hot, not boiling; add lemon juice. Add cheese to wine a handful at a time, allowing cheese to melt before adding more. Continue stirring in a zigzag pattern to prevent cheese from clumping until all the cheese is added and completely melted. It should be bubbling gently and look like a creamy sauce. Season with pepper to taste. Remove pot from heat and onto a fondue burner. Cheese mixture should continue to bubble gently. If you do not have a fondue burner, set your stovetop to the lowest setting.

Serve with crusty bread cubes, vegetables, or anything you like!

19. Bedridden

D26. Sensations of discomfort

Directions:

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(802) 879 - 2020 • 129 Market Street, Williston VT 05495 (802) 863 - 2569 • 222 Dorset Street, South Burlington VT 05403

Page 20 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

The Williston Recreation and Parks Department is located at the Annex Building at 7878 Williston Rd. For online program registration visit www. willistonrec.org. For department information email recreation@willistonvt.org or call 876-1160.

HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST JUDGING

Calling all community members. You are needed to judge the Holiday Decorating Contest.

Look for voting forms online at www.willistonrec.org starting Friday, Dec. 17. Judging takes place from Dec 17-22 from 5:30-7 p.m. each night.

Go out with family and friends and look at the wonderful decorations in the community. Pick your best from the lists and your vote will be tallied. Have fun and enjoy.

Thank you to all who registered their homes and businesses.

Thank you also to the sponsors of this contest: the Williston Observer, Healthy Living, Adam’s Farm Market, Williston Coffee Shop, Vermont Meat & Seafood and Shaw’s.

NEEDED: GYM SUPERVISOR & BASKETBALL REFEREES

The rec department is looking for a gym supervisor for grades 1-2 and 3-4 basketball games this January and February. It is also looking for a few referees.

High school students who are you looking for community service credit are encouraged to apply by contacting the rec department at the above email or phone number.

GRADE 1-2 BASKETBALL

Early registration deadline is Sunday, Dec. 19. The program provides the opportunity for

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youngsters to learn the game, improve their skills and enjoy playing. The program meets on Saturdays in January and February. The hour session will consist of a practice and scrimmage time. Parents and volunteers are needed to coach teams. Sign up to coach when registering your child.

KINDERREC BASKETBALL

This is a parent/child program designed to teach Kingergarteners the fundamentals of the game.

Each week youngsters will be introduced to a new skill and fun activities that will enhance their learning. The program is in January and February.

LEARN TO SKI/RIDE

Kids in grades K-8 can register now. Early registration deadline is Sunday, Dec. 19. The program runs Wednesday after-

noons. More information about it is at www.willistonrec.org.

PICKUP PROGRAMS

Adult volleyball, men’s basketball and women’s basketball begin Jan. 3. Pre-registration is required.

introduction to the fundamentals of boxing, for fun, fitness and self-defense. Focus on learning footwork, defense and proper punching mechanics through a variety of safe, fun drills. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff.

SNOWMOBILE SAFETY

YOGA PROGRAMS

Age 14-plus. Sangha Studio offers beginner yoga, gentle yoga and yin yoga. Register now for programs in January and February.

TAI CHI INTRO

Age 18-plus. Strengthen your body, regulate and build physical energy and cultivate your mental concentration and spirit with this gentle and nourishing practice. Instructor: Zachary Stevens, ONTA Studio.

BOXING INTRO

Age 18-plus. An eight-week

Age 12-plus. This online course provides the opportunity to earn the certification necessary to legally operate on Vermont’s Statewide Snowmobile Trails System. The course can be taken online at any time. Go to www.willistonrec.org for a link to course.

MY HEALTHY VT

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Find a free course that’s right for you and take it online any time.

Go to www.willistonrec.org for a link to courses.

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December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 21

VERY ACtiVElY PuRCHAsiNG • Antique, Vintage and Modern Jewelry • Platinum, Gold, Silver, Diamonds and Precious Stones • Sterling Silver Flatware and holloware

• Gold and Silver Coins • Watches

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CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL

Criminal Justice Training Council shall have authority to issue tickets and represent the Town of Williston at any hearing. Violations enforced in the Superior Court shall be in accordance with the Vermont Rules of Civil

Town of Williston, Vermont Notice of Adoption RULE REQUIRING WEARING FACE COVERINGS INDOORS IN PUBLIC SPACES SECTION 1. AUTHORITY. This Rule is adopted by the Selectboard of the Town of Williston, Vermont under authority of Act 1, an act relating to temporary municipal rules in response to COVID-19 (2021).

SECTION 2. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Rule is to require all individuals to wear face coverings while indoors at locations that are open to the public in order to prevent and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and protect the public health and safety of the Town of Williston.

SECTION 3. REQUIREMENT TO WEAR FACE COVERINGS. All individuals in the Town of Williston shall wear face coverings that cover the person’s mouth and nose while indoors at locations that are open to the public.

SECTION 4. EXCEPTIONS. Face coverings are not required for: • Children under 2 years; • A person with a disability or documented medical condition who cannot wear a face covering or cannot safely wear a face covering for reasons related to the disability;

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• A person for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to workplace health, safety, or job duty as determined by the workplace risk assessment; • Any person while eating or drinking inside any establishment that serves food or beverage.

• A person who temporarily removes his/her face covering to communicate to a group of people, such as a participant at a public forum, a leader of a religious service or public presentation, leader of song/singing choir members or the like. Provided, however, that that person’s face covering shall immediately be worn again after said communication is completed.

• Places of worship; • SECTION 5. ENFORCEMENT.

Happy Holidays!

A violation of this Rule shall be a civil matter which may be enforced in the Vermont Judicial Bureau or the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division, at the discretion of the Selectboard. Violations enforced in the Judicial Bureau shall be in accordance with the provisions of 24 V.S.A. §§ 1974a and 1977 et seq.

For purposes of enforcement in the Judicial Bureau, any law enforcement officer certified by the Vermont

Procedure. The Town of Williston may pursue all appropriate injunctive relief.

SECTION 6. PENALTIES. The Enforcement Officer is authorized to recover civil penalties for violations of this Rule as set out below: • 1st Offense: $50.00 fine. Waiver amount: $25.00 • 2nd Offense: $100.00 fine. Waiver amount: $50.00 • 3rd and subsequent Offense: $500.00fine.

Waiver amount: $300.00 For the above offenses, the law enforcement officer issuing the citation is authorized to recover a waiver fee, in lieu of a civil penalty, in the stated amount, for any person who declines to contest a municipal complaint and pays the waiver fee.

SECTION 7. OTHER LAWS. This Rule is in addition to all other ordinances and rules of the Town of Williston and all applicable laws of the State of Vermont. All ordinances, rules, or parts of ordinances, rules, resolutions, regulations, or other documents inconsistent with the provisions of this Rule are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency.

SECTION 8. SEVERABILITY. If any section or provision of this Rule is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such finding shall not invalidate any other part of this Rule.

SECTION 9. EFFECTIVE PERIOD. This Rule shall take effect immediately upon the approval by the Williston Selectboard and shall remain in effect for a period not to exceed 45 days following its initial adoption. The Selectboard shall meet during the 45-day period in which this initial Rule is in effect and vote either to rescind this Rule or to extend it for an additional 30 days. Thereafter, the Selectboard shall meet at a minimum once every 30 days to reconsider this Rule, at which meeting the Selectboard shall vote either to rescind this Rule or to extend it for an additional 30-day period. The filing of a petition under 24 V.S.A. §§ 1972 and 1973, shall not govern the taking effect of this Rule.

ADOPTED by the Selectboard of the Town of Williston at its regularly scheduled meeting on this 7th day of December, 2021.

For questions or to submit comments on the adopted rule please contact Town Manager Erik Wells at ewells@willistonvt.org, 802-876-1168 or postal mail at 7900 Williston Road, Williston, VT 05495. The text of the rule is also available on the Town website www. town.williston.vt.us.

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Page 22 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021 1

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LEGAL Town of Williston Notice of Public Hearing Proposed Operating and Capital Budgets January 4, 2022 Notice is hereby given that the Williston Selectboard will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at 8:00 P.M. in the Beckett/McGuire Meeting Room at Williston Town Hall to receive comments on the proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2023 and capital budget and program for fiscal years 2023 to 2028.

A remote option to participate using the online platform zoom is available using the following web address: https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/87371587625. The zoom meeting can also be accessed by calling 1-646-558-8656 and entering the meeting ID 87371587625.

The proposed operating budget provides for expenses of $13,054,079. This represents a 12.81% increase over the current fiscal year. The funds are used to provide municipal services including, but not limited to: Police, Fire, Library, Recreation, and Highway maintenance.

The purpose of the capital budget is to identify major physical improvements needed to serve the community for next fiscal year and for the subsequent five years. Projects include, but are not limited to: building, park, and road improvements and bike path extensions.

Potential revenue sources include property taxes, host town fees, impact fees, and grants. For next fiscal year, the total proposed expenditure for capital projects and equipment funded from property taxes, host town fees, fund balance, and other revenue sources is $1,161,279.

Copies of the proposed operating and capital budgets are available for review at the Town Hall. Summaries are also

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available for review on the Town’s website https://www.town.williston.vt.us/.

Dated at the Town of Williston, Vermont this 10th day of December 2021.

Erik Wells, Town Manager PUBLICATION DATES: December 16th & 30th, 2021 (Williston Observer

FOR SALE LADIES BOWLING BALL & CASE — Almost brand new. Originally

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December 16, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 23

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Page 24 • Williston Observer • December 16, 2021

Lawsuit alleges abuse at former juvenile detention center

BY ALAN J. KEAYS VTDigger

A lawsuit filed on behalf of several youth who had been placed in Vermont’s now-closed juvenile detention center alleges widespread neglect, abuse and retaliation by employees who worked in those facilities and those in charge of overseeing them.

The legal action was filed Monday morning by attorneys Brooks McArthur and David Williams, who are representing six youths who had been housed in juvenile detention in Vermont. Another plaintiff is the administrator of the estate of a youth who had been at the facility but has since died of a drug overdose.

McArthur said Monday the lawsuit is a way to seek justice for the youths who were subjected to dehumanizing conditions and abusive conduct while in the state’s custody.

“These kids were the most vulnerable in the system with a significant history of trauma and they suffered at the hands of state employees who were charged with protecting them, caring for them, who instead tortured them,” McArthur said.

The lawsuit names more than a dozen defendants, including many people who worked at the Woodside Juvenile Rehabilitation Center in Essex. Its nine counts include claims of excessive force, cruel and unusual punishment, and retaliation against youths who reported abuse.

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competitive and keep up the strong police department that we have.”

The contract also increases the town’s contribution to officers’ health insurance costs, with the town covering 88 percent of health insurance premiums and 84 percent of deductibles.

‘There is a focus on recruiting and retention of staff.’

The Woodside Juvenile Rehabilitation Center in Essex is now closed.

FILE PHOTO BY MARK JOHNSON/VTDIGGER

The lawsuit also names Ken Schatz, who was commissioner of the Vermont Department for Children and Families during the time of the allegations and has since stepped down from the post. Jay Simons, who was the director of the facility, was also named in the lawsuit. Simons still works for the department.

“As is the case with all lawsuits filed against the state of Vermont, the Attorney General’s Office is statutorily obligated to defend the state,” the Vermont attorney general’s office said in a Monday afternoon statement.

Charity Clark, chief of staff for Vermont Attorney General TJ Donovan, referred comment Monday on the matter to DCF officials.

An email and phone call on Monday seeking comment from Sean Brown, current DCF commissioner, were not returned.

The Scott administration closed Woodside in October 2020. Among the reasons cited for

shuttering the 30-bed facility was the dwindling number of young people receiving services there, ranging from a handful to at times none at all.

The state had earlier faced a federal lawsuit filed by Disability Rights Vermont over the use of restraints at the facility. Federal Judge Geoffrey Crawford granted an injunction against the state, ordering corrective action.

The judge, in his ruling, wrote about a “horrific” video he viewed about a young person experiencing a crisis at Woodside.

The state has planned to replace Woodside with a smaller, privately run facility in Newbury, though that proposal has run into hurdles as the local Development Review Board rejected a permit for the facility.

The Scott administration has said it planned to appeal that denial.

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages.

Erik Wells Williston Town Manager

The police department is currently looking to fill three vacant officer positions. Its most recent hire, Officer Sabrina Boutin, came on board in November after having worked for three years at the Shelburne Police Department. She also previously worked as an officer in Barre.

“She’s very qualified,” said Lt. Josh Moore.

“She’s been a great addition.”

Boutin replaced Sarah Bell, who left the department in November. Bell worked for the Williston Police for three years. When she was hired, she was the department’s only female officer. With Boutin coming on, the department now has two females on the force, including Avery Lemnah, who was hired in 2020.

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