Williston Observer 2/17/2022

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WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

State loosens mask guidance; town renews mandate

WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

The universal mask recommendation for Vermont schools will expire Feb. 28, the Gov. Scott Administration announced Tuesday. Later that evening, the Williston Selectboard renewed the town’s indoor mask mandate for another 30 days. “We will all rejoice when we get to rescind this mask ordinance, but now is not the time,” selectboard member Jeff Fehrs said before the board unanimously extended the mandate for indoor public spaces through at least March 22. The Agency of Education expects the expiring mask recommendation for schools to be a step toward eventually fully removing school mask recommendations. It only applies to schools where the student vaccination rate is over 80 percent. The state had hoped to expire its school masking guidance in August, before new waves of Covid cases crested in the fall. “Our schools have had an incredibly difficult year, and this is an important step to getting them back to normal,” Secretary of Education Dan French said. The state’s recommendations for masking in schools are advisory. Individual school districts have been responsible for deciding whether to adopt the guidance. To date, according to state officials, only one school district in Vermont has not adopted the state’s recommendation. “We need our schools to be able to focus all of their energies on their customary work of meeting the educational needs of our students rather spending the better part of the school day attending to the implementation of public health measures,” French said. “No longer recommending masks in highly vaccinated schools is an important step toward shifting our focus on the needed recovery work in education.” After the announcement, Champlain Valley School Superintendent Rene Sanchez began meeting with other superintendents in the region to formulate a plan for how to react cohesively to the changed guidance, according to District Communications Director Bonnie Birdsall. She said the district will update families about its plans this week. She could not say Tuesday whether the district’s schools qualify as 80 percent vaccinated. The district goes on winter break at the end of this week, returning to school March 2. State Health Commissioner Mark Levine pointed to the widespread access to vaccines for students, the relatively low-risk Covid poses to school-aged children and overall improving hospitalization rates in expiring the school masking recommendation. “Over the past two years, parents, students and school staff have stepped up, integrating these requirements for protecting their kids’ and school staff health deep into their daily practices. That hard work has been an important part of our ability to move forward,” Levine said. “We know that vaccination is the most powerful and effective tool we have, and most of our school staff and students have heeded the call and are either up to date on their vaccines or are closing in. Because the Omicron variant leads to less severe outcomes, we can safely lift the masking recommendations in these highly vaccinated settings.”

Megan Nick, 25, is a 2014 graduate of CVU. She won an Olympic bronze medal Monday as part of the U.S. Women’s Freestyle Ski Team. PHOTO COURTESY OF USSA Nick, right, trains at the Green Mountain Training Center in Williston as a young gymnast.

An Olympic medal forged in Williston PHOTO COURTESY OF GREEN MOUNTAIN TRAINING CENTER

Megan Nick brings home bronze BY JASON STARR Observer staff

Megan Nick first learned to flip as a young gymnast at Williston’s Green Mountain Training Center. On Monday in Beijing, she executed two flips with three 360-degree spins — a fulldouble-full in freestyle skiing parlance — above the Olympic aerial course to secure a bronze medal as a first-time Olympian. A native of Shelburne, Nick, 25, won the first Olympic medal for the United States in women’s aerials since 1998. Her father Jeff Nick, one of Williston’s leading commercial land developers as the President of J.L. Davis Realty, watched the event live from home in the early morning hours Monday. Later that afternoon, he attended a watch party with Nick’s friends and supporters at the training center on Avenue D. “It was quite a thrill,” Jeff said Tuesday, still processing his daughter’s achievement. “We were watching interviews with her on NBC Sports and we were like, ‘wow, it’s crazy.’” During those interviews, the Champlain Valley Union High School graduate expressed relief, a sentiment she shared with her father when they

spoke on the phone after the event. “I was just trying to be extremely present and grateful that I was even there,” Nick told reporters after the event. “No expectations — only wanting to compete the way that I’ve been training.” “She was just relieved that it was over,” Jeff said, recalling their conver-

‘I think she surprised herself.’ Jeff Nick

sation a few hours after the competition. “There is so much pressure. I said ‘it didn’t look like you were that nervous. You looked focused and determined.’ She said ‘I was very nervous’ … She was the underdog. She knew she could do well, but she wasn’t expected to win a bronze that’s for sure. I think she surprised herself.” Nick placed third behind aerialists from China and Belarus, who did triple back flips with twists, as opposed to Nick’s double. “When I started the sport, I was really unfamiliar with this high level of competing,” Nick told reporters. “I was so focused on results, and it didn’t work. I realized that as long as I was having fun, and I was focusing on the

jumps that I was doing, it was working out better for me. So I tried to shift my perspective in the last three years, and it’s really helped me a lot.” Under normal (non-pandemic) circumstances, Jeff and his wife would have been watching the event in person in Beijing. Instead, they were home in front of the TV, watching Nick first qualify for the finals about 2 a.m., then land her medal-winning jump around 6 a.m. “The television coverage was awesome. You could see every angle and slow-motion replays. But it would have been much more fun being there, enjoying it with our daughter,” Jeff said. Nick learned to ski at Cochran’s ski area in Richmond before getting serious about gymnastics. She competed for CVU and for the Green Mountain Training Center team. As a junior in high school, she was recruited to an aerial training camp in Lake Placid and was chosen for the Olympic development team. She spent her senior year at the training center in Lake Placid. Entering the 2022-2023 World Cup season, Nick will no longer be an underdog. On top of competing, she is also working toward a master’s degree at the University of Denver. — Kevin O’Connor of VTDigger contributed to this report

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operations. Here are some entries made for 1904:

A biweekly trip down memory lane with members of the Williston Historical Society

A glimpse of Williston in the early 20th Century BY STACEY MCKENNA Special to the Observer

As many people know, the Isham family has lived and worked in Williston for many generations. Recently, when Ginger and David Isham cleaned out the attic on their farmhouse,

they found a treasure trove of old account books and papers from the early 1900s. These items give some unique insight into Williston life at the turn of the 20th century. David’s grandfather, Homer Isham, kept an accounting of expenses for his family farm

• Two calves = $2.00 • 1 2/3 dozen eggs = 62 cents • One pound tobacco = 45 cents • Five gallons kerosene = 75 cents • Brown sugar = 15 cents • One pair socks = 25 cents • Lard tub = 15 cents

Homer also kept the accounts for the Williston schools, which at that time were nine one-room schoolhouses spread around town. Here are some entries from the school year 1911: • Getting flag pole and cutting up school wood for two men = $2.40 • Flag hardware and rope = $5.82 • Setting flag pole and ball = $1.25

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• One quart black board dressing and brush = $1.10 • One man plastering Iroquois School 4 hours = 60 cents • Dinner for Chapman (schoolteacher) = 25 cents

Mixed in with the school entries was this poem written by Mrs. DiGennaro’s kindergarten class: Thank you to Farmer Isham Farmer Isham takes the sap That’s running from the tree. He boils and boils and boils it up, To make sweet sap for me! Thank you Farmer Isham For all the syrup you share, Without your hard work, My pancakes would be bare!

Homer Edward Isham

David’s father George, Homer’s son, was a selectman back in the 1930s for the town and kept the town books. David said that many times, townspeople and other selectboard members would stop by the Isham farm to discuss town business and concerns. Records for the wi nter of 1938-39 showed George Talcott was paid $42.55 for 37 hours of winter work truck driving and another $15.52 for sanding roads for 13.5 hours. Otis Dow made $5 for winding the town clock on the Williston Federated Church. Lewis Miles was paid $62.15 for acting as the Town Health Officer, and Robert Deal made $2.25 for moving

George C. Isham

chairs in the town hall. What secrets does your attic hold? We at the Williston Historical Society would love to know about any attic finds that shed light on our town’s histor y. Please contact us at williston histor icalsociet y@ gmail.com if you have fun finds from your attic!

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February 17, 2022

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WILLISTON: BUSINESS HUB OF VERMONT

StrollRunner’s path takes unexpected turn CEO’s newborn changes course of Williston company BY JASON STARR Observer staff Heather Hayes’ first daughter inspired the StrollRunner 14 years ago. Now, her second daughter will get to ride in it. Hayes — a Williston runner, mother and mortgage lender by day — hit on the idea for a handsfree attachment to a stroller when her now teenager was a toddler. But it wasn’t until 2017 that she got serious about prototyping and bringing a product to market. With her daughter well beyond stroller age, she figured she was building a product for other running enthusiasts with young children. As fate would have it, she is now, again, one of those runners. Hayes gave birth to a daughter six weeks ago. “This summer I’ll be out running around Williston with it, with my daughter,” she said. “That wasn’t the original plan. I made it for other people, but now I’ll get to

use it myself.” After four years of prototyping and manufacturing, Hayes assembled an initial production run of StrollRunners last summer and launched the www.strollrunner. com website to sell them. But she has stepped away from market-

‘Our plan was to go full speed ahead, but things change and the universe gave me a little person to put in the stroller so that I can actually use my product now.’ Heather Hayes StrollRunner founder and CEO

ing the product on her maternity leave. She plans to relaunch a redesigned website and revive her marketing efforts later this year. As a new mom, she will embody the target market.

“Our plan was to go full speed ahead, but things change and the universe gave me a little person to put in the stroller,” she said. “Having her will give me a greater understanding of the people that I’m trying to reach … Fourteen years ago was a long time ago, so having a fresh perspective on it will be helpful.” StrollRunner’s first sale was an unexpected one. According to Hayes, an amputee who is not able to wear a prosthetic was the company’s first customer. He uses it so he can stroll with his child while using crutches. “That is a phenomenal use we hadn’t thought of,” said Hayes. “It’s not just for running. People are finding all different types of ways to just have a higher quality of life with their child.” The StrollRunner is designed to free the hands to allow a normal running gait while using a stroller, as opposed to holding hands to the stroller bar in front. It’s a problem Hayes has been passionate about solving. “It drives me crazy to see peosee STROLLRUNNER page 4

ABOVE: An early adopter tests out the StrollRunner, manufactured by Williston’s Heather Hayes. RIGHT: StrollRunner founder and CEO Heather Hayes attends a business expo in Burlington last year. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTOS

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Taft Corners businesses celebrate longevity Men at Wok, the longest-running restaurant in the Taft Corners Shopping Center, recently reached its 30th anniversary, according to Taft Corners Shopping Center owner Alex Judge of Judge Development Corp. “I don’t have a comprehensive list, but I grew up in Williston so I have a feeling that they are one of the oldest restaurants still operating, with maybe only Friendly’s that’s been around for longer,” Judge said. On the other side of the plaza, Plato’s Closet is celebrating 20 years in business. “We know our success has come from our community,” owner Roberta Hipes said.

Healthy Living gives back $119K to communities Shoppers at Healthy Living Market and Café’s three locations rounded their purchases to the next dollar — and raised $119,193 for local nonprofits in 2021. The “Together We Can Help” initiative took place at Healthy Living’s Williston, South Burlington and Saratoga, N.Y., stores.

The Williston Community Food Shelf received $4,923 from the program, the South Burlington Food Shelf received $6,937 and Spectrum Youth and Family Services received $11,860. “Our shoppers care about the world in which they live, they share our values and they, just like us, want to help their neighbors,” said Healthy Living CEO Eli Lesser-Goldsmith. “Together we can make a difference.” Shoppers can continue to help local nonprofits by opting to round up when checking out.

Applications open to vend at ‘Big E’ The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets is accepting applications from businesses seeking to vend at the Vermont Building at the Eastern States Exposition (Big E). The Vermont Building is one of six New England buildings on the Avenue of the States at the Big E, a 17-day fair and exposition each September in West Springfield, Mass. The event historically has attracted about 1.5 million people each year. The Vermont Building hosts a variety of food and retail

businesses. Applications are available at www.agriculture.vermont.gov/bigevendor or by contacting Kristen Wirkkala at (802) 522-3742 or by email at kristen.wirkkala@vermont. gov.

A search for 10,000 womenowned businesses The Vermont Women’s Fund is looking to sign-up 10,000 women-owned Vermont businesses through its “This Way UP: there’s power in our numbers” campaign. This Way UP was launched in late 2021 to build a statewide database of women business owners and entrepreneurs — information that does not currently exist. “We were surprised in 2016 when we discovered that no one knew the breakdown of business ownership by gender,” said Meg Smith, director of the Vermont Women’s Fund. “But its importance hit home two years ago when PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) money came into the state earmarked for women and minority-owned businesses and there was no way to find them.”

To learn about This Way UP and view the current data, visit www.thiswayupvt. com.

Realtor group rebrands

The Northwestern Vermont Board of Realtors has changed its name to the Northwest Vermont Realtor Association. Along with the name change, the Williston-based organization has launched a new website at www.nwvtrealtor.org. The organization represents about 750 Realtors in Chittenden, Franklin and Grand Isle counties with a focus on advocacy and member education. “We believe the new name provides greater clarification as to who we are as an organization,” Mike Berk, the group’s CEO, said.

Hinesburg native joins Gerri Reilly Real Estate Gerri Reilly Real Estate of South Burlington has welcomed Hinesburg native Hillary Palmer as its newest team member. Palmer comes to the company from a restaurant management background.

StrollRunner continued from page

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ple running with strollers when I know how your body mechanics are supposed to work,” she said. “Try to walk around without swinging your arms. It’s that same concept. You need to be able to have that core freedom.” Priced at $199, the StrollRunner is an accessory to any three-wheel stroller. It has a belt attachment to the stroller bars and a piece that dampens the swivel of the front wheel to make the stroller steerable using body lean. Hayes received a patent on the design in December. “It kind of works like a bicycle,” she said. “Where you look is where you are going to go. There is a little bit of a learning curve when you first start to use it.” Her original prototyping was done with

The StrollRunner attaches a stroller at the waist for hands-free running and walking. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

the help of Williston car restoration engineer Scott Roth. She tested the initial prototypes on the Village Community Park path using a stuffed bear in the stroller. She looks forward to running the path again this spring, this time with a finalized product and her baby along for the ride.

February 17, 2022

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Williston Observer

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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:

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waba williston

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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.

Notes from the Legislature BY REP. ERIN BRADY Last week I voted in favor of a $50 million tax cut for Vermonters. The proposal includes a child tax credit of $1,200 per year to parents and guardians for every qualifying child 6 years of age or younger. The proposal would also exempt an additional $5,000 in Social Security income from state taxes. The child tax credit would phase out at adjusted gross incomes of $200,000 for both single and joint filers. It’s fully refundable, which means Vermonters with little or no tax liability would get money back. H.510 passed by a roll-call vote of 102-46. From here, the bill moves to the Senate for consideration. One of the most pronounced lessons I’ve learned from 15 years as a public school teacher is the cumulative effect of inequitable opportunities and resources on young people and their families, so I rose to speak on the House floor to express my strong support for this opportunity to support children and families. The House has largely re-

turned to in-person legislating, and while sitting in the grandiose House chamber (instead of my less grandiose kitchen), I could feel the gravity of our work as the House considered two amendments to the Vermont Constitution. I was honored and humbled to vote in favor of Proposal 2 amending Article 1, Chapter 1 of the Vermont Constitution to plainly state that “slavery and indentured servitude in any form are prohibited.” Vermont outlawed slavery in 1777 when it ratified its first Constitution. But the wording is not absolute. As currently written, only persons over the age of 21 cannot be held in slavery. Additionally, a Vermonter over this age can be bound into slavery if they consent to being a slave. “Language is powerful,” said Rep. Hal Colston (D-Winooski) in presenting Prop 2 on the floor. “And the truth shall set us free.” The House also considered the Reproductive Liberty Amendment (Proposal 5) recently. With support for Roe v. Wade eroding in the U.S. Supreme Court and growing concerns about diminishing federal protections for re-

productive rights, the Vermont Senate introduced Proposal 5 in 2019. As I promised to do when I campaigned, I joined a majority of members in the House in voting yes to protect reproductive freedom. Should voters approve the amendment this November, Proposal 5 would be added to our Constitution as Article 22: “That an individual’s right to personal reproductive autonomy is central to the liberty and dignity to determine one’s own life course and shall not be denied or infringed unless justified by a compelling State interest achieved by the least restrictive means.” I want to thank the people of Williston who reached out to me recently, especially about the Reproductive Liberty Amendment. I believe that reproductive health care decisions are deeply personal and should be made between a patient and their health care provider. If passed, Vermont will be the first state in the country to explicitly protect reproductive liberty in its constitution. Amending our constitution is the ultimate expression of desee BRADY page 7

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The Williston Observer is mailed to every home and business in Williston and St. George every Thursday. In addition, we provide rack distribution to locations in Williston, Richmond and Essex. Williston Belle’s Café Dorothy Alling Memorial Library Fairfield Inn Gardener’s Supply Green Mountain Bagel Hannaford Healthy Living Williston Home2Suites Korner Kwik Stop Marriott Courtyard Men At Wok People’s United Bank Ramunto’s Rehab Gym Shaw’s Shell Gas Station (Essex Rd) Simon’s Mobil Williston Simply Divine Café Sonesta Sunoco Station Town of Williston Offices UPS Store Williston Coffee Shop If you would like copies for your location call Rick Cote at (802) 373-2136 or email Rick@WillistonObserver.com

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February 17, 2022

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Debunking a masking myth It was disappointing to read a categorically untrue statement in a recent article in the Williston Observer headlined “Mask mandate extended into February.” The article included a statement from a local gym owner that “… masks restrict the flow of oxygen into the body during physical exercise.” This misconception has been de-

Brady continued from page

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mocracy and the process is deliberately rigorous. Vermont law requires that a proposed amendment be passed by two consecutive Legislatures and then go to the voters for the final decision. So Willistonians will have a chance to vote on these two amendments during the November elections this fall. As we approach Town Meeting Day, the Legislature is hitting its stride. We’ll be putting together a budget that includes record investments in community development, childcare, healthcare and infrastructure. The once-a-decade redistricting process needs to wrap up by the spring and will change how Williston is represented in the Statehouse (spoiler alert: Due to our growth, some Willistonians will likely no longer be in the same House district next year). In the Education Committee where I serve, we continue to focus on education finance and implementing a change to how school funding is distributed based on student needs. We are also exploring how to grow our amazing career and technical education resources and address our postsecondary access and attainment issues in response to broader workforce and demographic challenges. I am anxious to bring my extensive experience working with high school students to these conversations. As we continue to return to closer to normal at the Statehouse, I was especially thrilled to see that our first group of legislative pages (eighth-graders who are selected through an application process) included Williston’s Cecilia Marino! I am honored to represent Williston during these challenging times and I strive to be accessible and responsive. Please email me at ebrady@leg.state. vt.us with your questions, concerns or ideas anytime. Erin Brady represents Williston in the Vermont House of Representatives.

bunked by numerous studies. As a clinical exercise physiologist working with individuals with heart and pulmonary disease, we rely on objective, peer reviewed scientific evidence to inform our exercise-related recommendations. While exercising with a mask on may be unpleasant, there is absolutely no evidence that masking restricts oxygen into the body during exercise. There is, however, irrefutable evidence that masking

decreases the transmission of a potentially deadly virus. Certainly, we can all agree that when we are developing public policy we must rely on facts and not anecdotal information or personal opinion. The fact is, whether we are exercising or not, masking does not inhibit our body’s ability to get oxygen. While we are on the topic of lowering the risk of catching a virus, do you know what else, other

than wearing mask, will help prevent us from getting a virus? Exercise. That is right, individuals who exercise regularly have better immune systems, helping to stave off getting sick. Again, while it may be unpleasant, masking does not prevent us from reaping the benefits of exercise. Moreover, regular exercise provides our bodies with additional protection from getting sick. So, regular exercise and continuing to

wear a mask while indoors will help us stay healthy and keep our community safe. Patrick Savage Williston

Not prepared to foot this bill Raise your hand if you received a raise in 2021 to match the inflation see LETTERS page 8

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rate of 7 percent. Me neither. We have all seen our purchasing power deteriorate in 2021, yet our town is proposing a 14 percent spending increase in next year’s budget. Included in that budget are an energy coordinator and nine firefighters. Meanwhile, the school budget proposal includes three full-time positions to work on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Both the energy coordinator and the DEI positions sound like political activists to me. They should be volunteer positions, not paid for by our property taxes. The school district continues to

ask us to approve new bonds to pay for school building improvements (upgrades, repairs) and new school buses. By comparison, every homeowner association in Vermont is required to collect enough fees to maintain a reserve fund to pay for building upkeep, so the money is there when needed. Why can’t the school district use its reserve fund? The increased spending will always fall back on us citizens. We foot the bill. Bonds only delay the pain and increase it overall. Renters will pay for the increased property taxes through raised rents. Federal grants (like ARPA) are still taxpayers’ money. If you think your federal taxes haven’t gone up, that’s because the federal government prints the money

it spends but doesn’t collect in taxes. That’s what we are now seeing as inflation. Inflation is a tax on us all, and it’s a cruel one that hurts those most who have the least. We are about to relearn that harsh lesson of the ’70s and ’80s. So I’m asking every citizen of Williston to demonstrate their financial literacy by voting no to these inflated budgets, and no to any bonds. The town and school district should tax what they spend, and they should spend less. Joerg Mellmann Williston

Wanton waste endangers all wildlife One of the reasons I love Vermont so much is the wildlife this state is home to. Vast landscapes provide habitat for an abundance of animal species that interact with one another in the natural cycle of life. However, natural systems, such as predator/prey population dy-

namics, are disrupted by unethical and wasteful hunting and trapping practices. Moreover, some hunters and trappers may kill unlimited animals in-season, like foxes, bobcats and river otters. And, because many see coyotes as a mere nuisance species without recognition of their integral role in Vermont’s ecosystems, coyotes face this threat year-round. Currently, there are no laws in Vermont to stop someone from participating in the reckless, meaningless slaughter of as many animals as they please and leaving their carcasses outside to rot like garbage. This unethical and wasteful killing of wildlife ― killing for the sake of killing ― is referred to as wanton waste. This form of hunting is an overt bastardization of all ethical hunting practices that value utilizing the life taken. If not to provide food, warmth or protection, why kill a wild animal? Those who participate in wanton waste seek only to kill and overpower another being, which I see as a clear example of blatant cruelty.

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Hunting, in particular hunting for food, is without question a key aspect of Vermont’s culture and heritage. To this day, modern hunters rely on the meat they have hunted to provide sustenance. However, there are still a substantial number of Vermont “sportsmen” who not only engage in wanton waste, but pass down this way of hunting or trapping to their children. It is dangerous to teach children to view wildlife merely as disposable objects and not sentient individuals capable of suffering. There is current legislation, bill H.411, that simply requires trappers and hunters to use what they kill. Most Vermonters disagree with wanton waste. The University of Vermont Center for Rural Studies conducted a survey that found “70 percent of Vermonters opposed the intentional and wasteful destruction of Vermont’s wildlife.” So let’s get this bill passed. It will encourage and promote respect for the life that is taken. Trea Hsieh-Lewis Burlington

February 17, 2022

•

Williston Observer

Sarah George: Her own brand of justice

Chittenden County State’s Attorney presses progressive reforms as prosecutor

Page 9

And her January decision to take up an appeal by Gregory Fitzgerald, whose complex plot to kill his wife, Amy Fitzgerald, in 1993 led to a life sentence for first-degree murder, means Fitzgerald may soon have a chance at parole — much to the distress of the victim’s family. In defending that decision, George has made it clear that she is opposed to life sentences. To her supporters, George is a leader in tackling systemic racism and poverty, using her power to break down old norms to make the justice system more equitable. To

BY DIANE DERBY VTDigger Sarah George’s LinkedIn page prominently features a clenched Black fist superimposed over a rainbow banner, and a photo of a smiling and confident-looking George with her hand placed firmly on her hip. Her biography notes that she serves as Chittenden County State’s Attorney, appointed to the position by Gov. Phil Scott in January 2017 and officially elected in November 2018. Then comes this: “Just doing my part to overhaul a racist and classist legal system and replace it with healthy and vibrant communities. Ultimate goal = make my job unnecessary.” She includes a tagline that also appears on her email correspondence, a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” The 38-year-old from Quechee wears her mission proudly, and unapologetically. Overseeing a heavy criminal caseload in Vermont’s most populous county, George has used her position as state’s attorney to call out what she believes is wrong with

•

see GEORGE page 10

Sarah George is the Chittenden County State’s Attorney and a criminal justice reformer. PHOTO BY JENNIFER HAUCK/VALLEY NEWS

Vermont’s criminal justice system. It is not a short list. In the five years since she was first tapped as the county’s top prosecutor, George has drawn headlines — and touched off heated debate — with decisions that she believes will promote much-needed reforms. She has worked to end the use of cash bail (“All it does is hold poor people in jail and let rich people out,” she says) and she was an early advocate for safe injection sites to supervise heroin users (a policy re-

cently adopted in New York City as “first in the nation,” but not adopted in Vermont). Her 2019 decision to forgo criminal charges in three high-profile murder and attempted murder cases — based on questions about the defendants’ sanity — prompted a rare intervention by the governor when he asked Vermont Attorney General TJ Donovan for a review. It also led to a remarkable public exchange between George and Donovan (who’d previously held George’s job) in which George

accused Donovan of being “disingenuous and hypocritical” when he refiled the charges. George stunned the law enforcement community last month in saying her office would decline to prosecute charges stemming from “non-public safety” traffic stops — such as for a broken taillight — pointing to data that shows such stops disproportionately target people of color. The stops may also prompt police to “fish” for evidence, according to George’s directive.

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Williston Observer

George continued from page

• February 17, 2022

9

her critics, George has overstepped the boundaries of her office in allowing her personal beliefs to dictate legal doctrine, bending the law in the name of “prosecutorial discretion.” But George has seemingly moved past the noise as she continues on her mission to dispel what she sees as an overly simplistic equation that “conviction + jail = justice.” She frequently turns to Twitter to promote her views or retweet others she agrees with. (Her username, @SarahFairVT, draws from her middle name, “Fair,” her mother’s maiden name). Ask George what led her to this role of reformer and she traces it back to 10th grade at Hartford High School for early signs. “I do remember talking with my parents at a young age about being frustrated by how the school was mismanaging conflicts. It was really clear that there were kids with really tough home lives, and they were coming to school and acting out and the school was just suspending them,” she said in a recent interview. “I was so upset about that. Don’t they see that these kids are going

home to tough home lives?” One girl attempted suicide in her junior year, George said. She credits her early empathy to the influence of her mother, Holly George, a registered nurse at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center until retiring last summer after 45 years. “I think it was just my mother showing me how to care about people. She’s a lifelong nurse and she just instilled in us from a young age about taking care of people. When other people are well, we are all well,” said the prosecutor, whose older brother and his wife are also nurses at DHMC, as was her grandmother. Her father, Stephen George, chose carpentry. For her part, Holly George credits her daughter with opening her eyes to injustices she says she was never fully aware of. “She has worked so hard, and her heart is just so dedicated to people who need people to care for them and do the right things,” Holly George said. “She is so devoted and cares so much that she is willing to go the extra step.” And she bristles at the negative feedback she has seen and heard about her daughter.

Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah George confers with victims’ families during the sentencing hearing for Steven Bourgoin in Vermont Superior Court in Burlington in 2019. Bourgoin was convicted in the deaths of five teenagers in a crash on I-89 in Williston in October 2016. FILE PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

“Too bad that people who actually have the courage to stand up for what is right in this world have to take that crap,” she said. “I give her so much credit, but at the same time, as her mother, it kind of worries me too.” A PROSECUTOR’S POWER

Sarah George, whose family moved from Norwich to Quechee when she was 2 years old, maintains close ties to her hometown. From 2006 on, she worked weekends as a server at the Simon Pearce restaurant, giving it up only when the pandemic set in nearly 14 years later. She initially took on the extra work

to help pay off student loans, but she kept it up even after assuming the state’s attorney’s position because, in her words, “it was just a really great mental health break.” It also allowed her to step away from her phone for six hours at a time. “I just got to talk to people and have really great conversations about duck and cod,” she said. The tourists didn’t know about her other life, while local patrons — many of whom she’d known since childhood — respectfully didn’t dwell on it. She also has kept in touch with Doug Heavisides, her English teacher in ninth and 10th grades at Hartford High School, who sends George supportive text messages when the day’s headlines might take a toll. “It’s funny how the roles of teacher and student get switched after a while,” Heavisides said of watching George’s career take shape. He remembers George not only for her “incredible work ethic,” but also for showing a maturity that is rarely seen in high school students. When most teenagers broke off into their favored peer groups, George stood out. see GEORGE page 11

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February 17, 2022

George continued from page

10

“Sarah, even at a young age, kind of transcended that. She was kind to everyone. She was thoughtful and kind. Even then, the strength of her moral compass was really pointing north,” said Heavisides, who invited George to speak at the senior awards night in 2020, when he was director of the Hartford Area Career and Technical Center. “She is such a great example of a strong and intelligent human who uses her skills for the good of everyone, and that is what I wanted those students to see,” said Heavisides, now principal of The Wilder School. “Her message was, she never really thought she would be in this position, but no matter what position you are in, you can help people and effect change. It’s your responsibility.” George began work in the State’s Attorney’s Office shortly after graduating from Vermont Law School in 2010. She had already earned a master’s degree in forensic psychology from Castleton State College and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Connecticut. She entered VLS in 2007 intent on becoming a public defender, but that changed after she spent time during her second year of law school working in the Chittenden County Public Defender’s Office. That’s when she realized, in her words, it was “too late” for a public defender to make a significant difference once criminal charges had been brought. It became clear to George that the real power for change rested in the hands of the prosecutor. “There are a hundred decisions that are already made before the public defender is even involved, really important decisions,” George said. She describes herself as “a die-hard fan” of the community restorative justice model that would divert cases before they are criminally prosecuted, perhaps bypassing the court system altogether. While the model has been around for more than two decades in Vermont, it has been “vastly underutilized,” she said. During her years as a deputy state’s attorney, George said, she witnessed a never-ending cycle of people repeatedly passing through the doors, seemingly no better for the outcome of their previous court visits. “I used to say all the time that the system was broken, and then the more I have been a part of it, I realize that it is doing exactly what it is designed to do, which is to over-police and prosecute poor people and people of color, people with mental health issues, people with substance use issues,” George said. “The way I see it, changing was always going to require this time where we are not prosecuting them, we are not using the legal system to address the issues,” she said. “But the mental health and the substance use (resources) haven’t stepped up yet.” That lack of resources may be the

one area where George and her law enforcement colleagues are in agreement. CRITICISM FROM COLLEAGUES

While her directives often are driven by her beliefs, George insists that every major decision she makes has been thoroughly vetted with her staff of a dozen deputies, and “a culmination of months of research and data collection.” “If it appears easy, it isn’t,” she said. “I’m 11 years as a prosecutor. I know there will be pushback, because I am young and I am a woman. I have to come out with a ton of support behind me, data and research and a lot of back-and-forth. My staff is always involved with these policies and decisions to make sure I am not missing something.” George is well aware of the criticisms of her decisions, and says she has weathered her share of death threats, rape threats and other intentions to do her harm. Not unexpected, she said, given her public profile and penchant for shaking things up. But the criticism from those she works with in law enforcement clearly stings. “When it is coming from people who just hate me … that doesn’t keep me up at night. But it does when it comes from police chiefs who I really respect. People who I have actual relationships with that I would hope for more from,” George said. One of those she singles out is South Burlington Police Chief Shawn Burke. “When he gets upset with me or says things about me it bothers me, because I really respect him,” she said. “I take all of the critiques from police seriously, but I take them far more seriously from the chiefs I have really great relationships with.” “The reality is that some of these things we are never going to agree on and we’ve sort of agreed to disagree on a lot of things, but I do struggle more with that pushback. I spend a lot of time trying to get them to see my side,” she said. “At some point, we just need to move to the next thing because we aren’t going to agree.” But as Burke sees it, George has not shown much interest in hearing from law enforcement during the critical stages of developing such policies. Burke said he has repeatedly brought his concerns to George in efforts to have key discussions before the directives hit the press. “If there is any missed opportunity, it is to collaborate more with those of us in law enforcement. It is not lost on police leaders that reform is needed and afoot. I think a lot of us are committed to that work, but there are realities as to what we have to do in terms of public safety at the local level,” said Burke, a Woodstock Union High School graduate who was named South Burlington’s chief in 2018, following 21 years with the Burlington Police Department. “I see it as a blind spot. Why certain perspectives seem to carry more weight with Sarah than others

is a little lost on me,” he said. And while acknowledging that they share a mutual respect, he does not hesitate to get to the heart of police concerns. “In my career, this is new territory, to have a prosecutor out in front making a lot of policy decisions that oftentimes feel as if we are legislating through policy,” he said. “I think we need to be tempered and regroup and think about our public safety charge from our communities.” A HISTORY OF REFORM

Windsor County State’s Attorney Ward Goodenough, a fellow VLS graduate who describes himself as a close friend of George’s, said his office has a history of supporting reforms that are intended to improve the criminal justice system and achieve better outcomes. “I think we are working toward similar goals. Windsor and Chittenden (counties) both have a history of incubating new ideas,” Goodenough said. Noting that George’s predecessor, Donovan, introduced “driver restoration days” that allowed low-income Vermonters to regain their suspended licenses after revocation for failure to pay tickets, Goodenough added, “I think Sarah has continued in that same vein.” He also singled out the work of Robert Sand, who held Goodenough’s position for 15 years before moving over to VLS, where he taught George and later became the founding director of the Center for Justice Reform.

When Sand clashed with local police chiefs in 2007 over his handling of a felony marijuana case — he allowed it to go to diversion rather than pursue criminal prosecution — then-Gov. Jim Douglas said Sand had abused his prosecutorial discretion, and accused Sand of being on a “personal crusade” to relax drug laws. Sand testified at the Statehouse in support of decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana as far back as 2008, but it would take the Legislature another five years to adopt decriminalization. In 2018, Vermont became the first state to legalize marijuana through an act of the Legislature, and by 2020, the state had approved the legal sale of marijuana, with dispensaries slated to come on line this October. George takes exception to those who say she is overstepping or legislating (a claim shared by others who did not want to speak on the record). State’s attorneys, she said, have routinely legislated via their positions, including those who have chosen to be more “tough on crime.” “The discretion we have as elected prosecutors has always been used and when it is used to be more punitive, nobody bats an eye, but when we are faced with incredible racial discrepancies and attempt to use that same discretion to fix some of that, everyone is all up in arms about it,” she emailed in response to a question on the legislating charge. “I’m an elected official and was very clear about my positions on these issues

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Williston Observer

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Page 11

when I ran for office.” George, who plans to run for reelection this year, is not sure whether she will see any opposition this time (she ran unopposed in 2018). If she does, she said she expects it will be from a Republican candidate “and it would certainly be directly related to the positions I have taken.” While there has been speculation that George is working her way up to higher office — she recently hosted a Zoom event with U.S. Rep. Peter Welch to promote his ascent to the U.S. Senate — she says she doesn’t have her sights set beyond her current role. “I really love my job, I love being a lawyer, and I enjoy having a caseload and being in court,” she said. “Higher office wouldn’t allow for any of that.” As for the need for more collaboration, George has heard the critique before. “But I don’t have the luxury of coming at these things not completely set on my position. As soon as I start letting people change my mind, or not being sure of it, I open myself up for even more attacks, which I think they have appreciated,” she said. “I do think people recognize that and will sometimes give me a little more credit for being stubborn in my position.” For now, the person whom Scott hailed as a “strong, decisive prosecutor” when naming her to serve as Chittenden County State’s Attorney in 2017 shows no signs of backing down.

Page 12 •

Williston Observer

•

February 17, 2022

People rally in support of the Canadian Freedom Convoy at the I-89 overpass in South Burlington on Saturday.

Protesters gather against vax mandates over I-89

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It was the first protest Catherine Connolly had been to in a long time. The 65-year-old had joined counterprotests decades ago, she said, when antiwar activists in Burlington demonstrated outside the former General Electric Co. plant on Pine Street. As the antiwar crowd handed ice cream to the workers who manufactured weapons at the site, Connolly recalled, she and her group gave out American flags. On Saturday afternoon, Connolly once again found herself in the middle of a protest, holding an American flag. But as the wind whipped across the Williston Road bridge over Interstate 89, she talked about the conversion — getting “red-pilled,” as she jokingly called it — that has led her to distrust government health advisories, mainstream media and even the Republican Party. While Connolly believed these things, the group she joined on Saturday was by no means a monolith. What united them, however, was the aim of their protest: To speak out against government-enforced restrictions on people who are not vaccinated against Covid-19, and to extol what they called “medical freedom.” “People are frustrated. They’re tired,” Swanton resident Gary Pouliot said between puffs on a tobacco pipe. The protest — which had been going on with at least one attendee every day last week — attracted roughly 50 people to one of the busiest intersections in Vermont. Holding signs that derided the efficacy and safety of vaccines, the demonstrators garnered plenty of honks (and not a few middle fingers) from passing cars. Protesters said they heard about the event through social media

groups created to criticize vaccine mandates. In the groups, they said, participants share posts that cast doubt on the safety of the vaccines. During the protest, Connolly and another attendee, Grand Isle resident Lou Klein, bonded over their appreciation for the anti-vaccine podcast The X22 Report. On the bridge, the unrelenting wind brought a chill to the otherwise mild afternoon. While a boon for the dozens of Canadian, American and “Don’t Tread on Me” flags that lined both sides of the overpass, the gale was a nuisance for Pouliot as he attempted to light his pipe. Pouliot, a former trucker who is barred from the country just north of his town because he is unvaccinated, told VTDigger he wants towns and cities around the state to rescind their mask mandates. At the onset of the pandemic, Pouliot said, he and his wife wore a mask inside stores and other businesses. But soon they began to wear them below their noses and mouths. Then, not at all. “To me, it’s all about control,” he said. Pouliot, 72, was hesitant to describe Saturday’s event as a “protest,” calling it a harsh word. “People get the wrong impression. We’re out here showing our support,” he said. That support, according to protesters interviewed by VTDigger, was for the scores of Canadian truckers who — in objection to requirements that they get vaccinated against Covid-19 to enter the U.S. — blocked several border crossings last week. After strong warnings against the protests, Canadian authorities had largely cleared the blockages by Sunday morning, according to The Washington Post. On the other side of the border, however, some politicians welcomed Americans to imitate the Canadian protests. In a Thursday

interview, Republican U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky embraced rumblings that some truckers might “clog things up” at the Super Bowl on Sunday in Los Angeles. In South Burlington, the only trucks that joined the demonstration were ones that blared their horns while passing by on Williston Road or the interstate. Demonstrators said they’d heard talk of organizing a convoy to Washington, D.C., yet none who spoke to VTDigger said they planned to participate. While they stood united against vaccine mandates, not all of the protesters were unvaccinated. Cheryl Titus, 61, of Milton, said she got inoculated in order to keep her job at an assisted living facility. Her decision, Titus said, was driven by the desire to continue working with the facility’s residents. “That’s my family,” she said of the residents. When she did get vaccinated, side effects from the shot gave her a fever and sapped her strength for days, Titus said, further undermining her trust in the safety of the drugs. That experience, combined with her belief that vaccine mandates infringe on Americans’ civil liberties, brought her to the bridge Saturday, where she stood quietly waving a miniature American flag. “All my life, I’ve been proud of the fact that America has choice,” Titus said. Connolly — who appeared to enjoy her first protest since the 1980s — also pointed to American ideals as a reason to abandon vaccine mandates. “Back in the ’60s, we were all about questioning authority. Now we’re not allowed to question authority?” she told VTDigger. “I’m against medical tyranny,” Connolly said. “They’ll have to take me kicking and screaming to get vaccinated.”

February 17, 2022

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 13

SPORTS

New York team bests Redhawks BY LAUREN READ Observer Correspondent

The Champlain Valley Union High School girls basketball team lost its third game of the season Saturday — a 51-36 loss to Shenendehowa, N.Y. Chloe Snipes had eight points for the Redhawks, while Addi Hunter added six points and eight rebounds. With the loss, CVU falls to 12-3. The loss followed a 4024 win over St. Johnsbury on Thursday. Shelby Companion led CVU with 17 points in the win, which saw the Redhawks go on an 11-0 run in the third quarter.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Champlain Valley 59, Essex 39: Champlain Valley remained on a roll in boys basketball, winning its 10th game in the last 11 with a victory over Essex on Friday. Kyle Eaton led the Redhawks with 15 points, while Sam Sweeney added 13 points. With the win, CVU moved to 13-3.

6-10-1. Harper Anderson and Alex Zuchowski each added a goal, while Owen Pierce dished out two assists. Jack Averill stopped 21 shots in goal to earn the shutout. It was a rebound win for CVU, which fell to Rice 2-1 in overtime on Saturday. Fay had the goal for the Redhawks, while Jason Douglas stopped 24 shots in a losing effort.

BOYS HOCKEY

Champlain Valley 4, Stowe 0: The Champlain Valley boys hockey team scored three goals in the third period to pull away for a win over Stowe on Monday. Angelos Carroll and Devon Fay each had a goal and an assist for the Redhawks, who move to

GIRLS HOCKEY

Rutland 4, Champlain Valley-Mount Mansfield 1: The Champlain Valley-Mount Mansfield girls hockey team fell to Rutland on Saturday. Sasha Miller had the lone goal for the CougarHawks, who fell to 9-7.

TOP to BOTTOM: Redhawk Trevin Keefe looks to pass in front of Rice’s Logan Lambrecht during CVU’s game vs. the Green Knights on Saturday at Cairns Arena. Goalie, Jason Douglas makes a point blank pad save on Rice’s Garrett Micciche. Angelos Carroll scoops up the puck after a battle along the boards. CVU’s Tucker Tharpe, above left, puts up a short jumpshot over BFA’s Johnny Ireland during the ‘Hawks’ game vs. the Bobwhites last Tuesday in Hinesburg. Logan Vaughan, right, goes hard to the hoop against BFA’s Seth Richards.

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Williston Observer

• February 17, 2022

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sions. CRAFTERNOON: 3-D YARN MONOGRAMS Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2-3 p.m. Grades 3 and up. Use cardboard and yarn to make a decorative monogram to display at home. PRESCHOOL MUSIC Thursdays, Feb. 24 and March 3, 10:30-11 a.m. Sing along with musician Linda Bassick. TEENS CAN COOK (ZOOM PROGRAM) Friday, Feb. 25, 1-2 p.m. Make an impressive meal with guidance from a Hannaford dietitian. Grades 7 and up. Register to receive recipes and log-in instructions. INDOOR STORY TIME Monday, Feb. 28, 10-10:30 a.m. or 11:00-11:30 a.m. Join Bonnie for stories, songs and a craft. Register for either session. TEEN NIGHT: COLLAGE AND STICKER JOURNALING Monday, Feb. 28, 5-6 p.m. Grades 7 and up. Bring your bullet journal (or start one at the library) and create expressive collage pages. TO-GO CRAFTS Available starting March 1, while supplies last: Lucky Shamrocks (Pre-K and up) and Shamrock Paracord Bracelets (Grades 7 and up).

AFTER-SCHOOL LEGOS AND GAMES Wednesday, March 2, 2-3 p.m. Grades K and up. Enjoy the library’s collection of LEGOs and board games.

MULTI-AGE PROGRAMS VERMONT READS 2021 Starting March 1, pick up a copy of this year’s Vermont Reads selection, “We Contain Multitudes” by Sarah Henstra, and join us for tie-in programs being held this spring.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Online programs are held via Zoom. Email programs@ damlvt.org or call 878-4918 to receive an invitation, unless online registration is specified. WINTER READING CHALLENGE Register for our genre-oriented challenge and earn chances to win prizes! Ends March 25. ONLINE GUIDED MEDITATION Fridays, Feb. 18 and 25, 12see LIBRARY NOTES page 15

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February 17, 2022

Library Notes continued from page

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Jan. 30 at 1:09 a.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Williston Road.

Feb. 1 at 10:27 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Memorial Drive. Upon arrival, there were no injuries or hazards on the scene.

Jan. 30 at 2:11 a.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Williston Road. The operator was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Feb. 2 at 7:18 a.m. — K9 Duke participated in Walk to School Day on Talcott Road. Feb. 2 at 8:52 a.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on St. George Road.

Jan. 30 at 2:45 a.m. — Police assisted Burlington Police Department in locating a vehicle on Rita Road.

Feb. 2 at 9:13 a.m. — Police responded to a report of an animal problem on North Williston Road.

Jan. 30 at 9:13 a.m. — Police provided a case number for property damage on Hurricane Lane.

Feb. 2 at 10:43 a.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Essex Road.

Jan. 30 at 12:29 a.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on St. George Road.

Jan. 30 at 9:31 a.m. — Police completed a welfare check on Essex Road at a citizen’s request. Jan. 30 at 10:52 a.m. — Police responded to a report of a suspicious circumstance on Avenue C. Jan. 30 at 3:26 p.m. — Police responded to a report of a vehicle off the roadway on Butternut Road. Jan. 30 at 5:22 p.m. — Police responded to a report of retail theft on Cypress Street. The officer issued a citation and a trespass notice accordingly. Jan. 31 at 9:06 a.m. — Police conducted an escort on Market Street. Jan. 31 at 9:08 a.m. — K9 Duke completed training on Harvest Lane. Jan. 31 at 9:59 a.m. — Police responded to assist Vermont State Police in directing traffic until a wrecker arrived to remove a vehicle from the roadway on St. George Road. Jan. 31 at 2:19 p.m. — Police responded to a report of a disabled vehicle on Williston Road. The officer remained on the scene until a wrecker arrived to assist with the vehicle.

Reach readers in northern Vermont’s most thriving communities — in print and online! Contact Rick Cote at rick@willistonobserver.com 802-373-2136

Page 15

Feb. 2 at 11:39 a.m. — Police responded to a report of a suspicious circumstance on Harvest Lane. Upon arrival, the individual was not on the scene. Feb. 2 at 2:33 p.m. — Police responded to a report of retail theft at Maple Tree Place. Feb. 3 at 8:10 a.m. — K9 Duke visited with students on Central School Drive. Feb. 3 at 11:12 a.m. — Police assisted a citizen on Harvest Lane. Feb. 3 at 1:24 p.m. — Police completed a background investigation for local employment. Feb. 3 at 1:51 p.m. — Police responded to a report of retail theft at Maple Tree Place. Feb. 3 at 1:57 p.m. — Police responded to a report of retail theft at Maple Tree Place. Feb. 3 at 2:59 p.m. — Police provided a case number for property damage on Marshall Avenue. Feb. 3 at 3:16 p.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Harvest Lane. The officer stood by with the operator while a wrecker arrived to tow the vehicle.

Feb. 4 at 3:03 a.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Armand Lane. The officer contacted a wrecker to move the vehicle from the roadway. Feb. 4 at 8:26 a.m. — Police responded to assist Williston Fire Department on Industrial Avenue. Feb. 4 at 8:38 a.m. — Police responded to a 911 hang-up on Porterwood Drive. Upon arrival, the call was confirmed to be accidental. Feb. 4 at 9:17 a.m. — Police responded to assist a motorist on Marshall Avenue. Feb. 4 at 11:45 a.m. — Police provided a courtesy ride to a citizen with a disabled vehicle on Marshall Avenue. Feb. 4 at 12:53 p.m. — Police assisted Williston Fire Department with a medical call on Zephyr Road. Feb. 4 at 1:02 p.m. — Police removed a hazard from the roadway on Williston Road. Feb. 4 at 4:02 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on St. George Road. There were no injuries or hazards on the scene. Feb. 4 at 5:05 p.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Marshall Avenue. Feb. 5 at 3:55 p.m. — Police responded to an alarm activation on Marshall Avenue. Upon arrival, the alarm was observed to be false. Feb. 5 at 4:44 p.m. — Police responded to an alarm activation on Marshall Avenue. Upon arrival, the alarm was observed to be false. The incidents above are not a full recount of police activity, rather a highlight of some of the events that occurred. Charges filed by police are subject to review by the Chittenden County State’s Attorney Office and can be amended or dropped.

Jan. 31 at 5:27 p.m. — Police responded to St. George Road to assist a citizen. Jan. 31 at 6:28 p.m. — Police responded to a request for assistance on Cypress Street.

Feb. 1 at 9:21 a.m. — Police responded to a report of a dispute on Industrial Avenue.

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Feb. 3 at 11:58 p.m. — Police assisted a citizen with pushing a vehicle when it was stuck on Essex Road.

Jan. 31 at 10:04 p.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious behavior on Wright Avenue. The officer cited the individuals accordingly.

for your BUCK!

Williston Observer

Feb. 3 at 11:37 p.m. — Police located a disabled vehicle on Williston Road. The officer assisted in pushing the vehicle out of the roadway.

14

12:30 p.m. Maryellen Crangle leads a short Zoom meditation. MAH-JONGG Friday, Feb. 18, 1-3 p.m. Play at the library with other community members. All skill levels are welcome. ADULT CRAFTERNOON: QUILLING Saturday, Feb. 19, 12-3 p.m. Program is full. BROWN BAG BOOK DISCUSSION Tuesday, Feb. 22, 12:30-1:30. Join us online to discuss “A Burning” by Megha Majumdar. Available as an eAudiobook in LUV/Overdrive or in print from the library. CURRENT EVENTS DISCUSSION Wednesday, Feb. 23, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet online to discuss newsworthy topics. SPANISH CONVERSATION MEETUP Wednesday, Feb. 23, 4-5 p.m. Join our online guided conversation en Español. All skill levels are welcome. Register at www. damlvt.org. ADULT CRAFT KIT: BOOK PAGE BUTTERFLY WREATHS Starting March 1, pick up a kit to make butterflies that will brighten up your room. Available while supplies last. COOKING MATTERS: SPANISH COOKING 101 Wednesday, March 9, 12-1 p.m. Take the Spanish Cooking 101 Universal Class, a free online learning program available at www.damlvt.org. Try any or all of the lessons and join us in the library to talk about what you made. AFTER-HOURS BOOK CLUB: GRAPHIC NOVEL NIGHT Wednesday, March 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Discover our graphic novel collection. Join us at the library to discuss “Maus: A Survivor’s Tale” by Art Spiegelman. Print copies are available from the library.

•

Donate Your Stuff to Help Build Homes!

Feb. 1 at 11:04 a.m. — Police provided a case number for fraud on Retail Way.

If you have clothing, furniture, or appliances you no longer need, donate them to the Habitat ReStore! Proceeds from the sale of your donation will help build affordable homes in Chittenden County.

Feb. 1 at 2:42 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Marshall Avenue. There were no injuries or hazards on the scene.

Drop donations off, or call 802-857-5296 to schedule a free pickup.

Feb. 1 at 3:15 p.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Merchants Row. Feb. 1 at 7:48 p.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Essex Road. Feb. 1 at 8:05 p.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Industrial Avenue. Feb. 1 at 8:37 p.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on St. George Road. Feb. 1 at 8:50 p.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on St. George Road. Feb. 1 at 9:28 p.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Mountain View Road. Feb. 1 at 9:55 p.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Essex Road. Feb. 1 at 10:24 p.m. — Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Williston Road.

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Page 16 •

Williston Observer

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February 17, 2022

release dates: Feb. 19-25, 2022

08 (22)

Next Week: Newspapers in Education Week

Issue 08, 2022

Founded by Betty Debnam

Prickly Cactuses

Mini Fact: There are are about 2,000 types of cactuses in the world.

photo by Jeff Gauld

With spiny outsides and great abilities to store water and thrive, or do well, in hot, dry climates, the cactus has more to it than meets the eye. This week, The Mini Page takes a look at the world of cactuses.

Cactuses

Cactuses, sometimes called cacti, are a flowering plant family native to North and South America. Mexico has the most variety of cactuses, where the plants have adapted to its arid, or dry, climate. In most species of cactus, the leaves are often modified to spines, or the needlelike points sticking out of the plants. The spines make photo by P.L. Tandon it simpler for cactuses to store the water. The root system of a cactus is often shallow and thin, so not much water is absorbed. However, what moisture a cactus does collect is stored within storage cells inside the stem. The stem also controls the photosynthetic duties, which is how plants use sunlight to get nutrients from carbon dioxide and water. The ability of the cactus to store water

Nancy

is crucial to its survival in climates where moisture, like rain, isn’t readily available.

Succulents

Cactuses are considered succulents, which means they have thick and fleshy stems that are made for storing water. Succulents are xerophytes (ZEER-a-fites), which is a big word that means they need very little water to survive. Succulents need between 10 and 14 hours of sunlight per day. The light a cactus absorbs is used to help the plant photo by Pulpolox produce energy and food.

Cactus wren

Some animals in the desert depend on cactuses and their ability to adapt for their survival. The prickly pear cactus is a source of food for animals and insects. The cactus wren is a type of bird that makes its nest in cactuses because of the protection they provide with their spines. Cactus wrens build their nests 3 to 10 feet above the ground on cactuses as another way to avoid predators. photo by Russell J. Bennett

A saguaro (suh-WAHR-oh) is a treelike type of cactus with white flowers that bloom in the spring and red fruit in the summer. Saguaros are native to the Sonoran Desert in the southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. They can grow up to 40 feet tall, and they can have up to 25 “arms.” photo by lckoch61 Given the right conditions, a saguaro can live to be 200 years old, but they grow very slowly. A 10-year-old saguaro might be just 1.5 inches tall. A grown saguaro cactus can absorb and store up to 200 gallons of water during a heavy rain! Saguaros are the largest cactus species in the U.S. A fully grown saguaro cactus can weigh more than 2,000 pounds. People sometimes boil saguaro pulp to make syrup used for jams and jellies. The seeds from the fruit of the saguaro can be dried and ground into flour. To Native Americans, the saguaro is a symbol of standing tall, providing nourishment and shelter to others, and being able to adapt to surroundings.

Resources On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPCactus • kids.kiddle.co/Cactus

At the library:

• “Cactus Hotel” by Brenda Z. Guiberson

The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication

BY OLIVIA JAIMES

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of cactuses are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: CACTUS, DESERT, FLOWERS, FOOD, FRUIT, NEST, PRICKLY, PULP, ROOTS, SAGUARO, SEEDS, SPINES, STEM, STORAGE, SUNLIGHT, THRIVE, WATER, WREN.

Saguaro cactus

S R E W O L F F T E

V Y L K C I R P V V

L O Z S K R C I Y D

Z R S P R F R F D O

P A U I L H Q E T O

L U N N T S S R I F

U G L E K E A O U Z

P A I S R E C B R V

D S G T P D P S F S

R L H N I S U F T T

E W T K T T E D S O

T S X E C S C T E R

A U M A F V O R N A

W S C E C O Y D O G

N E R W R R T I Z E

Callie: What did the happy cactus say to the grumpy cactus? Cameron: “Don’t be so prickly!”

Eco Note New research says the movement of ocean water within a tsunami generates its own magnetic field ahead of the big changes in sea level, which could possibly lead to better warnings of the hazardous waves. Using magnetic and sea level

sunlight to get nutrients from carbon dioxide and water. The ability of the cactus to store water

• “Cactus Hotel” by Brenda Z. Guiberson

on cactuses as another way to avoid predators.

February 17, 2022

photo by Russell J. Bennett

The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Try ’n’ Find

S R E W O L F F T E

V Y L K C I R P V V

L O Z S K R C I Y D

Z R S P R F R F D O

P A U I L H Q E T O

L U N N T S S R I F

U G L E K E A O U Z

P A I S R E C B R V

D S G T P D P S F S

R L H N I S U F T T

E W T K T T E D S O

T S X E C S C T E R

A U M A F V O R N A

W S C E C O Y D O G

N E R W R R T I Z E

Page 17

Eco Note

• 2 sticks butter, softened • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper

What to do: 1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 2. Make into a roll about 2 to 3 inches thick. 3. Cover with plastic or aluminum wrap. 4. Place roll in refrigerator until it becomes hard and easier to handle. 5. Slice into thin tea biscuits and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. 6. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes. Do not cook until brown or they will be overdone. Makes about 36.

News of the Weird jubbly” — mugs, tea sets and plates featuring an illustration of Elizabeth and her coat of arms. Baxter hopes to salvage $44,000 from the lot and says the buyer could make a “potential profit” of $400,000. The website suggests using the items for a plate-smashing contest or a “dangerous game of Frisbee.”

Suspicious On Jan. 31, a Rhode Island Red hen was found wandering around a security checkpoint at the Pen-

tagon in Arlington, Virginia, the Associated Press reported. The Animal Welfare League of Arlington was summoned, and one of their employees took the bird into custody. Chelsea Jones, a spokesperson for the group, said the hen was “sweet” and “nervous.” She has been adopted by a staff person who has a small farm in western Virginia.

Clowns When Mark, 38, and his wife left for work one morning

The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication

You’ll need: • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated • 2 cups flour • 2 cups rice cereal

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

Cheese Tea Biscuits

Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee is celebrated this year, and the souvenir producers are hard at work creating tchotchkes to commemorate it — but apparently not hard enough at work to proofread their copy. People magazine reported that because of a translating error, Karl Baxter, CEO of Wholesale Clearance U.K., is trying to sell more than 10,000 pieces that trumpet the queen’s “platinum

•

Callie: What did the happy cactus say to the grumpy cactus? Cameron: “Don’t be so prickly!”

Cook’s Corner

My Kingdom for an Editor

Williston Observer

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of cactuses are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: CACTUS, DESERT, FLOWERS, FOOD, FRUIT, NEST, PRICKLY, PULP, ROOTS, SAGUARO, SEEDS, SPINES, STEM, STORAGE, SUNLIGHT, THRIVE, WATER, WREN.

•

New research says the movement of ocean water within a tsunami generates its own magnetic field ahead of the big changes in sea level, which could possibly lead to better warnings of the hazardous waves. Using magnetic and sea level change data from tsunamis that hit Samoa in 2009 and Chile in 2010, the study authors found that the tsunamigenerated magnetic fields are so clearly evident that a wave height of only a few centimeters can be detected. adapted with permission from Earthweek.com

For later: Look in your newspaper for articles about plants.

Teachers:

Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!

in January, their back garden in Belfast, Northern Ireland, looked just like it does any other day. But when the wife returned that afternoon, there was a concrete slab painted with a creepy clown face propped against the wall, the Belfast Telegraph reported. “Someone would have had to come through our gate and down the steps to place it there -- and deliberately place it so it was facing the window so we would see it,” Mark said. Mark contacted friends, neighbors and family members to see if it was a prank, or if others had received a clown, but no one had experienced anything similar. He threw the clown away, but

remains creeped out: “It’s so unsettling.”

Least Competent Criminal Augie’s Grocery Deli in Jersey City, New Jersey, was the target of three robberies by the same crook over six days, Oddee.com reported. Not only did the masked perp take cash and merchandise, but he assaulted Augie Lopez, 77, and his wife, Nilda Moldonado, even though Lopez is disabled. The robberies took place on Jan. 10, 15 and 16. But when he came back on Jan. 21, Officer Maurice Johnson was lying in wait for him.

Page 18 •

Williston Observer

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February 17, 2022

SENIORS

Do I have to file income tax returns this year?

Savvy Senior By Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior, What is the IRS standard tax deduction for 2021? I didn’t file a tax return last tax year (2020) because I lost my job and my income in March due to COVID. But I got a part-time job in 2021 and am wondering if I made enough money that requires me to file this year. Part-Time Retiree Dear Retiree, Whether or not you are required to file a federal income tax return this year depends not only on how much you earned

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last year (in 2021), but also the source of that income, as well as your age and your filing status. Here’s a rundown of this tax season’s IRS tax filing requirement thresholds. For most people, this is pretty straightforward. If your 2021 gross income – which includes all taxable income, not counting your Social Security benefits, unless you are married and filing separately – was below the threshold for your filing status and age, you may not have to file. But if it’s over, you will. • Single: $12,550 ($14,250 if you’re 65 or older by Jan. 1, 2022). • Married filing jointly: $25,100 ($26,450 if you or your spouse is 65 or older; or $27,800 if you’re both over 65). • Married filing separately: $5 at any age. • Head of household: $18,800 ($20,500 if 65 or older). • Qualifying widow(er) with dependent child: $25,100 ($26,450 if 65 or older). To get a detailed breakdown on federal filing requirements, along with information on taxable and nontaxable income, call the IRS at 800-829-3676 and ask them to mail you a free copy of the “1040 and 1040-SR Instructions for Tax Year 2021,” or you can get it online at IRS.gov. CHECK HERE TOO

You also need to be aware that there are other financial situations that can require you to file a tax return, even if your gross income falls below the IRS filing requirements. For ex-

ample, if you earned more than $400 from self-employment in 2021, owe any special taxes like an alternative minimum tax, or get premium tax credits because you, your spouse or a dependent is enrolled in a Health Insurance

Need assistance? Tax Counseling for the Elderly (or TCE) program Call 800-906-9887 or visit IRS.treasury. gov/freetaxprep to locate services near you.

“Do I Need to File a Tax Return?” Or you can get assistance over the phone by calling the IRS helpline at 800-829-1040. CHECK YOUR STATE

Even if you’re not required to file a federal tax return this year, don’t assume that you’re also excused from filing state income taxes. The rules for your state might be very different. Check with your state tax agency before concluding that you’re entirely in the clear. For links to state tax agencies see Taxadmin. org/state-tax-agencies. TAX PREP ASSISTANCE

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Call 888-227-7669 or visit AARP.org/findtaxhelp for more information.

Marketplace plan, you’ll need to file. You’ll also need to file if you’re receiving Social Security benefits, and one-half of your benefits plus your other gross income and any tax-exempt interest exceeds $25,000, or $32,000 if you’re married and filing jointly. To figure all this out, the IRS offers an online tax tool that asks a series of questions that will help you determine if you’re required to file, or if you should file because you’re due a refund. It takes approximately 12 minutes to complete. You can access this tool at IRS.gov/Help/ITA – click on

If you find that you do need to file a tax return this year, you can free file through the IRS at IRS.gov/FreeFile if your 2021 adjusted gross income was below $73,000. Or, if you need some help, contact the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (or TCE) program. Sponsored by the IRS, TCE provides free tax preparation and counseling to middle and low-income taxpayers, age 60 and older. Call 800-906-9887 or visit IRS.treasury.gov/freetaxprep to locate services near you. You can also get tax preparation assistance through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide service. Call 888-227-7669 or visit AARP.org/findtaxhelp for more information. 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.

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February 17, 2022

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 19

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 22

Almanac ANDREWS

MCMEEL

TODAY’S HISTORY: • In 1801, the U.S. House of Representatives resolved an electoral tie by electing Thomas Jefferson president and his opponent, Aaron Burr, vice president. • In 1933, the Blaine Act initiated the repeal of Prohibition. • In 1974, a disgruntled U.S. Army private stole an Army helicopter at Fort Meade in Maryland and landed it on the White House lawn. • In 1996, world chess champion Garry Kasparov defeated the IBM supercomputer Deep Blue in the last game of a six-game match, winning the series by a final score of 4-2. TODAY’S FACT: • The House of Representatives conducted 36 votes (one tie, 35 indecisive) before Thomas Jefferson was chosen as president over Aaron Burr.

The sweet and savory sauce makes this healthy stir fry absolutely delicious and the extra zip from the ginger sends it over the top…yum! Serve over rice for a filling weeknight meal sure to please the whole crew!

Toasted Sesame and Ginger Veggie Stir Fry with Tofu Ingredients:

Directions:

1 bunch scallion, thinly sliced

The sweet and savory sauce makes this healthy stir fry extra delicious and the extra zip from the ginger sends it over the top…yum!

2 carrots, julienne 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced 1 red pepper, julienne 1 cup snow peas, julienne 1 small head broccoli, cut into small florettes 1 16oz package extra firm tofu, cut into small cubes 2 Tbsp brown sugar 2 cloves garlic, made into a paste 1/4 cup soy sauce 1/4 cup veg stock or water 1 small piece ginger, minced 2 Tbsp oyster sauce 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil 1 Tbsp cornstarch vegetable oil

Begin by marinating the tofu. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic paste, soy sauce, veg stock/water, ginger, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well and add the tofu. Let marinate covered in the refrigerator. Prepare all your veggies, keeping them separate in organized bowls or on a large tray. Heat a heavy bottomed pan or wok over high heat. Add 2-3 Tbsp oil. Working in small batches of one kind of vegetable at a time, brown the veggies, they should cook very fast. Transfer cooked veggies to a bowl (now you can mix them together). They should be brown and crisp, but not raw in the middle. When all the veggies are cooked, remove the tofu from the marinade and add it to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes or until the tofu is heated through. Combine everything back together and add the remaining marinade. Make sure the mixture boils. Mix well and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve over rice.

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Page 20

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Williston Observer

BY MELINDA MYERS Special to the Observer

Raise your garden to new heights •

Raised beds allow gardeners to overcome poor soil and create an ideal growing mix that can increase garden productivity. They also make gardening more comfortable thanks to less bending and kneeling. Whether you purchase a kit or build your own, there are a few things to consider when creating a raised bed garden. Locate the garden in a sunny area if possible. Most plants require at least six hours of sun, and vegetables like tomatoes, peppers and melons produce best with a full day of sunlight. Select a long-lasting material such as interlocking block, fieldstone, plastic lumber or naturally long-lasting wood like cedar. The material selected will influence the shape and size of your garden. Some materials allow for curved beds while others are limited to squares, rectangles and other angular shapes. Design your raised bed to fit your space and your needs. A width of 3-4 feet makes it easy to reach all parts of the garden for planting, weeding and harvesting. Raising your planting bed at least 8-12 inches improves drainage and provides an adequate space for most plants

February 17, 2022

Raised beds provide gardeners the opportunity to overcome poor soil, resulting in more productive gardens. PHOTO COURTESY OF MELINDA MYERS

to root and grow. If you want to minimize bending, go higher. Add benches to increase your gardening comfort and ease. Roughen or loosen the existing soil surface if your bed is built on compact, slow-draining soil. This will allow water to readily move from the raised bed into the soil below. Cover the bottom of the bed with newspaper or cardboard, if needed, to suffocate existing weeds and grass. Line the bottom of your raised

bed with hardware cloth to reduce the risk of animals burrowing into your garden. Lay the hardware cloth over the ground and bend it up along the inside of the raised bed walls. Fill the bed with a quality growing mix that is well drained but also able to retain moisture and nutrients. This may be a mixture of quality topsoil and compost, a high-quality potting mix, or a planting mix designed specifically for raised bed gardens. Grow any plants that you nor-

mally would grow in ground. Just make sure the plants are suited to the growing conditions (sunlight, heat and wind) in your area. Since the soil mix and drainage is ideal in a raised garden, you will be able to grow more plants per square foot. Just be sure to leave sufficient room for plants to reach their mature size. Keep your plants healthy and productive with proper watering. This is critical for growing any garden, but even more crucial in a fast-draining raised bed. The sim-

ple act of raising the garden height increases drainage, and a raised bed filled with planting mix means more frequent watering. Consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses for watering ease. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Add some mulch to help reduce watering and the need for other garden maintenance. Spread a layer of evergreen needles, pine straw, shredded leaves or other organic matter over the soil surface. This helps conserve moisture, suppresses weeds and adds nutrients and organic matter to the soil as it decomposes. You’ll spend less time watering and weeding throughout the season. Add an organic fertilizer at planting if your planting mix does not already contain one. Apply again mid-season if the plants need a nutrient boost. Always follow the label directions on the fertilizer container. The time and effort invested in creating raised beds will be returned many times over with years of healthy and productive gardens. Melinda Myers hosts the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment television and radio segments and is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is www.melindamyers.com.

A brief history of greenhouses BY NADIE VANZANDT Special to the Observer

Gardeners in cold climates have learned to extend the growing season by building greenhouses. As early as 30 A.D., reports of greenhouses appeared in the writings of the famous “Pliny the Elder,” a Roman savant and scientific authority of his time. Pliny described specularia as garden beds fitted with wheels that were covered with glazed frames to protect plants in cold weather. In Latin, specularium refers to a transparency that allows light into a building. The word is derived from Lapis specularis, a variety of gypsum rock that splits into sheets almost as clear as glass. Today it is known selenite. Specularia were erected on the Island of Capri around 30 A.D., specifically to provide a year-round supply of melons for the powerful Emperor Tiberius Caesar. Although glass had been discovered long before, it only was used to make beads and small vials until 100 A.D., when the Romans began manufacturing glass windows. Masters at glass blowing, the Romans refined a technique to split a long balloon

of molten glass into two halves, which they flattened into separate windowpanes. The Middle Ages were fraught with wars and turmoil. It was not until a millennium later, at the beginning of the Renaissance, that Italians developed the concept of modern greenhouses. Innovation was driven by collections of exotic plants acquired from explorers returning from voyages to faraway lands. The Italians called their greenhouses Giardini botanici — botanic gardens in Latin. They erected them to shelter these exotic plants and study their medicinal properties. With the Age of Exploration, the Roman concept of greenhouses spread east. In 1459, a cookbook authored by Jeon Soon, a Korean royal physician, describes greenhouses fitted with temperature control features, improving the Italian design with artificial heat and ventilation. During the 16th century, greenhouses caught on in the Netherlands, England and France. There, royal courts housed large collections of exotic plants acquired from the explorers that they sponsored. The structures, a symbol of wealth and prestige, were impos-

ing, luxurious glass and stone monuments built for the pleasure of monarchs while serving as places for scientific study in herbal medicine. The greenhouse on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles is just one lavish example. The expansively glazed building, commissioned by Louis XIV, is almost 500 feet long and 50 feet high. The high price of glass and the cost of maintaining the optimal climate inside made these structures accessible to only the upper class, governments and scientific institutions. However, rapid advances in technology during the Industrial Revolution led to manufacturing and design improvements that lowered the cost of glass and reduced taxes on glass and windows. As a result, greenhouses became affordable to middle-class plant enthusiasts. Similarly in the United States, the high price of glass made the ownership of greenhouses a privilege only afforded by the upper class. The 1798 Federal Direct Tax Law, a property tax repealed in 1847, accounted for the number and size of windows, and taxed accordingly, allowing only the wealthiest to be able to afford

Greenhouses have enjoyed a long history as a place to cultivate fruits and vegetables as well as to study and preserve unusual plant species. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

a greenhouse. During America’s early years, some of the most famous greenhouses were built by wealthy families with connections in international trade. One of the oldest is the Lyman Estate Greenhouses in Waltham, Mass., built in 1798 for Theodore Lyman, a Boston shipping magnate and avid horticulturist. The Lyman Estate Greenhouses are still in operation and contain many exotic specimens acquired by Lyman himself. They are open to the public, and admission is free. Today, materials and construction techniques continue to improve, making greenhouses

accessible to all budgets. Plastic films and fiberglass offer new glazing options. Framing materials include aluminum and galvanized steel. More efficient climate control systems are available, from passive solar designs to sophisticated heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems. Many affordable options for greenhouses are available to homeowners. They come in various shapes and sizes. Now is the time to plan if you are considering a greenhouse to shelter your seedlings before the last frost. Nadie VanZandt is a UVM Extension Master Gardener from Panton.

February 17, 2022

OBITUARIES

James (Jim) P. Hanley Sr. passed away on February 7, 2022 after a courageous year and a half long battle with cancer. Born on July 4, 1936 in New York City, the son of James and Nora Hanley, he was a graduate of Fordham University with a Masters from UVM. In 1965 he married the love of his life, Sandy Mercier, from Burlington, VT. After having their two children and living in Lincolndale, NY, they moved to Vermont in 1970 to be closer to her family. He was a very respected math teacher, beloved by all his students. His favorite part of teaching was seeing the lightbulbs come on and the smiles on their faces when they “got it!” He taught for almost 60 years, with 25 years at Williston Central School. He also taught at Christ the King School and tutored all over Chittenden County including South Burlington and Rice Memorial High Schools. Jim was a loving husband, father, and grandfather (Papa) who loved to play and watch sports. He loved golf, bowling, umpiring, card games and most recently was known for his love of playing bridge with his friends. His favorite past time was spending time with his family, who he loved with all his heart. He is survived by his son James (Jay) P. Hanley Jr. and his partner Annette Lamell, daughter Sarah B. LeBeau and her husband Randy, his grandchildren Patrick and Brandon Hanley (spouse Abigail), Lindsey Bolger (spouse Dan Bolger) and Carrie LeBeau (partner Colin Ketcham) and other close family and friends. He was predeceased by his spouse, Sandy Hanley and parents, James and Nora Hanley and brother Danny. Visiting hours were held at Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Rd in Burlington on Thursday, February 10. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, February 11 at Saint Anthony’s Church in Burlington. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society in Burlington, VT. Please visit www.readyfuneral. com to place online condolences.

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Nurses, hospital agree on 20 percent pay raise BY LIORA ENGEL-SMITH VTDigger

James (Jim) P. Hanley Sr.

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As the health care world grapples with severe staffing shortages, Vermont’s largest hospital has unveiled a plan to stanch nurse resignations by raising their pay. The pay boosts take effect immediately, with the blessing of the nurses union, the Vermont Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals. Management and labor will negotiate the rest of the contract this spring. However, the pay increases are final, whether or not nurses

approve the final contract, UVM Medical Center’s leader said on Monday.

staff and build strong momentum going into negotiations,” said Stephen Leffler, president and chief

‘Getting the wage increases…will help retain our staff, help us recruit new staff and build strong momentum going into negotiations.’ Stephen Leffler UVM Medical Center president and chief operating officer “Getting the wage increases now, we’re hopeful, will help retain our staff, help us recruit new

operating officer. It’s an unusual move on management’s part, but the hospital

needs the nurses to stay open. A lack of nurses can mean canceled or delayed surgeries, and more medical mistakes and patient deaths. The nurses union ratified the raises on Friday. Under the agreement, nurses will receive a 10 percent bump in pay from now until next October. Wages will increase 5 percent a year in October 2022 and October 2023, hospital leaders said. Union president Deb Snell said the bump in pay is a win for the union, but cautioned that other big see NURSES page 22

SUPPORT & SERVICES AT HOME COORDINATOR The Support and Services at Home (SASH) Coordinator is the key on site contact in a community for both facilitating the SASH program as well as representing Cathedral Square as a landlord. One of the primary functions is to build trusting relationships with participants in SASH in order to develop a thorough knowledge of each SASH participant’s strengths and challenges. The SASH Coordinator (SC) convenes the on-site SASH team on a regular basis to coordinate care and services to meet the needs of SASH participants. The SC identifies and proactively responds to the underlying causes of any resident or community problems and/or issues and involves their Supervisor as needed. In their role as Property Manager, the SC identifies and addresses any lease related issues like noise, housekeeping, and site disturbances. The SC issues lease violations and warnings to residents and works with their supervisor on enforcement of the lease and resident handbook. This requires excellent problem and conflict solving skills. We offer a competitive salary and a friendly working environment. We are a welcoming and inclusive organization, embracing diversity in all its forms. (3) Full Time Positions Available in Burlington, VT area. Apply online: https://cathedralsquare.org/job-openings

Services Coordinator Join our team of professionals providing case management for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism. In this position you will work with individuals to create and realize goals while supporting them in maintaining a safe and healthy lifestyle. Compensation package is $45k annually plus mileage and on call stipend; and includes affordable health insurance, paid time off plus 12 paid holidays, retirement match, dental plan and so much more. In addition, CCS has been voted as one of the Best Places to Work in Vermont for three years in a row. Continue your career in human services in a compassionate & fun environment. Join us today and make a career making a difference. Send resume to Karen Ciechanowicz at staff@ccs-vt.org ccs-vt.org EOE

South Burlington School District

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

Shared Living Provider Provide an accessible home for an easy-going 38-yearold, gentleman who enjoys being part of a dynamic household. This individual has a comprehensive team, strong family support, along with respite and weekday supports. The ideal provider will have strong interpersonal communication and personal care skills as all aspects of ADL’s will be provided. This position includes a comprehensive training package, tax-free stipend and a handicap accessible van for transportation. Contact Jennifer Wolcott at: jwolcott@ccs-vt.org or 802-655-0511 x 118 for more information ccs-vt.org EOE

IT Systems Engineer: Develops and maintains district computer systems network. Provides technology support to students and staff. Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years experience with computers and networking concepts. MCSE, RHCE, CCNA,VCP, or equivalent licensures/experience preferred. Biology Teacher, LTSub: Background in biology, well-practiced in contemporary instructional methods. Bachelor’s degree, licensed educator, secondary level or eligible for licensure. Interventionist/Paraeducator: Provides K-12 educational and personal support to students. Associate’s degree or 60 college credits preferred. K-5 Lunchroom/Recess Monitors: Supervises students during lunch and/or recess. Helps to maintain a safe and respectful environment. High school graduate or equivalent. Schools Out Positions - Counselors, Site Director, Assistant Site Directors: Provides afterschool instruction and services to K-5 students. Some college preferred for entrylevel positions/bachelor’s degree for supervisory positions. Please apply through SchoolSpring.com (Keyword: South Burlington School District) or contact Elissa Galvez, HR Coordinator, at 802-652-7247 or egalvez@sbschools.net.

“BUILDING A PROUD TRADITION”

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Williston Observer

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February 17, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, March 8, 2022 – 7:00 PM Zoom Meeting ID 864 8114 4825 on zoom.us/join or call 1-646-558-8656 DP 22-06 Green State Realty LLC c/o

Anastasia Gaina requests pre-application review of a proposed building, storage lot, parking area and access to Route 2 including regrading of the rear (southern) bank located at 4626 Williston Road in the IZDW.

Nurses continued from page

21

Project details and site plans are available online, go to bit.ly/DRBagendas. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt.org.

OFFICIAL TOWN WARNING TOWN OF WILLISTON MARCH 1, 2022 Public Information Hearing (Feb. 28, 2022) 7:00 PM Teleconference Using Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82455435894 Call in: 1-646-558-8656 Meeting ID: 82455435894

Deb Snell, a nurse in the medical intensive care unit at UVM Medical Center and president of the nurses union, speaks during a demonstration in Burlington last August. VTDIGGER FILE PHOTO BY RILEY ROBINSON

The legal voters of the Town of Williston are hereby warned and notified to meet on March 1, 2022, at Vermont Army National Guard Armory located at 7846 Williston Road at 7:00 AM, at which time the polls will open, until 7:00 PM, at which time the polls will close, to vote by Australian ballot upon the following articles: Article 1: Article 2: Article 3: Article 4: Article 5: Article 6: Article 7: Article 8: Article 9: Article 10:

Shall the voters authorize that current taxes be paid to the Town Treasurer in three equal installments with due dates of August 15, November 15 and February 15 as authorized by 32 V.S.A. § 4871? Shall the voters of the Town of Williston accept the reports of the Town Officials as presented in the Town Report? Shall the voters authorize General Fund Expenditures of $13,148,554 of which $6,512,080 shall be raised by taxes, for the year beginning July 1, 2022 and ending June 30, 2023? Shall the voters authorize the purchase of an ambulance for an amount not to exceed $280,000 over a term not to exceed seven years? Shall the voters elect to the Selectboard one member for a term of two years beginning March, 2022? Shall the voters elect to the Selectboard one member for a term of three years beginning March, 2022? Shall the voters elect to the Board of Listers one member for a term of three years beginning March, 2022? Shall the voters elect to the Library Board of Trustees two members for terms of five years each beginning March, 2022? Shall the voters elect to the Library Board of Trustees one member to fill an unexpired term of five years that began in March, 2020? Shall the voters elect to the Champlain Valley School District Board one director for a term of three years beginning March, 2022?

The legal voters of the Town of Williston are hereby warned that a public informational hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, February 28, 2022 using the teleconference platform Zoom to review and discuss the Australian ballot articles on the Town Meeting Warning. HOW TO REGISTER TO VOTE: There is no deadline to register to vote. You will be able to register to vote on the day of the election. You can register prior by visiting the town clerk’s office or going online to www.olvr.vermont.gov REQUEST EARLY or ABSENTEE BALLOTS: You or a family member can request early or absentee ballots at any time during the year of the election in person, in writing, by telephone, email, or online at www.mvp.vermont.gov

PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 14

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$1500 SIGN-ON BONUS New Competitive Salaries, Best Healthcare Plan in Vermont, Generous Time-Off, & Many More Benefits! Come join our team of amazing individuals making a difference every day! All job opportunities can be viewed at: tinyurl.com/LCMHS05661 Main Office, 72 Harrel Street, Morrisville, VT 05661 Phone (802) 888-5026 • Fax (802) 888-6393 LCMHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19

items, including working conditions and pandemic protocols, still need to be worked out. “Anything right now to help stabilize our workforce is so important,” Snell said. “It’s heartbreaking to see how many of my own colleagues are leaving to go travel. You know, friends who I’ve worked with for 20 years are leaving our organization to travel.” Hospitals across the country have been hiring travel nurses to fill gaps in their staff, but that’s expensive — travel nurses can earn double and triple what local nurses are paid. Now, average pay for a nurse at UVM Medical Center is about $30 per hour. The union represents about 2,000 nurses. The union also represents about 600 technicians, whose contract is negotiated separately. The current agreement, however, grants technicians $5,000 bonuses in the meantime. Amending a contract midstream is an unusual move, but UVM Medical Center executives are betting that boosting pay now will help reduce the dependence on costly temporary staff. The plan comes as UVM Medical Center’s Burlington hospital’s nursing staff has shrunk to the smallest it’s been in recent years, hospital and union leaders said. The nurses’ contract is slated to expire in July. If the contract lapsed, the nurses could strike, as they did in 2018, when a two-day strike cost the hospital about $3 million. Leff ler said the pay agreement is an important first step to creating stability in what has become a volatile labor market. Hospital leaders offered nurses similar raises in December as part of a three-year contract that would have barred subsequent bargaining on other issues. The nurses rejected that proposal. Negotiations over the full contract are slated for spring.

February 17, 2022

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Williston Observer

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Page 23

SERVICE DIRECTORY EXCAVATION

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AL

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February 17, 2022

SUMMER MER CAMPS PS WWW.WILLISTONREC.ORG 2022

802-876-1160 • recreation@willistonvt.org DAY CAMPS

REGISTRATION

Camp registration is now open, and all registrations are done online. To register log in to your Household Account or create one if needed, then register your children for the camps they want to attend. Now you are ready for checkout. Go through the checkout process answering any questions along the way. At the end of checkout, you will have two payment options to choose from. There are No camps Monday, July 4th.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Option 1 -Online Payment: at checkout choose the online payment option and pay in full with a credit card. There is a 3.5% process fee to do this, but your children will be enrolled in the camps that you registered for. Option 2 -Offline Payment: at checkout choose the offline payment option, print off the form and send in a check by mail or use the drop box at the back entrance of Town Hall. Deposits can be done using this method of payment. NOTE: Children are not enrolled in camps, using the offline payment option, until payment or deposits are received.

DEPOSITS

Deposits are $25 per child, per session, per camp and are nonrefundable. Deposits are part of the camp fees, so you will be paying the first $25 of a camp fee. Choose the offline payment option to pay deposits.

BALANCE DUE

If you choose to pay the deposits, your remaining camp balance must be paid in full prior to June 10, 2022.

POLICIES & GENERAL INFO.

For cancellations, refunds, and other important information, visit the department website. Under General Info click on the “Dept Info & Form” tab.

SUMMER SCHOOL & AFTERNOON OPTION OF R.E.C. CAMP

If your child will be attending Summer School, purchase the afternoon option of R.E.C. Camp and make it a full day for your child. Summer school ends at 12pm and the afternoon option of the day camp starts at 12:30pm. No problem, your child will join the day camp having lunch at 12pm. Be sure to tell the Summer School Staff that your child will be attending R.E.C. Camp.

R.E.C. CAMP (RECREATION EXPERIENCES FOR CHILDREN) Entering grades 1st-6th in the Fall 2022. R.E.C. Camp is a wonderful twist on the traditional day camp. Packed with recreation, sports, arts & crafts and more, there is never a dull moment. This childcentered camp is the perfect blend of choice activities, group games, free play, and the ever-popular field trips and swim day. Camp Options: Full Days-7:30a-5:30p Half Days-Mornings-7:30a-12:30p or Afternoons-12:30-5:30p Sessions: • Full Days-8 one-week sessions June 20-August 12 • Half Days-7 one-week sessions June 20-August 5 (A session cannot be broken up by the day or the half days, you must choose one option for a session). Pricing: Full days-$190 Res/$205 Non, per session Half days-$100 Res/$115 Non, per session

L.I.T. CAMP (LEADERS IN TRAINING) Entering grades 7th-8th in Fall 2022. The L.I.T. Camp is for those who are looking to learn and give back to the camp by being in a position to help out in the pods of R.E.C. Camp. A small number of teens will be accepted into each session of the L.I.T. Camp. Camp Option: Full Days-7:30a-5:30p Sessions: 8 one-week sessions June 20-August 12 Pricing: $190 Res/$205 Non, per session

O.U.R. CAMPS (OUTDOOR ULTIMATE RECREATION) Entering grades 6th-8th in Fall 2022. O.U.R. Camps are for the teen who is looking to be active this summer. There are 7 weeks of themed camps offered. Each one will have a variety of trips to keep teens moving. This camp is OnThe-Go and for the teen who likes the outdoors. Sign up your child for one week or more! Camp Options: 7 one-week themed camps are offered from June 20-August 5 Time: 8:30a-4:30p (Early and Late Options are available to add on to the camp hours.) Pricing: $260 Res/$275 Non, per camp

ENRICHMENT CAMPS LUNCH HOUR FREE Sign your child up for a morning and afternoon Enrichment Camp, in the same week at the same location, and the Rec. Staff will watch your child for the hour in-between for Free. The staff will have lunch with them, 12-1p, and then get them to their afternoon camp at 1p. No transportation is available.

EXTENDED CAMP OPTIONS Extend your child’s day. 8-8:30am or 4:305pm can be added to some Enrichment Camps. Price is $5 per camper, per week, per half hour. Some camps don’t have extended camp options.

DAY CAMP-HALF DAY OPTION Is your child registered for a morning or afternoon Enrichment Camp? Add the R.E.C. Camp morning or afternoon option and have your child in camp all day. Rec. Staff will get or bring your child to their Enrichment Camp.

SPORTS CAMPS FIELD HOCKEY CAMP Age 9-14. 8:30am-12pm, June 20-24 $125/$140. Director: Lynn McClintock

ULTIMATE FRISBEE CAMP Age 11-14. 8:30am-12pm, June 20-24 $135/$150. Director: Syrus Amedore

VT VOLTAGE SOCCER CAMP Age 5-14. 8:30am-12pm, June 20-24 $150/$165. Director: Bo Vuckovic

DISC GOLF CAMP Age 8-14. 8:30am-12pm, July 18-22 $150/$165. Director: Chris Young, Disc Golf VT

TENNIS CAMPS Age 6-8. 8:30am-12pm S1-June 27-July 1 S2-July 25-29 Age 9-12. 8:30am-12pm S1-July 11-15 S2-July 25-29 $135/$150. Instructors: The Edge Tennis Staff

SPECIALTY CAMPS ART & NATURE CAMP Age 8-11. 8:30am-12pm, June 20-24 $175/$190. Director: Amy Skapof

KNITTING CAMP Age 8-14. 1-4:30pm, June 20-24 $50/$65. Director: Chris Heavner

BOOKART & PAINTING CAMP Age 6-15. 8:30am-12pm, June 27-July 1 $175/$190. Director: Liz Demas

FAIRY/GNOME HOMES CAMP Age 6-15. 1-4:30pm, June 27-July 1 $175/$190. Director: Liz Demas

MUDFLAT CITY CLAY CAMP Age 6-15. 8:30am-12pm, July 5-8 $175/$190. Director: Liz Demas No Camp-Monday, July 4

MOSAIC & SCULPTURE CAMP Age 6-15. 1-4:30pm, July 5-8 $175/$190. Director: Liz Demas No Camp-Monday, July 4

CREATIVE BAKING CAMP Age 8-10. 8:30am-12pm, July 11-15 $170/$185. Director: Sally Dattilio

CHESS WIZARDS CAMP Age 6-12. 1-4:30pm, July 11-15 $230/$245. Instructor: Chess Wizard Staff

ADVANCED CAKE CAMP Age 11-14. 8:30am-12pm, July 18-22 $170/$185. Director: Sally Dattilio

HORSE CAMPS Age 7-14. 8am-12pm or 8am-4pm S1-June 20-24 S2-July 11-15 S3-August 8-12 8a-12p-$350/$365, 8a-4p-$525/$540 Director: Kim Johansen, Livery Horse Farm

TECHNOLOGY CAMPS ENGINEERING CAMP Age 6-9. 8:30am-4:30pm, June 27-July 1 $225/$240. Director: Erin Crowley

ROCKETRY CAMP Age 8-12. 8:30am-12pm, July 11-15 $270/$285. Director: Bob Gurwicz

LEGO ROBOTICS CAMP Age 6-11. 8:30a-12p, July 25-29 $275/$290. Instructor: Wicked Cool Staff

WICKED COOL SCIENCE CAMP Age 6-11. 8:30a-12p, August 1-5 $275/$290. Instructor: Wicked Cool Staff

NINJA SCIENCE CAMPS Age 5-10. 9am-3pm S1-June 13-17 S2-June 27-July 1 S3-July 11-15 S4-July 25-29 $315/$330. Director: ONTA Studio Staff

DETAILED INFORMATION ON THE CAMPS CAN BE FOUND ON THE RECREATION WEBSITE -WWW.WILLISTONREC.ORG.