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Williston names energy coordinator
WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985
WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM
Inaugural Town Fair to accompany Green Up Day
OBSERVER STAFF REPORT The Town of Williston has hired from within to fill its new energy coordinator position. Melinda Scott will move into the role from her current conservation planner position — staying within the town’s Department of Planning and Zoning. The selectboard created the position at the urging of local environmentalists as a way to implement the town’s Energy Plan that was added to the Town Plan in 2020. Scott, whose new title is Energy and Community Development Planner, will work with the newly formed Energy Committee. The town will begin a hiring process to fill her previous position of conservation planner, Town Manager Erik Wells said. Scott will cover both positions until a hire is made. She has worked in the planning department for the past seven years. “I am confident her skills and experience as a planner will serve the town well as she fills this important new role for the community,” Wells wrote in a report this week to the selectboard. POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS STAFF UP
The Williston Police Department is adding two experienced officers to fill out its ranks and become fully staffed. Wells announced the hiring of officers Bradley Miller and Brian Fox on Tuesday. Miller comes over from the Shelburne Police Department and Fox from the Hinesburg Police Department. Together, they bring 23 years of law enforcement experience, Wells said. The new officers will start in early May. Wells also announced that the nine new firefighter/emergency medical technician (EMT) positions voters approved at Town Meeting Day have all been filled. They are Joel Domas, Trevor Garand-Tes-
BY KARSON PETTY Community News Service
Martin Hain, longtime music director at Williston Federated Church, stands with his cello.
Leaving a musical legacy
PHOTO BY KARSON PETTY
BY KARSON PETTY Community News Service
The melodic sounds of a choir with cello and piano accompaniments fill the Williston Federated Church on a Sunday morning. They are performing an anthem called “Think on These Things,” selected by church Music Director Martin Hain, who is also the cellist. Hain knows as he draws his bow across the strings that this April 24 service marks the start of his last month as music director. He is ready to pass the torch after almost 30 years of curating music for Sunday service and other church functions, conducting the choir and leading choir practice every Thursday night. From an early age, Hain always had the urge to conduct and lead music. “When I was young I would listen to recordings on the record player and conduct the recordings,” he said. Music was a very strong element in Hain’s upbringing, as both of his parents were music teachers, and he participated
see TOWN STAFF page 2
in choir and concert band through his junior and senior years of high school. He couldn’t decide which of his strong suits — music, math or science — to pursue when he left his home in Saugerties, N.Y., in 1975 to attend the University of Iowa. “It gave me a chance to postpone that decision, essentially,” he said. He started pursuing an undergraduate degree in music, but he eventually settled on engineering when he realized that he couldn’t dedicate as much of his time to practicing as others who study to become professional musicians. He joined the Army after graduating college and moved to Kentucky for four years, where he met his wife, Donna Sue. Hain then earned a master’s degree in structural engineering from Cornell University before he and his wife moved near Boston in 1985. Spending three hours a day commuting in Boston traffic for two-and-a-half years convinced the Hains that they see HAIN page 5
Williston town planners are trying something new for Green Up Day 2022. With spring in the air and Covid restrictions becoming more relaxed, planning staff aim to bring the community together this Green Up Day with a new town fair. The fair is scheduled to coincide with this year’s green-up efforts on Saturday, May 7. Starting at 10 a.m. on the Village Green, the town fair will feature free refreshments and giveaways, tours of the old schoolhouse provided by the Williston Historical Society, sign-ups for free smoke alarm installations through the American Red Cross, and opportunities to meet staff from the town management office, Planning Commission, Recreation Department and Energy Committee. The fair will also feature story time with the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library at 10:30 a.m. and a meet & greet with Rep. Erin Brady at 11 a.m. “It’s the first time we’re trying something like this, so it’s a pilot event,” said town planner Emily Heymann. “It’s (also) an opportunity for people to engage with municipal staff and some (members) on the boards of volunteer committees, outside of the boring 9-to5 office hours and night meetings,” she said. And of course, green-up bags and coffee will be available on the Village Green, starting at 8 a.m. Bags are already available for pickup in the Town Hall Annex from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until this Friday. Bags will then become available for 24/7 pickup at a self-service station outside of the Town Hall Annex until May 6. see FAIR page 2
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Town staff
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Like last year, residents are encouraged to claim an area to green up on an online map on the town website (www.town. williston.vt.us) and at www.bit. ly/WillistonGreenUpDay. But they can also do it in person when they pick up their bags. Heymann recommends that the map be accessed on a laptop or personal computer, and those who aren’t as comfortable with technology can call the town planning office at (802) 8786704 to have town staff mark the map for them. Heymann was also happy to report that an overall trend of increasing Green Up Day participation caused the town to request a record number of bags this year. “In years past we’ve run out of bags, so we’ve really increased the number we have available to about 700 bags,” she said. Heymann hopes that the fair will further boost participation. “The goal of the town fair
1
sier, Ryan Hill, Daniel Macaig, Randall Marshall, John Ouellette, Anthony Scaccia, Karson Swart and Joseph Valentine. The group will be training for several weeks and is expected to be ready to staff shifts in midJune, bringing staffing from four to seven firefighter/EMTs per shift. SCHOOL DISTRICT MAKES PROGRESS OF FILLING LEADERSHIP VOID
The 2022 Green-Up Vermont poster was created by Marina Hallisey, grade 7 of Shelburne. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO
is to get people excited about Green Up Day and for the people who volunteer to [get] some
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Speak up! Send your letters and story ideas to email editor@ willistonobserver.com Williston
Meanwhile, the Champlain Valley School District has begun hiring for several administrator-level positions that will become vacant at the end of the school year. Last week it announced the hiring of Sarah Crum to replace Jeff Evans as the director of learning and innovation. Crum currently serves as the director of special education in Williston schools. She has also worked in special education at Champlain Valley High School. Crum will start her new role on July 1. The job entails working with the district’s directors of student support services and diversity, equity and inclusion; overseeing the district’s English Language Learner program; and managing federal grants. “Sarah’s experience as an En-
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glish teacher, special educator and special education director will prove to be a valuable resource for the Champlain Valley School District,” Superintendent Rene Sanchez said. “Literacy, instructional techniques and inclusivity are always among the most important current focus areas of school districts. Sarah’s background will help Champlain Valley’s already innovative work progress even further.” District administrators have also begun interviewing to fill the chief operating officer position; diversity, equity and inclusion positions; and principal positions in Hinesburg and Shelburne.
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Williston Observer
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Spring Town Meeting blossoms into community celebration St. George’s inaugural ‘Dragon Day’ set for Saturday BY JASON STARR Observer staff Delaying Town Meeting Day in St. George until warmer weather as a Covid precaution has turned into an opportunity for a larger community gathering, with music, theater, food and free goodies in the town center. St. George residents will gather under a tent Saturday morning to set the town’s annual budget and elect selectboard and school board members. The meeting was postponed from traditional Town Meeting Day on the first Tuesday in March so that it could be held outside. A party is planned after the meeting: Dragon Day, an inaugural event named after the fabled symbol of St. George lore. Festivities start at noon. “I think it will be an amazing event,” said Judy Scott, who has penned an original play about the
myth of St. George and the dragon — a story that goes back to the 18th-century days of King George III of England, after whom Vermont’s smallest (acreage-wise) town was named. St. George residents will act out the play after a friendly dragon (a resident in costume) leads kids on a parade. Live music, family-friendly games and food will also be part of the celebration, which has the potential to become an annual event, even if Town Meeting Day reverts to its traditional winter date. A new community organizing group going by the name “St. George Connect” formed over the winter to plan Dragon Day. The group’s aims, however, are more encompassing. Consisting of about a dozen core members, the group has formed to steer the town through some upcoming decisions. “How should we spend the Covid relief monies our town has received? How best should we put town land to use? How might we support our youth in overcoming educational and social challenges?” the group asks in an April 19
news release. One of the town-owned parcels in question is 75 acres behind Town Hall. “There are some decisions coming down the pike that need to be made and we wanted to have a broad spectrum of the community involved in making those decisions,” Scott said, a member of the group. More broadly, St. George Connect hopes to engage residents in conversations about what they value and prioritize, and communicate that to the town’s decision-making boards. “With such immediate as well as long-term planning needs, we are looking for everyone’s ideas,” group member Sarah Tischler said. In addition to Scott and Tischler, other St. George Connect members are: Fran Stoddard, Chantal Beliveau, Jessica Brumsted, Joel Colf, Julie Parker, April Pillsbury and Abel Russ. Those looking to get involved can email stgeorgeconnect@ gmail.com.
A sign announces Town Meeting and ‘Dragon Day’ this Saturday in St. George’s town center. OBSERVER PHOTO BY JASON STARR
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April 28, 2022
A biweekly trip down memory lane with members of the Williston Historical Society
New light on old crimes (part 1) The tumultuous life of Adelia Barber (Griswold) Potter (1829-1872) BY ELIZABETH A. ALLEN If you’re familiar with Williston history, you probably know of the Griswold murder. In 1865, Adelia Potter’s husband, Charley, was accused of slaying Sally Griswold, Adelia’s adoptive mother. In 1866, Charley was acquitted, but one John
Ward from New York was found guilty. When imprisoned, John confessed to the killing and was hung. The Griswold murder’s sensational details have earned it a place in town lore, but the focus on Charley and John has excluded Adelia, who, arguably had a role in the crime as well. Follow me in this three-part series as I explore the tumultuous life of someone whose intense misery (in my opinion) manifested in the crimes she committed
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against others. Adelia Sophia was the first child of Elihu and Catherine “Kate” (Walker) Barber. She was most likely born on April 11, 1829. That’s what her headstone in Eldredge Cemetery in South Burlington says. However, her obituary says that she was 43 at death (Vermont Journal, December 21, 1872, p. 2), which would put her birth year at 1827. I have found no vital records to support 1827 or 1829, but vital records and a headstone confirm that her mother Kate died, probably from complications of childbirth, on May 29, 1829. Now a widower with a newborn, Elihu, in a move not uncommon at the time, gave Adelia to Kate’s sister, Sarah “Sally” (Walker) Griswold, and her husband Ephraim. During the trial of his wife’s death, Ephraim testified, “Adelia was about eight weeks old when we took her to bring her up.” He did not mention the year, but, if Adelia was born on April 11, 1829, and then Kate died when Adelia was approximately seven weeks old, Ephraim’s statement indirectly supports 1829 as the year of Adelia’s birth. According to his testimony, Ephraim and Sally tried at least four times to have children of their own; they all died before the age of 18 months. As an only child of a couple who had suffered the deaths of their biolog-
ical kids, Adelia received much attention and affection. Indeed, in his testimony, Ephraim said, “Mrs. Griswold always thought the world of Delia” (quotes in this paragraph and the preceding one are from Burlington Daily Times, April 11, 1866, p. 3). As we shall see, Adelia probably did not return the sentiment. I cannot find much information about Adelia’s childhood, but a significant event did occur in her mid-teens. Ephraim and Sally made Adelia their legal heir. Proceedings began in 1845 and it came into effect in No-
Sometimes horrible things just happened to the Potters. vember, 1846. Ephraim and Sally obviously considered Adelia their daughter, though it is uncertain how she felt about them. When she was 19, Adelia married Charles “Charley” Hannibal Potter, 21, in Williston. Born in Franklin, Vermont, to Jeremiah Potter and Leah Clark, Charley soon started a farm with Adelia. The 1850 U.S. census records them in a Williston household with two other unrelated people. Charley, considered by Wil-
listonians to be an unreliable, dishonest person, was in and out of Adelia’s life. For example, Adelia and Charley’s son, Charles Jr., was born on April 19, 1851, in Williston, but the 1851 Canadian census records Charles Sr. living with Potter relations just over the border in Missisquoi County (probably Dunham), Quebec (then called “Canada East”). Presumably he was back in Williston by 1855, in time for Adelia to give birth to daughter Katherine on January 14, 1856. Given his later behavior, I think he was in Canada to avoid creditors and have sex with other women. Adelia apparently joined Charley in shady business practices. For example, toward the end of 1856 and through 1857, the Potters engaged in real estate dealings with George and Caroline Wakefield, but they allegedly did not fulfill their promissory notes (Burlington Daily Times, March 8, 1862, p. 8). To escape such debts, Adelia, Charley, and kids fled Williston for Dunham, Quebec. Vermonter William Darling found where Adelia and Charley were living. In mid-December, 1857, he gathered some men, and, claiming that he was “Chief of Police in Canada, with unlimited jurisdiction in the United States,” see PAST TIMES page 5
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Williston Observer
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Past Times
were unjustly persecuted. Adelia’s self-image as a wronged, continued from page 4 justly angry person also appears in her clapped Charley in leg irons at gunpoint. divorce petition. To hear her tell it, she But Adelia saw through William’s lies, was a model, virtuous spouse. All probcalled a local sympathetic magistrate, lems in her marriage could be directly attributed to Charley’s sneakiness and lies. and had William arrested instead. I’m not suggesting that Charley wasn’t Even though Adelia saved Charley a horrible spouse. I’m saying that Adelia from a would-be debt collector, the two had the tendency to cast herself as the indid not have a happy marriage. In fact, nocent, aggrieved party. And sometimes Adelia petitioned for divorce in Novemshe was. Sometimes horrible things just ber 1858 —a rare occurrence in that perihappened to the Potters. While they were od; divorce was considered shameful and in Quebec, their son Charles Jr. died on rarely granted. In her petition, Adelia May 26, 1859. He was only 8 years old. claimed that she “had always behaved herHe was buried in Frelighsburg, Quebec. self as a faithful, chaste, and affectionate Though still in Quewife” to Charley, but he bec as of March, 1862, had committed adultery Adelia and Charley were with several women in Tensions between back in Williston by Dec. Dunham (Burlington Free the two couples 15, 1863. On that date, Press, November 5, 1858, Charley enlisted as a prip. 3). Nothing seems to hit a breaking vate in the Union army have come of this petipoint, and in Vermont’s Company tion — Adelia and CharE, First Cavalry. I am ley remained married till Sally Griswold unsure whether he saw her death — but it vividly was killed. action; he may have been portrays Adelia’s misery. too busy swindling peoAdelia apparently perple and skipping town. ceived herself as a smart, Adelia and Charley had another son, valiant person wronged by others. For Willis, in 1864. The next summer, Adelia one example, the report of William Darand family moved in with her adoptive ling harassing the Potters brims with parents the Griswolds. Tensions between indignation. Adelia is characterized as the two couples hit a breaking point, a “good lady” and the debt collector “a and Sally Griswold was killed. Testimolawless ruffian” (Burlington Sentinel, January 8, 1858, p. 2). The anonymous ny from the murder trial provides hints correspondent is writing from Dunham about Adelia’s life and her acrimonious — presumably someone familiar with relationships with the Griswolds. Could the Potters and definitely sympathetic to Adelia have been involved in the murder? them. Like others in Dunham, Adelia and Find out here in part 2 of the story in two Charley probably believed too that they weeks.
Hain returns his cello to its case in the Williston Federated Church music room after a Sunday service. PHOTO BY KARSON PETTY
Hain continued from page
1
needed to find a new place to raise a family. In 1988, Hain moved his family to Williston, where he secured a job at Knight Consulting Engineers. But he never lost his affinity for music in the decade after deciding against it as a career. “(Engineering) is what I’ve done as a professional, but music has always been a very strong part of my life,” he said. Hain said he stopped going to church in college, but after having his first son in Vermont, he committed to keeping a faithful family. The first service he and his family attended at Williston Federated Church was for Good Friday. “We brought in our infant son, who immediately started to cry, but they still welcomed us,” he said, “so we came back and we’ve been going ever since.” By 1996, Hain had been a member of the choir for three years under the conductorship of Terry Carpenter. And when Carpenter announced her plans to retire, Hain jumped at the opportunity to become music director. “It was something that I was interested in doing,” he said. The congregation size was at its peak when he started, due to the increase in Baby Boomers bringing their families to church in the 1990s. Congregation size doesn’t necessarily determine the rate of choir membership, however. “Our choir was probably at its largest about 10 years ago,” he said. Over the years, Hain has maintained high musical standards when leading choir practices and performances. “I think I’m a little bit more demanding of a choir director than you would find in most churches,” he said. “But the result of that is ending up with a higher quality choir, and people tend to feel rewarded for that.” Choir members expressed admiration for Hain despite his meticulousness. Gale Goodwin, who has been in the choir since Hain began, has gotten comments praising the small choir’s full sound, which she attributes to Hain’s guidance. “So many of us have become good singers and choir members because of Martin,” Goodwin said.
Nancy Stone, an alto in the choir, said that Hain has taught her more about singing correctly than she learned in her prior 60 years of singing. “Choir practice includes laughter and ends in prayer,” she said. “The anthems he chooses are so meaningful that they enrich my faith.” Pastor Paul Eyer, who brought his spiritual leadership to the church in October 2017, has nothing but good things to say about Hain. “I have been privileged to serve alongside Martin (for five years),” Eyer said. “The beauty of the music that Martin chose for the choir each Sunday — and the level of excellence with which it was performed — was uplifting. I (see) first-hand how Martin has a way of bringing out the best in our choir.” Eyer also expressed gratitude to Hain and his wife for their active membership in the church. “Martin and Donna Sue’s contributions to our worship services, and to the life of the church, have been enormous. I offer thanks to God for what they have done for our church,” Eyer said. Hain returned Eyer’s kind sentiment, explaining how the pastor dealt with the Covid pandemic admirably by staying positive and uplifting. “It’s been a pleasure to work with Paul,” Hain said. In anticipation of the end of his musical career, Hain thought, what better way to celebrate his many years with the church than with a concert. “I had a desire to do a concert with a number of compositions I really like and pieces that have been important to me over the years,” he said. When a member of the church’s Vitality Team suggested making the event a joint benefit concert for international refugees, Hain heartily agreed. “It started off as a farewell concert for me and my wife, and now it’s expanded as a benefit for Ukraine and for other worldwide refugee relief,” he said. The concert will be held at the church this Sunday, May 1, at 3 p.m. Masks are required for in-person attendees, but the concert will also be livestreamed on the Williston Federated Church Facebook Page.
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April 28, 2022
GUEST COLUMN
How Act 250 got off track
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Vermont’s Act 250, our one-ofa-kind statewide land use program, is often synonymous with the state’s environmental ethic. Act 250 has served Vermont well for more than 50 years, mitigating the impacts of large-scale development on natural resources, working lands and sprawl that have been widespread across the country. However, Act 250 is not as effective as it used to be — and not as effective as Vermont needs it to be to address current environmental challenges, including climate change and climate migration, and to help ensure that the Act 250 process is as predictable and efficient as possible. The need to strengthen Act 250 has been the focus of much discussion and debate in the Legislature over the last six years. In 2017, a Legislative Commission was formed to investigate how to modernize and improve Act 250. The report from the Commission on Act 250, “The Next 50 Years,” made a number of recommendations to improve the law including and, very importantly, to improve how Act 250 is administered, by restoring a version of the former Environmental Board. The Commission noted that improving how Act 250 is administered will bring greater consistency and clarity to the Act 250 process, something that everyone on all sides of the how-to-improveand-modernize-Act-250 debate have called for. When Act 250 was adopted in 1970, a crucial part of the system
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in Vermont were handled, and who could appeal Act 250 decisions. The Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) and others raised concerns that eliminating the Environmental Board would significantly harm Act 250. We feared that the court appeals process would be expensive, complicated and therefore difficult for citizens to navigate. We worried that replacing the varied perspectives of nine Vermonters with one judge to hear appeals would drastically change the nature of Act 250 decisions. We were concerned that because courts are set up to allow individual parties to resolve disputes, Vermont would lose a crucial component of the Act 250 program — to bring clarity to the Act 250 criteria. Unfortunately, all of VNRC’s concerns have come to fruition. Since the Environmental Board has been eliminated, the Act 250 program has stagnated. The program has lost the guidance that was provided by the Environmental Board, which has led to less clarity for District Commissions, applicants and citizens participating in Act 250. In addition, court appeals have proven to be expensive and burdensome. A bill in the Legislature, H.492, represents a major step forward to improve and modernize Act 250. The Legislature should pass this important bill this year. Jon Groveman is the policy and water program director at the Vermont Natural Resources Council.
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was that nine regional District Commissions would review permit applications, and the program would be administered by an expert Environmental Board that would also hear appeals of District Commission decisions. The District Commission process was designed to be accessible to citizens and reflective of Vermont’s regional differences. The Environmental Board was made up of nine Vermonters from various backgrounds, a diverse membership with deep knowledge of Act 250 that allowed the Board to resolve appeals of District Commission decisions while bringing clarity to how to interpret the 10 Act 250 criteria. For example, the criteria that prohibits undue water and air pollution and undue adverse effects on aesthetics prohibits development that would significantly imperil wildlife habitat. The Board brought these criteria to life through its decisions explaining what an applicant would need to do to meet the criteria. In 2004, the Environmental Board was eliminated by the Vermont Legislature. After more than 30 years of decision-making, there was a desire among some to move appeals to Superior Court. Proponents promoted the change because they felt the Environmental Board process was not formal enough, did not function under court rules and often resulted in decisions that included policy guidance rather than simply resolving the dispute. The change became part of a larger legislative compromise that addressed how other environmental permits
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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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Sounding the alarm on home safety The nation’s most frequent disaster is one that rarely makes national headlines: home fires. Yet these represent most of the disasters that the American Red Cross responds to — one every eight minutes in the U.S. In Vermont alone, Red Cross volunteers responded to 29 of these devastating crises so far this year. What’s more, home fires claim seven lives a day in our country. But a working smoke alarm can cut the risk of death by half. To help keep families safe, the Red Cross Vermont Chapter is going to be in Williston on May 14 to install 188 free smoke alarms for vulnerable households in Williston, St. George and Hinesburg as part of a national Sound the Alarm effort to install 50,000 free smoke alarms in at-risk neighborhoods across the country. Sound the Alarm events like these are truly lifesaving — and at the heart of our national Home Fire Campaign, which has helped save at least 1,243 lives. If you live in the Williston area and need assistance, visit www.RedCross.org/ EndHomeFiresNNE to schedule an appointment for a free smoke alarm installation. During a 20-minute home visit, volunteers will also share information on the causes of home fires, how to prevent them, what to do if a fire starts and how to create an escape plan.
Because of generous donations, all services are free for those in need. Help by donating to the Red Cross at www. SoundTheAlarm.org to help people prepare for, respond to and recover from home fires. Sharon Rae Quinn Red Cross volunteer Williston
Interested in the new Chittenden 8 House District? The Observer noted in it’s April 21 issue (“Redistricting slices off southwest Williston”) that the southwest portion of Williston will become the new Chittenden 8 House District as it combines with a portion of South Burlington. I urge those with an interest in becoming a state representative in the new district to reach out to me regarding what the job is like, and to the Secretary of State for requirements to get on the ballot. By the way, this is a fantastic job. As I have often been heard to say: Being a legislator is like your best and worst day at university … every day, with your best and worst professors … every day. I have been most fortunate to be trusted with this responsibility these last 20 years. Rep. Jim McCullough Williston
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Letter Policy The Williston Observer welcomes your letters to the editor. A few ground rules: We ask that letters run no longer than 300 words. We edit only for length, clarity, style, spelling and grammar. Please include your name, town or city where you live and a daytime phone number (which we won’t print) so we can verify you wrote the letter. The deadline is Monday at noon for letters to be printed in Thursday’s paper. Send to: editor@willistonobserver.com or Williston Observer, P.O Box 1401, Williston, Vt. 05495.
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Beta finds solution for South Burlington zoning impasse
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April 28, 2022
Manufacturer plans to slash parking spaces to comply with regulations BY SHAUN ROBINSON AND JACK LYONS VTDigger
Beta Technologies is willing to slash the number of parking spaces in the first stage of its planned expansion at Burlington International Airport in order to comply with South Burlington’s zoning regulations, officials from the electric aviation company told the city’s development review board Monday night. Beta’s proposal, which would
cut parking from 317 spaces to about 40, could clear the runway for the development review board to issue permits for the project. “That makes the whole parking discussion a non-issue, correct?” board member Frank Kochman asked after Beta officials described the plan. “That would be our view as well,” Beta team member Art Klugo replied. Monday’s meeting followed an unusual decision from the development review board last month to reopen Beta’s application for a proposed 40-acre campus off Route 2, after members had granted the campus’ master plan condi-
tional approval. The board declined to offer Beta an exemption relating to a portion of the city’s zoning code that bars new buildings from having parking lots at the front of a property. As a result, the burgeoning Vermont employer had threatened to pull out of the project. At the meeting, board members did not decide whether to approve a revised plan for the project — including the reduced parking — that Beta sent to city officials earlier this month. But a decision on the issue could be published within a week, Marla Keene, South Burlington’s development review planner, said in an interview afterward. The board voted to close the hearing on Beta’s application after several local residents spoke in favor of the project. Removing parking spaces was
posed parking, Beta would leave only the spaces that it has determined would comply with city zoning regulations. Klugo said the company also has an agreement with the airport to use additional existing parking there, and would use an electric shuttle bus to bring employees to its new facilities from the airport parking. According to documents shared during Monday’s meeting, Nic Longo, acting director of aviation for Burlington International Airport, wrote to Beta’s chief operating officer Blain Newton earlier this month stating the airport could make about 200 surface parking lot spaces available for the company’s use, with the option to use space on the fifth level of the airport parking garage if needed. South Burlington’s development review board received more
to an airport owned and operated by a municipality (as the City of Burlington does in the case of Burlington International). Senators tacked the proposed change onto their version of the state’s annual transportation budget on Friday. It still needs to be approved by the House, which passed a different version of the bill, before it heads to Gov. Phil Scott for approval. The amendment, which was introduced by South Burlington City Councilor and Senator Thomas Chittenden, D-Chittenden, responded to calls from Scott and other elected officials to accommodate Beta’s request. Scott urged state legislators to help Beta proceed with its plan last month, echoing the company’s claim that it could move to Plattsburgh, N.Y., unless the parking requirement was waived.
A Beta Technologies aircraft undergoes testing at the Burlington International Airport in South Burlington in December. PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER
one of four options Beta presented to city officials in early April. The others included approving the company’s original parking configuration; waiving requirements about the lot’s location relative to the building; or adjusting the construction schedule for a new building located between the previously proposed parking lot and Route 2, also called Williston Road. Construction of that building would bring the original parking proposal into compliance with city regulations, as it would shield the lot from the street. But at Monday’s meeting, Klugo said Beta was pushing for the reduced parking option because the company felt it was the quickest way to garner the board’s approval and obtain the necessary permits to move ahead with construction. “Time is of the essence,” Klugo said. “It is the most important thing for this project.” By removing most of its pro-
than a dozen emails this month after it declined to offer an exemption for the parking issue, nearly all of which urged members to let Beta move forward with its project as originally planned, the documents showed. Among them was a message from John Wilking and Michael Keller, co-chairs of the South Burlington Business Association, who said the project would have a “vital” economic impact on South Burlington and the state. “We urge the (board) to work with Beta management and do whatever is reasonably necessary to grant Beta the permits it needs,” the co-chairs wrote. Even if the board approves permits for Beta’s new campus, the parking debate could be rendered moot if provisions under consideration in Montpelier are passed into law. Last week, the state Senate advanced legislation that would prevent municipalities from enforcing parking rules next
“I just can’t let that happen. We can’t let that happen,” Scott said at a March 29 press conference. If it left Vermont, Beta would likely lose about $2.8 million in state grants the Vermont Economic Progress Council conditionally awarded the company if it created a certain number of jobs in the state. Yet those funds aren’t a major sum for the rapidly growing corporation. Last week, Beta announced its latest round of fundraising hauled in $375 million in investments — $7 million more than it raised during an initial round last year. After the meeting Monday, South Burlington City Councilor Matt Cota said that he was “pretty confident” the development review board would support the new parking plan. He called the project “a positive thing for the city, a positive thing for Beta and a positive thing for Vermont.”
April 28, 2022
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Burlington approves Champlain Parkway contract Construction to begin in July BY JACK LYONS VTDigger Burlington city councilors unanimously approved a $45 million contract Monday to build the first phase of the Champlain Parkway, a planned north-south thoroughfare connecting the city’s South End and downtown. With the contract’s approval, the planned 25-mph neighborhood street — replete with raised crosswalks and mixed-use paths — is set to break ground in July, said Chapin Spencer, the city’s director of public works, at the Monday night meeting. The project’s first section would create a new roadway from Home Avenue to Lakeside Avenue, and redo an existing section of Pine Street from Lakeside Avenue to Kilburn Street. Subsequent contracts would build the “Railyard Enterprise Project,” allowing downtown traffic to bypass the dense King and Maple neighborhood, and restore a decrepit section of the parkway from Interstate 189 to Home Avenue. The proposal, which was first conceived as a four-lane freeway in 1965, has elicited staunch opposition from residents for as long as it’s been considered. Most recently, a community
The extension of Route 189 in Burlington is currently barricaded but will be rehabilitated as part of the Champlain Parkway route through the south end of the city. OBSERVER PHOTO BY JASON STARR
group has filed a lawsuit in federal court accusing the city of not properly accounting for the parkway’s environmental impacts. But city officials contest those claims, and have the blessing of the Federal Highway Administration on their side. Two construction companies, S.D. Ireland and Kubricky, are slated to cooperate on building the parkway. The city received no other bids, officials said, which contributed to the contract being
57 percent more expensive than anticipated. The sum includes $41 million for construction services and $4 million in contingency funds. Inflation and increased fuel prices related to the war in Ukraine also pushed the price higher, according to the officials. Although the project’s price tag surged, its old age allows it to benefit from a now-phased-out funding model where the federal government pays for 95 percent
of the project. The state of Vermont provides another 3 percent, leaving the city to contribute 2 percent of the total price — about $4.4 million for the project’s first phase. If the city fails to complete the project, however, it will have to pay back the roughly $45 million spent by federal and state governments so far on the project, officials said. While the contract received “yes” votes from all 10 council-
ors who attended Monday night’s meeting, some councilors expressed reservations. Councilor Gene Bergman, P-Ward 2, voiced concern about its potential impacts on the King and Maple neighborhood. But he said he was won over by data Spencer provided showing that the parkway wouldn’t cause an uptick in emissions or collisions in the area. Councilor Jack Hanson, P-East District, said spending money on the parkway was the right move. But building new roads that prioritize car traffic is not an effective response to climate change, he said. “In some ways, it’s a missed opportunity,” Hanson said. “The primary objective of this is not to decarbonize transportation. … I don’t see it as the dramatic shift in our transportation system that billions of dollars should be going towards.” During public comment, a Burlington resident identified as “Escher” threatened to block the parkway’s construction in a protest similar to the one decrying police’s use of force that occupied Battery Park during summer 2020. “If that road is built, I’m going to get all of my friends and we’re going to do Battery Park Part Two, but on the … construction site,” the speaker said. “It’s going to be a long summer, and we’ve been preparing for this just as long as you have.”
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Williston Observer
• April 28, 2022
SPORTS
On track at the Vacational CLOCKWISE from top left: CVU’s Alice Kredell wins both the 1500 and 3000 meter run at the Essex Vacational Track and Field meet on Thursday in Essex. CVU’s Lily Gordon in red competes in the 100 meter hurdles. Anders Johnson competes in the pole vault. Gus Serinese wins the boys 110 meter hurdles. Jameson McEnaney wins the 400 meter run. Matt Servin wins the 1500 meter run and finishes second in the 800. Jasmine Nails wins the 400 meter run. Lily Gordon competes in the discus throw. Gregory Seraus wins the 200 meter sprint. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
April 28, 2022
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Williston Observer
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Page 11
SPORTS
ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENT SENIOR COMMUNITY
Feathered foes CLOCKWISE from top left: The CVU and BFA goalies meet in the middle before the start of last Monday afternoon’s “battle of the birds” between the Bobwhites and Redhawks in Hinesburg. Trevor Stumpff snatches the loose ball out of the air. Nolan Shea rips a shot on goal. Redhawk goalie Jake Bowen makes the save. Turner Elliott makes it look easy as he moves the ball upfield. Bobwhite Tanner Paquette defends against Redhawk Joey Merola. CVU came out on top with a final score of 8-4. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
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April 28, 2022
Rethinking our lawns BY AMY HUNTINGTON Special to the Observer
Plants have a superpower, turning the sun’s energy into fuel that can be consumed by us or other animals. That’s nothing new. But I’m beginning to understand
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the extent to which invertebrates like caterpillars, worms and beetles provide a vital link between plants and larger animals in the food web. Consider songbirds. I like to think I’ve been a good steward to birds. I keep my cats indoors. I provide birdfeeders, fruit-bearing trees and shrubs. I even begrudgingly share our blueberries and black raspberries. What I didn’t consider is the type of foods that birds need, especially while raising offspring. They aren’t looking for my seeds or berries (which aren’t even ripe until later in the season). As it turns out, what most birds really need to feed their babies are larvae, like moth and butterfly caterpillars. They require soft, nutritious foods that can often quite literally be stuffed down their little throats. Mom and dad may make hundreds of trips a day to find food for their young. In Douglas W. Tallamy’s “Nature’s Best Hope,” Tallamy writes: “Caterpillars are the mainstay of most bird diets in North America, particularly when birds are rearing their young.” He describes caterpillars as “soft bags filled with food.” Who knew? I didn’t! And here’s the rub. Plants form the foundation of all food webs on earth. There are 3 million to 4 million insect species on earth that Tallamy points out are “directly or indirectly tied to plants.” They may eat the living plant, or dead, dropped leaves, or other invertebrates that have eaten plants, etc. But those insects depend on specific plants to thrive. That row of Norway maples isn’t providing food to the local food web. The fancy imported shrub in front of our house may be stunning, but is inedible to local caterpillars. Native plants that support caterpillars, and so the songbirds, are in fierce decline. Increasingly, Earth’s once-thriving diverse natural communities have been replaced by monoculture farming, concrete, roads and … our wide, bare expanses of near-zero-diversity lawn. Even if we do have a native tree in our lawn, larvae like caterpillars, which have spent a summer in the trees fattening up, will eventually drop to winter-over by burrowing in the ground or under the fallen leaves. But lawns are too compacted for burrowing and we
Dandelions are often the most noticeable of the spring lawn flowers.
have raked up all the leaves. What to do? Suppose we start thinking of our yards, or other lawns in front of community buildings, not as grass to be trimmed, fertilized and kept weed-free. Suppose we consider how we can make some changes, even small ones, to better accommodate invertebrates. Tallamy identifies three “keystone” trees or shrubs: oak, cherry and willow. These plants attract and nurture the greatest number of invertebrates, so they are a good place to start if you are looking for a tree or shrub to plant in your yard. The National Wildlife Federation has a plant finder. Plug in your zip-code and not only will it show you what is native to your area, but also what butterfly/moth caterpillars are supported. Plant trees and shrubs closer than is usually recommended so their roots can entwine as they grow. This will make them stronger against blow-over during storms. Plant in layers — trees, with shrubs and perennials or other smaller plants beneath. Less lawn means less mowing. You can leave the leaves underneath; they make great mulch as well as cover for caterpillars. And you can leave the bugs eating the plants as that’s kind of the point. They will provide sustenance for other animals within the food web. If demand goes up for native plants, local nurseries will carry them. Check out the Intervale Conservation Nursery in Burlington. You can email them for a list of available locally grown native plants. And don’t forget our much-maligned native “weeds.”
OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO
‘No Mow May’ lets pollinators play BY BROOKE DECKER Special to the Observer An increasingly popular conservation initiative called “NoMow-May” is blooming across the nation. This initiative follows the “less-is-more” wisdom that is now a popular environmental mantra. By simply eliminating or sharply reducing the mowing of your lawn and allowing more flowers to bloom, you can offer bees and other pollinators a wonderful playground of floral resources at a critical time in their lifecycle. Studies have shown this simple act can increase abundance and diversity of wildlife in your yard. No Mow May will allow you the time to enjoy observing the diversity of nature in your lawn. Dandelions are often the most noticeable of the spring lawn flowers. They provide abundant nutritional resources for pollinators, especially bees. Observing flowers during a sunny day will reveal numerous insect guests. Honey bees, bumble bees or some of Vermont’s other 400 native bee species are likely visitors. As love for your lawn flowers grows, you might consider mowing less frequently the rest of the year, too. When mowing becomes necessary, setting the cut height of 4-5 inches allows for better habitat regrowth and continued pollinator benefits during the summer months. Consider turning your lawn into a “bee lawn” by seeding Dutch clover and other low-growing flowering plants like creeping thyme, self-heal and native violets. For a real-life pollinator paradise, consider participating in No Mow May. Brooke Decker is the apiary program manager at the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets.
Let ‘em grow! They are just flowers that have gotten a bad rap, and many of them are gorgeous as well as very important, especially to local bee populations. Imagine your yard or another plot in your neighborhood with swaths of plantings short and tall and a path of grass that winds through it. Imagine a community with patches full of native plants
where butterflies, moths, bees, songbirds and other animals can hopscotch from yard to yard to find what they need to thrive. By adding native plants, we are inviting invertebrates to fulfill that vital link between plants and other animals. It may take a little getting used to, but I think it’s a goal worth pursuing.
April 28, 2022
Adopt a drain in your neighborhood and ‘Rethink Runoff’
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Williston Observer
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Green tips
Greening your cleaning routine
Keeping drains clear of trash and debris is a way to improve water quality in streams and lakes. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO
a drain. A few early adopters include punny names like Obi-Wan-Drainobi, R2Drain2, and Brain Drain. You can adopt-a-drain by going to www.vt.adopt-a-drain.org. Rethink Runoff engages citizens in Burlington, Colchester,
Essex, Essex Junction, Milton, Shelburne, South Burlington, Williston and Winooski to implement projects to reduce nonpoint source pollution and stormwater volume. Visit www. rethinkrunoff.org for more information.
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already have stocked in your pantry, such as baking soda and white vinegar, make excellent cleaners.
CHECK PACKAGING FOR ECO-FRIENDLY LABELS
AVOID SINGLE-USE PRODUCTS
Products that display the EPA’s “Safer Choice” label have ingredients the EPA says are “rigorously reviewed ingredient-for-ingredient, adhere to strict performance standards and are evaluated to ensure the potential of adverse human and environmental health impacts is minimized.” You can search for “Safer Choice” products at www. epa.gov/saferchoice/products.
Single-use products don’t last long and their packaging ends up in landfills. Think about disposable products you can forego. For example, instead of paper towels, use rags that you can wash and reuse. Avoiding disposable items and packaging can help the environment and it’s usually more cost effective, too.
BE WARY OF “GREENWASHING”
Plastic garbage bags take 10 years to decompose (minimum), damaging ecosystems and harming animals. Try replacing your plastic trash bags with paper bags — or go completely bagless and wash out your trash cans instead.
Watch out for companies that label their products with vague phrases like “green” or “all natural.” Instead, look for the “Safer Choice” label or specific, verifiable claims. TRY HOMEMADE CLEANERS
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Storm drains flow directly to lakes and streams, acting as a conduit for trash and pollutants. Adopt-a-Drain is a new initiative of Rethink Runoff that asks residents to adopt a storm drain in their neighborhood and keep it clear of leaves, trash and other debris to reduce water pollution. Rethink Runoff is an ongoing awareness and public outreach effort to reduce dirt and pollutants from stormwater runoff entering Lake Champlain and local streams. This month, it launches Adopt-aDrain in Chittenden County. Remy Crettol, program coordinator for Rethink Runoff’s Stream Team says he “hopes the Adopt-a-Drain program will engage residents and lead to cleaner waterways and healthier communities. Everyone is disgusted when the snow melts and reveals months of garbage and debris. It is important for people to do their part and clean debris from the drains in their neighborhood before spring rains wash it into our waterways.” Volunteers choose how frequently to clear their drain and report how much debris is collected. They receive a welcome packet, small yard sign and the perk of getting to name
Here are some ways to choose cleaning products that are safe for you and the environment.
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Williston Observer
• April 28, 2022
Embracing moss as a landscape element
nights with twinkles. Mosses grow in all soil types in shade, partial shade and sun. Do you spend a lot of effort to Sun-tolerant moss can grow in get rid of the moss you find in your alkaline soil with a pH above 7.0 lawn? Knowing the benefits of while most mosses found in dense moss may convince you otherwise. shade prefer an acidic soil pH beMosses belong to the bryo- tween 5.0 and 5.5. phyte group of the plant kingdom. Growing moss is likely to At 450 million years old, they are transform a neglected damp, shady the oldest recorded living plants area into a charming element in on earth and are found on every your landscape. continent. You will need to source moss Mosses differ from the usual that grows in a similar light conflowering plants. While they have dition and soil type as your target stems and leaves, they lack roots, area. You can purchase it, or better flowers or seeds. Instead of roots, yet, find local naturally occurring mosses have rhizoids, whose only moss to transplant from your own function is to anchor the plant to a yard or from a friend’s property. substrate. In place of flowers, they First, check your soil pH to have sporophytes, determine whether which are small it needs to be adstalks ending in Moss is justed. If needed, tiny pods filled with acidify the soil by relatively low spores, not seeds. spreading some Mosses repromaintenance. elemental sulfur duce naturally (according to packNo mowing, through spores disaging instructions) persed by the wind aerating or before planting. but also can be reClear the area of fertilizing is produced manually weeds and debris. by transplanting. required. You Compact the soil by Incredibly harusing a tamper or only need dy, mosses survive by walking over it. harsh conditions into weed and Then, lightly etch cluding fires, intense the compacted soil keep clean winds and very cold with a cultivator or of debris. temperatures. They hoe. thrive under blanWith a flat tool, kets of snow. such as an old kitchMosses get all their nutrients en spatula or masonry trowel, from air and water through their scoop up sections of existing moss leaves, so they don’t need fertil- with enough soil to protect the rhiizers. Moss leaves absorb ample zoids. Tear sections into pieces, amounts of water that they slowly spread these evenly over the prerelease into the ground and air. In pared area and press into the soil. addition, their anchoring rhizoids Limit traffic for a year and keep the tether them to surfaces preventing area moist with regular watering them from washing away, ideal for until the moss takes hold. erosion control. Don’t let this initial watering Like all plants, their plant tis- chore deter you from growing sues store carbon, which helps re- moss. Once established, moss can duce carbon dioxide in the air. As tolerate drought. moss does not grow in areas with Moss is relatively low mainhigh air pollution, it’s a good indi- tenance. No mowing, aerating or cator of air quality. fertilizing is required. You only Moss offers a healthy habitat for need to weed and keep clean of wildlife. Many beneficial insects debris. Just pull a weed, pat down live inside or under moss, provid- the surface and place a piece of ing a source of food for many am- moss over the bare spot. Hand phibians, reptiles and birds. Some pick litter or use a leaf blower on a birds use moss to build soft nests low setting to scatter dead leaves for their hatchlings. Another inter- away. esting benefit is that moss offers an ideal moist breeding site for the Nadie VanZandt is a UVM fireflies that enchant our summer Extension Master Gardener. BY NADIE VANZANDT Special to the Observer
Mosses are the oldest recorded living plants on earth and are found on every continent. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO
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April 28, 2022
April 3 at 1:05 a.m. — Police responded to a report of a disturbance on Industrial Avenue. April 3 at 8:48 a.m. — Police responded to assist Williston Fire Department with a medical call on Stonehill Road. April 3 at 11:05 a.m. — Police completed a welfare check at Whitney Hill Homestead. April 3 at 11:21 a.m. — Police documented a case at a citizen’s request. April 3 at 2:13 p.m. — Police responded to assist Williston Fire Department with a medical call at Maple Tree Place. April 3 at 11:15 p.m. — Police responded to a report of a suspicious circumstance on Brennan Woods Drive. Upon arrival, the officer could not locate the vehicle. April 4 at 7:57 a.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Williston Road. K9 Duke interacted with citizens at the scene. April 4 at 9:28 a.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Marshall Avenue. Upon arrival, the officer could not locate the vehicle. April 4 at 10:26 a.m. — Police completed a VIN verification on Shunpike Road at the citizen’s request. April 4 at 11:42 a.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious behavior on Seymour Street. April 4 at 5:57 a.m. — Police completed a background investigation for local employment. April 4 at 7:41 p.m. — Police responded to assist Williston Fire Department on Industrial Avenue. April 4 at 7:56 a.m. — Police responded to a report of theft on Boxwood Street. April 4 at 9:29 p.m. — Police responded to Central School Drive for a report of suspicious behavior. Upon arrival, the officers did not locate the individuals. April 5 at 12:20 a.m. — Police responded to assist Williston Fire Department with a medical call on Reed Road. April 5 at 3:34 a.m. — Police responded to a report of a traffic hazard on Interstate 89. Upon arrival, the officer removed the debris from the roadway. April 5 at 11:16 a.m. — Police responded to a report of a suspicious event. Upon arrival, the officer didn’t observe any suspicious circumstances. April 5 at 12:05 p.m. — K9 Duke visited with citizens on Zephyr Road. April 5 at 8:38 p.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle collision on Oak Hill Road. April 6 at 6:58 a.m. — Police responded to a report of an animal problem on Talcott Road. April 6 at 10:49 a.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint at Maple Tree Place.
April 6 at 2:23 p.m. — Police responded to a report of a suspicious event on Blair Park Road. April 6 at 2:40 p.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint at Taft Corners Shopping Center. April 6 at 4:37 a.m. — Police provided a case number for insurance purposes. April 7 at 3:06 a.m. — Police assisted South Burlington Police Department on Shelburne Road. April 7 at 7:41 a.m. — Police responded to a 911 call on Merchants Row. Upon arrival, Police confirmed that there was no emergency. April 7 at 9:33 a.m. — Police responded to a report of retail theft on Harvest Lane. April 7 at 5:37 a.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Marshall Avenue. Upon arrival, the vehicle was removed from the roadway. April 7 at 5:49 p.m. — Police responded to a motor vehicle complaint on Cypress Street. April 8 at 1:40 a.m. — Police secured a premises on Retail Way. April 8 at 10:06 a.m. — Police completed an escort on Market Street. April 8 at 12:25 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Avenue A. There were no injuries on the scene upon arrival. April 8 at 2:19 p.m. — Police responded to a report of retail theft on Cypress Street. The individual was cited accordingly. April 8 at 4:46 p.m. — Police took an individual into custody that had an active arrest warrant. April 8 at 5:19 p.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious behavior on Cypress Street. Upon arrival, officers escorted the citizen off the business’ property at the employees’ request. April 8 at 5:46 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Essex Road. April 9 at 8:28 a.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious behavior on Harvest Lane. April 9 at 12:02 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Essex Road. April 9 at 2:14 p.m. — Police provided a case number for property damage on Harvest Lane. April 9 at 2:31 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Retail Way. April 9 at 4:43 p.m. — Police responded to assist Williston Fire Department with a medical call on Hickory Hill Road. April 9 at 7:08 p.m. — Police responded to a 911 hang-up on Zephyr Road. Upon arrival, the officer confirmed that there was no emergency. April 10 at 1:28 a.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious
behavior on Munson Drive. April 10 at 5:35 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Market Street. April 11 at 11:06 p.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious behavior in Rossignol Park. Upon arrival, the officer confirmed that there was no emergency and the citizen declined social services. April 11 at 12:22 p.m. — Police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle on Bittersweet Circle. Upon arrival, the vehicle was not present. April 11 at 6:16 p.m. — Police issued trespass notices at a citizen’s request on Madison Drive. April 11 at 7:51 p.m. — Police assisted a citizen regarding property damage at Taft Corners Shopping Center. April 11 at 8:51 p.m. — Police responded to a request for assistance at a business employee’s request and cited an individual for a previous offense. April 12 at 12:06 a.m. — Police assisted a vehicle operator on Essex Road by providing a courtesy ride. April 12 at 11:56 a.m. — Police provided a case number for property damage on Boxwood Street. April 12 at 3:05 p.m. — Police responded to a lockout on Harvest Lane. Upon arrival, the officer was able to assist the operator with getting access to their vehicle with no issue. April 12 at 5:53 p.m. — K9 Duke and his officer conducted a patrol on Central School Drive. April 12 at 8:03 p.m. — Police completed a VIN verification on South
Brownell Road at a citizen’s request. April 13 at 7:34 a.m. — Police responded to South Road to assist Williston Fire Department. April 13 at 10:10 a.m. — Police conducted a background investigation for local employment. April 13 at 11:19 a.m. — Police provided a case number for property damage on Boxwood Street. April 13 at 6:57 p.m. — Police responded to Williston Road to assist Williston Fire Department with a medical call. April 13 at 10:35 p.m. — Police responded to assist a citizen on Holly Court. April 14 at 12:27 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on Country Lane. There were no injuries or hazards on the scene upon arrival. April 14 at 2:21 p.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious behavior on Highlands Drive. Police confirmed that there was no emergency. April 14 at 2:36 p.m. — Police responded to a report of an animal problem on Lawnwood Drive. Upon arrival, the officer freed the animal successfully. April 14 at 3:28 p.m. — Police assisted a citizen in taking custody of property. April 14 at 3:39 p.m. — Police responded to a report of retail theft on Harvest Lane. April 14 at 5:20 p.m. — Police assisted a citizen on St. George Road. April 15 at 11:40 a.m. — Police completed multiple background investi-
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Williston Observer
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gations for local employment. April 15 at 2:29 p.m. — Police responded to a vehicle collision on St. George Road. There were no injuries on the scene. April 15 at 8:37 p.m. — Police responded to an animal problem on Southridge Road. Upon arrival, police could not locate the animal. April 16 at 12:33 a.m. — Police provided a courtesy ride on Hurricane Lane. April 16 at 4:18 a.m. — Police assisted Williston Fire Department on Hurricane Lane with a medical call. April 16 at 11:04 a.m. — Police responded to a lockout on Merchants Row. Upon arrival, the officer was able to gain access to the vehicle for the operator. April 16 at 12:37 p.m. — Police responded to a report of suspicious behavior on Trader Lane. April 16 at 1:16 p.m. — Police completed a VIN verification at a citizen’s request. April 16 at 5:54 p.m. — Police issued a trespass notice at a business’ request on Cypress Street. April 16 at 10:14 p.m. — Police responded to assist Williston Fire Department with a medical call on Marshall Avenue. 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 Attorneys Office and can be amended or dropped.
2 Bed, 1.5 Bath Townhouse in Pristine Condition, Great Location on Malletts Bay!
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Page 16 •
Williston Observer
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April 28, 2022
release dates: April 30-May 6, 2022
18 (22)
Next Week: Volcanoes
Issue 18, 2022
Founded by Betty Debnam
Collecting History
Mini Fact:
Parents or grandparents may have a collection they can share with you to get you started.
photo by Chris Gladis
When is a quarter worth more than 25 cents? Or a penny more than 1 cent? For coin collectors, a single coin can be worth many times its original value. And as time goes by, some coins become much more valuable. Whether exploring the history of a nation’s currency, hunting for a particular coin or learning about the value of money, coin collecting has much to offer enthusiasts (enTHOO-see-uhsts) of all ages. (An enthusiast is someone who is very interested in a certain subject, sport or hobby.)
Most U.S. coins are made in either Denver or Philadelphia. On a coin, a “D” or “P” shows where it was minted. Most proof coins (those made for collectors) and some older coins have an “S,” which shows that they were minted in San Francisco.
Valuing coins
American coins
image courtesy U.S. Mint
In the United States, coin money is minted, or made, by the U.S. Mint, which has been a part of the federal government since 1792. Before that, each state made its own coins, and buying things from other states could get confusing. The U.S. Mint makes millions of coins each year. The most common coins are those we use every day, including the penny, nickel, dime and quarter. HalfThe Morgan dollar is dollars and dollar coins a large silver coin that are also made in large was minted between 1878 and 1921. The numbers. These are coins are named for said to be in circulation the designer, George Morgan. — they are used by people to buy things.
photo by Dan Cipolla
The U.S. Mint offers many different types of coins for sale.
Several factors determine the value of a coin: • Condition. When you carry coins in your pocket or wallet, they constantly knock into each other. This can scratch and dent them. That’s why many collectors look for “uncirculated” coins, which are more likely to be in good condition. Valuable coins may be graded by numismatic experts, who look for flaws. Numismatics (new-miss-MAT-icks) means the collecting of coins or paper money. A collector is called a numismatist (new-MISS-ma-tist).
• Mintage. A coin’s mintage means the total number produced. For example, more than 1.7 billion nickels were minted in Denver in 1964. But in 1950, only 2.6 million nickels were made in Denver. Generally, the lower the number of coins made, the more valuable the coin. Coins with low mintages are often called “rare.” • Metal. Before 1964, many coins contained silver or gold, which are called precious metals. Today, silver and gold are worth a lot of money. So even a coin in poor condition will still have the value of its metal content.
Become a collector!
Starting your own coin collection is as easy as looking through spare change. You may find a variety of coins from several different years. As with any hobby, you’ll need a few supplies as you get started: 1. A place to keep your coins. Coin folders and holders are designed to keep your coins safe from damage. Many folders also include information about the history, art and mintages of specific coins. 2. A magnifying glass. Lettering, designs and mint marks on coins can be tiny. A magnifying glass makes them much easier to read. 3. Gloves or a cloth. The natural oils or dirt on your hands can leave smudges and fingerprints on the surface of a coin. Use a clean cloth or wear cotton gloves to handle your coins.
Resources On the Web:
• money.org/young-numismatists
At the library:
• “Lots and Lots of Coins” by Margarette S. Reid
The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication
Nancy
BY OLIVIA JAIMES
Try ’n’ Find
Mini Jokes
Words that remind us of coin collecting are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: CIRCULATION, COINS, COLLECT, CONDITION, CURRENCY, DIME, DOLLAR, ENTHUSIAST, GLOVES, GRADED, HOBBY, METAL, MINTAGE, MORGAN, NICKEL, NUMISMATICS, PENNY, QUARTER, WORTH.
G S N E G A T N I M
G N U L P Y B B O H
R I M A E T O G N L
A O I T N S F Q R T
D C S E N A J U A N
E O M M Y I H A L O
D N A S C S C R L I
N D T E N U O T O T
A I I V E H L E D A
G T C O R T L R N L
R I S L R N E I H U
O O V G U E C G T C
M N U E C K T A R R
R M V F E S G N O I
F D T L E M I D W C
Penelope: What is brown and has a head and a tail, but no legs? Peter: A penny!
Eco Note Climate change is causing East Africa’s two endangered mountain gorilla populations to have to drink more frequently. The rainforest dwellers typically get most of their hydration from the food they eat. But the warmer weather in recent years has caused
said to be in circulation — they are used by people to buy things.
At the library:
Today, silver and gold are worth a lot of money. So even a coin in poor condition will still have the value of its metal content.
the designer, George Morgan.
• “Lots and Lots of Coins” by Margarette S. Reid April 28, 2022
The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication
Try ’n’ Find
G S N E G A T N I M
G N U L P Y B B O H
R I M A E T O G N L
A O I T N S F Q R T
D C S E N A J U A N
E O M M Y I H A L O
D N A S C S C R L I
N D T E N U O T O T
A I I V E H L E D A
G T C O R T L R N L
R I S L R N E I H U
O O V G U E C G T C
M N U E C K T A R R
R M V F E S G N O I
F D T L E M I D W C
What to do: 1. In a food processor or blender, combine all ingredients. Puree until smooth. 2. Transfer mixture to a bowl or airtight container and freeze until firm, about 1 hour. Serves 4. Adapted from “The Robin Takes 5 Cookbook for Busy Families” with permission from Andrews McMeel Publishing (andrewsmcmeel.com).
News of the Weird Tired of mild winters and modern conveniences? Looking for a new gig? We know just the job for you! The U.K. Antarctic Heritage Trust charity is accepting applications for seasonal positions at its Port Lockroy base in Antarctica. The base is in need of personnel to take on several duties, including running a post office and monitoring penguins. Other open positions include base leader, shop manager and general assistant to work at the gift shop
Page 17
Eco Note
and post office from November 2022 to March 2023. The base was established in 1944 and is located on Goudier Island in the Palmer Archipelago, west of the Antarctic Peninsula. Besides average seasonal temperatures of -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit) and minimal hours of darkness each day, living conditions for the workers will include limited power with no running water or internet access. Job seekers outside the U.K. can apply, but they must have the right to work in the U.K. The deadline for applications is 7:59
p.m. EDT on April 25.
This Couch Has a Lump Alex Trejo, a reptile expert and owner of So-Cal Rattlesnake Removal, got more than he’d bargained for in a recent house call — about 7 feet more. While most folks never find anything more interesting than spare change in their couch cushions, one Chula Vista resident found a snake: a 7-foot-long Vietnamese blue beauty rat snake, to be pre-
The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication
• 1 tablespoon lime juice • 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
* You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.
Mango-Honey Sherbet With Lime
Now Hiring
•
Penelope: What is brown and has a head and a tail, but no legs? Peter: A penny!
Cook’s Corner You’ll need: • 2 cups chopped mango • 1 cup low-fat milk • 1/2 cup orange juice • 3 tablespoons honey
Williston Observer
Mini Jokes
Words that remind us of coin collecting are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: CIRCULATION, COINS, COLLECT, CONDITION, CURRENCY, DIME, DOLLAR, ENTHUSIAST, GLOVES, GRADED, HOBBY, METAL, MINTAGE, MORGAN, NICKEL, NUMISMATICS, PENNY, QUARTER, WORTH.
•
Climate change is causing East Africa’s two endangered mountain gorilla populations to have to drink more frequently. The rainforest dwellers typically get most of their hydration from the food they eat. But the warmer weather in recent years has caused them to become more reliant on water from streams, puddles and even swamps. “In these conditions, drinking water likely helps to maintain a healthy body temperature range,” said Edward Wright of the Max Planck Institute. adapted with permission from Earthweek.com
For later: Look in your newspaper for articles about types of currency.
Teachers: Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!
cise. “This guy calls me, is pretty frantic and he’s like, ‘There’s a snake in my couch,’” Trejo told ABC 10 News in San Diego. Trejo said he was shocked to find such a beast in a sofa, calling it a “once in a lifetime snake rescue” in a Facebook post. The species is nonvenomous, is not native to the United
States, and was apparently not interested in being captured: “He didn’t (bite) my skin, but he actually got the lining of my shirt,” Trejo said. The snake is in the care of a specialist, receiving treatment for a respiratory infection. The animal’s owner has not yet been located.
Page 18 •
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April 28, 2022
SENIORS
A common heart problem that’s often ignored
Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about atrial fibrillation? Every so often, I’ve noticed my heart starts beating rapidly for no particular reason. Is this something I should be worried about? Anxious Annie
Savvy Senior By Jim Miller
Dear Annie, Heart palpitations can be harmless if they are brief and infrequent. But if you’re experiencing an erratic heart rhythm, you need to get checked out by a doctor for atrial fibrillation, or AFib. AFib — which is marked by rapid, fluttering beats — can lead to serious complications such as stroke and heart failure, when
Green Burials
the weakened heart can’t pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Normally, your heartbeat follows a steady rhythm as your heart contracts and relaxes. But when you have AFib, the upper chambers of your heart (atria) beat rapidly and irregularly, sending blood to the lower chambers (ventricles) less efficiently. These episodes can last for minutes to hours or longer, and can cause palpitations, lightheadedness, fatigue and/or shortness of breath. Over time, AFib tends to become chronic. Age is a common risk factor for AFib, which affects roughly 10 percent of people older than 75. Other factors include genetics, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and alcohol and tobacco use. The condition has also been linked to viral infections, including Covid-19.
DIAGNOSING AFIB
If you’re experiencing AFiblike symptoms, you need to see your doctor who will listen to your heart and likely recommend an electrocardiogram (EKG) or a treadmill heart test, or you may wear a portable monitor for several weeks to look for abnormal heart rhythms to confirm a diagnosis of AFib. Such tests can help distinguish AFib from less serious conditions that may cause the heart to flutter, like anxiety and stress. AFib affects some three million adults in the United States, a number that is expected to quadruple in the coming decade as the population ages and risk factors like obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure become even more common. The lifetime risk of developing AFib is greater than 20 percent, yet many people don’t even know they have it.
The practice of natural or “green” burials dates back thousands of years. The principle behind this practice is to follow the natural cycle of life. Green burials provide a reduced environmental impact, as well as the benefits of land preservation and affordability. To learn more, contact us today.
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A growing body of research underscores the importance of lifestyle steps such as exercise, a healthy diet and limiting alcohol for treating AFib. Depending on your age and symptoms, your doctor may prescribe drugs to help control your heart rate, like beta blockers such as metoprolol (Toprol XL), and/or rhythm, such as antiarrhythmics like flecainide (Tambocor). You may also need an electrical cardioversion, an outpatient procedure that delivers an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. You will be sedated for this brief procedure and will not feel the shocks. Catheter ablation is another outpatient treatment for AFib that scars a small area of heart tissue that causes irregular heartbeats. This procedure is becoming more common based on evidence of its safety and ability to normalize the heart rhythm and ease symptoms. Ablations can be effective in people 75 and older, but medication may still be required afterward. If you’re at higher risk for stroke, you may be prescribed a blood thinner, too. In the past, Coumadin (warfarin) was the only such drug widely available, but it requires monitoring with regular blood tests. Newer anticoagulants, like apixaban (Eliquis) and rivaroxaban (Xarelto), don’t have that requirement and have been shown to be just as effective at preventing strokes. 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.
CREMATION CENTER
Home is a garden overflowing with memories.
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AL
April 28, 2022
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Page 19
CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 24
Almanac ANDREWS
MCMEEL
TODAY’S HISTORY • In 1789, a mutiny broke out on the British trade ship Bounty. • In 1945, Italian partisans executed dictator Benito Mussolini and his mistress by firing squad. • In 1952, the United States ended its occupation of Japan. • In 1965, U.S. troops began an occupation of the Dominican Republic in an effort to thwart the establishment of a communist regime. • In 1994, CIA officer and analyst Aldrich Ames pleaded guilty to spying for the Soviet Union and Russia.
The name says it all! This seasonal recipe features asparagus, bright lemon, and savory brie. A warm appetizer that’s pleasing for a crowd, or just a fun dish for a warm spring afternoon. Pairs well with a crisp, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
TODAY’S FACT • Aldrich Ames made $4.6 million selling CIA secrets to the KGB from 1985 to 1993.
Cherie’s Springtime Savory Baked Brie Ingredients:
Directions:
1 package puff pastry
Thaw puff pastry according to package directions.
5 asparagus spears, trimmed and blanched Zest of 1 lemon 1 clove garlic, minced 1 small wheel brie or camembert Salt, to taste
Preheat oven to 375°F and line baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice asparagus into thin rounds and mix with lemon zest, garlic, and salt to taste in small bowl. Remove puff pastry, cut in half to make two roughly square-shaped pieces. Cut brie through the center into two rounds. Place one round cut side up in the middle of one piece of pastry and top with asparagus mixture. Place remaining half of cheese on top, cut side down. Fold puff pastry up and over cheese, pinching edges together to seal. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown. Remove from oven, transfer to platter, and serve with bread or crackers.
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Page 20
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Williston Observer
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April 28, 2022
OBITUARIES It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Glenn David Lacey on April 13, 2022 following a lengthy illness. He was born on December 20, 1943 in Middlebury, VT to Roger E. and Emma (Cowles) Lacey. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1961 and joined the family carpet and flooring business, Roger E. Lacey & Sons in South Burlington. Dad, Mom, Gary and Glenn owned and operated the business for over 50 years until retirement. He married Alea Nyquist on November 21, 1964 and together they raised 3 sons; Shawn, Scott and Shane. Glenn proudly served in the VT Army National Guard. He found joy in coaching his
Glenn David Lacey
sons in summer youth baseball. Glenn had many fond memories of camping trips with neighbors and friends, and fishing with family and guests aboard III Suns. He also enjoyed gardening and stamp collecting. Left to cherish Glenn’s mem-
ory are his wife, Alea; sons Shawn, Scott and Shane; grandchildren Callandra, Chatham, Zayne and Kierra; and the many friends he worked with in the flooring community. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Gary Lacey. A special thanks to UVM Health Network Home Health and Hospice for the nurses and therapists that made Glenn’s care at home possible. We are especially thankful for the assistance of the Williston Fire Department. As per Glenn’s wishes there will be no visitation or services. Arrangements are in care of Corbin and Palmer Funeral Home, 9 Pleasant Street, Essex Junction, VT.
SOLUTION FOUND ON PAGE 24
Leon Lestage A celebration of life for Leon Lestage will be held on Saturday May 7 2022 between 11:00 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Catamount Country Club located at 1400 Mountain View Road, Williston. This is the party he would have planned. Let’s celebrate Leon’s life the way he would have wanted. Come and share your stories. We hope to see you there. Email Leon’s daughter Michelle with any questions at mj05461@yahoo.com.
We Help You Help. When you help care for a loved one, you take care of everything. But are you taking care of yourself? AARP can help with information and useful tips on how you can maintain a healthy life balance, care for your own physical and mental well-being, and manage the challenges of caring for a loved one. Because the better care you take of yourself, the better care you can provide for your loved one. You’re there for them. We’re here for you. Find free Care Guides to support you and your loved one at AARP.org/caregiving
Donate Your Stuff to Help Build Homes! Have gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, or housewares you no longer need? Donate to the Habitat ReStore! Proceeds will help build affordable homes in Chittenden County.
Now accepting clothing!
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Drop donations off, or call 802-857-5296 to schedule a free pickup!
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April 28, 2022
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Williston Observer
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Page 21
OBITUARIES Harold Frances Young Jr., 93, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at Gazebo Senior Living with members of his family by his side. Harold was born in Stowe, Vermont on December 9, 1928, the son of Harold F. Young Sr. and Bessie Clark. He married Pauline (Mickey) Young on July 2, 1950 celebrating 58 years of marriage while raising their three children in Richmond. He developed many mechanical skills including certification as a diesel mechanic first working side by side with his father at the Overrocker Plant in Richmond and later at the Frank W. Whitcomb Construction Company as foreman of the asphalt plant prior to his retirement in 1992. Harold and Mickey were active members of the Richmond community — venturing out with fellow members of the Hale and Hearty Club — grew giant pumpkins for display on their front lawn, were faithful annual ticket holders of the Expos/Lake Monsters baseball team and enjoyed years of watching their grandkids’ sporting events.
Harold F. Young, Jr.
Harold was predeceased by his wife Pauline in 2009. He is survived by his children; Brenda Leible (Paul) of Richmond, Jim Young (Ellen) of Richmond, and John Young (Kerry) of Jericho and grandchildren; Jason (Jenn), Christina (Juan), Maureen (Greg), Alison, Nicholas, Parker and Andrew. He is also survived by six great grandchildren; Ethan, Arabella, Cooper, Wyatt, Gabriella, and Liliana. The oldest of 12 siblings, Harold is survived by his sister Pat Thibodeau of Arizona, brothers Larry
Young (Charlene) of Jericho, and Raymond Young (Jean) of Arizona as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters; Ramona, Ruth (Fran), Dorothy (Roger), Beverly (Jeff), and brothers; Fred, Robert, Richard (Cecile), and Edward (Carol). The family would like to express their deepest appreciation for the care given to Harold, affectionately known as “Poppa”, at Gazebo Senior Living these past five years. No better tribute can be said than how comfortably he felt “at home” and how often he commented about enjoying everyone at Gazebo as his own family. Visiting hours will be held at the Gifford Funeral Home, 22 Depot Street, Richmond, VT on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 between 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. A family graveside service will be held the following day at the Riverview Cemetery in Richmond, VT. Arrangements are in care of Gifford Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 22 Depot Street, Richmond, VT.
Robert “Bob” Alexander Richling Jr.
Robert “Bob” Alexander Richling Jr., 80, of Burlington, died peacefully at home on April 20, 2022 after a brief illness. He was born on March 3, 1942. He is the son of the late Robert and Dorothy (Duclos) Richling. He was predeceased by his wife, Suzanne (Boucher) in 1989; his sister Mary “Nan” Brosseau and brother Lawrence “Mickey” Grogan. He is survived by his two sons Robert Arthur (Denise) of Westford and John Paul (Nicole) of Barre; two daughters Laura (Roger) Barber of Burlington and Bobbijo (Brad) Vail of White River Junction; two sisters Sandra “Jean” Richling of Milton and Betty Desorda of Hendersonville, NC; 13 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren and many nieces; nephews and in-laws. Bob had a love for the NY Yankees and was an avid bowler. His pastimes included hunting,
fishing, camping and coaching for little league baseball. His greatest passion was his family, especially all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Funeral services were held on Monday, April 25, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at St Mark’s Roman Catholic Church with interment following at New Mount Calvary Cemetery. Donations can be made in Bob’s name to: Williston Little League, 377 Brennan Woods Dr., Williston VT, 05495.
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Williston Observer
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April 28, 2022
Live reptiles to visit library Meet a snake, lizard and other reptiles from 802 Reptiles at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 30. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO
The Dorothy Alling Memorial Library is open for in-person service during the following hours: • Monday/Wednesday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. • Tuesday/Thursday/ Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit www.damlvt.org to place holds, apply for a card, renew materials, get programming updates and access digital offerings. Public wifi is available 24/7 from the patio. The library is now a mask-optional space. If you need help accessing materials or services, please call 878-4918 or email daml@ damlvt.org.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Why not have a job you love ? Join our dedicated team and together we’ll build a community where everyone participates and belongs. Positions include a $500 sign on bonus, a strong benefits package and the opportunity to work at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont” System Administrator: Provide I.T. support, oversee the electronic health records system and ensure all systems are up to date and working smoothly. Experience and/or certifications in a variety of information technology systems required. Direct Support Professional: Provide 1:1 supports to help individuals reach their goals. Full and part time positions available starting at $18/hr.
Paddleboard & Kayak staff Spend your summer on the beaches of Burlington helping people enjoy water sports on Lake Champlain. PaddleSurf Champlain is seeking reliable help to run our rental/tour/lesson locations this summer. We operate at North Beach and Oakledge Park. Must be customerservice focused. Paddleboard and kayak experience preferred. Full-time and part-time positions available. Call or email to apply: (802) 881-4905 jason@paddlesurfchamplain.com
Service Coordinator: Continue your career in human services in a compassionate & fun environment by providing case management and help individuals create and realize goals. Compensation package is $45k annually plus mileage and on call stipend. Shared Living Provider: Open your home to someone with an intellectual disability or autism and open a whole world to them, and to you. There are a variety of opportunities available that could be the perfect match for you and your household. Residential Direct Support Professional: Work just two days, receive full benefits and have five days off each week! Provide supports to an individual in their home and in the community in 24h shifts including asleep overnights in a private, furnished bedroom. Starting wage is $18/hr. Employment Specialist: Be a part Vermont’s leading supported employment program and help individuals discover their career path. The successful candidate will demonstrate reliability, strong communication skills, and the ability to solve problems effectively and professionally. Starting wage $19.50/hr. Make a career making a difference and join our team today! EOE https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/
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YOUTH PROGRAMS Children in fourth grade and younger must be supervised by someone over 16 years of age. Register for programs online at www.damlvt.org or by calling 878-4918. APRIL STORYWALK ON THE GREEN “A Chair for My Mother” by Vera B. Williams. Stroll and share a story on the Town Green. LEGO TIME Thursday, April 28, 3-4 p.m. Enjoy the library’s LEGO collection. LIVE REPTILES PROGRAM Saturday, April 30, 11 a.m.12 p.m. Meet a snake, lizard and more from 802 Reptiles. ONLINE COMICS WORKSHOP Mondays, May 2 and 9, 4-5 p.m. Learn to draw comics with cartoonist Marek Bennett, then share your stories the following week. STORY TIME ON THE GREEN Tuesdays, May 3 and 10, 10:3011 a.m. Join Danielle for outdoor stories, rhymes and songs. AFTER-SCHOOL LEGO TIME AND GAMES Wednesday, May 4, 2 p.m. Grades K and up. Play with the library’s collection of board games and LEGOs. PRESCHOOL MUSIC AND PLAYTIME Thursday, May 5, 10:30-11 a.m. Birth to age 5. Sing and dance with local musician Linda Bassick, then stay to play on the library patio. INDOOR PRESCHOOL STORY TIME Monday, May 9, 10:30-11 a.m. Join Bonnie for stories, songs and a craft. AFTER-SCHOOL MOVIE Wednesday, May 11, 2-4 p.m. Watch a PG-rated movie at the library.
MULTI-AGE PROGRAMS READ TO A DOG Thursday, May 5, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Read a snippet of your favorite story or just hang out with Lola the therapy dog. Call 878-4918 to register for a time slot. GREEN-UP DAY Saturday, May 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Stop by the library table on the Town Green to see what’s new. Enjoy a green story at 10:30 a.m. FRENCH CONVERSATION FOR ALL Saturday, May 14, 10:30-11:30 see LIBRARY NOTES page 23
April 28, 2022
Library notes continued from page
an invitation, unless online registration is specified.
22
a.m. Join Romain Feuillette for informal conversation. All abilities and ages. Register once for all sessions.
PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Online programs are held via Zoom. Email programs@ damlvt.org or call 878-4918 for
ONLINE MEDITATION Fridays in April and May, 1212:30 p.m. Maryellen Crangle leads a Zoom meditation. SPANISH CONVERSATION ONLINE Wednesday, May 4, 4-5 p.m. Join our guided conversation. All levels welcome. Register once for all sessions. FOSTER CARE BOOK
DISCUSSION Wednesday, May 4, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join DAML and the South Burlington Public Library for a conversation about “Keep the Doors Open: Lessons Learned from a Year of Foster Parenting” by Kristin Berry. Connect with others and learn about the role of foster families in the community. Copies available from the library. MAH-JONGG Friday, May 6, 1-3 p.m. Come
to the library to play the classic tile-based game. All skill levels welcome. ONLINE CURRENT EVENTS DISCUSSION Wednesday, May 11, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet with others via Zoom to discuss the topics of the day. COOK THE BOOK Wednesday, May 11, 12-1 p.m. Prepare a recipe from the featured cookbook “To Asia,
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Williston Observer
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Page 23
With Love” by Hetty McKinnon and share it at our potluck. Sign up at the library when you select your recipe. AFTER HOURS BOOK CLUB Wednesday, May 11, 6:307:30 p.m. Join us at the Hinesburg Public House to discuss “Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk” by Kathleen Rooney. Available in print or as an eAudiobook in hoopla. Register by May 6 by emailing programs@damlvt. org.
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Williston Observer
•
April 28, 2022
McClure Foundation promises free college degree at CCV
PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 20
SUDUKO SOLUTION
Page 24 •
CROSSWORD SOLUTION PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19
All Vermont students who are currently in grades 8-11 can now count on a free associate degree at the Community College of Vermont the year after high school graduation thanks to a partnership between CCV’s Early College Program and the McClure Foundation. The “Free Degree Promise” will cover tuition and fees after any federal and state financial aid, and provide enhanced career and education advising as well as stipends to help with books, transportation and other costs associated with college. CCV’s Early College program allows Vermont high school seniors the option to complete their last year of high school and their first year of college at the same time, earning college credits that also count toward graduation from high school. The free degree program builds on that to give students the chance to earn an associate degree of their choosing the year after high school. In addition to the high school graduating classes 2023-2026, high school seniors from the Class of 2022 who are currently enrolled in Early College at CCV are also eligible. “Young people deserve a degree they can count on and afford,” said Barbara Benedict, president of the McClure Foundation. “By guaranteeing this pathway through Early College to a free degree at CCV, we are telling Vermont’s young people we believe in them and we believe in their futures.”
Julia Light is participating in Early College during her senior year at Twinfield High School and encourages her peers to take advantage of the opportunity.“Take the free Early College year because it will help you in the long run,” she said. “I know that Early College has helped me decide what I want to do, so that’s helped me a lot.” Light is completing a certificate in cybersecurity fundamentals during her Early College year, which she says will enable her to get started in her chosen career field while she pursues a bachelor’s degree. “Early College in and of itself can be really beneficial, and taking that a step further and allowing people to finish a degree would be really helpful for some people,” said CCV student OJ Daring. “To get those two years, and not be in debt, and get farther … it opens a lot of doors and opportunities if (students) are able to get an associate degree.” CCV is an open-admissions college with 12 locations and online learning options. High school students enrolled in Early College receive academic advising as they navigate the transition from high school to college and begin exploring career options. People interested in the free degree program will have 11 associate degree programs to choose from. Credits can transfer to four-year programs within the Vermont State Colleges System as well as to UVM,
Champlain College and other colleges and universities throughout Vermont and beyond. “This is an incredible gift to Vermonters,” said CCV President Joyce Judy. “The promise of an affordable college education is life-changing for students and a game-changer for the state as more Vermonters will have the education they need for the jobs that are available and being created. We are grateful to the McClure Foundation for their partnership in striving to make accessible postsecondary education a reality.” The McClure Foundation is an affiliate of the Vermont Community Foundation, which is also partnering in this promise by providing funding from the Vermont Covid-19 Response Fund to help CCV administer and evaluate the program. “For too long, the state of Vermont’s underfunding of public higher education has led to high tuition prices and the perception among many young Vermonters that they can’t afford college,” said Dan Smith, president and CEO of the Vermont Community Foundation. “The responsibility to change that perception is on state policymakers. But at a time when young people are questioning their futures and when Vermont stands to benefit from their talent, we see an opportunity to provide hope.” To learn more about the Free Early Degree promise, visit ccv.edu/ freedegree.
Bringing readers tips and resources for their homes and gardens.
Want to see your business in the best local guide to spring home projects in some of Vermont’s fastest growing areas? Ads will be grouped with a special banner and editorial content in the May 5 and May 19 editions. Advertising deadline is the Thursday before publication. Discounted rates and half-price color. Contact Rick at rick@willistonobserver.com or 802-373-2136