Williston Observer 11/17/2022

Williston

ECRWSS PRSRT STD US Postage

PAID

Permit #15 Williston,VT 05495 POSTAL CUSTOMER

NOVEMBER 17, 2022

WILLISTON’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1985

WWW.WILLISTONOBSERVER.COM

Handling high drivers in the retail cannabis era ‘We have no ability to detect it at roadside’

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

Vermont’s retail cannabis market is just weeks old, and if other states where shops have been open for years are an indication, Vermont’s roads are about to get more hazardous.

According to St. Michael’s College psychology professor Ari Kirshenbaum, data from early adopting states Colorado and Washington show an increase in car crashes after cannabis shops opened. Kirshenbaum has studied the effects of cannabis impairment and developed a mobile app with a National Science Foundation grant that illustrates how cannabis consumption affects driving ability.

Deb Beckett bench dedicated

BY SUSAN COTE Observer staff It is perhaps fitting that each year Veterans Day shortly precedes Thanksgiving. As we enter a season of gratitude, we remem-

“I want it to become as taboo to smoke and drive as it is to drink and drive,” he said during a presentation of his research at the college earlier this month.

But for law enforcement trying to hold people accountable and create a deterrence to driving high, there isn’t as reliable a detection tool as there is for drinking and driving. Devices that measure blood-alcohol content (BAC) add strong evidence to underpin driving under the influence (DUI) charges. There are no reliable breath, saliva or blood tests to detect cannabis impairment, Kirshenbaum said.

“There will be no BAC for THC — not now, not ever,” he said. “We have no ability to really detect it at roadside.”

Without “breathalyzer”-style

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL LAMONTAGNE/VTSPORTSIMAGES.COM

Veterans’ service honored

ber all those who serve or have served to defend our country. Our veterans come from every ethnic, gender and socioeconomic group and include those native born and those who arrived as immigrants.

They have in common their willingness to protect our democratic nation in peace and in times of conflict.

sa le

3-day

Sale Hours: Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5, Sun 11-4

CVU football players celebrate the school’s first-ever state football championship Saturday in Rutland after the Redhawks defeated Middlebury with a last-second goal line stand. For more from the game, see page 20.

CVU’s girls soccer team also took home a state title over the weekend (see page 21).

see CANNABIS page 2

There’s tons more on Sale November 25-27!

Barre, Williston, St. Albans, Plattsburgh

Gridiron glory

Black Friday Sale Friday thru Sunday!

Sale in-stores and online at LennyShoe.com. No special orders, no rainchecks, limited to on hand inventory. Styles vary by store. While supplies last.

In our town of Williston, there is a small park that sits between Town Hall and the Town Hall Annex. It features a star-shaped granite war memorial fronted by a patio, which is gradually being filled with bricks inscribed with the names of veterans honored by families and friends.

This Veterans Day, four new

Select Darn Tough Socks

40%

OFF

bricks were in place to honor veterans Troy Lee O’Brien, Maxine Rosenthal, Kenneth C. Schaeffler and Arthur F. Tuthill. An observance hosted by the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club last Friday recognized those veterans and 31 others whose names are currently represented in the patio.

One of those bricks is dedicat-

Bogs Footwear

25% OFF

ed to Deb Beckett — Vermont National Guard veteran, former town clerk and longtime Rotary member. Beckett, who succumbed in 2020 to complications from cancer she developed after exposure to toxic burn pits during her two tours in Iraq, was honored at the event this year with a new granite see VETERANS page 3

20% OFF ONE REGULAR PRICED ITEM

In-Stores Only

Friday thru Sunday

November 25-27th

*BKF22*

Offer valid 11/25/22-11/27/22 on regular priced in-store items only. Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase and can’t be combined with other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon not valid at the Outlet Store or online. No cash value.

Exclusive Darn Tough and Skida items, Yeti, Sitka & Gun Safes excluded. WO

Page 2 •

Williston Observer

Cannabis continued from page

•

November 17, 2022

1

detection technology, police are left with observational protocols such as pupil dilation, eyelid tremors, blood pressure and balance tests to underpin what they call “DUIdrugs” charges. Officers spend weeks of training on these methods to become “drug recognition experts” (DREs).

The Williston Police Department has two trained DREs on staff — Officer Matt Cohen and Officer Brad Miller — according to Lt. Josh Moore. When a driver is stopped on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, either Cohen or Miller is called in to evaluate the suspect. If they aren’t available, a call for a DRE from a neighboring department is put out.

“If somebody is under the suspicion of DUI-drugs and that person does not pass roadside testing, that person is brought back to our office and Brad or Matt go through their DRE exam,” Moore explained. “If you’re not a DRE, there are a lot of things that a typical officer is not trained in. There’s a reason these folks are considered experts in that field. They are really versed in it, and they can usually pinpoint what kind of a narcotic an individual is on just based on their evaluation.”

Moore is not sure whether the retail

cannabis market will lead to increased impaired driving. Already this year, DUI arrests in Williston — both for alcohol and drug impairment — have spiked significantly, he said. As of Nov. 1, the department has more than doubled the number of DUI arrests it’s made compared to all of 2021 (76 so far this year; 31 in 2021). This year’s amount is also, in 10 months, ahead of all of 2020 (52 DUI arrests).

“There’s a reason these folks are considered experts in that field …

They can usually pinpoint what kind of a narcotic an individual is on just based on their evaluation.”

Lt. Josh Moore Williston Police Department

“That could be due to us having more officers on staff,” Moore said. “We’re finally fully staffed so there’s more officers on the road.”

According to Kirshenbaum’s research, cannabis impairment lasts up to five hours after consumption and can persist after the

GIFT CARDS! GIFT CARDS! Farmhouse Group gift cards are a most perfect holiday gift.

Order online at FarmhouseTG.com Gift cards valid at The Farmhouse Tap & Grill, Guild Tavern, Pascolo Ristorante, and El Cortijo Taqueria.

feeling of intoxication wears off. Impairment includes slower reaction time, decreased attention span, decreased road- and lane-tracking ability (e.g., following curves and staying in lanes) and increased risk-taking. He said someone under the influence of cannabis is 2-to-6 times more likely to be in a car crash than a sober driver, which is not as drastic as alcohol impairment, when a driver is 6-to-13 times more likely to crash, he said.

Kirshenbaum noted that there is a dangerous perception that it’s OK to drive while high. And with the new retail market, there is a lack of understanding about the different THC concentrations in different products. There are also more inexperienced users — new and returning users coming into the market now that the drug is easier to obtain.

Kirshenbaum said people start to think they are OK to drive about 90 minutes after cannabis consumption. He advises people to wait five hours.

“Initially, 30 minutes after smoking, people understand that they shouldn’t be driving,” he said. “But something happens in that time after you’ve used, and maybe you’re not feeling as intoxicated anymore. I call that the danger zone. Impairment persists longer than intoxication does.”

Community tree lighting set for Dec. 4 The annual Williston Community Tree Lighting is scheduled for 4:305:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Town Gazebo in the village.

Sponsored by the Williston Federated Church and the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club, the event will include the lighting of the tree, Christmas carol singalongs, cookies and hot cocoa. The SD Ireland holiday truck will be on hand.

Attendees are asked to bring a donation of new hats, mittens, gloves or socks for the Williston Community Food Shelf.

November 17, 2022

Veterans continued from page

1

bench donated by the Rotary Club.

Daughter Ellie Beckett spoke of her mother’s life of service to the Guard and to the town, including her role on Election Day, describing it as “something quite akin to her personal Superbowl.

“Mom took a lot of pride in overseeing the elections each year and relished the opportunity to help community members exercise their civic duty. This would have been a good week for her.”

She also thanked community members for donating to the Staff Sergeant Deborah Beckett Memorial Fund for Burn Pits 360, an organization dedicated to assisting veterans suffering the effects of toxic exposures. The nonprofit was instrumental in

getting the PACT Act — a law expanding health care benefits and who is entitled to coverage — passed earlier this year on a bipartisan basis by Congress.

“While it doesn’t take away the inevitable health consequences, pain and lives cut short due to the U.S. Military’s use of toxic burn pits, (the PACT Act) does mean that those struggling with health issues due to exposure will not have the significant burden of their health care costs weighing them down when they should be focused on their families and health,” said Beckett.

Other event speakers included Rev. Kimberly Hornung-Marcy, who gave the invocation; Rotary Club President Sally Stockwell-Metro; Rotary Club member Phil Stevens; Navy veteran Charlie Magill; and Town Manager Erik Wells.

Ways to support and honor veterans BRICKS TO HONOR VETERANS

BURN PIT EXPOSURE

Those interested in recognizing a veteran with an inscribed brick installed at the town war memorial may contact the Rotary Club at RotaryClubofWillistonVT@gmail.com.

Visit www.BurnPits360.org to learn more about how the use of burn pits has affected those who served in Afghanistan and Iraq and to donate.

VERMONT VETS TOWN HALL

Support Warriors S.O.A.R. (Support, Outreach, Assistance and Recovery), an organization based in Shelburne whose mission is to assist in the healing and reintegration of wounded veterans. Online at www.WarriorsSOAR.org.

Participate as a speaker or listener at town hall events aimed at increasing understanding between veterans and non-veterans. Online at www.vtvetstownhall.org.

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 3

COUNTER CLOCKWISE from top right: Rev. Kimberly Hornung-Marcy, center, offers the invocation for Williston’s Veterans Day observance last Friday, while Williston-Richmond Rotary Club President Sally Stockwell-Metro, left, and former Town Manager Rick McGuire look on.

Stockwell-Metro unveils a memorial bench dedicated to veteran and longtime town employee, Deb Beckett.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY SUSAN COTE The children of Deb Beckett, Sean and Ellie Beckett, sit on the newly installed bench dedicated to their mother, which faces the war memorial located in the small park between Town Hall and the Town Hall Annex.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO BY SALLY STOCKWELL-METRO

WARRIORS S.O.A.R.

W I L L I S T O N

OPTOMETRY

may all

bee fed ONE JAR OF HONEY = ONE MEAL

Our raw honey is a sweet and simple way to give back this holiday season.

Buy online or at our distillery shop.

Need an eye exam?

Call us today!

Every jar of honey sold = a meal donated to the Vermont Foodbank.

We can help you with eye glasses, sun glasses, contact lenses and all your eye care needs.

(from 11/1 - 12/31)

Welcoming new and returning patients.

We accept most insurances.

Thomas H Clark OD | Nicholas P Marconi OD 33 Blair Park Rd., Williston 802-862-1947 • www.willistonoptometrist.com

DINE-IN & TAKE OUT

VIA ONLINE ORDERING

116 G in La n e, Mont pelier, VT | Visit us and shop: BARRHILL.COM

Shelburne Road, S. Burlington Maple Tree Place, Williston

GetBlissBee.com #getblissbee

Page 4 •

Williston Observer

•

November 17, 2022

‘Shelters aren’t the answer’

New COTS director seeks lasting solutions on homelessness

BY PATRICK CROWLEY VTDigger

Jonathan Farrell, the new executive director of the Committee on Temporary Shelter in Burlington, sits in his office last Wednesday.

PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

Jonathan Farrell admits that the name of the organization he is about to lead creates a misconception.

The Committee on Temporary Shelter, a Burlington-based agency focused on helping people experiencing homelessness, has grown since its founding in 1982, Farrell said. The work it does has evolved beyond the “temporary” part of its name

into permanent solutions.

“Shelters aren’t the answer,” Farrell said in an interview.

“Housing is the answer.”

Farrell, who has worked at COTS for 11 years, takes over as executive director this week, replacing longtime director Rita Markley, who announced she was retiring earlier this year.

Markley said COTS conducted an external search, and Farrell, who most recently served as director of facilities and operations, emerged as the best candidate.

“It makes it a lot easier for me to leave this organization I’ve loved and built for 30 years,

GET AN EDGE ABOVE THE REST! Have Ski & Snowboard Express in Richmond put a world class edge on your ski and snowboard gear, all at local prices:

BASIC TUNE Stone ground tuning • Ceramic disc edge finish • Buff-on hot wax

$49.95

BINDING CALIBRATION This adjustment should be made yearly for your safety!

$34.95

SNOWBOARD LEASE Packages start at $159.95 Open daily 10am –7pm Santa arrives Friday, November 25 at 11am!

JUNIOR SKI LEASE Packages start at $99.00 Main Street, Richmond Open 8 to 6 Daily

434-6327 | 863-FAST UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP!

www.skiexpressvt.com

Mobile Tire Sales & Installation Convenient, professional service on-site at your home or business Multi vehicle discounts available Schedule your appointment at www.snowtirexpress.com 802-989-2061 www.snowtirexpress.com

knowing that someone with his experience and his heart and his talent will be stepping into my former role,” Markley said.

In addition to Farrell’s managerial experience, Markley said, “he also has a deep understanding of the people who need us, and that’s invaluable.”

The organization provides emergency shelter for individuals and families, permanent housing and services to help those experiencing homelessness find and keep their housing.

“It’s a pivotal moment for COTS,” Farrell said. “It’s a leadership change after a long tenure, which in and of itself can be a challenge for any agency or organization. And we’re facing a lot of new pressures in the community that we haven’t seen before.”

Farrell will take over at a crucial point in the fight against homelessness in Burlington.

Mayor Miro Weinberger has detailed a plan to “end chronic homelessness,” and as part of that, the city is planning to open a community of “pod” shelters by the end of November, providing temporary housing for up to 40 people. Champlain Housing Trust will run the pods, currently under construction on Elmwood Avenue.

Farrell said he is looking at ways that COTS can help support people who move into the pods, which could include making referrals to the organization’s Waystation, an emergency overnight shelter. He also suggested members of the COTS team could assist people living in the pods to find permanent housing.

Beyond the housing crisis, Farrell cited other challenges, noting that mental health and substance use disorder have been growing problems during his time at COTS. Farrell said in particular he observed an uptick of people with opioid addictions that “become so severe so quickly, which is very different.”

But he said that COTS, which focuses on housing, can’t solve those issues alone. It partners with other agencies, such as the Howard Center, to provide help when needed to “see that there’s hope and there’s people who care.”

Farrell grew up in the Philadelphia area, he said, and came see COTS page 5

November 17, 2022

COTS continued from page

4

to Vermont after falling in love with the state during a camping trip to Groton State Forest.

“Back then,” he said, “I had a small car, a little snowboard, a dog and a girlfriend and I figured that was a good time to move.”

Before joining COTS, Farrell had been working in architectural salvage. COTS at that time was seeking someone “entrepreneurial” to grow its Housing Resource Center, a service that helps move people experiencing homelessness into housing.

Following his work to expand the housing programs, Farrell took on the new position of director of facilities and operations. He oversaw COTS’ move to its renovated headquarters on North Avenue and its work on a housing development expected to break ground soon. That project, to be located behind a family shelter on Main Street, would create 16 units of housing.

To further expand its permanent housing offerings, COTS will need to take a “multiple-pronged approach,” Farrell said, including both new construction and making “inroads to existing housing” through partnerships with landlords.

Farrell has a background in historic preservation and served on the board for Preservation Burlington.

Rebekah Mott, COTS’ director of development and communications, cited his role in making many of COTS’ facilities well-integrated with their surrounding neighborhoods. Mott said that is particularly important when considering a family shelter where a child might feel stigmatized for being in a shelter.

When asked about the future of COTS, Farrell said he doesn’t plan to go it alone.

“It’s not all my vision,” Farrell said. “We really want to get a lot of input from our staff to see what we’re missing.”

That staff will soon be saying goodbye to Markley, who Farrell said has been a great leader and a mentor for him.

“I’ve learned so much from Rita,” Farrell said. “And one of my hopes is that I can also be that kind of mentor and role model for our staff moving forward.”

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 5

GlobalFoundries warns employees of job cuts

BY FRED THYS VTDigger

GlobalFoundries, the multinational company that owns a giant semiconductor plant in Essex Junction, sent a memo last week to employees around the world warning that it intends to reduce its workforce.

“Based on the current microeconomic environment, we are taking a very disciplined, proactive approach to contain costs, and, like many in our industry and across the technology sector, we too are initiating a hiring freeze and taking a set of focused actions to selectively reduce our workforce,” GlobalFoundries spokesperson Gina DeRossi said.

DeRossi cited “rapidly devel-

oping uncertainties in the global economy,” including inflation, elevated energy costs and rapid in-

at the Essex Junction plant would be affected.

The company is the largest pri-

“Based on the current microeconomic environment, we are taking a very disciplined, proactive approach to contain costs … We too are initiating a hiring freeze and taking a set of focused actions to selectively reduce our workforce.”

Gina DeRossi GlobalFoundries spokesperson

terest rate increases. She said the company would not disclose any additional details at this time.

It is not clear if any of the more than 2,000 employees who work

vate employer in Vermont, according to the Essex Junction plant’s general manager, Ken McAvey.

It also has factories in New York, Germany and Singapore.

GlobalFoundries recently secured $30 million in federal funding to accelerate development in Essex Junction of semiconductors that would allow devices to connect more quickly to the internet and power electric vehicles.

Last week, before warning employees of job cuts, GlobalFoundries announced that it would cut costs by $100 million next year and another $100 million after that in anticipation of a global decline in demand for semiconductors as the world economy slows down.

The Vermont Public Utility Commission recently granted GlobalFoundries permission to set up its own electric utility that would sell power directly to the Essex Junction plant as the company seeks to cut energy costs.

Page 6 •

Williston Observer

•

November 17, 2022

GUEST COLUMN

Improving school facilities with solidarity in mind

BY ELIJAH HAWKES When I was a principal, I used to receive big, glossy purchasing catalogs in my mailbox.

It wasn’t my area of expertise, but I was always interested in the furniture and facilities catalogs — because how you design a space has a big impact on how people behave in the space.

I’ve been thinking of this recently as it relates to discussions about locker rooms and students of diverse identities. The companies that design locker rooms are thinking about this too, as well as other ways to improve the learning environment.

In one extensive online catalog called “SchoolFix” you’ll find a little of everything, from

Early Advertising

Deadline

for Thanksgiving Week.

Please submit ad reservations by

Thursday,

from all of us at

November 17, 5 p.m.

Williston

Serving our community since 1985

Williston’s Community Newspaper Since 1985

www.willistonobserver.com

“must-have” equipment “to prevent break-ins” to bulletin boards with “professional fit and finish.” You can also find this guidance about inclusivity: “It’s more important than ever that locker rooms be designed with inclusiveness in mind,” including more privacy for bathrooms and changing rooms. The catalog rightly notes, “Schools need to make sure that all groups of students feel safe and secure no matter where they are on campus, especially locker rooms.”

Locker rooms are just one of many areas where facilities need to catch up with current expectations and norms. Many locker rooms haven’t even caught up to the norms of past decades. Very few kids used the group showers when I was in high school in the early 1990s. But then, as now, many locker rooms have just a few simple sections: the big locker area, the big group shower, and the bathroom stalls with doors that don’t allow full privacy.

Whether it was generations ago or today, no matter the grade level or identity, young people expect more privacy when it comes to changing in locker rooms and using bathrooms.

Some Vermont schools working on matters of gender inclu-

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

BILLING INQUIRIES Michael McCaffrey office@willistonobserver.com

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

A publication of Twin Ponds Publishing LLC MEMBER:

BANG

Burlington Area Newspaper Group

tain discussions on improving school facilities could be a productive way of channeling people’s thoughts about locker rooms, access and privacy.

I’m not saying we should avoid important conversations — and listening sessions — that affirm the humanity of queer and trans students. They deserve acceptance, love, and — as people in our communities targeted for harm — they deserve support and protection, too.

Elijah Hawkes is the director of school leadership programs at the Upper Valley Educators Institute and author of “Woke Is Not Enough: School Reform for Leaders With Justice in Mind.” He lives in Middlesex.

The Williston Community Food Shelf is hoping to collect

CLASSIFIED ADS Deadline is Friday 5 p.m. There is a fee for business, real estate, help wanted and legal ads. Free classifieds must be 25 words or fewer and are printed on a space available basis.

PUBLISHER Susan T. Cote susan@willistonobserver.com

Centering the needs of the vulnerable is often the best way to meet the needs of all.

And a solidarity dividend awaits us, because centering the needs of the vulnerable is often the best way to meet the needs of all. This is the case whether we’re talking about school meals, reading instruction, culturally relevant teaching, or upgrading school facilities for all-gender inclusivity.

Students will be grateful if we consider other facilities upgrades while we’re at it, such as water fountains that just trickle, dark parking lots that need lighting, and those south-facing classrooms that swelter in the spring without air conditioning.

Teachers and paraprofessionals will appreciate such improvements, too.

Intentionally seeking common ground is important in a polarized time. Investments in public infrastructure, like improving school facilities, can be a way to work toward solidarity and to create healthy learning and living environments for every child in town.

It’s Turkey Time Again!

ADVERTISING SPACE DEADLINE Friday at 5 p.m. for the next Thursday issue rick@willistonobserver.com, 802-373-2136

SUBMISSIONS & LETTERS Deadline is Monday noon for Thursday issue. News/ story tips are welcomed. Letters to the Editor must be 300 words or fewer and should include your name, address and a daytime phone number so that we can verify the letter’s author.

sivity and common spaces have been targeted by national media that tell flawed and incomplete stories, increasing local feelings of derision and division. But even school communities not in the national spotlight are bound to experience strong emotions when it comes to such topics.

School officials may be simply following state regulations, but local communities can still become divided. Focusing cer-

150 turkeys

for our clients for Thanksgiving!

Drop off turkeys Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022 from 8-11 a.m.

400 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 130 (down behind the Williston Coffee Shop)

WILLISTON COMMUNITY

FOOD SHELF TURKEY PICKUP:

Alternatively feel free to donate gift cards ($15 are best) from local grocery stores. Drop off, or mail to: Williston Community Food Shelf at P.O. Box 1605, Williston, VT 05495

Clients wishing to pickup a turkey are also welcome Nov. 19 from 8-11 a.m.

November 17, 2022

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The ‘specific plan’ process has no benefit, substantially We would like to thank the Williston Observer for its coverage of the plan to develop the Glaser property (“Glasers propose 100 homes,” Nov. 3). It has been informative and illuminating for the residents of our town.

The decision to consider a specific plan process for the development of this property at the corner of Mountain View and Old Stage roads has no benefit for Williston in the long-term.

Williston’s residential growth has benefited from careful and gradual planning. This has allowed for feedback, consideration of impact and the ability to adapt. The proposed process not only shrinks the time for considered growth, but also pushes developments that contain problematic elements, including traffic flow, road infrastructure and low to no affordable housing. This is even

as other currently planned and approved developments have had to go through substantially more complex processes.

In essence, the specific plan process sets a precedent to unnecessarily weaken the town’s tested growth management method with limited opportunities for public input.

As anyone who uses Route 2 and Route 2A knows, Mountain View, North Williston, and/or Old Stage roads have high traffic volumes. Adding 100 homes concurrently to over 200 homes already approved nearby will probably overload these roads’ ability to conduct and support even higher traffic.

Residents whose children or relatives attend our public schools know the extensive efforts being made to meet staffing and space requirements for learning. A rapid increase in student population, as opposed to a gradual increase, could disrupt the school system in an enduring way.

While we do not oppose further growth in Williston, jettisoning the current regulations and measured development pace will not allow for smart growth that is inclusive of a wide range of future residents.

Chris Sedic-Lawton Secretary Heritage Meadows Homeowners’ Association Board

A caring community What a gift of community and care we have in Williston.

The Williston Federated Church coordinated a Thanksgiving Food Drive, and we would like to thank all of those who made it a success. Together we provided 35 area families with food for Thanksgiving Day, including gift cards and food for the week that kids are on vacation. On top of that, we delivered 200 pounds of food to the Williston Community Food Shelf.

Members of the church, including the youth group and members of the local Scout troop #692, received, sorted and packaged the hundreds and hundreds of pounds of donated food.

We would like to thank Hannaford and Healthy Living for donating reusable grocery bags.

We would like to thank the Williston elementary schools for receiving and distributing the bags of food. And we want to thank all who provided support in the community-wide effort.

It took all of us! Bless you and have a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

Gary Lewis Williston Federated Church

Campaign gratitude Thank you, Williston, for allowing me to campaign to be your representative in the Vermont House. Thank you for your consideration and your votes.

Though I am disappointed by

the outcome, I truly appreciated the opportunity to hear from so many of you over the past weeks.

My intent in running was to offer a change and a choice to Williston voters, I believe I did that. The most respectful and honorable voice is your vote. The town has spoken and I accept and respect the results. My thanks to everyone who voted.

Special thanks to Town Clerk Sarah Mason, the town clerk staff and the many Election Day volunteers who made voting a smooth and friendly operation.

I am proud of the campaign we ran, and I am so very grateful for my many supporters and volunteers who gave of their precious time and financial support.

My congratulations to Erin Brady and Angela Arsenault on their win. I truly appreciate the civility and respect that was evident throughout the campaign.

Best of luck to you both in Montpelier.

Bruce Roy Williston

We’re in your corner for Thanksgiving Seasonal Sides • House-made Pecan and Pumpkin Pies Holiday menu online! Place your order today.

Holiday Schedule

OPEN: Nov. 21, 22 & 23 (8 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

CLOSED: Nov. 24 Thanksgiving Day OPEN: Nov. 25 (8 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

Nov. 26 & 27 (8 a.m. - 3 p.m.)

300 Cornerstone Drive • Suite 240 • Williston • www.chefscornervermont.com • 802-878-5524

Page 8 •

Williston Observer

•

November 17, 2022

WILLISTON:

Pay as you throw

BUSINESS

HUB

OF

Residential waste hauler rewards sustainability

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

Tommy Lyga, Williston entrepreneur, is co-founder of Curb Resource Collection.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

MaxMara Halston Shoshanna Hutch Soia &Kyo Alice & Olivia

Brochu Walker Joseph Ribkoff Monique L'hullier Mac Duggal

A new Williston company is taking a compost-first approach to residential waste management, and in the process giving people an incentive to reduce their landfill-bound trash.

Curb Resource Collection was launched in October with a waste hauling truck and a business model that rewards sustainability.

Kristen and Tommy Lyga, a Williston couple, co-founded Curb with their friends from Hinesburg, Brian Somers and Anna Stuart.

A weekly, bi-weekly or monthly compost (food scrap) collection is included with every subscription on a flat fee. Recycling pickup is also charged on a flat fee. Trash pickup, however, is charged on a per-bag basis. Residents purchase Curb’s stickers to place on their bags bound for the landfill, paying $3 per bag. The less trash, the lower the cost.

VERMONT

Curb also offers compost-only plans.

The service is available to homes in Williston, South Burlington, Burlington and some of Shelburne.

“The pay-as-you-throw model changes your mindset,” explained Somers, who started his waste management career with Green Mountain Compost after graduating from Champlain College. “If you’re filling a bin or not filling a bin, you are paying the same price. But with a pay-by-the-bag program, you are seeing the value of what you’re putting in that trash bin, based on the volume. At $3 per bag, it realigns the mindset of what waste is costing us.”

The two couples were friends during their college years in Burlington between 20092013. They launched a venture together in 2013 that continues on as an annual event in the Adirondacks — the Otis Mountain Get Down music festival.

“That’s a passion project and we found that we work really well together,” Tommy see CURB page 10

November 17, 2022

OPEN every day!

ISTON:

BUSINESS

HUB

OF

VERMONT

Cardio Equipment

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 9

Brett works out for physical and mental wellness.

Spin Studio Weight Room Personal Training Juice Bar

Your goals are our goals!

We make fitness fun!

Join our community today!

www.synergyfitnessvt.net

Bivo water bottles are made of stainless steel and have a unique, high-flow nozzle.

Richmond company makes bike bottle sans plastic

PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER

BY FRED THYS VTDigger

When Carina Hamel was ready to place her daughter in day care, she was trying to teach her to drink out of bottles.

Hamel tried all kinds, but she did not like that the bottles she found were all made out of plastic. If heated in a dishwasher, the plastic can leach, she said. It can also leave a bad taste. And when the bottle wears out, there’s only about a 5 percent chance of the plastic being recycled, according to a recent Greenpeace report.

One day, while living in Portland, Ore., Hamel and her husband, Robby Ringer, were out skiing and talking about what bottles they could use to feed their daughter. They realized that they, too, were drinking out of plastic bottles.

Hamel is a former University of Vermont cross-country skier who was a teammate of Lt. Gov. Molly Gray. Hamel and Ringer are also both passionate cyclists.

They went back to their home that day and started researching bottles for outdoor sports. With

the exception of one made in Italy that was mostly sold in Europe, they could not find a biking bottle on the market that was not made out of plastic. (A biking water bottle differs from other sports bottles in that it fits into a holder on the bike frame and can be handled with one hand so

“We picked Richmond because it is such a huge cycling hub.”

Carina Hamel Bivo founder

that the biker can drink and keep biking at the same time.)

In 2019, they started designing and developing their own plastic-free bike bottle.

When the Covid pandemic hit, they moved from Oregon to western Massachusetts to live with Hamel’s parents, who provided child care for their daughter. They launched Bivo in 2020 out of her parents’ winery.

A year and a half ago, Hamel and Ringer moved to Vermont.

They wanted to locate the company in a town where they could attract talent that understood cycling. They chose Richmond, the home of Rooted Vermont, the annual gravel bike race, and Cochran’s Ski Area, which offers summer mountain biking trails.

“We picked Richmond because it is such a huge cycling hub,” Hamel said. When she was on the UVM cross-country ski team, she would head to Richmond to train on its roads and trails in the summer and fall.

At a June pitch event at Hula in Burlington sponsored by LaunchVT, Hamel recounted how she and Ringer decided on the product.

“We found a hole in the market,” she told the audience.

The bottles are made of metal and cannot be squeezed. Ringer demonstrated Bivo’s gravity-flow system, which, if held above a cyclist’s mouth, delivers a strong stream of water.

Since she and Ringer began their bike bottle research, several other metal bottles have been introduced on the market. see BIVO page 10

426 Industrial Ave. • Suite 180, Williston • 881-0553

Page 10 •

Williston Observer

• November 17, 2022

WILLISTON:

Bivo continued from page

9

But Hamel said that gravity-flow technology is the biggest difference between Bivo and the other bottles.

“Bivo bottles open and close like a normal sport nozzle and pour really quickly and with no air in the stream of water,” Hamel said. “The nozzle system we invented allows riders to

drink on the fly and get enough water.”

Bivo makes 21- and 25-ounce bottles, the former selling for $39.

At customers’ request, Hamel said, Bivo now offers a dirt cap and an insulated bottle.

They sell about half their bottles from their website, with the rest sold at stores that include Outdoor Gear Exchange on Burlington’s Church Street; a few bike shops in or near Richmond; and more than 40 retailers across

BUSINESS the country and in Canada.

So far, Bivo has only two employees in Richmond besides Hamel and her husband. A third works in Portland, Ore. Hamel estimates Bivo will create 13 full-time jobs in Vermont by 2028. The bottles are manufactured in China.

Hamel told the LaunchVT audience that she expects Bivo sales to reach $617,000 this year and predicted a positive cash flow by early 2024. She said she

HUB

OF

VERMONT

was raising capital from friends and family.

Bivo’s target market is avid cyclists, which Hamel defines as people who ride their bikes at least twice a week. She estimates the annual bottle market for those cyclists to be $714 million.

Hamel and her husband plan to grow the company by eventually offering bottles for running, hiking, yoga, golf and soccer.

TOWN & COUNTRY SHEDS LLC Huge Selection Routes 15 & 100, Morrisville, VT • thecharlmontvt.com RESERVATIONS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: 802-888-4242

Custom Built in Vermont

Thanksgiving Buffet

Thursday, November 24, 2022 | 12 - 5pm • Maple Glazed Baked Ham, Roasted Turkey & Roast Pork Loin (Carved to order) • Corn Bread Stuffing, Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Cranberry Sauce, Peas & Onions & Butternut Squash • Salad Bar & Homemade Bread • Selection of Homemade Desserts $24.95 Adults • $10.95 Children

Delivered Fully Assembled

Call Today for a Free Brochure!

2083 North Wolcott Road, Wolcott, V T 05680 802-888-7012 • sales@townandcountryshedsvt.com

ALPINE SHOP V

E

R

M

O

N

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1963

T

59TH Anniversary

SALE Ends Sunday!

HUGE WINTER DEALS ON Skis, Snowboards, Clothing, Outerwear, Socks, Helmets, Goggles, Gloves + More!!

935 Shelburne Road. South Burlington, VT | AlpineShopVT.com

Curb continued from page

8

Curb’s landfill stickers allow customers to pay as they go for landfill-bound trash.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO

Lyga said.

After some career shifts brought on by the pandemic, and with Somers’ background in waste management, the foursome began discussing the residential waste-hauling landscape in Chittenden County, especially in light of Act 148, the law that bans food scraps from the state’s only landfill in Coventry. The law has spawned several food waste collection startups and led existing trash haulers to offer a food waste add-on. Curb’s compost-first approach sets it apart.

“A lot of other haulers out there don’t necessarily include it, so the homeowner is needing to go out and find multiple companies to fill the different services,” Tommy Lyga said. “We include compost in every plan.”

Curb provides full service subscribers with a trash bin, recycling bin and compost bucket, as well as a starter pack of 10 “landfill-bound” stickers for residents to put on their trash bags. Future stickers can be ordered on the Curb website (www. curbyourwaste.com).

The company takes residential trash to the Casella transfer station off Industrial Avenue, recycling to the Chittenden Solid Waste District recycling center in the same area, and food scraps to the Green Mountain Compost facility on Redmond Road.

“The customer can control their monthly (expense) by how much they throw away,” Kristen Lyga said. “It’s giving them the tool to think about the financial and environmental decision about how much waste is leaving their house.”

e

W ho

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 11

the W h

at

Th

November 17, 2022

& the When

Vermont’s ‘most promising jobs’ identified The State of Vermont has released a “Most Promising Jobs” list of occupations that pay above the state median wage of $22.55 per hour and are expected to have at least 500 openings over the next decade. Atop the list are K-12 teachers, bookkeeping and accounting clerks, carpenters and registered nurses.

The full list includes information on median wages, number of projected openings and minimum education requirements.

Energy consultations available for businesses

Efficiency Vermont is offering free on-site energy visits to Vermont businesses of all sizes. The consultations give business owners access to rebate offers, financing solutions

and technical advice to lower energy costs and increase resiliency.

They offer a clear understanding of what systems are wasting energy and money. Financial incentives on lighting, HVAC, weatherization and renovations are available.

Schedule a walkthrough at www. efficiencyvermont.com/bizconsult.

Vermont-based companies.

VCF at Hula will prioritize investing in local startups that have the greatest potential to generate venture returns, create jobs, advance economic activity and make positive change in their industries.

It aims to raise at least $3 million.

VCF launches venture capital fund

Producers of farm and forest products can now apply for federal grants from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act through the Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Initiative. A first round of grants totaling $1 million will be available this year, and a second $1 million round is anticipated in 2023.

Examples of eligible primary production activities are farming, livestock rearing, maple sugaring, dairy production and logging. Applicants will need to demonstrate

The Fund at Hula, a venture capital firm that invests in seed and early-stage technology start-ups, has partnered with the Vermont Community Foundation (VCF) to create a new fund, “VCF at Hula.”

Investment returns from VCF at Hula go toward participating charitable funds, giving VCF fundholders an opportunity to invest charitable assets in growth-stage,

ARPA ag grants available

how their business experienced a negative economic impact due to the Covid pandemic, even if that impact was not sustained.

The deadline to apply is Dec. 16.

Email clare.salerno@vermont.gov or call (802) 917-2637.

BBB warns of jobseeker scams Job-seekers looking for temporary seasonal work around the holidays should be aware of scams, according to the Better Business Bureau. The organization offers the following advice: — Beware of businesses that ask applicants to pay for job supplies, application or training fees. These expenses are the employer’s responsibility.

— Be wary of job offers that don’t require an interview. Even

during the peak hiring season, reputable companies prefer to talk to top job candidates before hiring them.

If a job offer is presented without an interview or is offered only via the internet, question the company’s hiring practices and do a little more digging.

— Be wary of big money for small jobs. If an employer is promising outrageously good wages for what seems like simple tasks such as reshipping packages, stuffing envelopes or answering phones, this is a red flag. These too-good-to-be-true offers are an attempt to steal your personal information.

— Don’t work before you are hired. Before beginning any work, request an offer letter or written confirmation of what the job entails, including an official start date and compensation details.

Truckload Nove Litter Sale 12-2mber 0

In Store Sale Only

Plus, 25% off all litter accessories

2500 Williston Rd, S. Burlington, VT (802)862-5514 2455 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT (802)985-3302 Mon-Fri 10am-6:30pm ; Sat+Sun 9am-5:30pm

Vintage & New Furniture - Home Décor & Accessories Gift Ideas - Design & Organization Services

New Store!

Location 29 Intervale Avenue, Burlington, VT Hours Thursday-Friday-Saturday, Noon-5PM Phone 802-318-0764 Website www.curateanddesign.com

Happy Thanksgiving!

l l a m o r f t a s u f o

&

Rossi Riina r e a l

www.RRVermont.com Email: info@rrvermont.com

Thinking of buying of selling a home?

Call today! 802-448-2604

e s t a t e

62 Merchants Row Williston

Williston Observer

•

November 17, 2022

Vermont is Facing a Public Health Crisis.

FACT: Over 3,687 unique individuals served by First Call for Chittenden County, exceeding last fiscal year by over 6%.

FACT: 96% of ASSIST’s admitted clients were discharged to the community.

FACT: Crisis programs need experienced and passionate individuals committed to the well-being of our community.

In times like this, we all need to work together.

Be a part of the solution: JOIN OUR TEAM. Supervisor II – FCCC Leadership opportunity providing individual and group supervision to staff supporting youth and adults in crisis in Chittenden County

Acute Residential Counselor Adult – ASSIST/ACT 1/Bridge Provide services to clients in psychiatric crisis in short-term residential programs

Clinical Supervisor – ASSIST Offer clinical oversight for adults in crisis at ASSIST crisis stabilization program

Intake Navigator Provide case management to children and adults with a variety of diagnoses

Team Lead - Crisis Stabilization – ACT 1/Bridge Leadership role presenting clinical supervision while providing direct care to clients

Additional positions available.

Visit howardcentercareers.org for more information

OUR MISSION: We help people and communities thrive by providing supports and services to address mental health, substance use, and developmental needs.

t Care Part on

rs ne •

• CE

N

TE

E

Sign-on bonuses available for several positions.

NC

To apply or for more info: 802-488-6946 howardcenter.org

Verm

Page 12 •

RO LE F E XC E L

November 17, 2022 meets on Saturdays in January and February. The hour session will consist of a practice and scrimmage time. Parent volunteers are needed to coach teams. Sign up to coach when registering your child.

GRADE 3-6 BASKETBALL

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

THANK YOU SOCCER COACHES

The Recreation Department would like to thank all the parents and community members who volunteered their time this fall in the Youth Rec Soccer Programs.

They gave of their time for practices and games. Thanks for your time and commitment. Without you there would not be Rec Soccer.

Thank you also to David Antonioli’s Girls 14 and under soccer team for volunteering their time to referee the Saturday games for K-5 grades. The ladies did a great job, and their help was greatly appreciated by all. Thank you also to all parents, grandparents and others who helped support the coaches and referees by being a positive influence.

BASKETBALL REFEREES WANTED

The rec department is looking for basketball referees in January and February for Youth Rec Basketball programs. Referees are needed for grades 1-8. If interested, please contact the rec department at recreation@willistonvt.org.

HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST

This year’s Holiday Decorating Contest will take place in December. It has been a great event and we hope more families will enter. If you have a business and would like to donate a gift basket as a prize, please contact the rec department at recreation@ willistonvt.org.

PROGRAMS PICKUP BASKETBALL/ VOLLEYBALL PROGRAMS

Pickup programs are by pre-registration only. They are not free drop-in programs.

There are programs for men’s 20-plus and 30-plus basketball; and women’s 19-plus basketball and 18-plus volleyball. Register at www.willistonrec.org.

SNOWMOBILE SAFETY

Age 12-plus. This course provides the opportunity to earn the certification necessary to legally operate on Vermont’s statewide snowmobile trails system.

There are separate boys’ and girls’ programs offered if numbers allow. The programs provide the opportunity for youngsters to play and improve their skills. The programs meet twice a week for one hour each time with one practice and one game.

Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child.

GRADE 7-8 BASKETBALL

There is a league for boys’ if the numbers allow. The team meets twice a week for one hour each time with one practice and one game. The league includes teams from

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 13

other rec departments. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child.

LEARN TO SKI/RIDE

Registration is now open for the Learn to Ski/Ride Program. Be sure to register before the early bird discount deadine (Dec. 18) to save. There will be two fitting dates for equipment in late November and early December. You must register your family for a fitting time.

CHESS WIZARDS

Ages 6-12. Join these programs for tons of challenging chess lessons, exciting games and cool prizes. You’ll improve your chess skills, meet new friends and work out your most powerful muscle — your brain.

Instructors: Chess Wizards staff. December 27-29 or Feb. 27-March 3.

Baby-Tested Baby-Approved KID-FRIENDLY CARPETS, RUGS AND OTHER FLOORING

KINDERREC BASKETBALL

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

Each week youngsters will be introduced to a new skill and fun activities that will enhance their learning. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February.

GRADE 1-2 BASKETBALL

This program provides the opportunity for youngsters to learn the game, improve their skills and enjoy playing. This program

THANKSGIVING IS NEXT WEEK! Whether you're gathering is big or small, we've got all the tools you'll need.

5

LO O

pe 1 rat ed Since

98

Fa mily

NED W

LLY O CA

CARPET | HARDWOOD | LAMINATE VINYL | RUGS | WINDOW TREATMENTS

800 Marshall Ave. | Williston | 862-5757 Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Sat.10 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment

KissTheCook.net

72 Church Street • Burlington • 863-4226 6H-KTC111721.indd 1

11/15/21 1:13 PM

www.FlooringAmerica-VT.com

Page 14 •

Williston Observer

• November 17, 2022

OBITUARIES Elinor “Ellie” Morency, artist, retired art teacher and beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, died peacefully on Oct. 27 at home in Williston, with her loving family by her side.

Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, to the late Elinor “Nellie” and Thomas Bowes, Ellie grew up in Salem, Mass., where she met her future husband and love of her life, Dave, for the first time while in elementary school. They would reconnect years later – in 1961 – and marry in 1962.

Ellie attended Emmanuel College on a full scholarship, where she studied English and minored in French and German.

While not part of her formal education, painting was a passion for Ellie since childhood, and she studied privately with several painters in South Carolina,

Elinor “Ellie” Morency,

Virginia and Ohio.

In the early 70s, when she settled in Vermont with Dave and her four children, Ellie returned to school full time to study art education at UVM, earning her teaching certificate in 1978. She began teaching art that year, first in Shelburne and then in St. Albans, until taking up a post in 1983 at Founders Memorial in Essex, where she stayed until her retirement in 2001.

She was a dynamic and passionate teacher who reached beyond the ordinary to inspire and educate her students. In 1999 she was presented with the Vermont Art Educators award by the National Art Education Association, nominated by several colleagues and her principal for her dedication, professionalism and masterful teaching style.

Ellie continued to paint into

retirement and was a member of a painting group made up of much-loved friends, the Monet Mamas, who met every week for many years. Ellie was also an avid reader – she loved mystery novels in particular – and had a passion for the arts in all forms, including music and dancing.

She was a devoted, kind and energetic mother, offering endless love and support while skillfully balancing work and home life. Her creativity, warmth and sense of humor infused her parenting (and grandparenting), making for a home filled with laughter, song and copious crafting projects.

Ellie was predeceased by her husband Dave in 2015, and missed him every day. She is survived by her son David and his wife, Tracy Drake and their son Eamon, of Burlington; son Steve of Williston; daughter Elise Minadeo and husband, John and their children Nick, Marisa and Dominic of Essex; daughter Anne and husband Dave Mulleady, of Co Longford, Ireland; sister-in-law Sylvia Wahl and husband Ted; brother-in-law Joseph Morency and wife Pauline; cousin Joan

White; and several nieces and nephews whom she loved and adored. She was predeceased by siblings Thomas Bowes, Patricia Raynes, Robert Bowes and Linda Aucone, whom she missed greatly.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cheung Wong and Kim Spina, RN, at UVM Medical Center, Nancy Carlson and Lisy McIntee from Home Health & Hospice, Dr. Caitlin Baran and the “jolly good” fellow Dr. Gervais for their compassion and care.

A remembrance of her life was held at All Souls Interfaith Gathering, Shelburne, Nov. 10.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or your favorite charity.

To view a complete obituary please visit www.gregorycremation.com.

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!

REFINANCE YOUR AUTO LOAN & SAVE 1% Cash Back up to $200*

No payments until 2023* At Vermont Federal Credit Union, we can’t plan your next road trip, but we CAN help keep you rolling by refinancing your auto loan at a great rate!

Apply now and you’ll make no payments for the first 90 days. And no worries, our loan process is as smooth as the open road! It’s one of the many benefits of joining our credit union.

Insured by NCUA

Call us now at (888) 252-0202

-or-

Apply online at vermontfederal.org

*The 1% cash back is only available for auto refinances from another financial institution; Maximum $200.00. Loan must be open for 90 days or 1% cash back will be surrendered. 90 days deferred payments dependent on credit qualifications and existing Vermont Federal Credit Union loans are not eligible. Monthly premiums for credit insurance purchased and interest will be added to the loan during the deferred payment term. This promotion cannot be combined with other offers. Must be a member of the Credit Union to obtain a loan. The promotion ends on December 31, 2022.

www.WillistonObserver.com

November 17, 2022

OBITUARIES

•

Page 15

50/50 RAFFLE

sons, Pierre Letourneau and wife Charlene, Ron Letourneau, Travis Letourneau and wife Sara. Her sister Linda Aldrich and husband William, her brother-in-law Gaeton Letourneau and wife Christine, her sisterin-laws Nicole Lafleur and husband Steve, France Letourneau and significant other Pete. Sylvie Perkins and husband Steve, Carmen Columbia and husband Shawn.

In addition, she is survived by many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A celebration of life was held on Sunday, November 13th at the VFW 176 S. Winooski Avenue in Burlington.

In lieu of f lowers, please donate to the McClure Miller Respite house: https://www. uvmhomehealth.org/donations/ make-an-online-donation/

a r f C t Fair U V C SATURDAY, Y NOVEMBER 26 Y, 9 AM - 4 PM

CVU High School

FOOD SHELF DRIVE

pher (Chris) Gamelin, her granddaughter Mariah Gamelin, her father-in-law Leon Letourneau and mother-in-law Solange Letourneau.

Judy is survived by her husband Nelson Letourneau, her daughters Jean Thibault and husband Rolland, Jennifer Rock and husband Patrick, her step-

Williston Observer

150 HANDCRAFTERS

Judith (Judy) M. Letourneau

Judith (Judy) M. Letourneau, 77, died surrounded by her family on Oct. 26, 2022 at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester.

She was born Nov. 28, 1944, in Burlington, the daughter of Wilbur Gorton and Blanche Bleau (Taft).

Judy graduated from Richmond High School, class of 1962.

After graduation, she followed her gypsy soul wherever it led her, living her best life.

She married her forever love Nelson Letourneau on December 13, 1986 and they celebrated 35 years of marriage together, eventually settling in the Burlington area to live out their lives.

In addition to her parents, Judy was predeceased by her sister, Rebecca (Becky) Leveillee, her brothers Paul Gorton & Wayne Gorton. Her son Christo-

•

369 CVU Road, Hinesburg, VT

FREE ENTRY - FREE PARKING

Comprehensive Dentistry Quality Care for Your Entire Family

Gentle, Expert Dental Care for your Beautiful Smile

NEW! 4 bed, 4.5 bath home, 4,000+ sq. ft.,

Dr. Jonathan Bloom | Dr. Aala Salimian

high-end kitchen, and tons of improvements!

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Emergencies seen promptly.

We now contract with all major dental insurances.

747 Terrace Drive, Williston • $945,000

165 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT

1.66 Acres!

802-860-3368

www.dorsetstreetdental.com

30 YEARS

your source for custom branded holiday cards!

Enjoy FREE return address printing on envelopes when you order online at:

Thinking of selling? Call, text, or book online for a free price analysis with local agent, Elise Polli!

802-399-0134

appt.link/meet-with-elise

pawprint.4printing.com Contact our team today: 802-865-2872 printcare@paw-prints.com

Page 16dates: • Williston Observer release Nov. 19-25, 2022

•

November 17, 2022

47 (22)

Next Week: Algae

Issue 47, 2022

Founded by Betty Debnam

Mini Fact:

Tongue Twisters

Tongue twisters aren’t only fun; they also help improve reading skills.

Have you ever heard someone say, “She sells seashells by the seashore”? If so, you might have then decided to say it yourself.

This is known as a tongue twister, a phrase which can be difficult to say. Tongue twisters serve many purposes, including strengthening reading skills, clarifying word pronunciation and helping stretch the muscles we use to speak.

Tongue twisters can also be fun and educational, and The Mini Page learns more about them this week.

Sounds

A tongue twister is defined by a series of sounds or words that are often difficult to pronounce when recited, or said, together quickly. They use something called alliteration, which is the repetition of the same sound. An example is: “Cooks cook cupcakes quickly.” Once you say this one out loud, you’ll probably notice the “k” sound being repeated. That’s alliteration.

Benefits

Scientists have found that tongue twisters kick-start the brain.

Practicing tongue twisters can be a fun thing to do with friends, and saying them

also improves our vocabularies. While tongue twisters can be a challenge, when recited correctly, they help people focus on sounds and the pronunciation of words and phrases.

Tongue twisters help with reading skills and have also been shown to assist people with speech difficulties.

By practicing saying these phrases over and over, we’re strengthening the muscles in our tongues and mouths.

History

“She sells seashells by the seashore” might be a tongue twister, but it’s also based on a real woman. In England during the 1800s, a woman named Mary Anning collected and sold seashells.

As a girl, Mary collected, labeled and recorded details about seashells.

She later went on to discover many fossils, including dinosaur remains.

The history of tongue twisters goes back a few hundred years, as teachers would use them to teach their pupils, or students, how to pronounce phrases. The first book about them is called “Peter Piper’s Practical Principles of Plain and Perfect Pronunciation”

by John Harris.

Your turn

Now that we’ve learned about tongue twisters, it’s your turn to give some a try.

Repeat them three times fast for an extra challenge.

No need to light a night light on a light night like tonight.

Silly Sally swiftly shooed seven silly sheep.

Betty bought a bit of butter, but the butter Betty bought was bitter.

Six sick chicks nick six slick bricks with picks and sticks.

Fresh fried fish, fish fresh fried, fried fish fresh, fish fried fresh.

Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.

A peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked.

If Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers, Where’s the peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked?

Fuzzy Wuzzy was a bear. Fuzzy Wuzzy had no hair. Fuzzy Wuzzy wasn’t fuzzy, was he?

Resources Resources On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPtonguetwisters

At the library:

• “Tongue Twister Challenge for Kids: 700 Awesome Twisters Guaranteed to Tongue Tie You in No Time!” by Laughing Lion

The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Try ’n’ Find

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of tongue twisters are hidden in this Nancy puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters

Tericka: Why couldn’t the pony sing a lullaby?

Tim: She was a little horse!

used twice. See if you can find: BYare OLIVIA JAIMES ALLITERATION, BRAIN, FRIENDS, MUSCLES, PRONOUNCE, PUPIL, READ, RECITE, REPEAT, SEASHELL, SKILLS,

D P U P I

R E P E A

S B H S A

S R H L A

P W N L L

E P T I L

E S R K I

C E E S T

H A T R E

N S S E R

I H I C A

A E W I T

R L T T I

B L S E O

R L A D N

Eco Note The switch to energy-

Scientists have found that tongue twisters kick-start the brain.

Practicing tongue twisters can be a fun thing to do with friends, and saying them

• “Tongue Twister Challenge for Kids: 700 Awesome Twisters Guaranteed to Tongue Tie You in No Time!” by Laughing Lion

about them is called “Peter Piper’s Practical Principles of Plain and Perfect Pronunciation”

by John Harris.

November 17, 2022

The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Try ’n’ Find

•

Page 17

D P U P I L G B P S

R E P E A T D D R O

S B H S A V Q A O U

S R H L A S S E N N

P W N L L T D R O D

E P T I L R N A U S

E S R K I E E L N S

C E E S T N I T C E

H A T R E G R E E L

N S S E R T F A U C

Tericka: Why couldn’t the pony sing a lullaby?

Tim: She was a little horse!

I H I C A H W C G S

A E W I T E Q H N U

R L T T I N T E O M

B L S E O A Q R T O

R L A D N T S V Y K

Eco Note

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted • 1 teaspoon vanilla

What to do: 1. Place graham crackers in a small plastic bag and smash into crumbs.

2. Mix crumbs with brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

3. Combine melted butter with vanilla; pour over crumb mixture.

4. Coat a small baking pan with cooking spray.

5. Pour crumb mixture into pan; bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

6. Use as topping for ice cream or frozen yogurt. Makes 2 servings.

The Mini Page® © 2022 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Graham Cracker Topping

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

Cook’s Corner You’ll need: • 2 cinnamon graham crackers • 1/4 cup brown sugar • 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

Williston Observer

Mini Jokes

Words that remind us of tongue twisters are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ALLITERATION, BRAIN, FRIENDS, MUSCLES, PRONOUNCE, PUPIL, READ, RECITE, REPEAT, SEASHELL, SKILLS, SOUNDS, SPEECH, STRENGTHEN, TEACHER, TONGUE, TWISTER.

•

The switch to energyefficient but blue-tinted LED street lamps across parts of Europe could pose a threat to human and animal health. It’s known that exposure to blue light from TV monitors and mobile phones can interfere with sleep as our eyes control the release of the sleep hormone melatonin based on the colors seen. Studies have shown that blue light may also contribute to such conditions as diabetes and obesity.

Beyond its effects on humans, blue light can also change the behavior of animals such as bats and moths. adapted with permission from Earthweek.

For later: Look in your newspaper for puzzles.

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

Brevity

BY DAN THOMPSON

Page 18 •

Williston Observer

•

November 17, 2022

Savvy Senior

Estate Planning, Elder Law & Medicaid Planning

Daily money managers can help seniors with financial chores

Peace of mind for families and loved ones What we do: • Protection of assets without spending all down to qualify for Medicaid • Wills & Living Trusts • Assistance with Medicaid Applications

Ellen B. LaPlante, Esq. Stephen A. Unsworth, Esq. Wendy S Hillmuth, Esq. Members of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys & National Association of Elder Law Attorneys.

By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend any services that can help my elderly mother with her financial chores? My dad always used to handle the bill paying and paperwork, but he passed away last year, and mom struggles to keep on top of things. And I don’t live close enough to help her on a regular basis.

Concerned Daughter

Dear Concerned, It sounds like your mom could use a good daily money manager (or DMM). These are financially savvy professionals that can help older adults who have difficulty managing their own day-to-day personal financial affairs.

The types of services they provide typically include paying bills, maintaining financial records, balancing checkbooks and negotiating with creditors. DMMs can also prepare checks for clients to sign, help older people organize bank and financial records, prepare and deliver bank deposits, gather and organize documents for tax returns, help decipher medical bills and review bank statements in order to detect potential financial abuse or fraud.

WHERE TO FIND DAILY MONEY MANAGERS

Depending on where your mom lives, DMM services may be available through private non-profit elder assistance organizations or government agencies.

These agencies often use volun-

We’re listening.

From Green Burial to Pet Memorials, our goal is to provide the services and care you need.

To learn more, contact us today.

• Traditional Funerals • Memorial Services • Pre-arranged Funeral Planning

Fall Special!

• Out-of-town & Foreign Services

www.unsworthlaplante.com

willistonobserver. com/ digital-edition

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.

• Green Burials

For FREE consumer reports, articles, and estate planning webinars, please visit us at

View the current edition anytime at

Keep in mind that neither federal nor state governments regulate the DMM industry, and there is little oversight of these services. So before turning over your mom’s bills, make certain it’s someone you can trust.

One other highly rated bill-paying service you should know about that’s specifically designed for older adults and caregivers is SilverBills (www.SilverBills.com). Available nationwide, this is a secure concierge bill management service that will manage your mom’s bills and pay them on her behalf, on-time and correctly, for a flat fee of $50 per month.

If you opt for this service, your mom will be paired with an account manager who will communicate and work with her over the phone, or through email, text or mail (her preference) – no computer is required. SilverBills also reviews all bills for errors and fraud and provides monthly statements showing the date, amount and manner of each payment.

• Burial/Cremation Services

26 Railroad Avenue Essex Junction, VT (802) 879-7133

Observer not yet arrived?

teers to provide basic DMM tasks, such as bill-paying, at no cost.

To find out if this is available in your mom’s area, contact her Area Aging Agency. Visit www.ElderCare.acl.gov or call 800-677-1116 for contact information.

In addition to the non-profit DMMs, an increasing number of individuals and private, for-profit companies have started offering DMM services for a fee. Cost for these services varies by region but it often ranges between $25 and $100 per hour. Most clients need approximately four hours of services per month, but this too varies according to the complexity of the person’s financial situation.

The best place to look for a professional DMM in your mom’s area is through the American Association of Daily Money Managers (www.AADMM.com), which offers an online directory that lets you search by ZIP code. All the pros listed there have signed the group’s code of ethics. Some have passed a certification exam to earn the designation of Certified Daily Money Manager.

Before hiring a daily money manager, however, get references from two or more of their clients and check them. Also, find out what they charge and what type of insurance coverage they have.

Sign by November 30th and stay the entire month of January free!

• Pet Memorials

ELMWOOD-MEUNIER FUNERAL

&

CREMATION CENTER

Burlington - (802) 864-5682 | Elmwoodmeunier.net Serving all faiths & cultures since 1927

Discover the Maple Ridge Difference

CALL TODAY 802-872-7775

2 Freeman Woods, Essex Junction, VT 05452 | MapleRidgeEssex.com

November 17, 2022

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 19

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 22

Almanac ANDREWS

MCMEEL

TODAY’S HISTORY:

• In 1800, the United States Congress met for the first time in Washington, D.C., in the unfinished Capitol building.

• In 1869, the Suez Canal was officially opened.

• In 1871, the National Rifle Association was granted a charter by the state of New York.

• In 1962, President John F. Kennedy dedicated Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C. TODAY’S FACT: • The U.S. Capitol dome is made of 8.9 million pounds of cast-iron.

SOLUTION FOUND ON PAGE 22

We’re proud of our smiles!

We believe that our state-of-the-art, impeccable skills; cheerful, approachable attitudes and ability to handle all your dental needs under one roof means a visit with us will always leave you with a beautiful smile.

75 Talcott Rd., Ste 20, Williston • 802- 662-5966 • DRGOOSEVT.COM

• Comprehensive Dental Care • Implant Placement & Restoration • Crowns, Partials, Dentures

• • • •

Whitening, Veneers Clear Braces TMD, Sleep Apnea & 3D Imaging Smile Design & Restoration

Page 20

•

Williston Observer

•

November 17, 2022

Sports

CVU captures first football state title

BY LAUREN READ Sports correspondent

All season long, the Champlain Valley football team has been led by a high-powered offense that has helped CVU blow teams away. But on the night of the Division I state championship game Saturday in Rutland, and with a title on the line, it was the defense that saved the day.

Champlain Valley stopped Middlebury from completing a comeback with a goal line stop as time expired to win the D-I title game 24-19 and capture the program’s first state championship.

“We legitimately lost our mind,” said CVU coach Rahn Fleming. “The ball gets knocked away, the clock ticked to zero and everybody on the defense began to run toward the sideline and everybody on the sideline began to run toward the defense.

“It was so symbolic of how it didn’t matter if you set foot on the field for a single competitive rep, we got there together.”

For most of the second half, it looked like the Redhawks would not need any late

“We legitimately lost our mind … Everybody on the defense began to run toward the sideline and everybody on the sideline began to run toward the defense,” said Rahn Fleming, CVU head coach, after the game.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL LAMONTAGNE/VTSPORTSIMAGES.COM

game drama to ensure the title win. But with just over three minutes remaining in the game, Middlebury cut the CVU lead to 24-19.

Then the Tigers defense made a stand and CVU turned the ball back over with

every one

needs a place to call home.

Your support helps local children and families thrive.

With your help, our partner families achieve the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life for themselves and their families.

We are building affordable homes throughout Northwest Vermont. To learn more about how you can help, visit vermonthabitat.org/ways-to-give.

Serving Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle and Lamoille counties since 1984.

Green Mountain HFH PO Box 1436 Williston, VT 05495 vermonthabitat.org

a chance to put together a game-winning drive. Middlebury moved up the field — a 26-yard pass and a penalty on the CVU defense helped — until they got to the 8-yard line.

There the Redhawks stood tall, keeping the Tigers out of the end zone and clinching the win.

“In those final plays when it mattered most, they gave everything and it was enough,” Fleming said. “It was a bend-butdon’t-break performance at a moment when the breaking would’ve been irreparable.”

Jack Sumner started off the scoring for CVU, capping off the game’s opening drive with a 9-yard touchdown run halfway through the fourth quarter. The Tigers tied the game early in the second quarter, then took the 13-7 lead on a 21-yard TD run.

Quarterback Ollie Cheer put the Redhawks back in front with under two minutes to play in the first half, hitting Brian Rutherford with a 15-yard TD pass. Aidan Morris hit the extra point to put the team ahead 14-13.

CVU forced a turnover with 15 seconds

Get more

left in the second quarter and Morris hit a 43-yard field goal as time expired in the half to give the Redhawks a 17-13 lead.

Sumner helped extend the lead, scoring on an 11-yard run midway through the third quarter to put the Redhawks up 24-13.

But Middlebury stopped CVU on the goal line in the fourth quarter, then scored to close the gap to 24-19 with 3:01 left in the game, setting up the late defensive heroics from the Redhawks.

The Redhawks can be excused for having flashbacks to last season’s championship game, when they lost to Essex late in the game.

“For those who were there for the game last year, there was a kind of collective, ‘oh no, not this, not again, no way,’” Fleming said. “It was an interesting time of increased urgency and of a very painful memory that made it stronger when we most needed it.”

The championship was a culmination of a multi-year march to the top of Division I. After CVU did not make the postseason in 2018 and 2019, Covid changed the 2020 season when the sport played a 7-vs-7, touch football season to get the athletes on the field, and the Redhawks advanced all the way to the final.

“I really don’t look at the Covid season as a lost year,” Fleming said. “It was a year for building character and beginning to establish character as a team and beginning to experience ourselves differently, which was you look around the locker room, you see a group of winners, you see guys who get it.”

They turned that success into an appearance in the championship game last season, falling to Essex in a heartbreaker in the snow.

That loss served as fuel for CVU this year as the Redhawks pushed for a return to the title game, this time to win it.

CVU finished the season unbeaten against Vermont opponents, with a 10-0 record.

for your BUCK!

1 EMAIL - 1 CONTACT = YOUR AD IN 7 PAPERS.

Reach readers in northern Vermont’s most thriving communities — in print and online!

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

November 17, 2022

•

Williston Observer

•

Page 21

Sports

Redhawk soccer gets back on top fast start, with three looks at the Mount Mansfield goal. But Cardinal (five saves) was equal to the task and the Cougars and CVU settled into a midfield battle.

To break the game open a bit, Williams and Klein discussed a change at halftime, moving the forward to the right side where she could find more space. The move paid off almost immediately when the junior found the back of the net.

“We’ve done that at times just to mix up matchups and to

get different looks,” Williams said. “That was a heck of a shot.

(Klein’s) a strong-minded kid, and I had no doubt that she would be on the top of her game today.”

CVU made the switch to a more defensive formation after the score and relied on its stout defense and goalkeeper Emma Allaire (two saves) to clinch the title.

Champlain Valley finishes with a 15-0-1 record and the program’s 20th state championship, the most titles in state history in boys and girls soccer.

Why not have a job you love?

The CVU girls soccer team celebrates its state championship win over Mount Mansfield on Sunday in Norwich.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL LAMONTAGNE/VTSPORTSIMAGES.COM

BY LAUREN READ Sports correspondent The last two high school girls soccer seasons have ended in heartbreak for Champlain Valley.

On Sunday at Norwich University, Redhawks forward Zoe Klein made sure this season was different.

The junior fired a shot into the net from just inside the 18-yard box and the Champlain Valley defense did the rest as the Redhawks earned a 1-0 win over Mount Mansfield and the Division I state title.

“Our seniors, they worked so hard for this to happen and they just drove our motivation to do

this,” Kelin said. “We all worked as a team and we all wanted this for our seniors.”

Klein broke through just six minutes into the second half, finding some space on the right side to beat Mount Mansfield goalkeeper Tonie Cardinal.

“When I got past that defender I was like, ‘I’m taking the shot,’” Klein said of her game-winner.

“This is gonna go in and I saw it go in … I was so excited.”

After Klein put CVU up 1-0, the Redhawk defenders went to work shutting down the middle of the field and keeping the Cougars from finding the equalizer.

“We always feel if we can dominate in the middle, we’re

generally gonna be in good shape and we have a lot of trust in our outside backs,” said CVU coach Stan Williams. “We have a lot of comfort that they’d be able to handle those attacks.”

Champlain Valley, who lost to South Burlington in the finals the last two years, has now won four state championships in the last six years.

“There’s a lot of pressure put on them by others and by themselves, and to see them fight through that was awesome,” Williams said. “It was pretty special. There are a lot of kids here that I’ve known for a long, long time, so it’s pretty special.”

The Redhawks got off to a

Redhawks bumped in championships

Positions include a sign on bonus, strong benefits package and the opportunity to work at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont”.

Service Coordinator: Continue your career in human services in a supportive environment by providing case management for individuals either for our Adult Family Care program or our Developmental Services program. The ideal candidate will have strong clinical, organizational & leadership skills and enjoy working in a team-oriented position. $47,000 annual salary, $1,500 sign on bonus.

Residential Program Manager: Coordinate staffed residential and community supports for an individual in their home. The ideal candidate will enjoy working in a team-oriented position, have strong clinical skills, and demonstrated leadership. $45,900 annual salary, $1,500 sign on bonus.

Direct Support Professional: Provide 1:1 supports to help individuals reach their goals in a variety of settings. This is a great position to start or continue your career in human services. Full and part time positions available starting at $19/hr, $1,000 sign on bonus.

Residential Direct Support Professional: Provide supports to an individual in their home and in the community in 24h shifts including asleep overnights in a private, furnished bedroom. You can work two days, receive full benefits and have five days off each week! Other flexible schedules available, starting wage is $20/hr, $1,000 sign on bonus.

Shared Living Provider: Move into someone’s home or have someone live with you to provide residential supports. There are a variety of opportunities available that could be the perfect match for you and your household. Salary varies dependent on individual care requirements. $1,000 sign on bonus.

Join our dedicated team and together we’ll build a community where everyone participates and belongs https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/

The Redhawk girls lost to the Essex Hornets at the Vermont State Volleyball Championships on Sunday at St. Michael’s College.

CVU’s Merrill Jacobs keeps the ball in play.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

Champlain Community Services, Inc.

Make a career making a difference and join our team today! https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/

Page 22 •

Williston Observer

WE’RE HIRING!

•

November 17, 2022

WE’RE HIRING!

Immerse your self in the world of gourmet chocolate! LCC uses business as a force for good. We listen, learn, and adapt to ensure that we provide an equitable and inclusive work environment where all people experience belonging, opportunity, respect, and dignity. We’re seeking motivated team members who want to join us in that effort!

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, November 22, 2022 – 7:00 PM

Beckett/McGuire Meeting Room (Town Hall, 7900 Williston Road, use rear entrance) or Zoom Meeting ID 846 5863 3532 on zoom.us/join or call 1-646-558-8656 DP 23-06 Pre-App Jonathan Maguire (c/o

Seasonal Shipping/Manufacturing - Williston Seeking: A person who enjoys physical work, takes pride in the details, and enjoy the thrill of a busy holiday season in a chocolate factory!

Duties: producing, packaging/gift-boxing, and/or shipping our products with care and detail in a safe and supportive work environment.

Qualifications: Ability to stand on your feet for long periods of time, lift up to 50 lbs, and have reliable transportation.

Don Welch) request pre-application review to construct one (1) residential building with 3 new dwelling units on a 6.2-acre parcel at 376 Mountain View Rd. in the RZD. DP 21-19 GPA, LLC c/o Scott Ireland request a discretionary permit to develop three (3) commercial/ industrial buildings (approx. 103,750 SF total) with parking, loading areas, and related appurtenances on Lot 4 of the Robear Subdivision, a vacant 8.74-acre parcel located on Williston Rd. opposite Munson Dr. in the IZDW. Project details and site plans are available online, go to bit. ly/DRBagendas.

Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@ willistonvt.org

Retail Sales Associate – Waterbury Seeking: A people person that will strive to provide an exceptional in-store experience for the diverse community of chocolate-lovers who visit our Waterbury store.

Duties: Assists store Manager, ensure customers receive outstanding service, take inventory, assist with tours, etc.

Qualifications: High School, Cashier Experience, dedicated to quality

CROSSWORD SOLUTION PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19

Community Bankers Chittenden County BUILDERS | MAKERS | DOERS There is no better time to join our Team!

Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is the largest banking institution headquartered in Vermont. We are committed to providing a welcoming work environment for all. Are you looking to start or continue a career in the finance industry? Consider joining our team as a Community Banker! To see all our available positions, please visit www.NSBVT.com/careers/open-positions.

PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 19

SUDUKO SOLUTION

Job Responsibilities & Requirements This frontline position is crucial in creating a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience for NSB customers. The successful candidate will have exceptional customer service and communication skills.

The Community Banker will be responsible for receiving and processing customers’ financial transactions as well as opening and maintaining customer accounts and services. We are looking for someone who can develop and maintain relationships with our valued customers, protect bank and customer information, and uphold customer confidentiality. A high school diploma, general education degree (GED), or equivalent is required.

If you have customer service, previous cash handling, or banking experience we encourage you to apply!

Opportunity for Growth NSB has training opportunities to engage employees and assist with professional development within our company. The average years of service for an NSB employee is 9! If you’re looking for a career in an environment that promotes growth, join our team!

What NSB Can Offer You Competitive compensation based on experience. Well-rounded benefits package. Profit-Sharing opportunity. Excellent 401(k) matching retirement program. Commitment to professional development.

Opportunities to volunteer and support our communities. Work-Life balance!

We understand the importance of having evenings and weekends with our friends, families, and the communities we serve!

Please send an NSB Application & your resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com or Northfield Savings Bank Human Resources | PO Box 7180, Barre, VT 05641

Williston

The Williston Observer is mailed to every home and business in Williston and St. George every Thursday.

RACK LOCATIONS Williston Adams Farm Market 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 Shell Gas Station (Essex Rd) Simon’s Mobil Williston Simply Divine Café Sonesta Sunoco Station Town of Williston Offices UPS Store Williston Coffee Shop Essex Junction Essex Automotive Five Corner Variety Hannaford (Essex Shoppes) Inn at Essex Mac’s Market Martone’s Deli Price Chopper Quality Bake Shop River Road Beverage Richmond Cumberland Farms Richmond Free Library Richmond Market Richmond Mobil Mart If you would like copies for your location call Rick Cote at (802) 373-2136 or email Rick@WillistonObserver.com

get rabies.from The page virus2is spread through the continued bite of an infected animal or contact with its

it.

People should notand touch or pick up wild ways fatal in humans animals.

However, animals or strays – even baby animals. treatment with the rabies vaccine is nearly

from Shelburne Farms, craft projects, and

The week-long bait drop is a coopera- 100 percent effective when given soon after SHELBURNE November 17, 2022 • DAY Williston Observer • Page 23 face SERVICE DIRECTORY tive effort between Vermont and the U.S. a person is bitten by a rabid animal. continued from page 4 T Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services So far thisANTIQUE year, 23 animals LANDSCAPING ANTIQUES LAND MAINTENANCE SHOP in Vermont burn to stop the spread of the potentially fatal have tested positive for rabies, and 14 of Shelburne Historical Society will have a head Forestry Mulching Services disease.

10/08/2019 those have been raccoons.

IVE ORNERS display and president Dorothea Penar will the for private and ORNERS Rabies is a deadly viral disease of the According to wildlife officials, rabid IVEIVE ORNERS commercial projects lead a cemetery tour at 1 p.m.

Food venGolf 3.25 2 ADmammals. for Williston Observer NTIQUES brain thatxinfects It is most often animals often show a change in their norNTIQUES Driveways, Ponds, Land Clearing, NTIQUES dors round out the event with everything depe Trails, Farms, Ski Areas, seen52inConsecutive raccoons, skunks, foxes,$18.00/week and bats, mal behavior, but you cannot tell whether Weeks $936 Natural Disaster Recovery, and A Multi Dealer Shop from coffee and lemonade to burgers land A Multi Dealer Complete Landscape Overhauls • Design and Installations Logging Cleanup, Invasive Vegetation, but unvaccinated pets and livestock can also an animal has rabies simply A Multi Dealer Shop Shop by looking at Excavation formeeting rates: animals call 985-309 Mini-Excavator Work, Driveway Culvert Replacements, Walls, 802.878.6167 creemees. Kids will enjoy Rot 802.878.6167 get rabies. virus isEdging spread through the it. People should not 11touch 802.878.6167 or pickJunction, up wild Maple Street, Essex VT VT Paver Driveways,The Walkways, Patios, & Mulching Scheduling 11 Maple Street, Essex Junction, Visit for information: Visitour ourwebsite website formore more information from Shelburne Farms, craft projects, and 11Open Maple Street, Essex Junction, VT now for Mon Satanimals.

10-5 Sun 11-4 or email advertising@ Open-Mon - Sat 10-5 Sun 11-4 bite an infected animal or contact with its animals or strays – even baby Fullyof Insured-30+ years experience www.vtlandmaintenance@gmail.com www.vtlandmaintenance.com 2023.

Open Mon - Sat 10-5 Sun 11-4 5CornersAntiques.com 5CornersAntiques.com Brian Washburn Call today Email: vtlandmaintenance@gmail.com 5CornersAntiques.com www.kingfishvt.com/1-802-345-4280 to reserve 802-434-4533 • 802-373-1755 (cell) Brian Washburn: 802-434-5533 • 802-373-1755 (cell)

CC FF F C AA A

service directory your spot!

Health

Build / Remodel

CONSTRUCTION

BUILDING SERVICES

ANTIQUES

PLEASANT VALLEY, INC.

BEAGLE BUILDERS, LLC

Nancy Marconi ANTIQUES WANTED Certified Massage Therapist

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

Health

Remodeling & Additions

Decluttering? Downsizing? Settling an Estate?

ALL TYPES OF SIDING Vinyl/Wood/Composite

64learn Steeplebush We can help you discover, about and sell: Road

• ARTWORK WATCHES • JEWELRY • COINS • SILVER Shelburne

service directory Windows & Doors • Decks & Porches

Kitchens & Bathrooms Sunrooms & Garages

beaglebuilders@gmavt.net

Monkton, VT

MassageWorksVT We can field questions, review photos andrates: coordinate estate work.985-309 for call 802-985-8984 Deep Tissue, Hot Stones Contact Brian Bittner cell 338-7001 & Swedish Massage 802-272-7527 802-489-5210 or email advertising@

Health

Build / Remodel Funeral / Cremation LANDSCAPING

bittnerantiques@gmail.com info@bittnerantiques.com

Intro Offer for New Clients www.bittnerantiques.com

802-453-4340 CALL US!

Health

Health CAT SITTING

Insurance BASEMENT SYSTEMS

PLEASANT VALLEY, INC.

CORBIN & PALMER Roofing Fall Cleanup & Mulch Siding FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES Lawn Maintenance Renovations Landscape Design SHELBURNE FUNERAL CHAPEL Painting Stonework & Planting Family owned and operated since 1921 Decks MiniPre-planning Excavation services available 802-343-4820 802-343-4820 209 Falls Road, Shelburne, VT www.pleasantvalleyvt.com www.pleasantvalleyvt.com (802) 985-3370 Funeral / Cremation INSURANCE

Nancy Marconi

Certified Massage Therapist Since 1988

Tim Gould

MassageWorksVT

PT, MS, DPT

South Burlington 23 San Remo Drive tel 865.0010

Deep Tissue, Hot Stones 4281 Shelburne Rd & Swedish Massage

Shelburne 166 Athletic Drive tel 985.4440

DEE.PT.bCARD.2.4x1.5FINAL.indd 12

1/9/14 9:12 AM

TRANSITION DOULA

CORBIN & PALMER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES

Covering Your Life’s Journey SHELBURNE FUNERAL CHAPEL

1988 Life & CareerSince - Stress & Trauma - End-of-Life PT, MS, DPT

South Burlington 23 San Remo Drive tel 865.0010

F. Carr, Ed.D.

802.487.8077 - jcarrvt@gmail.com South Burlington, Vermont - Virtually Shelburne www.TransitionDoula.org 166 Athletic Drive tel 985.4440

www.DeePT.com Information - Conversation - Celebration

LOCKS & SAFES

Photos from the Williston Observer are available for purchase.

Place your order online or email afrey202@gmail.com E-mail: georgessafes@gmavt.net www.georgeslocks.com www.georges-safes.com

AlFreyPhotography.com

AL

Michelle Desautels

4281 Shelburne Rd PO Box 476, Shelburne titus@titusinsurance.net

OBSERVER PHOTOS DEE.PT.bCARD.2.4x1.5FINAL.indd 12

REALTOR®, Office:PSA 985-2453 (802) 846-9503

CAT RESCUE 1/9/14 9:12 AM

Fa La La St

80

ww

Insurance REAL ESTATE Your Williston Neighbor

Support for Significant Life Changes Tim Gould Judy

Family owned and operated since 1921 802-862-1600 Email: info@turnbaughinsurance.com Pre-planning services available 188 Allen Brook Lane, Suite 1, Williston 209 Falls Road, Shelburne, VT turnbaughinsurance.com/contact (802) 985-3370

802-985-8984 Office: 985-2453 cell 338-7001

PO Box 476, Shelburne Cell: 363-0590 Intro Offer for New Clients titus@titusinsurance.net Fax: 985-8620 www.northernbasements.com

www.DeePT.com

Health DOULA

64 Steeplebush Road Shelburne

PL

Cell: 363-0590 Fax: 985-8620

PL

Fa La La St

80

ww

Page 24 •

Williston Observer

•

November 17, 2022

Vermont sees record high midterm election turnout Election turnout percentage by year

73% 63%

2022

2020

Presidential election

2018

Mid-term election

57%

55% Mid-term election

of Vermont adults cast their ballots.

Also driving Vermont’s voter participation is its newly implemented universal mailin balloting system, which the Secretary of State’s Office first rolled out in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Initially devised as a way to keep election workers and the public safe amid Covid-19, the Vermont Legislature elected to keep the system in place in hopes of making it easier for the public to vote.

The percentage of Vermonters voting by mail declined in 2022 compared to 2020, despite the state sending mail-in ballots to all registered voters, according to the Secretary of State’s Office.

About 64 percent of votes in the 2022 General Election were cast by mail, compared to 75 percent of ballots in 2020, the office reported.

But it remained far higher than in previous years. Only about 22 percent of ballots were cast by mail between 2000 and 2018.

2016

This year marked a historic election cycle for Vermont with record turnover, which appears to have propelled Vermonters to the polls — or their mailboxes — at record numbers.

Nearly 3 in 5 Vermont adults cast ballots this year, according to a VTDigger analysis of vote totals provided by the Secretary of State’s Office and statistics kept by the U.S. Census Bureau showing age demographics.

The 57 percent participation marks the highest turnout for a midterm election in recorded history. Overall, it was bested only by the 2020 election, in which 73 percent of adults voted.

“And that’s something that Vermonters should be proud of,” outgoing Secretary of State Jim Condos told reporters on Tuesday.

Earlier, sitting at the helm of a long table in the Secretary of State’s Office, flanked by his staffers and representatives of each major political party, Condos canvassed and certified this election’s statewide vote totals for the last time of his career.

Other marquee years for election turnout were 2018, which previously held the record for highest midterm participation at 55 percent. In 2016, a momentous presidential election year that also marked Republican Gov. Phil Scott’s first gubernatorial race, 63 percent of Vermont adults cast their ballots. In the 2010 midterms, when former Democratic Gov. Peter Shumlin was first elected, 49 percent of Vermont voters went to the polls.

Rewind to the 2006 midterm, which, prior to this year’s election, saw Vermont’s most recent open race for Congress: That year, U.S. Rep. Peter Welch won his first term in the U.S. House, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders graduated from the House to the Senate, and 54 percent

Presidential election

BY SARAH MEARHOFF AND ERIN PETENKO VTDigger

We Can Take It! From an armoire to a zucchini, check our A-Z list and learn how to reuse, recycle, or dispose of items and materials you no longer want.

Now serving you with eight Drop-Off locations in Chittenden County.

SCAN CODE FOR A-Z List

20220817-AD-WE-CAN-TAKE-IT-R2-03.indd 3

Visit cswd.net for locations and materials accepted.

10/18/22 9:32 AM